Part XVI. The Home

Part XVI. The Home[pg 704]Illustration.The Marriage At Cana. "Home is the grandest of all institutions."—Spurgeon.See page 711.[pg 705]The Marriage InstitutionIllustration.Isaac And Rebekah. "Marriage is honorable in all." Heb. 13:4.1. After creating man, what did God say?“And the Lord God said,It is not good that the man should be alone.”Gen. 2:18.2. What, therefore, did God say He would make?“I will make himan helpmeet for him.”Same verse.Note.—Not ahelpmeetnor ahelpmate, but—two words—a helpmeetfor him; that is,fitorsuitablefor him. The wordmeetin the original means a front, a part opposite, a counterpart, or mate. Man's companion, or help, was to correspond to him. Each was to be suited to the other's needs.3. Could such a help be found among the creatures which God had already made?“And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field;but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him.”Verse 20.4. What, therefore, did God do?“And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and He took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; and the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man,made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.”Verses 21, 22.Note.—How beautiful, in its fulness of meaning, is this simple but suggestive story, at which skeptics sneer. God did not make man after the order of the lower animals, but“in His own image.”Neither did He[pg 706]choose man's companion, or“help,”from some other order of beings, but made her from man—of the same substance. And He took this substance, not from man'sfeet, that he might have an excuse to degrade, enslave, or trample upon her; nor from man'shead, that woman might assume authority over man; but from man'sside, from over hisheart, theseat of affections, that woman might stand at his side asman's equal, and,side by side with him, together, under God, work out the purpose and destiny of the race,—man, the strong, the noble, the dignified; woman, the weaker, the sympathetic, the loving. How much more exalted and inspiring is this view than the theory that man developed from the lower order of animals.5. What did Adam say as he received his wife from God?“And Adam said,This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be calledWoman, because she was taken out ofMan.”Verse 23.6. What great truth was then stated?“Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: andthey shall be one flesh.”Verse 24.7. In what words does Christ recognize marriage as of God?“Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh.What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.”Matt. 19:6.Note.—Thus was the marriage institution ordained of God in Eden, before man sinned. Like the Sabbath, it has come down to us with the Edenic dews of divine blessing still upon it. It was ordained not only for the purpose of peopling the earth and perpetuating the race, but to promote social order and human happiness; to prevent irregular affection; and, through well-regulated families, to transmit truth, purity, and holiness from age to age. Around it cluster all the purest and truest joys of home and the race. When the divine origin of marriage is recognized, and the divine principles controlling it are obeyed, marriage is indeed a blessing; but when these are disregarded, untold evils are sure to follow. That which, rightly used, is of greatest blessing, when abused becomes the greatest curse.8. By what commands has God guarded the marriage relation?“Thou shalt not commit adultery.”“Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife.”Ex. 20:14, 17.9. What New Testament injunction is given respecting marriage?“Let marriage be had in honor among all, and let the bed be undefiled: for fornicators and adulterers God will judge.”Heb. 13:4, R. V.Note.—By many, marriage is lightly regarded—is often made even a subject of jest. Its divine origin, its great object, and its possibilities[pg 707]and influences for good or evil are little thought of, and hence it is often entered into with little idea of its responsibilities or its sacred obligations. The marriage relationship is frequently used in the Scriptures as a symbol of the relationship existing between God and His people. See Rom. 7:1-4; 2 Cor. 11:2; Hosea 2:19, 20; Rev. 19:7.10. After the fall, what sort of marriages were introduced by men, which were productive of great evil?“And it came to pass, when men began to multiply on the face of the earth, and daughters were born unto them, thatthe sons of God saw the daughters of menthat they were fair;and they took them wives of all which they chose.”Gen. 6:1, 2.Note.—Not only was there plurality of wives, which in itself is an evil, but the“sons of God,”descending from Seth, married the“daughters of men,”the descendants from the idolatrous line of Cain, and thus corrupted the seed, or church, of God itself. All the barriers against evil thus being broken down, the whole race was soon corrupted, violence filled the earth, and the flood followed.11. What restriction did God make respecting marriages in Israel?“Let them marry to whom they think best;only to the family of the tribe of their father shall they marry.”Num. 36:6.12. What prohibition did God give His chosen people against intermarrying with the heathen nations about them, and why?“Neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son.For they will turn away thy son from following Me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the Lord be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly.”Deut. 7:3, 4.Note.—Intermarriage with the ungodly was the mistake made by the professed people of God before the flood, and God did not wish Israel to repeat that folly.13. What instruction is given in the New Testament regarding marriage with unbelievers?“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? and what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God.”2 Cor. 6:14-16.Note.—This instruction forbids all compromising partnerships. Marriage of believers with unbelievers has ever been a snare by which Satan has captured many earnest souls who thought they could win the unbelieving, but in most cases have themselves drifted away from the[pg 708]moorings of faith into doubt, backsliding, and loss of religion. It was one of Israel's constant dangers, against which God warned them repeatedly.