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What Is Health?

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We all want to be healthy. But what is health? by Jack Hoehn  |  14 February 2024  | In my last essay in this series, we agreed that though it is easy to see that something is alive, it is not that easy to exactly define life. So let’s move on from asking what life […] Source: https://atoday.org/health-body-temple-series-4/

Who’s Protecting Adventists from Misinformation? Part 2: Health Quackery

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by Loren Seibold  |  2 February 2024  | Read part 1 here. I’m a believer in preventive health. Good nutrition—in fact, the whole NEWSTART list—seems like common sense. No one in the scientific secular health community can argue with it. But that’s never quite enough for some Adventists. It starts with Ellen White quotes, but […] Source: https://atoday.org/whos-protecting-adventists-from-misinformation-part-2-health-quackery/

God’s Mission, My Mission – Lesson 13: The End of God’s Mission | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley

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Series GOD’S MISSION, MY MISSION with Pastor Mark Finley  |
Lesson 13: The End of God’s Mission |
Lesson 13, “The End of God’s Mission,” guides us through the book of Revelation, emphasizing the clear focus on God’s end-time mission. The Trinity collaborates in rescuing humanity, with Revelation highlighting the urgency of this mission. The Three Angels’ Messages, situated in the context of the Great Controversy, call for proclaiming the eternal Gospel and promoting worship of the Creator. Success in the mission is defined by shaping faithful disciples who are pure, loyal, and open to the Holy Spirit. The vision of the New Earth concludes the lesson, encouraging believers to invest in God’s mission, reach unreached people groups, and ultimately live with the redeemed in the promised new heaven and on the New Earth.
Memory Text: 2.Peter 3:11.12 – “Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God . . . ?”  
Content:
13.1 Revelation: God’s Last-Day Mission
The opening lines of Revelation clarify its focus on God’s end-time mission. Verses 1:4–5 demonstrate the Trinity working together in the salvation of humanity, highlighting Jesus as a faithful witness and the firstborn from the dead. Titles in Revelation 1:6 and 1 Peter 2:9 emphasize that God’s redemption brings not only security but also a new, royal, and priestly status for believers. The urgency of the mission is underscored in Revelation 1:7, pointing out that Jesus is coming, and the nations will mourn their loss. Thus, Revelation clearly concentrates on God’s mission among people in the end times.
13.2 Three Angels’ Messages and Mission
Revelation provides a compelling depiction of the Great Controversy, particularly emphasized in Revelation 12:12, where the devil descends to earth with great wrath. Revelation 14:6–12 presents the Three Angels’ Messages, the core of our Seventh-day Adventist mission. This message warns of end-time events and calls for choosing the eternal Gospel and worshiping the Creator. Jesus’ statement that whoever does not gather with Him scatters underscores the urgency of our mission to prepare the world for the decision between life and death. Our calling is to proclaim the hope of the eternal Gospel and warn the world of the impending events while preserving God’s commandments and faith in Jesus.
13.3 The Final Crisis
The mission command that Jesus gave to His disciples emphasizes the universal significance of the message to be taken to all nations. The Three Angels’ Messages expressed in Revelation 14:6 reflect this mission, urging all nations and languages to recognize the truth. Christ’s love extends to all humanity, irrespective of race or ethnic background. The end times will be characterized by a clear separation between those who submit to Satan and those who obey Jesus Christ. Amid increasing polarization and threats to conscience freedom, it is urgently necessary to proclaim the Gospel and expose Satan’s strategies – a task central to the Three Angels’ Messages and our mission.
13.4 Success in Mission
Success in the mission is not solely defined by quantitative measures such as baptism numbers or church size but, above all, by the character of disciples who become faithful followers of Jesus. The focus is on the process of sowing and watering, while God brings about the growth, as described by Paul in 1 Corinthians 3:6. True followers of Jesus are characterized by purity and loyalty, akin to a pure bride remaining faithful to her fiancé. They heed the gentle voice of the Holy Spirit, remain unaffected by deceptions, doubts, or immoral behavior, and are open to correction and spiritual instruction. Success in the mission is thus manifested in shaping disciples who are not only saved but actively participate in Jesus’ mission.
13.5 Mission Complete
Revelation 21:1–4 and 21:22–22:5 paint the picture of a glorious New Earth, freed from death, sin, and wickedness. This paradise will be populated by people of all ethnicities and languages, reunited with their loved ones and encountering their loving Redeemer. The General Conference Mission Committee has established clear criteria for reached and unreached people groups, with a reached group being capable of testifying without external assistance. Now is the time to invest in God’s mission, make disciples of unreached people groups, and thus hasten the return of our Redeemer. This mission has the ultimate goal of living with the redeemed in the promised new heaven and on the New Earth.
13.6 Summary
The final lesson poignantly reflects on God’s end-time mission. Revelation highlights the Trinity working together in rescuing humanity and underscores the urgency of the mission amid the challenges of the end times. The Three Angels’ Messages are identified as the core of our Seventh-day Adventist mission, calling for proclaiming the eternal Gospel and promoting worship of the Creator. Success in the mission is measured not only quantitatively but, above all, by shaping faithful disciples with purity, loyalty, and openness to the Holy Spirit. The concluding lesson outlines the anticipated picture of the New Earth, populated by people of all ethnicities, and calls for investing in God’s mission, reaching unreached people groups, and ultimately living with the redeemed in the promised new heaven and on the New Earth.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/gods-mission-my-mission-lesson-13-the-end-of-gods-mission-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

