INTERNATIONAL

JOURNAL FOR PASTORS

JANUARY 2012

Issues in the interpretation of the seven trumpets of Revelation

CONTENTS

04 LETTERS Issues in the interpretation of the EDITORIAL seven trumpets of Revelation 05 06 When we examine this prophecy from our historical moment, we 17 REVIVAL AND REFORMATION should realize that some elements have been fulfilled while others are in the process of fulfillment. 28 DATELINE Ángel Manuel Rodríguez 29 RESOURCES

All kinds of stuff 30 THE PASTOR AND HEALTH 11 Could there be something rather less intimidating about a complex doctrinal presentation than seeing ourselves in a transparent parable? Laurence A. Turner Ministry® International Editors International Journal for Pastors Chinese-Robert Wong -Edwin T. Pandjaitan 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Indonesian Japanese-Yukio Ebihara Good stories Spring, MD 20904-6600 U.S.A. Korean-Sung Sun Hong www.ministrymagazine.org How does one tell a good children’s story? Portuguese (South America)- [email protected] 15 Zinaldo Santos Laura Wibberding Editor Russian-Ilie Leahu Derek J. Morris Spanish (South America)- Marcos Blanco Associate Editor Spanish (Inter-America)-Pablo Perla Willie E. Hucks II Different from us: A pastoral reflection International Advisors on cultural conflict Consultants to Editor Mario Brito, Mikhael Kaminsky, John Fowler, Clifford Goldstein, Janos Kovacs-Biro, L. Chansanga 18 Myrna Tetz How do we, as ministers of the gospel, respond to the questions Colney, Armando Miranda, Rudatinya M. Mwangachuchu, Editorial Specialist voiced in our society? Daniel Opoku-Boateng, Jongimpi Sheryl Beck Papu, Bruno Raso, Ángel M. Skip Bell Finance and Technology Rodríguez, Hector Sanchez, Manager Houtman Sinaga, David Tasker, Ivan John Feezer IV L. Williams, Ted N. C. Wilson The joys (and challenges) of retirement Advertising Subscriptions If we are blessed to have lived long enough to retire, we will Cheri Gatton 12 issues: United States US$32.99; [email protected] Canada and overseas US$46.50. 21 face some new challenges and new joys. What will be our +1 208-965-0157 To order: send name, address, and payment to Ministry® Subscriptions, Subscriptions/renewals/ 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver attitude? address changes Spring, MD 20904-6600 U.S.A. [email protected] ministrymagazine.org/subscribe Reinder Bruinsma +1 301-680-6515 +1 301-680-6502 (fax) To Writers We welcome unsolicited manu- Cover illustration scripts. Before submitting, review Julius Schnorr von Carolsfeld, the writers’ guidelines at The Silence in Heaven Christians, worldviews, and wisdom www.ministrymagazine.org. Please Layout send manuscripts via email to Only a deep, personal knowledge of God can give us the 316 Creative [email protected]. 24 wisdom to make truly informed choices of what standard we will use to recognize true and trustworthy knowledge—the

Word of God or modern scientific interpretations. Director Anthony Kent | [email protected] | +1 301-680-6516 Leonard Brand Ministry® has been published Printer Pacific Press® Pub. Assn., monthly since 1928 by the Minis- 1350 N. Kings Rd., Nampa, ID 83687 terial Association, General Confer- ence of Seventh-day Adventists®. Standard mail postage paid at Nampa, Ministry is a peer-reviewed journal. Idaho. (ISSN 0026-5314) SECRETARY Jerry N. Page Member of Associated Church Press. Associate Secretaries Adventist®, Seventh-day Adventist®, Jonas Arrais, Robert Costa, and Ministry® are the registered Bible credits Scripture taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Willie E. Hucks II, Anthony Kent, trademarks of the General Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House. All rights reserved. Derek Morris, Janet Page Conference Corporation of Ministerial Resource Center Seventh-day Adventists®. Coordinator Cathy Payne Vol. 84 Number 1 © 2012 888-771-0738, +1 301-680-6508 www.ministerialassociation.com PRINTED IN THE U.S.A. LETTERS

“I found it comforting to hear that I’m not alone in my frustrations.”

The fundamentals of attended the funeral. But only one article. I found it comforting to hear ministry minister, who lived in another city, that I’m not alone in my frustrations. r. Loren Seibold’s article, “Get cared enough to stay in touch. It also reminded me that when DBack to the Basics. Be Jesus What is needed is a pastor’s I started out as a pastor, I would to Someone!” (September 2011) pastor, a person who is skilled in always go visit a shut-in when I felt addressed a need I believe we have listening and assisting in process- frustrated—just to remind myself had in the ministry for decades. ing past and present issues. The why I answered God’s call. It worked Having taught and counseled individual needs to be confidential, then and it still works now. pastors and seminary students for one with whom they can share their — Becky Gray, pastor, Fostoria, Ohio, United States ten years, I became well aware that deepest needs and challenges of we ministers are human too—often ministry, one with whom they can just wished to express my thanks possessing unresolved issues from be vulnerable, whom they can call, Ifor Loren Seibold’s article, “Get the past. Added to that is the chal- day or night, after a difficult day or a Back to the Basics. Be Jesus to lenge of responding to a sometimes challenging board meeting. Someone!” While there obviously is disgruntled, divided, hurting congre- I strongly believe that if you have a place for the large church ministry, gation. This can be overwhelming. a happy and fulfilled pastoral family, as pastors who are called to be The pastors in many of our churches, your chances of having a happy and shepherds, we must never forget the it seems, are expected to be all fulfilled congregation are greatly often forgotten ones who no longer things to all people—administra- increased. Therefore, the minister, seem to have a voice in society and tor, builder, counselor, fund-raiser, having received the comforting are gathered together in places arbitrator, motivator, and (let’s not presence mediated through the where sometimes neglect by family forget) a powerful preacher. pastor’s pastor, will then be able and others is their new life. We are left with an important to more effectively mediate the I have no doubt that if Jesus were question: Who will come close to comforting presence of Jesus to his walking on this earth today, these the pastor and his family? Who will congregation. ones would be a principal focus of mediate the presence of Jesus to —Alvin L. Kurtz, email His attention, speaking words of them? Who will be Jesus to them? I hope and encouragement. We as agree with the author of this article. ust wanted to say how blessed I pastors and those called to minister It certainly is a blessing to visit those Jwas by brother Seibold’s article. His peace and comfort need to in care centers, nursing homes, as It was a timely reminder of what continue to focus upon all He died well as those in grief and pain. May ministry is all about (at its core). to save. I suggest, though, to be most effec- Thank you again. —Grant Wright, assistant pastor, Tauranga Central tive in one’s ministry and deal with its —Jerry Smith, pastor, Essex, England Baptist Church, Tauranga, New Zealand various aspects—including relating to others in pain—it is crucial to have hank you to Loren Seibold for his Worship someone who will be a caregiver to Tarticle “Get Back to the Basics. Be hank you for Robert Holmes’s the pastor. Jesus to Someone!” I’ve pastored for Tarticle “The Weightiness of Wor- Fourteen years ago I experienced nearly 20 years and I find it difficult to ship” (September 2011). I particularly the death of my spouse from cancer. find another pastor willing to be as appreciated his comment that “the I was grateful for the ministers who honest as Pastor Seibold was in his Continued on page 28

MINISTRY 4 JANUARY 2012 EDITORIAL | Willie E. Hucks II Seven goals for the New Year

have an aversion to making reso- I want to consistently face be a bigger challenge for me than lutions for the New Year because, life’s battles with the Word (Matt. I sometimes wish to acknowledge Ibefore January comes to an end, 4:4, 7, 10). My greatest victories because it becomes easy to grow most of them end in failure. I have come when I have fortified myself bitter in the face of multitudinous noble intentions; but too often the with quality time in personal Bible slights. But Jesus, who bore more affairs of life—necessary and sen- study. I can easily trace my dumbest unjust indignities than I could ever sible as they are—keep interrupting decisions to neglect of the same. imagine, bids me to treat others as I my best-laid plans. But I have also discovered that wish to be treated—keeping in mind Yet, in spite of such loathing, I the answers to some of my simplest that so many others have treated me face 2012 with a willingness to tackle predicaments come by reflecting marvelously, and that He Himself a set of goals—seven of them, in upon the life experiences of other has been infinitely gracious to me. fact—that fall under one general cat- frail souls in Scripture. Through I wish to model my relationships egory. My overarching aim for 2012 studying these people, I have gained with others after how Christ relates is to model my life according to the wisdom that I have been able to not to me. will of Christ as revealed through His only appropriate to myself during my I want to live in the atmosphere life and teachings. Should I live to see own spiritual pilgrimage, but pass of God’s peace, regardless of my 2013, and if Jesus has not returned by along to my children and others who circumstances (John 16:33). I grow that time, the seven points that follow seek wisdom. As did Jesus in the weary of always having to address articulate Spirit-driven improvements wilderness, I want to govern my life one issue after another: household in my life that I wish to realize during with an “it is written.” repairs, incorrect billing from a ser- the next 366 days. I want to know God for myself vice provider, and sometimes far I want to consistently start (John 17:3). With each passing more consequential matters such each day with prayer (Mark 1:35). week, my wife and I learn things as ruffled interpersonal relations or It remains the dirty little secret that about each other that we didn’t physical duress. although we, as ministers, deal with know—after almost 25 years of mar- But God promises me peace the holy on a daily basis, some of us riage. Such an experience deepens when I keep my mind focused upon still struggle to secure meaningful our love and respect for each other. Him (see Isa. 26:3). Maintaining a and beneficial time for prayer. We’re Prayer and Bible study enable me trustful walk with Him places life’s not hypocrites—praying profession- to better understand God. Especially events in perspective. I wish to ally and ignoring the power thereof in 2012, I want to better comprehend model such a walk after the one when no one watches. Rather, often how incredibly loving and gracious Jesus had with His heavenly Father. we become so busy attending to He has been—and continues to Finally, I want to live in eager the needs of church members and be—toward me. expectation of His return (Matt. church business that slowly and I want to be a shining light for 24:42, 44; 25:13). As a child, I imag- imperceptibly we neglect our own others (Matt. 5:14–16). Too much ined Jesus walking and talking with well-being. light in a room blinds those who wish me at all times. As an adult, I (sad to Most mornings upon waking to see, while too little light fails to say) don’t always imagine Jesus in up, I go to my home office and after illuminate what needs to be seen. As the room with me. I want to again worshiping and adoring God, I pray an ambassador for Christ, I neither see myself in His presence, before through my ever-growing list of want to overwhelm others with God- His throne, for eternity. I want to concerns: myself, family, colleagues talk nor be secretive so that no one experience the prayer of Jesus, to near and far, pressing issues, as discerns a difference between me be with Him where He is and see His examples. But occasionally I skimp and others. I wish to live a life that glory (see John 17:24). on the time I give to God—rushing to brings glory to my heavenly Father, What are your goals for 2012? attend to other personal and profes- impressing others to want to get to Whatever they are, I pray that you sional issues that appear urgent. I know Him for themselves. will build them upon the foundation wish to model my prayer life after I want to honor, respect, and of God’s will for your life. that of Christ. uplift others (Matt. 7:12). This can

Tell us what you think about this article. Email [email protected] or write to 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904.

MINISTRY 5 JANUARY 2012 LEAD ARTICLE | Ángel Manuel Rodríguez

Ángel Manuel Rodríguez, ThD, is the recently retired director of the Biblical Research Institute, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States.

Issues in the interpretation of the seven trumpets of Revelation

visionary cycle of Revela- principles of apocalyptic interpreta- elements of the prophecy have tion that has proven to be tion. I will list some of them in the already been fulfilled while others one of the most difficult context of the study of the trumpets. are in the process of fulfillment or Ato interpret is Revelation 1. In the interpretation of the will soon be fulfilled. 8–11, the seven trumpets. The lan- trumpets, Adventist theologians b. Hence, the fulfillment of guage and imagery are complex; and have almost consistently employed apocalyptic prophecy takes place its application to specific historical the historicist method of prophetic within the flow of history as a events has resulted in a variety of interpretation because it is grounded whole. Consequently, it cannot and views. This interpretational uncer- in Scripture itself. This method was should not be interpreted along the tainty could be confusing to church provided to the apocalyptic visionar- lines of preterism or futurism or members and those interested in ies by the angel interpreter. It has applied to conceptual abstractions finding in this apocalyptic prophecy proven to be a valid approach to disconnected from specific historical one clear and final interpretation. At apocalyptic prophecy as illustrated events (idealism). the present time such a final inter- in its use by Jesus, the apostles, and c. Recapitulation is central in pretation is not available. Perhaps interpreters throughout Christian apocalyptic prophecies (Dan. 2; 7; the question we should address is, history. While in this article I will not 8; 11). The trumpets recapitulate What can be done to avoid transform- provide all the necessary evidence history from a particular perspective ing this diversity of opinions into an to support the most important ele- and, to some extent, parallel other internal theological struggle? Let ments of the historicist method of prophetic cycles of seven found in me suggest two things. First, we interpretation,1 I will suggest that Revelation.2 Each parallel analyzes should ask the Lord to strengthen the following are indispensable the historical period from different our willingness to work together in a for a proper interpretation of the and yet supplemental angles. spirit of Christian love and humility in trumpets: 2. The apocalyptic nature of the order to build up the church. Second, a. Apocalyptic prophecy covers vision aims at a fulfillment specific we should agree on how to approach the whole span of history from the enough to be located in one histori- this apocalyptic prophecy—this is time of the prophet to the very cal event or process. In other words, the question of proper hermeneutics. end of history (Dan. 7). In order multiple fulfillments of the trumpets to be loyal to this methodology, should be excluded from the discus- Basic principles it is necessary to apply it to the sion.3 This has been considered by I do not have anything particu- apocalyptic visionary cycle of the us and by the biblical writer to be a larly new to offer, but I will underline seven trumpets. When we examine fundamental characteristic of apoca- the need to remain firmly committed this prophecy from our historical lyptic prophecy (e.g., Daniel says to to our nonnegotiable hermeneutical moment, we must realize that some the king of Babylon, who represents