“Give not your daughters unto their sons, neither take their daughters unto your sons, nor seek their peace [by such compromise] or their wealth forever.”Ezra 9:12. See also Ex. 34:14-16; Judges 14:1-3; Ezra 9 and 10; and Neh. 13:23-27. Even Solomon fell before the influence of heathen wives. Concerning him the inspired Word has left this melancholy record:“His wives turned away his heart after other gods.”1 Kings 11:4. No Christian can marry an unbeliever without running serious risk, and placing himself upon the enemy's ground. The Scriptures do not advocate separation after the union has been formed (see 1 Cor. 7:2-16), but good sense should teach us that faith can best be maintained, and domestic happiness best insured, where both husband and wife are believers, and of the same faith. Both ministers and parents, therefore, should warn the young against all improper marriages.14. What instruction did Abraham give his servant Eliezer when sending him to select a wife for his son Isaac?“Thou shalt take a wife for my sonof my kindred, and of my father's house.”Gen. 24:40.Note.—This passage indicates that in early Bible times parents generally had more to do in the selection of life companions for their children than they commonly have now. Young people who are wise will seek the advice and counsel of their parents, and above all, will seek to know the will of God, before entering upon this important relationship, with its grave responsibilities and its momentous consequences.15. For how long does marriage bind the contracting parties?“For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husbandso long as he liveth.”Rom. 7:2. See 1 Cor. 7:39.16. What only does Christ recognize as proper ground for dissolving the marriage relationship?“Whosoever shall put away his wife,except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery.”Matt. 19:9.Note.—Civil laws recognize other reasons as justifiable causes for separation, such as extreme cruelty, habitual drunkenness, or other like gross offenses; but only one offense, according to Christ, warrants the complete annulment of the marriage tie.There is a bliss beyond all that the minstrel has told,When two that are linked in one heavenly tie,With heart never changing and brow never cold,Love on through all ills, and love on till they die.Moore.[pg 709]A Happy Home, And How To Make ItIllustration.The Home Circle. "Happy the home when God is there, And love fills every breast."1. Where and by whom were the foundations of home laid?“Andthe Lord Godplanted a garden eastwardin Eden; andthereHe put the man whom He had formed.”Gen. 2:8.2. In making this home, what besides man was needed?“And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make himan help meet[oneadapted, orsuitable]for him.”Verse 18.3. After creating Adam and Eve, what did God say to them?“And God blessed them, and God said unto them,Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth.”Gen. 1:28.4. To what are the wife and children of the man who fears the Lord likened?“Happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee. Thy wife shall beas a fruitful vineby the sides of thine house: thy childrenlike olive-plantsround about thy table.”Ps. 128:2, 3.5. What are children declared to be?“Lo, children arean heritage of the Lord.”Ps. 127:3.“Children's children arethe crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.”Prov. 17:6.6. How should the wife relate herself to her husband?[pg 710]“Wives,submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church.”Eph. 5:22, 23.7. And how should husbands regard their wives?“Husbands,love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave Himself for it.... So ought men tolove their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.... Let every one of you in particularso love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.”Verses 25-33.8. Against what are husbands cautioned?“Husbands, love your wives, andbe not bitter against them.”Col. 3:19.9. Why should wives be in subjection to their husbands?“Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands;that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation[manner of life]of the wives.”1 Peter 3:1.10. Why should husbands be considerate of their wives?“Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honor unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life;that your prayers be not hindered.”Verse 7.11. Why should children obey their parents?“Children, obey your parents in the Lord:for this is right.”Eph. 6:1.12. How should parents bring up their children?“And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: butbring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”Verse 4.13. Why should fathers not provoke their children to anger?“Fathers, provoke not your children to anger,lest they be discouraged.”Col. 3:21.14. By what means may the mother bind the hearts of the loved ones at home together?“She openeth her mouth withwisdom; and in her tongue isthe law of kindness.”Prov. 31:26.Note.—“We want to get into the hearts of our children if we hold them, and help them, and bless them, and take them to heaven with us.”—Frances Murphy.[pg 711]15. How will such a mother be regarded?“Her children arise up, andcall her blessed; her husband also, andhe praiseth her.”Verse 28.Note.—“Show me a loving husband, a worthy wife, and good children, and no pair of horses that ever flew along the road could take me in a year where I could see a more pleasing sight. Home is the grandest of all institutions.”—Spurgeon.16. How faithfully should parents teach the precepts and commandments of God to their children?“And thou shaltteach them diligentlyunto thy children, and shalt talk of themwhen thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.”Deut. 6:7.Notes.—“The home should be made a school of instruction, rather than a place of monotonous drudgery. The evenings should be cherished as precious seasons, to be devoted to the instruction of the children in the way of righteousness. But how many children are sadly neglected! They are not educated in the home, that they may comprehend the truth of God, and are not trained to love justice and to do judgment. They should be patiently instructed, that they may understand the laws that govern them, and that they may know the springs of their actions. They are to be brought into harmony with the laws of heaven, to cherish the truth as it is in Jesus. In this way they may be fitted to join the society of the angels, and to stand in the presence of the adorable Redeemer.”