Who are the Adventists?

Adventist denominations, of which there are about a half dozen primary churches with an estimated 11 million members worldwide, all derive from the teachings of William Miller (1782-1849), a Baptist convert who concentrated his biblical studies on prophecies about Christ's first and second coming -- thus the term Adventists, a Protestant interfaith movement which began as the Great Second Advent Awakening. By Miller's calculations based on the Book of Daniel (particularly Daniel 8:14), Christ's return was to be in 1843. When it did not seem to come, Millerite followers recalculated it for the following year. Again, when it did not seem to come, followers united in belief that the prophecies meant that Jesus had begun in heaven a special ministry for them. Of the different churches to branch from Miller's teachings, the two major denominations were the Seventh-Day Adventists, lead by Ellen G. White, and The Church of God, an offshoot of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church which did not share with White's own prophecies. The various Adventist churches, most of which were formed in the U.S. in the mid to late nineteenth century, differ in belief mainly about the mellenial reign of Christ on earth, the state of dead believers, judgment of the wicked, and importance of the spiritual gift of prophecy. They include the Evangelical Adventists (1845), Seventh-Day Adventists (1845), Life and Advent Union (1848), The Advent Christian Church (1861), The Church of God (1864-65), Advent Christians (1881), Age-to-Come Adventists (1885), the Primitive Advent Christian Church, and various sects and branches of each (including the Davidians). Some contemporary Christians consider the Seventh-Day Adventists to be a cult, while most consider it a fundamentalist sect of Christianity.

Adapted from SDAnet (http://www.sdanet.org/funb.html), basic beliefs shared by Adventist churches include:
  • The Holy Scriptures, including the Old and New Testaments, constitute the inspired and infallible word of God.
  • There is one God -- Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, a unity of three co-eternal Persons.
  • God made everything in six literal days, establishing the seventh day as the Sabbath, a day of rest in memory of the Creation, the fourth commandment of the Law, and God's perpetual sign of His eternal covenant between Him and His people.
  • Adam and Eve were made in the image of God, but disobeyed him and fell from their high position. Their descendants share this fallen nature and its consequences, who are born with weaknesses and tendencies to evil.
  • God the Eternal Son became incarnate in Jesus Christ, through whom all things were created.
  • The great principles of God's law are embodied in the Ten Commandments and exemplified in the life of Christ. Through the agency of the Holy Spirit they point out sin and awaken a sense of need for a Saviour.
  • All humanity is involved in a great controversy between Christ and Satan, God's adversary. To assist His people in this controversy, Christ sends the Holy Spirit and the loyal angels to guide, protect, and sustain them in the way of salvation.
  • Jesus Christ, born of a virgin, suffered and died voluntarily on the cross for our sins and in our place, was raised from the dead, and ascended to minister in the heavenly sanctuary in our behalf. By this, God provided the only means of atonement for human sin, so that those who by faith accept this atonement may have eternal life.
  • Salvation is all of grace and not of works, but its fruitage is obedience to the Commandments.
  • By baptism the members of the church confess their faith in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and testify of their own death to sin and of their purpose to walk in newness of life.
  • The Lord's Supper is a participation in the emblems of the body and blood of Jesus as an expression of faith in Him and in proclaiming the Lord's death until He comes again.
  • The church derives its authority from Christ, who is the incarnate Word, and from the Scriptures which are the written Word.
  • God bestows upon all members of His church in every age spiritual gifts which each member is to employ in loving ministry for the common good of the church and of humanity.
  • Members are encouraged to dress simply, not participate in worldly amusements and secular entertainment, and interfaith marriages and divorce are both discouraged.
  • The universal church is composed of all who truly believe in Christ, but in the last days -- a time of widespread apostasy -- a remnant has been called out to keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. This remnant announces the arrival of the judgment hour, proclaims salvation through Christ, and heralds the approach of His second advent. Jesus will come again in glory for the final deliverance of His people and the restoration of all things.
  • The millennium is the thousand-year reign of Christ with His saints in heaven between the first and second resurrections. During this time the wicked dead will be judged; the earth will be utterly desolate, without living human inhabitants, but occupied by Satan and his angels. At its close, Christ, with His saints and the Holy City, will descend from heaven to earth. The unrighteous dead will then be resurrected, and with Satan and his angels will surround the city; but fire from God will consume them and cleanse the earth. The universe will thus be freed of sin and sinners forever.

        "And I saw an angel coming down out of heaven, having the key to the Abyss and holding in his hand a great chain. He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, or Satan, and bound him for a thousand years. He threw him into the Abyss, and locked and sealed it over him, to keep him from deceiving the nations anymore until the thousand years were ended. After that, he must be set free for a short time. I saw thrones on which were seated those who had been given authority to judge. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded because of their testimony for Jesus and because of the word of God. They had not worshiped the beast or his image and had not received his mark on their foreheads or their hands. They came to life and reigned with Christ a thousand years. (The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were ended.) This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy are those who have part in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him for a thousand years." (Revelation 20:1-6)

Advent Christian General Conference

"The story of Advent Christian beginnings is centered in a remarkable man. He, and the movement associated with his name, stirred America spiritually as has no other, before or since. For years newspapers recorded his every move and message. In the press, the pulpit, and even the political arena, he was praised and condemned, but never ignored. His following was never great - perhaps he had some fifty thousand at the height of his ministry. Few persons of prominence or wealth followed him, but thousands of dedicated Christians gave him a respectful hearing. He was the butt of interminable jokes, some bawdy, most of them crude, all of them slanderous. His career ended in a monstrous anticlimax called the "Great Disappointment," but from his ministry came a great spiritual awakening and he renaissance of long-buried truths. This man, soldier, farmer, justice of the peace, and preacher, a skeptic turned believer, was William Miller."

Adventist.info

"The Seventh-day Adventist Church was born out of the Millerite movement of the 1840s when thousands of Christians searched for greater understanding of biblical prophecy. Among these believers was a group in New England that rediscovered the seventh-day Sabbath. They chose the name "Seventh-day" which refers to the biblical Sabbath, Saturday, ordained by God at Creation. "Adventist" means we�re looking for the return of Jesus Christ. In 1863, the new Sabbath keepers officially organized into a denomination with 3,500 members worshipping in 125 churches. They soon began sharing their faith outside of North America, first Switzerland in 1874, then in Russia, Ghana, South Africa, Argentina, and Japan. Today, as one of the fastest growing Christian Protestant churches, 12 million baptized Seventh-day Adventist members live in 204 countries of the world. Walk in the way of good men, and keep the paths of the righteous (Prov. 2:20)... Adventists believe a Trinity of three persons - the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit - make up one God. They made salvation possible when Jesus, the Son, came to earth as a baby in Bethlehem and lived a sinless life in accordance with the Father�s will. When Jesus was crucified for the sins of the people of the world and arose from the dead on the third day, victory was won for everyone. When He returned to heaven following the resurrection, Jesus left the Holy Spirit to serve as our Comforter and Counselor. He promised to return to earth a second time to complete His plan of salvation and take His people to heaven. Adventists are among the believers who look forward to that day. Adventists believe that God is concerned with the quality of human life, and that everything - the way we live, eat, speak, think, treat each other, and care for the world around us - is part of His plan. Our families, our children, our jobs, our talents, our money, and our time are all important to Him."