MINISTRY 6 JANUARY 2012 the kingdom, “ ‘You are that head of trumpets, our journey has not yet with the historicist approach. In my gold’ ” [2:38, NIV]; similarly, Gabriel reached its intended destination. opinion, it seems to be compat - identifies “ ‘the kings of Media and ible—notice that I am not saying that Persia’ ” and “ ‘the king of Greece’ ” Diversity of views this is or is not the right interpretation as represented by the ram and goat The following chart illustrates of these trumpets. The main reason respectively [8:20,21, NIV]). how the application of the previous for my opinion is that it is neither a 3. The trumpets are not God’s principles of interpretation to the preterist or futurist, nor an idealist final eschatological judgments upon trumpets by dedicated Adventists approach to the trumpets. The appar- impenitent sinners but judgments could result in a diversity of views ent problem is that this view identifies taking place within the flow of regarding the prophecy’s precise the powers described in the trumpets history. Therefore, we should clearly historical fulfillment. This chart is with philosophical and spiritual move- distinguish between the purpose of not comprehensive but illustrative.4 ments rather than with particular the trumpets and that of the seven (See chart on page 8.) empires or nations. But here we plagues (Rev. 16). The plagues The chart reveals a number of should be cautious. For instance, in will occur at a specific historical important points. First, it is clear the New Testament, Israel is not sim- moment that will quickly lead to that the traditional view among ply a geopolitical power. Through the the parousia. Adventists, represented by Uriah coming of the Jewish Messiah the 4. The mention of time periods Smith, is not strongly supported by faith of Israel has been universalized, within the trumpets should be care- many interpreters. However, the fact and now the Old Testament Israel of fully studied to determine whether that one scholar (Alberto Treiyer) has faith incorporates people from every we are dealing with prophetic time recently provided a valuable exposi- tongue, tribe, and people. There are periods or something else. If the tion and defense of the trumpets various other examples from the reference is to prophetic time peri- along the lines of Smith’s indicates book of Revelation itself, but the best ods, we should attempt to find the that this interpretation should not be is probably Babylon. It is no longer a historical fulfillment applying the easily dismissed. Second, none of city in Mesopotamia but a symbol of year-day principle to them. the other interpreters follow Smith global apostasy and rebellion against 5. We should carefully study the in his interpretation of the first four God. This interpretational movement biblical antecedents of the language trumpets. In fact, if this sample from a limited geographical area and imagery used to describe each of expositors is of any value, one to a universal phenomenon is also trumpet before attempting to iden- could easily conclude that a new supported by Ellen G. White in the tify their historical fulfillment. This consensus seems to be emerging context of apocalyptic prophecies. methodological element is based in the interpretation of the first four She takes the apocalyptic reference on the hermeneutical principle trumpets that radically differs from to Egypt to represent the spirit of that Scripture interprets itself. Its the views of Smith. Third, there are the French Revolution that has now application excludes the use of our some significant interpretational reached global dimensions in the imagination to determine meaning differences with respect to the fifth form of atheism. 6 Therefore this and identify fulfillment. and sixth trumpets. Two interpreters new interpretation of the fifth and Using these principles will not sided with Uriah Smith in their inter- sixth trumpets does not undermine guarantee unanimity of interpreta- pretation of the fifth trumpet (Thiele historicism. It identifies a global tion but will set some important and Maxwell) and three on the sixth way of thinking that originated in parameters for the interpretation trumpet (Thiele, Maxwell, and Shea). a particular nation and considers it of the trumpets. Although differ- But we find among them variations to be the historical fulfillment of the ences of opinion cannot be ruled out in some details. This suggests that fifth and sixth trumpets. This new completely, as Adventist interpreters Smith’s interpretation has not been approach remains within the bound- we should uphold the principles totally put to rest. aries of historicism. Probably the discussed above. For instance, it Fourth, the most important devel- most significant challenge that this could be that the language and opment in the interpretation of the view confronts is to provide a valid imagery used in the description of a fifth and sixth trumpets finds in them interpretation to the time elements particular trumpet could be applied the rise of secularism and atheism mentioned in the two trumpets. On by different interpreters to different in the Western world and the work the other hand, those who follow historical events. This is tolerable as of the end-time Babylon (Paulien, Uriah Smith or are very close to his long as a particular historical fulfill- LaRondelle, and Stefanovic). 5 views do not only have to agree on ment is in view and the biblical text Because this is a major departure the specific dates for the fulfillment has been carefully analyzed in order from the traditional approach, it is of the prophetic periods but they also to justify that particular possibility. necessary to make a few comments need to find a better explanation for This suggests that, with respect to about it. The question is whether this the mention of the seal of God in the a full or final interpretation of the interpretation remains compatible sixth trumpet (Rev. 9:4).

MINISTRY 7 JANUARY 2012 LEAD ARTICLE | Ángel Manuel Rodríguez

Views on the Trumpets J. Paulien/ Trumpet U. Smith E. Thiele R. Naden C. M. Maxwell W. Shea H. LaRondelle/ A. Treiyer R. Stefanovic

First Attack of God’s judgment God’s judgment God’s judgment Pagan Rome God’s judgment Attack of Visigoths against on Jerusalem. on Jerusalem. on Jerusalem. persecutes on Jerusalem. Visigoths against Rome under Christians. Rome under Alaric. Alaric.

Second Attack of the God’s judgment God’s judgment God’s judgment Fall of pagan Fall of the Attack of the Vandals against on pagan Rome. on pagan Rome. on pagan Rome. Rome. Roman Empire. Vandals against Rome. Rome.

Third Attack of the God’s judgment God’s judgment God’s judgment Apostasy of the Apostasy of the Attack of the Huns against against against against Christian church. Christian church. Huns against Rome. professed professed professed Rome. Christian church. Christian church. Christian church.

Fourth Fall of Western Darkness of the Darkness of the Darkness of the Darkness of the Rise of secular- Collapse of Rome. Middle Ages. Middle Ages. Middle Ages. Middle Ages. atheism (Rev. Western Rome 11:7). and its system of worship.

Fifth Rise of Islam. Rise and Satan’s Rise and Crusades during Reign of secular- Rise of Islam (5 months progress of attack on the progress of the Middle atheism. against apostate period; 1299 + Islam. Reformation by Islam. Ages. (5 months Christianity. 150 = 1449.) (5 months the Counter- (5 months = (5 months = = God’s (5 months = 150 period; Reformation. 150 years; 150 years; judgments are years; 632–782; 1299 + 150 = (5 months = first Muslim 1099–1249; from comprehensive first Islamic 1449.) 150 years; attack on the capture of but limited; cf. expansionist 1535–1685.) Constantinople Jerusalem to the Gen. 7:24; 8:3.) wave.) in 674 to the last beginning of the in 823 [only 149 last crusade.) years].)

Sixth Ottoman Empire. Ottoman Empire. Time of final Ottoman Empire. Ottoman Empire. Rise of end- Ottoman Empire. (1 day, 1 month, (391 years; crisis; from 18th (391 years; 1453, (391 years; time Babylon. (391 years; 1 year = 391 1449–1840.) century to close fall of Byzantine 1453–1844, The final crisis 1453–1844, years; 1449– of probation. Empire to 1844.) when the edict described in when the edict 1840.) of toleration was 7:1–3 and Rev. of toleration was issued.) 13–16. issued.) (1 hour, 1 day, 1 month, refers to a divine ap- pointed moment of time.)

Seventh Mystery of God Mystery of God Consummation. Mystery of God Mystery of God Sets final events Time of the is finished. is finished. is finished. is finished. in motion. end when the (Summary of mystery of God events described is accomplished. in Rev. 12–22.)

Fifth, another item that tends interpretation of the Millerite preacher before, Josiah Litch, one of the lead- to complicate the discussion of the Josiah Litch. This is what she says, ing ministers preaching the second prophetic periods and has influenced “In the year 1840 another remark- advent, published an exposition of some of the expositors is that Ellen able fulfillment of prophecy excited Revelation 9, predicting the fall of the G. White seems to support the widespread interest. Two years Ottoman Empire. According to his

MINISTRY 8 JANUARY 2012 calculations, this power was to be wonderful impetus was given to the how we use this single statement. overthrown ‘in a.d. 1840, sometime in advent movement. Men of learning Interestingly, when one looks at the the month of August;’ and only a few and position united with Miller, both chart, it is clear that, apart from Uriah days previous to its accomplishment in preaching and in publishing his Smith, only one other writer ends he wrote: ‘Allowing the first period, views, and from 1840 to 1844 the the period in 1840 (Thiele). Treiyer 150 years, to have been exactly ful- work rapidly extended.”7 is attracted to 1840 but seems to filled before Deacozes ascended the The context indicates that she is be more comfortable with 1844. In throne by permission of the Turks, and describing the experience of William other words, most of them do not that the 391 years, fifteen days, com- Miller and his supporters in the allow a single comment by Ellen G.

I will underline the need to remain firmly committed to our nonnegotiable hermeneutical principles of apocalyptic interpretation.

menced at the close of the first period, early 1840s. Since, at that time, she White to settle the question. They it will end on the 11th of August, was a Millerite, she most probably would rather reexamine the issue by 1840, when the Ottoman power in accepted Litch’s interpretation of taking a fresh look at the biblical text Constantinople may be expected to the prophecy. Her main point in the and examining historical sources. In be broken. And this, I believe, will be quote is that the fulfillment of his this particular case, this appears to found to be the case.‘—Josiah Litch, prediction added impetus to the be a good procedure. in Signs of the Times, and Expositor of prophetic interpretation of the 2,300 Prophecy, Aug. 1, 1840. days put forth by William Miller. It Conclusion At the very time specified, Turkey, has been suggested that what we The views summarized in this through her ambassadors, accepted seem to have here is a retelling of paper are all compatible with the the protection of the allied powers the experience of the Millerites, historicist method of prophetic inter- of Europe, and thus placed her - including hers, without necessarily pretation. As long as this particular self under the control of Christian providing a final interpretation of methodology is not undermined, the nations. The event exactly fulfilled the prophetic period. Whether this church should allow for a diversity of the prediction. . . . When it became is the case or not will continue to be interpretations.9 Acknowledging this known, multitudes were convinced a matter of debate.8 But the fact that should immediately rule out dog- of the correctness of the principles she never again mentions 1840 as a matic interpretations and heated of prophetic interpretation adopted year when a biblical prophecy was discussions that could easily sacrifice by Miller and his associates, and a fulfilled should make us cautious on Christian humility and love. Every

MINISTRY 9 JANUARY 2012 LEAD ARTICLE | Ángel Manuel Rodríguez suggested interpretation needs dis- Edwin R. Thiele, Outline Studies in Revelation (Angwin, Pacific Press, 1903], 228). Then she adds, cussion in terms of the validity of the CA: Class Syllabus, Pacific Union College); Alberto Treiyer, “At the same time anarchy is seeking to sweep away all The Seals and the Trumpets: Biblical and Historical Studies law, not only divine, but human. The centralizing of wealth analysis of the biblical text and its (self-published, 2005). I apologize to the authors if I and power; the vast combinations for the enriching of the few alleged historical fulfillment. unintentionally misrepresented their views. at the expense of the many; the combinations of the poorer 5 Jacques Doukhan also supports this particular view classes for the defense of their interests and claims; the spirit (Secrets of Revelation: The Apocalypse Through Hebrew Eyes of unrest, of riot and bloodshed; the world-wide dissemination 1 For example, see William Johnsson, “Biblical Apocalyptic,” [Hagerstown, MD: Review and Herald, 2002], 84–91). He of the same teachings that led to the French Revolution—all in Handbook of Seventh-day Adventist Theology, ed. Raoul sees in the first four trumpets the history of the church from are tending to involve the whole world in a struggle similar to Dederen (Hagerstown, MD: Review and Herald, 2000), post-apostolic times to the great apostasy, paralleling to that which convulsed France” (Ibid., emphasis added). 784–814. some extent the seals. She seems to consider such a mind-set as the one 2 On the topic of recapitulation and the trumpets, see 6 She wrote, “ ‘The great city’ in whose streets the witnesses prevailing now in the whole world: Ekkehardt Mueller, “Recapitulation in Revelation 4-11,” are slain, and where their dead bodies lie, is ‘spiritually’ “Atheism and infidelity prevail in every land. Bold Journal of the Adventist Theological Society 9, no. 1 (1998): Egypt. Of all nations presented in Bible history, Egypt most blasphemers stand forth in the earth, the house of God’s 260–277. boldly denied the existence of the living God, and resisted own building, and deny the existence of the Creator, and 3 See Jon Paulien, “Seals and Trumpets: Some Current His commands. No monarch ever ventured upon more open challenge the God of heaven to strike them dead on the Discussions,” in Symposium on Revelation—Book I, ed. and highhanded rebellion against the authority of Heaven spot if their position is wrong. Behold the societies of Frank B. Holbrook (Silver Spring, MD: Biblical Research than did the king of Egypt. When the message was brought infidels everywhere forming to devise means to spread their Institute, 1992), 183–198. him by Moses, in the name of the Lord, Pharaoh proudly hellish poisons!” (Review and Herald, May 4, 1886). 4 The information for the chart was taken from the following answered, ‘Who is Jehovah, that I should hearken unto His It is clear that for Ellen G. White the names of the cities sources: Hans LaRondelle, How to Understand the End-Time voice to let Israel go? I know not Jehovah, and moreover I will stand now for worldwide movements that were initiated in Prophecies of the Bible: The Biblical/Contextual Approach not let Israel go.’ [Exodus 5:2.] This is atheism; and the nation France during the French Revolution. This way of looking at (Sarasota, FL: First Impressions, 1997); C. Mervyn Maxwell, represented by Egypt would give voice to a similar denial of apocalyptic prophetic fulfillment still falls within what we God Cares, vol. 2 (Boise, ID: Pacific Press, 1985); Roy C. the claims of the living God, and would manifest a like spirit call the historicist method of prophetic interpretation. Naden, The Lamb Among the Beasts (Hagerstown, MD: of unbelief and defiance. ‘The great city’ is also compared, 7 Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy, 334,335. Review and Herald, 1996); Jon Paulien, “Interpreting ‘spiritually,’ to Sodom. The corruption of Sodom in breaking 8 See Robert W. Olson, 101 Questions on the Sanctuary and the Seven Trumpets,” unpublished paper prepared for the law of God was especially manifested in licentiousness. Ellen G. White (Washington, DC: Ellen G. White Estate, the Daniel and Revelation Committee of the General And this sin was also to be a pre-eminent characteristic of the 1981), question 52. Conference, 1986; William Shea, “Revelation’s Trumpets,” nation that should fulfill the specifications of this scripture” 9 This is illustrated by the way the Seventh-day Adventist Bible unpublished paper, 1998; Uriah Smith, The Prophecies of (The Great Controversy [Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press, Commentary dealt with the seven trumpets. While affirming Daniel and Revelation (Nashville, TN: Southern Publishing 1950], 269). the traditional view represented by Smith, it acknowledges Association, 1944); Ranko Stefanovic, The Revelation In another place, after describing the moral corruption other possibilities and avoids dogmatism (see F. D. Nichol, of Jesus Christ: Commentary on the Book of Revelation of the world, she asks, “What is to prevent the world from ed., Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary [Washington, (Berrien Spring, MI: Andrews University Press, 2002); becoming a second Sodom?” (Education [Oakland, CA: DC: Review and Herald, 1978], 7:778–796).

