Post on 08-Aug-2018
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HAS GOD CHANGED,OR IS THERE A
CREEPING
COMPROMISE?
A MESSAGE TO THE CHURCH
PASTORS, ELDERS AND ALL
MEMBERS OF THE SDA CHURCHIN UGANDA UNION
Watch Men on the Walls of Zion
7/5/2013
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Abbreviations
CCH Counsels for the Church
GC Great Controversy
HS Historical Sketches
LDE Last Day Events
PK Prophets & KingsSM Selected Messages
SP Spirit of Prophecy
TT Testimony Treasures
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Prelude
This write up does not claim to bring out any new ideas upon
the Sabbath question. It does not claim to treat exhaustively
any branch of the subject, but only to hinge upon its more
salient features, in a manner that will perhaps arrest the
attention of the reader, and suggest profitable lines of thought.
The reader is presented with a choice to make in light of this
subject matter. It is important to note that, however tamely
expressed; the great importance of the subject gives
significance to the thoughts that are uttered. Thus the prayer is
that by means of this endeavor, an interest may be aroused in
the readers mind on this subject. More so, that this subject is
so intimately connected with the religious life and experience
of this present generation, and affects so largely its prospects
touching life eternal
Hence, this is written, to edify, as well as to encourage the
brethren. It is hoped that in these pages, you will recognize the
voice of the good Shepherd, directing your path to the end that
you might reach a similar conclusion with the position of the
Bible touching the issue of Sabbath observance, even as it is
written, O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in
himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.
(Jeremiah 10:23), therefore man needs to be guided, verse 24
says, O LOR D, correct me, but not in your anger, lest thoubring me to nothing. Hence, man needs to be guided and
corrected by God through His word. It is further written, And
thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying this is the way,
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walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand and when ye turn
to the left.(Isaiah 30:21).
Therefore, to those who are not merely satisfied with theopinion of man, it is written, arise, shine for thy light is
come.. (Isaiah 60:1) And this is the condemnation, that
light is come into the world, and man loved darkness rather
than light, because their deeds were evil. (John 3:19)
In every era of the church, there has always been a mixedmultitude. These are so difficult to manage and guide, they
murmur, complain and whine, against every principle that the
word of God establishes, they raise this and that counter
arguments to wrest a thus says the Lord. Thus their worship of
God is mixed with human reasoning and as such, they
endeavor by all means to oppose the work of God especially
where appetite and passion are involved namely; the Sabbath,
marriage, diet etc.
To these is but one message; humble yourselves in the sight of
the Lord and repent that your sins might be blotted out when
the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the
Lord. Those who might be among the mixed multitude bydefault, you are admonished to behold the Lamb of God which
taketh away the sins of the world. As you behold, you will
never view the scriptures from your own perspective.
The work of separating the mixed multitude from among the
people of God is a sad ordeal, which must happen. It is not
pleasant to contemplate; nevertheless, this is indicated in the
scriptures. It is imperative to note that, it is God himself who
will shake and shift the church progressively, thus this
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endeavor is made to arouse those who are being misled by the
influence of these nominal Seventh-day Adventists or those
who are only Seventh Day Adventists in name. (Exodus 12:38,
Numbers 11:11, Nehemiah 13:3). In light of this, you are urged
to rethink your positions pertaining to the spiritual choices you
make or how you arrive at conclusions on spiritual issues.
Today, choose to do the will of God. Behold this is written to
you with so much love thus the motive is neither to condemn
nor to judge, but rather to redeem.
The reader is reminded of the incident in the gospel according
to Luke 9:18-20, where Jesus asked the disciples what the
people thought about Him. Different people expressed different
opinions, about who they thought Christ was for example,
some thought that He was John the Baptist, some Elijah, while
others thought he was one of the prophets risen again.Eventually, Jesus asked the disciples their personal opinions of
Himself. Likewise, every rational being is accountable to God
just as Peter was in this case.
The assumption here is that the reader has to some extent, a
reasonable idea about what the fourth law says. In any incase it
is written Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy. Six days
shall thou labor and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the
Sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shall not do any work,
thou nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy man servant, nor thy
maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor the stranger that is within thy
gates: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea,
and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: whereforethe Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hollowed it. Exodus
20:8-11
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Therefore, the dawn of the Sabbath shall close the day of
weekly toil for calm repose. For earthly labour, demanding six
days are yours but, the seventh is Gods Holy day divine. Thus,
its commencement should be clearly understood by all who so
wish to honor their creator, and more so those who identify
themselves as Seventh-day Adventists. This is because Seventh
day Adventists have been chosen as a peculiar people by God.
To them has been given the greatest wealth of truth ever
entrusted to mortals: the first, second, and the third Angels
messages of Revelation 14: 6-12. Will you deride this privilegeor will you embrace and by Gods grace leave up to every light
given touching this so high a calling.
Note: The Sabbath is a day of rest for all who believe. This rest
however, is not only limited to the believer but also extended
to all who fall under the sphere of your influence .i.e. those youhave authority over: whether formal or informal workers. This
too is their day of rest to commune with their maker. Hence to
deprive them of this privilege of fellowship with God is to put
one in direct opposition to this divine imperative.
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The Beginning of a Day and Consequently the Sabbath.
It is unfortunate that, the little horn power also known as the
papacy in Daniel 7:25 and the son of perdition in
2Thessalonians 2:3 has so confused many today, in a sensethat, most people think that a day begins at midnight; for its
written thus of him, and he shall speak great words against the
most Highand think to change times and laws.
