INTERNATIONAL

JOURNAL FOR PASTORS

DECEMBER 2012

Prospects and challenges for Adventist biblical interpretation hermeneutics Christ-centered

CONTENTS

04 LETTERS

Christ-centered hermeneutics: 05 EDITORIAL Prospects and challenges for Adventist 06 REVIVAL AND REFORMATION biblical interpretation 20 & 27 The matter in any gospel-centered hermeneutic boils down to the 28 RESOURCES issue of the proper relationship between Christ and the Bible. Frank M. Hasel 29 DATELINE

Getting Straight Bs 10 Find out what your church membership needs to be healthy and grow for Jesus Christ. Michael Halfhill Ministry® International Editors International Journal for Pastors Chinese-Robert Wong 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Indonesian-Edwin T. Pandjaitan Creating a climate for the discovery of Spring, MD 20904-6600 U.S.A. Japanese-Yukio Ebihara www.ministrymagazine.org Korean-Sung Sun Hong truth: A perspective on doctrinal [email protected] Portuguese (South America)- 13 Zinaldo Santos development Editor Russian-Ilie Leahu Derek J. Morris Spanish (South America)- How should we deal with issues that concern us? Marcos Blanco Associate Editor Spanish (Inter-America)-Pablo Perla Reinder Bruinsma Willie E. Hucks II International Advisors Consultants to Editor Mario Brito, Mikhael Kaminsky, John Fowler, Clifford Goldstein, Janos Kovacs-Biro, L. Chansanga The mission of Adventism: The Myrna Tetz Colney, Armando Miranda, Editorial Specialist Rudatinya M. Mwangachuchu, significance of the three angels’ Sheryl Beck Daniel Opoku-Boateng, Jongimpi 17 Papu, Bruno Raso, Ángel M. messages for today Finance and Technology Rodríguez, Hector Sanchez, Manager Houtman Sinaga, David Tasker, Ivan The question of identity must confront every church member. John Feezer IV L. Williams, Ted N. C. Wilson Eugene Zaitsev Advertising Subscriptions Cheri Gatton 12 issues: United States US$32.99; [email protected] Canada and overseas US$47.00. +1 208-965-0157 To order: send name, address, and Make the main thing your first priority payment to Ministry® Subscriptions, Could you reach unreached language groups without knowing Subscriptions/renewals/ 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver 21 address changes Spring, MD 20904-6600 U.S.A. the parameters of the task? [email protected] www.ministrymagazine.org/subscribe +1 301-680-6515 To Writers Clyde Morgan +1 301-680-6502 (fax) We welcome unsolicited manu- Cover ILLUSTRATION scripts. Before submitting, review 316 Creative the writers’ guidelines at www.ministrymagazine.org. Please Layout send manuscripts via email to The most important ingredient in 316 Creative [email protected]. 24 church growth: Faith-based optimism Two simple words can change you, your church, and your Co-hosts Anthony Kent and Derek Morris future. www.MinistryinMotion.tv S. Joseph Kidder Ministry® has been published Printer Pacific Press® Pub. Assn., monthly since 1928 by the Minis- 1350 N. Kings Rd., Nampa, ID 83687 terial Association, General Confer- ence of Seventh-day Adventists®. Standard mail postage paid at Nampa, Ministry is a peer-reviewed journal. Idaho. (ISSN 0026-5314) SECRETARY Jerry N. Page Member of Associated Church Press. Associate Secretaries Adventist®, Seventh-day Adventist®, Jonas Arrais, Robert Costa, and Ministry® are the registered Bible credits Scripture taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Willie E. Hucks II, Anthony Kent, trademarks of the General Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House. All rights reserved. All rights reserved. Scriptures quoted from NKJV are from The New Derek Morris, Janet Page Conference Corporation of King James Version, copyright © 1979, 1980, 1982, Thomas Nelson, Inc., Publishers. Ministerial Resource Center Seventh-day Adventists®. Coordinator Cathy Payne Vol. 84 Number 12 © 2012 888-771-0738, +1 301-680-6508 www.ministerialassociation.com PRINTED IN THE U.S.A. LETTERS

“As we seek to feed, guide, and protect the flock, we should still relate with love and humility toward these false teachers.”

Biblical spirituality love and humility of our Lord towards Third International Bible he August 2012 issue of Ministry the teachers themselves is lacking. Conference Tanswered some questions I have All of the five strategies shared in was quite disappointed in the article had on the subject of spiritual forma- this article are clear. May the Holy Ireporting the International Bible tion. The excellent article by Stanley Spirit guide and redirect our focus Conference that was supposedly E. Patterson (“My Quest for Biblical on them. As we seek to feed, guide, devoted to biblical anthropology Spirituality”) was most impressive. and protect the flock, we should still (October 2012). Contrary to the I wish that all conference adminis- relate with love and humility toward title statement about breaking new trators and ministerial secretaries these false teachers. They, too, need ground, it merely restated historic would read and digest those wise salvation. positions. The five “ground breakers” words. If only these leaders would —Halerimaana Naphutali, pastor, Uganda had nothing to do with the Bible or give pastors the space to let the anthropology. What interested me Spirit work, if only pastors would be ark Finley’s article (“Biblical was what the conference chose not to affirmed more and compared less MSpirituality: Rediscovering Our discuss, that being the role of women to others, the work would advance Biblical Roots or Embracing the in the church from the aspect of bibli- with greater enthusiasm. Patterson’s East?”—August 2012) was the best cal anthropology. At a time when our article shows how being treated as I have seen on this issue. One minor church is embroiled and potentially an employee, a “hireling,” results in point needing clarification was: divided over this issue, why did this “transactional behavior—minimal “The idea of ‘the god within’ comes remain the elephant in the room no contribution, marginal commit- directly from Eastern mysticism.” one wanted to address? The question ment, and low creativity.” I truly While that is true, it also comes might have been asked, Does gender endorse his statement, “The pastor directly from the Bible. Jesus who play a role in the effective proclamation doesn’t work for money—the pastor is God does dwell in us through the of the gospel? is given money so he can work!” Holy Spirit. The difference is that He In elementary education we have —Gloria Josiah, St. Croix is in us for the purpose of working only recently come to realize that gen- out His will through us. We do not der plays a role in learning, and if we thank Jerry N. Page for his words pray to the God in us; we pray to “our feel it is necessary to teach boys and Iof counsel to us (“Strategies for a Father who is in heaven” to forgive girls differently because they “hear” False Teaching”—August 2012). It us, protect us, and empower us. We and “learn” differently, maybe evan- reminded me of how often as minis- pray to Him in order to invite Him gelism would also be more effective ters we have handled false teachings to live in us. I know that the author if it were presented by both women within our congregations. Some- believes that; I just felt it should be and men, with both on equal footing. times we create more mess while clarified a little more. Again, great job Would biblical anthropologists like to trying to solve the issues related to and badly needed. tackle this possibility? such teachings. At times, a spirit of —Jac Colón, retired evangelist —Carlyle Welch

MINISTRY 4 DECEMBER 2012 EDITORIAL | Derek J. Morris The truth about Jesus

istinguished Harvard Divinity This season of the year provides relationship with the Father and His School professor Karen King a unique opportunity for each one Son Jesus Christ. Jesus declared, Dhas caused quite a media of us to share the teaching of the “ ‘These things I have spoken to you, stir with her comments regarding a Scriptures regarding the life and that My joy may remain in you, and recently translated codex fragment, mission of Jesus. He certainly made that your joy may be full’ ” (John which she refers to as The Gospel some startling declarations about 15:11). of Jesus’ Wife. King has carefully Himself: “ ‘I am the way, the truth, Frank Hasel reminds us in this examined this small fragment (12 and the life. No one comes to the current issue of Ministry that the partial lines) that includes the words Father except through Me’ ” (John truth about Jesus is clearly revealed “Jesus said to them, ‘My wife. . . .’ ”1 14:6).4 “ ‘I am the bread of life’ ” in the Bible. We don’t have to specu- Written in Coptic, it may date from (John 6:35). “ ‘I am the light of the late about Jesus. Nor should we. the fourth century a.d., though some world’ ” (John 8:12). “ ‘I am the “God has arranged to use His Holy have suggested that this is a copy of resurrection and the life. He who Spirit to lead us to the Living Word an older book, perhaps written in the believes in Me, though he may die, (Jesus Christ) through the Written late second century. he shall live’ ” (John 11:25). Word (Holy Scriptures). . . . The Is the fragment genuine? Gary The apostle John was an eyewit- Bible is the source that tells us all Manning Jr. from the Talbot School of ness of the life, ministry, death, Theology makes this observation: “It’s and resurrection of Jesus, and he too early to tell. When manuscripts provided this firsthand testimony: are discovered, it usually takes some “That which was from the beginning, time of examination and scholarly vet- which we have heard, which we We don’t have ting before forgeries are discovered. have seen with our eyes, which we There are some concerns about The have looked upon, and our hands Gospel of Jesus’ Wife’s unknown have handled, concerning the Word to speculate provenance and history of ownership, of life—the life was manifested, and but the initial reports make it seem we have seen, and bear witness, likely that this is a real fourth-century and declare to you that eternal life about Jesus. Gnostic document. That doesn’t which was with the Father and was mean that the document is true or manifested to us—that which we has anything to do with Jesus!”2 He have seen and heard we declare to continues, “Since Gnostics weren’t you, that you also may have fellow- about Jesus Christ. Through the Holy around until the second century, and ship with us; and truly our fellowship Scriptures we have learned to know Gnostics are notorious for making up is with the Father and with His Son and love Him (1 Pet. 1:8).” sayings of Jesus, this tells us abso- Jesus Christ” (1 John 1:1–3). In the midst of current specula- lutely nothing about the real Jesus. John shared his testimony about tions and fanciful suppositions, let’s . . . You can bet that this important Jesus for two vital reasons: “these take every opportunity, especially fact will be overlooked or downplayed are written that you may believe that during this Christmas season, to when you see it on the cover of new Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, share the truth about Jesus. There magazines or watch the forthcoming and that believing you may have life is no better way to share the joy that Smithsonian documentary.”3 in His name” (John 20:31); “And comes from above. People seemingly have an ongo- these things we write to you that ing fascination with the latest “news” your joy may be full” (1 John 1:4). 1 King’s findings and conclusions will be published in the about Jesus. Did Jesus father a child Knowing the truth about Jesus January 2013 issue of the Harvard Theological Review. with Mary Magdalene? Was Judas brings abundant joy and life in all its 2 http://theboodbookblog.com/2012/sep/19/did-jesus-have-a the real hero in the gospel story? fullness. The goal is not simply lon- -wife-a-new-gnostic-fragment/. 3 Ibid. Did Jesus succumb to His last great gevity, even for eternity, but a joyful 4 Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture references are from temptation? life both now and forever in a loving the New King James Version of the Bible.

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MINISTRY 5 DECEMBER 2012 LEAD ARTICLE | Frank M. Hasel

Frank M. Hasel, PhD, is director of the Ellen G. White Study Center and professor of Systematic Theology and dean of the Department of Theology, Bogenhofen Seminary, St. Peter am Hart, Austria.

