INTRODUTION TO SENIOR YOUTH LEADERS (SYL) COURSE

In response to the growing need of leaders, the loss of ambassadors and young adults, the wave of
technology and the focus on the Local Church.
The church is facing an alarming depletion of young people. It has often been reported that youth
are leaving the church not because of doctrinal issues but relational ones.
The reasons for losing them can be studied and researched, but something must be done now.
What youth’s needs?
1. To be recognized
2. Listened to
3. Appreciated
4. Be involved.
The leadership Curriculum try to attempt to prepare youths and young adult leaders to address
these important issues
Senior Youth Leader (SYL) has been written for Leaders who wish to be involved with
Ambassadors and Young Adults. It provides a sufficient knowledge that will allow them to be
sharp up-to date while serving in the youth ministry.
The Senior Youth Leader (SYL) is the highest level of training in the Adventist Senior youth
ministry
Senior Youth Leader (SYL) are leaders that serve the church in the areas of the youth ministry
especially the Ambassadors and Young Adults
The course involve In- service Training and active involvement in learning new skills and
developing method for successful leadership.
This means that the participant must take responsibility as a Ambassadors and Young Adults staff
members for a minimum of one year and during that time attend at least 75% of meeting.
This will enable new skills through active involvement with the Youths.
To ensure standard of training and learning each candidate is expected to produce a complete
portfolio before getting investure.

WHAT SENIOR YOUTH LEADER (SYL TRAINING IS NOT ABOUT

 It is not an honorary rank offered to you because of your age.
 It is not a status given to you because of something great you have done in the past.
 It is not a title that we give you at the end of a course of study.
 It is not just a smart uniform that people may respect you.
WHO IS A SENIOR YOUTH LEADER
 A servant of God
 A guide and an example for the youth
 A leader of the church
 Work with ambassadors and Young Adult
 An expert, a specialist
 A useful and resourceful person
QUALITIES OF A SENIOR YOUTH LEADER
 Salvation
 Service
WHAT DOES JESUS SAY?
• The greatest among you …
The world’s conception is that those who lead are in some way better than the people whom
they lead. They gain status because they exercise power over others to achieve their goals. All
 of which leads to rewards, benefits and preferential treatment. This does not impress Jesus at
all. He took the Scribes and Pharisees to task for such behaviour (Matthew 23:1-11), showing
that behaviour reflects the nature of the heart (Luke 6:43-45).
Jesus leadership style is diametrically opposed to that of the world. He declared that in the
Kingdom, greatness belongs to the servant and that distinction grows from child-like humility
(Matthew 18:4). He taught that leaders were to serve others, not to be served by them.
• Nurture a Christ-like servant-hearted character
Jesus had a sacrificial servant heart that was focused on the needs of others. Ask
yourself “How can I live out Christ’s servant hearted character, putting first concern for
those whom I lead?”
Focus on others
Serve others so they can grow and be effective in God’s service. Ask yourself “What else can
I do to enable each person I lead to achieve his or her full potential?”
Take responsibility for understanding
Effective communication is essential. So, take responsibility and ask yourself, “What can I do
to ensure that others have understood me and that I have understood them?”
Consider the individual
Make cooperation more effective by developing the best relationships you can with those you
lead. Ask yourself, “How can I improve the manner in which we work together by adjusting
how I interact with each person?”
Nurture the character
Encourage others to live out Christ-like values. Ask yourself, “How can I affirm those who
are honest and truthful, and how can I better reflect Christ’s love by treating everyone with
honesty and dignity?”
Model the way
Like it or not, you are a role model to those whom you lead, and actions speak louder than
words. Ask yourself, “How can I make my values to be more Christ-like and live them out in
front of those whom I lead?”
Inspire a shared vision
A shared vision of purpose and outcome, which is owned by all, is the key to achieving the
goal. Ask yourself, “How can I engage my team to build a shared vision that encourages
greater levels of cooperation?”
Challenge the process
It is always possible to be more effective, making it easier to achieve the desired outcomes.
Ask yourself, “How can I encourage my team to continually find better ways of doing
things?”
Enable others to achieve
Our goal is to enable others to achieve. Ask yourself, “How can I better equip and empower
those whom I lead to more easily reach fulfill our shared vision?”
Encourage the heart
Knowing that one is valued is an important encouragement for everyone. Ask yourself, “How
can I publicly and genuinely recognize the value of individuals and their achievements?”