Tell us what you think about this article. Email [email protected] or write to 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904.

MINISTRY 10 JANUARY 2012 Laurence A. Turner

Laurence A. Turner, PhD, chairs the department of theological studies and is principal lecturer in Old Testament, Newbold College, Berkshire, England.

All kinds of stuff

“Once again, the kingdom of seven parables that explore differ- Kinds of net heaven is like a net that was let ent aspects of that kingdom. First, In Jesus’ time, fishermen down into the lake and caught all Jesus illustrates how the kingdom used two kinds of net to do two kinds of fish. When it was full, the is given (the sower who went forth quite different kinds of fishing. fishermen pulled it up on the shore. to sow); how it operates (the wheat The first kind of net, a casting-net Then they sat down and collected and weeds growing together; the (amphiblestron or diktuon), was the good fish in baskets, but threw tiny mustard seed that grows into a relatively small, roughly circular in the bad away. This is how it will be large plant; yeast being kneaded in shape, with leaded weights around at the end of the age. The angels will a batch of dough); how it is acquired its edge. When a fisherman saw a come and separate the wicked from (the treasure hidden in the field; the shoal of fish in shallow water, he the righteous and throw them into merchant who discovers a fabulous would grasp the net in the center the fiery furnace, where there will pearl); then finally, how it will be and throw it over the surface of the be weeping and gnashing of teeth” consummated at the end of the age water so that the net unfurled to its (Matt.13:47–50).1 (the fishermen pulling in their net greatest extent. Then it would sink to the shore). So, seven parables rapidly, drawn down by the lead f Jesus were to preach the illustrating how the kingdom is weights, covering the fish. When sermon in your church this given, operates, is acquired, and will the net was pulled up, the lead Sabbath, what do you think be consummated. weights would draw together at the IHis opening words would be?2 A few years ago I preached a bottom, trapping the fish within. But Would He begin by saying, “My series on these seven parables of this does not illustrate the picture purpose this morning is to inves- the kingdom. My sermons on the Jesus has in mind. tigate the nature of the kingdom first six went reasonably well—or The second kind of net, and the of God with particular reference to so I thought. But my sermon on the one specifically referred to by Jesus, its Greco-Roman background and seventh parable, the parable of the was the dragnet (sagene). This was utilization of Jewish tradition in its fishing net, on how the kingdom pulled behind a boat or spread explication of eschatological expec- will be consummated “at the end between two boats so that it formed tation. To achieve this end I will be of the age,” seemed anticlimactic. a cone shape and was then hauled using the historical-grammatical Of all the parables in this chapter, to shore, ideally capturing a shoal of method?” If He did, then those of this is the least familiar to most fish within. And this particular form us who have degrees in theology people. Odd, really, because this of fishing, says Jesus, compares to might feel more at home than we do comes as the seventh of the seven the kingdom of God. when confronted by the subversive parables—the climax of what Jesus So what exactly does the image simplicity of His parables. There’s had to say. Yet it seems like an anti- of fishermen using a dragnet tell us something rather less intimidating climax coming after the others. All about the kingdom of God at the end about a complex doctrinal presen- the other parables end on a positive of the age? Well, first of all, remem- tation than seeing ourselves in a note. But the parable of the fishing ber that Jesus referred specifically transparent parable. net concludes with weeping and to a dragnet, not to a casting-net. A “Now the kingdom of God is gnashing of teeth. Why such an casting-net is targeted fishing, but like . . .” Like what, exactly? Well, apparent anticlimax to such an a dragnet is used quite differently. like all kinds of things. Take Matthew upbeat sequence of parables? It is It gathers up everything in its path. 13, for example. Here Jesus tells worthwhile revisiting this parable. It does not discriminate. All kinds

MINISTRY 11 JANUARY 2012 Laurence A. Turner of fish, the good, the bad, and the on deck in a dragnet. Yes, fishermen to the kingdom, day in, day out, for ugly, find their way into the dragnet. land more than fish when they draw the rest of their lives. There would The Sea of Galilee, for example, has in their dragnets. So Jesus is saying, be Matthew the tax collector and up to 36 species of fish, any one of I think, “They caught all kinds of Roman sympathizer, standing next which can end up in a dragnet. stuff.” And this, says Jesus, is just to Simon the Zealot, anti-Roman ter- But the dragnet is even more like the kingdom of heaven. rorist. Jesus would also see Judas indiscriminate than this. It does not Anyone who has read the Gospel who would betray Him; Peter who just catch fish. It catches anything of Matthew should not be surprised would deny Him. All kinds of stuff! and everything, fish or not, that is by this. Right at the beginning of swept into it. And this is where our His ministry, Jesus said, “ ‘I will All kinds of stuff Bible versions might mislead us. make you fishers of men’ ” (Matt. Makes you think, doesn’t it? Versions normally say that the net 4:19). And now, Matthew says, Well, it made me think. First of all, “ ‘caught all kinds of fish’ ” and that as Jesus tells this parable of the it made me think about my ministry the fishermen “ ‘collected the good fishing net, crowds surround Him. as a teacher of the gospel, preparing fish in baskets’ ” (Matt. 13:47, 48; As Jesus casts His eye over that students for their ministries. What emphasis added). Such a translation crowd, He would have seen all kinds kinds of students should we expect is partially misleading because the of folk. Matthew already told us the to find in our colleges and seminar-

While some scholars read this parable as describing general diversity in the world, most read it as illustrating the diversity within the kingdom.

original Greek text does not mention variety of people Jesus attracts. So ies? In my classes I have black and fish at all, anywhere in the parable. there are likely to be Pharisees and white, young and middle aged, intel- It simply says that they caught all Sadducees (3:7); paralytics (4:24); lectually brilliant and academically sorts. Now of course, a dragnet people from Galilee, the Decapolis, challenged. Ghanaian, Albanian, obviously catches fish, but more Jerusalem, Judea, and beyond Swedish, Spanish, Zimbabwean, than just fish. In the last two or three Jordan (4:25); Roman centurions British, Korean, and others. years, fishermen off the coast of (8:5); scribes (teachers of the Torah) Fundamentalists, conservatives, Great Britain have hauled in all kinds (8:19); rulers of synagogues (9:18); traditionalists, moderates, liberals, of things in their dragnets, such as a ostracized women (9:20); blind men and undecided. Some students who World War II torpedo warhead with (9:27). Plus those whose interest will never ask a question. Some 100 kilos of high explosive. And 200 in the kingdom is a passing fad. students who never stop asking kilos of cannabis worth €1.4 million. Others who will soon be sneering questions. And some students I And perhaps most remarkable of at it when their friends make fun of wish would not want to ask ques- all, a married couple who decided them. Some who will be too busy tions! “All kinds of stuff.” to spend the day scuba diving off getting on in life and earning a liv- And what about us, ministers the south coast of England instead ing to make any commitment. And of the gospel, called to teach and found themselves being hauled up those who will commit their lives preach the Word? Are there any

MINISTRY 12 JANUARY 2012 differences among us? Any dif- issue. Not everything growing in a the ecclesiastical infrastructure to ferences of opinion on what the field is wheat; not everything caught enforce it. “No,” says Jesus, “the mission of the church actually is? in a dragnet is an edible fish. The kingdom contains all kinds of stuff.” Differences of opinion on doctrines farm workers, on discovering the This same parable, on the other like revelation and inspiration? act of agricultural sabotage out in hand, also speaks to those who Differences of opinion on how to the field, want to rip out the weeds. are simply satisfied with diversity. deal with differences of opinion? The farmer says, “No, if you do that To those who believe God receives We are all slowly being pulled to the you’ll do more harm than good. No, glory in the sheer variety of faith and shore. All kinds of stuff. we’ll separate them at the harvest.” practice. That to expect any con- Perhaps it is worth clarifying one And that harvest, says Jesus, occurs formity in faith or practice betrays point. While some scholars read “ ‘at the end of the age’ ” (13:40). In a lack of spirituality. To those who this parable as describing general other words, be patient. The harvest believe that the more inclusive we diversity in the world, most read it has not arrived yet. And even when are, the better. “No,” says Jesus, as illustrating the diversity within it does, judging between one and “there will be a judgment at the end the kingdom. I would agree with the other is not your business but of the age. There will be weeping this majority. Ellen White strength- God’s. Just like the parable of the and gnashing of teeth. It actually ens my hand by making the same fishing net, sorting the catch is done does matter what you believe and point.3 The act of fishing with a “ ‘at the end of the age’ ” (13:49). do.” dragnet is likened to the kingdom. And even then, the sorting stays as I will try to remember this par- The diversity within the world pro- God’s business. “ ‘The angels will able in my ministry of teaching duces diversity within the kingdom. come and separate the evil from theology. I have students who love As in the world, so particularly the righteous’ ” (13:49; emphasis the Lord their God with all their within the kingdom, there are all added). So, in the meantime, what hearts, souls, and minds. They will kinds of stuff. do we do? Keep on fishing. With a live lives as persuasive witnesses for And there are all kinds of stuff in dragnet. the gospel, as diligent ambassadors the kingdom because the kingdom For the parable of the fishing for the kingdom of God. Also, there remains indiscriminate. That is how net teaches that the consumma- are those on the brink of making Matthew brackets this collection of tion of the kingdom at the end of that decision—or turning away. And Christ’s parables. In the first parable, time, when the final judgment takes a few, perhaps, if my 30 years of that of the Sower, the sower sows place, will reveal how indiscriminate lecturing are anything to go by, who, the seed randomly, in an untargeted the kingdom has been up to the in the future, will be hosting vitriolic way. The sower is completely indis- end. Web sites attacking my church, criminate. He just scatters seed And, we might well ask, is that Christianity in general, or promoting around, all over the place. He makes it? A parable simply to tell us that atheist propaganda. I will consider no distinction between footpaths, there will be all kinds of stuff in the all of our differences and theirs. I will rocky soil, thorns, or fertile earth. kingdom? No wonder the parable of look at my class with all of its diver- The seed falls on all kinds of soil. the net is not that well known. But I sity, all of its potential for glory and And now, in the last parable, the do not think Jesus wasted His time heartache, and all of its differences fishermen are using a dragnet. They telling parables of no consequence. of theological opinion, spiritual trawl through the lake and catch, In fact, He wanted to make sure His maturity, and varieties of commit- indiscriminately, all kinds of stuff. audience understood them. “ ‘Have ment. All kinds of stuff. I will remind That’s what the kingdom is like. Like you understood all these things?’ ” myself that God is the Judge, at the a sower scattering seed everywhere; (13:51), He asked them. end of the age. And I will say to or a dragnet capturing everything. This parable, on the one hand, myself, “This is the kingdom of speaks to those who do not want heaven!” Dealing with diversity diversity. To those who believe, But what do we do about that God is glorified by our marching 1 All Scripture passages in this article, unless otherwise stated, are from the New International Version. diversity? About all that stuff in the in step to the gates of the king- 2 This article is an adaptation of a sermon delivered at kingdom net? Well, that is where dom, never deviating to the left or the European Theology Teachers Convention, Adventist Theological Institute, Cernica, Romania, April 27–May 1, another of Christ’s seven parables of right. To those for whom entry into 2011. the kingdom helps us. In the parable the kingdom, and remaining in it, 3 “The casting of the net is the preaching of the gospel. This gathers both good and evil into the church” (Ellen G. of the wheat and the weeds, just a rests on adherence to ever more White, Christ’s Object Lessons [Washington, DC: Review few verses before, there is a similar detailed definitions of truth and and Herald, 1900], 122.)

Tell us what you think about this article. Email [email protected] or write to 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904.

MINISTRY 13 JANUARY 2012 Attract More People! Baptize More Souls! Use Family Life Evangelism! Marriage for Successful

Secrets of a Happy

Singles Keys to Financial Security Secrets to a Better Sex Life Practical Solutions to Life’s Problems

