Friday, October 14, 2016

WAA Podcast Episode 84 (46:30): Is Fundamental Belief 29 Fundamental?

"When the mind of man is brought into communion with the mind of God...
the effect on body and mind and soul is beyond estimate.
In such communion is found the highest education."
-Acts of the Apostles Ch. 13
From the beginning the Advent movement was established on the authority and study of Scripture. As the early Adventists gained new Biblical insights they found it important to provide some clarification as to what the Bible says on certain doctrines. Since early Adventists decided against forming an official church creed, they developed a list of fundamental beliefs they believed any Christian could adopt if they believed in the authority of the Bible. These fundamental beliefs were never meant to determine membership or exclusively support denominational efforts but rather provide sound Bible based explanations on certain key doctrines central to the Christian faith. Over time the number of doctrines on this list has changed. Today the Seventh day Adventist Church has identified 28 fundamental biblical doctrines essential to the faith and salvation of any Christian, Adventist or not. 


Recently there has been discussion about including a 29th fundamental belief in support of Adventist Christian education and the church's mission. Should our fundamental beliefs be used to support the existence of our Adventist institutions and policies or should they be used as a guide to point others back to God and His Word as the ultimate source of knowledge and wisdom? Jesse and Chris throw in their collective 2 cents on the issue. 

Thanks for listening, God bless!