Sabbath: Precursors
Daily Lesson for Sabbath 14th of June 2025
Image © Pacific Press
Read for This Week’s Study: Daniel 2:31-45; Daniel 3:1-12,17-18; Revelation 13:11-17; Romans 1:18-25; Acts 12:1-17; Matthew 12:9-14.
Memory Text:
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7, NKJV).
This week, we will look at two more Bible stories that foreshadow last-day events in remarkable detail.
First, we will examine the account of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, which has obvious allusions to the issues portrayed in Revelation 13:1-18. Then we will turn to the New Testament, where we find that the experience of the early Christians also can help us understand what to expect between now and the return of Christ.
Both examples highlight remarkable courage and provide keys to finding peace of mind under the most trying of circumstances.
Again and again, Jesus said such things as “Do not fear,” and “Why do your thoughts trouble you?” It is important to remember that the focus of prophecy is Christ, and, as such, we must be able to find the same counsel throughout the scenes portrayed in earth’s closing moments. “ ‘Let not your heart be troubled,’ ” He taught His disciples, “ ‘you believe in God, believe also in Me’ ” (John 14:1, NKJV).
In other words, yes, last-day events will be difficult and trying for those who seek to stay faithful to God. But ultimately, we should view these events with hope, not fear.
*Study this week’s lesson to prepare for Sabbath, June 21.
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I should have kept my comment from yesterday till today. (flick back to Friday's lesson if you have arrived at this post without seeing yesterday's comment.)
I am reminded of the story of Balaam who you will remember as the prophet who set out to curse Israel only to be thwarted by God and a donkey and ultimately blessed Israel, much to the consternation of Balak who had commissioned him. The story does not end there and the Bible records Balaan's complicity in the seduction of the men of Israel with Moabite women. This part of the story gets mentioned 3 times in the New Testament, 2 Peter 2:15, Jude 1:11, and Rev 2:14.
The issue here is that the Israelites were used to being attacked by warfare and battle, but they fell victim to seduction. Make no mistake; the evil one is skilled in seduction and while he portrays the danger as warfare and persecution, he can subtly win the battle through seduction.
Jesus made a very pertinent statement in the Sermon on the Mount:
Standing firm in present danger, especially when the present danger is so seductive is the task we face. And that seduction often comes from within.
Jesus had some good advice:
"A faith of no matter What!"
The biblical account of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego presents a powerful illustration of unwavering faith. These young men, despite holding influential positions and desiring to live full lives, were confronted with a dire ultimatum: worship a golden idol or face a fiery death. They understood the brutal reality of the king's threat—the furnace was not symbolic, but a very real and lethal danger. Yet, they courageously chose to stand by their conviction, prioritizing their allegiance to God above their own lives.
Their resolute declaration to King Nebuchadnezzar epitomizes what is termed "a faith of no matter what." They proclaimed their belief in God's ability to deliver them from the flames, but critically added, "But even if He does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up." This profound statement reveals a faith that transcends circumstances and outcomes, mirroring Job's assertion, "Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him."
This narrative encourages believers to cultivate a similar steadfast trust. While acknowledging God's faithfulness and power to deliver, it emphasizes that true faith persists even when divine intervention doesn't manifest as expected. The core message is that even in trials, one can find comfort in God's inherent goodness, His presence amidst adversity, and His unwavering commitment to never abandon His followers.
In a very vivid manner, the Bible explicitly tells how terrible the end time will be. In very graphical fashion the Bible informs believers the nature of the end times. Not to scare us but to prepare us for such fearful times. God who knows the future, wants to be ready when such time comes. Like loving parents prepare their children for the uncertain times ahead, our loving Father does so even exceedingly well.
“You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!” (2 Timothy 3:1-5, NLT).
Amidst the most darkest and most dangerous time ahead, the Word of God gives us assured hope and comfort. Otherwise, the feeble human hearts will collapse.
“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”(John 16:33, NLT).