The Holy Scriptures
The Holy Scriptures, Old and New Testaments, are the written Word of God, given by divine inspiration through holy men of God who spoke and wrote as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. In this Word, God has committed to humanity the knowledge necessary for salvation.
1.1 The Inspiration and Authority of the Bible
The Seventh-day Adventist Church upholds the Protestant principle of Sola Scriptura, affirming the Bible as the ultimate authority in all matters of faith and practice. The Holy Scriptures, Old and New Testaments, are viewed as the inspired Word of God, written by holy men moved by the Holy Spirit. This divine inspiration ensures the Bible’s authority, reliability, and sufficiency for salvation, guiding believers in doctrine, ethics, and daily living.
1.2 The Old and New Testaments as the Written Word of God
The Old and New Testaments are recognized as the written Word of God, forming a unified revelation of His character and plan. Through divine inspiration, they collectively express the fullness of God’s message to humanity, with the Old Testament anticipating the Messiah and the New Testament fulfilling that promise through Jesus Christ. Together, they provide a comprehensive understanding of God’s love, justice, and redemption.
The Godhead
The Godhead is one God, a personal, spiritual being, omnipotent, omniscient, and eternal, who created all things and sustains the universe by His power.
2.1 The Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
The Seventh-day Adventist Church affirms the doctrine of the Trinity, believing in one God eternally existing in three coequal persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. These three are distinct but inseparable, working together in creation, redemption, and the restoration of humanity. The Father is the Creator, the Son is the Redeemer, and the Holy Spirit is the Sanctifier, each fulfilling unique roles while sharing the same divine nature and attributes.
2.2 The Eternal Nature of God and His Omnipotence
God is eternal, all-powerful, and the sovereign Creator of the universe. His power is unlimited, and His wisdom is beyond human comprehension. He is infinite in knowledge, presence, and strength, governing all creation with divine authority. God’s omnipotence is not arbitrary but purposeful, reflecting His love and justice. He is unchanging in His nature, existing in three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—yet one in essence, fulfilling His will for humanity’s salvation and the restoration of all things.
Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God, the Incarnate Savior, and the central figure of the Seventh-day Adventist faith. He is the Creator, Savior, and example for humanity, whose life, death, and resurrection provide salvation.
3.1 Jesus as the Eternal Son of God and the Incarnate Savior
Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God, the Incarnate Savior, and the central figure of the Seventh-day Adventist faith. He is the Creator, Savior, and example for humanity, whose life, death, and resurrection provide salvation. Jesus took on human nature, suffered, and through His sacrifice, He redeemed humanity from sin, demonstrating God’s love and grace. His divine and human natures united make Him the perfect mediator between God and humanity.
3.2 The Atonement and Redemption Through Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the cross is the ultimate expression of God’s love, providing atonement for humanity’s sin. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus redeemed humanity, satisfying divine justice and reconciling sinners to God. His voluntary sacrifice demonstrates the depth of God’s mercy and grace, offering forgiveness and eternal life to all who accept Him. This redemption restores humanity’s relationship with God, triumphing over sin and death.
The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Godhead, a divine, eternal being who convicts sinners, regenerates believers, and transforms lives. He empowers believers for witness and service, fulfilling God’s plan of redemption and sealing them for eternal life.
4.1 The Role of the Holy Spirit in Salvation and Sanctification
The Holy Spirit convicts sinners of their need for salvation, regenerates believers, and transforms their lives. He empowers them for witness and service, enabling growth in holiness; The Spirit seals believers, ensuring their salvation and eternal life, and works to bring them into a closer relationship with Christ, fulfilling God’s plan of redemption and sanctification.
4.2 The Gifts and Fruits of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit bestows spiritual gifts such as prophecy, tongues, and healing to empower believers for ministry and service. These gifts, along with the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—evidence the Spirit’s transforming work in the lives of believers. They foster unity, edify the church, and reflect the character of Christ, enabling believers to live a Spirit-led life and fulfill their divine purpose.
Man and Salvation
The Holy Scriptures reveal mankind’s creation in God’s image, sin’s consequences, and salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, humanity’s only Savior through grace.
5.1 The Nature of Man and the Consequences of Sin
Created in God’s image, humanity possesses moral accountability and freedom of choice. However, sin entered the world through the Fall, leading to separation from God, suffering, and death. This rebellion against God’s will corrupted humanity’s nature, causing spiritual and physical decay. The consequences of sin necessitate redemption through Jesus Christ, emphasizing humanity’s need for salvation and divine grace to restore the original divine intent for human life.
5.2 Salvation Through Faith in Jesus Christ
Salvation is a gift from God, received through faith in Jesus Christ. Humanity is justified by faith, and sanctification is a lifelong process empowered by the Holy Spirit. Christ’s sacrifice on the cross atones for sin, reconciling believers to God. His resurrection offers hope for eternal life. Adventists emphasize that salvation is entirely a work of divine grace, transforming individuals to reflect God’s character and preparing them for eternal fellowship with Him.
The Church
The Seventh-day Adventist Church is the Body of Christ, united in mission, worship, and community, reflecting God’s love and purpose through its global fellowship and outreach.
