WEEKLY NEWS AND INSPIRATION FOR SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS AUGUST

LEARNING NOT TO TIPTOE, 12 THE SEARCH FOR THE SACRED ARK, 16

LL I I ERS

Those Standards! on women. If not, then why not use an offensive, but they do not seek to fasten Roy Adams, how could you! And in illustration with a man? This article the mind to the truth. Those who seek an issue trying to reach the baby seems typical of writings by SDA men to correct others should present the boomers. How could you surmise you on this subject. They focus primarily on attractions of Jesus. They should talk of were meeting an Adventist woman women. His love and compassion, present His based on "neat, well groomed, with no I would suggest that Adventist men example and sacrifice, reveal His Spirit, other jewelry than a simple wedding are far more slaves to worldly fashion and they need not touch the subject of band"? ("How About Standards?" June than women. We just completed our dress at all. There is no need to make 10). This conclusion makes no more camp meeting, and it was very hot and the dress question the main point of sense than to surmise that a neat, well- humid. As I looked about the crowd I your religion. There is something richer groomed man getting into his luxury to speak of" (Evangelism, p. 272). Mercedes is not an Adventist. Please H. B. Colburn hear the baby boomers. They are vital On the Road With the Shapleigh, Maine participants in bringing back into the Editors Adventist Church the true picture of Boomers and Leadership (cont.) Christ, the redemptive Christ who sees Look for these firsthand reports When today's boomers of World beyond the exterior to the interior of the from the editors on overseas assign- War II were being born, I was returning heart. And remember only Christ loves ment during the next few months: to the United States from Europe. enough to judge. William Johnsson—reports Following my discharge from the Army Joyce Hanscom Lorntz, Ph.D., Pastor from Vietnam, Laos, I became a denominational worker in Fletcher, North Carolina Cambodia, and Myanmar the capacity of a literature evangelist. (Burma) During my 35 years of service for the Roy Adams—Venezuela, church, I was able to advance up the I found myself "amen"ing with Adams Guyana, Panama, Haiti corporate ladder of responsibility. throughout the editorial. Seventh-day Myron Widmer—Australia, Twenty years of this service was in Adventism is deeper than externals. In Papua New Guinea, Solo- overseas service. Also, for 12 years I addition, we are a community of people mon Islands was a member of the General who live together and before the world. Carlos Medley—news of the Conference Committee. From this van- The question arises, What sets us apart Annual Council in Banga- tage point I was in a position to know as being a distinctive community? lore, India the inner working of the church through Juxtapositioned with this is the role of its policies and procedures. standards of conduct, behavior, and During my years of service, there dress. I can assure Elder Adams that could not help wondering what it was were policies and procedures I sincerely Christian standards continue to be diffi- that drove men to wear suits and ties in felt were in need of change. In my con- cult for many SDA pastors to present, such a humid environment. The tie is victions, I did not hesitate to be vocal in to those in the church as well as those used for self-adornment and, perhaps, respect to desired change. However, considering a decision to join it. to shut off blood flow to the head. regardless of how strong my convictions One of the little-known contributions I have a special white shirt that I were for change, as long as a policy was of the Valuegenesis study is what it wear only to church. It requires no tie. in force I just as strongly upheld it. revealed about standards in the However, I have been told numerous To baby boomers I would say, yes, Adventist Church. I hope with the pub- times that if I am going to be on the there are things that need to be cor- lication of the book Shall We Dance? platform I should wear a suit and tie. Is rected. Some policies need change. and Other SDA Lifestyle Issues (part of this a Christian standard or a worldly Work for change, but do so from the the Valuegenesis series and available standard? John Marsh, Ph.D. inside. Do not stand apart from the this fall) Adams' appeal to develop a Titusville, Florida church and try to institute change with- sensible, principle-based approach to out becoming involved in the activities this issue will receive an additional How about this counsel? "There are of the church. You are then in a better impetus. Steve Case, President many who try to correct the life of oth- position to exert the influence needed. Piece of the Pie Ministries ers by attacking what they consider are Do not worry about "earning the right Sacramento, California wrong habits. They go to those whom to lead." Criticism is the price of lead- they think are in error, and point out ership. Maintain the right attitude (Phil. Roy Adams is my favorite editorialist, their defects. They say, 'You don't 2:5, NIV), and your leadership will be but I have a problem with "How About dress as you should.' They try to pick recognized. E. A. (Gus) Brodeur Standards?" He says he was not picking off the ornaments, or whatever seems Avon Park, Florida

2 (874) ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26, 1993

ADVENTIS I

AUGUST 26. 1993

DEPARTMENTS ARTICLES

2 Letters ANCHORPOINTS 6 Newsbreak 8 The Mystery of the Trinity 19 Faith Alive! Bible-centered Christians learn to know God from God Himself, as He has acted throughout history and revealed 20 World Report Himself in the Scriptures. by Raoul Dederen 22 Children's Corner FAITH IN ACTION 23 Reflections 12 Jason's Challenge 14 Reality check EDITORIALS Little did I know that the best piece of Christian advice I had ever received was about to come my way. by LuAnn Wolfe 4 Our Matchless Saviour—V LIFESTYLE 5 How We Can and Can't "Be Like 14 "You'll Be All Right" Jesus" When chronic illness strikes, we can focus on the strength that God gives us to cope now, and focus on the hope that points NEXT WEEK us to a brighter tomorrow. by Mary Barrett A Special Issue on Sexual Misconduct. CURRENT ISSUES A series of articles 16 Where Is the Golden Ark of the Covenant? 20 Refocusing on covering human sexu- health ality, understanding It seems that people, even some Seventh-day Adventists, are child abuse, abuse of persuaded more easily than ever by rumors and foolish specu- power, temptation, lations. by David Merling why sexual abuse occurs, Christian response to intimate violence, and help for Cover illustration by the abused and Harry Anderson abusers.

General paper of the Marketing Representative To Writers: We welcome unsolicited Subscription queries and changes Lodonan Foundation 19e11, 1962, 19a 1963, Seventh-day Adventist Church Ginger Church manuscripts. Notification of rejection may be of address: Call toll-lree 1-800-456- 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977. Texts credited expected only if accompanied by a stamped, 3991 or 301-791-7000, ext. 2436. to *Bare from The New English Bible. © The Editor'Vi!liamG Johnsson Consulting Editors Robert S. Folkenberg, self-addressed envelope. Address all editorial Delegates of the Oxford University Press and Associate Editor Roy Adams Matthew Bediako, D. F. Gilbert, Robert J. correspondence to 12501 Old Columbia Pike, The Adventist Review (ISSN 0161-1119) is the Syndics of the Cambridge University Press Associate Editor Myron K. Widmer Noosterhus, A. C. McClure. Kenreth J. Mittleider, Silver Spring, MD 20934-6600. Editorial office published 40 times a year, each Thursday 1961, 1970. Reprinted by permission. Texts News Editor . - s. Medley Leo Ftezolin, Calvin B. Rock G. Ralph Thu-axon fax number. (301) 680-6638. except the first Thursday of each month. credited to NP/ are from the Holy Bible, New Assistant Editor ngene F. Durand Special Contributors Kenneth H. Wood, Copyright © 1993 Review and Herald* International Version. Copyright © 1973, 1978, Assistant Editor nit Watts Neal C. Wilson, Bryan Ball, George W. Brain, Publishing Association, 55 West Oak Ridge 1984. International Bible Society. Used by per- Editorial Assistant M. E Cherian, P. D. Chun, L D. &lefty, Ted N. Subscription prices: US$36.97 for 40 Drive, Hagerstown, Maryland 21740. mission of Zondenran Bible Publishers. Bible Jackie Ordeincide Smith C. Wilson, Edwin Ludescher, J. J. Noney, Jan issues. US$48.97 for 52 issues. Add $10.20 Second-class postage paid at Hagerstown, texts credited to RSV are from the Revised Administrative Secretary Chitra Barnabas Paulsen. Joao Wolff postage for addresses outside North America Maryland 21740. Postmaster: send Standard Version of the Bible, copyright © Editorial Secretary Nicole Bolder Mattox African-Indian Ocean Editions Editor, To place your order, send your name, address changes to Adventist Review, 55 1946, 1952, 1971, by the Division of Christian Art Director'.- 'stein Japnetn Agboka address, and payrnent to your local Adventist West Oak Ridge Drive, Hagerstown, MD Education of the National Council of the Designer Inter-American Edition Editor, Adalgiza Book Center or AoVentist Review Subscription 21740. Churches of Christ in the USA Used by per- Design Assistant Serf W. Busch Arcr.colc Desk, Box 1119, Hagerstown, MD 21741. miss on. Ad Sales Tooley South American Editions Editor, R. S. Single copy, USV.25. Prices subject to change Scripture quotations marked NASB are from Me Subscriber Services Larry Burtnett Lessn Portuguese; editor, Weiner Maw, Spanish without notice. New American Standard Bible, The Vol. 170, No. 34.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26, 1993 (875) 3 EDITORIAL

