APRIL 2014

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PASTORS

Reflections on a ministry in prison: An interview with António Monteiro dos Anjos Mission to the Cities is an emphasis of the Seventh-day Adventist Church on sharing Jesus’ love and the hope of His soon return with people in urban settings. It envisions initiatives in more than 650 of the world’s largest cities, starting with New York City in 2013 and running through 2015. Comprehensive outreach activities will be as varied as the character of each city, and will include Life Hope Centers, church planting, community events, health seminars, small groups, and reaping campaigns.

Please be praying for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Mission to the Cities: For the church members and church leaders working in these cities For the people yet to be reached with the Gospel For the world divisions and unions to develop strategies for reaching the large cities in their territories For the thousands of outreach activities and reaping events currently taking place For the strongholds of Satan to be broken, and relationships with Christ to be established

For a list of cities and to join in praying for them, go to: www.MissiontotheCities.org and www.RevivalandReformation.org/777 CONTENTS

Reflections on a ministry in prison: An 04 Letters 06 interview with António Monteiro dos Anjos 05 Editorial Delbert Baker 26 Revival & Reformation This interview provides life lessons that transcend the 27 Resources experience of incarceration. 28 Dateline

Adventist mission: Challenges from a 30 Practical Pointers 10 pluralistic world Yelena Muzykina

How do we reach this current population since the Ministry® International Editors reconfiguration of the world’s religious space has changed International Journal for Pastors Chinese-Robert Wong 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, Indonesian-Edwin T. Pandjaitan the status of global Christianity? MD 20904-6600 U.S.A. Japanese-Yukio Ebihara www.ministrymagazine.org Korean-Sung Sun Hong [email protected] Portuguese (South America)-Zinaldo “God’s chosen agency for the salvation Santos Editor Russian-Michael Kaminsky 14 of souls” : Lessons from the preaching Derek J. Morris Spanish (South America)-Marcos Blanco ministry of Ellen G. White Associate Editor Spanish (Inter-America)-Pablo Perla Willie E. Hucks II Michael W. Campbell International Consultants to Editor Advisors Because Ellen White believed that proclaiming God’s Word John Fowler, Clifford Goldstein, Myrna Tetz Mario Brito, Michael Kaminsky, Janos Kovacs-Biro, L. Chansanga Colney, Armando was an essential requirement for an Adventist minister, Editorial Specialist Miranda, Rudatinya M. Mwangachuchu, Sheryl Beck she rebuked those who did not have this gift and urged Daniel Opoku-Boateng, Jongimpi Papu, them to pursue a different livelihood. Finance and Bruno Raso, Ángel M. Rodríguez, Hector Technology Manager Sanchez, Houtman Sinaga, David Tasker, John Feezer IV Ivan L. Williams, Ted N. C. Wilson Babylonian mentality: With whom do

18 you bank? Advertising Subscriptions Igor Lorencin Melynie Tooley 12 issues: United States US$32.99; Canada [email protected] and overseas US$47.00. To order: send God is preparing something qualitatively much better +1 301-787-2790 name, address, and payment to Ministry® Subscriptions, 12501 Old Columbia Pike, than Babylon, and He offers it entirely for free—the New Subscriptions/ Silver Spring, MD 20904-6600 U.S.A. Jerusalem. renewals/address www.ministrymagazine.org/subscribe changes [email protected] DIGITAL DELIVERY +1 301-680-6511 Print subscribers can sign up for digital deliv- In prosperity and adversity +1 301-680-6502 (fax) ery at www.ministrymagazine.org/digital To Writers 22 Gordon E. Christo Cover We welcome unsolicited manuscripts. 316 Creative – Based on photo by A study of Jesus’ teachings indicates that He warned Before submitting, review the writers’ Adventist News Network about the perils of material prosperity. Read what the guidelines at www.ministrymagazine.org. Layout Please send manuscripts via email to author believes to be these three perils. 316 Creative [email protected].

How to increase the power of your Co-hosts Anthony Kent 24 preaching through stories and Derek Morris www.MinistryinMotion.tv Kelvin Onongha

Jesus told stories—simple and elegant—to reveal the Ministry® has been published Printer Pacific Press® Pub. Assn., monthly since 1928 by the Ministerial 1350 N. Kings Rd., Nampa, ID 83687 nature of God, the problem of sin, and God’s redemptive Association, General Conference of mission. He was the Great Communicator. Seventh-day Adventists.® Ministry is a Standard mail postage paid at Nampa, Idaho. peer-reviewed journal. (ISSN 0026-5314) SECRETARY Jerry N. Page Member of Associated Church Press. Associate Secretaries Jonas Arrais, Robert Costa, Adventist®, Seventh-day Adventist®, and Willie E. Hucks II, Anthony Kent, Ministry® are the registered trademarks Bible credits Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by Derek Morris, Janet Page permission of Zondervan Publishing House. All rights reserved. Scriptures quoted from NKJV are from The New King James Version, copyright © 1979, 1980, 1982, Thomas of the General Conference Corporation of Ministerial Resource Nelson, Inc., Publishers. Scripture quotations marked ESV are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®, copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Seventh-day Adventists®. Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996. Used by Center Coordinator permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved. Cathy Payne Vol. 86 Number 4 © 2014 888-771-0738, +1 301-680-6508 www.ministerialassociation.com PRINTED IN THE U.S.A. LETTERS

“I so wish we could educate our From a legal perspective the world was restored to favor with God (Rom. 5:18). members so that they respect the The atonement, or reconciliation, was completed on the cross as foreshad- boundaries of family life.” owed by the sacrifices, and the penitent believer can trust in this finished work of our Lord.” I now need to ask the question, Is Putting pastoral statement, “This would have changed this 1988 publication correct? Or is the families first her entire eschatological framework, writer of the Q&A section on page 52, With reference to Roger Hernandez’s shifting both the antitypical scapegoat Ministry, October 1980, correct in writ- article (“When Your Ministry Gets in the from Satan to Christ and the antitypical ing, “the Passover feast is the festival Way of Your Marriage and Family”— Day of Atonement from the post-1844 primarily fulfilled at Calvary”? February 2014), it was insightful and era back to the Cross.” —Peter Williams, Eagleby, Queensland, Australia excellent. As the wife of a pastor, I fully I ask the question, Isn’t the Cross appreciate how ministry affects our where that emphasis should have The beast in lives. My husband currently pastors a always been? In the book Seventh-day Revelation 17 church; but for most of our married life, Adventists Believe . . . (1988 ed.), page I read with great interest the article he was a union conference director. We 106, Fundamental Belief 9 reads, “In by Ranko Stefanovic in the December spent many years camping with a small Christ’s life of perfect obedience to God’s issue (“The Seven Heads of the Beast child, traveling around the country every will, His suffering, death, and resurrec- in Revelation 17”). The subject is quite weekend, all in an attempt to minister to tion, God provided the only means of familiar to me, and for most of the article, the members. He loved youth ministries, atonement for human sin, so that those I agree with the interpretation presented. and I loved watching him enjoy serving who by faith accept this atonement may There is, however, one point that does his God as he felt called. have eternal life, and the whole creation not seem to gel: the eighth head. We He now is a pastor of a 700-member may better understand the infinite and seem to be stuck on papacy while all congregation. The demands are high. holy love of the Creator. This perfect along we have the interpretation given One lady actually told me, “You have him atonement vindicates the righteousness to us by Ellen G. White in The Great at home, you don’t need him at church,” of God’s law and the graciousness of His Controversy, chapter 15: this is atheism. when I suggested my husband indulge character; for it both condemns our sin It is quite simple, really. The “eighth” in Sabbath lunch at 3:30 with his family. and provides for our forgiveness. The is described as the beast that comes out I so wish we could educate our death of Christ is substitutionary and of the “bottomless pit” (KJV) or “Abyss” members so that they respect the expiatory, reconciling and transforming. (NIV) in Revelation 11:7 and 17:8. It is also boundaries of family life. The resurrection of Christ proclaims described as being of the seven (Rev. —Cathy Boldeau, United Kingdom God’s triumph over the forces of evil, 17:11, KJV) or belonging to them (NIV), and for those who accept the atone- which simply means that they all were The Scapegoat ment assures their final victory over sin in rebellious opposition to God. I was interested to read in the and death. It declares the Lordship of Who could deny that atheism is a ris- October 2013 [issue of] Ministry a con- Jesus Christ, before whom every knee in ing specter in the world? Sure, it is going tribution by Alberto Timm entitled heaven and on earth will bow.” to its destruction (v. 11). It seems that “The Scapegoat in the Writings of Ellen Furthermore, on page 315 of the the religious-political alliance is going G. White.” same book the following is found, “On to take the upper hand over atheism at I would like to comment, not the cross the penalty for human sin was on White’s writings, but on Timm’s fully paid. Divine justice was satisfied. Continued on page 17

Ministry® APRIL 2014 editorial Willie E. Hucks II

What if it had been me?

or almost two years, many of ministry notwithstanding, I enjoyed Instead, he entrusted himself to him us followed the story of Pastor a pleasant existence. In my various who judges justly” (1 Pet. 2:21,23, FAntónio Monteiro dos Anjos— responsibilities since leaving active emphasis added.).1 the Seventh-day Adventist pastor district ministry, I have also worked I remember that there are things imprisoned in the country of Togo. with some of the most pleasant and I’ll never understand. As simple as After 22 months of incarceration, he efficient professionals I could ever the passage sounds, I still wrestle was found innocent of all charges in hope to work with. with the profundity of Romans 8:28: January 2014 and released. Yet every so often (praise God, it “God works for the good of those who During these last two years, I has been rare) there was the church love him.” Admittedly, I ponder ques- often asked myself, What if it had member, student, or coworker who tions of theodicy and timing. But I been me? Locked away in a prison proved chronically problematic— continue to rest in divine providence, and charged with a crime I didn’t whose words or actions caused me recognizing that “our heavenly Father commit, how would I handle these to spend sleepless nights asking, Why in love answers our prayers by giving new circumstances? Would I wonder, is this happening? How can he do us that which will be for our high- Why am I being treated unjustly? How something like that and get away with est good—that which we ourselves long will I be here? How will this affect it? Sometimes we face criticism (or would desire if with vision divinely my wife and children? worse) while we are conscientiously enlightened we could see all things I could easily find myself tempted doing our best—often sacrificing as they really are.”2 to doubt God’s presence and even for others. Sometimes others take I remember that life really is not doubt His call in my life. I could also advantage of us for no apparent about me. Joseph speaks to our easily be tempted to bitterness and reason. self-centered, narcissistic society. anger. Most of all, how could I possibly Sold into slavery by family, falsely forgive the person who leveled these Taking the next steps accused, imprisoned, forgotten by charges against me? How do I handle it? I must confess the one he benefited while incarcer- that I am still on a journey. The road I ated, he was still able to say to his Answering the travel is filled with potholes, detours, brothers, “You intended to harm questions and wrong turns. But remembering me, but God intended it for good to Those questions are not that several things encourages me—even if accomplish what is now being done, difficult to answer. While I cannot I am still trying to comprehend them. the saving of many lives” (Gen. 50:20). begin to compare my personal life I remember the words and example and professional experiences with of Jesus. Jesus assured His disciples Conclusion what Pastor Monteiro lived, the fact that the world wouldn’t care that He The story of Pastor Monteiro, is that while circumstances vary, the had chosen them to closely follow as shared in Delbert Baker’s inter- issues remain the same. Whether Him. That would be all the more view that serves as our lead article dealing with family matters or church reason for them to be persecuted (see this month, is not merely about his life, the potential exists for tensions John 15:20). While what I experience preaching and teaching ministry while to occasionally run high, feelings to cannot be remotely compared to in prison. Much more than that, this get hurt, and anger and bitterness persecution, I stand reminded that interview is about the ministry of his to ensue. in this world I will face troublesome life while incarcerated. That may be Looking back over my years moments (see John 16:33). I am also his greatest sermon ever preached. of congregational ministry, I was reminded of Peter’s counsel: “To this What about you? What about blessed to have some of the best you were called, because Christ suf- me? church members a pastor could ever fered for you, leaving you an example. ask for. Those local church leaders . . . When they hurled their insults 1 All biblical quotations are from the New International Version. 2 Ellen G. White, Steps to Christ (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press with whom I worked made my job rel- at him, he did not retaliate; when Pub. Assn., 1892), 96. atively easy. The normal challenges of he suffered, he made no threats.

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APRIL 2014 Ministry® Lead Article Delbert Baker

Delbert Baker, PhD, is general vice president, General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States.

Reflections on a ministry in prison: An interview with António Monteiro dos Anjos

Editor’s note: On March 15, 2012, António Monteiro dos Anjos, a Seventh-day Adventist pastor from Cape Verde, was falsely accused, arrested, charged, and subsequently imprisoned at the civil prison in Lomé, Togo. After 22 months in prison, he was found innocent of all charges against him by the Togo Appeals Court and released Monday, January 13, 2014. Pastor Monteiro and his family spent the first Sabbath of his freedom in Dakar, Senegal. Delbert Baker met Pastor Monteiro and his family in Dakar and conducted the first interview after his release. Pastor Monteiro then returned home to Cape Verde, where he received a warm and jubilant welcome from more than a thousand supporters and friends at the airport in the capital city of Praia. The Portuguese to English translation of this interview was provided by Pastor Monteiro’s daughter, Andreia.

