LESSON 7- MOTIVATED BY HOPE

Read for This Week’s Study:

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Matthew 24:27; Matthew 24:30-31; 2 Peter 1:19-21; Daniel 8:14; Daniel 9:20-27; Ezra 7:7-13.

 

Memory Text:

“And it will be said in that day: ‘Behold, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us. This is the Lord; we have waited for Him; we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation’ ” (Isaiah 25:9).

 

SABBATH AND SUNDAY IMPORTANT POINTS

SUNDAY TITLE: THE PROMISE OF HIS RETURN

1.       Central Theme of Scripture: The second coming of Jesus is a recurring and significant theme throughout the Bible, mentioned extensively in both the Old and New Testaments.

 

2.       Historical Anticipation: Protestant Reformers and early American settlers, such as the pilgrims, viewed the second coming as a hopeful and joyous event, eagerly awaited as the culmination of their faith.

 

3.       Biblical Assurance: Passages like John 14:1-3, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, and Titus 2:11-14 provide Christians with hope, promising an end to suffering, death, and injustice, and the establishment of an eternal fellowship with Christ.

 

4.       William Miller’s Movement: William Miller, a Baptist farmer, reignited interest in the second coming in the 19th century, despite the Great Disappointment, his movement led many to a deeper study of Bible prophecies.

 

5.       Hope Amid Suffering: Throughout history, the promise of Christ's return has provided believers with comfort and hope during times of persecution, suffering, and loss.

 

6.       Resurrection Promise: Paul’s teachings, especially to the Thessalonians, emphasized the resurrection at Christ’s advent, assuring believers that the dead in Christ would rise and be reunited with the living in eternal life.

 

7.       Foundation of Faith: The second coming is crucial to Christian faith because it affirms the hope of resurrection and eternal life. Without this belief, Christians would face an utterly hopeless situation, as stated by Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:15-18.

 

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS WITH ANSWERS

1.       Why is the second coming of Christ a central theme in the Bible, and how does it provide hope to believers?

 

ANSWER: The second coming of Christ is central because it represents the fulfillment of God’s promises and the ultimate resolution of the world's suffering and injustice. It provides hope by assuring believers that there will be an end to death, pain, and sin, and the establishment of a new, perfect world in eternal fellowship with Christ.

 

2.       How did the belief in the second coming influence the lives and faith of the Protestant Reformers and early American settlers?

 

ANSWER: The belief in the second coming inspired the Protestant Reformers and early American settlers to endure hardships and persecution with hope and perseverance. It motivated them to spread the gospel and live righteous lives, anticipating the joyous return of Christ and the establishment of His kingdom.

 

3.       What role did William Miller play in the 19th century in relation to the second coming, and what was the impact of the Great Disappointment?

 

ANSWER: William Miller played a significant role by preaching that Jesus would return soon, which led to the formation of the Millerite movement. The Great Disappointment, when Jesus did not return as expected in 1844, led many to deeper Bible study and eventually to the establishment of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which continues to emphasize the hope of Christ’s return.

 

4.       Why is the teaching of the second coming particularly comforting to those who have lost loved ones, according to Paul’s letters?

 

ANSWER: According to Paul’s letters, especially in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, the teaching of the second coming is comforting because it promises the resurrection of the dead in Christ. Believers are assured that they will be reunited with their loved ones who have died, and together they will live eternally with the Lord. This hope alleviates the grief of loss and provides a future-oriented perspective on death.

MONDAY

IMPORTANT POINTS

TITLE: ANTICIPATING THE TIME

1.       Literal and Visible Return of Christ: The manner of Christ's return is described as literal, visible, and glorious, with every eye seeing Him (Revelation 1:7). Acts 1:9-11 emphasizes that just as Jesus ascended into heaven visibly, He will return in the same manner, reinforcing the clear and unmistakable nature of His second coming.

 

2.       Misunderstanding of Christ’s First Coming: Similar to how the disciples misunderstood the nature of the Messiah's first coming, expecting a conquering general instead of a suffering servant (Matthew 24:30-31), people can misunderstand the manner of His second coming. Christ’s return will be with power and great glory, visible to all.

