Sabbath School Promotional Talk

 

First Sabbath

EVANGELISM

 TOPIC 1

“God’s commission is to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.” (Revelation 14:6). “His work is to go forward in cities and towns and villages.”—Evangelism, p. 46. This includes your city, your town, your village. You have a responsibility to reach every individual in your territory. The Lord has given “to every man his work” (Mark 13:34), and this is to “Carry the Word of God to every man’s door.”- Christian Service p. 144.

“This is not only a duty—it is a glorious privilege! We may become workers together with God, used of Him to help save souls for eternity. Our work has been marked out for us by our heavenly Father. We are to take our Bibles and go forth to warn the world. We are to be God’s helping hands in saving souls — channels through which His love is day by day to flow to the perishing.”— Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 150.

TOPIC 2

What Branch Sabbath School Can Do in Evangelism?

1. Provide an effective approach to reaching homes and hearts in the community.

2. Increase Sabbath School and Church Membership.

3. Open additional doors for personal visits and Bible Studies.

4. Create evangelistic fervor among church members.

5. Offer effective and thrilling soul-saving work.

6. Bring in new members with new life and new zeal.

7. Afford active evangelism without a large outlay of funds.

8. Open the place for the Church Planting Project.

TOPIC 3

This is the time when it is wise to begin planning our Vacation Bible School. The need for Vacation Bible Schools become more evident each year as more and more children are coming into the world. “God’s people have a mighty work before them, a work that must continually rise to greater prominence.

Our efforts in missionary lines must become far more extensive. A more decided work than has been done must be done prior to the second appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ. God’s people are not to cease their labors until they shall encircle the world.”-Counsels on Sabbath School Work, p. 133.

TOPIC 4

Every Christian is a witness for Christ. “It is the plan of Heaven that those who have received light shall impart it to those in darkness. Humanity, drawing its efficiency from the great Source of wisdom, is made the instrumentality, the working agency, through which the gospel exercises its transforming power on mind and heart.’4—The Acts of the Apostles, p. 134.

“Not upon the ordained minister only, rests the responsibility of going forth to fulfill this commission. Everyone who has received Christ is called to work for the salvation of his fellow men.” The Acts of the Apostles, p. 110.

“God expects personal service from everyone to whom He has entrusted a knowledge of the truth for this time. Not all can go as missionaries to foreign lands, but all can be home missionaries in their families and neighborhoods.”— Testimonies, vol. 9, p, 30,

TOPIC 5

The whole church must be involved in missionary work. “There is a broad field in Sabbath School work, that needs to be diligently cultivated, and that is to inspire our youth to give themselves wholly to the Lord, to be used by Him in His cause. There should be zealous, faithful workers in our Sabbath schools, who will watch and discern upon whom the Spirit of God is moving, and cooperate with the angels of God in winning souls for Christ. There are sacred responsibilities entrusted to Sabbath School Workers, and the Sabbath School should be the place where, through a living connection with God, men and women, youth and children, may be so fitted up that they shall be a strength and blessing to the church. They should help the church upward and onward, as far as it lies in their ability, going from strength to greater strength ”׳״Testimonies on Sabbath School Work, p. 92.

“Let no church think it is too small to exert an influence and do service in the great work for this time.”–R & H, March 13,1888.

“Go to work, brethren… The humblest effort of unselfish love will be crowned with His blessings, and receive its greatest reward. Do what you can, and God will increase your ability.”—Ibid.

TOPIC 6

Christ-like life most powerful argument in favor of Christianity. “It is not only by preaching the truth, not only by distributing literature, that we are to witness for God. Let us remember that a Christ-like life is the most powerful argument that can be advanced in favor of Christianity and that a cheap Christian character works more harm in the world than the character of a worldling.” —Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 21.

A father was one day teaching his little boy what a Christian is. When the lesson was finished, the father got a stab he never forgot. The boy asked, “Daddy, have I ever seen a Christian?”-W.B.K. Reminder: Let us live that people who remember you will also remember Jesus Christ.

TOPIC 7

“A spirit of intercession was seen, even as was manifested before the great Day of Pentecost, Hundreds and thousands were seen visiting families and opening before them the word of God. Hearts were convicted by the power of the Holy Spirit, and a spirit of genuine conversion was manifest. On every side doors were thrown open to the proclamation of the truth. The world seems to be lightened with the heavenly influence.” .621 .9

Thousands visiting! Doors opening! Bibles opening! Hearts responding! The earth being lightened! What a glorious picture! God wants you in that picture! “Go to your neighbors one by one, and come close to them till their hearts are warmed by your unselfish interest and love. Sympathize with them, pray with them, watch for opportunities to do them good, and as you can, gather a few together and open the Word of God to their darkened minds.”־־Welfare Ministry, p. 64.

