December 1996

NORTH AMERI'

Planting and Harvesting: Taking the Gospel to the Culture

REVIEW AND HERALD' Nonprofit Organization PUBLISHING ASSOCIATION U.S. Postage 55 WEST OAK RIDGE DRIVE. PAID HAGERSTOWN. MD 21740 Hagerstown. MD Permit No. 261 LETTERS

Real Sacrifice While I believe in this admonition, I must have grown up in the same I read with great interest Gary Krause's don't subscribe to the idea that the time household and been separated "No Strangers to Sacrifice" (Oct. is now to start the mass exodus. If it's sometime during college. He touches NAD Edition). In 1964 I lived for six true that there will be eleventh-hour my funny bone each and every time. months in the Fiji islands and can conversions after the three angels' On the other hand, Anita Strawn relate quite well to the experiences messages are preached, how could this de Ojeda's "Taming a Tart Tongue" related, as the islanders of the South be possible if all the faithful workers are (Oct. NAD Edition) hit me over the Pacific all live much the same lifestyle. already gone into hiding? Will God head with a two-by-four. As the father Fervor for the gospel was evident in abandon the faithful who will remain to of three children, I need constant Fiji. At one baptism the pastor related reap the crop of the latter rain? I think reminding as to how easy it is for a the story a of young woman whose that when a Sunday law has been parent's tongue to crush a child's heart. father murdered her in the river in enacted for worldwide or even local Thanks again for a new and which she had been baptized. That application, then that's the time for us improved Review. It puts an excellent baptism had been the pastor's first. to pack up and head to the mountains light on our church family. Still he returned to the same river to or places of safety. What do you say? baptize others. —Dave Fairchild I concur with Krause that in this —Ismael F. Quiba KANSAS CITY, KANSAS country and culture most of us know VALLEJO, CALIFORNIA little of real sacrifice, either material or spiritual. It may seem like a little We agree that much work still needs to be Here in the mountains I use the thing, but those of us who can afford it done in our major cities. Look for treatment Review in my missionary outreach could, for instance, provide our own of this topic throughout 1997.—Editors. program. People in all the churches Sabbath school lesson quarterlies and save their Reviews and other Adventist thus free money now used for that. I literature, and we roll it all into a pray that this article and letter may New Review "literature bomb" and give them out. I cause many to think of ways to relieve As one of your young readers, I really know of three people who have come the financial burden of the church as enjoy your topics, especially the into the church from reading the well as think seriously about how firm stories. You're doing a wonderful job Review only. they stand for their beliefs. with the new Adventist Review. May you and your crew keep up the good work. —Charles Lee —Ruth Nino COLLEGEDALE, TENNESSEE CLIFTON, NEW JERSEY —Gladys DeLong FLETCHER, NORTH CAROLINA

To the Hills! I just wanted to let you know how There are some in our faith who seem much I enjoy the new Review. I grew Abortion to be so scared of the prophesied up around the Review and used to read It seems that this time it's Loretta who persecution of God's people that they an article here and there. Not so with is mistaken in her belief that "there are will prematurely heed the counsel of the new Review. I rarely miss an no degrees of sin" ("Abortion," Take a God's messenger (Ellen White) to article! Stand, Oct. NAD Edition). leave the cities and urban areas and I especially enjoy Andy Nash's No matter what the situation take refuge in mountain fastnesses like column, Growing Up Adventist (except if carrying to term means the Waldenses of the Middle Ages. (Cutting Edge Edition). I think we death), I just don't believe abortion is

2 (1474) ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1996 ADVENTIST right. Can you imagine asking Jesus, try with all their hearts to follow what "Should I have an abortion?" What do God teaches or what we feel convicted you think would be His answer? to do, others call us "legalists." How More often than not, abortion is used would they know if we are legalists, R as an out for "choices" already made. since that is a matter of the heart? COVER STORY —Robert A. Nurse —Joanne Johnson 8 Please, Lord, Get Me Out LANHAM, MARYLAND ELK PARK, NORTH CAROLINA of McGuireville I had places to go, things to do. Gina and Loretta are sisters-in-law and But there were people God wanted There seems to be a misunderstanding about the liveliest people you are likely to me to meet. of what it means to be converted and a meet. They both have strong convictions, R1 ROBERT BURNETTF. member of the church, a part of and agree or disagree openly and good- Christ's body. naturedly. When Loretta calls Gina a ARTICLES I think all would agree that a "legalist," she writes as they speak—in person who has reached puberty has respect and good humor.—Editors. 14 Planting and Harvesting also reached the age of personal To carry out the gospel commission, "good enough" accountability before God. One is old isn't good enough. Corrections From Russia enough to respond to the drawings of BY ALFRED C. MCCLURE the Holy Spirit and make decisions on Regarding "Vignettes From Russia" matters of moral responsibility before (October NAD Edition), a few 28 My Prayer Life Was in a Rut God and society. corrections: Doing something again and again To lambast the church members "Gulag Irkutsk" is not the name of can either become a dull routine or a ritual of renewal. who see a problem when a teenager the Adventist prisoner. "Gulag" refers BY SKIP MACCARTY engages in fornication resulting in to a prison and "Irkutsk" refers to a pregnancy is to disregard the city in Siberia where the prison was DEPARTMENTS responsibility of maintaining purity in located. The man's name was Vendel. the body of Christ. To take the name Also, you printed that "private 2 Letters Christian is a great responsibility. To donors financed the printing." It would 7 Give & Take allow the world to think that being be more accurate to say that the 12 From the Heart Christian involves blind, open-armed "Lightbearers organization financed acceptance of rebellious activity is to and published the 300,000 Bible study 13 Global Mission cast aspersions on the gospel. guides." In the next paragraph, the 20 World News & Perspectives goal is not "to teach 80 percent of 26 Children's Corner —David Giangrande members to give Bibles," but "Bible 27 Take a Stand BROOKLYN, NEW YORK studies." 30 Reflections —John K. McGhee The "Legalist" Label VIA E-MAIL EDITORIALS Loretta's writing "legalist" in reference to Gina's beliefs ("Sex on Sabbath?" 5 What Lasts—Standards Take a Stand, Sept. NAD Edition) Letters Policy or Values? strikes me wrong. How quick people are The Review welcomes your letters. to call us "legalists," especially when Short, pointed letters are the most 6 How Do You Spend they don't choose to believe as we do. effective and have the best chance at being $500 Million? I am 43 years old, a schoolteacher published. Letters will be edited for space in our system, and up-to-date on many and clarity only. Send correspondence to NEXT WEEK issues in the church, especially those Letters to the Editor, Adventist Review,

things young people and new members 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, The Christmas With No Tinsel ACK confront today. However, I am on the MD 20904-6600; Internet: Strange as it seems, there are places in BY J more conservative end of the scale and [email protected] the world where Christ's birth is not N memorialized in every medium and on

know from studying the Bible and the CompuServe network: 74617,15. TRATIO

every street corner. US Spirit of Prophecy that I have a lot of L IL struggles to overcome.

Many times, when people like me COVER

ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1996 (1475) 3 ADVENTIST Bringing the Church Together— R One Uplink at BehriLi, I ciiinr gitickB a Time

Our mission is to uplift Jesus Christ through stories of His matchless love, news of His present workings, help for knowing Him better, and hope in His soon return.

The Adventist Review (ISSN 0161-1119), published since 1.849. is the general paper of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. It is published by the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and is printed by the Review and Herald' Publishing Association. 55 West Oak Ridge Drive. Hagerstown. Maryland 21740. Standard postage paid at Hagerstown. The North American Edition of the Adventist Review is published 12 times a year on the first Thursday of each month. Copyright 1996. we're serving! Publishing Mani: Robert S. Folkenberg, chair; Phil Follett, vice- chair; William G. Johnsson; Lowell Cooper; A. C. McClure; Rose Otis; Martin Yrrebetg; Ruben Nixon, legal advisor

Executive Publisher and Editor William G. Johnson Associate Editor Roy Adams Net '96 brought our church aliue with euangelism News Editor Carlos Medley Assistant Editor Stephen Chavez ula satellite. But that's not all we're seruing. Assistant Editor Kit Watts Assistant to the Editor Andy Nash Now, RCN offers the following menu: Editorial Assistant Ella Rydzewski Administrative Secretary China Bamabas Editorial Secretaries Mary Maxson, Jean Sequeira Art Director Bill Kirstein First Wednesday Designer Bill Tymeson mission reports sharing good Design Assistant Alan Forquer Desktop Production Stephanie Kaping news about our church. Ad Sales Melynie Tooley Subscriber Services Steve Hanson Director. Periodical Sales Ginger Church Lifestyle Liue Consulting Editors: Robert S. Folkenberg, Matthew outreach programs that will Bediako, Phil Follett, Robert J. Kloosterhuis, A. C. McClure, Jan Paulsen, Leo Ranzolin, R. F. Rawson, touch hearts and change hues. Calvin B. Rock, G. Ralph Thompson

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Scriptures credited to ICB are quoted from the International Children's Bible, New Century Version, copyright ©1983, 1986, 1988 by Word Publishing, Dallas, Texas 75039. Used by permission. Texts credited to NIV are from the Holy Bible, New International Version. Copyright CO 1973, 1978, 1984, International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervart Bible Publishers. Bible texts credited to NRSV are from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright © 1989, by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A. Used by permission.

