Cults, Sects, and New Religious Movements

[Solo]

NOTE: The following information is only for educational purposes for the instruction of the members of the body of Christ on this forum concerning the teachings of the various cults, sects, and new religious movements; the Biblical Response to the false teachings; and the manner of witnessing to those involved in such belief systems.



The Way International
Cults, Sects, and New Religious Movements

Official Name: The Way International

Founder: Victor Paul Wierwille (1916-1985)

Current Leaders: President - Rosalie Rivenbark; Vice President - Harve Platig

Headquarters: The Way Farm, New Knoxville, Ohio

Ministries Associated with The Way International: American Christian Press (ACP); The Way of Abundance and Power Classes; The Way Corps

Key Publications: The Way Magazine; Books by Victor Paul Wierwille (all published by ACP): The Bible Tells Me So (1971), The New, Dynamic Church (1971), The Word’s Way (1971), Receiving the Holy Spirit Today (1972), Are the Dead Alive Now? (1973), Jesus Is Not God (1975), God’s Magnified Word (1977); L. Craig Martindale: The Rise and Expansion of the Church (1995)

This Belief Bulletin presents information and a biblical analysis on the history, beliefs, and practices of The Way International (TWI). Principles of effective Christian witness to those involved are provided.

Short History of The Way International

Victor Paul Wierwille was born in New Knoxville, Ohio, on December 31, 1916. He and his family were members of an Evangelical and Reformed Church (now United Church of Christ). He attended Mission House (Lakeland) College and graduated in 1941 from Princeton Theological Seminary. Wierwille claimed that on October 3 of the next year, he heard God speak to him audibly. God told Wierwille that He would guide him to understand and interpret the Bible more accurately than anyone since the apostolic age. As a result, Wierwille said he dumped 3,000 of his theological textbooks into a trash heap and set on an independent study of Scripture. In 1948 Wierwille received a Doctor of Theology degree from the unaccredited (and now defunct) Pike’s Peak Seminary in Colorado. In 1951 he visited evangelist J.E. Stiles and learned his technique for speaking in tongues.In 1953 Wierwille began teaching his “Power for Abundant Living†(PFAL) classes, a series of lectures highlighting his unusual doctrinal views. In 1955 Wierwille incorporated his ministry as The Way, Inc., and a few years later, formally withdrew from the Evangelical and Reformed denomination. Over the next few years his theology increasingly deviated from orthodox Christianity, particularly his views of the Trinity and the nature of Christ.Wierwille’s influence grew as a result of the late 1960s “Jesus Movement.†A number of former hippies were attracted to his authoritative teaching style and experiential emphasis on spiritual gifts. In the early 1970s the group adopted the name The Way International (TWI) and began holding annual “Rock of Ages†music festivals. In 1975 The Way College was opened in Emporia, Kan., with 350 students. Wierwille officially retired as president of TWI in 1982. L. Craig Martindale, a former Baptist Student Union and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. leader at the University of Kansas where he played football succeeded him. Wierwille died of ocular cancer on May 20, 1985, at age 68. Following his death, several former leaders of TWI leveled charges against Wierwille and TWI trustees including accusations of extreme authoritarianism, plagiarism, adultery, and false teaching. As a result the group lost many followers, sold its college in Kansas, and spawned several like-minded splinter groups led by former TWI staffers. These included Christian Educational Services and Pacific West Fellowship. In 2000, amid charges of sexual improprieties, L. Craig Matindale resigned as TWI president and was suceeded by Rosalie Rivenbark.

Beliefs and Practices

Authority and the Bible

The Bible as God’s inspired and infallible Word is regarded by TWI as “God-breathed†and perfect as originally given. The King James Version is usually quoted in TWI literature; however, some Hebrew and Greek texts used by Bible scholars have been distorted, and thus textual research is needed to clarify certain passages and doctrines. An extreme dispensational interpretive method is followed which regards only portions of the New Testament (Paul’s letters to the churches and the Book of Acts) as relevant to Christians. The Old Testament, the four Gospels, and Paul’s letters to individuals are regarded as nonessential. Victor Paul Wierwille’s interpretations, as stated in his writings are authoritative for all TWI students.

Biblical Response: The Bible is indeed God’s infallible and inerrant Word as given in the original autographs. The textual integrity of the Bible is well established; however, no one translation and no one interpreter are regarded as infallible. Many of Wierwille’s interpretations of certain passages are incorrect, and his extreme dispensationalist approach must be rejected. Both the Old and New Testaments are relevant to Christians when studied in context, utilizing sound principles of interpretation (see Luke 24:27, Luke 24:44-45; 2 Timothy 3:15-17).

God Is One

The traditional Christian understanding of God as Trinity is rejected by TWI. He is regarded as a unitary being who is the creator of the universe. The Trinity is deemed unbiblical and reflects the influence of pagan Roman emperors and the creeds of church councils.