Andrews University Center for Adventist Research

The Center for Adventist Research is a leading documentary collection for the study of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, its predecessors and related groups, from the Millerite movement of the mid nineteenth century to the present. The Center holds publications in all formats on all aspects of the Seventh-day Adventist Church--its mission, theology, and activities--including those from official and unofficial sources. The center serves as a Branch Office of the Ellen G. White Estate, the rare material repository for the James White Library and as the Andrews University Archives and Records Center. The Center for Adventist Research [CAR] seeks to promote an understanding and appreciation of the heritage and mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. It combines the resources of the Adventist Heritage Center and the Ellen G. White Estate Branch Office to provide the most extensive collection of Adventist related materials in the world. Located on the first floor of the James White Library at Andrews University it is situated to not only facilitate the education of future Seventh-day Adventist church leaders but also to develop academic links with other Adventist heritage rooms and research centers throughout the world. Beyond the mentioned resources, the Center hosts the Seventh-day Adventist Periodical Index for the Association of Seventh-day Adventist Librarians [ASDAL], manages the Andrews University Archives and Record Center, serves as rare material repository for the James White Library, and actively cooperates in the educational program of the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary and the collection activities of the Seminary library."

Cephas Files: 7th Day Adventists

"Cult Characteristics: 1. Faulty interpretation of the Bible 2. They question authority of the Bible 3. Salvation by grace is added to "Salvation = Faith + Works" 4. Their god or gods are not the God of the Bible 5. Doctrinal changes - " progressive revelation " 6. Add extra-scriptural writings 7. Saying one thing in public, another in private 8. Only group God deals with - " remnant " 9. Date setting - false prophecies 10. Vigorously attacks Christianity 11. Concept of Jesus is contrary to truth of Bible 12. Head of the organization comes between God and man 13. Claim to answer all religious questions 14. Division of believers loyalty between church & God 15. " Us against the world " attitude 16. Doctrine of Last Things is overemphasized 17. Deny personality of Holy Spirit 18. Different view of immortality of soul 19. Definitions of human nature & sin different from Bible"

Creation Seventh Day Adventist Church

"The church was organized in the Fall of 1991 as a result of efforts by several dedicated Christians who had a vision for glorifying their Creator in word and deed. They had come out of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists denomination in response to the call of the mighty angel of Revelation 18:1-4. It was their belief that the General Conference Corporation, by unifying with the United States Federal Government in their trademarked church name of 1981, had formed an "image to the beast" as described in Revelation chapter 13. It was further believed that through the prosecutions of various trademark violations (1986-1991) that the General Conference had met the criteria necessary to become"Babylon Fallen" which necessitated a "coming out". A position paper was published in the Fall of 1991 entitled Crucified Afresh! which set forth the basic principles motivating this new movement. With the erroneous and wide-spread belief in the "theory of evolution" and popular pagan error of growing in spiritual stature by human efforts-- "theistic evolution", the believers added as the antithesis and rebuke-- "Creation," to the name "7th Day Adventist" which had already been the heritage of their true faith. The identity of the seventh-day Sabbath had been variously obscurded by "Saturday-keepers," "Sunday-keepers," and calendar reformers alike; hence, the "Creation 7th Day" in their name served to stress the Sabbath of Creation-- the day God rested from all His creative process. Adventist Christians, forming this body are certainly Seventh-day Adventists because they keep the "Creation 7th Day" (seventh day of the U. S. week-- Saturday) as the Sabbath of the Creator, and they anticipate the soon, imminent and visible return of the Christ to transport them to the Heavenly City, New Jerusalem. They would, in good conscience, neither alter nor recant their name "7th Day Adventist" without direct revelation from God. In respect of the most solemn warning in all of Scripture, prohibiting the worship of [agreement with] "the image of the beast", (Rev.14:9-11), and reception of "the mark of his name," the least obedience to the trademark law would endanger the souls of these worshipers. Refusal to obey man's law when it conflicts with God's revealed will, is a matter of individual conscience. "We must obey God rather than man." The trademark law, being in conflict with the religious liberty principles Adventists have historically upheld, Creation 7th Day Adventists stand firmly for liberty of conscience in opposition to this corrupt decree."

Digging4Truth.net

"Are you a Seventh-day Adventist looking for GOD's TRUTH? Let these sites of Christians and former Adventists help you find GOD'S TRUTH..."

The Ellen G. White Estate, Inc.

"The Ellen G. White� Estate, Incorporated, is an organization created by the last will and testament of Ellen G. White to act as her agent in the custody of her writings, handling her properties, "conducting the business thereof," "securing the printing of new translations," and the "printing of compilations from my manuscripts." Her will, dated Feb. 9, 1912 (printed in its entirety as Appendix Q in F. D. Nichol's Ellen G. White and Her Critics), named five church leaders to serve as a board of trustees: Arthur G. Daniells, president of the General Conference; William C. White, her son; Clarence C. Crisler, a secretary; Charles H. Jones, manager of the Pacific Press; and Francis M. Wilcox, editor of the Review and Herald. Four of the five were members of the Executive Committee of the General Conference. Appointment of the trustees was for life, Ellen White providing that "if a vacancy shall occur for any reason among said trustees, or their successors, a majority of the surviving or remaining trustees are hereby empowered and directed to fill such vacancy by the appointment of some other fit person"; or if this provision were to fail, the General Conference Executive Committee should appoint someone to fill such a vacancy. The will dedicated the major portion of the existing and potential royalty incomes from her books to the work of the trustees. (For additional information, see Appendix B, "The Settlement of Ellen G. White's Estate," in volume 6 of A. L. White's biography of Ellen White, Ellen G. White: The Later Elmshaven Years.) At the death of Ellen White, July 16, 1915, this self-perpetuating board began to function. It soon sold Ellen White's real estate, consisting mainly of Elmshaven, her home property near St. Helena, California, then began the continued care of her literary properties. Under the terms of the will, such responsibilities fell into three areas: (1) possession of the copyrights to her writings and the care and promotion of her books in the English language; (2) preparation of manuscripts for, and the promotion of the translation and publication of her writings in other languages; and (3) custody of the files of manuscripts and other files, and the selection of matter from the Ellen G. White manuscript files for publication. The board now carries a fourth responsibility, which has developed naturally through the years--acquainting Seventh-day Adventists and others with Mrs. White and her work."

Ellen-White.com

"This site was not created to promote the writings of Ellen White, nor to prove that she was inspired. While we do believe that she was inspired�and by the same Holy Spirit that inspired the apostle Paul and all of the prophets of God�we do not here set out to show this. Ellen-White.com was set up solely as a response to a number of individuals on the Internet who have brought certain allegations against her and/or her writings. There is plenty of material available elsewhere (see our links below) to show the honest Bible student that both White and her writings do indeed pass the biblical tests of a prophet... The volunteers at Ellen-White.com will not make any attacks on any individual or his/her beliefs. We will refrain from any tone of sarcasm, mockery, or bitterness. We will strictly focus on the issue at hand: taking a closer, prayerful look at the allegations against the writings of Ellen G. White. We feel this is the manner in which Christ would work."

