A New Heart and a New Birth

 

Scripture: Jeremiah 31:31–34; John 3:1–21; Hebrews 8:10

Introduction: The human heart, apart from God, is broken and stained by sin. But our merciful God has always planned to renew us from the inside out. Through His promise in Jeremiah, the teaching of Jesus to Nicodemus, and the fulfillment in Christ, we see God’s commitment to transforming us with a new heart and a new birth.

I. The Promise of a New Heart (Jeremiah 31:31–34) Jeremiah speaks of a new covenant where God will write His law upon our hearts. The old covenant, based on external adherence to the Law, was not sufficient to change human nature. But God promises a radical transformation—He will be our God, and we will be His people. This is not just about following rules but having an internal transformation where obedience flows from a heart aligned with Him.

II. The Necessity of a New Birth (John 3:1–21) Nicodemus, a Pharisee, comes to Jesus at night seeking understanding. Jesus tells him, “Unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3). This puzzled Nicodemus, but Jesus explained that the new birth is spiritual, not physical. Just as Jeremiah prophesied a new heart, Jesus speaks of being born of water and the Spirit. The Holy Spirit brings regeneration, making us new creations in Christ.

III. The Fulfillment of the Promise (Hebrews 8:10) The writer of Hebrews quotes Jeremiah, confirming that Jesus has established this new covenant. Through Christ’s sacrifice, God’s law is not merely written on tablets of stone but inscribed on our hearts. We no longer strive for righteousness through our works; instead, God transforms us by His grace, making us His children.

Conclusion: God’s promise to give us a new heart is fulfilled through Christ’s work on the cross and the Spirit’s transforming power. The call to Nicodemus is the call to us all: we must be born again. This is not a self-improvement project but a divine work of grace. Have you received the new heart that God offers? Are you living in the joy of the new covenant? Let us surrender to God’s work in us, embracing the transformation He promises.

More: Lesson 13 Love Is the Fulfillment of the Law

Next Quarter: Allusions, Images, Symbols: How to Study Bible Prophecy 

The Law: Holy, Just, and Good

 

Scripture: Romans 6:1–3; Romans 7:7–12 (emphasis on verse 12)

Introduction
Brothers and sisters, today we turn our hearts to the words of Paul in the book of Romans, where he speaks about the law in relation to Christ’s work on the cross. Some might wonder: If we are saved by grace, does the law still matter? Others might ask: Is the law something to be feared or cast aside now that Christ has come?

Paul answers these questions with great clarity, reminding us that the law itself is holy, just, and good (Romans 7:12).

 Grace Does Not Abolish the Law (Romans 6:1–3)

Paul begins by asking, "Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?" (Romans 6:1). His response is immediate and firm: "God forbid!" Just because Christ has freed us from sin does not mean we should live lawlessly. Instead, we are called to walk in newness of life.

The law was never the problem—sin was the problem. The law revealed sin, but it did not cause it. Rather, it showed us the standard of God's holiness and our need for a Savior.

 The Purpose of the Law (Romans 7:7–12)

Paul explains that the law acts like a mirror—it reveals sin but cannot remove it. Without the law, we would not have known the depth of our sinfulness. He uses the example of coveting: “I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet” (Romans 7:7).

But does this mean the law is bad? Absolutely not! It is through the law that we see our need for Christ. The problem is not the law—it is sin that corrupts. The law points us to Christ, who alone can redeem us.

 The Law is Holy, Just, and Good (Romans 7:12)

Here is the heart of today’s message: “Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” The law reflects God's character—it is holy, because it comes from a holy God. It is just, because it teaches us righteousness. It is good, because it leads us to Christ.

Even though Christ fulfilled the law, He did not abolish it (Matthew 5:17). Rather, He gave us the grace to live according to God's righteousness—not by our own strength, but through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Walking in Grace and Truth

As believers, we no longer live under the condemnation of the law, but we do live in the righteousness it upholds. The law shows us our need for grace, and grace empowers us to fulfill the righteousness of the law through Christ.

Let us, therefore, walk in obedience—not out of fear, but out of love. For the law is holy, just, and good, and through Christ, we are given the power to live in its light. Amen.

More: Lesson 13 Love Is the Fulfillment of the Law

Next Quarter: Allusions, Images, Symbols: How to Study Bible Prophecy 

Love for God, Love for Others: Exodus 20:1–17

 

The Two Great Loves

Exodus 20:1–17

When Jesus was asked to summarize the greatest commandment, He responded with two principles: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind and love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:37–39). These two principles are the foundation of the Ten Commandments given in Exodus 20. The first four commandments teach us how to love God, and the last six show us how to love others.

