8. What example are we given of a man who did the right things but whose heart was not perfect towards God? 2 Chronicles 25:1-2.
NOTE: ‘In 2 Chronicles 25:1, 2, we read that Amaziah reigned for twenty-nine years in Jerusalem, and that during that time “he did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, but not with a perfect heart.” There are Amaziahs to-day, and they find it an easy matter so to conduct themselves that men adjudge their acts as “right in the sight of the Lord,” but God does not accept their service. The Lord is soon coming. In that day only the “pure in heart” will see God unto salvation. Is there anyone who knows these truths, and yet delays to pray, from the very depths of his soul: “Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my thoughts; and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting”?’ A. T. Jones: Review & Herald, December 6, 1898.
9. How did Jesus teach that not simply our actions and words but our hearts must be pure? Matthew 5:8. Consider verses 21-22, 27-28. Compare Psalm 15:1-2.
NOTE: ‘The essential work is to conform the tastes, the appetite, the passions, the motives, the desires, to the great moral standard of righteousness. The work must begin at the heart. That must be pure, wholly conformed to Christ’s will, else some master passion, or some habit or defect, will become a power to destroy. God will accept of nothing short of the whole heart.’ Christian Education, page 50.
‘Self-respect may lead us to avoid the appearance of evil. A selfish heart may perform generous actions, acknowledge the present truth, and express humility and affection in an outward manner, yet the motives may be deceptive and impure; the actions that flow from such a heart may be destitute of the savour of life and the fruits of true holiness, being destitute of the principles of pure love.’ Testimonies, volume 2, page 135.