The Kingdom That Will Never Fall

In Daniel 2, King Nebuchadnezzar dreams a dream so vast and mysterious that none of his wisemen could explain it—until Daniel, empowered by the living God, steps forward. In verses 31–35, Daniel describes the king’s vision: a mighty statue made of various metals—gold, silver, bronze, iron, and clay—only to be shattered by a stone "cut out without hands" that becomes a mountain filling the whole earth.

The Frailty of Human Kingdoms
Each material in the statue represents a kingdom: Babylon (gold), Medo-Persia (silver), Greece (bronze), Rome (iron), and the divided kingdoms (iron mixed with clay). Each was mighty in its time, yet none lasted. The progression from gold to iron and clay shows a steady decline—not just in strength, but in unity and moral quality.
Truth: Every human empire—no matter how glorious—will crumble. Wealth, military might, and political alliances cannot prevent the downfall of kingdoms built on human pride and ambition.

God's Sovereignty Over History
Nebuchadnezzar thought he ruled by his own power. Daniel’s interpretation reminds us that God raises up kings and removes them. The sweep of history is not random—it is under the hand of the Sovereign Lord.
Truth: History is not a chaotic series of events but a carefully directed story that leads to God's final and eternal kingdom.

The Coming of the Eternal Kingdom
The most stunning part of the dream is the stone "cut without human hands," striking the statue and growing into a mountain that fills the earth. This is Christ and His kingdom—founded not by human effort, but by divine action. His kingdom will never be destroyed or succeeded by another.
Truth: Only Christ’s kingdom is eternal. In a world of shifting powers and uncertainties, we can build our lives on the unshakable Rock—Jesus Christ.

What We Should Remember
Daniel 2:31–35 is more than ancient history—it is a map showing us where to place our hope. Not in politics. Not in wealth. Not in human leaders. But in the everlasting kingdom of God.
When everything around us seems unstable, remember: God's kingdom will stand forever. Are you part of it?

Today, the invitation is simple. Trust not in the fading kingdoms of this world, but in the eternal King who invites you into His unshakable kingdom. Amen.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 5: The Nations Part 2

The First Command: A Gift of Freedom and Trust

 

"The First Command: A Gift of Freedom and Trust"

In Genesis 2:9–17, we step into the quiet beauty of Eden, where God had placed the first human in a garden filled with life, beauty, and abundance. Out of the ground, the Lord made every tree grow — trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food. In the very center stood two remarkable trees: the Tree of Life and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.

And it was here that God gave humanity the very first command — and notably, it was a prohibition:
"You must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die." (Genesis 2:17)

Notice what God did before the command: He freely gave! He said, "You are free to eat from any tree in the garden" (v. 16). Freedom came first. God's prohibition was not meant to be a burden but a boundary within a gift, a necessary fence that protected life and relationship.

Why was this first command so important?

Because it was about trust and love. It was about whether humanity would trust that God knew best — whether they would accept that true wisdom and life came from God, not from grasping for themselves. The prohibition was an invitation to live not by self-rule, but by trusting God's goodness and authority.

The boundary set by God wasn’t a trap. It was a space for relationship to grow. Without the option to say "no" to God, there could be no true love, no true obedience. Love must be freely given. Trust must be willingly chosen.

In every age, including our own, the question still echoes:
Will we trust the God who gives abundantly — or will we grasp at what He has lovingly withheld, thinking we know better?

Today, let us remember: the first command was not a denial of life but a protection of it. It was an invitation to walk freely and trust deeply in the One who made us. Amen.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 5: The Nations Part 2

Sabbath School Lesson 5: The Nations Part 2

 

Allusions, Images, Symbols:

How to Study Prophecy

Sabbath School Lesson 5

The Nations: Part 2

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

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> Download the notes for Lesson 5 video here.

(Video is below)

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More on Lesson 5:

>Sunday:The First Command

>Monday: Daniel 2

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

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Sabbath School Lesson 4 Daily Summary - The Nations: Part 1

 Summary of Sabbath School Lesson 4: The Nations: Part 1 (April 19–25, 2025):

Sunday: Nimrod and Nineveh

After the Flood, humanity began repopulating and establishing communities. Nimrod, described as a “mighty hunter before the Lord” (Genesis 10:9), is credited with founding major cities like Babel and Nineveh. These cities became early symbols of human pride and defiance against God’s authority. Nimrod’s kingdom reflected human ambition to centralize power and make a name for themselves—culminating in the Tower of Babel. Nineveh later became the capital of the Assyrian Empire, known for its cruelty and opposition to God's people. This day explores how early nations like these emerged not in humble obedience to God but in opposition, setting a pattern of rebellion that echoed through history.