The Ellen White Research Project

"Welcome to the Ellen White Research Project, founded on the Internet in 1996. This web site has dozens of books and hundreds of articles written by over 50 Adventist and former Adventist authors examining Mrs. White's claims that she was a prophet of God. Our Mission: To provide you with the latest research on Ellen White; To provide you with the largest collection of Ellen White's writings on the Internet; To make available to you evidence not readily available through official Seventh-day Adventist sources; To provide you with enough solid evidence so that you can make an educated decision regarding the inspiration of Ellen White (1 John 4:1). This web site contains research by 50 authors spanning 150+ years. Nearly all of the authors are current or former members of the Seventh-day Adventist church. Some of our readers find parts of this research to be disturbing or even upsetting. Some readers view this information as an attack upon their beliefs or their denomination. That is not our purpose. Our purpose is to put the evidence into your hands, allow you to see material that may not have been made available to you by your church, and empower you to make an educated decision regarding Ellen White. We are committed to presenting the evidence in an honest and fair manner."

Former Adventist Fellowship Online

A place for former Seventh-day Adventists who have found Jesus to be their True Sabbath Rest."

GreatControversy.0rg

"Belief systems in our day are many, with worldviews selected from among a veritable buffet of options. Nor are movements with an apocalyptic bent by any means new. So what determines whether Seventh-day Adventism--the heir of the great end-time advent movement--has any special claim to validity? The evidences that point to this include the following: This movement arose in precise fulfillment of Bible prophecy, both
  • In the nature of itself (its emphasis upon the faith of Jesus and the commandments of God)
  • In the timing of its arrival (climaxing at the close of the 2300 year prophecy ending in 1844 A.D.)
  • In a way of understanding Scripture that demonstrates self-consistency within the canon of the Bible
All belief systems have core presuppositions, and the advent movement is no different. A movements belief system may be evaluated for self-consistency, yet even a passing grade here does not automatically prove that it is correct: just self-consistent. But how can the presuppositions be evaluated without making reason the final arbiter? Our reason is an imperfect judge, flawed and biased through the event known as the "fall" of humankind. How could such a thing happen--beings made in the image of God reduced to a situation of brokenness? An amazing story indeed. But a divine Being has provided a stop-gap solution: the Bible. In this divinely preserved collection of 66 books produced over a period of 1600 years, we find presented an internally self-consistent worldview, and the only viable explanation for how the trouble and pain of a world like ours can co-exist with a Personal God who is unselfish love. The situation did not have to develop this way but it did; free beings were created with free choice, and while yet immature, that choice was used in an unsound manner. A choice was made to disobey God--to cross the line of what had been revealed as a moral boundary. Lucifer sought to receive worship that belonged to God. But having sinned, Satan was expelled from heaven, although not instantly destroyed. His immediate destruction would have left an imprint of fear upon the rest of the created intelligences in the universe. Instead, he was granted a temporary hiatus of judgment. A potential laboratory was made available to him to demonstrate the outworking of his government. He would have opportunity to tempt humankind. Should they succumb to his deception, the created universe would become witness to the grand outworking of hate-based government versus life-based government. God would not cooperate with Satan in the least, but He would permit him to hang himself with his own rope. Granted a temporary slab of time, Satan would inevitably reveal what his self-love led to and unmask before the universe the awful nature of sin. Time has passed, and Satan has worked and God has worked. And before the universe stands spread out a nearly finished tapestry--the tale of woe and grace that will play a major role in forever safeguarding both, the freedom of every sentient being, and also the assurance that sin will never rise up again. Looking starkly upon the fall of humankind back in the garden of Eden, and the following trail of woe; on to the beauty of holiness revealed ultimately in the life of Christ and His willingness to die upon the cross for sinners; and finally to the evidence of the power of grace to live God's way revealed in Heaven's end-time people, we find ourselves standing in the closing scenes of a great controversy. God purposes to reveal through His end-time people enmass something that has only been seen in the life of Christ and the lives of holy people sprinkled across the stretch of time. Can God produce this people? Can He offer evidence to the rest of the unfallen universe that He can safely redeem us, and uphold justice and mercy? Can He put forever to rest the ideas and charges of Satan that God is unfair? These are critical questions that are being determined at this moment in the lives of God's commandment-keeping Jesus-followers of the last days. That's what Seventh-day Adventism is all about."

The Interactive Bible - Ellen G. White Website

"Younger, newer, recently converted, Seventh-day Adventists often notify us by email saying that we, at the Interactive Bible Website (www.bible.ca) have misrepresented the official position of the SDA church regarding Ellen White�s inspiration. They are in fact being deceived by their own church! The truth is that this is still the official position, but they are sending out mixed signals. Prior to 1980, (when news of White�s plagiarism was first published by Walter Rea) ALL ADVENTISTS viewed White as an inspired prophet. However, now that is it an absolute proven fact that White plagiarized 80-90% of her "inspired writings, including almost all her visions, modern SDA leaders, are quickly watering down the churches historic stand on White�s inspiration. The current official is actually identical to what it has always been, as you will see below in the 1997 baptismal vows and church doctrines. But they are now making statements like: "White�s writings are not a replacement of the Bible. Our standard for doctrine is the Bible only!" Such statements are: lies, deception and a radical departure from both the current official position of the SDA church AND the historical foundation of the very denomination itself. Don�t be deceived new convert! Such changes are also occurring in the Mormon church who are watering down the long standing claims of Joseph Smith�s inspired translation of the Book of Mormon and the Jehovah�s Witnesses 100 year old claim that the Watchtower magazine is inspired. These three groups, the Adventists, Mormons and Jehovah�s Witnesses share these qualities: were born at the same time in history (1800�s); all claimed to have direct inspiration from God at the time they were founded; all had the "spirit of prophecy"; all have watered down their inspiration claims in modern times."

It Is Written International Television

It Is Written is a deeply spiritual ministry passionate about communicating the Gospel to the world. It Is Written seeks to impact lives for Christ in three ways�through the weekly telecast, a worldwide evangelistic ministry, and Christian living and faith-sharing resources. It Is Written is an international Christian television ministry dedicated to sharing insights from God�s Word with people around the world. Founded in 1956 by George Vandeman, the theme of this non-profit ministry can be found in Matthew 4:4: �It is written, �Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.�� The warm conversational styles of speaker/director Mark Finley and associate speaker Shawn Boonstra address contemporary issues in a refreshing new way. Each week, Pastor Finley and Pastor Boonstra take timeless biblical truths and apply them to everyday life. Programs regularly deal with such issues as loneliness, fear, low self-esteem, health, family values and spiritual principles. People of all faiths and creeds�even those with no faith at all�have been inspired and encouraged through It Is Written's straightforward, Christ-centered presentations. Prayer and a commitment to impacting the world for God have sent It Is Written�s television signal beaming around the globe. Weekly messages by Pastor Finley, Pastor Boonstra and It Is Written�s foreign language speakers reach millions of people in 130 countries every week."