 Loving God (Exodus 20:1–11)

The first four commandments reveal how we are to love and honor God:

• No other gods (v. 3): God alone deserves our worship and devotion. Loving Him means placing Him first in our lives.

• No idols (v. 4–6): True love for God is not just in words but in worshiping Him in spirit and truth, not through man-made images.

• Do not misuse God’s name (v. 7): Loving God means revering His name, speaking of Him with honor, and living in a way that reflects His holiness.

• Keep the Sabbath holy (v. 8–11): Setting aside time for worship and rest shows our love for God by trusting in His provision and prioritizing our relationship with Him.

 Loving Others (Exodus 20:12–17)

The remaining six commandments guide us in loving our neighbors:

• Honor your father and mother (v. 12): Love begins at home. When we honor our parents, we build strong families and a stable society.

• Do not murder (v. 13): Every life is precious to God. Love for others means valuing life and rejecting hatred or violence.

• Do not commit adultery (v. 14): Faithfulness in marriage is an expression of love and respect for our spouse.

• Do not steal (v. 15): Love for others means respecting their property and working honestly.

• Do not bear false witness (v. 16): Truth builds trust. Loving our neighbors means speaking truthfully and avoiding slander.

• Do not covet (v. 17): Contentment is key to loving others. Instead of envy, love rejoices in the blessings of others.

 Living Out the Two Great Loves

The Ten Commandments are not just rules; they are a reflection of God's heart for us. Jesus fulfilled the law, and through Him, we are empowered to love God and love others. When we obey these commands out of love, we reflect the character of Christ and show the world what it means to walk in His ways.

Lord, help us to love You with all our hearts and to love others as You have loved us. May we live in obedience to Your Word, reflecting Your goodness and grace. Amen.

More: Lesson 13 Love Is the Fulfillment of the Law

Next Quarter: Allusions, Images, Symbols: How to Study Bible Prophecy 

 

The question "Who is my neighbor?" comes from Luke 10:25-37, where a lawyer asks Jesus this exact question. In response, Jesus tells the Parable of the Good Samaritan, in which a man is beaten and left for dead. A priest and a Levite pass by without helping, but a Samaritan—someone from a group despised by the Jews—stops, cares for the man, and provides for his recovery.

Who Is My Neighbor?

Jesus' parable teaches that our neighbor is not just the person who lives near us, shares our background, or belongs to our social circle. Instead, our neighbor is anyone in need, regardless of race, status, or difference. The Samaritan did not let social divisions or personal inconvenience stop him from showing mercy.

Who Is Your Neighbor?

Your neighbor includes:

• The person in crisis who needs help.
• The outcast or marginalized individual in your community.
• The person with whom you may have cultural, political, or personal differences.
• Even those considered "enemies" by society.

How Should Following Christ Make Us Like the Good Samaritan?

1. Crossing Boundaries – Just as the Samaritan disregarded racial and religious divisions, we must break through barriers of prejudice, class, and comfort zones.
2. Active Compassion – Love is not just words but actions. Helping others, even when inconvenient, reflects Christ’s love.
3. Self-Sacrifice – The Samaritan gave his time, resources, and energy. Following Christ means being willing to give up our own comfort for the sake of others.
4. Seeing with Christ’s Eyes – The priest and Levite ignored the suffering man, but the Samaritan saw a human being in need. We must cultivate a heart that notices and responds to suffering.
5. Loving Beyond Convenience – True love is costly. It means going beyond good intentions to practical, ongoing involvement in others' lives.

Practical Ways to Be Like the Good Samaritan

• Helping the Poor and Homeless – Volunteering at shelters, donating, or offering direct assistance.
• Standing Against Injustice – Advocating for those who are oppressed.
• Serving Those Society Overlooks – Befriending immigrants, the disabled, or the elderly.
• Showing Kindness in Daily Life – Helping a struggling neighbor, listening to someone in pain, or simply being present for those in need.

Jesus ends the parable by telling the lawyer, “Go and do likewise” (Luke 10:37). Being a neighbor is not just about knowing the right answer—it’s about doing mercy in everyday life.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 12: The Two Greatest Commandments

> Next Quarter: Allusions, Images, Symbols: How to Study Bible Prophecy: Sabbath School 2nd Quarter 2025

Sabbath School Lesson 13: Love Is the Fulfillment of the Law

 

God's Love and Justice

Sabbath School Lesson 13

Love Is the Fulfillment of the Law

You may use this for presenting and studying the current Sabbath School Lesson.