Delbert Baker (DB): In brief, how do DB: The Togo courts recently found you through the Cape Verde government you summarize your experience of being innocent of all charges. What were your and the attorneys for my defense. God’s falsely accused, arrested, and impris- emotions when you heard the verdict? power was magnificent. oned for almost two years for a crime you did not commit? AM: I was thankful, relieved, and glad. DB: As you look back, do you have any I remember when the judge was read- idea why God may have allowed this António Monteiro (AM): I helped a ing the declarations with all the legal experience to happen? man who came to my office asking for terms and laws, the two guards who assistance; a man whom I had never stood by me quietly turned to me and AM: I really can’t explain why this hap- seen before. Sometime later, this same said, “Pastor, you are free!” It was an pened. It seems God may have been man, when in trouble with the police, emotional and joyful moment. My first accomplishing a bigger purpose. I real- blamed me and others for a crime that thought after hearing the verdict was, ize I don’t have to have the answers to I knew nothing about nor had anything I would be so happy to be with my wife all the things that happen in life. Some to do with. As a result of these false and family! things you just have to live through. accusations, I was arrested and held My biggest concern was for my family. unjustly in prison. DB: What were the factors that led to If something befell them because of When all this was happening, it was your eventual acquittal and freedom? what happened to me—that would if the sky had fallen in on me. The last have been the worst thing. sermon I preached before I was arrested AM: First, it was the direct intervention was on personal revival and walking of God. He moved through people. I DB: Did the accusations and time in with God. Little did I know when I could have been overlooked or forgot- prison ever make you angry or bitter? preached that sermon how much I ten in prison, but my wife and family, would need to believe and follow the local Adventist church leaders, and AM: No. I was not angry or bitter. I knew very Bible principles I spoke about. My colleagues on all levels of the church there was no basis for the charges faith was tested, but God sustained me. did not forget me. Then God worked against me and that I was being treated

Ministry® APRIL 2014 impressed me with were almost two thousand crammed Pastor Monteiro (third from right) with his family. that thought. Yet I into it. My particular facility had knew that I could approximately twenty-five men in it, not say too much very tight quarters, with no windows or about that convic- air conditioner. We got up early. I would tion. But even though take time for personal prayer and Bible I believed that God reading and then move out into the would free me, I was yard. Many prisoners considered the prepared to remain in food to be not food at all. Of course we prison or to make any were denied the basic freedoms. sacrifice that might be At five-thirty every evening, the called for. guards would lock all of us in the room, and you couldn’t go out nor would DB: You did the work they come in until the next morning unjustly. At first, I would always ask, of a Christian by helping a person in at six o’clock. We had no beds, just “Why is this happening to me?” Then I need. Then, the one you helped falsely mats on the hard floor. There was a began to ask, “What does God want me accused you. Does this experience cause big pail in the middle of the floor that to learn from this situation?” you to rethink helping others? everyone used as a toilet. There was That was a much better way to no privacy. Let me just say the living approach my predicament. I decided AM: No. What happened doesn’t influ- conditions were not desirable. Due to not to spend time being negative but to ence me against helping others. The the environment, there was sickness use it as a learning, growing experience. fact that undesired things may hap- and the potential of fights. However, I saw so many other prisoners who were pen when we do good shouldn’t stop I was blessed for the way the other angry, mad, and upset all the time. I saw us from doing good. Jesus did good, prisoners respected and treated me what anger and bitterness did to break and look how He was treated on the and the fact that I never once got sick. them down and poison their relation- cross. In prison I was able to help more ships. I didn’t want to be like that. people than ever before. However, DB: Many people visited you in prison when helping others, we should always from around the world. What impact DB: What about the others who were be wise and thoughtful and take safe did these visits have on you and your accused with you and not freed? and sensible precautions. time in prison?

AM: Someone said to me, and I believe DB: Do you feel your previous spiritual AM: Yes, the visits were most encourag- it: I was on a mission in prison. I would experience prepared you for this test? ing. I better understand what the Bible not leave that prison before my mission means when it says that we should visit was done. It was true with me, and it is AM: God will not allow any experi- those in prison. Each visit was a witness true with the others as well. We have a ence or temptation to come to us that and demonstrated love and support. mission to do, and God will be with us we cannot handle. I do believe that The high point of my day was when when we remain to do it or when He God prepares us for what we will face. my wife visited. She was allowed to wants us to leave. Yes, my previous experience with God bring me food, and she did so every day. When departing from prison, I said helped prepare me to cope and prog- Often my children would come as well. to Brother Amah, who I respect and ress in this situation. It is not that one Then I received visits from Adventist believe to be innocent, and to the event will prepare you. union and mission leaders, pastors, and believers, that they must continue the Like Jesus, I said, “Lord, if it be members; visits from representatives of work we started. I still pray that the possible, let this cup pass from me.” But the division, the General Conference, same God who worked with us in the then I would add, “Not my will, but Thy and my country, Cape Verde. past will continue to be with them. I will be done.” These are thoughts that One of the most special visits was remain concerned and supportive. don’t come only once, but come back from Pastor Ted Wilson, president of the from time to time. Each time you must world church of Seventh-day Adventists. DB: What if your verdict had been differ- face and dismiss them in faith and move Everyone—prisoners, guards, prison ent? What if you hadn’t been freed? on believing. officials, members, and community people—were impressed that the presi- AM: That’s a good question that DB: Describe a typical day in prison. dent took time to come and visit. I’m happy I don’t have to deal with [laughter]. When I was in prison, I really AM: I lived in a prison that was built to DB: What are some lessons you’ve believed that God would free me. He hold five hundred inmates, but there gained from your prison experience?

APRIL 2014 Ministry® Lead Article Delbert Baker

AM: There are many lessons that I working for justice against the false Like Paul, I was not a prisoner of Togo learned while in prison. I learned that accusations. but of Jesus Christ. there is great power in: Compassion and generosity. In Spending time wisely. I had time on Forgiveness without resentment. prison there is always a need for helping my hands. I could waste it, or I could There was a temptation to be bitter people. Love and kindness were very use it to grow mentally and spiritu- and mad about how I was treated. important in that prison. We had many ally. I read the Bible and other books. But I remembered that Jesus was also inmates in a small place. In this difficult I would pray, journal, and develop mistreated and wrongly accused, even situation, there is a real need to show devotionals. I could preach, teach, and by His own followers. So my plan was to the love of Christ. counsel others. I tried to use my time in forgive and hold no resentment. That’s When people were hungry, needed constructive ways. why I was able to relate kindly to the money, discouraged, having home prob- man who falsely accused me; a man lems, I would step up and help whenever DB: You talked about forgiving those who was later confined in the same possible. Then, when prisoners would get who falsely accused you. How were prison where I was held. That gave me mad and fight, I sought to bring peace you able to exercise the ministry of spiritual fire and staying power. and reconciliation. Most of all, when forgiveness? Acceptance without giving up. I people were open, I shared the gospel. didn’t know what my future would There is a Portuguese word, morabeza, AM: I just forgave. In light of my decision be but accepted my state in prison. that summarizes what I sought to dem- not to be angry or bitter, I resolved I believed I would be freed at some onstrate. It is a powerful word that means to forgive just like God forgave me. point, though I didn’t know where hospitality, kindness, and love. Revenge doesn’t pay, it costs. and how it would happen. Therefore, I Persistent trust in God. I kept believ- People saw me treat my accuser didn’t tell people what or how I would ing that God was in prison with me. I kindly and decently, and they wanted react if not released. Why? Because I would not give up. I thought of other to know how I could do that. This living didn’t want them to misunderstand me Bible characters who spent time in demonstration of forgiveness opened and think I was doubting and unsure. I prison—Joseph, Jeremiah, Paul, and many doors to witness, and it began to would not give up on believing in and others—and it gave me encouragement. make a difference. The prison became a

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Ministry® APRIL 2014 religions came together interest in ministry in prisons and to to fellowship and pray for those who are there. I think I can use my the country and leaders experience to minister in this area and of Togo. These activities make things better. This is the ministry created unity in the prison. that Christ encourages, and there is much that can be done in this important DB: In the typical model area. I am willing to share my testimony of prison ministry, people with whoever wants to hear it. minister from the outside to the inside. In your case, DB: What message would you like to Pastor Monteiro participating it was from the inside to share with Adventists and other people in a foot-washing ceremony. the inside. Did you find around the world who prayed for you it difficult to do prison and are happy for your freedom? ministry as a prisoner? more peaceful place. The people would AM: I have a message, a message of say, “We can’t fight like we used to with AM: At times, it was difficult minis- thanks. Tell the whole world church, Pastor Monteiro around” [laughter]. tering in prison, but there was also thank you, thank you, thank you. I am The example of forgiveness is powerful joy, especially when you saw prayers grateful for the love, support, and and contagious. answered and lives changed. I didn’t prayers during the whole time I was in go into prison with a developed or prison. The love of my wife and family, DB: You did widespread evangelism and established outreach plan [laughter]. as well as the love of our whole church, witnessing. There are pictures of you The plan developed as opportunity will stay with me. conducting Communion services and presented itself. I’m thankful for the support of the baptisms. Tell us about your outreach I preached on Tuesdays and Adventist Church; that was a strong activities. Thursdays and gave Bible studies all witness to the government and people through the week. I also had time of Togo. It was also a powerful picture AM: The prison was an evangelistic ter- to translate the Bible and Spirit of to my own country that Adventists are ritory, and the inmates were persons to Prophecy literature into Portuguese. unified and supporters. help and, if possible, win to Christ. The Then there were the baptismal and I am thankful to Pastor Ted Wilson prison experiences of Paul and Daniel Communion services that were so for his prison visit and ongoing support. and Joseph and their witnessing habits meaningful. In one baptismal service, I am thankful to Pastor Gilbert Wari and were good examples. Paul witnessed nine inmates were baptized and joined the West-Central Africa Division staff, and won souls for Christ while in chains. the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Pastor Guy Roger (and his team), Pastor Daniel was thrown into prison for a time Salomon Assienin of the then Sahel and witnessed to the king. Joseph was DB: What do you think is the spiritual Union. Special thanks to you, John in prison unjustly and yet witnessed to legacy of your time in prison? Graz, and Ganoune Diop of the General and treated other prisoners kindly. Conference (GC) and Religious Liberty When I arrived at prison, they intro- AM: I am not sure that I would call Department who helped me and my duced me as a Seventh-day Adventist it a legacy, but I would like to think I family and gave leadership to the global pastor. The prisoners wanted me to accomplished the mission that Jesus movement to free me. Then I have deep preach to them, and so I did. I would wanted me to do. I went there accused appreciation for the defense attorneys regularly preach and give Bible stud- of something I didn’t do. While there I and to Todd McFarland of the GC Legal ies. Then I also gave away truth-filled discovered that great needs existed. I Department for their good legal advice literature that the church brought to had something special to offer, a special and defense work. the prison. We used and gave away the work to do, and I did it. So I’m thankful for everyone who Conflict of the Ages series; hundreds of supported me in every way. Words can Bible studies, the Connected With Jesus DB: Your ministry will undoubtedly con- never fully express my gratitude. I have series; books such as The Adventist tinue. What are some future possibilities so much to be thankful for. Home, Steps to Christ, and more than that you see? two thousand of The Great Controversy. DB: Thank you, Pastor Monteiro, for Then we organized prayer and AM: My desire is to minister to and help sharing your inspiring experience and for Bible study groups. We also organized people. I will see what God has in the your message of praise and thanksgiv- a Pray for Togo Day. For the first time, future. I have a pastorate in the Cape ing. I know God will continue to bless Muslims, Catholics, Protestants, and other Verde Conference. Further, I have a great your ministry for Him.

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APRIL 2014 Ministry® Yelena Muzykina

Yelena Muzykina, MA, is senior lecturer of humanities at Zaoksky Christian Institute, Zaoksky, Tula Region, Russia.