Last Disciple Dot Com - Truth about Seventh-day Adventism

"The most frequently asked question that I receive goes something like this: 'My loved ones are caught up in Adventism. They exhibit weird cultic behavior. They cut off contact with me. They say things that I don't understand... etc. They appear to be brainwashed by Ellen White, and will listen to nothing, no matter how clear, true, or Biblical. How do I help them? How do I get them out?' Being an x-SDA, I understand your frustration. Looking back, I would not listen to anything or anyone but Ellen, whom I exalted above the Bible just like my fellow SDAs in my former church (despite the fact that we all claimed to go by "Bible alone"). It is important to understand that SDAs have a different authority (and a different "gospel"!) than Bible-believing Christians. Unless you can show that Ellen White is a false prophetess (which is not too hard), and they see it for themselves (this part is hard), then you won't stand a chance. I would suggest the following approach: 1) Educate yourself about Ellen White and her ministry. Be familiar with arguments from both sides. Read some of the modern exposes of Ellen White: books like "White Out" by Dirk Anderson, and "White Washed" by Sydney Cleveland (contact me for ordering info). These books present facts about Ellen White and her teaching that are altogether unknown to an "average Joe" Adventist that has been fed myths by his church. This material is more than sufficient to prove that Ellen White is a false prophetess. Also, make the best of resources on this web site. 2) Share the information in these books about Ellen White with your family in a loving nonconfrontational manner. One mistake that I made when I was coming out of Adventism, was that I took a rather aggressive and confrontational approach. This hardly ever works. Adventists are brainwashed into believing that the whole world is out there to get them. The moment you touch their beloved Ellen you become a "special agent of Satan" in their minds. They won't care for what the Bible says. They won't care for the Pauline gospel of grace, no matter how clearly stated. You must first gently show them that authority and teaching of Ellen White are not based on the Bible. But don't rub it in. Allow them to save their face. Pray for them, that Jesus Christ may open their closed minds and hearts. Realize that they must reach that conclusion in their own minds. 3) Once you manage that, lead them to read the BIBLE ALONE. Encourage them to read and re-read certain texts in their proper context, in translations other than the archaic and obscure KJV. Share with them the gospel of salvation. Show them how their "investigative judgment" doctrine contradicts the plain New Testament teaching of Jesus and the apostles about salvation, judgment, and works (John 5:24, 1 John 5:13, Romans, Galatians, etc.) You may find Ford's article on "The Only Two Religions" helpful... Allow God to lead them towards the person of Jesus Christ. 4) Re-affirm your love for them, no matter what decision they will make. Your witness is very important, especially to be filled with freshness and life of the Spirit. Most SDA churches are spiritually dead, legalistic, and lifeless. You must have a better alternative to offer them. They must see the beauty of the Gospel, if they are to be freed from the doctrinal and spiritual enslavement of Adventism. This process will take work and dedication on your part. There are no "shortcuts" to getting people out of Adventism. Your loved ones probably put considerable time, study, and energy into their religion. It will take time for you to demolish their Babel tower, and for them to become spiritually healthy, hooked to Jesus and "unhooked" from Adventism. And never forget that your work will be ultimately pointless, unless accompanied by the Spirit that leads to truth and freedom."

MacGregor Ministries - Seventh-day Adventists Christian or Cult?

"There are now two distinct camps in Adventism. The split became apparent in the late 1970s when pastors of many years' standing began to question their prophetess, Ellen G. White. They began to question her peculiar doctrines which could not be supported fully by the Scriptures. Many were disillusioned by the revelation of her plagiarism, which was very extensive, and documented in the book, "The White Lie" by former SDA pastor, Walter Rea... Seventh-day Adventists won't tell you they are behind the "Revelation Seminars" they sponsor. They act all "interdenominational" if questioned. Watch out for these SDA outreaches as well: Voice of Prophecy, Faith for Today, It is Written, The Quiet Hour, Amazing Facts etc. They also hide behind Heath oriented shows on the networks, and sponsor stop-smoking clinics etc, all as introductions to Seventh-day Adventism. Often, the only tip-off that what you are reading originates with them is that it is published by "Pacific Press". They produce bright and colorful Children's books, often seen in medical and dental offices, and of course, unsuspecting Church libraries. They very much want to be perceived as Evangelical Christians, seeking a place on the ministerial fellowships. All this is good PR for them, but what do they really believe? ...The investigative judgment doctrine, peculiar to Seventh-day Adventists, teaches that in fulfillment of Old Testament sanctuary typology, Christ entered into the second apartment of the sanctuary in heaven in 1844 in order to begin a work of "investigative judgment" to see who was worthy of eternal life, both of those still living and those dead... Most Christians are amazed to learn that SDA teaches that Jesus is Michael the Archangel, but Ellen White said He was Michael, so if they changed this, they'd need to reject her as 'the spirit of prophecy' and they'd not be the remnant church! So now they hold He's both God the Son, and Michael..."

Mt. Carmel Center

"If you examine our logo closely you will notice that we are Christian Davidians; but we are not Branch Davidians who were burned out in Waco in 1993, because we have nothing to do with them. So that is not the reason why we have been cast out of the Seventh-day Adventist church! If you are not a Seventh-day Adventist or a Christian, then you may think that this website has nothing for you. But think again, it may concern you but you don't know that; so out of curiosity you may want to know what doctrines we teach concerning the NEW WORLD ORDER, or World War III, or other events which are not broadcast in the news media. If you are a Christian or a Seventh-day Adventist, you may think that we were cast out because we have been called an offshoot. But think again, being an offshoot should not necessarily be an offense to you, because Jesus, the apostles, and the Christians (Acts 11:26) were an offshoot from the Jewish church! "For the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was the Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue (Jn. 9:22). For this reason, we are glad to receive the blessing from being been cast out of God's church, because Jesus said: "Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake." (Lk. 6:22). But we are even more than that--we are an "upshoot"! "

New Advent Catholic Encyclopedia - Adventists

"A group of six American Protestant sects which hold in common a belief in the near return of Christ in person, and differ from one another mainly in their understanding of several doctrines related to this common belief. They are, excepting the "Seventh Day Adventists" and the branch entitled "The Church of God" congregational in government. The sects of Adventists are the outcome of a religious agitation begun by William Miller (1781-1849) in 1831, after a minute study of the prophecies of the Bible. Testing the mysterious pronouncements concerning the Messias by a method exclusively historical, he looked for the fulfillment of every prophecy in its obvious surface reading. Every prophecy which had not been literally accomplished in the first coming of Christ must needs be accomplished in His second coming. Christ, therefore, should return at the end of the world in the clouds of heaven to possess the land of Canaan, and to reign in an earthly triumph on the throne of David for a thousand years. Moreover, taking the 2,300 days of the Prophet Daniel for so many years, and computing from 457 B.C. -- that is, from the commencement of the seventy weeks before the first coming, Miller concluded that the world would come to an end, and Christ would return, in A.D. 1843. He gave wide circulation to his views and gained a considerable following in a few years. When the year 1843 had passed as any other, and the prediction had failed, Snow, one of his disciples, set himself to correct Miller's calculations, and in his turn announced the end of the world for 22 October, 1844. As the day drew near groups of Millerites here and there throughout the United States, putting aside all worldly occupations, awaited, in a fever of expectancy the promised coming of Christ, but were again doomed to disappointment. The faithful followers of Miller next met in conference at Albany, N.Y., in 1845, and professed their unshaken faith in the near personal coming of the Son of God. And this has remained the fundamental point of the Adventist creed."

