Foreword
At this time in earth’s history, the inspired words of the apostle Paul are highly appropriate: “The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light” (Romans 13:12). As disciples of the crucified One, we face quite a challenging future on this earth. Yet with the blessed hope that follows, how important it is for us to gather up and cherish all the accumulated rays of light that have been graciously shed upon our pathway, for “we have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our past history” (The General Conference Daily Bulletin, Jan. 29, 1893).
To recount God’s providences and review His every teaching in our past history are essential to the strength of our faith. They provide a solid foundation—a platform on which we can stand with surety. For this reason, Sabbath school students around the world will be grounded and strengthened in the fundamental truths entrusted to God’s remnant people in these last days.
The messenger of the Lord “was shown three steps—the first, second, and third angels’ messages. Said my accompanying angel, ‘Woe to him who shall move a block or stir a pin of these messages. The true understanding of these messages is of vital importance. The destiny of souls hangs upon the manner in which they are received.’ I was again brought down through these messages, and saw how dearly the people of God had purchased their experience. It had been obtained through much suffering and severe conflict. God had led them along step by step, until He had placed them upon a solid, immovable platform. I saw individuals approach the platform and examine the foundation. Some with rejoicing immediately stepped upon it. Others commenced to find fault with the foundation. They wished improvements made, and then the platform would be more perfect, and the people much happier. Some stepped off the platform to examine it and declared it to be laid wrong. But I saw that nearly all stood firm upon the platform and exhorted those who had stepped off to cease their complaints; for God was the Master Builder, and they were fighting against Him. They recounted the wonderful work of God, which had led them to the firm platform, and in union raised their eyes to heaven and with a loud voice glorified God. This affected some of those who had complained and left the platform, and they with humble look again stepped upon it” (Early Writings, pp. 258, 259). That a deeper study of these vital principles may reinforce the faith of every believer is the prayer of
The General Conference Sabbath School Department