—Sabbath School Worker, August, 1896.“A church within a church, a republic within a republic, a world within a world, is spelled by four letters—home! If things go right there, they go right everywhere; if things go wrong there, they go wrong everywhere. The door-sill of the dwelling-house is the foundation of church and state.... In other words, domestic life overarches and undergirds all other life.... First, last, and all the time, have Christ in your home.”—Talmage.17. What is the great secret of a happy home?“Better is a dinner of herbs whereloveis, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.”Prov. 15:17.Happy the home when God is there,And love fills every breast;When one their wish, and one their prayer,And one their heavenly rest.Happy the home where Jesus' nameIs sweet to every ear;Where children early lisp His fame,And parents hold Him dear.Happy the home where prayer is heard,And praise is wont to rise;Where parents love the Sacred Word,And live but for the skies.[pg 712]Religion In The HomeIllustration.Worship In A Cavalier's Home. "First, last, and all the time, have Christ in your home."—Talmage.1. How well acquainted is God with each individual's life?“Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising. Thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O Lord, Thou knowest it altogether.”Ps. 139:2-4.2. What is the beginning of wisdom?“The fear of the Lordis the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do His commandments.”Ps. 111:10.3. Upon whom is God's fury to be poured?“Pour out Thy fury uponthe heathen that know Thee not, and upon the families that call not on Thy name.”Jer. 10:25.4. How are parents instructed to bring up their children?“And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: butbring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”Eph. 6:4.Note.—“Religion is love, and a religious home is one in which love reigns. There must be love in action, love that flows out in all the home intercourse, showing itself in a thousand little expressions of thoughtfulness, kindness, unselfishness, and gentle courtesy.”—“Week-Day Religion”by J. R. Miller, D. D., page 83.[pg 713]5. How faithfully should parents teach their children the Word of God?“And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: andthou shall teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.”Deut. 6:6, 7.6. What is the value of proper early instruction?“Train up a child in the way he should go: andwhen he is old, he will not depart from it.”Prov. 22:6.Note.—No man ever said that he began the service of God too young. No parent ever regretted bringing up his children to love, fear, honor, and obey God.7. How early were the Scriptures taught to Timothy?“And thatfrom a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.”2 Tim. 3:15.Note.—Timothy's father was a Greek, and his mother a Jewess. From a child he had been taught the Scriptures. The faith of his mother and of his grandmother in the Word of God had early been implanted in him through their faithful instruction. 2 Tim. 1:5. The piety which he saw in his home life had a molding influence upon his own life. This, with his knowledge of the Scriptures, qualified him to bear responsibilities and to render faithful service later in the cause of Christ. His home instructors had cooperated with God in preparing him for a life of usefulness. Thus it should be in every home.8. Why did God confide in Abraham, and commit sacred trusts to him?“For I know him,that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment.”Gen. 18:19.9. Wherever Abraham went, what was his practise?“And there he builded an altar unto the Lord, and called upon the name of the Lord.”Gen. 12:8. See also Gen. 13:4; 21:33.Note.—“The manner in which the family worship is conducted is very important. It should be made so pleasant as to be looked forward to with gladness even by the youngest children. Too often it is made tedious, monotonous, or burdensome.... To make it dull and irksome is treason to true religion.... A few minutes given every day to preparation for family worship will serve to make it, as it should be, the most pleasant and attractive incident of the day.”—“Week-Day Religion,”by J. R. Miller, D. D., pages 81-83.[pg 714]10. What instruction suggests the giving of thanks for daily food?“In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”1 Thess. 5:18.Note.—As a rule, children will reflect the life and principles manifested in their parents. The reason why so many children are irreverent, irreligious, and disobedient today is because their parents are so. Like parent like child. If parents would see a different state of things, they must themselves reform. They must bring God into their homes, and make His Word their counselor and guide. They must teach their children the fear of God, and that His Word is the voice of God addressed to them, and that it is to be implicitly obeyed.“In too many households prayer is neglected.... If ever there was a time when every house should be a house of prayer, it is now. Fathers and mothers should often lift up their hearts to God in humble supplication for themselves and their children. Let the father, as priest of the household, lay upon the altar of God the morning and evening sacrifice, while the wife and children unite in prayer and praise. In such a household Jesus will love to tarry.”—“Christian Education,”page 221.Are all the children in? The night is falling,And storm-clouds gather in the threatening west;The lowing cattle seek a friendly shelter;The bird hies to her nest;The thunder crashes; wilder grows the tempest,And darkness settles o'er the fearful din;Come, shut the door, and gather round the hearthstone:Are all the children in?Are all the children in? The night is falling,When gilded sin doth walk about the streets.O,“at the last it biteth like a serpent”!Poisoned are stolen sweets.O mothers, guard the feet of inexperience,Too prone to wander in the paths of sin!O, shut the door of love against temptation!Are all the children in?Are all the children in? The night is falling,The night of death is hastening on apace;The Lord is calling,“Enter thou thy chamber,And tarry there a space.”And when He comes, the King in all His glory,Who died the shameful death our hearts to win,O, may the gates of heaven shut about us,With all the children in!Elizabeth Rosser.[pg 715]

