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Life is full of opportunities. We make decisions every day that influence where we are going to be in the future. Today does indeed decide tomorrow. I have come to understand that what I see and listen to today is going to make an influence on what I do today and tomorrow. Sometimes my choice of what to listen to will change my plans for the day. We do not half understand how much we are changed by what we behold. Either we are being changed into His likeness or we are not. There is no half way.
Jesus tells us "either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit." Matthew 12:33. Why is it that this simple truth is so little appreciated in the church? Why do we think we can serve God and Satan at the same time? It is because we have failed to be as the faithful Bereans who after being taught by the Apostle Paul, went home and opened their Bibles to see if what he said was true. When we hear two opposing doctrines being taught from our pulpits and printed in our church journals, it ought to awaken a question in our minds as to which is the truth and which is a lie. We ought not be so comfortable in ignoring such a serious problem within the church.
Over the last couple of years, we have been confronted with some departures from the faith that even the most Laodicean church member cannot help but realize are wrong. The teaching of evolution as fact at La Sierra has caused many to awaken from their long sleep. [1] It has caused some of the virgins to renew their connection with Christ. They have filled their lamps with the precious oil that is causing their light to shine brightly. They have gone to their Bibles and can discern error from truth. They accept what the Bible says about creation, not what a false professor teaches about evolution. Either the Bible is truth, or it is not.
 Another shock to the long time church member who staunchly defends the church through all of her vicissitudes has been the refusal of some unions to abide by church law. [2] The General Conference voted to not ordain women pastors twice while in session. [3] Some who know what was voted and know what their union constitution says, have openly rebelled against the authority of the world church and their own constitution. The resulting breech in the church has caused a shaking that is still yet unresolved. Either the General Conference has authority or it does not. Either the church lives by the law it preaches or it does not.
This current moral inconsistency in the church reminds me of the teaching of Jesus on money. "No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon." Luke 16:13. If a leader in God's church does not follow the Constitution and bylaws that define their existence, then how can that leader expect church members to follow the same set of rules? Either we follow the rules or we do not. Either leadership has authority or it does not.
There is an issue that is very troubling regarding some of the church's institutions, especially those directly connected with the General Conference. These institutions were created according to the light given by God. Many of them were created by much sacrifice on the part of church members. We know what the blueprint says about the health work, our schools, our publishing houses, and our churches. But, many have either ignored the inspired counsel or rejected it.
Jesus has something to say to us that involves these institutions of His making. "Every plant, which My heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up." Matthew 15:13. The customs and traditions so highly valued by some of our leaders are of this world, not from heaven. However great their position in the church, they will not endure the testing of God. Every human invention that has been substituted for the commandments of God will be found worthless in that day when "God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil." Ecclesiastes 12:14.
"Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent." Revelation 3:17-19.
It was almost three years ago that our hearts thrilled with joy when we heard the call for revival and reformation coming from the highest authority in the church. [4] Pastor Wilson had just been elected the new General Conference president and he was laying the axe to the root of the tree. He has kept his messages centered in Christ and is slowly turning the great ship around. For this we offer thanks continually to our heavenly Father. But, all is not right in the response to this great work that is moving forward. Some, stand opposed to the work of reformation. They have great influence by way of their positions in the church.
One of the things that has made our church strong to do evangelism, is the church structure. It is of God. We do not have a hierarchy, but we have a representative church. The local churches elect their leadership at the conference level and so it goes all the way up to the General Conference whose leadership is elected from the division leadership from around the world. The local conference is not controlled by the General Conference, but by their own leadership. Their constitutions were modeled by the world church. It is the glue that binds the churches from around the world together as a church. This is important. We have a representative government that vests the power in the church members, but operates under Constitutional law. It is similar to the structure of the government of the United States, a representative democracy.
There is a breakdown in carrying out the plans being formulated at the General Conference level. We often see a similar problem in the federal government of the United States. When there is a newly elected president, it does not insure immediate change in the federal government. There is a vast bureaucracy that remains in place when the newly elected officials take office. Therefore, it takes time to make meaningful changes. So it is with the church. When Pastor Wilson was elected, there was a vast bureaucracy within the General Conference that was already in place. We now see that some of these denominational workers are opposed to the straight work of reformation in the church.
Many of God's children are sorrowful today. They have read the Spirit of Prophecy and understand much of the counsel regarding our schools, our churches, our sanitariums, and our publishing houses. They are not blind to the failures and the results of these failures. Let me mention just one that will cause all to weep. Our children are leaving the church. They are leaving the faith. We are reaping what we have sown in many ways, but not the least of which is the failure to follow the light given for their education.
