Sometimes God spoke through visions and dreams. At other times, His messages were delivered through spoken words, written records, or dramatic illustrations.

This week we will explore the difference between revelation and inspiration, how God communicated His messages, and why we can trust the Bible.

We will also examine Ellen White's understanding of how divine inspiration works through human messengers.

- SATURDAY – Introduction

- Memory Text

Revelation 1:1-2

KJV ¹ The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: ² Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. CEV ¹ This is what God showed to Jesus Christ, so that he could tell his servants what must happen soon. Christ then sent his angel with the message to his servant John. ² And John told everything he had seen about God's message and about what Jesus Christ had said and done.

- Lesson

The apostle John was one of Jesus' closest disciples.

After Jesus returned to heaven, John continued serving the early Christian church.

During a time of persecution, he was exiled to the island of Patmos.

While there, God gave him important prophetic messages for the churches and future generations of believers.

These messages became the book of Revelation.

The opening verses explain how the message was communicated.

Read Revelation 1:1-3

KJV ¹ The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: ² Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. ³ Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand. CEV ¹ This is what God showed to Jesus Christ, so that he could tell his servants what must happen soon. Christ then sent his angel with the message to his servant John. ² And John told everything he had seen about God's message and about what Jesus Christ had said and done. ³ God will bless everyone who reads this prophecy to others, and he will bless everyone who hears and obeys it. The time is almost here.

1. God Gives the Revelation – Revelation 1:1

KJV ¹ The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: CEV ¹ This is what God showed to Jesus Christ, so that he could tell his servants what must happen soon. Christ then sent his angel with the message to his servant John.

God gives Jesus Christ a message concerning future events.

2. Jesus Sends His Angel – Revelation 1:1

KJV ¹ The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: CEV ¹ This is what God showed to Jesus Christ, so that he could tell his servants what must happen soon. Christ then sent his angel with the message to his servant John.

Jesus communicates the message through an angel to His servant John.

3. John Records the Message – Revelation 1:2

KJV ² Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. CEV ² And John told everything he had seen about God's message and about what Jesus Christ had said and done.

John faithfully communicates what he has seen and received.

4. A Blessing for Believers – Revelation 1:3

KJV ³ Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand. CEV ³ God will bless everyone who reads this prophecy to others, and he will bless everyone who hears and obeys it. The time is almost here.

God promises a blessing to those who read, hear, and obey the prophetic message.

This process helps us understand two important ideas.

Revelation is the way God makes His truth known to human beings.

Inspiration is the work of the Holy Spirit guiding God's messengers as they faithfully communicate His message.

The message in Revelation followed a clear path:

God the Father → Jesus Christ → Angel → John → God's people.

God used this process to communicate truths that humanity could not discover independently.

Throughout the Bible, He used different methods to reveal His will.

Some messages were spoken, others were written, and some were presented through symbolic actions.

Despite these different methods, the purpose remained the same: to reveal God's truth and lead people toward Him.

- EGW Notes (Paraphrased)

Ellen White explains that the Bible contains truths beyond our complete understanding.

Subjects such as creation, the incarnation of Christ, salvation, and the resurrection reveal the greatness of God's wisdom.

Because our understanding is limited, we cannot expect to explain every mystery.

However, this does not mean that Scripture is unreliable.

God has provided sufficient evidence for us to trust His Word.

The Bible clearly explains the way of salvation, even though some aspects of God's work remain mysterious.

As we study Scripture with humility and faith, we gain a deeper appreciation of His love and wisdom.

- Conclusion

God has communicated with humanity through His prophets in many different ways.

Through revelation, He makes His messages known.

Through inspiration, the Holy Spirit guides His messengers in communicating those messages faithfully.

The Bible preserves these truths so we can know God, understand His plan of salvation, and prepare for Christ's return.

- Reflection

What is the difference between revelation and inspiration?

Reveal Suggested Answer

Why can we trust the Bible even when we cannot understand everything it teaches?

Reveal Suggested Answer

- SUNDAY – General and Special Revelation

- Lesson

God created humanity for a loving relationship with Him.

However, sin brought suffering, confusion, and separation from God.

Because He loves us, God continues revealing Himself so we can understand His character and His plan to save us.

He communicates through two important forms of revelation.

1. General Revelation – God Revealed in Nature

General revelation refers to what we can learn about God through the natural world.

The heavens, stars, plants, animals, and wonders of creation reveal His power and wisdom.

David declared that the heavens reveal God's glory – Psalm 19:1

KJV ¹ The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. CEV (A psalm by David for the music leader.) ¹ The heavens keep telling the wonders of God, and the skies declare what he has done.

Paul also explained that creation provides evidence of God's eternal power and divine nature – Romans 1:20

KJV ²⁰ For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: CEV ²⁰ God's eternal power and character cannot be seen. But from the beginning of creation, God has shown what these are like by all he has made. That's why those people don't have any excuse.

Nature reveals God's care through the way living things are provided for and through the remarkable processes of growth and healing.

However, nature also reveals the effects of sin.

Disease, suffering, destruction, and death remind us that our world is no longer perfect.

Therefore, nature alone cannot explain everything we need to know about God.

2. Special Revelation – God Revealed Through Jesus and Scripture

Special revelation is God's more direct communication of His truth.

The clearest revelation of God is Jesus Christ.

Through His life and teachings, Jesus revealed the Father's character and His love for humanity.

God also communicated through the prophets, whose messages were preserved in Scripture.

Read Hebrews 1:1-2

KJV ¹ God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, ² Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; CEV ¹ Long ago in many ways and at many times God's prophets spoke his message to our ancestors. ² But now at last, God sent his Son to bring his message to us. God created the universe by his Son, and everything will someday belong to the Son.

1. God Spoke Through the Prophets – Hebrews 1:1

KJV ¹ God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, CEV ¹ Long ago in many ways and at many times God's prophets spoke his message to our ancestors.

In earlier times, God communicated with His people through prophets in different ways.

2. God Speaks Through His Son – Hebrews 1:2

KJV ² Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; CEV ² But now at last, God sent his Son to bring his message to us. God created the universe by his Son, and everything will someday belong to the Son.

God has revealed Himself most fully through Jesus Christ, His Son and the Creator of all things.

The Bible helps us understand truths that nature cannot fully explain.

It reveals how sin entered the world, why humanity needs salvation, and how Jesus came to rescue us.

It also explains God's promise to restore the earth and remove sin forever.

The Scriptures were inspired by God to teach, correct, and guide His people – 2 Timothy 3:16

KJV ¹⁶ All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: CEV ¹⁶ Everything in the Scriptures is God's Word. All of it is useful for teaching and helping people and for correcting them and showing them how to live.

3. Why We Need Both Forms of Revelation

Nature helps us recognise God's power, wisdom, and care.

But because our world has been damaged by sin, nature can sometimes give an incomplete picture of His character.

Scripture helps us understand what we observe in creation.

Most importantly, the Bible points us toward Jesus, who reveals God's love and His plan of salvation – John 5:39

KJV ³⁹ Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. CEV ³⁹ You search the Scriptures, because you think you will find eternal life in them. The Scriptures tell about me,

- EGW Notes (Paraphrased)

Ellen White reminds us that human understanding is limited.

We cannot fully comprehend God's infinite wisdom or explain every mystery found in Scripture.

However, God invites us to study His Word carefully.

We should seek to understand everything He has revealed while recognising that some things remain beyond our knowledge.