Subsequently, some people of God are also held up in this
Roman fallacy.
One therefore needs to know when a day begins, and ends
according to the Bible. In Genesis 1:5 it is written, And the
evening and the morning were the first day. Interestingly, in
chapter one of Genesis, this phrase evening and morning is
cited six times, in this context referring to dusk, Sundown, or
sunset.
Hence a day is a 24 hour period consisting of evening and
morning, (see Daniel 8:14, 26) for this reason the last portion
of a day begins at sun rise, (Psalms 104:22-23, Genesis 1:5).
The sun dominates or has control in the day, (Genesis 1:16,
Psalms 136:7-9), and (Jeremiah 31:35)
Therefore the Sabbath must begin at sunset of the preparation
day in the Bible, commonly called Friday, to sunset the
following day (Saturday). (Lev 23:32, Mark 1:32). Those in the
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church today, who perhaps in one way or the other joined the
church at a later time in their life, ought to have been
introduced to this foundational truth earlier in their experience
such that a believer adopts a lifestyle consistent with this divine
imperative. It is needful that, this work should be done at the
baptismal or Bible classes, for those who wish to join the
church or might have joined the church through an evangelistic
campaign.
In the lapse of time arguably, societal values, norms, andpractices tend to change and shape the practices of a given
community. This paradigm shift has a tendency to influence the
thinking and behavioral tendencies of the individual members
of a given society. This can be evident at various levels
namely; individual, family, institutional levels etc. Thus what
is seen in the society might be or is greatly dependent on theparadigm shift within the levels named but the genesis of it all
is at the personal and family levels.
Conversely, in the church today, possibly due to lack of
commitment by some church members to their divine call, or
perhaps because the church has invited the world to take up its
pulpit and filled up most of its pews with nominal believers.
These could have declined to heed or appreciate the
admonition given in the scriptures to embrace the assisting
grace of God to overcome every natural and cultivated
tendency to sin. In any case there is generally a lack of spiritual
life among the people of God and therefore no submission to
the will God.
This is why over the years there has been a propensity of a
model shift in the teaching and practices of the church, barely
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inconceivable by many within the church today. For example,
in the past some ministers openly preached the end time
eschatology concerning the beast, his mark and his image as
we near the close of the cosmic conflict. However, now
because in some unions, Uganda being a case to cite have
joined hands in friendship with the world through interreligious
council, this confederacy in one way or the other compromises
the position of the church to fulfill its God given mission of
preaching the gospel unadulterated. While the Sabbath on the
other hand is openly being violated gradually by some, thus thesanctity of the Sabbath is slowly but steadily being erased from
the minds of the people. These and several other practices raise
the question, has God changed, or is there a creeping
compromise?
The reader is reminded of the persecutions against Christians
under the Roman Emperor, Nero, about July of A.D 64, andcontinued on intermitently for centuries to the regin of
Constantine (A.D. 311 to 377). During this period, Satan
failed to conquer the church through persecution, until he
undertook to bring in a spirit of compromise into the church.
Therefore Satan accomplished that which he had failed to
achieve under the most atrocious persecution. See Gc theChapter Persecution in the first century.
Satan well knows that through compromise, a person will
gradually lose the sanctity of the Sabbath unnoticeably to
them, to such a point that in the process of time, their regard of
the Sabbath and to a larger extent the divine law is likely to
change. This is the object that, the path of all who lightly
regard the law of God will tend.
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Preparing for the Sabbath
Having established when a day begins, lets now ascertain
when one should begin to prepare for the Sabbath. At this
point, it would not be a good idea to presume anything thus this
subject will be discussed from a very basic position given the
condition of the church today. Incidentally, it is important to
note that, the keeping of the Sabbath is a heart service and
nothing less. Accordingly, the spiritual experience of the
keeping of the Sabbath is gained daily and moment by
moment. Therefore, one needs to be aided by Jesus Christthrough the indwelling of the Holy Spirit to keep the Sabbath
according to the commandment. Then, it is in Christ alone that,
the believer finds the power to keep the law
In this sense the keeping of the Sabbath is acceptable to God
because it is done by the faith of Jesus. Christ kept the LawJohn 15:10. It is His perfect obedience that God attributes to
everyone who believes in Jesus. Romans 1:16, 17, 5:19; 3:21-
22. It is by His perfect obedient life that a person is saved.
Romans 5:10 .Thus the principle the reader is advised to take
home is about obedience by faith. Hence obedience by faith is
righteousness by faith. The basis of this righteousness is the
law of God, of which the fourth commandment is a part.
Consider also Revelation 14:12 John 15:1-5, Psalm 119:72,
Ecclesiastics 12:13
In the synoptic gospels: Matthew, Mark and Luke, the reader is
reminded of an existence of a preparation day for the Sabbath,
which is the day before the Sabbath or Friday evening (sunset)as it is known today. Accordingly, all secular or common
activities of the day ought to be accomplished before Sundown.
Refer to Matthew 27:62 Mark 15:42 Luke 23:54, John 19:42.