Christ-centered hermeneutics: Prospects and challenges for Adventist biblical interpretation

n recent times some theologians as the interpretative key for the by faith alone, to which Scripture have proposed a Christological understanding of Scripture?2 attests, that constituted the theo- approach to biblical hermeneu- We cannot understand some of logical center of Scripture and thus Itics; where Jesus Christ, the the issues involved in gospel-centered ultimately its final authority. gospel, the message of justification hermeneutics without looking first to Here Luther’s famous preface by faith, or some other central Martin Luther, who has left us a last- to the epistle of James comes to theme of Scripture becomes a key ing legacy with this approach. mind where he claims that whatever for interpreting the Bible. 1 This does not point to Christ or draws out approach seems attractive for sev- Martin Luther and Christ is not apostolic, even though eral reasons. Jesus is central for our his Christological Peter or Paul would teach it. On the salvation and faith. Why shouldn’t hermeneutics other hand, whatever “drives home” Jesus be central for our understand- Martin Luther, while affirming Christ is apostolic, even though it ing of Scripture as well? Isn’t this the authority of Scripture and her- would come from Judas, Annas, commanded by Scripture itself alding the sola scriptura norm, also Pilate, and Herod.3 Thus, for Luther and practiced by the Gospel writ- proposed another hermeneutical the content of Scripture is Christ, ers and the apostles who present principle that can be termed the and from this fact, he seems to Jesus as the explanation of the Old “Christological principle.” This princi- repeatedly assign its authority. All Testament (cf. Luke 24:27, 44, 45; ple has been instrumental in bringing Scripture revolves around Him as its John 5:39ff.; Rom. 10:4; 2 Cor. 1:20; about a subtle, yet significant shift authentic center. This “Christological 3:14–16; Gal. 3:24; Col. 1:25–2:3)? in the understanding of theological concentration” can be seen as the Isn’t Jesus the One who unites both authority and the hermeneutics of decisive element in Luther’s inter- Old and New Testaments? Doesn’t the Bible. While affirming the divine pretation and use of Scripture. 4 Jesus have priority over the Bible authority of Scripture and the priority Thus, Luther actually contended because He is the revelation of of the Bible over church tradition, not “for the primacy of Scripture in God? Furthermore, would a Christ- Luther’s theological authority was the strict sense, but for the primacy centered hermeneutic not dispel closely connected to his understand- of the gospel to which Scripture any charges of being sectarian by ing of the gospel. For Luther, it was attests and hence for the primacy having Christ firmly established Christ and the gospel of justification of Scripture as the attestation to the

MINISTRY 6 DECEMBER 2012 gospel.”5 Luther valued the Bible Him (Luke 24:25–27). Scripture testi- Scripture was the sole authoritative “because it is the cradle that holds fies about Christ (John 5:39). But the source whereby we can discriminate Christ. For this reason, the gospel of decisive question is: How are we to between right and wrong. When justification by grace through faith understand the relationship between Jesus said in Matthew 5:21, 22, served as Luther’s hermeneutical Christ and Scripture? “ ‘You have heard that it was said key to Scripture.”6 If Scripture does The living and speaking God . . . but I tell you . . . ’ ” (NIV), He not refer to Christ, it must not be of Scripture has chosen to reveal did not discredit the authority of held to be true Scripture.7 Luther’s Himself through the Word. God has Scripture nor did He put up His word understanding of the gospel became seen it fit to commit His spoken word over, against, and in contradiction the basis for determining the relative through the biblical authors to the to the words of Scripture. He did authority of the various canonical medium of writing, thus generating not abolish Scripture but rather writings.8 If Scripture is queen, Christ the Bible, the Written Word of God. intensified what God had committed is King—even over Scripture!9 This It seems that one has to believe in His Written Word. In fact, He means that if a passage of Scripture Scripture before one can believe Himself abode by Scripture. Jesus seems to be in conflict with Luther’s the Christ of Scripture. The Word quoted the Scriptures and referred Christ-centered interpretation, his Incarnate (Jesus Christ) cannot be to Scripture, rather than His personal interpretation becomes “gospel- separated from the Word inscriptur- word, to refute the devil during His centered criticism of Scripture.”10 ated (Holy Scripture). Jesus Himself temptation (cf. Matt. 4:4, 7, 10). Christ and Scripture can be set turned to Scripture to make Himself Speaking about the proper faith over against each other because known. When He met the disciples on response to Him as Messiah, He Luther ultimately ranked the per- the way to Emmaus, He began “with said, “ ‘Whoever believes in me, as sonal Word (Christ), the spoken Moses and all the Prophets” and the Scripture has said, streams of liv- Word (gospel), and the Written Word explained to them “what was said in ing water will flow from within him’ ” (Scripture). Such ranking leads to all the Scriptures concerning himself” (John 7:38, NIV; emphasis added). a canon within the canon, which (Luke 24:27, NIV). Later that night, Scripture authenticated Jesus as compromises the strength of the Jesus again pointed to Scripture the Christ. When Scripture is not Scripture principle, where Scripture when He made it clear to the disciples the context for an understanding is the sole source of its own exposi- that everything written about Him of Jesus Christ, Jesus becomes the tion. For “if Scripture is interpreted “ ‘in the Law of Moses, the Prophets pretext for judging Scripture. Never either by a doctrinal center or by a and the Psalms’ ” (v. 44, NIV) must do we find Jesus criticizing parts of tradition it is no longer Scripture that be fulfilled. “Then he opened their Scripture. Neither do we find the is interpreting itself—rather it is we minds so they could understand apostles doing so. Not once do they who are interpreting Scripture by the Scriptures” (v. 45, NIV). Without insinuate that parts of Scripture are means of a doctrine or tradition, to Scripture providing a reliable account not trustworthy or lack divine author- which Scripture is in practice, being of Jesus’ ministry and death, the ity. Jesus does not abrogate the Law subjected.”11 Thus, it is not surprising gospel of Christ would not be known and the Prophets; He upholds them. that Luther’s Christological method to us and be of little use. Can we be more Christian than Christ “sharpened into a tool of theological Jesus Himself repeatedly referred Himself? Can we be more apostolic criticism”12 where ultimately the to Scripture as authoritative norm than the apostles? interpreter becomes the judge and for faith and practice. He asked stands above Scripture. The irony the lawyer, “ ‘What is written in Symphonic theological of this theological criticism is that it the Law? . . . How do you read perspectives or is done in the name of Jesus Christ it?’ ” (Luke 10:26, NIV). When the monophonic theological and the gospel. lawyer cited Deuteronomy 6:5 and center? Leviticus 19:18, Jesus commended We have to carefully distinguish The relationship between him for having answered correctly (v. between a central theme in Scripture Christ and the Bible 28). In similar fashion, Jesus made and postulating a theological center Eventually, the issue in any gospel- the same point: “ ‘Have you never that functions as a hermeneutical centered hermeneutic boils down to read in the Scriptures’ ”? (Matt. key whereby other portions and the issue of the proper relationship 21:42, NIV); “ ‘Haven’t you read statements of Scripture are relegated between Christ and the Bible. Of . . . ?’ ” (Matt. 12:3, 5, NIV; 19:4; to a secondary or inferior status. A course, Jesus Christ is central to our 22:31; Mark 12:10, 26; Luke 6:3); theological center that functions redemption. Without Him we could “ ‘Let the reader understand’ ” (Matt. as a hermeneutical key leads to a not and would not be saved. This 24:15; Mark 13:14). Whether Jesus canon within the canon that does we gladly acknowledge and grasp spoke to scribes or common people, not do justice to the fullness, rich- by faith. Christ Himself showed the He always assumed the full author- ness, breadth, and scope of divine disciples how Scripture pointed to ity of all of Scripture. For Jesus, truth as we find it in all of Scripture.

MINISTRY 7 DECEMBER 2012 LEAD ARTICLE | Frank M. Hasel

A monophonic center leads to a in Scripture, such as the plan of Scripture: “The Bible is its own criticism of the content of Scripture. redemption: “The central theme of expositor. Scripture is to be com- To postulate a “gospel-hermeneutic” the Bible, the theme about which pared with scripture. The student where Jesus Christ functions as every other in the whole book clus- should learn to view the word as a hermeneutical key for the interpreta- ters, is the redemption plan, the whole, and to see the relation of its tion of Scripture, is reductionistic. restoration in the human soul of parts. He should gain a knowledge The biblical material is too rich and the image of God. From the first of its grand central theme, of God’s multifaceted to limit it to one theme intimation of hope in the sentence original purpose for the world, of or center. Rather than a monophonic pronounced in Eden to that last the rise of the great controversy, center, the Bible presents us with a glorious promise of the Revelation, and of the work of redemption. . . . more encompassing “symphonic” ‘They shall see His face; and His Every part of the Bible is given by theological perspective.13 name shall be in their foreheads’ inspiration of God and is profitable. To the perennial question as to (Revelation 22:4), the burden of The Old Testament no less than the what constitutes the central element every book and every passage of the New should receive attention. As of Scripture, we respond by posing Bible is the unfolding of this won- we study the Old Testament we

Only a symphonic reading of the whole Bible will do justice to the multiplex phenomena of Scripture under the unifying guidance of the Holy Spirit.

another question: “Where does one drous theme,—man’s uplifting,—the shall find living springs bubbling up find the central point of a symphony power of God, ‘which giveth us where the careless reader discerns or play? Of course there are central the victory through our Lord Jesus only a desert.”17 themes, but no single point can be Christ’ ” (1 Cor. 15:57).15 Ellen White did not mean to taken as the center, unless it be Similarly she writes: “The sac- separate Christ from the Scriptures.18 the unity of the whole.”14 We need rifice of Christ as an atonement for When she wrote: “the sacrifice of to allow Scripture in its entirety sin is the great truth around which Christ as an atonement for sin is the (tota scriptura), in all its multifaceted all other truths cluster. In order to be great truth around which all other voices and genres to reveal the rightly understood and appreciated, truths cluster,”19 she was not propos- richness and depth of God’s wisdom every truth in the Word of God, ing a theological center that would to us. To insist on Scripture alone from Genesis to Revelation, must be function as a tool for theological (sola scriptura) is more than giving studied in the light that streams from criticism, a canon within the canon, Scripture primacy over other sources the cross of Calvary. I present before whereby important statements of in theology. Sola scriptura affirms you the great, grand monument of Scripture can be distinguished from that Scripture is the sole source mercy and regeneration, salvation allegedly less important passages of its own exposition. This makes and redemption—the Son of God or even wrong teachings. Rather Scripture foundational for theology. uplifted on the cross. This is to be the “every truth in the Word of God, Only a symphonic reading of the foundation of every discourse given from Genesis to Revelation, is to whole Bible will do justice to the by our ministers.”16 be studied in the light that streams multiplex phenomena of Scripture A careful reading of Ellen White’s from the cross of Calvary.” 20 And under the unifying guidance of the literature reveals, however, that cen- even where she describes “Christ as Holy Spirit. tral themes are never used by her as the living center”21 who unites the a hermeneutical key whereby she biblical doctrines, she at once affirms Ellen G. White criticizes Scripture and relegates “the truth for this time is broad in and Christological some parts of the Bible as more its outlines, far reaching, embrac- hermeneutics inspired than others. Notice how ing many doctrines.”22 While Christ Does Ellen White advocate a she mentions a great central theme certainly remains central to Ellen Christological hermeneutic? A close and in one breath also affirms that White and her religious thought,23 reading of her writings reveals that all Scripture is inspired and that she never ceases to emphasize that she acknowledges central themes Scripture should be compared with all of Scripture is to be followed