 

3.       Clarity in Scripture: The Bible provides clear descriptions of the events surrounding Christ's return, ensuring believers are not deceived. Matthew 24:27 describes Christ's return as like lightning that comes from the east and is visible even in the west, emphasizing its unmistakable and universal visibility.

 

4.       Preparation for His Coming: Believers are called to live godly lives in anticipation of Christ’s return. 1 Thessalonians 5:2-5 encourages believers to be vigilant and prepared, highlighting that Christ’s return will come like a thief in the night, unexpected but certain. Hebrews 9:28 reassures that Christ will appear a second time to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him.

 

 

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS WITH ANSWERS

 

1.       Why is it important for Christians to understand the manner of Christ’s return, and how do the given Bible texts (Acts 1:9-11; Revelation 1:7; Matthew 24:27, 30-31) help clarify this?

 

ANSWER: Understanding the manner of Christ’s return is crucial to prevent deception and to maintain vigilance in spiritual preparation. Acts 1:9-11 confirms that Christ’s return will be visible and glorious, just as His ascension was. Revelation 1:7 emphasizes that every eye will see Him, ensuring no one will miss this event. Matthew 24:27, 30-31 describes the return as sudden and evident to all, like lightning across the sky, and with great power and glory. These texts collectively assure believers that Christ’s return will be an unmistakable, glorious event.

 

2.       How should the anticipation of Christ's return influence the daily lives of believers, according to 1 Thessalonians 5:2-5 and Hebrews 9:28?

 

ANSWER: The anticipation of Christ’s return should lead believers to live with constant vigilance and readiness. 1 Thessalonians 5:2-5 encourages believers to stay awake and sober, metaphorically speaking, living in the light and being prepared for Christ’s return, which will come unexpectedly. Hebrews 9:28 offers encouragement that Christ will bring salvation to those who eagerly await Him, motivating believers to live godly lives, continually preparing for His second coming by maintaining their faith and living righteously.

TUESDAY

IMPORTANT POINTS

TITLE: WILLIAM MILLER AND THE BIBLE

1.       Principles of Bible Interpretation: William Miller's method of studying the Bible—comparing scripture with scripture—aligns with biblical principles found in Isaiah 28:9-10 and 2 Peter 1:19-21. These verses emphasize the need to understand doctrine by building precept upon precept and recognizing that no prophecy of Scripture is of private interpretation but is illuminated by the Holy Spirit.

 

2.       Clarity in Prophecy: Daniel 2:45 and Revelation 1:1-3 illustrate that prophecies are given to be understood. Daniel’s interpretation of the king's dream and the opening verses of Revelation demonstrate that God reveals mysteries to guide His people through prophetic messages.

 

3.       Diligent Study: Proverbs 8:8-9 and John 16:13 underscore the importance of studying Scripture with diligence and an open heart. Proverbs emphasizes that all words of wisdom are clear to those who understand, while John assures that the Spirit of truth will guide believers into all truth, helping them understand the depths of God's Word.

 

4.       Symbolic Language in Prophecy: Understanding the symbolic language used in prophecies is crucial. For instance, beasts representing kingdoms (Daniel 7:17, 23), wind symbolizing destruction (Jeremiah 49:36), water representing peoples (Revelation 17:15), and a woman symbolizing the church (Jeremiah 6:2; Ephesians 5:22-32) are vital for accurate interpretation. Recognizing these symbols, as demonstrated in Miller’s study, helps unlock the meaning of prophetic texts.

 

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS WITH ANSWERS

 

1.       What principles of Bible interpretation did William Miller use, and how are these principles supported by the Scriptures in Isaiah 28:9-10, Proverbs 8:8-9, John 16:13, and 2 Peter 1:19-21?

 

ANSWER: William Miller used the principle of comparing scripture with scripture, allowing the Bible to interpret itself. Isaiah 28:9-10 supports this method by emphasizing learning precept upon precept. Proverbs 8:8-9 highlights the clarity and truthfulness of God's words for those who seek understanding. John 16:13 reassures believers that the Holy Spirit will guide them into all truth, and 2 Peter 1:19-21 confirms that prophecy is not subject to private interpretation but is revealed through the Holy Spirit. Together, these scriptures support a methodical and Spirit-led approach to understanding the Bible.