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Christ was laid in the tomb before sunset and this was done
according to the law. It is very clear from the scriptures that
Friday is the preparation day for the Sabbath. The proceeding
discourse has been foundational to this subject matter. The
reader is requested to lay aside any preconceived idea or
opinion. Do your honest part to compare what is herein
discussed with the scriptures. This is very plain and should be
something easy to understand and practice. The prayer is that
you choose to accept the enabling grace of Jesus to keep the
Sabbath according to the Bible. In the book of Hebrews chaptereleven and James chapter two, you find recorded men and
women of God who were enabled to perform mighty works of
righteousness; Abel, Enoch, Noah Abraham, Joseph, Moses,
Rahab1, etc.
The burden for this work is one that is gladly endured. Thepeople of God must be warned by all means. Their attention
should be turned away from trusting human opinions to the
word of God. Thus this discourse is not written to please men,
but God and neither is it intended to be politically correct, but
candid, hoping that by this, many will be redeemed from the
1Hebrews 11:31: By faith, the harlot Rahab perished not with them
that believed not when she received the spies with peace. It was byfaith that Rahab hid the spies a work that was commended by God.
"Abraham believed God and it was imputed unto him forrighteousness: And he was called a friend of God. Ye see then howthat by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. Likewise alsowas also not Rahab the harlot justified by works when she received
the messengers, and sent them out another way? .For as the bodywithout the spirit is dead so faith without works is dead also. " James2: 24 - 26
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creeping compromise that has crept into the dear church of
God. For so it is written, I have set watchmen upon thy walls,
O Jerusalem which shall never hold their peace day nor night,
ye that make mention of the LORD, keep not silence., also I
have set watchmen over you, saying, Hearken to the sound of
the trumpet. But they said we will not hearken. Isaiah 62:6,
Jeremiah 6:17.
Should any Seventh - day Adventist still engage in the
following activities even after sunset on Friday?
a) Business: This includes making personaltransactions, .i.e. shopping for groceries, airtime,
fueling vehicles etc.
b) Cooking food on the Sabbath; besides warmingthat which was previously prepared on Friday
before sunset.
a) BusinessIn those days saw I in Judah some treading wine presses on
the Sabbath, and bringing in sheaves, and lading asses; as also
wine, grapes, and figs and all manner of burdens, which they
brought into Jerusalem on the Sabbath day: and I testifiedagainst them in the day wherein they sold victuals. There dwelt
men of Tyre also therein, which brought fish, and all manner of
ware, and sold on the Sabbath unto the children of Judah, and
in Jerusalem. Then I contended with the nobles of Judah, and
said unto them, what evil thing is this that ye do, and profane
the Sabbath day? Did not your fathers thus and did not ourGod bring all this evil upon us and upon this city? Yet ye bring
more wraths upon Israel by profaning the Sabbath. And it came
to pass, that when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark
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before the Sabbath, I commanded that the gates should be shut,
and charged that they should not be opened till after the
Sabbath: and some of my servant set I at the gates, that there
should no burden be brought in on the Sabbath day. So the
merchants and sellers of all kind of ware lodged without
Jerusalem once or twice. Then I testified against them, why
lodge ye about the wall? If ye do so again, I will lay hand on
you. From that time forth came they no more on the Sabbath.
And I commanded the Levites that they should cleanse
themselves, and that they should come and keep the gates, tosanctify the Sabbath day. Remember me, O my God,
concerning this also, and spare me according to the greatness
of thy mercy " Nehemiah 13:15-22
Thus the subject of Sabbath reform during Nehemiah's days is
above quoted. It is evident from the context of these scripturesthat, the Jews living during Nehemiahs era had a distorted
view of Sabbath observance. Consequently, they lightly
regarded the Sabbath. For example, it is observed from the
scriptures referenced that, at that time the Jews acted in a
manner that desecrated the Sabbath until Nehemiah intervened.
However, it is interesting to note that when light radiated along
their paths through Nehemiah, the people embraced the
message of Sabbath reform. What does this mean to a Seventh
Day Adventists today? Does the church need a Nehemiah
today to remind it of the sanctity of the Sabbath? These are
rhetorical questions that are intended to arrest the attention of
the reader. What principles are drawn from Nehemiahs
experience that applies to the experience of the church today?
How did Nehemiah respond to the situation? How is the church
responding to similar situations today, if at all? Such are the
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questions intended to be addressed in the proceeding
discussion. Incidentally, this very work of Sabbath reform is
the one that is prefigured to be accomplished under the first,
second and the third angels message.
Brief Historical Background
Note that, at this point some exiled Jews had returned from
Babylon after the seventy years of captivity and settled in
Judah. At that the time the Temple in Jerusalem and the walls
had already been rebuilt, following their destruction by King
Nebuchadnezzar2. After their resettlement in Judah, the people
of God had contact with the surrounding idolatrous Nations,
both economically and socially these interactions were not
healthy, for through it some people were corrupted to a pointwhere they began to view spiritual issues, and consequently the
Sabbath and marriage from the perspective of this idolatrous
Nations. Thus it was business as usual even, on the Sabbath
day.
It is apparent that, the Sabbath and marriage are often theissues of concern even as it was in this case. See Nehemiah
2King Zedekiah began his reign on Tishri 1 in 597 BC and reigned 11years. his 11th and final year began on Tishri 1 in 587 BC. Jerusalemwas destroyed and zedekiah was taken captive to babylon in 586 bc.
the Jerusalem temple was destroyed on the 7th day of av in 586 Bc.
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13:23-30. Here is where most people choose to refuse to
understand and accept Gods injunction concerning Sabbath
observance and engagement in marriage. It is understandable
that, these issues are challenging to most people more so
because they center on appetite and passion: the entering
wedge of the devil, which ought to be jealously watched over.
