Foreword
The Sabbath school studies for this quarter are based on Lessons From the Life of David. Why is the study of this topic so important for us today?
“The history of David affords one of the most impressive testimonies ever given to the dangers that threaten the soul from power and riches and worldly honor—those things that are most eagerly desired among men.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 746.
“David was a representative man. His history is one of interest to every soul who is striving for eternal victories. In his life two powers struggled for the mastery. Unbelief marshalled its forces, and tried to eclipse the light shining upon him from the throne of God. Day by day the battle went on in his heart, Satan disputing every step of advance made by the forces of righteousness. David understood what it meant to fight against principalities and powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 3, pp. 1142, 1143.
“God selected David, a humble shepherd, to rule His people. He was strict in all the ceremonies connected with the Jewish religion, and he distinguished himself by his boldness and unwavering trust in God. He was remarkable for his fidelity and reverence. His firmness, humility, love of justice, and decision of character, qualified him to carry out the high purposes of God, to instruct Israel in their devotions, and to rule them as a generous and wise monarch.”—The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 1, p. 377.
“His life record declares that sin can bring only shame and woe, but that God’s love and mercy can reach to the deepest depths, that faith will lift up the repenting soul to share the adoption of the sons of God. Of all the assurances which His word contains, it is one of the strongest testimonies to the faithfulness, the justice, and the covenant mercy of God.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 754.
“When trees without fruit are cut down as cumberers of the ground, when multitudes of false brethren are distinguished from the true, then the hidden ones will be revealed to view, and with hosannas range under the banner of Christ. Those who have been timid and self-distrustful will declare themselves openly for Christ and His truth. The most weak and hesitating in the church will be as David—willing to do and dare.”—Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 81.
It is our prayer that the Spirit of Christ may guide our studies of David’s life and works during this quarter. May we fortify our minds with a deeper understanding of the perfectly balanced justice and mercy of our Creator and God!
The General Conference Sabbath School Department
