FALL 2011

Thinking Globally, Acting Locally The Health Message: Heaven’s Gift Lift Up Your Eyes! 7th annual FALL 2011 amen conference

OCTOBER 27 – 30, 2011

CROWNE PLAZA • OCEANFRONT AT SHIPYARD PLANTATION HILTON HEAD ISLAND • SOUTH CAROLINA

Jesus is the great center of infl uence in all truly effective medical evangelistic work. His healing, empowering, forgiving presence is its attractive light. Constant connection with Christ makes the physician and dentist a center of infl uence in the home, the offi ce, the church, the community, and the world.

visit www.amensda.org to register

2 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST FALL 2011 FALL 2011 contents 4 / Editorial 5 The Medical Evangelist is the official 5 / The Deception of Deception publication of the Adventist Medical Evangelism Network. The purpose 8 / Thinking Globally, Acting Locally of the publication is to equip physicians and dentists to be 10 / The Health Message: Heaven’s Gift effective medical evangelists.

15 / 7th Annual AMEN

editors: Conference Information

OCTO BER 27 – 30, 2011 Brian Schwartz, MD - EDITOR IN CHIEF Rebecca Barnhurst - ASSISTANT EDITOR 18 / Lift Up Your Eyes! CROWNE PLAZA • OCEANFRO NT AT SHIP YARD PLANTATIO N

H ILTO N H EAD ISLAND • SO UTH C ARO LINA editorial committee:

Brian Schwartz, MD - CHAIRMAN 22 / Healing and Hope for a John Chung, MD Devastated City 8 Robert Hunsaker, MD Neil Nedley, MD 24 / Student Chapter David Otis, DDS

25 / The Historical Perspective of Health Evangelism in the Adventist Church The Medical Evangelist is provided to AMEN members. Institutions and individuals who are not members wishing 29 / Life+Health Network 2.0 to receive the journal may request copies or a subscription by contacting AMEN at 30 / President’s Report 423-826-4025 or [email protected]. 18 25

adventist medical evangelism network PO Box 1114 Collegedale, Tennessee 37315 423.826.4025 www.amensda.org FALL 2011 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST 3 EDITO RIAL

recently released documentary As Seventh-day Adventist physicians film, Forks over Knives, and dentists, we have the opportunity to showcases the benefits of a present to our patients a lifestyle that will plant-based diet—not only add seven and ten years to their lives and Afor preventing but also for reversing heart to reduce their risk of cancer, obesity and disease and cancer. This film received heart disease. That’s great. But, in addition, acclaim by news outlets such as CNN, as we are directed to point our patients to the well as Seventh-day Adventist institutions source of true healing and eternal life. and other proponents of lifestyle medicine. Many Seventh-day Adventists saw this Therefore, we must avoid the temptation film at their local churches, or on DVD, to feel that others are doing a better job of and were inspired by its positive lifestyle educating the public on lifestyle medicine; message. The film features the work of instead, we must recognize that, devoid of several physicians and scientists, including a spiritual message, lifestyle alone will have Dr. Caldwell B Esselstyn Jr., a noted surgeon little impact in view of eternity. It is my B RIAN S CHWARTZ, M.D. at the Cleveland Clinic who, in clinical prayer that the reader of this journal will studies, has demonstrated that heart disease be inspired to not only present the health It is my prayer can be reversed by a nonfat, vegan diet. It message as an opening wedge but to seek that the reader of also featured T. Colin Campbell, PhD, who for those who need a deeper experience with this journal will wrote The China Study, a book in which he their Creator and Redeemer. True medical showed that a diet low in animal products missionary work must point our patients be inspired to not and saturated fat leads to less risk for heart to Christ, not just to address their physical only present the disease, cancer and obesity. needs but their spiritual ones as well. True health message as healers address the body, soul and spirit. I recently saw this film. Though excited an opening wedge about the message of a vegan diet and its As we have been told: “The religion of the but to seek for those ability to reduce heart disease, I could not Bible is not detrimental to the health of the who need a deeper help but think that we as SDA have missed body or the mind. The influence of the Spirit an opportunity to promote this same of God is the very best medicine that can be experience with lifestyle message. We’ve had nearly a 150- received by a sick man or woman. Heaven is their Creator and year head start that should have placed us at all health, and the more deeply the heavenly Redeemer. the forefront of lifestyle medicine. However influences are realized the more sure will good the film is, it does not portray the be the recovery of the believing invalid” complete message for healing and health. (3T, 172), Brian Schwartz, M.D.

“The religion of the Bible is not detrimental to the health of the body or the mind. The influence of the Spirit of God is the very best medicine that can be received by a sick man or woman. Heaven is all health, and the more deeply the heavenly influences are realized the more sure will be the recovery of the believing invalid.”

4 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST FALL 2011 S CIENCE AND INSPIRATION

A series of articles demonstrating how a growing body of science is supporting the statements of Scripture and the Spirit of Prophecy.

by Robert Hunsaker, MD

The Deception of Deception

s a man thinks in his heart, so is he Purchasing counterfeit merchandise may be (Proverbs 23:7). counter-productive in numerous ways. Many people would be concerned primarily with “If the thoughts are wrong, the such things as funding shady businesses, Afeelings will be wrong; and the thoughts and undercutting legitimate businesses, poor- feelings combined make up the moral character... quality merchandise, etc. However, recent The power of right thought is more precious than fascinating research brings to light other, the golden wedge of Ophir” (Ellen White, In unexpected consequences of “pretense.” Our Heavenly Places, page 164). human psyche and character are affected Robert Hunsaker, MD in ways far more destructive than issues A graduate of Loma Linda My wife and I recently took a trip to Venice, of business markets and product value! University, Dr. Hunsaker Italy. It was not a medical missions trip, Scripture says “as a man thinks in his heart, specializes in cardiac but a “come apart and rest a while” trip. We so is he” (Proverbs 23:7), and “by beholding anesthesiology. He is were impressed by the many African street we become changed” (2 Corinthians 3:18). currently living in the vendors selling all manner of counterfeit These statements present a law of cognitive Boston area with his lovely designer merchandise. These vendors were reality, not merely wise ancient moral advice. wife Andi. doing business within a few dozen feet of Further consideration will show that the stores selling the actual trademark designer Bible directs us with unfailing accuracy, brand names. One would notice an eight whether we are dealing with health practices, hundred dollar Chanel bag in a store window, moral law, spiritual realities, or intellectual then walk down the street a few feet and be experiences. accosted by aggressive street vendors selling a seemingly identical Chanel bag for under Consider the following experiment: a hundred dollars. The same was true for Scientists at UNC Chapel Hill, Duke, and designer sunglasses, high-end time pieces, Harvard, recruited a large sample of young trendy shoes and leather goods. No one women and had them wear pricey Chloé seemed too concerned about the counterfeit sunglasses – the real thing. The purpose of merchandise, including the owners of the the study was to determine if merely thinking stores selling the genuine products. We one was wearing counterfeit shades would watched the owners leave their stores at have moral consequences in other areas of closing, and walk past the street vendors with life – cheating, stealing, dishonesty, etc. nothing more than a wry smile and nod of the head.

FALL 2011 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST 5 The women were divided up into two groups – all wearing actual Chloé sunglasses – but half of them thought they were wearing cheap counterfeit versions of the expensive glasses. The women were then given a timed math test which was impossible to complete in the allotted time. After the test, the women were allowed to self-score the exam on the honor system (they graded themselves), and they were given a certain amount of money for each correct answer.

The results were amazing. The women who thought they were wearing fake designer sunglasses cheated considerably more. Seventy percent of the “fake” sunglass wearers inflated their scores when they thought that no one was checking – essentially embezzling or gaming the system for money. On the other hand, only 30% of the “true” sunglass wearers cheated on their scores.

The researchers were so surprised by the results, that they verified their conclusions it was not something intrinsic to the fake attempting to polish self-image by wearing with a different test. The same women sunglass group that caused the difference. counterfeits, might not only affect personal were asked to indicate whether the left It was the actual act of wearing a fake that ethics, but actually cause a cynical attitude or right side of a computer screen had was triggering dishonesty! toward others. In other words, does more dots on it. They received 1/2 cent behaving unethically as a result of self- if they answered left side and five cents if In a follow-up study, the same group image concerns cause one to look at others they answered right side – whether their of researchers wondered if the act of as being phony and unethical? answer was correct or not. Again, they self- scored themselves. This task again forced The researchers tried another experiment them to choose between an honest answer Does behaving using the same method. The two groups and a profitable answer. Once again, the unethically as all wore genuine Chloé sunglasses, but women wearing what they thought were one group thought they were wearing the counterfeit sunglasses took the money a result of self- counterfeit Chloé glasses. The volunteers over the truth much more often than their were asked to complete a survey about peers did. image concerns people in their social network – family, friends, coworkers, etc. For example, they Remember, the women wearing what cause one to were asked whether their peers would: they thought were fake sunglasses (they look at others as • use an express line at the grocery store were actually the real thing) were part with too many groceries in their cart of a random group, compared with the being phony or • pad an expense report ones who correctly believed that they • take home office supplies were wearing the real sunglasses. Thus unethical? • overstate their GPAs

6 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST FALL 2011 rise higher than his standard of purity or goodness or truth. If self is his loftiest ideal, he will never attain to anything more exalted. Rather, he will constantly sink lower and lower. The grace of God alone has power to exalt man. Left to himself, his course must inevitably be downward” (Ellen White, The Great Controversy, page 555).