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4 (1476) ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1 9 9 6 EDITOR I AL

KIT WATTS What Lasts Standards or Values?

dventists have spilled a good bit of ink over should avoid drama, opera, theater attendance, and social church standards. Through the years I've dancing. It decries the evils of fiction. It states that "the noticed a few things: wearing of jewelry is contrary to the will of God" (1 Tim. ■ Hurricane-force emotions can erupt 2:9), although the wedding band is now reluctantly allowed. around a tiny "eye in the storm." I did find a few surprises. The manual calls on Adventists to AA standard may be a small thing, but the "maintain an uncompromising stand for justice and right in implications are often viewed as enor- civic affairs." I don't remember that from mous, if not eternal. academy. ■ A big chunk of church standards I was most surprised by what I did not clusters around behavior, not ideas. With find. Elsewhere in the manual, for Y B hair-splitting anxiety we discuss what to eat, example, we are told we can be N precisely. Or what to wear, watch, listen to, disfellowshipped for gambling, fraud, and TIO STRA read. willful and habitual falsehoods. If gambling, U ■ Standards are seldom portable from one culture fraud, and falsehood are grievous enough to get ILL to another. Or from one generation to the next. When us thrown out of the church, why aren't they all is said and done, standards aren't always standard. important enough to be called church "standards"? ■ Standards usually get the strictest application in But I digress. My point is that values are vastly more Adventist schools. important than standards. Before we fiddle with the nuts and ■ Some standards may be less important to us for the bolts, we need to think principles. In cogent, persuasive, behavior they endorse or condemn than for serving as a compelling language we need to write a new chapter for the badge of identification. Church Manual outlining Adventist values. Unlike standards, values are portable over time and into various cultures. n the marketplace standards are essential. Safety, coopera- Do we really value simplicity, for example? Often we tion, efficiency, fairness—all depend on maintaining stan- seem to apply it selectively (to fashion, jewelry, etc.). If it's dards. When we buy milk in a grocery store we expect it an undergirding principle, how does it apply to our homes, to be pasteurized, a process involving strict standards. When cars, travel, hobbies, etc.? we buy 100-watt lightbulbs we want them to produce an Let's go deep. Instead of expecting Adventists everywhere exact wattage—not 25 watts less or 50 watts more. to look alike and act alike, let's teach values. Let's live values. Unconsciously, perhaps, a marketplace vision has driven This is not easy. We are human, and we love rules; they our view of church standards. Some people want no more are so measurable, so enforceable. But time and again variation in Adventists than in pasteurized milk or in 100- Scripture warns that rules can become an end in themselves. watt lightbulbs. But others hear the word "standards" and Rules may sometimes obscure truth. Jesus observed this groan, rebel, or shrug them off. the Sabbath He picked grain to eat, violating a deeply What are the actual standards of our church? In the just- cherished standard of His time. off-the-press 1995 edition of the Seventh-day Adventist What did Jesus say? "The sabbath was Church Manual, I discovered 15 items in the chapter made for humankind, and not humankind "Standards of Christian Living." for the sabbath" (Mark 2:27, NRSV). It's an unusual list. An uneven list. Some items are broad Jesus gave us a princeple! principles, such as "simplicity." Others are not unique to I believe we will grow, not Adventists—such as the need for Bible study and prayer. A apostatize, as we identify our core few are couched in quaint terms such as "chaperonage." Still Christian and Adventist values others admonish us to live healthfully. and evaluate our choices and Then there are the standards we have known (and our actions by these principles debated) from our youth. The manual teaches that we each day.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1996 (1477) 5 GUEST EDITORIAL How Do You Spend GEORGE H. CRUMLEY S500 Million?

ithe in North America this year will top $500 Adventist Media Center in Simi Valley, or to build an million for the first time in Adventist history. A entirely new facility in another location. half billion dollars! We had the information we needed to make the decision. Imagine what John We were ready to make our decision Byington, the first pres- when Mark Finley, the speaker/ Tident of the Seventh-day Adventist director of It Is Written, spoke up. Church, would think. Could he "This decision seems clear to us," he have even dreamed of the day He sat just a little said, "but God may have something Seventh-day Adventists would give else in mind. I believe we ought to $500 million in tithe? taller in the pew. pray about this." God has blessed Adventists in And pray we did. And decide we North America. Most of us have did. But not until we had prayed. plenty to eat; we have good jobs, Second, we never make financial good educations, good lives. But the great miracle of God is decisions as if we were spending our own money. We also not that we are wealthy; it's that we continue to be willing— don't treat this as if we're spending your money, even even eager—to share with others what God has given us. though you gave it. Because it's not your money, it's not our I attended the annual meeting of the Adventist-Laymen's money, it's God's money. We're obligated to spend God's Services and Industries this past summer in Providence, money God's way. Rhode Island. These entrepreneurs gave more than $1 So how will we spend $500 million next year? million for the Sabbath offering. We'll spend about $200 million making sure that there One offering—$1 million! In addition to what they paid are pastors for our churches in North America. That for travel, lodging, and meals. And every ASI member I saw includes paying salaries, benefits (such as health-care was smiling, both about the blessings they received during the coverage), retirement fund contributions, and expenses for convention and about the opportunity to give to God's cause. continuing education and professional improvement. I also think of a young person who couldn't have been About another $150 million will be spent to support more than 15, and he couldn't have been earning much Adventist church schools and academies. (Tuition, local money. But I watched him take two folded dollar bills, slip church subsidies, alumni donations, and other funds make them into a tithe envelope, and fill out the front of the the total spent for our K-12 education system more like envelope. When the offering plate came by, I noticed that $400 million.) he sat just a little taller in the pew as he put the envelope Church programs—like evangelism, summer camps, and into the plate. camp meetings—use about $70 million. Another $70 million Those two dollars were every bit as important to God and is spent on support functions, such as staffing conference to this church as was the $1 million, because tithe is not offices, maintaining buildings, and insurance costs. only about money; it's about having a relationship with God. The final $10 million is left in reserve, for Your faithfulness in returning tithes and giving offerings unforeseen opportunities or emergencies. places a great responsibility on us as leaders. How do we It's an awesome responsibility. We, your spend a half billion dollars? We want to spend it carefully, so leaders, need your prayers: that we'll be able that God's kingdom has the greatest benefit. to make wise decisions; that we'll stick to Adventist Church leaders never spend this money our budgets; that God will help us see frivolously. First, we ask for God's guidance. We always pray ways in which we can use His funds in before a budget meeting. Often we pray during it. And the wisest possible manner. afterward we pray that God will bless the funds being spent. This past September we faced a difficult decision about George H. Crumley is treasurer of the Seventh- whether to build a studio production facility at the day Adventist Church in North America.

6 (1478) ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1996

ADVENTIST LIFE Being vegetarian and Seventh-day Adventist, my parents are known to their non-Adventist friends for being strict about their diet and routine. One Friday evening, just before Sabbath, they realized they needed Slim Fast for Daddy's Sabbath breakfast. While waiting in the checkout line, Mom ran into some non- Adventist friends, who asked, "What are you doing here?" "Vern has to drink this before he goes to church," Mom explained. "Oh," they said, apparently thinking it was some strange religious ritual. "Only because he doesn't take time for breakfast," Mom added, much to their relief. —Lois Beavers, Keystone Heights, Florida

Many years ago I excitedly visited an Adventist church. I had recently learned it was the church I had always hunted for. As it happened, I entered the church just in time for the foot-washing ritual. Downstairs with the other women I noticed that an old lady had cut her finger and two friends were stemming the bleeding. Mistakenly I thought, Oh, we're here to return blood to Jesus. Such was my childlike faith that day. They could have taken a quart out of me. ADVENTIST QUOTES —Mary E. White, Lopez, Washington

READERS' EXCHANGE "Mg U,ho does HOt liue Send responses directly to the writer, not to the Adventist Review. EGW POSTERS: The Ellen G. White Estate invites you to submit your favorite his hdlIE Ellen White quotation to be featured on a new line of posters. If your submission is chosen, you'll receive a free poster of that quote. (In case of duplicates, only the [10 means to first submitter will receive the poster.) Quotes should be a maximum of two sen- tences. Please include the reference. —Ruth — Randy Phillips, government auditor/church trea- Satelmajer, Ellen G. White Estate, 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, Maryland 20904 surer, Ellicott City, Maryland PEN PAL WANTED: I have always wanted to correspond with other Adventists "I've got to stop. I've been talking to around the world. My interests are writing, reading, cooking, and cats. you since last summer." —Gloria Lipscomb, 13 Green St., Lebanon, NH 03766 —Victor Czerkasij, speaker at Indiana Academy's Week of Spiritual Emphasis, who learned that the seasons had changed from summer to fall during his LIKE FATHER .. . talk DYNAMIC DUO: While learning "We must be careful not to allow the the song "Pray and Sing." 16- poverty of self-sufficiency to rob us of month-old Stephen Wade. of the miraculous." Edwardsburg, Michigan, deter- mined to copy all his dad Tim's — Pastor Marilyn Ammon, Aldergrove church, motions—even the shoulder British Columbia shrug. "We didn't even know that Tim always shrugged his WE NEED YOU Give & Take is your page. Send your shoulders when he did the "Adventist Quotes," top-quality photos, motions," says Stephen's mom, "Adventist Life" vignettes, "Readers' Exchange" Charilyn. "When you see your item, and other short contributions to: Give & child copy you so carefully, it Take, Adventist Review, 12501 Old Columbia does make you think about Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904; Fax: 301-680- what he is looking at to copy." 6638; CompuServe: 74532,2564.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1996 (1479) 7 COVER STORY

Please, Lord, Get Me Out of Mc Guireville I had my itinerary all figured out. So did God.

BY ROBERT BURNETTE

NEVER INTENDED TO STOP IN MC GUIREVILLE, shall I cry?" I smile now because in February the Canadian a wide spot in the road just off the interstate between Union asked me to help with a bit of a problem. A school's Phoenix and Flagstaff, Arizona. But that's where an enrollment had dropped dramatically. They asked if I could unusual chain of events was set in motion that even go and lead out in a spiritual retreat. now some may find difficult to believe. I took the matter to the Lord right away. I felt like Isaiah as IIsaiah 40-43 communicates so much of God's involve- I asked the Lord, "What shall I cry?" I felt that I really needed ment in our daily lives. As I read it now I think about an two or three real-life experiences to share with the people experience I had that parallels this entire passage. It begins there. I didn't want to go in with dry theory; I wanted them to with the word "comfort"—"Comfort, comfort my people" know that Christians have genuine living experiences. (Isa. 40:1).* I agreed to the spiritual retreat, but I continued to keep It goes on to talk about "a voice of one calling: 'In the this request before the Lord. desert prepare the way for the On Friday—exactly one week before I was supposed to be Lord" (verse 3). Verse 6 in Canada—I was flying to Phoenix, Arizona. I was supposed brings a smile to my to meet a donor at Phoenix International, and we were going face: "A voice to drive together to Holbrook Seventh-day Adventist Indian says, 'Cry out.' Mission School for the dedication of a new dormitory. And I said, That weekend's national weather was horrible. And with `What weather-related complications, I found myself having my flight canceled or changed two or three times. I was

