SDA Sabbath School Lessons
Friday October 25, 1996


Further Study

As you read Revelation 1:10-20, consider the intimate connection between Christ and His church.  Also read "The Foreshadowing of the Cross" and "Go Teach All Nations" in The Desire of Ages, pp. 412-414, 818-828; "The Great Commission" in The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 25-34.

"To those who believe, Christ is a sure foundation.  Upon this living stone, Jews and Gentiles alike may build.  It is broad enough for all and strong enough to sustain the weight and burden of the whole world." --The Acts of the Apostles, p. 175.

"Human power and human might did not establish the church of God, and neither can they destroy it.  Not on the rock of human strength, but on Christ Jesus, the Rock of Ages, was the church founded. . : ' The presence of God gives stability to His cause.  'Put not your trust in princes, nor in the son of man,' is the word that comes to us. Psalm 146:3.   'In quietness and in confidence shall be your strength.' Isaiah 30:15.   God's glorious work, founded on the eternal principles of right, will never come to nought.   It will go on from strength to strength, 'not by might, nor by power, but my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.' Zechariah 4:6."--Prophets and Kings, pp. 595, 596.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How should knowing that Christ is the founder and had of the church affect your attitude toward being a part of the church?
  2. We have learned that Scriptures refers to the church as the body of Christ as His bride (Eph. 5:23-32; Rev. 19:7, 8).  Discuss the significance of these comparisons with respect to our privileges and responsibilities as members of His church.
  3. Compare your life and priorities with the following statement: "All who receive the life of Christ are ordained to work for the salvation of their fellow men.  for this work the church was established, and all who take upon themselves its sacred vows are thereby pledged to be co-workers with Christ."--The Desire of Ages, p. 822.

SUMMARY: Christ established the church, with Himself as its foundation.  He intends that the church shall live in harmony with His Word and teach its precepts to the world.  The church is an extension of Himself.  Therefore, as members of the church, we are to show the world what Christ is like through our fellowship, character, words, and deeds.