Sunday School Lesson

The Golden Rule

To Remember: We should treat others as we want to be treated

Vocabulary
   Love: putting others first

Lesson

Matthew 7:12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.

God has always given His people guidance on how they should treat one another. We tend to be selfish, unless trained otherwise. But God wants us to be considerate of others. He said that we should treat others they way we would like to be treated. How do you like to be treated? With respect, listened to, not interrupted, loved, share things with, treated fairly, honest with, follow through on promises. If we like these things from others, it is only natural that others would like us to treat them the same. Display and discuss the iron rule, silver rule, golden rule. (Define on a chart: Iron Rule "Do unto others before the do it to me." Silver Rule "Do unto others as they do unto me." Golden Rule "Do unto others as I would have them do unto me."
 
SING: I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart

Love is not just a warm fuzzy feeling of affection, although it can include that. Love is putting someone else first in your life; taking care of what they need before taking care of your needs. The golden rule is love in action; treating others well, because others are as important as you are. Jesus said that Christians' love and caring for each other would be how the world identified us.

John 13:34,35 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

True or False

1. God didn't always want people to love each other. F
2. We don't know how others want to be treated. F
3. Jesus cared for others more than himself. T
4. People around us can tell if we love one another. T
5. It is easy to be unselfish. F
6. The silver rule says: love those that love you. T
7. Loving others makes us like God. T

Activities

Discussion/Worksheet: Have students choose the "rule" applied in each of the examples (iron, silver, gold)

1. When Cain killed Abel.      iron
2. When Israelites took revenge on murderers in the Old Testament.      silver
3. When Christ died for us.   gold
4. When we hit back.  silver
5. When we lie to keep from getting in trouble.      iron
6. When we forgive.    gold

Printable Worksheet: Unscramble a verse about the golden rule
 
Memory Work:

• Matthew 7:12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
• PK "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

Activities:

1. Think about how you like to be treated. Now choose one person you will make an effort to treat like this in the coming week. (Picking someone who is difficult to be around will make a significant difference in your week!)
2. Draw a picture of someone applying the "golden rule."
3. Act out the following scenarios, with both "silver" and "golden" responses. Discuss how the golden response promotes peace and love, and reflects Christ.
   • A fellow student makes fun of your outfit in the lunch line. How do you handle it?
   • You and a friend are telling your parents about your field trip. Your friend interrupted you and took over the story. He's leaving out parts. What do you do?
   • You know someone who lies all the time. One day she asks you in you can help her with a project on Friday. You know for a fact you could, but you'd rather not. How to you respond?

Review Questions for gameboard

 linguistic questions

1. Summarize the "golden rule". Treat others as you want them to treat you
2. Unscramble the word:     veol     (love)
3. Name the book where this lesson is taught.   (Matthew, John)

  activity questions

1. Act out someone who is not putting others first.
2. Draw a heart with your eyes shut.
3. Name something you will do this week for someone you don't like.

  emotion questions

1. How do you feel when others let you pick first? special, happy
2. How do you feel when other people won't share with you? unhappy, disliked
3. How does God feel when we treat each other nice? happy, pleased

application questions

1. How should I treat those who don't like me? the same as my friends
2. In what ways has God treated you better than you deserve? he always provides for us, he blesses us with more than we need, he sent his son to die for us
3. In what ways can you treat others "like yourself"? Share the best of what I have, let them go first, treat them politely and kindly, help when needed

fact questions

1. Who treats us better than anyone else? God
2. Do we deserve God's mercy? yes
3. Who should we show kindness to? everyone

review questions

1. Why should we treat others well? 1) to be like God, 2) to show we are his children, 3) because we were treated well by God, 4) it is God's law
2. How do we determine how to treat others? We do what we'd like done to us
3. What example can we look to when we are uncertain how to act? Jesus 

