Ministry Ministry is the international journal of the Seventh-day Adventist Ministerial Association and has been published since 1928.

Association Secretary Pastoral Assistant Editors James A- Cress John C. Cress, Fredrick Wrestling with theological differences Russell, Maylan Schurch, Editor Loren Seibold Understanding and handling theological diversity Willraore D. Eva International Advisors Assistant Editor Angel Manuel Rodriguez A. Abdulmajtd, Alejandro Bullon, Julia W. Norcott Jaime Castrejon, Victor P. Editorial Assistant Krushenitsky, Gabriel Maurer, Sheila Draper Joel Musvosvi, David Osborne, 10 David Parks, Paul Ratsara, Professional Growth and Peter Roennfeldt, John Willmott, Strangers in our midst Inter-church Relations Eric Winter, R. A. Zeeman Nikolaus Satelmajer Assessing the friendliness ofyour congregation Pastoral Advisors Contributing Editors Leslie Baumgartner, S. Peter Roland R.Hegstad Sharon Cress Campbell, Miguel A. Cerna, Peter Prime Jeanne Hartwell, Mitchelt Joel Sarli Henson, Greg Nelson, Norrria Kit Watts Osborn, Leslie Pollard, Dan 14 Consulting Editors Smith, Steve Willsey Matthew Bediako, Ben Advertising The stop-start journey on the road to a church manual Clausen, Raoul Dederen, Ministry Editorial Office Teoftio Ferreira, Ron Part 1 of an interpretative history of the Church Manual Flowers, John M. Fowler, Subscriptions and Circulation Michael Hasel, Roland Jeannette Cafbi Gil Valentine Hegstad, Kathleen Kuntaraf, Resources Ekkehardt Mueller, Jan Cathy Payne Paulsen, Robert Peach, Cover Design George Reid, Angel Harry Knox Rodriguez, Penny Shell, 20 William Shea, Russell Cover Photographs The ministry of equipping Staples, Richard Tibbits, Master-file and Photodisc Edward Zinke Enabling and complementing our members in the work of evangelism JoelSarli Subscriptions: For 12 issues: United States us$29.95; Canada and overseas us$30.95; airmail us$39.95; single copy us$3.00. To order, send name, address, and payment to Jeannette Calbi, Ministry 22 Subscriptions, 12501 Old Columbia Pike, A doctor and a minister Silver Spring, MD 20904 U.S.A. Subscription queries and address changes: Enhancing the doctor-minister team relationship E-mail: [email protected]; fax: 301-680-6502; David Livermore telephone: 301-680-6503. To Writers: We welcome unsolicited manuscripts. Editorial preference is to receive manuscripts on diskette with name, address, telephone and fax 23 numbers and Social Security number (if U.S. citizen). Scripture faces current issues Send all editorial correspondence to 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904-6600. A point of view covering the use of the Bible in issues facing the church Phone: 301-680-6510; fax: 301-680-6502; P. GerardDamsteegt E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected] (editorial offices). Writer©s Guidelines available on request. Ministry (ISSN 0026-5314), the international journal 30 of the Seventh-day Adventist Ministerial Association 1999, is published monthly by the General Conference Ministry reports of Seventh-day Adventists and printed by Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1350 N. Kings Road, Nampa, ID Reports from the Pacific Union Conference and Trans-European Division 83687-3193. Member Associated Church Press. Lloyd Wyman and Peter Roennfeldt Standard mail postage paid at Nampa, Idaho. PRINTED IN THE U.S.A. Vol. 72 Number 4

Bible credits: Scripture quotations marked NASB are from the New American Standard Bible, © The Lockman Foundation 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, IN EVERY ISSUE 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977. Texts credited to NKJV are from The Mew King James Version. Copyright 1979 1980, 1982, Thomas Nelson, Inc., Publishers. Bible texts credited to RSV are from the Revised 3 Letters 28 Pastor©s Pastor Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1946, 1952, 1971, by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the 4 Editorial U.S.A. Used by permission.

2 Ministry/April 1999 Forgiveness including: common sense, everyday stuff coming. Mark Cockerham, I am sad that grace has suffered views, Biblical authority and erudition, Tualatin Seventh-day Adventist again at the hand of the law ("Forgive as well as traditional views and Church, Tualatin, Oregon. ness," W. Norman MacFarlane, concepts of forgiveness. And whatever October 1998)."But God demon he held up as "true" he was able to Sabbath in the crossfire strates his love for us in this: While we provide Biblical and rational support Samuele Bacchiocchi©s "Sabbath in were still sinners, Christ died for us" for. the crossfire" (December 1998) (Rom. 5:8). "When we were dead in My past understandings of reminded me of beloved veteran our sins and the uncircumcision of forgiveness from previous articles I evangelist Robert L. Boothby, who, in your sinful nature, God made us alive have read, which seemed reasonable the late forties, dodged Sabbath with Christ. He forgave us all our sins" and, on the surface, acceptable, made crossfire. His ads for meetings stirred (Col. 2:13). "Be kind and compassion forgiving a difficult Christian require the local Ministerial Council to call ate to one another, forgiving each ment for me. This article, however, him before them to justify holding other, just as in Christ God forgave puts forgiveness on an even plane, meetings in their city. The first you" (Eph. 4:32). "Father, forgive possible both easily to comprehend question was why he taught the them, for they do not know what they and to practice in my daily life, even seventh-day Sabbath. Turning to are doing" (Luke 23:34) embraces the though it is still a tough thing to do. Genesis 2:1-3, he read that God world. Grace is grace because it is not This is a wonderful explanatory model Himself rested on, blessed, and the exchange of forgiveness for ably supported by personal experience sanctified the seventh day as the remorse and repentance. Grace is free and Biblical erudition. Normally, I do Sabbath (emphasis his). He then and sovereign and takes the initiative not read through every article, but I asked, "Brethren, when God sanctifies to restore a broken relationship. Yes, was so captivated by this one that I something, it is sanctified forever. remorse, repentance, and confession read it from start to finish. Thank you Now, if any of you will show me a are therapeutic and necessary for once again, Ministry! R. D. Prime, verse in the Bible telling me that God spiritual and psychological health but Sheffield, England, United Kingdom. has unsanctified the Sabbath He they are the result of forgiveness sanctified, I will be happy to cancel the perceived and received. God©s forgive Embracing the role of pastoral meetings." No one spoke up. ness, like His grace, like His sunshine, theology After a long pause, the chairman is poured out at great cost for the I just wanted to express my asked him to proceed further. Boothby healing of the world. The sin of the delight at Will Eva©s editorial "Embrac responded, "Brethren, you invited me world lies in its rejection of an uncon ing the Role of Pastoral Theology." It here and asked me a question. I have ditional gift. There are consequences to was such a concise piece, getting right answered your question from the all our sins, even the "forgiven" ones to the heart of the matter. I have often Bible. Now if you will please answer for both sinner and saint. We cannot felt the very stress of trying to work my question from the Bible, we may ignore or wish these away. However, with conflicting theological "fronts," as proceed." More silence. Urged again to the saint knows he is accepted (for Eva calls them. His depiction of them proceed and with no reply forthcom given) not because he has become was quite refreshing and establishes, in ing, Boothby, looking earnestly at good enough but because God is good my opinion, a needed distinction of the them, said, "Well, brethren, I have enough. lan Hartley, Red Deer, areas. Jerry Smith, pastor, Saint much work to attend to, as you must Alberta, Canada. John, New Brunswick, Canada. have, and since you haven©t replied to my question, I shall be on my way." This article was the most powerful Appreciation Forthwith, he took up his Bible and and "truthful" description of forgive I am a pastor who especially passed unchallenged out the door. A ness that I have ever read (And I have enjoyed the February 1999 issue. I Michigan farm boy, Boothby was an read many articles on "forgiveness"). always try to read it cover to cover, uncomplicated but powerful defender The author faithfully described highlighting and then filing the articles of the faith. Norman L. Meager, forgiveness from many angles for future reference. Keep the good Sonora, California.

I If you©re receiving Ministry bimonthly and haven©t paid for a subscription, it©s not a mistake. Since 1928 Ministry has been published for Seventh-day Adventist ministers. Free Subscription } We believe, however, that the time has come for clergy everywhere to experience a resurgence of faith in the authority of Scripture and in the great truths that reveal the gospel of our salvation by grace, through faith alone in Jesus Christ. We want to share our aspirations and faith in a way that will provide inspiration and help to you as clergy. We hope you will© accept this journal as our outstretched hand to you. Look over our shoulder, take what you want and find helpful, and discard what you can©t use. Bimonthly gift subscriptions are available to all licensed and/or ordained clergy. Requests should be on church letterhead and addressed to the editorial office.

Ministry/April 1999 hat are cried to the Lord in their trouble, and the he saved them from their distress. He mean Crisis time, w. brought them out of darkness and the ings that lie hidden deepest gloom and broke away their in the troubles of grace time chains" (Psa. 107:4-14, NIV). And so the church? Where goes the whole psalm and much of the is God when in one WILL EVA Bible itself, and the more deeply one way or another the interacts with the text, the more church is knocked to her knees by the wisdom and intensity that accom parallel it appears to be with the some confounding situation, as often panied me as I walked with Brother contemporary experience of today©s enough she has been? In the discomfi Cancer?... I hope that I have jour church. ture and chagrin that have battered neyed honestly and openly with my In C. S. Lewis© great allegorical our own church community in recent companion.... And most profoundly, work, The Lion, the Witch, and the years and months, what is God trying I pray that I might now more fully live Wardrobe there is a telling conversation to say and do in His church? in Christ... and give praise to God."1 between Susan and Lucy and Mr. and In such circumstances it is easy to The author of this immeasurably Mrs. Beaver. The two girls are asking become disillusioned with the Church, wise insight had battled high grade Mr. and Mrs. Beaver about the questioning her authenticity, even her sarcoma with all its accompanying magnificent, mysterious King Asian character and charter. Or maybe in pain and anguish. Instead of viewing (Christ), to whom the Beavers looking into the face of today©s church his cancer merely as a demonic, promise to introduce the girls. we see a dulling of the luster we once mystifying emissary of pain and death, ©"Is is he a man?©" asked Lucy. admired in her, and perhaps we feel he sees the sovereign God majestically ©"Asian a man!© said Mr. Beaver touches of helplessness or resignation. exploiting the missiles of Satan so that sternly. ©Certainly not. I tell you he is These kinds of feelings are almost they bring a redemptive meaning and the King of the wood.... Don©t you inevitable if we evaluate the church©s discipline to his life. This is indeed a know who is the King of Beasts? Asian afflictions in merely rational or redemption he badly needed, and is a lion the Lion, the great Lion.©" political terms. If the meanings that would not have been able to embrace "©Ooh!© said Susan, ©I©d thought he come forward spring from such valid, had it come in any other form. It was was a man. Is he quite safe?...©" though limited vantage points, then we indeed the naked distress and fear that, "©Safe?© said Mr. Beaver.... ©Who are virtually destined for the land of under the skillful touch of God, said anything about safe? ©Course he despondency and disillusionment. opened his soul to insight and healing. isn©t safe. But he©s good. He©s the King, How then may we view the It is this that brought him to the kind I tell you.©"2 meaning of the storm fronts that blow of inner restoration he sought all In the light of God assuming such through the Church? A friend recently along and needed most. a role in the life of his church, it seems shared with me the following pro Isn©t this a basic and underlying to me that a rather different-from- found and wonderfully true expression theme in the history of God©s ap usual meaning and response should be of the way in which the disabling and proach to those who are His? Isn©t this embraced when trying to explain what damaging mingles in God©s sovereign fundamental to the way God has the dynamics are and how the players providence to generate among us the related to His people throughout their are to play as the church faces the beneficial and beautiful: history, even if some of our contem arrows that come from the quivers of "I now know that my encounter porary views of the way God loves, the Archenemy. It is clear that one of with Brother Cancer has been a time seem to contradict it? the most honest ways of viewing the of grace. Initially, I could not fully David©s poetic review of Israel©s struggles of the church, or more acknowledge his presence. Later, I was history confirms this. "... Some sat in specifically, of locating God in the not always a ready listener. But, both darkness and the deepest gloom, vicissitudes of church crises, is found patient and persistent, he has helped prisoners suffering in iron chains, for in the message to Laodiceans. "Those me to see more clearly and to know they had rebelled against the words of whom I love, I reprove and discipline; my Lord more intimately. As I wonder God and despised the counsel of the be zealous therefore and repent. about the future, one concern looms Most High. So he subjected them to Behold, I stand at the door and knock" large. Should I walk now alone, bitter labor; they stumbled and there (Revelation 3:19,20, NASB). [without the benefit of Mr. Cancer©s was no one to help. Then [directly We are so used to evaluating our companionship] will I live always with because of their predicament] they continued on p. 27