Biblical Response: There is only one true God (see Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 43:10-11). However, the doctrine of the Trinity is taught in Scripture. The church creeds affirmed the biblical teachings and did not create them. God is one in three and is revealed as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He is one God in three Persons (see Matthew 28:19; 1 Corinthians 12:4-6; 2 Corinthians 1:21-22; Ephesians 1:3-14).

Jesus Christ Is Not God

Jesus Christ did not preexist according to TWI. He existed only as “The Word†in the foreknowledge of God. Thus He was created at His miraculous conception. He was born a perfect man whose soul was specially created by God and given “holy spirit.†Thus He can be regarded as the “Son of God†but not “God the Son.†He lived a sinless life and was crucified on a stake, not a cross, and on Wednesday, not Friday. He was executed between four criminals, “two thieves†on one side (see Matthew 27:38; Mark 15:27) and “two malefactors†on the other (see Luke 23:32).
Jesus was resurrected physically on Saturday (not Sunday).

Biblical Response: Jesus is the eternal, preexistent Word of God. He is the second Person of the Holy Trinity. He was, is, and always shall be God. In His earthly life He had two natures: human and divine. He lived a perfect, sinless life and was crucified on a Roman cross between two thieves (malefactors) as a substitutionary atonement for mankind’s sin. He rose physically on the third day (Sunday) and is ascended to heaven (see John 1:1-18; John 5:17-18; John 8:56-59; John 10:30-33; John 17:5; Colossians 1:15-17; Colossians 2:9).

Holy Spirit and “holy spiritâ€Â

The term “holy spirit†is used in two distinct ways in Scripture according to TWI. Holy Spirit (capital letters in TWI literature) is merely a synonym for God. It is a name of God describing His nature as Spirit (see John 4:24). Contrary, “holy spirit†(not capitalized in TWI literature) refers to the gift of God given to believers by the Holy Spirit. It is the power of God given in the inside of the believer but manifested on the outside by speaking in tongues (SIT).

Biblical Response: The New Testament indicates that the Holy Spirit is both a person and fully God. He is capable of speaking, teaching, grieving, and being lied to (but not being fooled). There is no distinction made between “Holy Spirit†and “holy spirit†as maintained by TWI (see Matthew 12:31-32; Matthew 28:19; Mark 3:29; Luke 12:12; John 14–16; Acts 5:3-10; Acts 13:2-4; Romans 8:4, Romans 8:26-27; 1 Corinthians 12:11; Ephesians 2:18-19; Ephesians 4:30; Ephesians 5:18-21).

Mankind’s Problem: Lost “Spiritâ€Â

According to TWI, mankind consists of a three-fold nature: body, soul, and spirit. God created Adam with a body and soul (mind), to which He added spirit. This is the essence of the image of God. Adam lost “spirit†when he sought knowledge through the soul. Jesus thus paid a legal transaction to redeem mankind from Satan by taking the sins of the world upon Himself at His crucifixion. This made “holy spirit†available to mankind by believing in Jesus Christ (see Acts 2:38).

Biblical Response: All have sinned and are lost without Christ (see Rom. 3:23; 6:23). Jesus’ death on the cross was a substitutionary atonement to pay fully the debt of sin (see Romans 4:25; 1 Peter 3:18). Only by putting one’s faith in Christ alone and receiving Him as Savior and Lord can a person be saved (see Ephesians 2:8-9).

No Need for Water Baptism

TWI teaches that water baptism is not needed in the church era. That was for Israel only and ended with John the Baptist and at Pentecost. The reference to baptism and the Trinity in Matthew 28:18-19 was probably not in the original text. Other references in the New Testament to baptism are likewise rejected. Biblical Response: Water baptism is a symbol of the believer’s identification with death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is the act of Christian initiation in the body of Christ (see Acts 8:12, Acts 8:36-39; Romans 6:3-5; 1 Corinthians 12:13; Colossians 2:12). The textual integrity of Matthew 28:18-19 is fully affirmed.

The New Birth and a Renewed Mind

TWI says that the new birth comes by verbal confession of faith in Jesus Christ as Lord. A person “renews†their mind for abundant life, however, only by taking TWI’s “Way of Abundance and Power†class (formerly “Power for Abundant Livingâ€Â). The sign of the renewed mind is the nine manifestations of the gift of holy spirit as outlined in 1 Corinthians 12:7-11. The initial and primary expression of holy spirit manifestation is speaking in tongues. Only by verbally speaking in tongues can one see outward, visible proof of an inward power of holy spirit. Students are taught a specific technique for speaking in tongues during The Way of Abundance and Power classes and are expected to demonstrate an ability to do so before graduating.

Biblical Response: TWI’s two-stage concept of redemption is without biblical support. One is fully born again by trusting in Jesus Christ as one’s Savior and Lord and receiving salvation by grace through faith alone (see Ephesians 2:8-9). At that moment, our sins are forgiven, we are saved from our sins, and the Holy Spirit comes to dwell in us to empower us for living the Christian life. There is no indication that speaking in tongues or any other outward sign is necessary to confirm the Spirit’s presence. The Holy Spirit sovereignly distributes His various gifts as He wills to all members to minister to the whole body of Christ (the church) (see Romans 12:6-8; 1 Corinthians 12–14; Ephesians 4:11).

