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04 Resources Reformation principles for an end-time 06 ministry 05 Editorial Ganoune Diop Twelve revolutionary principles of took 21 Revival and Reformation center stage—then. Examining current practices, to what extent can we still call ourselves heirs of the 25 Dateline Reformation—now? Another look at the three angels’ messages 28 Practical Pointers 10 Norman R. Gulley Luther received the baton of righteousness by faith, MINISTRY® INTERNATIONAL EDITORS then passed it on. The final runners are carrying it to the International Journal for Pastors Chinese-Robert Wong 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, French-Bernard Sauvagnat finish line. It’s called the three angels’ messages. It’s the MD 20904-6600 U.S.A. Japanese-Masaki Shoji everlasting gospel. www.ministrymagazine.org Korean-Soon Ki Kang [email protected] Portuguese (South America)-Wellington Barbosa EDITOR Russian-Michael Kaminsky Prayer and finishing the mission Pavel Goia Spanish (Inter-America)-Pablo Perla 13 Pat Gustin ASSOCIATE EDITOR Spanish (South America)-Marcos Blanco Jeffrey O. Brown A persistent and consistent prayer life propelled the INTERNATIONAL gospel during the Protestant Reformation. A look at our CONSULTANTS TO EDITOR ADVISORS John Fowler, , Ron Clouzet, Michael D. Collins, prayer life today begs the question—is the protest over? Myrna Tetz Daniel Devadhas, Carlos Hein, Patrick Johnson, Victor Kozakov, Geoffrey G. EDITORIAL SPECIALIST Mbwana, Musa Mitekaro, Passmore Sheryl Beck The priesthood of believers: Our Mulambo, Daniel Opoku-Boateng, proclamation and practice FINANCE AND Hector Sanchez, Houtman Sinaga, Elias 16 TECHNOLOGY MANAGER Brasil de Souza, Ivan L. Williams, Ted Mxolisi Michael Sokupa John Feezer IV N. C. Wilson All agree that pastors and church members should work together. Luther revived the doctrine of the priesthood of ADVERTISING SUBSCRIPTIONS [email protected] 12 issues: US$32.99; Canada all believers—is the doctrine now on life support? and overseas US$47.00. To order: send SUBSCRIPTIONS/ name, address, and payment to Ministry® Subscriptions, 12501 Old Columbia Pike, RENEWALS/ADDRESS 95 theses on righteousness by faith Silver Spring, MD 20904-6600 U.S.A. 19 (apologies to Martin Luther) CHANGES www.ministrymagazine.org/subscribe. [email protected] DIGITAL DELIVERY A beloved university pastor once penned his version of the +1 301-680-6511 Print subscribers can sign up for digital delivery +1 301-680-6502 (fax) at www.ministrymagazine.org/digital. Ninety-Five Theses, based on justification by faith. Should TO WRITERS COVER these "95 theses" be fastened to the door of our hearts? We welcome unsolicited manuscripts. 316 Creative Before submitting, review the writers’ guidelines at www.ministrymagazine.org. The ancient Waldenses: Did the LAYOUT Please send manuscripts via email to 22 Reformation predate Luther? 316 Creative [email protected]. P. Gerard Damsteegt Many recognize there were reformers before Luther; Host: Anthony Kent Cohost: Ivan Williams few know about the Waldenses. Here is the fascinating www.MinistryinMotion.tv history of the sacrificial contribution of the Waldenses—

from one who knows. Ministry® has been published PRINTER Pacific Press® Pub. Assn., monthly since 1928 by the Ministerial 1350 N. Kings Rd., Nampa, ID 83687 Association, General Conference of Standard mail postage paid at Nampa, Idaho. On page 20 of the August 2017 issue, Scripture reference “Luke 22:52” Seventh-day Adventists.® Ministry is a peer-reviewed journal. (ISSN 0026-5314) should have read “Luke 22:32.” We apologize for any confusion. SECRETARY Jerry N. Page Member of Associated Church Press. ASSOCIATE SECRETARIES Adventist®, Seventh-day Adventist®, and Jonas Arrais, Jeffrey Brown, Robert Costa, Pavel Goia, Anthony Kent, Janet Page Ministry® are the registered trademarks of the General Conference Corporation of BIBLE CREDITS Scripture quotations marked ESV are from the The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® (ESV®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good MINISTERIAL RESOURCE News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked GNT are from the Good News Translation® (Today’s English Version, Second Edition). Copyright © 1992 CENTER COORDINATOR Seventh-day Adventists®. American Bible Society. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked KJV are from the King James Version. Scripture taken from The Message. Copyright © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002. Used by permission of NavPress Publishing Group. Scripture quotations marked NIV® are from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, Cathy Payne Vol. 89, No. 10 © 2017 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Scripture quotations marked NKJV are taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas +1 301-680-6511 Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. www.ministerialassociation.com PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.

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Here We Stand: Luther, the Reformation, and Seventh-day Edited by Michael W. Campbell and Nikolaus Satelmajer, Pacific Press Publishing Association, 2017.

t would have been but they were, in fact, a method whereby individuals and easy simply to por- a frontal assault on communities continually submit all of Itray the areas where the medieval peniten- their interpretations to Scripture. Luther, the Reformers, tial system. Wengert Other essays in the volume and Seventh-day maintains that the address Ellen White’s portrait of Martin Adventists agree and resulting conflict was Luther, Luther’s understanding of the disagree. However, the theological, not per- Decalogue and the Sabbath, Lutheran editors and authors of sonal. At the heart of and Adventist understandings of salva- this ambitious book take the Reformation was tion, and Luther’s complex view of the a step beyond the simple Luther’s theological state of the dead. In addition, important and easy. They provide focus on grace alone, essays deal with Luther’s understand- an opportunity for a faith alone, and Christ ing of missiology, state power, and reappraisal of Luther alone. Luther asserted Islam. There are also significant treat- and the Reformation as that if this theology ments of the neglected relationship well as a new look at was appropriately between Anabaptists and Adventism. Adventist teachings in the context of preached, rather than , Among the essays is a notable treat- the Reformation. then the gospel would truly awaken ment of Luther’s understanding of The book begins with an introduc- faith and justify the sinner. righteousness by faith in the book of tion by George Knight, “Why Luther Subsequent essays compare Romans. In it, Sigve Tonstad suggests Matters.” Knight affirms Luther’s rel- Lutheran and Adventist understand- that there are exegetical and historical evance to Adventism as well as to the ings of sola Scriptura, the priesthood reasons for a new interpretation of broader Protestant world. He argues that of believers, and justification by faith. Paul’s understanding of righteousness three of Luther’s ideas are still applicable These essays cover the relevant mate- by faith. Like those who advocate a new in the current religious climate: a com- rial and show the relationship between perspective on Paul, he suggests that mitment to the authority of Scripture Lutheran and Adventist teachings. the center of Paul’s thought has to do in the face of mere human authority, a Along with some other essays in this with the faithfulness of God rather than biblical understanding of justification by volume, these topics could have been the faith of the believer. faith, and the priesthood of all believers. strengthened by a greater reliance on Denis Fortin’s concluding essay The volume that follows highlights these primary sources and fewer quotations details the surprising agreement between three groundbreaking ideas. from secondary sources. Lutherans and Catholics on justification The first essay, by Lutheran scholar One outstanding essay describes and describes a pathway whereby the Timothy J. Wengert, counters the myths John C. Peckham’s new approach to two communions could come to see that focus the Reformation on Luther’s understanding sola Scriptura. Peckham, each other as complementary opposites, guilt or on his anger. Wengert argues an associate professor of theology and expressing a oneness in diversity. that Luther began the Reformation Christian philosophy at the Seventh- In short, this impressive volume with a primary concern about bad day Adventist Theological Seminary at is a thoughtful review of Seventh- teaching and bad preaching. He attests , bases his essay on day Adventist teachings in the light that the occasion for the posting of the his recently published book, Canonical of Luther and the Reformation. Its Ninety-Five Theses was the exagger- Theology: The Biblical Canon, Sola most helpful contributions illuminate ated preaching of indulgences, and Scriptura, and Theological Method Adventist teachings in the context of the foundation of indulgences was the (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 2016). Reformation and Anabaptist thought. theological idea that taught that the Taking seriously the human element in pope had a right to reduce penalties in biblical interpretation, Peckham seeks —Reviewed by Edward Allen, DMin, PhD, profes- purgatory. Luther posted his theses qui- to avoid the twin dangers of individual- sor and chair of the Division of Religion at Union etly to begin a theological discussion, ism and communitarianism, developing College, Lincoln, , United States.

Ministry® OCTOBER 2017 EDITORIAL PAVEL GOIA

Pavel Goia, DMin (ABD), is the editor of Ministry.

The heart of the There is no power Reformation or wisdom on earth that can was six and she was three. I noticed and passion for His presence? When her at church and said to my sister, you pray, do you seek answers, or do accomplish God’s I“I like this girl; I am going to marry you seek Him? Eternal life is to know her.” From that moment on I was in love. Him (John 17:3), to have a continual, work, except In the seventh grade I sang in the intimate relationship with Him, to be church choir. I sat in the back row, right happy in His presence. through prayer. side. She sat in the front row, left side. Love is about the heart. God prom- During the sermon, instead of facing ises that if we seek Him with all our the pastor, I was looking at her. I would heart, He will let Himself be found (Jer. memorize her features so that when I 29:12–14). Throughout the Bible, God got home I could still remember them. emphasizes His desire to communicate help. There is no power or wisdom on I watched how she walked, how she with His people. There is no transfor- earth that can accomplish God’s work, talked, and then I began talking with mation without prayer. “We may be except through prayer. “Those who do her. Some may call it stalking; I call it assured of this, that the secret of all not learn every day in the school of extreme love. failure is our failure in secret prayer.”1 Christ, who do not spend much time I dreamt about being with her and All major revivals have started with in earnest prayer, are not fit to handle prayed about it. I wrote poetry for her. and been based on prayer. Human the work of God in any of its branches.”4 When we would meet, I was at a total power and wisdom alone cannot do This is no time for anemic . loss for words. I would just stare at her God’s work. Revival and reformation We need prayer, real prayer. “The time and even forget my name. Eventually, is not a new phenomenon. It was has come for a thorough reformation I told her I intended to marry her. We manifested through Martin Luther in the to take place. When this reformation dated for more than 3 years and, almost great Reformation five hundred years begins, the spirit of prayer will actuate 32 years ago, Daniela and I got married. ago, and it continues today. Luther said, every believer, and will banish from the As time has passed, our love has grown “To be a Christian without prayer is no church the spirit of discord and strife.”5 deeper. We pray and study together and more possible than to be alive without I pray that Ministry will be a won- talk openly about everything. I cannot breathing.”2 He began and sustained derful blessing to your heart and a function well without her. There is no the Reformation through prayer, and significant tool in your hands; that it other joy than to be with her. today’s Christians should do the same. will continue the Reformation in our That brings to mind the verse Articles in this issue deal with churches and will help us finish our from Psalm 27:4 “One thing I ask from how the principles of the Protestant mission. the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may Reformation, such as righteousness by dwell in the house of the Lord all the faith and the priesthood of all believers, 1 Unknown Christian, The Kneeling Christian (New Kensington, PA: Whitaker House, 2013), 6. days of my life, to gaze on the beauty are continued and deepened in our 2 Jansen Trotman and Gloria Trotman, My Weekly Walk of the Lord and to seek him in his lives in very practical ways, especially With God (Fort Oglethorpe, GA: TEACH Services Inc., temple” (NIV). through our proclamation of the three 2017), 9. It is easy to say or think that we love angels’ messages. Yet we are reminded, 3 Ellen G. White, “Friendship With the World Is Enmity With God,” The Review and Herald, August 23, 1892, God. But, do you desire Him so much “If we would accomplish the great work par. 7. that you start dreaming of being with before us, it is essential that we present 4 Ellen G. White, Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Him? Real relationships are based on to God fervent and effectual prayer; for Workers (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 3 1962), 169. quality time spent together. When you it availeth much.” 5 Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8 are with Him, are you thinking only of As the new editor of this wonderful (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1948), your needs, or is there a deep desire magazine, I need your prayers and 251.

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OCTOBER 2017 Ministry® LEAD ARTICLE GANOUNE DIOP

Ganoune Diop, PhD, serves as the director of the General Conference Public Affairs and Religious Liberty department and secretary general for the International Religious Liberty Association, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States.

