Sabbath Afternoon - December 14, 2024

Scripture Reading for the Week:
John 18:33-19:5; John 19:17-22; John 19:25-27; Luke 2:34-35; John 20:1-18; 1 Corinthians 15:12-20.  


Thought for Meditation:

“Christ was treated as we deserve, that we might be treated as He deserves. He was condemned for our sins, in which He had no share, that we might be justified by His righteousness, in which we had no share. He suffered the death which was ours, that we might receive the life which was His. ‘With His stripes we are healed.’” — The Desire of Ages, p. 25.

This statement underscores Christ's sacrificial love, the transformative power of His death and resurrection, and the assurance of eternal hope through His mission. It aligns perfectly with the study's focus on His glory as revealed in the Cross and Resurrection.


Memory Text:

“Then Pilate said to him, ‘So you are a king?’ Jesus answered, ‘You say that I am a king. For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice’ ” (John 18:37). 


"This week's Sabbath School lesson will reflect on Christ’s mission as King and Savior, revealed through His sacrificial love on the Cross and the victorious hope of the Resurrection, affirming the truth of His glory and its transformative power for believers." 


Study Outline:

Steps Prior to Glory

Sunday - December 15, 2024

What is Truth? Pilate rejects the truth (John 18:28-38)

John 1:1-5, 14, 17; 5:33; 7:28; 8:40; 14:6; 17:17; 18:28-32; 18:33-38.  


Monday - December 16, 2024

Behold the Man!  (John 18:38-19:5)

 John 1:29; 18:38-19:5; 19:6-16.     


The Glory of the Cross

Tuesday - December 17, 2024

It is Finished! The Crucified King (John 19:17-30)

John 19:17-22; 19:25-27; 19:28-30; Luke 2:34-35.     


The Glory of the Resurrection

Wednesday - December 18, 2024

The Empty Tomb - See and Believe (John 20:1-10)

John 19:42; 20:1-7, 8-10; Mark 16:1; Luke 23:56; Matthew 27:62-66.   


Thursday - December 19, 2024

Jesus and Mary - Mary's Mission (John 20:11-18)
John 20:2, 11-13, 14-18; 1 Corinthians 15:12-20.   


Friday - December 20, 2024

Insights and Further Study

From the Pen of Inspiration

Points to Ponder Upon

Steps Prior to Glory

Sunday - December 15, 2024

What is Truth? Pilate rejects the truth (John 18:28-38)

John 1:1-5, 14, 17; 5:33; 7:28; 8:40; 14:6; 17:17; 18:28-32; 18:33-38.

“ ‘What is truth?’ retorted Pilate. With this he went out again to the Jews gathered there and said, ‘I find no basis for a charge against him.’ ” (John 18:38)



Insights from Ellen G. White (EGW): 

Pilate’s Struggle Between Conviction and Compromise:

“Pilate had been convinced that Jesus was no ordinary man. Divine truth was speaking to his heart. But worldly ambition and fear of public opinion silenced his conscience. He yielded to the pressure of the mob rather than take a stand for truth.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 723)

Commentary: Pilate's internal struggle mirrors the experience of many who hear God's truth but allow fear or societal pressure to prevent their acceptance of it. This warns against compromising spiritual conviction for personal or social gain.

Christ as the Revelation of Truth:

“In Christ is life, original, unborrowed, underived. He is the Source of all truth. His life and teachings bring clarity to the confusion of humanity’s philosophies. Those who seek the truth must come to Him.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 530)

Commentary: This statement emphasizes that truth is not subjective or relative but is rooted in the person of Christ. The rejection of Christ is a rejection of truth itself.

Rejection of Light Leads to Darkness:

“The fate of Pilate illustrates the danger of rejecting divine light. To those who stifle conviction and reject truth, the voice of God becomes faint, and they are left to walk in their chosen path of darkness.” (The Great Controversy, p. 601)

Prophetic Application: Just as Pilate's rejection of Christ's truth sealed his fate, so will individuals and nations face judgment based on their response to present truth during the investigative judgment.