MINISTRY 8 DECEMBER 2012 and that no part of Scripture is to indwells Christians never leads them Testament” in Martin Luther’s Basic Theological Writings, ed. Timothy Lull (Philadelphia: Fortress Press, 1989), 117. be neglected. In this sense, Ellen to doubt, criticize, go beyond, or fall 9 In his 1535 Lectures on Galatians, while replying to White can affirm the centrality of short of Bible teaching. The Holy opponents who adduce biblical passages stressing works certain biblical themes without deni- Spirit never draws us away from the and merits, Luther emphasized the following point: “You are stressing the servant, that is Scripture—and not all of it at grating other parts of Scripture as Written Word, any more than from that or even its most powerful part, but only a few passages unimportant.­ According to her, no the Living Word. Instead, He keeps concerning works. I leave this servant to you. I for my part stress the Lord, who is the King of Scripture” (LW 26, one has the right to judge Scripture us in constant, conscious, and 295; WA 40, I, 459, 14–16). In the same year, Luther again by selecting those passages that willing submission to both together. underscored Scripture’s servant status relative to Christ when he wrote: “Briefly, Christ is Lord, not the servant, the are deemed more important than Sola scriptura without Christ is Lord of the Sabbath, of law, and of all things. The Scriptures others. She writes: “Do not let any empty, but Christ without Scripture, must be understood in favour of Christ, not against him. living man come to you and begin whose Son is He? Without Scripture For that reason they must either refer to him or must not be held to be true Scriptures. . . . Therefore, if the adversaries to dissect God’s Word, telling what we would not know Jesus as the press the Scriptures against Christ, we urge Christ against is revelation, what is inspiration and Messianic Christ and He could not the Scriptures. We have the Lord, they have the servants; we have the Head, they the feet or members, over which what is not, without a rebuke. . . . We be our Savior. Thus, our loyalty to the head necessarily dominates and takes precedence. If want no one to say, ‘This I will reject, the Bible is part of our loyalty to one of them had to be parted with, Christ or the law, the law would have to be let go, not Christ. For if we have and this will I receive,’ but we want Christ. We do not need our human Christ, we can easily establish laws and we shall judge all to have implicit faith in the Bible as criticism of Scripture—not even in things rightly. Indeed, we would make new decalogues, as a whole and as it is.” 24 To use Ellen the name of Christ!—but the critical Paul does in all the epistles, and Peter, but above all Christ in the gospel” (LW 34, 112, 40–53). White in support of a Christological examination of ourselves, the 10 Paul Althaus, The Theology of Martin Luther, trans. Robert C. hermeneutic, where Christ or the church, and all other areas by Schultz (Philadelphia: Fortress Press, 1966), 81. 11 Brian Gaybba, The Tradition: An Ecumenical Breakthrough? gospel functions as a hermeneutical Scripture, for which the biblical text (Rome: Herder, 1971), 221. key, is to misuse her and to distort alone is divinely fitted. 12 Werner Georg Kümmel, The New Testament: The History of the Investigation of Its Problems, trans. S. McLean Gilmour her numerous clear statements to and Howard C. Kee (Nashville, TN: Abingdon, 1972), 24. the contrary. 1 See Stanley J. Grenz, Renewing the Center: Evangelical 13 Cf. Vern S. Poythress, Symphonic Theology: The Validity Theology in a Post-Theological Era (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker of Multiple Perspectives in Theology (Grand Rapids, MI: Academic, 2000); Graeme Goldsworthy, Gospel-Centered Zondervan, 1987). Conclusion Hermeneutics: Foundations and Principles of Evangelical 14 William Dyrness, Themes in Old Testament Theology God has arranged to use His Holy Biblical Interpretation (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1979), 19. 2007); Siegfried Zimmer, Schadet die Bibelwissenschaft dem 15 Ellen G. White, Education (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Spirit to lead us to the Living Word Glauben? Klärung eines Konflikts (Göttingen: Vandenhoeck Pub. Assn., 1952), 125, 126. (Jesus Christ) through the Written & Ruprecht, 2007); Rolf J. Pöhler, “Die Rechtfertigung durch 16 White, Gospel Workers (Washington, DC: Review and Herald Word (Holy Scriptures). This shows den Glauben als hermeneutisches Prinzip: Christologische Pub. Assn., 1948), 315. Schriftauslegung und adventistische Theologie,” Spes 17 White, Education, 190, 191. how God in His wisdom has chosen Christiana 11 (2000): 46–60 and idem., “Does Adventist 18 “Her emphasis on the fact that Christ is the Author and to make His revelation universally Theology Have, or Need, a Unifying Center?” in Christ, culmination of divine revelation does not lead Ellen White Salvation, and the Eschaton: Essays in Honor of Hans K. to deny or downplay the crucial role of the Holy Scriptures available. Scripture is central to our LaRondelle, eds. Daniel Heinz, Jirí Moskala, and Peter as a revelation from God.” Peter van Bemmelen, “Revelation faith and devotion to God because M. van Bemmelen (Berrien Springs, MI: Seventh-day and Inspiration,” in Raoul Dederen, ed., Handbook of Seventh-day Adventist Theology (Hagerstown, MD: Review there is no other witness to Jesus Adventist Theological Seminary, Andrews University, 2009), 205–220. See also Frank M. Hasel, “Presuppostions in the and Herald Pub. Assn., 2000), 55. Christ than the Written Word of God. Interpretation of Scripture,” in Understanding Scripture: 19 White, Evangelism (Washington, DC: Review and Herald We have no other Christ than the An Adventist Approach, ed. George W. Reid (Silver Spring, Pub. Assn., 1946), 190. MD: Biblical Research Institute, General Conference of 20 Ibid.; emphasis added. One the biblical writers present to us. Seventh-day Adventists, 2005), 27–46, esp. 40–43 for a brief 21 White, Selected Messages (Washington, DC: Review and Submitting to Jesus Christ, the living critical engagement with gospel-centered hermeneutics. Herald Pub. Assn., 1958), vol. 2, 87 (hereinafter SM). 2 It seems as if Norman Gulley favored a Christological 22 Ibid.; emphasis added. Lord entails our faithful submission arrangement of biblical faith for this very reason (see 23 Cf. her statement that “of all professing Christians, Seventh- to the Written Word of God. This is Norman R. Gulley, “Toward a Christ-Centered Expression of day Adventists should be foremost in uplifting Christ before what Jesus did. Individually as well Faith,” Ministry 70, no.3 (1997), 24–27. the world” (Evangelism, 188). See also the valuable study by 3 Luther’s Works, eds. Jaroslav Pelikan and Helmut Lehmann Peter van Bemmelen, “ ‘The Matchless Charms of Christ’: as corporately, we stand under the (St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 1955), vol. 35, 396 Theological Significance of This Phrase in Ellen White’s authority of Scripture because Jesus (hereinafter LW); and D. Martin Luthers Werke. Deutsche Bibel Writings,” in Daniel Heinz et al., eds., Christ, Salvation, (Weimar: Bohlau, 1906), vol. 7, 385 (hereinafter WADB). and the Eschaton: Essays in Honor of Hans K. LaRondelle, is known authoritatively only by 4 Cf. Frank M. Hasel, Scripture in the Theologies of W. 231–240. Scripture. We do not worship paper Pannenberg and D. G. Bloesch: An Investigation and 24 White, Manuscript 13, 1888, as quoted in Seventh-day Assessment of Its Origin, Nature and Use, European Adventist Bible Commentary, ed. Francis D. Nichol, and ink or idolize a book, but simply University Studies, Series XXIII Theology, vol. 555 (Frankfurt (Washington, DC: Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1980), acknowledge that the Bible is the am Main: Peter Lang, 1996), 44–46. 7:919; emphasis added; similarly she writes: “Many source that tells us all about Jesus 5 Grenz, 57, 58. professed ministers of the gospel do not accept the whole 6 Grenz, 58. Bible as the inspired word. One wise man rejects one Christ. Through the Holy Scriptures 7 Cf. D. Martin Luthers Werke. Kritische Gesamtausgabe portion; another questions another part. They set up their we have learned to know and love (Weimar: Bohlau, 1883–1983), vol. 18, 607 (hereinafter WA); judgement as superior to the word; and the Scripture which LW 34:112 (Theses Concerning Faith and Law). they do teach, rests upon their own authority. Its divine Him (1 Pet. 1:8). 8 Luther called the book of James “an epistle of straw,” authenticity is destroyed.” White, Christ’s Object Lessons To say so is not bibliolatry but meaning it is an empty, useless, worthless epistle, because (Washington, DC: Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1941), 39; he could not find Christ and the gospel of justification by cf. also idem., SM, 1:17, 42, 245; and idem., Testimonies for Christianity in its most authentic faith alone in the book of James with his emphasis on the the Church (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., form. The Spirit of Christ who importance of works. Cf. Martin Luther, “Preface to the New 1946), 5:700, 701; 8:319.

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MINISTRY 9 DECEMBER 2012 Michael HalfHill

Michael Halfhill, MAPMin, serves as pastor of the Piedmont Park Seventh-day Adventist Church, Lincoln, Nebraska, United States.

Getting Straight Bs

recall the year our son started Believe. Jesus revealed to the someone who, like the Samaritan the second grade. As parents, Samaritan woman that He cared woman, was largely rejected by the we were beaming with pride as about her even though she was not a Jewish community. Jesus showed Ihe brought home straight As Jew. He also revealed to her that He Zacchaeus that he belonged by every week. He told me, “Daddy, I knew about all her past relationships. going to the tax collector’s home. don’t want to get anything below Even though her moral and spiritual Zacchaeus belonged even before he an A.” My wife and I told him how record was far from satisfactory, changed his behavior (v. 8). happy we were that he wanted to do and indeed she was living a sinful Believe. Luke does not share with his best and get all As, but we also life, Jesus offered her salvation by us the conversation at Zacchaeus’s said that as long as he does his best, inviting her to believe in Him as the house. But it becomes obvious to the we will be happy—even if he brings Christ (vv. 21–26). reader that Zacchaeus had accepted home a scary B. Behave. The woman’s behavior Jesus and His teaching. He believed All this discussion on grades changed, and she began to tell in Jesus’ message, and Christ said made me think about what a church others about Jesus. This woman, that the tax collector, Zacchaeus, needs to be healthy and grow for who came to the well at midday became a saved son of Abraham Jesus Christ. An elder at my previous to avoid being noticed by others, (vv. 9, 10). church taught me that a church now talked to everyone she met in Behave. Zacchaeus promised needs to bring home straight Bs. town. She invited the whole town to change his way of dealing with For a church to reflect Jesus to the to come and meet this Man that people and money (v. 8). He planned world, it needs three Bs in the right she believed could be the Christ on giving half of his possessions to order: belong, believe, and behave. (vv. 28–30). From hiding in the noon- the poor and to give back quadruple Consider Jesus interacting with day sun, she went out to bring others money to anyone he had cheated. two people in the Bible and how He to meet God’s Son. John does not This 180-degree turnaround for the emphasized the correct order of the tell us what exactly happened in her crooked tax collector did not happen three Bs. This gives us a model of future relationships, but we can see until Jesus called Zacchaeus down how we should interact with people, a change in her behavior to others from the tree, out of the crowd, and whether strangers or friends. immediately after Jesus helped her showed Zacchaeus that he belonged know that she belonged and she by choosing to go to his house. John 4: The woman at believed in Him (v. 39). the well Believing and behaving: Belong. A Samaritan woman Luke 19: Zacchaeus the The link came to a well for water near noon- tax collector Believing and behaving are time. She noticed Jesus resting by Belong. Crowds of people fol- closely linked in the newcomer as the well and He startled her when lowed Jesus as He walked through can be seen in the stories of the He asked her for a drink (John 4:10). Jericho, then suddenly Jesus woman at the well and Zacchaeus. Jesus spoke to the Samaritan woman noticed a short fellow up on a tree. The problem comes when the church even though He was a Jew. By this Jesus not only told Zacchaeus to and its members force or expect new interaction, He showed her that she come down, but He invited Himself folks to believe a certain set of beliefs belonged, even though many thought to his home for a visit (Luke 19:5). and behave a certain way before Samaritans were to be shunned. Jesus chose to associate with helping them feel like they belong.

MINISTRY 10 DECEMBER 2012 This idea of belonging is not about they walk through the church doors. his or her “flock.” The shepherd must church membership. Membership Slowly, the whole congregation stay in contact with the members by should come later. This is about help- will witness the idea in action and phone, email, cards, and face-to-face ing new people who are seemingly eventually will accept it. Finally, a visits. This builds connections among different from us and desperate for church that “gets it” can share the members, and newcomers can be connection, to feel and know that idea with other churches. placed in shepherd groups that have they can belong even the first time Work patiently. From the time I already learned how to help people they come to our church. understood the gospel message to feel connected. I have seen some people baptized the day of my baptism took nearly Community outreach events are into the church, and yet they do four years. The Lord had a lot of work crucial to the Belong, Believe, and not feel like they belong among the to do with me, and this took time. Behave model. The days of “doing” community of members. They stand Churches need to remember that church and hoping people will show off to the side at church events. They the Lord continues to work with new up are over, if they ever truly existed. may sit in the back pew of the church. people. Lasting changes in one’s Relying solely on a five-week evange- They are waiting for someone in the behavior oftentimes happen gradu- listic campaign to make connections church to include them, to help them ally. Drastic, sudden changes usually in the community is also not as effec- know that they belong. Even newly do not last and people fall back into tive without community outreach. baptized believers, who accepted their old ways. Jesus is patient with Events throughout the year give the gospel and the power of the Holy us, so we should be patient with newcomers a chance to come to Spirit to change their lives, end up others as well (2 Pet. 3:9). church and see if they belong. leaving the church if they do not feel What should a pastor do if some- My church has tried several dif- a sense of connection with members. one in the church resists and wants to ferent events in the community to continue to use the backwards model invite people to attend. Each church How does my church get of Behave, Believe, and then Belong? and community is different, and great the Bs in the right order? The pastor should work with them. success in outreach events usually Model. Begin with the pastor. Ignoring those in opposition works comes after trial and error, failure and Members need to see the pastor about as well in a church as ignoring success. My church started having a being warm and welcoming to all cancer does in a body. As difficult Halloween alternative on October 31 newcomers. The pastor must make as it may be, the pastor should sit for our community. Every Sabbath it a priority at church to visit with the down and listen to the opposition’s School room and even the hallways new folks who come. The members complaints. The pastor can then were decorated as Bible stories. As must also see their pastor making share victory stories of how people the children went around collect- connections with the community have joined the faith because of the ing treats, they also learned about outside the church. The pastor can method of helping people belong the truths of the Bible by hearing present the idea of belonging from first. The point? Address those who stories and doing fun activities. They the pulpit, in bulletin correspon- disagree with the plan. Do not ignore. threw beanbags at a giant cutout of dence, committee meetings, and Goliath, crawled through a whalelike casual conversation. Members must Practical ideas to Jonah, and knocked over the Tower learn that Jesus used this method to implement the model of Babel. One key to the event was approach people. When good things happen in the that everything was free: the rides, It only takes a few. In Revelation church unintentionally, we consider the treats, and even the food were all 4 and 5, the choir keeps growing. this a great event. Sometimes a free (donations were accepted). The First, the four living creatures start church will get this idea of belonging members who helped were trained to praise God (4:8). Then the 24 first and make it happen without to make sure everyone had fun and elders sing (4:9–11). Suddenly, all the a real plan of action. But those felt like they belonged. We have had angels join in (5:11, 12). Finally, the churches are rare. If pastors want hundreds of people from the com- whole creation praises God (5:13). their churches to be safe places munity attend this event every year This pattern will help a church for newcomers to feel they belong, and they walk away knowing that, at change its thinking and practice then a plan becomes necessary. our church, everyone belongs. regarding new faces in the church. Every church is different, but here Inviting community people to The pastor has to help the elders and are some practical ideas that have events for which they have no inter- church board capture the vision of worked in churches in the past. est amounts to a lot of work for belonging the first time a newcomer Organize shepherd groups. These little return. When choosing outreach visits the church. From there the are small groups intended to work events, the church must find a felt greeters need to be trained in helping with a member, with a shepherd need that already exists and fill that new people feel like they just came overseeing the group. Each shepherd need. Community people begin to home from a long trip the first time has no more than ten family units in think about God and religion during