Seminar-05B 8/22/06 10:29 PM Page 1

4 Lesson 5 Get These Effective Resources: Seminar-04B 8/22/06 God creates 10:14 aPM new Page heaven 1 and new earth. (Revelation 21:1) Series B 15. So God has taken five steps. You 4 and I only have to take one! What is it? Romans 12:1. “I beseech you there- Lesson 4 Seminar-03B for 8/22/06 alcohol will9:46fore, become brethrenPM Page fuel by1 for the flames! mercies Brothels of God, will be out of business, for prosti- SeriesResolving B tutes will havethat no you patrons! present your bodies a living ______, holy, acceptable to God, Conflicts 4 15. On that whichday there is your will ______be only two service.”families: Family of Satan and Family of God. Revelation 6:15-17. Since Family Jesus ofgave Satan His willlife forrun me, to rocksI and mountains crying, “Fall Lesson 3 Seminar-02B 8/22/0614. It’s a 9:28onradical us PMand change! Pagehide us1should from givethe face my lifeof Him to Him. who sits on the throne.” SeriesHow B To Say True(T) orIsaiah False(F)? 25:9. FamilyWhen of IGod surrenderlooking to up my will Savior, shout, He “Behold, this is our God; we have K Adulterywaited gives for way Him, to purity!and He will save us!” gives me pardon, power and peace. onflicts are inevitable. The question“I is notLove if we have You!” them but what do we do 4 K RevelryThe is turnedbig question to sobriety!Reconciled is, “Am I to ready God! for Together Jesus toforev- come?” What changes do I need to K make to be ready? with them. Let’s go backLesson to the 2conflict of Alice and Bernard in lesson 2—she Gambler becomes moneyer! saver! with the car and he with his boss. Let’s study six steps they can take to resolve Seminar-01B dred8/22/06 years by8:50 about PM forty Page different 1 writ- C Series B K Hurter is changed into healer! Marital Family Life Evangelism Manual the conflict. • Evangelistic Seminars with 24 colorful eight-page study guidesers. And yet Becausetheir writings “IfIn myanyone agree! personal Why?isMy in life Commitment Christ, ______he Because they[she] were is guided a new creation;by the same old things have hen1. JohnStep returnednumber onehome is: fromAttendCompatibility work to the he problemgave his aswife soon Mary as apossible. big hug and Holy Spirit. passed away;In my behold, family alllife things______have 4 K I will take the six steps to resolve marital conflict. kiss,Ephesians but she was4:26.Lesson unresponsive.“Do not 1let the When______he tossed go his down coat on and your kicked wrath.” off his become new” (2 CorinthiansK Christ 5:17). has taken five steps to resolve the spiritual conflict. I am ready to take the Some couples ignore the conflict hoping it will go away. But conflicts are like ter- 15. The big15. question How is:often Is it reallyshouldIn love? myI professionalstudyHow can my life ______Wshoes to relax in theSeries livingSuccessful B room, she was furious at the untidiness. And Family Life mites. The longer you leave them the more they multiply. Instead of waiting until sixth step today. when he put his arm around her that night, she moved to the other end of the bed! I know if myBible? love for Christ15. How is true? quickly is Jesus ready to per- K Since He gave His life for me, I am giving my life to Him right now. What’s theirThursday, problem?Alice and Bernard should have addressed the problem on Monday. True (T) orActs False 17:11. (F)? form “They this received Mymiracle Prayer the in myword life? very year countless couples get Communicationdivorced on grounds of incompatibility. Before K Since Christ’swith all love readiness, for2 Corinthiansme is true,and searchedHe 6:2. gave“Behold His the ______is the accepted time; behold ______is the My name ______marriage,Identification we need2. Ourto check second for stepcompatibility. is: Communicate After marriage, to see the we othershould side. nur- life for Scripturesme. ______day of salvation.”K “Dearto find Lor outdIlove You. I want to see ture our compatibility.Let us reviewIn this thelesson three we secretswill examine to effective seven communication.keys. But only one True [T] or False [F]? K Becausewhether my love those for TheChrist things same is true, wereJesus You,I so.”am who heargiving changed You, be Jacob’s touched life byin aYou, moment stands ready to change your E We’re Unless the Lord Check your answers: 2. F,T,F,T,T; 5. F,T,T; 11. T,T,T. is the master1. Johnkey! andK MarAlicey are should differ tellent. her So wants they butexpress hide theirher true love feelings. differently. There are my life to Him. life this very moment!and to live This with is Youthe momentforever.” for God’s miracle! . . . three main KtypesShe of should lovers: speak with “I” statements. K I am doingMeditate so right On now, God and KI am“Please experienc- change up my life and ing His love. My Choice Coming Up: Lesson 6 ernardWhen has Godbeen •created comingThe visual the homeK first personBernard late couple, every (V)Inshould expressesHe day ensuredLove! thisnot loveweek,defend their in while thehimself, compatibility. ways Alice butthat has tr can ybeento be experience seen. Alice’s feelings. Evangelism make me ready for Your coming.” How To Be Stress Free Genesis 2:18, NIV. “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suit- Psalm 127:1 NKJV 16. The third key is: Meditate on God. waiting for the• carThe to auditory do KherHe personshopping. should (A) use expressesOn “You” Thursday, statements. love inwhen ways her that husband can be heard. & 24 Power Point Presentations K “Make my family the Family of able for him.” builds the house arrives, angry Alice screams, “You don’t care about me! And I don’t care about Love As ChristPsalm 104:34,LovesK Yes,KJV. I “Mywant ______to be part of of God’s Him Family. shall be I wantsweet. the I willmaster be keyglad to in marital the compat- B • The kinestheticK Then person they should(K) expresses exchange: love Bernardin ways thatwith can be felt. God—for time and for eternity. you! There is no supper tonight!” How can this couple discuss their problems suc- Lord.” Meditationibility. is quietly thinking of my loving God. For example, the“I” visual statements wife shows and Alice her love with by “You” keeping state- her house immaculate. The Amen.” cessfully? HerFirste are Six thr eeKeys keys. And each key has some steps. 16. The third step is: LoveK Thismy spouseinvolves as change. Christ I want God to do His miracle of change in my life today. auditory wife likesments. to hear her husband’s constant chatter. The kinesthetic man likes loves me. Now17. thatEveryday, I have experiencedas I talk to God’sJesus, love, listen to Jesus and meditate upon Jesus, some- ome couples “fall in love” andto get hold married, his wife’ thens hand discover while that taking it really a walk. wasn’t love! K I am joining the others in a miraculous Circle of Salvation right now, because 1. Our first key to marital compatibility is Age. what is Christ’sthing commandwonderful to happens! me? I fall in love with Jesus! What wasSpeak it? How W iselycan we tell?While we normallySelflessness use all three expressions of love, usually one is dominant. “The God of mighty miracles is marching through this land!” • At different stages of the life cycle, our needs are different. John 13:34.Like“A newMar ycommandmenton the resurrection I give to morning, you, I may come to the garden with tears and S Manual that you lovesadness, one ______; but I will as alwaysI have loved leave you, with that joy you and also gladness! ______So, one “I anothercome to.” the garden Satan has invented1. Key numbera counterfeit• Big one dif is:ferfor2. ences Speak love.Solomon Whatcan wisely 3.result andis Step it? hisin the numberShunamite inability three ofwife oneis toCrucial: satisfy Putthe needsmy of the other. My name ______John 15:12.alone.”“This is my commandmentMy name that ______you love one another as I have loved you.” 1 John 2:16.Colossians“For all that •4:6. isThis in “Letthe can illustrateworld—the resultyour speechin thesemarital ______spouse’s alwaysdif conflict.ferences.needs ofbe the abovewith flesh, ______,my the own. ______seasoned with of the eyes, ______,and the pride ofthat life—is you maynot ofknow the Fatheryou ought but of to the answer world.” each one.” All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION. Song of SolomonRomans 2:14. 15:1,2.He says,“We “Ohthen that are strong Dynamic thought!My ResponseAs I experienceCheck Christ’ yours answers:self-sacrificingCopyright 3. Solomon: © 1982 love V,A; Thomas Wife:for me,K;Nelson, John: I amInc. K; Mary:empoweredUsed byV; 4.permission. F,F,T; 11. F,T,T. All rights reserved.So, how canAlthough we tell the Alice 2.difference Secondly is angr betweenmyy, thershe dove…e must isthe Education. ought counterfeit speaklet me to wisely bear______and .with Howthe thegenuine? can yourscruples she do ofthis? the weak and Check your answers: 2. T,T,T; 4. F,T,T; 14. T,T,T,T. to share this selfless love with my family! The Scripturemore I quotationsreceive it,designated the more by NIV I arecan taken give from it! the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. True (T) orface… False your (F)?______face is lovely.” to please ______. Let each of Day by dayK myI lovewill usescor ethewill three rise keyshigher to andsuccessful Copyrighthigher becausecommunication.© 1973, 1976, my 1984 Comingeyes International are Up:fixed BibleLesson on Society.my 5 Used by permissionContrasts of Zondervan Bible.2. Firstly, AliceK Different shouldSong identifylevels of Solomonof theeducationus pleasespecific 2:14. canhis problem.He causeneighbor.” adds, a couple“Let Remember to do fewer that things the together. loving Savior.K I amwill following spend time the aloneModel with of the God world’sIllustrations: each greatest day Pages in 1, spiritualLover. 2, 3 byResolving Arnol communication. Jimenez Conflicts & Happy Family Bible Seminars International. Logo“Bernar design byd, Enrique I KhaveSeparate a problem activities with the rootcan use createof ofevery the different carmarital.” circles conflict of friends, is “Self drawing first” couples apart. Urquijo. LayoutComing design by Up: www.motionpixelstudios.com. Lesson 4 & Maria E. Maury. me ______your voice; for your K I want to start right now. 1. First of all,Secondly, lust is ashe Kchangeable shouldInstead voiceexpress feeling,of drawing is her sweet.”but(James true lovecloser, feelings.is 4:1,2)an couples enduring and the principle. solution is “Spouse first” All scripture quotations,Copyright unlessHow © 2006, otherwise to Gordon Say indicated, “I& W Loveaveney, are YtakenHappyou!” from Family the Bible NEW Seminars KING JAMES International. VERSION. Website: My Choicea. Three things I wouldCopyright like to © pray1982www.HappyFamilyBSI.com. Thomas for: ______, Nelson, Inc. Used ______, Email:by permission. [email protected]. ______. All rights reserved. Telephone:Love 407-884-0859 has feelings, orMatthew 800-291-3060. but 26:38. it is notcouldJesus just drawSong expresseda feeling. further of Solomon It’sHis(Romans apart. a true principle. 2:6.feelings 15:1,2).She So when whiledeclares, Helust said, changes “My soulits is exceed- moods and feelings, love is unchanging. • Small Group Outreach using 15 four-page lessons and b. Share your prayer listScripture with quotationsyour partner designated beside by NIV you are takennow from. [A thespeaks, HOLY BIBLE,then NEWB speaks.] INTERNATIONAL VERSION. ing ______even “Histo death.” left hand is under my head and K I rejectc. the Now folly talk of lust.to God I choose sharingCopyright true your love.© 1973, prayer 1976, 1984list. International Pray one Bible at aSociety. time Used just by permissionloudly enough of Zondervan Bible.1 CorinthiansSome 13:8 feelingsays,3. “Love wordsThe thirdnever thathis key fails.” Aliceright is canHealth.hand use______are “Upset, me.” Angry, ______.” K Because Jesusfor your loves partner me, He to gave hearIllustrations: His to lifebe Pagesablefor me. 1,to 2, say I3 bylove “Amen”.Arnol Him Jimenez and [Person & right Happy nowA Family speaks,,I Bibleam thengivSeminars- B speaks.]International. Logo design by EnriqueThirdly, Alice should say clearly what she wants. Urquijo. Layout design by www.motionpixelstudios.com. & Maria E. Maury. 3 John 2. “Beloved, I pray that you may ing my life to Him. All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION. 2. Secondly,Matthew passion is 26:38prosperblind; butChrist inlove all seescontinued, things and examines. and be in Copyright © 2006, Gordon & Waveney, Happy Family Bible Seminars International. Website: 3. The first step is: Identify myself as Copyright © 1982 Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. True love uses its eyes to examine the strengths and weaknesses of the other person in K I’ll shareCheck this your love. answers: I will 5. T,T,T,T;love my www.HappyFamilyBSI.com.11. F,F,T.spouse as Christ lovesEmail: me. [email protected]. Telephone: 407-884-0859 or 800-291-3060. “Stay here and______, justwell asas withyour my me.”mate.soul ______Identify .”each of the following with V, A, or K. Scripture quotations designated by NIV are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. order to make an intelligentWith decision.the prevalence of transmittable Copyright © 1973, 1976, 1984 International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Bible. My name ______Coming Up: Lesson 3 Matthew 13:13.3. Finally,To passion, diseases,Alice these should Lesson healthwords use may 1“Istatus We’re state-be isin Love!crucial. Illustrations: Pages 1, 2, 3, 4 by Arnol Jimenez & Happy Family Bible Seminars International. Logo design by Enrique Urquijo. Layout design by Maritalwww.motionpixelstudios.com. Compatibility & Maria E. Maury. applied: “Seeingments”. they doThereHealth not see”! habitsare two are alsoways vital to because our Lesson 2 Successful Communication Check your answers: 4. T, T, T; 8.Copyright F, T, T; 9. T,© T;2006, 15. T,Gordon T, T. & Waveney, Happy Family Bible Seminars International. Website: Matthew 13:16.expressTo love:ourhabits feelings “Blessed today and are wants:yourdetermine eyes our status All scripture quotations,www.HappyFamilyBSI.com. unless otherwise indicated,Email: [email protected]. taken from the NEW KING Telephone:JAMES VERSION. 407-884-0859 or 800-291-3060.for they see”! “You” tomorrow.statements blame you for Copyright © 1982 Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Lesson 3 Marital Compatibility Coming Up: Lesson 2 my feelings and point my finger at Scripture quotations designated by NIV are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Lesson 4 How to Say “I Love You!” Copyright © 1973, 1976,Successful 1984 International Communication Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Bible. 3. The third differenceyou. They is: Lustpromote looks war! only at the externals, but love focuses on the internals. ❑ Illustrations: Pages 1, 2, 3 by Arnol Jimenez & Happy Family Bible Seminars International. Logo design by Enrique “I” statementsLessonsay how 5 Resolving I feel and Conflicts Urquijo. Layout design by www.motionpixelstudios.com. & Maria E. Maury. 1 Samuel 16:7.point“Man my looks finger at the at me.______They pro- ❑ companion CD All scripture quotations,Copyright unless© 2006, otherwise Gordon indicated,& Waveney, are Happy taken Familyfrom the Bible NEW Seminars KING JAMES International. VERSION. Website: appearance, but the LordLesson looks 6How at tothe be Stress Free duce peace. Copyright © 1982www.HappyFamilyBSI.com. Thomas Nelson, Inc. UsedEmail: by permission. [email protected]. All rights reserved. Telephone: 407-884-0859 or 800-291-3060. ______.” ❑ Scripture quotations designated by NIV are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Lesson 7 What God Says About Sex Copyright © 1973, 1976, 1984 International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Bible. Lust concentrates on externals: The figure, the ❑ Illustrations: Pages 1, 3, 4 by Arnol Jimenez & Happy Family Bible Seminars International; page 2 by Getty Images. fashion, the sex appeal. LoveLesson is concerned 8 Baby Boy!with Baby Girl! Logo design by Enrique Urquijo. Layout design by www.motionpixelstudios.com. & Maria E. Maury. the internals: Personality, habits, character. ❑ Copyright © 2006, Gordon & Waveney, Happy Family Bible Seminars International. Website: Lesson 9 How to Prevent Divorce www.HappyFamilyBSI.com. Email: [email protected]. Telephone: 407-884-0859 or 800-291-3060. ❑ Lesson 10 How to Manage My Money ❑ Lesson 11 Health and Happiness ❑ Lesson 12 Responsible Parents ❑ Lesson 13 Understanding the Woman ❑ Lesson 14 Secrets of Discipline Revised Edition ❑ Lesson 15 Family Reunion on and Waveney ❑ twenty years Gord iration, pioneered and Martinborough • Happy Family Campaign with Revised Manual, 24 Sermons ❑ Over the past Name: ______e, under divine insp h marries each Bible ❑ Martinborough hav e Address: ______Life Evangelism whic Their materials are ❑ developed Family Gordon & Waveney Martinborough Telephone: ______ompatible family issue.nish. Thousands hav doctrine with a c ____ lish, French and Spa e resources in North available in Eng rough the use of thes he Philippines and been baptized th erica, the Caribbean,FamilyBSI.com. t America, Latin Amces visit www.Happy China. For resour and New Sermon CD “Empowering Every Family for Time and Eternity”

“I have been in pastoral ministry for twenty years and I can say that this is the best approach I have ever used. I have baptized approximately 300 souls in the past five years using these tools.” Pr. Jeffery L. Watson, Montgomery, AL Call 1-800-291-3060 or 407-884-0859 Email: [email protected]; website: www.HappyFamilyBSI.com Laura Wibberding

Laura Wibberding, MA, is a freelance writer living in Meridian, Idaho, United States.