Adventist mission: Challenges from a pluralistic world

espite predictions to the these fundamentalist movements is contrary, worldwide inter- their deinstitutionalized form. Regional Distribution of Christians est in religion is on the 3. Political usage of the religion’s Middle East-North Africa 0.6% Dincrease. More and more, violence potential. The Iranian regime religion is playing a stronger and more and Islamic terrorism are the most Asia- active role in public, political, and obvious manifestations of this trend. 2010 Pacific social affairs. The leading German Most often, conflicts are secular at their 13.1% 1 Americas philosopher Jürgen Habermas points roots and gain new strength after their Sub-Saharan 36.8% out three intersecting phenomena that codification in religious terms. Examples Africa show an extensive revival of religion. are desecularization of the Middle East 23.6% 1. Expansion of missionary activity. conflict, strife between Pakistan and Europe Traditional world religions (Christianity, India, and mobilization of the right-wing 25.9% Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism) have religious forces in the United States (US) soared in membership in recent years on the eve of the Iraq War. in Africa, Asia, and South America. This general background easily The increase is largely owing to flex- harmonizes the process of reconfigura- 1910 Americas ibility of forms, readiness to change tion of the religious space in today’s 27.1% organizational structures as needed, world. We shall review a few of these Middle East - Europe and adaptability of mission and wit- tendencies that influence this process. North Africa 66.3% 0.7% ness to meet local needs. According Asia-Pacific to Habermas, for example, the trans- Redistribution of 4.5% “religious market” national and multicultural Roman Sub-Saharan Catholic Church adapts more quickly The first tendency can be defined Africa 1.4% than Protestant churches, and this as redistribution of “religious mar- results in an increased growth in ket” shares. According to “Global Figures for 1910 are from a Pew Forum analysis of data from the Center for the Catholic adherents. The most dynamic Christianity,” “The number of Christians Study of Global Christianity. Percentages may not add up due to rounding. structures are decentralized Islamic around the world has more than tri- Pew Research Center’s Forum on Religion & Public Life networks in sub-Saharan Africa and pled in the last 100 years, from about “Global Christianity,” December 2011 Evangelicals in Latin America. 600 million in 1910 to more than 2 bil- 2. Radicalization of fundamentalism. lion in 2010. But the world’s overall “This apparent stability, however, The surge toward fundamentalism is population also has risen rapidly, from masks a momentous shift. Although common in both Christianity and Islam. an estimated 1.8 billion in 1910 to Europe and the Americas still are home This carries a mixture of emphasis on 6.9 billion in 2010. As a result, Christians to a majority of the world’s Christians spirituality, mission, moral rigorism, make up about the same portion of the (63%), that share is much lower than it and the literal interpretation of the world’s population today (32%) as they was in 1910 (93%). And the proportion Scriptures. Another characteristic of did a century ago (35%). of Europeans and Americans who are

Ministry® APRIL 2014 Christian has dropped from 95% in Independent Christian and concluded that in 15 years the 1910 to 76% in 2010 in Europe as a churches number of Christians in the world will whole, and from 96% to 86% in the The second tendency is the forma- reach 2.5 billion and there will be three Americas as a whole. At the same time, tion of so-called independent Christian major groups: the largest will be Latin Christianity has grown enormously in churches.6 Americans (around 640 million); next sub-Saharan Africa and the Asia-Pacific This process started in the 1980s will be Africans (630 million); and the region, where there were relatively few in developing countries. By the end next will be Europeans (555 million).8 Christians at the beginning of the 20th of the twentieth century, the number Peter Berger says that “Christianity century.”2 of “independent” or new Christians is growing faster in sub-Saharan Africa The growth rate of Christianity, reached 386 million.7 This number is than anywhere else on earth . . . at currently at 1.35 percent—which still greater than the number of Protestants 3.5 percent a year. . . . [Compare this leads the world religions—is lower (342 million) and stands next to the with] 2.5 percent in Latin America and than the growth rate of the world Catholic denomination (1 billion). Asia and less than 1 percent in Europe population at 2.6 percent. At the same David Barrett, who has studied and North America. The proportion time, Islam and Buddhism, the second world religions for 40 years and has of African Christians to all Christians and the third largest world religions in closely watched the formation of has grown from one in ten in 1970 to terms of followers, grow more quickly independent churches, comes to two one in five today. On current trends, and faster than the world population conclusions. First, these churches are African Christians outnumber European growth rate. Pew Research Center’s completely different from their “mother” believers, leaving them second only Religion & Public Life Project predicts Christian church of the West. The dif- to those in Latin America.”9 Thus, by that continuation of this trend will ference becomes apparent in (1) their 2050 half of the Christian population lead to a 35 percent increase in the much more conservative adherence (about 50 percent) will live in Latin Muslim population by 2030 and will to moral principles, church rules, and America (Mexico, Brazil), Africa (Nigeria, comprise 26.4 percent (2.2 billion) of submission to the authority of priests Ethiopia), and the Philippines. the forecast world population (8.3 and bishops than other Christians, and Thus, we may conclude that billion).3 When Samuel Huntington (2) their close connection to the poorest reconfiguration of the religious space predicted this tendency in the mid- stratum of society, as the majority of new that has been going on for the last 1990s, he mentioned that Christianity Christians are extremely poor according few decades has brought a serious would grow due to conversion, while to Western standards. change in correlation of global reli- Islam would do so through conversion Second, these new churches identify gions, including Islam-Christianity and reproduction.4 Modern statistics themselves as postdenominational and parity, and has changed the status of prove him right. have no formal ties with any structure global Christianity itself. The Southern Research into the change of the of Christendom. But they have adopted Hemispheric model of Christianity is world share of Christianity and Islam Western techniques of forming their net- becoming more and more predominant. also shows the influence of migration works. This helps them to be successful This happens because of demographic from developing countries to the West. in development and expansion. So it can and economic factors. As a result, the Immigrants bring with them their be concluded that this new trend can be Southern Hemispheric model influ- religion, leading to a reconfiguration compared to the Reformation spread of ences the qualitative characteristics of the cultural landscape of receiv- Protestantism and Protestants in the of Christianity. The European/Western ing countries. Pew Research Center’s sixteenth century. model of Christianity loses its potential. Religion & Public Life Project predicts the population changes shown in the Christian and Islamic Where are Adventists in following table: population shifts this picture? The third tendency is a shift of Now, where do Adventists stand Increase of Muslim share in Christian population to the Southern in this reconfiguring religious picture, population of Europe5 Hemisphere, while Islam moves to the particularly the Protestant picture? Northern Hemisphere. According to the Pew Research project Country 2010 2030 This tendency is closely connected analysis of data from the Center for the Great Britain 4.6% 8.2% with demography, migration, and the Study of Global Christianity (see the new trend in Christianity. Many experts table “Denominations of Protestants”),10 Austria 5.7% 9.3% now claim that world Christianity will Adventists occupy the eighth place on the Sweden 4.9% 9.9% grow due to the developing countries. list, with 2.7 percent of total Protestant Alexey Pimenov, professor at George membership. With such a ratio, obvi- Belgium 6.0% 10.2% Washington University, summarized ously, it is an enormous challenge to try France 7.5% 10.3% the data of the US research centers to influence global religious trends. This

APRIL 2014 Ministry® Yelena Muzykina

Denominations of Protestants light, until, like Naaman of old, they will Starting with Christianity’s growth Percentage of be constrained to acknowledge that in the Southern Hemisphere, we have Denominational family all Protestants ‘there is no God in all the earth,’ save the to remember that the growth covers the Historically Pentecostal denomination 10.8% living God, the Creator.”11 poorest section of people, those who are Anglican 10.6 The application of this inspired truth not able to get proper (if any at all) educa- Lutheran 9.7 in the postmodern world is direct and tion, medical care, social support, or critical. God’s light shines everywhere, and welfare. Very often church communities Baptist (unions of different denominations) 7.2 there are many who are ready to accept become an alternative society for people Presbyterian or Reformed 7.0 it. Adventists do not need to question in countries where government is not Methodist 3.4 the fullness of God’s truth given to them. able to solve numerous problems. Jesus Adventist 2.7 Under present conditions they should Christ is presented as an incarnation of Congregationalist 0.5 accept the responsibility to share given divine power to overcome evil spirits; Brethren 0.5 truth with others in a dialogue. A dialogue witchcraft; spells; and the demons of Salvation Army 0.3 form of communication assumes a deep illness, poverty, and immorality. He gives respect and tolerance for the opinion of spiritual and physical healing through Other (independent, nondenominational 38.2 and others) another party. To accept that opinion if it the preaching of the new Christianity. obviously contradicts biblical truth is not That is why hundreds of thousands of Total 100.0 necessary. But misunderstanding or fla- people fervently believe in Jesus but Source: Pew Forum analysis of World Christian Database. Historically Pente- grant delusion should not stop Adventists understand Him according to their tradi- costal denominations include the Assemblies of God and the Church of God in Christ. Many members of the Pentacostal movement belong to independent from communion, communication, and tion as a great healer. Not more. churches that are not part of historically Pentecostal denominations. United cooperation with other believers. Here Adventists can offer an alterna- churches are unions of several Protestant denominations. Examples include the Church of South India, the Church of North India, and the United Church of Secondly, cooperation should tive perspective of Jesus Christ and life Zambia. Figures may not add exactly due to rounding. become a moving, integrating factor perspective in general using Adventist Pew Research Center’s Forum on Religion & Public Life to draw Adventists closer to other hospitals, Adventist educational centers, “Global Christianity,” December 2011 Protestants. Expanding upon Ellen and Adventist Development and Relief White’s statement in Historical Sketches Agency programs. These means of evan- picture gives a rather alarming subcon- of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh- gelism are long-term tools in comparison scious feeling that Adventists are behind day Adventists, we can say, there is no with an evangelistic series when the in fulfilling the mission they traditionally believer, no denomination that is perfect result is expected after nine weeks of have claimed for themselves—being in every habit and thought. One must preaching. But they become permanent God’s true remnant church, which calls learn of another. Therefore God wants sources of true light for months and all people to join her. According to tradi- different denominations to mingle years and help establish local springs of tional Adventist interpretation of biblical together, to be one in judgment, one in living water through those people who prophecies, there will be no other God’s purpose. Then the union that there is in attend the institutions daily and become church, after the remnant church, to Christ will be exemplified.12 regular customers, then friends, and then proclaim the end-time message to the Being one of the youngest of independent light bearers. world. So, if Adventists fail in their mis- Protestant churches, our mission- As for the Muslim population, its sion, what is next? ary activity started much later than main problem is labor migration. In Let this question remain pending other churches, such as Baptists and Russia, Muslims comprise 20 million, or because answering it is not a goal of this Pentecostals. Perhaps that is why we 14 percent of the total Russian popula- article. Instead, after considering the have to cooperate with other Protestants tion. By the year 2030, this figure will global tendencies in the postmodern in order to learn from them if we need to increase to 19 percent.14 The majority of religious world, let us see some general and to share our knowledge if we can. these migrants are males who come to perspectives that are quite realistic to Thirdly, we often quote inspired earn money and support their families cope with, even for the church with 2.7 words about the best method of doing back home in Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, or percent of all Protestants. These may be the mission: “Christ’s method alone will Kyrgyzstan. Their first and utmost need viewed more like a program declaration. give true success in reaching the people. is to pass a state Russian language exam First of all, we have to accept what The Saviour mingled with men as one in order to get proper documents. Some Ellen White proclaimed at the dawn of who desired their good. He showed His local authorities develop social programs the Adventist movement: “Today in every sympathy for them, ministered to their (e.g., in Moscow and Saint Petersburg). land there are those who are honest in needs, and won their confidence. Then Regional mosques and muftiyats15 try heart, and upon these the light of heaven He bade them, ‘Follow Me.’ ”13 How to support those migrants and provide is shining. If they continue faithful in can this counsel be applied practically some training. But the load is much following that which they understand to meet the challenges of those global heavier than one party is able to carry. to be duty, they will be given increased trends specified above? This is a good opportunity for Adventist

Ministry® APRIL 2014 specialists to offer their qualifications used wisely, can lead to astonishing International Relations. Her article “Metamorfozy Khristianstva na and start paving a road for further coop- results. The Seventh-day Adventist Fone Postmodernistskogo Peizazha” (Christian metamorphoses against postmodern scenery background) was published in Polis 5 eration and dialogue on spiritual matters. Church as an organization has all of (September–October 2012), 106–21. Baptist and Pentecostal churches in the necessary resources to cope with 7 World Christian Encyclopedia, 4. Moscow have already been doing that present circumstances and fulfill its 8 Alexsey Pimenov, “Na Puti k Global’nomy Religiouznomu for several years. They organize language mission. “ ‘What is impossible from a Konfliktu” [On the way to the global religious conflict], www. moldova.ru and computer training programs and human perspective is possible with /index.php?tabName=articles&owner=58&id=753 (accessed provide legal services and consultations. God’ ” (Luke 18:27, NLT). December 28, 2010). One Baptist church launched a whole 9 Peter L. Berger and Samuel P. Huntington, Many Globalizations: Cultural Diversity in the Contemporary World (Oxford: Oxford program called Mission Is at the Door. 1 Jürgen Habermas, “Protiv ‘Voinstvuyuschego Ateizma.’ ‘Postsekulyarnoe obschestvo’ – chto eto takoe?” [“Against University Press, 2002), 229, 230. It also educates church members about ‘militant atheism’: What is ‘postsecular society’?”]. The paper was 10 “Christian Movements and Denominations,” in “Global Christianity,” Islam and Muslims to help them get presented at a seminar of the International Association, “Reset: Pew Research: Religion & Public Life Project, www.pewforum rid of innumerous superstitions widely Dialogues of Civilizations,” Istanbul, June 2–8, 2008. www.russ. .org/2011/12/19/global-christianity-movements-and- denominations/ (accessed December 28, 2012). spread among Christians that block their ru/pole/Protiv -voinstvuyuschego-ateizma (accessed November 20, 2012). 11 Ellen G. White, Prophets and Kings (Silver Spring, MD: Ellen G. mission among Muslims. 2 “Regional Distribution of Christians,” in “Global Christianity,“ Pew White Estate, 1999), CD-ROM 253. Likewise, as Adventists, we face Research: Religion & Public Life Project, www.pewforum 12 The original text is found in Historical Sketches of the Foreign challenges in communication and .org/2011/12/19/global-christianity-regions/ (accessed Missions of the Seventh-day Adventists, SDA Mission (Silver December 27, 2012). Spring, MD: Ellen G. White Estate, 1999), CD-ROM 137: “There is reaching out in large areas of the world 3 “Resources on Future of the Global Muslim Population,” Pew no person, no nation, that is perfect in every habit and thought. where Buddhism and Hinduism are Research: Religion & Public Life Project, www.pewforum One must learn of another. Therefore God wants the different the religions of the majority of people. .org/2011/02/28/resources-on-the-future-of-the-global-muslim nationalities to mingle together, to be one in judgment, one in purpose. Then the union that there is in Christ will be exemplified.” Our pluralistic world presents many -population/ (accessed January 10, 2013). 4 Samuel Huntington, “The Clash of Civilizations?” Foreign Affairs 72, 13 Ellen G. White, The Ministry of Healing (Silver Spring, MD: Ellen G. challenges to Adventists. Some of them 3 (Summer 1993): 22–49. White Estate, 1999), CD-ROM 143. look very serious and might require 5 “Future of the Global Muslim Population: Europe,” Pew Research: 14 Alexander Panov, “ ‘Tchernyi Lebed’ na Puti k Ugosaniu” [“Black great intellectual, human, and financial Religion & Public Life Project, www.pewforum.org/2011/01/27 swan” is on the way to extinguishing], Novaya Gazeta, January 10–17, 2013, 9. resources to meet them. At the same /future-of-the-global-muslim-population-regional-europe/ (accessed January 10, 2013). 15 A muftiyat is a Muslim headquarters on territory of former Soviet time, the worldview of postmodernity 6 This trend was first presented by Irina Kargina, associate Union republics. They deal mainly with religious and judicial suggests large advantages, which, if professor of the Sociology Department, Moscow State Institute of issues.