Insights from the Shepherd’s Rod (SRod):

Pilate’s Role as a Type of End-Time Leaders:

“Pilate’s question, ‘What is truth?’ reflects the indifference of the world’s leadership to divine revelation. Instead of standing for righteousness, they capitulate to popular demand. In the end, they will, like Pilate, wash their hands of responsibility while endorsing evil.” (Shepherd’s Rod, Vol. 2, p. 208)

Prophetic Application: Pilate represents end-time leaders who are confronted with the message of truth but yield to societal pressures instead of upholding righteousness. This mirrors the rejection of God’s sealing message by worldly and church leaders.

Present Truth as the Test of the Hour:

“Truth, as revealed for each generation, is the test of loyalty to God. Pilate’s failure to recognize truth stands as a warning to the church today: rejecting or delaying obedience to present truth leads to irrevocable consequences.” (Timely Greetings, Vol. 1, No. 6, p. 7)

Commentary: In the context of the investigative judgment, present truth (such as the Three Angels’ Messages) becomes the ultimate test for the church and the world.

Light Rejected and the Judgment of Ezekiel 9:

“The slaughter of Ezekiel 9 is a result of the church’s rejection of advancing truth. As Pilate washed his hands to avoid responsibility, so will many in the church attempt to excuse their rejection of the sealing message. But the judgment will not be stayed.” (Shepherd’s Rod, Vol. 1, p. 123)

Prophetic Application: This insight ties Pilate’s rejection of Christ with the church’s rejection of present truth, culminating in the Ezekiel 9 judgment.


Practical Applications:

Personal Conviction and Public Pressure:

Like Pilate, individuals today face the challenge of standing for truth despite societal or peer pressure. Pilate’s failure serves as a warning to follow conviction rather than yielding to fear or convenience.

Truth as a Living Reality:

Truth is not just a concept to be debated but a reality to be lived out. Accepting Christ means living by the principles of truth in every area of life.

The Danger of Neutrality:

Pilate’s attempt to remain neutral in the trial of Jesus illustrates the danger of indecision. Neutrality in spiritual matters often results in aligning with error.


Consider the Following


❖ Pilate rejects the truth (John 18:28-38.)

— After attempting to remove himself from the responsibility of judging Jesus (Jn. 18:28-32,) Pilate had an interesting exchange of questions with Jesus (Jn. 18:33-38.)

— What a pity! Being so close to the Truth, he did not want to listen to it.

— What made him turn his back on his Savior? His prejudices against the Jews? His fear of losing his authority and privileges? The pressure of the crowd?

— What decision-making processes can help you avoid making the kind of mistake that Pilate made?


Monday - December 16, 2024

Behold the Man!  (John 18:38-19:5)

John 1:29; 18:38-19:5; 19:6-16. 

“Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man!” (John 19:5)

“The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29)



Insights from Ellen G. White (EGW):

Jesus Presented as a Humble King:

“A crown of thorns was placed on Christ's head, and a purple robe was thrown over His bruised and bleeding form. And Pilate said, ‘Behold the Man!’ The contrast between the majesty of heaven and this mockery was never more striking. Yet in that moment, the Savior revealed a dignity that the crowd could not diminish.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 735)

Commentary: Pilate’s declaration, though mocking, drew attention to Christ’s unique role as both the suffering servant and King of kings.

Christ as the Lamb of God:

“When John the Baptist declared, ‘Behold the Lamb of God,’ he announced the central theme of the plan of salvation. Christ was the sacrificial Lamb, prefigured in every offering of the sanctuary service. His mission was to take away the sin of the world.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 112)

Prophetic Application: John’s proclamation points to Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, making His sacrificial death the foundation of the investigative judgment and the cleansing of the sanctuary.