Reformation principles for an end-time ministry

hat Seventh-day us, and we are accountable also for the a man is really preaching the New Adventist Church mem- additional light which is now shining Testament gospel of salvation than this, ber, let alone pastor, upon us from the word of God.”2 that some people might misunderstand Wdoes not believe in the The principle of sola Scriptura it and misinterpret it to mean that it principles of Martin Luther and the allows a framework whereby God’s really amounts to this, that because Protestant Reformation? However, Ellen thoughts and purposes can be received you are saved by grace alone it does White states, “Young ministers may unmixed with human theories and not matter at all what you do. . . . This speak the truth fluently, and yet have worldviews. Instead, a biblical world- is a very good test of gospel preaching. no real sense of the words they utter. view emerges from delving into the If my preaching and presentation of the They do not appreciate the value of Scriptures (2 Tim. 2:15). gospel of salvation does not expose it the truth they present, and little realize To what extent do you preach the to that misunderstanding, then it is not what it has cost those who, with prayers Word of God, and not human specula- the gospel.”4 and tears, through trial and opposition, tions and cultural perspectives woven Those who receive God’s grace are have sought for it as for hid treasures.”1 into interpretations of Scripture? called to be gracious people. An attitude In this reflection, we ask the ques- of gratitude should pervade the life of tion, Does our understanding of pastoral 2. Sola gratia the pastor and all Christians, as consis- ministry conform to the foundational The sola gratia principle (grace tent with the principle of grace (Col. 4:6). principles of the Reformation? alone for salvation, not grace with To what extent does your preaching merits) reminds us of the depth of God’s on grace expose you to misunderstand- 1. Sola Scriptura love manifested in unmerited favor He ing? How is grace showing in your life? For Luther, the sola Scriptura grants to those created in His image. principle was the conviction that all Here, Luther was not advocating 3. Sola fide church traditions, , and teach- antinomianism. He stated, “The law For Luther, justification by faith ings must be in unity with the divinely is divine and holy. Let the law have alone (not faith with works) was central inspired Word of God, and all believ- its glory, but yet no law, be it never so to his doctrine, as it is to ours (Gal. 3:11; ers are equal before it. The depth of divine and holy, ought to teach me that Heb. 10:38). Ellen White states, “Our only Scripture is ever unfolding until perfec- I am justified, and shall live through ground of hope is in the righteousness of tion comes and faith becomes sight it.” 3 But, like Paul, Luther preached Christ imputed to us, and in that wrought (Prov. 4:18). Ellen White states: “There grace so convincingly that his hearers by His Spirit working in and through are many at the present day thus cling- asked, “What shall we say then? Shall us.”5 She further states, “By His perfect ing to the customs and traditions of we continue in sin, that grace may obedience He has made it possible for their fathers. When the Lord sends them abound?” (Rom. 6:1, KJV). Luther’s every human being to obey God’s com- additional light, they refuse to accept position finds its echo in the words of mandments. When we submit ourselves it, because, not having been granted Martin Lloyd-Jones: “The true preach- to Christ, the heart is united with His to their fathers, it was not received by ing of the gospel of salvation by grace heart, the will is merged in His will, the them. . . . We are accountable for the alone always leads to the possibility of mind becomes one with His mind, the light which they received, and which this charge being brought against it. thoughts are brought into captivity was handed down as an inheritance for There is no better test as to whether to Him; we live His life. This is what it

Ministry® OCTOBER 2017 means to be clothed with the garment was worthy of such glory or praise. Christ alone will be able to com- of His righteousness . . . which is perfect Instead of seeking popularity, power, or plete the Reformation, given His obedience to the law of Jehovah.”6 prestige, pastors are called to validate prerogative to renew all things at His The righteousness of Jesus Christ, their ministry by embracing the humility . In this perspective, the qualification to enter heaven (cf. of Christ who, even though the only One reformation, restoration, and renewal Matt. 5:20), is the model for the pastor. entitled to be glorified, did not seek His are inseparable. The two original insti- “The ministers must be converted before own glory. This was part of His kenosis, tutions, Sabbath (God’s day, not man’s) they can strengthen their brethren. His emptying of Himself for the sake of and family (God’s way, not man’s) are to They should not preach themselves, but revealing God, the Father (Phil. 2:5–8). be restored according to God’s original Christ and His righteousness. A reforma- Ellen White says, “Keep the eye intent (Isa. 58:11–14; Mal. 4:4–6). tion is needed among the people, but it fixed on Christ. Do not fix your attention Regarding the Sabbath, Ellen White should first begin its purifying work with on some favorite minister, copying his writes, “In the time of the end every the ministers.”7 example and imitating his gestures; divine institution is to be restored. . . . To what extent do you, as a preacher in short, becoming his shadow. Let God’s remnant people, standing before and teacher of the Word, partner with no man put his mold upon you.”9 The the world as reformers, are to show that God to emphasize the vital importance pastor’s life, and that of every Christian, the law of God is the foundation of all of righteousness by faith? can take no legitimate turn other than enduring reform and that the Sabbath to empty self for the sake of God’s glory. of the fourth commandment is to stand 4. Solus Christus To what extent is your ministry, in as a memorial of creation, a constant Asserting solus Christus means that all things, focused on the glory of God reminder of the power of God.”12 a Reformation Christian recognizes alone? Regarding the family, she wrote, Christ as the only One who can offer “Christ came not to destroy this institu- eternal life and effect change. Paul 6. Presbyterii fidelium tion, but to restore it to its original acknowledged, “For I know that in The premise of the presbyterii fide- sanctity and elevation.” “Woman should me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good lium principle, the priesthood of all fill the position which God originally dwells; for to will is present with me, believers, is that in the new covenant, designed for her, as her husband’s but how to perform what is good I do God graciously grants access to Himself equal.”13 Restoration in the family pro- not find. For the good that I will to do, I through faith in the righteousness of vides a model for the church (Eph. 5:31, do not do; but the evil I will not to do, Jesus Christ (Heb. 10:19, 20). 32). Christians in general, and pastors that I practice” (Rom. 7:18, 19, NKJV). Ministry is no longer based on lin- in particular, are called to continue Ellen White affirms, “It is impossible eage or belonging to a tribe or guild. All the work of restoration, an inseparable for us, of ourselves, to escape from the services are now available to all children aspect of the Reformation. pit of sin in which we are sunken. . . . of God, indwelt by God’s Holy Spirit and To what extent are you participating Education, culture, the exercise of the endowed by His fruit and gifts (1 Cor. in or hindering the continual process of will, human effort, all have their proper 12:7). “To every man—and that means restoration? sphere, but here they are powerless. every woman, also—He has given His They may produce an outward cor- work, and this work each one is to per- 8. The doctrine of the rectness of behavior, but they cannot form according to his several ability.”10 sacraments change the heart. . . . There must be a In the final analysis, pastoral ministry is Catholics maintain seven sacra- power working from within, a new life about equipping all Christians for their ments that they believe confer grace from above, before men can be changed growth in Christ through the Holy Spirit upon God’s people. from sin to holiness. That power is for the sake of the mission of uplifting Luther maintained two sacraments, Christ. His grace alone.”8 the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit baptism and Communion and believed To what extent are you trusting self before the world so that all people may they did not confer grace but were signs while preaching Christ? be attracted to God. pointing to Christ and His grace (Rom. To what extent are you training your 6:4; 1 Cor. 11:24, 25). For Catholics, 5. Soli Deo gloria members, or paying lip service to, this the prerequisites for Communion are The principle soli Deo gloria (only doctrine? baptism and . Protestants, God is worthy to be worshiped and on the other hand, practice open prayed to, not spirits, angels, Mary, 7. Ecclesia semper Communion and come to the Lord's saints, priests, or pastors) stands in reformanda table as sinners, not saints. “There may opposition to the veneration of crea- The ecclesia semper reformanda come into the company persons who tures instead of the Creator. principle states that the church is in a are not in heart servants of truth and Since salvation is solely the gift of continuous process of reformation until holiness, but who may wish to take God, Luther believed no human being God makes all things perfect again.11 part in the service. They should not

OCTOBER 2017 Ministry® LEAD ARTICLE GANOUNE DIOP

be forbidden.”14 Protestants come to The famous declaration of Martin successful devices to cast reproach baptism as sinners, not as saints. Luther on the pivotal role of conscience upon purity and truth.”24 Whether the table of the Lord or is in order: “ ‘Unless I am convicted by To what extent have you adopted the water of baptism, we do not clean Scripture and plain reason . . . my con- God’s Word as the source of author- up ourselves and then come to Christ; science is captive to the Word of God. ity in your beliefs, relationships, and we come as “just as I am without one I cannot and will not recant anything, ministry? plea but that Thy blood was shed for for to go against conscience is neither me.”15 right nor safe.’ 12. The principle of To what extent does your ministry “According to tradition, Luther is human dignity extend the grace that baptism and then said to have spoken these words: The infinite worth of human beings, Communion point to? ‘Here I stand. I can do no other. God through creation in God’s image, help me. Amen.’ ”20 undergirds every other principle of the 9. The principle of Lack of conformity to this principle Reformation. equality has tarnished the tremendous legacy God’s love motivates the incarna- The principle of equality is based of the Protestant Reformation. By tion to save the human family God on the fact that God makes no differ- siding with princes in the massacre created for fellowship. This principle ence among God’s children. of peasants, by allowing the murder is the foundation of human dignity, Heinrich Gelzer states that Luther of Anabaptists and the burning at the which in turn is the justification for all believed in “the unconditional equality stake of Michael Servetus, the early human rights. Pastors recognize people of all, through the abolition of all dis- Reformers violated the principle of as temples of the Holy Spirit of God tinctions; all the divisions among men freedom of conscience. This principle (1 Cor. 6:19): “Think it not lowering to . . . were to be lost in the divine unity is an antidote against the violation of your dignity to minister to suffering of his original nature.”16 The principle the right to believe differently or not to humanity. Look not with indifference of human rights, recognized by the believe at all (1 Cor. 7:12, 13). and contempt upon those who have international community in declara- To what extent does my evange- laid the temple of the soul in ruins. tions and treaties, is grounded in the lism embrace tolerance and reject These are objects of divine compassion. premise of equality. This equality is manipulation? . . . The love that is inspired by our love beautifully captured in the words of for Jesus will see in every soul, rich or the apostle Paul: “For you are all sons 11. The principle of poor, a value that cannot be measured of God through faith in Christ Jesus. legitimate authority in by human estimate.”25 For as many of you as were baptized belief and practice To what extent do you uphold the into Christ have put on Christ. There is The Reformation set limits to every principle of human dignity in your deal- neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither authority and tradition.21 ings with those you encounter? slave nor free, there is neither male The adoption of Plato and nor female; for you are all one in Christ Aristotle’s philosophies brought an Conclusion Jesus” (Gal. 3:26–28, NKJV). understanding of Christianity based These Reformation principles irre- Nothing less will be acceptable on tradition rather than truth and versibly changed the Christian faith. for today’s church, which is far more emotion rather than devotion.22 Luther Now “God calls upon us to make our accepting of differences. Young people declared, “You should not believe your choice on the right side, to connect are passionate about diversity, toler- conscience and your feelings more with heavenly agencies, to adopt prin- ance, and justice.17 Their religion is than the Word which the Lord who ciples which have a reviving, restoring defined not merely by doctrine and receives sinners preaches to you.”23 A influence, which will restore in us the policy but by fairness, nondiscrimina- critical aspect of ministry is the ability moral image lost through disobedi- tion, and mercy.18 to place principle above passion, and ence.”26 This is revival and reformation: To what extent does your ministry faith above feelings (Prov. 14:12; Matt. a restoration of the Edenic model where promote the principle of equality?19 15:9). the character of Christ is perfectly repro- “Counterfeit holiness, spurious duced in His people, that He might 10. Freedom of sanctification, is still doing its work come to take us home (Ps. 51:10–13; conscience of deception. Under various forms it Mark 4:28, 29). The principle of freedom of exhibits the same spirit as in the days Earth’s final message will then conscience is the cornerstone of the of Luther, diverting minds from the parallel that of Martin Luther, E. J. Reformation. The Reformation could Scriptures and leading men to follow Waggoner, and A. T. Jones. “The end is not be completed without a compre- their own feelings and impressions near! We have not a moment to lose! hensive and consistent adoption of rather than to yield obedience to the Light is to shine forth from God’s people freedom of conscience. law of God. This is one of Satan’s most in clear, distinct rays, bringing Jesus

Ministry® OCTOBER 2017 before the churches and before the 9 Ellen G. White, Evangelism (Washington, DC: Review 19 Cf. “ANN Video Full Episode—September 8, 2017,” world. . . . One interest will prevail, one and Herald Pub. Assn., 1970), 630. Seventh-day Adventist Church, Adventist News 10 Ellen G. White, Daughters of God (Hagerstown, MD: Network, Sept. 8, 2017, news.adventist.org/en subject will swallow up every other,— Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1998), 134. /all-episodes/episode/ml/ann-english/ann-video Christ our righteousness.”27 11 Cf. Michael Stangeland, “Ecclesia Reformata— -full-episode-september-8-2017/. Semper Reformanda (The Church Reformed, Always 20 “Martin Luther,” Trinity Lutheran Church, accessed 1 Ellen G. White, Pastoral Ministry (Silver Spring, MD: Reforming),” Lutherans for Life, Feb. 24, 2015, Sept. 20, 2017, trinitylutheranboonsboro.org General Conference Ministerial Assn., 1995), 27. lutheransforlife.org/article/ecclesia-reformata /martin-luther/. 2 Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy (Mountain View, -semper-reformanda-the-church-reformed-always 21 Cf. Martin Luther, “Temporal Authority: To What CA: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1911), 164. -reforming/. Extent It Should Be Obeyed,” in Luther’s Works, trans. 3 Martin Luther, quoted on Grace Quotes, accessed 12 Ellen G. White, Prophets and Kings (Mountain View, J. J. Schindel, rev. Walther I. Brandt, vol. 45, Christian Sept. 20, 2017, gracequotes.org/quote/the-law-is CA: Pacific Press Pub. Assn, 1917), 678. in Society II (Philadelphia: Fortress Press, 1962), 81, 13 Ellen G. White, The Adventist Home (Hagerstown, MD: -divine-and-holy-let-the-law-have-its-glory-but 109, 110, 113, 114, 118, 120, 121, 126–129. Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1980), 99, 231. -yet-no-law-be-it-never-so-divine-and-holy-ought 22 Martin Luther, “Temporal Authority,” 210. 14 Ellen G. White, , (Oakland, CA: -to-teach-me-that-i-am-justified-and-shall-live 23 “Quotes of Author: Martin Luther,” Grace Quotes, -through-it-i-grant-it-may-teach-me-that-i/. Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1898), 656. quote 11, accessed Sept. 20, 2017, gracequotes.org 4 D. Martin Lloyd Jones, Romans: Exposition of Chapter 15 Charlotte Elliott, “Just As I Am.” /author-quote/martin-luther/. 6: The New Man (Edinburgh, UK: Banner of Truth, 16 Heinrich Gelzer, The Life of Martin Luther, the German 1972), 8. Reformer (Cambridge, MA: N. Cooke, 1855), 72. 24 White, The Great Controversy, 193. 5 Ellen G. White, (Oakland, CA: Pacific 17 Cf. Adventists for Social Justice website at 25 Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6 Press Pub. Assn., 1892), 63. adventists4socialjustice.org/index.html. (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1948), 6 Ellen G. White, Christ’s Object Lessons (Washington, 18 Cf. Libna Stevens, “Do Millennials Care About Issues 279. DC: Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1900), 312. Affecting the World Today?,” Seventh-day Adventist 26 Ellen G. White, In Heavenly Places (Washington, DC: 7 Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1 Church, Adventist News Network, Aug. 28, 2017, Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1967), 286. (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1948), news.adventist.org/en/all-news/news/go/2017-08 27 Ellen G. White, Sons and Daughters of God 469. -28/do-millennials-care-about-issues-affecting-the (Washington, DC: Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 8 White, Steps to Christ, 18. -world-today/. 1955), 259.