4 Ministry/April 1999 m

he last fifty years have probably been the most theologically challenging and productive period in the history of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Angel Manuel These years have been a time of group is sometimes called "progressive Rodriguez, Ph.D., is growth and intellectual formation dur Adventists" (others call them "liberals"). associate director of ing which we have moved beyond the With much of its influence in academic the Biblical Research wording of doctrinal statements to ex circles, this group tends to impact the Institute of the plore their theological significance. This formation of workers, particularly General Conference of theological awakening has, of course, pastors and some administrators. The Seventh-day resulted in some serious theological and second group usually refers to itself as Adventists. doctrinal debate among us. "historic Adventists" (others call them There are two main forces involved "conservatives"). This group is influen in the current debate and tension. One tial mainly among lay people and a maybe found in sectors of our academic limited number of pastors and church community, where some are calling the administrators. church to reformulate, modify, or Both groups seek to influence the abandon some of its distinctive views in church through books, magazines, and order to make its message more relevant other means of communication. So far, and intellectually attractive to its neither group has been decisive or members and to the world at large. A determinative in what the world church second group consists of lay members believes or teaches. and some church workers who express The interaction between these two concern in the light of what they perceive groups has resulted in some theological to be the introduction of undesirable tension within the church. Interestingly, changes in church doctrine and there is fundamental agreement standards. throughout the world church when it The two groups operate at different comes to the validity of the Statement of levels of communication, and their influ Fundamental Beliefs. The differences ence affects different audiences. The first and tensions surface when attempts are

ANGEL MANUEL RODRIGUEZ

Ministry/April 1999 made to flesh out the fundamental stated: "These precepts [the Ten implicit recognition of the unfathomable beliefs. In what follows, we will examine Commandments] are the basis of God©s nature of the Incarnation. some important areas where there is covenant with His people and the However, even though the church diversity of opinion. standard in God©s judgment. Through has never stated its position on the the agency of the Holy Spirit they point nature of the humanity of Christ, Soteriology out sin and awaken a sense of need for a Adventists have always been interested Adventists believe there is salvation Saviour. Salvation is all of grace and not in the topic. This should not be seen as a only through faith in Jesus Christ. It is of works, but its fruitage is obedience to threatening enterprise as long as those impossible to find an Adventist who will the Commandments. This obedience exploring the mystery do not try to disagree with that simple biblical fact. develops Christian character and results impose on the church their own peculiar The split appears when individuals try in a sense of well-being. It is an evidence views and understanding. to explain how we are saved. Some pro of our love for the Lord and our concern Historic Adventists have argued that gressive Adventists argue for the moral for our fellow men" (Fundamental Belief Christ had a fallen nature. They have influence theory of the atonement. They 18,232, emphasis supplied). used that position to buttress other exclude expiatory substitution. Officially, Another view of salvation argues theological concerns. The tension the church has embraced both concepts that the whole human race was legally between the church and those promoting as it has tried to remain faithful to the saved, redeemed, reconciled, forgiven, this view is the result of their attempt to biblical text and its Protestant roots. It and justified on the cross. This was make their particular view part of the has made statements such as: "In possible because at that crucial moment Fundamental Beliefs of the Church and Christ©s life of perfect obedience to God©s in history every human being was in their eagerness to criticize the church for will, His suffering, death, and resurrec Christ. However, this is not the way the not acknowledging their position to be tion, God provided the only means of church has understood the biblical the correct one. atonement for human sin, so that those message of salvation. "In Christ©s life of Progressive Adventists have shown who by faith accept this atonement may perfect obedience to God©s will, His little interest on the subject of the human have eternal life, and the whole creation suffering, death, and resurrection, God nature of Christ, but in general they may better understand the infinite and provided the only means of atonement appear to support the view that seems holy love of the Creator. This perfect for human sin, so that those who by faith to prevail among Adventist theologians, atonement vindicates the righteousness accept this atonement may have eternal and possibly most ministers and of God©s law and the graciousness of His life" (Fundamental Belief 9; 106, em theologians. This view argues that Jesus character; for it both condemns our sin phasis supplied). was neither exactly like Adam nor exactly and provides for our forgiveness. The The church, in its official docu like us. He was unique. death of Christ is substitutionary and ments, knows nothing about a biblically This topic will continue to be debated expiatory, reconciling and transforming" based legal universal justification on the among Adventists. What complicates the (Seventh-day Adventists Believe, Funda cross. It knows only justification by faith discussion is the level of dogmatism mental Belief 9; 106). in Christ. Therefore, it sees in what Christ coming from some of those involved in It is difficult to say how seriously accomplished through His ministry as a the debate. As a result, in some places these differences should be taken, because whole and on the cross the provision of the unity of congregations has been only a small number of Adventists find salvation that has to be accepted in or seriously affected. Because of the themselves in disagreement with the der to be effective in the life of the disruptive nature of the discussion, officially expressed position of the individual. appropriate leaders in the church have church. Nevertheless, this significant the responsibility to respond to this variation could motivate the church to Christology controversy. continue its exploration of the mystery The church has formally affirmed: of the atonement. "God the Eternal Son became incarnate Ecclesiology Among historic Adventists, the in Jesus Christ. . . . Forever truly God, Two fundamental issues dominate situation is more difficult to describe and He became also truly man, Jesus the the discussion of ecclesiology: the nature assess. In some circles salvation is Christ. He was conceived of the Holy of the church and its authority. Progres initially through faith in Christ, but Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He sive Adventists appear to be interested meritorious works are not excluded. lived and experienced temptation as a in a decentralized system of authority. Once the individual accepts Christ and human being, but perfectly exemplified They seem to consider the General Con receives the Holy Spirit, he or she is the righteousness and love of God" ference in session to have some type of enabled to perform, through the power (Fundamental Belief 4; 36). This is a authority over the world church. In some of the Spirit, good works that in some confirmation of the biblical teaching instances, however, they are in open dis way make a contribution to salvation. without any attempt to define the specific agreement with the decisions made there The church, on the other hand, has nature of the mystery and with the and actively argue for different positions.

6 Ministry/April 1999 Their implicit, and at times explicit, call church in some areas or in one way or for decentralization seems to be result another. Both are interested in more Are you looking for: ing in more independence from the independence from the world church. • Dynamic leadership training? world church. The more extreme expres Both question the claim of the church • Creative concepts for worship sions of this call are found in the rise of to be the only repository of, and channel renewal? Congregationalism and the official sepa for, the distribution of tithe. Thus • Easy steps for anyone to preach ration of some local churches from the ecclesiology will continue to be a lively powerful sermons? world body of congregations. subject of discussion for years to come, • Proven, innovative principles for A closely related issue is the ques and if it is not handled carefully, it could growins a healthy church? tion of the use of tithe. Churches with threaten the unity of the church. • Biblical messages to inspire you? congregational tendencies would like to This conference is for you! keep some of their tithe to cover local Eschatology needs and programs. Some conferences Since Adventism is an apocalyptic are already experimenting with new movement, eschatology is essential for models and exploring new possibilities. its self-understanding and for the mes What tends to be overlooked is that this sage it proclaims. But even in this area is not just an administrative issue but we find some fragmentation. Many pro an ecclesiological one with serious doc gressive Adventists de-emphasize trinal, theological, and biblical eschatology and stress social involve implications. One would expect that ment or personal relevancy here and those implications be explored before now. The "delay" in the expected appear changes are introduced in the adminis ance of Jesus seems to have weakened 2 -* trative side of the church. their expectation, and they want the ** ^O DRlT^fHpIi^S |/5 ©5 Historic Adventists have rejected church to fill the waiting period with some aspects of traditional Adventist ministry to the poor, the oppressed, and ecclesiology. When they argue that the the environment. Among them some church is not proclaiming some seem to have questioned and even re fundamental biblical truth (e.g., the true jected the Adventist end-time scenario . gospel), they are in fact saying that the and its interpretation of the prophecies Adventist Church is no longer the of Daniel and Revelation and the doc repository of present truth. trine of the sanctuary. To a significant Consequently, some have constructed extent, this is the result of the influence parallel organizations, with legal identity, of theology in Adventism critical of the to preserve and promote the truth that teaching of the church. At the same time, they feel the church is not proclaiming however, it is a reaction to speculative and is not willing to accept from them. "time setting" that at times has been This seriously challenges the authority embarrassingly common among of the church as ultimately constituted Adventists. through the world body of believers. Historic Adventists support the Some historic Adventists reject the traditional eschatology of the church, teaching that the church is the exclusive but some have pushed it beyond what PASTOR, ADRIAN CRAIG repository of tithe and the only channel the church is willing to state in its official from Australia for its distribution. They base their documents. This applies particularly to position on the idea that the Adventist their concept of the eschatological ;.: R. BILL LIVERSIDGE Church is the church of God but that its harvest, the existence of a last generation Resistor Now pr Early-Birds: #] 25, true expression is located in those who of perfect Christians who will reach a .$150 per person, includes ail materials-;,-, , : are faithful to God within it. One gets standard of commitment to Christ So per Person for a group, of 3 the distinct impression that they see unreached by any other previous themselves as the faithful ones, therefore generation. The "delay" in Christ©s having the right to receive tithe and use coming is considered to be the result of •S3SE2* it for the promotion of their views. the unwillingness of the church to live .$150 Exhibit booth Ecclesiology is one area in which up to the message entrusted to it or, for the week,- ;- For Information: rWSdaitV - Ph:. (909) 796-0066 progressive and historic Adventists seem according to others, the fact that some or$250a«y faX;(909) 796-1992 to be raising the same concerns. Both aspect of the message has been rejected. e-mail: [email protected] tend to question the authority of the Eschatology will continue to be a Sponsors Csrnpus HiS Church & SE Calif, Conferences, Church Ministries Dept.

Ministry/April 1999 7 KITTEN RESENTS

Another Dimension of Satellite Evangelism

l is taking a giant step forward in satellite evangelism. Over the next three years, Speaker/Director Mark Finley will satellite evangelistic meetings in Manila, Philippines; Kumasi, Ghana; Sao Paulo, Brazil; Bucharest, Romania; Santiago, Chile; Madras, India; Los Angeles, California; Seoul, Korea; Kingston, Jamaica; and Sydney, Australia.

For more information, call 1-888-664-5573. ASI, the North American Division, the To donate to ACTS 2000, checks may be made payable tc General Conference and It Is Written are uniting for this world evangelistic thrust. ACTS 2000 101 W.Cochran St. Simi Valley, CA 9306 Tens of thousands ofAdventist lay people from all areas of the world are actively involved in ACTS 2000 witnessing projects.

