Thursday – April 23
State of the Heart – Sabbath School Lesson Study
- This Sabbath School lesson study, “State of the Heart,” explains how our attitude affects how we understand and receive God’s Word.
Bible Focus
- 1 Corinthians 2:14
- 1 Thessalonians 2:13
- Mark 9:24
- Luke 17:6
- 2 Timothy 3:15
Spirit of Prophecy Focus
- The Desire of Ages, pp. 390–391 by Ellen G. White
State of the Heart Summary
- The condition of the heart affects how we understand the Bible.
- A closed heart will not receive spiritual truth.
- A natural mind sees the Bible as foolish.
- Spiritual truth can only be understood through the Spirit.
- A humble and open heart leads to deeper understanding.
- Spiritual insight grows when we are willing to learn.
- God’s Word works in us when we believe it.
- Faith allows the Bible to change our lives.
- If we expect God to speak, He will speak to us.
- Our attitude determines how much we receive.
- Even small faith is enough for God to work with.
- He can grow our faith when we ask Him.
- The Bible reveals our true spiritual condition.
- It shows us where we need to change.
- Real growth is often slow and steady.
- Change may not always be immediately visible.
- If we cling to sin or resist change, growth stops.
- Bible reading without surrender has little effect.
- The Holy Spirit calls us closer to Jesus.
- We must choose whether to respond or resist.
- God’s Word must be received personally.
- It should shape our thoughts and character.
- We should not come to the Bible to prove our ideas.
- We should come ready to listen and be corrected.
Question
- Why is the state of the heart important when reading the Bible?
Answer
- Because only a humble and open heart, guided by the Holy Spirit, can truly understand and receive God’s Word.
Reflection
- Do you come to the Bible to listen to God, or to confirm your own views?
Takeaway
- An open and humble heart allows God’s Word to transform your life.
Continue Studying
- To deepen your study, explore the official Sabbath School lesson: https://absg.sspmadventist.org/
- You can also continue with:
- Wednesday: Bible Claims
- Lesson 4 Overview
- Friday Lesson Study