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Sunday School Lesson

_____________________ "Called to Be a Winner" Printed Text: 1 Corinthians 9:24-10:13 Background Scripture:1 Corinthians 9:24-10:13. Devotional Reading:Hebrews 12:1-12. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 24 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. 25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. 26 I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: 27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 1 Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; 2 And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; 3 And did all eat the same spiritual meat; 4 And did all drink the same spiritual drink; for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. 5 But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness. 6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. 7 Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play. 8 Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand. 9 Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents. 10 Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer. 11 Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. 12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. 13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. INTRODUCTION   At the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, John Stephen Akhwari, a runner from Tanzania, finished dead last in the marathon. Injured along the way, Akhwari hobbled into the nearly empty stadium an hour after the last runner had crossed the finish line.   The official filmmaker for the games, Bud Greenspan, asked the athlete why he put himself through so much pain to finish the race. Akhwari replied, "My country did not send me 5000 miles to start the race. They sent me to finish it!" (Roper, Out of the Ordinary, Discovery House).   When we trusted in Christ, we began the Christian race. Like the African runner, we entered the race not merely to begin it but to finish it! Therefore it is imperative that we persevere to the end. The Christian life is not a quick sprint but a long-distance marathon!   To successfully finish, we must "lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and ... run with patience the race that is set before us" (Hebrews 12:1). LESSON AIMS After participating in this lesson, each student will be able to: 1. Restate the positive and negative examples that Paul gives regarding following through to the end. 2. Draw one parallel between the ancient Israelites’ experiences in the wilderness and the challenges of modern Christian life. 3. Plan to overcome a specific temptations Our Efforts (1 Corinthians 9:24–27) 1. What two athletic illustrations did Paul use to depict the Christian life (1 Corinthians 9:24)?   Since the Corinthians would have been familiar with both the ancient Olympic and Isthmian games that occurred in Greece, Paul used illustrations from athletics to press home his point. Although the ancient Greek games had few events compared to the modern Olympics, races were always prominent. As in all races, there is only one runner who receives the blue ribbon or the gold medal. "So run, that ye may obtain" (v. 24), said Paul. In short, run to win! All those entering the Christian race should strive to cross the finish line. A similar thought is found in Philippians: "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus" (3:14). 2. What are some examples of modern “prizes” that we are tempted to pursue that pale in comparison with what is available through Christ? How do we keep a proper focus?   Some people go to great lengths in an effort to become famous or even merely popular. Others are willing to pour overwhelming energy into their vocation in an effort to obtain promotions or “self-fulfillment.” The pursuit of our culture’s status symbols-bigger houses, luxury boats, impressive cars, designer clothing, and the latest electronic gadgets-frequently dominates even the lives of God’s people. The pursuit of expertise in various hobbies can essentially become the pursuit of a fading crown. The pursuit of certain relationships can fall into this category.   Perspective is one key to proper focus. For example, the desire for a ______ _______ can be examined with the prayerful question, “Why do I really think I need a ______ _______ ?” Beware of the danger of rationalizing! 3. How was an ancient athlete "temperate" (v. 25)?   As in modern sports, ancient athletes had to be "temperate" (v. 25), or self-controlled, in order to prepare for their chosen event. Those unwilling to enter such strict training would prove unsuccessful.   The ancient athlete was willing to commit to such self-discipline for a mere earthly reward, "a corruptible crown" (v. 25). The winner was awarded a simple wreath-crown that would quickly fade and become brittle. Even the gold medal of the modern Olympics will eventually be burned up (2 Pet. 3:10).   As Christians, we are running a race to receive an "incorruptible" crown (1 Cor. 9:25). As saints, our calling is to "an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you" (1 Peter 1:4). 4. What are some additional similarities between the Christian life and athletics that can help us live faithfully for God? Which similarity do you find to be most important? What hidden dangers are there?   One similarity is the single-minded focus required for success. Becoming a world-class athlete in many sports is a full-time job. Similarly, our development as disciples requires that we make spiritual issues the highest of priorities. The physical and mental exertion required to develop athletically is paralleled by the extreme effort required for spiritual maturity. We are sometimes lulled into thinking that Christian maturity can come without great effort. But Paul describes the process as very hard work.   But there is a pitfall: a few people focus so much on being spiritually minded that they no longer are able to “connect with” the unsaved. Shuffling off to join a monastery (house for monks), either physically or just in one’s thoughts, doesn’t help! 5. What did Paul mean when he said he wanted to avoid being a "castaway" (v. 27)?   Using himself as an example, Paul said that he was not like a man running aimlessly. He sought to stay on course and not become distracted by those things that might pull him off the chosen path (cf. 2 Tim. 4:7). Changing the figure from running to boxing, Paul said that he was not merely shadowboxing, either. He was at-tempting to land blows where they would count.   As all athletes know, the human body must be brought into subjection. The body may want food or drink that may not be best for athletic training. The body may want to stay up late when it needs rest. The body may want to quit when the coach says to go on. So it is in the Christian life. The believer must live a life of self-discipline. "Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me" (Mark 8:34), Jesus said.   Even though Paul had "preached to others" (1 Cor. 9:27), he knew that he had to persevere to the end; otherwise, he might become a "castaway." This word meant rejected, disqualified, or not standing the test.   Paul is not only a Christian preacher, he is also one who plays in the game. That is, he not only preached the Gospel but he also lived by the Gospel's rules. True Christians, while confident of God's sovereign grace, are nevertheless conscious of their own battle against sin" (Barker and Kohlenberger). Their Examples (1 Corinthians 10:1–5) 6. How was Israel "baptized unto Moses" (1 Corinthians 10:12) How does this relate to Christian baptism?   Having encouraged faithfulness by using athletic illustrations, Paul now turns to the example of Israel to stress the same point. Although many of the Corinthians were Gentiles, it was appropriate to refer to the ancient Israelites as "our fathers" (v. 1). There is a continuity between the Old Testament saints and New Testament believers. Indeed, those who trust in Christ are "Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise" (Galatians 3:29).   After the ten plagues were visited on Egypt, Moses led the Israelites out of bondage and on their journey toward the Promised Land. "The Lord went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night" (Exodus 13:21).   The first major obstacle on the journey was the Red Sea. At God's command, Moses lifted his rod, the sea parted, and the people passed through on dry land. "The waters were a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left" (Exod. 14:22).   That the people of Israel were "baptized unto Moses" (1 Cor. 10:2) simply means that they submitted themselves to the authority and leadership of Moses. Similarly, those who trust in Christ submit to His authority by being obedient followers of Christ (Matthew 28:18-20). As the Hebrews were "baptized unto Moses" under the old covenant (1 Cor. 10:2), so those rescued from spiritual bondage under the new covenant are "baptized into Christ" (Gal. 3:27). Christian baptism portrays what the blood of Christ performs (Romans 6:3-4). 7. Who was the "spiritual Rock" (v. 4) that accompanied Israel in the wilderness?   Once they passed through the Red Sea, the Hebrews found themselves in the wilderness. During their long and difficult journey, they relied on God to provide them with both food and drink. While God sustained them physically, they were also being spiritually nourished.   The "spiritual Rock" (v. 4) that accompanied them on this journey was Christ Himself. While we often think of Christ in terms of His earthly ministry, we must not forget that He is the eternal Son of God, who preexisted with the Father (John 1:1-3; Phil. 2:5-8; Heb. 1:1-3).   Although the Israelites had the very presence of God as they journeyed to-ward the Promised Land, "with many of them God was not well pleased" (1 Cor. 10:5). Consequently, the vast majority of those rescued from Egyptian bondage never saw the Promised Land (cf. Heb. 3:16-19).   The application for the Corinthian church was clear. Just because they had trusted in Christ and were baptized (Acts 18:8) did not mean they had arrived at the end of the journey. Like the children of Israel in the wilderness, they were facing many trials and temptations along the journey. In their arrogance, they may have assumed that they were above sin (1 Cor. 10:12). As with the well-trained athlete (9:25,27), though, perseverance and diligence are necessary to complete the race (Phil. 3:12-14). Our Task (1 Corinthians 10:6–13) 8. What four examples did Paul give from the wilderness journey (vs. 6-10)?   Although we are no longer under the old covenant (Rom. 6:14), there are many examples in the Old Testament that are helpful to Christians. More often than not, these examples tell us what not to do. Paul selected four examples (or warnings) from the wilderness experience of Israel to encourage the Corinthians to faithfully and patiently endure.   The first example was a warning against idolatry. The incident alluded to was when Aaron made the golden calf (Exod. 32:1-6). Those unwilling to repent were slain by the Levites, and about three thousand perished (v. 28).   The second example was the Israelites' fornication with the daughters of Moab (Num. 25:1-9). Because of this sin, God brought a plague upon the people that resulted in the deaths of more than 23,000 people in a single day.   The third example was when the people became impatient and began to speak against God and Moses. They said, "Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? for there is no bread, neither is there any water; and our soul loatheth this light bread" (Numbers 21:5). Because of their complaining, God sent "fiery serpents" (v. 6), or poisonous snakes, among the people, many of whom perished. Only by looking with faith on the bronze serpent erected by Moses could the people be healed (Num. 21:9; cf. John 3:14; 8:28; 12:32).   Although there were several occasions when the people murmured (or grumbled) against Moses, the fourth example used by Paul probably referred to Korah's rebellion (Num.16). Besides the earth opening up and swallowing the rebellious leaders (vs.. 31-33), over 14,000 were killed by a plague (vs. 49). The "destroyer" (1 Cor. 10:10) is likely a reference to a destroying angel (cf. 2 Sam. 24:16-17; 2 Kings 19:35).   Significantly, the examples selected by Paul as warnings to the Corinthian church paralleled some of the very problems they were facing. 9. Why did Paul warn the Corinthians about falling (vs. 11,12)?   The things that had happened to ancient Israel in the wilderness "happened unto them for ensamples." "Ensamples" is an archaic spelling of the word "examples." The Greek word here is a form of the word tupos, which is also used in verse 6.   These Old Testament examples have come down to us for the purpose of "admonition" (1 Cor. 10:11), or warning. Those who are unwilling to learn from the past are destined to repeat those mistakes again. Many people think that they are strong. But this complacency leads them to become careless and undisciplined, leaving them unprepared to resist temptation. If the Corinthians would not receive this instruction, they were headed for spiritual disaster. The phrase "upon whom the ends of the world are come" indicates that the warnings of the past find their fulfillment in the present. That is, they are relevant for those living in this current age.  10. How is God faithful to us when we are experiencing temptation (v. 13)?   This verse is one of the great promises of the Bible. First, no temptation, trial, or test that we face is unique. While we may sometimes feel that we are the only person facing a particular trial or temptation, this is not true.   The temptations and tribulations we face are "common to man," that is, they are the kinds of things all of us experience. To be sure, not every person will be tested in the same way, but we all are tempted. Since Christ "was in all points tempted like as we are" (Hebrews 4:15), we can be confident that He fully understands the plight of human beings.   Since "God is faithful" (1 Cor. 10:13), He will not allow us to be tempted beyond our strength to resist. In the midst of temptation we may not think this to be true, but it is. Therefore, we cannot blame Satan or others when we succumb to temptation. If we sin, it is because we choose to do so.   God also promises that with each temptation there is an escape route. Just as there are doors into temptation, so too there are doors out. Of course, Satan will try to make the temptation so attractive that we may not be looking for a way out. Like Christ (Luke 4:1-13), we must use the "sword of the Spirit" (Eph. 6:17), "the word of God") to gain victory over the devil.   Several years ago, nascar driver Steve Park was involved in a serious accident when his steering wheel came off. The doors on race cars do not open, so drivers must crawl in and out of the vehicle through a window. To make this easier the cars are equipped with removable steering wheels.   Park’s accident occurred during a caution period in a race, when the cars move slowly around the track. While he cannot remember exactly what happened, it seems that Park turned his head momentarily as another vehicle approached on his left. In that split second, his steering wheel somehow detached. Park’s car veered suddenly and was broadsided by the passing car. Someone at some point had not securely fastened the steering wheel. That momentary loss of focus could have cost Park his life!   When Paul compares the Christian life with a race, he does not mean to encourage a competitive spirit. He means to stress our need to be prepared and vigilant at all times. Unfortunately, we usually do not know when trials and temptations will crop up; they often seem to come when we least expect them or are least prepared to deal with them.   The danger may be greatest when we feel the strongest, because at these moments a false sense of security may lead us to drop our guard. We therefore are on the alert constantly. We discipline ourselves spiritually so that we will be ready for any challenge that comes our way.   God, please give us the discipline and focus to remain pure in an evil world. Help us to keep focused on the prize ahead, and help us to draw on Your strength to endure temptations. Help us also to understand that You are a holy God and that You have called us to be a holy people for You. In Jesus’ name, amen. Stay focused and disciplined to win life’s race! Anticipating Next Week's Lesson:   Next week's lesson introduces spiritual gifts and their importance to the body of Christ. Study 1 Corinthians 12:1-13. LESSON SUMMARIZED BY ________________________________ ********************** Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button. The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary. Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Sunday School Lesson