God is incredibly opening entire continents for His last day message now. Pray for ACTS 2000 point of debate. The rejection of histori- icated rather than become entangled in tudes. Progressive Adventists aggres cism, if it ever happens, will radically alter discussing the relevance of ancient sively challenge traditional standards, Adventism by weakening or destroying cultural practices reflected in the biblical while historic Adventists attack the its self-identity. Therefore, one could documents. They will put the emphasis church for lowering them. Progressive expect the church to oppose strongly any on inspiration as thought or person Adventists argue that the church should attempt to replace our system of pro inspiration. What is of value, they say, is be interested in defining broad, general phetic interpretation. the thought that God was expressing biblical principles and leave the specific through the language and images used implementation of those principles to Biblical interpretation by the prophet. church members, without the mediation Biblical interpretation includes not The implications of that approach of the church. For example, the church only biblical hermeneutics but also the are very risky. For instance, by using it, must teach the importance of modesty nature of the Bible, its revelation, and one could conclude that the historical and simplicity in personal adornment, inspiration. Here again there are some accuracy of the Bible is not important but it must not assume the right to de fundamental agreements among Ad- since the "historical" information found fine which type of jewelry is modest and ventist theologians. All accept the unity there was being used to communicate a simple. of the Old and New Testaments and particular message or thought. Conse This is indeed an open challenge to acknowledge that the Scriptures are the quently, some of them have argued that the teachings of the church that will written Word of God, given through the Creation story is not history but a require time and willingness to listen to divine revelation and inspiration. cultural belief used by the Lord to con the witness of the Scriptures for its But it is the nature of revelation and vey the important message that He is resolution. Two important issues are at inspiration that introduces differences of the Creator. stake: the authority of the Bible and the opinion and results in different herme- It is at this point that progressive authority of the church. The potential neutical approaches. The basic issue is Adventists collide with the position of for division is enormous. the role and extent of the human ele the church. The church has stated that ment in the final product. No one denies the Bible is "the trustworthy record of Conclusion that there is a human element in receiv God©s acts in history" (Fundamental Theological tensions are difficult to ing and writing down the revelation Belief 1; 4). And with respect to Creation solve. In many cases time takes care of entrusted to the prophet. But was the it says, "God is Creator of all things, and them. Some of them are simply rejected human element minimal or more sig has revealed in Scripture the authentic by the church. Others are modified and nificant? To what extent did God use account of His creative activity. In six slowly incorporated into the teachings cultural concepts and customs as He days the Lord made ©the heaven and the of the church, while still others are easily conveyed to His instrument the message earth© and all living things upon the earth, accepted by the body of believers. He intended to communicate? Since cul and rested on the seventh day of that Meanwhile, the dialogue and evaluation tural influence is usually recognized as first week" (Fundamental Belief 6; 68). of different opinions are important for playing a role in biblical writing, the ques Historic Adventists accept the stated the well-being of the church. Those tion becomes How can we distinguish position of the church on inspiration and involved in the debates must be willing between what is culturally determined revelation. They, together with many at times to put aside personal convictions in the Bible and what is not? These and other Adventists, will not allow for a view and preferences in order to preserve the other similar questions are now under of inspiration that is culturally unity, the message, and the mission of discussion among Adventists theolo determined. As the debate continues, the church. gians and interested lay people. there is the risk for some to move to the Progressive Adventists tend to allow fundamentalist extreme, arguing for the for the presence of a rather strong and doctrine of inerrancy, a position rejected significant human element in the process by the church. The nature of the Bible of inspiration that led to the inscriptur- and its proper interpretation is another ation of God©s revelation. Consequently, area where certain significant changes some of them will probably argue that could have a devastating effect on the Check out oiir wide selects on of in the communication of the message message and mission of the church. resources for pastors, elders, God used cultural practices and beliefs laypeople, or others «fho want known by the prophet to facilitate Church standards to take a mere active role in comprehension but did not invest them Related to the question of the au their church. with permanent relevance. From the thority of the Bible is the subject of point of view of hermeneutics, they will church standards. This is an area of se Visit us at press the idea that the exegete must look rious disagreement in the church, loaded www.ministeriatassociation.com for the message that is being commun with emotional and judgmental atti

Ministry/April 1999 9 STRANGERS IN OUR MIDST shy little man, dressed neatly in a tan sport jacket and jeans, walked into church unnoticed and slipped into a seat.

Roland R. Hegstad He liked the sermon, the first he had merely congratulate the first two on is the former editor ever heard in an Adventist church. After having survived. Had they, in fact, o/Liberty. He has the service, he waited in the line of thrived? Did the Lord©s genuine love of retired and lives in worshipers who were shaking hands with people come through in the way they Silver Spring, the pastor. Wanting to express his related to each other? Were their worship Maryland. appreciation for the sermon, he moved services vital, their sense of mission toward the pastor ready to extend his intact? Was there some way I could hand as those before him had, but the determine their spiritual vitality before pastor had turned his back and moved speaking to them? away. He walked away ungreeted. Perhaps the best jury to give a He wondered whether it was be verdict, I thought, would be visitors. cause he was not wearing a suit, as were Would they report being accepted? many of the worshipers. Or could it be Would they be thrilled by a vital worship that he was not Caucasian? Race was not experience? What would a teenager with an issue in his Baptist church, where he hair to his shoulder blades and a ring was a deacon. Later, he was to learn why, dangling from one ear have to say? What when his experience was one of a half about a young woman in slacks and dozen featured by the religion editor of baubles? Or an aged bum radiating the a large metropolitan newspaper. odors of Joe Camel and Budweiser? I was the reason the stranger was Would conservatively dressed 35-year- there. He was one of about three dozen olds be given a more enthusiastic people I hired to visit Adventist churches reception than they? I decided to find out. in the North American Division a few I called a friend who lived near the years ago. The Adventist Review has, in church in the West and explained that I recent months, been sending strangers wanted a few non-Adventists to attend into churches across the North American Sabbath services in the weeks before my Division and reporting their impres arrival. They should not have attended sions. This is what I wanted to do. an Adventist church before, and I would My investigations started when I expect them to fill out a questionnaire was invited to speak at the 100th following their visit. I had put together a anniversary of a Midwestern Adventist small budget and would, if necessary, church, the 80th anniversary of one in pay them to attend. Neither the pastor the West, and the dedication of a church nor the members were to know of the in the South all within a period of a project. For the church in the South I few weeks. Early on, I decided not to depended on an Adventist pastor in a

ROLAND R. HEGSTAD

10 Ministry/April 1999 neighboring district to find people to opening pleasantries and with a more message is a people who give God glory visit. In the Midwest, I called the religion sober mein than usual, I begin: "I am by permitting Him to reveal His genuine editor of a major metropolitan news not here to congratulate you on having goodness through them.) Thirty paper, explained my project, and asked survived for 80 (or 100) years (or, in the minutes into the sermon I began to give whether he would cooperate, with the case of one church, "for having paid off the awaited report, which, of course, understanding that he could print the the mortgage"). During the past few varied from church to church. Here is a results but not identify the church. Sabbaths, strangers have walked down selection of comments I shared: Bingo! the aisles of your church and found a "Atmosphere conducive to wor I titled the questionnaire "Obser place next to some of you. I hired them ship." vations on a Church Visit." Among the to come and to report their impressions "Soft seats" (You take what you can questions (somewhat condensed): Ex of your acceptance, friendliness, or lack get!). press your thoughts as you entered the of it; and other aspects of your worship "I appreciated the warmth between church. What one thing did you espe service. Not even your pastor was aware the pastor and the congregation and the cially enjoy? (I know this question wasn©t introduction of guests" the 28-year- objective, but I wanted something posi old newspaper reporter. tive to report to each congregation when "Got a lot out of the Sabbath School I spoke there! Nor did I produce a ques class, the sermon was great, and everyone tionnaire from which to extrapolate made me feel very welcome." grand generalizations for all Adventist xpressyour "I especially enjoyed the open churches in North America). Did any E atmosphere, the lack of pressure, and thing leave a negative impression? How thoughts as you entered the the youth service." Did the church make would you describe the greeting you re this person feel that she would want to ceived? Were you invited to a fellowship church. What one thing did attend again next week? Her answer: dinner or home for lunch? Did the visit "Absolutely!" make you want to return? How would you especially enjoy©? Did "A sense of Big Family friendliness." you characterize the attitude of the anything leave a negative "The church does a really great job church members as a whole? with visitors, much better than any other In addition, I offered a section with impression? How would you church I©ve ever visited." questions requiring answers to be filled "The members appear to have the in on a scale from one to five in which describe the greeting you love taught by Jesus." the visitor could characterize the atmo The last four quotations were from sphere (friendly?) of the church and the received? Did the visit make you visitors to the top-rated church. The last interest shown in him or her as a per quote was from a lady in her late 50s son. Of the worship service itself: Was it want to return? How would you who liked the Southern church so well meaningful, reverent, a celebration of that she returned and a few weeks later God©s presence? I included a quarter page characterize the attitude of the was baptized! (Which has led me at times on which the visitor could share sugges church members as a whole?" to propose to ministerial groups, with tions about how the church might relate some tongue in cheek, that they quit more effectively to visitors. spending large sums of money on So who were my visitors? The man brochures featuring menacing beasts. ager of a metropolitan radio station; a of their mission. Before I finish my ser "Just use the money to hire people to proofreader for a Philadelphia newspa mon, I shall report their findings." come," I©ve told them.) per who was visiting the site of one of Now, imagine a congregation that The top-rated church was Avon the churches; several conservatively goes dead silent. Grandparents glare at Park, Florida, which is the one that had dressed professional couples; a newspa whispering grandchildren, and mothers paid off the mortgage. And in subse per reporter; a Methodist minister; and, practically throttle cooing babies. quent visits under subsequent pastors, yes, the teenager with an earring, the 28- Teenagers quietly put aside their Insights, I©ve found the atmosphere still conta year-old newspaper reporter with the and the pastor looks as if he has given giously upbeat and friendly. In each of bangles, and a further selection of visi up exhaling. That©s the way it was in each the three churches, a guest had some tors not normally encountered in an church. Never have I had such rapt thing gracious to say. And, if you©re Adventist pew. attention! wondering, I shared the observations Now, put yourself in the pew of one Even now, I don©t think you pastor- with each pastor. (The pastor of Avon of these test churches. Imagine it is yours readers are waiting for an extended Park did get one "warning" on the ques and that, duly introduced, I have report on my sermon theme. (In essence, tionnaire: "The outgoing spirit of this stepped to the pulpit. Without the usual I pointed out that the first angel©s church can melt icebergs. But keep the

Ministry/April 1999 11 Want to train your church leaders? Try Cross Training. fross Training is the monthly satellite workshop series on the Adventist Communication Network designed to train local church leaders and volunteer ministry coordinators. Through this effective yet inexpensive training vehicle, the North American Division provides leaders with job descriptions, creative ministry ideas, and cutting-edge resources for effective ministry in the local church. To participate in any of the following two-hour workshops, please register. Call 800-ACN-1119, ext. 6. Ask for a copy of our free video catalog. Hosted by Paul Richardson (right). 1999 Workshop Schedule Children©s Ministries September 11 - "Parenting That Models Ministries of Compas March 13 - "Teaching Children to Love Each Other As a Response sion" - Especially for Adventist parents; Service - This program to Grace" - Especially for Children's Ministries leaders, will show parents in the church how they can help classroom children's Sabbath school teachers, pastors; Community-This teachers, Adventist Community Services leaders, Youth Service program will clearly identify community building as a response Corp. youth pastors, Maranatha, ADRA, and others agencies in to the grace of a loving God who wants children and youth to see their local communities that wantto engage their children and faith actively lived through sharing with and being accountable to youth in compassion projects. others in their neighborhoods, at church, and with people around Health Ministries the world. November 13 - "Lifestyle Initiatives For the New Millennium" - Adventist Community Services Especially for Health Ministries and Community Impact Series Adventist Community Services leaders; Health - Join us to take a January 9 - Introducing the Mew ADRA Annual Appeal Campaign; look at four health outreach programs effectively working in North March 13 - Heartbeat Training; May 8 - Disaster Response America and choose one for your church to use. Training; October 9- Helping People Find Jobs Sabbath School Evangelism February 13-"What GetsTwentysomethings Involved in Sabbath January 9 - "Staying Power- Creating Churches Where Members School?" - Especially for adult Sabbath school leaders, pastors, Feel Valued" - Especially for elders, evangelism coordinators, young adult leaders; Challenge - How can Adult Sabbath school Sabbath school leaders; Assimilation - What's it like for new classes actively attract and engage young adults into an members to join your congregation? How can churches make intergenerational study setting that meets their needs without new members feel at home and integrate them into meaningful alienating other members? church life? Youth Ministries October 9 - "Discovering 21 st Century Ways to Reach Our May 8 - "There's More to Youth than Sabbath School" - Especially Communities" - Especiallyfor Personal Ministries leaders, pastors; Outreach - As we prepare forthe new millennium, we for Youth leaders, Bible teachers, youth pastors; Activation -This program will profile effective programs that are providing must find innovative ways to share the love of Christ with our communities. How can we share the Adventist message and innovative compassion ministries, mission experiences, mission with seekers and interest them in joining our church leadership development, and unique nurturing ministries for family? today's youth. Family Ministries April 10 - "Identifying Ministry Opportunities With Today's Adventist Families" - Especially for Family Ministries leaders, pastors, elementary teachers; Diversity-This program will address the diversity of our church family today and discuss practical ways congregations can ministerto our diverse needs.