EXPECTATION OF A SENIOR YOUTH LEADER.

1. LEADER- A universally recognized within the network of SDA church
2. EXPERT- Someone who is skillful and knowledgeable.
3. GUIDE – Able to show the way on how something is done.
4. UNIFORNMED PERSON – A role model of discipline and good example before the
youth.
5. USEFULL PERSON – Someone who is resourceful and good to have him around.
6. SERVANT – Ready to serve wherever and whatever duty calls.
 AREAS OF SPECIALIST OF A SENIOR YOUTH LEADER
 The senior youth leader is a specialist working with Youth in the local Church
 He /She provide their service on areas like:
1. Young adult and Ambassadors
2. Sabbath School and youth Division classes
3. AYM Society
What is the intended purpose
• The main objective of the SYL program is create an environment of awareness to the Senior
Youth so that they may embrace the church as their own.
• They must know that they are the church of God today and not tomorrow.
• They must be ready to embrace this training program so that they may be able to reach out to
their fellow youths.
• The program also prepares the youth for leadership roles within the church.

SENIOR YOUTH LEADER AS A CALLING

 As A Senior Youth Leader, You Should Know That:
1. The children of today need our guidance for the road ahead of them often seems so
confusing
2. The youth of today need to know the way to heaven
3. The Youth of today need to be taught useful and practical skills that will steer them
away from evil influence and wrong company.
4. The youth of today need to be taught by deeds and examples.
WHAT THE YOUNG PEOPLE NEEDS FROM US
1. A word of encouragement
2. Recognition
3. Security
4. Word of hope
HOW TO REACH THE YOUNG PEOPLE
1. Believing in them
2. Trusting them
3. Accepting them
4. Working with them

WHAT THE COURSE COVERAGE

 Local Church Emphasis
The aim of this curriculum is to strengthen the fact and the reality that the Youth department is at the
heart of the local church and that the operations of the youth department should be understood in the
context of the local church.
 Mentor
The curriculum addresses and makes use mentorship concepts from the beginning to the end. Each
candidate shall formerly be accepted into the program through the local church board and assigned a
mentor who will walk them through the course.
 Technology/Media
 The curriculum seeks to integrate training with the use of technology to bring together the
natural inclination of ambassadors and young adults towards media.
It also includes the latest terminology and programs/initiatives of the department. Candidates are
at liberty to choose between digital (video or audio) recording or physical filing.
 Relationship To Master Guide
Both the Master Guide (Junior Youth) and the Senior Youth Leader (Senior Youth) curriculums
have some similar requirements and pre-requisites.
Candidates can attend some lessons together though each curriculum will dictate the emphasis on
(junior or senior youths) and specialization.
The diagram below shows the Youth Ministries structure.
The SYL and MG are not new levels of the department, they are leadership curriculums for
Senior Youth and Junior Youth respectively that complement the structure

PREREQUISITES
The pre-requisites are must before starting the classes.