 

2.       Why is a correct understanding of prophetic symbolism important for our faith, and how do the passages in Daniel 1:17, Daniel 2:45, 1 Peter 1:10-11, and Revelation 1:1-3 guide us in this understanding?

 

ANSWER: A correct understanding of prophetic symbolism is crucial because it ensures that believers interpret prophecies accurately and are prepared for future events as revealed by God. Daniel 1:17 shows that God gives wisdom and understanding in visions and dreams. Daniel 2:45 demonstrates how God reveals future events through symbolic visions. 1 Peter 1:10-11 indicates that the prophets sought to understand the times and circumstances of their prophecies. Revelation 1:1-3 underscores the blessing of understanding and keeping the prophecies, as they reveal Jesus Christ and His plans for humanity. These passages guide believers to study prophecy diligently and interpret it correctly, ensuring their faith is based on a solid understanding of God's revelations.

 

WEDNESDAY

TITLE: THE 2,300 DAYS OF DANIEL 8:14

IMPORTANT POINTS

 

1.       God’s Timetable in Prophecy: The Bible demonstrates that God has a precise timetable for fulfilling His prophecies, as seen in the 400 years of Abraham's descendants' sojourn (Genesis 15:13), Israel’s 40 years of wandering (Numbers 14:34), the 70 years of captivity (Jeremiah 25:11), and the 70 weeks allotted to Israel (Daniel 9:24). This precision gives confidence that God's timing for the Second Advent is equally exact.

 

2.       Fulfillment of the First Advent: Mark 1:15, Galatians 4:4, and Romans 5:6 reveal that Jesus came "in the fullness of time" according to God’s precise plan. Mark 1:15 states, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand," emphasizing that Jesus' first advent occurred at the perfect, divinely appointed time.

 

3.       The 2,300 Days Prophecy: Daniel 8:14 mentions the 2,300 days, after which the sanctuary would be cleansed. This period is a key prophecy that William Miller studied, initially interpreting the cleansing of the sanctuary as the purification of the earth by fire, which he associated with Christ’s second coming.

 

4.       Linkage and Explanation of the Prophecy: Daniel 8:16-27 and Daniel 9:22-27 clarify the 2,300 days prophecy. The angel Gabriel was sent to explain the vision to Daniel, particularly the part about the 2,300 days. The 70 weeks (490 years) were to be "cut off" from the 2,300 days, starting from the decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem (Daniel 9:25). This provided the starting point for both the 70 weeks and the longer 2,300-day prophecy.

 

 

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS WITH ANSWERS

 

1.       What does the fulfillment of the First Advent according to God’s timetable (Mark 1:15; Galatians 4:4; Romans 5:6) teach us about the reliability of prophetic timelines, including the 2,300 days in Daniel 8:14?

 

ANSWER: The fulfillment of the First Advent according to God’s precise timetable demonstrates the reliability of His prophetic timelines. Mark 1:15 states that the time was fulfilled for Jesus’ ministry to begin, Galatians 4:4 emphasizes that Jesus came at the exact right time, and Romans 5:6 notes that Christ died for the ungodly "at just the right time." These fulfillments affirm that God’s prophecies are reliable and precise, giving confidence that the 2,300 days prophecy in Daniel 8:14 will also be fulfilled according to His divine plan.

 

2.       How does understanding the linkage between Daniel 8:14 and Daniel 9:22-27 help us interpret the 2,300 days prophecy, and what significance does this have for our faith?

ANSWER: Understanding the linkage between Daniel 8:14 and Daniel 9:22-27 helps interpret the 2,300 days prophecy by providing a starting point for the timeline. The angel Gabriel explained that the 70 weeks were "cut off" from the 2,300 days, beginning with the decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem (Daniel 9:25). This insight allows for a coherent and systematic interpretation of the prophecy. Recognizing the precise fulfillment of these prophecies strengthens faith in God's word and His control over history, assuring believers of the certainty of future prophetic events, including Christ’s second coming.