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OCTOBER 2017 Ministry® NORMAN R. GULLEY

Norman R. Gulley, PhD, serves as research professor in systematic theology, Southern Adventist University, Collegedale, Tennessee, United States.

Another look at the three angels’ messages

he Protestant Reformation Change and relevance characterized Seventh-day Adventist began on , 1517. We live in a postmodern teachings through the years, though Martin Luther adhered his age. Emergent church leaders believe with varying degrees of conviction. TNinety-Five Theses against that churches are irrelevant if they Ellen White states, “The sacrifice of indulgences to the church do not change to interface with post- Christ as an atonement for sin is the door. The papacy was furious. The modern culture. In other words, great truth around which all other (1545–1563) flung they believe changing worldviews truths cluster. . . . I present before anathemas at to destroy dictate the way in which churches you the great, grand monument of it. This only hardened Protestants operate to be relevant within changing mercy and regeneration, salvation and against the papacy. Centuries passed. culture. Postmodernity represents a redemption—the Son of God uplifted on Then the Second Vatican Council new worldview. It rejects absolutes, the cross. This is to be the foundation of (1962–1965) tried a new tactic. It wel- including absolutes in Scripture. Yet the every discourse given by our ministers. comed other churches as separated Bible is like no other book. God does not . . . Christ and His righteousness—let brothers. Common doctrines were change (Mal. 3:6), and “Jesus Christ is this be our platform, the very life of gradually agreed upon. Differences the same yesterday, today, and forever” our faith.”3 were swept under the rug. The new (Heb. 13:8).2 She added, “Several have writ- tactic worked—so well, in fact, that on A consistent biblical worldview, ten to me, inquiring if the message of October 31, 2017, and found throughout Scripture, is that of justification by faith is the third angel’s many ecumenical leaders desire to the great controversy between Christ message, and I have answered, ‘It is pronounce the Reformation over.1 and Satan. This is concrete, unchange- the third angel’s message in verity.’ . . . How could this happen? What able, and relevant. It materially affects “This message was to bring more would the martyrs think, many of whom church identity. Scripture says, “Here prominently before the world the were burned at the stake because they are those who keep the command- uplifted Saviour, the sacrifice for the believed that Christ and Scripture are ments of God and the faith of Jesus” sins of the whole world. It presented counterfeited in the Roman system? (Rev. 14:12). This verse immediately justification through faith in the Surety; What would those think who rejected follows the three angels’ messages (vv. it invited the people to receive the ’s theology of salvation through 6–11). How relevant are these messages righteousness of Christ, which is made the papal church, where human in our post-Vatican II, postmodern, manifest in obedience to all the com- traditions were placed above divine ecumenical age? Are they important or mandments of God. . . . It is the third revelation? In the sixteenth century, the merely optional? angel’s message, which is to be pro- Magisterial Reformers were unanimous claimed with a loud voice, and attended in identifying the papacy as the anti- Three angels’ messages with the outpouring of His Spirit in a christ—against and in place of Christ. One of the main identifying features large measure.”4 What happened? Has the Reformation of Luther’s doctrine is righteous- White concludes, “There must be no lost its identity? ness by faith. This same feature has toning down of the truth, no muffling of

Ministry® OCTOBER 2017 the message for this time.”5 Thus, the heaven and earth, the sea and springs [Satan, Rev. 12:9] gave him his power, three messages constitute the mission of water” (v. 7b). These words are found his throne, and great authority” (Rev. of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. in the Sabbath commandment: “In 13:2b). Adventism’s raison d’être stands in six days the Lord made the heavens Then “all the world marveled and danger of becoming “muffled” if we and the earth, the sea, and all that followed the beast. So, they worshiped forget our identity and tone down is in them, and rested the seventh the dragon who gave authority to the God’s revelation in Scripture concerning day. Therefore the Lord blessed the beast, and they worshiped the beast” the falsehoods of the historic papacy Sabbath day and hallowed it” (Exod. (vv. 3b, 4a). A death decree condemns that reformers like Luther laid down 20:11; cf. Gen. 2:1–4). those who refuse to worship the their lives to expose. Adventists’ love We worship the Creator, whose beast (v. 15). In ancient Babylon, king for Catholics and Protestants should “memorial of creation” is the Nebuchadnezzar issued a death decree reflect God’s love for the world (John seventh-day Sabbath.6 God’s law is for refusing to worship his image (Dan. 3:16). Rightly understood, the three immutable, unchangeable. Christ 3:1–28). That was a local type of the angels’ messages are good news for all, declared, “Till heaven and earth pass global counterfeit worship and decree Protestants and Catholics alike, if away, one jot or one tittle will by no to come. they are understood in a Christ-centered context. Consider the good news. The first angel’s message The first angel has “the everlasting Rightly understood, the three gospel to preach to those who dwell on the earth—to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people” (Rev. 14:6). This angels’ messages are good news clearly indicates that the gospel mes- sage is consistent throughout human for all, Protestants and Catholics history. The same gospel is given “to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people.” Therefore, like the biblical worldview, alike, if they are understood in a the biblical gospel is relevant to all cultures. Both are unchangeable! Christ-centered context. “Fear God . . . , for the hour of His judgment has come” (v. 7a), pro- claims the first message. Some fear this judgment, but it is also part of the everlasting gospel. The gospel means pass from the law” (Matt. 5:18). “Babylon the Great” is “drunk with means that Calvary is the decisive God’s law stands as “a transcript of His the blood of the saints and the blood and irreversible judgment day (John character.”7 God and His law remain of the martyrs of Jesus” (Rev. 17:5, 12:31). The pre-Advent judgment relevant to every changing culture. 6). No wonder the “wrath of God” will (along with the millennial and post- Soon, faithfulness to “the Sabbath will be “poured out full strength” on this millennial judgments) are not added be the great test of loyalty.”8 wild beast and its followers (Rev. 14:10, judgments to the Calvary judgment. 11; 16). By contrast, there are “those Nothing needs to be added to Calvary. The second angel’s who keep the commandments of God The three judgments after Calvary message and the faith of Jesus” (Rev. 14:12b); merely reveal who has accepted or The second angel’s mes- and those “who have the victory over rejected Christ’s crucifixion judgment. sage declares: “Babylon is fallen, is the beast [therion], over his image and Those who accept Christ’s death for fallen, that great city whose evil influ- over his mark and over the number of them have no fear of any subsequent ences all nations” (Rev. 14:8).9 The his name” (Rev. 15:2b; cf. Rev. 13:14b; judgment (John 5:24). climax of this evil is reached in the 14:9). These are the ones who sing the So, “Fear God” means to reverence third message, which exposes false “song of Moses” (Exod. 15:1–21) and the Him. Reverence and “worship Him who worship (v. 9). A wild beast (therion, v. “song of the Lamb” (Rev. 15:3, 4)—two made heaven and earth” (Rev. 14:7b). In 9) is worshiped in place of the Lamb miraculous deliverances! overflowing gratitude, we worship of God, our Creator Redeemer, Christ The pre-Advent judgment of the our Creator and Redeemer—the one (first message). This wild beast (the- first message was predicted in the who gives us life and eternal life. But rion), introduced in Revelation 13:1a, time of ancient Babylon (Dan. 7:1–28). there is more: “worship Him who made is blasphemous (v. 1b). “The dragon Daniel 7:1–8 gives the background to

OCTOBER 2017 Ministry® NORMAN R. GULLEY

Revelation 13:1, 2. The court hands God’s wrath without mercy will be If not us, then who? down a decision against the counterfeit poured out on Babylon (Rev. 14:9–11). Ellen White states, “Those who have salvation system, and “in favor of the However, all sins of humanity that held the beginning of their confidence saints of the Most High” (Dan. 7:22; cf. Christ bore caused God’s wrath without firm unto the end will be wide-awake vv. 26, 27). The counterfeit system will mercy to be poured out on Him as the during the time that the third angel’s be destroyed (v. 11, cf. third message, Sin Bearer. This reveals God’s hatred message is proclaimed with great Rev. 14:9–11), and Christ’s kingdom of sin. Christ, our Sin Bearer, hates sin. power. During the loud cry, the church, will be everlasting (Dan. 7:14, 27; Rev. No wonder Christ’s life was crushed aided by the providential interpositions 19:11–21; 21; 22:1–7). through the staggering load of global of her exalted Lord, will diffuse the sins. This means that on Calvary, Christ knowledge of salvation so abundantly Third angel’s message bore the sins of Babylon. that light will be communicated to Prophecy speaks of end-time God is “not willing that any should every city and town.”12 Seventh-day cultural demands—global Sunday perish but that all should come to Adventists are heirs of the Reformation. enforcement and a death decree for repentance” (2 Pet. 3:9b). For Christ “is We cannot drop the baton or cloud the noncompliance (Rev. 13:1–15; cf. the expiation [sacrifice] for our sins, and issues. Luther delivered the message Dan. 3:1–27; 6:6–24). The third angel’s not for ours only but also for the sins for his time. Now, “in a special sense message contains God’s response: His of the whole world” (1 John 2:2, RSV). Seventh-day Adventists have been set wrath poured out without mercy. Here is “For God did not send His Son into the in the world as watchmen and light the global showdown between the two world to condemn the world, but that bearers. To them has been entrusted sides of the cosmic controversy, which the world through Him might be saved” the last warning for a perishing world. includes the second advent of Christ. (John 3:17). Sadly, the overwhelming On them is shining wonderful light from Where do we find the everlasting gospel majority of sinners refuse to accept the word of God. They have been given in this showdown? We find it in Christ Christ’s sin-bearing on their behalf. a work of the most solemn import—the on the cross. Christ paid the awful price for sin so proclamation of the first, second, and Isaiah spoke of a reality in covenant that all could be saved—if they accept third angels’ messages. There is no history: “your iniquities [sins] have the gift. Those who accept are free to other work of so great importance. They made a separation between you and enter an everlasting relationship with are to allow nothing else to absorb their your God, and your sins have hid his their loving Redeemer. This “everlast- attention.”13 face from you” (Isa. 59:2, RSV). On the ing gospel” message needs to reach May God help us all, beginning cross Christ “who knew no sin” became professed nonbelievers and sincere with us as pastors, to reclaim our “sin for us” (2 Cor. 5:21). As such, Christ believers alike. Ellen White states, Reformation heritage and proclaim our suffered the greatest separation from “Notwithstanding the spiritual darkness apocalyptic message with compassion His Father’s love ever experienced. and alienation from God that exist in the but without apology. White comments: “It was the sense of churches which constitute Babylon, the sin, bringing the Father’s wrath upon great body of Christ’s true followers are 1 Harriet Sherwood, “After 500 Years of Schism, Will Him as man’s substitute, that made the still to be found in their communion. the Rift of the Reformation Finally Be Healed?” The Observer, October 29, 2016, theguardian.com cup He drank so bitter, and broke the There are many of these who have /world/2016/oct/29/reformation-luther-pope heart of the Son of God. . . . never seen the special truths for this -francis-catholics. “. . . The guilt of every descendant time. Not a few are dissatisfied with 2 Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture texts in this of Adam of every age was pressing upon their present condition and are longing article are from the New King James Version. 3 Ellen G. White, Evangelism (Washington, DC: Review His heart; and the wrath of God and the for clearer light. They look in vain for and Herald Pub. Assn., 1970), 190. terrible manifestation of His displeasure the image of Christ in the churches with 4 White, Evangelism, 190, 191. because of iniquity, filled the soul of His which they are connected. As these 5 White, Evangelism, 230. Son with consternation. The withdrawal bodies depart further and further from 6 Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy (Mountain View, of the divine countenance from the the truth, and ally themselves more CA: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1907), 437. 7 White, The Great Controversy, 434. Saviour in this hour of supreme anguish closely with the world, the difference 8 White, The Great Controversy, 605. pierced His heart with a sorrow that can between the two classes will widen, and 9 Author’s translation. never be fully understood by man. . . . it will finally result in separation.”11 To 10 Ellen G. White, The Story of Redemption (Hagerstown, It is for love of thee that the Son of God those in Babylon, the invitation pleads: MD: Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1980), 224, 225 consents to have these heinous crimes “Come out of her, my people, lest you 11 White, The Great Controversy, 390. 12 Ellen G. White, “The Closing Work,” Advent Review laid upon Him; for thee He spoils the share in her sins, and lest you receive of and Sabbath Herald, Oct. 13, 1904. domain of death, and opens the gates her plagues” (Rev. 18:4). Who will bring 13 Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Chruch, vol. 9 of Paradise and immortal life.”10 this invitation to them? (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1948), 19.

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Ministry® OCTOBER 2017 PAT GUSTIN

Pat Gustin, MA, retired from being director of the Institute of World Missions and resides in College Place, Washington, United States.