There is good news in the gospel. It is expressed in Scripture and the Spirit of Prophecy, and supported by the weight of evidence. The good news is that choosing the truth over error will also lead to greater and greater blessings.

“Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11).

“The entrance of Your words gives light; It gives understanding to the simple” (Psalm 119:130).

Consistent with the previous data, the discussed above, however, is just one “Great peace have those who love Your participants who thought they were example of the moral realities our world law, And nothing causes them to stumble” wearing the counterfeit Chloé’s, saw other faces. God’s laws are not arbitrary, but (Psalm 119:165). people as more dishonest, less truthful, built into the fabric of our intellectual and more likely to act dishonestly in and spiritual natures. Violation of those The effects of sin and wrong choices are business transactions. laws actually leads to “having their real, and have real consequences. We can own conscience seared with a hot iron” take courage in the fact that the gospel The secular researchers came to a (1Timothy 4:2). also has real effects and is more powerful. conclusion which sounds like it came from “Where sin abounded, grace abounded the Bible or an inspired author: “Wearing It really is true that “by beholding we much more” (Romans 5:20). counterfeit glasses not only fails to bolster become changed” (2 Corinthians 3:18). our ego and self-image the way we hope, it That beholding process is not limited to 1. The Counterfeit Self: The Deceptive Costs actually undermines our internal sense of what we see in the world around us. It of Faking It. Francesca Gino, Michael I. authenticity. ‘Faking it’ makes us feel like involves the world within us, as the above Norton, and Dan Ariely: Psychological phonies and cheaters on the inside, and research validates. “It is a law both of the Science, Vol.21, No.5, pp 712-720, May, this alienated, counterfeit ‘self’ leads to intellectual and the spiritual nature, that by 2010 cheating and cynicism in the real world.” beholding, we become changed. The mind 2. Scientific American Mind: Sept/Oct. gradually adapts itself to the subjects upon 2010, pp.66-7 There is probably value in avoiding which it is allowed to dwell. It becomes counterfeits when it comes to clothing assimilated to that which it is accustomed and accessory purchases. The research to love and reverence. Man will never

FALL 2011 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST 7 AMEN MISSIONS

by Carlos Moretta, DDS

Thinking Globally, Acting Locally

urs is a global church; thus, Sure, we fast because we want God to hear our mission is as well. AMEN us; we want to feel His presence; we want members continue to respond to receive His blessings. But Isaiah tells us to the global challenge that that God is closest to us when we feed the God,O through the prophet Isaiah, set before hungry, clothe the naked, and house the His people in Isaiah 58. We must apply its homeless. We are promised that when we principles to our practices, and to our lives. place the needs of others before our own, the divine takes up residence in humanity, and Despite the rat race of just living, there are the character of Christ is reflected to a dying Carlos Moretta, DDS these breaking points where the stresses of world. has moved up the dental life seem to win. I went through one recently. ladder from being a dental It felt like a dark and hopeless place. So I The Lord has placed in the care of the church hygienist to graduate of turned to God; surely He would succor me. the poor, the widowed, and the fatherless. The Loma Linda Dental School character of your Christianity will be shown and then completed a post So, I fasted, from everything, even from work. by the way in which you treat the Lord’s graduate residency in Oral Strange thing was, it didn’t help. Then, over representatives. The best evidence you can and Maxillofacial Surgery at the next few days, I had a few opportunities to give of love for Christ will be shown by your LLU. He is now an adjunct minister to the needs of others. Then, guess tenderness and liberality for those who need faculty at LLU, in private what? By doing that, I had now embodied the your help. practice in Kettering, OH, promises of Isaiah 58:8-12. and has gone on over Thus, let us stop doubting, let us stop 20 dental mission trips murmuring; instead, let us become doers of to South America, Central The Lord has the Word. If you become laborers together American the Caribbean with God, you will have a vital interest in others, and self will drop out of sight. The and the Far East. placed in the care Lord has given to us talents that will enable of the church us to bless others, and, thus, become richer and more joyful ourselves. “Our characters the poor, the may become fragrant with good works; for by widowed, and practice the living principles of righteousness will pass into the character, and unfold in the fatherless. beauty and purity of life.” Review and Herald, February 20, 1894.

8 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST FALL 2011 Inevitably there will always be those who cannot go on a mission trip abroad. To these I would say: think globally but act locally. One way you can do this Quiet Hour Ministries is to target particular people groups—Somali refugees, for example—who may have taken refuge in your community. There are many agencies who Malaysia - November 4-19, 2011 seek out refugees from other countries going through disaster. Connecting Honduras - March 29- April 8, 2012 with one of these agencies may be a good way to provide local and global help simultaneously. In other words, although local opportunities to alleviate Philippines - April 13-28, 2012 suffering abound, you can still make a global difference by working with these Peru - June 15-30, 2012 groups right in your own community. Philippines - June 22 – July 7, 2012 For those that are able to serve abroad, you may want to consider one of the Tonga - July 3-15, 2012 trips listed below. These life-changing experiences overseas often serve as a paradigm shift, or a perspective adjuster for your personal and spiritual life. Tonga - July 17-29, 2012 Please don’t miss the opportunity to connect with just one of these efforts. South Africa - July 12-29, 2012 The Lord will surely bless you.

Share Him Ministries

India - February 24- March 10, 2012

Philippines - April 6- April 21, 2012

Cuba - April 20 - May 5, 2012

Maranatha

India - Fall Open Team

Bugema - University Open Team

Christmas Family Project

Africa - Open Team Project

Latin America - Open Team Project

Loma Linda University Students for International Mission Service

Honduras - December 26- January 2

Malawi - summer 2012

For more information on these projects email: [email protected].

FALL 2011 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST 9 by Mark Finley, DD

The Health Message: Heaven’s Gift

he young nation’s president, unscientific medical practices of the 1800’s. George Washington, was fatally ill. One doctor drew fourteen ounces Let’s examine four major reasons why the of blood from the president’s Lord, in His mercy, gave His people the veins,T in the mistaken belief that when a health message to share with the world, and fever rises, the best thing to do was to take the why it remains so relevant for us today. overheated blood out of the body. When that didn’t work Washington’s physicians took out #1 Healthier, Happier Lives even more blood. In this weakened condition God gave us the health message because He Mark Finley, DD the President begged his physicians to let him wants us to live healthier and happier lives has served as a Vice- die in peace. The morning after his death the now. President for the General press in the Nation’s Capital reported: “Our Conference of Seventh-day beloved leader had received the best care, but This principle is illustrated in Jesus healing Adventists, Speaker-Director his untimely death occurred in spite of all of the paralytic in Matthew chapter 9: “So he of It Is Written Television, that human knowledge and skill could do to got into a boat and crossed over and came to medical evangelist and arrest the course of the disease.” His own city. And behold, they brought to pastor. He has presented Him a paralytic, lying on a bed.” Notice, they more than 150 evangelistic This story gives us an idea of the state of brought to Him a paralytic, lying on a bed. series around the world. medicine in early America. In fact, by the The paralytic did not come by himself. Don’t Medical evangelism is mid- 1800s, things weren’t any better. Some miss this crucial point: In the New Testament, near and dear to Finley’s common medical procedures included there are about thirty separate case histories heart, he routinely brings (believe it or not!): the use of mercury to cure of healing; in more than half of them, the physicians and dentists as disease; use of a lot of alcohol to help patients sick did not come to Jesus by themselves. part of his team. sleep; tobacco as a remedy for ailing lungs; Somebody was concerned enough to bring and, of course, the time tested process of their loved one to Jesus. Jesus is the true cutting open the veins and bleeding patients source of all healing. All true science is This article is adapted from of what was, we now know, a fluid essential based on the laws of the Creator. In the use Pastor Finley’s presentation for health. of rational scientific methods we create an at the AMEN conference. environment where healing can take place This was the medical environment in which but He who heals the body is the One who God raised up the Seventh-day Adventist created it in the first place. Whether we use health message. It was sorely needed for natural remedies or 21st century cutting edge many reasons, not just to correct some of the technology, we do not heal, He does. Jesus is