Christ’s Silent Dignity in Suffering:

“In His trial and suffering, Christ revealed the character of God. His silence under abuse testified to His submission to the will of His Father. He bore the guilt of the world, that through His sacrifice, humanity might have eternal life.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 742)

Commentary: Christ’s silence in the face of injustice highlights His mission as the sin-bearer. This calls believers to reflect on the depth of His love and the cost of redemption.

The Role of the Crowd:

“When Pilate presented Christ to the mob, saying, ‘Behold the Man,’ he hoped to awaken their sympathy. But the crowd, influenced by the priests and rulers, demanded His crucifixion. This reveals the danger of blindly following religious leaders instead of seeking God’s truth.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 738)

Prophetic Application: This scene foreshadows the end-time conflict, where the majority, led by false religious leaders, will reject Christ’s truth and persecute His faithful followers.


Insights from the Shepherd’s Rod (SRod):

Jesus as the Lamb and the Judge:

“‘Behold the Lamb of God’ signifies the One who bears sin, but also the One who judges sin. Christ’s dual role as Lamb and Judge calls for individual repentance, as the investigative judgment weighs every life against the standard of His character.” (Shepherd’s Rod, Vol. 2, p. 175)

Commentary: The imagery of the Lamb underscores both Christ’s sacrifice and His role in the final judgment, urging believers to accept His atonement and prepare for His return.

The Crown of Thorns and the Final Victory:

“The crown of thorns symbolizes Christ’s victory over sin and Satan. Though He appeared defeated before Pilate, His ultimate triumph as King of kings is assured. Those who behold Him now in humility will behold Him in glory.” (Timely Greetings, Vol. 1, No. 9, p. 13)

Prophetic Application: The crown of thorns represents the cost of redemption, while pointing forward to the crowning of Christ as ruler over all.

The Mob’s Role in Rejecting Truth:

“The crowd cried, ‘Crucify Him!’ not knowing that they were rejecting the Source of life. This typifies the rejection of present truth in the church, where human tradition often prevails over divine revelation.” (Shepherd’s Rod, Vol. 1, p. 104)

Commentary: Just as the crowd was manipulated into rejecting Jesus, the church today faces the danger of rejecting present truth due to popular opinion or the influence of misguided leaders.

The Lamb and the Investigative Judgment:

“The Lamb’s sacrifice was not the end, but the beginning of His mediatorial work in the heavenly sanctuary. As the Lamb of God, He continues to cleanse the record of sin during the investigative judgment.” (Shepherd’s Rod, Vol. 2, p. 89)

Prophetic Application: This insight connects Christ’s crucifixion with His ongoing ministry in the heavenly sanctuary, highlighting the importance of the Day of Atonement for believers today.

Practical Applications:

Beholding Christ in His Suffering:

Pilate’s “Behold the Man” invites every believer to reflect on Christ’s humility and sacrifice. This is a call to examine our lives in light of His love and to live in gratitude for His redeeming grace.

Accepting the Lamb of God:

John’s proclamation emphasizes the need for personal repentance and faith in Christ’s atoning sacrifice. To behold the Lamb is to embrace the hope and assurance of salvation.

Resisting the Pressure of the Majority:

The crowd’s rejection of Christ warns against following the majority. True discipleship requires courage to stand for truth, even when it is unpopular or misunderstood.

Preparing for the Final Judgment:

Christ’s sacrifice as the Lamb is inseparable from His role as Judge. Beholding Him now in repentance and faith ensures readiness for the investigative judgment and His second coming.


Consider the Following


❖ “Behold…” (John 18:38-19:5.)

— He had ordered an innocent man to be flogged, and his guards had mocked him. Now he paraded him before the crowd awaiting his release: “Look at this poor, emaciated king! Is it worth it to him to crucify him? Let us rather let him go!” (see Jn. 19:5.)

— Unbeknownst to him, Pilate spoke a great truth. The One who stood before him, the eternal Word, had become man (John 1:14.)

— Unwittingly, he used the very words with which John the Baptist had introduced Jesus: “Behold!” (John 1:29.) Unwittingly, he was to be the hand that sacrificed the Lamb of God, the King of Israel.