\D\ ENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER scheduled to arrive in Phoenix at extended beyond one side, the tail drinking some alcoholic beverages, and • exactly the same time as the donor. beyond the other side. I hit the wolf; they started throwing the bottles and But the Phoenix airport has four there was nothing I could do. cans in my direction. terminals. And if you come in on a There was an exit just a little ways The car company people asked , different airline, you could come into a ahead—McGuireville. (Don't ever stop what was going on. And I said, "Well, terminal that requires quite a hike to at McGuireville.) I knew the car was I really need some help, because I make connections. damaged, and sure enough, when I don't know what's going to happen." So on the plane I used the phone to stopped the car, all the fluid came "We'll try to get a truck out to you try to find the donor. Thankfully, in running out of the radiator. as quickly as we can," they said. answer to prayer, he had come in I entered a gas station there. "I was I went back and sat in the car as the earlier, had been picked up, and was wondering if someone could help me," young people pelted it with bottles and already on his way to Holbrook. I said. cans. After a while I went back to use Since I was late, I ran to the car "We're closing at 9:00." (Three the phone again. Two of the young rental counter to pick up the keys to minutes away.) ladies came and asked to use the my rental car. They sent me upstairs to "Can I buy some water or some fluid phone. the parking lot. Even though it was so that I can at least get to the next They didn't have any money to April, the 105-degree temperature exit?" make a call, so I offered to let them use made the moisture in my throat "The cash register's closed." my calling card. They called someone evaporate. I got to the car with my 200 "But what will I do?" I wanted to (it evidently wasn't long-distance, pounds of luggage (I had been on the know. because I didn't get a bill), and they road for two or three weeks), and the "Just stay in the car" was the reply. were so impressed (with my key didn't fit. "You'll be fine in your car for the helpfulness, I guess) that they went I went back downstairs and had the night." back and told the fellows, and same experience three times. It was late "But this is the desert," I said. "Aren't eventually they all left. by that time. And even though I there coyotes and other things?" Finally I had an opportunity to deal hadn't planned to travel on the "Yeah," they said, "but as long as with the emotions I had. I'd been Sabbath, I was thankful, finally, to be you stay in the car you'll be all right." rushing through the day with canceled on the road. So they closed the gas station and flights, the car experience, and then left me in the desert. the accident. It is very traumatic to hit "You'll Be Fine" Fortunately, there was a pay phone a wolf—any type of animal. I hadn't As I drove into the mountains near the building, and I called the car done that before, and I almost felt the toward Flagstaff, out of nowhere a wolf rental company. But within a few pain that animal must have felt. appeared in front of my car. It came minutes three pickups and a car pulled "Lord," I asked, "where are You in all out from behind a bush, running full up, full of young people who this?" speed. One second it wasn't there, and apparently felt the need to express I felt partially responsible for the the next it was. The wolf was bigger themselves with some rather unique day's rush. I had allowed my daily • than the front of the car—its nose language. They had just finished activities to take me away from an

ADVL\ DECEMBER 19 9 6 (14611 9 experience with Him. I now realize that "Whereabouts in Maryland?" I asked. got it out and gave it to him, and we I shouldn't have had any type of fear or He said, "Where I went to school." talked some more. questions when the young people were "And where's that?" I probed. Later, just before we got to Flagstaff, there, because I was doing His work. "Have you ever heard of Sligo I said, "You know, Adventists don't But I wasn't thinking like that Adventist School?" he offered. believe in working on the Sabbath. when those things were happening. I "Yeah," I replied. "I know where And here it is Friday night, and you're wasn't thinking like that on the plane, that is. Isn't that a Christian school?" working." worried about appointments. I wasn't "Yes," he answered. "It's Seventh- "I'm not getting paid for this," he thinking like that when dealing with day Adventist." said. "The company called four or five the rental car situation. "Are you a Seventh-day Ad- times to get me to come pick you up. Out in the desert I had the ventist?" I asked. None of the others who were called opportunity to look into the sky and "Well, I had an Adventist would go, and finally I decided, What see some of His creation—the One better thing could I do on Sabbath?" who was protecting me and was I said, "I work at the General with me. For four and a half hours I Conference, and I'm glad you came sat in the desert with Him, and I For four and a out." We visited some more and had a wonderful desert experience. prayed together; then he dropped I remembered the scripture in half hours I sat me off at the hotel with which the Isaiah that said: "You are my rental car company had made servant'; I have chosen you and arrangements. The car company had have not rejected you. So do not in the desert given me the choice of several fear, for I am with you; do not be hotels, and I'd picked one that had dismayed, for I am your God. I will a free breakfast. strengthen you and help you; I will with God. uphold you with my righteous right "I Make Really Good Money" hand" (Isa. 41:9, 10). I should have education," he said, "and I keep the I slept a couple hours and got up to remembered that from the very Sabbath. But I haven't been to church eat breakfast while I waited for the car beginning, but I didn't. in most of the past 10 years." company to send someone with I prayed that God would help me "Why not?" another car. I sat down for my free through the experience so that I would "When my mother and father breakfast, and after just a few minutes remember it and not make the same starting getting a divorce, people at the a young lady came up and asked if she mistakes the next time. church stopped talking to them. Then could sit with me. I said sure. one week at church I heard two ladies After she was seated, I asked, "So "I'm Not Getting Paid for This" talking. I had kind of long hair at the what do you do here?" About 2:30 in the morning a tow time, and I overheard them wondering "I'm with GMI." truck finally arrived. We put the car whether I was a homosexual. It affected "Oh, General Motors Institute," I onto the back of the truck, and I got me so much that I could never go to volunteered. "What was your project?" into the cab. We started down the that church again. But I've been trying She was impressed that I knew what road, and just for conversation I asked to keep my beliefs anyway." GMI meant and that each one of their the driver, a young man, "Well, where Then he said, "I'm getting married students has to research a special are you from?" (He obviously was from in a few weeks, and my fiancée wants project. She told me about her project. Flagstaff—that's where the truck had to introduce me to her pastor. But Then I said, "Why did you decide been sent from.) when I sit down with him I'd like to to go with GMI?" He said, "I'm from Maryland." talk with him about what Adventists "For the money," she said. "I make "When did you come out here?" believe. I've been praying to meet with really good money. I want to go into "About 10 years ago." someone who would have a list of engineering, and my parents said "Why did you come here?" I wanted Adventist beliefs along with the Bible money is important." to know. texts. My fiancée has agreed that if I sit "Do you think you'll be happy with "My father was in the Air Force, down and talk to her pastor and com- that?" I asked. and he was transferred from Andrews municate clearly with Bible texts what "Well, I did at first, especially since Air Force Base." Adventists believe, we can have an my parents headed me in this "Do he and your mom live out here Adventist home." direction. But now that I'm finishing now?" I happened to have a leather-bound the program and going out on my own, "My mom and he are divorced, and book, Studying Together, that Mark I guess the money is just one part of my mom went back to Maryland," he Finley had given me, which contained the picture. replied. the biblical support for all our beliefs. I "I've been thinking about marriage

10 (1482) ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1996 also," she added. "I've been thinking was an Adventist church there, but and believe me and understand that I about having children. And I want to she was searching. am he. Before me no God was formed, have a Christian home. But I didn't nor will there be one after me. I, even have the experiences my mom had, so "We Don't Believe Those Stories" I, am the Lord, and apart from me I don't know how to set up a Christian A week later, I took these three there is no saVOr. I have revealed and home. I haven't had the education to experiences up to Canada and shared saved and proclaimed—I, and not do that." them with the people. On Sabbath some foreign god among you. You are "Where did your mom go to morning I told about my experiences in my witnesses,' declares the Lord, 'that I school?" I asked. Arizona. Afterward at dinner a couple am God" (Isa. 43:10-12). ■ "To a private school in Michigan," boys came up to talk to me. "We don't she said. believe those stories you told this *All texts are quoted from the New International Version. "What was the name of it?" morning," they stated. "The United "Cedar Lake Academy." States is pretty big, and there aren't that "Oh," I said, "so she's a Seventh-day many Adventists for you to encounter Adventist." three Adventists just like that." "Yeah." There was a long pause while they "Are you a Seventh-day Advent- smiled at me and I smiled at them. ist?" I asked. Then a woman walked up and jumped Robert Burnette is coordina- "I'd like to be," she said, "but I'm right into the conversation. She hadn't tor of the Native American afraid to go to church because I don't heard what the boys had said. "Thank Evangelism Initiative for the know anything about what they you for sharing those experiences. I've office of Multilingual believe. I didn't learn enough in been praying for a job where I can Ministries of the North Sabbath school to feel comfortable work for a Christian," she said. American Division. This article is adapted going to church." "I went to a job interview just last from a worship talk he gave at the We talked and shared, and we're week in Denver," she continued. "I General Conference this past August. staying in touch. She's engaged now interviewed with various levels of the and is starting to go back to church. firm and ended up in the president's office. After we finished talking I 1 "You're Going to Holbrook!" noticed a Bible on his credenza. I iRADITENTIST I went outside and waited for my asked if he was a Christian. And he's a ride. In just a couple minutes a young Seventh-day Adventist." l woman from the rental company The two boys' mouths fell open! pulled up with another car, and I got inside. She was excited. "You're going hose experiences I had—were to Holbrook!" she exclaimed. they for me? ❑ Please send me one year, 40 issues, of the Adventist Review for US$38.97. "Yes," I said. T Was the experience for the ❑ Please renew my subscription. "My parents live there," she young man who was praying to meet ❑ Please update my address. Enter new address at top of form. Copy previous address at bottom declared. "They own three someone who had the book that Mark of form or enclose old mailing label. businesses." Her parents were Finley had given me so long ago? ❑ Please send a gift subscription to the address Adventists too. They apparently told Or was it for the young woman at at the bottom of this form. her that she needed to experience life GMI? My Name outside the Adventist system, so they Or the young woman who worked Current Address didn't send her to Adventist schools for the car rental company? City even though she wanted to go to Or was it for the two boys? State. Zip Holbrook Indian School. Or was it an affirmation for the Phone She had gone to Phoenix, and her woman in Canada? experience consisted of sowing all Or was it for you? Please enter previous address or gift address here. the wild oats she could. She was The Lord, who knows everything, looking at marriage and was going to provides opportunities to communicate Name be engaged in a month or two, and to all of us that He is real. And He Address she had been praying to meet wants to be involved in our lives—in City someone who would guide her back all the things we do and in every way State, Zip to her Adventist beliefs. She had we do them. Please enclose payment for orders. Mail to: Subscriber moved back to Flagstaff so she would "You are my witnesses,' declares Services, P.O. Box 1119. Hagerstown. MD 21741. be a little closer to an Adventist the Lord, 'and my servant whom I Credit card orders: 1-800-765-6955 663-01-0 center. She didn't even know if there have chosen, so that you may know L —