MINISTRY 11 DECEMBER 2012 Michael Halfill

Christmas and Easter each year. Those the members to help newcomers feel I believed the message before I are excellent times to invite people to like they belong. Step two is creat- had ever met a member of a church free events where they can learn about ing opportunities for members to because I was watching sermons on Jesus and feel like they belong. meet new people. When presented videotape. I finally decided I should December can be cold, but new- with Bible truth, God will convict try going to church. Everyone noticed comers, at a Nativity display, can sip newcomers’ hearts, and they will me as I strolled into the foyer with my hot chocolate while we visit with believe. Behavior will then change long hair and leather coat. I did not them and show that they belong. in time, but the first step is helping blend in with the crowd. However, During the Easter week, many people find a connection and know that small church in the Midwest people go to church Wednesday they belong. loved me into the church. They made night, Thursday night, Friday night, me feel like I belonged, even with and Sunday morning. This seems Conclusion my unusual look and behavior. They like a perfect opportunity to offer an When I first headed down the encouraged me to come back and outreach event like a mini–Passion road of becoming a follower of Jesus meet their pastor. The pastor con- play on the Saturday of Easter week- Christ, He did not meet me at the tacted me, and we began studying. end. If your community has parades start of the journey with a list of There were many things in my life over the Fourth of July, enter a float beliefs. The Lord did not give me a that needed changing, but the pastor in the parade. Make the float about lecture about the mess I had made of did not focus on them. He befriended Jesus and make it fun. The float can my life and scold me about behaviors me and taught me about Jesus, and even advertise the biblical truth that that needed changing (and there I learned that I belonged to Christ. with Jesus everyone belongs (maybe were many). First, Jesus helped me God is still working with me. He build the scene of Zacchaeus on the realize that I belonged. I belonged to is still teaching me what to believe. tree). Have members walk alongside Him. In time I learned to believe in He is still changing my behavior to be the float and invite parade onlookers His love and plan to save me. That more like Christ. I am a pastor today to a pancake breakfast, health semi- belief eventually helped me to sense because I believed the message and nar, or family fun day in the park. that a change was needed in my God changed my behavior, but it all The ideas and opportunities are life. Then I allowed the Holy Spirit to started with God and His people endless. Step one includes training change my behavior. helping me to know that I belong.

Additional church method of connecting with people must care about the needs of others growth resources is the best way to make a difference before we call them to change and in someone’s life. Jesus did not shun follow Jesus as their Master. 1. Becoming a Contagious people. He mixed with the masses. Christian by Bill Hybels and Mark He reached across cultural and soci- 4. The Chosen by Dwight Nelson Mittelberg (Grand Rapids, MI: etal barriers to help people know (Hagerstown, MD: Review and Her- Willow Creek Resources, 1994). they belonged first. Jesus met their ald Pub. Assn., 2011), 132 –149, This book provides ideas about needs and showed compassion, 193–212. how to make a difference in the then asked people to follow Him. Dr. In this book, Dwight Nelson world around us. It begins by going Samaan’s book illustrates that Jesus shares the principles about how through the reasoning why Christians believed in the three Bs—Belong, God’s chosen people need to care for should reach out to others. The Believe, and Behave. others both in and outside the church. authors give practical strategies for He shares how a church is supposed how to move conversations toward 3. Christ’s Way of Reaching to be like an emergency room and spiritual matters and how to connect People by Philip G. Samaan give opportunities for members to with people who are unchurched. (Hagerstown,­ MD: Review and build a “Front Porch” to their com- Herald Pub. Assn., 1990). munity. Pastor Nelson shows that 2. Christ’s Method Alone— This book also emphasizes that the early church was most successful Christ’s Way of Relational if we want to reach people and when they met together, prayed Witnessing by Philip G. Samaan share the good news with them, we together, and ate together. People (Hagerstown, MD: Review and must use Jesus’ method. We must flocked to the early church because Herald Pub. Assn., 2012). rub shoulders with new people and it was a place they could belong, and Dr. Samaan builds off the Ellen help them connect first before trying they were called to believe in Jesus White quote that Jesus Christ’s to change them. Like Christ, we Christ as their Savior.

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MINISTRY 12 DECEMBER 2012 Reinder Bruinsma

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

Creating a climate for the discovery of truth: A perspective on doctrinal development

s part of my daily morn- has, I think, a number of distinct deal with creation by rewording ing routine, I check the elements that play a significant direct fundamental belief number 6. official Adventist Web or indirect role. This will include such language Asites—national and inter- as “recent” and “six literal” national—to see what is happening 1. First of all, there is the ongoing days of 24 hours, which were in my church. For balance, and discussion about the relationship “contiguous”—thus preclud- out of curiosity, I then look at the between science and religion ing any kind of “gap theory,” or independent Adventist news sources in general. This has long been a interpretation of the “six days” as on the Web. More recently, I have topic of debate, even controversy, longer periods. wondered whether I should change among Christians. The question of 4. The debate has received further this habit as I am more and more how to view evolution in particular fuel as a result of reports that, irritated by what I read, especially on has been answered differently in in Adventist universities, some the independent sites, both left and different denominations. professors teaching biology may right. This irritation is accompanied 2. We recognize this topic of Cre- not have been as “Adventist” as by a growing uneasiness about my ation as an important issue in might be expected. church. What is happening? Where the Adventist Church, which does this increasing combative has traditionally defended a This matter has serious implica- atmosphere come from? How should literal understanding of the Gen- tions. First of all, there exists the we deal with issues that concern us? esis account. At times, however, danger of a further escalation of Where will this ultimately lead? some have expressed reser - the difficulties within the Adventist vations about a literal six-day educational system. It concerns The current debate Creation, and proposed a form such fundamental questions as the I am specifically referring to of theistic evolution as a more responsible use of academic free- the discussion about origins. As I satisfactory way of reconciling dom, denominational control over understand it, the main issue the biblical and scientific data. the curriculum in our schools, our church finds itself confronted with 3. In view of the questions that procedures for dealing with conflict, when dealing with this topic is at some have raised regarding a lit- the need for balance, linked with total least twofold: the question of origins eral interpretation of the Genesis transparency, and—most of all—the in general and the specific debate Creation account, an initiative question of how to adequately define about the possible rewording of has been proposed 2 to close what the church considers as sound fundamental belief number 6.1 This any possible “loopholes” that teaching. In other words: one of the

MINISTRY 13 DECEMBER 2012 Reinder Bruinsma basic underlying issues is our indi- Although officially the church to give structure to how we think and vidual and collective pursuit of Truth. maintains that it has no creed, 3 it talk about our faith.5 is difficult to deny that, in fact, the There is also no doubt that it is Two questions Statement of Fundamental Beliefs important to give doctrinal structure As soon as we touch on the topic now functions as such, consider- to our thinking about the relation- of our pursuit of Truth, numerous ing the authority that came to be ship between God and man, and questions arise—general questions attached to this document and all Adventists will want to underline that and some that pertain directly to the steps necessary to change even the relationship between God and us the topic of origins. I would like to a few words. This seems to confirm is rooted in the fact that He created focus on two specific aspects: (1) a pertinent statement once made us, as the Bible tells us. Thus, there How essential is it to refine doctrinal by George Lindbeck, a Lutheran can be no doubt about the legitimacy statements even further? (2) How scholar, who taught at Yale University of having a statement such as found necessary is it for the church to arrive before his retirement, the “creedless in fundamental belief number 6. at a position on every important issue Christianity” professed by various and, in particular, on the correct denominations “is not genuinely Doctrinal development understanding of the details of the creedless. When creedlessness But does the current statement Creation story? is insisted on as a mark of group on Creation need to be reworded? The corpus of Adventist theology identity, it becomes by definition Some claim that our entire doctrinal has developed over time. Starting operationally creedal.”4 edifice will be undermined if we leave from a strong suspicion towards There is no doubt that the church doubt about a literal reading of the any detailed description of doctrine, needs doctrines that must be defined first chapters of Genesis. The slightest we have gradually arrived at a rather carefully and clearly. Although faith opening given to the adoption of comprehensive statement of our is more than doctrine, faith requires some form of theistic evolution, it is doctrine. The present Statement of doctrines to clarify what the commu- asserted, will also shake other truths, 28 Fundamental Beliefs was adopted nity of faith believes in and considers such as the worldwide Flood, and the in 1980 (as 27 Fundamental Beliefs), to be the main implications of that entrance of sin and death. with the addition of a twenty-eighth faith. Doctrinal statements may be Flexibility on the Creation doctrine in 2005. human products, but they enable us may have far-reaching repercussions.

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one name • one number • one source

MINISTRY 14 DECEMBER 2012 This fact would tend to favor urgent Thirdly, there are several much If the history of doctrine can measures to change the wording of broader issues to consider, because the teach us anything, it is that doctrines the fundamental belief on Creation. concerns that surround the Creation are usually the outcome of a lengthy This would seem the normal route statement are part of a much bigger process. The doctrinal developments to take and to be in line with the picture. Questions about inspiration in the early centuries, when the historical fact that any formulation or and biblical hermeneutics continue to doctrines of the nature of Christ and reformulation of doctrinal statements occupy many minds in spite of recent the Trinity and other fundamental usually occurred in the context of publications by the Biblical Research Christian teachings were formulated, doctrinal controversy. This occurred Committee.6 It may, therefore, not be spanned centuries. Our own church when it was not just deemed neces- so wise to deal with the Creation issue history reveals that the development sary to better define truth, but also to as if this is a stand-alone problem of certain Adventist teachings took expose erroneous thinking and put up that needs to be handled decisively. several decades, or more. a defense against apostasy. Should The discussion about hermeneutics It may be important to arrive at we therefore take steps to do just that has not ended and the church must clear positions regarding important and revisit the current statement? I provide space for a continued atten- matters, and the church must make would like to list a few considerations tion for this basic theme. pronouncements that are relevant which, in my view, would tend to Also, the search for more satisfy- to the times in which we live. But suggest that this not be done in haste. ing answers regarding the relationship due care should be taken lest further Firstly, we might ask: Is it possible between science and biblical revela- controversy is stimulated and argu- and desirable to ensure that doctrinal tion will continue, and the questions ments are used that may not stand statements are without any ambigu- that arise when the data of the biblical the test of time. ity, and that they can be redefined to record and the book of nature seem This, fifthly, leads to another the point where no questions remain to conflict will continue to be asked. concern: the Adventist Church has, and all conceivable erroneous conclu- Many Adventist scholars sincerely rightly, always been critical of other sions can be pre-empted? Take a look struggle with these issues and one religious communities that have at the wording of all 28 fundamental cannot but wonder how helpful it allowed the traditions of the past beliefs and you may well conclude might be, at this point in time, to tell to guide present thinking, and even that in the case of each one of these these scientists: “Listen, there is only more so, of systems that rely on a statements, questions remain and one way of looking at this, and this magisterium to make final pronounce- ample opportunity exists for “wrong” you must accept to be counted as a ments. Are we in danger of doing the conclusions. Should we try to remedy faithful Adventist.” same? Again, a need for balance must this situation? Fourthly, let us realize that the be maintained. The church must most Secondly: What could a more development of doctrine comprises a certainly guide and protect doctrinal elaborate statement on Creation complex phenomenon.7 This applies developments, but at the same time possibly achieve? Certainly, it would in general, but most emphatically, the church needs to take care not to please those who are pleading for also to the Seventh-day Adventist institutionalize the development of the the adoption of the kind of language Church. Adventist doctrine has not thinking of its thought leaders and not that will more clearly stress that any been static but has seen consider- to bureaucratically try to restrict the nonliteral reading of Genesis is unac- able development and change in the search for truth. The discovery of truth ceptable. On the other hand, there relatively short history of our church.8 is, I believe, not primarily through will be great disappointment—in It is naïve to suggest that we simply committees, institutions, and other some cases even despair—on the need a re-reading of our Bibles to administrative processes. Spiritual part of others that the church is not get all our answers. Nobody reads convictions do not result only from willing to allow for a greater degree Scripture in a vacuum; this reading majority votes in annual councils and of independent thinking that may always happens in a particular his- General Conference sessions. Such deviate in some respects from the torical and cultural context. We find things eventually have their place, but traditional Adventist viewpoints. it important that we try to determine we must recognize the importance of For many, a push for the reword- what a particular teaching means enough time and space reserved for ing of statement number 6 is not just for today and how we can limit the dialogue and discovery, for convic- about our understanding of Genesis danger that faulty teachings arise tions to emerge as the Holy Spirit 1. This statement is also widely or can be advocated without any moves on a faith community that regarded as an example of how the attempt at correction. But it is also listens to His voice while reviewing its Adventist ecclesial system tries to essential that we do not let ourselves teachings and continuously studies prescribe exactly what members be unduly pushed by pressures of and restudies the Bible as open- (including teachers and other schol- the moment. Many things do take mindedly as possible. Maybe our ars) should believe if they want to be time, and we recognize doctrinal leaders should feel less pressured to viewed as true Adventists. development as one. intervene expeditiously and force the