TOPIC 8

The times in which we live challenge every worker and every church member to become personally involved in reaching out for judgment- bound souls. There are numerous ways of creating an interest in the gospel; Consistent Christian Living, Being a Good Neighbor, Literature Distribution, Gift Bible Evangelism, Neighborhood Bible Clubs, Friendship Teams, Community Services, Health Classes, Temperance Programs, Voice of Prophecy, Cooking Demonstration, Small Group and many *others. All of these methods are effective in awakening the interest of men and women, and children in Jesus Christ and in the special truths for these times.

“To every one work has been allotted, and no one can be a substitute for another. Each one has a mission of wonderful importance, which he cannot neglect or ignore, as the fulfillment of it involves the weal of some soul, and the neglect of it the woe of one for whom Christ died.”—R & H, December 12, 1893.

“Church members, let the light shine forth. Let your voices be heard in humble prayer, in witness against intemperance, the folly and the amusements of this world, and in the proclamation of the truth for this time. Your voice, your influence, your time – all these are gifts from God, and are to be used in winning souls to Christ. — Testimonies, vol. 9 p. 38.

TOPIC 9

When we give attention to our own spiritual needs and our personal relationship to the Savior, there develops a burden and concern for others. Not only does God give the burden, but He equips every convert for service. Upon each believer the Holy Spirit bestows spiritual gifts to be used in witnessing for Christ.

Every Christian is a witness, but because we have different spiritual gifts, we might not at all witness in just the same way. Some are most comfortable beginning with a health approach. Others prefer to work with audio-visual materials which do the talking for them. Then, there are others who want to do their own talking, and some are especially gifted to be lay evangelist.

Christian friends can help you in identifying your spiritual gifts, also there are tests especially designed for this purpose. Keep in mind that spiritual gifts are given for service and for the upbuilding of the kingdom of God.

“All men do not receive the same gifts, but to every servant of the master some gift of the Spirit is promised.”—Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 327.

Regardless of what gifts you possess, you will find joy in reaching out through these gifts to those in your family territory. Other members of your family or of your church family will have gifts which will compliment your own and thus the body of Christ will be complete. “In all the Lord’s arrangements, there is nothing more beautiful than His plan of giving to men and women a diversity of gifts,”-‘Evangelism, p. 98.

TOPIC 10

The gift of hospitality is a gift that can be cultivated on the part of many church members. One clue to the phenomenal growth of the early church was the fact that they knew how to use this gift. They invited neighbors and friends to share simple meals in their homes. In turn, they were invited to the homes of their new friends. “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.” (Acts 2:42). People cannot eat together without speaking about the joys and problems of life; and it is easy to understand that these Christians, for whom witnessing was a way of life.

Use these contacts to lead people to Jesus after first building confidence and friendship. Whom do we invite to our homes? Members of our immediate families, relatives and friends. We enjoy the company of people we already know, rust, and love. But how will we reach the others, the ones we don’t know, those starving for companionship aid care? “If we could humble ourselves before God, and be kind and courteous and tenderhearted and pitiful, there would be one hundred conversions to the truth where now there is only one.”- Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 189.

Many of us could invite a neighbor, a work associate, a new visitor to our church, a stranger, or a lonely person to our home for a meal. Why not do this once a month, or at least once a quarter?

This association will provide opportunity to praise the Lord by sharing our testimony about how we met Jesus and to cheer the hearts of our guests with a precious Bible promise and a prayer.

TOPIC 11

The Pastor’s Bible class is a special Sabbath School class for inquirers. Names for this class which might have a special appeal to non-Adventists include: inter-faith Bible class and Saturday morning Bible class. If someone other than the Pastor is appointed to teach this class, it should ideally be someone gifted in the areas of teaching and hospitality. This class must have an atmosphere of warmth and friendliness if it is to achieve its purpose.

When a new baby is born, it is kept for a time in a controlled environment under constant surveillance by experts in the field of pediatric nursing. We don’t say to the newborn child, “This is a hard, cold world. There are disease, germs, poisons, and all kinds of dangers. But you’re one of us now, and you’ll just have to take your chances along with the rest of us!”

No, we don’t say that! We do all in our power to cut down on infant mortality. We provide special formulas for feeding, and above all, a lot of tender loving care!

The ideal controlled environment and special- feeding formula for new Christians is found in the Pastor’s Bible class. The subject matter of the lesson is especially designed to meet the needs of new believers. Wherever possible the class is taught in a separate room so that the new believer is not faced with the distraction of many talking at the same time in the same room.

Chairs should be arranged in a circle, if at all possible, so there will be a warm feeling of fellowship and an opportunity to become acquainted with others in the class. Time should be taken every week to introduce each new person by name at the beginning of the class so that all are acquainted by name. The teacher will immediately notice if a member of the class is missing. He will visit the missing person without delay.

TOPIC 12

A new sense of urgency is gripping the Seventh- day Adventists around the world as crisis follows crisis. These crises confront us in government, morals, pollution, population, water, energy, food, finance and religion. The list grows longer by the week!

God has raised up His remnant church to prepare men and women for the final crisis. “Men will soon be forced to great decisions, and they must have opportunity to hear and to understand Bible truth, in order that they may take their stand intelligently on the right side, God is now calling upon His messengers in no uncertain terms, to warn the cities while mercy still lingers, and while multitudes are yet susceptible to the converting influence of Bible truth.” —Evangelism, pp 25, 26.