Preparing Today's Leaders for Tomorrow's Church pastor away from folks outside the church©s philosophy. Pastor introduced make any difference in their mission? Yes. church, or you©ll have to start a new himself, but no one else did. Congrega One example: The lowest-rated church building program!" (This respondent tion lacked enthusiasm. Strong sense of recognized themselves in the column by also was baptized.) family. I have no doubt that religion the religious editor of their city paper. But now some of the painful plays a large part in the lives of these The board met to discuss the report. observations: people. Only a week before, they had turned "The atmosphere was cold people "I put my address and phone num down a request by a nearby Baptist going through the motions." ber on an offering envelope and enclosed church to rent the Adventist gymnasium "I was not made to feel part of the $40 but have received no follow-up call." one night a week. That action was group. No one asked who I was." But No, I won©t forget to tell you why rescinded. The request was granted. I even at the lowest rated church, one sister the pastor of the Midwest church turned don©t know whether that Baptist church (bless her heart!) invited one of my paid his back on the visiting Baptist deacon. was the one whose deacon had been one guests home for lunch! But first a few further observations. I©m of my "strangers." I hope so. One guest©s feelings as he entered troubled by the Methodist minister©s And why did the pastor turn his the church: "I was apprehensive and cu summary of a congregation as "coldly back on him? Not because of his race. rious" (likely the attitude of many who indifferent." Perhaps "awkward" or The pastor was mortified when I called, enter the unknown for the first time). "I "shy" would be more fitting. Anyway, read him the deacon©s report, and asked had a hard time with the noise of chil that©s my generous appraisal of a for an explanation. "You see," he said, dren. Partly my fault for sitting in the Pennsylvania congregation my wife and "the week before, a stranger introduced back" (But partly ours, for forgetting I visited recently, while on a weekend himself to me after the service as an what mothers© rooms are for.) However, vacation. We entered the church (maybe Adventist who had suffered an unex the visiting Methodist minister, while 80 members, no one at the door) just as pected financial setback and needed observing that the "crying and fussing" the Sabbath School teachers (three in the emergency help. I gave him $80,* only to of infants was "disruptive," expressed sanctuary) picked up their quarterlies. discover, a couple days later, that he was pleasure with the family atmosphere. We sat down in a class on the left of the a confidence man who had worked his Here are others of his comments, shared aisle. Not only did the teacher not ask scam on a number of churches that week. with the Western church: our names, he refused eye-contact When I saw this stranger standing there, "No welcome by an usher or during the lesson. We moved toward the hand outstretched, I thought ©Here©s an greeter. Found a seat unaided. No one front for the church service, preached other one!© and so I turned away." spoke to me, smiled, or nodded. Visiting by a lay member (the pastor was at the You should know that the pastor friends of members were introduced. I other church in his district). No one had an excellent service record and, I was not even spotted as a new face. As I approached us; no one asked our names. believe, truly loved his Lord. He confessed left, an usher at the door said ©Hello.©" At the end of the service I trailed the his misjudgment and, with the aid of the Members were "coldly indifferent." speaker down the aisle and, with a smile, church board, set the congregation onto His observations on the service: "I introduced myself to my brothers and a more sensitive and loving course in the did not go to be critical but to worship. sisters of the Adventist family. Nods were Midwestern city. It was the first Seventh-day Adventist perfunctory; handshakes were hurried. I hope the Adventist Review©s experi worship I have ever attended. A beautiful With the last hand shaken, my wife and ment is as productive of change. In fact, sanctuary but devoid of Christian I stood alone. We walked to our car, since the Adventist Review publicized its symbols. The dedication of infants was drove to a park, and ate our peanut- intentions, I©ve noticed that my home impressive. The kneeling of worshipers butter sandwiches. church©s greeters are scanning visitors during the opening prayer was great. A This shouldn©t happen. Yes, we can with new intensity, and firm and many splendid number of children came train greeters and handshakers and are the handshakes extended. Of course, forward for their story. name taggers. But you can©t train love. change has its perils. A few weeks ago, "Not a singing congregation. The Only when the loving Lord enters our back in my home church for a Sabbath, hymns seemed irrelevant (incidental). I heart (and always, only by invitation) I stepped up to a "stranger," shook her missed a flow in worship. I also missed can we really show a loving interest in hand, and asked whether I might not an affirmation of faith and a bene someone other than self. enroll her in our guest book. diction. The "dialog" sermon was In fact, if I remember correctly, that "Oh, Elder Hegstad," she replied. well-done and made the Scriptures rele was the way I concluded my sermon at "You know me. I©ve been a member here vant to today©s problems." the three churches that invited me to for 20 years!" From a mid-30s well-dressed pro speak at a significant occasion in their Maybe she touched on a deeper fessional: "Guest speaker from the history. problem still.... conference office was dull. I nodded off Did the comments of my "stran * The sum could have been a few dollars one twice. I didn©t learn much about the ger" friends who walked their aisles way or the other. Memory lacks currency. R.H.

Ministry/April 1999 13 m i

ecause "we have gotten along well... without a manual," declared the General Conference president, the church did not need one.

Gil Valentine, Ph.D., Other denominations might have explain why to the wider church is vice president, developed a church manual as they membership. Butler was so certain of Avondale College, reached "a certain magnitude" and saw his ground that he said: "It is probable Australia. "the need for uniformity" but, George that it [the question of having a church Butler insisted, this was not for manual] will never be brought forward Adventists. Once a denomination started again."4 down that road there was no logical He was wrong. stopping place. "Hence," he said, "we stop without a church manual before The manual itself we get started."1 The authors of the manuscript were Itwas 1883, andButlerwas explain stunned. As respected senior pastors,5 ing in the Adventist Review why the they had written the document specifi recent General Conference Session had cally at the request of the General rejected having a church manual. A com Conference and had carefully addressed mittee of ten church leaders had been concerns the committee had raised. Spe appointed by the session to join with the cifically, the manual was not to be General Conference Executive Commit prescriptive or to "be regarded as invari tee in order to look at a proposal. The able under all circumstances." Rather, it manuscript had appeared in segments was to be a document that was to be in the Adventist Review.2 The commit "simply" taken as "suggestions," offered tee, which had been addressed by Mrs. for "the assistance of those who feel they White in person, unanimously recom have need of aid and are not unwilling mended that the session reject the church to accept the counsel of others." Yes, it manual.3 contained a "statement of the funda Session delegates accepted the mental principles," but was "never to be recommendation but asked Butler to regarded as a cast-iron creed to be en-

14 Ministry/April 1999 forced in all of its minor details upon the members of the Seventh-day Questions Adventist church."6 The church desperately needed a about NET ©99? manual, according to Elder W. H. Littlejohn, pastor of the Battle Creek congregation. "The condition of things" in the church had "changed materially" in recent times.7 The denomination had pisaw»«ii^i'Wivi%«|y.? » ••s.^-st&gsmmWw: expanded greatly, and new churches were constantly being organized. Further more, younger preachers had received no training and little or no experience in church management. Others agreed. Dudley M. Canright said that the previous year church mem bership had risen to fifteen thousand 2;^»""!ffS": yy^'^'jj'j'ffif ff-f | fis f |.g worshiping in almost seven hundred churches. One hundred and fifty fully ordained pastors and a similar number of licensed ministers serviced these con gregations.8 None had benefited from adequate training.9 Against this background, the "pro priety of having a church manual" had been agitated at several General Confer ence sessions. Finally, in 1882 the preparation of a document was autho rized. 10 Littlejohn, Corliss, and St. John worked on a manuscript that Canright had previously put together. They then published the material in the Adventist Review so that the church could appraise it and delegates could "vote intelligently" at the session scheduled for the follow ing year.

Policy book or manual? When discussion of a "manual" had first arisen at the General Conference Session in 1878, what had been requested was really a policy book with "Consti ; Doug fiatcfte/or tutions and By-Laws" and guidance on parliamentary procedure. Whatthe 1882 session asked for, however, was specifi Wtetch it live from cally a manual that would provide "Instruction to Church Officers" at the Manhattan Center local church level. Thus the proposed Studios in New York manual addressed both. It specifically City I Sabbath, Aprif 10* dealt with issues of local church order 4:30-6pmETonACN and governance but also policy. After or by tape delay oh dealing with the name of the church and 3ABN 6-7:30 ET the principles of organization, it dealt with matters such as how to organize a PLOi Box 1058 Rpseville CA 95678 local church, appoint officers, admit new (916) 434-3880 http://www.netny99,org

Ministry/April 1999 15 TEP INTO THE FUTURE

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eVolce Of Prophecy • for information phone toll free: 1-877-955-2525 • 104100.141® compuserve.com members, and discipline existing mem "always been opposed to."12 Six specific is silent. If God had wanted the church bers. It outlined the duties of church dangers were identified for rejecting the to have a manual containing such officers and explained how to conduct manual. instruction about church life, the Spirit quarterly church business meetings, or 1. The danger of moving away from would have left one "with the stamp of dinances, weddings and funerals, as well the Bible as the "word of counsel" and inspiration upon it." as how to care for tithe, the matter of the church©s only creed and discipline. 4. The danger of insisting on ministerial credentials, and the holding Session delegates felt it would be uniformity. Circumstances vary. of church property. Substantial parts of inevitable that the manual would Individual problems should be dealt the material provided biblical justifica eventually take the role of shaping the with on merit. "Union" already prevailed tion for particular Adventist practices church instead of the Bible. The church throughout the body. "Uniformity" was and beliefs. The manual was basically had already successfully surmounted the not necessary. descriptive, as indicated by the frequent 5. The danger that the document use of such phrases as "it is customary would become a test of orthodoxy. among Adventists," "at the present Although, of course, not intended "to time," and "experience has shown." The have authority or settle disputed points" manual also included Uriah Smith©s nevertheless, because the document summary Statement on Fundamentals.11 would be approved by the General A survey of the Adventist Review of Jthough the Conference and be issued under its 1882-1883 indicates that the young "auspices," it would inevitably carry denomination was working hard at preface to the proposed manual "much weight of authority." It would developing a consensus on matters of become prescriptive of what must be church polity, teaching, and practice. acknowledged that its purpose done, not just descriptive of what Considerable diversity of practice and was to provide "a few simple generally had been done. Those who did sometimes confusion existed among the not follow would be considered "out of churches. Issues disputed included the rules" and not a set of harmony with established principles." nomination process for church office, 6. The danger of the slippery slope: the election of local church leadership, directions to be regarded as Where does one stop? Churches in the the transfer of church membership, and past, feeling the need for uniformity, had the form of the Communion service. "invariable under all prepared documents to "guide the Discussion of these issues resulted in a inexperienced." These had grown in definitive resolution by either a local circumstances," a clenched fist number and authority until they had conference or the General Conference. become "authoritative." It was best not did lie hidden beneath the to start down that road and give "even Why not a manual? velvet glove. The expectations the appearance of such a thing." Some of the questions implicit in What signals might have prompted the history of the designing of a church for an "orthodox© compliance the anxieties Butler, Mrs. White, and manual among Seventh-day Adventists their colleagues felt? Was there any are the following: If there was an were stated strongly in places. evidence in the document, or in the ongoing process of codification of church of these kinds of difficulties? practice through regular decisions at Perhaps. annual General Conference Sessions, if Although the preface to the pro normative approaches to church life "difficulties" associated with adopting a posed manual acknowledged that its were being established, if there was a formal, structured organization without purpose was to provide "a few simple demonstrated need for a manual of the aid of a manual. Would not the rules" and not a set of directions to be instructions what was the problem adoption of one make further growth regarded as "invariable under all cir with collating these in "manual" form? and development more difficult rather cumstances," a clenched fist did lie If the reasons for rejecting a manual were than less difficult? hidden beneath the velvet glove. The ex good then, might they not still be good 2. The danger of formalism. pectations for an "orthodox" compliance today? Church members and ministers would were stated strongly in places. For ex In their unanimous report the tend to rely on the manual instead of on ample, the importance of including manual review committee said their their individual God-given powers of footwashing in the Communion service concern was that the move would be a judgment and the direction of the Holy is stressed.13 The manual expressed the step toward "the formation of a creed, Spirit. hope that ministers who fail to comply or a discipline, other than the Bible," 3. The danger of trying to define, with this "will be dealt with in a sum something the denomination had too closely, things upon which the Bible mary manner." Was it this approach to