MINISTRY 15 DECEMBER 2012 Reinder Bruinsma process along, and be more patient take place, in which the people will 1 For specific wording of this fundamental belief, please see and expect more from the working actually listen to each other and will, Seventh-day Adventists Believe … A Biblical Exposition of of the Holy Spirit. under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, Fundamental Doctrines (Nampa, ID: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., move together, maybe slowly yet 2005), 79–89. 2 For the background of this, see, Adventist Review, June 29, Patience surely, towards a deeper understand- 2010, “Actions and Proceedings, Tenth Business Meeting.” Patience is not a sign of weakness ing of particular truths. Eventually, this Available at: http://www.adventistreview.org/article .php?id=3604. but is one of the fruits of the Spirit may or may not cause the institutional 3 Alister E. McGrath defines a “creed” as “a concise, formal, (Gal. 5:22). Effective leadership does church to decide to move toward a and universally accepted and authorized statement of the not require that, at all times, firm formal ratification of what has come main points of the Christian faith.” See his book Historical Theology: An Introduction to the History of Christian Thought positions are taken and defended. to be understood as the best wording (Oxford, UK: Blackwell Publishing, 1998), 30. We should not think it necessary to for a given conviction. 4 George A. Lindbeck, The Nature of Doctrine: Religion and quickly have a final position on every Does this entail some risks? Will it Theology in a Postliberal Age (Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 1984), 74. important issue. Issuing position mean that some will remain unsatis- 5 Ibid., 79–84. papers or pushing for pronounce- fied and make sure others know about 6 George W. Reid, ed., Understanding Scripture: An Adventist Approach (Silver Spring, MD: Biblical Research Institute / ments by the world body may be their feelings? Of course. Therefore, I General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, 2005), and premature and stimulate polarization am not pleading that this approach be Gerhard Pfandl, ed., Interpreting Scripture: Bible Questions and controversy rather than provide followed without any parameters or a and Answers (Silver Spring, MD: Biblical Research Institute/ General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, 2010). the kind of nurture and direction strategy to provide the membership 7 For an excellent survey of the various factors that play a that is beneficial for the body of with the resources needed for a mean- significant role in doctrinal developments, see Rolf J. Pöhler, believers as a whole. Strong leader- ingful dialogue and deeper study in Continuity and Change in Adventist Teaching (Frankfurt am Main, Germany: Peter Lang, 1999), 44, 45. ship may perhaps demonstrate itself God’s Word. But in the end, it is more 8 See Rolf J. Pöhler, Continuity and Change in Adventist above everything else in intentional risky to rely on hasty administrative Teaching (Frankfurt am Main, Germany: Peter Lang, 2000, adapted from the 1999 ed.) and George R, Knight, A Search and systematic attempts to create processes that result in winners and for Identity: The Development of Seventh-day Adventist the atmosphere in which genuine losers, than to exercise patience and Beliefs (Hagerstown, MD: Review and Herald Pub. Assn., dialogue and spiritual growth can rely on the workings of the Spirit. 2000).

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MINISTRY 16 DECEMBER 2012 Eugene Zaitsev

Eugene Zaitsev, PhD, is the Biblical Research Institute director for the Euro-Asia Division and a professor of religion at Zaoksky Theological Seminary, Zaoksky, Tula Region, Russian Federation.

The mission of Adventism: The significance of the three angels’ messages for today

as the founding of the directs the undertakings and is part 8:14 ended with the beginning of Seventh-day Adventist of the mission of the church. the final phase in Christ’s ministry as Church, in the middle The Adventist Church emerged High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary. Wof the nineteenth from fragments of a religious Using the analogy of the earthly century, justifiable? Protestantism movement led by William Miller sanctuary, in which the second sec- was already split into many denomi- (1782–1849). The driving ideological tion, known as the “Holy of Holies,” nations. What makes the rise of idea of that movement was setting was cleansed once a year (Lev. Adventism unique, defensible, and a definite date for Christ’s second 16:29–34), Christ as the High Priest stand out from other denominations? coming to earth. The date was began cleansing the true sanctuary Does the appearance of another based on the interpretation of the in heaven into which He entered by Christian denomination create further prophecy of Daniel 8:14: “ ‘It will His own blood (Heb. 9:11, 12). This confusion in the minds of people? take 2,300 evenings and mornings; day was the antitype of the earthly The question of identity must then the sanctuary will be reconse- “Yom Kippur,” the annual great Day of confront each Seventh-day Adventist. crated’ ” (NIV). Atonement, literally meaning “day of Why am I an Adventist? What is Nothing extraordinary happened covering.” Therefore, the pioneers of our mission? What is the difference on the date set by Miller’s followers, the future Adventist Church linked the between our mission and that of and many of them experienced a first angel’s message “ ‘the hour of other Christian denominations? The great disappointment. While in a state his judgment has come’ ” (Rev. 14:7, answers to these questions depend of hopelessness and praying for guid- NIV) to the fulfillment of the prophecy on the understanding of our origin ance from above, a most important of Daniel 8:14—namely, the cleansing and history. biblical truth was revealed, which of the heavenly sanctuary. This article will try to probe these determined the theological position issues in the context of the three of the future Adventist Church. This The context of the three angels’ messages of Revelation 14. revelation and further study led to the angels’ messages We will show the significance of this conclusion that “the sanctuary” in A second important point that message in preaching the everlasting Daniel 8:14 did not refer to the earth, the Adventist pioneers paid atten- gospel in the last days of earth’s which, according to Miller, needed tion to was the context of the three history. We believe that the proclama- cleansing by fire during the Second angels’ messages in the book of tion of this message before Christ’s Coming, but rather to an event in the Revelation. Right after this message second coming is one of the most heavenly sanctuary. follows the description of the Second important and exclusive features of The prophetic period of 2,300 Coming with the great heavenly the Adventist Church. This message evenings and mornings of Daniel reaper taking His sickle to reap the

MINISTRY 17 DECEMBER 2012 Eugene Zaitsev greatest harvest on earth (vv. 14–16). values, a materialistic future, and defined the face of future Adventism. John described the reaper “seated class struggles, leading to a new In preaching the three angels’ on the cloud” as “the son of man,” development in social-economic messages, Adventists found the as Christ, who is ready to come in all forces. explanation of their emergence in glory to this world for the final judg- Communism. The middle and the arena of history. Seventh-day ment. The Adventist pioneers paid second half of the nineteenth century Adventism does not live as just attention to the fact that the angel, signify the flourishing of socialistic another confession, formed as a flying in midair, had “the eternal ideas within which projects for the result of a schism in an already- gospel.” The powerful language of formation of a just society were existing church. The Adventist Church the three angels’ messages presents developed through revolutionary emerged during the prophesied his- the eternal gospel—the good news reforms. Society in many parts of the torical period in order to proclaim the directed at humanity just before the world moved to the power of social greatest message of all before the second coming of Jesus Christ. progress leading to a communist second coming of Jesus Christ. But why do the three angels’ mes- “paradise,” without any reference to sages use such unusual language? God or the spiritual dimension of life. The first angel’s message Why do these messages have dis- Liberalization of Protestantism. Against this overview, the mes- turbing images? The reason is found Leading Protestant churches were sage of the first angel assumes in the fact that the period before accepting liberal theology, which special emphasis. First of all, atten- Christ’s coming to earth was in need undermined faith in a God-inspired tion is drawn to the appeal of the of this kind of language, addressing Bible and exposed many doctrines first angel to “fear God and give the specifics of a historic situation of the Christian faith to rational criti- Him glory.” emerging before the Second Coming. cism. As a result, Jesus Christ has Fear is one of the characteristics The main characteristics of this become just a historical figure with that defines human existence. Also historic flow may be summarized as: nothing in common with the Jesus interesting to note is that the so- Rationalism. Beginning in the Christ of the Gospels. called scientific religious studies, eighteenth century, the Age of Darwinism. Perhaps the most which developed in the nineteenth Enlightenment launched the making daunting challenge to biblical faith century as a main factor in the of the modern human, proclaiming and values, undermining the very core emergence of religion, emphasized the independence and capacity of of Christian proclamation, occurred in fear. Fear, so argued the so-called the mind to probe and understand the mid-nineteenth century when scientists, gave rise to the religious matters relating to ultimacy and science proclaimed the origin of spe- feeling of dependence on higher reality, renegading, in the process, cies by natural selection. The biblical powers. But when we examine the the supremacy of faith in the life of foundation of earth’s creation was phrase “fear God” in its context in humankind. The process eventually at stake, and the theory of evolution Revelation 14, the meaning becomes led to the establishment of the so- emerged not only as a critical chal- clearer. The phrase calling for fear called positive knowledge (science) lenge but also as a viable alternative. is followed by the invitation, “give in the place of negative knowledge These are only a few markers of Him glory.” To fear God means to (religion). the new era, which have become give Him glory. We find it interest- Secularism. Ever since the nine- a real challenge to Christian faith. ing to note that such a parallelism teenth century, society has become Almost all of them are reflected in appears several times in the book of more and more secular. The role the backdrop against which the Revelation. For example, “ ‘Who will of God in human life has been three angels’ messages were to be not fear you, O Lord, and bring glory increasingly questioned. Indeed, proclaimed. The eternal gospel of to your name?’ ” (Rev. 15:4, NIV). people were led to think that they Revelation 14 thus calls us to return Most naturally, the question have grown out of their condition of to the core values of the biblical mes- arises: What does it mean to “give dependency on God and that they do sage proclaimed from the beginning Him glory”? We need to implement not need Him anymore. to the end of human history. The the biblical meaning of these words Materialism. With God and the proclamation takes on a new force to our stereotypical understanding call for spirituality minimized or in these last days. of glorification. The prayer of Jesus eliminated, humanity was increas- Thus, a brief analysis of the Christ can help us: “ ‘I have brought ingly dominated by forces of historical situation during the you glory on earth by completing materialism. With this swing toward mid-nineteenth century helps us the work you gave me to do’ ” (John materialism dominating the con- understand why the pioneers of 17:4). Here we again see an example sciousness of humanity, and with the Adventist Church recognized of parallelism. To give God glory, the elimination of God’s critical role the meaning of their earthly mis- first of all, means to fulfill His will, in life, society saw the development sion in the three angels’ messages. complete His work, and show obedi- of a new era, marked by antitheistic The preaching of these messages ence and submission to His will.