Good stories

love children’s stories. Who sit some of your most impression- that, the emotional content of your doesn’t enjoy a story, well told, able, most important charges, and storytelling is vital. By your voice, full of meaning, in the middle of the Christ who told Peter, “Take expression, and the gestures you Ithe church service? I have heard care of my sheep,” also said, “Feed make, you can communicate that the some wonderful stories in church my lambs” (John 21:16, 15, NIV). storytelling is an enjoyable experi- services, some more moving and The children’s story is not the only ence and you are really focused memorable than the sermons they opportunity to minister to the young on them. Their enjoyment of the preceded. But I have heard some in your congregation, but the story story becomes part of the message, poor ones too. I have heard stories time becomes one of the simplest giving substance to the idea that that were wonderful metaphors for ways to build your relationship and Jesus loves and protects them or the sermon idea, but they passed express your caring for them. that obedience makes them happy. right over the children’s heads. I So then, how does one tell a Illustrate your principles with positive have heard tales of children that good children’s story? examples by showing happy results ended in disaster. However, these did whenever possible. When you must not inspire any positive action from Know your audience use a story of mistakes and negative the listeners. There have also been The first and most obvious point: consequences, be sure the feelings long reminiscences, but sometimes it must be a children’s story, not of fear or sorrow are outmatched by these stories did not seem to come an adult story told to children and the reassurance of the happy ending. to a point. not the opening illustration to the Concrete vs. abstract. Much of the Perhaps the most painful experi- sermon. Nothing is wrong with language of church comes in word- ence of listening to a children’s story coordinating the topic for both story pictures—light, salt, giving our hearts, was when I, at age 18, sat on the and sermon, but the story belongs following Jesus, for example. Adults platform and waited to deliver my to the children and must be chosen perceive these images as intangible first sermon in the church where with them in mind. And that requires things, and this makes them visible in I was working as a volunteer. The knowing how children think. their minds, but this does not happen older gentleman made an apologetic Feeling vs. thinking. The com- the same way for children. Before the comment to me as he titled his story, plex process of thinking—sorting, transition to abstract thinking in later “The Greasy Preacher.” He then ate categorizing, and manipulating childhood, a child’s mind does not up more than 15 minutes of the information—includes a skill that translate these word-pictures into church service. His storytelling was develops over our lifetime. We start the specific actions or qualities they good, but no one’s patience lasted with the simple in infancy, moving symbolize. If you want your audience as long as the story. My relief at on to basic cause-and-effect in the to understand you, you must tell having it finished even banished my preschool years, and then abstract them exactly what you mean. If you sweaty palms. thinking some time later.1 Although want them to show kindness to their No one wants to be the perpetra- your listeners are inexperienced in friends, you must tell them how. If tor of a bad story, and this may be thinking about what they hear, the you want them to show reverence for why the children’s story slot in some skill of feeling what they hear is their Bibles, you must explain what churches seems so hard to fill. But fully functional. Young children feel this looks like in real life. Images of for the pastor, merely avoiding the emotion easily and express it just as shining lights or treasure chests will task does not provide a sufficient easily. How they feel about church is not do the trick. Generalizations, like- solution. In that audience of children their spiritual experience. Because of wise, will be opaque to your younger

MINISTRY 15 JANUARY 2012 Laura Wibberding listeners. “Be faithful” can be just as average four-year-old can listen for time in which to introduce an idea, problematic as “be a shining light.” about five minutes before even a well- illustrate this concept through a story Be specific. Be concrete. told story will lose them. Resist any and apply it to the listeners’ lives. This does not, of course, mean temptation to stretch the story-telling Keep to the core of your material. that you cannot use any word- time beyond about five minutes. Stick to the point. pictures or generalizations in your Apply the point. Again, this is like storytelling, but you must be your Know your story a sermon. If you tell a story but do own interpreter. You must explain Have a point. Pastors have a head not apply it to the lives of your audi- what the image means. For instance, start when it comes to the children’s ence, you are only an entertainer. For give examples of the actions that you story because much of what makes the children’s story, this job becomes mean by the word faithful. In this a good story also makes a good even more important. The children way, you help them practice a new sermon. Foremost among those rely on you to take the abstract cognitive skill, and you make your factors includes having one central thing—the point—and translate message clear. concept that governs the story. This the concept into concrete, specific Spiritual beginners. Your adult lis- makes it a story and not a group of examples. If you have told them that teners may be concerned about the random events. With all stories, but Jesus hears their prayers for help, meaning of Daniel’s prophecies or especially with those for children, now tell them of times and situations

Educators estimate that a child’s attention span, in minutes, consists of their own age plus one.

the nature of God’s foreknowledge, the central idea, the point, must when they should pray for help. If but your children are not. As they be manifestly clear. Knowing your you have a story about loving their are laying the foundations for their audience means you will state the pets, tell them how they can show intellectual lives, they are also laying central concept more than once, in that love. If you cannot think of any foundations for spiritual ones. What concrete, specific terms. You will good examples from the children’s they need are the largest, most solid also need to weave it into the parts daily experience, then you should stones of truth to build their faith of the story as you show clearly how pass over that story. upon. Concepts like the love of God, each aspect of the story relates to the value of prayer, obedience to the main idea. Give yourself a head parents, and service to others are all Stick to the point. This principle start vital supports for what they will learn should be evident from the preaching Plan ahead. I do not like to recall the rest of their lives. Do not be afraid of the sermon, but your audience the number of times I have come to to teach such simple ideas, and do and time limits make this doubly church, opened the bulletin to see not rush your young audience. This important. If you reminisce or provide my name listed beside “Children’s stage of spiritual growth should be background information for half of the Story,” and felt the cold hand of considered essential for forming time, your point may be lost. Young panic on the back of my neck. Start their characters. Their faith is just as children do not filter what they hear; planning early when you have time to real and alive as their elders’, and just they will not sift through all that you ponder and even practice. Better yet, as valuable to God. say to determine what was important plan a few stories to have on reserve Finally, you must know some- to the lesson and what was not. You in case of emergencies. thing about a child’s attention span. must be the filter for them, cutting Train your eyes. There are as Educators estimate that a child’s out material that does not strengthen many sources for stories as there are attention span, in minutes, consists the point. Furthermore, because five sermon illustrations—daily life, the of their own age plus one.2 Thus, an minutes comprises such a short news, childhood memories, friends,

MINISTRY 16 JANUARY 2012 books. You only need to open your young audience’s world and choose care. They can be a means of show- eyes to look for simple lessons that a few specific, concrete examples ing them their value to the church. can be applied in a child’s daily for application. And moreover, they are an opportu- life. The best stories, of course, are Practice. Your wording does not nity to feed the lambs, grow God’s those closest to your audience’s have to be perfect, and it certainly kingdom, and bring everyone closer experience. Look first for stories of should not sound recited, but a few to the happy ending. Do not miss an children; second best are stories of times through will show you the opportunity like that. adults that teach ideas equally appro- weak spots and the strong parts in priate for children. Many Bible stories the story. Plan your wording ahead of 1 Some very useful information about children’s cognitive, social, and spiritual development can be found in the fall into this category. Also, look for time so you can spend your storytell- volume How to Teach Children in Sabbath School, Donna stories with “motion”—events they ing time focused on the audience.3 Habenicht and Anne Bell (Hagerstown, MD: Review and Herald, 1983) and the more recent Children’s Ministries: can picture in their minds. Ideas and Techniques That Work, ed. Ann Calkins (Lincoln, Once you have a story and know Conclusion NE: AdventSource, 1997). 2 Ann M. Calkins, ed., Children’s Ministries: Ideas and its main idea, look over the story Stories are powerful. They stick Techniques That Work (Lincoln, NE: AdventSource, 1997). again. Then ask: What details sup- in our memories and hearts in a way 3 For information on how to expand your storytelling skills, port the main idea? These will be that other kinds of instruction can- there are books such as Caroline Feller Bauer’s classic Handbook for Storytellers (Chicago: American Library the highlights of your story; and as not. They live in our minds, growing Association, 1977) or Baker and Greene’s Storytelling: Art you tell it, they will keep the audi- our picture of the world and the God and Technique (New Providence, NJ: R.R Bowker, 1987). For more condensed and easily accessed material, try Web ence focused on your point. Trim who made it. For you, the pastor, sites such as Barry McWilliams’s “Effective Storytelling: A out the unnecessary or unhelpful. stories can be a bridge between you Manual for Beginners” at http://www.eldrbarry.net/roos /eest.htm. This site was especially useful, as it listed both Consider how the idea impacts your and the flock of young people in your printed and Web sources for more information.

Tell us what you think about this article. Email [email protected] or write to 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904.

The Heaven-ordained result of revival and reformation

Through the experience of the and a great many of the priests were apostles, God has outlined what He obedient of the faith” (Acts 6:7). expects from us as we anticipate the Acts presents to us a picture of a outpouring of the latter rain. The steps church that was on fire for Christ. The they followed in preparing for the early Spirit removed all fear and replaced it of Christ and heaven. We cannot accept rain are the steps we need to take now with a burning desire to proclaim the peace on such conditions. Let it be war, to be prepared for the power that will risen Messiah. war, to the end of earth’s history, rather finish the work. Understanding that Under the power of the latter rain, than peace through apostasy and sin.”* they made up the corporate body of what can we expect? A repeat of what We have only two choices, (1) lie Christ, the apostles bound themselves is recorded in Acts—God’s remnant low, do not disturb the devil, keep things together and, through God’s power, taking the initiative in tearing down religiously neutral or “peaceful,” and were of one accord. the strongholds of Satan. Seventh- lose heaven, or (2) continue to pray for What was the result? On the Day day Adventists call it “the great the latter rain, receive the power of the of Pentecost the Holy Spirit was given controversy.” Ellen White does not Spirit, carry out the mission given to the to them. Boldly they preached Jesus as hesitate to call it for what it really is. remnant church in the great controversy, the Messiah and His resurrection. Three “Our work is an aggressive one, and as and welcome our Savior at His return. thousand responded to the invitation faithful soldiers of Jesus, we must bear The second choice will become reality of salvation. After the healing of the the blood-stained banner into the very and will be the heaven-ordained result crippled man at the gate of the temple strongholds of the enemy. ‘We wrestle of revival and reformation through the and Peter’s discourse to the multitude not against flesh and blood, but against Holy Spirit’s power. of worshipers who were eyewitnesses principalities, against powers, against of the miracle, 5,000 believed (Acts the rulers of the darkness of this world, 4:4). As the Holy Spirit further opened against spiritual wickedness in high —Ted N. C. Wilson serves as president of the General Conference of Seventh-day opportunities for the apostles to witness, places.’ If we will consent to lay down Adventists, Silver Spring, Maryland, “believers were increasingly added to our arms, to lower the blood-stained United States. the Lord, multitudes of both men and banner, to become the captives and women” (Acts 5:14). So “the word servants of Satan, we may be released * Review and Herald, May 8, 1888. of God spread, and the number of the from the conflict and the suffering. But disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, this peace will be gained only at the loss revivalandreformation.org

MINISTRY 17 JANUARY 2012 Skip Bell Skip Bell, DMin, is professor of Christian leadership and director of the Doctor of Ministry program, Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary, Andrews University, Berrien Springs, Michigan, United States.

Different from us: A pastoral reflection on cultural conflict

y wife, Joni, and I workers, doctors, business people, communication technology, ease arrived in Oslo around and public servants—were taken, of travel, and economic opportunity 9:00 a.m., Friday, July underscoring a senseless tragedy. have transformed our world into M22, 2011. After sev- How do we, as ministers of the global village we so frequently eral days exploring the Norwegian the gospel, respond to the ques- announce. fjords, we looked forward to explor- tions voiced in our society about Our discomfort does not gen- ing City Hall, the Nobel Center, these senseless acts? How do we erally manifest itself in acts of Vigeland Sculpture Park, as well as a resolve our own questions? Is there terrorism. We usually respond to few shops. In the mid-afternoon, we any meaning to help us endeavor multiculturalism in gentler and more were weaving our way on foot back to follow Christ in a broken and subtle ways. We see our response to the harbor area when a deafening conflicted world? within public discourse on the major blast rocked the city only a few My proximity to the tragic events issues of the day. Veiled forms of blocks from us. Around us, people of that day in Oslo compels me to Islamophobia are voiced in our jumped or clutched at something, search for answers. Sharing the worry about the wearing of burkas and one person hit the ground and space with those attacked induces in public or construction of mosques buried his head in his hands. identification with the conflict. My in our neighborhoods. We speak Confused, none of us imme- observations are not an attempt to politely of others who are different, diately associated the blast with form an exhaustive treatise on the while at the same time emoting sar- the horrific attack that had just nature of cultural conflict; rather casm about “political correctness.” occurred. Charred debris in the they lead to a more humble pas- Cultural conservatism conveniently air and an acrid odor affirmed that toral reflection.1 I simply wish to masks our greater regard for those something was horribly wrong. seek meaning from a Christian and who are like us, while ultraconserva- Since the explosion was imme- pastoral perspective. tive popularism extends its influence diately behind us, only when we into the politics of America and completed our walk to the ship a Five pastoral Europe. Regardless of our faith short distance farther did we learn observations tradition or our national or ethnic the truth about what had happened. A few observations about the identity, we find it challenging to live Anders Behring Breivik con- human condition became evi- in the same space with people who fesses to not only constructing and dent. They are not, of themselves, are different from us. detonating the powerful bomb, encouraging. The first is that we are, Christians are not immune to unleashing its destruction and kill- regardless of our claims otherwise, such uneasiness. It is not simply ing eight outside the offices of uncomfortable, if not intolerant, of devotion to biblical teaching that government, but also carrying out a people different from ourselves. generates discomfort with certain horrendous shooting spree nearby We live in a shrinking world that aspects of our culture. When we on Utøya Island at a youth camp has drawn different worldviews, are among those who worship tied to the Labour Party. The lives beliefs, cultures, and traditions into differently, who see an issue dif- of 69 innocents—future educators, shared spaces. Information and ferently, whose lifestyle is different