Ministry/April 1999 17 ensuring compliance with orthodoxy to be other Adventists who had not Perhaps there was just too much on that raised concerns? joined with the Sabbath keepers rather the agenda for the church at that time. Elsewhere the manual set out prac than pastors and church members The period of 1882-1883 had been tices that today seem quite narrow even within the body. Did this type of content difficult, witnessing the closing of Battle though we know that they reflected prac suggest to the review committee that the Creek College as well as intense criticism tices and perspectives of the time. For document might tend to become a kind of Mrs. White, her son W. C. White, and example, the procedure for accepting of creedal statement rather than simple other editorial helpers over changes new members into fellowship required "hints" for effective church governance? made in reissuing the Testimonies. a unanimous "rising vote" on the part Clearly, the detailed instructions Adventist Review editor Uriah Smith©s of the members attending the quarterly about the conducting of weddings and loyalty was also temporarily under meeting. If only one church member funerals troubled some on the commit question. Was he perhaps more inclined objected, the motion to accept the new tee who saw them as a possible drift to side with the opposition on some member was lost. Furthermore, mem toward formalism. J. H.Waggoner, edi issues? bers could not withdraw from fellowship tor of the Signs of the Times®, thought voluntarily. They could be removed from so. He expressed to W. C. White that Conclusion the church roll only by transfer to an "nothing of the kind that was published Despite the fact that the codification other Adventist church, by death, or in the Adventist Review" was what had of church practice and belief continued expulsion.14 With the benefit of hindsight actually been requested, certainly not through actions of the local and the it seems clear that formal codification formalistic "minute directions how to General Conferences, and despite the of church practice and belief into an "au conduct weddings!"16 strong need of the church and the thoritative" manual at this stage would ministry for formalized guidelines, the have been premature, inhibiting the de More reasons for rejection 1883 General Conference Session saw velopment of the church into a The reasons outlined above were more in the dangers associated with fellowship of believers broad enough to the ones that President Butler was developing a church manual than they take on a worldwide mission. prepared to discuss publicly. But there saw in the benefits of having one. Fifty Another example of the document©s were also "other reasons," he said, why years later circumstances and attitudes rather authoritarian approach deals the church manual was rejected. 17 A had changed to the extent that the with organization. The manual reflects study of the 1883 period and of the desirability of adopting a church manual a somewhat harsh attitude toward the specific content of the manual suggests outweighed the fears that it would brethren who had been on the losing side what some of these might have been. become a creed. George Butler©s in the earlier organizational debate. Canright, one of the leading prediction that the idea of a church While in 1883 church leadership was advocates of the manual, whose earlier manual had been dispatched forever confident in the "perfect harmony" on material constituted a significant part of proved false. By 1932 the General the matter of formally structured church it, had retired from preaching to take up Conference Committee had adopted a organization, perhaps the wounds from farming. He had become discouraged, fully developed model. the strident debates 25 years before had disillusioned with the church, and In 1883 the church turned away still not healed. The manual had the po disenchanted with Mrs. White; his from a manual because it feared such a tential for reopening old wounds. Those sentiments were partially shared by document would become prescriptive who had opposed organization were Review Editor Uriah Smith. These and a test of orthodoxy rather than de uncharitably described as being only "el negative attitudes concerning Mrs. scriptively outlining a "few simple rules" ements of weakness in the body," who White and some doctrines were known. based on effective existing practice. In had brought only "confusion and dis Perhaps the association of the manual the decades since the adoption of a traction." 15 Perhaps the "perfect with Canright made it difficult to adopt, church manual in the 1930s, the manual harmony" trumpeted in 1883 was not given Canright©s uncertain status.18 has been widely accepted and has been quite that perfect. Codifying things into The Marion party of former enormously helpful in bringing strength a church manual so soon after these de Adventists in Iowa was newly active in and cohesion to the church. But as the bates might have prompted a renewal 1883. They were critical of the church church on the threshold of the twenty- of the debate. and Mrs. White over changes in the first century wrestles with issues such as The manual also suggested there reprinting of some of her early marriage and divorce, the ordination of was still a lack of consensus on some testimonies. The denomination was women, tithing, and the relationship of issues. These parts of the manual pre sensitive to these charges. Perhaps churches to conferences, a new consen sented a reasoned debate setting out changing from an anti-creedal stance to sus seems difficult, despite the presence arguments justifying why, for example, the adoption of a manual might have of the Church Manual. Does the exist the church had adopted a name and or exposed the church to even more ence of a church manual today make ganization. The intended audience seems criticism than it could then handle. progress more or less difficult? Should

18 Ministry/April 1999 the concerns expressed in 1883 keep us 1 Review and Herald, (November 20, 8 Review and Herald, (June 5, 1883), 368, aware of the role of the manual as pri 1883), 745. 745; DMC, "Our Ministers" Review and Herald, 2 Review and Herald, (November 27, (Nov. 21, 1881), 328. marily a "descriptive" document rather 1883). 5'Review and Herald, (Oct. 17,1878). than a "prescriptive" one? And does such 3 According to W. C. White, his mother 10 Review and Herald, (Dec. 26,1882), 787. a perspective suggest that new initiatives had met with the committee during its delib 11 Review and Herald, (June 5-Sept. 25, and developments in the church seem erations and had "spoken well." WCW to May 1883). White, Nov. 1883. Although there is no extant 12 In his more detailed explanation to the best taken at a more local conference or report of what she said to the committee, the denomination as to why there would be "No church level (in counsel with leadership) general thrust of her other reported talks to Church Manual," Butler complimented the where implications can be studied, dan ministerial meetings at the conference sug "worthy" writers on their work and noted that gest her general emphasis at the time. She was the document contained "much excellent gers averted, and corrections made concerned that individual ministers needed matter" and had given "many valuable direc within a manageable arena? Amend to seek wisdom from God, to rely on the Word tions." The problem was not content per se. ments to the manual would then be of God as an adequate guide and not so much There were "broader" issues that related to adopted to ensure that it reflects suc on the counsel of others. "In it (the Bible) the desirability of adopting any manual what there are promises, directions, counsel and soever (Review and Herald, Nov. 20, 1883), cessful existing practice rather than reproof, which are to be used as the case may 733. trying to amend it to determine future require." We have "reached out altogether 13 See Review andHerald, (Dec. 26,1882), practice. too much for human beings for help," she 787. See also JOG to EGW, Apr. 13, 1882 The next article in this two-part asserted. "Jesus is the fountain head of wis (Washington, D.C.: Ellen G. White Resource dom, and our supply must be received from Center). series, scheduled to appear in the June him.""Word to Ministers" Nov. 1883 (Manu 14 Review and Herald, (Aug. 7,1883), 505. issue, will explore the background of the script 2,1883). See also (W-15a-1883); "Letter 15 Review and Herald, (June 5,1883), 362. shift in the denominational attitude to Brethren," Nov. 1883 (B-5-1883); Manu 16 JHW to WCW, Dec. 8,1883. toward a manual and trace the story script 11, 1883). 17 GIB "No Church Manual," (Nov. 27, 4 Review andHerald, (Nov. 20,1883), 746. 1883), 746. behind its development. ^ 5 W. H. Littlejohn, J. O. Corliss, and H. 18 DMC to Brother Long, (Dec. 9, 1883); A. St. John. DMC to US (1883); GIB to WCW (May 16, The second part of this article will 6 Review and Herald, (June 5, 1883), 361. 1882); Canright did not finally withdraw from appear in the June 1999 issue of Ministry. ©Ibid. the church until 1887.

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Ministry/April 1999 19 THE MINISTRY OF EQUIPPING astor Raimundo dos Santos Correia of the North Brazil Union baptized more than one thousand people in one year.

Joel Sarli, D.Min., is When the news reached me, I was a prosperity both in membership growth an associate bit skeptical. Perhaps there was some and in the spirituality of the churches. secretary of the exaggeration. I left for the Maranhao His members are full of enthusiasm. General Conference district to find out for myself. What I Ministerial found astounded me. Here was just an Every believer trained for ministry Association. ordinary pastor but a pastor with an Pastor Raimundo©s program is extraordinary vision. successful because the principles on When he assumed the pastorship which it is based are guided by God. of a twenty-church district, Pastor "God expects His church to discipline Raimundo felt overwhelmed by the and fit its members for the work of burden. He prayed. He immersed himself enlightening the world.... There should in his Bible. He consulted various be no delay in this well-planned effort sources of inspired wisdom and council. to educate the church members."1 "In Finally he turned to his members. He every church the members should be so wanted a group of men and women trained that they will devote time to the willing to be lay ministers. When He had winning of souls to Christ.... Let those his group, he trained them in the basic who have charge of the flock of Christ skills of church leadership and awake to their duty, and set many souls evangelism. He entrusted them with the to work."2 care of the congregations. Soon these lay Naturally, lay members who leaders began training others, who receive this training must then find learned to perform most of the outlets for service. "What can we expect ministerial responsibilities in the local but deterioration in religious life when congregations. Pastor Raimundo the people listen to sermon after sermon became their supervisor. and do not put the instruction into From this simple plan of lay training practice? The ability God has given, if and empowerment, Pastor Raimundo©s not exercised, degenerates."3 churches are experiencing explosive Ministry is the ultimate objective of growth year after year. Laypeople the church©s life. Every believer in conduct evangelistic campaigns, becoming a part of the Christian baptismal classes, and stewardship community must submit to the service programs. Then Pastor Raimundo of God. "The church is God©s appointed baptizes the thoroughly prepared agency for the salvation of men. It was candidates. This program has brought organized for service."4 Ministry, then,

20 Ministry/April 1999 is crucial to the very nature of the but in the hands of "all God©s people part of the body of Christ grows up into Christian church, and it is by conversion without exception." He further criticizes Him, allowing Him to be whom He is, that every member becomes a part of the traditional model of the church as a then unruly members are bound the ministry of the church. "He who pyramid, with the pastor perched together, and all formerly tossed ships becomes a child of God should precariously on its pinnacle, like a little find their anchor. All of this illustrates henceforth look upon himself as a link pope in his or her own church, while the graphically that there is only one "head" in the chain let down to save the world."5 laity are arrayed beneath in serried ranks or center of authority. And from that of inferiority a totally unbiblical head every part receives its sustenance Every believer a minister image. Not much better is the bus image, and power to substantiate all other In Scripture we find that some with the pastor as driver and the laity as parts. ministries or gifts are designed to equip passive passengers being taken to a The traditional method of other members of the body for their pastorally appointed destination. equipping for ministry did not take this own ministry (see Eph. 4:11, 12). No route. It supposed that clergy are the ministry is placed above another, and representatives of Christ, teaching and there is an interdependence of ministries. ruling the obedient masses. This So, the apostle Paul could climax his wandered completely outside of the great vision for a serving church with biblical method of ministering, where the following words: "Every part n a healthy every part of the body ministers to all [doing] its share . . . causes growth of other parts, while pastors equip all the body for the edifying of itself in love" church there is not a part or others to serve and receive service. (versel6,NKJV). Consequently, according to Now comes the question: Who section of the body that Ephesians 4, the whole body grows as really does ministry and for whom? ministers alone while all other each member serves with his or her God- Paul©s letter to the Ephesians makes it given gifts. The exalted Christ pours clear that Christ has given to the church segments are ministered to. All these gifts on His church, not as a system of ministerial reciprocity each adornments but as edifying means for part serving and equipping every other are ministers with special gifts service. Each member receives and gives part for the greater and overall service his or her gifts for equipping all others. of the church (verses 1-16). for ministry, and all ministries In summary, we see both from the In one edition of the Revised Bible and the example of Pastor Standard Version (1946) a "fatal are essential for corporate Raimundo in Brazil that ministry comma" was inserted between the first involves enabling one another to be and second classes of people mentioned service, growth, and unity in effective and complementary members in verse 12: "to equip the saints (,) for the church of Christ. of the body of Christ, the church. In a the work of ministry for building up the healthy church there is not a part or body of Christ." This comma would lead section of the body that ministers alone us to think that the previously while all other segments are ministered mentioned gift of "pastors and teachers" The biblical image is that of a body to. All are ministers with special gifts for had the distinct responsibility for with no hierarchical system but one of ministry, and all ministries are essential ministry. But erasing that comma, pluriformity with each part properly for corporate service, growth, and unity making it read "to equip the saints for working for other parts and receiving in the church of Christ. the work of ministry" an entirely its sustenance from all the others. Let us permissible translation change would take this another step and look at Paul©s 1 Ellen G. White, Christian Service return the emphasis to the gifts rather image of unruly children (Ephesians 4). (Hagerstown, Md.: Review and Herald Pub. than offices of ministry, thus including He paints a graphic picture of a family Assn., 1947), 58. all in the act of equipping the church. of children in a chaotic condition. His 2 Ibid., 61. John Stott says that this emphasis imagery then shifts to boats on a stormy 3 , Testimonies (Nampa, Id.: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1948), 6:425. brings into focus the immediate and sea devastated by the waves and wind. 4 , The Acts of the Apostles ultimate purposes of the gifts. The No child or parent, no boat or fleet (Nampa, Id.: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., immediate purpose is "to equip the saints captain, is able to do anything to right 1911), 9. for the work of ministry" (RSV, 1971), the situation when there is no center with 5 , The Ministry of Healing and the ultimate purpose is "for building power and control. (Nampa, Id.: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1942), 105. up the body of Christ."6 Stott goes on to The center Paul points to in 6 John R. W. Stott, God's New Society show that this places ministry within the Ephesians is Christ. He pictures Jesus as (Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1979), scope of not just a few "bossy" clerics the head of a body. If everyone who is 166-168.