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Sunday School Lesson 18


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   Welcome to our weekly Sunday School Lesson. We have created this feature to allow you to get regular weekly Sunday School lessons sent straight to you, for your use in teaching the young of your congregation. These lessons are on a variety of topics and we are neither promoting nor insisting on any particular point of view. We are also not checking them for accuracy. We are merely sharing what has been sent to us. If you don"t agree with the weekly topic or point of view, please just delete it and wait for next week"s.


        Our Faith - Twenty Lessons separated into four. (17-20)
        Lesson Seventeen

        Alas for him who never sees

        The stars shine through his cypress trees!

        For Life is ever Lord of Death,

        And Love can never lose its own.

        Whittier.

        I. THE TALK.

        We must turn to the New Testament for Bible light on the subject of life after death, not to the Old.

        Little Argument.

        Jesus rarely enters into any arguments with those who put questions to him on this subject. Once he replied at some length to the Sadducees, who did not believe in immortality, and ended thus:

        "As to the dead, and the fact that they rise from the grave, have you never read in the Book of Moses, in the passage about the Bush, how God spoke to him thus: I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. God is not God of dead, but of living people. You are greatly mistaken."

        The Father's House.

        In another conversation, this time with his disciples, Jesus uttered these words:

        "Believe in God, and believe in me, too. In my Father's house there are many rooms. I am going to prepare a place for you."