1. Be a baptized member in regular standing of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

2. Have a Written/Recorded recommendation from your local Church Board.

3. Be at least 16 years of age to start the Senior Youth Leader Curriculum
4. Be an active staff member/supporter of an ambassador or Young Adults Ministry.
5. Complete the 10 Hour Senior Youth Seminars and be involved for a minimum of one year.
WHAT IS A PORTFOLIO
 It is a collection of documents evidence and examples that demonstrate completion of
participant’s studies.
  It documents the journey progress, lesson learned and completion of requirements.
TYPES OF PORTFOLIO
1) Showcase or Presentation Portfolio: A Collection of Best Work
These types of portfolios focus on the portfolio as a product and are also typically called professional
portfolios, formal portfolios, or career portfolio.
2) Process or Learning Portfolio: A Work in Progress
The second type of portfolio that we commonly see is more of a running record of learning. The purpose
is to capture the learning process. It’s also called a development portfolio, a reflection portfolio, or a
formative portfolio.
A process portfolio is not always a collection of a student’s best work; it can include a variety of
learning attempts or unpolished documentation along with reflections on struggles and challenges.
3) Assessment Portfolio: used for Accountability
The assessment portfolio is used to document what a student has learned, or demonstrate that they have
mastered elements of the curriculum.
These types of portfolios may be more formal than a showcase or process portfolio.
Assessment portfolios are commonly part of certification programs or even part of requirements for
earning a degree.
4) A Hybrid Approach
The 4th type of portfolio you’ll commonly come across is a combination of the showcase, process,
and/or assessment portfolio.