Prayer and finishing the mission

Editor’s Note: Prayer is the way God’s people, including Martin Luther, have accomplished their mission in all generations. “From the secret place of prayer came the power that shook the world in the Great Reformation. There, with holy calmness, the servants of the Lord set their feet upon the rock of His promises. During the struggle at Augsburg, Luther ‘did not pass a day without devoting three hours at least to prayer, and they were hours selected from those the most favorable to study.’ In the privacy of his chamber he was heard to pour out his soul before God in words ‘full of adoration, fear, and hope, as when one speaks to a friend.’ . . . “. . . The had built on Christ, and the gates of hell could not prevail against them.”1 We share the following article with the conviction that just as the Reformation was founded on prayer, so God’s work will be finished through prayer.

efore Jesus returned to them that “This kind can come out the Red Sea open; Joshua, who prayed heaven, He gave His follow- only by prayer and fasting” (Mark 9:29, the walls of Jericho down; David, who ers one mission: Go into all ISV). Today, we need the power of God prayed a giant to defeat; Elijah, who Bthe world—to make disciples in an unprecedented way. This power prayed fire down from heaven; Elisha, of all peoples (Matt. 28:19) and then becomes accessible only through prayer. who prayed iron to float; Esther, who the end will come (Matt. 24:14). Today, prayed a disastrous decree into a glori- two thousand years later, the Christian My prayer journey ous victory; Daniel, who prayed the church faces the reality of an uncom- Like other Christians, I grew up sur- mouths of hungry lions shut; Jesus, who pleted mission. rounded by prayer. I learned about prayed water into wine, demoniacs to What can we do now? How is it prayer intellectually and experientially, sanity, and, after four days in a grave, possible to reach more than seven billion beginning with the familiar definition, Lazarus to life. Lastly, there were Peter, people with the gospel, as Jesus had “Prayer is the opening of the heart to James, John, Paul, and hundreds of commanded us to do? God as to a friend.”3 Wonderful! No one others who for centuries have prayed J. Hudson Taylor, the great pioneer can have too many friends. I also learned sinners into saints. What a weight of missionary to China, summarized the that “prayer is the key in the hand of evidence to the power of prayer! challenge we face. “We are asked to do faith to unlock heaven’s storehouse.”4 Through the years, I added my own an impossible task . . .” Impossible? Yes, Storehouses are where treasures are experiences with prayer, starting with but he continued, “We work with Him kept, and prayer provides access to the search for a lost toy when I was a who can do the impossible.”2 heaven’s riches. Finally, I learned that child. Later, I prayed for courage, com- That’s it, isn’t it? The task is impos- “prayer is the breath of the soul.”5 Breath fort, and counsel. During my years in sible. We will never accomplish it on is natural and automatic. I’m never too the mission field, I saw demons cast our own, even with all our clever plans, tired or busy, preoccupied or frustrated, out, people healed, students converted, wonderful productions, and sheer hard hurried, or hungry to breathe. I breathe and overwhelming difficulties overcome work. We need power that comes from day and night. This is life—no breath, no in answer to prayer. Through all these the One who can accomplish the impos- life. Together, these definitions became experiences, I developed the conviction sible. How do we get it? the foundation of my personal under- that prayer is real. It works! “The prayer At the foot of the mount of trans­ standing of prayer. of a righteous person is powerful and figuration, Jesus’ disciples faced a To these basic definitions, I added effective” (James 5:16, NIV). difficult situation, healing a demon- the prayer experiences of others—par- Yet, there were times when I ques- possessed boy. It proved to be impos- ticularly Bible stories. These amazing tioned prayer. Some of these questions sible for them. Later, after Jesus had accounts increased my confidence in grew out of the pain and the disappoint- cast out the evil spirit, He reminded prayer. There was Moses, who prayed ment of unanswered prayer. Others

OCTOBER 2017 Ministry® PAT GUSTIN

came from facing seeming inconsisten- During my early days as a teacher, minutes daily for renewal. He prayed cies and apparent unfairness on the part leader, and pastor, I was inexperienced alone and later was joined by two or of God. I faced intellectual and theologi- and unsure of myself and my undevel- three friends. For more than a year, cal questions. What really happens when oped skills. Every assignment was a crisis. they prayed daily for the Holy Spirit, and we pray? How do we reconcile prayer Prayer was not a luxury or an option. It then He came in power on their entire and free will with God’s sovereignty? was a basic survival skill. But then I saw area. Hundreds were converted. Dying Questions arose that I couldn’t answer, something that truly helped me. churches came to life. People, driven by and prayer waned. I wrestled with the The movie The Spirit of Saint Louis the Spirit and filled with compassion for questions, but based on the weight of tells the story of Charles Lindberg and the lost, volunteered to go and serve God evidence, I ultimately came out believ- the first trans-Atlantic flight in 1927. wherever they were needed. Spirituality ing. I was comforted by the story of the Charles is trying to teach a priest friend and compassion for the lost were reborn. man who confessed, “Lord, I believe; to fly. His friend is not good at it, yet the What would happen if for one year, help my unbelief” (Mark 9:24, NKJV). priest is not worried. He has a prayer for prayer for renewal became the major everything—for taking off, for navigating, focus of our work (as leaders) and our Prayer and the mission of for flying in fog, and, above all else, a worship (as churches)? No matter how Jesus and His disciples prayer for landing. He asked Charles, well-organized and doctrinally correct Jesus and His disciples modeled “Don’t you pray?” we are as individuals or as a church, only prayer for mission. In the Gospels, Acts, Charles replied, “You pray because the Holy Spirit can make our best efforts and the Epistles, we discover that they you don’t know how to fly. I know how effective. Missionary Hudson Taylor prayed in secret and in public, alone and to fly.” asked, “How often do we attempt work in groups. There was prayer for personal I’ve thought many times about this for God to the limit of our incompetency needs and intercessory prayer. Prayer answer. Much of my early experience in rather than to the limit of God’s omnipo- permeated their lives and ministry. They prayer was simply for crisis management tency”?6 We can be eloquent and clever. prayed without ceasing. and emergencies. Now that I’ve “learned We can be good leaders and organizers, In their personal prayers, these to fly,” do I need to pray less? When we but we cannot touch and transform early missionaries prayed for wisdom, can rely on our skills more, do we need people’s hearts. Only the Spirit can do deliverance from enemies, and power God less? that. “We need to look constantly to to stand in all kinds of dangers and The answer, we know, is obvious. Jesus, realizing that it is His power that troubles. In their intercessory prayers, Everyone needs to pray, even when does the work. While we are to labor the list is even longer. In the churches we are doing things we are competent earnestly for the salvation of the lost, they had established, they prayed for to do. Prayer was not intended just for we must also take time for meditation, their new converts by name, as well emergency use. It is what empowers our for prayer, and for the study of the word as for their persecutors. They prayed work and makes it effective. of God. Only the work accomplished with for those who would someday believe When faced with the challenges of much prayer . . . will in the end prove to (that includes us), and they prayed for ministry in a disbelieving world, what do have been efficient for good.”7 the message to go rapidly. They prayed we need most? First Corinthians 13 points for God to open doors of opportunity to one thing—love. Is it possible that Prayer and the great in impossible situations. Over and leaders lack love for those we are called controversy over they prayed for the Holy Spirit to serve? Are we just doing a job—without Because of the great controversy and for miracles. Prayer was the most compassion? If this is the case, we need between Christ and Satan, prayer has important thing they did. renewal, but how does that happen? become a vital necessity. It is a life-and- There is only one way—renewal by the death matter because we are dealing Prayer and our mission Holy Spirit—for love is the first fruit of the with the supernatural. Satan is like a How does prayer relate to the activi- Spirit (Gal. 3:22). No mission movement roaring lion (1 Pet. 5:8). He knows he has ties in which leaders engage? Instead of has been launched or survived without but a short time (Rev. 12:12). We are not facing demoniacs, angry mobs, crippled a renewal of compassion and spirituality. dealing with flesh and blood but with beggars, and poisonous snakes, today’s During the first half of the nineteenth principalities and powers and the rulers leaders face an endless chain of emails, century, Christians scattered throughout of darkness (Eph. 6:12). We are no match nonstop committees, and the mak- Europe—Wales, Scotland, , for Satan. We need supernatural power ing of torturous decisions. We preach, and Scandinavia—sensed the need and protection. We are in a war. Around administer, teach, lead—this describes for a deeper spiritual experience. But the world, we are faced with challenges our work. It’s how we use our spiritual there were no structures in place to that can be met only by earnest prayer. gifts, and we are good at it. offer solutions; only a few concerned “While engaging in our daily work, we So what, then, is the role of prayer Christians. Among these was a man should lift the soul to heaven in prayer. in our mission? in Wales who began praying 30 to 60 These silent petitions rise like incense

Ministry® OCTOBER 2017 before the throne of grace, and the of contact, prayer draws people to a daily for a year. In the process, learn enemy is baffled. The Christian whose loving, prayer-hearing God who can heal about the people group. Study it. Adopt heart is thus stayed upon God cannot be shattered lives. It opens hearts. During it. (2) Organize prayer walks through overcome.”8 By constant connection with my years in Thailand, I observed that the community where your church is God through prayer, the enemy becomes many of our Buddhist students began located. Divide a city or town into prayer baffled—that’s exciting! praying long before they were ready to areas. Encourage members to commit to become Christians. walking prayerfully through their area Prayer and the power at least once a week, praying for the of God Praying for others residents as they walk. Those we are reaching for Christ The majority of recorded prayers You may be thinking, We don’t do need to see God’s power. They need of Jesus and the early apostles were things like that! Stopping other activities to see that God is trustworthy. They for other people. What would happen to do “nothing but pray” may feel like a need to see living models of faith and if a church took intercessory prayer waste of time. But if we give more than prayer. When setting up the China Inland seriously? In Operation World, Patrick intellectual assent to Scripture and Mission, Hudson Taylor chose to estab- Johnstone challenges the church to the example of Jesus, we know that lish the mission on prayer and faith. He pray systematically for the people of the most important thing we ever do is did not do this because he felt it was the world. He recites a biblical story that pray. “It is not the capabilities you now superior or more spiritual; he did it deals directly with intercessory prayer. possess or ever will have that will give because he wanted the Chinese converts At the inauguration of Saul as king of you success. It is that which the Lord to see a living example of the power of Israel, the prophet Samuel concluded can do for you. We need to have far less God. Even today, we see power encoun- his farewell speech by making a promise: confidence in what man can do and far ters in which the power of God and the “As for me, far be it from me that I should more confidence in what God can do for power of evil come face to face. Through sin against the Lord by failing to pray for every believing soul.”9 prayer, the power of God is unleashed. you” (1 Sam. 12:23, NKJV). The question I have to ask myself Narinee was a first-year student Is praying for people so important is simply, Do I believe in prayer? Really at our secondary boarding school in that failure to do so would be considered believe? Do I believe that “it is a part of North Thailand when we had a series a sin? The thought is sobering. Perhaps God’s plan to grant us, in answer to the of experiences with devil possession. the underlying question is, “Do we believe prayer of faith, that which He would not One night, as the struggle between the in intercessory prayer?” I have struggled bestow did we not thus ask”?10 power of darkness and the power of with this because I didn’t always under- When the China Inland Mission was light raged in the room next to hers, she stand how prayer works. After much facing superhuman challenges to begin found strength and freedom from fear by struggle, I finally reached the point where work in an unentered province in China, praying and reading Psalms with another I simply accept it by faith. We are com- J. Hudson Taylor wrote to a discouraged frightened student. Months later, she manded to do it. Jesus did it, and it works. missionary, “If you would enter that decided to be baptized. She told us that What would happen if leaders and province, you must go forward on your it was when she saw the power of God believers around the world began inter- knees.” 11 at work through prayer that she knew, ceding daily for unreached people in Wherever we live and work, that is without a doubt, that she wanted to cities and countries all over the world? the role of prayer for each of us as we follow and serve a powerful God whom What would happen if we prayed regu- seek to finish God’s mission. she could always trust. Unbelievers need larly for the more than 50 percent of the to see God’s power at work. world’s population who have never been 1 Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy (Mountain View, introduced to Jesus in a meaningful CA: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1911), 210. Prayer and evangelism way—the millions in China and India 2 Hudson Taylor, quoted in Rosalind Goforth, Goforth of China (n.p.: The Revival Library, 2013), 80. Another role prayer can have in and in the Muslim world and the more 3 Ellen G. White, Steps to Christ (Oakland, CA: Pacific mission is as a means of evangelism, than 50 megacities with more than five Press Pub. Assn., 1892), 93. an entering wedge. At a mission con- million inhabitants? 4 White, Steps to Christ, 94. ference in a crime-ridden city, some 5 Ellen G. White, Gospel Workers (Washington, DC: students went out to witness on Sabbath Prayer challenge Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1915), 254. afternoon. They went door to door There are many ways an intercessory 6 Hudson Taylor, quoted in Goforth, Goforth of China, 102. and stopped people on the streets, prayer ministry could happen. Believers 7 Ellen G. White, The Desire of Ages (Oakland, CA: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1898), 362. asking whether there was anything for in every church, from tiny mountain 8 White, Gospel Workers, 254. which the people needed prayer. The hamlets and jungle villages to the great 9 Ellen G. White, Christ’s Object Lessons (Washington, DC: response was amazing. People opened cities of the world, can do two things: (1) Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1900), 146. their hearts and shared needs with Choose a specific people group or city 10 White, The Great Controversy, 525. these young people. As an initial point anywhere in the world and intercede 11 Hudson Taylor, quoted in Goforth, Goforth of China, 80.

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OCTOBER 2017 Ministry® MXOLISI MICHAEL SOKUPA

Mxolisi Michael Sokupa, PhD, DTh, serves as an associate director, Ellen G. White Estate, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States.