— A pagan fought to free Jesus, while God's people fought to reject the one who could give salvation to both Jews and pagans.


The Glory of the Cross

Tuesday - December 17, 2024

It is Finished! The Crucified King (John 19:17-30)

John 19:17-22; 19:25-27; 19:28-30; Luke 2:34-35.  

“Pilate had a notice prepared and fastened to the cross, it read: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS.” (John 19:19)

Ellen G. White Insights:

The Cross and the King's Declaration (John 19:17-22):

Ellen G. White often emphasizes that the inscription on the cross, "JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS," was an ironic declaration. Pilate's inscription, though meant to mock, was a prophetic truth. Despite the ridicule, Jesus' true kingship was revealed in His sacrifice. She writes:
“As Pilate had no further knowledge of Christ's divine mission, he inscribed upon the cross, 'Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.' The Jewish rulers, with all their hatred against Christ, had no power to change the title which Pilate had written” (The Desire of Ages, p. 753).

This statement reveals that the kingship of Christ was not of this world, and His suffering and crucifixion were part of the divine plan to establish a spiritual kingdom.

The Significance of "It Is Finished" (John 19:28-30):

When Christ declared, "It is finished," Ellen G. White explains that it was the moment the redemption of humanity was completed. The work of salvation was accomplished, and there was no more need for further sacrifices.
“Christ was the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. The plan of salvation was completed. In His death, He proclaimed, 'It is finished'” (The Desire of Ages, p. 759).

The finality of Christ’s atoning sacrifice was made clear in His words. The cosmic struggle between good and evil was won.

Mary's Grief and the Prophecy of Simeon (Luke 2:34-35):

In reference to the prophecy of Simeon in Luke 2:34-35, Ellen G. White highlights that Mary’s heart would be pierced by sorrow as she witnessed the suffering of her Son.
"The sword of sorrow pierced her soul as she stood near the cross and saw her Son suffering, bearing the sins of the world" (The Desire of Ages, p. 755).

Shepherd's Rod Insights:

The Kingly Role of Christ on the Cross:

The SRod writings often stress that Christ's apparent defeat on the cross was in reality His greatest victory. He was fulfilling His role as the Savior and King, not by conquering the world through force, but by His voluntary sacrifice.
"Christ was the King who suffered, not as an earthly king, but as the One who would through His blood bring about the victory of eternal life" (The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 2, p. 58).

"It Is Finished" and the Completion of the Atonement:

The SRod emphasizes the completion of the atonement at the cross. Christ's sacrifice was not just a moment in time, but the culmination of the whole plan of salvation. It confirmed the truth that no further sacrifice would be necessary.
"When Christ said, 'It is finished,' the full payment for sin was made. No more sacrifices would be needed, for Christ became the ultimate sacrifice for mankind" (The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 2, p. 60).

These insights from Ellen G. White and the Shepherd's Rod emphasize the significance of the crucifixion and the ultimate victory achieved through Christ's sacrificial death. The cross was not merely an act of suffering but the moment of victory where Christ, the King, fulfilled His redemptive mission.

The Paradox of Glory

The crucifixion of Jesus, seen by many as the ultimate humiliation, is revealed in Scripture as His moment of glory (John 12:23-24).

Pilate’s inscription, intended as a mockery, ironically proclaims an eternal truth: Jesus is King.

Prophetic Fulfillment

The events of the crucifixion fulfilled the Messianic prophecies of the Old Testament:

Isaiah 53:5: "He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities."

Psalm 22:16-18: "Dogs surround me, a pack of villains encircles me; they pierce my hands and my feet... They divide my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment."

Personal Response to the Cross

How does the inscription “JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS” challenge our understanding of Christ’s authority in our lives?

Are we like Pilate, hesitant to fully embrace Jesus’ kingship, or like Mary, unwavering in devotion despite suffering?

Living in the Power of "It is Finished"

The finished work of Christ calls us to a life of victory over sin, enabled by His grace (Romans 6:14).