QUOTES FROM PEN OF INSPIRATION

• “Let the youth remember that here they are to build characters for eternity, and that God requires
them to do their best. Let those older in experience watch over the younger ones; and when they
see them tempted, take them aside, and pray with them and for them.”
― Ellen G. White, Messages to Young People
 SPIRITUAL GIFTS
What is a Spiritual Gift? A spiritual gift is a special ability given to a member of the body of Christ by
the Holy Spirit that enables him/ her to work effectively with joy in helping the church carry out its
mission in the world.
Qualification for Spiritual Gifts
Just as one qualifies for a job or position in this life, there is a need to be qualified for spiritual
gifts even though we cannot earn them.
Matthew 25:14 states that the master called his servants and gave them portions of his goods
according to their abilities.
This implies that these individuals were qualified, because they were his servants (they belonged
to him) and possessed the capability to handle what was given to them.
H
Matthew 25 14 30 summarizes a number of points on how we can be better prepared for our gifts
1.Our lives must belong to God, and then He will entrust His goods to us (verse 14 It is important to
note that the master gave goods to his servants likewise, they are given to the believers
2. We must possess some abilities that God can use (verse 15
3. We must be willing to use what we have in accordance with the Master’s will (verses 16 18
4.Gifts bring with them responsibility and accountability (verses 19 23 5.It is inexcusable to hide, bury,
or refuse to use that which we have (verses 24 29
6.Unproductive Christians will not inherit eternal life (verse 30
1. Spiritual Gifts with natural talents—All people, whether Christians or not, have natural talents.
Only Christians receive spiritual gifts. These gifts enable the Christian to minister in such a way that he
will have a power that will tell upon hearts.
2. Spiritual Gifts with fruit of the Spirit—(Gal. 5:22, 23). The fruit of the Spirit is reproduced in each
Christian by the Holy Spirit. All Christians are to have all of the fruits of the Spirit, but not every
spiritual gift is given to every Christian.
3. Spiritual Gifts with Christian roles—I may be an evangelist, while someone else has the gift of
teaching; yet we are all witnesses (Acts 1:8). Witnessing is not a special gift of the Spirit given to select
persons. It is a role that all Christians share. Every Christian is to show and tell what Christ through His
Word and Spirit has done in his/her own heart and life.
4. Genuine Gifts with Counterfeits—The devil always has a counterfeit for that which is genuine.
Counterfeit gifts are more often associated with the more directly miraculous such as miracles, healings,
speaking in tongues, and prophecy. Being more spectacular, they have greater power to catch attention.
Miracle working is one of the signs of the end. Manifestations of this order must be carefully tested by
the church, for there will be miracles on both the side of truth and the side of error in the last days. Only
by the Scriptures can they be tested.
Spiritual Gifts in the Church God has placed within the church various gifts that have been given to
each one of us to perform our work of ministry. Three key passages concerning Spiritual Gifts
But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ‘s gift. Therefore He
says: ―When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, and gave gifts to men.‖(Now this,
―He ascended‖—what does it mean but that He also first descended into the lower parts of the
earth? He who descended is also the One who ascended far above all the heavens, that He might
fill all things.) And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and
some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the
edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of
the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ;... —
Eph. 4:7-13 NKJV
Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant: You know that[a] you
were Gentiles, carried away to these dumb idols, however you were led. Therefore I make
known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed, and no one can say
that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit. There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but
it is the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one
for the profit of all: for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the
word of knowledge through the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts
of healings by the same Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to
another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation
of tongues. But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one
individually as He wills. ... And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second
prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations,
varieties of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of
miracles? Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But
earnestly desire the best[a] gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way. — 1 Cor. 12:1-11,
28-31 NKJV
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living
sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to
this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that
good and acceptable and perfect will of God. For I say, through the grace given to me, to
everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to
think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith.
For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function,
so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another. Having
then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us
prophesy in proportion to our faith; or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches,
in teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with
diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. — Rom. 12:1-8 NKJV
Ellen G. White References Concerning Spiritual Gifts
1. Possession Of Gifts Depends On Reception Of Spirit — Christ‘S Object Lessons, Page 327
2. Contrast Must Not Hinder Unity… — Testimonies Vol. 9, Pages 144,145
3. Different Gifts Placed In Church… — Gospel Workers, Page 481
4. Not All Imparted To Every Believer… — The Desire Of Ages, Page 823
5. Poorest And Most Ignorant Believer May Have Gifts… — Christ‘S Object Lessons, Page 328
6. Promised To Ever Y Servant Of Christ… — Christ‘S Object Lessons, Page 327 …Subject
Frequently Neglected… — Evangelism, Page 256
7. And Cooperation Essential In Use Of Gifts… — Testimonies Vol. 6, Pages 291 - 293
THE GIFTS DEMONSTRATED IN BIBLE HISTORY
1.Samson
2.Solomon
3.Hosea
4.Ruth
5.Esther
List of Spiritual Gifts
1. Administration – The ability to organize, manage, and supervise working with and through
others to achieve goals. Its meaning is ―to steer,‖ as the helmsman or pilot of a ship. The ability
to plan and launch projects to meet the needs of God‘s cause.
2. Apostleship – This is a title not normally used in church today. However, it means to be sent
out, especially commissioned to represent the church in a broader ministry. This gift may be
represented today by the spirit-given ability to begin the work that may lead to new churches
being established.
3. Discernment – The analytical capacity to discern between truth and error, right and wrong.
4. Evangelism – The ability to so persuasively present the gospel of Jesus that people are led to
become His disciples.
5. Exhortation – This word is derived from the same word that Jesus used for the Comforter (Holy
Spirit), one who comes alongside to encourage. Also, it is the ability to stimulate people to action
in the service of God.
6. Faith – The ability to see a vision of what God wants done and the unswerving confidence to
accomplish it regardless of the obstacles.
7. Giving – The ability to share personal assets with joy and eagerness so that people are helped
and God‘s work is advanced.
 8. Helps – The ability to unselfishly meet the needs of others through some type of practical help.
The exercise of this gift often releases those with teaching and preaching gifts to minister the
word of God.
9. Hospitality – The ability to open one‘s home graciously so that guests are put at ease and are
refreshed both physically and spiritually.
10. Intercession – The practice of praying earnestly and sincerely on behalf of others and their
special needs.
11. Knowledge – The ability to easily master a body of truth. It is also the ability to store and recall a
fund of knowledge from God‘s Word to meet the need at hand.
12. Leadership – The ability to inspire and lead others in various ministries within the body of
Christ. This gift is exercised with the attitude of a servant.
13. Serving – The unusual desire and capacity to render service to others.
14. Mercy – The capacity to feel sympathy with those in need (especially those who are suffering
and miserable) and to manifest this sympathy in some practical way with a cheerful spirit so as to
encourage and help those in need.
15. Missionary – The ability to minister across cultures.
16. Pastoring (Shepherding) – The ability to shepherd, counsel, and encourage believers in their
walk with Christ and in their service to the church and community.
17. Prophecy – Primarily this refers to the gift bestowed on one who is called to receive divine
revelation from God to be communicated to man. Secondarily, to the capacity to preach so that
the Bible comes alive to the hearer.