The Dead Are Now Asleep

TWI maintains that there is no conscious existence after death. When believers die they do not go immediately to be with God or Jesus. Rather, they await the future resurrection when their bodies, souls, and spirits will be reunited to live again.

Biblical Response: At death, believers in Christ maintain a conscious relationship with Him while awaiting the resurrection (see Matthew 22:32; Luke 16:22-23; Luke 23:43; John 11:26; 2 Corinthians 5:8; 2 Corinthians 12:2-4; Philippians 1:23-24; 1 Thessalonians 4:14; 1 Thessalonians 5:10).

Organization: The Way Tree

TWI is organized along the lines of a metaphor of a tree. Individual members are referred to as “Leaves.†A small cell-group fellowship of Leaves is a “Twig†and is led by an experienced elder. The local Twigs association is a “Branch,†and a state association of Branches is a “Limb.†All the Limbs in a specific country comprise a national “Trunk,†and the world headquarters is the “Roots.†All policies and doctrinal positions are transmitted from the Roots through the various levels of authority to local Twigs and Leaves. All leaders are appointed by various levels of authority and approved by the Roots leadership.

Biblical Response: TWI’s centralized and authoritarian system of organization contrasts to the locally led and based churches of the New Testament. No one leader or leaders since apostolic times can claim exclusive authority over local congregations of believers. The biblical model for church structure is the body of Christ, not a tree and branches.

Principles for Witnessing to Those in The Way International

1. Have a clear understanding of your own faith and the Bible.
2. Study the beliefs and practices of The Way International in order to communicate intelligently with those involved in it.
3. Determine the level of involvement of the person in TWI. Have they been through The Way of Abundance and Power class? Are they involved in a Twig fellowship? Are they in some position of TWI leadership?
4. Define all terms carefully. TWI members often use Christian terms but have different meanings. For example, when they talk about Jesus as “the Son of Godâ€Â, they do not mean “God the Son.â€Â
5. Seek to build personal relationships and sincere friendships with those in TWI. Remember, patience is a key ingredient.
6. Avoid arguments, and let love be your true motive for witness.
7. Share your personal testimony of God’s grace and assurance in your life. Tell what Jesus means to you
personally.
8. Use the Bible in your discussion and check all passages for correct context.
9. Focus your discussion on the essential biblical issues such as the nature and work of Jesus Christ, and on the basics of the gospel message.
10. Pray and trust the Holy Spirit to lead in your witness encounter.


Tal Davis, Associate, Interfaith Evangelism
© 2001, North American Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention, Alpharetta, Georgia

All rights reserved. The North American Mission Board grants permission for reproduction of this publication for educational purposes. Alteration of this publication is strictly prohibited.

May not be sold for profit.

All other inquiries should be addressed to: Editorial and Design Manager, North American Mission Board, 4200 North Point Pkwy., Alpharetta, Ga. 30022-4176; or fax (770) 410-6006; or
e-mail permissions@namb.net.

For more information contact Interfaith Evangelism via e-mail at interfaith@namb.net.

http://www.namb.net/interfaith

 

[Solo]

NOTE: The following information is only for educational purposes for the instruction of the members of the body of Christ on this forum concerning the teachings of the various cults, sects, and new religious movements; the Biblical Response to the false teachings; and the manner of witnessing to those involved in such belief systems.


Seventh-day Adventism
Cults, Sects, and New Religious Movements

Official Name: Seventh-day Adventist Church

Key Figure in History: Ellen G. White (1827-1915)

Current Leader: Jan Paulsen, President

Headquarters: General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Silver Spring, Maryland

Membership (2000): Worldwide: 11.3 million in 47,543 churches in 230 countries North American Division (U.S. and Canada): [/size] 922,917 in 4,775 churches (Source: yearbook.gc.adventist.org [cited 20 March 2001])

Ministries Associated with Seventh-day Adventists: Radio and Television: “The Voice of Prophecyâ€Â; “Amazing Factsâ€Â; “It Is Written†(Mark Finley). Publications: “Signs of the Timesâ€Â; “Libertyâ€Â; “Vibrant Lifeâ€Â; “Adventist Reviewâ€Â; “Ministry.†Books: The Bible Story by Arthur Maxwell and Uncle Arthur’s Bedtime Stories by Arthur Maxwell. Educational Institutions: Andrews University; Kettering College of Medical Arts; Loma Linda University.