Ministry/April 1999 21 ©W A T hen I was in my first \/\/ district, a doctor helping W W me with Breathe Free Seminars asked, "What can we do to A doctor and follow up our efforts?" "We could invite the people to come to your house weekly in small a minister groups to discuss ©Real Christianity,©" I suggested. DAVID L I V E R M O R Ten people showed up at his door with Bibles in hand. We held ingly, some of them opened up and The doctor and I couldn©t wait small-group meetings in his home even talked about their divorces. I to look at the cards. Everyone had that resulted in several baptisms. I©ll could hardly believe how many had been comfortable and felt that the never forget the day the doctor©s wife been divorced. With sadness, they evening had been a great way to stood up after Communion and spoke of how traditions were a thing begin the holiday season. Two said, "What has happened in our of the past for them. Their lives had requested Bible studies; one asked if home this past year needs to happen changed so drastically. this could be a new Christmas in every home in this church." The After much sharing, the doctor tradition. One, we discovered, was a small groups continued in that area said that she had invited me to share new-age witch. She talked about the until the doctor relocated. with them too. I began by telling positive power she had felt all One day before both of us left, them about gift giving at Christ evening in the room. She had come we were discussing together how we mas how you need a giver, a gift, up to me as she was getting ready to could reach out to more people. We and a recipient of the gift. As an leave and told me that she felt more thought of a program for his patients illustration, I gave one of the nurses at peace in her heart than she had and named it "Dine With Doc." We a gift that my doctor friend had felt for a long time. invited up to forty of his patients to handmade. Then I talked about People were blessed. But most a vegetarian meal, and then we both John 3:16 and how God, out of love, of all because of her love for Christ spoke on the health of the heart. He sent us the world©s greatest gift. As I and longing to reach others, my spoke on how unforgiveness affects watched the nurses, I knew they doctor friend had done something the heart, and I spoke on how a heart were with me. I talked about how I she only dreamed could ever have is made new. We followed the had had a hole in my heart until I been possible. She had truly reached program with "Dine With Doc©s applied this gift of Jesus Christ right out to the group of people that only Kids." His children put on a in the center of it. I described Christ she could touch. The touch that was program for the same people with as the missing piece to the puzzle of felt that night was more than just the another meal that we served them. life. We were clearly connecting. I doctor©s touch. It was the touch of This year, in our new location, invited them to pray with me the God, a personal touch. one of our doctors had been think "sinner©s prayer" and unwrap this There are, no doubt, myriad ing of how to reach some of the gift and apply it in their own lives. other ways of teaming up with the nurses she works with daily. Then When I had finished praying, I had physicians in our churches. It©s she heard about an evangelistic cards and pens ready, and I asked worth searching out these ways and Christmas party. She invited thirty them to write down how they felt bringing them to reality in our nurses to her home to share Christ about being there that night. If they communities. mas traditions. On the invitation were asking Jesus to enter their There is something special that she mentioned that there would be a hearts for the first time, I asked happens when we work together in special guest to talk about the real them to specifically mention that. I this way. meaning of Christmas. The special told them that the doctor was David Livermore guest was yours truly. I arrived, not interested in having a January Bible is senior pastor of knowing what to expect but pre study in her home, and if they theKelso- pared to present the gospel. Thirteen wanted to be a part of it, they should Longview Seventh- nurses were there when I arrived. leave their name and phone num day Adventist With smiles and kindness, they ber. We finished with some more Church in shared their Christmas traditions. Christmas cookies baked by the Longview, One by one they spoke, and amaz- doctor and then they left. Washington.

22 Ministry/April 1999 Gerard Damsteegt, Editorial Note: Following the 1995 seminary. No longer so. It has moved Th.D., is associate General Conference Session in Utrecht, from the classroom and the scholar so professor of church the author of this article contacted as to affect the lifestyle of the member history at Andrews Ministry requesting that he present a and the decisions of the church. Time University, Berrien clarifying review of the positions he took was when Adventists learned in the Springs, Michigan. in his formal presentation at the session evangelistic tent that if the Lord said it, on the issue of women's ordination. We we should have courage to believe it and declined his request, citing our post- act on it. End of argument. People gave Utrecht, self-imposed moratorium on up jobs and risked family division articles dealing principally with the because of what Scripture said. question of women's ordination. After Of course, we have always had to substantial negotiations and wider interpret Scripture, but over the years counsel, it was agreed that Dr. Damsteegt our hermeneutic has become more com would submit a revised draft with the issue plex. After the 1995 General Conference of biblical interpretation as its partial at Utrecht, hermeneutics became a par theme, and connecting women's ticularly hot issue in the Seventh-day ordination to the hermeneuticalprinciples Adventist church. Why? Because the way he advocates. Here is the article. While one reads Scripture was seen to result in we agree with some of what Dr. Damsteegt opposite outcomes results which pro espouses, we feel that the articles which duced heat under the collar and the appeared in last month's issue of Ministry rolling up of sleeves! are more representative of our Church's Some articles in our periodicals are position on biblical hermeneutics. suggesting that it is time for Adventists to adopt a "mature" approach to the Adventists, people of the Book? Per Bible. They say that instead of a "literal- haps "peoples" of the Book would be istic" view of Scripture, Adventists need more appropriate, because different ap a "principled approach." proaches to the Bible have been If there is an approach that will help introduced in Adventism that signifi us improve our interpretations of the cantly affect belief and lifestyle. The Bible Bible, we should welcome it. However, still reads the same; the conflict comes every new insight we accept should pass in how it is interpreted and applied. the test "To the law and to the testimony! "Hermeneutics" the method of If they do not speak according to this interpreting the Scriptures was once an word, it is because there is no light in abstract subject confined to the them" (Isa. 8:20).*

P. GERARD DAMSTEEGT

Ministry/April 1999 23 Adventist approach to Scripture that "those who are engaged in pro women in the church. Does this illustrate The early Adventist approach to claiming the third angel©s message are that our well-established methods of Scripture, the one that has guided us for searching the Scriptures upon the same biblical interpretation are faulty? Should more than one hundred and fifty years, plan" that Miller adopted.3 Consistent we replace them with a more "mature" was most clearly expressed by William with this thinking Adventists have approach to scripture which considers Miller, who came to conclusions similar stressed the importance of upholding the tendency or direction of the Bible to those of the sixteenth-century reform the Bible as the "standard of every doc versus what the Bible actually says? ers. Miller attributed the discovery of his trine and practice," urging that it must principles simply to "studying the Bible."© be the decisive factor in settling "all The case of jewelry Of Miller©s fourteen rules, those controversies,4 and recommending a "Old-time" Adventists removed most often cited by Adventists are: (a) clear focus on the plain reading of their earrings, necklaces, and rings on "every word must have its proper scripture, for "the Word of God is infall the basis of New Testament injunctions bearing on the subject presented in the ible; accept it as it reads."5 to a life of simplicity (1 Tim. 2:9, 10; Bible"; (b) look at "all Scripture"; (c) Following these guidelines, Adven 1 Pet. 3:3,4). "Not wearing gold" meant "to understand doctrine" "bring all the tists have historically sought to establish just that. Adventist pioneer, S. N. Haskell Scriptures together on the subject you our teachings in harmony with all the would not even wear a gold watch so as wish to know, then let every word have biblical evidence on a particular subject. to not confuse the weaker believers6 its proper influence"; and (d) "Scripture The result has been a array of beliefs (1 Corinthians 8:7-13). must be its own expositor, since it is a based on the Bible, and the Bible only, Newer studies have added an rule of itself."2 which gave Adventists the reputation of auxiliary argument to the basic ones. The In the history of the Seventh-day being truly a people of the Book. new suggestion is that living in the Adventist church, Ellen White highly This way of viewing and coming to antitypical day of atonement implies recommended Miller©s rules of inter the Bible is now being questioned within that we should not wear jewelry. pretation, calling them "simple but the Church. The questioning is notable Israelites were required -to "afflict" intelligent and important rules for Bible as it relates to questions such as themselves on the Day of Atonement; study and interpretation." She added adornment and the role of men and similarly, it is suggested, spiritual Israel

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24 Ministry/April 1999 is called upon to do the same during the permission to put their jewelry back on.9 church leadership. The representatives of antitypical Day of Atonement. One way In a later period of apostasy, they the world church, convened at Utrecht of afflicting ourselves could be through again wore jewelry, but Isaiah 3 portrays in the 1995 General Conference Session, a lifestyle of humility characterized by God©s judgment against their doing so. voted not to grant the North American plainness of dress and the putting aside It was the "proud" who were wearing Division©s request to allow each division of jewelry.7 jewelry, and God in judgment an to set its own policies with regard to the Not everyone is comfortable with nounced that he would strip off their ordination of women. this view. Objectors say that such an ornaments. Before the vote, one designated antijewelry position has not seriously The New Testament says that in a speaker set forth the hermeneutic that considered the implications of the type. certain sense the last days had arrived Adventists have maintained since their Because the children of Israel, on the Day even in apostolic times (Heb. 1:2). It is beginning. Summarized, it was as of Atonement, were required to abstain notable that the New Testament gives no follows: from sex and from all work while encouragement to the wearing of jewelry. Ellen White contends that "the nothing is said about the wearing of On the contrary, Paul and Peter Scriptures are plain upon the relations jewelry it could be argued that in the condemn it and urge believers instead and rights of men and women."11 The antitype, spiritual Israel ought to abstain to be modest in dress, professing the Bible teaches the equality of men and from sex and work. Because Adventists "incorruptible beauty of a gentle and women and also the existence of unique do not abstain from sex and work on quiet spirit" and "good works" (1 Tim. differences between them that are the antitypical Day of Atonement, it does 2:9,10; 1 Pet. 3:3,4). responsible for the unique roles the Lord not make sense to employ Day of Scripture teaches that the antitypical has intended for them. Atonement reasoning against the use of Day of Atonement was to take place From the moment of creation, men jewelry.8 toward the end of the Christian era. and women have equality of being, both This is a type-antitype misunder Daniel 8 shows that it was to begin in having been created in "the image of standing. We need to determine which 1844, when Christ would inaugurate the God" (Gen. 1:27). Similarly, they have part of the type is still relevant for the final judgment. shared equality in worth. God "shows Christian and which is not. Adventists Adventists are exhorted to no partiality" (Acts 10:34), for all are have always emphasized the rule of in contemplate the pre-Advent judgment "one in Christ Jesus." "There is neither terpretation that we first consider the "often." Christ©s judgment since 1844, Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor whole teaching of Scripture on a par Ellen White states, is investigating the use free, there is neither male nor female" ticular subject before coming to a of "our time, our pen, our voice, our (Gal. 3:28). conclusion. The question is: What does money, our influence." The destiny of While preserving their equality, the the Bible say about behavior on the an God©s people is being determined by the Bible reveals that God created men and cient Day of Atonement that is relevant heavenly records, which reveal every women to be complementary in nature for today? aspect of our behavior, including our use but with different roles. Fulfillment of It is widely recognized that the Day of money "sacrificed for display and self- these distinctive roles is indispensable for of Atonement was a type of the final indulgence." "All who would have their both healthy families and healthy judgment. On it believers were required names retained in the book of life should churches. to "afflict" themselves (Lev. 16:31; 23:27, now, in the few remaining days of their The universal thrust of 1 Timothy©s 32), that is, to humble themselves. This probation, afflict their souls before God direct injunctions was intended to reveal is clear from Psalm 35:13, where the by sorrow for sin and true repentance. instructions for the successful operation same Hebrew verb is translated There must be deep, faithful searching of the church throughout the Christian "humble." There was no place for of heart."10 era. Says the apostle, "I am writing these pride hence, for the display of jewelry. The well-established Adventist instructions to you so that... you may When God called His people to practice of viewing all teachings in the know how one ought to behave in the judgment after the golden-calf episode, light of the whole Bible reveals that it is household of God, which is the church He explicitly commanded them "to ©take indeed proper to appeal to the of the living God, the pillar and bulwark off your ornaments, that I may know antitypical Day of Atonement as one of the truth" (1 Tim. 3:14,15, RSV). what to do to you©" (Exod. 33:5). The argument against the wearing of jewelry. What were these special instructions literal rendering of the text describing for God©s church? For one thing, Paul the Israelites© response was that they The male and female roles in taught that a woman should not usurp "stripped themselves of their ornaments church leadership "authority over a man" (1 Tim. 2:12). from Mount Horeb onward" (Exod. In the past, Adventists have As God©s inspired apostle, he gave two 33:6, NASB). The removal of jewelry opposed the appointing of women to reasons. First: "Adam was formed first, symbolizes a change of heart. Nowhere the office of elder and pastor because it then Eve" (1 Tim. 2:13). in the Old Testament did God grant Israel is contrary to the biblical teachings on Paul reveals here that there were dif-