18. Teaching – The ability to instruct and explain the Bible truths so clearly in such a detailed way
that those willing to learn will understand.
19. Wisdom – The ability to penetrate into a matter, seeing the situation in its larger relationships,
and imparting wise counsel from God‘s Word

How to discover your Spiritual Gifts

1. Pray earnestly that God will reveal them to you.
2. Consider the desires of your heart.
3. Get active in the work of God.
4. Listen to comments of Christian friends; someone else should be able to recognize your gifts.
5. Evaluate your success.
Results of Discovering your Spiritual Gifts
1. You will know God‘s will for your life and where you best fit into the work of the church.
2. You will know better how to cope with diversity and conflict in personal relationships.
3. You will have a greater sense of identity and partnership with Jesus.
4. You will have greater joy in service for the Lord because you will be matched to the work you
enjoy most.
5. You will be better equipped to win your friends and relatives to Jesus
MY PORTFOLIO CONTENT ON SPIRITUAL GIFTS
1.Discover your Spiritual Gift by taking the test found on youth Adventist org spiritual gifts)
2. After studying the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy teachings on Spiritual Gifts, write a brief
summary 250 words) or recording 5 minutes) of how your gifts can most effectively be used in Youth
Ministry
3. Can you identify the specific gift or talent in these bible characters? Samson, Solomon, Hosea Ruth,
Esther)
4. (Explore): List at least five (5) gifts or talents you have identified in the youth in your local
congregation?
RESOURCES
http://youth.adventist.org/Resources/Spiritual Gifts
Assessment/Spiritual Gifts Questionnaire
 THE ENCOUNTER SERIES I CHRIST THE WAY.
 The Encounter Series is a set of four small leaflets that provide a yearly devotional study guide
of the Bible and an accompanying part of the Conflict of the Ages set of E. G. White books,
which serve as a commentary.
 The life of Christ becomes the pattern of your life as the Desire of Ages open new Spiritual
insight your prayers become meaningful
 The books include.
1. The four Gospel
2. Desire of Ages
 There are many other plans available for reading the Gospels over the course of one year, or
even less. You may choose to use one of them. However, keep in mind that there are three
aspects of this requirement that you need to fulfil:
1. Cover the four Gospels
2. Include commentary* on the Gospels
3. Participate in a YEAR long plan.
Portfolio completion suggestions
Provide a copy of the completed reading reflection or what you understand about the book e.g.
ENCOUNTER SERIES 1: CHRIST THE WAY
January 1- Mark 1:1 and Luke
Mark 1:1 forthrightly proclaims that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. The narrative cuts to the chase,
describing the ministry of John the Baptist and his baptism of Jesus. A description of the nativity of our
Lord is not included.
The first chapter of Luke is, in contrast to the Gospel of Mark, the first half of an extended two-chapter
description of the birth and infancy of Jesus. Christ’s cousin John the Baptist precedes Him as a type of
“Elijah,” as prophesized in Malachi 4:5. Luke 1:76 describes the mission of John: “…thou shall go
before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways.”
January 2- Second John 1:1-14
The Second Epistle of John is all about love and commandment-keeping. Love for God and each other is
a commandment, John reminds the lady recipient of this short letter. Those who “abided in the doctrine
of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.” (Verse 9) To transgress the law of God, however, results
in a godless existence. Second John is a compact version of First John. To diligently obey all the
commandments of God and his Son does not represent mindless adherence to a legalist doctrine.
January 3- Desire of Ages pages 19-21
“His name shall be called Immanuel …God with us.” This quotation from Isaiah 7:14 (one replicated in
Matthew 1:23) serves to emphasize the divinity of Jesus in a manner that transcends the less specific
designation found in Mark 1:1- “Son of God.” The author silences criticism (an enduring legacy of the
Arian Heresy) at the outset of her work that would question the position of Jesus relative to His Father.
Jesus is God. End of debate!
The Bible only periodically reminds us of the constant presence and oversight of angels. Ellen White, by
referring to the angels at the start of her book spurs the reader to be mindful of the important role that
they play in the oversight and maintenance of the universe.
The true mirror of God is not to be found in creation, however, nor in the blameless hosts of heaven. It is
best manifested in Jesus Christ Himself. His example is the one we should strive to emulate. His way is
the best way; hence the subtitle of Encounter Series I- Christ the Way.