Ellen White warns against allowing pride or human theories to replace biblical truth.

The Holy Spirit, who inspired Scripture, also helps believers understand its message.

Through prayerful study and a humble attitude, we can continue growing in our knowledge of God.

Even throughout eternity, there will always be more to discover about His wisdom, goodness, and love.

- Conclusion

God reveals Himself through both nature and special revelation.

Creation shows His power, wisdom, and care, but it cannot fully explain the problem of sin or the plan of salvation.

Jesus and the Bible reveal God's character more clearly and show us how we can receive eternal life.

By studying Scripture and depending on the Holy Spirit, we can understand God's truth and grow closer to Him.

- Reflection

What is the difference between general and special revelation?

Reveal Suggested Answer

Why is the Bible necessary when nature already reveals God's existence?

Reveal Suggested Answer

- MONDAY – The Process of Inspiration

- Lesson

Many books have been written throughout history, but the Bible is different because it is inspired by God.

The Holy Spirit guided the biblical writers so they could faithfully communicate God's messages.

This process involved both divine guidance and human participation.

1. Scripture Comes From God

Read 2 Timothy 3:15-17

KJV ¹⁵ And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. ¹⁶ All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: ¹⁷ That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. CEV ¹⁵ Since childhood, you have known the Holy Scriptures that are able to make you wise enough to have faith in Christ Jesus and be saved. ¹⁶ Everything in the Scriptures is God's Word. All of it is useful for teaching and helping people and for correcting them and showing them how to live. ¹⁷ The Scriptures train God's servants to do all kinds of good deeds.

1. Scripture Leads Us to Salvation – 2 Timothy 3:15

KJV ¹⁵ And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. CEV ¹⁵ Since childhood, you have known the Holy Scriptures that are able to make you wise enough to have faith in Christ Jesus and be saved.

The Scriptures teach us about salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.

2. All Scripture Is Inspired by God – 2 Timothy 3:16

KJV ¹⁶ All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: CEV ¹⁶ Everything in the Scriptures is God's Word. All of it is useful for teaching and helping people and for correcting them and showing them how to live.

God inspired the Scriptures to teach, correct, and guide His people in righteousness.

3. Scripture Prepares Us for Service – 2 Timothy 3:17

KJV ¹⁷ That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. CEV ¹⁷ The Scriptures train God's servants to do all kinds of good deeds.

God's Word equips believers to live faithfully and do good works.

The Bible is not simply a collection of human ideas.

Its messages originated with God, who guided His messengers through the Holy Spirit – 2 Peter 1:20-21

KJV ²⁰ Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. ²¹ For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. CEV ²⁰ But you need to realize that no one alone can understand any of the prophecies in the Scriptures. ²¹ The prophets did not think these things up on their own, but they were guided by the Spirit of God.

2. The Holy Spirit Guides the Process

Inspiration involves more than receiving a message from God.

The Holy Spirit also helps the prophet communicate that message faithfully.

God's messengers were not free to change His truth according to their personal opinions.

Although they could express the message in their own words, its meaning had to remain faithful to what God revealed.

3. God Used Different Methods

God communicated with His messengers in several ways.

These included:

Visions and dreams: God revealed messages through supernatural experiences – Numbers 12:6

KJV ⁶ And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, I the Lord will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream.

CEV ⁶ Then after commanding them to listen carefully, he said: “I, the Lord, speak to prophets in visions and dreams.

Eyewitness experiences: Some writers personally witnessed the events they recorded – 1 John 1:1-3

KJV ¹ That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; ² (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us; ) ³ That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.

CEV ¹ The Word that gives life was from the beginning, and this is the one our message is about. Our ears have heard, our eyes have seen, and our hands have touched this Word. ² The one who gives life appeared! We saw it happen, and we are witnesses to what we have seen. Now we are telling you about this eternal life that was with the Father and appeared to us. ³ We are telling you what we have seen and heard, so you may share in this life with us. And we share in it with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ.

Historical research: God guided writers who carefully investigated events and testimonies – Luke 1:1-3

KJV ¹ Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us, ² Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word; ³ It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,

CEV ¹ Many people have tried to tell the story of what God has done among us. ² They wrote what we had been told by the ones who were there in the beginning and saw what happened. ³ So I made a careful study of everything and then decided to write and tell you exactly what took place. Honorable Theophilus,

Divine guidance: The Holy Spirit directed prophets as they communicated God's truth – 2 Peter 1:21

KJV ²¹ For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

CEV ²¹ The prophets did not think these things up on their own, but they were guided by the Spirit of God.

These different methods demonstrate that God worked through the abilities and experiences of His messengers.

4. Different Ways of Communicating

God's messages could be delivered through spoken words, written records, or dramatic illustrations.

Some prophets preached directly to the people.

Others recorded their messages so future generations could read them.

At times, God instructed prophets to perform symbolic actions to communicate important warnings – Ezekiel 4:1-8

KJV ¹ Thou also, son of man, take thee a tile, and lay it before thee, and pourtray upon it the city, even Jerusalem: ² And lay siege against it, and build a fort against it, and cast a mount against it; set the camp also against it, and set battering rams against it round about. ³ Moreover take thou unto thee an iron pan, and set it for a wall of iron between thee and the city: and set thy face against it, and it shall be besieged, and thou shalt lay siege against it. This shall be a sign to the house of Israel. ⁴ Lie thou also upon thy left side, and lay the iniquity of the house of Israel upon it: according to the number of the days that thou shalt lie upon it thou shalt bear their iniquity. ⁵ For I have laid upon thee the years of their iniquity, according to the number of the days, three hundred and ninety days: so shalt thou bear the iniquity of the house of Israel. ⁶ And when thou hast accomplished them, lie again on thy right side, and thou shalt bear the iniquity of the house of Judah forty days: I have appointed thee each day for a year. ⁷ Therefore thou shalt set thy face toward the siege of Jerusalem, and thine arm shall be uncovered, and thou shalt prophesy against it. ⁸ And, behold, I will lay bands upon thee, and thou shalt not turn thee from one side to another, till thou hast ended the days of thy siege. CEV The Lord said: ¹ Ezekiel, son of man, find a brick and sketch a picture of Jerusalem on it. ² Then prepare to attack the brick as if it were a real city. Build a dirt mound and a ramp up to the top and surround the brick with enemy camps. On every side put large wooden poles as though you were going to break down the gate to the city. ³ Set up an iron pan like a wall between you and the brick. All this will be a warning for the people of Israel. ^4-5 After that, lie down on your left side and stay there for 390 days as a sign of Israel's punishment — one day for each year of its suffering. ⁶ Then turn over and lie on your right side 40 more days. That will be a sign of Judah's punishment — one day for each year of its suffering. ⁷ The brick stands for Jerusalem, so attack it! Stare at it and shout angry warnings. ⁸ I will tie you up, so you can't leave until your attack has ended.

Regardless of the method, the purpose was to communicate God's truth clearly and faithfully.

- EGW Notes (Paraphrased)

Ellen White emphasises that every believer has a responsibility to study the Bible personally.

We should carefully examine its teachings and compare Scripture with Scripture.

Rather than depending entirely on other people's interpretations, we should seek to understand God's Word for ourselves.

She also warns against teachers who introduce confusing interpretations that ignore the Bible's clear meaning.

Scripture should normally be understood according to its natural meaning unless the passage uses symbols or figurative language.

Bible study requires both careful thinking and a humble attitude.