Introduction

Interfaith Evangelism (IE) defines a cult as any group that claims to be Christian, yet deviates at a major point of Christian doctrine, especially regarding the nature of God and the Person and work of Jesus Christ. Seventh-day Adventists (SDA) affirm the Christian doctrine of the inspiration and authority of the Bible. They also affirm the trinitarian nature of the Godhead: the fatherhood of God, deity of Jesus Christ, and the Person and deity of the Holy Spirit. They teach that man was created in the image of God, but is in a fallen state of sin and in need of redemption. They affirm that Jesus was virgin-born; lived a sinless life; was crucified, dead, and buried; and rose again bodily from the grave. These SDA beliefs are in basic agreement with historic, biblical Christianity. Thus, IE does not designate the SDA as a cult. However, IE designates the SDA as a Christian sect because they have a number of distinctive doctrines not in accord with historic Christian faith. This Belief Bulletin highlights those doctrines and provides biblical responses.


Founding of the SDA Church

SDAs teach that the church founder, Ellen G. White, possessed a modern “spirit of prophecy.†The church maintains that her visions and writings were divinely inspired interpretations of Scripture. Actually, the SDA movement was derived from several previous movements. Those movements included the Millerite Movement (Second Adventism), which had predicted the coming of Christ in 1844, and Seventh-day Sabbatarianism, as taught by Joseph Bates. Mrs. White’s visions combined these unusual theological notions into a unique religious system. She established the SDA movement in the 1850s. The SDA Church was formally organized in 1863 in Battle Creek, Mich.


The Remnant Church

The SDA Church teaches that Christianity in its original form was corrupted in the centuries after the New Testament era by apostate Roman Catholic popes. The sign of this apostasy was the shifting of the sabbath day from the seventh to the first day of the week. Throughout history, a small, faithful group of Christians has maintained true worship. Today the “remnant†church is the SDA Church.

Response: The church consists of the body of believers in Christ. It is the body of Christ in which the gospel is proclaimed, Christians are nurtured in their faith, and gifts of the Spirit are exercised. No single organization can claim exclusive title as the true or remnant church. The church includes all the redeemed of all ages (Matthew 16:15-19; Romans 12:4-5; 1 Corinthians 12:1-14:40; Ephesians 1:22-23; Ephesians 3:21; Ephesians 4:4-13).


The Seventh-day Sabbath

The SDA Church teaches that the biblical Sabbath must be observed on the seventh day of the week (Friday evening until Saturday evening) in accordance with Old Testament law. It maintains that the New Testament church observed the sabbath which is the “seal†of God’s law. Those Christians who worship on Sunday are in error and, in the last days, will bear the “mark of the beast,†which they consider to be Sunday worship.

Response: The New Testament church met on the “Lord’s Day†(first day of the week) as a memorial of Christ’s resurrection. The SDA Church’s insistence that sabbath-keeping is mandatory for Christians is unwarranted. The claim that Sunday worship is the mark of the beast is unfounded. Salvation and commitment to Christ are not demonstrated by adherence to external legalities (Romans 13:8-10, Romans 14:4-13; 1 Corinthians 16:2; Galatians 4:9-11; Colossians 2:13-17).


Salvation Maintained by Works

The SDA Church publicly states its belief that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. However, SDA teaching often implies that certain outward acts of righteousness are necessary to maintain one’s assurance of salvation, especially observance of the seventh-day sabbath. SDA members also are expected to observe strict dietary regulations and to abstain from alcohol, drugs, and tobacco.

Response: The SDA Church’s emphasis on a healthy lifestyle is commendable. However, salvation is entirely a result of grace through faith in Jesus Christ as one’s Savior and Lord. Good works result from one’s assurance of eternal security through Christ’s finished work (John 10:28-29; Romans 8:1-2, Romans 8:35-39; Ephesians 1:13-14; Ephesians 2:8-10; 2 Timothy 1:12).


The Investigative Judgment

The SDA Church teaches that the true “holy of holies†sanctuary of God is in heaven where, in 1844, Jesus began the second phase of His atoning ministry. This second phase, called the “investigative judgment,†involves an examination of the dead to determine if they are worthy of being part of the first resurrection, and to determine who among the living are abiding in Christ and keeping God’s commandments.

Response: The Bible makes no reference to the SDA’s idea of two stages in God’s plan of redemption. The SDA assertion that Christ entered the sanctuary in 1844 is unwarranted. Christ accomplished the totality of His redemptive work on the cross and in His resurrection. Salvation is assured by God’s grace through faith in Christ (John 5:24; Romans 5:6-10; Romans 8:1; Colossians 1:20-22; Hebrews 1:3; Hebrews 9:27; 1 John 5:11-13).


Death Is a State of Unconscious “Sleepâ€Â

The SDA Church teaches that people who have died are in an unconscious, sleep-like, state. Believers are awaiting the appearance of Christ when they will be resurrected and caught up to meet the Lord. The unrighteous wicked will be resurrected and judged after the millennium.

Response: The Bible implies that Christians’ spirits go to be with Christ at death. Believers live in a conscious, interim state with the Lord, waiting for the day when they will accompany Him at His return. At that time, they will be reunited with their resurrected glorified bodies (John 11:25-26; 2 Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:23; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 2 Timothy 1:10).