The conviction is deepening that the return of our Lord is very near. The stage is set for His return. The great time prophecies have all reached their terminal dates. The world has reached that low ebb of morality described in Scripture as preceding the end. Certainly, our Lord is well.

TOPIC 13

Every Saturday evening for over forty years a servant of God stood on a certain street comer handling out gospel papers to the passersby. And then he stopped. Discouraged because he saw so little fruit, he abandoned his post. Some years later he happened on the spot and a young man stood there and gave him a gospel tract. He stopped, and addressing the young man he said, “How is it that you are here tonight?”

“Well, sir, it is like this. An old man occupied this comer for years; I was saved by means of a tract he gave me. Evidently the old man is in heaven now for I’ve missed him here, and so I am seeking to fill his place.”

Tears filled the eyes of the older Christian as the young man thus spoke. “I am the man who gave you the tract,” he said, “and by the grace of God I mean to stand my place until Jesus comes.” –Peter J. Pell

Sabbath School promotions are given from Sabbath to Sabbath not only to add flavor on the Sabbath School Program but to challenge Sabbath School officers and members. Promotional thoughts are not promotions to any Sabbath School when not followed through and implemented.

                                    

                                    

                Second Sabbath

Investment

Topic 1

“What shall I render unto’ the Lord for all his benefits toward me?” Psalm 116:12. “He loads us with His  benefits. We are indebted to Him for the food we eat, the water we drink, the clothes we wear, the air we breathe.

Without His special providence, the air would be filled with pestilence and poison. He is a bountiful benefactor and preserver.”

“The sun which shines upon the earth, and glorifies all nature, the weird, solemn radiance of the moon, the glories of the firmament, spangled with brilliant star, the showers that refresh the land, and cause vegetation to flourish, the precious things of nature in all their varied richness, the lofty trees, the shrubs and plants, the waving grain, the blue sky, the green earth, the changes of day and night, the renewing seasons, all speak to man of his Creator’s love.”—Counsels on Stewardship, p. 17.

Topic 2

“How inclined is man to set his affections on earthly things! His attention is absorbed in houses and lands, and his duty to his fellow man is neglected; his own salvation is treated as a matter of little consequence, and the claims of God upon him are forgotten. Men grasp the treasures of earth as tenaciously as if they could hold on to them forever.

They seem to think that they have a right to do with their means just as it pleases them, no matter what the Lord has commanded, or what may be the need of their fellow men.”

“They forget that all they claim as theirs, has simply been entrusted to them. They are stewards of the grace of God. God has committed this treasure to them to prove them, that they may manifest their attitude to His cause, and show the thoughts of their heart toward Him. They are not only trading for time, but for eternity, with the Lord’s money, and the use or abuse of their talent will determine their position and trusting the world to come.”— Counsels on Stewardship, p. 112.

Topic 3

“God has lent men talents: an intellect to originate a heart to be the place of His throne, affection to flow out in blessings to others, and a conscience to convict of sin. Each one has received something from the Master, and each one is to do his part in supplying the needs of God’s work.” .”—Counsels on  stewardship, p. 114.

“God desires His workers to look to Him as the Giver of all they possess, to remember that all that they have and are comes from Him who is wonderful in counsel and excellent in working. The delicate touch of the physician’s hand, his power over nerve and muscle, his knowledge of the delicate organism of the body, are the wisdom of divine power, to be  used in behalf of suffering humanity. The skill with which the carpenter uses the hammer, the strength with which the blacksmith makes the anvil ring, come from God. He has entrusted men with talents, and He desires them to look for Him for counsel. Thus they may use His gifts with unerring aptitude, testifying that they are workers together with God.” Ibid. Let us invest our talents to God.

Topic 4

“When the cases of all come in review before God, the question, What did they profess? is never asked, but, What have they done? Have they been doers of the word? Have they lived for themselves? Or have they been exercised in works of benevolence, in deeds of kindness, in love, preferring others before themselves, and denying themselves that they might bless others?.”— Counsels on Stewardship, p. 129.

“If the record shows that this has been their life, that their characters have been marked with tenderness, self-denial, and benevolence, they will receive the blessed assurance and benediction from Christ, “Well done,” “Come ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.”—Ibid.

“Christ has been grieved and wounded by our marked selfish love, and indifference to the woes and needs of others.”—Ibid.

Topic 5

“Often the most useful Christians are those who serve their Master in little things. He never despises the day of small things, or else He would not hide His oaks in the acorns, or the wealth· of a wheat field in bags of little seeds.”—Theodore Cuyler

“An elderly lady of wealth gave liberally to provide services for the poor in a mission in London, She was deaf, but nevertheless she was radiant, joyful Christian. She faithfully attended the services of the mission. “What is your part in this work?” asked a visiting minister at the close of an evening service. “Oh,” she replied, “I smile them in and I smile them out!” ״Ah!” exclaimed the minister, “how valuable is such service in a place like this where so many are downcast and discouraged! W.B .K.