Monday: Abraham’s Call

In contrast to rebellious nations like Babel, God chose Abram (later Abraham) to begin a different kind of nation—one rooted in faith and obedience. God called Abram to leave his homeland, promising to make him into a “great nation” (Genesis 12:2–3). This covenant was not just about lineage or territory, but about being a blessing to “all the families of the earth.” Through Abraham, God aimed to create a people who would be a moral and spiritual example to the world. The lesson emphasizes that God’s kingdom is built on trust, not towers—on obedience, not domination. This sets the foundation for Israel’s mission and the identity of God's people.

Tuesday: Given What You Asked For

As Israel developed as a nation, they began to envy the political structures of surrounding nations. They demanded a king to “be like all the nations” (1 Samuel 8:5). Though this request grieved the prophet Samuel, God permitted it, recognizing their desire as a rejection of His direct kingship. Saul became Israel’s first king, but his reign and those of many successors often led to moral compromise and national decline. This lesson serves as a warning: wanting to conform to worldly patterns can lead God's people away from their true identity and purpose. Earthly leadership, unless fully surrendered to God, often brings corruption.

Wednesday: The Rulers of the Gentiles

Jesus directly addressed the contrast between worldly rulers and kingdom-minded leadership. In Matthew 20:25–28, He reminded His disciples that Gentile rulers "lord it over" their subjects, but it must not be so among His followers. Instead, greatness in God’s kingdom is defined by servanthood. Christ Himself, though divine, came “not to be served, but to serve.” This teaching was radical and countercultural—true leadership isn’t about power or control but about love, humility, and sacrificial service. The day challenges believers to embody this model in all spheres of life, including the church, family, and workplace.

Thursday: A Light to the Gentiles

God’s vision for His people has always included a global mission. Israel was chosen to reflect God’s character and be a light to surrounding nations. Isaiah repeatedly emphasized that God’s Servant (Israel, and ultimately Jesus) would be “a light to the Gentiles” (Isaiah 49:6). However, Israel often failed in this calling, turning inward and becoming exclusive. The church today inherits this mission—to be distinct from the world, not in isolation but in influence. The lesson urges modern believers to reject the corrupting influences of “Babylon”—a symbol of worldly power and false religion—and instead live as ambassadors of God's eternal kingdom, pointing others to truth, justice, and hope in Christ.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 4 - The Nations Part I 

Babylon Within: The Seventh-day Adventist Church?

 “Babylon Within”

Scripture Reading: Revelation 18:4 – “Come out of her, my people, so that you will not share in her sins, so that you will not receive any of her plagues.”

Introduction: Brothers and sisters, the call to “come out of Babylon” has echoed through every era of God's church, and especially through the prophetic voice of the Seventh-day Adventist movement. But let’s pause and consider: We may not be in Babylon—but how much of Babylon might still be in us?

 What is Babylon? In Scripture, Babylon represents confusion, compromise, and rebellion against God. In Revelation, it symbolizes a system that mixes truth with error, where man-made tradition replaces divine command. For us as Adventists, Babylon is not just about where we are physically—it’s about what we allow spiritually.

Ellen White reminds us in Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, that “we have far more to fear from within than from without.” Babylon isn’t only “out there.” It can creep into our hearts, our homes, our churches—subtly, quietly, dressed in comfort, pride, or spiritual complacency.

 How Does Babylon Get Into Us?

• When we chase success more than sacrifice, Babylon gets in.

• When we prize entertainment over edification, Babylon gets in.

• When our worship becomes about form without power, Babylon gets in.

• When we dilute truth to avoid discomfort, Babylon gets in.

We see it in our churches when health reform is ignored, when prophecy is neglected, or when we lose sight of our mission and settle for a religion of convenience.

 How Can We Recognize Babylon in Us? Ask: Does my lifestyle reflect the self-denying Jesus or the self-indulgent world?
Ask: Is my heart stirred by truth, or numb from distraction?
Ask: Are we, as a church, reflecting the character of Christ or the culture around us?