MINISTRY 18 JANUARY 2012 from our own or who simply dress Oslo or similar other outbreaks are among the most transparent gov- differently, we feel ill at ease, maybe still the exception. But the list of nar- ernments and economies and has even defensive. ratives of human violence is far too been remarkably crime and poverty My second reflection is that long, and that list includes persons free. fear trumps reason. People who of all faiths, including Christian. Will Norway continue in that are different from us can threaten Islamic fundamentalists do not have way of life once its security is threat- our identity, our sense of life and a monopoly on violence. Where cul- ened? If history is any indication, stability. Our response to those dif- ture is confronted with differences, the answer is No. Our sensitivity to ferent from us rarely develops into violence follows in some form. differences, and our rigidity in rela- the viciousness of attacks such as Persecution prevails as one tionship to other cultures, becomes those on July 22, 2011; but we do expression of violence. Persons heightened when our own security take measures to protect ourselves, of faith often see themselves as is threatened. even from more subtle threats. persecuted, at least under certain My final observation involves Fear influences our worldview. circumstances. They do not see forgiveness. Forgiveness is unusual. For instance, the broad discussion themselves ever engaged in perse- There are rare exceptions. The Truth of issues around the matter of immi- cution of others. This phenomenon and Reconciliation Commission gration in America takes on tones occurs more often than we note and established in South Africa as that

We are, regardless of our claims

otherwise, uncomfortable, if not

intolerant, of people different

from ourselves.

other than economic. We speak of remains more nuanced. Persons society dealt with the atrocities of “protecting the American way of who think they would never be apartheid is remarkable. Formed life” or the need to assimilate to an involved in persecution mount bill- out of the vision of Nelson Mandela, American culture we experience in boards attacking the papacy along Desmond Tutu, and many others, a particular neighborhood. We fear highways. They launch Internet this restorative body of commis- losing what we are familiar with, rumors to destroy the reputation of sioners in South Africa held court what we see as safe and secure. persons different from themselves. proceedings in which they heard We may readily identify such As with those who commit acts witnesses, recorded crimes of responses in public policy. But does of violence to protect the church violence during the years of apart- fear manifest itself in the church? against heresy, these nuanced acts heid, and, in some cases, granted Do we create policies to protect of common Christians, like our - amnesty to perpetrators. They did the culture of our faith tradition? Do selves, are reasoned to protect the not excuse the crimes; public record we feel threatened by others whose faith. We act against those different was formed and amnesty granted. differing worldview leads them to from us. The Commission freed the country worship or live out their beliefs dif- My fourth observation is human from a great deal of violence by ferently? Are those differences that response when security becomes providing a spirit of forgiveness as upset us always biblically centered? threatened. Norway’s prime min- an alternative to retribution. My third observation equates ister previously walked the streets More frequently, however, with the tendency of humans toward among people engaged in com- retribution stains our behavior. violence. Agreed, eruptions such as merce. Norway has been numbered When we are attacked because

MINISTRY 19 JANUARY 2012 Skip Bell of our differences, the human “seventy times seven” (Matt. 18:22). human understanding. Further, we response creates walls to protect People overcome with their sin can intentionally participate in the ourselves and, even, to counterat- and guilt were deeply changed by cultural life of those who differ. tack. Accordingly, many Christians His forgiveness. Even those who There are many occasions consider any adherent of Islam crucified Him were recipients of His when those of differing religious an enemy. If attacked, we identify forgiveness. He freely forgave. expression or cultural heritage will whatever group or idea that attacks welcome us into their presence. us as a threat. Leading our church Workshops on world religions can when cultures clash be held by mission specialists for Theological However we understand these our congregations. Book discus- interpretation things theologically, what is crucial sion groups can focus on literature Though these observations have for us is the practical application of sharing the narratives of diverse been, for the most part, negative following Jesus while living with cultures. Our churches can identify ones, in Jesus we may interpret those who differ from us. The first projects in developing neighbor- these events with hope. Jesus lived step for church leaders includes hoods or countries and give to amidst cultural conflicts but val - reflecting on our own heart, on the them. More powerfully, we can ued people different from Himself. attitudes that are seen in our words engage in service in those neighbor- Raised in Egypt and Nazareth, He and behaviors. It means that we hoods or countries alongside their dwelt with people different from acquaint ourselves with the beliefs own people. Himself. He commended the faith of others and listen to them. seeking of a Roman. He witnessed to a to understand their worldview. It Conclusion Samaritan, and a woman at that. means that we refrain from general- Society has not matured beyond He welcomed children. He touched izing the attributes of another world the divide of human conflict. A key lepers. He welcomed foreigners into religion or culture. It means that we reflection from Oslo is the futility the house of prayer. voice the same respect and rights of human solutions. We followers When teaching His disciples to for a Muslim or Hindu or agnostic. of Jesus struggle, as do others, pray, He did not teach them to pray It means that we see ourselves as with the human stain, experienc- alone for the house of Israel, but to citizens of God’s kingdom first and ing conflict with people different seek a blessing on the entire earth: our own country second. from ourselves. It often takes on “Thy will be done in earth, as it is in Beyond our own attitudes dem- subtle shades and may even be heaven” (Matt. 6:10). Confronted by onstrated in word and behavior, rationalized as protecting what is attitudes of nationalism in His own how can we offer pastoral guidance good. But if we think carefully, if we faith tradition, He affirmed, “Other to our church? What steps can be consider our true hearts, we may sheep I have, which are not of this taken to lead our churches to value come to recognize and confess our fold” (John 10:16). Jesus goes much differences? discomfort with those different from further than tolerance; He calls us to This challenges religious leaders ourselves. value and embrace differences. post 9/11. What if people reached Perhaps then we will cry for the Jesus returned good for evil, out in respect and love rather than grace of Christ, cleansing us from calling us to replace retribution with seeking retribution? Of course, sin. Perhaps then His love will be reconciliation. “Whoever slaps you forgiveness does not excuse crimes reflected in our living, and this on your right cheek, turn the other to against humanity for the actual dream realized: “There is neither him also” (Matt. 5:39, NASB). “Love people who perpetrated them. But Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave your enemies, bless those who curse forgiveness suggests an open heart. nor free, there is neither male nor you, do good to those who hate you, Here are a few practical steps. female; for you are all one in Christ and pray for those who spitefully use As I noted, the first and most power- Jesus” (Gal. 3:28, NKJV). you and persecute you” (Matt. 5:44, ful step is the transformation of our NKJV). When attacked, He told Peter own attitudes. Another initiative 1 Pastoral reflection as a professional competency is the aptitude for reading a situation theologically. I hope to to put up his sword. He offered no consists of inviting people differ- illustrate by this case a biblically focused interpretation that resistance or defense. His security ent from us to share their beliefs flows from the pastors being formed from time with God and His Word. Thus the research base is not literature or was so sure in His heavenly Father and worldview in presentation and data, but the experience itself, interpreted from a biblically that He had no fear. dialogue with our congregations. focused starting point. For more on the competency of theological reflection see Attentive to God: Thinking No one forgave as did Jesus. While generally not fulfilling the Theologically in Ministry, by Charles M. Wood and Ellen Blue Peter asked if we should forgive experience of worship, such con- (Nashville: Abingdon Press, 2008). seven times, and Jesus responded versation is powerful in building

Tell us what you think about this article. Email [email protected] or write to 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904.

MINISTRY 20 JANUARY 2012 Reinder Bruinsma Reinder Bruinsma, PhD, retired in 2007 but currently serves as president of the Belgian- Luxembourg Conference, Brussels, Belgium.

The joys (and challenges) of retirement

everal years ago I officially last you have ample time to enjoy the sense of involvement in the day- retired. In my country the company of your partner, children, to-day running of the church as I rules are quite clear: Once and, especially, grandchildren. had during my assignment as the Syou are 65, you are expected These dreams may come true; president of our union. I missed the to quit full-time employment. This often, though, they remain just a daily camaraderie of colleagues. And, also coincides with retirement tim- dream for many reasons. There may yes, I missed being up to date on the ing preferences in the Seventh-day be health issues. Your children may latest denominational news. (Some Adventist Church. So, I dutifully live far away. Or you cannot sell your of that will be relieved, at least for a retired at age 65. Retirement ages dif- house. You may not be as happy while, because I serve as an interim fer, however, from country to country. as you thought, for you soon actu- conference president.) In some countries, the pensionable ally miss your work and the social For some, retirement liberates age is as low as 58 or 60; in others, interaction. The retirement savings them from stress. Toward the end 67 or 68. Other nations, such as the may not be enough for a comfortable of their working lives, some find it United States, make it (theoretically, living. Shortly after my retirement, we increasingly difficult to cope with at least) up to the individual. What- moved into a comfortable apartment the demands of ministry. They need ever the case, retirement meets most in a pleasant small town. Although I the physical rest of retirement, and of us at the end of our working life. continued to be quite active (actually, they need the possibility to distance For more than 40 years, I worked a bit more than I anticipated) I must themselves from a busy daily routine. for my church in various assignments admit that it had taken a bit of adjust- Some have reached the limit of what in different countries. Therefore, what ing to get along with less income. they can give and are exhausted, I say may be helpful to you who are Of course, we are not all the and retirement does not come a day about to or have already retired from same. I have not found it very dif- too early. denominational employment. I do ficult to make the switch; it was Others, however, hate the idea of not know to what extent my own not as drastic for me as it had been retiring. They have lots of energy but experience really typifies others, for some. I am still involved with a no hobbies and do not know what but I assume there must be some number of church-related assign- to do with the days, weeks, months, similarities. ments. I preach on most Sabbaths. I and years ahead of them. Most of do some lecturing and writing. I get us are somewhere in between and When retirement comes invitations to present seminars and may have mixed feelings about this For some, the idea of retirement still get around. And, recently, I have drastic change. sounds like heavenly music. Finally, even taken on a new administrative the long-awaited moment has come. assignment on a temporary basis. Retirement: an The golden years will begin. At last I have not (yet) fallen into “a deep entitlement one has the time to travel and enjoy hole,” as many say they have after Just a generation or so ago, the a round of golf at least twice a week. their regular work stopped. status of a retiree was looked upon Thus begins the period of enjoyment Yet, there is no question that, quite differently from how we see it in a new home located in an area during the past few years, I did miss today. In the past, the denomination where one always wanted to live. At some aspect of work. I missed the recognized that ministers would, at

MINISTRY 21 JANUARY 2012 Reinder Bruinsma some point, have to diminish their going. People may regret the fact that well during those years. We were work load and then quit altogether, their pastor wants to retire, but they a blessing to the many people to and it was clear that the church usually do not blame him or her. whom we ministered. And there was needed to provide a measure of This entitlement to retirement much joy and friendship and many support. Church workers, therefore, should be recognized as important good things to remember. received “sustentation benefits,” and respected. The denomination As we look back, we may regret which could be seen as gesture of should not put any undue pressure some major mistakes. If so, we compassion, a favor rather than an on people to stay on working if they should take comfort: in the area of entitlement. In many places, this want to retire. Nor should it plead making mistakes, we are not alone. monetary support was not only with someone to come out of retire- We may be always assured of God’s quite low but also subject to various ment when the person concerned has grace and forgiving love despite restrictions. grave misgivings about such a move those mistakes. Often, if one’s denominational but may give in out of sheer loyalty. Many have to come to terms career had lasted less than 10 or Whatever a retiree does should be a with the sad reality that our own even 15 years, there would be no matter of his or her personal choice. children are not following in our benefit whatsoever. And those who If someone seems happy to carry steps and have turned away from decided to leave church employ- certain church assignments, bless- the church or even given up on their

Retirement is a time for looking forward, toward a new future.

ment before reaching retirement ings on them; if someone chooses faith; this remains one of the hardest age and/or at some point left the not to take on any pastoral or other experiences. We must leave this with church might not get anything, even duties, that should be just fine also. our Lord. If we failed them in some after decades of denominational Being retired means that you are now respects—possibly because we were employment. Sustentation benefits the full master of your time. always busy doing church work and were given after what was termed neglected our family—we must pray “faithful” service! Looking back for forgiveness and then continue on Today, as a rule, almost anywhere Retirement is a time for looking without guilt. in the world, denominational workers forward, toward a new future. But, Unfortunately, at times retired are entitled to retirement benefits. inevitably, we take our past with workers begin to feel differently about Elaborate policies govern these us because, to a large extent, we their church once they retire. They benefits, and the uncertainties of continue to get our identity from now feel free to say things that they the past have disappeared. what we were and what we did. Our felt they could not say when they In other important ways, the atti- past is, however, usually a mixed led in an official role. Sometimes all tude of the church toward retirement bag. We must accept that we did active involvement ceases and even has changed. Although a minister not always succeed. We must not church attendance becomes irregular remains a minister for life, generally feel any bitterness about the fact or worse. This is tragic, for it indi- members and leaders recognize that that we did not always reach our cates that there is a definite need for a person who has served the church goals or the position for which we pastoral support for those who have for a substantial period of time and may have hoped. We may sense that retired from the ministry. It is also has reached a certain age is entitled our gifts were not always sufficiently tragic because this attitude will color to a new phase of life. Saying fare- acknowledged by the church board the way in which others look at the well to church work when one has or conference committee. We may retiree’s past, which may take away reached 60 years of age—perhaps think that for some reason we did not many of the potential joys of retired older—when one is still in good shape have as much “success” as many of life. A ministry of several decades and still has lots of energy and ambi- our colleagues. can become an experience they have tions, may not be seen as a negative, Anyway, we must be determined endured rather than enjoyed. as if a person has gradually lost the not to start retirement with resent- And, of course, when retired sense of calling that kept him or her ment or frustration, for much went ministers lose their enthusiasm for