10 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST FALL 2011 the Restorer, the Healer—the Saviour. One of the primary reasons that God has health so that we can know Him in all of given His people a health message is to His fullness. There is an intimate link The same verse continues: “Behold, they enable them to enjoy life to the fullest. between our physical, mental and spiritual brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed, God has given a health message not as health. Jesus often spoke of physical and Jesus seeing their faith…” Faith is some legalistic requirement to make healing and forgiveness in almost the same not just something cognitively believed. people feel oppressed by all the things they breath. Here is an example from the story Faith is something that is seen when it is of the paralytic in Matthew 9. “Behold, translated into action. It’s real, it’s tangible. they brought Him a paralytic, lying on a The Scripture says, “Seeing their faith He God gave us the bed. And Jesus, seeing their faith, said to said to the paralytic, Son, be of good cheer, the paralytic, ‘Son, be of good cheer, your your sins are forgiven thee.” health message sins are forgiven you’.” because He Now, notice – the man is healed and Jesus In the New Testament accounts of Jesus declares, “Be of good cheer.” Not only was wants us to live healing, there are times when Jesus heals the paralytic physically healed, His sins and then says, “Go, sin no more.” On were forgiven and Jesus encouraged Him healthier and other occasions Jesus forgives, then heals. to be of good cheer. In other words Christ In Jesus’ mind, healing is restoration. It was saying to the man, “My desire for happier lives now. is restoration physically, mentally and you is to live a happy, abundant life. Your emotionally. Sin has left its deadly toll on sickness has robbed you from enjoying have to do and all the things they cannot all aspects of our lives. The Gospel is to life in all of its fullness. I have given you do. The health message is given by a restore men and women to the image of back not only your health but life in all its loving God so that you and I can live an God physically, mentally, and spiritually. richness.” And that is the same thing Jesus abundant life, and we can share that life The point is, there is a strong mental and wants not only for us, but for the people with those whom we come in contact with. spiritual component to the health message. that we meet in our offices, serve as our Our physical bodies, our mental states, patients, and come in contact with in our #2 Clear, Receptive Minds and our spiritual life are all intimately daily lives. God has given His people a message of connected to each other.

FALL 2011 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST 11 If our lifestyle habits destroy our health, it is much more than a physical matter, it is a spiritual issue.

For instance, our brains are nourished by the quality of the blood transported to them through our veins and arteries. The Holy Spirit does not speak to us through our big toes. He speaks to us through our brain. If, because of inactivity, the blood that passes to the brain does not oxygenate the brain; and if, because of a high fat diet, I have impaired my health in ways that higher and nobler faculties. Wrong habits In short, God gave us the health message impact my thought patterns, it’s that much of eating and drinking lead to errors in because He wants us to know Him more harder for the Holy Spirit to reach me. If thought and action. Indulgence of appetite fully. we are eating food that destroys the quality strengthens the animal propensities, of the blood that nourishes the brain, our giving them the ascendancy over the #3 A Prepared People minds will not be as clear to understand mental and spiritual powers.” God has given His people the gift of health the promptings of the Holy Spirit in the to enable them to be ready for the coming mind and in the heart. If our lifestyle God has given us the health message so of Jesus. habits destroy our health, it is much more that, among other things, we can have than a physical matter, it is a spiritual clear minds, which will better enable us Here’s where the Seventh-day Adventist issue. Ellen White makes this point clear to draw closer to Him in prayer and Bible health message is unique, not so much in an article printed in the Review and study. God has given us the health message because of the specific health practices Herald in 1881, “Let none who profess so that a junk food diet does not destroy themselves (some of which were already godliness regard with indifference the the health of our bodies and deaden our being taught by others) but because health health of the body, and flatter themselves spiritual impulses. God has given us the is part of a message to prepare a people for that intemperance is no sin, and will not health message so that we will not be the coming of Jesus. affect their spirituality. A close sympathy so stressed out in overwork and lack of exists between the physical and the moral physical exercise that we have foggy brains Health is not an add-on to Jesus’ teachings. nature. The standard of virtue is elevated or and sluggish thoughts. God has given us It is an integral part of Jesus’ last day degraded by the physical habits. Excessive the health message so we will have clear message. It is indissolubly linked to the eating of the best of food will produce a minds to listen to His voice speaking to us message of the three angels to prepare a morbid condition of the moral feelings. through His Holy Spirit and through His people for the last days. The apostle Paul And if the food is not the most healthful, word so our hearts will be in tune with affirms this thought in 1 Thessalonians the effects will be still more injurious. Any His heart and our minds in tune with His 5:23, “Now may the God of peace Himself habit which does not promote healthful mind. sanctify you completely, and may your action in the human system degrades the whole spirit, soul and body be preserved

12 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST FALL 2011 Salvation comes only through the grace of Jesus Christ but His grace saves us completely not partially.

proclamation of God’s Word. They will just not receive it that way. But when we approach them with kindness and love and understanding – when we sympathize with them over the issues that they have in their health – then doors are opened to the medical missionary that are not opened to one who merely proclaims the gospel. blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus in harmony with God’s will, He enables Matthew’s record says: “Behold they Christ.” Seventh-day Adventists believe us to receive the Holy Spirit’s power for brought to Him a paralytic.”(Matthew 9:2) that human beings are an integrated victory. He paves the way to empower Consider Matthew 9 verse 32. “As they unit: physical, emotional, mental, and us to overcome the next thing in our life went out, behold they brought to Him a spiritual. What affects our physical health that needs to be surrendered so we can be man mute and demon possessed.” Again, affects our state of mind. What affects ready in every facet of our lives for Jesus as we saw earlier, friends brought friends our mental state of mind affects our return. This is by no means salvation by to Jesus. physical health. What affects our mental diet or exercise. Salvation comes only and physical health affects our emotional through the grace of Jesus Christ but His Mark 8:22 reads, “Then He came to health. What affects our physical, mental, grace saves us completely not partially. Bethsaida and they brought a blind man and emotional health affects our spiritual When His grace permeates our lives we to Him.” health. Jesus is longing for people that consecrate every aspect of our beings to are totally committed to Him physically, Him in preparation for His soon return. Again and again, medical missionaries mentally, emotionally and spiritually. The health message is part of His last day bring people to Jesus. The message is so message of “giving glory to Him” in the clear, it bears repeating: We are to bring One of God’s end time purposes for the final generation. (Revelation 14:7). people to Jesus, and nothing will work health message is to open the mind so better for us than our health message. the Holy Spirit takes full control. It is #4 Effective Witnesses to prepare men and women physically, God has given us the health message Here are the words of God’s last day mentally, emotionally, and spiritually to enable us to be the most powerful messenger “Nothing will open doors for for the coming of Jesus. And for this to witnesses possible for Him as we approach the truth like gospel medical missionary happen to us, we must learn to surrender His return. work” (Ellen G. White, Evangelism, page anything and everything that stands in 513). the way of that preparation. When we There are many people, of course, whom surrender anything in our life that is not we will never reach through a direct

FALL 2011 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST 13 them eat the best diet to reduce the risk of disease wouldn’t we also want to introduce them to Jesus the true health Restorer? If we love them enough to encourage them to drink adequate amounts of water would we not want them to quench their inner spiritual thirst with the Water of Life?

Conclusion Why has God given us medical missionary work? OCTO BER 27 – 30, 2011 Notice, it is not medical mercenary work.

It’s not merely to make money. Not merely CROWNE PLAZA • OCEANFRO NT AT SHIP YARD PLANTATIO N to live a life of comfortable convenience. H ILTO N H EAD ISLAND • SO UTH C ARO LINA Not merely so we will be in health. God has given medical missionary work for us to be a channel of blessing to the world. It is a vehicle to touch people with What, then, is the purpose of medical a task to accomplish for Jesus. We have the gospel. It provides opportunities to missionary work? It is certainly to give us a goal to reach. We are much more introduce people to Jesus the true Medical a longer, healthier life. Certainly it is to interested in the souls of men and women Missionary. give us a better quality of blood and a more than we are in merely helping them live intimate relationship with Jesus. Certainly seven years longer so they can sin longer to As a medical missionary, you have an it is to prepare us for the coming of Jesus. burn in the lake of fire. Certainly, we want incredible opportunity. As you lovingly them to have the best quality of life. But reach out to touch people, and share the But it is also, through loving ministry, to we have ulterior motives. principles of health, hearts and minds will touch others with the gospel. It is not be opened to the gospel. merely to wait on tables and make money And I don’t apologize for that! And, in a health food restaurant. It is to use indeed, neither should you! May we be faithful to our task. May we those moments as opportunities to share recognize the sacredness of our calling. Jesus. I have an ulterior motive. Along with you, I May we see the health message as long to see the people I minister to through something God has given us so that we It is certainly much more than prescribing Medical Missionary work saved in God’s may have an abundant life. May we never a hydrotherapy treatment. It is certainly kingdom and rejoice with Him through become so busy in treating others that we much more than encouraging patients not all eternity. If love leads us to work as a fail to hear the Holy Spirit. May we not to smoke cigarettes. It is certainly much physician, as a dentist, as a health educator create static in our brains from overwork more than getting them on a low-fat diet. or medical missionary in any way – if love and overeating. May we sense the call to However important these things are, in leads me to work for the physical health surrender everything in our lives. May we and of themselves, they are a means to an of the people I serve, won’t that same love be ready for the coming of Jesus, and be end, not the end in and of themselves! desire them to have eternity? If we love the channels of blessing He longs for us them enough to try to keep them from to be in this crisis hour of earth’s history. There is a vast difference between health having a coronary heart attack, will we not This is our calling and this is our destiny. education and medical missionary work. love them enough to want them to have a We cannot fail Him now. We are medical missionaries. We have new heart? If we love them enough to help

