SDA Sabbath School Lessons
Sabbath afternoon December 21, 1996

Victory!

William A. Ward once said, "God wants us to be victors, not victims; to grow, not grovel; to soar, not sink; to overcome, not to be overwhelmed."  This sounds much like God's vision for the church triumphant.

Knowing that the power of Calvary's love ultimately proves invincible, the church militant boldly, bravely, and humbly exhibits the righteousness of Christ amid apostasy.  Those who receive Christ as Saviour and Lord not only gain victory over sin but are also knit together in fellowship with heaven to work for the salvation of others.  When all that God's grace can do for the church and for others has been accomplished, Christ will return to claim it as His bride.  Then, "the church triumphant will emerge.  At that time He will be able to present 'to himself a glorious church,' the faithful of all ages, the purchase of His blood, 'not having spot or wrinkle, but holy and without blemish' (Eph. 5:27)." - Seventh-day Adventists Believe, p. 141.

As you study this week's lesson, remember that God wants you to be a victor and that through the power of His grace you can be just that!