Proclaiming the Universal Message

The message of the cross, written in three languages, symbolizes the global nature of the gospel. How can we actively share this good news in our own mission fields?

The Cross and the Hour of Glory

The cross stands as the eternal reminder of God’s love and justice, fulfilling the covenant of redemption.

Pilate’s inscription proclaims an unchanging truth: Jesus is the King and Savior of all humanity.

Through His triumphant cry, “It is finished,” Christ assures us of salvation and invites us to live in the light of His victory.


Consider the Following


❖ The crucified king (John 19:17-30.)

— It was the Holy Spirit who convinced Pilate that he had condemned the King of the Jews (John 19:19-22.) Instead of accepting divine grace, unable to bear his guilty conscience, he committed suicide in his exile in Gaul.

— In front of the cross, a sword pierced the heart of Mary, the mother of Jesus (Luke 2:34-35.) With tender compassion, Jesus left her in the care of John (John 19:25-27.)

— Realizing that everything had been accomplished, that His work had been finished and had been done to perfection, Jesus exclaimed, “It is finished,” and gave up His spirit (Jn. 19:28-30.)

— Christ's perfect sacrifice means that we are not to add to or take away from His work, but simply accept it. Salvation is a gift of grace. Will you accept Jesus' perfect sacrifice?


The Glory of the Resurrection

Wednesday - December 18, 2024

The Empty Tomb - See and Believe (John 20:1-10)

John 19:42; 20:1-7, 8-10; Mark 16:1; Luke 23:56; Matthew 27:62-66.  

“Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed” (John 20:8)



Ellen G. White Insights:

The Empty Tomb and the Faith of the Disciples (John 20:1-10):

Ellen G. White highlights the significance of the empty tomb as the central proof of Christ's victory over death. The disciples’ initial disbelief and the process of "seeing and believing" reflect the human struggle to understand the miraculous nature of the resurrection.
“The resurrection of Christ was the most important event in the history of the world. The stone was rolled away, not to let Christ out, but to let the disciples in, that they might be assured that He had risen" (The Desire of Ages, p. 789).

She emphasizes that the resurrection was essential for confirming Christ's divine mission, and it transformed the disciples’ understanding of His power.

The Role of Mary Magdalene and the First Witness (John 20:1-18):

Ellen G. White writes about the emotional moment Mary Magdalene experiences at the tomb and the joy she felt when she recognized the resurrected Jesus.
“The first thing that Mary knew was that Jesus was alive. Her heart was full of joy when she realized that He had risen from the dead. She was the first to bring the message to the disciples” (The Desire of Ages, p. 792).

Peter and John's Discovery (John 20:8):

In reference to John 20:8, Ellen G. White describes how John’s belief at the tomb was a turning point for him, even though he did not fully understand at first.
"The disciple who had reached the tomb first saw and believed. He was a witness of the resurrection, though he did not yet fully comprehend the event" (The Desire of Ages, p. 790).

The Resurrection and the Hope of Believers:

Ellen G. White also highlights the resurrection’s significance as the hope for all believers. It affirms that death is not the end for those in Christ.
"The resurrection of Christ is the guarantee of the resurrection of the believer. In His resurrection is our hope of eternal life" (The Desire of Ages, p. 797).

Shepherd's Rod Insights:

The Empty Tomb as a Sign of Victory:

The SRod writings stress that Christ's resurrection was a divine confirmation of His mission. The empty tomb was a powerful declaration of the defeat of death and sin.
"The resurrection of Christ is the proof that sin and death were conquered. It was a decisive victory over the powers of darkness and the grave" (The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 2, p. 71).

Believing Without Seeing (John 20:8):

The SRod highlights the process of faith that the disciples experienced, especially in the context of John’s belief when he saw the empty tomb.
"John, upon seeing the empty tomb, believed, even though he did not understand everything. This is the faith that is required of God's people today: to believe even when the full understanding is not yet clear" (The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 2, p. 75).