14 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST FALL 2011 7th annual amen conference

OCTO BER 27 – 30, 2011

CROWNE PLAZA • OCEANFRO NT AT SHIP YARD PLANTATIO N H ILTO N H EAD ISLAND • SO UTH C ARO LINA

Children Children’s Programs will be offered throughout the weekend. Please visit Jesus is the great center of influence in all truly effective medical amensda.org for more information. evangelistic work. His healing, empowering, forgiving presence is its CME Accreditation Statement attractive light. Constant connection with Christ makes the physician “The Kettering Medical Center is accredited by the Ohio State Medical and dentist a center of influence in the home, the office, the church, Association (OSMA) to provide the community, and the world. continuing medical education for physicians. The Kettering Medical Center designates this live activity for a maximum of 4 hours AMA PRA Category 1 CreditTM. visit www.amensda.org Physicians should only claim credit to register commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.”

FALL 2011 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST 15 7th annual amen conference

Agenda

Thursday October 27, 2011 • Nicolae Dan, MD – Sanitariums Thrive as Centers of Influence 4:00 – 5:00 pm: Business Meeting • George Guthrie, MD, MPH, CDE, CNS* – Spiritual 6:15 – 7:15 pm: Supper Mission and Medical Institutions 7:30 – 9:00 pm: Phil Mills, MD – Whose Counsel? • Tricia Penniecook, MD, MPH – “Where is God When I 9:00 – 9:45 pm: Exhibits Open Suffer?” The Role of Health Ministries in Disasters 5:15 – 6:15pm: Exhibits Open / Networking / Sabbath Preparation Friday October 28, 2011 6:15 – 7:15 pm: Supper 7:30 – 8:30 am: Stephen Bohr – Our High Calling 7:30 – 9:00 pm: Neil Nedley, MD – Vacation Centers of 8:30 – 9:30 am: Breakfast Influence 9:30 – 10:25 am: Tim Howe, MD* – Every Practice a Life 9:00 – 9:45 pm: Non-commercial exhibits open Style Center 10:30 – 11:45 am: Guthrie, Carney, Houmann, Whiting Center’s of Influence – 4 Vignettes Sabbath October 29, 2010 11:45 – 11:55 am: Seminar Announcements 7:30 – 8:30 am: Stephen Bohr – Our High Calling Part 2 12:00 – 1:00 pm: Exhibits Open / Networking Time 8:30 – 9:30 am: Breakfast 1:00 – 2:00 pm: Lunch 9:45 – 11:10 am: Joe Nozaki, MD – Sharing Christ in Surgical Practice: My Experience 2:00 – 3:00 pm: Seminar Session I • Wendell Lawrence, DDS – The Office as a Center of • Mark & Teenie Finley – Making Your Church A Health Influence for Health, Healing and Hope Evangelism Center 11:20 am – 1:00 pm: Derek Morris: – Radical Apostleship • Peter Landless, MD* – Relationships: the Secret Flavor in Freedom from Addictions* 1:00 – 2:00 pm: Lunch Relax & enjoy the Sabbath on the beautiful South • Don Bovell, MD – The Power of Influence in the Carolina Coast Emergency Room, Office and Beyond 2:00 – 5:00 pm: Non-commercial Exhibits Open • Jeff McAuliffe, DDS – Reaching the Cities with Centers of Influence 5:00 – 6:00 pm: AMEN Short Term Missions & Musical Program 3:05 – 4:05 pm: Seminar Session II: 6:15 – 7:15 pm: Supper • Mark & Teenie Finley – Making Your Church A Health Evangelism Center (part 2) 7:30 – 9:00 pm: Des Cummings & Mark Finley – Reformers Once Again • Tim Arnott, MD – Your Office a Lifestyle Center – Making it Work 9:00 – 9:45 pm: Exhibits open • David Fernandez, MD* – Pain Management as an opportunity for Lifestyle Change Sunday October 30, 2011 • Patrick Im, DDS* – Changing Lives through 7:30 – 8:30 am: Stephen Bohr - Our High Calling Neuromuscular Dentistry Part 3 4:10 – 5:10 pm: Seminar Session III 8:30 – 9:30 am: Breakfast • Mark & Teenie Finley – Making Your Church A Health Evangelism Center (part 3)

*AMEN, in conjunction with Kettering Medical Center & Loma Linda University (dental only), is pleased to offer continuing medical education credits at the 2011 Annual Conference. One credit is being offered for each of the seminars labeled with an asterisk* (CME & Dental CE) enabling a total of 4 CME/CE credits.

16 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST FALL 2011 Featured Speakers

Who’s Counsel?: Phil Mills, MD Vacation Centers of Influence: Neil Nedley, MD Phil Mills, MD is a board certified dermatologist, but Graduated from Loma Linda University and completed his passion for evangelistic work was kindled years his residency in Internal Medicine at Kettering before his medical training when, as a 14 year old, Medical Center. He has published, given medical he read Ellen White’s book, Evangelism. Throughout lectures around the world in preventative health his time as a clinician, Dr. Mills has always found and depression. In addition to being a practicing his greatest joy in soul winning. Dr. Mills will share physician, Nedley also serves as president of Weimar how, through prayer, biblical study and reading spirit Center of Health and Education. On Friday evening, of prophecy, God has led him to set up his new Dr. Nedley will motivate you to think more creativity dermatology practice as a center of influence. about how you can turn your next vacation into a medical evangelism opportunity.

Our High Calling: Stephen Bohr Pastor Bohr was born in Wisconsin but grew up in The Office as a Center of Influence for Health, Wendell Lawrence, DDS Venezuela and Colombia where his parents served Healing and Hope: as missionaries for over thirty years, and where he Dr. Lawrence has been in practice for over 30 years met his wife, Aurora. His heavy speaking schedule and has a passion for medical ministry. He holds has taken him around the world. With a BA, MA, and weekly nutrition and bible study classes for his MDiv, from Andrews University, his life passion is the patients and their friends & family. He will share study of prophecy and teaching others to seek the his experience with you highlighting the unexpected hidden gems throughout scripture. This weekend benefits and tremendous rewards in medical he will describe to us God’s ideal “full stature” evangelism through the office. physician/dentist living God’s Influence in practice. He will challenge us to fulfill our high calling as a center of influence for the days in which we live. Radical Apostleship: Derek Morris Dr. Derek J. Morris serves as the Editor of MINISTRY, an international journal for pastors, and an associate Every Practice a Life Style Center: in the General Conference Ministerial Association. Tim Howe, MD He is a prolific writer and a well-known presenter Dr. Howe practices internal medicine in Brunswick, ME worldwide on the Hope Channel. He finds his where he serves as Medical Director of Wellness and greatest joy in helping people to experience a life- of Diabetes Education at Parkview Adventist Medical changing relationship with Jesus Christ. Center. His 10 day outpatient programs have helped On Sabbath morning he will challenge us to respond hundreds to learn and apply biblical health principles. to the call of Jesus to become radical apostles, Dr. Howe will review studies revealing how well office proclaiming the good news about Jesus and based physicians’ educational efforts have actually extending His healing ministry to those within their changed patients behaviors and discuss the role of circle of influence. spirituality in lasting health practice change.