Our Matchless Saviour—V

Q ome arguments go on and on because sin: "Everything that does not come our salvation dependent on our works the antagonists never get to the real from faith is sin" (Rom. 14:23). rather than His grace. issue—the underlying concern behind the The biblical view of sin reaches even Thus, the debate over the nature of surface debate. And sometimes one side deeper, however. In a penetrating anal- Christ ultimately calls for searching or both have a hidden agenda they want ysis, Paul describes sin as a force, an self-examination. Each of us must ask: to protect. Both these situations lie indwelling principle, a state—"sin liv- Am I driven by a need to know, or by behind current Adventist discussions ing in me" (Rom. 7:14-20). So not only my pride, which resists submission and over the human nature of Jesus. are our acts sinful; our very nature is at trust, preferring to contribute to my The issue behind the issue is the war with God. own salvation? concept of sin. Those who want to Did Jesus have such a nature? No. If People sometimes ask me: "Which understand more clearly Jesus' human He had, He would Himself need a side are you on?" I abhor such ques- nature would get further if they stopped Saviour. He had no propensity to evil, no tions. Have we become like the debating whether Jesus came in human- warping of His moral nature that predis- Corinthians, who said: "I follow Paul" ity's pre-Fall or post-Fall nature and posed Him to temptation. He is the One . . . "I follow Apollos" . . . "I follow spent time looking at what the Bible utterly sinless—in deed, but also in His Cephas"? (1 Cor. 1:12). says about sin itself. inner being. He is "holy, blameless, Jesus' humanity is precious to me. I Many of us feel that 1 John 3:4 sup- pure, set apart from sinners" (Heb. 7:26). have conducted many Weeks of Prayer plies the key text: "Sin is the transgres- The hidden agenda concerns us— on the theme "Behold the Man!" and sion of the law" (KJV). With our our behavior, our relation to sinning, have found that the concept of Jesus as concern and mission to call people back our preparation for the Second Coming. truly one with us—in our struggles, to the Ten Commandments, this defini- For some Adventists, the debate over pain, and joys—comes as a new revela- tion has played a key role in our history Jesus' nature is merely a way station on tion to many Adventists. and remains important today. the road to this agenda. But I am troubled by those among us But it isn't the whole picture. But isn't overcoming sin important? who insist that Jesus be exactly like us. Translated literally, 1 John 3:4 reads: Absolutely. God has called us not to According to both the Bible and Ellen "Sin is anomia—lawlessness." This failure but to success. He has broken White, that cannot be. broadens the concept: sin goes beyond the power of sin and wants us to live I need a Friend who is preciously acts; it involves attitudes and motiva- vibrantly and joyously in Him. He will near, my Brother. But I need a Saviour tions, also. have a people ready to meet Him at who is different, one who is not part of Jesus, of course, taught this deeper Jesus' return. the sin problem, who does not Himself view in the Sermon on the Mount. He However, we must always be careful need a Saviour. And my Saviour must intensified the sixth commandment (the to make Jesus, not us, the center. We not only be free from taint of sin but prohibition against murder), showing must not reason from us back to Him; must be God Himself! Only God can that we could "kill" someone in our for instance, to argue that because God take away my sins. minds (Matt. 5:21-23). Likewise, He wants us to be victorious over sin Jesus Of all professing Christians, Seventh- extended the seventh (adultery) to must have a nature exactly like ours day Adventists should be foremost in include the lustful eye and the illicit puts the cart before the horse. exalting Him. How I wish that we fantasy (verses 27-30). The dual nature of Christ was the would turn our energies from fighting We find other indications in the focal point of God's plan to redeem over Him and instead contemplate Him. Scriptures that sin goes beyond overt humanity. It is therefore most important And seek by His grace to mirror that lawbreaking. The apostle James tells us that Christ's nature be defined by, and life of gentle and noble deeds. that sin can be by omission as well as by acceptable to, God, not us. To the commission. "Anyone, then, who knows degree that we try to force a sinful * Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture reference,, the good he ought to do and doesn't do nature on Christ in order to increase our come from the New International Version. it, sins" (James 4:17).* Paul asserts that expectations of perfect conduct logi- whatever lies outside the orbit of faith is cally, to that degree we attempt to make WILLIAM G. JOHNSSON

4 (876) ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26, 1993 EDITORIAL How We Can and Can't "Be Like Jesus"

e like Jesus," we say as we ladle nity to preach and witness, but they new model physical beings, expanded Bout advice to children squabbling each responded very differently. Since IQs, and enhanced abilities and talents, over beach toys or to church employees no rebuke is offered, John apparently we'll fly away. who ask why they are being treated or did the right thing by just standing with But not now, not yet. We have limits. paid a certain way. Peter, watching, praying, ready to face One way to "be like Jesus" now is to "Be like Jesus," some may admonish whatever might come. accept our limits—the things that can- us if we like "celebration" worship ser- What about the other 10 apostles? not change—and fully enjoy being who vices or don't like Ingathering. They are so unremarkable and so little we are. The God who chose the apostle "Be like Jesus," someone adds when mentioned in the Bible that most of us Thaddaeus also chooses us today. thinking that our skirts are too short, cannot list all their names. our pants too baggy, or we are too inde- Take the invisible Thaddaeus, for What Can Change? pendent in our opinions or too shy to example, or James the son of Alphaeus, Are there things that must change in witness as we ought. or Simon the Zealot, or Bartholomew. order for us to "be like Jesus"? I believe we should be like Jesus in Did these apostles bomb out in Jesus' To become like Jesus is an inner every way we can. What does that work. With the Spirit's guidance and mean? Most of Jesus' disciples the support of healthy, caring believers, we must assess our attitudes, habits, Ordinary People and choices. We must measure our- One way to sort out the appropriate were so unremarkable selves against the principles Jesus held and inappropriate use of the phrase "be most dear: love, justice, faith, mercy. like Jesus" is to look at actual exam- we cannot even Our attitudes, habits, and choices are ples. The 12 disciples spent approxi- the things about us that God wants us to mately 1,000 days in close physical remember their names. change, and that can change. Of course, proximity to Jesus. They had the best nothing happens if we don't think we chance imaginable to know what Jesus need help or don't ask for it. But when was like. How did they change? How homiletics class? Maybe so. our heart changes, so will the direction did they stay the same? Yet the Scripture states that these of our life. We sometimes assume that to "be "apostles were teaching the people and Jesus promises that we can become like Jesus" we must change personali- proclaiming . . . Jesus."' Becoming like Him, so much so that others will ties. We suppose anyone with a little "like Jesus" did not change scratchy recognize His likeness in us.' Probably faith and courage can become an outgo- voices into golden ones or shy person- not by our speaking ability or exegeti- ing, gregarious, stunning preacher. But alities into high-charged ones. cal skills, nor by our quiet or exuberant how was it for the 12 apostles? They The apostles had limits. Even when worship services, nor by wearing non- actually heard Jesus command them to filled with the Spirit they acted in congru- baggy pants. preach the gospel to every kindred, ence with their personalities and talents. Love. Love is how others see Jesus nation, and people. Surely God must So how might they have "pro- in us. When we have compassionate, have turned all of them into superstar claimed" Jesus at Pentecost? No doubt sturdy, life-changing love, then we will speakers. they worked Peter's crowd—listening, be like Jesus. Not so. Peter became the Pentecost answering questions, solving problems, ' See Acts 2:14; 3:6, 11, 12; 4:7, 8. preacher. Peter exhorted crowds in the leading small groups, sharing their faith Acts 4:2, NW. Temple. Peter healed. Peter took on the stories, praying, and encouraging. ' John 13:35. high priests and chief leaders.' Scripture says John was right beside Heavenly Vitamins Peter, but it records not a single soul- Some great day God will infuse us stirring sermon by John. Both apostles with heavenly vitamins and transform were confronted with the same opportu- us in the twinkling of an eye. With our KIT WATTS

ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26 1993 877) 5 NEWSBREAK

NORTH AMERICA

NAD Leaders Address AAW Announces Adventist Women of the Year Awards. Anti-Catholic Campaign The Association of Adventist Women recently announced 'Misguided efforts to advance the need to be addressed, but not in this setting the winners of its Adventist MAdventist Church's work have recently or with this approach. Women of the Year awards. taken the form of anti-Catholic and anti- On July 28 I appeared at a press confer- The honorees, who will pope billboard advertising in several loca- ence in Denver covered by television and tions in North America. The purpose of newspaper press reporters. I was able to pro- these efforts is represented as providing vide them with our official news release and wide circulation of the book The Great answer questions relating to the matter. Controversy, by Ellen G. White. Their coverage was extensive and favorable Media coverage has made North to our position. Since that coverage, the American Adventists well aware of the visit advertising company that had been con- Nancy Marter Cheryl Stowers by the head of the Roman Catholic Church tacted for the display of 21 billboards has to Denver, Colorado, in connection with the reconsidered its position and refused to put August international youth gathering in this up the advertisements. city. As in other cities, the consortium of those placing billboards sought to use the Inspired Counsel occasion to advertise The Great The words of Ellen G. White give us Controversy. good counsel in this matter. She alludes to Nyla Juhl Sheree Parris Recognizing the potential for negative the French Reformers who were "deter- Nudd publicity and possible connections being mined to strike a bold blow against the receive their made between these advertisements and the superstitions of Rome that should arouse the awards dur- Seventh-day Adventist Church, church whole nation. Accordingly, placards attack- ing the leaders set up a task force in the Denver ing the mass were in one night posted all annual AAW area to deal with the matter. They put into over France. Instead of advancing the convention in action a proactive campaign directed by reform, this zealous but ill-judged move- October, Roger Morton, communication coordinator ment brought ruin, not only upon its propa- include Lorna Tobler of the Mid-America Union, and assisted by gators, but upon the friends of the reformed Nancy Ed Gallagher of Porter Memorial Hospital faith throughout France" (The Great Marter, a past AAW presi- in Denver. Controversy, pp. 224, 225). dent, church life; Sheree Included in the plan were press releases to The church took positive steps in the Parris Nudd, vice president the major media entities in the Denver area Denver area to witness for Christ during of Shady Grove Adventist alerting them of the possibility of such an this time of heightened awareness. Our Hospital in Rockville, advertising campaign and disavowing any churches have engaged in an active program Maryland, professional life; connection with the Seventh-day Adventist of distributing Steps to Christ to the com- Nyla Juhl, associate profes- Church. munity and visitors. They also assisted vis- sor in the University of These releases further stated that iting young people who needed lodging. A North Dakota's Department although The Great Controversy is one of citywide religious liberty rally, held August of Family and Community our major books and while we recognize 7, helped clarify the position of the Nursing, community life; significant doctrinal and theological differ- Seventh-day Adventists on the issues of Cheryl Stowers, an educator ences with the Roman Catholic Church, freedom and conscience. and musician from Port yet it is against the spirit of Christianity, The message of the love of God and Hadlock, Washington, fam- the mission of the SDA Church, and the salvation in Christ must not be sullied ily life; and Lorna Tobler of intent of the book's author to engage in by misguided attempts at witness Sunnyvale, California, out- public attacks against either a person or through sensationalism and attacks on standing achievement. another church body. Issues of difference others. Our message is the good news of Jesus. That is what wins hearts to God To New Position. Carol By Gary Patterson, assistant to the North and His kingdom. And that is what we Allen, vice president for aca- American Division president. must be about. demic affairs at Atlantic