Biblical Research Institute Studies – 2

A solid reference book, answering questions many people are asking today:

• How to choose a Bible translation? • How could every species be preserved on the ark? What about the dinosaurs? • What is the unpardonable sin? • What kind of wine did Jesus make at Cana? • What does “the smoke of their torment ascends forever and ever” in Revelation 14:11 mean?

For pastors and interested church members, 496 pages of clear, concise, biblical answers to over 100 questions by 49 highly qualified Seventh-day Adventist scholars.

The book is available through the General Conference Biblical Research Institute Website https://adventistbiblicalresearch.org/shop

APRIL 2014 Ministry® Michael W. Campbell

Michael W. Campbell, PhD, is assistant professor of historical-theological studies, Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies, Silang, Cavite, Philippines.

“God’s chosen agency for the salvation of souls”1: Lessons from the preaching ministry of Ellen G. White

llen White was a powerful and genuine conviction.”5 She followed subject was made more interesting by preacher. She is perhaps best up this talk with a second one on reference to the grand and beautiful remembered today for her temperance, her favorite topic,6 and scenery of the day’s trip up the old extensive writings, but during one she frequently used to connect Mississippi [River]. A more attentive E 7 8 her lifetime she was a sought-after with non-church members. audience we never saw.” public speaker. The rise of Ellen White’s At times, Ellen White spoke in some Another interesting speaking prophetic ministry during the 1840s unusual places. In 1870, James and appointment occurred more than a coincided with a time in American Ellen White traveled up the Mississippi decade later, during Ellen White’s trav- culture when people became more River on the steamboat Minnesota. The els in Europe. As she passed through open to women speaking in public, Whites utilized creative and providen- Scandinavia, she was frequently especially in church.2 Ellen White was tial opportunities to share their faith. invited to speak. In one such town, keenly aware of this and, at times, Willie, their son, noticed the eagerness the largest venue was the local saloon. certainly knew that this phenomenon with which men on log rafts sought She encouraged the local leaders to of hearing a “woman” helped draw newspapers from passengers on the secure the location for a meeting. a crowd.3 Regardless of why people steamboat. James and Willie grabbed They modified some tables into a came, she used each opportunity to pieces of coal attached with tracts and makeshift preaching stand.9 In an proclaim the Word of God and uplift threw them. “God bless the truth thus additional instance on the same trip, Jesus Christ. distributed,” noted James. After they people noted that her favorite topic, According to Ellen White’s grand- finished throwing pieces of literature, especially to non-church members, daughter, Grace Jacques White, when they sang the hymn “Resting By and was to speak about temperance as a “she began to talk I could not help By,” which drew a crowd. A passenger neutral topic to build interest in spiri- noticing the soothing yet expressive approached James, “ ‘It is rumored tual things.10 On yet another occasion, tone of her voice. She spoke simply and about this boat . . . that your wife is a Ellen White spoke to 1,600 people, her wasted no words.”4 A contemporary, public speaker, and every passenger largest audience while she traveled Uriah Smith, noted in 1874 about her will unite in a request for her to speak in abroad.11 “magnetic speech and manner,” in the ladies’ cabin, if she will consent.’ ” Ellen White spoke in public hun- which she gave “powerful” appeals for She did, and the seats were arranged dreds of times throughout her lifetime people “to flee from their sins.” That for a meeting. After a short prayer, Ellen in a wide variety of venues. From same year, at a different event, G. I. White spoke “upon the great idea that her practical experience, she had Butler noted a similar appeal whereby God—his wisdom, love, and even his definite ideas about the purpose of 75 people “came forward for prayers, love of the beautiful—could be seen biblical preaching, practical advice most of them apparently under deep through the beauties of nature. The for ministers, and the importance of

Ministry® APRIL 2014 transformation preaching that culmi- Ministers need to be attentive by ministry of Jesus Christ. He remains the nates with an appeal. listening to their congregations. As they true Model for every preacher by His listen, they will be able to discern the example of having a clear point along Biblical preaching “spiritual food” needed and “appropri- with relevant application. “Christ,” “Ministers should present the truth ate for the occasion.” Ministers have a furthermore, “sought to make His teach- warm from glory,” observed Ellen responsibility “to give to each of the ings interesting.”30 She admonished White.12 In other words, she firmly flock of God his portion of meat in due Adventist ministers to do the same. believed that all preaching should be season.”20 Such study during her lifetime This combination of the practi- firmly rooted in a fresh study of the most definitely included visitation of cal along with the doctrinal31 aspects Bible. As ministers open the Word of members in their homes to “understand meant, at times, shortening the length God, they become “a mouthpiece for the spiritual conditional of all.”21 As a of the sermon. “You talk too long and God.”13 Every person who proclaims the minister connects with his or her parish- weary the people,” she remarked to Word of God must study Scripture for ioners, it helps to avoid the problem of one long-winded minister.32 On another light and truth. Thus, the act of preach- being “too distant” so that the influence occasion she urged against “long pray- ing is a sacred privilege. If ministers “are of sermons will only increase.22 ing” and “long preaching” that wearies really men of God” and “receive their Altogether, Ellen White had a well- the saints.33 Ellen White was reacting words from God,” then, even though developed perspective on preaching by against the long sermons of the Puritan “their manner of address may be faulty the 1870s that was rooted in Scripture.23 era that could last 90 minutes to two and need much improvement,” “God “While Scripture was the major source hours. By 1868, she advised that ser- breathes through them words of inspira- of her sermons,” wrote Jud Lake, “she mons should be less than an hour34 and tion, [and] the power is not of man, but used a hybrid method of the topical and by 1896 counseled that sermons should of God.”14 textual. Her sermons, therefore, were not exceed 30 minutes.35 Children As ministers begin sermon prepara- not expository in the sense of the bibli- are especially vulnerable to “tedious tion, they should approach the sacred cal passage controlling the outline of the remarks.” Shorter messages have a Scriptures with a sense of humility. sermon. Nevertheless, she admonished “happy influence.” “Too much talk will Rather than studying the Bible to obtain ministers to preach biblical sermons.”24 lead them [children] to loathe even proof texts, they should be Bible stu- Thus, Ellen White, based upon the her- spiritual instruction, just as overeating dents to “know how to attain the love of meneutical foundation of William Miller, burdens the stomach and lessens the God.”15 The Bible should be the starting used a preaching methodology shared appetite, leading even to a loathing of point for all sermon preparation. H. M. S. by early Sabbatarian Adventist pioneers food. The minds of the people may be Richards recalled her advice to him that was firmly rooted in a deep and glutted with too much speechifying.”36 about using her writings in sermon widespread study of Scripture.25 Ellen White not only believed in preparation: “ ‘Here’s the way to use avoiding long messages but offered them. First, ask God to give you your Simple steps to improve practical advice on sermon delivery. She subject. When you have the subject cho- preaching had a great deal to say about the use of sen, then go to the Bible until you know Ellen White believed that sermons the voice; it is summarized in a posthu- for sure what the Bible really teaches on should have a clear point along with mous compilation, The Voice in Speech that point. After that, turn to the writings a practical application. The minister and Song. She consistently urged people and see what you can find on the same “should leave his ideas before the to use the diaphragm to project their subject and read that. It may cast light people as distinct as mileposts.”26 She voice—during an age before sound sys- on it or guide you into other scriptures repeated the same counsel to another tems. “The action should come upon the or make some point clearer. When you minister.27 Closely connected with this abdominal muscles,” she frequently told go to the people, however, preach to thought, from her perspective, was young ministers. “The lungs and throat them out of the Bible.’ ”16 the need for relevant application. “It should be the channel, but should not Ellen White encouraged young is not enough for ministers to present do all the work.”37 ministers to study and prepare “a store theoretical subjects; they should also The minister should vary the pitch of practical subjects that you have present those subjects which are practi- of the voice, but not overdo it. investigated and that you can . . . pre­ cal.”28 Elaborate discourses “display sent in a plain, forcible manner to the self.” Instead, “true piety, a close con- Some destroy the solemn impres- people at the right time and place as nection with God, and a daily, living sion . . . by raising their voices to they may need.”17 She recommended, experience in the knowledge of Christ, a very high pitch, and hallooing38 as an example, the parables of Jesus as will make eloquent even the stammer- [shouting] and screaming out the a natural starting point.18 At the same ing tongue.”29 truth. . . . But if the voice is toned time, White counseled not to just use a The best example, for Ellen White, right, . . . it will produce a much list of set discourses either.19 of clear and practical sermons was the better impression. . . . But this

APRIL 2014 Ministry® Michael W. Campbell

loud hallooing—what does it do? transformed their own life.45 Once min- “I have been shown,” she warned, “that It does not give the people any isters allowed this transformation to there is a decided lack with some who more exalted views of the truth and take place in their own hearts, the “soul preach the word.”56 Ministers who does not impress them any more should be all aglow with the spirit of seek to preach in their own strength deeply. It only causes a disagreeable the truth you present to others.”46 The will ultimately fail. Instead, according sensation in the hearers and wears message in the pulpit will be consistent to Ellen White, they must recognize out the vocal organs of the speaker. with the life of the messenger. The term their need and seek God with a spirit The tones of the voice have much to Ellen White repeatedly used to describe of humility. Only then can God bless do in affecting the hearts of those this was that ministers become “living their meager efforts. Transformational who hear.39 epistles.”47 preaching always begins in the lives of Every sermon should convict the ministers as they wrestle with Scripture Not only the tone but the pace heart and draw the listener to Christ. and seek to live it out in their own lives. was also important. She counseled The listener should “sense that ‘Jesus Out of that transformational experi- another minister not to “speak hur- of Nazareth passeth by.’ ” She urged ence, they can, in turn, invite others to riedly.”40 Altogether the tone, pitch, and Adventist ministers to present Jesus experience the same. This brings power pace need to be “melodious.” The best before the people in a way that would to preaching.57 example of such a use of the voice was melt the heart. “The very tones of the Jesus Christ, whose teaching was both voice, the look, the words, should pos- Conclusion “impressive and solemn,” yet His voice sess an irresistible power to move hearts I have wished that we could have an was “melodious.”41 and control minds. Jesus should be audio recording of Ellen White’s preach- While White certainly had a great found in the heart of the minister.”48 ing. However, there are numerous deal of counsel regarding the logistics of The gospel message confronts people, stenographic reports of her messages preaching, she felt the most important and therefore ministers should avoid that give a flavor for what her sermons aspect was the sacred nature of preach- preaching “smooth” messages to make were like. One thing is certain: her mes- ing. From her perspective, preaching the people feel good.49 Instead, as Jesus sages were clear, biblical, practical encompassed the entire life of the is uplifted, people become convicted of expositions that uplifted Jesus Christ. minister: before, during, and after the sin and their need for Jesus. Frequently her messages came with an sermon. “Our words, our actions, our A sense of the divine presence, appeal for people to know Jesus Christ deportment, our dress, everything, through the Holy Spirit, makes the act personally. should preach.”42 Adventist ministers of preaching a “sacred work.”50 Ministers Preaching, Ellen White believed, should not let themselves in any way should not engage in this work until they was and always will remain a sacred detract, or distract, from the focus of can truly appreciate the value of a soul responsibility. When a person enters their message: to uplift Jesus Christ and to God. In that mind-set, as a minister the “desk”—a nineteenth-century term draw people to Him. proclaims the Word, listeners in turn for a pulpit—they stand on holy ground. The sacred nature of preaching will have their convictions deepened Ministers derive their authority not from naturally leads to Ellen White’s counsel “and the question will be raised: ‘What their position, but from the Word of God about the transformational nature of shall I do to be saved?’ ”51 One of the that is proclaimed. This message must preaching. hallmarks of Ellen White’s preaching be internalized in order to both be clear was her consistent appeals for people to and have a practical application. Transformational change their behavior through a saving Ellen White firmly believed that the preaching and appeals relationship with Jesus Christ.52 “The ability to proclaim God’s Word was an One of the sternest admonitions by preaching of the word,” she wrote in essential requirement to be an Adventist Ellen G. White, in my estimation, was 1875, “is ordained of God to arouse and minister. At times she rebuked ministers directed to William C. Gage, who, in convict sinners.”53 Every opportunity is a who did not have this gift and urged 1871, was the foreman of the Review “golden opportunity” to invite someone them to remain active in their church and Herald Publishing Association.43 to change his or her life. Some preachers but pursue a different livelihood. The While she complimented him on his may not meet their “hearers again until work of the minister “to warn the world ability to “talk fluently and make a the great day of God.”54 of a coming judgment, is as much more point plain,” she pointed out that “his “I tremble,” Ellen White wrote, important [work] than that of the com- preaching has lacked spirituality.” She “when I consider that there are some mon workman as eternal things are of furthermore noted that as he spoke, ministers, even among Seventh-day more consequence than temporal.”58 “his appeals have not touched the heart Adventists, who are not sanctified by with a new tenderness.”44 Repeatedly, the truths which they preach.”55 Such 1 Ellen G. White, Letter 32, 1875. 2 E. Brooks Holifield, God’s Ambassadors: A History of the Christian Clergy Ellen White appealed to ministers to ministers only harm God’s work if they in America (Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans, 2007), 121–27. make sure that the message had first could see themselves as Heaven does. Holifield notes that the Millerite revival was particularly open to