God’s Mission, My Mission – Lesson 12: Esther and Mordecai | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley

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Series GOD’S MISSION, MY MISSION with Pastor Mark Finley  |
Lesson 12: Esther and Mordecai |
In the captivating Lesson 12, we delve into the story of Esther and Mordecai, who live as captives in a foreign culture. This narrative reveals the challenges of external adaptation and emphasizes the significant inner loyalty to God that prevails even under the most adverse conditions. We gain a fascinating insight into life at the foreign court of the Persians, where Mordecai and Esther must act wisely to protect their identity. Mordecai’s steadfast testimony before Haman and Esther’s courageous approach to the king illustrate that even in seemingly hopeless situations, faith in God and the willingness to act can make a crucial difference. Ultimately, the Purim miracle demonstrates that God’s actions are often hidden in seemingly ordinary events, reminding us that His presence can be concealed beneath the surface of our daily lives.
Memory Text: Isaiah 49,6 – “I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”  |
Content:
12.1 Captive in a Foreign Culture
Being captive in a foreign culture requires not only external adaptation but also inner loyalty. The history of the Jews under Babylonians and Persians shows that external laws alone do not guarantee true devotion to God. Even in an environment favorable to faith, loyalty must come from the heart to avoid sin and apostasy. In the end, determined loyalty overcomes the most adverse conditions.
12.2 In a Foreign Court
The story of Esther provides a fascinating glimpse into life at the foreign court of the Persians. Mordecai and Esther, strangers in a foreign culture, must act wisely to protect their identity. The decision to temporarily keep Esther’s Jewish heritage a secret highlights the challenges and the necessity of adapting to a hostile environment. In this politically and culturally complex situation, the narrative of Esther and Mordecai unfolds.
12.3 Mordecai’s Faithful Witness
Mordecai’s steadfast testimony before Haman depicts the confrontation between his firm faith as a devout Jew and the demands of Persian culture. His refusal to bow before Haman was based on his principle of worshiping only the Lord. By openly revealing his Jewish identity, Mordecai not only risked his own life but also that of his fellow Jews. In the midst of moral darkness at the royal court, Mordecai’s faith shines like the bright light of Daniel and his companions in Babylon.
12.4 For Such a Time as This
Esther revealed her Jewish identity at a crucial moment when Mordecai alerted her to the impending danger to her people. Her bold approach to the king, without a formal invitation, illustrates her willingness to risk her own life for the salvation of her people. Mordecai’s appeal to Esther’s responsibility and her subsequent dedication to fasting and prayer underline the strong faith that moved her to act at a critical moment. Esther shows that even in seemingly hopeless situations, faith in God and the willingness to act can make a crucial difference.
12.5 The Miracle of Purim
The Purim miracle in the story of Esther shows that God’s actions are often hidden in the seemingly normal events of life. Although God’s name is not mentioned in the Book of Esther, the Jews recognize His work in their deliverance. The festival of Purim, arising from this miracle, emphasizes how God can work through seemingly natural circumstances. The fact that even people from the nations converted to Judaism demonstrates the transformative power of God’s invisible intervention in our lives. Purim reminds us that God’s presence is often hidden beneath the surface of our daily lives.
12.6 Summary
Lesson 12 illuminates the story of Esther and Mordecai, who live as captives in a foreign culture. The narrative underscores the importance of inner loyalty to God despite external adaptation and shows that determined loyalty overcomes adverse conditions even in hostile environments. Mordecai’s steadfast testimony, Esther’s courageous approach, and the Purim miracle illustrate how faith in God and the willingness to act can have a decisive impact even in seemingly hopeless situations.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/gods-mission-my-mission-lesson-12-esther-and-mordecai-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

God’s Mission, My Mission – Lesson 11: Mission to the Unreached – Part 2 | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley

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Series GOD’S MISSION, MY MISSION with Pastor Mark Finley  |
Lesson 11: Mission to the Unreached – Part 2  |
This lesson unfolds a fascinating panorama of Jesus’ missionary efforts in Gentile areas, particularly in the cities of Tyre and Sidon. By analyzing biblical texts such as Matthew 15:22–28 and Mark 7:24–30, we delve into profound lessons derived from encounters with people of different backgrounds. This lesson not only examines historical challenges of spreading the Gospel amidst nationalism and prejudice but also draws valuable lessons for today when it comes to spreading a vibrant faith in cities and among diverse population groups. Let’s immerse ourselves in biblical narratives to gain deep insights into Jesus’ missionary strategy and the timeless relevance of His teachings for our own mission in urban settings.
Memory Text: 1: Matthew 15:28 – “Then Jesus answered and said to her, ‘O woman, great is your faith! Let it be to you as you desire.’ And her daughter was healed from that very hour”  |
Content:
11.1 Mission to Regions Beyond
This section emphasizes the strategic significance of Jesus’ mission in Gentile areas, particularly in the cities of Tyre and Sidon. Jesus deliberately chose these border areas to prepare His disciples for their calling to reach all population groups. References to biblical texts like Judges 3:1–6 and 1 Kings 5:1–12 illustrate the historical role of these cities in testing the faith of the Israelites. Despite the negative influences of their pagan past, it is stressed that facing the challenges of urban mission is essential, serving as a model for comprehensive mission in various cultures and nationalities.
11.2 Seeking the Multitudes
The focus is on Jesus, in His grace, calling for engagement in city missions despite the associated challenges. Matthew 9:35–38 teaches us that Jesus felt deep compassion for the crowds in the cities, evident through His tears over Jerusalem in Luke 19:41. Emphasis on prayer for alignment of our motives and hearts with those of Jesus is stressed in Matthew 9:38. The section highlights the geographic diversity of people who followed Jesus in Matthew 4:23–25, indicating that His mission journeys were also cross-cultural, as seen in the trip to the region of Tyre and Sidon. This text inspires engagement in urban mission despite difficulties, urging us to emulate Jesus’ love for the masses.
11.3 In Tyre and Sidon
This section fascinatingly illuminates the diverse depictions of the same event in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark. The emphasis on the woman’s nationality as a Canaanite in Matthew and her more detailed description as a “Greek from Syrophoenicia” in Mark illustrates how the authors addressed their respective audiences. Matthew’s audience might have viewed the woman as a despised heathen due to historical experiences, while Mark’s Gentile audience might have felt a stronger identification with her. These differences in portrayal provide insights into cultural contexts and demonstrate how Jesus consciously challenged the expectations and prejudices of His listeners. The commentary highlights Jesus’ deep compassion, confronting the disciples with their own coldness and heartlessness while emphasizing the universal significance of His message.
11.4 “Send Her Away!”
It is noted that nationalism, pride, and prejudices during Christ’s time prevented the people of God from bringing the hope of the Messiah to cities like Tyre and Sidon. The comparison with the book of Acts, especially Peter’s vision, underscores the lesson of the Holy Spirit confronting Peter with his religious pride and narrow-mindedness towards the Gentiles. The suggestion to reconsider Jesus’ interaction with the mother and connect the lessons from this excursion with Peter’s vision leads to important considerations about how prejudices influence our perception of the needs of city dwellers. The teaching that God’s plan of salvation encompasses the entire human family is emphasized as a timeless message, just as relevant today as it was then. The appeal to overcome prejudices with patience and through the Holy Spirit to fulfill the mission in cities presents a central challenge for believers.
11.5 Faith on Earth?
This section reminds us that Jesus, in Luke 18:8, seeks a faith that shines even in darkness. The selection of people with strong faith in cities, such as the Gentile centurion in Capernaum, the faithful friends tearing the roof, and the blind Bartimaeus in Jericho, underscores that faith is often found in unexpected places. The admonition that even in Jesus’ hometown of Nazareth, faith acted as a limiting factor serves as a reminder that faith is not automatically found in religious centers. The timeless lesson is to humbly go into the cities, as Jesus did, and seek people who will respond to the truth with a saving faith in Jesus, even if they come from different cultures and religions.
11.6 Summary
In conclusion, this lesson on Jesus’ mission in Gentile cities, particularly in Tyre and Sidon, provides a comprehensive insight into the Savior’s missionary approach. Through the analysis of biblical texts and the lessons drawn from encounters with different people, we learn the importance of overcoming national barriers and prejudices to spread a vibrant faith in unexpected places. These biblical teachings encourage us to reflect on our own barriers, open our hearts and missions to all peoples and cultures. By applying Jesus’ teachings in the modern urban context, we are encouraged to be bearers of hope and light in today’s world, overcoming boundaries and working together towards a future where faith shines in every corner of society.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/gods-mission-my-mission-lesson-11-mission-to-the-unreached-part-2-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

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