The priesthood of believers: Our proclamation and practice

he 500th anniversary of the revolutionary even today. The con- all believers are born when they accept Reformation affords us a mar- temporary term lay carries a pejorative Jesus Christ as their Redeemer. In the velous opportunity to revisit connotation, far removed from its New Testament the church does not Tthe teaching on priesthood ancient context. The Seventh-day have priesthood—it is priesthood. of believers, championed by Martin Adventist Minister’s Handbook states The priesthood of all believers is the Luther. The theological implications that the “Greek word laos, from which only authorized priesthood in the New of this teaching are rich and essential the word laity is derived, had nothing Testament. All of God’s children have for the church today. It is critical that to do with an amateur or secondary access to God, and all of God’s children we ask not only what must constitute status within the church. Rather it have a right to ministry.”4 our proclamation but also what should included the entire people of God. A We may appropriately ask, if every- compose our practice. false and artificial distinction sepa- one is a preacher, what, then, is the First Peter 2:9 reads: “But you are a rated the work of the church from the pastor’s task? On the one hand, can chosen generation, a royal priesthood, laity and placed it in the hands of the a pastor sit in the pew on Sabbath a holy nation, His own special people, clergy, as if the work of ministry is the morning and still fulfill his or her role that you may proclaim the praises of responsibility of a paid professional.”3 as a pastor? On the other hand, how Him who called you out of darkness into Luther held that not only were does a pastor share the proclamation His marvelous light.”1 The text may be believers of equal standing with priests, task with his or her congregation, who divided into two parts: first, it describes believers did not even need priests to are equally called to proclaim the who the believers are; secondly, it facilitate or mediate their access to gospel? Is the pastor’s task to proclaim describes what they do. God. Russell Burrill expounds: “This week after week to a congregation, is the joy of the new life in Christ. or is it also to empower them for What we are called to be Because of His redemptive ministry, a proclamation to which they are Regarding who the believers are, the believer has direct access to God called? Ellen White affirmed that the Luther makes a rhetorical inquiry: “I and all rights of the ministry. No longer praises of God’s people should be ask, who are these who are called out of is direct access and ministry to be the held in the high esteem that attends darkness into marvelous light? Is it only exclusive domain of the clergy. The the pastor’s preached word. “In the shorn and anointed masks [ordained privilege of living in the New Testament many of our churches in the cities priests]? Is it not all Christians?”2 He era is that every Christian can be his the minister preaches Sabbath after recognized that the term laity is derived own priest. The death of Christ on the Sabbath, and Sabbath after Sabbath from the Greek ho Laos, which means cross of Calvary put an end to the dis- the church members come to the “the people of God.” The simple conclu- tinction of the priest, and the people. house of God with no words to tell of sion was that the church does not have Christ broke down every wall including blessings received because of bless- a ministry; rather, it is a ministry. the wall that separated clergy from ings imparted. . . . Luther’s revelations were not laity. In Christ’s kingdom there is only “There are times when it is fit- only radical for their day; they are one class—the priestly class into which ting for our ministers to give on the

Ministry® OCTOBER 2017 Sabbath, in our churches, short dis- to preach the Word of God. . . . So as God (1 Peter 2:5). Paul urges Christians courses, full of the life and love of there is no other proclamation in the to offer not bulls, goats, and sheep but Christ. But the church members are not ministry of the word than that which is their bodies in loving ministry for the to expect a sermon every Sabbath. . . . common to all, that of the wonderful Master, acts of spiritual worship, what “. . . Let church members, during deeds of God, so there is no other Paul calls their reasonable service the week, act their part faithfully, and priesthood than that which is spiritual (Rom. 12:1). on the Sabbath relate their experience. and universal, as Peter here defines it.”6 Thus, according to Peter and Paul, . . . When God’s people see the great What does it mean to “proclaim,” ministry is not only the right and privi- need of working as Christ worked for according to 1 Peter 2:9? The Greek lege of every New Testament believer; the conversion of sinners, the testi- word used, exangellõ, may be trans- it is a natural result of being a Christian. monies borne by them in the Sabbath lated “proclaim” or “report.” It carries a Consequently, Ellen White could state, service will be filled with power.”5 nuance that emphasizes the unknown “The work of God in this earth can Our views of the proclamation or secret nature of what is being never be finished until the men and may be gradually narrowing since the proclaimed.7 It may also refer to gos- women comprising our church mem- time of the Reformation. Luther was sip. A synonym, katangellõ, coming bership rally to the work, and unite responding to the situation of his time. from the same root, has a nuance their efforts with those of ministers and The reading and preaching of the Word that emphasizes the ceremonious church officers.”10

The doctrine of the priesthood of all believers does not call for the pastor to be displaced; rather, it calls for him or her to be duplicated.

were specialized: they were for the style of proclamation. This word is Discipleship requires all of God’s trained clergy only. By translating the used in 1 Corinthians 11:26 to refer people to be involved in ministry. Bible into German, Luther had the goal to the practice of breaking of bread in “The gospel commission was clearly of ensuring that the common people Communion as a mode of proclama- intended for all Christians, not just could read the Bible for themselves: tion.8 These two words are used in two the disciples to whom it was first in other words, function in the priestly separate contexts, but their meanings addressed, nor to a select group of role. Luther was empowering his con- are interchangeable. Therefore, by professional ministers.”11 Ephesians 4 gregation not only to read Scripture proclaiming the Word, and by the act says that God gave spiritual gifts to His for themselves but also to have this of breaking bread, the believers are church (v. 8). He gave pastor-teachers reservoir from which to “proclaim the carrying out the purpose for which they “for the perfecting of the saints, for the praises” of the One who called them. are called. work of the ministry, for the edifying of The Greek word hopous translated the body of Christ” (v. 12, KJV). The pas- What we are called to do “that” is a conjunction of purpose, and tor’s role, and that of a church leader, is In Luther’s time the clergy took a it connects the two parts of 1 Peter 2:9.9 to equip the members for the work of central place in ecclesiastical matters, Juxtaposing Peter and Paul seems, their ministry. with little or no room at all for lay then, to bring a healthy and balanced Ellen White pleaded, “I now call involvement. This was corrected by picture to our proclamation, at least upon presidents of conferences and Luther and his companions as they as seen in these two words we have men in responsible positions to set studied God’s plan and purpose for His just examined. In other words, our in operation every possible means by church. To Luther, “Peter not only gives preaching and practice of Christianity which the members of the churches them the right, but the command, to should be in harmony with each other. may learn how to work for the perish- declare the wonderful deeds of God, Peter states it is the privilege of every ing. Let those who have had experience which certainly is nothing else than believer to offer a spiritual sacrifice to teach those who are inexperienced. Let

OCTOBER 2017 Ministry® MXOLISI MICHAEL SOKUPA

them pray together, and search the appointed to this ministry by the Holy of the Christian church. Others have Word of God together. . . . Have we lost Spirit; therefore it must be undertaken since added to his contribution to make all sense of our position as the Lord’s with utmost seriousness. This is a 1 Peter 2:9 relevant for our time, and chosen people, who are to represent radical departure from the traditional God is still in the business of revelation. Christ and to proclaim to the world the understanding of the roles of the laity “God’s workers today constitute the last message of mercy? ‘Ye are a chosen and the clergy. The laity had the idea connecting link between the former generation.’ ”12 that they were already committed to a workers, the church of history, and the Many church members would tell ‘full-time’ vocation in the secular world, church that is to be called out from the the pastor that they are praying for [and] thus they did not have time—at world and prepared to meet their Lord. the success of the pastor’s ministry, least, much time—to do God’s work. . . . And God is continuing to impart not realizing that “success in pastoral Therefore they contributed money precious light. . . . All the excellencies leadership is tied to the ability to moti- to ‘free’ the clergy to have the time that have come through the belief of vate volunteers.”13 Thus, White states, needed to fulfill God’s ministry. This the truth from past ages to the present “if pastors would give more atten- view is rank heresy. If we follow this time, are to be treated with the utmost tion to getting and keeping their flock pattern, we may continue to do God’s respect.”18 actively engaged at work, they would work until the Lord comes again and While some churches have gone to accomplish more good, have more never fulfill God’s purpose as it ought the extreme of minimizing the pastoral time for study and religious visiting, to be done.”17 role in the wake of the important ideal and also avoid more causes of fric- set out in 1 Peter 2:9, so-called trou- tion.”14 Currently, some members seem Conclusion blers of Israel are still needed today. content to let the pastor do the work of Luther, therefore, explains both ministry, while they sit and watch, and the “who” and the “what” parts of 1 Unless otherwise noted, Scripture texts in this article are taken from the New King James Version of the some leaders seem comfortable with 1 Peter 2:9, identifying both the mes- Bible. them doing so. sengers and the message they bear. 2 Martin Luther, Luther’s Works, ed. Conrad Bergendoff God has ordained that the pastoral The doctrine of the priesthood of all and Helmut T. Lehmann, vol. 40, Church and Ministry leadership of the church has a distinct believers does not call for the pastor to II (St. Louis, MO: Concordia Publishing House, 1958), function and role to play in the church, be displaced; rather, it calls for him or 21, 22. 3 General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists not to rule but to train. White states, her to be duplicated. The pastor’s role Ministerial Association, Seventh-day Adventist “Not upon the ordained minister only is to train the members for service. The Minister’s Handbook (Silver Spring, MD: Ministerial rests the responsibility of going forth to apostle Peter challenges the elders, Association, 1997), 107. fulfill this commission. Everyone who including himself, to shepherd the 4 Russell Burrill, Revolution in the Church: Unleashing the Awesome Power of Lay Ministry (Fallbrook, CA: has received Christ is called to work for flock in such a way that they would Hart Research Center, 1993), 23. the salvation of his fellow men.”15 The be “examples to the flock” (1 Peter 5 Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7 biblical model for God’s church is laity 5:2, 3). Such pastoral examples would (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1948), and clergy working together. be radically different from those of 18, 19. 6 Luther, Luther’s Works. It is an amazing reality to confront Peter’s day, or Luther’s. “But Jesus 7 Colin Brown, “Proclamation,” in The New International that, in spite of Christianity’s glori- called them to Himself and said, ‘You Dictionary of New Testament Theology, ed. Colin ous launch (Pentecost), Christianity’s know that the rulers of the Gentiles Brown (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing dramatic relaunch (Luther), and early lord it over them, and those who are House, 1971), 45. 8 Brown, “Proclamation,” 47. Adventism’s reaffirmation (White), great exercise authority over them. Yet 9 Daniel B. Wallace, Greek Grammar Beyond the Basics: the notion still prevails that the work it shall not be so among you’ ” (Matt. An Exegetical Syntax of the New Testament (Grand of ministry in the church is only for 20:25, 26a). A facilitator, but a follower Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2000), 301. those who are clergy. Burrill states, of Christ; a scholar, but a servant of 10 Ellen G. White, Christian Service (Washington, DC: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1925), 68. “Hiring pastors to do the work of the Christ—the pastor thereby requests of 11 Minister’s Handbook, 107. ministry while the laity pay, attend his or her members, “Follow me as I 12 Ellen G. White, Manuscript Releases, vol. 4 (Silver and observe is not God’s plan for the follow Christ.” Spring, MD: Ellen G. White Estate), 449. Adventist church.”16 The consequence Scripture records, “Then it hap- 13 Minister’s Handbook, 108. 14 Ellen G. White, Gospel Workers (Washington, DC: of such thinking, as Findley Edge notes, pened, when Ahab saw Elijah, that Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1915), 198. is far from academic: “God has called Ahab said to him, ‘Is that you, O 15 Ellen G. White, The Acts of the Apostles (Mountain the laity to be his basic ministers. He troubler of Israel?’ ” (1 Kings 18:17). View, CA: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1911), 110. has called some to be ‘player-coaches’ While Luther’s contribution during the 16 Burrill, Revolution in the Church, 12. 17 Findley B. Edge, The Doctrine of the Laity (Nashville, . . . to equip the laity for the ministry Reformation period may be considered TN: Convention Press, 1993). they are to fulfill. This equipping min- deeply “troubling,” it is nonetheless 18 Ellen G. White, Special Testimonies for Ministers and istry is of unique importance. One is deeply valued as part of the history Workers—no. 7, 11.

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Ministry® OCTOBER 2017 Morris Venden, deceased, was associate speaker at and a beloved pastor of many congregations, including Southwestern Adventist University church, Keene, Texas, United States.

Our editorial team has chosen to reprint this article from 1986, on the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation. As the Reformation continues, we need ongoing dialogue on righteousness by faith, the “one subject [that] will swallow up every other.” We welcome the opportunity to hear from you on how this powerful truth functions in your daily spiritual experience and practical pastoral ministry.

OCTOBER 2017 Ministry® Ministry® OCTOBER 2017 Lest we forget

aggoner, Jones, and the Whites And on August 5, 1888, she told Wstood in harmony with each other her readers to “search the Scriptures on the proper way to resolve theological carefully to see what is truth,” adding issues. All held that the Bible is the that “the truth can lose nothing by close it because Elder Smith, or Elder Kilgore, only determiner of Christian belief. As investigation. Let the Word of God speak or Elder Van Horn, or Elder Haskell says a result, they were united against the for itself, let it be its own interpreter.” it is truth, but because God’s voice has attempts of the traditionalists to utilize “The Word of God is the great detector declared it in His living Oracles.”4 She any other form of authority to settle of error; to it we believe everything could have as easily added her own name biblical issues. must be brought. The Bible must be to that list, given the position that she Ellen White was particularly insis- our standard for every doctrine. . . . We had taken during the meetings. tent on the need for Bible study in are to receive no one’s opinion without Thank you, Lord, for Your Word in the dealing with theological disputes. In comparing it with the Scriptures. Here Bible. Today we want to recommit our April 1887, for example, she wrote to is divine authority which is supreme in lives to the daily study of it with more Butler and Smith that “we want Bible matters of faith. It is the word of the living persistence and energy. evidence for every point we advance. God that is to decide all controversies.”3 We do not want to tide over points as Ellen White also drummed home that —Reprint of George R. Knight, Lest We Forget Elder Canright has done with asser- message during her last presentation at (Hagerstown, MD: Review & Herald Pub. Assn., 2008). tions.”1 In July 1888, she set forth Minneapolis: “The Scriptures must be her position with the greatest clarity your study, then you will know that you 1 Ellen G. White, Letter 13, 1887. when she published in the Review that have the truth. . . . You should not believe 2 Ellen G. White, “The Value of Bible Study,” Review and “the Bible is the only rule of faith and any doctrine simply because another Herald, July 17, 1888; emphasis added. 2 3 Ellen G. White, Letter 20, 1888; emphasis added. doctrine.” says it is truth. You should not believe 4 Ellen G. White, Manuscript 15, 1888.

