The Pebble Blog

Transitioning to a vegetarian diet, particularly for those accustomed to consuming meat or fish, is a significant change that the sources address with practical advice and considerations. Gradual or Abrupt Transition The sources generally recommend a progressive or gradual approach to dietary reform, especially when moving away from a meat-based diet. It is advised that changes should be made with great care, cautiously and wisely . Specifically, "none should be urged to make the change abruptly", and radical changes cannot be made suddenly for everyone. Wisdom should be used not to remove meat all at once from those who have been in the habit of using it, but rather to educate the mind to see the importance of healthful food . Forcing changes can be worthless, as people may revert to their old habits. However, some sources also present personal experiences or specific situations where an abrupt stop is mentioned: One individual's experience involved breaking away ...

 The sources indicate a strong and divinely appointed connection between sickness and sin, viewing disease as a consequence of violating God's laws, both natural and spiritual. Here's a breakdown of how the sources explain this relationship: Sickness as a Consequence of Transgression: Violation of God's Laws: Sickness is directly stated to be the result of violating the laws of health or nature's law, which are considered to be God's laws. Disregarding these laws leads to consequences like "suffering, disease, imbecility, or death". Specific Sins and Diseases: Indulgence of appetite and lustful passions are frequently cited as primary causes of disease, including corrupting the blood, inflaming passions, weakening digestive organs, and leading to various physical and mental infirmities. Overeating, especially with too many kinds of food at one meal, can cause dyspepsia and exhaust vital forces. Immorality and licentiousness are highlighted as...

 To understand the phrase "sin dwelleth in me," as presented in the sources, it's essential to examine the biblical and theological perspective on the nature of sin within humanity and the subsequent internal struggle. Firstly, the phrase originates from the Apostle Paul's declaration in Romans, where he states, "For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin". He elaborates, "For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me". He continues this thought, observing, "For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me". Paul recognizes a "law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into cap...

 Yes, according to the sources, it is explicitly stated and repeatedly emphasized that all sin must be removed before the close of probation . This purification is a vital work that occurs during the "hours of probation" allotted to humanity. Here's how the sources elaborate on this crucial concept: Necessity of Perfection: Those who will ultimately stand before God and enter heaven must be "without spot or wrinkle or any such thing" . Every "defect in the moral character must first be remedied, every stain removed by the cleansing blood of Christ, and all the unlovely, unlovable traits of character overcome". This includes the removal of "every sinful tendency, every imperfection". "No sin can be tolerated in those who shall walk with Christ in white" . The church Christ presents before His throne is to be "without spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing". Holiness is foundational to God's throne, and sin is its ...

 The phrase "sin dwelleth in me" (Romans 7:17, 7:20) refers to a deep-seated, inherent presence of sin within human nature, beyond merely committing individual transgressions. The Apostle Paul described himself as "carnal, sold under sin" (Romans 7:14), acknowledging that even when he desired to do good, "evil is present with me" (Romans 7:21). This points to a fundamental internal conflict, where a "law in my members" wars against "the law of my mind" and seeks to bring him into "captivity to the law of sin" (Romans 7:23). Here's a breakdown of what the sources indicate regarding this concept and its implications: Sin as Nature and Transgression The sources present sin not only as an act of transgression but also as an indwelling nature or corruption : Transgression of the Law : Sin is fundamentally defined as "the transgression of the law" (1 John 3:4). "By the law is the knowledge of sin" (Rom...

 It is understandable why there might be confusion between the concept of a "lifelong process" of overcoming sin and the requirement that all sin be removed before the close of probation, rather than at the Second Coming. The sources provide clear distinctions that can help clarify this vital truth. Here's how to explain it: Sanctification as a Lifelong, Progressive Work: The sources indeed teach that sanctification is a progressive work and "not the work of a moment, an hour, or a day, but of a lifetime" [1T 340.2, 2T 472.1, AA 560.3, 5MR 255.2, SA 169.1, ST, May 19, 1890 par. 2, AA 565.1, TM 507.1, PH011 51.1]. It involves "constant warfare against sin" [4SP 300.2] and requires "persevering effort, sore discipline, and stern conflict" [AA 560.3]. This continuous process means that believers are constantly striving to overcome "every fault" [AA 565.1, RH, September 19, 1912 par. 9]. The goal is to reach a state of "perfe...

 Yes, according to the sources, it is repeatedly stated that the only definition of sin given in the Bible is "the transgression of the law" . This definition is attributed to the apostle John (1 John 3:4). While this is presented as the singular definition, the sources extensively elaborate on what "transgression of the law" entails, highlighting that sin is far more comprehensive than just outward criminal acts. Key insights include: The Law's Broad Reach: God's law is described as "exceeding broad" and "far-reaching," applying not only to external actions but also to the "thoughts and intents, the desires and emotions, of the heart". This means that evil thoughts, lustful looks, and hatred are considered transgressions of the law and therefore sin , even if they are not expressed through words or actions. Sins of Omission and Commission: Sin includes not only acts committed ("sins of commission") but also fail...