ADVENTIST REVIEW. DECEMBER 1996 (1483) 11 FROM THE HEART

ROBERT S. FOLKENBERG Awaiting His Coming

hen Christianity began, the followers of women again focused on the blessed hope. Jesus looked with eager longing for His Seventh-day Adventists are children of that revival. It's part of return. All through the New Testament, no our very name. We expect Jesus to come back again—and soon. matter who is writ- But a funny thing happened on the ing, you can find way to the kingdom. As the years Wone hope and one expectation: Jesus A funny thing rolled by after 1844, some Adventists is coming again! began to grow cold on the Second After describing the dramatic Coming. They became too involved in events of Christ's return—the Lord happened on getting and spending, building and Himself descending, the voice of the moving, marrying and marrying off, archangel, the trumpet blast, the dead the way to and work, work, work. Before they in Christ rising from the dead, the knew it, without hardly realizing it, living saints caught up in the clouds the kingdom. they no longer talked about Jesus' to meet the Lord—Paul said: return. It no longer shaped their "Wherefore comfort one another with thinking and their living. these words" (1 Thess. 4:18). For others the Second Coming flipped in its meaning. That was just the sort of joyful expectation that Jesus Instead of being the blessed hope, it became the day of fear and referred to on that Thursday night before His betrayal. terror. They dwelt on the power of sin and temptations and Through the gloom of impending separation came Jesus' words how few would be saved. to His disciples: "Let not your heart be troubled. .. . I go to Ellen White met that approach in her day. She wrote: "The prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, shortness of time is frequently urged as an incentive for seeking I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I righteousness and making Christ our friend. This should not be am, there ye may be also" (John 14:1-3). the great motive for us; for it savors of selfishness. Is it Hope, joy, comfort, eagerness, loving expectation—that's necessary that the terrors of the day of God should be held how Christians used to regard the Second Coming. Because before us, that we may be compelled to right action through they loved Jesus and missed Him terribly, they could hardly fear? . . . Jesus is attractive. He is full of love, mercy, and wait to see Him come back. compassion" (Signs of the Times, Mar. 17, 1887). But a funny thing happened on the way to the kingdom. My dear friend, how is it with you? Does your heart burn Jesus didn't come as soon as some had expected, and His with eager longing to see your Saviour? followers began to doubt. Gradually this doctrine dropped out Throughout the year I've tried to present Jesus as our of the church. Priests and prelates turned their attention to Saviour, Lord, and Best Friend. I hope that Jesus has become building a kingdom on earth. more real and more precious to you. From time to time history records seasons of revival from May our experience be like that of the early Christians Peter the Lord. And every time people's hearts glowed with a new described. After telling of their "praise and honour and glory at love for Jesus and what He had done for them, they began to the appearing of Jesus Christ," he said: "Whom having not long for His return in glory. seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet The centuries rolled by. Although the promise of the Second believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory" (1 Coming seemed to have failed, God had not abdicated His Peter 1:7, 8). throne. A thousand years with us are but one day for Him (2 Peter 3:8). God has His impeccable timetable! Robert S. Folkenberg is president of the General In the early nineteenth century a revival of hope and Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. love swept across North America and many other countries. Spearheaded in America by farmer-turned- preacher William Miller, large numbers of men and

12 (1484) ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1996 GLOBAL MISSION

hristmas is God would be the judge that won- of my choices. Then I

derful time begged my wife to W

of the year return home. To my BY when the surprise, she did. TO spirit of giving, as demon- Even though I was PHO . strated by the Wise Men glad to have our family of old, is prompted by love back together, living for family and friends. The Best Gift with someone of a Often the best gifts come different faith was from the heart and hand, taking its toll. One rather than from malls I Ever Got Sabbath I came home and shopping centers. Ali, from church depressed a new Adventist Christian and discouraged. My BY ALI living in south Saharan problems were too big Africa, tells the story of his favorite gift the pastor invited me to study the to handle. I was ready to leave the ever. Voice of Prophecy Bible lessons. I Christian church. accepted eagerly. December 25 arrived on a Saturday. e needed help. It was 1980, Soon I wanted to share my That morning my wife asked me what I and my family and I were newfound peace with my wife, so one was going to give her and the children Wrefugees from Mali, West Saturday morning I took her to church for Christmas. Then she offered me the Africa. Life was difficult, as I was trying with me. Realizing where we were, she best gift I could ever receive. "Next to find steady work and a place to live. became very angry. "What have you Saturday," she said, "I will come to By 1991 we had moved to Niger done bringing me to a Christian church with you." and were living in Niamey. I heard church?" she yelled. The experience What a gift! Adama began to study about ADRA and decided to contact caused Adama to leave me. She the Bible with the local pastor, and on them, hoping they would help us. The returned to her village and consulted March 30 she was baptized into the ADRA director (also pastor of the with the Muslim teachers. Adventist Church. Christmas will local Adventist church) listened to my Soon the marabous (Koran teachers) forever be very special to me. Without story and gave me a magazine, The invited me to the village and tried to a doubt, Adama presented me with the Sentinel. As I read it, my need for persuade me to give up my Christian best gift of all. peace was fed. The next time we met, faith. I simply told them that one day

Niger, in south Saharan Africa, is three prayers as they struggle to share new light times the size of California and has a with their neighbors. Let us lend our support population of more than 8 million people. With to them as laypeople such as Ali work to only 45 Adventists living there, the country is a establish new groups of believers in many of Global Mission priority. The people of Niger need our Niger's unentered cities.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 199 6 (1485) 13 FEATURE

Planting and Harvesting Seasons change. So do the ways we share the message.

BY ALFRED C. MC CLURE

This article is excerpted from the keynote address given at Seeds '96, a training summit held last June at Andrews University, attended by more than 400 people who are interested in planting new Adventist congregations .—Editors.

ET ME TALK TO YOU FOR A FEW MINUTES ABOUT HOW

well we're doing: of the 300 million people who live in the North

American Division, 299 million of them are not part of us. And the

compelling fact is that the majority of them have no idea of the lisissues of the great controversy or the events about to break upon our world.

More than half the people on our continent do not recognize the name "Seventh-day

Adventist." In spite of our 150-year history, our extensive media presence, Loma Linda

University, and Waco, barely half the population can identify us. Those who attempt to

are often incorrect, confusing us with Latter Day Saints or Jehovah's Witnesses.

Yet we are mandated by Jesus Christ Himself to present "this gospel of the

kingdom" to this continent in the most alluring manner we know how. There is no

greater issue for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in North America. To accomplish

this immense task, changes will have to take place. We need to change.

14 (1486) ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1996 • • • fir _ . • 4 11 • So we have our duties with come here to the polite military change the way command ringing this division in our ears—"As thinks about you were." This is church planting. the day that We have come North America here to change turns a corner. Or the way this to change the division terminology, prioritizes church today the North planting. We American church have come here establishes a new to change the battle plan. way this division We will not prepares people to stop holding do church evangelistic planting. crusades or quit This is not .a teaching genteel seminar Revelation from which we seminars. We will can go back to still have satellite-

The Whys of Church Planting

My wife, son, and I moved to Vancouver, Washington, 123). She also wrote: "God would have new and untried earlier this year to plant an Adventist church. methods followed. Break in upon the people—surprise Why Vancouver? It's located in one of the fastest-growing them" (ibid., p. 125). counties in a state known for low church attendance. Our Some people still wonder: Why start a new church? Why mission was simple: to bring unchurched people to Christ not fill the ones we already have? through highly innovative, biblically faithful, and culturally Jesus warned His followers about pouring new wine into relevant methods. old wineskins and ruining both of them (Matt. 9:14-17). Yet At first the "church" consisted of five of us meeting how many times have congregations become divided or weekly for prayer and planning. We prayed that God would estranged over issues of taste, preference, or evangelistic send us a strong leadership team of committed and methodology? To "break in upon the people" causes some innovative Adventists. And He answered. churches to break in upon each other. It can ruin both the Several people moved to Vancouver at great personal evangelistic intent and the faith of some believers. And the sacrifice. They left behind close family and friends, longer a church exists, the harder it is to break out of comfortable surroundings, even job security, to join us in patterns of habit and method, patterns that aren't wrong in this mission. Others who already lived in the Vancouver and of themselves, but that may hinder the effectiveness in area gave hours of their time each week for the cause of reaching nonreligious people. reaching the lost—God's missionaries to America. Without violating biblical principles, new churches can We talk and pray together every week. I can see their better assume the tastes and desires of those being passion for the lost in their eyes, I can see it in their songs reached. If we learn their language, address their needs, and prayers. answer their questions, and understand their culture, we Although our official launching is planned for early can save both the wine and the wineskins while reaching 1997, we began holding weekly services last September. more people for Christ. We have two services. The first is our believers' service Vancouver is a legitimate mission field. So is your city. for worship and edification. The second is our unchurched We must start new congregations in North America, just as service, an evangelistic event that attempts to capture new congregations are being started in foreign cultures. the attention of the nonreligious. It's an attempt to follow Ellen White's counsel to "reach people where they are. Randy Croft, a pastor in the Oregon Conference, is one of We must do something out of the common course of the planners of the Oasis Christian Center, a Seventh-day things. We must arrest the attention" (Evangelism, p. Adventist fellowship.