OCTOBER 2017 Ministry® P. GERARD DAMSTEEGT

P. Gerard Damsteegt, DTh, serves as associate professor of church history at the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary, Andrews University, Berrien Springs, Michigan, United Sates.

The ancient Waldenses: Did the Reformation predate Luther? 1

n 2017, as many Protestants cel- had already inhabited the Alpine valleys calling them insabbatati, sabbatati, or ebrate the five hundredth year of from earlier times. similar names. Throughout the centuries Martin Luther’s nailing of the Ninety- These Waldenses opposed many two major streams of interpretation have IFive Theses to the church door in teachings and worship practices of the been proposed for the meaning of these Wittenberg, Germany, it is appropriate that were not biblical. names. to ask, Did the Reformation really begin They rejected the doctrine of purgatory, One interpretation considers the with Luther? the Mass, the use of holy water, ashes, Waldenses a new heretical movement While significant attempts to reform candles, kissing of relics, and the cel- whose members distinguished them- the Roman Catholic Church had taken ebration of papal holy days, or festivals. selves by wearing a peculiar type of place before Martin Luther, Luther with They shared the Scriptures, or portions shoes. It identifies Peter Waldo of Lyon his 1517 work, the Ninety-Five Theses, of them, in the common language of the as the originator of this movement, is widely acknowledged to have started people and were known for insisting on which broke away from the Roman the Reformation. But there were others, the Bible as their only rule of doctrine Catholic Church. It assumes that the before Luther, who preached similar and life, calling on fellow Christians to Waldenses had adopted this unique reforms but did not succeed in chang- reform and embrace the teachings and style of dress to impress upon people ing the Roman Church of their time. simplicity of the New Testament. that they were a religious order intent To the names of , Peter Waldo, As a result of the Waldenses’ call for on restoring the simplicity of the New and we may also add a reformation, from the twelfth century Testament gospel of Christ, with their nearly forgotten group of reformers—the onward, Catholic councils condemned simple style of footwear distinguishing ancient Waldenses. them as heretics,2 resulting in severe them from other Catholic orders and persecution. Consequently, they fled giving them the appearance of being Peter Waldo to more hospitable regions, further genuine apostles of Christ. The Waldenses lived throughout spreading their biblical teachings to The other interpretation holds that Europe, especially in the Alpine regions countries as far-flung as England, these names describe the Waldensian of Spain, France, and Italy. Many his- Germany, , , Poland, faith as a movement that rejected all torians date their origin to the twelfth and Bohemia. This underlines why sev- nonbiblical traditions, festivals, and holy century and to a rich merchant, Peter eral Protestant historians consider the days designated as sabbaths that the Waldo of Lyon, who, after his conversion, ancient Waldenses precursors of the Roman Catholic Church had instituted. shared his wealth with the poor. He and Protestant Reformation.3 Unlike other This view argues that the Waldenses his followers were called the “Poor of reform-minded groups of the Middle were not a new movement and that Lyon.” They wore simple clothing and Ages, the Waldenses were not annihi- their presence was already known before shared the teachings of the Bible in the lated or absorbed into other movements Waldo, and their teachings were based common language of the people, a prac- but continue until today. on the Bible and the Bible only. tice outlawed by the Roman Catholic The first time the word insabbatati Church. While this is a popular scholarly The insabbatati or was used for Waldenses was in an 1192 view, others believe Waldo’s followers sabbatati edict against heretics by King Alfonso II joined with the “Vaudois” (Waldenses), From the end of the twelfth century, of Aragon (1152–1196). This identified people who had similar convictions and opponents of the Waldenses began them as “Insabbatatos” and “the Poor

Ministry® OCTOBER 2017 of Lyon.”4 The edict did not explain why named ‘Insabbathas,’ regarders not of the Waldenses were called Insabbatatos. the Sabbaths.”8 The next source was an 1197 edict Perrin’s explanation showed that against heretics by the son of King the prefix in of the word insabbatati Alfonso, called King Peter II of Aragon expresses a negation of the root word (1174–1213). This time the Waldenses sabbat, indicating that the Waldenses were called “Sabbatati.”5 This edict also rejected Catholic holy, or rest, days, did not give any explanation of sabbatati called sabbaths.9 Perrin’s explanation or why the prefix in is absent. The fact reflected the historic Waldensian self- that neither edict explains these names image of being followers of the simple indicates that people must have known apostolic teachings.10 their meanings at that time. Prior to Perrin, the Huguenot The second, and more plau- historian Nicolas Vignier wrote in his sible, interpretation of insabbatati Bibliotheque Historiale (1588) that The rugged Alpine mountains, a place of refuge for the and sabbatati comes from historians Waldenses “were called Insabathaires, Waldenses who associate these words with the because they despised the [Catholic] Waldenses’ persistent refusal to observe feasts.”11 Dutch Reformed historian Catholic traditions, festivals, and holy Balthasar Lydius (1577–1629), following days, or sabbaths. Vignier and Perrin, argued that since During the time that Ebrardus Waldenses “observed no other day of introduced the shoe theory, another rest or holiday, than Sunday, they were explanation was in use that has not styled Insabbathi or Insabbathas, that is, caught the attention of historians. At the Sabbathless, for not observing [Catholic] Council of Tarragon (1242), insabbatati Sabbaths.”12 Even some Catholic authori- was mentioned in connection with the ties mentioned Waldensian rejection of “Waldensian sect” in Spain. The council Catholic holy days. Several nineteenth- defined the term as those “who refused century historians also maintained this to swear an oath, or to obey ecclesiasti- view.13 cal or secular powers, or denied that a With few exceptions, corporal punishment could be inflicted today deny that the ancient Waldenses in any case.”6 kept the seventh-day Sabbath. However, The Alpine meadows in spring against the snow capped Instead of referring to the wearing historical evidence indicates that many mountains. The mountain on the right is the Barion near of unique shoes, insabbatati pointed did observe Sabbath during the Middle the village of Bobbio Pellice, where Catholics pursued to the Waldensian faith and rejection Ages. During the early part of the Waldenses during times of persecution, throwing them of nonbiblical Catholic practices and seventeenth century, the Swiss histo- from the top of that mountain. teachings. The fact that this term was rian Melchior Goldastus (1576–1635) first used in Spain a decade and a half commented on Emperor Frederic II’s before the shoe controversy’s short life Constitution of 1220 against heretics. and continued to be used to describe He reasoned that the label insabbatati Waldenses after that period until the was used to describe heretics during the Reformation suggests that insabbatati thirteenth century “because they judaize must have another meaning than the on the Sabbath,” that is, they kept the wearers of unique shoes. The following Sabbath like the Jews. He mentioned arguments support this theory. that the “Valdenses” were often called “Insabbatati,” 14 indicating that dur- Sabbath keepers? ing that time there were Waldenses Because their earliest records were who kept the seventh-day Sabbath destroyed during times of persecution,7 (Saturday) as a day of rest. the first Waldensian testimony about the designation insabbatati comes from the A Sunday defense Waldensian pastor and historian Jean One of the most significant primary The entrance of a cave in the Valley of Angronia near Perrin (1580–1648). In 1618 Perrin wrote, source evidences for the presence of Torre Pellice, where Waldenses worshiped during times “The Waldenses rejected the Romish a substantial group of Waldensian of persecution. It could contain about 200 persons. When festivals, and observed no other day Sabbath keepers during the first half discovered they were smoked out and died of suffocation. of rest than Sunday; whence they were of the thirteenth century was brought

OCTOBER 2017 Ministry® P. GERARD DAMSTEEGT

out in a polemic of five books written The Waldenses today practices and holy days, or sabbaths, about 1241–1244 by the Inquisitor Father This research about the names of throughout the centuries. Moneta of Cremona, Northern Italy. the ancient Waldenses resulted from my 2. The view in the first finding Moneta defended himself against the yearly church history study tours to the was the prevalent view in the earliest criticism of the Cathars (Albigenses) Waldensian communities in the Alpine Waldensian literature and describes the and Waldenses that Catholics trans- valleys of Northern Italy since 1994. ancient Waldensian custom of refusing gressed the Sabbath commandment. In These tours included the Waldensian to observe Catholic holy days. a chapter entitled “De Sabbato, & de die Cultural Center, where Waldensian 3. From a linguistic viewpoint, it is Dominico,” he discussed the significance guides recited the history of this unique the best explanation for the meaning of of the seventh-day Sabbath of Exodus people. These presentations revealed the prefix in in insabbatati, describing 20:8 in contrast to the Lord’s day, by the stark contrast between the ancient the Waldensian mission of reform, of which he meant the first day.15 faith of the Waldenses and their descen- calling people away from the nonbiblical In defending himself against their dants today. The ancient Waldenses teachings of the Roman Catholic Church criticism, Moneta asserted that the had a great burden to share their faith to the simple biblical teachings of the Sabbath was for the Jews a memorial of in the teachings of the Bible and the New Testament Christians. Creation and their liberation from Egypt. prophecies of Daniel and Revelation to 4. Primary sources show that, in He argued that this Jewish Sabbath reform the church, at the cost of their the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, was “a sign and figure of the spiritual lives. Waldensians today are still proud there were two groups of Waldenses— sabbath of the Christian people. . . . It of their heritage, but they are quick to tell one group that observed Sunday as must be understood, however, that as you that they are now part of the wider the Lord’s day, the other that kept the the Jews observed the sabbath, so also, ecumenical, evangelical community. seventh-day Sabbath of the Bible. Our we observe the Lord’s day.” He added, Today their major contribution is their research reveals that the title insabbatati “This day we observe as an ordinance involvement in noble humanitarian could apply to (1) Waldenses who of the Church, and it is in reverence to work, but absent is the ancient burden rejected Catholic festivals and holy days, Christ who was born on that day, who to share the truths and prophecies of the or sabbaths, and observed only Sunday rose on that day, who sent the Holy Spirit Bible, which will bring reformation in the as the Lord’s day and (2) Waldenses on that day.” lives of fellow Christians. who, in addition, rejected Sunday as Moneta defended the observance When asked about the meaning a Catholic institution and kept the of the Lord’s day as an ordinance of the of the ancient labels of insabbatati seventh-day Sabbath of the Bible. The Church with the question, “If the Jews and sabbatati given by their Catholic title sabbatati, as applied to heretics, declared that we have to keep the sab- persecutors, the Waldensian guides was used to characterize Waldenses who bath as a memorial of the benefit of their replied that these names described their stood out because of their observance of liberation, to honor their liberator, why unique ancient character as displayed the seventh-day Sabbath. is the church not allowed to institute a by their special shoes. This understand- 5. This research confirms the correct- festive day in honor of Christ, in remem- ing results from their accepting the ness of Ellen G. White’s statement that brance of the spiritual freedom from opinions of Catholic persecutors—but “Through ages of darkness and apostasy the bondage of the devil, accomplished without investigating the reasons why there were Waldenses who denied the by Christ?” 16 Catholics called the Waldenses by these supremacy of Rome, who rejected image Moneta’s charges against these names. The continued characterizing worship as idolatry, and who kept the heretics clearly show that there was of Waldenses as wearing unique shoes true Sabbath.”18 a significant group of Waldenses and has relegated their role in the history 6. As for the role of the Waldenses Cathars in Northern Italy and Southern of the Christian church to that of an in the history of the Christian church, France during the thirteenth century insignificant, late heretical off shoot of research shows that they saw them- that was worshiping on another day the Roman Catholic Church, limited to selves as an ancient movement that than Sunday, namely, the seventh-day the Alpine regions of Italy and France. remained true to the New Testament. Sabbath. Their mission was to reform the Church Sabbath keeping among the Conclusion and to call Christians back to faithful- Waldenses was most widespread in The analysis of the second major ness to the Bible, in spite of bloody Bohemia and Moravia. An inquisitor’s interpretation of insabbatati and sab- persecutions and massacres that nearly manuscript from the fifteenth century batati as characteristic of the Waldensian exterminated them. They traveled exten- reported that Waldenses in Bohemia “do faith has led to the following significant sively through Europe and were sowing not celebrate the feasts of the blessed findings: the seeds that contributed to the coming virgin Mary and the Apostles, except 1. Primary sources confirm the Protestant Reformation. Their work the Lord’s day. Not a few celebrate the Waldenses as a reformation movement influenced Wycliffe and his followers and Sabbath with the Jews.”17 that opposed nonbiblical Catholic Hus and Jerome and their followers, and