January 4- Desire of Ages pages 22-24

The brute force of Satan can only be countered by the transcendent love of Jesus. Ellen G. White
partially quotes Malachi 4:2 concerning the first advent of Christ. Implied, but not replicated by Sister
White is the preceding verse, one which warns of the second advent of Jesus. This return is a significant
focus for the Seventh-day Adventist Church, so Malachi 4:1-2 will be fully quoted- “For, behold, the
day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble:
and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the LORD of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root
nor branch. But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his
wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall.” It is divine love that effects the healing
that is made necessary in the aftermath of Satan’s contamination of mankind.
January 5- Desire of Ages pages 25-26
A statement by Ellen G. White she makes on page 25 of Desire of Ages is indicative of the relationship
that our salvation establishes between ourselves and Jesus, one that even angels are not privileged to
experience- “It was Satan’s purpose to bring about an eternal separation between God and man; but in
Christ we become more closely united to God than if we had never fallen.” Those who persistently
criticize God for the existence of suffering in the world are unaware of the higher good that results from
our trials and temptations.
January 6- Desire of Ages pages 27-28
Chapter 2 of Desire of Ages begins on page 27, and is titled The Chosen People. It describes the uneven
quality of the Hebrews regarding their adherence to the path that God intended for them to follow
throughout the ages. They hungered as a people and as a nation for the promised return of the Messiah,
but when He did return most of them were either incredulous or oblivious of this event. They were, of
course the children of promise and the seed of Abraham. Israel was situated at the crossroads of the
ancient near east, so the quantity of trade in merchandise and ideas that passed through the geographic
bottleneck Israel was situated upon was overwhelming.
January 7- Desire of Ages pages 29-30
The elective withdrawal of Israel from the main current of history is elaborated upon by Ellen G. White.
A compromised faith cannot stand against the opposing forces of false religion. As a result of the
inefficacy of the debased nature of worship that was practiced by the Israelites, they chose to circle their
wagons around Jerusalem, entirely excluding the remainder of the planet (at least from a spiritual
standpoint). The laws of the Pharisees and scribes became complex and convoluted. The leaders set a
standard that may be likened to contemplating their own navels, and the chosen people mostly
proceeded to fiddle while Rome burns. Ellen G. White takes an analysis of this inward-focus by the
Hebrew nation as an opportunity to explain the ultimate significance of the divinely-appointed rituals
that were associated with earthly worship.
January 8- Matthew 1:1-17
The sections from the Book of Matthew that is noted above reveal the earthly genealogy of Jesus Christ
back to the days of Abraham. Isaac, Jacob, Judah, etc. Ruth, Jesse, David, Solomon, etc. Some rather
more obscure names are cited along with the more familiar ones until the list pen ultimately reveals the
names of Joseph and Mary.
January 9- Desire of Ages pages 31-32
Ellen G. White describes the milieu that marked the arrival of Christ on earth. Paul famously states
shortly after this arrival (in Romans 8:22-23) “For we know that the whole creation groaned and
travailed in pain together until now. And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the first fruits of
the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of
our body.” Paul was describing the hope that we, as individuals, hold close to our hearts in anticipation
of our imminent release from the prisons of our fleshly forms.
January 10- Desire of Ages pages 33-35
Ellen G. White notes that the wisdom and prophecy of what is currently designated as the Old Testament
was accessible to non-Jewish scholars of the ancient world through translations into Greek from the
original Hebrew tongue. It was, therefore, not an exclusively Jewish readership that eagerly anticipated
the soon fulfillment of the prophecies contained therein.
January 11- Desire of Ages pages 36-38
The insular tendencies of the delegated custodians of the Roman province of Judea and the debased and
misdirected nature of their religion continue to be described by Ellen G. White. An unwholesome
accommodation to Roman temporal authority may be compared to subsequent accommodations by a
larger segment of humanity to the persistent negative influences of Roman spiritual authority. Ellen G.
White writes regarding the Hebrew nation just prior to and contemporary with the arrival of Jesus that
“The deception of sin had reached its height.” A Christianized retelling of The History of the Decline
and fall of the Roman Empire, a work compiled by rabidly anti-Christian author Edward Gibbon in the
Eighteenth Century was written by Adventist author Alonzo T. Jones.
January 12- Matthew 1:18-25, Desire of Ages pages 43-44
The passages from The Gospel of Matthew indicated above include the visitation by an angel to Joseph,
and are encapsulated in the angel’s description to him of his firstborn’s name and mission as recorded in
Matthew 1:21- “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shall call his name JESUS: for he shall save
his people from their sins.”
The first passages of Chapter 4 of Desire of Ages note that humble circumstances of the social strata that
Christ was born into are God’s way of assuring that People would choose to follow our Savior based
upon his message alone, and not due to a superficial attraction to the vain display that wealth creates in