16 (1488) ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1996 based evangelistic work. Our stop- No Compromises With Truth beliefs, and we will offend God and smoking programs will continue to Before we go further, I want to lay do the lost no favor if we ever dilute breathe new life into people. one issue decisively to rest. We are not that commitment. Our new battle plan is to add to our here to discuss how to accommodate However, while our theology is un- current arsenal, not replace it. Church our theology to a sick culture. We are compromisingly biblical, our methodology planting needs to be recognized as needs to be predominantly cultural. true evangelistic work for God. That is targeting. New. Different. Bold. Unusual. That helps me understand why we Unsettling perhaps. But definitely The new mind-set have not been as aggressive in true evangelistic work. recent years in planting new churches—and I am speaking here Biblical Church Planting asks, "How can of different kinds of Adventist I believe we have fallen into the churches where others already exist. same trap as the earliest Christians. Here is the observation of Luke, the our church go to A Mandarin Illustration careful historian, in the eleventh Let the illustrate: If we had only a chapter of Acts: "Now those who Mandarin-speaking church in had been scattered by the the people?" Berrien Springs, could we honestly persecution . . . traveled as far as say that we had reached that city? Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, No. Why? Because a Chinese telling the message only to Jews" Mandarin-speaking church simply (verse 19). not talking about making concessions would not appeal to most of the people They believed their commission was to the clear teachings of Scripture so who live there. to reach others like themselves. that we can somehow become more Now, please follow me very Through the disturbing vision of the appealing and less unique. carefully. Is this assumption valid? great sheet let down from heaven, Often during this week you will There are millions of people in North filled with all kinds of living creatures, hear discussions about "cultural America who are simply not attracted to Peter led the church to understand relevance." We need to establish right the typical Adventist church. If they that others Gentiles—were also to be now that that is not another term for were to stop by some Sabbath morning evangelized, even if they had to change theological compromise. From its about 9:25 and look inside, I suspect their methodology to do it. birth this movement locked on to they would not be irresistibly drawn to That represented a major shift in Scripture as the north star of our enter. evangelistic methodology and generated some of the most intense discussion you will find anywhere in the New Testament. But I submit to you that chapter 11 of Acts describes not a fight, but rather the launch of a COI OR YOUR ForoR-E prosperous new venture. To the plan of taking the gospel to because Home Study International has the Jews of every territory, they were the flexible, academically sound, Christian now adding the refinement of targeting curriculum you need. HSI offers state- additional groups within those approved and accredited* courses for:

territories. Here was born the biblical Kindergarten model of church planting. Junior High You will hear both of those terms High School used this week to describe the work of College courses and degrees are also planting new churches—territorial and available. To learn more about Home targeted. They come from the experience Study International call 1-800-782-4769. of the early church. Both are essential to the faithful fulfillment of the gospel accreclite-d member Distance Education and Training Council commission. We have done fairly well through our history at planting churches Home Study International • 12501 Old Columbia Pike • Silver Spring, MD 20904 ilitb territorially; we are just discovering the rich rewards of targeting.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1 9 9 6 (1489) 17 If that assumption is valid, then I different kind of church. Ellen White secret about Liberty magazine. I don't have a question: Do we have an made her position very clear: "Some of like it. Oh, I like the content. It's obligation to offer uncompromising the methods used in this work will be outstanding. There's no other like it Adventism to them in a form they anywhere in the world. It's the will be apt to find more attractive? covers I don't like. If your answer is no, then I must But do you know why that isn't tell you that one of us doesn't important? It isn't designed for me. understand the Great Commission. Our mandate I'm not the target audience. It If your answer is yes, then our appeals to those for whom it is mandate is unmistakably clear. intended, and I'm willing to let it If we value this lost, unchurched, is unmistakably be as "unattractive" as it needs to judgment-bound generation as Jesus be if it works. valued the lost generation of His The old mind-set asked, "How day, then it is imperative that we be can we get people to come to our willing to devise new wineskins to clear. church?" The new mind-set asks, serve as vehicles for the water of "How can our church go to the life. Otherwise we cannot defend people?" Not "Lord, give us this ourselves from the criticism that we different from the methods used in the city," but "Lord, how do You want to hold our traditions more important past, but let no one, because of this, give us to this city?" than Christ's mission. block the way by criticism" (Testimonies The tactic of waiting for the lost to Some will ask, "Why don't we just for the Church, vol. 7, p. 25). come to us may have worked in the use the churches we have to lead We have no right to expect the 1940s and 1950s, when our culture was people to Jesus Christ?" We have. And unchurched to come to us on our basically churched. But it doesn't work we will continue to do that. That terms and adjust to our unique culture. in the 1990s in a culture that is largely Mandarin-speaking church in Berrien The mature church must be willing to unchurched. As a friend of mine likes Springs must continue to present the put aside its own cultural and to say: "If we keep doing what we've claims of the gospel aggressively to all individual preferences in order to been doing, we'll keep getting what who will respond. reach the lost. we've got." But we must be intentional about Let me give you a parallel. Of the reaching those who speak another many magazines we print in this The Hard Work of Sharing language—ethnically or culturally— church, Liberty has one of the largest I said earlier that planting new even if it means planting a new and circulations. Now let me tell you a churches is not always politically popular. For one thing, it may mean that existing churches are asked to share a pastor with an additional congregation. For another, it may mean sharing leaders with the new church and forcing the parent church (69YNTHIA and Tim Wareham are to develop new leaders. Those are just one of hundreds of couples who unpopular things. have successfully dated and married But further, new churches are more within the SDA church through apt to design church meetings that are Adventist Contact since 1974. attractive to the unchurched. We are They said, "Thanks to Adventist not always comfortable with those Contact and much prayer, we became a modes of worship or methods of family." outreach. They are different, and we Would you like to be one of Contacts many success stories? are apt to criticize them. it?" If we allow that criticism to squelch csfiveatta e/'/,‘,o our reaching of new people with the P. O. Box 5419 claims of the everlasting gospel, we Takoma Park, MD 20913-0419 will have missed an important U.S.A. Phone (301) 589-4440 principle of Christ's commission: IF YOU MET YOUR SPOUSE THROUGH ADVENTIST CONTACT, WE WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU. Design programs for your next hundred members, not the last hundred. In many existing churches it is impossible to get permission to do that.

18 (1490) ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 19 9 6 The Hows of Church Planting Even though a dozen Adventist churches already served to invite their nonmember friends. the Chattanooga/Collegedale, Tennessee, area, in 4. Our services and ministries provide opportunities for a September 1991 a group of about 50 people planted wide variety of people to participate in the life of the church. another congregation: the Hamilton Community church. Some aspects of our ministry to the community have We believe that it takes a variety of churches to reach a gone quite well. There are, however, some things we would variety of people. And while we are geographically close to do differently if we were to do it over: the other congregations, our programs are far apart. Same 1. We would define the vision of our unique ministry to message, different styles of presentation. the unchurched more clearly and to our core group more Why have more than 400 people joined Hamilton in the often. It's easy to forget what you're trying to do and why. past five years? 2. We would be even more aggressive in our outreach to 1. We work at creating an atmosphere of loving the unchurched in our community. acceptance. This core value is emphasized in written 3. We would develop a small group ministry sooner. materials, sermons, and members' attitudes. 4. We would. develop a clearer understanding of the 2. We provide a wide variety of adult Sabbath school spiritual expectations of church leaders. classes. At different stages in their lives, different people Planting Hamilton Community church has been an exciting have different needs. adventure. We hope many others will catch the vision of 3. We plan our worship services around a specific theme planting new congregations to reach the unreached. each week. That theme is highlighted creatively with music, media, drama, and personal stories. We also screen out Mark C. Bresee is senior pastor of the Hamilton Community Adventist terminology, making it a "safe" place for members Church of Seventh-day Adventists.

Let me underscore again: In Christians. Maybe that explains why George Knight wrote a book practicing cultural relevance, the we are reluctant to design programs recently called The Fat Lady arid the church must never change or that attract them. Kingdom. I would like to suggest to you compromise in any way the clear Make no mistake about it: starting today that the lady is not fat; she is teachings of Scripture. I am not new, healthy, growing churches is hard pregnant. As with all cases of pro- suggesting that we should be saying work. It is not a task for the timid, nor spective motherhood, if she does not different things, but that if we are for those attempting to work solely in deliver, not only will her offspring going to be attractive to a wider their own strength. We must pray. We never see the light of day, but her own circle of people we need to be saying must trust in the Saviour as never life will be endangered as well. the same things in different ways. before. We must work. And may I also observe another And we must expect that we will parallel—her part in the birth process Adventists' Friends fail sometimes. In some denominations is called labor! Another fact is that many the failure rate for new churches is as Today we drive a corner stake. Christians don't know many lost high as 70 percent. But to not take Today we pour a footing. Today we people. And it is generally true that the risks is to fail too. nail the theses to the church door in longer they have been in the church, Can anything that dramatic Berrienburg. Today this division the fewer lost people they know. happen in North America in the last launches the most aggressive and There was an interesting statistic in half decade of this millennium? Let intentional church-planting initiative the Adventist Review recently—and I me share with you my convictions in its history. hope you are reading the new Adventist about that: If God is leading this bold Let us not be afraid to go out on Review. new initiative, He will give us wisdom this limb—that's where the fruit is. ■ In a recent study done randomly and courage, and He will plant the among more than 1,700 Adventists, it vision in the hearts of the right was learned that half of them had five people so that it will succeed or fewer close friends who were not gloriously. Ellen White used these Adventists. Barely a fourth of the strong words: "Those who are the sample had more than a dozen non- chosen of God are required to multiply Alfred C. McClure is presi- believing friends. churches wherever they may be dent of the Seventh-day Something the survey didn't show is successful in bringing souls to the Adventist Church in North that many Christians are extremely knowledge of the truth" (Testimonies America. uncomfortable even being around non- to Ministers, p. 199; italics supplied).

ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1996 (1491) 19 WOR LD NE W S PERSPECTIVES From Here to Eternity For Thousands of New Believers, the Conclusion of NET '96 Is Only the Beginning.

BY MORT JUBERG, COMMUNICATION DIRECTOR FOR NET '96

he story defies all beliefs. Those who hear the probability. lectures must face a major Years ago in decision: whether or not to Cuba an atheistic accept Jesus as their Saviour Communist judge, from sin. F Final figures will reveal that Roberto Alvarez, sentenced an Adventist pastor, Rene thousands made drastic Basulto, to four years in prison changes in their lifestyle for rules violations. Upon his because of Mark Finley's release, Pastor Basulto came to messages. At Forest Lake the United States and settled Academy in Orlando, Florida, in the Miami area. where the program was In time Judge Alvarez lost uplinked to roughly 5,000 confidence in the Cuban locations, many decided to government and resigned his follow Jesus; 250 of them were position. The authorities sent baptized. Baptisms continued him to a psychiatric hospital. BROTHERS IN CHRIST: An emotional Roberto Alvarez. a former for five successive meeting Then eight months ago Communist judge in Cuba, is baptized by Pastor Rene Basulto— nights, concluding with Alvarez also journeyed to whom he had once sentenced to jail. Photo by Adriana Pasos Worldwide Baptism Day on south Florida—only to be November 9. abandoned by his sponsoring Cuban- place to stay. Moreno gave Alvarez Bible Such decisions, though, weren't American family. studies and helped him overcome his 25- restricted to the Sunshine State. The Finding Alvarez wandering the streets year habit of smoking. Soon Alvarez Nome, Alaska, church, for example, homeless and poor, Andrew Moreno, an accepted Jesus and attended the reports that all five visitors planned to Adventist, took him to his parents' Discoveries in Prophecy meetings— be baptized. home. There German Moreno, a pastor where, to his amazement, he saw the An estimated 330,000 people, at the Hialeah Spanish church, familiar face of Basulto, the man he had speaking 13 befriended Alvarez and found him a sentenced years earlier. languages, The next weekend from 45 four busloads of countries, Hialeah church participated members traveled to in the five- Orlando to watch the week, 26- former prisoner baptize night series. the former judge. In North Seventeen others from America Hialeah were also more than baptized. 158,000 people MAIL CALL: Each day ttending a Dis- attended the Mark Finley had dozens coveries in meetings. of fax messages waiting AProphecy series Reports for him at the academy ON KEY: Forest Lake Academy's 150-voice choir, directed by is more than taking a from Europe motel office. Photos by Gale Murphy, received a standing ovation. course in Adventist indicate an Mort Juberg.