        His Last Words.

        The last words Jesus spoke revealed his thought of the future:

        "Jesus called out loudly, 'Father, into Thy hands I commit my spirit.' And with these words he expired."

        Other Sayings.

        But we are not left to these for our only light and information. Under all that Jesus taught, and through the life he lived, ran the faith in immortality that shows itself in three ways.

        Life Everlasting.

        The Great Teacher was always pointing out the way that led to life everlasting. Enter in by the narrow gate; strive and falter not; seek the pearl of great price; keep the lamp filled with oil.

        These and other similar teachings referred to the strong life, the good life, which was the everlasting life. Death could not destroy it.

        The Eternal Life.

        Jesus also exhorted men to be sure and obtain part in the life eternal. He did not mean by this that men should prepare and wait for some great thing to come to pass. Eternity is now and here. Eternity is God, and God is here and now. He who is "accepted of God" is already living the eternal life. It is not true or good to say, "Prepare for eternity," as though that meant some far-off time and place.

        The Victorious Life.

        And the third way Jesus taught immortality, or enforced its reality, was by calling on all to live the victorious life.

        Jesus sought to stir the sense of sonship to God in every heart, to make it strong, so that confidence would take the place of timidity.

        "Even now," said an apostle, "we are children of God, and if children, then heirs," -heirs of the gift of life everlasting, given to us by our heavenly Father.

        Q. Did Jesus often speak in figures?

        A. Most of his teachings are in parables, or pictorial form.

        Q. How ought we to read them?

        A. Always remembering to separate the idea from the imagery.

        Q. Is this especially true of everything he said about the future life?

        A. Yes. Great harm has been done by failing to follow this rule.

        Q. Can we think of any particular cases?

        A. Yes. About the resurrection and about heaven and hell.

        Q. What has happened in these instances?

        A. His allegorical, pictorial language has been taken literally.

        Q. What has been the result?

        A. The spiritual idea has been lost in the material description.

        Onward.

        We believe that every soul goes onward at death, but it may not go at once upward. It may undergo discipline for a while. Some souls are better prepared than others. It will not be the same to all, without regard to conduct and character.

        Upward.

        This means that the good, the noble, the honorable, are the spiritually minded.

        That he who loves the low and mean checks and hinders his progress here and hereafter: he is earthly minded.

        Such are the teachings of Jesus and of the writers in the New Testament.

        II. HINTS TO TEACHERS.

        You will do well to elaborate what is only suggested in the lesson, and illustrate how Jesus spoke in metaphors, in poetic, pictorial language. It was Oriental; it was simple and graphic; it was understood correctly at the time. But in after times the idea became confused with the setting, and the frame was of more consequence than the picture. Jesus said little definitely about the future; but his faith in that future was evident in all he said and did.

        III. QUESTIONS FOR PUPILS.

            * Where do we look for light on this subject in the Bible?
            * Did Jesus enter into argument about immortality?
            * Why?
            * How did he once describe the future?
            * What were his last words?
            * Can you explain the phrase "life everlasting"?
            * "Eternal life"?
            * "Victorious life"?
            * Did Jesus often use figures of speech in referring to the future?
            * How do careless readers make mistakes?
            * Do we believe that all souls go onward and upward alike?
            * Why not?

        Lesson Eighteen

        When falls the night upon the earth,

        And all in shadow lies,

        The sun's not dead, his radiance still

        Beams bright on other skies..

        Minot J. Savage

        I. THE TALK.

        Q. What have we ascertained?

        A. That some kind of hope or faith in future life has always existed.

        Q. Was it clear and strong?

        A. No. It varied with the age and civilization of the peoples.

        Q. What light did Jesus bring?

        A. He taught a faith in everlasting life.

        Q. How did that help?

        A. By showing that he who has the true life now has proof of future life.

        If.

        Now let us see the consequences. If we believe in the progress of mankind onward and upward forever, then there are certain things we must keep in mind.

        Prepare to Live.

        The most important duty is to be ready to live, day by day. Sometimes we think our duty is to prepare for death, because that event seems so strange and solemn. But he who fills each day nobly will meet death triumphantly.

        Living Nobly.

        Living day by day does not mean a careless, ordinary way. We must make the most of our time, follow the highest examples, do good, and leave the world better. We must listen to conscience, and obey the truth as we see it.

        Dignity.

        Another thing to be remembered: If we are to live hereafter, then the present takes on more dignity and greatness. It is true, this is God's world, and therefore sacred and noble; but when we think of other worlds and continued life, we look out over a grander existence.

        Large.

        A plan that is made for a day only is not so large as a plan made for a week, while a plan for a week is smaller than a year's. At the thought of immortality we see endless opportunity, perpetual growth, that gives courage and strength. But, further, we lay our plans large for some results no few years can compass.

        Progress.

        What does progress mean? We may expect to know more. Many mysterious things will be made clear. Is there anything greater than going on and on, learning, enjoying more and more? Sometimes we have thought of heaven as a place where good people did nothing. Would you not tire of that?

        New Opportunities.

        We believe there will be new opportunities for those who have failed here, but who had noble aims. Circumstances are not our masters, but they have great power. We must not be hasty to judge. Some will go up higher, who failed, judged by the world's tests: others will go lower, who were praised by men. God knoweth all.

        Q. What now are the reasons for believing in the future life?

        A. That mankind has desired it.

        Q. Another.

        A. That it completes the present life.

        Q. Have we a third reason?

        A. We cannot think of the soul as dead.

        Q. Is this all?

        A. No. It is true to our highest conception of God and His justice.

        Q. Still more?

        A. Jesus, the greatest religious teacher, enforces the belief.

        Other Arguments.

        There are other reasons; but they are not easily treated in talks of this kind, so I omit them. Therefore, I come back to our first thought: If these reasons make our faith stronger, then we ought to be happy and brave. A wise man of old - Socrates - said, -

        "Be of good cheer about death, and know this of a truth, that no evil can happen to a good man either in life or after death."

        A greater than Socrates gave us the Beatitude: Happy are those that have been persecuted in the cause of Right, for it is to them that the kingdom of heaven belongs.