6 (878) ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26, 1993 NEWSBREAK

Union College, was recently conducted dedication cere- appointed acting president of AU President to Retire monies for its new headquar- the college. She replaces ters complex in Belem, Para. Robert L. Reynolds, who W. Richard Lesher (see photo), president of Andrews The union began in 1936 resigned from the position of V University, has announced his plans to retire from that with 225 members, reports interim president after serv- position, effective July 1, 1994. Revista Adventista. Today ing two months. Lesher, 68, has been president of the university since 1984. there are 178,540 members, Former AUC president Previous to coming to Andrews he was a general vice presi- 1,466 congregations, 114 Lawrence Geraty became La dent of the General Conference. Lesher has worked for the ordained pastors, 81 elemen- Sierra University president Adventist Church since 1946. tary schools, three boarding this summer. In addition to other positions held at the academies, two hospitals, General Conference, Lesher held pastoral, and six medical boats. Loma Linda University teaching, and administrative posts in New Receives $1.1 Million. England, Egypt, and Lebanon. ALSO IN THE NEWS Alumni and friends of the David Faehner, vice president for university Loma Linda University advancement at Andrews, said Lesher "stabilized New Salvation Army School of Medicine gave the institution during his tenure." General Named. Bramwell $1.1 million to the school's During Lesher's presidency, two buildings have been Tillsley, pictured with his alumni fund last year, erected on the university campus and long-term debt has also wife, Maude, has been reports Dennis E. Park, been reduced from $11.2 million in 1986 to $6.7 million today. named general of the development director of the Salvation Army. He suc- school's alumni association. ceeds Eva Burrows, the first ADRA Workers Injured in Union. As a result of the woman elected to the posi- WORLD CHURCH Bosnia-Herzegovina. Four "Salvation Unlimited" series, tion, who retired July 8. Adventist Development and 513 persons were baptized. Tillsley, a Canadian, is AWR-Asia Survives Earth- Relief Agency employees stationed at the Salvation quake. Despite the record- suffered injuries when their French Church Brings Food Army's international head- breaking earthquake that 11-truck convoy was to the Hungry. For eight quarters in London, says struck Guam on August 8, attacked by snipers. years the Adventist church in Religious News Service. Adventist World Radio is One worker was seri- Montpellier, France, has still broadcasting with both ously injured and the trucks been serving meals to the transmitters, says Gordon were badly damaged, says poor. Last winter 52,000 Retzer, AWR-Asia station General Conference presi- meals were served by 20 manager. dent Robert S. Folkenberg. volunteers, says Shirley Damage to the station The trucks were delivering Burton, General Conference included a broken feeder letters and relief supplies to communication director. line, which kept one trans- Sarajevo. To conduct the program, mitter off the air for 14 ADRA-Yugoslavia plans 255 families volunteer their hours. A few light fixtures to send humanitarian aid to time. An average of 758 were dislodged, and there Sarajevo every two weeks. meals were served each day . are some cracks in the wall There are more than 7,000 on the administration wing packages awaiting delivery North Brazil Union Opens of the building. by ADRA. New Headquarters. The "No staff members were North Brazil Union recently injured and the transmitters Indonesian Women Conduct suffered no damage," said Evangelism. Women church CHURCH CALENDAR Retzer. "The staff housing members in the North and also came through with only South Minahasa missions in Sept. 1 Family Life Month begins minor cracks. Registering Indonesia conducted 101 Sept. 4 Lay Evangelists Day 8.2 on the Richter scale, the satellite evangelistic meet- Sept. 11 Missions Extension Offering quake was the strongest to ings, says Nancy Bassham, Sept. 11 Periodical Promotion for Adventist Review, hit the island in the 84 years women's ministries coordi- Insight, Guide, Primary Treasure, records have been kept." nator of the East Indonesia Our Little Friend begins

ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26,1993 (879) 7 The Mystery of the Trinity God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit

BY RAOUL DEDEREN

ow can God be one find an implicit triune teach- Messiah, is speaking: " 'Draw and yet three? How ing, as if the mystery of God near to me, hear this: from the can He be a person were slowly being prepared for beginning I have not spoken in Hand yet consist of later fuller revelation. The secret, from the time it came to three persons? Is this not sheer same is true of other major be I have been there.' And now contradiction? Christian truths, such as the the Lord God has sent me and Although not a biblical substitutionary death of Christ his Spirit." Three persons are expression, the term Trinity has or the millennium. mentioned here. The forthcom- been found a most fitting way of Though we should be care- ing Messiah speaks of the Lord referring to the one God who ful not to read the New God who sent Him and of the has revealed Himself in the Testament into the Old, such Spirit with whom He is sent. Scriptures as Father, Son, and intimations are by no means There are clear intimations Holy Spirit. The concept sug- limited to one or two state- here—in a sharply monotheis- gests that within the one essence ments. From the very begin- tic context—of the unity as of the Godhead we are to distin- ning, in the very first verses of well as distinction and comple- guish three persons who are nei- the Bible, God and the Spirit of mentarity that exist among the ther three parts nor three modes God appear to be distin- three Persons referred to, a of God, but coequally and guished. Thus we read that very close approach to a coeternally God. Some will tend while God "created the heav- Trinitarian statement. to resist this doctrine because it ens and the earth," "the Spirit The frequent reference to is not found expressly stated in of God was moving over the the "angel of the Lord" or "of the Scriptures. But although it face of the waters" (Gen. 1:1, God" should also be men- may indeed at first view seem 2).* And the same Spirit of tioned. Definitely as a theo- contradictory, let me urge my God is repeatedly referred to in phanic mediator appearing in modern readers not to reject it other Old Testament passages human form, God spoke face- prematurely on the premise that (Gen. 41:38; Ex. 31:3; 1 Sam. to-face with early Old it does not make sense, 10:10; Isa. 61:1). God and the Testament characters. He gave for without it some bibli- Spirit of God appear distin- aid and encouragement to cal statements would guishable, yet, the Old Hagar twice in her distress remain meaningless. Testament insists, God is one. (Gen. 16:7-14; 21:17). On two The Spirit of God, or of the occasions He called from Intimations in the Old Lord, gives life (Job 33:4), heaven to Abraham (Gen. Testament inspired Moses and the 22:11, 15-19). It was the angel The main contribu- prophets (Num. 11:24; 2 of the Lord that appeared to tion of the Old Chron. 15:1), stirred up people Moses in the burning bush, Testament to the doc- (Judges 13:25), and spoke identifying Himself as "the trine of the Trinity is its through prophets (2 Sam. Lord" (Ex. 3:2-6). The same emphasis on the unity 23:2). Here again the Spirit "angel of God" later guarded of God. God is not one appears to be distinguished and protected Israel in its exo- among many others from the Lord Himself and dus from Egypt (Ex. 14:19, 20; (Ex. 20:2, 3). He is sin- from His Messianic Servant 13:21). Time and again in gle, unique: "The Lord (Isa. 48:16; cf. 63:9, 10). these narratives, the "angel" is our God is one Lord" Notice, for instance, the both addressed as "Lord" and z (Deut. 6:4). Yet even in wording of Isaiah 48:16. The sent by the Lord (see also Ex. the Old Testament we Lord's Servant, the promised 23:20; 32:34), or is spoken of

8 (880) ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26, 1993 as "God" and the "angel of two distinguishable persons is is clearly distinct from the God," suggesting once more a underlined in the many passages Father. Yet while distinct, clear anticipation of the fuller in which our Lord refers to the there is fellowship between the disclosure of the Trinity in the heavenly Father as "my Father" two, for the Greek preposition New Testament, as if the (Matt. 7:21; 10:32, 33; 11:27; pros (with) does not express teaching was waiting to be Luke 10:22; 22:29; John 5:17; merely physical proximity but revealed at the proper time. 6:32; etc.) or simply addresses an intimacy of fellowship as Him as "Father" (e.g., Matt. well between the Father and Full-blown in the New 11:25, 26; Mark 14:36; Luke the Son. The same view comes Testament 22:42; John 17:1, 5, 21, 24). across in Philippians 2:5-11, The evidence, indeed, Not only is the Father called where Paul describes Jesus becomes overwhelming when God, but attributes are ascribed before His incarnation as exist- we come to the New to Him that belong only to ing "in the form of God" Testament. It seems that the God. Thus He is holy (John (verse 6), using a Greek term fact of Jesus' incarnation, cru- 17:11; cf. verse 25), sovereign that refers to the set of cifixion, and resurrection, and (Matt. 6:10; 11:25; Luke characteristics that the coming of the Holy Spirit at 10:21), eternal (John 5:26; makes a thing what it Pentecost as well as His contin- 6:57), almighty (Mark 14:36; is-that is to say, the The Trinii uing impact on the church, left Rev. 3:21), glorious (Matt. substance, and not the apostles to wonder how to 16:27; Eph. 1:17), and all- merely the outward There is one God: Father, do justice to these new events knowing (Matt. 6:8; Mark shape or external Son, and Holy Spirit, a unity and yet retain their belief that 13:32; Luke 12:30). To the appearance. of three co-eternal Persons. "the Lord our God is one Lord" Father worship is due (John Christ is celebrated God is immortal, all-power- (Deut. 6:4). Could God be both 4:23; Eph. 3:14). Who is holy, as eternal (Matt. 28:20; ful, all-knowing, above all, one and several? Could there almighty, eternal, glorious, all- 1 John 1:2), uncreated and ever present. He is infi- be room both for the unity of knowing, and deserving to be and underived (John nite and beyond human God and the divinity of Christ? worshiped if not God alone? 1:1; Rev. 22:13), holy comprehension, yet known The fact of Christ made the Though it must have been a (Heb. 7:26; 1 Peter through His self-revelation. question inescapable. most perplexing enigma for 1:19; Rev. 3:17), He is forever worthy of wor- The deity and distinct per- monotheistic Christians, the unchanging (Heb. 1:12; ship, adoration, and service sonality of the Father, of deity of Jesus Christ came to 13:8), ever-present by the whole creation. course, was scarcely in dispute be plainly recognized among (Matt. 28:20; 18:20). Is (Deut. 6:4; Matt. 28:19; 2 (see 1 Cor. 1:3; 8:4, 6; 15:24; early Christian believers. The this to be wondered at? Cor. 13:14; Eph. 4:4-6; 1 Gal. 1:1, 3). Jesus Himself New Testament writings attest Like the Father, He is Peter 1:2; 1 Tim. 1:17; Rev. insistently taught His disciples it, for instance, by the titles engaged in such divine 14:7.)-Fundamental Belief to render allegiance to the given to Him. Echoing Jesus' works as Creation No. 2. Father "who is in heaven" implicit claim of being God (John 1:3, 10; Col. (Matt. 6:1; 7:11; 18:14; 23:9), (such as John 8:58; 17:5; Mark 1:16), providence (John and referred to Him as God. 2:1-12), the early believers 3:35; Col. 1:17; Heb. 1:3), the Thus in Matthew 6:26, Jesus refer to Him as God (Titus forgiveness of sins (Matt. 9:1-8; reminds His listeners that 2:13; Heb. 1:8; cf. Rom. 9:5) Col. 3:13), resurrection and "your heavenly Father feeds and frequently call Him Lord judgment (Matt. 25:31-46; John [the birds of the air]," adding, (Acts 11:16; 19:17; 22:10; 5:19-29; 2 Tim. 4:1, 8), and the in the same breath that "God Rom. 1:4, 7; 10:9; Phil. 4:5), final dissolution and renewal of . . . clothes the grass of the sometimes with intensives all things (Phil. 3:21; 2 Peter field" (verse 30). Jesus con- such as "Lord of all" (Acts 3:8-13; Rev. 21:5). cluded with the observation 10:36), "Lord of glory" (1 Cor. We should also note that just that we need not ask what we 2:8), "Jesus our Lord" (1 Cor. as the Father is worthy of wor- shall eat or drink or wear, since 9:1), "our Lord and God" (Rev. ship-for that is part of what it "your heavenly Father knows 4:11), "Lord of lords . . ." (Rev. means to be God-so is Christ that you need them all" (verse 17:14; cf. 19:16). Jesus. "Worthy is the Lamb 31, 32). Notice that for Jesus Written some 65 years after who was slain, to receive "God" and "your heavenly Jesus' resurrection, the Gospel power and wealth and wisdom Father" are interchangeable According to John opens up and might and honor and glory expressions describing a per- with the statement that "the and blessing," the heavenly son other than He Himself. Word was with God, and the intelligences sing (Rev. 5:12). That Jesus and the Father are Word was God" (1:1). The Son It is indeed the Father's will

ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26.1993 (881) 9 "that all may honor the Son, Holy Spirit did not live as a If the Holy Spirit is a per- •EXPLORING OUR FAITH. even as they honor the Father" human being among us. One son, is He God? Indeed, at (John 5:23). The angels them- can see why throughout history least in the eyes of the New selves, at the very request of some Christians have denied Testament writers. Not only is the Father, are asked to wor- the personality of the Spirit. He all-knowing (1 Cor. 2:10, ship Jesus (Heb. 1:6). In the One cannot help being 11), but the works He does are passages we just mentioned- impressed, however, by the God's own works. Thus we and there are more-Jesus is constant teaching in the New learn from the Scriptures that it not understood to be a Testament regarding the per- is the Spirit who spoke to our demigod, or part God, or simi- sonhood of the Spirit. It is fathers through the prophets lar to God, but in the fullest often said that these passages (Acts 28:25), that He bears sense true God. Time and are merely personifications of witness to the truth that is in again the biblical writers the Holy Spirit and do not as Christ (John 15:26), strength- underline the essential unity such imply personality. ens the faithful (1 Cor. 6:19), and equality existing between However, such an explanation convinces the world of divine the Father and the Son. And hardly squares with the scrip- judgment (John 16:8-11), yet they do not allow us to tural evidence. Notice, for regenerates or gives new life conclude that God is at one instance, that the Spirit speaks (John 3:8), sanctifies (2 Thess. time Father and at another time of Himself in the first person- 2:13; 1 Peter 1:2), and grants Son. The two are equal but as "I." To Peter the Spirit said to the church the gifts of min- clearly distinguishable. of Cornelius' servants, "I have istry (1 Cor. 12:4-11). He is a What about the Holy Spirit? sent them" (Acts 10:20), and divine person. Is He also a personal "Thou" of Paul and Barnabas to the distinguishable from the Father Antiochian Church, "I have On Equal Footing and the Son? There is little called them" (Acts 13:2). Who Without the slightest hesita- doubt that the term Holy Spirit but a person can say "I"? tion, it seems-because it thus does not suggest personhood as Besides, the Spirit does what had been revealed to them, the much as the term Son of God or only persons can do: He speaks New Testament writers put the God the Father. Besides, (Acts 8:29), teaches (Luke Holy Spirit on equal footing unlike the Son of God, the 12:12), testifies (Acts 20:23), with the Father and the Son. reveals (Luke 2:26), searches Not only are Father and Son (1 Cor. 2:10, 11), sends (Acts mentioned side by side as Though Ellen G. White never used the term Trinity, 13:2), guides, leads, and jointly worthy of worship and she clearly conveys the same concept. Thus she directs (Acts 8:29; 11:12), honor (1 Cor. 1:3; 2 Thess. writes about the "three great powers of heaven" declares things to come (John 1:12; Eph. 5:5; 2 Peter 1:1), but (Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 254), the "three highest pow- 16:13), and bears witness with in the same fashion the Holy ers in the universe" (The Watchman, Dec. 15, 1908), our spirit (Rom. 8:15, 16). Spirit appears with both of "three living persons" (Evangelism, p. 615), "the The original word for Spirit Them as a personal source of eternal heavenly dignitaries" (ibid., p. 616). Though (pneuma) is grammatically divine blessing. In Paul's early Christ is characterized as one with the Father (The neuter, and pronouns used in as well as later writings, all SDA Bible Commentary, Ellen G. White Comments, reference to that term are nor- three Persons are mentioned vol. 5, p. 1126), He and the Father are two distinct mally in the neuter gender (John persons (ibid., p. 1148), described as of "one sub- together as co-sources of the stance" (Signs of the Times, Nov. 27, 1893). "The 14:17, 26; 15:26). But when blessings of salvation (e.g., 1 Holy Spirit is a person" (Evangelism, p. 616), "the pronouns in connection with Thess. 1:2-5; 2 Thess. 2:13, 14; third person of the Godhead" (ibid., p. 617). The "pneuma" are found in the mas- 1 Cor. 12:4, 5; Eph. 2:18; 3:2- term Godhead was often used by Ellen White when culine gender one can conclude 6). The apostle's way of under- referring to God. only that the Spirit is not merely lining the essential interrela- As was the case for the author, readers will bene- God's power or a personifica- tionship existing among Them is fit from a careful reading of "Jesus' Testimony to His tion of the latter, but that the quite explicit: "The grace of the Deity," chapter 17 in Millard J. Erickson's The Word apostle is underlining the per- Lord Jesus Christ and the love of Became Flesh (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, sonality of the Spirit. This is God and the fellowship of the 1991, pp. 431-453). No less helpful is the following clearly the case several times, as Holy Spirit be with you all" (2 chapter, "The New Testament Witness Regarding in John 14:26; 15:26; 16:13. Jesus' Deity" (pp. 455-479), as well as Thomas C. Cor. 13:14). Oden's The Living God (San Francisco: Harper and Moreover, He is described as a This was Jesus' view, too, as Row, 1986, pp. 181-224). person distinguishable from reflected in Matthew 28:19: both the Father and the Son "Go . . . make disciples of all (John 14:16, 26; 15:26). nations, baptizing them in the 10 (882) ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26, 1993 name [singular] of the Father five, have resulted in the devel- humans. We believe , according and of the Son and of the Holy opment of tritheistic or modal- to His own Scriptures, that God Spirit." The unusual impor- istic conceptions of God. is one, and yet in Himself and tance of this statement is that it (Tritheists deny the unity of for all eternity He is Father, impressively asserts the unity the divine essence, while Son, and Holy Spirit, the triune of the Father, Son, and Holy modalists deny the reality of God. As the second of our fun- Spirit by tightly joining Them the distinctiveness of three per- damental beliefs expresses it: as one single name, yet sons within the Godhead.) "There is one God: Father, Son, emphasizing the distinctive- Rationalist objections and and Holy Spirit, a unity of three ness of each by repeating the human speculations all stumble co-eternal Persons." definite article the in front of and fail because they insist on * Bible texts in this article are from the each of them. interpreting the Creator in terms Revised Standard Version. In conclusion, then, God is of the creature, attempting to one. There are three that are explain the unity of God in Raoul De- God, and yet one God. Though terms of mathematical unity. deren, is on the surface contradictory, Bible-centered Christians, how- professor this statement is consistent ever, learn to know God as He emeritus of with Scripture, which shows has revealed Himself in the theology at little concern over purely spec- Scriptures. They are not sur- the Seventh- ulative formulations regarding prised that there remains an ele- day Adventist Theological unity. The many efforts made ment of mystery, for God is Seminary, Andrews University, to explain it, mainly specula- God and we are merely Berrien Springs, Michigan.

VOICES OF ADVENTIST FAITH With each AnchorPoint we will run a cross section of Adventist voices responding to the topic presented or one related to it.

Question: Do you see the doctrine of the Trinity as important to your Christian experience?