MINISTRY 18 DECEMBER 2012 Hence, we can conclude that the into consideration the historical of authority of the apostate church, first angel’s call to “fear God,” in fact, parallels, will confront God’s people. the replacement of God’s righteous means to obey and fulfill God’s will, This power will turn into a godless standards with human standards. conveyed in His commandments. system, which will integrate all the That is why one of the most impor- This appeal becomes current in an false systems of worship and all the tant characteristics of God’s faithful era of humanistic and secular values, institutions that suppress human people centers in keeping His com- in an era where God is excluded from freedom. During this time, the sec- mandments (Rev. 14:12; 12:17). the human mind and affairs. These ond angel will proclaim Babylon’s fall To draw attention to one of the words have special significance in twice, which refers to the apostasy Ten Commandments is very impor- the era of postmodernism and a of religious bodies. Babylon will not tant, just as keeping it has a special relativistic attitude of life, making any overcome God’s people; in the end, significance in the struggle between moral standards relative. victory will belong to God’s truth. good and evil. In the first angel’s The final words of the first angel message (Rev. 14:7, NIV) that speaks are highly significant: “ ‘Worship The third angel’s message about true worship, John empha- him who made the heavens, the The third angel’s message pro- sized: “ ‘who made the heavens, earth, the sea and the springs of claims the consequences for those the earth, the sea and the springs of water.’ ” These words were current who engage in the works of the water.’ ” A clear allusion to the fourth in the mid-nineteenth century when “whore of Babylon.” The angel’s commandment of God’s law exists a whole chain of discoveries in the language here is strong. “ ‘He, too, here: “ ‘Remember the Sabbath day field of geology and biology chal- will drink of the wine of God’s fury, by keeping it holy. . . . For in six days lenged the idea that God created which has been poured full strength the Lord made the heavens and the the world. These discoveries were into the cup of his wrath’ ” (Rev. earth, the sea, and all that is in them, the beginning of a serious conflict 14:10, NIV). John uses language that but he rested on the seventh day’ ” between science and Christianity. was familiar to his contemporaries: a (Exod. 20:8, 11, NIV). Hence the currency of the mes- person who had experienced God’s The Sabbath played a very impor- sage of the first angel: “Worship him fury was pictured by prophets in the tant role in the worship of God’s who made. . . .” The message calls Old Testament as drinking wine from chosen people. In Old Testament people to think about their origin and God’s cup (Job 21:20; Pss. 60:3; times, Sabbath keeping sustained the reconsider their purpose. The Bible 75:8; Isa. 51:17–23; Jer. 25:15–28; people’s hopes of future deliverance, speaks about human origin: “God Ezek. 23:32–34). Messianic peace, and well-being. created man in his own image; in the In the “seductive” politics of the Sabbath, as the Israelites understood image of God he created him” (Gen. spiritual Babylon, John draws atten- it, was connected not only to Creation, 1:27, NIV). Accepting that humans tion to the act of receiving a “ ‘mark but to deliverance, liberation, and were created in God’s image can on the forehead or on the hand’ ” redemption too. Sabbath served as radically change the way men and (Rev. 14:9, NIV). What does this mark a sign of the covenant between God women perceive themselves. mean, and how are we to under- and His people (Exod. 31:13, 17). stand it? John uses the Greek word This leads us to understand The second angel’s charagma, which, in his time, referred why the pioneers of our church message to Caesar’s image on coins, the impe- placed the “seventh day” in the In the context of what was men- rial seal on official documents, and the church’s title. The name “Seventh- tioned previously, the message of brand mark carved on animals. day Adventist” carries a significant the second angel becomes clearer. The mark on the forehead and meaning. It reflects two positions This angel proclaims Babylon’s fall: hand perhaps also connects to the that underscore a forceful identity. “ ‘Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great, ancient practice among Israelites The “seventh day” indicates the which made all the nations drink the during prayer time when the tefillin church membership’s commitment maddening wine of her adulteries’ ” or a phylactery, a small leather box to God, the Creator of all life, and (Rev. 14:8, NIV). with passages from the Torah (Exod. Provider of true meaning to human No direct relationship exists 13:1–10; Deut. 6:4–9; 11:13–21), is existence and hope. between Babylon in the book of bound to the forehead and hand. No less important is the accent on Revelation and the historical This ritual depicts the conscious the second position in the church’s Babylon. When John was writing acceptance of God’s will reflected title. The word Adventist points to the the book of Revelation, Babylon, as through His commandments second coming of Jesus Christ. We described in the book of Daniel, did (binding on the forehead), and the must emphasize that this position not exist. Most likely John sees a readiness to fulfill this will in one’s is biblical (John 14:1–3; Acts 1:10, new religious-political power in his life (binding on the hand). 11; 1 Thess. 4:13–18). According to prophetic vision. This power, which The beast’s mark on the forehead the Bible, God will put an end to the John calls Babylon, while taking and the hand represents the mark presence of sin one day and bring

MINISTRY 19 DECEMBER 2012 Eugene Zaitsev back harmony to this world (Rev. essence of the church’s mission. This 12:17; 14:12), the other participates 21:1–5). sermon became the action program in adultery with spiritual Babylon So, the name of the Seventh-day of the young Adventist Church. The (Rev. 17:2). One will finally rest in Adventist Church testifies of two Seventh-day Adventist Church was God (Rev. 14:13), while the other will great events in world history—the not formed as a result of a schism not rest “ ‘day or night’ ” (Rev. 14:11). creation of the cosmos in the begin- of an already existing denomina- The three angels’ messages call every ning and the launching of the new tion. Rather it was formed through believer to choose his or her position heavens and the new earth at the consolidation of representatives of in this great controversy between second coming of Jesus Christ. different denominations around the good and evil, between truth and lie. These two events—the beginning majestic message to be proclaimed Let us draw our attention one and the end—are the alpha and before and until the Second Coming. more time to the phrase “the hour of omega of earth’s history. Indeed This message reflects the tendencies his judgment has come.” The word these two events, centered in Christ, that are characteristics of the histori- “judgment” is translated from the make Him declare, “ ‘I am the Alpha cal era that began in the nineteenth Greek word krisis. This word means and Omega, … who is, and who was, century. Adventists recognized the “process of judgment” (see Rev. 16:7; and who is to come’ ” (Rev. 1:8, NIV). actuality of this message in today’s 18:10; 19:2), while a different Greek historical situation. The preaching of word krima means “verdict” or “sen- Conclusion this message defined the character tence.” We indeed live in a time of Summarizing the content of the and face of the church. crisis—economic crisis, financial crisis, three angels’ messages in Revelation We must note that the core of the energy crisis, food crisis, ecological 14, we must note the importance three angels’ messages, proclaimed crisis, moral crisis, spiritual crisis, and of this message in the formation of before the Second Coming, is wor- so on; all of them are part of life today. the church’s mission. The pioneers ship. So, the author of the book of The time of the Second Coming is of our church did not accidentally Revelation mentions two groups of near, bringing with it the krima, the emphasize that the three angels’ worshipers. One group worships Him time for the verdict. For this reason, messages in the book of Revelation “ ‘who made the heavens, the earth, we consider it of great importance that are placed in the context of the the sea and the springs of water,’” and we participate in the preaching of the Second Coming. The sermon of the other worships the beast and his greatest message of the Holy the “eternal gospel” through the image. One shows obedience to God Scriptures. It is our duty and privi- three angels’ messages became the and fulfills His commandments (Rev. lege—the essence of our mission.

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Prayer and revival

Because of a close link between At the Protestant Reformation revival and prayer, revival is always “From the secret place of prayer the outcome of much prayer. came the power that shook the world evidence of their acceptance with God. in the Great Reformation. There, Their hearts were closely united, and At the Day of Pentecost with holy calmness, the servants of they prayed much with and for one “These days of preparation were the Lord set their feet upon the rock another. They often met together in days of deep heart searching. The of His promises. During the struggle secluded places to commune with God, disciples felt their spiritual need and at Augsburg, Luther ‘did not pass a and the voice of intercession ascended cried to the Lord for the holy unction day without devoting three hours at to heaven from the fields and groves.”3 that was to fit them for the work of least to prayer.’ ”2 soul saving. They did not ask for a —Terje Bjerka serves as prayer blessing for themselves merely. They At the Advent Awakening coordinator, Norwegian Union, were weighted with the burden of the “Carefully and solemnly those who Royse, Norway. salvation of souls. They realized that received the message came up to the 1 Ellen G. White, The Acts of the Apostles (Mountain View, CA: the gospel was to be carried to the time when they hoped to meet their Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1911), 37. world, and they claimed the power Lord. Every morning they felt that 2 White, The Great Controversy Between Christ and Satan (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1950), 210. 1 that Christ had promised.” it was their first duty to secure the 3 Ibid., 403.

MINISTRY 20 DECEMBER 2012 Clyde Morgan

Clyde Morgan, MDiv, founder and president of Adventist Frontier Missions for 22 years, now provides consulting services through Global Frontiers International (dba GFI Consulting).

Make the main thing your first priority

f the Seventh-day Adventist 1. Identify the essential gone,” “baptizing,” “teaching”) are Church continues reaching 2. Eliminate the rest1 participles, and reveal how the one new language groups at the imperative must be carried out. Isame rate it has since 1975, From his six guiding principles,2 There are many good things the the church will take more than the following three are especially church can do. But what essential 600 years to reach the remaining helpful in our discussion: thing is the church called to do? unreached language groups. In What is the main thing that, if not 1975, the church printed publica- 1. Choose the essential done, means total failure? Surely, tions and conducted oral work in 2. Simplify it must be our mandate to “make 559 languages. In 2010, that num- 3. Focus disciples.” All that we do as a church ber was 921. At this rate, yes—it will and individual believers should take more than 600 years. Let’s explore these points briefly. contribute to that mandate. Every Imagine this scenario: Jesus institution, program, and activity suddenly appeared to you and said, Choose the essential should be evaluated in terms of how “I am very eager to return. I want you Make the main thing your first successfully it contributes to fulfilling to reach the remaining unreached priority. The church has a mandate, our mandate. This does not rule out language groups in the next 20 typically called the gospel commis- everything except direct evangelism. years.” If you followed His appeal, sion. The Matthew version of this Far from it. All the gifts of the Spirit what would you do? mandate reads, “ ‘Therefore go are needed. However, we must be Could you do it without know- and make disciples of all nations, absolutely clear on defining our ing the parameters of the task? Or baptizing them in the name of the mandate and be unbending in taking without knowing who the unreached Father and of the Son and of the Holy up or laying down activities based on are, where they are, and how many Spirit, and teaching them to obey their contribution and effectiveness there are? It is not that without this everything I have commanded you. in achieving our mandate. information you cannot find people And surely I am with you always, to evangelize. However, if you are to the very end of the age’ ” (Matt. Simplify setting out to reach the remaining 28:19, 20).3 A mandate is just that, The next step, directly tied to the unreached in the next 20 years (or 50 a mandate describing what you first, is to eliminate the nonessential. or 100), you must plan strategically are supposed to do. It tells you the The church has a large variety of and execute well. main thing, the most important institutions, programs, and activities. Leo Babauta, in his book The thing, the essential thing. The one As previously stated, all of these Power of Less, argues in favor of sim- imperative in this gospel mandate must be evaluated by how success- plicity to become more productive. focuses on “making disciples of all fully they contribute to our mandate. He identifies two steps as summing nations.” All the other action words Anything that does not contribute, or up the creation of simplicity: (“go” better translated as “having inadequately contributes, should be

MINISTRY 21 DECEMBER 2012 Clyde Morgan changed or eliminated. Otherwise, Division (ECD), 76 percent of the lan- and percentages of reached and the church ends up doing nones- guage groups are in the unreached/ unreached language groups are as sential things with the result that it least reached category. shown in Figure 1 with the estimated has inadequate time and energy to do what it is called to do. FIGURE 1 Estimated Reached/Unreached Language Groups by Division Focus Once we commit to our principal mandate, we must focus on it like a laser beam. All kinds of opportunities to do good things will arise. Calls to take up many activities will be frequent and loud. If such things survive the sieve of clearly contribut- ing to fulfilling our mandate, they might be adopted; if not, no matter how appealing or loud the call or strong the pressure, we must leave them aside. We have one main job to do. We must keep our eye single to this task. Babauta writes, “[F]ocus Copyright © 2012 GFI Consulting Estimated Reached Estimated Unreached *Actual (as of 2011) is your most important tool. Focus on less to become more effective. Focus If we total the population of all total population of the unreached on One Goal in order to achieve it.”4 the language groups in ECD, we find language groups to be about 2.5 that nearly 100 million people are billion. Except for the two divisions in Sobering numbers found in the unreached/least reached which research is completed (marked With this in mind, what is the category; in SSD the population is with an asterisk), the figures for the status of Adventist work among even greater with nearly 270 million other divisions8 are estimates only, language groups around the world? people in unreached/least reached and we do not know which language Nearly 7,000 languages are spo- category language groups.7 groups are reached or unreached. ken worldwide.5 That’s distinct In just these two divisions, However, for the divisions in languages, not dialects. Interestingly the population of the unreached/ which research has been done, enough, we do not know exactly least reached category of language we now know precisely which lan- how many of these could be groups approaches half a billion guage groups are unreached. As an considered “reached”6 by Seventh- people. We estimate the number example, Figure 2 is a color-coded day Adventists. Global Frontiers FIGURE 2 International (dba GFI Consulting) East-Centra Africa Division Language Groups Detailed SDA Status is working with divisions of the church that desire to know how many and which language groups are unreached in their territory. In the process, we also determine how many groups are reached. From GFI Consulting’s research, we now have information for two of these divisions (East Central-Africa and Southern Asia-Pacific) and partial information for two more. As a percentage of total lan- guage groups in its territory, 85 percent of the language groups in the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) are unreached/least reached, which means there are few or no churches and Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) members. In the other division completed so far, East-Central Africa