Our faith must go deeper than knowing the three angels’ messages—it must live those messages. If we preach separation from Babylon but live like Babylon, we misrepresent our calling.

 How Do We Change?

• Return to the Word. Let Scripture—not the culture—shape your values.

• Reclaim the Spirit of Prophecy. Let the counsel given to this remnant people guide us back to the narrow path.

• Renew our Mission. The Seventh-day Adventist Church exists to proclaim the everlasting gospel—not just to the world, but to ourselves.

• Revive true worship. Not performance-driven, but Spirit-filled. Worship that lifts Christ high and humbles us low.

• Repent. Revelation calls us to come out—not just physically, but internally.

Friends, Babylon isn’t just a place. It’s a mindset. A spirit. A system. And before Jesus can return for a church without spot or wrinkle, He must cleanse us from every trace of confusion and compromise.

Let us examine ourselves honestly. Let us cry out for purity. Let us be that peculiar people, distinct not just in doctrine, but in devotion. Because Christ is coming—not for a church that merely left Babylon, but for a people in whom Babylon no longer lives.

If you sense even a shadow of Babylon lingering in your life—if you want to be fully His—stand, and ask God to remove every trace of Babylon from your heart today. Amen!

More: Sabbath School Lesson 4 - The Nations Part I 

A Light to the Nations: Spreading the Gospel

 

“A Light to the Nations”

Scripture Focus: Numbers 14:17–21; Isaiah 42:6; 49:6; 60:3; Revelation 18:1–4

God’s purpose for His people has never been about isolation or self-preservation—it has always been about illumination and transformation. From the wilderness wanderings to the visions of Revelation, Scripture reveals a consistent truth: God intends His people to reflect His glory and draw others to Him.

Let’s look at what these passages reveal about this divine calling.

God’s Glory Among the Nations (Numbers 14:17–21)

In this passage, Moses intercedes for Israel after their rebellion. He appeals to God’s character—His patience, mercy, and steadfast love—and reminds God of His own promise: “the whole earth shall be filled with the glory of the Lord.”

Lesson: God’s glory is not confined to Israel. His plan is cosmic. Even through human failure, His glory will fill the earth.

Application: We are not just saved for ourselves; we are saved to be part of God’s larger mission. Our lives, our words, and our actions are meant to reflect His glory so that others might see and glorify Him.

A Light to the Nations (Isaiah 42:6; 49:6; 60:3)

• Isaiah 42:6: “I will make you a covenant for the people and a light for the nations.”

• Isaiah 49:6: “It is too small a thing...to restore the tribes of Jacob...I will also make you a light for the Gentiles.”

• Isaiah 60:3: “Nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn.”

These verses show God's expansive vision. Israel was chosen, not just for privilege, but for purpose—to be a light in the darkness.

Lesson: God’s people are not a cul-de-sac of blessing, but a highway of hope for the world.

Application: We must live in such a way that the light of Christ shines through us. Whether in personal relationships, communities, or global missions, our calling is to reveal God’s goodness and grace to everyone we encounter.

Come Out and Shine (Revelation 18:1–4)

In the closing book of the Bible, John sees an angel come down from heaven with great authority, and “the earth was illuminated with his glory.” This glory exposes the corruption of Babylon. God’s people are then called: “Come out of her, my people, lest you take part in her sins.”

Lesson: God calls His people to be distinct from the corrupt systems of the world. Our separation isn’t for pride, but for purity and purpose—so we can reflect His light clearly.

Application: In a world full of compromise, we are called to live differently. That means resisting cultural pressures that pull us from God’s ways and instead, standing as holy and radiant witnesses of truth.

From the wilderness to the prophets, from ancient visions to the final days, the message is the same: God’s people are meant to shine. His glory is to fill the earth through us. We are called out, set apart, and sent forth—not to hide, but to illuminate.

Let’s not settle for being passive spectators in a dark world. Instead, may we be like lamps on a stand—bold, bright, and unwavering—so that through us, the world may know the God of glory. Amen.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 4 - The Nations Part I 

Jesus Redefines Greatness

“Greatness Redefined”

Text: Matthew 20:25–28
“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant...” (v. 26)

In Matthew 20, two of Jesus’ disciples—James and John—through their mother, made a bold request: positions of honor in Jesus’ kingdom. The other disciples were indignant, not because the request was inappropriate, but because they wanted those spots too.