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> Download the notes for Lesson 13 video here.

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> Download 1st Quarter 2025 Lessons: God's Love and Justice

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> Next Quarter: Allusions, Images, Symbols: How to Study Bible Prophecy: Sabbath School 2nd Quarter 2025

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“Go and Do Likewise” - Parable of the Good Samaritan

 

Scripture Reading: Luke 10:25–37

Brothers and sisters in Christ, the parable of the Good Samaritan is one of Jesus’ most well-known teachings, but its radical challenge is often overlooked. This parable was not just a call to kindness but a bold confrontation of injustice, prejudice, and the failure of religious and social systems to uphold mercy.

When the lawyer asked Jesus, “Who is my neighbor?” he was trying to define the limits of his responsibility. Jesus answered with a story that shattered those limits. A man is beaten and left for dead on the road. A priest and a Levite—both religious men—pass by without helping. Then comes the Samaritan, the last person anyone would expect to show compassion. Samaritans were despised by the Jews, yet it was this outsider who embodied the mercy of God.

The cry of the prophets throughout Scripture echoes in this story. Micah 6:8 reminds us: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” The prophets condemned religious rituals that lacked justice and acts of worship that ignored the suffering of the oppressed. The Good Samaritan does exactly what the prophets called for—he acts justly, loves mercy, and moves humbly in the presence of God.

Throughout history, we have seen entire societies create systems that dehumanize and exclude others. Slavery, colonization, racial segregation, and economic exploitation have been justified by those in power while the wounded lay in the streets, ignored by those who should have helped. Even today, the suffering of refugees, the poor, and the marginalized is often met with silence or indifference. But Jesus calls us to be different. He calls us to go and do likewise.

This parable forces us to ask: Who are the wounded lying on the roadside today? Who are the ones we pass by because they make us uncomfortable, because they do not fit within our social or political categories? The love of God does not allow us to walk by. It compels us to stop, to kneel, and to bind the wounds of the broken.

Let us not be like the priest or the Levite, using religion as an excuse to ignore injustice. Instead, let us be like the Good Samaritan, crossing boundaries, breaking down walls, and loving with a mercy that reflects the very heart of God. Amen.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 12: The Two Greatest Commandments

The Weightier Matters of the Law: Matthew 23:23–30

 The Weightier Matters of the Law

In Matthew 23:23–30, Jesus delivers a sharp rebuke to the Pharisees and religious leaders of His time. They were meticulous in tithing even the smallest of their crops—mint, dill, and cumin—yet they neglected the "weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness." Jesus does not condemn their tithing but points out their hypocrisy in focusing on minor details while disregarding what truly matters. This passage calls us to examine our own priorities in faith and to consider what Jesus means by the "weightier matters."

 The Danger of Religious Formalism The Pharisees were known for their outward religiosity. They performed religious duties with precision, seeking to appear righteous in the eyes of others. However, Jesus exposes their spiritual blindness. They were straining out a gnat while swallowing a camel (v. 24), emphasizing the trivial while missing the profound.

This same tendency can be found today when believers focus more on outward expressions of religion—attending church, giving offerings, following traditions—without addressing the deeper calls of justice, mercy, and faithfulness in their lives.

 The Weightier Matters: Justice, Mercy, and Faithfulness When Jesus speaks of the "weightier matters," He refers to the foundational principles of God's moral law. These are not in opposition to religious practices but are the core of what God desires from His people:

1. Justice – Justice is the pursuit of righteousness and fairness in society, ensuring that the vulnerable are not oppressed. The prophet Isaiah echoes this theme:

   • "Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause" (Isaiah 1:17).

   • The Pharisees enforced religious laws but failed to uphold justice for the poor and needy. Jesus calls us to a faith that actively seeks justice in the world.

2. Mercy – Mercy is the heart of God's character. It reflects His compassion toward those who are suffering. The Lord, speaking through Isaiah, condemns empty rituals when mercy is absent:

   • "Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke?" (Isaiah 58:6).

   • Jesus desires His followers to embody mercy, caring for the broken and extending forgiveness rather than merely adhering to religious customs.

3. Faithfulness – Faithfulness means loyalty and sincerity in our relationship with God and others. The Pharisees were unfaithful in their hearts, though they appeared devout. True faithfulness is not just about outward observance but about a steadfast commitment to God’s truth and love.

 Whitewashed Tombs: The Danger of Hypocrisy Jesus further rebukes the Pharisees by comparing them to whitewashed tombs (v. 27). They looked pure on the outside but were filled with death and corruption. This powerful imagery warns us against spiritual hypocrisy—when our external righteousness does not align with the condition of our hearts.