Illustration.The Marriage At Cana. "Home is the grandest of all institutions."—Spurgeon.See page 711.

The Marriage At Cana. "Home is the grandest of all institutions."—Spurgeon.See page 711.

The Marriage InstitutionIllustration.Isaac And Rebekah. "Marriage is honorable in all." Heb. 13:4.1. After creating man, what did God say?“And the Lord God said,It is not good that the man should be alone.”Gen. 2:18.2. What, therefore, did God say He would make?“I will make himan helpmeet for him.”Same verse.Note.—Not ahelpmeetnor ahelpmate, but—two words—a helpmeetfor him; that is,fitorsuitablefor him. The wordmeetin the original means a front, a part opposite, a counterpart, or mate. Man's companion, or help, was to correspond to him. Each was to be suited to the other's needs.3. Could such a help be found among the creatures which God had already made?“And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field;but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him.”Verse 20.4. What, therefore, did God do?“And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and He took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; and the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man,made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.”Verses 21, 22.Note.—How beautiful, in its fulness of meaning, is this simple but suggestive story, at which skeptics sneer. God did not make man after the order of the lower animals, but“in His own image.”Neither did He[pg 706]choose man's companion, or“help,”from some other order of beings, but made her from man—of the same substance. And He took this substance, not from man'sfeet, that he might have an excuse to degrade, enslave, or trample upon her; nor from man'shead, that woman might assume authority over man; but from man'sside, from over hisheart, theseat of affections, that woman might stand at his side asman's equal, and,side by side with him, together, under God, work out the purpose and destiny of the race,—man, the strong, the noble, the dignified; woman, the weaker, the sympathetic, the loving. How much more exalted and inspiring is this view than the theory that man developed from the lower order of animals.5. What did Adam say as he received his wife from God?“And Adam said,This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be calledWoman, because she was taken out ofMan.”Verse 23.6. What great truth was then stated?“Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: andthey shall be one flesh.”Verse 24.7. In what words does Christ recognize marriage as of God?“Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh.What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.”Matt. 19:6.Note.—Thus was the marriage institution ordained of God in Eden, before man sinned. Like the Sabbath, it has come down to us with the Edenic dews of divine blessing still upon it. It was ordained not only for the purpose of peopling the earth and perpetuating the race, but to promote social order and human happiness; to prevent irregular affection; and, through well-regulated families, to transmit truth, purity, and holiness from age to age. Around it cluster all the purest and truest joys of home and the race. When the divine origin of marriage is recognized, and the divine principles controlling it are obeyed, marriage is indeed a blessing; but when these are disregarded, untold evils are sure to follow. That which, rightly used, is of greatest blessing, when abused becomes the greatest curse.8. By what commands has God guarded the marriage relation?“Thou shalt not commit adultery.”“Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife.”Ex. 20:14, 17.9. What New Testament injunction is given respecting marriage?“Let marriage be had in honor among all, and let the bed be undefiled: for fornicators and adulterers God will judge.”Heb. 13:4, R. V.Note.—By many, marriage is lightly regarded—is often made even a subject of jest. Its divine origin, its great object, and its possibilities[pg 707]and influences for good or evil are little thought of, and hence it is often entered into with little idea of its responsibilities or its sacred obligations. The marriage relationship is frequently used in the Scriptures as a symbol of the relationship existing between God and His people. See Rom. 7:1-4; 2 Cor. 11:2; Hosea 2:19, 20; Rev. 19:7.10. After the fall, what sort of marriages were introduced by men, which were productive of great evil?“And it came to pass, when men began to multiply on the face of the earth, and daughters were born unto them, thatthe sons of God saw the daughters of menthat they were fair;and they took them wives of all which they chose.”Gen. 6:1, 2.Note.—Not only was there plurality of wives, which in itself is an evil, but the“sons of God,”descending from Seth, married the“daughters of men,”the descendants from the idolatrous line of Cain, and thus corrupted the seed, or church, of God itself. All the barriers against evil thus being broken down, the whole race was soon corrupted, violence filled the earth, and the flood followed.11. What restriction did God make respecting marriages in Israel?“Let them marry to whom they think best;only to the family of the tribe of their father shall they marry.”Num. 36:6.12. What prohibition did God give His chosen people against intermarrying with the heathen nations about them, and why?“Neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son.For they will turn away thy son from following Me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the Lord be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly.”Deut. 7:3, 4.Note.—Intermarriage with the ungodly was the mistake made by the professed people of God before the flood, and God did not wish Israel to repeat that folly.13. What instruction is given in the New Testament regarding marriage with unbelievers?“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? and what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God.”2 Cor. 6:14-16.Note.—This instruction forbids all compromising partnerships. Marriage of believers with unbelievers has ever been a snare by which Satan has captured many earnest souls who thought they could win the unbelieving, but in most cases have themselves drifted away from the[pg 708]moorings of faith into doubt, backsliding, and loss of religion. It was one of Israel's constant dangers, against which God warned them repeatedly.“Give not your daughters unto their sons, neither take their daughters unto your sons, nor seek their peace [by such compromise] or their wealth forever.”Ezra 9:12. See also Ex. 34:14-16; Judges 14:1-3; Ezra 9 and 10; and Neh. 13:23-27. Even Solomon fell before the influence of heathen wives. Concerning him the inspired Word has left this melancholy record:“His wives turned away his heart after other gods.”1 Kings 11:4. No Christian can marry an unbeliever without running serious risk, and placing himself upon the enemy's ground. The Scriptures do not advocate separation after the union has been formed (see 1 Cor. 7:2-16), but good sense should teach us that faith can best be maintained, and domestic happiness best insured, where both husband and wife are believers, and of the same faith. Both ministers and parents, therefore, should warn the young against all improper marriages.14. What instruction did Abraham give his servant Eliezer when sending him to select a wife for his son Isaac?“Thou shalt take a wife for my sonof my kindred, and of my father's house.”Gen. 24:40.Note.—This passage indicates that in early Bible times parents generally had more to do in the selection of life companions for their children than they commonly have now. Young people who are wise will seek the advice and counsel of their parents, and above all, will seek to know the will of God, before entering upon this important relationship, with its grave responsibilities and its momentous consequences.15. For how long does marriage bind the contracting parties?“For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husbandso long as he liveth.”Rom. 7:2. See 1 Cor. 7:39.16. What only does Christ recognize as proper ground for dissolving the marriage relationship?“Whosoever shall put away his wife,except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery.”Matt. 19:9.Note.—Civil laws recognize other reasons as justifiable causes for separation, such as extreme cruelty, habitual drunkenness, or other like gross offenses; but only one offense, according to Christ, warrants the complete annulment of the marriage tie.There is a bliss beyond all that the minstrel has told,When two that are linked in one heavenly tie,With heart never changing and brow never cold,Love on through all ills, and love on till they die.Moore.

Illustration.Isaac And Rebekah. "Marriage is honorable in all." Heb. 13:4.

Isaac And Rebekah. "Marriage is honorable in all." Heb. 13:4.

1. After creating man, what did God say?

“And the Lord God said,It is not good that the man should be alone.”Gen. 2:18.

2. What, therefore, did God say He would make?

“I will make himan helpmeet for him.”Same verse.

Note.—Not ahelpmeetnor ahelpmate, but—two words—a helpmeetfor him; that is,fitorsuitablefor him. The wordmeetin the original means a front, a part opposite, a counterpart, or mate. Man's companion, or help, was to correspond to him. Each was to be suited to the other's needs.

3. Could such a help be found among the creatures which God had already made?

“And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field;but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him.”Verse 20.

4. What, therefore, did God do?

“And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and He took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; and the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man,made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.”Verses 21, 22.

Note.—How beautiful, in its fulness of meaning, is this simple but suggestive story, at which skeptics sneer. God did not make man after the order of the lower animals, but“in His own image.”Neither did He[pg 706]choose man's companion, or“help,”from some other order of beings, but made her from man—of the same substance. And He took this substance, not from man'sfeet, that he might have an excuse to degrade, enslave, or trample upon her; nor from man'shead, that woman might assume authority over man; but from man'sside, from over hisheart, theseat of affections, that woman might stand at his side asman's equal, and,side by side with him, together, under God, work out the purpose and destiny of the race,—man, the strong, the noble, the dignified; woman, the weaker, the sympathetic, the loving. How much more exalted and inspiring is this view than the theory that man developed from the lower order of animals.

5. What did Adam say as he received his wife from God?

“And Adam said,This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be calledWoman, because she was taken out ofMan.”Verse 23.

6. What great truth was then stated?

“Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: andthey shall be one flesh.”Verse 24.

7. In what words does Christ recognize marriage as of God?

“Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh.What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.”Matt. 19:6.