However, one can only perfectly overcome them through daily
surrender and submission to the will of God
How did Nehemiah respond to the situation?
He "testified against them in the day wherein they soldvictuals (provision, supplies, foodstuffs etc.)On the
Sabbath.See Nehemiah 13:15
He, "contended with the Nobles of Judah, and said,unto them what evil thing is this that ye do, and profane
the Sabbath day? See Nehemiah 13:17
Did not yourfathers thus, and did not our God bringall this evil upon us, and upon the city yet ye bring
more wrath upon Israel by profaning the
Sabbath.(Nehemiah recalled)
I commanded that, the gates should be shut andcharged that, they should not be opened till after the
Sabbath: and some of my servants set I at the gates that
there should no burden be brought in on the Sabbath
day.
Eventually, Nehemiah called for a Sabbath reform andit was heeded. Nehemiah 13:19-22
Nehemiahs work prefigured the work of Sabbath
Reform since October 22, 1844 to date.
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The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that
which is done is that which shall be done: there is nothing new
under the sun. Ecclesiastes 1:9
That which has been is now; and that which is to be hath
already been; and God required that which is past.
Ecclesiastes 3:15
Now all these things happened unto them forensamples: and
they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of theworld are come. 1Corinthians 10:11
Thus it is written, remember the former things old: for am God,
and there is none else; Aim God, and there is none like me.
Declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times,
the things that are not yet done saying, my counsel shall stand,
and I will do all my pleasure "Isaiah 46:9, 10.
Literal Israel were a type of spiritual Israel, so then this being
the case the experience of the people of God today in one way
or the other typifies what ancient Israel was. It is thought that
this generation could do better by choosing to be unlike most
of them such that, their mistakes are not repeated. You shouldbe on the outlook, lest you adopt the same reasoning and
practices as did most of the Children of Israel. For example
considering the actions of the Jews within the given context of
the scripture initially quoted 3 , you will observe that their
practice was one that desecrated the Sabbath. In this way, they
displeased God. Suppose the reader comes to a similar
conclusion through the studying of the Bible, you could choose
3Nehemiah 13:15-23
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to make a different decision today given a similar circumstance
as the Jews of old. Jesus is there to help you, should you be
willing to be controlled by His Spirit. Therefore be not afraid
or dismayed Child of God. Should you choose to do his
biddings, He will enable you, for His biddings are His
enabling. You can do all things through Christ who strengthen
you dear friend, including keeping the Sabbath day holy
according to the commandment.
The work of restoration and reform carried out by the returnedexiles, under the leadership of Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah
presents a picture of a work of spiritual restoration that is to be
wrought out in the closing days of this earths history. Pk
p 677.1
The spiritual restoration, of which the work carried forward in
Nehemiahs day was a symbol, is outlined in the words of
Isaiah: They shall build the old wastes, they shall rise up the
former desolations, and they shall repair the waste cities.
They that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places:
thou shall raise up the foundations of many generations; and
thou shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of
paths to dwell in. Isaiah 61:4; 58:12. Pk 677.2
The prophet here describes a people who, in time of general
departure from truth and righteousness, are seeking to restore
the principles that are the foundation of the Kingdom of God.
They arerepairers of a breach that has been made in Gods
law- the wall that he placed around His chosen ones forprotection, and obedience to who whose precepts of justice,
truth, and purity is to be their perpetual safeguard. Pk 677.3
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In words of unmistakable meaning the prophets points out the
specific work of this remnant people who build the wall, if
thou turn away thy foot from the Sabbath, from doing thy own
pleasure on My holy day; and call the Sabbath a delight, the
holy of the Lord, honorable; and shall honor Him, not doing
thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking
thine own words: then shall though delight thyself in the Lord;
and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth,
and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the
mouth of the Lord hath spoken it. I saiah 58:13, 14.Pk 678.2
In the time of the end every divine institution is to be restored.
The breach made in the law at the time the Sabbath was
changed by man is to be repaired. Gods remnant people,
standing before the world as reformers, are to show that the law
of God is the foundation of all enduring reform and that theSabbath of the fourth commandment is to stand as a memorial
of creation, a constant reminder of the power of God. In clear
distinct lines they are to present the necessity of obedience to
all the precepts of the Decalogue. Constrained by the love of
Christ, they are to co-operate with Him in building up the
waste places. They are to be repairers of the breach, restorers
of paths to dwell in. PK 678.2
Therefore, as people are called from the fallen churches and
from the world into the church of God, the truth about Sabbath
observance should be made clear to them. They should for
instance know and understand clearly that Friday before sunset
is preparation day. They should be taught that, this is not donein any way to earn favor before God or to make one more
deserving of heaven. No, no, no. This is rather a fruit which is
elicited because one has a close affinity with the Savior. Thus it
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is by abiding4in Jesus that you bear good fruit
5. This is calling
the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honorable. The
Lord is honored by keeping the Sabbath His way. This is what
is pleasing before God.
But a person needs a spiritual life without which it is
impossible to appreciate the value of atonement, or the
sacrifice of Christ for the fallen race. The question which might
be ringing in the readers mind could be, how does one obtain a
spiritual life? It is written As the father raiseth up the dead,and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth who He
will. John 5:21 what is to quicken? To quicken means the
same thing as to raise.1Corinthians 15:34-36. The meaning of
the word to quicken does not change in any case whether it is
used to mean raising up of the physical dead at the second
coming of Jesus or to raise one who is spiritually dead today.For to be carnally minded is death: But to be spiritually minded
is life and peace Roman 8:6. This is "because the carnal mind
is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God,
neither indeed can be. So you need Jesus. But as many as
received him to them gave he power to become the sons of
4John 15: 1, 2, 4, 5 Aim the true vine and my father is the husbandman.