Isaiah also speaks against such hypocrisy, declaring:

• "Because this people draw near with their mouth and honor me with their lips, while their hearts are far from me" (Isaiah 29:13).

• True worship is not just about what we say or do externally but about a heart that genuinely seeks God.

 Living Out the Weightier Matters Jesus' words in Matthew 23 call us to a faith that is more than rituals and appearances. He calls us to a life marked by justice, mercy, and faithfulness. As followers of Christ, we must reflect God’s heart by standing against injustice, showing mercy to others, and remaining faithful in our walk with Him.

May we not be like the Pharisees who focused on minor details while missing the greater call of God. Instead, let us embrace the weightier matters of the law, living out a faith that truly honors the Lord.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 12: The Two Greatest Commandments

The God of Justice Calls Us to Act

Scripture Reading: Psalm 82:1-8

Psalm 82 presents a powerful image of God standing in the divine assembly, judging the rulers and leaders of the earth. It is a call to justice, where God rebukes those who oppress the weak and favor the wicked. Verses 3-4 declare:

"Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked." (Psalm 82:3-4, NIV)

This passage reveals God’s heart for justice. He is not indifferent to suffering but actively calls upon those in power to protect the most vulnerable. Yet, as the psalmist laments, human rulers often fail to uphold justice, walking in darkness and causing instability in the world (Psalm 82:5).

God’s Justice Through Jesus

When we turn to the New Testament, we see Jesus embodying the justice of God. He consistently stood with the oppressed and challenged the religious and political leaders of His time. In Luke 4:18-19, Jesus declares:

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” (Luke 4:18-19, ESV)

Jesus fulfilled the calling of Psalm 82 by lifting up the broken, healing the sick, and rebuking those who misused power. He taught that justice is not merely about laws but about love and mercy. When He said, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled” (Matthew 5:6, NIV), He was calling His followers to actively seek justice in the world.

Our Role in God’s Justice

Psalm 82 concludes with a cry for God to rise up and judge the earth (Psalm 82:8). While ultimate justice belongs to God, He calls His people to be agents of His justice today. James 1:27 reminds us:

“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” (James 1:27, NIV)

Likewise, Jesus commands us to love our neighbors (Mark 12:31) and serve the least among us (Matthew 25:40). Our faith is not just about personal salvation but also about transforming society through acts of compassion, advocacy, and integrity.

Conclusion

Psalm 82 reminds us that God is a God of justice, and He desires His people to reflect that justice in the world. In a world filled with inequality, oppression, and suffering, we are called to stand for the weak, defend the poor, and act with righteousness. Jesus Christ, our model, showed us how to do this through love, service, and sacrifice.

Let us commit ourselves to live out God’s justice, being the hands and feet of Christ in a world that desperately needs His light. Amen.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 12: The Two Greatest Commandments

Two Greatest Sins: Idolatry and Injustice

Scripture Reading: Psalm 135:13–19; Zechariah 7:9–12

 Brothers and sisters in Christ, today we will explore two sins that echo throughout Scripture: idolatry and injustice. These sins are condemned repeatedly because they strike at the heart of our relationship with God and with one another. Psalm 135 warns us about the foolishness of idolatry, while Zechariah reminds us of God's call to justice and mercy. As we reflect on these passages, we will see how they relate to the two greatest commandments: loving God with all our heart and loving our neighbor as ourselves.

 The Sin of Idolatry: Failing to Love God Completely 

Psalm 135:15–18 speaks of idols made by human hands—lifeless, powerless, and utterly unworthy of worship. Yet, time and time again, God's people turned to these false gods, rejecting the living God who had delivered them. Idolatry is more than bowing to a statue; it is placing anything—wealth, power, relationships, or self—above God. When we trust in created things instead of the Creator, we fail to love Him with all our heart, soul, and strength (Deuteronomy 6:5). Jesus affirmed this in Matthew 22:37, declaring that the greatest commandment is to love the Lord our God above all else. Idolatry is a direct violation of this command, as it leads our hearts away from true worship.

 The Sin of Injustice: Failing to Love Our Neighbor 

Zechariah 7:9–12 reveals another sin: the hard-hearted refusal to show justice, kindness, and mercy. God commanded His people to care for the widow, the orphan, the foreigner, and the poor. Yet they ignored these commands, turning away from the needs of the vulnerable. This injustice stems from a failure to love our neighbor as ourselves (Leviticus 19:18, Matthew 22:39). When we neglect the cries of the oppressed, we disobey God's call to righteousness and break the second greatest commandment.