        The Eternal Goodness is our source of trust. We will go forward hopefully.

        I know not where His islands lift

        Their fronded palms in air;

        I only know I cannot drift

        Beyond His love and care.

        Whittier.

        II. HINTS TO TEACHERS.

        Actual life, the life of today, interests the young. But his thought of a future life must be unfolded early, and taught in reasonable views. Not doing this, we run great risks of errors creeping in as life matures. Christianity did not create the idea of immortality, neither did it make clear the place where souls dwell in the next world. But Jesus deepened the reasonable faith in personal life hereafter, and asked us to trust the Eternal Goodness for the rest. Impress this is all ways.

        III. QUESTIONS FOR PUPILS.

            * What is meant by the poetry quoted from Mr. Savage?
            * How does a tree bear leaves and fruit?
            * How does it survive the winter's cold?
            * How does this figure apply to our subject?
            * What is everlasting or enduring life?
            * What is the best preparation for death?
            * How do you define "living nobly"?
            * How does the thought of another life affect our thought of this one?
            * What is meant by "progress"?
            * Can you give some of the reasons for believing in our "fifth point"?

        Lesson Nineteen

        I. THE TALK.

        We have now finished our talks on the five points. Let us add one on some things that follow. What are we intending to do with Our Faith?

        A. We will make it grow.

        Q. What do you mean by that?

        A. Apply it, enlarge it, enrich it.

        Q. How can this be done?

        A. By keeping the mind open.

        Q. Ought we to welcome new truth?

        A. Always.

        Q. Is there any danger?

        A. There is danger in refusing to listen to new truth.

        Three Ways.

        There are three ways of using a Faith, three ways of applying our religious belief.

        First, by making it strengthen and develop our characters.

        Second, by using it to organize a church and to create a denomination.

        Third, by putting it forth, with others, as a grand missionary cause, a gospel of "Good news" to the world.

        Q. Are there any dangers in this?

        A. Yes. And we must be careful.

        Q. What are some things to be avoided?

        A. Bigotry and persecution.

        Q. Can we be zealous for our faith and remain broad?

        A. Certainly.

        Q. Is it narrow to be in earnest?

        A. No. Some narrow minds are never enthusiastic.

        Universal Church.

        We often hear of a church universal. But that does not mean one church, one form of worship, for all. It means a unity of spirit and aim, - the spirit and aim of Jesus, with different churches.

        Q. How did Saint Paul speak of this?

        A. Different "administrations," different forms, but the same spirit.

        Q. What is meant by the "same spirit"?

        A. Love to God, service for man, discipleship of Jesus.

        Unity in Variety.

        If all persons accepted Our Faith, they would not necessarily think just alike or have the same church. This belief we have studied allows for variety of application and unfolding. That is one deep reason why we think it will spread and become powerful.

        Two.

        There are two words we must always remember, and keep in mind what they stand for in religion.

        Q. What is the first?

        A. Reason.

        Q. The second?

        A. Reverence.

        Q. How does the first help us?

        A. By showing us the truth.

        Q. What does the second stand for?

        A. Reverence is love and admiration for truth.

        Together.

        They work together. Reason gives us the truth, and reverence impels us to be obedient to the truth.

        Q. But is reason opposed to faith?

        A. No. Without reason we could not have faith.

        Q. Is faith greater than reason?

        A. Yes. Because we believe on and beyond what we know and prove.

        Q. What is faith without reason?

        A. Superstition.

        Q. What is reason without faith?

        A. Half-developed character.

        Q. Could the world go on a day without faith?

        A. No.

        Going Forward.

        As we go forward, loyal and zealous to Our Faith, how can we come into union with others and prove that we are truly "liberal"? Perhaps Rev. W.C. Gannett's four tests will do:

            * Freedom of reason and freedom of conscience.
            * Fellowship, the Spirit.
            * Service, the Aim.
            * Character, the Test.

        Vaster.

        There is a stanza by Tennyson that tells us well how we ought to use Our Faith:

        Let knowledge grow from more to more,

        But more of reverence in us dwell;

        That mind and soul, according well,

        May make one music as before, - but vaster.

        II. HINTS TO TEACHERS.

        You can do an important service to the pupils, if you enforce the idea of this lesson. The right use and the full use of a statement of belief is yet to be understood by Christians. It must be made a source of progress in thought, of guidance in conduct, of joy in life, of fellowship in religion. "Creeds" and doctrines have been used in just the opposite ways. Let us prove to the world that our young people can learn a "faith," love it, and stand by it, with liberty of mind and breadth of view.

        III. QUESTIONS FOR PUPILS.

            * What must we do with Our Faith?
            * How do you explain it?
            * Ought we to welcome new truth?
            * What are the three ways of using Our Faith?
            * What two evils ought we to avoid?
            * What do we mean by "the universal church"?
            * What two words should we remember?
            * Can you mention Mr. Gannett's four tests of a "liberal"?
            * Can you repeat the lines from Tennyson?
            * Will you explain their exact meaning?

        Lesson Twenty

        A Summary and Review.

        We have reached the end of our talks. It seems to me fitting to five one more treasure into the keeping of memory. At the beginning we learned Mr. Mott's "Therefore." Now, as a summing-up, as a review, let us get well acquainted with Mrs. Clara Bancroft Beatley's valuable

        Exposition of Our Faith.

        I. The Fatherhood of God. .

        By the Fatherhood of God, we mean that God is a Father and that all are His children. God is more loving than the best father we know, or can in any way dream of. As children trust their earthly parents, so we trust the Father in heaven.

        If ye, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father in heaven give good things to them that ask Him?

        Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed by Thy name. Thy kingdom come. They will be done, as in heaven so on earth.

        II. The Brotherhood of Man.

        By the Brotherhood of Man, we mean that all are members of one family, and so are brothers and sisters. Our lives are happiest when we recognize this bond of Brotherhood.

        Therefore let us lay aside bitterness, and wrath, and evil speaking, and be kind to one another, forgiving one another.

        If God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.

        O Brother-man fold to thy heart thy Brother!