Every branch in me that beareth not fruit, he taketh away: and every
branch the beareth fruit he purge hit, that it may bring forth more fruit.
Abide in me, and I in you. As a branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it
abides in the vine; no more can ye except ye abide in me. I am the vine and
yea are the branches: He that abideth in me and I in him, the same
bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. 5
Mathew 12:33, 35: Either make the tree good, and its fruit good or elsemake the tree corrupt and its fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his
fruit. A good man out of the good pleasure of the heart bringeth forth
good things and an evil out of the evil pleasure bringeth forth evil things
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God, even to them that believe on his name. John.1:12 The
model of one who is the son of God is the Savior himself.
Therefore, study His life and follow His example as you allow
Him to live out His life in you. Avoid putting a wrong
construction upon the word of God to suit the carnal mind. It is
when a believer receives the word of God in their lives that
they get a spiritual life. It is the spirit that quickeneth; the
flesh profiteth nothing: the words which I speak they are spirit
and they are life. John 6:63.
By the way, the practices herein discussed were not common in
the past among the people of God as a corporate body. Enquire
from any first or second generation Seventh Day Adventist in
this country, if they are honest, they will tell you that they
never had an issue with the subject. However, the challenge in
the church today might be largely attributable to the evangelistapproach where sometimes, essential components of the
message are withheld from the congregation. This is often
times done due to fear to hurt the peoples feelings. Therefore,
Ministers resort to preaching the gospel of the so called love
which does not awaken the conscience of the listeners. But,
must Ministers always say what people want to hear in order to
retain a mixed multitude? God forbid!, the purpose of any
message preached through whatever means should work in the
hearer a conviction of sin, thus pointing them to Jesus, who is
willing and able to save all from sin.
The frequent calls that are being made in the church today must
and should begin with a call for unity upon Sabbath reform.The Church Leadership should consider this matter
objectively, and assess the validity of the arguments herein
expressed. The leadership should try as much as possible to
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take their position on the side of the Bible and the Bible alone.
Truthfully, is there not a cause or a concern regarding Sabbath
violation? Is there no cooking done on the Sabbath day? And
employing non Adventists to prepare the meals on the
Sabbath? Must no voice be heard to address this growing
Sabbath violation and let the people of God pursue such a
cause against the clear evidence from the Bible and the spirit of
prophecy? This is the time for God to rise up the Nehemiahs
of today within the ranks of the church? The Church
Leadership and some faithful church members are urged towork together with God to lead out a work of Sabbath reform
in this Uganda Conference and Union6 on this issue and surely
the Lord will be with you.
Shouldnt there be concern about these non-Adventists
employed to cook for the church on the Sabbath especiallypertaining their appreciation of the sanctity of the Sabbath and
the message the church bears for this time? Have ye not read in
the law where it is written, But the Seventh day is the Sabbath
of the Lord thy God: in it thou shall not do any work, thou, nor
thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maid
servant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger living within thy gates:
We should jealously guard the edges of the Sabbath.
Remember that, every moment is consecrated, holy time.
Whenever it is possible, employers should give their workers
the hours from Friday noon until the beginning of the Sabbath.
Give them time for preparation, that they may welcome the
Lords Day with quietness of mind. By such a course you willsuffer no loss even in temporal things.CCh 263.2
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These are very basic issues, suppose one cannot surrender self
to live up to this basic truth, what more of the challenging
matters of the law: Love, mercy, justice etc. For, it is by
obedience to the law of God that love is manifested; otherwise,
its only superficial love. Hence, man in every generation has
been given a choice either to repeat the mistakes of the past
experience of the people of God or to learn from their history
and not repeat their folly. The Lord admonishes the Church to
remember the former things of old: The reader is hereby
presented with something to arouse their mind to go and searchthe scriptures for themselves to see if these things are so.
The time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine
2Timothy4:3. That time has fully come. The multitudes do
not want Bible truth, because it interferes with the desires of
the sinful world loving heart; and Satan supplies the deceptionwhich they love. But God will have a people upon the earth to
maintain the Bible, and the Bible only, as the standard of all
doctrines and the basis of all reforms. The opinions of learned
men, the deduction of science, the creed or decisions of
ecclesiastical councils, as numerous and discordant as are the
churches which they represent, the voice of majority_ not one
or all of this should be regarded as evidence for or against any
point of religious faith. Before accepting any doctrine or
precept, we should demand a plain thus says the Lord in its
support. GC 595.2
It is the first and highest duty of every rational being to learn
from the scriptures what truth is, and then walk in the light andencourage others to follow his example. We should day by day
study the Bible diligently, weighing every thought and
comparing scripture with scripture. With divine help, we are to
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form our opinions for ourselves as we are to answer for
ourselves before God. GC 598.2
While some have been urging their man-made tests upon thepeople, the claim of the fourth commandment has been held
very lightly. We knew that the blessing of the Lord could not
rest upon this church until there was a reform upon this
important point. Those who stand in responsible positions
should be careful that their words and examples are such as
will lead the people to correct views and practices. They shouldbe sure that in no way they belittle the requirements of God.