 The Connection Between Idolatry and Injustice 

These two sins are deeply connected. When we turn from God to idols, our hearts grow cold, and we lose compassion for others. Idolatry distorts our values, leading us to prioritize wealth over generosity, status over service, and selfishness over sacrifice. A heart that does not love God fully will struggle to love others rightly. This is why God repeatedly calls His people to repent from both idolatry and injustice—because they are two sides of the same coin.

 A Call to Repentance and Renewal 

Today, we must examine our hearts. Have we placed idols before God? Have we ignored the needs of those around us? Jesus taught that all the Law and the Prophets hang on the commands to love God and love our neighbor (Matthew 22:40). If we fail in these, we fail in everything. Let us repent of idolatry and injustice, turning back to the living God who alone is worthy of worship and who calls us to walk in love and righteousness. May our lives reflect His truth, and may we seek His kingdom first, where love and justice reign. Amen.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 12: The Two Greatest Commandments

Allusions, Images, Symbols: How to Study Bible Prophecy: Sabbath School 2nd Quarter 2025

Allusions, Images, Symbols: How to Study Bible Prophecy 

Sabbath School 2nd Quarter 2025 - Click lesson to download

Introduction

Lesson 1: Some Principles of Prophecy—March 29-April 4

Lesson 2: The Genesis Foundation—April 5-11

Lesson 3: Images From Marriage—April 12-18

Lesson 4: The Nations: Part 1—April 19-25

Lesson 5: The Nations: Part 2—April 26-May 2

Lesson 6: Understanding Sacrifice—May 3-9

Lesson 7: Foundations for Prophecy—May 10-16

Lesson 8: In the Psalms: Part 1—May 17-23

Lesson 9: In the Psalms: Part 2—May 24-30

Lesson 10: Upon Whom the Ends Have Come—May 31-June 6

Lesson 11: Ruth and Esther—June 7-13

Lesson 12: Precursors—June 14-20

Lesson 13: Images of the End—June 21-27

The Greatest Commandment and the Call to Surrender

 

Many people approach Jesus with questions—not just for knowledge, but to test, to justify, or to seek truth. In Matthew 22:34–40, a lawyer asks Jesus a question meant to test Him:

"Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?"

Jesus’ response is simple yet profound:

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets."

This answer summarizes God’s entire will for humanity—love for God and love for others.

The Rich Young Ruler and the Call to Surrender (Matthew 19:16–23):
Earlier, another man, a rich young ruler, approached Jesus with a different question:

"Teacher, what good thing must I do to have eternal life?"

Jesus first points him to the commandments, but when the young man claims to have kept them, Jesus reveals the one thing holding him back:

"Go, sell what you have, give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me."

The young man went away sorrowful, because he had great wealth.

Connecting the Two Passages:
Both the lawyer and the rich young ruler sought to test or justify themselves. However, Jesus’ response in both cases was not about rules but about the heart. The greatest commandment—loving God with all our being—requires total surrender. The rich young ruler followed rules but lacked true love for God because his heart was tied to his wealth.

Application:

1. Love for God is more than obedience; it requires surrender. We cannot serve both God and earthly attachments.
2. Loving others is an outflow of loving God. The lawyer asked about the greatest commandment, and Jesus immediately included love for others. Our faith is incomplete without love.
3. Following Jesus means sacrifice. The rich young ruler walked away because he valued his wealth more than following Christ. What are we holding onto that keeps us from fully loving and obeying God?

Jesus calls us not just to obedience but to wholehearted love. This love transforms our priorities and how we treat others. May we not be like the rich young ruler who walked away sorrowful, but like those who surrender all to follow Christ.

Amen.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 12: The Two Greatest Commandments

Sabbath School Lesson 12: Love and Justice: The Two Greatest Commandments

 

God's Love and Justice

Sabbath School Lesson 12

Love and Justice: The Two Greatest Commandments

You may use this for presenting and studying the current Sabbath School Lesson.

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> Download the notes for Lesson 12 video here.

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> Download 1st Quarter 2025 Lessons: God's Love and Justice

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> Next Quarter: How to Study Prophecy Qtr 2

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The Depth of Christ’s Sacrifice and the Trustworthiness of God’s Love

 

Scripture Reading: Philippians 2:6-8 (NIV)
"Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!"

When we consider the sacrifice of Christ, we often focus on His suffering on the cross. And rightly so—His crucifixion was excruciating, both physically and spiritually. But have we truly pondered what He gave up even before that?

