March, 1891
Man, originally created in God's image, lost the divine likeness by committing sin, which is the transgression of the law. 19MR 251.1
Great boasts are made in regard to the powers of physical science. It is claimed that through science the very elements can be captivated and made to obey and serve man. Men employ the powerful energies of nature, and attempt to do wondrous things. 19MR 251.2
By those who make the Scriptures their constant study, true natural science is far better understood than it is by many so-called learned men. Science, as revealed in Holy Writ, flashes light upon many hidden things in God's Word. The science of the Bible is pure, undefiled religion; it is the science of true godliness. And obedience to God, in all schemes of human benevolence—practical activity—is the science of salvation. The gospel is “the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.” 19MR 251.3
Bible knowledge, practiced, is true godliness, and is profitable to all men. It brings every one into new relations with God. It turns man's mind from the earth heavenward, and makes the repentant sinner a new creature in Christ Jesus. The transforming grace of God leads men to take upon themselves the yoke of Christ, and to become “laborers together with God.” Thus through grace man becomes one with the Father, and gives to the world unmistakable evidence of what the truth can do in sanctifying the receiver. Enlightened by daily partaking of the Word, man becomes a spectacle to the unfallen worlds, to angels, and to his fellow men. 19MR 251.4
“Whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock.” The character of the Christian will be positive and stable; it will be monumental, commemorating the great truths of the Bible, that others may be benefited by the sign of obedience he carries. “If ye love Me, keep My commandments.” The Sabbath of the fourth commandment “is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” 19MR 251.5
Let the inquiry be, “What is truth?” The darkness of error and superstition and falsehood has covered the earth, and gross darkness the people. 19MR 252.1