We should approach God's Word prayerfully, recognising our need for the Holy Spirit's guidance.

Ellen White also reminds us that nature and Scripture reveal God's loving character.

The same God who provides for His creation has revealed His mercy and goodness through His Word.

- Conclusion

The Bible is inspired because its messages originated with God.

The Holy Spirit guided biblical writers as they received and communicated His truth.

Although God used different methods and human messengers, His messages remained trustworthy.

Through Scripture, we can understand His will, grow in faith, and become prepared for Christian service.

- Reflection

How did the Holy Spirit guide the writers of the Bible?

Reveal Suggested Answer

Why should we study the Bible personally rather than depending entirely on others?

Reveal Suggested Answer

- TUESDAY – Oral Messages

- Lesson

When we think about God's inspired messages, we often think about the written Bible.

However, many of God's prophets communicated His messages by speaking directly to people.

Their messages were no less inspired simply because they were not written down.

1. God Spoke Directly to People

Throughout biblical history, God communicated through spoken words.

He spoke to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, both before and after sin entered the world – Genesis 2:16-17

KJV ¹⁶ And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: ¹⁷ But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. CEV ¹⁶ But the Lord told him, “You may eat fruit from any tree in the garden, ¹⁷ except the one that has the power to let you know the difference between right and wrong. If you eat any fruit from that tree, you will die before the day is over!”
; Genesis 3:9-19

KJV ⁹ And the Lord God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou? ¹⁰ And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself. ¹¹ And he said, Who told thee that thou wast naked? Hast thou eaten of the tree, whereof I commanded thee that thou shouldest not eat? ¹² And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat. ¹³ And the Lord God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. ¹⁴ And the Lord God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life: ¹⁵ And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel. ¹⁶ Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee. ¹⁷ And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; ¹⁸ Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field; ¹⁹ In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return. CEV ⁹ The Lord God called out to the man and asked, “Where are you?” ¹⁰ The man answered, “I was naked, and when I heard you walking through the garden, I was frightened and hid!” ¹¹ “How did you know you were naked?” God asked. “Did you eat any fruit from that tree in the middle of the garden?” ¹² “It was the woman you put here with me,” the man said. “She gave me some of the fruit, and I ate it.” ¹³ The Lord God then asked the woman, “What have you done?” “The snake tricked me,” she answered, “and I ate some of that fruit.” ¹⁴ So the Lord God said to the snake: “Because of what you have done, you will be the only animal to suffer this curse — For as long as you live, you will crawl on your stomach and eat dirt. ¹⁵ You and this woman will hate each other; your descendants and hers will always be enemies. One of hers will strike you on the head, and you will strike him on the heel.” ¹⁶ Then the Lord God said to the woman, “You will suffer terribly when you give birth. But you will still desire your husband, and he will rule over you.” ¹⁷ The Lord said to the man, “You listened to your wife and ate the fruit I told you not to eat. And so, the ground will be under a curse because of what you did. As long as you live, you will have to struggle to grow enough food. ¹⁸ Your food will be plants, but the ground will produce thorns and thistles. ¹⁹ You will sweat all your life to earn a living; you were made out of soil, and you will once again turn into soil.”

God also spoke to the Israelites at Mount Sinai when He gave them the Ten Commandments – Exodus 20:1-20

KJV ¹ And God spake all these words, saying, ² I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. ³ Thou shalt have no other gods before me. ⁴ Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. ⁵ Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; ⁶ And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. ⁷ Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. ⁸ Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. ⁹ Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: ¹⁰ But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: ¹¹ For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it. ¹² Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee. ¹³ Thou shalt not kill. ¹⁴ Thou shalt not commit adultery. ¹⁵ Thou shalt not steal. ¹⁶ Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. ¹⁷ Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's. ¹⁸ And all the people saw the thunderings, and the lightnings, and the noise of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking: and when the people saw it, they removed, and stood afar off. ¹⁹ And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die. ²⁰ And Moses said unto the people, Fear not: for God is come to prove you, and that his fear may be before your faces, that ye sin not. CEV (Deuteronomy 5.
1-21) ¹ God said to the people of Israel: ² I am the Lord your God, the one who brought you out of Egypt where you were slaves. ³ Do not worship any god except me. ⁴ Do not make idols that look like anything in the sky or on earth or in the ocean under the earth. ⁵ Don't bow down and worship idols. I am the Lord your God, and I demand all your love. If you reject me, I will punish your families for three or four generations. ⁶ But if you love me and obey my laws, I will be kind to your families for thousands of generations. ⁷ Do not misuse my name. I am the Lord your God, and I will punish anyone who misuses my name. ⁸ Remember that the Sabbath Day belongs to me. ⁹ You have six days when you can do your work, ¹⁰ but the seventh day of each week belongs to me, your God. No one is to work on that day — not you, your children, your slaves, your animals, or the foreigners who live in your towns. ¹¹ In six days I made the sky, the earth, the oceans, and everything in them, but on the seventh day I rested. That's why I made the Sabbath a special day that belongs to me. ¹² Respect your father and your mother, and you will live a long time in the land I am giving you. ¹³ Do not murder. ¹⁴ Be faithful in marriage. ¹⁵ Do not steal. ¹⁶ Do not tell lies about others. ¹⁷ Do not desire to possess anything that belongs to another person — not a house, a wife, a husband, a slave, an ox, a donkey, or anything else. (Deuteronomy 5.
23-33) ¹⁸ The people trembled with fear when they heard the thunder and the trumpet and saw the lightning and the smoke coming from the mountain. They stood a long way off ¹⁹ and said to Moses, “If you speak to us, we will listen. But don't let God speak to us, or we will die!” ²⁰ “Don't be afraid!” Moses replied. “God has come only to test you, so that by obeying him you won't sin.”

His voice was heard at Jesus' baptism and transfiguration, confirming that Jesus was His beloved Son – Matthew 3:17

KJV ¹⁷ And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. CEV ¹⁷ Then a voice from heaven said, “This is my own dear Son, and I am pleased with him.”
; Matthew 17:5

KJV ⁵ While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. CEV ⁵ While Peter was still speaking, the shadow of a bright cloud passed over them. From the cloud a voice said, “This is my own dear Son, and I am pleased with him. Listen to what he says!”

These examples demonstrate that God could communicate His messages clearly through speech.

2. Prophets Delivered God's Spoken Messages

Read 2 Peter 1:18-21

KJV ¹⁸ And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. ¹⁹ We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: ²⁰ Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. ²¹ For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. CEV ¹⁸ We were there with Jesus on the holy mountain and heard this voice speak from heaven. ¹⁹ All of this makes us even more certain that what the prophets said is true. So you should pay close attention to their message, as you would to a lamp shining in some dark place. You must keep on paying attention until daylight comes and the morning star rises in your hearts. ²⁰ But you need to realize that no one alone can understand any of the prophecies in the Scriptures. ²¹ The prophets did not think these things up on their own, but they were guided by the Spirit of God.

1. Peter Heard God's Voice – 2 Peter 1:18

KJV ¹⁸ And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. CEV ¹⁸ We were there with Jesus on the holy mountain and heard this voice speak from heaven.

Peter recalls hearing God's voice when he was with Jesus on the holy mountain.

2. God's Prophetic Word Is Reliable – 2 Peter 1:19

KJV ¹⁹ We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: CEV ¹⁹ All of this makes us even more certain that what the prophets said is true. So you should pay close attention to their message, as you would to a lamp shining in some dark place. You must keep on paying attention until daylight comes and the morning star rises in your hearts.