The Glory Christ Left Behind

Before Jesus took on flesh, He existed in the glory of heaven, in perfect unity with the Father. He was not bound by time or space. He was worshiped by angels. He lacked nothing. Yet, in an act of unimaginable love, He chose to leave His divine throne to enter a broken world.

He chose hunger.
He chose weariness.
He chose rejection.
He chose sorrow.
And ultimately, He chose death.

Why? Because God’s love is not passive. It does not merely offer affection from a distance. It moves. It sacrifices. It suffers for the beloved.

What Does This Say About God’s Love?

Jesus did not merely tell us that God loves us—He demonstrated it in the most radical way possible. Paul reminds us in Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

What more could God do to prove His love? If He was willing to leave heaven for us, to suffer for us, to die for us, how can we doubt that He is trustworthy?

Can God Be Trusted?

Life often brings trials that make us question God’s faithfulness. But when we look at the cross, we see the ultimate proof that God is for us, not against us. If He gave up His Son, what will He withhold from us that is truly good?

Paul reassures us in Romans 8:32, “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?”

If you ever doubt God’s love, look to the manger—where the King of Glory became a helpless infant.

If you ever question His care, look to the cross—where He bore the weight of our sin.
If you ever wonder if He can be trusted, look to the empty tomb—where He conquered death itself.

What more could He do?

The answer is nothing. He has given us everything. Let us, then, trust Him with our whole hearts, for His love is proven, and His faithfulness is sure.

Amen.

The Vindication of God in the Cosmic Conflict

Scripture Readings: Romans 3:1–4, Isaiah 5:3–4, Revelation 15:3, Revelation 19:1–6

The great controversy between good and evil is not just about humanity’s salvation; it is about God’s character. Satan has accused God of being unjust, of demanding obedience without reason, and of withholding good from His creation. But through Scripture, we see that God’s righteousness is fully vindicated. What more could He have done than what He has already done?

The Charge Against God (Isaiah 5:3–4)

In Isaiah 5, God speaks of Israel as a vineyard that He has tenderly cared for. He asks, “What more could have been done to My vineyard that I have not done in it?” (Isaiah 5:4, NKJV). The picture here is of a loving God who has provided every opportunity for His people to flourish, yet they have rejected Him. This passage echoes the larger cosmic conflict—God has done everything to reveal His love, yet still, many turn away.

The Faithfulness of God Despite Human Unfaithfulness (Romans 3:1–4)

Paul addresses a crucial question in Romans 3: Even if some do not believe, does that nullify God's faithfulness? He answers resoundingly, “Certainly not! Indeed, let God be true but every man a liar” (Romans 3:4). The failure of human beings does not reflect a failure in God’s character. Rather, it demonstrates the reality of free will and the consequences of rejecting Him. God remains just, even when people turn from Him.

The Ultimate Vindication (Revelation 15:3; 19:1–6)

In Revelation 15:3, the redeemed sing, “Great and marvelous are Your works, Lord God Almighty! Just and true are Your ways, O King of the saints!” Similarly, in Revelation 19:1–6, heaven rejoices in the final victory of God’s righteousness. These passages confirm that, in the end, all creation will recognize the justice of God’s judgments. His character will be fully vindicated before the universe.

What More Could He Do?

God has done everything possible to save humanity. He has given His Word, sent prophets, provided His Son as a sacrifice, and extended mercy again and again. What more could He do? The only thing He will not do is force us to love Him. The cosmic conflict is not just about power—it is about trust.

One day, every voice in heaven and earth will acknowledge: “True and righteous are His judgments” (Revelation 19:2). May we choose today to trust in His justice, walk in His truth, and proclaim His righteousness.

Call to Action: Let us remain faithful to the One who has never failed us. Let us declare His goodness and be part of those who will sing His praises for eternity.

More: Lesson 11 What More Could I Have Done?

What More Could He Do? Matthew 21:33-39, Parable of the Wicked Tenants

Text: Matthew 21:33–39; Isaiah 5:4

Have you ever given your very best to someone, only to be met with rejection? Perhaps as a parent, a friend, or a mentor, you poured out love, care, and effort, only to have it disregarded. In today's message, we see this reality not only in human relationships but also in God's dealings with His people.

I. The Vineyard of the Lord (Isaiah 5:1–4)
Isaiah describes Israel as God’s vineyard. He prepared everything for its flourishing:

• He planted it with choice vines.
• He protected it with a hedge.
• He provided all it needed to bear good fruit.

Yet, despite all this, the vineyard produced wild grapes—fruit of disobedience and injustice. In verse 4, God asks, “What more could have been done to My vineyard that I have not done in it?”