Elnora C. Scott, 90 Helen Kim, 71 Ron Bolduc, 64 Fannie E. Diller, 73 H. Charles Nelson, 72 Retired Registered Nurse Plumber Retired Housewife Medical Doctor Lincoln, Nebraska Camarillo, California Decatur, Illinois Orlando, Florida Lakeland, Florida The doctrine of the We cannot separate God the Father loved Yes, I do. The Holy The terms Father, Son, Trinity is very important to the three persons of the the world so much that Spirit is God's communi- and Holy Spirit define the my Christian experience. Godhead. God the Son He gave His Son (Jesus), cation network by which I role each plays in rela- God the Father personifies came not only to save sin- so that everyone who can reach God's throne. tion to the human family true love, which He pours ners and to vindicate His believes in Him may not He translates my words and do not imply a supe- out to me; Jesus took my name, but also to show us die but have eternal life. into the language of rior or subordinate rela- place and suffered the who and what God is like. Our faith in Jesus is the heaven when I pray. tionship between them. death that was mine; and The Holy Spirit completes way to the Father Jesus as my mediator pre- God the Father remained because I surrender my the plan of salvation, as through the Holy Spirit. sents my messages to my in heaven to control the 10 to God daily, the Holy He "makes effectual what Father, who listens and universe, Jesus came to Spirit guides, reproves, has been wrought out by answers. These three earth, and the Holy Spirit and teaches me. the world's Redeemer." Persons working together transforms people. All as one make my close three are identical in relationship with God pos- nature, purpose, and sible. divine authority.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26, 1993 (883) 11 FAITH IN ACTION confusion, I talked about what I did without being specific about whom I did it for. So I told Jason only that I work as a professional fund-raiser. His next question caught me off guard. "Are you a Christian?" "Yes," I finally replied, wondering J ason's where this conversation was headed. "I am too!" Jason proudly pro- claimed, "and there's something I want to read to you from my favorite book." He reached into his backpack and pulled Challenge out a book I immediately recognized: Early Writings, by Ellen G. White. He turned to page 18 and started to read: A "nice Adventist lady" learns not to tiptoe "Then we began to look at the glori- ous things outside of the city. There I past her faith. saw most glorious houses, that had the appearance of silver, supported by four pillars set with pearls most glorious to behold. These were to be inhabited by BY LU ANN WOLFE the saints." When he finished reading several paragraphs he looked at me with a radi- ant smile and replied, "Isn't that just neat?" y story begins at the those two kids across the aisle, well, Now came my big confession. Baltimore-Washington they're not traveling with us, and I don't "Jason, I've seen that book before. I'm a International Airport, know who they are." Jason is going to Seventh-day Adventist, and I have a Mwhere a ticket agent tells be a talker, and I can tell there's no way feeling you're a Seventh-day Adventist me that my seat assignment has been for me to avoid conversation, so I put too." changed. I liked my aisle seat in the my work down and respond. Little did I "I know you are," Jason stated mat- front of the plane, but now I have to set- know that the best piece of Christian ter-of-factly. tle for an aisle seat in the back. advice I had ever received was about to Stunned, I could only mutter, "How?" The first leg of the trip, Baltimore to come my way. Dallas, is OK—bad food, some turbu- Jason quizzed me about my name, Reason Becomes Clear lence, and a one-bounce landing. The where I was from, where I was going, "Before this flight I prayed and asked next segment is Dallas to Sacramento. I and then came the big question. Jason to be seated next to a nice Seventh-thy discover my newly assigned aisle seat in asked about my job. I hate to admit this, Adventist lady. On the last flight the the back of the plane is surrounded by but in the past, when people asked me lady next to me was so rude, so this time four pre-teenagers—you know, kids about my work, I was pleased to tell I decided to avoid that and have God who crawl over you several times for them I was a fund-raising consultant. place me next to a Christian." The rea- trips to the bathroom or to get more But I always left off the fact that my son for the seat assignment change back soda from the flight attendant. They employer is the Seventh-day Adventist in Baltimore now suddenly became haven't figured out that there's a corre- Church. quite clear. lation between these two actions. When you're Baptist, Catholic, or Next, Jason asked a loaded question: Oh well, there's not another empty Methodist and state your religion, peo- "Why didn't you tell me you were a seat, so I might as well settle in. My ple have heard of it. But whenever I Seventh-day Adventist when I asked if carry-on bag is carefully placed under- mention to someone that I work for the you were a Christian?" I had no imme- neath the seat in front of me. I quickly Seventh-day Adventist Church, the typi- diate response, so he continued. "I like grab some work so I can get a few cal response is "Oh yes, the Mormons." to tell people I'm a Seventh-day things done and not have to converse Now, I have nothing against Adventist. Most of the time I find peo- with my adolescent seatmates about Mormons; however, their formal name ple don't understand us, so I tell them Ninja Turtles and skateboards, two top- is the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- all the good things about our church. ics I know nothing about. day Saints, which to me sounds quite You need to do that too; otherwise peo- "Hi; my name is Jason, and I'm 12. different from Seventh-day Adventist. ple will never understand our church." This is my sister Kara; she's 10. And Yet, since I so often encountered this Nothing has ever made me feel more

12 (884) ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26, 1993

understand. I have some Seventh-day Adventist neighbors, and when I get home I need to get better acquainted with them." Upon hearing of my work with Adventist secondary schools, a young man said, "I wish my church were that organized. We need some- one like you to help us out."

"You Like Me!" After a few months I began to understand how Sally Field felt during her now-famous Academy Awards acceptance speech: "You like me; you really, really like me!" If you work for a church organization or attend an Adventist school, do you let people know it's affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church? I didn't used to. Now I have a 12-year-old boy from California to humble than to have a 12-year-old repri- friend had made an error in marrying a thank for helping me see that I need to mand me for not being more vocal Seventh-day Adventist girl. By the end be proud of my church. People are about my religion. So what was Ito do? of the flight, they realized they were the impressed when they hear about our A young boy had challenged me, and worldwide systems of health art fil educa- even though most likely I would never tion. Our missionary programs and sys- see Jason again on this earth, I couldn't I have a 12-year-old tematic effort to bring Christianity to let him down. I didn't want to fail him. I every unentered part of the world stag- had to accept his advice. ger most imaginations. boy to thank for helping Most misconceptions of Seventh-day Only the Beginning Adventism are our fault—yours and The story doesn't end there. In fact, mine. Wr mustn't tiptoe past our faith it's only the beginning. I've had many me see that I need to be and avoid telling people all the good more flights, and because "What do you things our church stands for. do?" is the question most frequently Jason and I challenge you to help us asked of air travelers, I've had plenty of proud of my church. in our public relations campaign for the opportunities to respond, "I'm a fund- Seventh-day Adventist Church. Don't raising consultant for the Seventh-day be ashamed. People will like you; Adventist Church." This has led me into ones who had made the mistake, and they'll really, really like you. some great conversations. said they were eager to get to know their For instance, a Catholic salesman had best friend's wife. the perception that if I were to know of An older woman thought Seventh-day his religious affiliation I would never Adventists function only within them- buy anything from him. I responded by selves and don't reach out to others. LuAnn Wolfe is vice telling him of many Catholic colleagues After I told her about our hospitals, president for advance- whom I greatly enjoy doing business schools, and community service and dis- ment, Union College, with, and so was able to change his aster relief programs, she was very Lincoln, Nebraska.

incorrect impressions. impressed. "I've been wrong all along. U A young couple thought their best I'm grateful to you for helping me

ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26, 1993 (885) 13 LIFESTYLE "YOU'LL A reality check on living with a chronic illness, with tips on how to cope. E ALL RIGHT"

BY MARY BARRETT

ou'll be all right," said the because you are no longer in control of you can question about the drugs you nurse as she gave my arm a your life. You may feel anger and frus- are taking, or talk with openly about reassuring squeeze. Dazed and tration that your body has let you down. your fears, then you should consider ynumbed, I looked into her face. There are days of anxiety, depression, changing doctors. How could she tell me that I would be and denial. Recognizing these varying all right when the consultant had told emotions and finding your particular Li Find a Support Group me that the pain that had plagued me for way of dealing with them are important. I find it very difficult to share my the past six months would continue for As a Christian, a strong relationship negative emotions with others. I tend to the rest of my days? with God can help you cope with these tell inquirers that I'm fine, even though I had been told that I had ankylosing tides of feelings. I may feel awful! For me it is a wonder- spondylitis. There is no cure for this dis- Acceptance of all these changes does ful release to be among others who ease, and it results in lack of mobility. not come overnight. Slowly we learn to know the anguish of constant pain. Life is maintained by painkillers, anti- accept what we cannot change and fun- Their understanding enables me to talk inflammatory drugs, exercise, and rest. nel our energy into areas that can be freely. Unfortunately, I would never be "all changed. Do join a support group. If you can- right." not find one that relates to your particu- Today numerous people suffer with J Ask Many Questions lar illness, ask your doctor for names illnesses that are painful, incurable, and You should find out as much as pos- and addresses of other similar groups progressive in destroying some function sible about your particular illness. Most that might help. I regularly went swim- of the body. Adapting to the changes who suffer with chronic disease have ming with a disabled group. No one else these diseases bring is not easy, yet we formed groups that you can join. Read had ankylosing spondylitis, but many can learn things that will help us cope. the newsletters that they produce and members of that group encouraged me the books they recommend. Books from with their humor and inspired me with CI Accept the Changes the local library and health shops can the way they dealt with their individual If you have a chronic illness, you also prove invaluable. Knowledge will diseases. need to accept the way it affects you help you deal more effectively with Joining a support group is also good physically and emotionally. Sometimes your suffering. for your family. Seeing you having to the latter is much harder to bear. You should also be sure that your adjust to the consequences of your ill- Usually you will experience feelings of physician is one you feel at ease with. If ness also causes them much anguish and vulnerability and declining self-esteem he or she is not the kind of doctor whom distress. Sharing your negative thoughts

14 (886) ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26,1993 However, you can set new goals; you need to have something to motivate you. Your goals should be reachable and not so difficult that you may become depressed if you fail to reach them in every respect. Spend time developing some kind of hobby, something that you've always wanted to do. As you excel in it, your self-confidence will revive.