“Do not wait to do great things. The opportunity may never come. But since little things are constantly claiming your attention, do them for a great motive for the glory of God, and to do good for others.”—Dr. RB, Meyer

Topic 6

Two men were engaged in conversation One said, “You give far too much to God’s work. I have decided to wait until I amass a large amount of money and then I will give.” “No,” said the other, “I give as God prospers me, and according to His plan, “Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him.” (1 Cor. 16:2)

The first speaker failed in business. The other became a prosperous businessman.

If we give willingly and cheerfully to God, we are insured for time and eternity. The greatest earthly bank is a weak institution compared with the bank of heaven upon which the God-honoring Christian may draw.

“Unless a man cultivates a habit of systematic giving when he has not much to give, he will give little when he is rich.” Samuel Chadwick

Topic 7

Let us consider the first letter of the word INVESTMENT.

There was a missionary meeting in a church in Scotland. The people were greatly moved. They gave generously to send missionaries into God’s world- wide vineyard. Little Alexander Duff, just ten years

old, sat in a pew. His heart was strangely moved. But he had nothing to give. After the offering was taken, the ushers returned to the rear of the church. Little Alexander followed them. Looking into the face of one of the collectors, the lad said, “Please, Sir, put the basket low!” The usher, catering to what he thought was a ’childish whim, put the basket on the floor. “There you are, my boy,” he said, smiling. How surprised all were when the boy stepped into the basket and said, “O God, I have no money to give, but I give myself in the offering!”— W.B.K.

Not what we give, but what we share, For the gift without the giver is bare!  -Gerald Horton Bath, in Guideposts

Topic 8

“And if men will become channels through which the heaven’s blessing can flow to others, the Lord will keep the channel supplied. It is not returning to the Lord His own that makes men poor; withholding tends to poverty.” —Counsels on Stewardship, p. 36.

“Perfection of character cannot possibly be attained without self-sacrifice.” —Testimonies, vol. 9, 53.

“Those churches who are the most systematic and liberal in sustaining the cause of God are the most prosperous spiritually.” —Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 405.

Topic 9

“We should be reminded that “we have put a little space of time left in which to work for God. Nothing should be too dear to sacrifice for the salvation of the scattered and tom flock of Jesus. Those who make a covenant with God by sacrifice now will soon be gathered home to share a rich reward and possess the new kingdom forever and ever.”—The Early Writings, p. 47.

Let us give today so we will not be among those who “in anguish of spirit.,. will cast it from them to the moles and to the bats.”—Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 169.

“The offering from the heart that loves, God delights to honor, giving its highest efficiency in service for Him. If we have given our hearts to Jesus, we also shall bring our gifts to him.”—The Desire of Ages, p. 65.

Topic 10

Look away from things that perish Wood and stone will soon decay, fix your eyes on things eternal, God and heaven will stand for aye. He is able, He is willing, He will guide you all the way; Take your eyes off things that perish, look to him and trust and pray.

“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt״ and where thieves do not beak through nor steal: for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. — Matthew 6:19-21

Treasures in heaven are laid up only as treasures on earth are laid down.

Topic 11

“But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work.”—2 Cor. 9:6-8.

“Give cheerfully, gladly, willingly, thankful that you are able to do something to advance God’s kingdom in the world. Empty the heart of selfishness, and brace the mind for Christian activity. If you are in close connection with God, you will be willing to make any sacrifice to place eternal life within the reach of the perishing.”- ־ Counsels on Stewardship, p. 49.

Topic 12

“Those who in everything make God first and last and best, are the happiest people in the world.”—Ellen G. White

“If you want to have a happy life, take up giving as a hobby when you’re young.”– Arthur F, Leneban

“Happiness is the legitimate fruitage of love and service.”-Arthur S. Hardy

He who earns is an industrious man; He who spends is a well-furnished man; He who saves is a prepared man; He who gives is a blessed man. —Anonymous

We can give without loving, but we cannot love without giving. A pig was complaining to a cow that he was not appreciated. “I don’t understand it,” he said, “people are always talking about how generous you are, giving them cream and milk and butter for their daily use. That’s nice of course, but I give more than you do—ham and bacon and bristles and feet. Yet nobody has any use for me. They make fun of me and call me a pig, I don’t like it,” “perhaps the difference,” the cow replied after a moment’s hesitation, “is that I give while I’m still alive.” Unknown

Topic 13

God has made men His stewards. The property which He has placed in their hands is the means that He has provided for the spread of the gospel. To those who prove themselves faithful stewards He will commit greater trusts. Saith the Lord, “Them that honor Me I will honor.” “God loveth a cheerful giver,” and when His people with grateful hearts, bring their gifts and offerings to Him, “not grudgingly, or of necessity,” His blessing will attend them, as he has promised.