Believers are encouraged to pay attention to prophecy as a light shining in darkness.

3. Prophecy Does Not Originate From Human Ideas – 2 Peter 1:20

KJV ²⁰ Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. CEV ²⁰ But you need to realize that no one alone can understand any of the prophecies in the Scriptures.

True prophecy does not come from a prophet's private interpretation.

4. The Holy Spirit Guides God's Messengers – 2 Peter 1:21

KJV ²¹ For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. CEV ²¹ The prophets did not think these things up on their own, but they were guided by the Spirit of God.

Prophets spoke God's messages as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.

The Bible records many prophets who heard God's voice and delivered His messages to others.

These included Moses, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel – Exodus 6:2

KJV ² And God spake unto Moses, and said unto him, I am the Lord: CEV ² My name is the Lord.
; Isaiah 8:1

KJV ¹ Moreover the Lord said unto me, Take thee a great roll, and write in it with a man's pen concerning Mahershalalhashbaz. CEV ¹ The Lord said, “Isaiah, get something to write on. Then write in big clear letters the name, MAHER-SHALAL-HASH-BAZ.
; Jeremiah 1:4

KJV ⁴ Then the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, CEV ⁴ The Lord said:
; Ezekiel 3:16

KJV ¹⁶ And it came to pass at the end of seven days, that the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, CEV (Ezekiel 33.
1-9) ¹⁶ Seven days after I had seen the brightness of the Lord's glory, the Lord said:

3. Not Every Prophet Wrote Scripture

Some genuine prophets delivered God's messages without writing any books of the Bible.

Noah warned people about the coming Flood and was described as a preacher of righteousness – 2 Peter 2:5

KJV ⁵ And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly; CEV ⁵ And during Noah's time, God did not have pity on the ungodly people of the world. He destroyed them with a flood, though he did save eight people, including Noah, who preached the truth.

Other examples include Nathan, Elijah, Elisha, and John the Baptist.

Their spoken messages carried divine authority because they came from God.

A prophet's authority did not depend on whether their words were later included in Scripture.

4. Jesus Primarily Taught Through Speech

Jesus Himself communicated most of His teachings orally.

The Gospels record His sermons, conversations, parables, and instructions.

Although Jesus wrote on the ground on one occasion, the Bible does not record Him writing any books – John 8:6

KJV ⁶ This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. CEV ⁶ They asked Jesus this question, because they wanted to test him and bring some charge against him. But Jesus simply bent over and started writing on the ground with his finger.

Nevertheless, His teachings carried divine authority.

People were amazed because He taught with authority unlike the religious teachers of His time – Matthew 7:29

KJV ²⁹ For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. CEV ²⁹ He taught them like someone with authority, and not like their teachers of the Law of Moses.

The power of God's message comes from its divine source, not from whether it is spoken or written.

- EGW Notes (Paraphrased)

Ellen White describes how the prophet Nathan confronted King David about his serious sins.

David had tried to conceal his wrongdoing, but nothing was hidden from God.

Nathan delivered God's message directly to the king.

Through his words, David recognised the seriousness of his actions and confessed his sin.

His repentance was sincere, although he still experienced painful consequences.

This experience demonstrates the importance of spoken prophetic messages.

God used Nathan's words to expose wrongdoing, awaken David's conscience, and lead him toward repentance.

Ellen White reminds us that God does not excuse sin, but He offers forgiveness and restoration to those who genuinely repent.

The spoken message of a faithful prophet can therefore bring conviction, correction, and hope.

- Conclusion

God communicated many of His messages through spoken words.

Some prophets never wrote books of the Bible, yet their messages were still inspired by the Holy Spirit.

Jesus also delivered most of His teachings orally.

Whether spoken or written, genuine messages from God carry divine authority and are intended to guide people toward truth, repentance, and salvation.

- Reflection

Why were the spoken messages of God's prophets just as authoritative as their written messages?

Reveal Suggested Answer

What can we learn from Nathan's spoken message to King David?

Reveal Suggested Answer

- WEDNESDAY – Written Messages

- Lesson

Spoken messages can be forgotten or changed over time.

Written messages preserve important truths so they can be shared with future generations.

God instructed His prophets to record His messages so people throughout history could learn from them.

1. God Commands His Messages to Be Written

Read Exodus 17:14

KJV ¹⁴ And the Lord said unto Moses, Write this for a memorial in a book, and rehearse it in the ears of Joshua: for I will utterly put out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven. CEV ¹⁴ Afterwards, the Lord said to Moses, “Write an account of this victory and read it to Joshua. I want the Amalekites to be forgotten forever.”
; John 20:30-31

KJV ³⁰ And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: ³¹ But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name. CEV ³⁰ Jesus worked many other miracles for his disciples, and not all of them are written in this book. ³¹ But these are written so that you will put your faith in Jesus as the Messiah and the Son of God. If you have faith in him, you will have true life.
; 1 Corinthians 10:11

KJV ¹¹ Now all these things happened unto them for examples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. CEV ¹¹ These things happened to them as a warning to us. All this was written in the Scriptures to teach us who live in these last days.
; Revelation 1:19

KJV ¹⁹ Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter; CEV ¹⁹ Write what you have seen and what is and what will happen after these things.

1. Preserving Important Events – Exodus 17:14

KJV ¹⁴ And the Lord said unto Moses, Write this for a memorial in a book, and rehearse it in the ears of Joshua: for I will utterly put out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven. CEV ¹⁴ Afterwards, the Lord said to Moses, “Write an account of this victory and read it to Joshua. I want the Amalekites to be forgotten forever.”

God instructed Moses to record Israel's victory over the Amalekites as a lasting reminder.

2. Strengthening Faith in Jesus – John 20:30-31

KJV ³⁰ And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: ³¹ But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name. CEV ³⁰ Jesus worked many other miracles for his disciples, and not all of them are written in this book. ³¹ But these are written so that you will put your faith in Jesus as the Messiah and the Son of God. If you have faith in him, you will have true life.

John recorded Jesus' miracles so readers could believe in Him and receive eternal life.

3. Teaching Future Generations – 1 Corinthians 10:11

KJV ¹¹ Now all these things happened unto them for examples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. CEV ¹¹ These things happened to them as a warning to us. All this was written in the Scriptures to teach us who live in these last days.

The experiences of ancient Israel were written to warn and instruct future believers.

4. Recording Prophetic Revelations – Revelation 1:19

KJV ¹⁹ Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter; CEV ¹⁹ Write what you have seen and what is and what will happen after these things.

Jesus instructed John to write what he had seen and what would happen in the future.

These examples show why written revelation is important.

It preserves God's truth, strengthens faith, provides instruction, and warns against repeating past mistakes.

2. God Used Different Writers

The Bible contains 66 books written by different people over many generations.

Each writer had a unique background, personality, and writing style.

Some recorded historical events, while others wrote poetry, prophecy, letters, or accounts of Jesus' life.

Although their styles differed, the Holy Spirit guided them in communicating God's truth.

No part of Scripture is less inspired simply because its writing style or subject differs from another.

3. The Bible Records Both Good and Bad Examples

The Bible does not hide the mistakes of important people.

It records the failures of individuals such as David and the Israelites so we can learn from their experiences.