Note.—Thus was the marriage institution ordained of God in Eden, before man sinned. Like the Sabbath, it has come down to us with the Edenic dews of divine blessing still upon it. It was ordained not only for the purpose of peopling the earth and perpetuating the race, but to promote social order and human happiness; to prevent irregular affection; and, through well-regulated families, to transmit truth, purity, and holiness from age to age. Around it cluster all the purest and truest joys of home and the race. When the divine origin of marriage is recognized, and the divine principles controlling it are obeyed, marriage is indeed a blessing; but when these are disregarded, untold evils are sure to follow. That which, rightly used, is of greatest blessing, when abused becomes the greatest curse.

8. By what commands has God guarded the marriage relation?

“Thou shalt not commit adultery.”“Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife.”Ex. 20:14, 17.

9. What New Testament injunction is given respecting marriage?

“Let marriage be had in honor among all, and let the bed be undefiled: for fornicators and adulterers God will judge.”Heb. 13:4, R. V.

Note.—By many, marriage is lightly regarded—is often made even a subject of jest. Its divine origin, its great object, and its possibilities[pg 707]and influences for good or evil are little thought of, and hence it is often entered into with little idea of its responsibilities or its sacred obligations. The marriage relationship is frequently used in the Scriptures as a symbol of the relationship existing between God and His people. See Rom. 7:1-4; 2 Cor. 11:2; Hosea 2:19, 20; Rev. 19:7.

10. After the fall, what sort of marriages were introduced by men, which were productive of great evil?

“And it came to pass, when men began to multiply on the face of the earth, and daughters were born unto them, thatthe sons of God saw the daughters of menthat they were fair;and they took them wives of all which they chose.”Gen. 6:1, 2.

Note.—Not only was there plurality of wives, which in itself is an evil, but the“sons of God,”descending from Seth, married the“daughters of men,”the descendants from the idolatrous line of Cain, and thus corrupted the seed, or church, of God itself. All the barriers against evil thus being broken down, the whole race was soon corrupted, violence filled the earth, and the flood followed.

11. What restriction did God make respecting marriages in Israel?

“Let them marry to whom they think best;only to the family of the tribe of their father shall they marry.”Num. 36:6.

12. What prohibition did God give His chosen people against intermarrying with the heathen nations about them, and why?

“Neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son.For they will turn away thy son from following Me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the Lord be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly.”Deut. 7:3, 4.

Note.—Intermarriage with the ungodly was the mistake made by the professed people of God before the flood, and God did not wish Israel to repeat that folly.

13. What instruction is given in the New Testament regarding marriage with unbelievers?

“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? and what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God.”2 Cor. 6:14-16.

Note.—This instruction forbids all compromising partnerships. Marriage of believers with unbelievers has ever been a snare by which Satan has captured many earnest souls who thought they could win the unbelieving, but in most cases have themselves drifted away from the[pg 708]moorings of faith into doubt, backsliding, and loss of religion. It was one of Israel's constant dangers, against which God warned them repeatedly.“Give not your daughters unto their sons, neither take their daughters unto your sons, nor seek their peace [by such compromise] or their wealth forever.”Ezra 9:12. See also Ex. 34:14-16; Judges 14:1-3; Ezra 9 and 10; and Neh. 13:23-27. Even Solomon fell before the influence of heathen wives. Concerning him the inspired Word has left this melancholy record:“His wives turned away his heart after other gods.”1 Kings 11:4. No Christian can marry an unbeliever without running serious risk, and placing himself upon the enemy's ground. The Scriptures do not advocate separation after the union has been formed (see 1 Cor. 7:2-16), but good sense should teach us that faith can best be maintained, and domestic happiness best insured, where both husband and wife are believers, and of the same faith. Both ministers and parents, therefore, should warn the young against all improper marriages.

14. What instruction did Abraham give his servant Eliezer when sending him to select a wife for his son Isaac?

“Thou shalt take a wife for my sonof my kindred, and of my father's house.”Gen. 24:40.

Note.—This passage indicates that in early Bible times parents generally had more to do in the selection of life companions for their children than they commonly have now. Young people who are wise will seek the advice and counsel of their parents, and above all, will seek to know the will of God, before entering upon this important relationship, with its grave responsibilities and its momentous consequences.

15. For how long does marriage bind the contracting parties?

“For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husbandso long as he liveth.”Rom. 7:2. See 1 Cor. 7:39.

16. What only does Christ recognize as proper ground for dissolving the marriage relationship?

“Whosoever shall put away his wife,except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery.”Matt. 19:9.

Note.—Civil laws recognize other reasons as justifiable causes for separation, such as extreme cruelty, habitual drunkenness, or other like gross offenses; but only one offense, according to Christ, warrants the complete annulment of the marriage tie.

There is a bliss beyond all that the minstrel has told,When two that are linked in one heavenly tie,With heart never changing and brow never cold,Love on through all ills, and love on till they die.Moore.

There is a bliss beyond all that the minstrel has told,

When two that are linked in one heavenly tie,

With heart never changing and brow never cold,

Love on through all ills, and love on till they die.

Moore.