Ministry/April 1999 25 ferences in roles even before sin entered Are there not capable women who prominent Bible women who had the and long before variant cultures devel are good administrators? Yes, indeed; gift of prophecy Miriam, Deborah, oped. He points out that the order in but the Bible does not call simply for Hulda, and Anna17 they looked with which the first man and woman were able administrators to lead God©s approval on Ellen White also, whose created teaches an important leadership church. It calls for men who have been prophetic authority, like that of the Bible principle. God©s act of creating the man successful husbands and priests in their prophetesses, embraced messages to first was not an incidental event but one own families. men and women. However, while that illustrated the divine plan that the Adventist women were encouraged to man is called to fulfill the leadership role. Was Ellen White a false prophet? participate fully in worship, no one Paul©s second reason for denying full 1 Timothy 2:12 says, "I do not per intimated that the prophetic gift gave authority to women is derived from the mit a woman to teach or to have Old Testament women the prerogative origin of sin: "Adam was not deceived, authority over a man but to be in si to be priests or that it made Ellen White but the woman being deceived, fell into lence." Would a literal application of this an elder. Although as prophetess Mrs. transgression" (1 Tim. 2:14). This rea instruction imply that "Ellen White must White bore distinct messages to our son, like the first one, was based on a be a false prophet of the most serious leaders directly from the Lord, she was biblical event that had no relationship type," as someone has asserted?13 After personally submissive to church to culture. all, Ellen White taught authoritatively leadership "as to the Lord." Contrary to those who say that Paul throughout her career. Despite our church©s openness to was merely a man of his culture, with If a literal application of 1 Timothy women participating fully in worship, his own biases and prejudices, Ellen 2:12 would make Mrs. White a false early Adventists were careful to White has said that the inspired prophet, many of our Adventist pioneers distinguish specific roles for men and Scripture is not affected "by human were guilty of making her a false women. An editorial, "Woman©s Place in prejudice or human pride."12 prophet for they did indeed apply this the Gospel," commenting on 1 Timothy instruction literally. In fact, in the early 2:12, said "that a woman is not allowed Biblical qualifications days of our church, non-Adventist critics to teach nor usurp authority over the In this context, Scripture states repeatedly tried to prove that Mrs. White man." "The divine arrangement, even expressly that an elder or minister must was a false prophet. Their criticism from the beginning, is this, that the man be the "husband of one wife" (1 Tim. forced our pioneers to publish articles is the head of the wo man" (Eph. 5:23). 3:2). The word husband in Greek is aner, on what Scripture really teaches on the The editorial went on to say, "Man is a term that always refers to the male role of women in the church. entitled to certain privileges which are gender when used, as here, alongside the For one thing, our pioneers warned not given to woman; and he is subjected Greek word for woman. people not to come to conclusions that to some duties and burdens from which But being a man is not alone suffi are based only on one or two texts in the woman is exempt. A woman may cient qualification! The passage requires Timothy. As William Miller taught, pray, prophesy, exhort, and comfort the an elder not only to be male but also to Scripture must be compared with church, but she cannot occupy the be blameless, hospitable, temperate, and Scripture until an explanation emerges position of a pastor or a ruling elder. a good father, among several other quali that harmonizes all passages on a This would be looked upon as usurping fications. If it is true that no woman can subject.14 authority over the man, which is here be an elder, it is also true that very few Using this hermeneutic, early [1 Tim. 2:12] prohibited."18 men can be. Adventists concluded that Paul in fact In the early Adventist articles dealing Why does the Bible call for an elder wanted women to participate actively in with 1 Timothy 2:12 it is clear that the to be "husband of one wife"? The pros church life. Women could exercise their "teaching" that was forbidden to women perity of a church depends on the gifts, pray, prophesy, edify, exhort, and was not every type of teaching. Paul stability of its families. An elder with a comfort (1 Cor. 11:5 and 14:3). Our pio actually exhorted women to be "teachers stable family provides a model in the neers pointed out that Paul greatly of good things" (Titus 2:3).19 What was church for all fathers. This is why an appreciated women who were actively prohibited to women was the teaching elder must be "one who rules his own involved in ministry, naming Phoebe, authority associated with the office of house well, having his children in sub Priscilla, Mary, Tryphena, Tryphosa, an elder, as the context of 1 Timothy 3 mission with all reverence" (1 Tim. 3:4). and Persis (Rom. 16:1-3, 6, 12; Acts makes clear. Scripture adds, "For if a man does 18:26).© 5 Thus our pioneers encouraged Early Adventists found the Bible©s not know how to rule his own house, women to pray, sing, and testify in reli balance in the midst of their milieu. They how will he take care of the church of gious meetings so long as they did not discovered that Paul did not forbid God?" (1 Tim. 3: 5). It shows that God usurp authority over men (1 Tim. women to participate in gospel work or wants experienced spiritual leaders to 2:12).16 in worship, but they did not follow the lead His church. Because our pioneers took note of trend emerging among some nineteenth-

26 Ministry/April 1999 century Christians of establishing 17 Ibid.; J. White, Review and Herald, May 29, extent of prayer, the magnitude of 1879. women as elders/ministers of congrega "Signs of the Times, Dec. 19, 1878, 380. J. corporate soul searching or the level of tions. Thus the pioneer teaching and White, J. N. Andrews, and U. Smith are listed as edi eagerness to know the will of God that tors and J. H. Waggoner as resident editor. See also N. practice confirmed Ellen White©s asser J. Bowers,"May Women Publicly Labor in the Cause was palpably present last month as we tion that "the Scriptures are plain upon of Christ?" Review and Herald, June 14, 1881. met to search out a leader for our " See W. M. Healey, "Women as Teachers," Signs the relationship and rights of men and of the Times, Feb. 10, 1881. worldwide congregation. I am con women." vinced all that has happened has been divinely intended and even calculated, Conclusion Crisis time, grace time as events shaped themselves into the Not wearing jewelry during the crisis of the last few months. In God©s continued from p. 4 antitypical Day of Atonement and not sovereignty the storm brought us permitting women to be ordained as troubles in almost exclusively organi figuratively and literally to our knees. elders/ministers are practices built on zational, structural, political or A good place to be, especially if we had sound biblical principles. To denounce pragmatic terms, that our most not been there much of late. these principles as "literalistic" is to fail common reaction in all our crises is to But let us now continue to to understand the nature of the Day of ask such limiting questions as "Who is embrace God©s call to us to "live Atonement and the kind of biblical to blame?" "What structures, policies always with the wisdom and intensity leadership that Christ instituted at or organizational measures must we that accompanied" us as we walk Creation and upheld in the New modify to prevent this from happen within our crises. If we do not there Testament as a model for His church in ing again?" or "Isn©t it terrible that the maybe in God©s sovereign discretion the last days. Surely the "people of the Devil seems to have such a foothold in another and perhaps yet another Book" can do no better than follow the the Church?" Of course, these are storm, even more severe than those Book. important questions, but they tend to that have so far blown through the be asked in such a way and with such Church, exploited by God to bring us * All Scripture passages in this article are from the New King James Version, except as otherwise an assigned significance that they tend about so that the ship of the church stated. to eclipse the spiritual realities hidden will sail as He means it to on the 1 "Miller©s Rules of Bible Interpretation," in P. in the storms that pound the church. course He has chosen. G. Damsteegt, Foundations of the Seventh-day So it has been enriching to be part Adventist Message and Mission, 299. 2 Ibid. of the process of electing a new 1 Robert Stewart, quoted by Martin Marty in 3 Ellen G. White, Notes of Travel, Review and General Conference President. Context, February 15, 1998, Volume 30, Number 4. Herald, Nov. 25, 1884. 2 C. S. Lewis, The Lion, the Witch, and the 4 , The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, Personally, I have seldom if ever felt in Wardrobe (New York: Collier Books, 1950) 75, 1:44,45. myself or in this Church of ours the 76. 5 , "The Tasmanian Camp-Meeting," Review and Hera Id, Feb. 11, 1896,81. 6 Letter, S. N. Haskell to H. M. Kelly, Oct. 28, 1913. 7 Richard M. Davidson, "The Good News of Yom Kippur," in Journal of the Adventist Theological Society, Autumn 1991, 17, 18. 8 George R. Knight, "Proving More Than In They want tended," Ministry, March 1996, 26. 9 Samuele Bacchiocchi, Christian Dress and Adornment, 34,35; Angel M. Rodriguez, "Jewelry in the Old Testament: A Description of Its Functions," in To Understand the Scriptures: Essays in Honor of a piece William H. Shea, David Merling, ed. (Berrien Springs, Mich.: Institute of Archeology, Siegfried H. Horn Archeological Museum, Andrews University, 1997), 115. of the pie 10 Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy (Nampa, Idaho: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1911), 487, 488, 490. One young man wants an Adventist " , Testimonies for the Church (Nampa, Idaho: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1948) 1:421. education so bad he sells coconut pies. 12 , Patriarchs and Prophets, (Nampa, Help the youth of the Philippines become Idaho: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1913), 596. part of the vibrant growing church. 13 Knight, 27. 14 See J. White, "Women in the Church," Re view and Herald, May 29,1879; D. Hewitt, "Let Your June 26,1999 A message from the Women Keep Silence in the Churches," Review and Office of Mission Awareness Herald, Oct. 15, 1857. 12501 Old Columbia Pike 15 See J. White, Review and Herald, May 29, Thirteen* Sabbath Offering to build academy and Silver Spring, MD 20904 USA 1879; U. Smith, "Let Your Women Keep Silence in the couege dormitory space ans cnapeis in tne Philippines. (301)680-6676 Churches," Review and Herald, June 26,1866. 16 See U. Smith, Review and Herald, June 26, 1866. The article was reprinted in Signs of the Times, Aug. 26, 1875.