 

THURSDAY

 

TITLE: THE LONGEST PROPHETIC TIME LINE

 

IMPORTANT POINTS

 

1.       The Decree of Artaxerxes in 457 B.C.: The decree issued by Artaxerxes in 457 B.C. allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple and restore worship services (Ezra 7:7-13). This decree is significant as it marks the starting point of the 2,300-day prophecy in Daniel 8:14.

 

2.       Start of the 2,300 Days Prophecy: Daniel 9:25-26 provides the starting point of the 2,300 days prophecy, beginning with the decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem in 457 B.C. The prophecy predicted 69 weeks (483 years) from the decree until the coming of the Messiah, which culminated in the fall of A.D. 27 when Jesus was baptized and anointed by the Holy Spirit (Acts 10:38; Mark 1:14-15).

 

3.       Crucifixion of Christ: Daniel 9:26-27 foretells that in the middle of the last prophetic week (3.5 years after His baptism), the Messiah would be cut off, which refers to the crucifixion of Christ in the spring of A.D. 31. This event marked the end of the sacrificial system as Jesus' death fulfilled the ceremonial types.

 

4.       End of the 70-Week Prophecy: The 70-week prophecy, which is part of the larger 2,300-day prophecy, ended in A.D. 34 with the rejection of the gospel by the Sanhedrin and the stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:54-60). This left 1,810 years remaining, bringing the end of the 2,300 years to A.D. 1844, a pivotal year in Adventist eschatology.

 

 

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS WITH ANSWERS

 

1.       What significance does the decree of Artaxerxes in 457 B.C. hold in the context of biblical prophecy, and how does Ezra 7:7-13 support this?

 

ANSWER: The decree of Artaxerxes in 457 B.C. is significant because it marks the starting point of the 2,300-day prophecy mentioned in Daniel 8:14. Ezra 7:7-13 details the issuance of this decree, which allowed the Jewish captives to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. This decree is the third and most complete of the decrees that fulfilled God's promise to restore Jerusalem. It set the clock for the 2,300-day prophecy, providing a concrete historical anchor for the timeline of prophetic events leading to the first advent of Christ and beyond.

 

 

2.       How does Daniel 9:25-27 connect the timeline of the 2,300-day prophecy to the life and ministry of Jesus, and why is this connection important for understanding the prophecy's fulfillment?

 

ANSWER: Daniel 9:25-27 connects the 2,300-day prophecy to the life and ministry of Jesus by outlining a timeline that begins with the decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem and culminates in the coming of the Messiah. The 69 weeks (483 years) from 457 B.C. to A.D. 27 pinpoint the year of Jesus' baptism and anointing as the Messiah. Daniel 9:26-27 then describes the crucifixion of Jesus in the middle of the 70th week, emphasizing the fulfillment of the sacrificial system. This connection is crucial because it confirms the accuracy of biblical prophecy and demonstrates how God's plan for redemption was precisely fulfilled in the life and ministry of Jesus, reinforcing the reliability of prophetic interpretation and the certainty of future prophetic events.

 

FRIDAY

TITLE: FURTHER STUDY

IMPORTANT POINTS

 

1.       The 2,300-Day Prophecy Starting Point: The 2,300-day prophecy in Daniel 8:14 starts in 457 B.C. with the decree issued by Artaxerxes to restore and rebuild Jerusalem. This decree is detailed in Ezra 7:7-13 and marks the beginning of both the 70-week and 2,300-day prophecies, providing a critical anchor for these timelines.

 

2.       Fulfillment of the 70-Week Prophecy: Daniel 9:25-26 outlines that from the decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the Messiah would be 69 weeks (483 years). This prophecy accurately predicted Jesus' baptism and anointing in A.D. 27, affirming the divine orchestration of events. Ellen White states, "Errors that had been long established in the church prevented them from arriving at a correct interpretation of an important point in the prophecy" (The Great Controversy, p. 351).