Some passages even record the words of Satan, but this does not mean God approves of what Satan said – Genesis 3:1-5

KJV ¹ Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? ² And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: ³ But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. ⁴ And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: ⁵ For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. CEV ¹ The snake was sneakier than any of the other wild animals that the Lord God had made. One day it came to the woman and asked, “Did God tell you not to eat fruit from any tree in the garden?” ² The woman answered, “God said we could eat fruit from any tree in the garden, ³ except the one in the middle. He told us not to eat fruit from that tree or even to touch it. If we do, we will die.” ⁴ “No, you won't!” the snake replied. ⁵ “God understands what will happen on the day you eat fruit from that tree. You will see what you have done, and you will know the difference between right and wrong, just as God does.”

Instead, these accounts reveal the reality of sin and the importance of remaining faithful to God.

The Bible also records the personal feelings and struggles of its writers – Daniel 8:27

KJV ²⁷ And I Daniel fainted, and was sick certain days; afterward I rose up, and did the king's business; and I was astonished at the vision, but none understood it. CEV ²⁷ After this, I was so worn out and weak that it was several days before I could get out of bed and go about my duties for the king. I was disturbed by this vision that made no sense to me.

These human experiences help us understand how God worked through imperfect people.

4. God's Message Remains Trustworthy

Although the Bible was written through human language and different literary styles, its inspired message is reliable.

God preserved His truth through Scripture so people of every generation could understand His character and plan of salvation.

- EGW Notes (Paraphrased)

Ellen White explains that the Bible honestly records the lives of real people.

It does not hide their weaknesses, failures, or sins.

Even individuals whom God greatly blessed sometimes made serious mistakes.

These accounts encourage us because they show that God can forgive, restore, and strengthen those who sincerely repent.

The experiences of ancient Israel also provide important warnings.

Their unbelief, complaints, and disobedience were recorded so future generations could avoid repeating those mistakes.

Ellen White reminds us that God's power to save people from sin has not changed.

By learning from biblical history, we can develop stronger faith and a character that reflects God's will.

- Conclusion

God instructed His prophets to write so His messages would be preserved.

The Bible records His teachings, promises, warnings, and the experiences of His people.

Although its writers had different personalities and styles, the Holy Spirit guided them in communicating God's truth.

Through Scripture, we can learn from the past, strengthen our faith, and prepare for the future.

- Reflection

Why did God instruct His prophets to record His messages in writing?

Reveal Suggested Answer

Why does the Bible openly record the mistakes of God's people?

Reveal Suggested Answer

- THURSDAY – Drama, Symbols, Parables

- Lesson

God did not communicate only through spoken or written words.

He also used symbols, dramatic actions, and parables to help people understand important spiritual truths.

These methods made His messages memorable and sometimes revealed truths that people had been unwilling to accept.

1. Symbols Reveal Spiritual Truths

The Old Testament sanctuary and sacrificial system illustrated important aspects of God's plan of salvation.

The sacrifices pointed forward to Jesus' death, while the sanctuary represented His work as our heavenly High Priest – Hebrews 8:1-6

KJV ¹ Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; ² A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man. ³ For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer. ⁴ For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law: ⁵ Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount. ⁶ But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises. CEV ¹ What I mean is we have a high priest who sits at the right side of God's great throne in heaven. ² He also serves as the priest in the most holy place inside the real tent there in heaven. This tent of worship was set up by the Lord, not by humans. ³ Since all priests must offer gifts and sacrifices, Christ also needed to have something to offer. ⁴ If he were here on earth, he would not be a priest at all, because here the Law appoints other priests to offer sacrifices. ⁵ But the tent where they serve is just a copy and a shadow of the real one in heaven. Before Moses made the tent, he was told, “Be sure to make it exactly like the pattern you were shown on the mountain!” ⁶ Now Christ has been appointed to serve as a priest in a much better way, and he has given us much assurance of a better agreement.

God also used symbols in prophecy.

Daniel saw a great statue representing successive earthly kingdoms – Daniel 2:31-45

KJV ³¹ Thou, O king, sawest, and behold a great image. This great image, whose brightness was excellent, stood before thee; and the form thereof was terrible. ³² This image's head was of fine gold, his breast and his arms of silver, his belly and his thighs of brass, ³³ His legs of iron, his feet part of iron and part of clay. ³⁴ Thou sawest till that a stone was cut out without hands, which smote the image upon his feet that were of iron and clay, and brake them to pieces. ³⁵ Then was the iron, the clay, the brass, the silver, and the gold, broken to pieces together, and became like the chaff of the summer threshingfloors; and the wind carried them away, that no place was found for them: and the stone that smote the image became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth. ³⁶ This is the dream; and we will tell the interpretation thereof before the king. ³⁷ Thou, O king, art a king of kings: for the God of heaven hath given thee a kingdom, power, and strength, and glory. ³⁸ And wheresoever the children of men dwell, the beasts of the field and the fowls of the heaven hath he given into thine hand, and hath made thee ruler over them all. Thou art this head of gold. ³⁹ And after thee shall arise another kingdom inferior to thee, and another third kingdom of brass, which shall bear rule over all the earth. ⁴⁰ And the fourth kingdom shall be strong as iron: forasmuch as iron breaketh in pieces and subdueth all things: and as iron that breaketh all these, shall it break in pieces and bruise. ⁴¹ And whereas thou sawest the feet and toes, part of potters' clay, and part of iron, the kingdom shall be divided; but there shall be in it of the strength of the iron, forasmuch as thou sawest the iron mixed with miry clay. ⁴² And as the toes of the feet were part of iron, and part of clay, so the kingdom shall be partly strong, and partly broken. ⁴³ And whereas thou sawest iron mixed with miry clay, they shall mingle themselves with the seed of men: but they shall not cleave one to another, even as iron is not mixed with clay. ⁴⁴ And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever. ⁴⁵ Forasmuch as thou sawest that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it brake in pieces the iron, the brass, the clay, the silver, and the gold; the great God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter: and the dream is certain, and the interpretation thereof sure. CEV ³¹ Your Majesty, what you saw standing in front of you was a huge and terrifying statue, shining brightly. ³² Its head was made of gold, its chest and arms were silver, and from its waist down to its knees, it was bronze. ³³ From there to its ankles it was iron, and its feet were a mixture of iron and clay. ³⁴ As you watched, a stone was cut from a mountain — but not by human hands. The stone struck the feet, completely shattering the iron and clay. ³⁵ Then the iron, the clay, the bronze, the silver, and the gold were crushed and blown away without a trace, like husks of wheat at threshing time. But the stone became a tremendous mountain that covered the entire earth. ³⁶ That was the dream, and now I'll tell you what it means. ³⁷ Your Majesty, you are the greatest of kings, and God has highly honored you with power ³⁸ over all humans, animals, and birds. You are the head of gold. ³⁹ After you are gone, another kingdom will rule, but it won't be as strong. Then it will be followed by a kingdom of bronze that will rule the whole world. ⁴⁰ Next, a kingdom of iron will come to power, crushing and shattering everything. ^41-42 This fourth kingdom will be divided — it will be both strong and brittle, just as you saw that the feet and toes were a mixture of iron and clay. ⁴³ This kingdom will be the result of a marriage between kingdoms, but it will crumble, just as iron and clay don't stick together. ^44-45 During the time of those kings, the God who rules from heaven will set up an eternal kingdom that will never fall. It will be like the stone that was cut from the mountain, but not by human hands — the stone that crushed the iron, bronze, clay, silver, and gold. Your Majesty, in your dream the great God has told you what is going to happen, and you can trust this interpretation.