Ministry® APRIL 2014 allowing women to preach. Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1975), 118. Review and Sabbath Herald, July 28, 1868, 88. 3 In 1870, Ellen White spoke at the Tipton, Indiana, camp meeting. 10 Ibid., 40. 35 Ellen G. White, Letter 1a, 1896. James White described “two ladies” who met Ellen White at the train 11 Ibid., 122. 36 White, Child Guidance: Counsels to Seventh-day Adventist Parents station when she arrived. One was a Friend and the other a Methodist. 12 Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church (Mountain View, CA: Pacific (Washington, DC: Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1982), 34. “They stated,” wrote James White, “to Mrs. W[hite] that no religious Press Pub. Assn., 1948) [hereafter abbreviated as “White, 2T”; “White, 37 White, 3T, 311. influence had ever made so deep an impression on the people of 3T”; or “White, 4T”], vol. 2, 617. 38 The term comes from the sport of hunting, to urge hunting dogs on. Tipton, as the speaking [by Ellen White] upon the camp-ground on 13 White, 3T, 234. 39 White, 2T, 615. first-day. They also stated that there had been in that place decided 14 White, 4T, 318. 40 White, 3T, 311. opposition to public speaking by women. They both had advocated 15 White, 3T, 212, 213. 41 White, 2T, 617. it, and felt, on first-dayp .m., while Mrs. W[hite] was speaking, that 16 Ministry, Oct. 1976, 6, 7. 42 Ibid., 618; see also White, 3T, 66. much was at stake, and they prayed while she was speaking that the 17 White, 3T, 228. 43 In “Testimony No. 21” (White, 3T, 9–130) the first section, “An Appeal Lord would help her. These earnest, yet truly modest women, reported 18 “These sermons of Christ furnish ministers believing present truth with for Burden Bearers,” identifies a “Brother B.” Internal evidence within a great change in the public sentiment of that place.” James White, discourses which will be appropriate on almost any occasion” (White, the testimony: he is described as the “foreman” (23) who was sick after “Western Tour: Incidents by the Way,” Advent Review and Sabbath 3T, 214, 215). indulging in a pleasure trip to Chicago (19), but not to be confused Herald, Nov. 1, 1870, 156. 19 White, 4T, 269. with Uriah Smith (who is mentioned by name as also recently sick on 4 Grace Jacques White, as told to Judy A. Howard, “My ‘Special’ 20 White, 3T, 228. page 18). This description clearly describes William C. Gage who was Grandmother,” The Youth’s Instructor, Dec. 5, 1961, 13. 21 Ibid., 233. the foreman at the Review and Herald Publishing Association at that 5 G. I. Butler, “The Lapeer, Mich., Camp-Meeting,” Advent Review and 22 Ibid. time. Herald of the Sabbath, Oct. 13, 1874, 126. 23 R. Edward Turner, Proclaiming the Word: The Concept of Preaching in 44 White, 3T, 31. 6 According to James White after the 1876 New England camp meeting the Thought of Ellen G. White (Berrien Springs, MI: Andrews University 45 Ibid., 204, 238. in Groveland, Massachuestts: “Mrs. W[hite] dwelt on her favorite Press, 1980), 30. Turner argues that Ellen White formulated her 46 Ibid., 227, 228. theme, Christian Temperance.” James White, “The Camp-Meetings,” understanding of preaching after the 1880s. A study of Ellen G. White’s 47 She uses this term in her counsel to both young as well as veteran Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, Sept. 7, 1876, 84. counsel on preaching from the 1870s shows that she had a well- ministers. Cf. White, 3T, 31. 7 “A fitting counterpart . . . was sister White’s discourse . . . upon the developed understanding and theology of preaching a decade earlier. 48 White, 3T, 32. subject of . . . Christian temperance. The wide range which this subject 24 Jud Lake, “Preaching,” in The Ellen G. White Encyclopedia, ed. Denis 49 Ibid., 257. takes in the use of tobacco, tea, coffee, and extravagance in dress, Fortin & Jerry Moon (Hagerstown, MD: Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 50 Ibid., 238. was set forth with force and freedom” (Butler, “The Lapeer, Mich., 2014). 51 Ibid., 32. Camp-Meeting,” Advent Review and Herald of the Sabbath, Oct. 13, 25 Marcos Blanco, “Early Adventists’ Homiletical Principles and the 52 Ellen G. White, Evangelism (Washington, DC: Review and Herald Pub. 1874, 126). Incidentally, as G. I. Butler summarized and reflected on Expository-vs-Thematic Sermons Discussion,” term paper, Adventist Assn., 1946), 283–292; see also Horace John Shaw, “A Rhetorical her talk, he observed that “women would be better prepared to stand International Institute for Advanced Studies, 2013. Analysis of the Speaking of Mrs. Ellen G. White, a Pioneer Leader and by the side of their husbands as counselors, and even to take part with 26 White, 2T, 544. Spokeswoman of the Seventh-day Adventist Church” (PhD diss., them in political matters, would they disenthrall themselves from 27 Ibid., 616. Michigan State University, 1959), 350; and Turner, Proclaiming the the slavery of fashion, which . . . leaves them no time to study the 28 White, 3T, 257. Word, 102. weightier matters of life” (Ibid.). James White also briefly mentions the 29 White, 4T, 313, 314. 53 White, 4T, 118. incident: James White, “The Temperance Movement,” Advent Review 30 White, 2T, 580. 54 Ibid., 313, 316. and Sabbath Herald, July 5, 1877, 12. For an overview of Ellen White’s 31 White, 3T, 237. 55 White, 3T, 31. temperance work, see Ernest H. J. Steed, “Temperance,” in The Ellen G. 32 White, 2T, 543. See also Delafield, Ellen G. White in Europe, 136, where 56 White, 2T, 501. White Encyclopedia, eds. Denis Fortin & Jerry Moon (Hagerstown, MD: she similarly admonished A. C. Bourdeau to shorten his sermon too. 57 White, 2T 498–522. This is the general thrust of this overall Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 2013), 1209–1211. 33 White, 2T, 617. Ellen White does not give a specific length for praying testimony titled “Address to Ministers,” first published in August 8 James White, “Western Tour: Trip up the Mississippi,” Advent Review and or sermons. It does appear to have been her practice, generally 1870 (see publication notice, Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, Sabbath Herald, July 5, 1870, 21. speaking, for a sermon not to go more than 40 minutes. Aug. 2, 1870, 56). 9 D. A. Delafield, Ellen G. White in Europe, 1885-1887: Prepared From 34 Ibid., 117. This counsel was a part of Testimony for the Church, Number 58 White, 3T, 243. Ellen G. White Papers and European Historical Sources (Washington, DC: 16, which became available for circulation in August 1868. See Advent

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LETTERS Continued from page 4 some stage near the end, but let’s not For the past 11 years, I worked with our Opening the Word and making it live worry about projecting into the future. local Sabbath School superintendent will. When we had dynamic teaching, Predictive prophecy is given to us to see what could be done to rejuve- the people came; when we didn’t, so we may recognize the time we are nate Sabbath School; she, particularly, people no longer attended the class. in, not to write scenarios for the future. worked very hard. We didn’t really get it I applaud teachers who focus on —Andrew Ostapowicz, Sydney, Australia to the point we both wanted it. However, knowing God personally and not just some progress was made. It is worth all understanding technical teachings The transforming power the effort we give it and then some. and specific texts, although they are of Sabbath School I conclude that the key to rejuvenat- important. Turning a class into an I applaud you for publishing the ing Sabbath School lies in the quality of action unit is good, but I don’t think it article by Ted Hamilton (“Growing teaching that happens. Reading the will accomplish the job that excellence in Grace: The Transforming Power of quarterly doesn’t cut it. Droning on in teaching will. Sabbath School”—December 2013). or pushing an agenda doesn’t either. —John Glass, email

APRIL 2014 Ministry® Igor Lorencin

Igor Lorencin, PhD, is the principal of the Adriatic Union College, Maruševec, Croatia.

Babylonian mentality: With whom do you bank?

e find the figurative and/ Testament Babylon’s predecessor in the the destruction of the city. In addition, or conceptual usage of early pages of the Bible, Babel, which we are confronted with the reasons for “Babylon” mostly in had an alliance of people with one her fall. Observing the sins of Babylon Wthe book of Revelation, goal—building “a city, with a tower that may help us identify areas through particularly in the second part of the reaches to the heavens” (Gen. 11:4) and which she will be active: “With a mighty book, which deals with the final events thus challenging God Himself. voice the angel shouted: ‘Fallen! Fallen of earth’s history. The term is used six is Babylon the Great! She has become a times. Where does the writer of the New Testament Babylon home for demons and a haunt for every book take the term Babylon from? When the apostle John, in evil spirit, a haunt for every unclean The book of Revelation, though Revelation, uses the term Babylon, he and detestable bird. For all the nations written in Greek, is permeated with recalls that background. He mentions have drunk the maddening wine of the language of the Old Testament. It it for the first time in Revelation 14 but her adulteries. The kings of the earth speaks of the great deeds of God in the develops the concept in Revelation committed adultery with her, and the past.1 God was faithful to His people 17. There we have a picture of a great merchants of the earth grew rich from in the past, so it is sure that He will be prostitute who sits on many waters her excessive luxuries’ ” (vv. 2, 3). faithful in the future as well. John, the (Rev. 17:1). These waters represent This text gives three reasons for the author of Revelation as a book, intends “peoples, multitudes, nations and lan- fall of Babylon: to encourage the endangered and guages” (v. 15) that support the end-time persecuted people of God. In his wish Babylon. Further, that great prostitute 1. All the nations have drunk to encourage early Christians, the writer is described as “sitting on a scarlet Babylonian adulterous wine. points them to the events, places, and beast that was covered with blasphe- 2. The kings of the earth have commit- concepts of the Old Testament. mous names and had seven heads and ted adultery with Babylon. ten horns” (v. 3). These seven heads 3. Merchants of the earth grew rich Old Testament Babylon represent seven kingdoms through through the luxuries of Babylon. One of the defining moments in which God’s people were oppressed the Old Testament history was the and persecuted throughout history.3 What could the drunkenness of the Babylonian exile. The children of Israel The great prostitute is a religious power nations represent? The Old Testament were enslaved, and the Exile was one of working in tandem with secular powers Babylon led astray the world of its the toughest experiences for the people and nations of the world that support time with wine: “ ‘Babylon was a gold of God (Jer. 50:33). Yet God stands up in her. John visually describes her demise cup in the Lord’s hand; she made the their defense: “A drought on her waters! as being burned up with fire (v. 16), as whole earth drunk. The nations drank They will dry up. For it is a land of idols, was the decree concerning prostitutes her wine; therefore they have now idols that will go mad with terror” in the Old Testament times (Lev. 21:9). gone mad’ ” (Jer. 51:7). The wine that (v. 38).2 Idolatry was Babylon’s main leads astray could be false teachings, offense: creating its own religion and Future fall of Babylon philosophies, ideologies, or religions. seeking salvation without the Creator Revelation 18 presents another In the background, the political and God. This offense was also true of Old picture of Babylon’s fall—a picture of religious activity of Babylon exists.