Because the fourth commandment is so widely disregarded, we
should be the more earnest and decided in seeking to honor this
precept of Gods law.HS 217.1 (The reader is advised to look
up this quote there is so much in that will baffle your mind)
The truth as given in the Bible is that, a believer is justified by
the precious blood of Jesus, however, should we continue in
sin, having been imputed with the righteousness of God by
faith? Certainly not, for it is written, concerning this faith that
brings into the believer the righteousness of God, as faith
which works with love. Gal 5:6. The work is to be aided to
keep the law of God for its the spirit of God that works in
human nature to work out his own salvation with fear and
trembling. For that reason, man is hereby called to perform all
his duty: the keeping of the law of God. Ecclesiastes 12:13,
Revelation 14:12. Many currently in the church, while they
were yet in the fallen churches did not know how to keep the
Sabbath day holy. Now they ought to know, even those whowere born in the church might have forgotten, so they need to
remind themselves. Therefore being justified by faith, even
the faith of Jesus. Accordingly, in Christ is found the keeping
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of the law, and so it is written, here is the patience of the
saints; here are they which keep the commandments of God
and the faith of Jesus. So then, the keeping of the Sabbath,
just like the rest of the other nine commandments can only be
acceptable to God if it is done by the faith of Jesus.
b) Cooking food on the SabbathAnd it came to pass, that on the sixth day they gathered twice
as much bread, two omers for one man: and the rulers of the
congregation came and told Moses. And he said unto them, this
is that which the LORD hath said; Tomorrow is the rest of
the holy Sabbath unto the LORD: bake that which ye willbake today, and seethe that ye will seethe; and that which
remaineth over lay up for you to kept until the morning.
And they laid it up till the morning, as Moses bade: and it did
not stink neither was there any worm therein. And Moses said,
Eat that today; for today is the Sabbath unto the LORD: today
ye shall not find it in the field. Six days ye shall gather it; buton the seventh day, which is the Sabbath, in it there shall be
none...Exodus 16:22-26. And the people went about, and
gathered it, and ground it in mills, or beat it in a mortar, and
baked it in pans, and made cakes of it: and the taste of it was as
the taste of fresh oil. Numbers 11:8
The Lord is no less particular now in regard to his
Sabbath, than when he gave the foregoing special direction
to the children of Israel. He required them to bake that which
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they would bake, and seethe (that is boil) that which they
would seethe, on the sixth day, preparatory to the rest of the
Sabbath. Those who neglect to prepare for the Sabbath on the
six day, and who cook food upon the Sabbath, violate the
four th commandment, and are transgressors of Gods law.
All who are really anxious to observe the Sabbath
according to the commandment will not cook any food
upon the Sabbath.They will, in the fear of that God who
gave his law from Sinai, deny themselves, and eat food
prepared upon the sixth day, even if it is not so palatable.God forbade the children of Israels baking and boiling
upon the Sabbath. That prohibition should be regarded by
every Sabbath-keeper, as a solemn injunction from
Jehovah to them .The Lord would guard his people from
indulging in gluttony upon the Sabbath, which he set apart for
sacred meditation and worship.1SP225.2
The Sabbath of the Lord is a day of rest from labor;and
the diet upon the that day should be more simple, and
partaken of in less quantities, than upon the six laboring
days, because we do not have that exercise upon the Sabbath
that we have upon the days of the week. Many have erred in
not practicing self-denial upon the Sabbath. By partaking of
full meals, as on the six laboring days, their minds are
beclouded; they are stupid, and often drowsy; some suffer with
headache. Such have no truly devotional feelings upon the
Sabbath and the blessing resting upon the Sabbath do not prove
a blessing to them.1SP226.2
Observe the following from the above quote:
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1. The Lord is no less particular now in regard to hisSabbath, than when he gave the foregoing special
direction to the children of Israel.(James 1:17)
2. He required them to make use of the preparation day toengage in the preparation of the meals.
3. Those who neglected to prepare and cooked on theSabbath committed sin. (1John 3:4)
4. All sincere believers will not cook on the Sabbath andthey will not eat food prepared upon the Sabbath day
(after sunset on Friday)5. That prohibition should be regarded by every
Sabbath-keeper, as a solemn injunction from Jehovah
to them
6. Food on the Sabbath should be simple and in smallquantity, because you do not need a lot of energy on the
Sabbath.7. By partaking of full meals, as on the six laboring days,
their minds are beclouded, one becomes imprudent, and
often drowsy.
Additional quotes:
The Sabbath should be as sacredly observed readily on the
camp-ground as it is in our homes. We should not let the bustle
and the excitement around us detract from its sacred dignity.
No cooking should be done on that day. The instruction
which God gave to I srael should not be disregarded:bake
that which bake today, and seethe that which ye will seethe;
for tomorrow is the holy Sabbath unto the Lord. Exodus16:23. God meant what He said when He gave these
directions; and shall we who are presenting to the people the
claim of the divine law, break that law ourselves, merely to
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please appeti te?-God forbid. There has sometimes been as
much cooking done on the Sabbath as on other days; and the
blessings of God have been shut out by our fail ure to honor
H im in keeping the Sabbath according to the commandment.
All needful preparation should be made before hand. On
Sabbath morning, if the weather is cool, let hot gruel, or
something equally simple be provided, and dinner some kind
of food may be warmed. Further than this, all cooking should
be avoided as violation of the Sabbath command. Gospel
of Health.15-16
Note: Sister White was under inspiration as she wrote these
words, therefore to reject or down play what she says, is to
exalt ones opinion above inspiration.