order to seduce the less prosperous members of society into believing that substance invariably hides
behind a stylish exterior.
January 13- Luke 2:1-21
The familiar story of Christ’s nativity as described in the first 21 verses of the Gospel of Luke is so
familiar that it need not be glossed for this devotional. A December 25 article in the Los Angeles Times
by Robert Barron describes these verses as providing “the interpretive key for reading the entire Gospel
narrative.” The disparity between the lives of the man Luke mentions in the first verse, Caesar Augustus
(first of the Roman Emperors) and that of Jesus Christ is implied by the physician/author of this Gospel.
January 14- Desire of Ages pages 47-49
Ellen G. White reveals that the awesome experience that the “shepherds abiding in the field, keeping
watch over their flock by night (Luke 2:8) when they beheld the heavenly host praising God and saying
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men (Luke 2:14) is accessible to all,
and not exclusive to a few cold shepherds of Roman Judea. She expresses her regret that so many of her
contemporaries chose to forsake the narrow road that leads one into an encounter with divinity. The
humility that Christ exhibited by presenting Himself to fallen man amidst humble surroundings is again
noted by Sister White.
January 15- Luke 2:22-38, Desire of Ages pages 50-51
Luke writes about the presentation of the infant Jesus at the temple in Jerusalem, and the inspired
recognition by “just and devout” Simeon and “widow of about eighty-four years” Anna of the exalted
nature of the child that they were privileged to behold. Luke 2:29-32 describes Simeon’s gratitude to
God for allowing him to encounter his redeemer- “Lord, now lettest thou thy servant departs in peace,
according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, which thou hast prepared before the face
of all people; a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. Ellen G. White outlines
the history of the tradition of dedicating one’s firstborn son to God.
January 16- Desire of Ages pages 52-55
Ellen G. White notes that the spirit of prophecy was upon Simeon when he responded to his encounter
with the infant Jesus by proclaiming the words contained in Luke 2:29-32. She reiterates a scriptural
citation that Anna was a prophetess. A study of Holy Writ had prepared Simeon and Anna for their
brush with greatness, but although the priests who had charge of the temple were presumably also well-
acquainted with scripture, they apparently chose not to heed it’s predominate focus on upon the arrival
of the newborn child that was now in their midst. Sister White writes on page 55- “These humble
worshipers had not studied the prophecies in vain.
January 17- Desire of Ages pages 56-58
Several prophecies of Isaiah are quoted by Ellen G. White to indicate that the earthly sojourn of our
Lord was not to be exclusively for the sake of the Hebrew peoples. Simeon’s prophecy about Christ’s
mission includes the information that Jesus salvation had been prepared by God “…before the face of all
peoples.” Sister White does not quote Isaiah 49:6 in this section of Desire of Ages, but it unambiguously
declares the universal scope of God’s redemption plan- “And he said, It is a light thing that thou
soundest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also
give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth.
January 18- Matthew 2:1-23, Luke 2:39, 40
Matthew 2:1-23 describes a clear manifestation of one of Satan’s early (but continual thereafter)
attempts to destroy He who was pledged to eventually cause the destruction of Satan himself. King
Herod, temporal ruler of the province of Judea, was apprised by the visiting Magi of the recent arrival of
a brand-new king. Unaware that this competing king’s eventual kingdom was “…not of this world”
(Christ’s own words from John 18:36), Herod sought to neutralize his potential competition. After
failing to successfully utilize the services of the three wise men as unwitting bird-dogs to scent out his
quarry, Herod determined to kill every male child in the Bethlehem area. The King’s own scholars of
prophecy indicated that this region would be the likely birthplace of his competition. History has chosen
to designate the selective genocide that Herod then instigated as the Massacre of the Innocents.
January 19- Desire of Ages pages 59-62
The dissemination of the Hebrew scripture that is now designated the Old Testament throughout the
ancient Near East has been referenced in an earlier section of Desire of Ages. It is the accessibility of
these texts to the three wise men (the Magi) that motivated them to seek out the infant Savior in the land
that God granted to the seed of Abraham’s noted in the section just above, the Magi first sought
information in Jerusalem. This resulted in their encounter with King Herod and the subsequent carnage
that was the result of this meeting. It is the meeting itself that forms the climax of the events described in
this section of Desire of Age Ellen G. White notes that every purported sage of that era was truly wise.
Charismatic charlatans held court alongside genuinely learned and discreet scholars.
January 20- Desire of Ages pages 63-64
The narrative of the pilgrimage of the three wise men to Bethlehem continues. Despite the furor that
they kindled in King Herod over the news that a challenger to his throne had just arrived, no official
delegation from Jerusalem was present in the stable when they finally attained the object of their quest.
Faith by the Hebrew underlings of Rome was conspicuously absent, but Ellen G. White notes that the
faith of the Magi was remarkable.
 1. DEVOTIONAL JOURNAL FOR SIX MONTH
 A devotional journal is a great way to reflect on God’s Word focus on what God is teaching
you, and track the progress you are making in your Spiritual Journey.