Other visions used animals and horns to represent kingdoms and powers – Daniel 7:1-28

KJV ¹ In the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon Daniel had a dream and visions of his head upon his bed: then he wrote the dream, and told the sum of the matters. ² Daniel spake and said, I saw in my vision by night, and, behold, the four winds of the heaven strove upon the great sea. ³ And four great beasts came up from the sea, diverse one from another. ⁴ The first was like a lion, and had eagle's wings: I beheld till the wings thereof were plucked, and it was lifted up from the earth, and made stand upon the feet as a man, and a man's heart was given to it. ⁵ And behold another beast, a second, like to a bear, and it raised up itself on one side, and it had three ribs in the mouth of it between the teeth of it: and they said thus unto it, Arise, devour much flesh. ⁶ After this I beheld, and lo another, like a leopard, which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl; the beast had also four heads; and dominion was given to it. ⁷ After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns. ⁸ I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots: and, behold, in this horn were eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things. ⁹ I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire. ¹⁰ A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened. ¹¹ I beheld then because of the voice of the great words which the horn spake: I beheld even till the beast was slain, and his body destroyed, and given to the burning flame. ¹² As concerning the rest of the beasts, they had their dominion taken away: yet their lives were prolonged for a season and time. ¹³ I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. ¹⁴ And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed. ¹⁵ I Daniel was grieved in my spirit in the midst of my body, and the visions of my head troubled me. ¹⁶ I came near unto one of them that stood by, and asked him the truth of all this. So he told me, and made me know the interpretation of the things. ¹⁷ These great beasts, which are four, are four kings, which shall arise out of the earth. ¹⁸ But the saints of the most High shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom for ever, even for ever and ever. ¹⁹ Then I would know the truth of the fourth beast, which was diverse from all the others, exceeding dreadful, whose teeth were of iron, and his nails of brass; which devoured, brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with his feet; ²⁰ And of the ten horns that were in his head, and of the other which came up, and before whom three fell; even of that horn that had eyes, and a mouth that spake very great things, whose look was more stout than his fellows. ²¹ I beheld, and the same horn made war with the saints, and prevailed against them; ²² Until the Ancient of days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the most High; and the time came that the saints possessed the kingdom. ²³ Thus he said, The fourth beast shall be the fourth kingdom upon earth, which shall be diverse from all kingdoms, and shall devour the whole earth, and shall tread it down, and break it in pieces. ²⁴ And the ten horns out of this kingdom are ten kings that shall arise: and another shall rise after them; and he shall be diverse from the first, and he shall subdue three kings. ²⁵ And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time. ²⁶ But the judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and to destroy it unto the end. ²⁷ And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him. ²⁸ Hitherto is the end of the matter. As for me Daniel, my cogitations much troubled me, and my countenance changed in me: but I kept the matter in my heart. CEV ¹ ^1-2 Daniel wrote: In the first year of King Belshazzar of Babylonia, I had some dreams and visions while I was asleep one night, and I wrote them down. The four winds were stirring up the mighty sea, ³ when suddenly four powerful beasts came out of the sea. Each beast was different. ⁴ The first was like a lion with the wings of an eagle. As I watched, its wings were pulled off. Then it was lifted to an upright position and made to stand on two feet, just like a human, and it was given a human mind. ⁵ The second beast looked like a bear standing on its hind legs. It held three ribs in its teeth, and it was told, “Attack! Eat all the flesh you want.” ⁶ The third beast was like a leopard — except that it had four wings and four heads. It was given authority to rule. ⁷ The fourth beast was stronger and more terrifying than the others. Its huge teeth were made of iron, and what it didn't grind with its teeth, it smashed with its feet. It was different from the others, and it had horns on its head — ten of them. ⁸ Just as I was thinking about these horns, a smaller horn appeared, and three of the other horns were pulled up by the roots to make room for it. This horn had the eyes of a human and a mouth that spoke with great arrogance. Daniel wrote: ⁹ Thrones were set up while I was watching, and the Eternal God took his place. His clothing and his hair were white as snow. His throne was a blazing fire with fiery wheels, ¹⁰ and flames were dashing out from all around him. Countless thousands were standing there to serve him. The time of judgment began, and the books were opened. ¹¹ I watched closely to see what would happen to this smaller horn because of the arrogant things it was saying. Then before my very eyes, the fourth beast was killed and its body destroyed by fire. ¹² The other three beasts had their authority taken from them, but they were allowed to live a while longer. ¹³ As I continued to watch the vision that night, I saw what looked like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven, and he was presented to the Eternal God. ¹⁴ He was crowned king and given power and glory, so that all people of every nation and race would serve him. He will rule forever, and his kingdom is eternal, never to be destroyed. ¹⁵ Daniel wrote: I was terrified by these visions, and I didn't know what to think. ¹⁶ So I asked one of those standing there, and he explained, ¹⁷ “The four beasts are four earthly kingdoms. ¹⁸ But God Most High will give his kingdom to his chosen ones, and it will be theirs forever and ever.” ¹⁹ I wanted to know more about the fourth beast, because it was so different and much more terrifying than the others. What was the meaning of its iron teeth and bronze claws and of its feet that smashed what the teeth and claws had not ground and crushed? ²⁰ I also wanted to know more about all ten of those horns on its head. I especially wanted to know more about the one that took the place of three of the others — the horn that had eyes and spoke with arrogance and seemed greater than the others. ²¹ While I was looking, this horn attacked God's chosen ones and was winning the battle. ²² Then God Most High, the Eternal God, came and judged in favor of his chosen ones, because the time had arrived for them to be given the kingdom. ²³ Then I was told by the one standing there: “The fourth beast will be a fourth kingdom to appear on earth. It will be different from all the others — it will trample the earth and crush it to pieces. ²⁴ All ten of those horns are kings who will come from this kingdom, and one more will follow. This horn will be different from the others, and it will conquer three other kings. ²⁵ “This king will speak evil of God Most High, and he will be cruel to God's chosen ones. He will try to change God's Law and the sacred seasons. And he will be able to do this for a time, two times, and half a time. ²⁶ But he will finally be judged, and his kingdom completely destroyed. ²⁷ “Then the greatest kingdom of all will be given to the chosen ones of God Most High. His kingdom will be eternal, and all others will serve and obey him.” ²⁸ That was what I saw and heard. I turned pale with fear and kept it all to myself.

These symbols helped communicate prophetic truths about history and God's ultimate victory.

2. Jesus Taught Through Parables

Jesus frequently used familiar objects and everyday experiences to explain spiritual lessons.

He described Himself as the Bread of Life, showing that He provides spiritual nourishment – John 6:35

KJV ³⁵ And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. CEV ³⁵ Jesus replied: I am the bread that gives life! No one who comes to me will ever be hungry. No one who has faith in me will ever be thirsty.

He also called Himself the Light of the World, revealing that He guides people out of spiritual darkness – John 8:12

KJV ¹² Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. CEV ¹² Once again Jesus spoke to the people. This time he said, “I am the light for the world! Follow me, and you won't be walking in the dark. You will have the light that gives life.”