Ministry® APRIL 2014 So, Babylon is accused because it has wisdom when it comes to finances, targets. Interestingly, Revelation 18 led astray the inhabitants of the earth but this easily leads to pride, as in the emphasizes finances. Babylon uses all instead of pointing them towards the case of Tyre: “ ‘ “By your wisdom and these aspects to attract, gain, and lead only true Ruler, the Creator God. understanding you have gained wealth astray the nations of the earth. The What about the second point— for yourself and amassed gold and deception will be great. Thus, we can adultery? In the Old Testament, a silver in your treasuries. By your great say that the end-time Babylon will be faithful wife represents God’s people, skill in trading you have increased your a global alliance with the support of while an adulterous wife symbolizes wealth, and because of your wealth your political, religious, and financial powers religious unfaithfulness. Going to other heart has grown proud” ’ ” (Ezek. 28:4, of today’s world. They will join together gods is presented as an act of adultery: 5). Babylon has created a system that to achieve material gain and profit. “At the end of seventy years, the Lord uses others for personal gain. In that In their dealings, they will break the will deal with Tyre. She will return to her financial system are many “merchants” commandments of God, be immoral, hire as a prostitute and will ply her trade who are getting “ ‘rich from her excessive and work against God Himself. with all the kingdoms on the face of the luxuries’ ” (Rev. 18:3). The sin of Babylon We are here dealing with an alliance earth” (Isa. 23:17). Babylon was also is getting rich on account of the poor in which many political, religious, and adulterous and had created its own way and powerless. With this third point, the financial powers of the end time join of salvation without the Creator God. financial aspect comes into focus. together so that each one of them might Kings of the earth, as political figures, achieve some personal gain. When was are adulterous. We are dealing here End-time Babylon the world more global and connected with the religious dimension, while the In this threefold condemnation of than today? Despite all the differences, political dimension of the kings should Babylon we have political, religious, when has it functioned more as a unit not be neglected. and financial aspects. The financial than today? When have events on one Finally, the third point of condemna- level is the one with which all of us end of the earth influenced the events tion of the end-time Babylon raises the are confronted on a daily basis. Since in other parts more than today? In aspect of finances. We might possibly we cannot escape financial dealings today’s world we have all that is needed forget about God and rely on our own in today’s world, we all may be easy for the end-time Babylon to become a Preach it, Brother “In this special C.D. book you will find Harold L. Lee with Benjamin Baker thrilling stories of God This is the story of a poor farmboy from the South who using this powerful became a legendary preacher. It is full of adventures where a young pastor had to face pompous clerics from other preacher to blaze new denominations, angry parents of baptismal candidates, and burning prejudice against his message. Here you trails in evangelism, will meet a man with the courage to speak truth in any church organization, situation, and you will see the hand of God leading him from triumph to triumph in the gospel ministry. and human relations.” 978-0-8280-2787-8. US$17.99 —Ted N. C. Wilson, General Conference President Watch this video to learn more. AdventistBookCenter.com | 800.765.6955 Review &Herald ® Spread the Word

APRIL 2014 Ministry® Igor Lorencin

reality. Observing the attitude of the interesting detail is that it will all hap- her wealth! In one hour she has been political, religious, and financial powers pen in a single day. There were times brought to ruin!” ’ ” (v. 19). They are cry- of today, could it be that the Babylonian when global events needed decades to ing because of the downfall of Babylon, alliance is a reality already? develop, but today we are witnessing as well as over their own destiny. They the fragility of the global economy. are sorry for Babylon, because there is Financial aspect of the In the last couple of years, we have no longer the system that made their end-time Babylon witnessed the disappearance of large immoral gain possible by oppressing The financial aspect of the end-time financial institutions like Lehman the weak and powerless. This will hap- alliance is the most prominent aspect Brothers, and their downfall happened pen suddenly, so whoever was planning in Revelation 18. Kings, merchants, sea literally in one day. The fall of the World to straddle the fence will be taken by captains, and sailors all cry because of Trade Center towers resulted in a dif- surprise by the sudden events. Only Babylon’s downfall: “ ‘ “Woe! Woe to ferent political climate within a single those who accept the call to exit that you, great city, dressed in fine linen, day. Today we are painfully aware that Babylonian system today and practice purple and scarlet, and glittering with economic breakdown in one part of the God’s way are secure. gold, precious stones and pearls! In world influences the rest of the world. one hour such great wealth has been That is why the Bible warns us, so that Call: “Come out of her” brought to ruin!” Every sea captain, we will not find ourselves together with God’s people of the Old Testament and all who travel by ship, the sailors, those who have invested in the wrong received a call to exit Babylon (Ezra 1:1–4), and all who earn their living from the bank when it happens. but only a small number of people came sea, will stand far off. When they see When the predicted major eco- out. The majority had begun to enjoy the smoke of her burning, they will nomic collapse occurs, the kings of the it there; they accepted the Babylonian exclaim, “Was there ever a city like this earth, politicians, and merchants “ ‘will mentality and decided to stay there, and great city?” ’ ” (vv. 16–18). throw dust on their heads, and with history has devoured them. The financial profit that they weeping and mourning cry out: “Woe! Revelation 18:4 sends a call to the have made through their alliance Woe, O great city, where all who had end-time people of God to exit Babylon: with Babylon is no more. The most ships on the sea became rich through “ ‘Come out of her, my people, so that Reformation Tour 2014 In the Footsteps of the Reformers A Must for Pastors: Get in touch with our reformation heritage. Refresh your soul as a spiritual leader. Take time to plan how TOUR DATES: you will teach stewardship to your members. The SEPTEMBER 3 -10, 2014 Don and Marti Schneider reformers had a lot to say about this core teaching. Deutschland Tour Guides Places of Interest: Register at: www.Plusline.org Pergamon Museum: Ishtar Gate of Daniel’s time click on Event Registration, scroll Wittenberg: Town Church where Luther Preached down and click on Stewardship Castle Church: Site of 95 Theses Ministries Reformation Tour, Friedensau Adventist University click Register Now Wartburg Castle: Where Luther translated Questions: Margaret Botting the New Testament, and much more… Cell (916) 792-1815 or e-mail at [email protected] John Mathews Tour Cost: $900 Covers ground transportation, Stewardship Director museums, lodging, and two meals per day. Extended Tour: To the Waldenses Airfare Cost: Round trip airfare is at your expense. region of Italy, Sept. 10-14. Single Occupancy Lodging: Extra $200 Important: Details by contacting Registration Cutoff Date: June 3, 2014 [email protected].

Ministry® APRIL 2014 you will not share in her sins, so that you Babylon offers her own way of life the Babylonian system is a fact, and will not receive any of her plagues.’ ” We and salvation through human achieve- only a matter of time. The book of are called not to accept the Babylonian ments. Ever since the tower of Babel, Revelation warns those who live in the mentality that takes advantage of the people were tempted to rely on their Babylonian setup that the downfall weak and powerless or to run for unfair own achievements and turn away will be sudden. In today’s world in gain and profit but to base our dealings from the Creator God who is the Source which political, religious, and financial on the principles of God’s kingdom. In of all power. The Babylonian system authorities are afraid for the future, the end-time crisis, our minds can be creates an outlook in which people there are important questions: Who do in the mentality of Babylon or in the are arrogant, self-sufficient, immoral, you bank with? How do you invest your mentality of God. Do we want to invest in and godless. The Bible clearly predicts time? Where is your mind? the Babylonian bank, or in God’s bank? a downfall of that system. Whatever When the end comes, the writer of the people might build in their own power book of Revelation does not want us to Call of Jesus does not have a future without God. join the cry of the kings, merchants, and With reference to economic exploita- sailors but wants us to join in the song of tion and mismanagement implied in the Call to God’s city the redeemed: “ ‘Great and marvelous concept of Babylon, we should turn to The opposite of the city of Babylon are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just Jesus. On earth Jesus spread the values of in the book of Revelation is God’s city— and true are your ways, King of the ages. His kingdom. He would never join people the New Jerusalem (Rev. 21; 22).4 This is Who will not fear you, O Lord, and bring who were using others for personal gain, the city that God prepares for His faith- glory to your name? For you alone are who were unjust or immoral. When He ful, and they will get it for free. While the holy. All nations will come and worship was asked concerning financial gains political, religious, and financial powers before you, for your righteous acts have and alliances, He said: “ ‘Do not store of today’s world invest their efforts in been revealed’ ” (Rev. 15:3, 4). up for yourselves treasures on earth, building their city and system, leading where moth and rust destroy, and where astray the inhabitants of the earth, God 1 Jon Paulien, The Deep Things of God: An Insider’s Guide to the Book of Revelation (Hagerstown, MD: Review and Herald Pub. Assn., thieves break in and steal. But store up is preparing something qualitatively 2004), 34, 35. for yourselves treasures in heaven, where much better, and He offers it entirely 2 Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture is from the New moth and rust do not destroy, and where for free. “ ‘I have come that they may International Version of the Bible. thieves do not break in and steal. For have life, and have it to the full’ ” (John 3 Ranko Stefanovic, Revelation of Jesus Christ: Commentary on the Book of Revelation (Berrien Springs, MI: Andrews University Press, 2002), 515. where your treasure is, there your heart 10:10). 4 For further development of that topic, see Igor Lorencin, will be also’ ” (Matt. 6:19–21). God invites us to invest in His bank Dekodiranje Apokalipse (Maruševec, Croatia: Adventisticki Teološki Can we survive without any trea- and into life with Him. The downfall of Fakultet, 2009), 125–134. sures on this earth? We need balance in our activities. We must earn our living and take proper care of our families and ourselves. But when we start living only for earthly material, temporary things, we can easily lose sight of God. In such circumstances, we easily start break- ing some of God’s commandments. It Ministerial Student becomes easy to enter the mind-set of Babylon and join the Babylonian Writing Contest system that brings personal gain and All students enrolled in a full-time ministerial profit by stepping on the weak. God preparation program on the undergraduate or calls us clearly: “Come out of her!” He graduate level may participate. calls us to invest in His bank. Jesus was very radical in His statements, “ ‘Sell Visit www.ministrymagazine.org/swc your possessions and give to the poor. for details Provide purses for yourselves that will All submissions not wear out, a treasure in heaven that must be received will not be exhausted, where no thief no later than comes near and no moth destroys. For June 30, 2014. where your treasure is, there your heart will be also’ ” (Luke 12:33, 34).

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APRIL 2014 Ministry® Gordon E. Christo

Gordon E. Christo, PhD, serves as executive secretary, Southern Asia Division, Hosur, Tamil Nadu, India.

In prosperity and adversity

esus declared that it is harder What are these dangers? success beyond imagination. He must for a rich man to enter heaven 1. Material prosperity takes one’s have owned extensive fields for his than for a camel to go through focus away from heaven. Jesus taught hundreds of oxen to plow. His sheep Jthe eye of a needle (Matt. 19:24, that it was not possible to worship God would have provided wool, meat, and Mark 10:25, Luke 18:25). Several theories and wealth at the same time (Matt. 6:24). milk. The camels and donkeys would have been presented to explain what He observed, “ ‘Where your treasure is, have served to transport his goods near Jesus meant. Two are (1) the “eye of a there your heart will be also’ ” (v. 21, and far. He was the richest person in the needle” was the small door set in a huge NKJV). So if one pursues wealth, it fol- East. One can imagine what would be city gate. Yes, a camel could be forced lows that interest in God will deteriorate. needed today to be labeled the richest through such an opening, but it would 2. It keeps one selfish. In explaining person in their half of the world. be quite an accomplishment. (2) Jesus the parable of the sower, Jesus referred Despite his wealth (though Satan was playing with sounds of two Greek to the “ ‘deceitfulness of wealth’ ” and would say, because of it), Job was words—kamelos and kamilos. The first clarified it by indicating that one would religious. Not only does the narrator means “camel,” and the second denotes never be satisfied but would see further describe him as perfect and upright, a thick rope used to fasten a ship to things (Mark 4:19, NIV). We desire a but God employed the same adjectives the dock. Either Jesus meant it was as nicer house, a fancier car, and a little to describe him (vv. 1, 8). We might call difficult for a rich person to enter heaven higher salary. We never have enough him a saint. Job functioned as a priest for as to squeeze a camel through a door and seldom arrive at a point where we his children—sacrificing on their behalf, was for humans, or it was as impossible think, Now I have enough. I can start perchance they had sinned (vv. 5, 6). At as threading a thick rope through the giving away. the end of the story, Job functioned as eye of a needle. 3. It encourages a false sense of a priest for the three friends who visited We usually imagine Jesus referring to security. Jesus narrated a parable of a him, and God accepted his mediation on rich people such as the young ruler who rich fool who thought to build bigger their behalf (Job 42:8, 9). had “great possessions” and approached and bigger barns and then take life easy, God rejoiced in Job’s scrupulous and Him seeking salvation. But the disciples eating, drinking, and making merry. He meticulous service. When Satan came knew that He really meant the lesson was reminded His hearers that death could to His heavenly court, God proudly drew for each of us. Matthew 19:25 says they come suddenly and wreck all of their attention to His model subject with faith- were greatly astonished. They asked, plans (Luke 12:16–21). A person with ful service to God. Satan scoffed at Job’s “Who then can be saved?” (KJV) Who limitless money grows to believe that he loyalty and accused God of manipulation. of us would be willing to liquidate all or she can deal with any situation. They Of course, Job would be faithful to God. our assets and distribute the money to do not need to ask God for it because This was a matter of expediency: Job the needy? We could have more easily they can buy it. serves God and God takes care of Job. accepted His instruction if He had asked Satan charged that if God removed the us to dispose of our surplus. But every- Job’s prosperity protective hedge around Job and exposed thing? He could not be serious, could He? Job was perfectly prosperous. His Job to disasters that his loyalty would possessions are described in perfect vanish. The important image here is the The danger of things numbers—sevens and threes, and fives “hedge.” Invisible but real, the hedge Instead, a study of Jesus’ teachings and fives that add up to tens—of exact filtered out threats and only allowed indicates that He warned about the per- whole numbers in hundreds and thou- things that contributed to Job’s prosperity ils of material prosperity for everyone. sands (Job 1:3). Everything speaks of and well-being (Job 1:10) to come in.