The Second Coming

The SDA Church teaches that we are in the last days. They do not set a date for the second coming, but imply that it will be soon. Bible prophecy can be understood from world history, as interpreted by Mrs. White. The SDA remnant church is proclaiming the final call for all people to prepare for the coming of Christ. They believe certain, specific signs will precede the end, especially a worldwide legal requirement for Sunday worship, the mark of the beast.

Response: Jesus will indeed return physically to close the age and judge mankind. Believers are to be ready at any moment for the Lord’s return. Mrs. White’s interpretations of the prophetic biblical writings are questionable (Matthew 24:4-7,14,32-1; Mark 13:32; Acts 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11).


The Final Judgment

The SDA Church teaches that, after Christ’s thousand-year rule, a second resurrection of those not saved will occur. Those whose names are not found in the “book of life†(unsaved) will be cast into the lake of fire and annihilated out of existence. The doctrine of eternal hell is denied.

Response: The doctrine of eternal hell is affirmed. The saved will enjoy eternal life with Christ and the lost will suffer eternal punishment (Matt. 18:8-9; 25:41-46; Mark 9:43-48; John 3:16; 14:1-3; 2 Thess. 1:9; Rev. 20â€â€22).

Conclusion: Members of the SDA Church may be genuinely saved Christians based on personal faith in Jesus Christ. The SDA Church, however, has some teachings that deviate from historic Christian doctrine.

Witnessing to Seventh-day Adventists

1. Have a clear understanding of your faith and of the Bible.
2. Have a basic knowledge of SDA beliefs and the extra-biblical sources of some of their doctrines.
3. Establish the sole authority of the Bible based on sound principles of interpretation.
4. Define all terms clearly. Some common terms may have different meanings for SDAs than they do for Baptists.
5. Determine the level of the SDA’s commitment to his or her church.
6. Determine what relationship the SDA has with Jesus Christ. Is he or she trusting in Christ for salvation or in good works and church membership?
7. Present a strong, personal testimony of your faith in Christ and your assurance of salvation by grace through faith.
8. If the person does not know Christ as Savior and Lord, share the basic gospel message and seek to bring him or her to faith in Jesus.
9. If you determine that the SDA possesses a saving knowledge of Christ, you may want to engage in a respectful dialogue of differences in doctrinal
beliefs.
10. Trust the Holy Spirit to lead you.

 

[sandman]

After looking over this explanation of the Ways, I see nothing wrong with any of it – in fact it’s nice to know that others are out there who really believe the bible, and not just blindly follow tradition.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
God Bless
sandman

 

[Drew]

After looking over this explanation of the Ways, I see nothing wrong with any of it – in fact it’s nice to know that others are out there who really believe the bible, and not just blindly follow tradition.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
God Bless
sandman

I have not investigated the other beliefs of "The Way" but I think that that belief that the dead sleep is clearly the correct Scriptural view. There have been a number of threads on this subject (e.g. http://www.christianforums.net/viewtopic.php?t=27702).

An important point. Anyone can simply declare that "soul sleep" (and other doctrines) are not correct. The reader who is likely to have any authority to actually make a difference in the world will actually seek to determine whether the declared position is in fact Scriptural.

 

[guibox]

He Drew good to see you again.

Yes, it is sad that so many people falsely label doctrine as false simply because a cult or sect might believe it. Instead, they will dismiss the belief by using ambiguous proof texts that don't really say what people think (as in the above scriptures given to deny soul sleep).

This is elitist thinking where tradition is followed with meagre scriptural evidence and assumptions are taken as truths

 

[Sinias]

I suggest you look a little deeper into what "The Way International" actually practices. You can't believe everything you read on the internet but some of the things I've found on that organization makes me sick. They have had lawsuits on them for Rape, sex scandals, trying to control members through fear. Their leaders use profanity while preaching and if you disagree with what they teach then you are marked as an outsider and make claims that you are demon possessed and other members should stay clear of you. Also telling youth that they will die if they leave the church. Even if a fraction of this is true then I would say people need to stay clear of it.

 

[sandman]

I am not condoning any of that kind of stuff…………… if it is true …even a fraction of it.
I was just basing my statement on what I was reading above ……
In spite of what people do; it does not invalidate the Truth

Ya know, several years ago I was in Lima, Ohio. We were taking the scenic route back to Chicago and I am pretty sure we may have gone by this Way place. If it’s the same place I am thinking of……. Oh man… it was absolutely beautiful …..I still have this mind picture of a computerized fountain that looked like an open Bible {I think}
Anyhow I guess you never know what goes on behind closed doors …… that is not a statement of condemnation ….it’s a statement of fact; obviously some good things took place also.