The Parable of the Wicked Tenants (Matthew 21:33–39)
Jesus expands on this imagery in His parable. A landowner (God) plants a vineyard, leases it to tenants (Israel’s leaders), and expects fruit in due season. But when He sends His servants (prophets), they are beaten and killed. Finally, He sends His Son, thinking they will respect Him. Instead, they cast Him out and kill Him.

This parable is a striking response to Isaiah 5:4. What more could God do? He sent prophet after prophet, warning, calling, pleading. And ultimately, He sent His Son.

The Greatest Gift Rejected
This parable foreshadows Christ’s rejection. Though He came in love, He was despised and crucified. Yet, even in rejection, God’s purpose was not defeated. Christ became the chief cornerstone (Matthew 21:42), the foundation of salvation.

What more could God do? He has done it all—He has given us creation, His Word, His prophets, and ultimately, His Son. Yet, the question now turns to us: How will we respond? Will we, like the wicked tenants, reject Him? Or will we surrender our lives to the rightful Owner of the vineyard?

May we give Him the fruit of faith, love, and obedience, for He has done everything to bring us to Himself.

Amen.

More: Lesson 11 What More Could I Have Done?

The Song of My Beloved: Isaiah 5:1–4

 Isaiah Vineyard Allegory

Isaiah 5:1–4 (KJV)

"Now will I sing to my wellbeloved a song of my beloved touching his vineyard. My wellbeloved hath a vineyard in a very fruitful hill:
And he fenced it, and gathered out the stones thereof, and planted it with the choicest vine, and built a tower in the midst of it, and also made a winepress therein: and he looked that it should bring forth grapes, and it brought forth wild grapes.
And now, O inhabitants of Jerusalem, and men of Judah, judge, I pray you, betwixt me and my vineyard.
What could have been done more to my vineyard, that I have not done in it? wherefore, when I looked that it should bring forth grapes, brought it forth wild grapes?"

Who is speaking?

Isaiah is the one speaking, but he presents this passage as a song or parable from God. The "wellbeloved" refers to God, specifically in His role as the owner of the vineyard.

Whom is Isaiah speaking about?

Isaiah is speaking about Israel and Judah, symbolized by the vineyard. The passage is a prophetic allegory describing God's relationship with His people.

Whom do the vineyard and vineyard owner represent?

• The vineyard represents Israel (Judah and Jerusalem in particular).
• The vineyard owner represents God, who has lovingly cared for and provided for His people.

Significance of the actions of the vineyard owner

The vineyard owner (God) took great care in cultivating the vineyard:

• He planted it in a fertile place (gave Israel a land flowing with milk and honey).
• He fenced it and cleared the stones (protected and removed obstacles).
• He planted the choicest vine (gave Israel the best spiritual opportunities, such as His law and prophets).
• He built a tower (offered divine protection and watchfulness).
• He made a winepress (prepared for a fruitful harvest of righteousness).

What is the result?

Instead of producing good grapes (righteousness and justice), the vineyard produced wild, bitter grapes (corruption, injustice, and sin). This represents Israel’s failure to live up to God's expectations despite His care and blessings. Because of this failure, God will bring judgment upon His people, as detailed in the following verses.

More: Lesson 11 What More Could I Have Done?

Christ, Our Advocate and Victory

 

Brothers and sisters, today we will reflect on the victory of Christ over the accusations of the devil. Our adversary seeks to condemn us, but through Christ, we have redemption, righteousness, and ultimate victory. Let us turn to Romans 3:23–26, Romans 5:8, and Revelation 12:10–12, connecting them with the first promise of redemption in Genesis 3:15.

The Universal Problem of Sin 

Romans 3:23 declares, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." No one is exempt; we have all failed. The devil, as the great accuser, stands ready to use our sins against us. But God, in His grace, does not leave us in our fallen state. Verse 24 continues, "and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus."

Christ, the Answer to the Devil’s Accusations 

The devil seeks to accuse us before God, as we see in Revelation 12:10: "For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down." Yet, Romans 5:8 gives us a powerful truth: "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Christ's death and resurrection stand as the ultimate defense against the devil’s charges. Through His blood, we are justified, and His righteousness covers our sin.

The Fulfillment of Genesis 3:15 

From the beginning, God promised a Savior who would crush the serpent's head (Genesis 3:15). Revelation 12:11 declares, "They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony." The blood of Christ is the fulfillment of that promise—it destroys the power of the accuser and secures our place in God’s kingdom.