If one and all would accept it, each would be made a vigilant and faithful treasurer for God; and there would be no want of means with which to carry forward the great work of sounding the last message of warning to the world. The treasury will be full if all adopt this system, and the contributors will not be left the poorer. Through every investment made, they will become more wedded to the cause of present truth.

They will be “laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may hold on eternal life.” -Counsels on Stewardship, p. 73.

 

                                            Third Sabbath

         Birthday/Thank offering

Topic 1

“Under the Jewish economy, on the birth of children, an offering was made to God by His own appointment. Now we see parents taking special pains to present gifts to their children upon their birthdays, they make this an occasion of honoring the child, as though honor were due to the human being.

Satan has had his own way in these things; he has diverted the minds and the gifts to human beings; thus, the thoughts of the children are turned to themselves, as if they were to be made the objects of special favor. That which should flow back to God in offerings to bless the needy and carry the light of truth to the world, is turned from the right channel, and frequently does more harm than good, encouraging vanity, pride and self-importance.

On birthday occasions, the children should be taught that they have reason for gratitude to God for His loving-kindness in preserving their lives for another year. Precious lessons might thus be given. For life, health, food and clothing, no less than for the hope of eternal life, we are indebted to the Giver of all mercies; and it is due to God to recognize His gifts, and present our offerings of gratitude to our greatest benefactor. These birthday gifts are recognized of Heaven.”— Counsels on Sabbath School Work, p. 143.

Topic 2

“All that we do is to be dyne willingly. We are to bring our offerings with joy and gratitude, saying as we present them, Of Thine own we freely give Thee. The most costly service we can render is but meager compared to the gift of God to our world. Christ is a gift every day. God gave Him to the world, and He graciously takes the gifts entrusted to His human agents for the advancement of His work in the world. Thus, we show that we recognize and acknowledge that everything belongs to God, absolutely and entirely. Counsels on Stewardship, p. 198.

“The offering from the heart that loves, God delights to honor, giving it highest efficiency in service for Him. If we have given our hearts to Jesus, we also shall bring our gifts to Him, our gold and silver, our most precious earthly possessions, our highest mental and spiritual endowments, will be freely devoted to him who loved us, and gave Himself for us.”—Ibid.

Topic 3

“O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for his mercy endureth forever. O give thanks unto the God of gods; for his mercy endureth forever. O give thanks to the Lord of lords; for his mercy endureth forever. To him who alone doeth great wonders; for his mercy endureth forever.

To him that by wisdom made the heavens; for his mercy endureth forever. To him that stretched out the earth above the waters; for his mercy endureth forever. To him that made great lights; for his mercy endureth forever. The sun to rule by day; for his mercy endureth forever. The moon and stars to rule by night; for his mercy endureth forever.” Psalm 136: 1-9, KJV.

“And hath redeemed us from our enemies; for his mercy endureth forever. O give thanks unto the God of heaven; for his mercy endureth forever”. Psalm 136:24,26, KJV.

In everything give thanks.

Topic 4

“In honoring the memory of their son who was killed in World War 11, the parents gave a sizable check to their church. When the presentation was made, a mother whispered to her husband, “Let’s give the same amount for our boy!” “What are you talking about?” asked the husband, “our boy didn’t lose his life!” “Ah,” said the wife, “that’s just the point! Let’s give it as an expression of our gratitude to God for sparing his life!”

George Herbert prayed: “Our Father, Thou hast given us so much. Do please give us one more thing — a grateful heart!”— W.B.K.

Sabbath School members and Sabbath School visitors may give a Birthday-Thank Offering on occasions other than a birthday.

Topic 5

In Everything Give Thanks

For all that God in mercy sends –

For health and children, home and friends;

For comforts in the time of need,

For every kindly word and deed,

For happy talks and holy thoughts;

For guidance in our daily walk- in everything give thanks!

For beauty in this world of ours,

For verdant grass and lovely flowers,

For song of birds, for hum of bees,

For the refreshing summer breeze,

For hill and plain, for stream and wood,

For the great ocean’s mighty flood

In everything give thanks!

For the sweet sleep which comes with night

For the returned morning light,

For the bright sun that shines on high,

For the stars glittering in the sky

For these and everything we see,

O Lord, our hearts we lift to thee;

In everything give thanks! —Selected

Topic 6

Oh, How Much We Owe!

When this passing world is done,

When has sunk yon glorious sun,

When we stand with Christ in Glory,

Looking o ’er life s finished story:

Then, Lord, shall fully know,

Not till then, how much I owe.

When I stand before the Throne,

Dressed in beauty not my own,

When I see Thee as Thou art,

 Love Thee with unsinning heart:

Then, Lord, shall fully know,

Not till then, how much I owe.

E’en on earth, as through a glass, Darkly,

let thy Glory pass;

Make forgiveness feel so sweet,

Make Thy Spirit’s help so meet;

E’en on earth, Lord, make me know,

Something of how much I owe.