 

[RND]

http://www.christianforums.net/viewtopic.php?t=28253

It’s true! The Seventh-day Adventist church movement is indeed a cult....a cult for the Biblical Truth of the Word of God, Jesus Christ, Lord and Savior. John 1:1

NOTE: The following information is only for educational purposes for the instruction of the members of the body of Christ on this forum concerning the teachings of the various cults, sects, and new religious movements; the Biblical Response to the false teachings; and the manner of witnessing to those involved in such belief systems.

Introduction

Interfaith Evangelism (IE) defines a cult as any group that claims to be Christian, yet deviates at a major point of Christian doctrine, especially regarding the nature of God and the Person and work of Jesus Christ.

Or if their comfort zone has been taken up like a srunken blankie!

They teach that man was created in the image of God, but is in a fallen state of sin and in need of redemption. They affirm that Jesus was virgin-born; lived a sinless life; was crucified, dead, and buried; and rose again bodily from the grave. These SDA beliefs are in basic agreement with historic, biblical Christianity. Thus, IE does not designate the SDA as a cult. However, IE designates the SDA as a Christian sect because they have a number of distinctive doctrines not in accord with historic Christian faith. This Belief Bulletin highlights those doctrines and provides biblical responses.

A sect? Isn't "Christianity" as a whole a "sect?"

The Remnant Church

The SDA Church teaches that Christianity in its original form was corrupted in the centuries after the New Testament era by apostate Roman Catholic popes. The sign of this apostasy was the shifting of the sabbath day from the seventh to the first day of the week. Throughout history, a small, faithful group of Christians has maintained true worship. Today the “remnant†church is the SDA Church.

And other "Sabbatarians" or seventh-day day keeping Christians. Which by the way is growing by leaps and bounds yearly. Gee wiz, there are even seventh-day Baptist for goodness sake!

Response: The church consists of the body of believers in Christ. It is the body of Christ in which the gospel is proclaimed, Christians are nurtured in their faith, and gifts of the Spirit are exercised. No single organization can claim exclusive title as the true or remnant church. The church includes all the redeemed of all ages (Matthew 16:15-19; Romans 12:4-5; 1 Corinthians 12:1-14:40; Ephesians 1:22-23; Ephesians 3:21; Ephesians 4:4-13).

The Bible clearly says that if people do not speak the truth regarding the commandments of God there is no truth in them.

1 John 2:3-5
And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. 4 He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.

The Seventh-day Sabbath

The SDA Church teaches that the biblical Sabbath must be observed on the seventh day of the week (Friday evening until Saturday evening) in accordance with Old Testament law. It maintains that the New Testament church observed the sabbath which is the “seal†of God’s law. Those Christians who worship on Sunday are in error and, in the last days, will bear the “mark of the beast,†which they consider to be Sunday worship.

Response: The New Testament church met on the “Lord’s Day†(first day of the week) as a memorial of Christ’s resurrection. The SDA Church’s insistence that sabbath-keeping is mandatory for Christians is unwarranted. The claim that Sunday worship is the mark of the beast is unfounded. Salvation and commitment to Christ are not demonstrated by adherence to external legalities (Romans 13:8-10, Romans 14:4-13; 1 Corinthians 16:2; Galatians 4:9-11; Colossians 2:13-17).

The "church" never met on the first day of the week, not once, not ever. This is one of the biggest lies ever told and anyone claiming to be Christian that tells such a lie on purpose will have to answer to God directly. Jesus Christ kept the sabbath. We, as Christians and followers of His way have been “called out†to do the same.

1 Corinthians 7:22
For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord's freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ's servant.

As a matter of fact, both Jews and Gentiles worshipped and listened to Paul quote the Holy Scriptures on the sabbath and insisted Paul preach the same message again on the next sabbath:

Acts 13:42
And when the Jews were gone out of the synagogue, the Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them the next sabbath.

Acts 13:44
And the next sabbath day came almost the whole city together to hear the word of God.

Salvation Maintained by Works

The SDA Church publicly states its belief that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.

However, SDA teaching often implies that certain outward acts of righteousness are necessary to maintain one’s assurance of salvation, especially observance of the seventh-day sabbath. SDA members also are expected to observe strict dietary regulations and to abstain from alcohol, drugs, and tobacco.

Response: The SDA Church’s emphasis on a healthy lifestyle is commendable. However, salvation is entirely a result of grace through faith in Jesus Christ as one’s Savior and Lord. Good works result from one’s assurance of eternal security through Christ’s finished work (John 10:28-29; Romans 8:1-2, Romans 8:35-39; Ephesians 1:13-14; Ephesians 2:8-10; 2 Timothy 1:12).

The Bible clearly teaches that works come as a greatful resonce to the grace , mercy and salvation that is a gift from God. These works do not save us, add extra credit to our scorecard, or add to anything that the Lord does.

Clearly, faith, without works is dead.

James 2:14
What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?

James 2:17
Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.

James 2:18
Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.

The Investigative Judgment

The SDA Church teaches that the true “holy of holies†sanctuary of God is in heaven where, in 1844, Jesus began the second phase of His atoning ministry. This second phase, called the “investigative judgment,†involves an examination of the dead to determine if they are worthy of being part of the first resurrection, and to determine who among the living are abiding in Christ and keeping God’s commandments.