Reformers once Again: Reaching the Cities with Centers of Influence: Des Cummings & Mark Finley Jeff McAuliffe, DDS Dr. Des Cummings, Jr. is Executive Vice President at Dr. McAuliffe is a practicing general dentist in Laurys Florida Hospital, one of America’s largest hospitals. Station, Pennsylvania. He is also a church planter Dr. Cummings earned a Ph.D in Leadership and and currently the Assistant to the President for Management with emphasis in Statistical Forecasting Mission in the Pennsylvania Conference. In that from Andrews University. He also has a Master of role, he works with church plants and metropolitan Divinity degree and is an ordained minister of the ministries development. Dr. McAuliffe will speak Seventh-day Adventist Church. Dr. Cummings has about the critical role of centers of influence and how authored or co-authored three books and numerous they fit into God’s plan to reach the cities. Together articles. He speaks to national and international with you, he will look at scriptures and counsels that conferences on the future of healthcare, specializing forecast a “mighty movement” before Jesus comes, as in strategies for whole person care, healthy well as how you as medical professionals can actively communities and the hospital of the future. take the lead. Pastor Mark Finley serves as assistant to the President for the General Conference of Seventh- day Adventists. He has presented more than 15- evangelistic series around the world. In light of the current resurgence of interest in health in the United States, Pastor Mark Finley and Dr. Des Cummings will present how Seventh-day Adventists can be in the forefront of this health renewal. They will discuss visit how Adventists can recapture their position as health www.amensda.org reformers for the nation. to register

FALL 2011 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST 17 by Roger Miller, MD

Lift up Your Eyes!

e all know the story of Eyes Wide Open Jesus and the woman at the After finishing my residency, I decided to go well. Afterwards, when His back to Tennessee. I arrived at work the first disciples returned, Jesus day and the radiologists were there. My first saidW to them: “Do you not say there are still thought was, Lift up your eyes! These men four months, and then comes the harvest? represented the harvest to me. How could I Behold I say to you, lift up your eyes, and look reach them? Slowly but surely I entered into at the fields. For they are already white for a spiritual discussion with one, whom I will harvest” (John 4:35). call Dr. C, and we studied and eventually, Roger Miller, MD after a year and a half, he was baptized into has served for the past 17 Jesus is sitting at the well, looking at a field, the Seventh-day Adventist Church. years as Diagnostic Radiologist and He said to the disciples, You guys say in Cleveland, Tennessee. Dr. that this field is not ready for harvest for four So now I’m thinking, “OK, Dr. C is a Seventh- Miller is a fourth generation months yet, right? But I say, open your eyes day Adventist. I have a partner. Now we have Seventh-day Adventist. His and see what is really out there. two here.” And so I continued lifting up my wife is also a physician and eyes, looking for someone else. I knew there they have five children. He In short, He told them to open their spiritual was going to be another person. There is is the author of the book eyes and see the great need for winning souls. always going to be another person. Because I “Understanding Revelation can’t see them yet, I set “traps.” In my office In One Day”. Dr. Miller has a Thus, for us, physicians, dentists, residents, behind me, on the shelf, I had books like passion for practical medical I ask—are your eyes open to the mission Answers to Difficult Bible Questions. I had evangelism outreach to his before us? In other words, Lift up your eyes The Almost Forgotten Day by Mark Finley. partners and coworkers. Dr. if you’re in the hospital. Lift up your eyes if And I simply put reading material around Miller has been deeply affected you are in the classroom. Lift up your eyes if the office. you are in your neighborhood. If you are in by the message of John 4, that the supermarket, lift up your eyes. It may not One day a file tech said to me, “Hey, I hope passage of scripture changed seem like anything is there, but there is. you don’t mind, but I was working last night his understanding of Christ’s and you weren’t in your office, and I got this ministry. With this idea in mind, I want to share some little book off your shelf there . . . .” of my own experiences about what it means This article is adapted from Dr. Miller’s presentation at the AMEN to open your eyes and see the harvest. No, I don’t mind at all! conference.

18 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST FALL 2011 A year later, he was a baptized a Seventh- day Adventist Christian.

The harvest is all around us in unexpected places. I did not expect this particular file tech to be part of the harvest. It would take too long to explain his background – but he was not someone you would expect to become a Seventh-day Adventist. However, once Christ came into his heart, he became a new person, and he started all over again. The past is past. I didn’t see it coming with my eyes. I just knew the harvest was out there. I knew it would happen, and there he is.

So, now I am wondering who is next. After right in the midst of not having a job he After feeling convicted, I did just that, and the file tech was baptized as a Seventh- decided to start tithing. though I first thought about sending it to day Adventist Christian, he got into the Review and Herald, I felt impressed to conversations with his file tech colleagues, Within a week of Dr. L telling me that he send it to a local publisher in Cleveland, and the domino effect began. The file was going to start paying tithe, we get a TN. It’s called Pathway Press, which is tech started a Bible study in the office, phone call from a hospital that is thirty the Review and Herald equivalent for the and when I held an evangelistic series in minutes from our hospital. They were Church of God, Dr. L’s church. my local church, one of the men from the losing their radiologists and needed a study came, with his whole family! radiology group and we all got the job. Though I didn’t expect it, they printed the book and they decided sell it too. It’s called A Challenge Then a medical multi-specialty group Understanding Revelation in One Day. It is Last year was a challenging one for my called us and said, “Hey, we are buying the Adventist mainstream understanding group of Radiologists. Our hospital was our own CT scanner, and ultrasound, and of Daniel and Revelation. Incredible. bought by a for-profit organization. They setting up an imaging department, and we Open up your eyes, look around you. Who asked us, as a radiology group, to do things want you to be our radiologists.” would have guessed? It’s exciting! that we couldn’t do from a professional or moral basis. We all decided to leave, though And then another hospital called us and Tourist “Trap” it was very hard. (I have five children, two said, “Hey, we need another radiology We also started another ministry. We had in college) I had a partner, whom I call Dr. group to help us up here.” finished a five-year stint in developing a L, who had long roots in that town and that new church in Benton, Tennessee. We hospital. In a sense, it was his hospital. So shortly after we left our original now wanted to start something new, where hospital, in Cleveland, TN, we acquired no SDA church existed. We finally found In the previous year or so, Dr. L and I had our own PET CT imaging center, and, a place, called McCaysville, Georgia. No been talking about spiritual issues. He was don’t miss this -- we are making twice SDA church was within thirty miles of it. raised a Church of God Christian, but he as much money as we made at the other Perfect! had never tithed. So we had talked about hospital, with twice as much time off. And that, along with the Sabbath and other we’re getting calls every day. The town was a drop-off location for a issues he was interested in. Ironically, it tourist train called the Blue Ridge Scenic was right about the same time we were There’s more to this story. I had talked a Railway. Every day when the train pulls going through this professional trial that lot with Dr. L about Daniel and Revelation, up in the town, suddenly, this place that is Dr. L decided to start paying tithe. That is, and Dr. L told me I ought to write a book. almost a ghost town, becomes packed with

FALL 2011 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST 19 people. They are milling around for two hours with absolutely nothing to do except go into a few little shops.

Therefore we seized the opportunity. We rented a section of the mall that has big glass windows right on the street, and placed a big sign in it that said: “Christian Resources Visitor Center – Welcome!” We filled it with all sorts of literature, books and brochures.

We had a painting by Nathan Greene for one of our eight displays. It’s called The first Sabbath in Eden. No one can walk by that window and not look at that. Underneath each of the paintings and displays, we have professionally made little town becomes a distribution center Net series. We gave him Steps to Christ, signs telling what they are. In this case it for the world. and Great Controversy. He took them all. says, “The First Sabbath in Eden, by Nathan Greene.” That’s the first thing they see - a Only God could have arranged that! He’s Now, here’s the great part. We knew creation picture. And under that we have the one that said, “Lift up your eyes!” It’s nothing about him until one day he gave a professional sign that says, “Thousands incredible. us his card, and it said that Mr. G. was of years before there was a Jewish nation, the associate pastor for the largest Baptist or a Christian Church, God gave mankind Two Experiences church in the area. The associate pastor for a very special gift – the Sabbath.” We had started a little health fair there: this large Baptist church was distributing blood pressure, cholesterol, etc. We do not our literature enthusiastically, without a go to the visitor’s center every day. We’re salary. God gave just there on the weekend. So, one day a Mr. G. walked in and he said, “Listen, Lift up your eyes! mankind a very I’ve been coming by here several times. I haven’t caught you here, but I’ve gotten Another one of God’s appointments was a special gift – the some of this literature – this is the greatest year ago. I was coming out to Loma Linda stuff I’ve ever read!” to see my first grandchild born. My mind Sabbath. was focused only on that but just before We had books like The Almost Forgotten leaving I grabbed a couple of my books, We’ve been running the visitor’s center Day, and Steps to Christ, and a couple of just in case. I got on the plane, next to for three years. The people who ride other books available on the outside of a woman, and because we had problems that train in Georgia come from all over the glass. He had read these. He said, “I with the overhead monitors not working, the world. It’s incredible. You’re sitting want to get some more of these books! I’ve we got into a conversation. She told me in this little town and all of a sudden you been taking more than my share whenever that she worked for Delta Airlines. She see all these people coming towards you. I come by here and I have been handing also struck me as a well-prepared 21st You find out that they are from Norway, them out to people I know in town.” century traveler. In one smooth move she from England, from Australia. They are pulled out an I-pod that has a full screen, visiting the United States, they took this Next thing we know he wanted more and and got ready to watch something. train ride, and now they are taking these more books and material to give out, such books back home. All of a sudden this as tapes by Doug Batchelor from one of his It was a sermon by Charles Stanley, a

20 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST FALL 2011 “This day has changed my life!”