Chosen not for good in me,

Wakened up from wrath to flee

Hidden in the Saviour s side,

By the spirit, sanctified;

Teach me, Lord, on earth to show,

By my love, how much I owe. —Robert Murray McCheyne

Topic 7

Things to ponder upon:

God gives the soil: Psalm 24:1

God gives the seed : Genesis 1:11

God gives the rain: Job 5:40

God gives you life: Acts 17:28

God gives you health: Jeremiah 30:17

God gives you strength: Psalm 144:1

God gives “riches and honor”: 1 Chronicles 29:12

God gives grace: 11 Chronicles 12:9

God gives eternal life: Romans 6:23

“What hast thou that thou didst not receive?” (1 Cor. 4:7) —Walter B. Knight

God has given us everything. The song says, “What Shall I Give Thee Master?”

Topic 8

A postal employee opened and read the mail which came to the Dead Letter Office in Washington addressed to Santa Claus. In the three months before Christmas, there were thousands of letters asking for something. In the months after Christmas, there was only one card addressed to Santa Claus thanking him. How quick we are to ask and receive. How slow we are to speak the magic word – thanks! —Harold Ruoff in The Chicago Daily News

Remember the story of ten lepers in Luke 17:11-19. KJV. And Jesus answering said, “Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.”

Topic 9

Think It Over

God made the sun—it gives.

God made the moon — it gives.

God made the stars — they give.

God made the air—it gives.

God made clouds —they give,

God made the earth—it gives.

God made the sea — it gives.

God made the trees — they give.

God made the flowers — they give.

God made the fowls —they give,

God made the beasts —they give.

God made man — he ____?… –Selected

He who gives to me teaches me to give

You get more than you give when you give more than you get. —Bits & Pieces

Topic 10

I’m a Christian, but sometimes I forget to thank God for the things that haven’t happened. Not this year. I’m grateful for the accidents I wasn’t involved in, the illnesses that never developed, and the times I could have been mugged, but wasn’t.

I’m thankful my house didn’t bum down when I left the iron on for five hours. I’m thankful that when we left the garage door up all night, nothing was taken. Sometimes I forget to thank God for electricity, but this Thanksgiving I’ll make a point of it. I’m also thankful for indoor plumbing, anesthetics …

Ever since my daughter nearly sheared her fingertip in the bathroom door I’m thankful for every uneventful day. I’m thankful for my son’s paraphrase of Psalm 100: “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him, and bless His name.” I’m glad I have Someone to thank. —Jessica Shaver

Topic 11

“Praise is the honey of life which a devout heart extracts from every bloom of providence and grace.” —Spurgeon

Praise changes things. Praise changes you. Try it! A song of praise in the prison of gloom or depression can open its doors; ‘And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God. .. and immediately all the doors were opened;, and everyone’s bands were loosed.” Acts 16:25,26. –Walter B. Knight

How thankful we are to our Heavenly Father for the light of truth He has revealed to us in this serious hour of earth’s history. The privilege of prayer, the opportunity of attending Sabbath School and Church Services, the blessings of health, peace and prosperity are the reasons why we need to praise God every day.

“The power of God is manifested in the beating of the heart, in the action of the lungs, and in the living currents that circulate through the thousand different channels of the body. We are indebted to him for every moment of existence, and for all the comforts of life. The powers and abilities that elevate man above the lower creation, are the endowment of the Creator.” —Counsels on Stewardship, p. 17.

Topic 12

If anyone would tell you the shortest, surest way to happiness and all perfection, he must tell you to make it a rule to yourself to thank and praise God for everything that happens to you. For it is certain that whatever seeming calamity happens to you, if you thank and praise God for it, you mm it into a blessing.–William Law

The happiness of your life depends on the character of your thoughts-Hemy Ford

There is so much for which to be thankful There are gifts so abundant each day So we thank Thee, dear Lord for Thy mercy That attends us along life’s way.

Topic 13

How to Observe Thanksgiving

Count your blessings instead of crosses;

Count your gain instead of losses.

Count your joys instead of woes;

Count your friends instead of foes.

Count your smiles instead of tears;

Count your courage instead of fears.

Count your full years instead of lean;

Count your kind deeds instead of mean.

Count your health instead of wealth;

Count on God instead of yourself. —Selected

                                                    Fourth Sabbath

Sabbath School Improvement

 Topic 1

How you spend your time is far more important than how you spend your money. With money mistakes can be corrected but time is gone forever.— Norris.

You cannot waste time, for time is always here, neither more nor less, and always moving at a steady pace. When you do not use time to the best possible advantage to yourself, to society, to God, you are wasting yourself.— Walter

“It is a sad failing with many that they are always behind time on Sabbath morning. They are very particular about their own time, they cannot afford to lose an hour of that; but the Lord’s time, the only day out of the seven that the Lord claims as His, and requires us to devote to Him, quite a portion of this is squandered away by sleeping late in the morning.

In this they are robbing God. It causes them to be behind in everything; it makes confusion in the family; and finally results in the tardiness of the entire family at Sabbath School, and perhaps at meeting. Now why can we not rise early with the birds, and offer praise and thanksgiving to God? Try it, brethren and sisters. Have your preparations all made the day before, and come promptly to the Sabbath School meeting, and you will thereby not only benefit others, but you will reap rich blessings for yourselves.”— Counsels on Sabbath School Work, pp. 169-170.