 

3.       The Cleansing of the Sanctuary: Daniel 8:14's prophecy about the cleansing of the sanctuary was initially misunderstood by William Miller and his associates, who believed it referred to the purification of the earth by fire at Christ's return. This misunderstanding led to the Great Disappointment in 1844. Ellen White notes, "Yet God accomplished His own beneficent purpose in permitting the warning of the judgment to be given just as it was" (The Great Controversy, p. 353).

 

4.       God’s Purpose in Allowing Disappointment: Despite the disappointment of 1844, God used the event to test and purify the church. Ellen White explains that the message of judgment was designed to reveal the true spiritual state of the people and to lead them to repentance and humility. "The message was designed for the testing and purification of the church" (The Great Controversy, p. 353).

 

 

ELLEN WHITE SUPPORTING QUOTES

“Like the first disciples, William Miller and his associates did not, themselves, fully comprehend the import of the message which they bore. Errors that had been long established in the church prevented them from arriving at a correct interpretation of an important point in the prophecy. Therefore, though they proclaimed the message which God had committed to them to be given to the world, yet through a misapprehension of its meaning they suffered disappointment.”—Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy, pp. 351, 352.

 

“Yet God accomplished His own beneficent purpose in permitting the warning of the judgment to be given just as it was. The great day was at hand, and in His providence the people were brought to the test of a definite time, in order to reveal to them what was in their hearts. The message was designed for the testing and purification of the church. They were to be led to see whether their affections were set upon this world or upon Christ and heaven. They professed to love the Saviour; now they were to prove their love. Were they ready to renounce their worldly hopes and ambitions, and welcome with joy the advent of their Lord? The message was designed to enable them to discern their true spiritual state; it was sent in mercy to arouse them to seek the Lord with repentance and humiliation.”—The Great Controversy, p. 353.

 

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1.       What lessons can we learn from William Miller’s experience? Does God at times overrule our mistaken understanding?

 

Answer: William Miller’s experience teaches us the importance of diligent Bible study and the humility to accept correction. Despite Miller’s mistaken understanding of the prophecy, God used the situation to refine and purify His people. Ellen White points out that the Great Disappointment revealed the true spiritual state of the believers and led them to deeper repentance and faith (The Great Controversy, p. 353). This demonstrates that God can overrule our mistakes to accomplish His greater purposes.

 

2.       Why is an understanding of Daniel 9:24-27 so significant in establishing the integrity of the Bible and the divinity of Christ?

 

Answer: Daniel 9:24-27 is crucial because it accurately predicts the timing of Jesus' baptism and crucifixion. This precise fulfillment of prophecy reinforces the reliability and divine inspiration of the Bible. It also affirms the divinity of Christ, as the prophecy points directly to Him as the Messiah. The exact fulfillment of these time prophecies strengthens our confidence in Scripture and God’s sovereign plan.

 

3.       What role does understanding prophecy play in the plan of salvation? Why is prophecy so significant in the plan of God?

 

Answer: Understanding prophecy helps believers recognize the fulfillment of God’s promises and reassures them of His control over history. Prophecy points to significant events in the plan of salvation, such as the coming of the Messiah, His sacrifice, and His second coming. Prophecies like those in Daniel and Revelation reveal God's plan to save humanity and establish His kingdom, encouraging faith and readiness among believers.

 

4.       How did the Great Disappointment of 1844 serve to test and purify the faith of the early Adventists?

 

Answer: The Great Disappointment tested the faith of the early Adventists by challenging their understanding and commitment. Many had to reassess their beliefs and motivations, discerning whether their hope was truly in Christ or in earthly expectations. This period of trial led to a deeper study of Scripture and a clearer understanding of prophetic truths. Ellen White notes that it revealed their true spiritual state and led them to seek the Lord with repentance and humility (The Great Controversy, p. 353).

 

5.       What does Ellen White mean when she says that the prophecy of the judgment was sent in mercy to arouse believers?

 

Answer: Ellen White means that the prophecy concerning the judgment was intended to awaken believers from spiritual complacency and lead them to a deeper relationship with God. It was an act of mercy to highlight their true spiritual condition and prompt them to repentance and commitment. The prophecy served as a divine call to prioritize spiritual readiness and to focus on the coming of the Lord, rather than being absorbed by worldly pursuits (The Great Controversy, p. 353).