20 (1492) ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1 9 9 6 WOR LD NEWS PERSPECTIVES

A Word From Mark Finley

"Unless you know the Lamb, no matter how much

you know about the beast you'll be deceived."—Oct. 11. "Since our problem is from within, we need help from above."—Oct. 11. "Jesus is a hero whose luster shines brighter THEIR MOMENT: The final few nights found up to six area pastors through the ages."—Oct. 12. baptizing new believers simultaneously. "To discover [Jesus] as your Messiah is to find the audience of 80,000; in Central and including hosts, fulfillment of your hopes, the fulfillment of your South America, 100,000. An unknown hostesses, ushers, dreams."—Oct. 12. factor is the number of homes tuning in record-keepers, and "Unless you accept the true Messiah, you will to NET '96 through 3ABN (Three children's workers. accept a false messiah."—Oct. 12. Angels Broadcasting Network) and "These men and "Rather than a revolution in society, there must be a through the Internet (see sidebar). women, boys and revolution in the human heart."—Oct. 18. Such an endeavor, of course, couldn't girls, did so much "Love always leads to obedience."—Oct. 18. have been achieved without substantial to make the "The only pill that brings [long-term] relief is the gos- donations of money and time. North meetings a success," pill."—Oct. 29. American Division president he says. "God says your body is the temple of the Holy A. C. McClure raised $1.2 million from Finley also cites Ghost. Satan says your body is a fun house."—Oct. 29. private donations, and thousands of the many visitation "You would be surprised at what I get quoted as members volunteered their evenings at teams—made up of saying."—Oct. 18. downlink sites throughout the world. pastors and lay Orlando alone, notes Finley, members—who —contributed by Marsha Brummel and Jerry R. Coyle demanded 350 to 400 volunteers— worked their

proofread it, compare the text to the audio, then record, "Net" Fishing edit, and compress the audio. Many times we met on-line to discuss ideas and problems. With each of us averaging two BY ROSE BOWEN, VOLUNTEER PROOFREADER FOR hours an evening on the site, the project involved hundreds NET '96, FLOYD, VIRGINIA of hours. Now that NET '96 is over, is this the end of the Web site NET '96 didn't stop at giant television screens; it also and production team? We hope not. If God provides the found its way onto thousands of computer means, we hope to put together a central screens. tt tdeasian on-line media center from which all Adventist A new frontier in evangelism, the DSCOVITIS PROPIEO, ministries can reach out. To have one Internet's World Wide Web is like a huge organization providing Web services, audio magazine whose constantly changing pages and video, would be a great financial contain advertisements, articles, sound, savings. animation—even video clips. In the Bible a large net was lowered for Eight volunteers from across North the fish to swim into. With 30 to 50 million America teamed up to make the It Is people connected to the Internet, the same Written/NET '96 Web site (see photo) can happen today. Web evangelism is happen: Darryl and Cheryl Hosford, from another way to be "fishers of men." Pennsylvania; David Jones, from California; John Beckett, from Tennessee; Harry Selent Already more than 10,000 visits have and Todd Goodman, from Florida; Edsel been recorded to the NET '96 Web site at Adap, from Toronto; and I. http://www.written.org/net96. See also the To produce the site, we had to retrieve the raw text from Discover Bible study guides on-line at the closed-captioning system, format it for the Web page, http://www.iiw.org/discover.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1 9 9 6 ( 1493 ) 21 WOR LD NEWS & PERSPECTIVES

NET '96: Through Kids' Eyes

In a venture as serious as NET '96, sometimes a good dose of childlike innocence is just what the doctor ordered.

In Rare Company A family of five attended the Discoveries in Prophecy lectures every night. After 15 nights the older son was awarded a Bible. That evening at home he showed the Bible to his 3-year-old brother, noting that David and Goliath, Noah, Moses, Paul, and Jesus were all in there. "Is Mark Finley in there too?" asked the little boy. —Pastor Ron Carlson, Fairmont church, Lodi, California SIGN-UP: Virginia Smith, head of children's ministries for the General Conference, helps with the registration for the children's divi- Mixed Messages sion of Discoveries in Prophecy. I had planned to attend the second night of NET '96 at our church. But my husband didn't come home in time, so our son Brandon and I watched the respective areas. presidential debate instead. For Finley himself the exhausting series Throughout the week Brandon and I had prayed for NET '96 during worship. didn't start and stop with each evening's My husband was working and didn't hear these prayers. Sabbath morning my meeting. Rising at 7:30 a.m., Finley spent husband noticed an article about NET '96 and reminded us to pray for its his days consulting with evangelists, success. translators, musicians, and production "We have been praying for NET '96," replied Brandon. "We want Dole, staff; previewing that night's graphics and slides; rehearsing his message (often in the don't we, Dad?" darkened auditorium)—and praying alone. —Janette Whittaker-Allen, Loma Linda, California Then after each meeting Finley shook hands with departing guests,

Battling Buddies "What are you going to do with all of these It Is Written interests and names we have?" asked Pillsbury. "Just let them BY GLORIA BENTZINGER, EVANGELIST FOR IT Is WRITTEN die right here on the church floor?" Then he started raising money right in the board meeting. This fall, when the Bradenton, "I'll give $500," said one Florida, church was debating member. whether to participate in NET '96, "I'll give $500 too," said members Glenn Bosley and another. Clarence Pillsbury found As the needed amount was being themselves in a bitter dispute. raised, a voice was heard from the "I just don't believe in this!" back of the room. "I just don't see Bosley told the finance committee. how it's going to work," said Bosley. "Six thousand dollars just to get up "But I want to be in on it too. I'll PARTNERS: Bosley and Pillsbury have not only and running with a dish, and then made up; they've helped make NET '96 a success. give $500." run a campaign? We're a struggling Pillsbury reports that NET '96 church of 100 trying to meet our local church budget and has united the entire congregation, with many members support worthy students. Besides, we can't teach anybody excited about their responsibilities. by video. I move we vote this NET '96 thing down!" The most whipped-up member of all? Bosley. One night, So the finance committee voted not to have NET '96. in his eagerness, he mistakenly passed out decision cards Previously the church board had voted Pillsbury to be the instead of offering envelopes. Amazingly, some of the cards local coordinator for NET '96. Now, with no budget or were filled out even before Mark Finley preached. support, Pillsbury appealed to the church board.

22 (1494) ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1996 WOR LD NEWS & PER SPEC T I V ES

A Nonmember Critiques NET '96 authority of God's Word, but supporting data such as statistics or professional quotes would have added credibility. BY JEANETTE GARDNER LITTLETON, As one who has always attended conservative churches, A FREELANCE WRITER IN COLUMBIA, MARYLAND I agreed with most of Finley's theology. However, a friend attended some meetings I missed and felt Finley sounded What better way to test a program than to ask a non- anti-Catholic in those. Adventist to evaluate? The Adventist Review invited me to At the New Age meeting I was disappointed that we didn't attend an area church and give my impressions. spend more time on the announced topic. I felt the title was a 2000 and Beyond: Discoveries in Prophecy featured gimmick to draw me in, which made me skeptical about Mark Finley giving 26 messages via satellite to whether other advertised topics would really be covered. churches in 1700 American cities and around the world. Hundreds of slides illustrated Finley's words. This was a I attended two meetings: "New Age Conspiracy, Psychic great idea. However, some of the artwork and photos were Phenomena, and the Real Truth About the End-time" outdated. and "Facing Revelation's Judgment." The meeting ended near 9:00—late for most families. A 15- to 30-minute cut on the message would also have The Church improved its content. Upon leaving the sanctuary, we The local church impressed me. A greeter met me exchanged a coupon for a nice-looking pamphlet, which with a wide smile and led me to the registration tables. reviewed the evening's message. There an equally gracious woman enrolled me. She gave I couldn't attend the next few programs. That's one me an interesting-looking book and a coupon pad. The drawback of a series. Few people can attend meetings five church also offered videotapes of previous meetings for nights a week for five weeks. And the emphasis on the checkout. importance of attending each discouraged me from wanting The pastor was personable in his greeting to the to attend at all. congregation, and smiled at me when he welcomed When I returned, however, the people were equally warm. visitors. As we listened to some beautiful preprogram I had forgotten my coupon book, but that was no problem. music, I noted a good blend of people from different And I didn't feel clueless because I'd missed a few evenings. social classes and ethnic backgrounds. Overall, the programs I attended were good but basic. I'm unsure of the targeted audience. Perhaps the best draw was The Program for young believers in the faith. Overall, I felt positive about the program. The message was steeped in Scripture texts, which were displayed on the Personal Touch screen in a participant-friendly format. The 2000 and Beyond program seemed organized and In his presentation Finley seemed to dance from subject complete. But the main reason I felt positive was because to subject. I followed his direction better when he outlined of the people in the local church. The church made friendly his points. Finley spoke in a circular style, which frustrates but nonpressuring follow-up calls, observing all the "do's" of us linear thinkers. successful church growth. The presentation featured many stories. Many people Good programs are wonderful. But these people made enjoy emotionally based presentations. However, others, like me remember that a warm personal touch is the key to me, are simply not emotionally driven. I firmly believe in the reaching our communities.

reviewed the program, drove back to and all of the organizational says. "I don't worry about applause or his condominium, and relaxed with a committees." criticism. I leave that in God's hands. swim. Operating in the spotlight for five My goal, with the help of those who Of course, if it's a busy time for the weeks, Finley recognizes that he was in a work with me, is to communicate the evangelist, it's also a busy time for an realm of high observation by thousands message to the world." evangelist's spouse. Ernestine Finley of people, most of them only a phone (better known as "Teenie") was a vital call or fax message away. member of the NET '96 team. "She did "I get careful scrutiny from all of the preevangelism organization theologians, historians, English teachers, before coming here," Finley says. "She conservatives, liberals, ethnic and Look for exciting stories from NET '96 worked with the Bible studies, the national groups, and armchair critics who in the February NAD Edition of the cooking school, the Daniel Seminar, think they could do the job better," he Adventist Review.—Editors.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1 9 9 6 (1495) 23