Jesus responded not with rebuke, but with a radical redefinition of greatness.

The Error Jesus Warns Against:

Jesus said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them... Not so with you.” (vv. 25–26)

Here’s the warning: Do not build the church the way the world builds power.

In the world, leadership is often about position, status, and control. It’s about being served, being seen, and being honored. But Jesus flips that completely on its head.

True Greatness in the Church:

Jesus says that in His kingdom, greatness is not measured by how many serve you—but by how many you serve.

“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave.” (vv. 26–27)

Then He points to Himself: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (v. 28)

Jesus, the King of Kings, kneels with a towel. He heals the broken. He washes feet. He dies for sinners. That is greatness.

What We Can Learn:

The church is not a platform for personal power. It’s a place where people serve one another out of love. Titles mean nothing without humility. Influence means nothing without compassion.

We are never more like Christ than when we serve.
We are never more out of step with Christ than when we seek to dominate.

So ask yourself: Am I leading like the world—or like Jesus?

Am I building a name—or building God’s kingdom?

May we follow our Servant King—on our knees, with open hands, and with hearts ready to serve. Amen.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 4 - The Nations Part I 

Give Us a King: Israel Rejects God

"Give Us a King" — 1 Samuel 8:4–18

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

In 1 Samuel 8, we find a moment of great transition in the life of Israel—a turning point that speaks not just to the nation then, but to our own hearts today. The elders of Israel come to Samuel and say, “Now appoint for us a king to judge us like all the nations.” On the surface, their request seems logical. Samuel is aging. His sons, unlike him, are corrupt. Israel is surrounded by hostile nations. They want structure. They want stability.

But beneath their request lies something deeper—and more troubling.

Samuel is displeased. And God tells him why: “It is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me from being king over them.” You see, the issue isn’t political. It’s spiritual. The people are tired of trusting in an invisible God. They want something they can see, something they can control, something that fits the pattern of the world around them. In short—they want to be like everyone else.

Does that sound familiar?

How often do we, as Christians, wrestle with the same temptation? When life becomes uncertain or when God’s timing feels slow, we look for alternatives—visible, tangible solutions to fill the gap that only God is meant to occupy. We may not ask for a king, but we ask for what feels just as comforting: the next leader, the next job, the next plan, the next success. And like Israel, we risk putting our trust in something other than the Lord.

Notice how God responds. He tells Samuel to warn the people. A king, He says, will take. He will take your sons and daughters, your fields and flocks, your freedom. He will rule with authority, and one day, “you shall cry out because of your king, but the Lord will not answer you in that day.”

This is what happens when we replace God with human answers. The things we trust in instead of Him eventually enslave us. Our desire for control becomes anxiety. Our pursuit of approval becomes a burden. Our dependence on worldly leaders leaves us disappointed. In seeking to be “like the nations,” we lose our distinctiveness as the people of God.

But there is hope.

Centuries later, God would send a King—not one who takes, but one who gives. Not one who demands service, but who serves. Jesus Christ came not to rule with an iron scepter, but to wear a crown of thorns. He did not send others to die for Him—He died for us. This is the kind of King our hearts were made for. This is the King we need.

So today, the invitation is simple but challenging: Will we trust Him? Will we let God be King? Will we resist the pull to conform, the temptation to rely on what we can see, and instead surrender to the Lord who rules not only with power but with love?

Let us remember that God is not just a King in title—He is our Shepherd, our Savior, our Lord. And in Him, we lack nothing. Amen.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 4 - The Nations Part I 

Abraham: Called to Be a Blessing

 “Called to Be a Blessing”

Brothers and sisters, today we reflect on the beginning of a journey that has shaped the history of redemption. In Genesis 12:1–9, we meet Abram—later known as Abraham—called by God to leave his land, his people, and his family for a promise not yet seen. And in Deuteronomy 4:5–9, we hear God's words to Abraham's descendants, a nation now formed, reminding them of who they are and how they must live in the light of that same call.

 The Call of Abraham: Genesis 12:1–9

“Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.” (Gen. 12:1)

Why did God call Abram? Not because Abram was mighty, powerful, or already righteous. The Bible doesn't record anything particularly special about Abram before this moment—what makes him significant is that God chose him and Abram responded in faith.