Ministry/April 1999 27 PASTOR©S PASTO.R

r hat are may think money gives them power, your freedom, and independence. "If I make w respon Preparation enough money I won©t need anyone sibilities for the else. If this marriage doesn©t work, I©ll future stability of still be fine." When couples discover those marriages at for marriage how each other thinks about money, which you officiate? they can begin to work through their The greatest JAMES A. CRESS differences. Credit and debt are often impact a pastor can make on the twin problems for newly-married establishment of a new family is prior Spiritual life: Do the prospective couples. Even "honeymoon debt," to the wedding ceremony during pre marriage partners have a unity of student loans, or car payments which marital counseling.* faith? More importantly, do they have are brought into the marriage can add I©ve found the following eight a basic uniformity of practice? For pressure which sparks conflict. issues to be especially significant for example, if one partner is devout and Sexuality: When God created prospective marriage partners. Each engaged in their religious experience humans as sexual beings, He designed should be seriously contemplated and the other is casual and distant marriage for physical intimacy. Sin has prior to marriage because each issue from spiritual activities, conflicts will scarred God©s plan. Some of those must, of necessity, be dealt with in inevitably arise. Issues such as mem whom you counsel will have prior marriage. bership, church attendance, family sexual experiences which will impact In fact, I believe this process is so worship, personal devotions, and their future relationship. I always important, that I will not officiate a service ministries should be explored. emphasize generosity and responsibil wedding without investing quality Extended family: Other family ity as dual priorities. Each partner hours discussing these issues. Person members who impact the new home should be sexually generous and each ally, I schedule eight one-hour sessions include in-laws (or as one prospective should seek responsibility for their so that each topic can be fully ex bride described her groom©s parents, mate©s enjoyment. Of all areas, plored. It is more important for me to "outlaws"), children, and, increasingly, sexuality demands vital and on-going lead the couple to discuss these issues step-children and ex-spouses. I communication between partners. openly together, than it is for me to encourage marriage partners to Areas of discussion might in elude birth lecture them on the topic©s importance. develop a life together prior to rushing control, sexual relations just for These eight issues, with the into parenthood. In addition to basic pleasure, trust, taboos, and if neces exception of the first, are not ranked in agreement regarding when and how sary, dealing with past relationships. any order of importance. Unresolved, many children to bear, prospective Time: Partners should understand each is a major factor in the destruc partners should consider wider the other©s view of work and leisure tion of homes. Since my objective is to influences on their home from time. Does that viewpoint include a establish marriages that can last colleagues, bosses, and confidants. For healthy balance? Is one partner©s forever and remain happy for that example, are there career expectations personal identity too closely aligned length of time I focus on each issue for one partner which will negatively with their profession? Are there as a potential area of conflict and seek impact parenting time or skills. Has different expectations about shared creative ways to resolve the challenges the couple followed the Biblical work loads at home? If both are which will arise. counsel and "left" their father and employed, is it fair to expect only one Should a couple refuse to partici mother? What support or lack of spouse to accomplish routine chores pate in such a preparation for marriage support will they receive from their in- of cooking, cleaning, repair, and process, then I refuse to conduct their laws? Who is allowed into the family maintenance? Every couple must make wedding. Likewise, if it becomes clear circle as a trusted confidant? How will decisions about scheduling vacations that the partners have little chance of conflicts in these areas be resolved? (when and where, with or without harmony, I will also decline to officiate Financial realities: What impact extended family), maintaining a even if we have shared the preparation on a marriage will occur from healthy lifestyle through exercise and process. Because of distance or other conflicting views of money? Is there nutrition, and avoiding burnout from issues, I have conducted marriages unity of practice on stewardship? Does overwork or overcommitment to even where the preparation process was led one partner see money as a control good and worthy things. by a trusted colleague, but I really mechanism? "I have lots of money; Communication: Why is it that prefer to lead this process myself. that means I have control." Others couples who never have enough time

28 Ministry/April 1999 PASTOR'S PASTOR

together prior to marriage, later think RESOURCE BIBLIOGRAPHY Wright, H. Norman, Communication: Key to Your Marriage. Gospel Light, 1997. they have "nothing to talk about?" Real Spiritual Life Adjustments Mason, Mike, The Mystery of Marriage. Multnomah, communication thrives in an Markham, Howard, Scott Stanley, and S. L. Blumberg. 1985. Fighting for Your Marriage. Jossey-Bass, 1994. atmosphere of intimacy and shared Morley, Patrick, Devotions for Couples. Zondervan, 1994. Wright, H. Norman, Seasons of a Marriage. Regal, 1983. objectives. It is important to continue Parrott, Les and Leslie. Becoming Soul Mates: Cultivating Spiritual Intimacy in the Early Years of General Books the courtship. Remember, those things Marriage. Zondervan, 1997. Joy, Donald M., Ph.D. Bonding: Relationships in the Stanley, Scott, The Heart of Commitment. Thomas that attract partners to each other will Image of God. Published by the General Conference Nelson, 1998. keep them attracted in the future. Ministerial Association. Joy, Donald M., Ph.D. Re-Bonding. Published by the Integrity of communication is Extended Family General Conference Ministerial Association. Cloud, Henry and John Townsend. Boundaries. essential. A partner should never need Parrott, Les and Leslie. Saving Your Marriage Before It Zondervan, 1992. Starts. Zondervan, 1995. doubt the honesty of their spouse. Kincaid, Ron and Jorie Kincaid. In-Laws: Getting Along Wright, H. Norman, So You're Getting Married. Regal, With Your Other Family. Intervarsity, 1996. 1997. Leveling regarding conflict, Wright, H. Norman, Mothers, Sons & Wives. Regal, confrontation rather than avoidance, 1996. SDA Resources How to Prepare Couples for Marriage, by Ron and Karen and trust rather than jealousy are all Financial Realities Flowers. Video. Ministerial Association Resource communication issues. Burkett, Larry, Debt-Free Living. Moody Press, 1989. Center, 301-680-6508. Burkett, Larry, Using Your Money Wisely. Moody Press, Preparing for Marriage. Department of Family Ministries, Adjustments: The necessity of 1985. General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, 1985. appropriate adjustments is illustrated Dean, James D. and Charles W. Morris. Breaking Out of Pastor/counselor resources for six premarital sessions Plastic Prison. Fleming H. Revell, 1997. and one post-wedding session. Contains 4 audio by the classic story of the bride who cassettes. Available from AdventSource, 5040 Prescott visited the church and pictured herself Sexuality Avenue, Lincoln, NE 68506. 1-800-832-0525. Mazat, Alberta, Captivated by Love-, General Conference Togetherness, Oneness, Joy. Department of Family walking down the aisle, then gazed at Ministerial Association, 1996. Ministries, General Conference of Seventh-day Penner, Clifford and Joyce Penner. Getting Your Sex Life Adventists, 1985. Couple workbook for Preparing for the altar, and finally selected the hymn Off to a Great Start. Word, 1995. Marriage. Available from AdventSource, 5040 Prescott for her wedding. As she finished the Wheat, Ed and Gaye Wheat. Intended for Pleasure. Avenue, Lincoln, NE 68506. Markham, Howard, Scott Fleming H. Revell, 1997. Stanley, and S. L. Blurnberg. Fighting for Your process, she suddenly realized her life Marriage. Jossey-Bass, 1994. 1-800-832-0525. mission aisle, altar, hymn. "I©ll alter Time Arp, David and Claudia. Ten Great Dates to Revitalize Video-based Resources him!" If either partner believes their Your Marriage. Zondervan, 1997. Burkett, Larry, How to Manage Your Money, Video set. mission is to change the other, they are Christian Financial Concepts. 1-800-722-1976. Communication Wright, H. Norman, How to Do Premarital Counseling. inviting major crisis. I once declined to Miiler, Sherrod, Daniel Wachman, Elam Nunnaly, and Gospel Light, 1996. Three two-hour videotapes of a marry a couple because the prospective Phyllis Miller. Connecting with Self and Others. seminar and real counseling sessions led by H. Interpersonal Communication Programs, Inc., 1988. Norman Wright. Includes a 32-page reproducible bride could not relinquish her ideas of Smalley, Gary, and John Trent. The Language of Love. information and resource guide. Pocket Books, 1991. Wright, H. Norman, So You're Getting Married. Family what her intended "would become" Van Pelt, Nancy, How to Talk So Your Mate Will Listen— Resources, 1995. Grace Products Corp. 1-800-527- under her tutelage. She wanted the and Listen So Your Mate Will Talk. Fleming H. Revell, 4014. Two volumes with 8 one-hour videotapes for 13 man she was certain she could create. 1989. premarital sessions. Includes His and Her workbooks. Beyond major challenges during the first year of marriage, ongoing adjustments are necessary as children, health issues, empty-nests, dependent relatives, etc., impact the home. SEEDS'99 Personhood: While basic personalities do not change, the A Church Planting Conference - converting power of the Holy Spirit should transform believers into growing Come to learn & share ... HOW tO PlOPt more like Jesus. Respect for spouses as Natural Church Development individuals created in God©s image is 8 Tracks: Qualities of a Healthy Church L J /^v/^l©l©r^V / essential and precludes any tolerance of abuse and violence, codependency and 100 Seminarsnars on Church Planting /~*l^. L_ enabling sinful behavior, and Young Adult/Youthbit/Youth Seminars C* H U TC M OS unreasonable expectations for change. Spanish Language.anguage Seminars-t-Seminars -f The very first gift which God gave to TranslationmofPlenaries of Plenaries JUH6 8~12, 1999 man was the marriage relationship. As For Laity,,Pastors,Administrators Pastors, Administrators Andrews University pastors, we need to help prolmugate that blessing to those whom we marry. H Call... 1.800.255.7568

Ministry/April 1999 29 fed themselves Ministry Reports and where they can share with each other and Westpoint of Evangelism especially with features cutting-edge methods younger "Daring Evangelism for a Dying evangelists and World," the 1998 Westpoint of pastors. Evangelism week, brought together Through the more than 200 evangelists, pastors, exchange of and lay persons to share what works ideas and and to learn cutting-edge techniques. expenences, Participants chose from a variety of seminars, such as this one on how to launch an Internet Bible School at a local church. The group represented not only many learn the West Coast conferences, but also better methods." Kurt Johnson, director of the several other areas of the United States How to reach today©s television- Voice of Prophecy Bible School, and and Canada. In addition, three oriented audience using computer- Alvin Glassford, who directs the conference presidents came from generated images was featured on three ministry of the Joy River cyberspace Norway, and a church worker from afternoons at the 1998 Westpoint. Dave Adventist church, demonstrated a new Brazil attended. Gemmell, pastor of the Mountain interactive Internet Bible School that View church in Las Vegas, will be available to local congregations presented three sessions with this spring. the assistance of specialists Evangelists Eradio Alonso, Jac Palmer Halversen, David Colon, Kenneth Cox, John Fowler, Jones, and Steve Wohlberg. Mark Fox, Brian McMahon, Leo How to reach "Gen- Schreven, and Jim Zachary presented Xers" received significant seminars. attention during a discus Young adults in their 20s were well sion chaired by Ron represented at the Westpoint meetings. Whitehead, associate Several had attended Louis Torres©s director of the Center for training school in the Dakota Confer Media ministry leaders presented the evening sessions Youth Evangelism, and panel ence to become Bible workers. Some during Westpoint. From left are Doug Batchelor of Amazing members Shasta Burr, now work with Brent Brusett©s Facts, Bill Tucker of The Quiet Hour, Mark Finley of It Is Written, and Lonnie Melashenko of the Voice of Prophecy. Cindy Tutsch, and Tony campaigns in Northern California, Anobile. Art Bushnell from and a young couple from Romania Westpoint is held annually in the Central California Conference will soon move to the East Coast to mid-December and is sponsored by moderated another panel which work in evangelism. the Pacific Union Conference and the discussed "How Clergy Families Up to 30 lay people attended Voice of Prophecy in association with It Flourish in Evangelism." various sessions. Some have worked Is Written, Amazing Facts, primarily in North Ameri The Quiet Hour, and the can crusades, while others North Pacific Union. The ; have been involved in event combines the Pacific overseas evangelism. Union Evangelism Council Among them are Joy and the Voice of Prophecy's Johansen and Rhoda Lau, Westpoint weekend, begun who went to the Philippines by H. M. S. Richards Jr. in last year; and Ralph Arnold the 1970s. Sr. and his wife, Pat. "Evangelists give and The enthusiastic re give all year," said Lloyd sponse to Morris Venden©s Wyman, chairman for the devotional hour each At the annual Westpoint of Evangelism, December 1998, Marie Spangler, Westpoint council, "with Lillian Guild, and Elder Dan Guild were honored for their lifelong morning encouraged only a week or two off commitment to evangelism and their personal soul winning ministry. Pastor Wyman to schedule between their crusades. Pictured are Lloyd Wyman, Ministerial Secretary for the Pacific Union, him for another series at Marie Spangler, Lillian Guild, Dan Guild, Lonnie Melashenko, Speaker/ They need to have a Director of the Voice of Prophecy, and James A. Cress, General Conference the 1999 Westpoint of meeting where they can be Ministerial Association Secretary. Evangelism week, set for

30 Ministry/April 1999 Dec. 12-16, at the Radisson Hotel in Simi Valley, California. For further information about the evangelism council, contact Lloyd Wyman©s office at the Pacific Union Conference. Lloyd Wyman, Chair, Westpoint Council, Pacific Union Conference. South-East European Union hosts youth retreat Ministerial Association Secretary Jozsef Farago of the South-East European Union, (which includes Serbia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Macedonia, and the territory of Pictured are the young people who attended the South-Eastern European Union youth retreat. Montenegro) conducted a Christmas Pastor Farago is the third from the left standing in the rear of the group. seminar and retreat for the teenage children of pastors in the union. The Each morning and evening, Bible walking and skiing. Many young retreat was held at the Adventist studies were conducted with the young people expressed their appreciation for Centre halfway between Belgrade and people. After the evening worship they the retreat and said they hoped this the Adriatic Sea at Zlatibor, a lovely shared music, asked questions, and would become an annual event. Peter mountain area, famous in Europe for discussed their lives as pastors© Roennfeldt, Ministerial Association its fresh air, snow, and scenery. children. During the day they went Secretary, Trans-European Division.

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Ministry/April 1999 31 WORLD MINISTERIAL

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