❑ Talk to God About the Pain One night the intensity of pain I was experiencing was so severe that I felt I could take no more. I felt alone, frightened, and devoid of hope. I remember screaming out to God in my mind and begging for help. As I turned the pages in my Bible I came across a verse that reminded me that my pain would not be for- ever. I could look forward to eter- nity with God, with no pain to plague me. "And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suf- fered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast" (1 Peter 5:10, NIV). Knowing that one day I will live without any pain at all gives me the courage and strength that I need to cope with the present. In her book Secret Strength, Joni Eareckson, the paralyzed author, suggests that God's miracles are not always outward ones. God does give us inner peace and a reservoir and pain with a group releases your For some, chronic illnesses, over- of strength without which we would family from some of the helplessness tiredness, stress, and anxiety produce stumble as we carry heavy burdens. they feel when you share these emotions flare-ups. In letting others share in the We should take every opportunity with them. menial tasks of the day, you reserve to let God strengthen us spiritually. more energy for your time with the fam- We can read the Bible and books by ❑ Give Up Some Independence ily. Giving up the independence of others who have suffered. We can When dealing with a chronic illness, doing everything you've always done is listen to tapes and religious music. you can no longer live out the superman extremely difficult, but it must be done. We can focus on the strength that or superwoman syndrome. You need to God gives us to cope now, and we explain to your family and friends the ❑ Set New Goals can focus on the hope that points us limitations that the disease imposes Most of us know what we want to to a brighter tomorrow. upon you. Ask them for help in practical achieve and contribute to life, but a debil- ways. Others can do more of the house- itating illness suddenly puts a stop to that. hold tasks. Even young children will be Keeping alive and dealing with daily pain more likely to put away toys if you may become your number one goal. You explain that "Mommy gets tired and may have to give up some of the dreams Mary Barrett writes from Cambridge, needs help." of what you wanted to become. England.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26, 1993 (887) 15 CURRENT ISSUES in Bethel (Judges 20:18, 27), Shiloh (1 Sam. 1:3, 25; 3:3; 4:3), Kiriath-jearim (1 Sam. 7:1, 2), and Jerusalem (2 Sam. 6:12-17). And the Bible also says that the ark was carried from (and returned to) Jerusalem when David was fleeing from his son to Transjordan (2 Sam. Where Is the 15:24-25, 29). The last major biblical event involv- ing the ark of the covenant occurred Golden Ark of when the priests carried it into Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 8:6-11; 2 Chron. 5:1-10). At that time only the Ten Commandments were in the ark (1 the Covenant? Kings 8:9; 2 Chron. 5:10). We do not know how long the ark stayed in Solomon's magnificent BIBLICAL ARKS Part 3 Temple. With all the ensuing apostasy, it may have been kept elsewhere until the reign of the good king Josiah (639- 609 B.C.), who revived the worship of the true God (2 Chron. 34:14, 18-21, 29- BY DAVID MERLING 33). In 2 Chronicles 35:3 Josiah admon- ishes the Levites to place the holy ark in the Temple—"You need no longer carry it upon your shoulders" (RSV). Whether This article concludes our three-part A Symbol of Truth Josiah was quoting the words of David series on biblical arks. Parts 1 and 2, The ark of the covenant was a center- or whether he was encouraging the "Has Noah's Ark Been Found?" piece of Israelite worship. It was into priests himself is not clear, but it may be appeared in our May 20 and 27 this golden box, adorned with angels, that the ark was not permanently in the issues.—Editors. that Moses placed the Ten Temple of Solomon after Solomon's Commandments (Ex. 40:20; Deut. time. ore than 2,500 years ago 31:26).' By the end of Moses' life this the sacred golden ark of same sacred chest also contained the Where Is the Ark Today? the covenant—containing "book of the law" (Deut. 31:26). A plate . The only possibly historical reference Mthe Ten Commandments of manna and Aaron's rod were to be to the ark after the time of Josiah is written by the finger of God on tables of placed before it as a memorial of God's found in 2 Maccabees 2:4-8.2 It tells a stone—disappeared, and has never been provision and the Israelites' rebellion story of Jeremiah hiding the sanctuary brought forth from its secret hiding place. (Ex. 16:32-34; Num. 17:10). tent and the ark in a cave on Mount "But hasn't it been found?" people Most important of all, though, was Nebo. Jeremiah is then recorded as say- ask. "Didn't Ellen White say that it that the very presence of God appeared ing, "The place shall be unknown until would be brought out before Christ over the mercy seat on the ark of the God gathers his people together again comes?" covenant (Ex. 25:22; Lev. 16:2). The and shows his mercy." Rumors of the discovery of the ark was housed within the veil of the The biblical book of Jeremiah does golden ark have rumbled through the "holy of holies" of the tabernacle (Ex. not record this story. How much credi- Adventist Church for years, as numer- 26:33, 34; 40:20, 21). bility should be given to this scenario ous Adventists and non-Adventists alike During their 40-year sojourn in the depends on how credible one sees the have spent tens of thousands of hours wilderness, the Israelites took the ark book of 2 Maccabees, a book probably and dollars searching for it. with them, and it was the first thing to be composed during the first century What have they found? And what do brought into the Promised Land. As the B.C., about 500 years after Jeremiah they claim to have found? feet of the Levites, who carried the ark, lived. We'll look at such claims, but before touched the edge of the Jordan River, the To me, the story about Jeremiah hid- we do, let's look at the biblical record of waters divided, allowing the children of ing the ark seems unlikely. From the ark of the covenant and at what Israel to cross over (Joshua 3:15-17). Jeremiah's writings I find that Jeremiah Ellen White says happened to it—and if After the Israelites settled in Canaan, saw no theological use for the ark of the it will play any role in the final events the ark of the covenant is only occasion- covenant at the end-time (Jer. 3:16). of this world's history. ally mentioned. We know it had a home Therefore, it seems unlikely that he, in

16 (888) ADVENTIST REVIEW. AUGUST 26, 1993 particular, would have taken the time to But do they? Didn't God say He Jerusalem, the hill where since the late hide it. would bring forth the Ten Command- 1800s a few people have believed Christ Ellen White's writings agree that the ments and do so on the judgment day? was crucified. ark was hidden just before the final According to the discoverer, he was destruction of Jerusalem "to place [it] Claims of Discovery led to this site about 10 years ago when beyond the reach of ruthless hands" of Now let's look at the claims of seven God took physical control of his mouth the coming destroyers. However, she different people who say the ark of the and arm, making him aware that he had does not specify who hid it, except the covenant can be found in seven different found the ark. "righteous still in Jerusalem." 3 locations.6 Where is the ark of the However, the location—where this What have we found so far? We can covenant? person thinks Christ was crucified and clearly say that there is no biblical or 1. Near Calvary? According to one then placed in a nearby tomb—was extrabiblical account contemporary to individual, the ark is located in a probably a stone quarry during Jesus' the event that explains when the ark dis- cave/tomb near Gordon's Calvary near time. In addition, the nearby "Garden appeared or where it went. The only ancient source that speaks to this ques- tion is 2 Maccabees—which was com- posed hundreds of years after the events Ellen G. White it recorded. and the Ark of the Covenant Ellen White and the Ark Many Seventh-day Adventists have BY MYRON WIDMER become especially interested in finding Ellen G. White wrote much about the ark of the covenant and the Ten the ark because they see in its recovery Commandments, but in only about a dozen passages does she specifically the fulfilling of one of Ellen White's tie together the ark of the covenant and the Ten Commandments and the prophecies regarding the end-time. end-times. In 1901 she wrote: "The precious In those brief paragraphs Mrs. White consistently focuses upon the law, the record of the law was placed in the ark Ten Commandments, being brought forth by God on the great judgment day of the testament and is still there, safely as the standard of righteousness and as a witness against unrepentant sin- hidden from the human family. But in ners. The revelation of the law is the consistent, all-pervasive theme. God's appointed time He will bring The ark of the covenant, either the earthly or heavenly ark, is not mentioned forth these tables of stone to be a testi- as having any role in the end-times, not even on judgment day. Every state- mony to all the world against the disre- ment points to a pivotal role for the law on the judgment day, which might be gard of His commandments and against expected since the unchangeable law of God has been a great issue in the the idolatrous worship of a counterfeit great controversy. Sabbath." 4 So why have numerous conclusions (and speculations) arisen among And in 1908 she wrote: "The tables Adventists about the now-hidden golden ark? of stone are hidden by God, to be pro- In short, here's why. Some believe Ellen White said that the golden ark and duced in the great judgment day, just as the Ten Commandments will be found before probation closes as a device to He wrote them."' urge people to turn to God. From these and numerous other Ellen The oft-quoted statement cited in support of this view was written in 1901: White statements it is obvious that Mrs. "The precious record of the law was placed in the ark of the testament and is White's emphasis, contrary to that of the still there, safely hidden from the human family. But in God's appointed time ark searchers, is on the Ten He will bring forth these tables of stone to be a testimony to all the world Commandments, not on the ark of the against the disregard of His commandments and against the idolatrous wor- covenant. It is equally clear that the pur- ship of a counterfeit Sabbath" (The SDA Bible Commentary, Ellen G. White pose of displaying the commandments Comments, vol. 1, p. 1109). is not to bring universal salvation, for On the face of it, this statement sounds as if God will bring forth the earthly this display occurs at the final judgment set of the law now hidden with the golden ark. However, to be consistent with as testimony against the wicked by the overwhelming majority of Mrs. White's other (and later) statements, the God's eternal law. "tables of stone," either the earthly or the heavenly set, will not be brought Many sincere church members have forth and displayed in the heavens until the "appointed time," which coin- contacted the Institute of Archaeology at cides with the final judgment day, and not before. The law is to be brought Andrews University claiming they have forth as a testimony against unrepentant lawbreakers, not as a device to urge good news from God. They see them- people to keep God's law. selves as helping to bring about the end of all things because they know where Myron Widmer is an associate editor of the Adventist Review. the ark of the covenant is.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26, 1993 (889) 17 Tomb" is an Iron Age tomb crafted hun- found the ark in a cave on Mount Nebo. tioned by Mrs. White relates to the Ten dreds of years before Christ's birth and A newspaper account quoted the leader Commandments, which God Himself doesn't fit the biblical record of Jesus of the group as saying, "It's there. It's will exhibit at the final judgment. being placed in a nearby new tomb very large, and looked just like I pic- Bible prophecy is becoming more (Matt. 27:59, 60).' tured it would. 'The group said the gold- descriptive of our age .every year, espe- 2. In Iraq? Almost a year ago I covered chest is four feet wide, five feet cially since it seems that people, even received a letter from a friend who sent long and four feet high, with two nine- some Seventh-day Adventists, are per- along a Chinese newspaper and a trans- foot-tall golden-winged cherubim on suaded more easily than ever by rumors lation of an article from that paper. either side of a mercy seat.' and foolish speculations. "For the time According to this newspaper account, At least one SDA independent min- will come when they will not endure the Ten Commandments were discov- istry newsletter produced pages of infor- sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ered near Kuwait, 100 meters below mation about this discovery, and a ears tickled, they will accumulate for ground. The article said Iraqi troops group of Adventists traveled to Jordan themselves teachers in accordance to their were hiding from the opposing army to see this wonderful thing, even though own desires; and will turn away their ears when an artillery shell exposed their the proportions are much too large for from the truth, and will turn aside to hideout and also exposed the Ten Com- the biblical ark of the covenant.'2 Its dis- myths" (2 Tim. 4:3, 4, NASB). mandments. This report does not men- covery was announced more than 10 tion the ark of the covenant, but I years ago, and no evidence has come ' The Hebrew word 'aron has the basic meanings of assume the ark and the Ten Com- forth to verify this claim. (1) chest, for offerings (2 Kings 12:10, 11); (2) sarcopha- mandments would be together. This gus or mummy-case (Gen. 50:26); (3) chest, ark, in taber- nacle and Temple. Summarized from The New Brown, newspaper account, now more than a Driver, and Briggs Hebrew and English Lexicon of the year old, has never been substantiated God will bring forth the Old Testament (Lafayette Ind.: Associated Publishers and Authors, Inc., 1981), p. 75. by any evidence other than the claims of One other ancient source, the Apocalypse of the article. Baruch (6:7-10), says that four angels took the ark of the tables of stone in His covenant and all other items from the holy place and 3. In Hezekiah's Tunnel? Some commanded the earth to swallow them until Jerusalem is believe the ark is in Hezekiah's tunnel. "restored for ever." Prophets and Kings, p. 453. The writer encourages Circulating among Adventists is a two- those seriously interested in this topic to write the Ellen hour videotape that claims the ark, all "appointed time." G. White Estate (12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, Maryland 20904-6600) and ask for the photo- the Temple furnishings, and all the copied material "Ellen White and the Hidden Ark." armaments of Sennacherib's 185,000 Include $2 for costs. ' The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, soldiers were secretly stored in a shaft 6. Near Bethlehem? A few years ago Ellen G. White Comments, vol. 1, p. 1109. of this 1,750-foot tunne1.8 another Adventist thought he had found Ibid. (Italics supplied.) I could also mention those who believe the ark is in This idea is not new. Near the begin- evidence that the ark was in a cave near catacombs under the Temple mount, those who believe it ning of this century a man named Bethlehem. He built a structure in has been taken to heaven, etc. I am recalling only those claims that have wide Adventist audiences. Again this Walter Juveliu persuaded several California to house the ark." So far he year, and probably every year until Jesus comes, many wealthy men to sponsor an expedition to has produced no ark. more claims of finding the ark of the covenant will be made. Hezekiah's tunnel. Juveliu believed that 7. In Ethiopia? Some Ethiopian ' John McRay, Archaeology and the New Testament a great treasure, including the ark of the Christians believe the ark is in Ethiopia (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House), pp. 206-217. Hezekiah's tunnel is mentioned in the Bible (2 covenant, was to be found in the tunnel, in the church of Mary Zion in Axum. Chron. 32:2-4; 2 Kings 20:20). which was then filled with debris.' Their tradition states that when Menelik, The official name of this project was the Parker Mission, named for the man who directed the excavation. After three years of digging, with the alleged son of Solomon and the Hershel Shanks, The City of David: A Guide to guards posted outside, the searchers queen of Sheba, returned from a visit to Biblical Jerusalem (Washington, D.C.: Biblical Archae- ological Society, 1975), pp. 61, 62. found no treasure.'°The best result of this his father, the Israelites whom Solomon " Sacramento Union, Nov. 20, 1981. project is that visitors to Jerusalem can sent with him quietly took the ark with "2 Patti Hansen Tompkins, "Adventist Raiders of the Exist Ark," Spectrum 13, No. 4: 49-54. now wade through Hezekiah's tunnel. them to Sheba (Ethiopia). However, " For details, see Jack Darnall, Sanctuary Research 4. Near the Dead Sea? Others claim nearly all scholars believe Sheba was the (North Fork, Calif.: Covenant Tabernacle, 1982). " A summary of this tradition can be found in the that the ark of the covenant is located near ancient kingdom of Saba in southwest- Biblical Archaeologist, spring 1983, pp. 113, 114, and the Dead Sea, in a cave at En-gedi, one of ern Arabia, not Ethiopia, and the tradi- Biblical Archaeological Review, July/August 1993, pp. 60- 63. the hideouts of David (1 Sam. 23:29; tion itself comes from Christian times.' 24:1). Soundings made at the proposed spot at first seemed to indicate a hollow Conclusion beneath some rocks. More sophisticated So where is the ark of the covenant? David Merling is asso- equipment revealed that the suggested Right where God allowed it to be hid- ciate director of the area was nothing but solid ground. den ages ago. If I understand Ellen Institute of Archae- 5. On Mount Nebo? Because of 2 White correctly, it will remain hidden ology, Andrews Univer- Maccabees 2, a non-Adventist group until the last great judgment of God. In sity, Berrien Springs, from Winfield, Kansas, claimed to have any case, the only cosmic event men- Michigan.