WAYS OF WRITING DEVOTIONAL

 There are many ways to write a devotional journal:
1. In a book with lined papers
2. On a notepad
 This journal is between you and God ,so make it your own
 There is no right or wrong way to reflect. The most important thing is to keep up with it.
Keeping a daily journal helps...
1. Learning and memory
2. Clarify thinking
3. Weigh the pros and cons of an idea
4. Keep you accountable for what the lord is telling you to do
5. Increases your self-awareness
6. Keep you committed to daily devotions by making it obvious when you skipped it

 This combination becomes a strong testimony of your walk with the Lord. This journal will
also provide you with life lessons and stories from your own experience to share with the
young people with whom you work.
Devotional Sources
 There are many options for finding devotional materials. These include:
i. The Bible.
ii. Ellen G. White Writing
iii. The Sabbath School lesson
iv. Devotional books printed by the Adventist Church
Portfolio Completion Suggestions
Provide a simple log of your daily devotions listing date, time and topic. For six months.
 DEVOTIONAL AND PRAYER JOURNAL
Date _____________________________

Material read ________________________________________________________________

Title of passage or message

_________________________________________________________________
Key verse(s) ________________________________________________________________________
Main idea of the material
_____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

Reflections on today’smaterials
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________

Action I plan to take based on this material

____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________

Prayer
Praises______________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________

Repentance__________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________

Petition_____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________

1) Determine the context 4) Consult other sources

2) Gather clues of possible meaning 5) prayerfully draw your conclusions
3) Compare and contrast Scriptures 6) Commit to apply what you learned