The great rule of moral conduct is, next to God, to respect time. – Lavater

Topic 2

Reasons Seventh-day Adventists need the Sabbath School –

1. The Sabbath School provides the most thorough organized and universally effective Bible Study program in the denomination.
2. The Sabbath School is a marvelous institution for keeping children safe within the church’s heart. In no other service are children taught with such directness the meaning of upright conduct and deepdown faith, calculated to keep them in the truth.
3. Those who have problems, trials, and pains in life can find new outlook in God’s house.
4. The believers can hear weekly mission stories, which give perhaps our broadest and clearest view of the on-going message design to gather a called-out people.
5. Approximately one half of the mission funds that support our world work are raised through the Sabbath School.
6. The Sabbath School inspires each member to active service like soul winning through Branch Sabbath School, Vacation Bible School and other evangelistic endeavors.
7. The Sabbath School helps develop the leadership qualities/talents in many of God’s people. Members who become strong leaders in the Sabbath School often use their improved talents for building up the entire church program.
8. Through attendance at Sabbath School the church member contributes to trust in God and an unbroken religious commitment which, as William Lyon Phelps put it, “should be the motor of life; the central heating plant of personality; the faith that gives joy to activity, hope to struggle, dignity to humility and zest to living.”

Topic 3

“The Lord is in His holy temple. The Lord is in His holy temple. Let all the earth keep silence. Let all the earth keep silence, before Him. Keep silence, keep silence before Him,” the song goes.

“I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy loving-kindness and for thy truth; for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name .”–Psalm 138:2

We are living in an age of irreverence. There is a lessening regard for that which is sacred and holy. This trend must not be allowed for an instance within the walls of the church or the home. Reverence for the place of worship in the home and church must be in a state of constant improvement if we have our worship acceptable before God.

“The house is the sanctuary of the family, but the church is the sanctuary for the congregation. There should be rules in regard to the time, the place, nothing that pertains to the worshipping of God, should be treated with carelessness or indifference.”— Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 491.

Topic 4

Tips on how to improve our Sabbath School

1. Come early to Sabbath School. Reverence requires being on time.
2. If Sabbath School has begun, take seat near the entrance, even if you usually sit in the front pew.
3. Be thoughtful of the presence of others. Don’t make them climb over you to get their accustomed seat.
4. Be worshipful in all your attitudes. You came to worship, not to whisper, lounge or sleep.
5. Be kind to strangers. Hand them an open hymnal.
6. Always remember that strangers are guests of the church. Give them a warm smile and friendly handshake.
7. Make them love your Sabbath School.
8. Participate in the lesson discussion.
9. Do not be in a hurry to go home after the Sabbath School. There is another service to follow.
10. Always keep in mind that when you are in Sabbath School, you are in God’s house.

Topic 5

“The warfare against self is the greatest battle that was ever fought. The yielding of self, surrendering all to the will of God, requires a struggle; but the soul must submit to God before it can be renewed in holiness.”—Steps to Christ, p. 43.

“The student of the Sabbath School should be in earnest, should dig deep and search with the greatest care for the precious gems of truth contained in the weekly lessons. The privileges and opportunities which they now have of becoming intelligent in regard to the Scriptures should not be neglected.

God would have those who profess to be His followers thoroughly furnished with proof of the doctrines of His word. When and where can this be better obtained than in youth at the Sabbath School? Parents should in no case treat this matter indifferently”—Counsels on Sabbath School Work, p. 22.

We should make it a habit to study our Sabbath School lesson daily.

Topic 6

What kind of Sabbath School member are you? How can we improve our Sabbath School? Here are some points to be considered:

1. Always attend.
2. Establish the habit of coming on time. Late arrivals spoil the worshipful atmosphere.
3. Offer good suggestions to your superintendents; don’t just stand and criticize.
4. Be faithful in studying the Bible Study Guide (Lesson Quarterly). Follow the Daily Study Plan.
5. Do not monopolize the class discussion so as to imply that you are the only one who knows the answer,
6. Bring Bible, Song Book and Bible Study Guide (Lesson Quarterly) to Sabbath School. Your good example will influence others to do likewise.
7. Bring an offering to Sabbath School.
8. If you are a Sabbath School teacher, teach by the question-and-answer method.
9. Be cooperative. If you are assign to be a part of the Sabbath School program, please do not refuse.
10. Switch your cell phone to silent mode in order not to disrupt worship when it rings.

Topic 7

“But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles; that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.—1 Peter 2:9,12.

People are watching us. Our friends, relatives, neighbors, and business associates are looking at us. They want to see the Jesus who we have been presenting to them. Do they see this Jesus? What do they see? These days, people are saying, “We don’t want to hear sermons, we want to see sermons.” How do we live and how do we relate to others?

Topic 8

“What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he called together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” -Luke 15:4-7.