18 (890) ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26, 1993 FAITH ALIVE! Must Wives "Submit"? By Calvin B. Rock

st. an emancipated woman—not a should not utter a word that would cast a zation could be efficiently accom- A eminist—I resent being told by shadow upon her heart" (The Adventist plished, it could not care for the human my husband that I must "submit." He Home, p. 227). factor—the need of local conference is constantly reminding me that the Such counsel should remove any leadership for individual counsel and Bible gives him authority over me, that thought of superiority and remind us encouragement. he is my "head," and that I must fol- that the real distinction within marriage A second reason for having major low him. Is this so? If so, I'm a bit dis- is one of responsibility—not value—and segments within a division of the turbed about God. Can you help me? that, if anything, the husband, or General Conference is that in many The operable term for spouse rela- "house-band," is servant and hence, places of the world a division territory tions in Scripture is not the "submit" from a strictly human point of view, contains regions that have vastly differ- statement in Ephesians 5:22 but the lower in rank than his wife. ent cultures and needs. The North "one flesh" expression of Genesis 2:24. The keys to happiness in the marital American Division is not as diversified The true significance of Adam's place relationship are mutuality and the in this regard as some of the other 10 in the order of creation is that he was assumption of equality within the roles divisions. However, even here a struc- assigned as forerunner and guardian of prescribed by God and dictated by ture that anticipates leadership relevant the precious being (his wife) who was human sexuality. to broad territorial distinctions, which in created second. turn holds counsel with all local confer- The concept of rulership (Gen. 3:16) Husbands should love ence leadership in that area, is highly did not appear until after sin and even functional. then the deference predicted for women A third critical reason is that union is more than equaled by the sacrificial their wives as Christ conferences implement the principle of providing and protecting that husbands power sharing. Commenting on this, are to give their wives. In fact, many Ellen White wrote: "It has been a neces- versions, including the New Inter- loved the church. sity to organize union conferences, that national Version, quote God as saying the General Conference shall not exer- "He will rule over you," not "shall," as cise dictation over all the separate con- does the King James Version, thus mak- y friends, most of whom are ferences. The power vested in the ing the statement a prediction, not a Myounger professionals, do not conference is not to be centered in one arbitrary punishment or curse of rank. understand or agree with the exis- man, or two men, or six men; there is to The real problem, however, is that tence of union conferences. Exactly be a council of men over the separate many fail to notice that Ephesians 5:21 what do they do that local conferences divisions" (Manuscript Releases, vol. commands the mutual submission of all, can't do, and why, in the name of 14, p. 279). and Ephesians 5:25 states that husbands economy, don't we abolish them? None of this is to say that improve- should love their wives as Christ loved Couldn't we use the money more ments, including innovations, are not the church—that is, in humble service profitably back at the local scene? needed within the union conferences of (Matt. 20:10-20) and, if necessary, in There are a number of justifications the North American Division. It is, ultimate personal sacrifice. for the continuation of union confer- rather, to say that this system, based upon It is unfortunate that some extol ences. One is that, in spite of modern the biblical counsel of Matthew 18:14- Adam's headship or beginning without information and communication sys- 27, the advice of Ellen White, and of remembering Eve's place of deference tems, the coordination of 58 local con- course, practical experience, is sound. and completion. Our prophet spoke to ferences in North America (involving the equality of the partners when she 4,632 churches and 794,963 members) said of a husband, "He should cultivate through one office—the North Calvin B. Rock serves as a general vice refinement and courtesy. He should be American Division—is impractical. president of the General Conference. very tender and gentle toward his wife, Even if receiving reports and channeling He holds doctoral degrees in ministry who is his equal in every respect; he funds through such a widespread organi- and religious ethics.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26, 1993 (891) 19 WORLDREPORT

• GENERAL CONFERENCE Leaders Reevaluate Health Ministry Conference delegates recommend strengthening practice and outreach.

at is our church's role in health Adventist health reform; and the role of tion and promote church standards in today?" asked General Conference SDA health-care institutions today. health-care institutions, facilitate net- president Robert Folkenberg at Health working of institutions between divi- 2000 and Beyond, a conference on Refocusing on the Message sions, and advise the General health and healing at Adventist world "Our goal," reports conference orga- Conference and other administrative headquarters in Silver Spring, nizer and General Conference health entities on health-care issues. Maryland, June 19-24. and temperance director Albert S. • Encouragement of the inclusion of "By divine inspiration," Folkenberg Whiting, "was to refocus on the health the Seventh-day Adventist theology of said in his welcome to the 80 delegates message and the ministry of the church health and healing in the core curricu- in attendance, "the Seventh-day in the context of Global Mission and the lum of all levels of Adventist education, Adventist Church was given a health realities of the contemporary world." including seminaries. message and ministry. . . . My own The delegates, who represented a rich IN Establishment of a pilot program intuition is that the Adventist Church international mix of church officials, for a health clinic based in a local should continue to have a church. Delegates organized vital role in health ministry. a task force to begin this pro- We must stop lamenting cess, and one of the church's the departure from the major hospitals has tenta- `good old days' of parlor tively volunteered to provide meetings and sanitariums. personnel and funding to get It is time to look to the it started. future." • Restructuring of the With that challenge in General Conference Health mind, delegates discussed and Temperance Department five aspects of the role of to include a physician, den- the church in health issues: tist, health educator, health- (1) the theology of health care administrator, and and healing; (2) personal nurse. This staff should pro- health practices; (3) the vide expertise in rural health health professional; (4) the programs and in a health corporate church and health resource center. ministries; and (5) health- Dr. Albert Whiting, General Conference Health and Temperance Department ■ Designation of 1997 as care institutions. Small director (left), meets with Donald King, Alberta Conference health-temperance director (center), and Robert Kloosterhuis, General Conference vice president the Year of Health and group sessions addressed (right), in front of a health promotion display. Healing. This program these topics and forwarded could include such recommendations to plenary sessions health-care professionals, and layper- emphases as a study of The Ministry of that in turn prioritized and organized sons, adopted diverse recommendations Healing, video presentations on various them. on health and healing in the church. phases of the church's health ministry, Plenary sessions also included the Highlights of these recommendations Annual Council conducted near a presentation of a wide diversity of include: major Adventist hospital where it can papers on various aspects of health and ■ The reinstitution of the focus on health care, community health health care, such as faith and healing; a International Health-Care Council or an awareness programs in local churches, biblical basis for abstinence; health, equivalent. Among other responsibili- open houses at health-care institutions, gospel, and salvation; roots of ties, this fully representational commit- and other programs focusing on the tee would serve as a forum to resolve church's health message. By Gary B Swanson, editor, Collegiate critical health-care issues and develop ■ A program centered at Loma Linda Quarterly. appropriate policies, oversee accredita- University to dialogue on alternative

20 (892) ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26,1993 WORLDREPORT

• ALBANIA September 11 Offering to Help Provide New Churches "If you build it, we will come," citizens tell pastor.