Ministry® OCTOBER 2017 their influence came to full fruition in the fontium Valdensium: Recueil critique de sources and Palm Sunday (Sabbatum Vacat). See Du Cange, time of the Anabaptists, Luther, Zwingli, concernant les Vaudois au moyen age du IIIe concile de Glossarium, vol. 4, 718. Lateran au synode de Chanforan (1179–1532) (Torre 10 Studies such as Peter Biller, “The Oral and the and Calvin. They have given Protestants Pellice, Italy: Claudiana 1958), 92. Written: The Case of the Alpine Waldensians,” in an inspiring example of faithfulness 5 Ibid., 94. Bulletin of the Society for Renaissance Studies 4 to the Word of God in times of great 6 C. Baraut, “Elsinicis de la inquisició a Catlunya i les (1986), 19–28, and Audisio, The Waldensian Dissent, apostasy and ruthless persecution. seves actuacions al bisbat d’Urgell (segles XII–XIII),” 143–160, have addressed the validity of Waldensian Urgellia, 13 (1996-1997), quoted in Damian J. Smith, oral tradition, of which Perrin is one of the earliest Their role in the history of the Christian Crusade, Heresy and Inquisition in the Lands of the representatives. church is a worthy example for Christians Crown of Aragon (c. 1167–1276) (Boston: Brill, 11 Nicolas Vignier, Bibliotheque Historiale [. . .], vol. 3 to continue the arrested Reformation, 2010), 197. (Paris: L’Angleir, 1588), 130. which Luther started five hundred years 7 Because theirs was viewed as a heretical movement, 12 D. Balthasar Lydius, Waldensia, id est, conservatio all Waldensian documents were destroyed during verae ecclesiae, vol. 1 (Rotherdam: n.p., 1622), 4, ago, calling people back to the Bible so the repeated persecutions, leaving no primary 5, quoted in Thieleman J. van Braght, The Bloody that they are ready for the soon return sources for the movement from the Middle Ages. Theater, or Martyrs Mirror of the Defenseless Christians of Christ. See James Hastings, Encyclopaedia of Religion and (1660), trans. Joseph F. Sohm (Scottdale, PA: Herald Ethics, vol. 12 (Edinburgh: T and T Clark, 1954), 665; Press, 1886; repr. 2002), 277. 1 This article is based on the author’s research Henry Charles Lea, The Inquisition of the Middle Ages: 13 See Damsteegt, “Ancient Waldensian Names,” 250. published as P. Gerard Damsteegt, “Decoding Ancient Its Organization and Operation (New York: Barnes and 14 Goldastus, Rationale Constitutionum Imperialium Waldensian Names: New Discoveries,” Andrews Noble, 1993), 250, 251. (Frankfurt am Main: n.p., 1607), 78. University Seminary Studies 54, no. 2 (Autumn 2016), 8 Jean Paul Perrin, Robert Baird, and Samuel Miller, 15 Moneta of Cremona, and Tommaso Agostino 237–258. History of the Ancient Christians Inhabiting the Valleys Ricchini, Venerabilis patris Monetæ Cremonensis 2 Gabriel Audisio, The Waldensian Dissent: Persecution of the Alps (Philadelphia, PA: Griffith and Simon, ordinis prædicatorum s. p. dominico æqualis and Survival c. 1170–c. 1570 (New York: Cambridge 1847), 25. His original work was published in 1618 Adversus Catharos et Valdenses libri quinque: quos University Press, 1999), 15–17. as Histoire des Vaudois (Genève, 1618), 9. ex manuscriptis codd. Vaticano, Bononiensi, ac 3 Earle E. Cairns, Christianity Through the Centuries: 9 In this instance the word sabbath meant a Neapolitano (Rome: 1743; reprinted, Ridgewood, NJ: A History of the Christian Church, 3rd ed. (Grand festival instituted by the Catholic Church, which Gregg Press, 1964), 475. Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1996), 221; Peter Biller, The the Waldenses rejected because the Bible did 16 Moneta and Ricchini, Venerabilis patris, 475. Waldenses, 1170–1530: Between a Religious Order not mandate them. In the medieval literature, 17 Johann Döllinger, Beiträge zur Sektengeschichte des and a Church (Burlington, VT: Ashgate, 2002), 191. sabbatum, in the sense of rest, was sometimes used Mittelalters, vol. 2 (München: Beck, 1890), 662. 4 King Alfonso II of Aragon, “Edictum contra for Sunday and at other times for Catholic holy days 18 Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy (Mountain View, Haereticos,” quoted in Giovanni Gonnet, Enchiridion such as Passover Sabbath (Sabbatum Magnum) CA: Pacific Press Pub. Assoc., 1911), 65.

DATELINE

After 500 years of schism, will the rift of the Reformation finally be healed?

n ecumenical service in October a joint text calling for a “healing of in areas of common concern, “the issues A2016, led by Pope Francis at Lund memories” of past divisions. The com- that gave birth to the Reformation 500 Cathedral in southern Sweden, her- memorations are the latest step in years ago are still very much alive in alded a year of events running up to the a slow rapprochement between the the 21st century for the whole church.” 500th anniversary (October 31, 2017) Catholic and Protestant traditions [Harriet Sherwood | The Guardian, Oct. of the Reformation that resulted in the pursued by Francis, who has put 29, 2016] greatest schism in western Christianity ecumenicalism and Photo credit: L’Osservatore Romano/AP and a string of religious wars. healing past wounds at Christian leaders and congregations the heart of his papacy. spent the next 12 months consolidating A recent document moves towards greater cooperation and signed by dozens of dialogue after centuries of division. In Protestant evangelicals the first papal visit to Sweden in more and entitled “Is the than 25 years, Francis led prayers asking Reformation Over?” “forgiveness for divisions perpetuated says that although by Christians from the two traditions.” cooperation between In Germany, leaders of the Catholic the two traditions and main Protestant churches issued should be encouraged

OCTOBER 2017 Ministry® DATELINE

Why should we care about the Reformation? Photo: Maria Bryk ashington, DC—Dozens of Wreligious freedom scholars, advocates, and supporters met to commemorate and discuss the impli- cations of the Protestant Reformation for religious liberty and freedom of conscience. The one-day event, themed “Commemoration of the 500- Year Anniversary of the 16th-Century Protestant Reformation: Conversations on the Reformation, Christian Identities, and Freedom of Conscience,” sought to delve into the multiple connections between the watershed sixteenth- century event and our ongoing quest in violence and suffering. “Claim to “Believing that we are created in for freedom of conscience and worship. truth must be paved with the individual the image of God is the basis of human “The 16th-century world lived in the freedom to believe or not.” dignity,” Wilson said. “All human beings grip of fear, explaining every disease While Luther was the most obvi- are endowed with dignity and infinite outbreak with all kinds of supersti- ous reference in the commemoration worth, and human conscience is an tions,” said Ganoune Diop, director of talks, presenters also emphasized other essential part of it.” Public Affairs and Religious Liberty for forerunners of the principles of religious Wilson concluded by saying even the Adventist Church. People would freedom and freedom of conscience. when their rights are violated, Seventh- ask how they could ever be righteous “George Fox believed that Christian day Adventists seek the welfare of before God, he said. “The Protestant life should inform and affect everyday others for God’s sake. “Seventh-day Reformation was an answer to those life,” said Gretchen Castle, general sec- Adventists are determined to help questions.” retary of the Friends World Committee develop a global culture that respects “The kingdom of God was central to for Consultation, in referring to the every person’s freedom of conscience,” his [Martin Luther’s] beliefs,” said Diop. founder of the Quaker movement in he said. “His theology expected the end of the seventeenth-century England. “He This ongoing commitment should world. So, in this doctrine too, he was believed faith and actions are not inform everything we do in the pres- a Reformer.” separated, which is still reflected in the ent, not only in church but especially Diop also pointed out that while Quaker’s commitment to making the outside of it, said Castle. “[We] desire Luther’s work opened ways for the free- world a better place.” a church that is always reformed and doms we enjoy today, there was a long Ted N. C. Wilson, president of the reforming,” she said. “This is our spiri- way to go. “At first, religious freedom Seventh-day Adventist Church General tual imperative—to act and be active, was granted to States, not to individual Conference, summarized the specific to take risks for social change, and persons,” he said, as he added that such Adventist contribution to freedom of to choose to love.” [Marcos Paseggi | a path often ends in , resulting conscience and worship. ]

South American Biblical Theological Symposium

ntre Rios, Argentina—Almost On the closing day of the symposium theme, “The Just Shall E500 years and 7,000 miles (11,300 12th South American Theological Live by Faith.” kilometers) apart from the time and Symposium in Libertador San Martin, “The statement voted reflects our place Martin Luther chose to nail his Argentina, regional theologians reaf- commitment to the Bible, which Luther Ninety-Five Theses—or arguments on firmed “the great principles of God’s modeled so well,” said Adolfo Suárez, justification by faith—to the door of the gospel” as stated by Paul in his epistle rector of the -American Adventist Wittenberg Castle church, hundreds of to the Romans. They also expressed Theological Seminary (SALT). “As South American Seventh-day Adventist a renewed commitment to “the Seventh-day Adventists, we have a total theologians passed a consensus state- proclamation of the eternal gospel” and unrestricted commitment to the ment on the same topic. within the framework provided by the Bible. In that sense, we are committed

Ministry® OCTOBER 2017 to the Protestant Reformation, which his study of the book of Romans, as our salvation reinstated the preeminence of God’s originally stated by Paul. is nearer than Word against tradition.” “In his epistle to the Romans, Paul when we first Plenary speakers included church presents the great principles of God’s believed,” something participants leaders such as Artur Stele, a general gospel,” reads the beginning of the think should move every Seventh-day vice-president of the world church; document. “It is there that we find the Adventist towards a “total commitment Elias Brasil de Souza, director of doctrine of righteousness by faith in to the proclamation of the eternal the Biblical Research Institute; and Christ.” gospel.” Alberto Timm, an associate director At the same time, the framework And it closes by stating, “As we of the White Estate at the General provided by the Protestant Reformation announce [the Gospel], God’s grace and Conference. was reinforced by distinctively Adventist justice are revealed, because ‘the just “As a church, we have always valued theological elements, including the shall live by faith.’ ” the Reformation, because, in a sense, overarching notion of “a great contro- [Marcos Paseggi | Adventist Review we are its sons and daughters,” said versy between God and Satan” and with contributions by South American Stele. “But the Reformation has not “the mission of God’s remnant church Division News and River Plate Adventist ended. It must be an ongoing process, to the world.” University News]

as we keep striving to stay close and go The voted docu- Photo: Mylon Medley/ANN back and again to Scripture.” ment also includes a Timm seconded. “We cannot look reaffirmation of partici- at the Reformation as a historical one- pants’ beliefs in biblical time-only event,” he said. “The Adventist baptism, a new life in Church is an heir of that movement, Christ, and God’s invita- which advocates for ongoing efforts tion to become part of to staying close to God’s Word. It is a His people. Finally, it process that should never stop.” reasserts participants’ Theologians attending the Argentina confidence in eternal sal- symposium expressed their desire to vation in Jesus Christ at pass a 750-word consensus statement His soon second coming. that highlighted their commitment Quoting Romans 13:11, it to the principles Luther derived from reads, “We reaffirm that

The Protestant Reformation continues

ort Lauderdale, Florida, United The brief presentations on the rights, people who come out of prison, FStates—The Protestant Reformation historical aspects and issues of the refugee rights, and genocide. is not a historical event frozen in a Reformation and its meaning in con- “How can we work to promote distant past, said a panel of leaders temporary society gathered experts religious tolerance?” asked Elizabeta and scholars at the International from various backgrounds and train- Kitanović, the executive secretary for Religious Liberty Association’s 8th ing. When it comes to human rights, Human Rights and Communication in World Congress. On the contrary, the social justice, and religious freedom, the Council of European Churches. “We watershed sixteenth-century occur- Millennials—a generation between must build trust in communities to fight rence must be revamped and rethought 16 and 36 years old—are a force to be intolerance.” if we are to make the most of its core reckoned with. Millennials possess Seventh-day Adventist Church principles, they said. certain traits that make them a unique General Conference president Ted N. “It is important we include the group of people with the potential to C. Wilson also reminded attendees to Reformation in the context of religious, create change, panel experts said. not overlook that the Reformation was peaceful coexistence,” said Nicholas “We are a generation trying to fight founded on the availability of Scripture Miller, Andrews University Professor for the rights and beliefs of others,” said to the people. of Church History and director of the Blayre Marley, a young lawyer from the “If we want to underscore the International Religious Liberty Institute, state of Maryland in the United States. wonderful principles of Reformation, who moderated the panel. “After all, “It’s not just about ourselves.” Millennials we must be connected with God reformers Luther and Calvin also per- care if people are being fed, care about secuted Anabaptists.” voting rights, marriage equality, privacy Continued on page 30