New Perspectives on Seventh-day Adventism

"This site could be described as a neo-orthodox view of Seventh-day Adventism. It defends the basic principles of Seventh-day Adventism: the seventh-day Sabbath, the Second Advent, the state of the dead, the importance of Ellen White, the sanctuary, the law and so on. In that sense it is "orthodox" Seventh-day Adventism. However the traditional arguments used to defend these doctrines are challanged and critically examined. For this reason it is "neo-" orthodox. Indeed, during the course of these discussions it is proposed that some of the traditional arguments are inadequate and require revision - hence the need for re-thinking the reasons for SDA doctrines. On the 23rd July 1999 I was sent an amazing document by an ex-Seventh-day Adventist. Dennis Rainwater was a fourth generation SDA who decided he could no longer in good faith accept the doctrines of the church. He produced a forty page document to explain his change of mind to his friends and family and was kind enough to send me a copy. The arguments he sets out are exactly those which this web site was designed to take seriously. It is as if this site was written as a response!"

PlusLine

"PlusLine provides ministry support to Seventh-day Adventist church members, pastors and church leaders throughout the North American Division. As the official helpdesk for general church information, PlusLine's duties include the collection and transmission of data related to nurture and outreach ministry. PlusLine also maintains the Seventh-day Adventist Church Directory for NAD, a newly created speaker database and an events calendar. Event services are available for church entities and ministries responsible for planning seminars, workshops, camp meetings and large conventions. This website is sponsored by the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists and your local Union Conference. It is designed to provide church resource support to Adventist lay leaders, pastors, and other church workers. PlusLine is funded by various church entities throughout North America. Each Union Conference and the North American Division help sponsor this ministry to equip and resource members who are involved in leadership and church ministries."

Rapture Ready - Seventh-Day Adventist Beliefs

"Seventh-Day Adventism is basically consumed with the concept of the last days. It was formed from the remnants of the Millerite movement, which was created to await the world�s end. In White�s end times view, the Jewish Sabbath and the Catholic Church play prominent roles. According to her, the papacy is the seven-headed beast from the sea in Revelation 13:1�10. Accompanying this beast is a lamb-like beast from the earth (Rev. 13:11�18). The latter causes the world to worship the former and has an image made of it. White proclaimed that the second beast is the United States (The Great Controversy, 387�8), and that it will force people to worship the papacy by "enforcing some observance which shall be an act of homage to the papacy" (ibid., 389). This observance, she says, is Sunday worship rather than Saturday worship. White claims that the papacy changed the day of worship from Saturday to Sunday, making this change a mark of its authority. In her view, there will come a time when the United States will establish a "national Sunday law" and compel its citizens to worship on Sunday and thus take the mark of the beast. It will not compel them to become Catholics, but to join a Protestant state-church that is an "image" of the papacy, and thus, "the image of the beast" (ibid., 382�96). Seventh-Day Adventism cannot change its views on the Catholic Church being the Whore of Babylon without admitting that it was wrong on Sunday worship. It cannot admit that Sunday worship is not the mark of the beast without changing its views on the Jewish Sabbath. Seventh-Day Adventism cannot cease to be anti-Catholic without ceasing to be Seventh-Day Adventism."

Religious Movements Homepage: Seventh-day Adventists

"Beliefs and Practices: The core of the Adventist tradition is basically conservative Protestantism. They profess "the Bible and the Bible alone" as the basis for all their doctrines. The most distinctive features setting SDAs apart from other conservative Protestants includes their belief in Christ's soon return, sabbatarianism and a strong emphasis in a healthful lifestyle. Listed below are a few distinctive SDA teachings that deviate from mainstream protestantism and their biblical justification... Second Coming: Although SDAs have changed from their initial position of time setting to the belief that no one knows the time or day, they still profess that the second coming of Christ is imminent. They believe that it will be literal, personal, visible and worldwide. Sabbath: SDAs are most set apart from other Protestant religious traditions by their observance of the Sabbath on Saturday. They assert that the Sabbath was instituted by God at creation and reinforced in the 10 commandments. Jesus Himself kept the Sabbath. The Sabbath is a symbol of redemption in Christ, a sign of sanctification, a token of allegiance, and a foretaste of the eternal future in God's kingdom. Observance from Friday evening to Saturday evening is a celebration of God's creative and redemptive acts. Healthful Lifestyle: SDAs believe their bodies to be the temples of the Holy Spirit. Thus they feel a duty to take care of their bodies as such by a healthful lifestyle which includes avoiding the unclean meats. They also abstain from alcoholic drinks, smoking and nonmedical drug use, since these do not promote wellness. Ellen White: Seventh-Day Adventists believe that the sacred canon of Scripture is complete and self-sufficient. Scripture is held to be the source, authority and test of all their doctrinal beliefs. However they believe that the gift of prophecy was to continue beyond the Biblical canon to the end of earth's history. These post-canonical outpourings of the Spirit are to be tested for their harmony with the Biblical canon just as people of Bible times did with literary but non-canonical prophets of their day, whose messages were for a specific time or localized audience. SDA's have seen this gift of the Spirit through the ministry and writings of Ellen White... Baptism by immersion: Baptism is a profession of faith in Christ's death and resurrection; the candidate publicly resolves to die to sin and live a new life in Him. Baptism symbolizes the acknowledgment of Christ as Lord and Saviour, the forgiveness of sin, and the receiving of the gift of the Holy Spirit. Jesus Christ gave the example of baptism by immersion, a tradition observed by the early Christian church. Remnant: Believers in Christ make up the universal church, but at the end of time, a remnant is called out to keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus. The remnant herald the hour of judgment and gives a call to worship of God the Creator. Investigative Judgment: In heaven exists a heavenly sanctuary, where Christ ministers as the great High Priest. Christ fulfilled His ministry in the outer court by His death. In 1844, at the end of the 2300 prophecy, Christ entered the investigative judgment, part of the ultimate disposition of all sin, typified by the cleansing of the sanctuary on the Day of Atonement of the Old Testament. The investigative judgment reveals to the heavenly universe those among the dead who are deemed worthy to take part in the first resurrection. It also manifests those among the living are abiding in Christ, thus ready for translation. The completion of this ministry will mark the close of human probation before the Second Advent... Death & Resurrection: Death is an unconscious state for all people. Jesus described it as similar to sleep. There are two resurrections when the dead will be brought back to life. The righteous are resurrected at the second Advent of Christ and the unrighteous are resurrected a thousand years later."