Christ's Resurrection and the Eternal Hope:

Similar to Ellen G. White, the SRod writings emphasize that Christ's resurrection is the foundation of the Christian's hope for eternal life.
"Christ's resurrection provides the eternal assurance to all who believe in Him that they too will rise from the dead at His return" (The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 2, p. 76).

Both Ellen G. White and the Shepherd's Rod emphasize the victory of Christ’s resurrection, the transformative effect it had on the disciples, and the essential role of faith in seeing and believing. The resurrection is presented as a foundational event that provides hope for believers and a deeper understanding of God’s eternal power over death.


Consider the Following


❖ See and believe (John 20:1-10.)

— Dying near sunset on Friday, the disciples were unable to prepare Jesus' body for burial. But after the sacred hours of the Sabbath, the women brought the necessary items to embalm His body.

— Mary Magdalene came by another route to help them, but found the tomb empty. She ran to tell Peter and John, who quickly arrived at the tomb (Jn. 20:1-6.)

— When John saw the shroud folded and laid aside, he believed that Jesus had risen. Who could have been concerned about such details except Jesus Himself? (John 20:7-10.)

— This empty tomb is the assurance of our own resurrection. For as Jesus left the tomb, so we too will be resurrected by His power (1 Cor. 15:16-22.)


Thursday - December 19, 2024

Jesus and Mary - Mary's Mission (John 20:11-18)
John 20:2, 11-13, 14-18; 1 Corinthians 15:12-20.  

“Jesus said, ‘Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’ ” (John 20:17)



Ellen G. White Insights:

Mary’s Encounter with the Resurrected Jesus (John 20:11-18):

Ellen G. White writes about Mary's deep sorrow and how it was turned into joy when she encountered the risen Christ. She emphasizes the personal nature of Christ's interaction with Mary, revealing His compassion and care for her.
"Mary Magdalene had been a devoted follower of Jesus, and her sorrow at His death was deep. She was the first to whom Christ appeared after His resurrection. He addressed her by name, and her sorrow turned to joy" (The Desire of Ages, p. 791).

She also highlights the importance of Mary’s role as the first to receive the message of Christ's resurrection and the first to proclaim it to the disciples.

"Do Not Hold On to Me" (John 20:17):

In reference to Jesus' words to Mary, "Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father," Ellen G. White explains that Christ was preparing Mary for a new phase of His relationship with His followers. His ascension to the Father would bring a greater understanding of His mission and a deeper connection through the Holy Spirit.
"Christ’s words to Mary were not a rebuke, but a message of comfort. He had not yet ascended to the Father, but He was soon to return to heaven, and through the Holy Spirit, He would be ever present with His people" (The Desire of Ages, p. 791).

Mary’s Mission to Proclaim the Resurrection (John 20:17):

Ellen G. White emphasizes that Jesus’ command to Mary to go and tell the disciples of His resurrection was a sacred commission.
"Christ entrusted Mary with the message of His resurrection, making her the first messenger of the risen Christ. She was to carry the good news to the disciples, and her mission was to tell them of the hope of eternal life through Christ" (The Desire of Ages, p. 792).

The Resurrection and the Hope of Believers (1 Corinthians 15:12-20):

Ellen G. White frequently emphasizes the importance of the resurrection as the cornerstone of Christian hope. She links the resurrection of Christ with the assurance of eternal life for those who believe in Him.
"If Christ is not risen, then our faith is in vain. But since He is risen, we have the hope of eternal life, and His resurrection is the guarantee of our resurrection" (The Desire of Ages, p. 797).

Shepherd's Rod Insights:

The Personal Nature of Jesus’ Revelation (John 20:11-18):

The SRod writings emphasize the personal nature of Christ's appearance to Mary, revealing that the resurrection was not just a cosmic event but a personal victory for each believer.
"The first to witness the risen Christ was Mary, who had been forgiven much. This is a demonstration that Christ's resurrection is not just for the world at large, but for each individual who believes in Him" (The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 2, p. 80).