Our Response: Living in Victory 

Revelation 12:12 tells us to rejoice because the devil’s time is short. He knows he is defeated, and though he may try to deceive and discourage, we stand firm in Christ’s victory. Let us walk boldly, knowing that Christ has secured our salvation, and let us share this truth with the world.

Christ has silenced the devil’s accusations through His atoning work. We are no longer condemned but justified, no longer accused but victorious. Let us live as people redeemed by His grace, proclaiming His triumph until He returns. Amen!

More: Lesson 11 What More Could I Have Done?

Christ's Truth and Kingship

 

John 18:37 (KJV) says:

"Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice."

Christ’s Work to Counter Deception

In this verse, Jesus makes it clear that His mission is to bear witness to the truth. This directly counters the deceptions of the enemy, who is described in Scripture as the "father of lies" (John 8:44). Satan seeks to distort reality, leading people away from God through falsehood and deception. Jesus, on the other hand, proclaims and embodies the truth, revealing God's character, His plan of salvation, and the true nature of reality. His life, teachings, death, and resurrection expose and defeat the lies of sin, showing the way to eternal life.

By declaring that those who are "of the truth" hear His voice, Jesus emphasizes that people must choose to accept the truth He brings. His followers recognize and respond to His words, while those who reject Him remain trapped in deception.

Jesus as King

When Jesus affirms His kingship, He redefines what it means to be a king. Unlike earthly rulers who assert power through force and political control, Jesus’ kingship is based on truth, love, and spiritual authority. His kingdom is "not of this world" (John 18:36), meaning it operates by different principles—righteousness, peace, and submission to God's will.

Jesus' kingship means:

1. He has ultimate authority – All power in heaven and earth belongs to Him (Matthew 28:18).
2. He reigns over a spiritual kingdom – His rule is not about worldly conquest but about transforming hearts.
3. He is the King of Truth – His reign is based on divine truth, and those who seek truth follow Him.
4. He will establish His kingdom fully – While His kingdom is spiritual now, one day He will return to reign as King over all creation (Revelation 19:16).

Ultimately, John 18:37 reveals that Jesus came to expose the enemy’s lies, proclaim the truth, and establish His eternal kingdom. Those who follow Him submit to His rule and walk in the truth He reveals.

More: Lesson 11 What More Could I Have Done?

Sabbath School Lesson 11: What More Could I Have Done?

 

God's Love and Justice

Sabbath School Lesson 11

What More Could I Have Done?

You may use this for presenting and studying the current Sabbath School Lesson.

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> Download the notes for Lesson 11 video here.

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> Download 1st Quarter 2025 Lessons: God's Love and Justice

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Why would God grant Satan any jurisdiction in the cosmic conflict, even if only temporarily?

 

God granting Satan a level of jurisdiction in the cosmic conflict, even if temporarily, is often understood within the framework of divine justice, free will, and God's ultimate plan for redemption. Several biblical passages address this issue:

1. God’s Sovereignty and Ultimate Authority

• Job 1:6-12 – Satan appears before God and is given limited permission to test Job. This shows that while Satan has some power, it is still under God's control.
• Luke 22:31-32 – Jesus tells Peter that Satan has asked to "sift you as wheat," but Jesus has prayed for him. This indicates that Satan operates only within God's allowance.
• Revelation 20:10 – Ultimately, Satan will be judged and cast into the lake of fire, showing that his time is limited.

2. Satan as the "Prince of this World"

• John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11 – Jesus refers to Satan as "the prince of this world" who will be judged.
• 2 Corinthians 4:4 – Satan is called "the god of this world" who blinds unbelievers.
• Ephesians 2:2 – He is described as "the prince of the power of the air," working in disobedient people.

3. God’s Answer to Satan’s Accusations

• Genesis 3:15 – The first prophecy of Christ’s victory over Satan, showing that God’s plan is redemptive.
• Romans 3:25-26 – God’s justice and righteousness are displayed through Jesus’ sacrifice.
• 1 John 3:8 – "The Son of God appeared to destroy the works of the devil."
• Colossians 2:15 – Christ disarmed the powers and authorities, triumphing over them by the cross.

Why Would God Allow This?

1. To Respect Free Will – God does not force love or obedience but allows humanity to choose (Deuteronomy 30:19).
2. To Demonstrate His Justice and Love – By allowing the conflict to play out, God shows that His ways are righteous (Romans 9:22-23).
3. To Ultimately Defeat Satan Publicly – God's justice will be vindicated when Satan is finally defeated (Revelation 20:10).

More: Lesson 10 Rules of Engagement