6.1 The Church as the Body of Christ
The Seventh-day Adventist Church is the Body of Christ, a spiritual community united in faith and mission. It reflects God’s love and purpose through its global fellowship, worship, and outreach. Members are called to serve as ambassadors of Christ, living out His teachings and spreading the gospel. The church is a sanctuary for spiritual growth, where believers are nurtured through prayer, worship, and the study of Scripture.
6.2 The Mission and Unity of the Seventh-day Adventist Church
The Seventh-day Adventist Church is united in its mission to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ across the globe. Rooted in the Great Commission, its purpose is to share the Three Angels’ Messages, emphasizing Christ’s second coming and the observance of the Sabbath. Unity is upheld through shared beliefs, cooperative ministries, and a commitment to spiritual growth. This harmony fosters a worldwide fellowship dedicated to serving humanity and preparing for Christ’s return.
The Christian Life
The Christian life is rooted in obedience to God’s commandments and a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Prayer and worship are essential, fostering a spirit of thanksgiving and devotion to God.
7.1 Living a Life of Obedience to God’s Commandments
Living a life of obedience to God’s commandments is foundational to the Christian life. It reflects a loving relationship with God and a commitment to His will. Obedience is not merely legalistic compliance but a heartfelt response to God’s love, demonstrated through prayer, worship, and a life lived in harmony with His teachings. The Sabbath, as a day of rest and worship, is a central expression of this obedience, honoring God as Creator and Redeemer.
7.2 The Importance of Prayer and Worship in Daily Life
Prayer and worship are vital components of a Christian’s daily life, fostering a deep, personal relationship with God. Prayer is a direct communication with God, seeking His will and guidance, while worship expresses love, gratitude, and reverence for Him. Both practices strengthen faith, provide spiritual renewal, and align believers with God’s purpose. Corporate worship unites believers, creating a sense of community and shared commitment to glorifying God.
The Sabbath
The seventh-day Sabbath, observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening, is a day of rest and worship, commemorating God’s creation and redemption. It reflects trust in God’s providence and remains a sign of loyalty to Him.
8.1 The Seventh-day Sabbath as a Day of Rest and Worship
The seventh-day Sabbath, observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening, is a sacred gift from God, established at creation. It serves as a day of rest and worship, allowing believers to cease from labor and focus on spiritual rejuvenation. By keeping the Sabbath, Adventists express trust in God’s providence and rhythm of life, emphasizing fellowship with Him and His people, while anticipating eternal rest in heaven.
8.2 The Significance of the Sabbath in the Creation Narrative
The Sabbath holds profound significance as it originates from the creation narrative, where God rested on the seventh day, sanctifying it as holy. This divine rest underscores God’s sovereignty and the completion of His creative work. The Sabbath serves as a perpetual reminder of God’s power and humanity’s dependence on Him, symbolizing trust in His providence and the anticipation of eternal rest. It reflects the harmony of God’s original design for humanity.
Last-day Events
The Seventh-day Adventist Church emphasizes the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, the resurrection of the dead, and the final judgment, highlighting God’s ultimate redemption and eternal plan.
9.1 The Second Coming of Jesus Christ
The Second Coming of Jesus Christ is a central doctrine, emphasizing His visible and triumphant return to earth. Adventists believe this event marks the culmination of God’s plan, bringing ultimate victory over sin and death. The Bible, particularly 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17, describes Christ’s return with power and glory, resurrecting the dead and gathering believers to eternal life, fulfilling the hope of redemption and the establishment of God’s eternal kingdom.
9.2 The Resurrection of the Dead and the Final Judgment
Seventh-day Adventists believe in the resurrection of the dead, tied to Christ’s return. The righteous rise first at His coming, receiving eternal life, while the wicked are resurrected later, facing judgment. The final judgment vindicates God’s justice, revealing His mercy and love, ensuring all understand His ways before the new earth is established, free from sin and death, fulfilling God’s ultimate plan of redemption and eternal harmony.
Stewardship
Seventh-day Adventists believe humans are entrusted with Earth’s care and God’s resources. Stewardship involves managing spiritual and material blessings responsibly, reflecting devotion and accountability to God.
10.1 The Responsibility of Humans to Care for the Earth
Seventh-day Adventists believe humans are entrusted with the sacred responsibility to care for the Earth, as stewards of God’s creation. This mandate, rooted in Genesis, emphasizes dominion as a sacred trust. The Bible teaches that sin has disrupted humanity’s relationship with nature, leading to environmental degradation. Adventists advocate for practical care of the earth, recognizing it as a reflection of reverence for God and alignment with His will. Sustainability and wise use of resources are central to this belief.
10.2 The Importance of Spiritual and Material Stewardship
Seventh-day Adventists emphasize the dual importance of spiritual and material stewardship, rooted in biblical teachings. Spiritual stewardship involves faithfully managing God-given talents, time, and spiritual gifts to glorify Him. Material stewardship pertains to the wise and ethical use of resources, including finances and possessions, reflecting a commitment to God’s ownership. Both aspects underscore accountability to God for how these blessings are utilized, aligning with the belief that all resources are entrusted to humanity as a divine responsibility.