"Do Not Hold On to Me" (John 20:17):

The SRod also interprets Christ’s words to Mary as a call to let go of the past and embrace the new reality of His resurrection. Mary’s mission was to go and proclaim the good news, which was part of God's plan for the spreading of the gospel.
"The command to Mary not to cling to Christ was a step towards understanding that the Savior's ministry was not to remain on earth in a physical form but would continue through the Holy Spirit and His followers" (The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 2, p. 83).

Mary's Mission and the Spread of the Gospel:

The SRod writings highlight that Mary's role as the first messenger of the resurrection was a significant part of God’s plan for the gospel to be spread throughout the world.
"Mary’s mission to proclaim the resurrection of Christ marked the beginning of the great commission that Christ would later give to His disciples. She was the first to carry the message of hope and life to others" (The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 2, p. 84).

Christ’s Resurrection and the Assurance of Eternal Life (1 Corinthians 15:12-20):

Similar to Ellen G. White, the SRod writings affirm the importance of the resurrection as the foundation of Christian hope and the guarantee of the resurrection of the faithful.
"The resurrection of Christ is not just a historical event; it is the guarantee of the resurrection for all believers. Christ’s victory over death ensures that all who trust in Him will be raised to eternal life" (The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 2, p. 76).

Both Ellen G. White and the Shepherd's Rod emphasize the intimate, personal nature of Christ's resurrection appearances, the importance of Mary’s role in proclaiming the message, and the centrality of the resurrection in the Christian hope of eternal life. Mary's encounter with the risen Christ and her mission to share the good news reflect the powerful transformation brought about by the resurrection.


Consider the Following


❖ Mary's mission (John 20:11-18.)

— Going slower than Peter and John, when Mary Magdalene arrived at the tomb again, they had already returned to Jerusalem.

— As she was crying, she looked inside and saw two angels there (whom she did not recognize as such.) While she was talking with them, Jesus himself stood behind her (John 20:11-14.)

— Her only concern was finding Jesus' lifeless body. Her pain and tears prevented her from seeing the reality around her. Only when Jesus called her by name did she realize what was happening (John 20:15-16.)

— When Jesus appeared to her, she was filled with joy. But Jesus asked her to go urgently and spread the good news of the resurrection (Jn. 20:17.) Mary immediately fulfilled the mission that Jesus gave her (Jn. 20:18.) Now it is our turn to fulfill our mission…


Friday - December 13, 2024

Additional Insights and Further Study

Throughout the week, from Monday to Thursday, the study covers key moments in the final stages of Christ’s earthly ministry—from His rejection by Pilate, through His crucifixion, to His glorious resurrection and the commissioning of Mary as the first messenger. These events are crucial in understanding the essence of the gospel:

The Truth is revealed in Jesus as the incarnate Word, and we are called to embrace and proclaim that truth despite opposition. 

The Nature of Truth: Ellen G. White often emphasizes that Jesus Himself is the embodiment of truth. In His confrontation with Pilate, Jesus reveals that truth is not a mere concept or philosophy but a living, divine reality, manifest in Him as the Word (John 1:14).

"Christ was the living truth, and those who rejected Him were rejecting the very embodiment of truth itself" (The Desire of Ages, p. 541).

The Rejection of Truth: The SRod emphasizes that Pilate's rejection of Jesus' claim as the King of the Jews is a reflection of the world's rejection of divine truth. This rejection is prophetic, symbolizing how God's truth is often resisted in the last days.

Truth and Prophetic Fulfillment: The SRod also connects this passage to prophetic themes. Jesus’ declaration of being the truth ties into the broader prophetic timeline of the Messiah’s mission.

"The truth that Jesus embodied was not only for the time of Pilate but for the end of time, where the faithful will testify to the same truth that Christ revealed" (The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 1, p. 105).

The Cross is the ultimate symbol of God's love and the victory over sin, declaring that salvation is finished.

The Significance of the Cross: EGW explains that the cross is the supreme symbol of God’s love and the basis for reconciliation between God and humanity. The cross represents both the depth of human sin and the vastness of divine grace.