Response: The Bible makes no reference to the SDA’s idea of two stages in God’s plan of redemption. The SDA assertion that Christ entered the sanctuary in 1844 is unwarranted. Christ accomplished the totality of His redemptive work on the cross and in His resurrection. Salvation is assured by God’s grace through faith in Christ (John 5:24; Romans 5:6-10; Romans 8:1; Colossians 1:20-22; Hebrews 1:3; Hebrews 9:27; 1 John 5:11-13).

http://www.nisbett.com/sanctuary/invest ... gement.htm

A Seventh-day Adventist term for the preliminary phase of the great final judgement by which God intervenes in human affairs to bring the reign of sin to a close and to inaugurate Christ’s eternal reign of righteousness (see Dan. 7:9, 10, 13, 14). This opening phase is called an investigative judgement because it consists of an examination of the life records of all who have ever professed to accept salvation in Christ and whose names are therefore inscribed in "the Lamb’s book of life." Its purpose is to verify their eligibility for citizenship in God’s eternal kingdom. At the close of the investigative judgement the sins of those who have endured to the end are "blotted out" from the books of record and the names of all others are stricken from the book of life (Ex. 32:32, 33; Rev. 3:5; 20:12, 15; 22:19). Seventh-day Adventists teach that in view of the fact that at His second coming Christ rewards "every man according as his work shall be" (Rev. 22:12; cf. Rom. 2:5–11), it is evident that this investigation of the life record takes place before He returns to earth to gather the elect. The divine proclamation "Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgement is come," is specifically presented as preceding the Advent (Rev. 14:7; cf. v. 14).

To be sure, God does not need to investigate the records in order to learn or to determine who is eligible to be saved. It is for the benefit of all created beings that the facts with respect to each person’s fate should be known, as an assurance to all that justice has been done and as a guarantee of the eternal stability of the divine government. The Bible writers speak of "books" in which God keeps a record of character-of good and evil deeds as measured by a person’s knowledge of, and voluntary relationship to, divine grace and God’s revealed will (Ex. 32:32; Mark 16:16; Phil. 4:3; James 4:17; Rev. 20:12, 13; 22:11, 12).

Death Is a State of Unconscious “Sleepâ€Â

The SDA Church teaches that people who have died are in an unconscious, sleep-like, state. Believers are awaiting the appearance of Christ when they will be resurrected and caught up to meet the Lord. The unrighteous wicked will be resurrected and judged after the millennium.

Response: The Bible implies that Christians’ spirits go to be with Christ at death. Believers live in a conscious, interim state with the Lord, waiting for the day when they will accompany Him at His return. At that time, they will be reunited with their resurrected glorified bodies (John 11:25-26; 2 Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:23; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 2 Timothy 1:10).

The Bible never "implies" anything about the state of the dead. It "expressly and explicitly" states without any question that the state of the dead is just that....dead.

See Matthew 27:50-53 where after Jesus gives up the Ghost graves are opened and those in them awaken.

Or how about these verses that prove conclusively that death is just that...death.

Psalm 6:5

Ecclesiastes 9:5 For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not any thing, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten.

Job 14:10, 12-13
But man dieth, and wasteth away: yea, man giveth up the ghost, and where is he?
12 So man lieth down, and riseth not: till the heavens be no more, they shall not awake, nor be raised out of their sleep.
13 O that thou wouldest hide me in the grave, that thou wouldest keep me secret, until thy wrath be past, that thou wouldest appoint me a set time, and remember me!

Ezekiel 18:4
Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sinneth, it shall die.

Ecclesiastes 3 : 18 - 21
"For that which happens to the sons of men happens to beasts; even one thing happens to them: as the one dies, so dies the other; yes, they have all one breath; so that a man has no preeminence above a beast: for all is vanity. All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again. Who knows the spirit of man that goes upward, and the spirit of the beast that goes downward to the earth?"

Psalm 146: 3 -4
"Put not your trust in princes, nor in the son of man, in whom there is no help. His breath goes forth, he returns to his earth; in that very day his thoughts perish."

The Second Coming

The SDA Church teaches that we are in the last days. They do not set a date for the second coming, but imply that it will be soon. Bible prophecy can be understood from world history, as interpreted by Mrs. White. The SDA remnant church is proclaiming the final call for all people to prepare for the coming of Christ. They believe certain, specific signs will precede the end, especially a worldwide legal requirement for Sunday worship, the mark of the beast.

Response: Jesus will indeed return physically to close the age and judge mankind. Believers are to be ready at any moment for the Lord’s return. Mrs. White’s interpretations of the prophetic biblical writings are questionable (Matthew 24:4-7,14,32-1; Mark 13:32; Acts 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11).

Mrs. White's writings on world history, and final end-times Biblical event are only questionable to those unwilliangly to see the clear message and confussionless scriptures for what they are...a road map to Heaven.