Ministry® APRIL 2014 God granted Satan permission to what he called the hedge, changed in ESV). If we accept blessings, we ought to change the situation. Job had by this character, and he found himself battling accept not only the removal of blessings time lost his possessions and children. the odds as disaster after disaster befell but even curses. Job could not have known that God him and his fortunes suffered until he had restricted Satan in that he was not was reduced to abject poverty. True champions to take Job’s life. We can assume that, But this match was not about pros- Praise God that most of us have been if given the chance, Satan would have perity but about maintaining faith in God. allowed to play on the good side for so afflicted him with the worst disease pos- And Job won by saying, “ ‘The Lord gave, long. Yet, the story of Job reveals that sible, ending in death. To have taken Job and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be remaining faithful and loyal to Him in as close to death as was possible would the name of the Lord’ ” (Job 1:21, NKJV) such situations has little merit. On the have suited Satan’s purpose best; Job Job won the set, and God pointed other hand, there are many who find himself declared that he had escaped it out to Satan. Job should have been themselves playing with challenges— by the skin of his teeth (Job 19:20). At restored to the other side at this point. business misfortunes, loss of a job, this point, no good thing was coming But Satan had a further charge. The death of a loved one, lingering disease, his way, to such an extent that Job hedge was still there. God was still and failures of all sort. Winning is not described himself fenced, cornered, protecting Job. God could not uphold about prosperity or adversity but about and unable to escape from calamities. Job as a champion until Satan was given maintaining faith in God. One can be on Like Satan, he employed the imagery of full freedom to test Job’s faith. the better side and still lose. Prosperity a hedge, but this one accomplished the So Job stayed on the bad side and can lead to a disrupted relationship with opposite, filtering out everything good was exposed to the full fury of Satan’s God. Similarly, one can be on the bad and allowing only evil to access him. attacks. In the first series of tests, Job side and still win. This depends on one’s only had to deal with losing what he had faith in and loyalty to God. Job’s success gained. Job realized that what had been Whenever we find ourselves playing In tennis, the players change sides to taken away had been given to him earlier from the bad side of the court, or even neutralize any advantage one half of the as a bonus. He had come into the world if we get the occasional bad bounce, we court may hold. Although both sides of naked and was willing, if he had to, to go need to be alert to the probability that the court are constructed to be as identi- out the same way. we are being tested like Job. We cannot cal as possible, players often have a In the final round, Job was tested be declared true champions unless preferred side from which they feel they by Satan; he took away his health, we can win despite adversity, unless perform better. On some amateur tennis something he had been born with and we have been tested to the uttermost. courts, the advantage can be significant, arguably had a right to. Job responded, We have to be able to declare like Job, which means those on the better side after being queried and scolded by his “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in of the court have great advantages over wife, “ ‘Shall we receive good from God, him” (Job 13:14). Then God can declare those on the bad one. and shall we not receive evil?’ ” (Job 2:10, us winners. For the first part of his life Job had everything in his favor. Whatever he attempted succeeded. His wealth mul- tiplied in the absence of setbacks. Satan ministrymagazine.org/digital accused God of holding Job to the good side of the court and not requiring him Ministry. Delivered to change to the bad side. “Naturally, to your inbox. Job will win,” Satan snickered. “You have got it all fixed.” And he challenged God If you’re a subscriber, to move Job to the bad side of the court you can receive a free and see how he would falter and fail. God digital copy of the practically had no choice. He could not magazine at the URL keep Job playing on the good side only above. and still proclaim him a champion. He had to call Satan’s bluff. Job, of course, won the first set playing from the good side. He had no idea he was changing sides. Behind his back, the court was rearranged. The net,

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APRIL 2014 Ministry® Kelvin Onongha

Kelvin Onongha, DMin, serves as lecturer of theology at Andrews University, Berrien Springs, Michigan, United States.

How to increase the power of your preaching through stories

esus is perhaps the greatest used parables as a primary mode of His theology inform us that God the Father Storyteller in history. He told teaching. Robert Stein mentions three: is a Storyteller. A survey of the 66 books stories not to entertain crowds, (1) to conceal His teachings from those of the Bible reveals that one-third of the Jnot to carry on a philosophic outside; (2) to reveal and illustrate His books use story as the primary genre dialogue with seekers and skeptics, message to His followers and to those of communication, and those 22 books and not to establish a name for Himself outside; and (3) to disarm His listeners.6 account for half the Bible.10 as the Transmitter of knowledge and Other reasons include provoking and What does all this mean to us? It wisdom. He told stories—simple challenging His listeners’ thoughts and means that to be effective in telling and elegant—to reveal the nature of also allowing them to make the connec- our generation about God and His God, the problem of sin, and God’s tions for themselves through His vivid love, we must learn the simple art of redemptive mission. Jesus was the illustrations and images of the love of storytelling to connect our hearers with Great Communicator of the deep and God.7 Ellen White, perhaps, says it best: the great truths about God. Note some abiding lessons in the plan of salvation “Jesus sought an avenue to every heart. of the powerful qualities stories have in simple and understandable forms.1 By using a variety of illustrations, He to transmit the message of the gospel: He spoke the language of the people not only presented truth in its different and showed keen understanding of phases, but appealed to the different • Stories have the power to entertain their pains and pleasures.2 As a Master hearers. Their interest was aroused by by grabbing our attention, involv- Teacher, He taught theology that was figures drawn from the surroundings ing our emotions, and stirring our rooted in day-to-day life and expe- of their daily life. None who listened to imaginations to fresh thinking. riences rather than in abstract and the Saviour could feel that they were • Stories create a sense of community abstruse theories. Although His stories neglected or forgotten. The humblest, by building bridges between people and sayings were vivid reflections of the most sinful, heard in His teaching a of the past and those of the present, everyday life of the period3 in which He voice that spoke to them in sympathy and between one people group and lived, they still carry a timeless value to and tenderness.”8 another. our own time. • Stories teach us great truths simply Although parables predate Jesus, Stories and their and effectively and show us how to no one used parables more “consis- functions live and think. tently, creatively, and effectively as He Time was when teachers communi- • Stories are enduring—we may did.”4 Parables played such a significant cated with devices such as word pictures, forget theories, but rarely forget part in His teaching that one-third of His metaphors, and stories, unlike the stories.11 teachings were in this form, and they abstract reasoning and verbal prose of were Christ’s favorite mode of teaching.5 the Greek tradition common to Western Once upon a time, God incarnated There are several reasons why Jesus education today.9 Scholars of narrative as a Storyteller—the Word—which is the

Ministry® APRIL 2014 lesson from John’s theology of the Word crisis or conflict, revert to pre-Christian witnessing whenever you can. Too often, of God (John 1:1–3, 14).12 That is to practices and habits, thus not providing witnessing takes a propositional form. say, God is not a notion, He is a Person. room for the sanctifying power of God This is not strange considering the fact “God is not concept; God is story. God in their lives. Annette Simmons, in her that most ministers and educators is not idea; God is presence. God is not book Whoever Tells the Best Story Wins, are trained in an educational pattern hypothesis; God is experience. God is explains that stories have the power rooted in dialectics or philosophy. not principle; God is life.”13 However, to change reality.16 Stories we heard But that is not the only mode in which before He embarked on His mission of as children taught us to fear ghosts, learning takes place or truth can be telling stories, Jesus first listened to spirits, and darkness. In other words, taught. Postmoderns can be reached stories.14 Although He must have had one can so paint a picture in the mind of as we change our language and method lots of stories to tell about the kingdom a listener that it can trigger many emo- of doing ministry by employing “faith above, He first took time, actually 30 tions: pain, anger, sorrow, empathy, stories, testimonies, public drama, of the 33 years of His life, to listen to fear, and joy. Unfortunately, churches role-plays, and skits”; thus we can the stories from His community. It today place more value in abstract, communicate the gospel story boldly, was in this matrix that His theology theoretical, and rational methodolo- knowing that it “has an inherent and was shaped, a theology that was deep gies for teaching doctrines. As a result, innate power.”17 yet simple, divine yet enfleshed. His despite the fact that the minds of many 4. Try media presentations to enhance theology was His story, and His story are convicted of the truth, the hearts witnessing. Perhaps electronic media— was His theology.15 have remained unconverted. The role television and the Internet—stand as the of emotions has thus been disregarded most powerful communication tools to Stories, values, and the in the work of conversion. The result is convey and influence popular opinion media spiritual dissonance—convinced heads, and action today, as witnessed by the Stories define our reality. How do but untransformed hearts. Salvation recent political movements across we determine what is good and bad, and the kingdom must be represented northern Africa. The Arab Spring revolu- right and wrong, friend or foe, person as the Master Communicator did, in tion is a graphic reminder of the power and nonperson? The stories we heard stories that touched the hearts and of the electronic media to bring about from childhood shaped our worldviews transformed the lives of hearers. While political and social change. Television, and determined for us what was accept- narrative preaching is important, Internet, YouTube, Facebook, and other able conduct and what was not. Once appropriate stories leave indelible social media are largely responsible upon a time, parents and the elderly in moral and doctrinal emphases on the for worldwide changes in attitude to the community told stories to young mind. such matters as sexual orientation and children. Some stories were historical, 2. Use stories to speak about the same-sex marriage, for instance. How others were mythical, while others were salvation story in simple, understand- has the church handled these powerful simply bedtime stories. The strange able language. When speaking about electronic media in accomplishing its thing is that we have never forgotten eternal life, the kingdom of God, and primary mission? On the one hand are those stories. unseen spiritual realities, Jesus often those who employ these services to Who’s telling the stories today? began with the phrase, “The kingdom preach the gospel effectively, promote Hollywood, telenovelas, and the of God is like . . .” Then came a story or their ministries sincerely, and raise Internet, and the results are there for an illustration that the hearers in that funds for constructive global projects. all to see. The media powerfully and communal context could identify and On the other hand are those who have purposefully directs the values and connect with. Even in the Old Testament turned the television into a medium morals of society today. times, whenever God sent a prophet to demonize and condemn people as In the light of this growing trend, with a message for His people, this mes- sinners bound for hell, make people live is there something Christians can do? sage was often delivered in metaphors, with a guilt complex, and amass wealth Although the church has achieved a lot illustrations, word pictures, and object for questionable purposes. While the in transforming the beliefs and behav- lessons, never in complex philosophical potential for good and evil are present iors of people everywhere, there is still constructs that only the trained or elite in mass media, it cannot be denied that much to do; and much can be done could understand. Nathan needed only television is one of the greatest forces of through storytelling. Here are some a story to bring King David to a shocking globalization that has created a common areas where Christian storytelling can realization of the gravity of his sinful culture among youth all over the world. help advance the cause of the gospel. conduct (2 Sam. 12:1–14). A rational Has the church done anything to utilize 1. Use stories in your preaching to logical exposition on sin may never have this great communication opening? help cultivate a positive and joyous atti- achieved that effect. The History Channel produced a tude to life. Without a Christian attitude 3. While propositional methods have series on the Bible that was a huge to life, church members, in times of their place, try narrative and illustrative success and led people to ask whether

APRIL 2014 Ministry® Kelvin Onongha

these stories were actually in the Bible, of the cosmic conflict is a series of spend more time in reflection on how with some persons even stating that stories: the role of the Godhead, the to illustrate, or present, the gospel in they never knew the Bible was so excit- Son particularly, in the drama of the appealing forms. ing. Yet, this was not an initiative of ages that has raged between God and any church, but by Hollywood. Could Satan; the mind of Satan at work; the 1 Simon J. Kistemaker, The Parables: Understanding the Stories Jesus Told (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 1980), 13. it be possible that the Lord is nudging consequence of unbridled ambition; 2 Gary M. Burge, Jesus, the Middle Eastern Storyteller: Uncover the us in a direction we have always been the fall of the first humans; the result Ancient Culture, Discover Hidden Meanings (Grand Rapids, MI: reluctant to go, and like Peter, we are of divine submission in the Person of Zondervan, 2009), 16. reacting by saying, “Not so, Lord” (Acts the Son to redeem the fallen humanity; 3 David Wenham, The Parables of Jesus (Downers Grove, IL: Inter- Varsity Press, 1989), 13. 10:14, KJV). While there is reasonable the role of God’s covenant people and 4 Klyne R. Snodgrass, Stories With Intent: A Comprehensive Guide concern about obsession with fiction, the contours of their history; the Cross to the Parables of Jesus (Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans, Christ’s method should be the model. and the Resurrection; the mission 2008), 37. 5. Relate your preaching to cur- 5 Burge, 19. of the church; and the final events 6 Robert H. Stein, An Introduction to the Parables of Jesus rent events and stories familiar to your of the cosmic victory over evil. The (Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Press, 1981), 33–35. audience. The church has a duty and biblical metanarrative does not focus 7 Wenham, 14. responsibility to get more involved in on lust and deceit, envy and revenge, 8 Ellen G. White, Christ’s Object Lessons (Washington, DC: Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1941), 21, 22. the activities of our respective com- such as what constitute the themes 9 Burge, 15, 16. munities. Until we learn the stories that of many popular sitcoms viewed by 10 John A. Beck, God as Storyteller: Seeking Meaning in Biblical define their hurts, worries, pleasures, millions around the world; it focuses Narrative (St. Louis, MO: Chalice Press, 2009), 1. and needs, we will continue to speak on unconditional love and unparal- 11 Ibid., 2, 3. 12 John Navone, Seeking God in Story (Collegeville, MN: Liturgical above their heads. But the moment leled self-abnegation. But which story Press, 1990), 185. we understand their stories and can is heard louder and better? In the law 13 C. S. Song, In the Beginning Were Stories Not Texts: Story Theology connect those stories with God’s salva- courts, as lawyers quickly learn, the (Eugene, OR: Cascade Books, 2011), 7. 14 Navone, 184. tion story, transformation will occur. best story wins. If indeed the best story 15 Song, 18. Passion will be kindled, and hunger and wins, as was demonstrated by Christ as 16 Annette Simmons, Whoever Tells the Best Story Wins: How to Use thirst satisfied. He shared glimpses of the Father with Your Own Stories to Communicate With Power and Impact (New 6. Make the best of the metanar- the people of His day, the question York: Amacom Books, 2007), 3. 17 Carlos C. Roberts, Christian Education Teaching Methods—From rative of the great controversy to we need to ask ourselves is, What Modern to Postmodern: Teaching the Faith to Post-moderns provide a relevant context for your stories are we telling? Perhaps what (Bloomington, IN: Author House, 2009), 10, 11. preaching. Within this grand narrative it requires is for Christian witnesses to

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Living in God’s strength

There are times in life when we strong and loving. In love, knowing are forced to recognize that we are not our need, God offers to be our powerful enough to do what needs to strength. “Do not fear, for I am with be done. We find ourselves needing you,” God says; “do not be dismayed, and think of Jesus. Let self be lost in physical, emotional, and spiritual for I am your God. I will strengthen Him. . . . Rest in God. He is able to strength that we do not have. It may you and help you” (Isa. 41:10, NIV). keep that which you have committed be that we need the strength to endure To let God be our strength means to to Him. If you will leave yourself in pain, to face fear, or to make difficult “let God be God” in our lives. This His hands, He will bring you off more decisions. It may be that we need daily exercise comes when we learn to than conqueror through Him that has strength to love those who have not trust Him completely. loved you.” * loved us. It may be that we need the “A life in Christ is a life of strength to say “No” or the strength to restfulness. There may be no ecstasy —Raquel Arrais serves as associate say “Yes.” We may need the strength to of feeling, but there should be an Women’s Ministries director, General be people of compassion and integrity abiding, peaceful trust. Your hope is Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, in times when the cost is very high and not in yourself; it is in Christ. Your Silver Spring, Maryland, United States. the benefits are not clear to us. weakness is united to His strength, But through prayer and the Word, your ignorance to His wisdom, your * Ellen G. White, Steps to Christ (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press we have a message of hope: God is frailty to His enduring might. . . . Talk Pub. Assn., 1956), 70–72.