Through the parable of the sower, Jesus explained how people respond differently to God's Word – Matthew 13:1-9

KJV ¹ The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side. ² And great multitudes were gathered together unto him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore. ³ And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow; ⁴ And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up: ⁵ Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth: ⁶ And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. ⁷ And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them: ⁸ But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold. ⁹ Who hath ears to hear, let him hear. CEV (Mark 4.
1-9; Luke 8.
4-8) ¹ That same day Jesus left the house and went out beside Lake Galilee, where he sat down to teach. ² Such large crowds gathered around him that he had to sit in a boat, while the people stood on the shore. ³ Then he taught them many things by using stories. He said: A farmer went out to scatter seed in a field. ⁴ While the farmer was scattering the seed, some of it fell along the road and was eaten by birds. ⁵ Other seeds fell on thin, rocky ground and quickly started growing because the soil wasn't very deep. ⁶ But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched and dried up, because they did not have deep roots. ⁷ Some other seeds fell where thornbushes grew up and choked the plants. ⁸ But a few seeds did fall on good ground where the plants produced 100 or 60 or 30 times as much as was scattered. ⁹ If you have ears, pay attention!

These illustrations made His teachings easier to remember and understand.

3. God Used Dramatic Actions

Read Ezekiel 4:1-8

KJV ¹ Thou also, son of man, take thee a tile, and lay it before thee, and pourtray upon it the city, even Jerusalem: ² And lay siege against it, and build a fort against it, and cast a mount against it; set the camp also against it, and set battering rams against it round about. ³ Moreover take thou unto thee an iron pan, and set it for a wall of iron between thee and the city: and set thy face against it, and it shall be besieged, and thou shalt lay siege against it. This shall be a sign to the house of Israel. ⁴ Lie thou also upon thy left side, and lay the iniquity of the house of Israel upon it: according to the number of the days that thou shalt lie upon it thou shalt bear their iniquity. ⁵ For I have laid upon thee the years of their iniquity, according to the number of the days, three hundred and ninety days: so shalt thou bear the iniquity of the house of Israel. ⁶ And when thou hast accomplished them, lie again on thy right side, and thou shalt bear the iniquity of the house of Judah forty days: I have appointed thee each day for a year. ⁷ Therefore thou shalt set thy face toward the siege of Jerusalem, and thine arm shall be uncovered, and thou shalt prophesy against it. ⁸ And, behold, I will lay bands upon thee, and thou shalt not turn thee from one side to another, till thou hast ended the days of thy siege. CEV The Lord said: ¹ Ezekiel, son of man, find a brick and sketch a picture of Jerusalem on it. ² Then prepare to attack the brick as if it were a real city. Build a dirt mound and a ramp up to the top and surround the brick with enemy camps. On every side put large wooden poles as though you were going to break down the gate to the city. ³ Set up an iron pan like a wall between you and the brick. All this will be a warning for the people of Israel. ^4-5 After that, lie down on your left side and stay there for 390 days as a sign of Israel's punishment — one day for each year of its suffering. ⁶ Then turn over and lie on your right side 40 more days. That will be a sign of Judah's punishment — one day for each year of its suffering. ⁷ The brick stands for Jerusalem, so attack it! Stare at it and shout angry warnings. ⁸ I will tie you up, so you can't leave until your attack has ended.

1. A Model of Jerusalem – Ezekiel 4:1-3

KJV ¹ Thou also, son of man, take thee a tile, and lay it before thee, and pourtray upon it the city, even Jerusalem: ² And lay siege against it, and build a fort against it, and cast a mount against it; set the camp also against it, and set battering rams against it round about. ³ Moreover take thou unto thee an iron pan, and set it for a wall of iron between thee and the city: and set thy face against it, and it shall be besieged, and thou shalt lay siege against it. This shall be a sign to the house of Israel. CEV The Lord said: ¹ Ezekiel, son of man, find a brick and sketch a picture of Jerusalem on it. ² Then prepare to attack the brick as if it were a real city. Build a dirt mound and a ramp up to the top and surround the brick with enemy camps. On every side put large wooden poles as though you were going to break down the gate to the city. ³ Set up an iron pan like a wall between you and the brick. All this will be a warning for the people of Israel.

God instructed Ezekiel to create a model of Jerusalem and portray its coming siege.

2. Representing Israel's Sin – Ezekiel 4:4-5

KJV ⁴ Lie thou also upon thy left side, and lay the iniquity of the house of Israel upon it: according to the number of the days that thou shalt lie upon it thou shalt bear their iniquity. ⁵ For I have laid upon thee the years of their iniquity, according to the number of the days, three hundred and ninety days: so shalt thou bear the iniquity of the house of Israel. CEV ^4-5 After that, lie down on your left side and stay there for 390 days as a sign of Israel's punishment — one day for each year of its suffering.

Ezekiel was instructed to lie on his left side for 390 days, symbolising the years of Israel's wrongdoing.

3. Representing Judah's Sin – Ezekiel 4:6

KJV ⁶ And when thou hast accomplished them, lie again on thy right side, and thou shalt bear the iniquity of the house of Judah forty days: I have appointed thee each day for a year. CEV ⁶ Then turn over and lie on your right side 40 more days. That will be a sign of Judah's punishment — one day for each year of its suffering.

He was then instructed to lie on his right side for 40 days, representing Judah's wrongdoing.

4. A Warning of Coming Judgment – Ezekiel 4:7-8

KJV ⁷ Therefore thou shalt set thy face toward the siege of Jerusalem, and thine arm shall be uncovered, and thou shalt prophesy against it. ⁸ And, behold, I will lay bands upon thee, and thou shalt not turn thee from one side to another, till thou hast ended the days of thy siege. CEV ⁷ The brick stands for Jerusalem, so attack it! Stare at it and shout angry warnings. ⁸ I will tie you up, so you can't leave until your attack has ended.

Ezekiel's actions illustrated the seriousness of God's warning against Jerusalem.

This unusual demonstration was intended to capture people's attention.

God wanted them to recognise their sins and turn back to Him before judgment came.

4. Hosea's Marriage as a Living Illustration

God also used the prophet Hosea's marriage to communicate a powerful message.

Hosea's relationship with his unfaithful wife illustrated Israel's unfaithfulness to God – Hosea 1:2-9

KJV ² The beginning of the word of the Lord by Hosea. And the Lord said to Hosea, Go, take unto thee a wife of whoredoms and children of whoredoms: for the land hath committed great whoredom, departing from the Lord. ³ So he went and took Gomer the daughter of Diblaim; which conceived, and bare him a son. ⁴ And the Lord said unto him, Call his name Jezreel; for yet a little while, and I will avenge the blood of Jezreel upon the house of Jehu, and will cause to cease the kingdom of the house of Israel. ⁵ And it shall come to pass at that day, that I will break the bow of Israel, in the valley of Jezreel. ⁶ And she conceived again, and bare a daughter. And God said unto him, Call her name Loruhamah: for I will no more have mercy upon the house of Israel; but I will utterly take them away. ⁷ But I will have mercy upon the house of Judah, and will save them by the Lord their God, and will not save them by bow, nor by sword, nor by battle, by horses, nor by horsemen. ⁸ Now when she had weaned Loruhamah, she conceived, and bare a son. ⁹ Then said God, Call his name Loammi: for ye are not my people, and I will not be your God. CEV ² The Lord said, “Hosea, Israel has betrayed me like an unfaithful wife. Marry such a woman and have children by her.” ³ So I married Gomer the daughter of Diblaim, and we had a son. ⁴ Then the Lord said, “Hosea, name your son Jezreel, because I will soon punish the descendants of King Jehu of Israel for the murders he committed in Jezreel Valley. I will destroy his kingdom, ⁵ and in Jezreel Valley I will break the power of Israel.” ⁶ Later, Gomer had a daughter, and the Lord said, “Name her Lo-Ruhamah, because I will no longer have mercy and forgive Israel. ⁷ But I am the Lord God of Judah, and I will have mercy and save Judah by my own power — not by wars and arrows or swords and cavalry.” ⁸ After Gomer had stopped nursing Lo-Ruhamah, she had another son. ⁹ Then the Lord said, “Name him Lo-Ammi, because these people are not mine, and I am not their God.”