Lift up your eyes!

One Last Story I just built a cabin for my folks to live in near our house. As I was working with the crew on the cabin, I told them: “None of you guys can work on the Sabbath.”

They answered, “What’s the Sabbath?”

When I explained, they agreed. Anyway at one point, as I was working with them, the lead carpenter’s brother, who helped on prominent pastor in Atlanta. Baptist, she fell away and recently she was the job, came up to me and asked, “Do you going back to church. She was on her way know Doug Batchelor?” “Hey” I said, “do you know Charles to meet her sisters. They were going to Stanley?” talk about spiritual things. “I don’t know him,” I said, “but I know who he is.” “What?” “Listen,” I said, “I wrote a book on Revelation. Would you like to read it?” “I’ve been watching his program on TV “Do you know Charles Stanley?” for a long time,” he said. “I heard him say “You’re kidding! You wrote a book on something about the Sabbath.” “Yes, I’ve met him. And I go to his church Revelation?” once in a while.” I found out later that Larry the carpenter “Yes, I’ve got it right here!” was also the minister of an 80-member “Well, I’ve heard him on the radio and on church and, to make a long story short,— TV and he’s a really good pastor.” I pulled it out and handed it to her. She they are all now keeping the Sabbath! said: “This is incredible! I’m going to read And she said, “Yes, I like him a lot. You this right now.” Meanwhile, as all this transpired, a know, I just went to his church a few weeks stonemason on the job said to me, “I used ago, and we were talking about the book of She got a highlighter from her briefcase, to be a Seventh-day Adventist!” Revelation.” and started reading, and we had a five hour interaction on the book of Revelation. The Where that’s going to end I don’t know. Remembering that on the way out of my book is only 130 pages, she poured straight All I know is what Jesus said, “Behold I house I had scooped up two of my books, through it until she reached about page 90 say to you, lift up your eyes, and look at I said, “Are you interested in the book of when eventually she put the book down for the fields. For they are already white for Revelation?” the first time. harvest.”

“Yes, I really am. I am interested in the “You know what?” she said. “The monitors book of Revelation, and I am interested in not working was not an accident, was it?” getting back into spiritual things.” Then, as an afterthought, she added, “This day has changed my life!” She then told me how, though raised a

FALL 2011 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST 21 by Wendell Lawrence, DDS

Healing and Hope for a Devastated City

he depressed economy, and its’ We shared the usual health lectures on the impact on the auto industry, had NEWSTART program, and added a full a devastating effect on Detroit’s blown, old fashioned, Bible-based evangelistic metro area. If anything could go series. There was music every night. A bible wrong,T it did. Lost jobs led to foreclosed worker team consisting of two lay pastors, and abandoned homes. Lost jobs meant lost a nutritionist, and three elders greeted each medical insurance. Many people were left guest, and followed up with interests during with untreated medical and dental issues and the week. Separate meetings and activities no resources to change that. were arranged for the younger ones, and a Wendell Lawrence, DDS food service team served a full vegan meal has more than 26 years My heart was moved with compassion for before each meeting. of experience as a dentist. those struggling and I knew something had He has established an to be done. I sensed It took several teams of extensive practice in God’s leading and was workers to accomplish all of Southfield, Michigan impressed that now was Where there this. Where there is prayer offering cutting edge the perfect time to launch is prayer there is power, so we took preventive dental care a health evangelism this to heart and each of our with an emphasis on series. What better way to there is teams met for prayer during non-surgical periodontics empower those who were the week, and before the and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. being discouraged by the power. meetings. We knew that we Lawrence often collaborates loss of treatment options? couldn’t do anything of value with the Michigan without help from heaven. Everyone prayed conference of Seventh- Many of my patients were enthusiastic about that the Lord would maximize their gifts and day Adventists providing the idea, so we scheduled the meetings, using open the hearts of those who attended to my office as the venue. The title was “Health, receive His truth. medical evangelistic efforts Healing and Hope for These Trying Times.” to the greater Detroit We passed out prayer request cards during community. After due consideration, we planned for the meetings and encouraged people to write fifteen or twenty attendees. Sixty-five of my down their personal, spiritual, and medical patients showed up, along with their family needs. We met weekly and prayed over each and friends. And, they didn’t come just for name and each need. We asked the Holy the first night—they were in their seats every Spirit to keep them coming, so we could Tuesday night. point them to the Great Physician who could meet all of their needs.

22 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST FALL 2011 Week by week we introduced our standing- each week. By the grace of God, many are a special season of prayer for her. Laying room-only crowd to new and healthier ways now following a vegetarian diet and have hands on her, we asked the Holy Spirit to of eating and living. Most importantly, adopted a complete lifestyle change. protect her as she travelled, and to give her they gave us opportunity to introduce them complete healing. to a Savior who cares about their every One member of our class had some problem. Even though my reception room extreme medical challenges. She came After 18 days, by the grace of God, our was crowded, nobody left or complained. to me one day and expressed her need for friend was able to come off of all of her The same power that drew the crowds to spiritual support to assist her in making medications. She lost weight, and her Jesus was in that room. Our only job was a complete lifestyle change. The things blood pressure was now completely to lift Him up. He blessed us with the she learned in the Bible class encouraged normal. Let me not fail to mention that privilege of feeding His sheep. her to believe that she could receive the her diet is now vegan. She came back to help she needed. Sensing her need for our class a new person, praising the Lord, Our team included three AMEN physicians more intense medical intervention and not only for her physical healing, but who provided the heath focus for the nutritional counseling, I referred her to most of all, for her spiritual rebirth and meetings. Dr. Sterling Thompson, who Weimar Institute. regeneration. is a physician and a minister, presented during the early part of the meetings; Dr. Before this lady left for Weimar, we had An Evangelical minister came in as a new Don Bovell and Dr. David Fernandez came patient a few weeks ago. Because of his later and closed out the meetings. numerous medical challenges, he wanted The meetings concluded in November, Team members to learn about the NEWSTART program. and by God’s grace thirty-three people Now, he comes in each week to study what requested more intense Bible studies and are providing the Bible has to say about God’s principles further nutritional and lifestyle classes. of health. He is also learning about the emotional blessings of the Sabbath. We will be Our challenge now is to nurture and counseling and starting an 8 week health series in his support these people through to a complete church in the fall. spiritual and lifestyle change. Many of support. these precious souls are still trying to deal God is working on many hearts in the with daunting personal challenges caused Detroit area. Truth-seekers are finding by the collapse of the local economy. Him. The members of our Health, Healing Team members are providing emotional and Hope team are passionate about counseling and support. As needed, we winning souls for God and are privileged go into the homes and take the people to to cooperate with Him in working for the grocery store, showing them how to those He wants to bring into His kingdom. purchase ingredients and cook healthy vegan meals. Above all, we pray with them.

We are presently continuing to hold nutrition and Bible classes in my office

FALL 2011 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST 23 S TUDENT CHAP TER

It is a privilege to be the president of the Loma Linda University (LLU) student chapter of AMEN, called Adventist Medical Evangelism Student Association (AMESA). God has a special plan for this organization, and it is exciting to see how God is using us on the LLU campus. Over the past twelve months we were able to formally establish the organization on campus, hold regular studies

Jonathon Thorp using the Ministry of Healing, and play an integral part in academic programming. I asked two students to provide a reflection on what AMEN means to them, I’m sure you will be blessed as you read their accounts. Please pray for us as students and for LLU as God continues to use us as a part of the proclamation of His everlasting gospel. — Jonathon Thorp, Senior Medical Student

REFLECTION 1: doctors and dentists and to provide us with inspiration to do His In Romans 1:16, Paul states, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel work. of Christ; for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.” I am now a junior medical student, and actually seeing patients in the clinic. Therefore I am dealing with the nitty gritty of taking There exist forces that would persuade us to be ashamed of the histories, performing exams, and thinking up potential diagnoses. gospel of Christ. Professional, academic, and societal expectations Daily I am confronted with the importance of Godly role models all combine to make us feel ashamed of wanting to share Christ that demonstrate what an effective, Adventist physician looks through the medical profession. To stand against this tide of like in the work place. AMEN has an incredible opportunity to pressure while thinking you are the only one doing so is a daunting provide this type of mentorship, and I look forward to learning challenge. Even the prophet Elijah in his despair complained to from and contributing to this organization. God that he alone of the faithful was left (I Kings 19:10). — Jonathan Martin, Junior Medical Student