Conversely, it is important to note that, whether you adopt the
critical method of Biblical interpretation also known as biblical
exegesis7
or the prove text method found in scripture i.e.
7Exegesis is a critical explanation orinterpretation of a text, especially a
religious text. Traditionally the term was used primarily for exegesis of the
Bible; however, in contemporary usage it has broadened to mean a critical
explanation of any text, and the term "biblical exegesis" is used for greater
specificity.
Exegesis includes a wide range of critical disciplines: textual criticism is the
investigation into the history and origins of the text, but exegesis may
include the study of the historical and cultural backgrounds for the author,
the text, and the original audience. Other analysis includes classification of
the type ofliterary genrespresent in the text, and an analysis of
grammatical and syntactical features in the text itself.
The terms exegesis and hermeneutics have been used interchangeably.
However, hermeneutics is a more widely defined discipline of interpretation
theory: hermeneutics includes the entire framework of the interpretive
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interpretation_(logic)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religious_texthttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biblehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Literary_genrehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grammarhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Syntaxhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermeneuticshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermeneuticshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Syntaxhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grammarhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Literary_genrehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biblehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religious_texthttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interpretation_(logic)8/22/2019 Let There Be Light July 17
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comparing scripture with scripture (2Peter 1: 20 21, Isaiah
28: 9 -10), all will arrive at the same conclusion.
Therefore, it is not possible to reason away, the injunctiongiven here, by way of argument against or in favor of a
particular method of Biblical interpretation. Thus, regardless of
whatever method of Biblical interpretation one employs
exegesis .i.e., historical and cultural context of the audience,
etc. or prove text, the principle that the word of God teaches
transcends all cultures and time, and that is obedience. Hence,no reason whatsoever holds on the basis of differences in
culture, food, and or that the text is restricted in its application
only to the original people to whom it was addressed etc.
While this might be important, however in this case, it would
be to miss the point about what God is trying to teach. O that
there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and
keep all my commandments, always, that it might be well with
them and without their children forever! Deut 5:29. And
thou shall remember all the way which the Lord thy God led
thee these forty years in the wilderness to humble thee, and to
prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou
wouldest keep his commandments or no. Duet: 8:2. If ye
love me, keep my commandments. John 14:15. It is left up to
the reader to choose to obey the voice of God, or the opinion of
man.
process, encompassing all forms of communication: written, verbal and
nonverbal, while exegesis focuses primarily on the written text.
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Else the quotations are very clear and unambiguous concerning
the issue of cooking on the Sabbath as highlighted above,
unless otherwise one has an issue with the servant of God sister
white, in which case it is not possible to help the reader. The
prayer is to keep hoping for a change of attitude regarding the
testimonies of God. It is sad to say that, the mixed multitude
stumbles a lot on this point, for Satan has beguiled them, to so
lightly regard the Ministry of the Spirit of prophecy. Therefore,
it is written of them "that this is a rebellious people, lying
children, children that will not hear the law of the LORD:which say to the seers, see not; and to the prophets prophesy
not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy
deceits: I saiah 30:9, 10.
But there is hope for those who are willing to shake themselves
from this deadly phenomenon that is destroying the spirituallyof the people of God: the violation of the law of God supported
by the folly of human reason. For to profane the Sabbath is, to
break the law of God.
For thus saith the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel; in
returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in
confidence shall be your strengthened: but ye would not. And
therefore will the Lord wait, that he may be gracious unto you,
and therefore will he be exalted, that he may have mercy upon
you: for the LORD is God of judgment: blessed are they that
wait for him. Isaiah 30:15, 18
For those who perhaps where in obscurity concerning thismatter, the Lord says and thine right hand, and thine ears shall
hear a word behind thee, saying, this is the way, walk ye in it,
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when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.
Isaiah 30:21. Herein we perceive the Love of God
Far more sacredness is attached to the Sabbath than is givenby many professed Sabbath keepers; the law has been greatly
dishonored by those who have not kept the Sabbath according
to the commandment. Either in the letter or in the spirit. He
calls for a reform in the observance of the Sabbath.CCH
264.1
On Friday, the preparation of the Sabbath is completed. See
that, all the clothing is in readiness and that all the cooking is
done. See that all the boots are blackened..CCH
God brought His people Israel from Egypt that they might
keep His Sabbath, and He gave them special directions how to
keep it. The ten precepts spoken by His own voice from Sinai,and the instructions given to Moses, were recorded for the
benefit of all who should live upon the earth, to the close of
time. God has given man six days for labor, but He has
reserved the seventh to Himself, and He has pronounced a
blessing upon those who keep it Holy. The day before the
Sabbath is to be made a day of preparation, that everythingmight be in readiness for its sacred hours. Bake that which ye
will bake today, and seethe that ye will seethe. Tomorrow is
the rest of the holy Sabbath unto the Lord.2TT184.2-3
Note: Quotations have been freely referenced from the writing
of Sister White. This is because the church appreciates the
special gift of the Spirit of Prophecy (See SDA fundamental
belief no. 18) given to the remnant church as revealed in the
Ministry of Sister Ellen G. White. Her writings are inspired
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therefore, they stand without impeachment. On the contrary,
other men arent inspired and neither do they have exclusive
acumen to explain the scriptures as some may think it so. No
uninspired man is a guru when it comes to the Bible but, the
Spirit of God is! Respect the Ministers, as leaders appointed by
God, however as a rational being, with the ability to think and
act, be sure not to take their opinion as a final say, else your
prospect concerning the life to come will be at stake.