With the overthrow of the dreaded They were thrilled. "Just build the Ili Albanian dictatorship in 1991, con- church, pastor, and we will come and ditions began to improve. The Advent worship there," they promised. message was again preached, bearing a Churches in the other main areas harvest of nearly 150 baptisms in a little where we are working, such as Korce, more than one year. New congregations Shkoder, Rreshen, Elbasan, and the cap- Dr. William Jarvis, professor of health promotiqn began to spring up in different places. ital city of Tirane, are essential to a and education at Loma Linda University, lectures The need for church buildings in properly functioning church and the on quackery, pantheism, and the occult. Albania is probably worse than that in expansion of the gospel. forms of medicine and to counsel church any other country on earth. The people, We are glad that our fellow believers leadership and laity on these issues. during the 50 years of enforced atheism, in the North American Division will ■ Identification of AIDS as "proba- saw virtually the total destruction of any play a role in helping fulfill the dreams bly the defining health issue of this building or artifact in any way con- of Adventists in Albania. We invite you decade." This recommendation calls for nected with religion. to give generously to the 1993 Missions the church to respond through four My husband was asked to visit a vil- Extension Offering to be received in basic components: (a) redemptive evan- lage way up in the mountains. Adventist churches on September 11. Of gelism emphasizing a Christian The village fathers told one of our this offering, 35 percent will go to help lifestyle, (b) preventive education, (c) members, "Bring your pastor and we build representative houses of worship home-based care and management, and will give him land if he will build us a for our people in Albania. (d) practical concern for the affected church here." family and community. My husband explained to them in a By Sandy Edwards, wife of the newly ■ A health and temperance director short time the gospel of Jesus Christ. elected president of the Albanian Field. in each division office, and that selec- tion of such individuals be in consulta- tion with the General Conference health God Says, and temperance director. MORRIS YENDEN IN Inclusion of a health professional but I Think among the officers of the General by Morris Venden Conference, such as a vice president, GOD What do you believe in and why? secretary, special assistant to the presi- SAYS, Who is setting your spiritual agenda? dent, or field secretary for health anti Many Christians today are health-care issues. depending on someone else to do "Among the recommendations their spiritual thinking for them. made," Whiting says, "some will be The result is that more and more, implemented, if feasible, by the GC God's Word is taking a back seat to Health and Temperance Department. BUTT our opinions. Others will need further study by the God Says, but I Think is Morris church at large before they can be Venden's latest and most urgent implemented." THINK challenge to the church to prayer- Has God's Word taken Whiting adds, "The spirit of the con- a back seat to our opinion? fully return to complete depen- ference was very encouraging. There dence on God in every aspect of US$8.95/Cdn$12.10. Paper. faith and life . was a sense that opportunities are ,-L before us that, if acted upon, would Available at your Adventist Book Center, or call toll free 1-800-765-6955. enhance the church's mission." 1993 Pacific Press Publishing Association 2711

ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26,1993 (893) 21

N S other words, Connie was sending her doll not just to a stranger. She was send- c ing it to Jesus! I Ait; "OK, that settles it," said Connie in the morning. "I am going to send Ruthie. I shall give my very best to Jesus and to one of His little girls Ruthie across the ocean." Connie helped BY DICK RENTFRO her mother pack the missionary box other, I've decided to send my didn't like very much. What difference later that day. She Mdoll, Ruthie, to a little girl in the does it make which doll I send? thought wrapped Ruthie mission field." Connie smiled through Connie. Why should I have to give up carefully and ten- her tears. one of my favorite dolls? derly placed her in "Are you sure, honey?" asked That night Connie knelt at her bed- the box. "Do you Connie's mother. "Ruthie's your very side for prayers. She prayed about her think this other little girl will love favorite doll. This must have been a decision to send a doll overseas. She Ruthie as I do?" Connie asked. hard decision for you." asked Jesus to help her know which doll "Yes, sweetheart, I believe she will," "It was," said Connie. to send. Then she went to bed. Mother answered. "And besides, when At church on Sabbath the pastor had But Connie couldn't sleep very well. we get to heaven I am sure that that little asked for toys and dolls to be included She tossed and turned as she thought girl will thank you personally and will tell in a special missionary box. Imme- about her doll decision. She remem- you that she gave Ruthie a good home." diately Connie wanted to help. When bered that Jesus had said: "Inasmuch as Connie nodded and smiled. And Connie got home, she sorted through ye have done it unto one of the least of when she said her prayers that night, she her dolls and decided to send one she these .. . , ye have done it unto me." In was sure Jesus was smiling too!

Donald Ernest Mansell Vesta West Mansell 5ee th' ,ioyuos reak ue ee from tthat atl2 f fvoorBr tio t heoe lcn dne sunoaelfarandpn envisit Byour nearest Adventist Book Sunday,r September 4r0t°1-° sale. A devotionol book for young children Come in and see the new Sharing Book of the Year by John Brunt, Good News for Troubled COWS Times. Or for kids, how about God's Special SPICIAL Promises to Me—a new devotional book for young children by Charles Mills? PROMMS Adventist women will enjoy The Listening ro Heart, a women's devotional with matching jour- nal, and Detective Zack is up to his note pad in at the ABC trouble in The Red Hat Mystery. All this and more awaits you at your Adventist Open House Book Center on the 12th. And don't forget the new senior devotional for 1994, Sure as the sale, Sunday, Dawn, by Don and Vesta Mansell. September 12 CHARLCS MILLS 1993 Pacific Press Publishing Association 501/9832 Call toll free 1-800-765-6955 for sale times at the ABC nearest you.

22 (894) ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26, 1993 E C T IONS

Getting God's Input

ara slumped in her chair. "I just don't know American Division and took a year out of Swhat to do, Julie!" she exclaimed. "Where school. am I supposed to live?" Julie listened sympa- Although I hadn't specifically asked God to thetically as Sara agonized about the merits of guide my decision-making, He had inter- renting three different apartments. vened. In turn I saw firsthand how God Making decisions is a part of life. Whether it directed in my life. The lessons I learned and be what to wear, which toothpaste to buy, what the people I met that year all affected me in a school to attend, or which job to take, we all positive way. I feel as if God stepped in to have to make decisions. better prepare me for life. At age 24 I am faced with making decisions The other seven steps Venden suggests to that will determine my life's course. Knowing I applied for two determine God's will are: don't rely on feel- what vocation I want or should pursue, decid- ings; consult God's Word; consider providen- ing whom to commit my life to—these are tial circumstances; consult godly friends; major decisions. What exactly is God's will in jobs, but didn't pray; make a decision and tell God what my life? you've decided; then proceed with it, remain- ing sensitive to His further leading. The Book actually consult Venden also emphasizes that "in order to In How to Know God's Will in Your Life, know God's will in your life, you must first Morris Venden explains eight steps to follow know God." This is the bottom line. And in in determining God's will. The first step is to God on which order to know God, I must communicate with surrender our own will. I think he means that Him. we need to be open to God's leading. God Sometime ago Suzie was dating John, a real wants us to think for ourselves but be open to would be best nice guy. People thought they made a great divine guidance. I have found surrendering the couple, but she felt something wasn't quite will the most difficult step of all. right. Finally, Suzie prayed specifically that For example, one year I applied for two for me. God would show her if she should pursue this jobs. One of them would require taking a year relationship. In a matter of two days she rec- out of school to work at the North American ognized that John wasn't best for her. Division headquarters in Maryland. The other would be just for the summer, an internship in The Bottom Line Seattle, Washington. I had prayed for God to God may not answer our prayers that guide my life in general, but I didn't actually quickly in every instance. But God does care consult God on which of these jobs would be about the outcome of our lives. Our responsi- best for me. I thought, A summer job is trivial, bility is to continue getting to know God bet- nothing real major. ter. As this friendship grows, so will our trust The summer internship fit well with my that there is a divine plan and divine timing I plans for my senior year of college; I strongly invite you to try it. preferred it.

The Big Bang Then two weeks before summer the intern- ship fell through. Fortunately, I was selected Cheryl R. Wren was a senior for an interview for the other job. I was both communication major at excited and frustrated. If I got it, I would be Walla Walla College when able to grow professionally and travel, too. she wrote this article. But I would have to graduate later. Needless to say, I accepted the position at the North BY CHERYL R. WREN

ADVENTIST REVIEW, AUGUST 26, 1993 (895) 23 'AP,igitritiriiit A Setwii 13 ChIldren's Memory Verses Put To Music

*. .J rj1J n:D ad' Nysic By BBB ...men

Plant a Seed sets the ntroducing the greatest memory verse I learning aid since the Picture Roll! Judy Evenson has set the kindergarten and primary kindergarten and primary memory verses to cheerful, upbeat music. Now your Sabbath School students can quickly learn their verses during classtime (a big help for memory verses to music so children who don't get much help with their verses at home). You can play the video, which provides a that children can learn fast! short introduction and a music video for each memory verse in that quarter's Sabbath School lessons. Or choose the audiocassette (Ils and music on one track, music only on the other), or the songbook at presents each song in two arrangements—one just like the tape and video, the other simplified for easy playing. Ask your Sabbath School secretary to order Plant a Seed materials, or call your Adventist Book Center. Put a song in a child's heart and you'll keep the memory verse in that child's head.

Plant a Seed video, VHS, approximatelA minutes each—US$15.95, Cdn$21.55. Plant a Seed alidineasserre—I TSA9.95. Cdn$1 3.45

Plant a Se ongbook—US$5.95, Cdn$8.05.

To order, call your Adventist Book Center at 1-800-765-6955. Distributed by the Review and Herald° Publishing Association. 0 a ) ADVENTIS Na I N 2(.0 g C cD .(.7). a 3 O oZ 0 (,) E a2 • 0) cr) O

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