There is something about a support network, of knowing others REFLECTION 2: are engaged in the same struggles as you, that makes it easier to My time spent studying in medical school has been greatly focused stand up against the pressure. God’s response to Elijah showed on physiology, the disease process, and modern treatment. The there were 7,000 who had not bowed the knee to Baal; there were volume of information to be learned is enormous! Unfortunately, indeed other faithful people who were standing against the tide. the reality of the daily grind makes it far too easy to neglect For me, AMEN represents the 7,000 who have not bowed the studying about how to do what I came into medicine for—sharing knee to societal expectations of only delivering humanitarian aid, Christ with others. Being a part of AMESA has rounded out ignoring the gospel of Christ and the specific message given to my education and helped me focus on using medicine to bring the SDA church. others to the Great Physician. As a group we studied the Ministry of Healing and I saw how offering the simple truths of healthful As a sophomore medical student, coming to the 2010 AMEN living to patients can lead them to learn the simple truths about conference in San Diego was an encouragement, both from the salvation and ultimately be brought to the Great Physician. As messages heard and the ability to meet with fellow students who a result of being involved with AMESA I will be better equipped also have a desire to share Christ in the workplace. The generosity to enter into medical ministry and use medicine as a tool for His of AMEN shown by sponsoring medical students was tangible kingdom. evidence that this organization is willing to invest in young — David Russell, Senior Medical Student

24 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST FALL 2011 by P. William Dysinger, MD, MPH

The Historical Perspective of Health Evangelism in the Adventist Church (Adapted from the book Health to the People by P. William Dysinger, MD, MPH)

Part two of a three-part series. n part one, we looked at the purchase of enrolled as a “Bible and Special student” at the Loma Linda property in 1905, and the College of Evangelists. the early challenges the institution faced as it tried to implement Ellen White’s When the call came to Tindall to pioneer this Icounsels regarding medical missionary training new approach, he faced a struggle, His wife and evangelism. had not yet become an Adventist and they had a young infant. His wife was unhappy Ellen White’s vision for evangelistic reform about the arrangement because it meant her During the night of February 27, 1910, Ellen husband would be totally immersed in the P. William Dysinger, White was shown new ways to work the cities. campaign for six weeks. MD, MPH graduated from the For this mission, she called for “companies College of Medical Evangelists (teams) to be organized and diligently trained One of the college teachers, Charles Garnsey, in 1955 and obtained his to labor in our important cities.” and his wife, Margaret—both nurses— MPH degree from Harvard completed this first medical evangelistic University in 1962. Was a When news of this new approach to medical team. They pitched their tent next to a co-founder of the School of evangelism reached Loma Linda, John H. N. building where a prominent ladies’ club Public Health at Loma Linda Tindall was chosen by the faculty to try out met. Overhearing one of the health talks, the where he carries the title the new methodology in a pilot program in president invited Tindall to address her club. Professor and Associate Dean nearby San Bernardino where all previous Having thus gained access to influential emeritus in the SPH and evangelistic efforts had failed. Tindall, a city leaders, he rejoiced when the editor of Clinical Professor emeritus of relatively new convert to Adventism, was, at the newspaper gave the Adventists much Preventive Medicine in the the time, a Bible student at Loma Linda. advertising space, gratis, through editorials School of Medicine. Is the and full-page reports of the meetings. author of Health to the People John Tindall had grown up in a Methodist home in California, but the doctrine of hell- At the end of this pilot program in San (2007) the official history of fire so deeply offended him that he became Bernardino, 16 people were baptized, public health, preventive and an atheist. While studying law in San Diego, Tindall’s wife included. The results electrified lifestyle medicine, and medical he detoured to join a gold strike near the Loma Linda. Suddenly, the cities had become evangelism training and Mexican border. There he met one he called a viable mission field. Thereafter, Tindall outreach at Loma Linda from “a man of mystery.” That person read to him became a full-time church employed medical 1905-2005. from the writings of Ellen White, leading evangelist and did many other campaigns Tindall from the “gold field rocks” to the elsewhere. “Rock of Ages.” Shortly after, in 1908, he

FALL 2011 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST 25 Tindall’s approach to evangelism 500 people stood to indicate their belief in Tindall’s usual plan involved gathering a At the last the message presented. team of “paid conference workers.” They included the evangelist and his assistant, meeting, 500 “Billy Sunday got the crowds,” someone Bible workers, doctors, nurses, a singing remarked, “but Tindall got the converts.” evangelist, and cooks. Then he organized people stood local church members to give Bible Gratified by what Tindall had done, the studies and simple treatments. They also to indicate Oklahoma state medical director declared: distributed announcements and ushered “If other religious people would do as at the meetings. Always skilled at public their belief in practical a work [as Tindall], it would be a relation and community involvement, the message great help to people everywhere.” Tindall interviewed prominent business firms and asked for contributions, which presented. Tindall’s many efforts brought exciting always came in. results and allayed much prejudice against Adventists. Conference workers received In Oklahoma City, the audience of 1,700 Tindall usually secured the largest and good training for future work, and church swelled to more than 2,000 after the best-equipped auditorium in town; he members savored a new, exhilarating sense Sabbath had been presented. When the also rented a smaller hall to accommodate of service. Financially, his campaigns popular evangelical preacher Billy Sunday treatments, cooking classes and other carried their own weight and stimulated arrived in town, many predicted a greatly training. His usual pattern was to convene faithful tithe paying. Months later, it was decreased attendance. After all, Billy three meetings each week, focusing reported that “every new convert had been Sunday had the support of major city Tuesdays and Thursdays on health and thoroughly instructed in every doctrine officials as well as the leading newspapers. nutrition, ending with doctrine on Sunday. and every reform in physical, mental, and Amazingly, the audiences at the Adventist spiritual habits.” lectures increased. At the last meeting,

26 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST FALL 2011 Today, interest in “religion and health” and “faith-based initiatives” is high, but Loma Linda was at least 30 years ahead of the current interest.

important site for health education. Today, interest in “religion and health” and “faith- based initiatives” is high, but Loma Linda was at least 30 years ahead of the current interest. Perhaps the most significant results of LLU conscientiously attempted to serve Tindall’s medical-evangelism approach its sponsoring Church from the first day P. T. Magan in 1938 had dreamed that at proved to be the solid long-term of classes in 1906. Although the ideal of Loma Linda a minister “of the right stamp” establishment of people “in the faith.” medical evangelism training waxed and would be found to help unite medical Most of Tindall’s public efforts, which waned through the years, the original ministry and the “preaching of the gospel.” always included major training efforts, vision was never lost. In 1969, Wilbur K. Nelson, an ordained took six months or more to complete. minister-missionary with a doctorate in His Field School of Health Evangelism in In 1947, the newly organized School of Asian studies and an MPH degree, joined San Francisco (1927-31) proved to be the Tropical and Preventive Medicine’s first the faculty at Loma Linda. From his studies, largest evangelistic training effort ever effort was to teach a six-week course Nelson was convinced that ministers as undertaken by a CME medical evangelist. “in health evangelism (that is, medical opinion leaders, with minimal guidance evangelism) and tropical hygiene to from health professionals, could readily Church Health Education mission appointees, Bible instructors, adapt to community health education Unfortunately, the next phase of the ministers, and other educators seeking work. In 1970 he helped initiate the first church health education to ministers story knowledge of basic health principles.” two field schools of health evangelism is told too quickly. Discussing the attempt The Adventist Church provided an jointly sponsored by both Andrews and to merge health and religion education, annual subsidy to the College of Medical Loma Linda University—one in Savannah, J. G. Smoot of Andrews University stated Evangelists (CME) to encourage this kind GA and the other in eastern Pennsylvania. to R. E. Cleveland of LLU: “Sometimes it of Church health education. takes a great deal of effort for an idea to be Ministerial training in health evangelism born.” To that piece of wisdom we must As dean of the new School of Public Health at Loma Linda in the 1970s add another truth: “And the maintenance in 1967 and first chair of its department of At this point, more than 20 ministerial of the idea afterwards is seldom easy.” Health Education, Dr. Mervyn Hardinge students at the Theological Seminary at vigorously supported the church as an

FALL 2011 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST 27 Health ministry provides multiple opportunities to encourage people to live life to the fullest.

Andrews University formally indicated a desire to take additional study at Loma Linda. Despite little enthusiasm in Michigan, an agreement was finally reached in 1973 for a conjoint degree that combined a master’s degree in public health with an MDiv. This “program in church health education offers the minister opportunity to supplement his [theological] preparation with information and skills essential for the promotion of total health in his church and community,” the academic bulletin proclaimed.