God called Abram to:

• Separate him from the idolatry of his homeland (Ur and Haran were steeped in idol worship).

• Create through him a new people, a covenant community centered not on land or bloodlines but on faith and obedience.

• Bless all nations through him (Gen. 12:3). This wasn’t a private blessing—it was a mission.

Abram was chosen not just to be blessed, but to be a blessing. That’s always been God’s plan: to choose one in order to reach many. This wasn’t favoritism; it was a call to responsibility.

 A Nation of Witnesses: Deuteronomy 4:5–9

Fast forward several generations, and Abraham’s descendants stand on the edge of the Promised Land. The promise is being fulfilled. Now, Moses speaks:

“Observe them carefully, for this will show your wisdom and understanding to the nations…” (Deut. 4:6)

Here, the Lord reminds them why they were called:

• To live by His statutes so that other nations would see His greatness.

• To bear witness to a God who is near, who speaks, who is just.

• To remember and teach these truths to their children.

In other words, the children of Abraham were to be a light to the nations, just as their forefather was to be a blessing to the nations. They had a missional identity.

 What Does This Mean for Us?

We too are called out—called from darkness into God’s marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9). Like Abram, we are not chosen because we are worthy, but because God is gracious. And like Israel, we are called to live in such a way that others might see the wisdom, justice, and beauty of the Lord.

But here’s the challenge: Are we living lives that provoke questions? Are we blessing others with our presence? Are we remembering and passing on the works of God to the next generation?

God called Abram to go, and through his obedience, the world was changed. God called Israel to obey, and through their faithfulness, the world would know God. Today, God calls us—not to comfort, but to calling; not just to receive, but to give; not only to believe, but to bless.

May we, like Abraham, walk forward in faith.
May we, like Israel, live lives that point others to the living God.
And may we never forget that we are blessed to be a blessing. Amen.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 4 - The Nations Part I 

Nimrod: The Rise of Kingdoms — And the Man Who Built Them

“The Rise of Kingdoms — And the Man Who Built Them”

Genesis 10:1–12

Scripture Reading: Genesis 10:1–12 (focus on verses 8–12)
"Cush fathered Nimrod; he was the first on earth to be a mighty man. He was a mighty hunter before the Lord. Therefore it is said, ‘Like Nimrod a mighty hunter before the Lord.’ The beginning of his kingdom was Babel, Erech, Accad, and Calneh, in the land of Shinar. From that land he went into Assyria and built Nineveh..."

Genesis 10 is what we often call “The Table of Nations”—a genealogical roadmap of how Noah’s sons populated the earth after the flood. But woven into this list of descendants, nations, and cities is a subtle but powerful preview of the political and spiritual drama that will unfold through the rest of the Bible.

One name stands out: Nimrod. And with Nimrod come cities like Babel (Babylon) and Nineveh—names that resonate ominously through the rest of Scripture. These places would go on to represent the pride of man, rebellion against God, and the oppression of His people. So what can we learn from this early snapshot of world history?

The Foundations of Earthly Power

We are told that Nimrod was “the first on earth to be a mighty man.” He was a builder of cities and a hunter—someone who conquered and subdued, someone who knew how to wield power. But look closer: the phrase “a mighty hunter before the Lord” has a tone of confrontation, not reverence. It suggests that Nimrod wasn’t walking with God—he was standing in front of Him, even over and against Him.

This same man established Babel—later known as Babylon—a city that would become the archetype of pride, idolatry, and rebellion. Babylon, in Scripture, is never just a place. It becomes a symbol of man’s attempt to build his own kingdom apart from God.

Nimrod also built Nineveh, the capital of Assyria—the very nation that would later torment and exile the northern tribes of Israel. These cities were born of ambition, not obedience. Nimrod’s legacy is the foundation of nations and empires that elevate human power above divine authority.

 God’s Sovereignty Over Human History

At first glance, it may seem that Genesis 10 is simply a historical list—but it’s more than that. God is showing us that He knows the end from the beginning. These names—Babel, Assyria, Nineveh—did not catch Him by surprise. The same God who watches Nimrod build cities also sends prophets like Jonah to Nineveh. He raises up Daniel in Babylon. He promises, even as early as Genesis 3, that the seed of the woman will crush the serpent’s head.

So while these cities become strongholds of evil, they are never beyond God’s reach. He uses even rebellious nations for His purposes. And He will bring every kingdom into judgment and establish His kingdom forever.