Despite Israel's repeated rejection, God continued calling His people to repentance.

These dramatic illustrations demonstrated both the seriousness of sin and God's desire to restore His people.

- EGW Notes (Paraphrased)

Ellen White explains that Jesus taught spiritual truths in a simple and direct manner.

He understood the needs and experiences of His listeners.

Rather than overwhelming people with complicated explanations, He used familiar illustrations to make His messages clear.

Jesus referred to seeds, flowers, birds, fields, and other everyday objects.

These examples helped people remember His teachings whenever they encountered those things again.

Ellen White also emphasises that Jesus came to correct false ideas about God's character.

Through His words and actions, He revealed the Father as loving, merciful, compassionate, and truthful.

His teaching methods helped people understand spiritual truths that had often been hidden beneath human traditions.

- Conclusion

God has used symbols, parables, and dramatic actions to communicate His truth.

These methods help people understand important spiritual lessons and remember His messages.

Some illustrations offer encouragement, while others provide serious warnings.

Through them all, God seeks to reveal His character, awaken our understanding, and lead us toward repentance and salvation.

- Reflection

Why did God sometimes use dramatic actions instead of ordinary speech?

Reveal Suggested Answer

What can we learn from the way Jesus used parables and everyday illustrations?

Reveal Suggested Answer

- FRIDAY – Ellen G. White on Revelation and Inspiration

- Lesson

Seventh-day Adventists believe that Ellen G. White received the prophetic gift through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

Her writings and ministry consistently directed people toward Jesus Christ and the authority of the Bible.

Although she believed her prophetic messages were inspired by God, she never placed her writings on the same level of authority as Scripture.

Her understanding of revelation and inspiration helps us recognise how God works through human messengers.

1. The Bible Remains Our Highest Authority

Ellen White consistently taught that the Bible is God's authoritative revelation of truth.

Scripture reveals God's character, His plan of salvation, and His will for humanity.

Her writings were intended to direct people toward the Bible rather than replace it.

All spiritual teachings must therefore be tested by God's Word – Isaiah 8:20

KJV ²⁰ To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. CEV ²⁰ what it should do.” None of those who talk like that will live to see the light of day!

2. Inspiration Involves God and Human Messengers

Ellen White explained that inspiration involves both divine guidance and human participation.

God communicates His truth to the prophet, while the prophet expresses that message through human language.

The Holy Spirit guides the messenger's understanding so the divine message can be faithfully communicated.

This understanding is sometimes called thought inspiration.

It recognises that God inspired the biblical writers rather than simply dictating every word they wrote.

The Bible itself explains that prophets spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit – 2 Peter 1:21

KJV ²¹ For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. CEV ²¹ The prophets did not think these things up on their own, but they were guided by the Spirit of God.

3. God Communicates Through Different Experiences

Ellen White described receiving divine messages through visions, dreams, thoughts, and symbolic representations.

These experiences helped her understand what God wanted to communicate.

She then expressed those messages using her own vocabulary and writing style.

This was similar to the way God worked through the writers of Scripture.

The message originated with God, but its communication involved the human messenger.

4. Not Everything a Prophet Says Is Inspired

Ellen White also recognised an important distinction between inspired messages and ordinary human communication.

She explained that prophets sometimes discuss everyday matters, share information, and express personal thoughts without receiving a special revelation from God.

Therefore, not every conversation, personal experience, or ordinary letter should automatically be treated as a prophetic message.

Recognising this distinction helps us understand her writings more carefully and avoid misunderstanding the nature of inspiration.

5. Understanding Inspiration Helps Us Avoid Extremes

Some people mistakenly believe that inspiration means God dictated every word.

Others assume that human involvement makes prophetic messages unreliable.

Ellen White's explanation helps us avoid both extremes.

God communicates trustworthy truth through human messengers while allowing them to use their own language and abilities.

The important question is whether the message faithfully communicates God's revealed truth.

- EGW Notes (Paraphrased)

Ellen White explained that the Bible presents a remarkable combination of divine truth and human expression.

God inspired the writers, but they communicated His messages using their own words and abilities.

The Holy Spirit guided their understanding and ensured that God's intended message was faithfully conveyed.

She also distinguished between her inspired messages and ordinary communications.

Not every personal letter or everyday statement was given under the special inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

Ellen White continually emphasised the importance of studying Scripture and allowing Christ to guide our understanding.

Her writings were intended to strengthen faith, encourage obedience, and lead people toward a deeper relationship with God.

- Conclusion

God has communicated His truth through inspired human messengers.

Ellen White understood inspiration as the Holy Spirit guiding prophets while allowing them to express divine messages through human language.

She recognised that not every personal statement was inspired and consistently upheld the Bible as the highest authority.

Understanding these principles helps us appreciate the prophetic gift while keeping Jesus Christ and Scripture at the centre of our faith.

- Reflection

How did Ellen White understand the relationship between divine inspiration and human expression?

Reveal Suggested Answer

Why is it important to distinguish between inspired messages and a prophet's ordinary communications?

Reveal Suggested Answer

- DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. Why does God use different methods to reveal His truth?

Reveal Suggested Answer

2. How can the Bible be inspired by God while reflecting the personalities and writing styles of human authors?

Reveal Suggested Answer

3. How should our understanding of inspiration influence the way we study the Bible and Ellen White's writings?

Reveal Suggested Answer

- LESSON SUMMARY

God desires to communicate with humanity and reveal His character, love, and plan of salvation.

This week we learned how revelation and inspiration work together.

1. General and Special Revelation

Nature reveals God's power, wisdom, and care.

However, Jesus Christ and Scripture provide a clearer understanding of His character and plan of salvation.

2. The Process of Inspiration

The Holy Spirit guided God's messengers as they received and communicated divine messages.

Although they used their own words and abilities, the messages originated with God.

3. Oral Messages

Many prophets delivered God's messages through speech.

Their authority came from divine inspiration, even when their words were not recorded in Scripture.

4. Written Messages

God instructed His messengers to record important truths so future generations could learn from them.

The Bible preserves His teachings, promises, warnings, and plan of salvation.

5. Drama, Symbols, and Parables

God used visual illustrations, symbolic actions, and familiar stories to make spiritual truths understandable and memorable.

These methods helped people recognise their need for repentance and faith.

6. Ellen White and Inspiration

Ellen White understood inspiration as divine guidance working through human messengers.

She distinguished inspired messages from ordinary communications and consistently upheld the Bible as the highest authority.

- Final Thought

God has never stopped seeking to communicate His love and truth to humanity.

Through creation, Scripture, prophetic messages, and especially Jesus Christ, He invites us to know Him personally.

Our responsibility is to study His Word, listen to the Holy Spirit, and faithfully follow the truth He has revealed.

God speaks because He loves us. Are we listening?