        Where pity dwells, the peace of God is there;

        To worship rightly is to love each other.

        Each smile, a hymn; each kindly deed, a prayer!

        III. The Leadership of Jesus.

        By the Leadership of Jesus, we mean that we believe that Jesus has shown the way of life beyond all other teachers. He has taught us that God is our Father, and man our Brother; and that heaven is within the heart. He has given us the Golden Rule of life, and has taught us the prayer that has never grown old. We accept him as our Leader, and would walk in his path.

        Where'er we walk, our Shepherd goes before.

        I am come, that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

        O Lord and Master of us all,

        What e'er our name or sign,

        We own thy sway, we hear thy call,

        We test our lives by thine.

        We faintly hear, we dimly see,

        In differing phrase we pray,

        But dim or clear, we own in thee

        The light, the truth, the way.

        IV. Salvation by Character.

        By Salvation by Character, we mean that the highest peace and joy can only come as we follow the right, forget self, and grow more and more toward perfection. We may have fine ideas of right, and recite Our Faith every Sunday, but only as we live the right, do we follow the Leadership of Jesus, and find the peace and joy of the Heavenly Kingdom.

        Not every one that saith unto me, "Lord, Lord," shall enter the Kingdom of Heaven, but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in Heaven.

        Behold the Kingdom of Heaven is within you.

        To be saved is only this, salvation from our selfishness.

        Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?

        The fruits of the spirit are love, joy, peace!

        The tissues of the life to be

        We weave with colors all our own;

        And in the field of Destiny

        We reap as we have sown.

        V. The Progress of Mankind, onward and upward forever.

        By the Progress of Mankind, onward and upward forever, we mean that we were made to grow toward God, the Father of our spirits. There is no end to this growth. We have the hope of growing wiser and better as long as we live in this world, and of finding new opportunities of growth in the heavenly life to come.

        Build thee more stately mansions, O my soul,

        As the swift seasons roll!

        Leave thy low-vaulted past!

        Let each new temple, nobler than the last,

        Shut thee from heaven with a dome more vast,

        Till thou at length art free!

        Leaving thine outgrown shall by life's unresting sea.

        In love to God and love to man

        Our simple creed finds ample scope;

        Secure in God's unerring plan,

        We walk by faith, are saved by hope.

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    Sunday School Lesson 17


    Hello,

        Welcome to our weekly Sunday School Lesson. We have created this feature to allow you to get regular weekly Sunday School lessons sent straight to you, for your use in teaching the young of your congregation. These lessons are on a variety of topics and we are neither promoting nor insisting on any particular point of view. We are also not checking them for accuracy. We are merely sharing what has been sent to us. If you
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        Our Faith - Twenty Lessons separated into four. (13-16)
        Lesson Thirteen

        I. THE TALK.

        We have reached the fourth point:-

        Salvation by Character.

        In using this word "salvation," we must be sure and start right. Why do we talk about being saved? What are we to be saved from?

        There must be dangers of some kind that are before us all. Firemen save persons from burning houses. Doctors save patients from death. Life preservers are made to save from drowning. Now what does religion save from, and how is it done? And, first, what are the dangers?

        Two Kinds.

        When we read history, we find there have always been two kinds of dangers, on of this world, and one of the world beyond. That is the way men have looked at the subject.

        The Strong Life.

        In order to escape the dangers of this world, men have tried to live the strong life; and they meant by that the good life. Because it was good, it was strong.

        Why Strong?

        Because a good life obeys God's laws, and he who is obedient to God's will is one with the power of the universe. The good man does not escape dangers of sickness, accident, and age; but he is free from punishments and sufferings that attend wickedness.

        The Other World.

        Then we find there has been a wonder and fear about the other world. Great questions came up. What ought to be done to make one's self ready for the next life? How would God judge the soul? What was the best way to prepare for death?

        Character.

        The wisest men have believed that the same way of escaping the evils and dangers of this world was the best way for securing acceptance in the life to come. And that is what we believe. So we say, Salvation by character, here and everywhere; now and at all times.

        What is it?

        But some one may ask us, What do you mean by "character"? And we reply, It is the whole result of our thinking and doing. It is what we really are, not simply what we say we are, or what we say we believe.

        Q. Suppose I say, "Character by salvation"?

        A. That is the same thing with a different emphasis.

        Q. Why do you prefer the former?

        A. Because it is the Jesus way, which is the truer way.

        Q. What do you more fully mean?

        A. To be saved, you must have Christian character: therefore, put the emphasis on character; the cause before the effect.

        Salvation.

        You see the argument: We can use this fourth point either way, Salvation by character of Character by salvation; but the first is far the better. Why? Because there are many strange ideas about Գalvation.ԠIt means to some an escape from an angry God; to others, a reliance on the goodness of another; in others, a profession of faith; to others, sacrifices and forms of worship; to others, acceptance of a scheme of theology.

        The True Idea.

        In our belief we think of "salvation" as rescue from evil and obedience to right, love of the good and hostility to the bad, and that salvation comes through God's help, by many ways, but greatly in the leadership of Jesus. Our own efforts joined with help divine makes salvation, makes character, makes the soul victorious in life and death. In that sense salvation is character. Just as surely and more accurately we can say character is salvation.

        Our Duty.

        Salvation by character is not easy. We are kept on guard all the time. We are warned not to believe in "good works" alone. We are obliged to look beyond, to help and light higher than ourselves. On the other hand, we are cautioned against lip service, and substitute merit. Our lives must have faith and works combined. "By their fruits ye shall know them."

        Morality Alone?

        No! Not morality alone.

        Q. What do we mean by "being good"?

        A. A life of two elements, -religious faith and moral purpose.

        Q. Can the Golden Rule exist of itself?

        A. No! It must have a spiritual inspiration.

        Q. What is meant by "spiritual inspiration"?

        A. The sanctions and power of religious sentiments.

        II. HINTS TO TEACHERS.

        "Character Building," a manual published by the Unitarian Sunday-School Society, may prove helpful. But life, biography, are full of aids. Your object must be, in this lesson, to deal justly with both sides of the question, leaving the emphasis on character. We do not make ourselves. Yet we are in a measure responsible. Religion and morality, God and man, ideals and practice, -united produce character.