OCTOBER 2017 Ministry® PRACTICAL POINTERS MICHAEL W. CAMPBELL

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

The pastor’s guide to Martin Luther and the Reformation

hen I was young, few things recent resources are there about get more in-depth with his theology, whetted my appetite for the Reformation that the pastor can see Paul Althaus, The Theology of Martin Wchurch history more than make use of in the context of the local Luther.8 Another insightful survey is by reading Ellen G. White’s magnum opus, church? This is an introductory guide Gerhard Ebeling, Luther: An Introduction The Great Controversy. First published as to acquaint the pastor with some of the to His Thought.9 Spiritual Gifts, volume 1, in 1858, it went best research, including old classics as through numerous editions during her well as some of the latest sources. Teaching the Reformation lifetime.1 As someone who had recently in the local church accepted Jesus Christ as my Savior, I Going deeper into Martin Luther was not only a deep thinker devoured this book and then later other Luther’s writings in terms of theology but a practical volumes that have so much enriched Besides reading about Luther, it is pastor who cared about his parishioners. my life and started me on a path to helpful to read his actual writings. In addi- Luther, furthermore, had a heart for studying religious history—one that has tion to the initial 54-volume set Luther’s helping fellow ministers. Altogether the continued to now. Works, another 20 volumes have been Reformation had far-reaching conse- A natural progression was to read added (Concordia Publishing House). quences for both the local church and the writings of the nineteenth-century There is also a series of four volumes in clergy. While some measure Luther’s chronicler of the Reformation, J. H. Merle the Library of Christian Classic series that contributions in terms of theology, d’Aubigné, specifically his five-volume are devoted to Luther’s writings. Most church historian Trevor O’Reggio argues History of the Reformation. Ellen White people do not realize that a significant that perhaps Luther’s most influential cites this series numerous times in The amount of Luther’s writings remain impact upon Western society concerned Great Controversy and in other places in Latin and German, which are often his views on marriage and the family.10 where she references the Reformation. available only in major research libraries. Church ministry has been impacted in Mrs. White also frequently referred to J. A much more accessible approach is the such diverse ways as elevating the impor- A. Wylie’s The History of Protestantism, edited one-volume collection by Timothy tance of marriage and family counseling as well as the works of other historians. 2 F. Lull, Martin Luther’s Basic Theological as well as preaching and highlighting Ellen White viewed the Reformation Writings. Key documents including the the significance of the priesthood of all as one of the defining events in church Ninety-Five Theses can readily be found believers. Even his many hymns, most of history.3 Christians, she believed, should there. His three main Reformation writ- which continue to be sung in churches, seek out the best historical resources ings from 1520 are also available as were written to teach church members to better understand and appreciate Luther: Three Treatises.4 the Bible. For those who wish to teach the significance of Martin Luther’s life One cannot stress enough about just the Reformation today, churches would as well as the broader wave of protest. how much the Reformation was a “reli- do well to sing hymns by Luther, such Obviously, in more than a century since gious event” whose deepest concerns as his best-known hymn, “A Mighty the 1911 edition of The Great Controversy, were theological.5 A great starting point Fortress.” Pastors should seek oppor- many new historical sources shed light to Luther’s theology is a helpful essay by tunities to introduce members to this on the life and teachings of Luther. This Timothy George in his book Theology of remarkable man and the movement he is especially true because 2017 marks the Reformers.6 This book not only has inspired. In so doing, they can learn to 500 years since Luther disseminated an extensive essay on Luther’s theology appreciate such a significant “turning his Ninety-Five Theses, or protests, but serves as a point of comparison with point” as a particularly rewarding aspect against indulgences. He scarcely could chapters on , Ulrich Zwingli, of pastoral ministry. have dreamed they would have such , and . One way to maximize this impact far-reaching consequences. Another helpful introductory guide, would be to have a special Reformation In light of such numerous resources, recommended by Adventist scholar Sabbath. It can be on the Sabbath clos- how can a pastor begin to appreciate Denis Fortin, is James M. Kittleson’s est to Reformation Day at the end of the life and writings of Martin Luther? Luther the Reformer: The Story of the Man October, a chance for the congrega- Where should one begin? And what and His Career.7 For those who want to tion to commemorate their Protestant

Ministry® OCTOBER 2017 heritage. Participants can act out the Luther: Sites and Memorials in Germany Luther: Man Between God and the Devil,23 story of Luther—from his conversion to Travel Guide by Wolfgang Hoffmann, and and Richard Marius, Martin Luther: The the nailing of the Ninety-Five Theses and Cornelia Dömer, Traveling with Martin Christian Between God and Death.24 beyond. Another great option is to show Luther: A Tour Guide to the Reformation Together these books emphasize the a movie in conjunction with this event. in Germany.14 A number of more specific multifaceted background that includes The 1953 black and white movie Martin guides exist for individual cities and a tremendous intellectual and social Luther has become a classic.11 There sites. The Office of Tourism for Germany upheaval that contributed to a series of have been several more recent ver- has set up a helpful website, Destination “.”25 sions, one of the most popular being the Germany, to help you plan your trip.15 Naturally, with all of the attention German Luther: Er Veränderte die Welt An easily accessible air, bus, and train focused on the actual Ninety-Five Theses, Für Immer with subtitles (118 minutes). system means that even a small church there are some great resources to help Another way to maximize the impact group or family can easily do the tour better appreciate what happened at this of the Reformation would be to have on their own. particular juncture. Foremost is Timothy either a prayer meeting or sermon series. J. Wengert’s Martin Luther’s 95 Theses One congregation is planning the whole Biographical studies with an Introduction, Commentary, and year to focus on various Reformation While there are numerous biog- Study Guide.26 Not to be overlooked themes and is using special guest speak- raphies, hundreds actually, the most would be the concise introduction by ers. While that may be more than what popular and enduring is Roland H. Martin E. Marty, a leading historian of most will wish to do, one could have a Bainton’s Here I Stand: A Life of Martin religious history, titled October 31, 1517: series over several weeks. One way to Luther.16 A recent survey of a dozen Martin Luther and the Day That Changed divide up the series is by highlighting influential religious historians revealed the World,27 which also includes Ninety- major Reformation themes such as the that this biography remains influential.17 Five Theses. Marty, in essence, argues “five solas,” identified as sola Scriptura It is readable, even if dated. I recommend that the heart of Luther’s Ninety-Five (scripture alone), sola gratia (by grace it as the best place to start, especially Theses would be Luther’s understand- alone), sola fide (by faith alone), solus for someone who may not be familiar ing of forgiveness, which he believes Christus (through Christ alone), and soli with his life. should guide the modern ecumenical Deo gloria (glory to God alone). Or the After Bainton, a much more cur- movement. Of special interest for those series could study the various stages of rent treatment of his life from the interested in Ellen G. White’s view of end- Luther’s life. Such a series could even latest scholarship (while still remaining time events is his explanation of the 1999 include a first-person narrative or a skit. approachable for the nonspecialist) is Catholic-Lutheran Joint Declaration.28 A valuable prayer meeting resource Scott H. Hendrix’s Martin Luther: Visionary For those who want the nitty gritty might be to watch the newly released Reformer.18 This volume has become details of Luther scholarship, there are series This Changed Everything.12 The my first choice when teaching a class several eminent reference works. An video is actually divided into three parts on Luther and the Reformation, and I easy place to start is the new Dictionary with study guides and related resources am using it as a text for an upcoming of Luther and the Lutheran Tradition.29 that can be a natural springboard for Reformation tour. Hendrix does a superb Much more in-depth is The Oxford a pastor to either show the videos or job helping people grasp the world of Handbook of Martin Luther’s Theology30, develop and modify his or her own Luther. which has been recently complemented particular talks. The most in-depth study of Luther’s by the even more impressive Oxford The church could plot out exactly life, for the person who wants depth Encyclopedia of Martin Luther.31 Both ref- where certain events occurred during of detail, would be the three-volume erence works will no doubt be important the Protestant Reformation such as series by Martin Brecht (and translated benchmarks in the field for some time. Wartburg Castle, Wittenberg, and even by James L. Schaaf): Martin Luther: Also useful is The Cambridge Companion Rome. My personal favorite reference for His Road to Reformation, 1483–152119, to Martin Luther32 and the newly released this is Tim Dowley’s Atlas of the European Martin Luther: Shaping and Defining the Encyclopedia of Martin Luther and the Reformations.13 Reformation, 1521–153220, and Martin Reformation.33 For authoritative and For those who have a more adven- Luther: The Preservation of the Church, exhaustive essays these are helpful turous spirit, either individually or 1532–1546.21 Another classic, but quite reference works. collectively as a church, persons may dated, would be E. G. Schwiebert’s wish to visit Reformation historic sites. Luther and His Times: The Reformation Summary When possible, try to obtain an experi- From a New Perspective.22 Two additional In writing such a brief overview enced tour guide, especially for larger biographies that are much more up- essay to resources about Luther and groups. It helps to purchase one of a to-date, with a strong emphasis on the the Reformation, I ran the risk of leaving number of guide books. The two most medieval mind-set out of which Luther out a favorite resource that someone helpful ones include Discover Martin emerged, include Heiko A. Oberman’s else may have found helpful. Hundreds

OCTOBER 2017 Ministry® PRACTICAL POINTERS MICHAEL W. CAMPBELL

of biographies and books testify to the 6 George, Theology of the Reformers. Fortress Press, 1985). significance and legacy of the Protestant 7 Second edition, Fortress Press, 2016. Denis Fortin 20 Martin Brecht, Martin Luther: Shaping and Defining tweets that “if you’re looking for a good book on the the Reformation, 1521–1532, trans. James L. Schaaf Reformation for today. I hope that the Reformation to read this year” he recommends this (Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 1990). resources and ideas expressed here will volume. https://twitter.com/DenisJHFortin [accessed 21 Martin Brecht, Martin Luther: The Preservation of inspire pastors to share the passion- Sept. 18, 2017]. the Church, 1532-–1546, trans. James L. Schaaf 8 Paul Althaus, The Theology of Martin Luther (Minneapolis: Fortress Press), 1993. ate conviction and faith of Luther to (Philadelphia: Fortress, 1966). 22 Ernest G. Schwiebert, Luther and His Times: The inspire a new generation to study God’s 9 Gerhard Ebeling, Luther: An Introduction to His Thought Reformation From a New Perspective (Saint Louis, MO: Word anew. The 500-year anniversary of (Philadelphia: Fortress, 1970). Concordia Pub. House, 1950). Luther’s protest remains as one of the 10 Trevor O’Reggio, “Martin Luther: Marriage and the 23 Heiko A. Oberman, Luther: Man Between God and the Family as a Remedy for Sin,” Andrews University Devil (New York: Doubleday, 1992). defining moments in Christian history. Seminary Studies 51, no. 1 (Spring 2013): 39–67. 24 Richard Marius, Martin Luther: The Christian Between Every Protestant should take the time to 11 Allan Sloane et al., Martin Luther, directed by Irving God and Death (Harvard University Press, 1999). reflect upon the meaning and relevance Pichel, 105 minutes, distributed by Gateway Films 25 For a cursory summary of the issues, see Alister E. of the Reformation. Pastors would do (Louis de Rochemont Associates, 1953). McGrath, Christian History: An Introduction (Oxford: 12 This Changed Everything: 500 Years of the Reformation, Wiley-Blackwell, 2013), 150–170. well to capitalize upon this special narrated by David Suchet, 180 minutes; (Worcester, 26 Timothy J. Wengert, Martin Luther’s 95 Theses with opportunity, especially the many new MA: Christian History Instittute, 2017); available from an Introduction, Commentary, and Study Guide resources that can make this process thischangedeverything.com/. (Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2015). even more meaningful, or perhaps help 13 Tim Dowley and Nick Rowland, Atlas of the European 27 Martin E. Marty, October 31, 1517: Martin Luther Reformations (Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2015). and the Day That Changed the World (Brewster, MA: others discover the story for the first 14 Wolfgang Hoffman: Discover Martin Luther: Sites and Paraclete Press, 2016). time. Memorials in Germany Travel Guide (Wernigerode, 28 See especially Martin Luther’s explanation on pages. 27, Germany: Schmidt-Buch-Verlag, 2016); Cornelia 53, 70. At the same time, Martin Luther acknowledges 1 For a concise overview, see Denis Fortin, “Great Dömer, Traveling With Martin Luther: A Tour Guide to that key differences between Lutherans and Roman Controversy Between Christ and Satan, The,” in The the Reformation in Germany (St. Louis, MO: Concordia, Catholics remain, most notably their understanding of Ellen G. White Encyclopedia, ed. Denis Fortin and Jerry 2010). the Lord’s Supper, or the Eucharist. Moon (Hagerstown, MD: Review and Herald, 2013), 15 “Luther,” Destination Germany, accessed Sept. 19, 2017, 29 Timothy J. Wengert, ed., Dictionary of Luther and the 847–850. www.germany.travel/luther. Lutheran Traditions (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2 Ellen G. White, “Holiday Gifts,” The Review and Herald, 16 Roland H. Bainton, Here I Stand: A Life of Martin Luther 2017). Dec. 26, 1882, 788–790. (New York: Abingdon Press, 1950). Numerous reprint 30 Robert Kolb et al., eds., The Oxford Handbook of Martin 3 A helpful overview of Ellen White’s treatment of Luther editions available. Luther’s Theology (Oxford: Oxford University Press, is Denis Kaiser, “ ‘God Is Our Refuge and Strength’: 17 “Top Five Biography Recommendation From 12 2014). Martin Luther in the Perception of Ellen G. White,” Christian Historians,” The Gospel Coalition, Sept. 6, 31 Derek R. Nelson and Paul R. Hilicky, eds., The Oxford paper presented to the Perceptions of the Protestant 2016, blogs.thegospelcoalition.org/evangelical Encyclopedia of Martin Luther (Oxford: Oxford University Reformation in Seventh-day Adventism Symposium, -history/2016/09/06/70-biography-recommendations Press, 2017). Friedensau Adventist University, May 10, 2016. -from-christian-historians/. 32 Donald K. McKim, ed., The Cambridge Companion to 4 Martin Luther, Three Treatises: From the American Edition 18 Scott H. Hendrix, Martin Luther: Visionary Reformer Martin Luther (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, of Luther’s Works (Philadelphia: Fortress, 1960). (New Haven, CT: Yale University Press, 2015). 2003). 5 Timothy George, Theology of the Reformers, rev. ed. 19 Martin Brecht: Martin Luther: His Road to Reformation, 33 Mark A. Lamport, ed., Encyclopedia of Martin Luther and (Nashville, TN: B and H Academic, 2013), 16. 1483–1521, trans. James L. Schaaf (Minneapolis: the Reformation (Lanham: Rowman & Littleifled, 2017).

DATELINE Continued from page 26 through His Word,” he said. “If we go wonderful injunction of being true to “My brothers back to the Bible and refer to what the Reformation.” and sisters, the God has indicated, we’ll also fulfill the Wilson later delivered a special mes- Spirit of Prophecy sage to fellow Seventh-day Adventist says that the Church members around the world, stat- Protestant Reformation was never to end ing, “Without being overly dramatic, we with Martin Luther but was to continue need to recognize the times in which we to the end of time. By God’s grace, may live and ask God for not only protection but Seventh-day Adventists worldwide stand the power of the Holy Spirit to proclaim firmly for the principles of the Protestant God’s last-day three angels’ messages of Reformation—only the Bible, only by warning and hope focusing on Christ and faith, only by grace, Christ as our only His righteousness especially as the 500th Mediator, and only God to be worshiped.” anniversary of the Protestant Reformation [Marcos Paseggi | Adventist Review with is observed with some people apologizing contributions by Libna Stevens/IAD and for the Reformation or saying it is over. Adventist News Network] Photo: Mylon Medley/ANN

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