Religious Tolerance.org - Seventh-day Adventist Church

"Several prominent theologians, including ex-members of the Seventh-day Adventists, have stated in the past that the SDA church is a cult. In doing this, they do not imply that the church is a mind control cult or a doomsday cult, but simply that some of their beliefs deviate from those of traditional, conservative Christianity. Some attackers have quoted isolated writings of some members of the church and incorrectly asserted that the thoughts represented official church doctrine. Some of the criticisms include: That the writings of Mrs. White are considered on a par with those of the Bible: inspired by God and infallible; That the SDA church bases some of its doctrine on the writings of Mrs. White; That the atonement of Christ was not finished at crucifixion; None of the above criticisms are valid. Most Christians and Christian organizations now regard the Seventh Day Adventist church simply as a non-cultic denomination with some unique beliefs."

SDAnet

"SDAnet is a media organization operated in the public interest by members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. While the owners and operators of SDAnet are members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, they are not acting in any way as official spokespersons for the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Except for those contributions which are clearly labeled as official Seventh-day Adventist Church material, the opinions expressed by contributors to the various SDAnet activities are those of the individual authors alone and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, nor do they necessarily reflect the opinions of the owners and operators of SDAnet. SDAnet exists for the following reasons: 1. To provide information and dialogue about Seventh-day Adventist belief and practice to Seventh-day Adventist church members and the general public. 2. To provide assistance with electronic dissemination of news and information to the Seventh-day Adventist Church and its members. 3. To operate, and provide space for others to operate, discussion forums which allow for an open exchange of opinions regarding issues of interest to the Seventh-day Adventist Church and its members, with the goal of promoting better understanding and unity through dialogue."

Seventh-day Adventist Church

"The name Seventh-day Adventist includes two vital beliefs for us as a Church. 'Adventist' reflects our passionate conviction in the nearness of the soon return ('advent') of Jesus. 'Seventh-day' refers to the Biblical Sabbath which from Creation on has always been on the seventh day of the week, or Saturday. The mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church is to proclaim to all peoples the everlasting gospel in the context of the three angel's messages of Revelation 14:6-12, leading them to accept Jesus as personal Savior and to unite with His church, and nurturing them in preparation for His soon return. In just a century and a half the Seventh-day Adventist Church has grown from a handful of individuals, who carefully studied the Bible in their search for truth, to a world-wide community of over eight million members and millions of others who regard the Adventist Church their spiritual home. Doctrinally, Seventh-day Adventists are heirs of the interfaith Millerite movement of the 1840s. Although the name "Seventh-day Adventist" was chosen in 1860, the denomination was not officially organized until Ma y 21, 1863, when the movement included some 125 churches and 3,500 members. Between 1831 and 1844, William Miller--a Baptist preacher and former army captain in the War of 1812--launched the "great second advent awakening" which eventually spread throughout most of the Christian world. Based on his study of the prophecy of Daniel 8:14, Miller calculated that Jesus would return to earth sometime between 1843 and 1844. Others within the movement calculated a specific date of October 22, 1844. When Jesus did not appear, Miller's followers experienced what became to be called "the great Disappointment." Most of the thousands who had joined the movement, left it, in deep disillusionment. A few, however, went back to their Bibles to find why they had been disappointed. Soon they concluded that the October 22 date had indeed been correct. They became convinced that the Bible prophecy predicted not that Jesus would return to earth in 1844, but that He would begin at that time a special ministry in heaven for His followers. They still looked for Jesus to come soon, however, as do Seventh-day Adventists yet today. The publication and distribution of literature were major factors in the growth of the Advent movement. The Advent Review and Sabbath Herald (now the Adventist Review), general church paper, was launched in Paris, Maine, in 1850; the Youth's Instructor in Rochester, New York, in 1852; and the Signs of the Times in Oakland, California, in 1874. The first denominational publishing house at Battle Creek, Michigan, began operating in 1855 and was duly incorporated in 1861 under the name of Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association."

Seventh-day Adventist Church in Canada

"Welcome to the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Canada. It is our hope that you will find the information and resources here that you are looking for. Our mission is to provide strategic leadership, support, and resources to our conferences and national entities to achieve our shared vision of Proclaiming Christ, Nurturing Believers and Serving Humanity. When the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Canada was born, Canada was still a very young country with a population less than six million. The name "Seventh-day Adventist" was chosen in 1860, however, the denomination was not officially organized in Canada until 1901. Since then, the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Canada has grown from a handful of individuals who carefully studied the Bible in their search for truth, to a Canada-wide church community of approximately fifty thousand members. Many thousands of others regard the Adventist Church as their spiritual home or roots. Doctrinally, Seventh-day Adventists are heirs of the inter-faith Millerite movement of the 1840's. As the name Seventh-day Adventist suggests, the two foremost doctrines of the church centre around the observance of the seventh-day Sabbath (Saturday) and belief in the second advent of Jesus Christ. Between 1831 and 1844, William Miller - a Baptist preacher in the United States -- launched the "great second advent awakening" which eventually spread through most of the Christian world. It was in the 1860's that Seventh-day Adventists took root in Eastern Canada and in the 1880's and 90's in the West. Several leaders emerged who established the foundation of the Canadian Church. Standing out among these leaders were a young couple - James and Ellen G. White - and a retired sea captain named Joseph Bates. Ellen G. White, a mere teenager at the time, grew into a gifted author, speaker and administrator, and became the trusted spiritual counsellor of the Adventist family for more than seventy years until her death in 1915. Early Adventists came to believe - as have Adventists ever since - that she enjoyed God's special guidance as she wrote her counsels to the growing body of believers. Canadian Seventh-day Adventists accept the Bible as their only creed and hold the 27 fundamental beliefs to be the teachings of the Holy Scriptures. These beliefs constitute the church's understanding and expression of Scripture."

Seventh-day Adventist Church General Conference - Office of Archives & Statistics

"The Office of Archives and Statistics has been established for the purpose of managing the Records Center and Archives of the denomination's world headquarters and to produce the denomination's annual directory, the Yearbook, and its annual statistical report."

Seventh-day Adventist Churches Home Page Directory

"Welcome to our list of over 2060 Adventist Churches with web pages in 30 languages from countries all over the world! The church pages are listed according to language for easier reading. Your source for accurate and up-to-date Adventist Local Church listings Worldwide since 1995... We would love to add every SDA church that has its own page. Lots of options are available from this directory! If you want to look by language, or by region, or by conference, or even find other Adventist resources, then check out the various "drop-down" menus just above. If you want to browse through the various church web pages by country, just scroll down this main index page. Or, if you are looking for a particular church location, you can look at the listings above under SDA Church Lists, or try the following new church resource by Adventist Plusline for North America."