 A Warning and a Call

What do we take from this? First, a warning: ambition and strength, when separated from submission to God, can quickly turn into rebellion. Nimrod was no fool—he was mighty, talented, strategic—but he was not a man of God. He built empires, not altars. He built cities, not covenants. His legacy is powerful, but not godly.

But second, a call: we are reminded that even in a world full of Nimrods and Babylons, God is still writing His story. He calls people to be faithful, not famous. To build not towers to heaven, but lives rooted in Him.

What should we take from this?

Genesis 10 is not just a genealogy—it’s a mirror. It asks us: What are we building? Whose kingdom are we expanding? Like Nimrod, we may be tempted to chase might and leave God behind. But the lesson here is clear—kingdoms built without God will fall. But those who walk with Him will endure forever.

Let us not be like Nimrod, standing proudly before the Lord. Let us walk with the Lord, humbly, faithfully—and help build His kingdom, not ours. Amen.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 4 - The Nations Part I 

Sabbath School Lesson 4: The Nations - Part 1

 

Allusions, Images, Symbols:

How to Study Prophecy

Sabbath School Lesson 4

The Nations: Part 1

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

------------------------------

> Download the notes for Lesson 4 video here.

(Video is below)

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More Lesson 4 The Nations Part:1

-Nimrod: The Rise of Kingdoms — And the Man Who Built Them

-Abraham:  Called to Be a Blessing

-Give Us a King: Israel Rejects God

-Jesus Redefines Greatness

-A Light to the Nations

-Friday Further Thought - Babylon Within the Seventh-day Adventist Church?

-Daily Summary for Lesson 4 The Nations Part 1

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

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Be Ready: The Parable of the Ten Virgins

 

“Be Ready: The Parable of the Ten Virgins”

The parable of the ten virgins is a deeply meaningful story, especially for those who look forward to Christ’s return. It teaches about watchfulness, preparation, and the personal nature of our relationship with Jesus. Jesus said, “Then the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom” (Matthew 25:1). But what lessons does this parable offer for the last days and for our walk with Christ—both personally and as His church?

 The Parable and the Last-Day Context

The context of Matthew 25 is the Olivet Discourse—Jesus’ final teachings before His crucifixion, where He speaks at length about the end of the world (see Matthew 24). The ten virgins represent those who profess to be waiting for the return of Christ, but only half are truly prepared.

This directly parallels the last-day church. Jesus warns that not everyone who appears to belong to Him will enter the kingdom: “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 7:21). The parable serves as a solemn call to readiness, especially in a time when spiritual complacency can feel comfortable.

 The Significance of the Delay

“The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep” (Matthew 25:5).

The delay of the bridegroom represents the apparent delay of Christ’s return. Many have wondered for centuries, “Where is this coming He promised?” (2 Peter 3:4). Yet Peter reminds us that God's timing is not ours: “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise... but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish” (2 Peter 3:9).

The delay tests our faith. Do we serve God only when the end seems near? Or are we faithful even when the wait grows long?

 Individual Relationship vs. Corporate Identity

All ten virgins belonged to the same group. Outwardly, they all looked the same—lamps in hand, waiting for the groom. But only five had oil. The oil represents the Holy Spirit (Zechariah 4:6), and it must be received personally.

This teaches a vital truth: we cannot rely solely on the corporate identity of the church for salvation. The wise virgins could not share their oil because the Holy Spirit cannot be borrowed. Just as salvation is personal, so is preparation.

Romans 8:9 says, “If anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ.” Being part of the visible church is not enough; we must each know Christ personally and be filled with His Spirit.

 “The Door Was Shut” – A Call to Readiness

When the bridegroom arrived, those who were ready went in with Him to the wedding feast, and “the door was shut” (Matthew 25:10). When the foolish virgins returned, it was too late.

This is one of the most sobering images in Scripture. It reminds us that there will be a point when it is too late to prepare. “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming” (Matthew 25:13).

Warning Call to Us

The parable of the ten virgins is not just a beautiful story—it’s a warning and a call. The delay of the bridegroom reminds us that we must be faithful through the waiting. The distinction between the wise and foolish virgins urges each of us to examine our hearts. Are we truly prepared? Is our relationship with Christ genuine and Spirit-filled?