Ministry® APRIL 2014 RESOURCES

C. D.: The Man Behind the Message by Harold L. Lee with Benjamin Baker, Hagerstown, MD: Review and Herald Publishing Association, 2013.

his biography is a tribute to one of and foremost, an unfailingly gra- Tthe greatest evangelists and soul cious, faithful, and gentle man of winners in the Seventh-day Adventist God—and for this, I honor him” (5). Church. Like many others, I stand in awe These testimonies confirm of Elder C. D. Brooks and the abilities that C. D. Brooks epitomizes the conferred on him by the Lord. He and Christian who knows that which his wife, Walterene, are two of the he believes and is willing to say most gracious people alive and reflect it with directness and grace. His characters refined by their connection fidelity to the Bible as the Word with Jesus. of God is fundamental to his per- More than 20 tributes in the open- spective on how the church can ing pages of this biography provide best proclaim the message of compelling evidence of the impact of salvation in Christ. He has shown this great preacher’s life and minis- all of us what it means to preach try. Mark Finley shares the following the Word in season and out of testimony: “Some people’s ministries season, through the power of the leave a mark, others leave a legacy. Holy Spirit, giving thousands of C. D. Brooks has a left a legacy on the people a new lease on life. lives of thousands of preachers and He pioneered the media min- tens of thousands of church members istry appropriately called Breath and hundreds of thousands of view- of Life, bringing to television, and ers of the Breath of Life telecast. His later to the Internet, the powerful unique blend of humility, brilliance, three angels’ messages pointing to and deep spirituality has impacted Christ’s soon return. Indeed, the great began early in his life and has taken countless lives” (4). Ella Simmons adds objective of his life has been to point him to the farthest corners of the globe. her testimony: “There are many ways people to the promise of eternal life In this book, you will find thrill- to describe Elder C. D. Brooks, of which through the life, death, resurrection, ing stories of God using this powerful few could be adequate. When I hear and high-priestly ministry of Jesus—the preacher to blaze new trails in evange- his name, there is one description that One he loves supremely as Savior and lism, church organization, and human comes to mind: It is that man of God of Lord. relations. You will also learn how to whom Ellen White spoke who will not C. D.: The Man Behind the Message lean on God in various circumstances be bought or sold, who in his inmost records the amazing ways in which God and find encouragement for your life soul is true and honest, who does not spoke to C. D.’s mother, Mattie Brooks, and walk with Jesus. Ultimately, as fear to call sin by its right name, whose helping her to set her son on a pathway you read about the life and ministry conscience is as true to duty as the of lifelong service to God. When he was of C. D. Brooks, you will be inspired to needle to the pole, that man who will a young man, he wanted to become rededicate your life to Jesus and to tell stand for the right though the heavens a dentist, but God had other plans. others of His saving grace. fall” (3). Past president of the General Instead of C. D. working on the mouths Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, of others, God has touched his mouth to —Reviewed by Ted N. C. Wilson, president of the Jan Paulsen, states, “For all of his many powerfully proclaim the eternal truths world church of Seventh-day Adventists, Silver accomplishments, Elder Brooks is, first of God’s Word. This spiritual journey Spring, Maryland, United States.

APRIL 2014 Ministry® DATELINE

Photo: Ansel Oliver Theology of Theological Seminary and Ordination Study Andrews University. Niels-Erik Andreasen, presi- Committee dent of Andrews University, shared the following statement: “During olumbia, Maryland, her long and productive life Dr. CUnited States—The Running broke new ground in the General Conference Theology University and in the Seventh- of Ordination Study Committee day Adventist Church. She was (TOSC) held its third weekly the first female professor at the meeting January 21–25, 2014, Seventh-day Adventist Theological in Columbia, Maryland—a short Seminary in Takoma Park, drive from the General Conference have featured frank—even very frank— Maryland, and later here at Andrews. headquarters. The denomination is descriptions of the positions on both She was the first Adventist woman to in the midst of a five-year process of sides of this matter. I believe that every- earn a doctorate in Ancient Near Eastern studying the biblical foundation of one who has participated in this process Studies (Johns Hopkins University), with the theology of ordination and how it has come with a genuine desire to find a specialization in ancient Syriac texts. relates to gender and the implications out what the Word of God teaches and She overcame the grief of losing her if women were to be ordained. how we can identify solutions that husband early in life and built her exem- The five-year process was estab- allow the church to stay focused on its plary academic and professional calling. lished following a pledge at the worldwide mission. I’ve been gratified Following her retirement she continued denomination’s General Conference to see a growing sense of camaraderie to share her linguistic skill with graduate Session in 2010 to examine ordination. and understanding as we’ve moved students (Syriac, Egyptian, Akkadian, Each of the Adventist Church’s 13 world through this process.” Hebrew, Aramaic, and almost any other divisions has formed its own Biblical At the final TOSC meeting in June, language these students cared to learn). Research Committee and delivered its it’s expected that the committee And she served the University with her recommendation to the TOSC. will make recommendations for the editorial talents, improving a good many The January meeting featured denomination’s Executive Committee of its publications over the years. . . . presentations on theology and descrip- meeting at Annual Council in October She was an inspiration to many and an tions of options for moving forward in 2014. From there, a recommendation example to us all.” worldwide unity regarding ordination as will likely be made for the agenda of the Jiří Moskala, dean of the Andrews it relates to gender. Much of the discus- 2015 General Conference Session. [ANN] University Seventh-day Adventist sion focused on the issue of “headship.” (SDA) Theological Seminary, says, “Dr. Papers from all meetings are avail- Running holds a special place in the able to view on the Office of Archives, Leona Running, Statistics, and Research Web site at www long-time biblical Photo: Andrews University .adventistarchives.org/ordination. Artur Stele, TOSC chair and direc- scholar, passes away tor of the denomination’s Biblical Research Institute, told delegates that errien Springs, Michigan, United the time for researching and studying BStates—Leona Glidden Running, of the issue had come to an end. “From 97, professor emerita of biblical lan- now on we’re going in a new direction. guages at Andrews University, died on From now, including the June meet- January 22, 2014, in Berrien Springs, ing, we’ll be looking for solutions,” he Michigan, after nearly six decades of said. Stele continued, “These meetings service to the Seventh-day Adventist

Ministry® APRIL 2014 hearts of her Old Testament and semi- Running began working for the in ministry. She donated the collection nary colleagues and former students, Seventh-day Adventist Theological to the Center for Adventist Research who greatly appreciated her mentoring Seminary in 1955, teaching Greek and in the James White Library (www during their seminary years. She was Hebrew. At the time, the president of .andrews.edu/library/car/collection/R the first woman professor at the SDA the seminary was skeptical about a /Running,%20Leona%20Running%20 Theological Seminary and was indeed woman’s ability to teach male students Women%20in%20Church%20and%20 a woman of remarkable skills and influ- and male students’ willingness to be Society%20Collection.pdf). ence. . . . We praise the Lord for her life taught by a woman. She began teaching She retired from teaching at age and faithful ministry!” on a trial basis, but in 1956 she was 65, but for 21 years she continued to William Shea, a close colleague, granted regular status and, shortly teach Egyptian, Akkadian, and Syriac estimates that “Leona assisted more after, full tenure. When the seminary in the seminary, finally quitting in May students in writing doctoral disserta- was moved from Maryland to Michigan 2002. At the May 2012 commencement tions than any other faculty member of in 1960, Running came with it, continu- ceremony, Leona was awarded an hon- Andrews University. She has probably ing on as a valuable and dedicated orary Doctor of Humane Letters from touched the educational lives of more professor of biblical languages. Andrews University. [Patricia Spangler/ Seventh-day Adventist ministers than For many years Leona collected Andrews University] any other woman except Ellen White.” articles, journals, and books on women

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APRIL 2014 Ministry® Practical Pointers Gordon Botting

Gordon Botting, DrPH, is financial educator and stewardship director, Pacific Union Conference, Westlake Village, California, United States.

A church pastor’s dream list

wenty-five years ago I served The entrance(s) should be conve- flower vases, and Communion as pastor of a large metropoli- nient from the street and well marked. materials. Ttan church. At first glance, this Having a covered entrance for a mini- When planning each room for your church was a magnificent edifice with a mum of two vehicles to unload their new facility, the thinking should be large one-of-a-kind pipe organ; a three- passengers is a must for weather condi- “storage, adequate storage, and more tier sanctuary; and two 30-foot-high tions and for special occasions, such as storage.” Even then, down the road, you motifs, imported from Italy, depicting funerals and weddings. will probably be saying, “I wish we had the three angels of Revelation and the more storage.” Second Advent. However, in contrast 3. Parking to its beauty and dignity, the church Parking space should be adequate 5. Small rooms lacked the basics for encouraging mem- for the largest event you will ever have Often much of what happens in the bers and the community to come and at your church. Designing the parking to local church involves small groups, be be part of the congregation. be convenient for visitors and members they working committees, social groups, Although it had seating for 1,400, to gain access to the various entrances musical ensembles, or spiritual circles. there were only 150 parking spaces; of your facility is a real plus. Providing Providing rooms of various sizes makes while it had a pastoral staff of five, its special parking spots for visitors, individuals feel more at home and saves office complex had only one office; and including parking spots for families with on utility costs. Sometimes having a despite it being easily seen from the small children and pregnant mothers, large room that can be divided by two road, there was no way for a person to is a great way to welcome newcomers. or three moveable walls can provide enter the facility from the other side of Trees and shrubs are an added bonus, for a number of functions and groups. the parkway. along with a walkway between the rows Remember, the majority of church work If you are currently looking at con- of parked vehicles. is conducted in small rooms. structing a new facility, here are six basic elements that it needs. 4. Storage 6. Church office space Inadequate storage rooms result Every church needs a professional 1. External signage in, probably, the biggest “nightmare” office space. This should include a The church sign should identify for deacons and deaconesses. In many reception area with a secretarial desk the church in large, high-contrasting cases, the church building committee and adequate space for computers, lettering that can be easily read by fails to include a room to store the printers, and other office equipment. passersby. A number of church signs that chairs and tables used for fellowship A separate copy room is very helpful, I have seen display the church name in lunches. This problem extends to the with lots of table space for assembling colors and hues that are nearly identi- Sabbath School rooms, which never bulletins, for instance. cal with the background. I have been seem to have satisfactory cupboards, The building should include two or amazed by the number of Seventh-day particularly in the lower divisions, for three pastors’ offices even if your church Adventist churches that do not spell all the soft toys, flannel kits, books, currently has only one pastor. Evangelists their denominational name correctly, and boxes of handout items. A child- and Bible workers will need these rooms such as no hyphen between “Seventh” sized toilet in the bathroom near the when you conduct evangelistic series. and “day” or capitalizing the “D” in “day.” classroom is also a bonus. The pastoral offices should be designed A special closet for whiteboards, to face the secretary/receptionist’s office, 2. Entrance to the facility projectors, TV stands, and other audio divided from it by a double-paned glass Adequate lighting of the church’s equipment is often overlooked. The wall to keep the conversations private. name is needed (as well as for impor- deaconesses would praise any building The little things—the attention to tant entrances). The street number committee that included a large walk-in details—make a church feel more like a must appear in large letters that can be compartment with shelves for the items home, which will encourage individuals seen easily from the road. churches use, such as tablecloths, and families to return again and again.

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Ministry® APRIL 2014 ministrymagazine.org/digital SEvEn EaSy StEPS tO SuCCESSful EvangEliSm 1. Pray 2. Plan/Organize 3. Build a team 4. Prework 5. advertise extensively 6. Reaping Series 7. follow up

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