        III. QUESTIONS FOR PUPILS.

            * Are there dangers in this world?
            * Are there any in the world beyond?
            * How can we escape them?
            * What do we mean by "the strong life"?
            * What is character?
            * What is salvation?
            * How do they depend on each other?
            * Which do you call the cause, and which the effect?
            * What two things must be combined to make character?
            * Can you tell the meaning of "spiritual inspiration"?

        Lesson Fourteen

        I. THE TALK.

        When we search the Bible to learn the teachings about salvation, we find in the Old Testament stories and records of ancient habits. They belonged to the times when religion was not free from idolatry.

        Sacrifices.

        In order to please Jehovah, the people offered sacrifices of animals: sometimes they did not spare human lives. By such means, worshippers hoped to secure the favor and protection of God.

        Many Gods.

        There were those, also, who believed in more gods than one. These gods were always fighting, and the object of worship was to get the good will of the strongest. All these ideas belonged to the early times of the world. But in savage nations the superstition remains.

        Focus and Prayers.

        Another way to salvation was by repeating prayers and by going through forms. To keep safe and well, men wore charms and observed certain customs. This way is still pursued by many.

        The Prophets.

        Q. Did superstition go unrebuked?

        A. No. Among the Jews the prophets rose to protest.

        Q. Who were they?

        A. The greatest were Isaiah, Jeremiah, Amos, Micah.

        Q. Did Moses teach the true view of salvation?

        A. Yes. He taught the religion of character and the holy life.

        Q. What did Micah say?

        A. "Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God."

        Jesus.

        The prophets and best teachers in the Old Testament stood for salvation by character: they denied the claim that costly sacrifices could take the place of goodness and holiness. Now, if we search the New Testament, we see Jesus rebuking the other evil, -the idea that forms and prayers can be substituted for character.

        Plain Speech.

        The rulers and priests grew angry because Jesus spoke so plainly. He called some of them "whited sepulchres." He used the word "hypocrites." He declared they were the blind leading the blind.

        Jesus denounced these false leaders because they were making religion hollow and teaching the worst kind of doctrine. They were encouraging the people to believe that salvation could be secured by something else than character.

        In Meaning.

        Character means reality.

        Character stands for sincerity.

        Character represents conscience.

        Character has deep faith roots.

        Character flows toward an ideal.

        Isaiah.

        Jesus often quoted from the sayings of the prophet Isaiah when rebuking the people. Once he exclaimed:

        Well said Isaiah when he foretold such as you, in the words:
"This is a people that honors God with their lips, while their hearts are far removed from Him. But vainly do they worship Him, for their teaching is only the commands of men."

        Then he added, You neglect God's commandments, and cling to the traditions of men..

        Everywhere.

        All through the teaching of Jesus is this condemnation of the belief in salvation by habits, or external forms. He even says that at some future day many will come and say, "Lord, I did miracles in thy name." But they will be rejected, because their spirit and aim were not those of their Master.

        By the Well.

        One great saying of Jesus stands out, uttered at the well in Samaria: "God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship spiritually, with true insight." Forms, prayers, habits, may help worship; but they are not worship itself.

        Right Understanding.

        With this knowledge of what the prophets and Jesus taught, we can understand correctly certain phrases.

        "Saved by faith" means made strong by faith in the right life, and daily striving to realize it, God helping.

        "Reconciled to God" means put into right relations of knowledge and obedience, knowing His laws, and obeying them.

        "Conversion" means turning about from the wrong path and going the right way, leading the right life.

        II. HINTS TO TEACHERS.

        Here is a good opportunity to prove that the Bible is a record of religious development in the nation and the individual. Through superstition and idolatry shines the light of the prophets and of Jesus. The spiritual truths of the New Testament gather around the growing idea that reality and righteousness make genuine religion. The Old Testament said "righteousness," the New Testament says "righteousness and mercy." (Read Emerson's essay, "Character" and Spiritual Laws.")

        III. QUESTIONS FOR PUPILS.

            * Can you give the principal idea of the preceding lesson?
            * What is our object in this one?
            * How did the ancients try to get salvation?
            * Who rebuked them?
            * What was a prophet?
            * Against what evil did Jesus speak?
            * What did he once quote from Isaiah?
            * What did he say by the well at Samaria?
            * For what does character stand?
            * Can you explain the terms "saved by faith," "conversion,"
and "reconciled to God"?

        Lesson Fifteen

        How happy is he born or taught

        Who serveth not another's will;

        Whose armor is his honest thought,

        And simple truth his highest skill.

        Sir Henry Wotton .

        I. THE TALK.
        We conclude in this lesson our consideration of the subject, Salvation by Character.

        By looking into history and by examining the Bible, we have learned certain things.

        Salvation.

        Salvation means safety, strength, happiness. It means right relations. It means peace of mind and power of soul.

        Character.

        Character means completeness, righteousness, faith in God, and faith in man. It means conviction and conscience. It means worship and work.

        The Way of Jesus.

        Jesus taught The Way. Walk in it and you will be saved, he said. That Way was none other than the one we have described, - The Way of Holiness.

        Holiness.

        Holiness is whole-ness, and whole-ness is character. Of course, no one is perfect, said Jesus, no one is whole; but we are to strive for completer characters, and walk in The Way.

        Purpose.

        We are not saved - that is, we are not acceptable in the sight of God - because of what we do alone. Our works are sadly short of what we ought to do. But the purpose redeems us. We are estimated by our best efforts, thought those efforts may often fail.

        Completing.

        I prefer the word "completing," or finishing, rather than "salvation." It is true we need to be saved from many dangers, but our greatest need is to grow.

        We are incomplete, half-built, not fulfilled. Saint Paul preferred the word "completion," for he urged them of old to grow up into the full stature and strength of the children of God.

        Growth.

        Q. What is man?

        A. A growing soul.

        Q. What does he need?

        A. Knowledge and enthusiasm.

        Q. Is knowledge enough?

        A. No! We must add a love for God and man.

        Q. What is "completion"?

        A. Constantly coming nearer to an ideal.

        Q. What is the ideal of human character?

        A. The example of Jesus, his spirit and aim.

        Helps.