May we be among the wise—watching, waiting, and ready when the Bridegroom comes. Amen.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 3: Images From Marriage

The Justice and Joy of the Lamb

The Justice of the End and the Joy of the Beginning

In the final pages of Scripture, we are brought into the heavenly courtroom and the wedding feast of the Lamb. Revelation 19 and 21 seem to speak of two vastly different moments: the downfall of Babylon—the great harlot—and the glorious marriage of Christ and His bride. And yet, both scenes pulse with the same heartbeat: the righteous and loving character of God. Today, we ask: how can judgment and joy both reveal the same holy love? And what does this marriage mean for us?

 God’s Righteousness in Judgment (Revelation 19:1–3):

"After this I heard what seemed to be the loud voice of a great multitude in heaven, crying out, 'Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for his judgments are true and just...'"

The fall of Babylon—the symbol of corruption, idolatry, and oppression—is not simply a political or moral downfall. It is the collapse of everything that has exalted itself against God and harmed His creation. God does not judge out of spite. His justice flows from His love—for the oppressed, for truth, for His own holiness. The harlot’s end is not merely punishment—it is purification. God is making space for the new, for the bride.

Justice is love refusing to let evil go unchallenged. It is the voice of heaven crying, “Enough!” God is not cold in judgment; He is passionate to restore. The end of Babylon is the beginning of something beautiful.

 The Marriage of the Lamb (Revelation 19:6–9):

"Let us rejoice and exult and give him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his Bride has made herself ready..."

Here is the joy: a wedding. The harlot, who symbolized unfaithfulness, is gone. In her place stands a Bride—pure, radiant, loved. And the Groom? The Lamb who was slain, who gave Himself for her, who washes her robes white in His blood.

The marriage imagery here is intimate and permanent. It is the fulfillment of covenant, the union of heaven and earth, Christ and His people. It’s not just a ceremony—it’s the full restoration of relationship. The feast celebrates more than a new beginning; it celebrates a long-awaited homecoming.

This is not a story of destruction but of redemption. God’s plan was never just to destroy the old, but to bring forth the new.

 The Hope of a New World (Revelation 21:1–4):

"Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth... and I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man.'"

Here, heaven touches earth. The marriage of Christ and His Bride results in more than personal salvation—it brings about the renewal of all things. Every tear wiped away, death no more, mourning turned to dancing. This is not wishful thinking—it is the sure promise of the One who sits on the throne and says, “Behold, I am making all things new.”

 The Assurance of Our Hope:

How do we know this is not a fantasy? Because the Groom has already come. Christ has already died, already risen, already ascended. The cross was His vow. The empty tomb, His promise. And the Holy Spirit, our engagement ring—the seal of what’s to come.

The marriage supper is not merely a future event—it is already breaking in. Every time the Church gathers in love, every act of faith, every whisper of worship, we are dressing for the wedding.

When Everything is Done

In the end, Revelation 19 and 21 are not two stories, but one. The fall of Babylon and the rise of the Bride are the twin expressions of God’s holy love. He will not share eternity with evil—but He will gladly share it with His people. The marriage of the Lamb is the promise that God does not just save us from something—He saves us for something: communion, celebration, and life with Him forever.

So let us rejoice. The harlot is gone. The Bride is ready. The Groom is coming. And the feast is about to begin. Amen.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 3: Images From Marriage

Isaac and Rebekah: Not the Best Choice?

 

"A Strange Choice, A Sovereign Plan"

Genesis 24:1–4 (NKJV)
"So Abraham said to the oldest servant of his house… 'You shall not take a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I dwell; but you shall go to my country and to my family, and take a wife for my son Isaac.'”

It’s a peculiar moment in Scripture. Abraham, now well along in years, calls his trusted servant and gives him an unusual instruction: Do not let my son marry one of these Canaanite women. Go instead to my homeland, to my family—find a wife for Isaac there. At first glance, it makes sense: keep the covenant line pure, separate from the pagan culture around them. But look closer, and we see something more complicated.

Why would Abraham insist on this, especially when his own family—back in Mesopotamia—were idol worshipers? After all, Abraham himself came out of a family steeped in idolatry (Joshua 24:2). And Rebekah, the woman Isaac marries, is from that same family. Later in Genesis, we’ll even see Rachel—Jacob’s beloved—steal her father’s household gods and hide them.

So why is this the “better” choice?