The program continued throughout the decade of the ‘70s, with much interest from the theology students, but in 1980, without forewarning, James Crawford, then dean of the SPH at Loma Linda, received a letter from the Provost at Andrews University. It began affirming that the conjoint program had been “helpful to a group of our students.” It ended, however, with the suggestion that the “experiment” be discontinued. practical training in these lines.” GC; and many other leaders such as Philip G. Semaan and G. Edward Reid. Wilson Dean Crawford did not take the news The sub-specialty of church health states about his experience: “It has been passively. He appealed to Thomas education disappeared from the Loma a very valuable experience to use this Blincoe, then dean of Andrews University Linda bulletin in 1986, but the influence training in the pastoral and departmental Theological Seminary: “Let’s not give carries on through the many ministerial areas of church work. Health ministry up on this, Tom. Somehow God would graduates from Loma Linda. These include provides multiple opportunities to have our ministers trained in the basic the current president of the General encourage people to live life to the fullest.” understanding of health ministry. They Conference of SDA, Ted N. C. Wilson; the constantly deal with human beings— current general VP (and current Chair of To be continued . . . . body, mind and spirit. We must find an the LLU Governing Board) Lowell Cooper; appropriate way for them to receive more Matthew Bediako, retired Secretary of the

28 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST FALL 2011 AMEN M EDIA REPORT

by Alvin Trace

Life+Health Network 2.0

hat is good health? The World right numbers on a blood • 1 billion people watch online video 5 test? Stable emotions? A • By 2014 online video will account for 91% of Wfine EKG? all Internet traffic 5 Of course. With changes like this, we have to stay ahead of the curve. Currently we are utilizing our However, at Life+Health Network we believe website as the focal point of our Network good health must include a relationship operations, where one can watch VOD (video Alvin Trace has a graduate with our loving Creator, who informs and on demand), livestream (where programs degree in Health and Wellness empowers all other aspects of our being. play 24/7), and get updated information and is currently serving as the about the network and make donations. The Administrative Director of the That’s why the Life+Heath Network’s goal is Roku digital video player is an exciting way Life+Health Network. He has a to broadcast life-changing health principles to watch our broadcasts on TV at home. If passion for sharing the good that will impact people for Christ. God you have an HD large screen set, you can news of Lifestyle medicine. has truly blessed us with opportunities to connect with us wirelessly through your accomplish this goal by allowing us to take home network or via ethernet. a step by faith into new places. Which means we’ve made radical changes, centered Life+Health Network was the first Adventist on web-based multi-casting; that is, we’re ministry on Roku and the only exclusively using the Internet and broadband to deliver health related programming on Roku (www. “television” programs to our viewers. roku.com). The cost of Roku is as low as $59.95, and the majority of programs are Studies show that people today are making free, including Life+Health. Our newest significant changes in their viewing habits; in broadcast venue is the TVU Network, which fact, an astonishing 70 percent of consumers currently broadcasts to 35,000,000 viewers are streaming, downloading or watching worldwide. They’ve sold over 50,000,000 recorded broadcast TV on a weekly basis, apps, which means it can be seen on your and 50 percent are using internet-based on- smartphone, iPad, tablet, laptop and desktop. demand TV/video every week. In other words, just about anywhere in the world, people can view the TVU Network! Look at some of the new trends: Where do we go from here? We’re working USA on a Life+Health Network Pro channel, • 39% of TV viewers watch TV online 1 which will be optimized for physician/dentist • 335,000 households cancelled their cable practice waiting rooms and also for hospital subscription in 2010 2 cable networks. When we think of the gospel • 22% of people aged between 18 and being spread “like the leaves of autumn,” 34 consider switching from cable to we know that the original context was the VOD 3* printed page but new technology has made * Netflix gained 6 million new subscribers in 2010 outreach possible in ways our pioneers could never have imagined!

FALL 2011 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST 29 P RES IDENT’S REPORT

by Phil Mills, MD

Will It Blend?

had never heard of the BlendTec difference in his spiritual effectiveness—and Company until I saw a viral YouTube, he was shocked the next Sabbath at church Will It Blend? Perhaps you have seen when nearly a half-dozen non-Adventist it, too. In an ingenious advertising patients and staff showed up at church. And Icampaign, Tom Dickson, CEO of BlendTec they have kept coming and are receiving takes popular objects such as new iPhones or Bible studies at the time of this writing! iPads and asks the question, “Will it blend?” He then places these objects into a blender Ministry to the body and ministry to the soul, which grinds them up into tiny bits. It can will it blend? Phil Mills, MD is a board blend! certified dermatologist. It should blend. “The ministry to the physical Throughout his time as a But the question “will it blend?” is more and the spiritual are to blend, leading the clinician, Dr. Mills has always than a clever marketing slogan. It is also afflicted ones to trust in the power of the found his greatest joy in soul an important question for our medical and heavenly Physician. Those who, while giving winning. For him, nothing dental practices. Ministry to the body and the proper treatments, will also pray for the else compares. One of the ministry to the soul, will it blend? healing grace of Christ, will inspire faith in founders of AMEN, Dr. Mills the minds of the patients. Their own course is convinced that God is “Those who care for the sick should be will be an inspiration to those who supposed using this organization to prepared to blend spiritual healing with their cases to be hopeless.” MM 248.1. catalyze a revival of medical physical healing.” LLM 78.5. The BlendTec missionary work that will blending is destructive. But God’s blending I have observed first hand how praying before impact outreach on every is restorative. surgery brings peace to the anxious patient. level - family, church, clinic, and community. He prays for How can we blend spiritual and physical in A few weeks ago I had a patient hesitate our practices? when I told him I always offer to pray with the descent of the Holy Spirit my patients before I operate. I have not yet upon medical evangelists all 1. Blend by prayer had a patient decline, though I know sooner over the world to empower I received an encouraging call from a or later it will happen. I thought this patient them to do their part in physician in the Northwest who has made would be my first to decline. However, after the finishing of the gospel every effort to blend the spiritual and physical a pause he indicated it would be acceptable commission. in his practice. Yet he felt something was to him for me to proceed with prayer. So I still lacking. Seeking more direction from prayed. He said nothing further. I wondered God, he began to set aside special time in what he really thought and why he seemed the morning to pray for his patients and his reluctant. I wondered if I had offended him. practice. He started noticing an immediate But thought I’d never know.

30 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST FALL 2011 “The teachings given in medical lines should be blended with a study of the Bible.”

Then, a few days later, I learned the rest of the story from one of his relatives. The patient had been a self-proclaimed “atheist” and has had nothing to do with God for years. None of his family have been able pray with him. Following our educated physician will find entrance in successfully the work for body and soul.… encounter, he went home and told them our cities where other men cannot. Teach I know that you can do an important work of this doctor who prayed with him. He the message of health reform. This will in the ministry of the Word, in instructing has no longer refused to let his family have an influence with the people.” CH the souls for whom you labor to believe pray with him. Frankly I was amazed by 546.3. in Jesus Christ. Encourage the suffering this story, but then I reminded myself of ones to receive treatment from the great the God we serve who is in the business I have observed many times how blending Physician, for the healing of both body and providing amazing answers to prayer! Bible truths with illustrations from our soul.” PC 42.4. practice and from medical science keep I wouldn’t want to do without this the interest and attention of an audience. There is a disclaimer in the BlendTec blending. The late Dr. Mervyn Hardinge was a YouTube “Will It Blend?” videos. Viewers master at this and would attract and hold are warned not to try this at home and 2. Blend with Bible study large crowds when lecturing on health and not to breathe the fumes. But there are no The study of the latest medical information the Bible. such disclaimers to God’s blending of the and the Bible, will it blend? physical and the spiritual, we should try 3. Blending Requires a Daily Conversion this and the fumes are not dangerous! “The teachings given in medical lines Long before BlendTec, a husband and should be blended with a study of the wife medical team were advised on how to The blending of the anointing oil and Bible.” LLM 343.1. blend the physical and the spiritual in their the perfumes of the sanctuary are an work. I believe this principle is still true illustration of our blended work. “He This summer, in Fallbrook, California, ER for each one of us today: also made the holy anointing oil and the physician Tim Reisenberger, gave a unique fragrant incense, blending it as a perfumer evangelistic series blending science with “You are both to be led and taught of God. would.” Exodus 37:29 (NJB). This holy the Word of God. This series was powerful If you individually seek Him daily, you blending makes our work fragrant and and showed once again the potential of will have the Holy Spirit’s guidance. I can attractive. blending. Years ago when Washington see that you greatly need divine wisdom Sanitarium was founded, the medical to enable you to serve in two positions of Will it blend? Is it blending in our director Dr. Daniel Kress was advised, responsibility, -as a skillful physician, and practices? By God’s grace it will blend. “Present the importance of present truth also as a preacher of the gospel. There must from the physician’s standpoint. The be a daily conversion in order to blend

FALL 2011 THE MEDICAL EVANGELIST 31 NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID CHATTANOOGA, TN PERMIT NO.1114

adventist medical evangelism network PO Box 1114 Collegedale, Tennessee 37315 423.826.4025 www.amensda.org

7th annual amen conference

visit www.amensda.org to register

OCTOBER 27 – 30, 2011

CROWNE PLAZA • OCEANFRONT AT SHIPYARD PLANTATION HILTON HEAD ISLAND • SOUTH CAROLINA