Seventh-day Adventist Church North American Division

"The Seventh-day Adventist Church was born out of the Millerite movement of the 1840s when thousands of Christians searched for greater understanding of biblical prophecy. Among these believers was a group in New England that rediscovered the seventh-day Sabbath. They chose the name "Seventh-day" which refers to the biblical Sabbath, Saturday, ordained by God at Creation. "Adventist" means we�re looking for the return of Jesus Christ. In 1863, the new Sabbath keepers officially organized into a denomination with 3,500 members worshipping in 125 churches. They soon began sharing their faith outside of North America, first Switzerland in 1874, then in Russia, Ghana, South Africa, Argentina, and Japan. Today, as one of the fastest growing Christian Protestant churches, 12 million baptized Seventh-day Adventist members live in 204 countries of the world. Adventists believe a Trinity of three persons - the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit - make up one God. They made salvation possible when Jesus, the Son, came to earth as a baby in Bethlehem and lived a sinless life in accordance with the Father�s will. When Jesus was crucified for the sins of the people of the world and arose from the dead on the third day, victory was won for everyone. When He returned to heaven following the resurrection, Jesus left the Holy Spirit to serve as our Comforter and Counselor. He promised to return to earth a second time to complete His plan of salvation and take His people to heaven. Adventists are among the believers who look forward to that day. Adventists believe that God is concerned with the quality of human life, and that everything - the way we live, eat, speak, think, treat each other, and care for the world around us - is part of His plan. Our families, our children, our jobs, our talents, our money, and our time are all important to Him."

Seventh-day Adventist Church South Pacific

"Seventh-day Adventists are Christians who want to know God better and experience Him more in their lives each day. They are people with real expereiences who can share hope in Jesus with you - a hope that gives life, meaning and direction. It is this hope that gives them the reason to believe, motivation to teach and a desire to help others. As an active church in 205 of the 230 countries recognised by the United Nations, the Seventh-day Adventist Church numbers millions of baptised adult members worldwide. Membership is growing at a rate of almost one million every year, with new members joining the church at the rate of one every 35 seconds. The name "Seventh-day Adventist" highlights two important beliefs: the second coming, or "advent" of Jesus, expresses the church's vital hope; the seventh-day Sabbath, or Saturday, emphasises the biblical day of worship of God as Creator and Saviour. The logo depicts: an open Bible: God's message to the world and the basis for Adventists teaching; the cross: the death of Jesus Christ, which is central to salvation; the flame: the Holy Spirit as it encircles the globe with the message for people to get ready for the return of Jesus Christ."

Seventh-day Adventist Church United Kingdom & Ireland

"Some of our beliefs are not shared by all Christians. For example we believe that God has given us free will - we don�t accept predestination. We believe that those who have died remain asleep until the Second Coming. If the dead are unconscious then obviously we can�t accept spiritualism and many New Age beliefs. We also believe strongly that Jesus will return to this earth in the near future. But the belief which makes us really stand out, though it is not the most important part of our faith, is our belief that Saturday is the Sabbath. We believe that God gave us the seventh-day Sabbath when He first created the world. He put a special blessing on that particular day and we can still benefit from that blessing today. This is why you will find that Seventh-day Adventists all over the world attend church on a Saturday and do their best to keep it special... Along with most other Christians we believe in salvation only by grace through faith. Perhaps in the past we have not emphasised this enough as we may have spent too much time trying to defend our belief in the Sabbath for example. But if you look closely at Seventh-day Adventist doctrines you will find that they all revolve around the grace of Jesus and His gift of salvation to the world... We can�t tell who is truly born again and who isn�t - only the Lord knows what is in every individual�s heart. Having said that, we do try to make sure that people are only baptised into our Church when they have fully accepted Jesus as their personal Saviour and fully understand what it means to be a Christian. Even after they are baptised we encourage all our members to keep studying and growing in faith... Are there differences between the beliefs of Seventh-day Adventists in the USA and Britain/Europe? Yes, but only superficially. Around the world Seventh-day Adventists tend to have a different "flavour" depending on the religious and social makeup of the host country. I think that this is probably true of all Churches, but with Seventh-day Adventists spread so widely around the world it is inevitable. The things that differ tend to be connected with worship style rather than with beliefs though there are minor regional differences in beliefs as well. Just what these differences are is hard to say. I�m sure someone is writing a doctoral dissertation on the subject at the moment! From my own experience I feel that, for example, Adventists from former Soviet block countries tend to put more emphasis on rules and standards of behaviour, and American Adventists like to emphasise the historical roots of Adventism (which of course started in America). These are just generalisations of course - there may be just as many differences between two churches in London as between two churches in different countries. Having said all this, there is a remarkable unity among Seventh-day Adventists. You can visit a church in Ghana or a church in Scotland and still know that you are worshipping with fellow Seventh-day Adventists."

Seventh-day Adventist Kinship

"Seventh-day Adventist Kinship International is a support organization devoted to the spiritual, emotional, social and physical well-being of current and former Seventh-day Adventists who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgendered (LGBT). We believe all are created in the image of God and that no one should be mistreated or discriminated against because of their sexual orientation differences. Kinship is a volunteer organization that champions human rights for all people."

Seventh-day Adventist Outreach

"Welcome to the Seventh-day Adventist Outreach site. If you have questions about Seventh-day Adventism, we would like to help you find the answers to your questions. This website is easy to use, if you don't find what you are looking for here, please let us know. We pray that the Lord will use His Word to bless and strengthen you."

Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement

"...Those disfellowshipped from the Seventh-day Adventist Church, not only in Germany but also in many other countries in Europe, had no intention of starting a new church. They were about 4,000 in number. Attempts at reconciliation with the main body were made just after the war, in 1920 and in 1922, but with no positive result. Therefore, as their numbers increased, the Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement was organized as a church, separate from the the main body of Seventh-day Adventists, when representatives from different countries met at Gotha, Germany, July 14-20, 1925. It is the purpose of the Reform Movement to continue with the original teachings and practices of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. In the General Conference Bulletin of the Seventh-day Adventists, May 13, 1913, pages 33, 34, E. G. White stated: 'It will be well for us to consider what is soon to come upon the earth. This is no time for trifling or self-seeking. If the times in which we are living fail to impress our minds seriously, what can reach us? Do not the Scriptures call for a more pure and holy work than we have yet seen? Men of clear understanding are needed now. God calls upon those who are willing to be controlled by the Holy Spirit to lead out in a work of thorough reformation. I see a crisis before us, and the Lord calls for His laborers to come into line. Every soul should now stand in a position of deeper, truer consecration to God than during the years that have passed. . . . I have been deeply impressed by scenes that have recently passed before me in the night season. There seemed to be a great movement�a work of revival�going forward in many places. Our people were moving into line, responding to God's call. My brethren, the Lord is speaking to us. Shall we not heed His voice? Shall we not trim our lamps, and act like men who look for their Lord to come? The time is one that calls for light bearing, for action.' "