MINISTRY 22 JANUARY 2012 the church, this affects many people Active church members though some of us may find that around them in a negative way. Few One particular change may be difficult. We no longer have to be things as are demotivating as when painful but inevitable. Many of us busy all the time. We should enjoy a leader loses his way. have been rather visible in the church the company of our loved ones as because of the role we had. For some much as possible. We should enjoy Living with change time after we retire, we may still be our home, hobbies, and books. We Our life changes as a result of invited to the pulpit or asked to should cultivate our friendships and retirement; hence, we need to adjust. participate in other assignments. But be active in our local church. We But, as time goes on, we must deal we must be prepared: this will not should enter retirement as computer with something else: change in the continue forever. After a while, the literates and find ways to enhance church. While workers are in active people who used to invite us may not our digital skills. Email, Skype, and service, they are in the midst of the be in charge and their successors no the Internet, in general, are wonder- changes that constantly occur, and longer know us. Or we may gradually ful tools for retired people to remain may even initiate some of them. But no longer be the much-sought-after a part of the world and stay in touch once persons retire, they become speaker we once were because with family, friends, and the church. further removed from where the (perhaps imperceptibly?) we do not But above everything else: Look action is, from where changes exude the same energy or manifest after the spiritual side of yourself. are discussed and made, and are the same degree of originality as The best years of spiritual growth often uninformed as to why those before. Let us listen to those who may still be ahead. You may have changes were deemed necessary. try to tell us that our time is up and the opportunity to read and study as I regularly meet fellow retirees who make sure that we really stop before never before. At last you have time are extremely critical about certain people start saying behind our backs to write that book that you wanted developments. They do not under- that we should no longer be allowed to write for the last twenty-five years. stand many of the changes they see. to stand behind the pulpit. One more thing. Look out for They are adamant that the church There is, however, one important each other. Count your blessings, is heading in the wrong direction, aspect we should never lose sight of. if you still have your partner. One wonder about decisions made by We remain ministers, even when we day, one of you will depart, leaving the various committees, and openly no longer receive invitations for pub- the other behind. Stay in touch with criticize younger ministers. lic activities. As ordained ministers, your friends and colleagues who Of course, not all changes are we may still be asked to perform an have already experienced this loss. wonderful; some, I think, are not occasional wedding ceremony, to Pray for them. Do what you can to good. But, in general, retired workers baptize a person with whom we have alleviate their loneliness. You can must be relaxed about it. The church had a special tie, or to officiate at the hope, too, that you will experience will continue to change whether we Lord’s Supper. Other than that, our the loving attention of others when like it or not. The way our younger public role comes to an end. you come to that decisive point in colleagues work will constantly However, we are not only min- your life. We all know that our lives change as they face the challenges isters but also church members. are finite. Retirement will constantly of contemporary ministry. There will Every church member has a calling remind us of this fact. Death will be changes in the way the church to be active in the church and use catch up with us, sooner or later. But “does” theology, in the way people their talents to the best of their while God gives us life and strength, worship, and in the way they relate abilities and to the extent that they let us make the most of it—especially to their culture and authority. As have physical strength and available in our retirement years. retired workers, we may have our time. Always a niche exists where doubts and worries, but our basic a retired person can make a useful Conclusion attitude should be supportive. And contribution and be an active part of No question, if we are blessed to we ought to resist any impulse to the body of Christ. have lived long enough to retire, we openly interfere or to organize any will face some new challenges and protest or lobby. Enjoy yourself new joys. Though, as in every stage We had our time when we were Though not all of us will have of life, we will confront in retirement responsible, and when we were look- a long retirement period in good things that we cannot control. The ing for support and encouragement. health, many will. If we are in that crucial question? The attitude we Now others are at the helm. Our category, let us make the most of have toward them. Your retirement present role is one of counsel (when it and make sure that we do things will be what you allow it to be. Allow asked for), but mostly one of prayer- we enjoy. It is all right to say “no” to the Lord to help you make it as ful support and encouragement. certain requests and demands, even fruitful and rewarding as possible.

Tell us what you think about this article. Email [email protected] or write to 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904.

MINISTRY 23 JANUARY 2012 Leonard Brand Leonard R. Brand, PhD, is professor of biology and paleontology and chair of the Department of Earth and Biological Sciences at Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, United States.

Christians, worldviews, and wisdom

worldview comprises a a separate sphere. While theistic understanding and is no more neu- set of assumptions that evolutionists believe that religion can tral than Christianity. A worldview influence how people provide spiritual guidance, they hold based on either viewpoint can form A view the world and how that only through science can human a basis for the search for truth, they answer the important ques- beings produce reliable explanations but they will lead in very different tions of life, such as where did we of the natural world. That is, religion directions. The traditional Christian come from, how should we live, and gives subjective, prejudiced views, worldview starts with a belief in where are we going? Everyone has a while a secular approach provides the truth of the central events worldview, and how people interpret theories and explanations that are of biblical history: Creation, Fall, life and evidence is influenced by unbiased and neutral, unaffected Redemption, and Restoration (the that worldview. Two worldviews by religious assumptions—secular great controversy between Christ are prominent today, one based science has facts while religion has and Satan). Commitment to this set on the belief that the Bible gives assumptions. This has led to a two- of truths forms the foundation for an trustworthy facts, even about earth level understanding of “truth”: integration of all knowledge, not just history, and one that rejects any religious knowledge. supernatural intervention in history Religion—personal, subjective In reality, theistic evolution has (naturalism).1 But those are not the values, emotions (heart) mostly abandoned any attempt only worldviews. to make this integration. Theistic An increasingly popular trend in Science—public, objective, evolution is essentially secular but Christendom advocates the mixing reliable facts (mind) interjects a few “religious” con- of Christianity with the theory that cepts into the secular view of the all life has evolved. In order to blend But there exists no such thing universe. This worldview accepts these two worldviews, some things as a neutral search for truth. Both as fact the interpretation that all life in each have to be surrendered. secular science and religious views resulted from evolution. But does The result is theistic evolution or are based on a worldview, a set the evidence warrant this? Have evolutionary creation, including a of assumptions that influences the advocates of theistic evolu- version of theistic evolution called everything. A Christian worldview tion carefully considered which temple theology.2 According to this regards the Bible as a trustworthy Christian concepts must be rejected worldview, God created life forms basis for an integrated view of in order to accept their worldview? through the process of evolution the world, a “biblically informed Do they recognize that the evolu- over millions of years. perspective on all reality”3 that does tionary theory they accept as fact In its attempt to meld scientific not divorce religion from the rest is based on the assumption that no research and biblical statements of experience and knowledge. In supernatural intervention anytime in about the creation of the world, contrast, a naturalistic worldview history could ever have occurred? theistic evolution actually estab- requires that separation. Is it good epistemology to try to lishes a dichotomy between science Secularism introduces its blend two worldviews based on and religion by relegating each to own biases into the search for directly contradictory assumptions,

MINISTRY 24 JANUARY 2012 on incompatible epistemological • Pain, suffering, death, and natu- Solomon is using poetic language, principles? Is it valid hermeneutics ral evil are normal, inevitable but he clearly regards God as the to judge biblical concepts according processes. earth’s Designer and Creator. to the assumption that there has • Future—??? Does a god who How should we decide which been no divine intervention in the doesn’t know how to create as worldview to adopt? There is much history of life or of the earth? the Bible describes, know how evidence to consider, but above Now we can summarize three to provide a future for us? all is the need for wisdom. When worldviews. God responded to Job, He did not Advocates of theistic evolution provide answers to the difficult Christianity: the great or evolutionary creation who can- questions. Instead, He challenged controversy between didly address the topic recognize Job—and us—to remember how Christ and Satan that their worldview leads to a god little human beings know in com- who created by the process of muta- parison to the God who created all Assumption: tion, death, and survival of the fittest and is Master and Redeemer of all. • God is real and is the omnipotent through ages of pain and suffering. Were we here when the earth was Creator of the universe and life. This “creation” process requires created? Where were we when the Resulting worldview: death and natural evil (hurricanes, rocks and fossils were formed? • Creation of a perfect, sinless volcanoes, floods, earthquakes). In the end, we should choose a world Their deity must not interfere with worldview to evaluate purported • Fall of humanity, bringing sin, all these destructive processes, so knowledge on the basis of wisdom. evil, pain, and death that, as they express it, the creation “Wisdom is supreme; therefore • Redemption through Jesus will not be unduly forced but will be get wisdom. Though it cost you • Future—restoration to sinless “free.”4 Is such a god worthy of our all you have, get understanding. perfection at Christ’s second worship? Is this evil-ridden world Esteem her, and she will exalt you; coming really free or merely dysfunctional? embrace her, and she will honor you” (Prov. 4:7, 8). Naturalism Wisdom Solomon has already revealed I recommend one more step in where wisdom comes from—“the Assumption: the search for truth, as described fear of the Lord.” Do we know the • Universe and life arose through by King Solomon: “The fear of the divine mind and Supreme Being natural law; there has never Lord is the beginning of wisdom, behind the Bible? Does our relation- been any intelligent, supernatu- and knowledge of the Holy One ship with Jesus give us assurance ral intervention in the universe. is understanding” (Prov. 9:10). 5 and confidence in His commu- Resulting worldview: Knowledge becomes important, nication to us? These may seem • All plants and animals evolved especially when combined with like rather subjective questions, from a common ancestor. wisdom. God and His Word are not relevant to a scholarly search • Pain, suffering, death, and natu- the ultimate source of wisdom, for knowledge. To the contrary, I ral evil are normal, inevitable no matter what our field of study. believe they are the most important processes. In many areas of scholarly study, questions. • Future—annihilation, extinction the Bible does not provide a lot of What is the primary difference specific information but gives the between the worldviews we have Theistic evolution, most important basic concepts, and discussed? The difference lies in evolutionary creation, it is the source of wisdom. the nature of God and how (and if) temple theology Solomon does not write only He interfaces with us and nature. about the wisdom of salvation. How could we, with our human Assumption: He develops the theme of wisdom limitations, know what God is like • Universe and life arose through throughout the first nine chapters unless He tells us? Does God obey natural law; there was no of Proverbs, applying it to morals the humanly invented rule that He direct, intelligent, supernatural and ethics in real-life situations. As cannot involve Himself in the physi- intervention in the origin of the a paleontologist, I especially noted cal processes of the universe? Only universe. God was involved in that it even brings in the subject a deep personal knowledge of God the process but not in a way of origins: “By wisdom the L ord can give us the wisdom to make a that could influence the physical laid the earth’s foundations, by truly informed choice of what stan- evidence. understanding he set the heavens dard we will use to recognize true Resulting worldview: in place; by his knowledge the and trustworthy knowledge—the • All plants and animals evolved deeps were divided, and the clouds Word of God or modern scientific from a common ancestor. let drop the dew” (Prov. 3:19, 20). interpretations. If the Bible is what it

MINISTRY 25 JANUARY 2012 Leonard Brand claims to be, it is not just a book, but framework has implications for dunes, cemented into sandstone. the revelation and reflection of the processes in both geology and The only fossils are trackways of divine Being behind the Bible. This paleontology. Based on these impli- animals on the dune surfaces. These will give us confidence in choosing cations, we can propose hypotheses trackways are commonly cited as a worldview. that can be tested with the same evidence of a desert origin of the research procedures that any earth sand deposit. I wondered if the Biblically motivated scientist uses. Coconino SS could be windblown scientific discovery Several factors are needed to sand if it formed during the global This article has discussed some implement such a research process. flood. Of course, the flood was factors that must be considered in First of all, it requires independent complex, and we cannot be sure seeking and evaluating knowledge. thought, recognizing that some there were not episodes of high Is there a way that a biblically based accepted scientific concepts must winds during that event. However, it worldview can directly make schol- be wrong if one’s biblical worldview is worth suggesting the hypothesis arly contributions? Many critics of is right. Second, it requires solid (resulting from my worldview) that the Bible claim this as not possible. knowledge of the scientific litera- the trackways were made under

Both secular science and

religious views are based on a

worldview, a set of assumptions

that influences everything.

In contrast, I predict that if the Bible ture on the topic and high-quality water. Research over a number presents a true history of the earth research. Third, we must avoid the of years (data and interpretations) and of biological origins, scientists danger, illustrated in the work of has resulted in papers presented who are informed by Bible history some believers, of thinking that at national geology meetings and gain an advantage in generating suc- because we believe the Bible, any publications in quality earth science cessful scientific hypotheses. That scientific idea we come up with journals.7 There are features, not will sound preposterous to many, must be correct. It is essential to recognized by other researchers, but some of us have been doing just remember that the Bible does not that seem impossible to explain that for many years and publishing give many details, and we may have unless the trackways were made the results in highly esteemed, peer- to reject several hypotheses about completely under water. reviewed scientific journals.6 Other details before finding one that not My worldview opened my eyes scholars use their worldview to only fits the Bible but also explains to see things not noticed by others. suggest research ideas, and a theist the evidence. The evidence was there all the time, can do likewise! A number of research projects but worldview influences what I do not go to a scientific confer- has been done by creationists, questions are asked, and what ence and state that I think such based on a biblical worldview, and researchers notice. A naturalistic and such a scientific theory is true published in peer-reviewed scien- worldview does not rule out the because the Bible says so. However, tific research journals. I will briefly possibility of underwater tracks, the Bible presents the basic ele- describe just one example. The but it also did not suggest such a ments of a worldview that includes Coconino Sandstone in northern hypothesis. My biblical viewpoint a literal creation, global flood, and Arizona is generally believed to be provided an advantage in research. short time for life on earth. That an accumulation of desert sand This has happened in many cases,

MINISTRY 26 JANUARY 2012 for me and for other researchers. Lord.” There will always be chal- of God: The Convergence of Scientific and Biblical Wisdom (New York: Free Press, 1997); John H. Walton, The Lost There is vast potential for this type lenges in our search for truth, but if World of Genesis One: Ancient Cosmology and the Origins of Bible-inspired advance in a variety we keep Jesus in first place and put Debate (Westmont, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2009). 3 Nancy Pearcey, Total Truth (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, of disciplines, as there has been for a biblical worldview to practical use 2004), 23. theologians who have confidence in suggesting concepts for study 4 See endnote 1 above, and N. Murphy, R. J. Russell, and in Scripture. When we use this and research, this may even help to W. R. Stoeger, S.J., eds., Physics and Cosmology (Tucson, AZ: Vatican Observatory Foundation, 2007). Also see approach, the Bible is no longer advance the scholarly understand- L. Brand, “A Biblical Perspective on the Philosophy of on the defensive but a stimulus for ing of our disciplines. Science,” Origins 59 (2006): 6–42. 5 All Bible texts in this article are from the New discovery of new knowledge. International Version. 1 Leonard Brand, “How Do We Know What Is True?” Journal 6 Brand, Faith, Reason, and Earth History, 96–104; Brand, of Adventist Education, 73, no. 2 (December 2010/January Beginnings, 153–157. Conclusion 2011), 16–23); Leonard Brand, Faith, Reason, and Earth 7 L. Brand, “Variations in Salamander Trackways Resulting To understand how human History, 2nd ed. (Berrien Springs, MI: Andrews University From Substrate Differences,” Journal of Paleontology Press, 2009); Leonard Brand, Beginnings (Nampa, ID: 70 (1996): 1004–1010; L. Brand, Reply to Comments on beings acquire and evaluate knowl- Pacific Press, 2006); Ariel Roth, Origins: Linking Science “Fossil Vertebrate Footprints in the Coconino Sandstone edge, and how to determine what and Scripture (Hagerstown, MD: Review and Herald, (Permian) of Northern Arizona: Evidence for Underwater 1998). Origin,” Geology 20 (1992): 668–670; L. Brand and T. is true, involves consideration of 2 Ian G. Barbour, Myth, Models and Paradigms (New York: Tang, “Fossil Vertebrate Footprints in the Coconino worldviews and how they influence Harper & Row, 1974); John F. Haught, God After Darwin: Sandstone [Permian] of Northern Arizona: Evidence for our interpretation of evidence. Any A Theology of Evolution, 2nd ed. (Boulder, CO: Westview Underwater Origin,” Geology 19 (1991): 1201–1204; L. Press, 2008); Denis O. Lamoureux, Evolutionary Creation Brand, “Field and Laboratory Studies on the Coconino worldview is based on one or more (Eugene, OR: Wipf & Stock, 2008); Nancey Murphy, Sandstone (Permian) Fossil Vertebrate Footprints and assumptions that we accept on Religion and Science: God, Evolution, and the Soul Their Paleoecological Implications,” reprinted in Terrestrial (Kitchener, ON: Pandora Press, 2002); Arthur Peacocke, Trace Fossils, W. A. S. Sarjeant, ed., Benchmark Papers faith. A very important element in Theology for a Scientific Age (Minneapolis, MN: Fortress in Geology 76 (1983): 126–139; L. Brand, “Field and choosing a worldview is wisdom, Press, 1993); John Polkinghorne, Faith, Science and Laboratory Studies on the Coconino Sandstone (Permian) Understanding (New Haven, CT: Yale University Press, Fossil Vertebrate Footprints and Their Paleoecological and from the Bible it is clear that 2000); John Polkinghorne, Quarks, Chaos, and Christianity Implications,” Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, wisdom begins with the “fear of the (New York: Crossroad, 1994); G. L. Schroeder, The Science Palaeoecology 28 (1979): 25–38.