A Happy Home, And How To Make ItIllustration.The Home Circle. "Happy the home when God is there, And love fills every breast."1. Where and by whom were the foundations of home laid?“Andthe Lord Godplanted a garden eastwardin Eden; andthereHe put the man whom He had formed.”Gen. 2:8.2. In making this home, what besides man was needed?“And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make himan help meet[oneadapted, orsuitable]for him.”Verse 18.3. After creating Adam and Eve, what did God say to them?“And God blessed them, and God said unto them,Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth.”Gen. 1:28.4. To what are the wife and children of the man who fears the Lord likened?“Happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee. Thy wife shall beas a fruitful vineby the sides of thine house: thy childrenlike olive-plantsround about thy table.”Ps. 128:2, 3.5. What are children declared to be?“Lo, children arean heritage of the Lord.”Ps. 127:3.“Children's children arethe crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.”Prov. 17:6.6. How should the wife relate herself to her husband?[pg 710]“Wives,submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church.”Eph. 5:22, 23.7. And how should husbands regard their wives?“Husbands,love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave Himself for it.... So ought men tolove their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.... Let every one of you in particularso love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.”Verses 25-33.8. Against what are husbands cautioned?“Husbands, love your wives, andbe not bitter against them.”Col. 3:19.9. Why should wives be in subjection to their husbands?“Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands;that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation[manner of life]of the wives.”1 Peter 3:1.10. Why should husbands be considerate of their wives?“Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honor unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life;that your prayers be not hindered.”Verse 7.11. Why should children obey their parents?“Children, obey your parents in the Lord:for this is right.”Eph. 6:1.12. How should parents bring up their children?“And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: butbring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”Verse 4.13. Why should fathers not provoke their children to anger?“Fathers, provoke not your children to anger,lest they be discouraged.”Col. 3:21.14. By what means may the mother bind the hearts of the loved ones at home together?“She openeth her mouth withwisdom; and in her tongue isthe law of kindness.”Prov. 31:26.Note.—“We want to get into the hearts of our children if we hold them, and help them, and bless them, and take them to heaven with us.”—Frances Murphy.[pg 711]15. How will such a mother be regarded?“Her children arise up, andcall her blessed; her husband also, andhe praiseth her.”Verse 28.Note.—“Show me a loving husband, a worthy wife, and good children, and no pair of horses that ever flew along the road could take me in a year where I could see a more pleasing sight. Home is the grandest of all institutions.”—Spurgeon.16. How faithfully should parents teach the precepts and commandments of God to their children?“And thou shaltteach them diligentlyunto thy children, and shalt talk of themwhen thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.”Deut. 6:7.Notes.—“The home should be made a school of instruction, rather than a place of monotonous drudgery. The evenings should be cherished as precious seasons, to be devoted to the instruction of the children in the way of righteousness. But how many children are sadly neglected! They are not educated in the home, that they may comprehend the truth of God, and are not trained to love justice and to do judgment. They should be patiently instructed, that they may understand the laws that govern them, and that they may know the springs of their actions. They are to be brought into harmony with the laws of heaven, to cherish the truth as it is in Jesus. In this way they may be fitted to join the society of the angels, and to stand in the presence of the adorable Redeemer.”—Sabbath School Worker, August, 1896.“A church within a church, a republic within a republic, a world within a world, is spelled by four letters—home! If things go right there, they go right everywhere; if things go wrong there, they go wrong everywhere. The door-sill of the dwelling-house is the foundation of church and state.... In other words, domestic life overarches and undergirds all other life.... First, last, and all the time, have Christ in your home.”—Talmage.17. What is the great secret of a happy home?“Better is a dinner of herbs whereloveis, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.”Prov. 15:17.Happy the home when God is there,And love fills every breast;When one their wish, and one their prayer,And one their heavenly rest.Happy the home where Jesus' nameIs sweet to every ear;Where children early lisp His fame,And parents hold Him dear.Happy the home where prayer is heard,And praise is wont to rise;Where parents love the Sacred Word,And live but for the skies.

Illustration.The Home Circle. "Happy the home when God is there, And love fills every breast."

The Home Circle. "Happy the home when God is there, And love fills every breast."

1. Where and by whom were the foundations of home laid?

“Andthe Lord Godplanted a garden eastwardin Eden; andthereHe put the man whom He had formed.”Gen. 2:8.

2. In making this home, what besides man was needed?

“And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make himan help meet[oneadapted, orsuitable]for him.”Verse 18.

3. After creating Adam and Eve, what did God say to them?

“And God blessed them, and God said unto them,Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth.”Gen. 1:28.

4. To what are the wife and children of the man who fears the Lord likened?

“Happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee. Thy wife shall beas a fruitful vineby the sides of thine house: thy childrenlike olive-plantsround about thy table.”Ps. 128:2, 3.

5. What are children declared to be?

“Lo, children arean heritage of the Lord.”Ps. 127:3.“Children's children arethe crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.”Prov. 17:6.

6. How should the wife relate herself to her husband?

“Wives,submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church.”Eph. 5:22, 23.

7. And how should husbands regard their wives?

“Husbands,love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave Himself for it.... So ought men tolove their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.... Let every one of you in particularso love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.”Verses 25-33.

8. Against what are husbands cautioned?

“Husbands, love your wives, andbe not bitter against them.”Col. 3:19.

9. Why should wives be in subjection to their husbands?

“Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands;that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation[manner of life]of the wives.”1 Peter 3:1.

10. Why should husbands be considerate of their wives?

“Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honor unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life;that your prayers be not hindered.”Verse 7.

11. Why should children obey their parents?

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord:for this is right.”Eph. 6:1.

12. How should parents bring up their children?

“And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: butbring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”Verse 4.

13. Why should fathers not provoke their children to anger?

“Fathers, provoke not your children to anger,lest they be discouraged.”Col. 3:21.

14. By what means may the mother bind the hearts of the loved ones at home together?

“She openeth her mouth withwisdom; and in her tongue isthe law of kindness.”Prov. 31:26.

Note.—“We want to get into the hearts of our children if we hold them, and help them, and bless them, and take them to heaven with us.”—Frances Murphy.

15. How will such a mother be regarded?

“Her children arise up, andcall her blessed; her husband also, andhe praiseth her.”Verse 28.

Note.—“Show me a loving husband, a worthy wife, and good children, and no pair of horses that ever flew along the road could take me in a year where I could see a more pleasing sight. Home is the grandest of all institutions.”—Spurgeon.

16. How faithfully should parents teach the precepts and commandments of God to their children?

“And thou shaltteach them diligentlyunto thy children, and shalt talk of themwhen thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.”Deut. 6:7.

Notes.—“The home should be made a school of instruction, rather than a place of monotonous drudgery. The evenings should be cherished as precious seasons, to be devoted to the instruction of the children in the way of righteousness. But how many children are sadly neglected! They are not educated in the home, that they may comprehend the truth of God, and are not trained to love justice and to do judgment. They should be patiently instructed, that they may understand the laws that govern them, and that they may know the springs of their actions. They are to be brought into harmony with the laws of heaven, to cherish the truth as it is in Jesus. In this way they may be fitted to join the society of the angels, and to stand in the presence of the adorable Redeemer.”—Sabbath School Worker, August, 1896.“A church within a church, a republic within a republic, a world within a world, is spelled by four letters—home! If things go right there, they go right everywhere; if things go wrong there, they go wrong everywhere. The door-sill of the dwelling-house is the foundation of church and state.... In other words, domestic life overarches and undergirds all other life.... First, last, and all the time, have Christ in your home.”—Talmage.