Shepherd's Rod

"IN ADDITION to these fundamental tenets of faith held in common with the Seventh-day Adventists, the Davidian Association holds:
  1. That the prophetic gift in the Seventh-day Adventist church (through the medium of which the church was brought forth in 1844 and nurtured and preserved for seven decades ceased its manifestation in 1915 and was not remanifested until 1930; and that this cessation and this remanifestation are paralleled by the cessation of the prophetic gift in the Old Testament and the remanifestation of it in the New.
  2. That the present manifestation was timed to the 430-year prophecy of Ezekiel 4, and that it is the �addition� anticipated in Early Writings, p. 277.
  3. That it was manifested anew in the closing work for the church to effect the sealing of the 144,000 servants of God (Testimonies, Vol. 3, p. 266), and to give power and force (Early Writings, p. 277) to the Three Angel�s Messages (Rev. 14:6-11) so that the 144,000 might be empowered to accomplish the closing work for the world, and to gather all their brethren out of all nations (Isa. 66:19, 20; Rev. 18:4).
  4. That the destruction of the tares from among the first fruits of the living (Matt. 13:30, 48, 49; Ezek. 9:6, 7) results in the purification of the church.
  5. That immediately thereafter, the angels let loose the four winds (Rev. 7:1-3), whereupon ensues the time of trouble and Michael� s standing up to deliver from it, all whose names are written in the Lamb�s Book of Life (Dan. 12:1).
  6. That the angels� letting loose the four winds to blow over the four corners of the earth (Rev. 7:1), does not anticipate a World war but rather a world wide decree enforced throughout Babylon by the image-beast, and that then no one may buy or sell save he who worships �the image.� Rev. 13:15-17.
  7. That subsequently, the time of Jacob�s trouble (Jer. 30:7) for the 144,000, the sons of Jacob, logically develops on their way home (Gen. 32:1, 24) to the land of their fathers (Ezek. 36:28; 37:21, 25).
  8. That the foregoing epochal event shall cause the 144,000 to have their names changed as did their father, Jacob (Gen. 32:28), and as a body receive a new name which the mouth of the Lord shall name (Isa. 62:2).
  9. That these events shall ultimate in the setting up of the Kingdom (Dan. 2:44; Isa. 2:1-4; Mic. 4; Ezek. 37), wherein the 144,000, those who follow the Lamb �withersoever He goeth� (Rev. 14:4), shall stand with Him on Mt. Zion (Rev. 14:1), and there �receive the forces of the Gentiles.� Isa. 60:5, 11.
  10. That with this sequence of events will ensure the Loud Cry of the angel that lightens the earth with his glory (Rev. 18:1), as the other Voice cries, �Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.� Rev. 18:4.
  11. That in response to this call, many nations will say: �Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, and to the house of the God of Jacob; and He will teach us of His ways, and we will walk in His paths: for the law shall go forth of Zion, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.� Mic. 4:2.
  12. That the Voice will cease to cry when all the saints shall have been gathered out of all nations. Then shall �the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord: And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord, and shall not find it.� Amos 8:11, 12.
  13. That then will follow the dissolution of the world-wide organization of the image of the beast (Rev. 19:1-3), the close of the investigative judgment of the living (Rev. 15:5-8), the end of probationary time (Rev. 22:11), and the pouring out of the seven last plagues upon the wicked (Rev. 16).
  14. That under the seventh plague, the hosts arrayed for the battle of Armageddon will fight with, and will be decimated by, the armies of Heaven (Testimonies, Vol. 6, p. 406) and that Christ shall appear in all His glory, destroy the remaining wicked, resurrect the righteous dead (1 Thess. 4:15-17), and usher in the millennium (Rev. 20:5).
  15. That for a little season (Rev. 20:3), a hundred years (Isa. 65:20), after the millennium, the wicked shall live again and then finally be destroyed by fire (Rev. 20:9), whereupon all things shall be renewed, and God�s original plan shall proceed to perfect fulfillment in an uninterrupted eternity of heavenly joy (Rev. 21:4)."

Spectrum, the Journal of the Association of Adventist Forums

"During the uproar of the 1960s the younger generation questioned everything. It focused its attention on such major issues as the Vietnam War, civil rights, traditional morality, and ecology. Patriotism, rules, and values were no longer taken for granted. Seventh-day Adventist students were no exception. As more and more church members began to attend non-Adventist universities and colleges they applied critical thinking learned in their studies to other topics�including their church's beliefs and practices�that meant much to them. Many Adventist graduate students and other like-minded individuals began to meet in groups for discussion and fellowship. These groups were the forerunners of local Forum chapters that meet today throughout the world. In time, these diverse discussion groups came together under the umbrella of the Association of Adventist Forums (AAF), as the organization became known. In 1968, the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists officially endorsed the association in the Adventist Review... The first issue of Spectrum, the journal of the Association of Adventist Forums, appeared in March 1969 under the editorial leadership of Molleurus Couperus, a physician in Loma Linda, California. Spectrum�s objectives were to print differing viewpoints about church-related issues not always discussed openly and to encourage communication among those willing to explore such issues. The founders hoped that by working toward these goals they would strengthen the Church. Many feel that Spectrum has accomplished its objectives over the years, but others have been appalled at controversial articles that have appeared in its pages�including some that have examined Ellen G. White, prophetess of the Church. Couperus resigned in 1975 and turned over the editorship to Roy Branson, who had conceived of Spectrum in college and played a major role in starting it, and Charles Scriven, a former associate editor of Insight magazine. Branson became sole editor three years and remained in that position for the next twenty years. During this time members of the Association of Adventist Forums found their voices, enjoyed fellowship, and established the standards and value of an independent responsible press. More than ever, Spectrum strengthened the concept that a truly lay Adventist press could be candid and loyal at the same time. In 1998, the editorship passed to Bonnie Dwyer and Spectrum�s offices moved from Takoma Park, Maryland, to Granite Bay, California. Moving with the editorship were a large collection of back issues and a respected reputation that reached across three decades."

Trans-European Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church

"As you get acquainted with the Trans-European Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, you will be surprised to discover its diversity of cultures, languages, and religions. We work for God and human beings in about 40 countries from Greenland to the borders of Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda in Africa, and from the Atlantic Sea to Pakistan. It is our task to help our sixteen fields achieve growth by providing the best service we can offer. You will find information concerning the way we are organised and the type of work we are engaged in. You will also discover how our strategic plan for the years 2000-2005 intends to address our current needs. The theme of our plan is Growing Together, which attempts to capture our current emphasis on both development of many small and challenged fields and the need to grow in unity."

The Voice of Prophecy

"The Voice of Prophecy radio, Bible school, and evangelistic ministry has its international headquarters at the Adventist Media Center in Simi Valley, California. H. M. S. Richards, a Seventh-day Adventist evangelist, pioneered the use of radio to present the gospel 70 years ago -- when many of his colleagues thought the new device was the Devil's playground. Lonnie Melashenko is the director-speaker today, and the Voice of Prophecy strives to stay on the cutting edge in reaching contemporary society, utilizing the latest technologies for sharing God's Word. The global mission of the Voice of Prophecy is to proclaim the everlasting gospel of Christ, leading people to accept Jesus as their personal Savior, calling them to unite with His church, and nurturing them in preparation for His soon return. We believe all the great fundamentals of the Christian faith. We believe in the eternal Godhead, or Trinity, consisting of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We believe that Jesus Christ, our only Lord and Savior, was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried. The third day He rose again from the dead, ascended into heaven, and sits on the right hand of God the Father Almighty. From there He will come a second time to receive His own. We believe the character of God is reflected in the Ten Commandments, which are an expression of His love and concern for us, and that to transgress them is sin. We believe the wages of sin is death, and since all have sinned, all need a Savior. We believe that forgiveness from sin and rescue from its penalty is available only through trust in Jesus Christ, who died in our place. We believe the Bible is God's inspired Word through which we may hear His voice to our souls. It is our only rule of faith and practice."

        "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man." (Matthew 24:36-39)

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