Jesus will return soon. The three angels are indeed proclaiming a special call to all the earth to accept Christ as Lord and Savior. If anyone pays any attention to the news at all, even just a little, they can see now one-world legalism creeping into general society.

Soon this same one-worldism will creep into the church. Where pastor will go to jail for not allowing the unrepentant and those of unquestionable moral character to become church members without renouncing their sins. This will lead to the beast and false prophet declaring one-world religion.

It's just a matter of time.

The Final Judgment

The SDA Church teaches that, after Christ’s thousand-year rule, a second resurrection of those not saved will occur. Those whose names are not found in the “book of life†(unsaved) will be cast into the lake of fire and annihilated out of existence. The doctrine of eternal hell is denied.

Response: The doctrine of eternal hell is affirmed. The saved will enjoy eternal life with Christ and the lost will suffer eternal punishment (Matt. 18:8-9; 25:41-46; Mark 9:43-48; John 3:16; 14:1-3; 2 Thess. 1:9; Rev. 20â€â€22).

Indeed, the lost will "suffer" eternal punishment, not "punishing." Notice the difference?

Man, by nature is mortal and not immortal.

Job 4:17
Shall mortal man be more just than God? shall a man be more pure than his maker?

Romans 6:12
Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.

Romans 8:11
But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.

Only Jesus is ever discussed in scripture as being "immortal." Man on the other hand has the "hope and promise" of immortality through Jesus Christ.

1 Timothy 1:17
Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

1 Timothy 6:16
Who (Jesus) only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.

2 Timothy 1:10
But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:


Eternal life is always shown to be a gift of God, a reward for our willingness to live a life in Christ Jesus, to walk in His ways, to live in His life.


John 3:15
That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.

John 6:54
Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. - Figureative language no doubt!

John 10:28
And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.

John 17:2
As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.

Romans 6:23
For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.


If eternal life is a gift, as clearly the scriptures show it to be, then what type of "gift" would an "eternally burning hell," where supposedly, misery and torture reign, be?

Is it possible that the eternal light of God the Father, the Shekinah Glory, once extinguished on the unrepentant is what leads to the torture and anguish of "second death?"

Fortunately, there are a few common sense website that easily dispel the pagan myth of man having an immortal nature and roasting on an open spit for eternity.

http://www.helltruth.com
http://www.truthaboutdeath.com
http://www.christiantrumpetsounding.com/soul.htm - This one is really good! Short, to the point and historical.
http://www.iofbk.com/id73.html

I hope your Christian journey and walk are greatly enhanced in knowing that we do not serve a Heavenly Father bent on eternal destruction and torture of the lost and the wicked.

Psalm 27:9
Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.

Job 14:13
O that thou wouldest hide me in the grave, that thou wouldest keep me secret, until thy wrath be past, that thou wouldest appoint me a set time, and remember me!

Conclusion: Members of the SDA Church may be genuinely saved Christians based on personal faith in Jesus Christ. The SDA Church, however, has some teachings that deviate from historic Christian doctrine.

Historically pagan and false "christian" doctrine.

Witnessing to Seventh-day Adventists

1. Have a clear understanding of your faith and of the Bible.

Indeed, otherwise you are liable to be educated like you've never been before by an Adventist.

2. Have a basic knowledge of SDA beliefs and the extra-biblical sources of some of their doctrines.

This is excellent advise because you'll need 'em.

3. Establish the sole authority of the Bible based on sound principles of interpretation.

Who's interpretation? Mans? Some church? The Bible interprets itself without fail and without man.

4. Define all terms clearly. Some common terms may have different meanings for SDAs than they do for Baptists.

This goes without saying.

5. Determine the level of the SDA’s commitment to his or her church.

Much as a Baptist might examine his/her commitment to their church.

6. Determine what relationship the SDA has with Jesus Christ. Is he or she trusting in Christ for salvation or in good works and church membership?

I trust in all the and in that order!

7. Present a strong, personal testimony of your faith in Christ and your assurance of salvation by grace through faith.

Personal story's for an Adventist to praise God the Father are always welcome and met with gratitude and thanksgiving!

8. If the person does not know Christ as Savior and Lord, share the basic gospel message and seek to bring him or her to faith in Jesus.

If one claiming to be an Adventist doesn't know this then chances are they are not an Adventist.

9. If you determine that the SDA possesses a saving knowledge of Christ, you may want to engage in a respectful dialogue of differences in doctrinal beliefs.

This is highly encouraged because one should embrace every opportunity to learn truth and shun error every chance they get!

10. Trust the Holy Spirit to lead you.

Amen!

 

[Havoc]

Why is there so much fighting and name calling and false witness towards each other among the several thousand different sects of Christianity?

Quite frankly, from an outsider's perspective, it makes it very difficult to believe that any of you have God in your corner.

Seventh Day Adventists are a cult?

I find this thread to be plain disgusting.