Tell us what you think about this article. Email [email protected] or write to 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904.

6KDULQJWRROVIRU\RXUFKXUFKDQGFRPPXQLW\

    Ǧ

ͳǣ •‹šʹͺǦ‹—–‡‹–‡”˜‹‡™•ǡ”Ǥ‘ ƒŽŽ•Šƒ”‡•‹•‹‰Š–•‘–Š‡ ˜ƒŽ—‡‘ˆƒ’Žƒ–Ǧ„ƒ•‡††‹‡–ƒ†‘—–Ž‹‡••–‡’•–‘ƒŠ‡ƒŽ–Š‹‡”Ž‹ˆ‡•–›Ž‡Ǥ ʹǣŠ›‡ƒ‡‰‡–ƒ”‹ƒǫȀƒ›‘–‘‹ƒ„‡–‡•Ȁ ”‡˜‡–‹‰ ‡ƒ”–‹•‡ƒ•‡ ‘‰‡˜‹–›Ȁ‘™‡”‘—”Ž‘‘†”‡••—”‡Ȁ ‡’‡ ƒŽ–Š›‡‹‰Š–‹ƒŽ –”‘†— –‘”›ˆˆ‡”Ǩ ̈́ͳͻǤͻͷ•Ȁ̈́ʹʹǤͷͲ•Ϊ

       ‡ƒŽ–Š—‰‰‡–• ‹ƒ ‹ƒŽƒƒ‰‡Ǧ ‹ˆ–ƒ ‡– ‡–‡‹ƒ” ‘–ƒ‹•  ‘—”ƒ‰‡›‘—” Š—” Š ‘͵ –™‘•Šƒ”‹‰„‘‘•‘ ‡„‡”•–‘‡š’‡”‹‡ ‡ •–Šƒ–™‹ŽŽŠ‡Ž’Ž†‡” ‡ƒŽ–Šƒ†‹„Ž‡Ǧ –Š‡„‡‡ˆ‹–•‘ˆ’‘•‹–‹˜‡ ’—–›‘—”ˆ‹ƒ ‘‰‡” ‡”ƒ†‡œǡ‹ƒŽ •™‡”•ǡ’Ž—•ƒ‘” Ž‹ˆ‡•–›Ž‡ Šƒ‰‡™‹–Š Š‘—•‡‹‘”†‡”Ǥ Ǥ”†‡”ͷͲ‘” –Š‡•‡ͳʹ ‘ ‹•‡ ‘ˆ‡”‡ ‡Ǥ ήȀ  ήȀ  ήȀ  ‘”‡ˆ‘”ƒ†‹• ‘—–Ǥ ’”‡•‡–ƒ–‹‘•„› ƒ   –‘•ŠǤ 3+21 (  2521/,1(ZZZ3HRSOH7R3HRSOH0LQLVWULHVFRP 

MINISTRY 27 JANUARY 2012 DATELINE

In Cayman Islands, social programs. “We want to be the young person’s expressed per- personally connected to these guys mission, he added. Adventist pastors before they reach a place where they The pastors’ efforts got a boost offer at-risk youth consider doing something that can last week when Cayman Islands have catastrophic consequences.” Premier McKeeva Bush and several alternative to Through a community prayer members of the country’s cabinet drugs, gangs and mentorship program launched and legislature attended the com- in September 2011, Adventists munity meeting and prayer rally. eventh-day Adventist Church are offering an alternative to gang Regional leaders of other Christian Spastors in the Cayman Islands involvement. Pastors hold commu- denominations have also shown trade suits and sermon helps for nity meetings and prayer rallies once support for the project by helping jeans and dominos. a week where they offer counseling lead out in community prayer. They are not shirking responsibil- and support to young people “on Ultimately, Clarke and his team of ity. Ministers in the Caribbean nation the fringes,” Clarke said. They pray pastors hope to garner even broader are mentoring young people in the for the community, law enforcement community support. “We want to community who are vulnerable to members, perpetrators and victims, empower people in the community drug abuse and gang involvement. and their respective families. to catch the spark and put in place an The Cayman Islands have seen a Affected young people are infrastructure for sustainable growth sharp and “unprecedented” rise in already opening up. One even helped and development.” Clarke is now violent crime this year, said Dannie solve a string of murders. Another asking community leaders to create Clarke, president of the Adventist passed a note to Clarke after a recent a registry of at-risk youth who could Church in the country. He and his community meeting. It just said, use a big brother or sister. pastoral team have observed more “Please give me a call. They have my “We must know our people. We young people turning toward a life name on a hit list and I want to talk to must look out when one person’s of crime, baited by the sense of somebody because I fear for my life.” child is hurting or vulnerable,” Clarke belonging and quick money that The church is working with the said. “Many times, it’s not that these gangs promise. “We want to be police department to provide a place youth don’t want to get involved in there to support them, to put a hand where young people can request positive things. They just may not on their shoulders,” said Clarke. protection or aid cases in safety and have the opportunity or the right For some churches, that means confidence, Clarke said. Pastors will influences.” [Elizabeth Lechleitner/ offering young people sports and not share any information without ANN]

LETTERS

Continued from page 4

issue does not center around when a worship experience. The reason older hymns that are still being sung our music was composed and by they do this, I’ve been told, is that have stood the test of time, whereas whom but whether or not we are visitors who are not followers of many newer songs won’t. The proof singing to God in that moment.” Jesus prefer “contemporary” songs of the worship is in the singing. At After 30 years of pastoral minis- to “old-fashioned” hymns. services I’ve attended, the singing try, it remains a mystery to me why Archaic language can be updated of the hymns, whether old or new, is so many churches include songs that if necessary and there are modern far more enthusiastic and, to me, are difficult to sing in their worship songs that are very singable and worshipful, than the singing of the services. The result is that the service theologically sound, so it need not other songs. becomes a performance, rather than be a case of “old” vs. “new.” The —Roland Maxwell, pastor, Australia

MINISTRY 28 JANUARY 2012 RESOURCES

7 Deadly Sins of Women in Reeducation Leadership: Overcome Self- is necessary Defeating Behaviour in Work & Ministry to empower by Kate Coleman, Birmingham, UK: Next and equip Leadership, 2010. women (and ost leadership books in busi- Mness and the church are written from a male perspective. men) to Although beneficial to all, women do not always relate to male behaviors and attitudes. In this respect, Kate become the Coleman’s book, 7 Deadly Sins of Women in Leadership, is a refreshing antidote. leaders God designed Coleman has impeccable lead- ership credentials. She was the them to be. first black woman Baptist pastor in the UK and a former president of the Baptist Union of Great Britain. Drawing on her own journey and Within this framework, Coleman behavior. Coleman discusses vari- that of fellow women in leadership identifies the seven deadly sins, ous aspects of the behavior, using both in and outside a church setting, destructive behavioral patterns, and practical illustrations to highlight the she identifies seven deadly sins, or attitudes that prevent people from nature of the challenges involved. behaviors, which can be destructive developing into the leader God called Following the discussion, the in leadership and ministry. These sins them to be: writer includes practical suggestions may be prevalent among women, and exercises that the reader can but they are not exclusively confined • Limiting self-perceptions reflect upon and apply as appropri- to them. • Failure to establish appropriate ate in their situation. The chapters She identifies three major boundaries close with Coaching Tips—five to challenges facing women in leader- • Inadequate God-inspired per- seven searching questions or action ship: education, empowerment, sonal vision points. The book includes a five-page and encouragement. A need exists • A destructive work/life rhythm bibliography and a list of online to revisit perceptions relating to • The desire to please everyone resources. women in leadership. Reeducation • Colluding and not confronting This practical book has the pos- is necessary to empower and equip • Neglect in family matters sibility of educating women and men women (and men) to become the to apply its principles in real-life roles. leaders God designed them to The book is best read over a be. Encouragement is essential to period of time or selectively. Each —Reviewed by Audrey Andersson, enable others to grow, develop, and chapter begins with a short, real- secretary, Trans-European Division, St. achieve their God-given potential. life experience illustrating negative Albans, Herts, United Kingdom.

MINISTRY 29 JANUARY 2012 THE PASTOR AND HEALTH | Fred Hardinge

Fred Hardinge, DrPH, RD, is associate director, Health Ministries Department, General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States. Rest

ociety today does not value the importance of rest and Ssleep, and many often con- sider sleep to be a waste of time. Thomas Edison reportedly believed that sleep was a waste of time and set out to invent the electric light bulb to extend daylight hours. His success has contributed to a 20 percent decrease in the average number of hours of sleep adults get compared to just 20 years ago. His attitude has infected all age groups. In 2002, surveys revealed that more than 25 percent of Americans highest mental functions are com- for creativity and positive family are so sleepy during the day that it promised—blunting discernment, relationships. interferes with their daily activities.1 judgment, initiative, and creativity. Bible study and prayer is the life- Just one in five adolescents gets Interestingly, sleep deprivation line of the Christian. The devil knows the optimal nine hours of sleep on leads to decreased performance that if he can keep us tired even school nights.2 Sadly, most people similar to what occurs when a with good activities it will lessen our are totally unaware of their own person is under the influence of ability and interest in the study and reduced capabilities because they alcohol. Studies have shown that understanding of the Bible and will have been sleepy for so long they 16 to 18 hours of wakefulness (one weaken our commitment to com- do not know what it is like to feel long day) in healthy adults results municate with God in prayer. wide awake! A rested person will in impairments comparable to the Most sleep researchers agree accomplish more in less time and do legal intoxication level of a blood that humans can get by on about it better, more effectively, and safely. alcohol level of greater than 0.08 seven hours of sleep per night. But Depriving ourselves of sleep is percent.3 We all need sleep at the how many of us want to just get by much like depriving ourselves of end of the day if adverse effects on in life? The evidence remains strong food. If we eat fewer calories than our performance are to be avoided. that for peak performance in all areas we need each day, we will slowly Fatigue has a very important of our lives, we need between eight lose weight because the effects influence on our spiritual lives. and nine hours of sleep each night. are cumulative. When we deprive Optimal decision-making capacity Our small children and teens need a ourselves of sleep, we accumulate is necessary to differentiate between little more to maximize their learning the total amount of sleep loss in the right and wrong. Yet, when we are and memory abilities. Getting those same way. If you lose one hour of tired, we have even less motivation amounts of sleep requires careful sleep each night over a week, you and willpower to act on what we choices and self-discipline. will accumulate a sleep debt of seven know is correct. Thus we succumb Remember: tonight’s sleep builds hours, which is nearly the same as to temptation more easily. tomorrow’s energy. It prepares our losing a whole night’s sleep. As humans, we all have our body and mind for peak perfor - Sleep debt directly affects our limitations. We cannot work around mance. Sleep is as important as diet thinking ability and mental efficiency. the clock or every day and maintain and exercise—only easier! During the past two decades scores a healthy, happy, and productive of studies have looked at this area life. We need daily rest as much as 1 “Sleep In America” Survey, National Sleep Foundation, 2002. 2 “Sleep In America” Survey, National Sleep Foundation, 2006. with a very clear pattern of findings. we need weekly and annual breaks 3 A. M. Williamson, et al. Occupational and Environmental The bottom line is that when we to provide mental and emotional Medicine 2000, 57:649–655. allow ourselves to get tired, the recuperation that are necessary

Tell us what you think about this article. Email [email protected] or write to 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904.

MINISTRY 30 JANUARY 2012 Do you know a burnt out, worn out, travel-weary soul? It’s time to help them reclaim their faith. Pastor Doug Batchelor presents Reclaim Your Faith, a four-part series to invite friends and family back home again. Live on Hope Channel—DIRECTV ch. 368, Glorystar ch. 104—7:30PM ET, January 13-15, 2012.

Scan for more information. GENERAL CONFERENCE OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS®

Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage PAID 1350 N. KINGS ROAD • NAMPA, ID 83687-3193 Nampa, ID Permit No. 147 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

How mucH longer must we wait?

For as long as we can remember and even before, the refrain “Jesus is coming soon” has sounded in churches around the world. Its theme is central to our message as a church—embedded in our very name—seventh-day adventist! Yet, still we wait. If we step back for a moment and take a panoramic view, we see adam and eve waiting for the Promised one. They, too, must have wondered at the delay. author marvin moore observes, “There’s a tension between the belief, on the one hand, that Jesus is coming soon and the realization, on the other hand, that He hasn’t returned as soon as we had hoped.” How encouraging are these words: “god’s purposes know no haste and no delay” (The Desire of Ages, 32). moore concludes, “we need to apply those words to our situation. Paul said that ‘when the set time had fully come, god sent his son’ (galatians 4:4). we can be sure that when the time has fully come again, god will send Jesus back to take us home!”

MARVIN MOORE is the editor of Signs of the Times® magazine, and a prolific author with more than thirty books to his credit. Among his published works are The Case for the Investigative Judgment, Challenges to the Remnant, How to Think About the End Time, How to Survive the Coming Global Crisis, and The Antichrist and the New World Order. Marvin Moore’s knowledge of Bible prophecy and end-time events keeps him in constant demand as a speaker at churches and camp meetings in the U.S. and internationally.

ISBN 13: 978-0-8163-2504-7 ISBN 10: 0-8163-2504-9 Call: 1-800-765-6955 Beliefs/End-time Events US$18.99 Shop: ABCASAP.com

© 2012 Pacific Press® Publishing Association • 15590579 • Please contact your ABC for pricing in Canada.