MINISTRY 22 DECEMBER 2012 map indicating the detailed status Making it practical 1 Leo Babauta, The Power of Less: The Fine Art of Limiting of Adventist work among each Whatever level of church respon- Yourself to the Essential . . . in Business and in Life (New language group throughout the sibility you carry, the clarity of your York: Hyperion, 2009), ix. East-Central Africa Division.9 task is essential. Whether it is identi- 2 Ibid., xii. 3 All Bible quotations are from the New International Version. Now, you can begin to get seri- fying unreached language groups in 4 Babauta, 25. ous about developing a master plan a union in Asia or in a metropolitan 5 M. Paul Lewis, ed., Ethnologue: Languages of the World, 16th ed. (Dallas: SIL International, 2009), August 31, 2011, to reach the remaining unreached in area in Europe, you need to know the http://www.ethnologue.com/web.asp. the next 20 years or whatever target parameters of your task. Whether it 6 In this article, “reached” means there is at least one organized Seventh-day Adventist church (or its equivalent) time frame you choose. You know is identifying geographic regions that that has a majority of its members from the language group just which language groups are are beyond the current reach of the under consideration, and at least 1 percent of the language group population, or 250 people or more, are baptized unreached, how many such groups church in South America or a district members. More Adventist churches and members may be there are, where they are found, and pastor obtaining greater clarity about present, but this is the minimum to qualify as “reached” in their population. Beyond these basic what parts of the district are not our discussion. 7 These assessments were done before the organizational facts, much more information is penetrated, knowing the parameters restructuring made by the 2011 Annual Council. Both of available (though not depicted here) of your task enables you to plan these divisions now have even more unreached language groups with the addition of South Sudan to the East-Central to further enable you to engage in meaningfully and strategically. Africa Division and Pakistan to the Southern Asia-Pacific meaningful strategic planning. As a church pastor or other Division. 8 Due to its size and population, we have included the new While we cannot know when the leader, you have many demands Greater Middle East Union in this chart. The Greater Middle world has been reached in God’s vying for your time and attention. East Union has a larger population than most divisions of can the church. eyes, we know whether there is Simplify these by eliminating what is 9 On union-level maps, each language group is labeled by a witness to the everlasting gospel not truly essential and focus on the name. among a language group or not. This most essential—carrying out our is knowable information for us. Lord’s mandate.

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MINISTRY 23 DECEMBER 2012 S. Joseph Kidder

S. Joseph Kidder, DMin, is associate professor of Christian Ministry, Andrews University Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary, Berrien Springs, Michigan, United States.

The most important ingredient in church growth: Faith-based optimism

aith and optimism—two sim- Same places, different people and today we have over five ple words that can change results hundred people in attendance.” you, your church, and your At the time of this study, the Church B is one of the fast - Ffuture. A positive, healthy fastest-growing church, Church est growing Adventist churches, attitude based on hope and faith is A, was in mid-America. In order situated in a Southern metropolitan the number one human ingredient in to understand the dynamic of this area of over three million people church growth. In research done in growing church, three pastors of close to downtown. The church the Adventist Church from 2003 to stagnant Adventist churches in the experienced revitalization in the last 2007, the fastest growing Seventh- same area were asked the reasons decade. Currently, this church can day Adventist churches in North behind their lack of growth. Almost be described as a culturally diverse America were identified. 1 These all said, “It is very difficult to work congregation with strong leader- churches had at least 5 percent here. The people are not interested in ship and preaching, and about 500 growth in attendance, membership, the Adventist message. Most of the attending. and baptisms for five consecutive people are Baptist or Charismatic.” Meanwhile, the pastors of years. “What about the future?” I asked. plateauing or declining Adventist In order to be able to compare the “It does not look good,” they churches near Church B said that churches fairly, the study excluded said. “The Baptists are getting stron- the people in the area are very strong all churches that ministered to the ger and we are getting weaker.” Baptists and thus not interested in highly receptive first-generation In contrast, Church A was a the Adventist message. I asked, “Are immigrant populations. There were church planted in a medium-sized you telling me that all of the three five churches that met these strict city in the late 1990s and has a million people who live here are criteria (named below as “Church strong evangelistic ministry. When religious and churchgoers?” There A,” “Church B,” etc.). For each one interviewed about his city, the pastor was no response. of these fast-growing churches, the of Church A said, “I love living here. In contrast, the pastor of Church researchers identified three churches The people of our city love God, we B had a faith-based optimism. in the same geographical proximity pray for them, we meet their needs, “We’re not intimidated by chal- that were either declining or in the and they keep coming to our church. lenges. Our role is to pray, to have plateau stage. God has been so good to us. We effective ministries and evangelism, What can we learn from this started our church approximately and God’s role is to send the people study? eight years ago with a handful of to us.”

MINISTRY 24 DECEMBER 2012 Church C is a long-established Hispanic constituency.2 But this hero worship, and hedonism. And in church in a suburb of a very large was not always so. At one time every city, faithful Christians faced city in the Pacific Northwest. The the church had been dying and the unremitting persecution. Despite congregation has more than doubled new pastor arrived to hear words of these challenges—challenges no to between 450 and 500. It operates discouragement: “This church will easier than the ones we face today— a strong and innovative commu- not grow. It’s in a small town and the the Christian gospel spread and the nity service ministry. The pastor of town is not growing.” kingdom of God grew. The first cen- Church C said, “The best thing that Yet the pastor of Church E tury was the era of church growth ever happened to me was to be believed God could grow that dying and Christian spirituality that we here. The people in our area have no church in a small town, and with look back on with envy, but the first- church connections or ties. We pray that faith he went forward, leading century church grew not because it for them, we minister to their needs, his church to become a bright light did not have challenges but because and they come to our church.” in their community and a dynamic, it had a strong faith in Jesus Christ But when three pastors of declin- enthusiastic Adventist congregation. and the power of His Spirit. ing congregations in that same area In our time, God will carry His were interviewed about the condition The most important church to triumph and success. If we of their churches, they said, “We live ingredient want to be part of that triumph, we in one of the most secular places No single factor alone will help must believe in God and His Spirit. in the world, which makes it very your church grow (including some During the research interviews, difficult to do any kind of evangelism. imaginary, ideal location where we heard many excuses of why the People here do not think about God growth is automatic), and no com- churches were not growing. One and they don’t need Him, and they bination of efforts or strategies will pastor said, “Our church is in a certainly don’t need the church.” make your church grow without the very affluent area and people have One of those pastors said that the Holy Spirit. But with the Holy Spirit no need for God.” Another one percentage of people who go to we have every reason for optimism said, “My church is in a very poor church in Paris, France, is higher and enthusiasm for the future. Of area, thus people have to work two than the percentage of people who the factors that this research study or three jobs to make ends meet; go to church in this area. When identified as contributing to church therefore they have no time for God asked about the future, the unani- growth—including effective lead- or the church.” One pastor said, mous answer of these pastors was, ership, enthusiastic involvement “My church is in a very educated “It’s going to become more difficult.” of the laity, utilizing the power of part of town; people question God.” Same place, much different atti- prayer, and inspiring and dynamic Another one told me, “My church tudes, much different results. worship—none was more important is in a very rough part of town, And not just suburban or city than faith-based optimism. people don’t like to change, and it churches have the opportunity to The most important ingredient in is difficult for them to come to our grow. Church D is in a small town in church growth is to have a winning church.” One said, “Our church is the central United States, but was attitude based on faith in God. With in a very postmodern demographic, growing well for its size (about 175 God’s power and blessing, we can people are open-minded to every- on Sabbath morning) and exercising win the world for Jesus. When we thing except absolute truth.” Another various ministries. The pastor was say that the people are not interested pastor said, “My church is in an not deterred by the small-town set- or are difficult to reach, we limit God, industrial part of town, people find ting. He believed that, small-town or limit ourselves, and limit the people it difficult to look at new ways of big town, the members of his church we are trying to reach. If you have experiencing God.” would be enthusiastic evangelists, the underlying belief that people are We heard excuse after excuse praying for, and inviting their friends not interested, would you work or try after excuse for why the churches to church. Accordingly, he worked new methods to reach them? were not growing. But the pastors to grow the church spiritually and The situation today is much the of the growing churches have a make it a place worth inviting people same as it was when Jesus walked faith that they can win the world to. Five years later, the church had this earth. In the first century, three for Jesus and an attitude that says grown by 50 percent. major philosophical ideas were that all things are possible with Church E is in a rural area in the represented by three major cities. God. They also have faith that with West and was growing phenom- Jerusalem represented tradition, God every church could be grow- enally with a strong community uninterested people, and rigidity in ing, dynamic, healthy, and excited presence and a passion for souls. beliefs. Athens represented modern about ministry and evangelism. The attendance was around 400, philosophy and openness to new This amazing faith and attitude of predominantly Anglo-American. In ideas. Rome represented post- hope tends to be contagious. The addition, there was also a minority modernity, a culture of entertainment, members of these churches have the

MINISTRY 25 DECEMBER 2012 S. Joseph Kidder same faith, attitude, and optimism; Israel out of Egypt with signs and up your faith in God. Start seeing they believe that God will do great wonders, by a mighty hand and an the mighty works of God, and your things for them, their families, and outstretched arm and with great church will go on to effectiveness, their church. terror’ ” (Jer. 32:17–21).5 health, and growth. And God will In Common-Sense Church “Jesus looked at them and said, reward you according to the size of Growth, Howard K. Batson writes, ‘With man this is impossible, but not your faith and vision. He will give “The pastor’s response will set with God; all things are possible with you that church that is full of joy and the tone for the congregational God’ ” (Mark 10:27). energized with confidence in God. response. If the pastor is publicly When people believe in the defeated, bitter, disappointed, or power of God, He rewards them with What kind of pastor do depressed, the congregation will His rich and abundant blessings. you want to be? mirror his feelings.”3 The Lord Almighty is still almighty. What kind of pastor do you want Our optimism remains based on His to be—full of excuses or full of faith The Lord is willing to do unchanging nature, His abundant and optimism? If you have the right great things power, His faithful promises. kind of attitude, you will be able We are coworkers with an to acquire the necessary skills for almighty God who can accomplish The faith factor success, and God will give you the anything. Ellen G. White stated, “The How does an attitude of faith resources you need. Someone might Lord is willing to do great things for affect the church and make it grow? say, “You do not know my area. You us. We shall not gain the victory 1. Nothing is as inspiring as seeing do not know my church. You do not through numbers, but through the God moving in our midst. know the difficulties I am facing, the full surrender of the soul to Jesus. To witness God in action ener- conflicts I have.” Growing a church We are to go forward in His strength, gizes individuals and congregations is not effortless, not even easy, but trusting in the mighty God of Israel.”4 in an uncommon way. An attitude of with God all things are possible, The Lord will do great things for faith enables God to work miracles including growing a church in a His children and church. Faith-based among us, and these miracles beget difficult area. God has not called us optimism is not wishful thinking, more faith, which beget more of to live a defeated mentality but to ignorance of reality, or dismissing God’s visible action. have the spirit of success. “For God of difficulty. No, we find optimism 2. We can choose our attitudes. did not give us a spirit of timidity, based on the power of God who can An atmosphere of a winning but a spirit of power, of love and of do the impossible. attitude is more important than any- self-discipline” (2 Tim. 1:7). He has God can do impossible things. thing else, more important than the assured us that He will be with us This is the testimony of the Scriptures. church’s history of success or failure, always even to the end of the age The Bible demonstrates that God can the church’s budget or attendance, (Matt. 28:20). do anything. God gave a child to a or the church’s fame (or infamy). barren woman who was 90 years old And even more important than the Making it happen: Four married to a man who was 99 years church building, the giftedness of practical steps old (Gen. 17:17; 18:10–14); He gave the members, or the skill of the 1. Strengthen your own faith. Study a child to a virgin who never knew a pastor. God’s action in the Bible and man (Luke 1:34–38); He took a little The remarkable thing is that we history. boy and defeated a giant (1 Sam. have a choice every day regarding 2. Live that faith. Demonstrate faith 17); and He promised that if we have the attitude we will embrace for that in word and action, always talk- the faith of a mustard seed we could day. We cannot change the past. ing about the incredible power move mountains (Matt. 17:20). The We cannot change the fact that of God. entire weight of the Scriptures relies people will act in a certain way. We 3. Instill a vision in the congregation behind faith in a God who can do cannot change the inevitable. The of the greatness of God. Use all things. single most significant decision sermons, testimonies, slogans, “ ‘Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have we can make is the choice of our banners, and songs. made the heavens and the earth by attitude. 4. Build an enthusiastic congregation your great power and outstretched 3. An attitude of joy is contagious. with a healthy self-esteem that arm. Nothing is too hard for you. . . . Your attitude of joy at the Lord’s work believes all things are possible. You performed miraculous signs can permeate the whole congrega- • Celebrate the blessings. Call and wonders in Egypt and have tion. Your enthusiasm and belief in attention to the action of God continued them to this day, both the greatness of God has a way of in your church. Celebrate in Israel and among all mankind, influencing everyone in the congre- high attendance and offer- and have gained the renown that is gation and changing their attitude ings. Make anniversaries a still yours. You brought your people into possibilities and victories. Build time to bless the past and