“To look is one thing. To see what you look at is another. To understand what you see is a third. To learn from what you understand is still something else. But to act on what you learn is all that really matters.”־־ Bits & Pieces “Action may not always bring happiness; but there is no happiness without action.” —Benjamin Disraeli “The great end of life is not knowledge but action.” —Aldous Huxley

What efforts are we making for the many who should be in the fold of the Sabbath School?

Topic 9

“If you want to be distressed, look to yourself. If you want to be perplexed, look to others. If you want to be radiant, look to Jesus: “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith.” ־־ Hebrews 12:2

A group of people listened to a student, who had been a navigator in a crew of giant bombers in World War 11. He said, “My guiding my ship across the uncharted oceans was a simple matter indeed. Why, all I had to do was take a couple looks at the stars, and then look in a book. That book would tell me right where we were, making it the easiest thing in the world to get to our destination!”

God’s children will always be guided aright when they do two things: Look to Jesus whom the Bible calls “a Star of Jacob,” and “the bright and morning star,” and to the Book, God’s imperishable Word, which is “a lamp” that “shineth in a dark place.”— Walter B. Knight

Topic 10

“Superintendents and the workers in our Sabbath Schools have a very important, broad field to cultivate. They need to be baptized with the Holy Spirit of God that their minds may be impressed to use the very best methods and follow the best plans to make their work wholly successful.” -Counsels on Sabbath School Work, p. 11.

“The Sabbath School should be one of the greatest instrumentalities, and the most effectual, in bringing souls to Christ… (and) Sabbath School, if rightly conducted, is one of God’s great instrumentalities to bring souls to knowledge of the truth.” —Counsels on Sabbath School Work, p. 115.

“When church member put forth earnest efforts to advance the message, they will live in the joy of the Lord and will meet with success. Triumph always follows decided effort.” —Testimonies, vol. 7 p. 30.

Topic 11

Kindness and Friendliness: Make Visitors Want to Return

Every church member should be conscious of the fact that as part of the church family he or she will be a factor in encouraging or discouraging the return of visitors. The exercise of the gifts possessed by the individual members should be so directed as to create an atmosphere that will make visitors want to come back.

Careful planning of the Sabbath School and the church service will make every part of these services meaningful to the visitor.

We need to safeguard the quality of our services in the following areas:

1. Proper balance between reverence and friendliness.
2. Christ-centered Biblical teaching and preaching.
3. Use of distinct, easily understood words by all speakers and singers.
4. Adequate heat and ventilation,
5. Appropriate dress and grooming of all participants.
6. Thorough preparation by all participants.
7. Avoidance of the unfamiliar in music and terminology.
8. Christian graces and cultural refinement in both the Pastor and the members.
9. Sincere friendliness and personal interest by church members shown to every newcomer, guest, or stranger who comes to Sabbath School or the worship service.
10. A Christ-like spirit of unity and an atmosphere of joy and enthusiasm.

Neglect or failure in any of these areas can undo hours of faithful soul-winning labor. If this happens, members will become discourage and will cease their attempts at soul winning. The quality of our church activities must make the visitor want to return!

Topic 12

“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work; but in the seventh day is a Sabbath of the Lord your God; in it you shall not work. For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day, therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.”— Exodus 20:10, 11 NKJV.

“Hallow my Sabbaths that they may be a sign between me and you, that you may know that I the Lord am your God.” -Ezekiel 20:20 RSV.

“Christ during His earthly ministry emphasized the binding claims of the Sabbath; in all His teachings He showed reverence for the institution He Himself had given. In His days the Sabbath had become so perverted that its observance neglected the character of selfish and arbitrary men rather than the character of God.

Christ set aside the false teachings by which those who claimed to know God had misrepresented Him. Although followed with merciless hostility by the rabbis, He did not ever appear to conform to their requirements, but went straight forward keeping the Sabbath according to the law of God.” -Prophets and Kings, p, 183.

Are you keeping the Sabbath day holy? If you are, then thank God for it; if you are not, stop losing heavenly blessings.

Topic 13

The writers of Bible Readings for the Home (p. 593), have come out with eight steps that help us to be reverent as we enter the house of God.

1. Go early to church. Not only be punctual, but be in your place before the hour announced for the service to begin.
2. Go in a reverent spirit. On the way remember where you are going. Avoid conversation on worldly topics.
3. Before you take your place and as you enter the church, breathe a silent prayer of invocation for the influence of the Holy Spirit.
4. As you take your place, bow reverently in prayer for yourself and for all others who enter the sanctuary,
5. Resolve that you will foster no thought, fix your eyes on no object, utter no word that will tend to divert your mind from the holy purpose for which you have into this place,
6. As the ministers enter the pulpit, offer an earnest silent prayer on their behalf.
7. In the services, take an active part, as hearer, as worshipper.
8. At the close of the service, after a moment ^ of prayerful silence, greet with cheerfulness and goodwill all whom you happen to meet, remembering that Christian fellowship is a part of Christian worship.