28 Fundamental Beliefs Of Seventh-Day Adventists Pdf
Seventh-Day Adventism is a Protestant Christian denomination that originated in the United States during the 19th century. It is known for its observance of the Sabbath on Saturdays, the seventh day of the week, and for its emphasis on the second coming of Jesus Christ. The church has developed a set of 28 fundamental beliefs that serve as a guide for its members. In this article, we will explore these beliefs and what they mean for Seventh-Day Adventists.
What are the 28 Fundamental Beliefs of Seventh-Day Adventists?
The 28 fundamental beliefs of Seventh-Day Adventists are broken down into six categories: the Bible, God, man, salvation, the church, and last-day events. Each of these categories has its own set of beliefs that together form the core values of the Adventist Church.
The Bible
Seventh-Day Adventists believe that the Bible is the inspired word of God and is the foundation of all their beliefs. They interpret it using a grammatical-historical approach, which means that they look at the historical context and grammar of the text to understand its meaning.
Their beliefs about the Bible include:
- There is only one true God who exists in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
- God created the world in six literal days and rested on the seventh day, which is why Seventh-Day Adventists observe the Sabbath on Saturday.
- Adam and Eve were created sinless but chose to disobey God, which led to the introduction of sin and death into the world.
- Jesus Christ is the Son of God who came to earth to die for our sins and rose again on the third day.
God
Seventh-Day Adventists believe in one God who is all-knowing, all-powerful, and omnipresent. They believe that God loves us and wants us to have a relationship with Him.
Their beliefs about God include:
- God is the Creator of the universe and all that is in it.
- God is responsible for the existence of evil but does not cause it.
- God is sovereign and in control of all things.
- God will one day put an end to evil and establish His kingdom on earth.
Man
Seventh-Day Adventists believe that man was created in the image of God but has fallen into sin. They believe that salvation is only possible through faith in Jesus Christ.
Their beliefs about man include:
- Man was created to have a relationship with God.
- Man is inherently sinful and in need of a savior.
- Man has free will and the ability to choose between right and wrong.
- Man will be judged by God at the end of time.
Salvation
Seventh-Day Adventists believe that salvation is a free gift from God that is available to all who put their faith in Jesus Christ. They believe that salvation is a lifelong process that involves growing in faith and obedience to God.
Their beliefs about salvation include:
- Salvation is only possible through faith in Jesus Christ.
- Salvation is a free gift from God that cannot be earned.
- Salvation involves justification, sanctification, and glorification.
- Salvation results in eternal life with God.
The Church
Seventh-Day Adventists believe that the church is the body of Christ on earth and is made up of all believers. They believe that the church has a responsibility to spread the gospel and to care for those in need.
Their beliefs about the church include:
- The church is the body of Christ on earth.
- The church has a responsibility to spread the gospel and to care for those in need.
- The church is made up of all believers regardless of denomination.
- The church is led by Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit.
Last-Day Events
Seventh-Day Adventists believe that we are living in the last days of earth's history and that Jesus Christ will soon return. They believe that before Christ's return, there will be a time of trouble and persecution for God's people.
Their beliefs about last-day events include:
- Jesus Christ will soon return to earth.
- There will be a time of trouble and persecution for God's people before Christ's return.
- There will be a resurrection of the dead and a judgment of all people.
- God will establish His kingdom on earth and there will be no more sin or suffering.
Conclusion
The 28 fundamental beliefs of Seventh-Day Adventists provide a framework for understanding the core values of the Adventist Church. These beliefs emphasize the authority of the Bible, the love and sovereignty of God, the fallen nature of man, the free gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, the importance of the church in spreading the gospel, and the hope of Christ's soon return. By understanding these beliefs, we can better understand the Adventist Church and its mission to share the love of God with the world.