"At the cross, the whole universe witnessed the ultimate sacrifice—the love of God poured out for the salvation of sinners" (The Desire of Ages, p. 762).

"The cross was the great victory, where the plan of salvation was completed. With Christ's death, the hope of the world was sealed" (The Desire of Ages, p. 758). 

The Cross and the Everlasting Covenant: The SRod emphasizes that the cross is not only a symbol of atonement but also of the covenant between God and His people. Christ’s sacrifice made it possible for the faithful to enter into a new, everlasting covenant.

"The cross is the pivotal event in the covenant of grace, where Christ took upon Himself the sins of the world, establishing a new relationship between God and mankind" (The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 1, p. 110).

The Resurrection assures believers of eternal life and the defeat of death, a guarantee of hope.

The Empty Tomb and the Power of the Resurrection: Ellen G. White stresses that the empty tomb is a powerful testimony of Christ’s victory over death. It is a symbol of the believer’s hope in the resurrection.

"The resurrection of Jesus is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. It assures every believer that the grave will not have the final word" (The Desire of Ages, p. 791).

Faith and the Resurrection: The resurrection calls for a faith that transcends physical sight, as seen when the disciples believe after the tomb is empty.

"When the disciples saw the empty tomb, they were filled with faith. It was the proof they needed that Christ was indeed the Messiah" (The Desire of Ages, p. 794).

The Resurrection and the Final Victory: The SRod parallels the resurrection with the final victory over sin and death that will be realized when Christ returns.

"The resurrection is not just a historical event; it is a symbol of the victory that every believer will experience in the last days" (The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 2, p. 120).

Seeing and Believing: The SRod highlights that the process of seeing and believing in the resurrection is a spiritual lesson for God's people today.

"The empty tomb calls for spiritual perception. It is not enough to see with the eyes; one must believe with the heart" (The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 1, p. 132).

Mary’s Mission exemplifies the call of all believers to spread the message of Christ’s victory and to witness to His transformative power in our lives.

The Significance of Mary’s Mission: Mary’s role as the first to proclaim Christ’s resurrection is a powerful reminder of the dignity and responsibility given to all believers to share the good news.

"Her message was the beginning of the gospel proclamation. She was the first to declare, 'I have seen the Lord' and to share the message of His resurrection" (The Desire of Ages, p. 792).

Mary’s Role as a Messenger: The SRod stresses that Mary was not just a witness to Christ's resurrection, but was chosen to be the messenger to the disciples. This reveals the important role of each believer in sharing the message of salvation.

"Mary's mission as the first witness to Christ’s resurrection reveals that every believer has a responsibility to proclaim Christ's victory over death" (The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 2, p. 80).

"Just as Mary was sent to announce the resurrection, so every believer is commissioned to spread the message of hope and eternal life that Christ's resurrection offers" (The Shepherd's Rod, Vol. 1, p. 110). 

These themes highlight the central truth of the Christian faith: Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection are the foundation of our hope, and we, like Mary, are called to bear witness to this great truth.


From the Pen of Inspiration

The simple story of the cross of Christ, His suffering and dying for the world, His resurrection and ascension, His mediation in the sinner's behalf before the Father, subdues and breaks the hard and sinful heart, and brings the sinner to repentance. The Holy Spirit sets the matter before him in a new light, and the sinner realizes that sin must be a tremendous evil to cost such a sacrifice to atone for it.... How grievous must sin be that no less a remedy than the death of the Son of God could save man from the consequences of his guilt. Why was this done in behalf of man?—It was because God loved him, and was not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance, believe in Jesus as a personal Saviour, and have life eternal.” EGW (Sons and Daughters of God, August 9)


Questions to Ponder Upon

https://bit.ly/SS-Q4-L12

https://online.fliphtml5.com/nhmzi/zgxt/

https://3angelscry.org/pdf-ss-q4-l12-the-hour-of-glory-the-cross-and-the-resurrection/