“A church within a church, a republic within a republic, a world within a world, is spelled by four letters—home! If things go right there, they go right everywhere; if things go wrong there, they go wrong everywhere. The door-sill of the dwelling-house is the foundation of church and state.... In other words, domestic life overarches and undergirds all other life.... First, last, and all the time, have Christ in your home.”—Talmage.

17. What is the great secret of a happy home?

“Better is a dinner of herbs whereloveis, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.”Prov. 15:17.

Happy the home when God is there,And love fills every breast;When one their wish, and one their prayer,And one their heavenly rest.Happy the home where Jesus' nameIs sweet to every ear;Where children early lisp His fame,And parents hold Him dear.Happy the home where prayer is heard,And praise is wont to rise;Where parents love the Sacred Word,And live but for the skies.

Happy the home when God is there,And love fills every breast;When one their wish, and one their prayer,And one their heavenly rest.

Happy the home when God is there,

And love fills every breast;

When one their wish, and one their prayer,

And one their heavenly rest.

Happy the home where Jesus' nameIs sweet to every ear;Where children early lisp His fame,And parents hold Him dear.

Happy the home where Jesus' name

Is sweet to every ear;

Where children early lisp His fame,

And parents hold Him dear.

Happy the home where prayer is heard,And praise is wont to rise;Where parents love the Sacred Word,And live but for the skies.

Happy the home where prayer is heard,

And praise is wont to rise;

Where parents love the Sacred Word,

And live but for the skies.

Religion In The HomeIllustration.Worship In A Cavalier's Home. "First, last, and all the time, have Christ in your home."—Talmage.1. How well acquainted is God with each individual's life?“Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising. Thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O Lord, Thou knowest it altogether.”Ps. 139:2-4.2. What is the beginning of wisdom?“The fear of the Lordis the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do His commandments.”Ps. 111:10.3. Upon whom is God's fury to be poured?“Pour out Thy fury uponthe heathen that know Thee not, and upon the families that call not on Thy name.”Jer. 10:25.4. How are parents instructed to bring up their children?“And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: butbring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”Eph. 6:4.Note.—“Religion is love, and a religious home is one in which love reigns. There must be love in action, love that flows out in all the home intercourse, showing itself in a thousand little expressions of thoughtfulness, kindness, unselfishness, and gentle courtesy.”—“Week-Day Religion”by J. R. Miller, D. D., page 83.[pg 713]5. How faithfully should parents teach their children the Word of God?“And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: andthou shall teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.”Deut. 6:6, 7.6. What is the value of proper early instruction?“Train up a child in the way he should go: andwhen he is old, he will not depart from it.”Prov. 22:6.Note.—No man ever said that he began the service of God too young. No parent ever regretted bringing up his children to love, fear, honor, and obey God.7. How early were the Scriptures taught to Timothy?“And thatfrom a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.”2 Tim. 3:15.Note.—Timothy's father was a Greek, and his mother a Jewess. From a child he had been taught the Scriptures. The faith of his mother and of his grandmother in the Word of God had early been implanted in him through their faithful instruction. 2 Tim. 1:5. The piety which he saw in his home life had a molding influence upon his own life. This, with his knowledge of the Scriptures, qualified him to bear responsibilities and to render faithful service later in the cause of Christ. His home instructors had cooperated with God in preparing him for a life of usefulness. Thus it should be in every home.8. Why did God confide in Abraham, and commit sacred trusts to him?“For I know him,that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment.”Gen. 18:19.9. Wherever Abraham went, what was his practise?“And there he builded an altar unto the Lord, and called upon the name of the Lord.”Gen. 12:8. See also Gen. 13:4; 21:33.Note.—“The manner in which the family worship is conducted is very important. It should be made so pleasant as to be looked forward to with gladness even by the youngest children. Too often it is made tedious, monotonous, or burdensome.... To make it dull and irksome is treason to true religion.... A few minutes given every day to preparation for family worship will serve to make it, as it should be, the most pleasant and attractive incident of the day.”—“Week-Day Religion,”by J. R. Miller, D. D., pages 81-83.[pg 714]10. What instruction suggests the giving of thanks for daily food?“In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”1 Thess. 5:18.Note.—As a rule, children will reflect the life and principles manifested in their parents. The reason why so many children are irreverent, irreligious, and disobedient today is because their parents are so. Like parent like child. If parents would see a different state of things, they must themselves reform. They must bring God into their homes, and make His Word their counselor and guide. They must teach their children the fear of God, and that His Word is the voice of God addressed to them, and that it is to be implicitly obeyed.“In too many households prayer is neglected.... If ever there was a time when every house should be a house of prayer, it is now. Fathers and mothers should often lift up their hearts to God in humble supplication for themselves and their children. Let the father, as priest of the household, lay upon the altar of God the morning and evening sacrifice, while the wife and children unite in prayer and praise. In such a household Jesus will love to tarry.”—“Christian Education,”page 221.Are all the children in? The night is falling,And storm-clouds gather in the threatening west;The lowing cattle seek a friendly shelter;The bird hies to her nest;The thunder crashes; wilder grows the tempest,And darkness settles o'er the fearful din;Come, shut the door, and gather round the hearthstone:Are all the children in?Are all the children in? The night is falling,When gilded sin doth walk about the streets.O,“at the last it biteth like a serpent”!Poisoned are stolen sweets.O mothers, guard the feet of inexperience,Too prone to wander in the paths of sin!O, shut the door of love against temptation!Are all the children in?Are all the children in? The night is falling,The night of death is hastening on apace;The Lord is calling,“Enter thou thy chamber,And tarry there a space.”And when He comes, the King in all His glory,Who died the shameful death our hearts to win,O, may the gates of heaven shut about us,With all the children in!Elizabeth Rosser.