 Abraham Knew the Canaanites Were Spiritually Dangerous

The Canaanite culture wasn’t just different—it was deeply corrupt. Violent, idolatrous, sexually perverse. God would eventually judge it harshly, but even before that, Abraham sensed its spiritual toxicity. He lived among them but knew their way of life could derail the covenant plan.

This wasn’t about race or ethnicity—it was about allegiance. Abraham was guarding the fragile line of God’s promise. Isaac was the child of the covenant, the miracle child, the one through whom the world would be blessed. To entangle that future with the Canaanite worldview could have been a fatal compromise.

 Abraham's Family Was Still the Best Option—Despite Their Flaws

Abraham’s relatives back in Haran were not perfect. They worshiped other gods. But they were still a part of his story—people who, while not fully aligned with Yahweh, had some shared heritage, some openness to relationship with the covenant God. In a way, it was the lesser of two spiritual evils.

Sometimes, God works with what’s available. Not perfect people, not perfect backgrounds, but willing people. Rebekah said yes to the servant’s request, yes to the long journey, yes to the call of a God she barely knew.

 A Flawed Start Doesn’t Mean God Isn’t Working

Still, we can't ignore the mess that followed. Isaac and Rebekah, though brought together by divine orchestration, struggled in parenting. They played favorites—Isaac loved Esau; Rebekah loved Jacob. That division split the family.

And Jacob himself, choosing wives from that same idolatrous lineage, brought his own baggage into the story. Rachel’s theft of her father’s gods (Genesis 31:19) shows us how deep those old ties to idolatry ran.

Yet through it all, God’s plan moved forward. Despite bad parenting, deception, and divided loyalties, the covenant advanced. The Messiah’s line would pass through Jacob. God doesn’t require perfect people—He works through broken people to accomplish perfect promises.

What does this mean in the end?

Abraham didn’t want Isaac to marry a Canaanite woman because he knew how easily hearts can be pulled away from God. Yet even his best alternative came with problems. Idol worshipers. Dysfunctional families. Flawed love stories. And still—God chose to work through them.

Maybe you feel like you’ve inherited spiritual baggage, or made a messy start, or grown up in dysfunction. Maybe your family story is more idolatry than inspiration. The good news is this: if God can carry His covenant through Abraham’s strange family tree, He can carry His grace through yours.

God isn’t looking for perfect beginnings. He’s writing redemptive endings. Amen.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 3: Images From Marriage

Ryan Day Leaves 3ABN and Rethinking Adventism

Ryan Day has left 3ABN. This news broke very recently, around April 14th or 15th, 2025.

Here's a summary of some details:

• Departure from 3ABN and Re-thinking Adventism: Ryan Day, who was the general manager of 3ABN's Praise Him Music Network and also part of the pastoral team, has publicly announced his departure from both 3ABN and the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
• New Channel: He has launched a new YouTube channel called "Re-think Adventism."
• Reasons for Leaving: In a YouTube livestream, Day cited "longstanding theological doubts" and a religious culture within Adventism that he felt "discourages honest questioning" as primary reasons for his decision.
• Theological Issues: He specifically mentioned doubts regarding the investigative judgment and the church's claims about the writings of Ellen G. White. He stated that he could no longer support these key doctrines.
• Social Media Post: A turning point seems to have been a reply he made on social media questioning the inspiration of Ellen White's writings on the health ministry.
• "Let Go" or Resignation: While it's not explicitly stated whether he was dismissed or resigned, he hinted at "disagreements in theology" and a "respectful parting." In one source, it's mentioned he submitted a resignation letter, stating he would no longer be doing theological teaching or preaching on 3ABN.
• Reactions: His departure has elicited a range of reactions, with some expressing support for his honesty and others voicing disappointment and concern.
• New Ministry: While the primary focus of the news is his departure and new channel "Re-think Adventism," it's worth noting that a search for "Ryan Day new ministry" also brings up information about a "Ryan Day" who is a pastor at Revolve Bible Church and has a ministry called "For the Gospel." However, based on the context of the 3ABN news, this appears to be a different individual. The Ryan Day who left 3ABN was previously involved in evangelism with Amazing Facts and his background is in music and history education.

It seems to be a significant development within the Adventist community and 3ABN, given Ryan Day's prominent role in the network.

Image and more details see video Ryan Day Update)