Below are Spirit of prophecy statements majorly to those whodown play the Spirit of prophecy. Perhaps such a one will
reconsider their position. It is further emphasized that you will
benefit a lot spiritually if only you would begin to make the
Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy your rule of faith and practice.
E. G. White Work Not Unlike That of Bible Prophets.In
ancient times God spoke to men by the mouth of prophets and
apostles. In these days He speaks to them by the testimonies of
His Spirit. There was never a time when God instructed His
people more earnestly than He instructs them now concerning
His will and the course that He would have them pursue.--
Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 661. {3SM 30.2}
Relation of E. G. White Writings to the Bible Recognized in
First Book.I recommend to you, dear reader, the Word of
God as the rule of your faith and practice.By that Word we are
to be judged. God has, in that Word, promised to give visions
in the "last days"; not for a new rule of faith, but for the
comfort of His people, and tocorrect those who err from Bibletruth. Thus God dealt with Peter when He was about to send
him to preach to the Gentiles.--A Sketch of the Christian
Experience and views
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Scripture and Spirit of Prophecy Have Same Author.
The Holy Ghost is the author of the Scriptures and of the
Spirit of Prophecy. These are not to be twisted and turned to
mean what man may want them to mean, to carry out man's
ideas and sentiments, to carry forward man's schemes at all
hazards.--Letter 92, 1900. {3SM 30.3}
Ellen White Enabled to Clearly Define Truth and Error.
At that time [after the 1844 disappointment] one error after
another pressed in upon us; ministers and doctors brought innew doctrines. We would search the Scriptures with much
prayer, and the Holy Spirit would bring the truth to our minds.
Sometimes whole nights would be devoted to searching the
Scriptures and earnestly asking God for guidance. Companies
of devoted men and women assembled for this purpose. The
power of God would come upon me, and I was enabled clearlyto define what truth is and what error is.{3SM 31.4}
As the points of our faith were thus established, our feet were
placed upon a solid foundation. We accepted the truth point by
point, under the demonstration of the Holy Spirit. I would be
taken off in vision, and explanations would be given me. I wasgiven illustrations of heavenly things, and of the sanctuary, so
that we were placed where light was shining on us in clear,
distinct rays.--Gospel Works,p. 302. {3SM 32.1}
To Correct Error and Specify Truth.I have much written
in the diary [WHILEI have kept in all my journeys that should
come before the people if essential, even if I did not write
another line. I want that which is deemed worthy to appear, for
the Lord has given me much light that I want the people to
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have; for there is instruction that the Lord has given me for His
people. It is light that they should have, line upon line, precept
upon precept, here a little and there a little. This is now to
come before the people, because it has been given to correct
specious errors and to specify what truth is. The Lord has
revealed many things pointing out the truth, thus saying, "This
is the way, walk ye in it."--Letter 127, 1910.
One thing is certain: those Seventh day Adventists who will
take their stand under Satans banner will first give up theirfaith in the warnings and reproofs contained in the Testimonies
of Gods Spirit. LDE 177.4
The very last deception of Satan will be to make of none
effect the testimony of the Spirit of God. Where there is no
vision, the people perish (Proverbs 29:18). Satan will workingeniously, in different agencies, to unsettle the confidence of
Gods remnant people in the testimony. LDE 177.5
The enemy has made his masterly effort to unsettle the faith
of our own people in the testimonies.this is just how Satan
designed it should be, and those who have been preparing the
way for the people to pay no heed to the warning and reproofs
of the Testimonies of the Spirit of God will see that a tide of all
errors of all kinds into life. LDE 178
It is Satans plan to weaken the faith of Gods people in the
testimonies. Next follows skepticism in regard to the vital point
of our faith, the pillars of our position, then doubt as to theHoly Scriptures, and then downward march to perdition. When
the Testimonies, which were once believed, are doubted and
given up, Satan knows the deceived ones will not stop at this;
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and he redoubles his effort till he launches them into open
rebellion, which becomes incurable and ends in destruction.
LDE 178.2
HE WHO HAS AN EAR LET HIM HEAR WHAT THE
SPIRIT SAYS TO THE CHURCH.
For those who wish to consider the matter further, see more
Spirit of Prophecy references for further studies: (Ellen G.
White writings),
From Eternity Past page. 203.3
Spirit of Prophecy volume1 page 225.1
Spiritual gifts Volume3, pg. 253.1
Story of Redemption page 130.1
Testimonies to the Church, Volume 6 page 354.4
Testimony Treasures Volume 2 page 184.3, page 21.3
Guidelines for Sabbath Observance
https://adventistbiblicalresearch.org/materials/practica
l-christian-living/sabbath-observance- guidelines
https://adventistbiblicalresearch.org/materials/practical-christian-living/sabbath-observance-%20%20%20%20%20%20guidelineshttps://adventistbiblicalresearch.org/materials/practical-christian-living/sabbath-observance-%20%20%20%20%20%20guidelineshttps://adventistbiblicalresearch.org/materials/practical-christian-living/sabbath-observance-%20%20%20%20%20%20guidelineshttps://adventistbiblicalresearch.org/materials/practical-christian-living/sabbath-observance-%20%20%20%20%20%20guidelines