MINISTRY 26 DECEMBER 2012 mark how far the church has intimidated by challenges, we expect in God’s hands, leaving Him to do come. Have a time for prayers God’s triumphant intervention. We the work in His own way, according of thankfulness that focus on pray for conversions in large num- to His own will, through whomso- the good God is doing in your bers. We work in the power of the ever He may choose. Those who church. Holy Spirit. We expect God to do seem to be weak God will use, if • Change the language. Address great things. they are humble. Human wisdom, problems from the perspec- What are your expectations? God unless daily controlled by the Holy tive of faith, calling them will reward us according to our faith Spirit, will prove foolishness. We opportunities and challenges. and expectation. Therefore, expect must have more faith and trust in Do not think of problems as great worship, great services, great God. He will carry the work out with limitations but as occasions to faith, great Sabbath School, great success. Earnest prayer and faith be creative. Banish the word people, great growth. Expect God will do for us what our own devising failure by blessing risk: “We to do great things. Expect God to cannot do.”6 are a church not afraid to try help you fulfill your potential. Expect new things for God.” people to be changed and to change 1 To find these churches, the researchers contacted every local conference in the North American Division and asked • Recruit cheerleaders. Find the the world and do great things for God. for churches within their jurisdiction that met the criteria of people who have faith-based “Prayer and faith will do what no the study. Once the growing congregations were identified (as well as the plateaued churches in close geographical optimism and belief in pos- power upon earth can accomplish. proximity), the pastors were interviewed about what makes sibilities. Let them serve as We need not be so anxious and their church grow, training and equipping the members, cheerleaders by giving tes- troubled. The human agent cannot prayer in their churches, and worship in their church. 2 The Hispanic constituency was not included in the growth timonies, taking leadership go everywhere, and do everything calculations, but was in addition to it. roles, and speaking out at that needs to be done. Often imper- 3 Howard K. Batson, Common-Sense Church Growth (Macon, GA: Smith & Helwys, 1999), 89. decision-making times. fections manifest themselves in the 4 Ellen G. White, Sons and Daughters of God (Silver Spring, work, but if we show unwavering MD: E.G. White Estate, 2003), 279. Faith-based optimism trust in God, not depending upon 5 Scripture quotations taken from the New International Version. An attitude of optimism and the ability or talent of men, the truth 6 Ellen G. White, Manuscript Release (Silver Spring, MD: E.G. faith means that instead of being will advance. Let us place all things White Estate, 1993), 8:218.

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Fixing our eyes on Jesus

The year was 1889. For months, journey. In the end, Ellen walked Ellen White traveled extensively to many miles through the mud and the treacherous water, and found the promote revival and reformation, rain, slipping and sliding over the soggy campground with the campers speaking continually of the mountain rocks, around uprooted discouraged but safe. transformational beauty of Christ’s trees and flood debris, crossing Was the arduous trip worth the righteousness. Though she had gulches where the bridges were trouble just to talk about revival and just spent three weeks preaching entirely washed out. They did not reformation at a soggy camp meeting? at a Kansas camp meeting, she know a dam had broken southwest of Ellen White thought so. She found pressed on for more appointments at Williamsport, causing a roaring flood a group of believers who had listened Williamsport, Pennsylvania. through Johnstown and killing more to a lot of doctrinal discourse, but The journey would not be easy. than 2,000 people. were in desperate need of practical Because of heavy rains and flooding, At last, they reached a hotel, but instruction on how to believe, simply trains were delayed or canceled, no warm food was available. Wet believe, in Jesus Christ. and many passengers returned in and hungry, they went to bed only frustration to New York. Ultimately, to awaken to the roar of the swollen —Cindy Tutsch, DMin, serves as an finding no other recourse, Ellen and river, which now seemed impassable. associate director, Ellen G. White her assistant hired two drivers, a Undeterred, Mrs. White organized a Estate, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States. carriage, and horses to continue the raft-building project, safely crossed

MINISTRY 27 DECEMBER 2012 RESOURCES

Islam and Christianity in Putting aside the Prophecy issue of Islam for by Tim Roosenberg with the moment, the Tim Lale, Hagerstown, MD: Review and Herald, book contains some 2011. excellent material

his book comprises the latest on the Sabbath, the state of the Tin a series of books and articles dealing with Daniel 11, and has 14 dead, and the Second Coming. chapters and four appendices of which the first one is the most sig- nificant, as it includes a comparison • Verses 29–39: Second conflict have others ignored the greatest of Daniel 11:2–12:4 with historical between Christianity and Islam conflict? events. The main thrust of the book, during the time of the Reformation 2. Much of the interpretation as the title indicates, shows that • Verses 40–45: Third and future con- of Daniel 11 is based on subjective Daniel 11 mainly describes a history flict between Christianity and Islam conjectures rather than exegesis. of the wars between Christianity Roosenberg claims that the prophe- and Islam. Putting aside the issue This outline presents a number cies in Daniel are historically sequential of Islam for the moment, the book of problems. Two of which are the (13), for example, nations or events fol- contains some excellent material on following:* low each other chronologically, as they the Sabbath, the state of the dead, do in Daniel 2, 7, and 8. Yet, he has the and the Second Coming. This manu- 1. On page 12, Roosenberg Crusades (1095–1291) in verses 25–28 script is basically an evangelistic claims that Daniel 11 predicts three (207) with the events in 11:31 (“taking book with appendix C, “A Gospel holy wars between Christianity away of the daily” and “setting up the Appeal,” as the altar call at the end and Islam. The first he sees in the abomination of desolation”) taking of the evangelistic series. I com- Islamic conquest and the Crusades. place 500 years before the Crusades in mend the author for his adherence However, when he comes to the text 11:25–28. His interpretation destroys to the basic Adventist doctrines in Daniel 11:25–28 (207), he finds no the chronological sequence of the and for the evangelistic emphasis room for the Islamic conquest and prophecy at this point. in the book. begins with the Crusades. Therefore, Roosenberg’s basic outline of page 91 calls the Crusades the “first Roosenberg’s book on Daniel 11 Daniel 11 is found on pages 203–212: conflict between the papacy and shows an interesting interpretation of Islam.” This is historically problem- one of the most difficult chapters in • Verses 2: Media-Persia atic. If Daniel 11 describes the wars the Bible, but the book is by no means • Verses 3, 4: Greece between Christianity and Islam, exegetically as solid as it claims. • Verses 5–19: Wars between the then it does not mention the most Seleucids and the Ptolemies important war in the past—the —Reviewed by Gerhard Pfandl, PhD, retired • Verses 20–22: Romans Islamic conquest in the seventh associate director, Biblical Research Institute, Silver • Verses 23, 24: Rise of the papacy and eighth centuries a.d. that wiped Spring, Maryland, United States. • Verses 25–28: Crusades (First out Christianity in the Middle East. conflict between Christianity If Daniel 11 deals with the conflict * For a more complete evaluation, write to pfandlg@ and Islam) between Christianity and Islam, why gc.adventist.org.

MINISTRY 28 DECEMBER 2012 DATELINE

GC president can view their own role in anticipa- 2012, voted to establish a Theol- tion of Christ’s return as people who ogy of Ordination Study Committee publishes first are servants of the Lord and to each with a goal of delivering a report to book other. the 2014 Annual Council (a yearly “I hope readers catch a full pic- meeting of world church administra- ilver Spring, Maryland, United ture of the urgency of the times tors). Four committee sessions, each SStates—Seventh-day Adven- and the Lord’s soon return. It is lasting for up to three days, will tist world church president Ted my prayer that church members precede the October 2014 report, N. C. Wilson has will feel very much leaders said. published his first a part of the great “We want an open process,” book, a compilation Advent movement Pastor Ted N.C. Wilson, presi- of recent sermons and its real objec- dent of the General Conference of on themes of com- tive, which is to tell Seventh-day Adventists, told the mitment to God and people the Lord group’s Administrative Committee, service to others. is coming soon,” or ADCOM, before the vote was Almost Home: Wilson said. taken. “We want to hear what God A Call to Revival All proceeds wants to tell us, through Bible study, and Reformation from Almost Home study of the Spirit of Prophecy, and was published and will benefit the prayer.” released by Pacific Mission to the The decision to launch this com- Cities initiative, mittee comes a year after the 2011 which is the unveiling of a roadmap for the study Adventist Church’s process. Church officials affirmed the program to share outline that was presented and pro- the gospel mes- vided terms of reference for the study sage with people living in large committee. The committee is a direct metropolitan areas. response to a request during the 2010 “One of my favorite and most General Conference Session for a cherished objectives is for people in church-conducted in-depth study cities to know of Christ’s love and of ordination. The denomination’s soon return,” Wilson said. [ANN Executive Committee at the 2014 Staff] Annual Council may decide to recom- mend action concerning ordination to the 2015 General Conference Session in San Antonio, Texas. Seventh-day The committee will be comprised Adventist of a variety of individuals includ- ing “women, men, younger and Church launches older members, theologians, Bible committee to students, those who have written or spoken on the subject, and some Press Publishing Association. Wilson study theology of others.” The committee will have no said the book focuses on Christ’s ordination world church officers as participants soon return and the three angels’ other than the chairman, vice chair- messages, as found in the book of ilver Spring, Maryland, United man, and secretary, though these Revelation. This manuscript also SStates—Seventh-day Adventist three executive officers will be ex underscores how church members Church leaders on September 18, officio members.

MINISTRY 29 DECEMBER 2012 DATELINE

“When the process starts there can interact in a highly respectful evident, they will be carefully noted are two issues that will be studied,” and spiritual discussion setting. for the final report to the 2014 said Artur A. Stele, head of the The committee includes two del- Annual Council. world church’s Biblical Research egates from each of the 13 world According to the statement by Institute and chairman of the new church divisions, which will work ADCOM, “Through strong prayer committee. “First, the theology of with regional Biblical Research sessions, study of the Bible, study ordination—what ordination is or Committees in the study. of the Spirit of Prophecy, and the isn’t. Second, ‘What are the impli- An official statement voted by resulting careful discussion, the cations for church practices with ADCOM emphasized that, unlike Theology of Ordination Study a special emphasis on women’s many church committees where Committee should focus on solu- ordination?’ ” actions are voted up and down, tions that would support the The membership of this commit- the committee’s terms of refer - message, mission, and unity of the tee represents a wide perspective ence include “an aim of reaching Seventh-day Adventist Church.” of views on ordination, and the consensus on as many points as [Ansel Oliver, Mark A. Kellner, and committee members hope that they possible.” Where differences are Elizabeth Lechleitner/ANN]

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A WORLD OF WONDERS A Daily Devotional Nineteen Years in the Making

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