WORLD NEWS & PERSPECTIVES

TOP 1994 Per-Member Contributions to U.S. Protestant Churches

1. $2,166.90 Allegheny Wesleyan Methodist Connection (membership: 2,056) 2. 1,680.03 General Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches (19,218) 3. 1,574.93 Missionary Church (28,821) 4. 1,218.54 Wesleyan Church (116,763) 5. 1,203.40 Evangelical Presbyterian Church (56,499)

7. $945.31 Seventh-day Adventist Church (membership: 775,349) 33. 399.62 United Methodist Church (8,584,125) 35. 389.31 Southern Baptist Convention (15,614,060) 40. 325.04 Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (5,199,048) 47. 41.64 Apostolic Faith Mission Church of God (11,000)

Source: National Council of Churches (47 churches reported)

Now, you can share the Bible's exciting predictions about the future with friends and neighbors who need good news. This year's sharing book, 2000 and Beyond, takes us directly to God's Scriptures to learn how we can live successfully today and into the future without being led astray. In fact, God's Word tells us that this old world won't last much longer. But isn't that good news to those of us who believe? We know that our Saviour is coming soon to take us home to heaven. Paper, 128 pages. US$1.99/Cdn$2.89.

Available at your Adventist Book Center ; Pacific Press Publishing Association or call toll free 1-800-765-6955. Creating the future of Adventist publishing Visit us at http://www.pacificpress.com ©1996 Pacific Press Publishing Association 336/80700

24 (1496) ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1 9 9 6

Joy (Quote Book) Compiled by Ken and Debby Wade. Christians who know they have a Saviour have much to be joyful about! In this compilation of writings from Ellen G. White, we find a source of joy that inspires us to rejoice in the Lord always. Learn the importance of cheerfulness in all circumstances and find the source of encouragement, strength, and everlasting joy. Paper, 144 pages. US$5.99/Cdn$8.49. Comfort (Quote Book) Compiled by Ken and Debby Wade. None of us are strong enough to bear up under life's great disappointments and trials alone. We all experience times when we are in need of comfort. Comfort invites you to see Jesus as a personal friend and as the only Comforter. Paper, 144 pages. US$5.99/Cdn$8.49.

Life's Simple Pleasures Karen Magnum. Rediscover the joy and pleasure that accompany dining without guilt. In this simple and elegant cookbook, Karen Magnum gives us guidelines to more healthful food choices with over 140 mouth- watering recipes. Prepare to savor tasty, healthful recipes and celebrate a few of life's simple pleasures. Paper, 160 pages. US$14.99/Cdn$21.49.

Powerful Passages Ron and Dorothy Watts. Can the Bible possibly pack so much power that its words can transform darkness into light, nonbelievers into believers? Powerful Passages recounts the incredible and inspirational true stories of remarkable Christians throughout history whose pivotal moments in life were their first encounters with specific Bible passages. Paper, 160 pages. US$10.99/Cdn$15.99.

Praise a la Carte Kay D. Rizzo. Praise and Thanksgiving! Together they make a luscious recipe for joy. Praise a la Carte is not just another cookbook. Kay Rizzo's life experiences, seasoned with blessings and sprinkled with praise, have created a compilation of recipes that are heart smart, both physically and spiritually. Paper, 160 pages. US$12.99/Cdn$18.99. KAY t RIz zo 414* Avonavie at# your ABC or call 1-800- 70_5-6441% 0gc Pacific Press Publishing Association Creating the future of Adventist publishing © 1996 Pacific Press Publishing Association 368/80700 Visit us at http://www.pacificpress.com them, "I will walk with you and be

l your God. And you will be my people" Flashlights l (Lev. 26:12, ICB). But the people didn't get it. They kept worshiping the idols and false gods of other nations.

ROSY TETZ CHILDREN ri God pleaded with His people to stop worshiping the idols and let Him be o you have a flashlight? tiny particles called electrons. The their God. But the people were stubborn. You can use flashlights electrons travel from the + end of the The Bible says, "They worshiped useless for exploring, and they're battery to the — end. This traveling we idols and became useless themselves" (2 fun to play with in the call the current—that's what gives the Kings 17:15, ICB). dark. If the power goes battery the energy to light up the little God wanted His people to tell the Doff in your neighborhood, you'll want lightbulb in the flashlight. other nations about Him, but instead to have a flashlight handy so you can When you want to put the flashlight they worshiped the false gods of other find stuff in your closet or your room. back together, you need to do it nations. So God's people became useless Have you ever taken a flashlight carefully and correctly. If you put the just like their useless idols and just like apart? It's very interesting. When you batteries in backward, or with the two flashlight batteries put in the wrong way. unscrew the two parts, two batteries fall + signs together, or any way except the God's people had everything they out. The batteries have electricity right way, the flashlight won't work— needed to let their light shine, but stored in them. Batteries make the light even if you have good batteries and a they acted as though they hadn't put come on when you push the switch. good lightbulb. If you don't do it their batteries in the right way. They Take a close look at the batteries. exactly right, the flashlight will be couldn't get any power from their Can you see a little + near one end totally useless. useless idols. and a little — near the other end? After God rescued the children of Jesus wants to walk with you and be When you push the switch, some Israel from slavery in Egypt, He made your God. Will you be one of His chemicals inside the battery release an agreement with them. He promised people? Will you let your light shine?

FAITH FOR TODAY AND VOICE OF PROPHECY PRESENT t 9 Ze yZet4iffFtetrytk

• tmas provides an opportunity to share God's love with millions who won't tune into a Sunday morning religious II2telecast. It's a family time...a time to recall warm memories, a time when even the unchurched may pause to think of God and acknowledge His blessings.

This joint TV production by Faith For Today and the Voice of Prophecy will be carried by stations and cable systems serving more than 80,000,000 homes! Program features VISION (CANADA) WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18 7:30 P.M. (EST) include: ./Vre•reze/ hez/e, /iv ODYSSEY (FAITH & VALUES) THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19 11:00 A.M. (EST) yew,- • Ralph Carmichael ODYSSEY (FAITH & VALUES) FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20 6:30 P.M. (EST) A/ivy/4 /1,, ro4e, • Wintley Phipps TBN (TRINITY) WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25 11:30 A.M. (EST) • Sheri Rose AIN (AMERICAN INDEPENDENT) WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25 5:30 P.M. (EST) ,. Shepherd, Mrs. (MOST AIN AFFILIATES) You may purchase a video cassette United States of this program for $13.50 1994 Check your local listings for additional stations. Dates and times are subject to change. (U.S. fiends, postpaid) by writing to • messages from - Dan Matthews Lifestyle Magazine, P.O. Box 1000, Thousand Oaks, CA 91359. Ask for and Lonnie Your letter of appreciation to your local station will help assure that Melashenko the "Christmas Joy" video. I quality Adventist programs will be welcomed in the future.

26 (1498) ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 199 6 TAK E A STAND

BY GINA SPIVEY BROWN and Take Me to the LORETTA PARKER SPIVEY Water . . . Again?

GINA: Whatever it takes. LORETTA: Communion is a powerful sym- The issue of rebaptism often generates some bol also. pretty intense discussion. Some say that being Baptism is an outward sign of our inward baptized once is enough. And after one is commitment to Christ. It also commemorates baptized, the quarterly Communion service is an His life, death, and resurrection. adequate symbol of one's faith in Christ's sacrifice. For Communion is a reminder of that commitment. Christ doesn't the Bible say "For as often as ye [do this] . . . ye do Himself said, "This is my body. . . . This is my blood, ... shew the Lord's death till he come" (1 Cor. 11:26)? which is shed for many for the remission of sins" (Matt. Is rebaptism, then, necessary? 26:26-28). It isn't necessary to be rebaptized each and every As one who has been baptized more than once, I say, time a person desires to rekindle his or her relationship with resoundingly, yes! Christ or feels repentant for some sinful deed. That's one of There are times one feels that his or her experience has the reasons for Communion: to remind us of what Christ has been so blemished that participating in Communion is not already done for us. adequate to take away the guilt, in spite of the fact that The Seventh-day Adventist Church Manual lists the the Bible says, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful . . ." "Reasons for Which Members Shall Be Disciplined" (pp. (1 John 1:9). 168, 169). If we really adhered to the list, we would all have Baptism represents several key factors. First is our public to be rebaptized. For whether we realize it or not, we're all confession of past sins. Second is our desire for Jesus to deficient in something—whether it's being less than honest, cleanse us. Third is our commitment to die to self and sin, or breaking the Sabbath, or bearing false witness, etc. and to become a new creature in Christ—to be born again. Think about this: when Jesus broke bread at the first Jesus said, "Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, Communion service (the Last Supper), He knew that among he cannot enter into the kingdom of God" (John 3:5). that group of disciples was one who would openly betray To say it another way: "Baptism is a symbol of our union Him and another who would deliberatly deny that he even with Christ, the forgiveness of our sins, and our reception of knew Jesus. Yet Jesus served both Judas and Peter. the Holy Spirit" (Seventh-day Adventists Believe . . . , p. 180). And after the Resurrection an angel mentioned Peter by It's the Holy Spirit that calls us back to Himself, and name when he told Mary to go and tell the disciples (and true repentance is demonstrated through faith—lifestyle Peter) to meet Jesus in Galilee. Even after Peter's denial, changes and the demonstration of the fruit of the Spirit Jesus did not tell him to be rebaptized. He knew Peter's heart. (see Gal. 5:22, 23). It's the result of a spiritual I fear that sometimes we get rebaptized because of the relationship with Christ. "rules" or because we don't fully understand the Com- Sometimes it's necessary to make that confession publicly, munion service, not because of our own convictions. especially if the sin was a matter of public knowledge. To But if we accept the gift of forgiveness that Christ has say, "Lord, I totally yield myself to You and believe that I am given us, it isn't necessary to be baptized again and again a new creature in Christ." and again. To participate in the emblems of Christ's body Even when sin is a private matter there are still times and blood is an awesome, sobering, and joyful occasion—all rebaptism is necessary. wrapped up in one experience. Is there a limit to the number of times one can be God is faithful and just to forgive if we confess—just rebaptized? I think not. confess. Ask the thief on the cross. He didn't have time to When our covenant relationship with God has been memorize the 27 fundamental beliefs, get baptized, or broken, we should do all we can—under the guidance of the participate in the Communion service. Holy Spirit—to repair that relationship. If the Holy Spirit impresses someone to be rebaptized, then he or she should What do you believe? And why? Gina and Loretta challenge you do it. Mary the mother of Jesus said it best: "Whatsoever he to read your Bible, live your convictions, and take a stand . . . saith unto you, do it" (John 2:5). for Jesus!

ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1996 (1499) 27 D E V 0 110N AL

My Prayer Life Was I N RUT After years of frustration I found something that worked.

BY SKIP MAC CARTY

OR YEARS MY PRAYER LIFE WAS appeal for God to weave that "new" strand into the garment disappointing. Like most practicing Christians, I of my prayer experience. The ultimate objective is to take prayed every day and could point to some full advantage of the opportunities God offers me for deep answered prayers along the way. But prayer time and intimate communion with Him. for me was often a battle. After just a few Some of my prayer sessions begin with a careful reading Fmoments into the routine, my mind would begin to wander. of my entire covering prayer, dwelling upon the significance Often I would find myself saying the same things again and of each point. I still approach prayer in a hurry sometimes, again, day after day. The results of my prayer life were any- anxious to "get it done." But I have found that when I do thing but rewarding. And I came to the conclusion that if allow myself to concentrate on my covering prayer, letting my prayer time wasn't such a great experience for me, it the significance of each point in it once again become a probably wasn't for God, either. longing in my heart after God, then my heart becomes quiet Then several years ago I started praying a very simple and ready to commune with Him. This process sometimes prayer: "God, please make the time I spend with You in takes 10 to 15 minutes or more, but the time spent enhances prayer more interesting, meaningful, and effective—for me the quality of the remainder of the devotional period, and for You!" Somewhere along the line I began to call this making it more interesting and effective. my "covering prayer." And it's become a staple of my prayer Sometimes I choose only one or two points from my life, helping me to enjoy a new experience with prayer for covering prayer, with the accompanying scriptures, dwelling nearly three years now. more in depth on the meaning involved. On occasion I will But my covering prayer has expanded considerably from spend my entire prayer time updating, revising, or adding to the one-liner it used to be. That's because I've built on what my covering prayer, based on new insights gained or new the Bible says regarding prayer. I found that in Scripture longings awakened in my heart. God offers blanket invitations, makes incredible promises, Now I realize that helpful as it is, my covering prayer can and expresses awesome possibilities in regard to prayer. And become one of those "vain repetitions" that Jesus warned so I've learned (and am learning) to convert these scriptural against, and I try to keep alert to the potential danger. Thus calls to prayer and expressions of prayer's potentialities into I try to keep the covering prayer fluid—from time to time personal requests for the enrichment of my own prayer life. adding to it, revising it, expanding some points, and In addition, I have learned great lessons on prayer by reducing others to simpler, more condensed terms. studying the prayer experiences of men and women recorded For whatever it's worth to a fellow pilgrim, here, in 22 in the Bible. And as soon as I gain a new scriptural insight points, is the current edition of my covering prayer: into prayer, I try to formulate that insight into a reverent 1. Commune with me as I call upon You; show me deep

28 (1500) ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1 9 9 6 and hidden things I do not know, and enable You to remove any obstacle that matter to me, and to ask You for waken my ear to hear "as one being from my life that's preventing me from what concerns me most, as a trusting taught" (Isa. 50:4, NIV; see also Jer. bringing glory to You and blessing to child would freely speak to and ask 33:3). others; "Lord, I believe, help my from a loving parent (Matt. 7:7-11; 2. Guard my mind, to keep it unbelief!" (Mark 9:23, 24, NKJV; see Rom. 8:15, 16). focused in prayer (Matt. 26:41). also Matt. 13:58; 17:20; 21:22; Mark 16. Increasingly purify my motives, 3. Deliver my devotional time with 12:23, 24). that I may desire and ask less and less You from the rut of routine, dry for- 11. Empower me to humble myself, from You simply to gratify my own mality, and vain repetition (Matt. 6:7). seek Your face, and turn from my pleasures, but may rather more and 4. Draw out of my heart the many wicked ways, that my world around me more desire and ask according to Your praises of which You are worthy that I might see evidence in my life that You will so that You may safely hear and might enter into the joy, and draw are a God who hears, forgives, and grant my requests (James 4:3; 1 John from the strength, of the choirs of heals (2 Chron. 7:14)• 5:14, 15). heaven who praise You continually 12. Enable me to pray in Jesus' 17. When I do not ask in (Ps. 103; Rev. 4, 5). name in the truest sense of the word- accordance with Your will, then "not 5. As I study Your Word, grant me reflecting His character and my will, but yours be done" (Luke the wisdom and insight of Your Spirit, participating in His mission (John 22:42, NIV). who inspired it (James 1:5; 1 Cor. 14:13, 14; 16:24). 18. In Your own time and way, let 2:10-16). me know specifically how 6. Guide my choice of You are answering my study material and the prayers, but until that time, insights gleaned from it, and help me be still and know may it accomplish the that You are God, and that purpose You intended it to You are worthy of my praise in my life (Isa. 55:10, 11). and rejoicing (Matt. 7:7; 7. May our time John 16:23, 24; Luke 1:49; together be as a river of life Ps. 46:10; Hab. 3:17, 18). that flows from Your 19. Guard whatever I throne through my being commit to You for this day today, cleansing me from and each day until that day all impure, unholy (2 Tim. 1:12). thoughts and desires that 2.0. May this time with Satan seeks to inject into You enable and empower my mind, and as a tree of me to glorify You by life that imparts to me Your completing the work You own thoughts, desires, have given me to do today feelings, emotions, (John 17:4). impulses, burdens, sense of 21. Grant immeasurably priorities, insights, wisdom, more than I ask or imagine, hope, faith, love, etc., to that You might be glorified the capacity that I am ever more greatly through prepared to receive them (1 Peter 13. May the Spirit help me in my my life (Eph. 3:20). 1:15, 16; Rev. 22:1, 2). weakness, interceding for me in 22. Don't allow my study to be 8. Make me a new bottle into accordance with Your will, for I know merely for gaining new information or which You can pour Your new wine not how to pray as I ought,. (Rom. my praying to be limited to simply today (Luke 5:36-39). 8:26, 27). asking You for things, but may they 9. "Search me, 0 God, and know 14. Guide me regarding whom and also be experiences of genuine, open, my heart; test me and know my what to pray for, impressing me to honest communication to get to know anxious thoughts. See if there is any keep praying for the important things You (John 5:39; 17:3). ■ offensive way in me, and lead me in and to not give up until You give a the way everlasting" (Ps. 139:23, 24, clear answer or otherwise lift the Skip MacCarty is pastor for NIV). burden from me to keep praying for administration at Pioneer 10. Deepen my trust in You; that person or situation (Luke 18:1-8). Memorial church on the strengthen my confidence that You 15. Grant me the freedom of spirit campus of Andrews both hear and respond to my prayers; that will allow me to talk with You University, Berrien Springs, grant me the faith in You that will openly and deeply about the things Michigan.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1996 (1501) 29

R t h LtCTIUNJ

BY LINDA LEA The S's Aren't Yours

y workload at the office had grown to the Suddenly a new thought came to me. Very quietly and point that management decided to give part with much humor, God seemed to say, "The S's aren't yours, of my responsibilities to a fellow worker Linda." I was stunned. Then laughter from my soul began to who needed some additional work to round work its way into my throat. I seemed to glimpse God's eyes out her day. My job twinkling with love to me as I grasped Minvolved detailed paperwork with 150 this bit of truth. The S's aren't mine. I people. Since this work was alphabet- laughed. I finished my drink and hurried ized by people's last names, manage- back to work. ment decided to lighten my load by CREWS With a joyful heart I zipped up the

dividing it according to the alphabet. TERRY stairs to my second-floor office. My That's how those names from S to Z supervisor stopped by. "Are you OK?" became someone else's responsibility. ON BY Smiling and laughing, I said, "Let me What a relief! I had some breathing tell you what God told me." I recounted

room that would allow me to catch up ILLUSTRATI my story for her, and we both laughed. and perhaps stay caught up. After that, when other similar A couple weeks after the transition, situations arose, we would look at each my colleague stopped by the office and other, smile, and say, "The S's aren't asked for help with one of the S's. We ours." discussed the situation, and I gave her Jesus says, "Ye shall know the truth, my opinion on how things should be handled. and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:32). He didn't Later in the day I discovered that she planned to say, however, that I would always be comfortable with truth approach the job from an angle I did not like. It was or its subsequent application to my life. inconsistent with the manner in which I had been conducting business. Since we deal with government travel he "S's aren't yours" lesson has helped keep me on requirements for 150 people, there is something to be said course in my personal and professional life. I have for consistency, right? Well, I was upset. My supervisor, a Thad to learn that my opinion is no better or worse precious spiritual sister, knew I was upset. As it was near than anyone else's. Now when I'm asked to give an opin- lunchtime, we agreed it would be good for me to take a ion, I know my suggestion is just one option to be consid- break and get out of the office. ered. I give it with no strings attached. The fact that my advice may not be utilized does not minimize me or make Sipping and Praying my opinion less valuable. I was too irritated to eat, so I simply ordered a drink at a Growth in any area of life can be uncomfortable because fast-food restaurant's drive-through. Sitting in the car in the control is lost. I think God is teaching me that my personal restaurant's parking lot, I sipped my drink and talked out value is not to be confused with how much control I can loud to God, explaining why this was all wrong. My logic maintain. To be overly controlling is self-limiting and can was wonderful! My feelings were intense. I sat in the car cripple others in my sphere of influence. ranting and raving. If passersby had seen me, they probably The S's aren't yours. This truth has set me free as a person would have thought, Now, there's a woman who has gone over and as a Christian. ■ the edge. Oblivious to this possibility, I continued my one- sided dialogue with God. Linda Lea writes from Memphis, Tennessee. Finally I ran down. I sat quietly for a few moments, leaned back against the headrest, and closed my eyes. "OK, God, now You tell me just how I should relate to all of this, please." I sighed and took in a deep breath of air. ri

30 (1502) ADVENTIST REVIEW, DECEMBER 1996 Southern College of Seventh-day Adventists

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