Illustration.Worship In A Cavalier's Home. "First, last, and all the time, have Christ in your home."—Talmage.

Worship In A Cavalier's Home. "First, last, and all the time, have Christ in your home."—Talmage.

1. How well acquainted is God with each individual's life?

“Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising. Thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O Lord, Thou knowest it altogether.”Ps. 139:2-4.

2. What is the beginning of wisdom?

“The fear of the Lordis the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do His commandments.”Ps. 111:10.

3. Upon whom is God's fury to be poured?

“Pour out Thy fury uponthe heathen that know Thee not, and upon the families that call not on Thy name.”Jer. 10:25.

4. How are parents instructed to bring up their children?

“And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: butbring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”Eph. 6:4.

Note.—“Religion is love, and a religious home is one in which love reigns. There must be love in action, love that flows out in all the home intercourse, showing itself in a thousand little expressions of thoughtfulness, kindness, unselfishness, and gentle courtesy.”—“Week-Day Religion”by J. R. Miller, D. D., page 83.

5. How faithfully should parents teach their children the Word of God?

“And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: andthou shall teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.”Deut. 6:6, 7.

6. What is the value of proper early instruction?

“Train up a child in the way he should go: andwhen he is old, he will not depart from it.”Prov. 22:6.

Note.—No man ever said that he began the service of God too young. No parent ever regretted bringing up his children to love, fear, honor, and obey God.

7. How early were the Scriptures taught to Timothy?

“And thatfrom a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.”2 Tim. 3:15.

Note.—Timothy's father was a Greek, and his mother a Jewess. From a child he had been taught the Scriptures. The faith of his mother and of his grandmother in the Word of God had early been implanted in him through their faithful instruction. 2 Tim. 1:5. The piety which he saw in his home life had a molding influence upon his own life. This, with his knowledge of the Scriptures, qualified him to bear responsibilities and to render faithful service later in the cause of Christ. His home instructors had cooperated with God in preparing him for a life of usefulness. Thus it should be in every home.

8. Why did God confide in Abraham, and commit sacred trusts to him?

“For I know him,that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment.”Gen. 18:19.

9. Wherever Abraham went, what was his practise?

“And there he builded an altar unto the Lord, and called upon the name of the Lord.”Gen. 12:8. See also Gen. 13:4; 21:33.

Note.—“The manner in which the family worship is conducted is very important. It should be made so pleasant as to be looked forward to with gladness even by the youngest children. Too often it is made tedious, monotonous, or burdensome.... To make it dull and irksome is treason to true religion.... A few minutes given every day to preparation for family worship will serve to make it, as it should be, the most pleasant and attractive incident of the day.”—“Week-Day Religion,”by J. R. Miller, D. D., pages 81-83.

10. What instruction suggests the giving of thanks for daily food?

“In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”1 Thess. 5:18.

Note.—As a rule, children will reflect the life and principles manifested in their parents. The reason why so many children are irreverent, irreligious, and disobedient today is because their parents are so. Like parent like child. If parents would see a different state of things, they must themselves reform. They must bring God into their homes, and make His Word their counselor and guide. They must teach their children the fear of God, and that His Word is the voice of God addressed to them, and that it is to be implicitly obeyed.“In too many households prayer is neglected.... If ever there was a time when every house should be a house of prayer, it is now. Fathers and mothers should often lift up their hearts to God in humble supplication for themselves and their children. Let the father, as priest of the household, lay upon the altar of God the morning and evening sacrifice, while the wife and children unite in prayer and praise. In such a household Jesus will love to tarry.”—“Christian Education,”page 221.

Are all the children in? The night is falling,And storm-clouds gather in the threatening west;The lowing cattle seek a friendly shelter;The bird hies to her nest;The thunder crashes; wilder grows the tempest,And darkness settles o'er the fearful din;Come, shut the door, and gather round the hearthstone:Are all the children in?Are all the children in? The night is falling,When gilded sin doth walk about the streets.O,“at the last it biteth like a serpent”!Poisoned are stolen sweets.O mothers, guard the feet of inexperience,Too prone to wander in the paths of sin!O, shut the door of love against temptation!Are all the children in?Are all the children in? The night is falling,The night of death is hastening on apace;The Lord is calling,“Enter thou thy chamber,And tarry there a space.”And when He comes, the King in all His glory,Who died the shameful death our hearts to win,O, may the gates of heaven shut about us,With all the children in!Elizabeth Rosser.

Are all the children in? The night is falling,

And storm-clouds gather in the threatening west;

The lowing cattle seek a friendly shelter;

The bird hies to her nest;

The thunder crashes; wilder grows the tempest,

And darkness settles o'er the fearful din;

Come, shut the door, and gather round the hearthstone:

Are all the children in?

Are all the children in? The night is falling,When gilded sin doth walk about the streets.O,“at the last it biteth like a serpent”!Poisoned are stolen sweets.O mothers, guard the feet of inexperience,Too prone to wander in the paths of sin!O, shut the door of love against temptation!Are all the children in?

Are all the children in? The night is falling,

When gilded sin doth walk about the streets.

O,“at the last it biteth like a serpent”!

Poisoned are stolen sweets.

O mothers, guard the feet of inexperience,

Too prone to wander in the paths of sin!

O, shut the door of love against temptation!

Are all the children in?

Are all the children in? The night is falling,The night of death is hastening on apace;The Lord is calling,“Enter thou thy chamber,And tarry there a space.”And when He comes, the King in all His glory,Who died the shameful death our hearts to win,O, may the gates of heaven shut about us,With all the children in!Elizabeth Rosser.

Are all the children in? The night is falling,

The night of death is hastening on apace;

The Lord is calling,“Enter thou thy chamber,

And tarry there a space.”

And when He comes, the King in all His glory,

Who died the shameful death our hearts to win,

O, may the gates of heaven shut about us,

With all the children in!

Elizabeth Rosser.

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