        There are many helps to character-making. While forms cannot take the place of religion, they assist. It is not right to say we will not go to church, we will not recite Scripture, we will not say we believe things, because some persons do all this in a wrong way.

        Examples.

        The study of biography is a help. Great lives remind us we can aspire and achieve. Read the records of noble men and women who were true to themselves and true to their Maker.

        Facing Forward.

        Always face forward. Look for more light. Never give up. Expect to grow and to ascend. "We are saved by hope," said an apostle. As long as you live, keep moving forward. Be true to the old, and be ready for the new.

        Tastes.

        We grow by our tastes. We are saved by what we like. These lines are worthy of memorizing:

        To live for common ends is to be common.

        The highest faith makes still the highest man;

        For we grow like the things our souls believe.

        We are in very truth that which we love.

        Punishment.

        I have not said anything about punishments. What are they? The penalties paid for breaking laws.

        Q. What are God's punishments?

        A. Intended to educate and help.

        Q. Do they come because of anger?

        A. God is never angry.

        Q. Does He forgive?

        A. He is always forgiving, and changes not.

        Q. What does He demand of us?

        A. That we obey His commandments as fast as we know them.

        II. HINTS TO TEACHERS.

        In a sense this lesson gathers up the two previous ones. Bring out clearly the mutual relations of salvation and character. Show the fallacy of substitution religion, whether as sacrifice, charms, forms, or schemes of theology. But do not end with negative results: leave the positive impression last, -the greatness and glory of completed Christian character as title to "salvation."

        III. QUESTIONS FOR PUPILS.

            * What does "salvation" mean?
            * What does "character" mean?
            * What is meant by "The Way"?
            * Can you give another word for "holiness"?
            * What really "saves" any one?
            * How does the word "completion" bear on our subject?
            * What is our ideal?
            * What are helps to character-growing?
            * Will you explain the meaning of "punishments"?
            * How do our tastes affect us?
            * Is God ever angry?
            * What is obedience?
            * What is forgiveness?

        Lesson Sixteen

        As we have borne the image of the earthly, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. -SAINT PAUL.

        I. THE TALK.

        On our steady course we have reached the final, the fifth point of our belief:

        Progress of Mankind Onward and Upward Forever.

        Following our habit, let us first look backward to see what was thought about the future life in old times, the long ago of history.

        Something.

        We find, even among savages, something of a belief in immortality. But the hope was very dim, and not spiritual.

        Some believed that life was greatly the same in the future. The warriors fought and led the tribes to battle. The Indian buried his friend with bow and arrows by his side, -a sign that something would be needed of that kind after death.

        Egyptians.

        The people of old Egypt believed in a judgment day. There was nothing cheerful in the future, as we consider cheerfulness. Just where and how souls were to live never seemed clear. The body having served the soul so well was thought worthy of embalming.

        Greeks and Romans.

        These ancients talked about the Elysian Fields, where spring and joyous days were the portion of the blest. Suffering and darkness attended the wicked. But there was no progress. They seemed to believe in spirits and oracles and a world of supernatural beings. The body, having finished its service at death, was often burned, and the ashes put into an urn,-
our modern cremation.

        Norsemen.

        Those sturdy men of Iceland and Scandinavia had religious customs that recognized a future life. We have their poems and records paying honors to heroes and rulers who continued to be famous in gorgeous halls and lordly palaces beyond the grave. What became of the people, the human beings who were not great and famous, very little is told us that we can understand.

        Q. What was one old custom?

        A. The honoring of ancestors, parents.

        Q. Where do we find this now?

        A. In China.

        Q. What does it really mean?

        A. Gratitude to the departed, wherever they may be.

        Q. Does this show belief in immortality?

        A. Only indirectly, as a possibility

        Today.

        All of these beliefs, and many others we cannot mention, exist today, somewhere in the world. And in all ages, even to this time, men have thought about death, and wondered what it meant. Does it put out our life, like blowing out a lighted candle?

        Two Views.

        We can see, running through the ages, a dividing line. Some have always believed that what we call death is a blessing, a part of divine goodness. Others have always believed that it represented God's punishment of man for his sins. Here is a great difference.

        Q. What do we further find, looking backward?

        A. A view of this life as probation.

        Q. What does that mean?

        A. One test life for man, and then judgment.

        Q. What else was taught as true?

        A. Two places hereafter, one for the good, one for the bad.

        The New.

        By the light of Christianity and from the teachings of later times we have come to new truth.

        This life joins the next life.

        The next life continues this life.

        All life is progressive.

        Death is not a crisis, but a change.

        Judgment days are every day.

        Many Worlds.

        In olden times it was thought our world was the only one. The sun, moon, and stars existed merely to light the earth. Even our own globe was little known; and one tribe, or nation, thought itself to be the only important one.

        Enlarged.

        We have now a great thought. Thousands of worlds are discovered by the telescope. Human beings, all over the earth, are seen to be of one family. God is educating His children. As He has made a place for us here He will make a place for us elsewhere. We do not think now so much of heaven as a particular spot.

        The following lines fitly end our conversation at this time:

        We cannot think of them as dead

        Who walk with us no more;

        Along the path of life we tread

        They have but gone before.

        The Father's house is mansioned fair

        Beyond our vision dim:

        All souls are His, and, here or there,

        Are living unto Him.

        F.L. Hosmer

        II. HINTS TO TEACHERS.

        The wise use of material relating to ancient customs and beliefs will prove interesting to the class. See Gould's "Beginnings," chapter on Immortality. Lubbock's "Prehistoric Times" is suggestive. Alger's "History of the Doctrine of the Future Life" is the great storehouse of facts.

        III. QUESTIONS FOR PUPILS.

            * What is the quotation from Paul?
            * Has some kind of belief in immortality always existed?
            * How have savages expressed it?
            * How the Egyptians?
            * How the Greeks?
            * What is the prevailing custom in China?
            * What two views of death have always existed?
            * Can you explain the saying, "This life is a probation"?
            * What is the "new view"?
            * How have we learned the new and better truth?

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