New Twentieth-Century Course

We have carefully examined the ten new lessons of the Twentieth-Century Bible Course entitled "Hope for the World." This course is unique in its approach to the prob­lems of fear and worry, indifference and unbe­lief, selfishness and worldliness in general. It reveals very tactfully, yet definitely, the true condition of the unregenerate heart, and makes the need for a personal Saviour very apparent.

Each of the lessons in "Hope for the World" is introduced by a gripping illustration, and throughout the lesson such windows of truth clarify many important points. Most effective are the heart-searching questions at the close of each lesson, accompanied by some apt and appealing story. These lessons are well organ­ized around Bible texts which help the student to see the points of Scriptural emphasis. One is impressed with the fact that this is not a stilted theological course on conversion, for each les­son definitely reaches the needs of modern man and deeply touches his family, social, and church problems. Tactful references from Prot­estant, Catholic, and Jewish leaders suggest general appeal.

In each of these lessons the student familiar­izes himself with some particular spiritual gem or key thought from the Spirit of prophecy. This gem usually challenges prayer and deci­sion for Christ, and lingers in the memory.

Lesson I.—Under the symbol "At the Cross­roads" the signs of the times and the omens of Christ's imminent return are dealt with for our modern Atomic Age.

Lesson 2.—God's love and a Father's free forgiveness blend appealingly in Christ's love for all sinners—a lesson that will help to con­vert the most stubborn heart.

Lesson 3.—"Four Things I Must Know"—my sinful condition, God's cleansing power for all sins, a hatred for sin generally, and the way to true holiness.

Lesson 4.—A heart-to-heart talk with a sym­pathetic teacher. Repentance and regeneration. The further steps that lead to conversion are clearly taught.

Lesson 5.—A most practical lesson on faith. Its logic is clear and unusually gripping. Excel­lent illustrations. "But the way to the summit is a gradual ascent : first, up the foothill to ask­ing; second, to the hilltop of believing; third, by the wayside hostel of taking; fourth, a climb to the mount of possessing; and fifth, to the triumphant peak of thankfulness for forgive­ness, for a new heart, Tor hope of the crown of life."

Lesson 6.—The exercising of faith is com­pared to a ball game and its rules. Man must reach the bases of confession, repentance, and regeneration before the final victory—his heav­enly home. The judgment is an important pending event, and God, the great Umpire, makes weighty decisions.

Lesson 7.—"My Double Life Line to Heaven." Introduced by a fitting illustration on deep-sea diving. The life of the diver is depend­ent on breathing and proper connection above. Appropriate lessons on prayer and Bible study are set forth with strong appeal.

Lesson 8.—A most practical lesson emphasiz­ing God as the channel of all our blessings. For bounties received we owe Him lives of kindness to our fellow men. Sharing and returning to God what is rightfully His are expected of every Christian. (Tithing is more than hinted at.)

Lesson 9.—"Facing My Four Fears." Here is up-to-the-hour guidance in dealing with the fear problem at large, not as a psychiatrist, but in a Christian way. It stimulates poise for everyday trials. A comforting lesson.

Lesson 10.—"The Golden Key to True Hap­piness." Basing the lessons on King Solomon's failures in his quest for true happiness, such problems as seeking peace by means of educa­tion, pleasure and dissipation, accumulating earthly possessions, and sinking in social li­cense are all solved by man's new obedience in Christ. A wonderful lesson introducing great principles of Bible obedience.

This course, "Hope for the World," offers what it promises—true hope in an age of dark despair. It stimulates Bible study and will help to convert the heart even before prophetic truth and doctrine are studied in detail in succeeding lessons. It is a proper approach to our wonder­ful message. The author, Arthur E. Lickey, deserves our appreciation. Let us give this long-anticipated Bible course wide circulation.

L. C. K.