The Roman Catholic Church has dirty hands. There is nothing so vile as what has happened to little boys at the hands of Roman priests. The fruits of what has been taught in the Roman Church is there for all to see. Now, the church has a new leader, a leader who appears as a knight in shining armor. He will not have to refuse a subpena to testify about the coverup. His hands appear to be clean. But, will the new pope refute the teachings of his church, the teaching of all the doctrines that we know are contrary to Scripture? Will he hold the Bible as higher than church tradition? So, even though he appears as a savior of his church, if he does not follow Scripture, he is a deceiver. Either the Bible is the Word of God, or it is not. Either the pope is the vicar of Christ, or he is not.
I bring this up because the standard is the same for our church. It is easy to see the error in papal practice, but do we overlook it in our church? Pastor Wilson's call for revival and reformation is based on Scripture. He is pointing us to the Bible and Jesus Christ. Some want no part of it. An article appeared in the March 14, 2013 issue of the Review, entitled Reclaiming the Library. [5] In this article we read "The tortured shape of this editorial is a grim illustration of the fact that a tiny minority of Adventists is now wielding unwarranted influence on the church’s educational, pastoral, and publishing ministries by stoutly insisting that no reputable thought leader should read, own, or cite from a book by a non-Adventist author. They have invaded pastors’ offices, disrupted worship services, and left a trail of litter across a smattering of Web sites."
There may be some who have acted in exactly the manner that was stated, but I have not seen such an instance. If it exists, it does not wield the influence stated by the author in the article. On the other hand there is concern by some faithful Seventh-day Adventists that needs to be addressed. There is a great concern as to what books are being read at some of our schools. I don't think I have to spell it out, for the issue is one of widespread knowledge. It centers around the teaching of "spiritual formation" in some of our schools of "higher education" and in some of our churches. But, it is not limited to this subject. No, there is a movement within the church to pattern our schools, churches, hospitals, and publishing houses after the teachings of those not of our faith. Professing Protestant Churches have brought the teaching of spiritual formation, which originated from the mystics in the Roman Church, into their seminaries. Andrews University and other of our schools have been teaching classes based on teachings from books not of faith. Books written by authors such as Rick Warren, Richard Foster, John Eldredge, Bill Hybels, and Dallas Willard.[6]
Spiritual formation is only one of many Sunday church influences brought into our church. When Pastor Wilson first addressed the church, he called for a reformation in this area. [7] That we would cease looking unto the fallen churches for our wisdom. That we would return to the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy. It was a new day in the church. Prayers had been answered and the call for revival and reformation was once again heard within God's church. Now, either the editor of the Review appreciates the call for reformation or he does not. Either he understands the church to be in a Laodicean condition or he does not. Either he is encouraging our people to return to the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy or he is not.
"As the light and life of men was rejected by the ecclesiastical authorities in the days of Christ, so it has been rejected in every succeeding generation. Again and again the history of Christ's withdrawal from Judea has been repeated. When the Reformers preached the word of God, they had no thought of separating themselves from the established church; but the religious leaders would not tolerate the light, and those that bore it were forced to seek another class, who were longing for the truth. In our day few of the professed followers of the Reformers are actuated by their spirit. Few are listening for the voice of God, and ready to accept truth in whatever guise it may be presented." [8] But, those few within the Seventh-day Adventist Church are an encouragement to our hearts. Pastor Wilson and the leadership of the World Church are moving in the right direction. With much resolve they are standing up against the rulers of this world.
Jesus chose "unlettered" fishermen for disciples because the highly educated were unteachable. How is it today? The Review article praised the wisdom of this world. Testimony was given as to the time spent in reading infidel authors. "I have read extensively in Thoreau’s works, spending some of the happiest hours of my youth walking the muddy path around his beloved Walden Pond, and admiring the countercultural man who called respectable Victorian America to 'Simplify, simplify' (Walden, 1854). His volumes, frequently dusted off, are some of those I would rush to save should fire strike my library.]"
Thoreau was not a Christian, yet it is not the Bible, nor the Desire of Ages, nor the Great Controversy that the Review author said he would rush to save from destruction, but foremost in his mind are the books written by a pantheist.Yes, I am part of that "fringe" that the editor of the Review speaks of. I do not read for my enjoyment the writings of infidel authors, but have some of their books for reference, just as I have books and magazines written by professing Seventh-day Adventists that I keep for reference rather than edification. I cherish the writings inspired by Another. Why drink from broken cisterns when we can drink from a pure fountain of truth? We have been counseled to not read the writings of such authors as Thoreau. "Another source of danger against which we should be constantly on guard is the reading of infidel authors. Such works are inspired by the enemy of truth, and no one can read them without imperiling the soul. It is true that some who are affected by them may finally recover; but all who tamper with their evil influence place themselves on Satan's ground, and he makes the most of his advantage. As they invite his temptations, they have not wisdom to discern or strength to resist them. With a fascinating, bewitching power unbelief and infidelity fasten themselves upon the mind." [9] Yet, many of our schools of what is called "higher education" have refused to accept this inspired counsel. And, here we have our major church journal giving influence to the lie.
What is especially difficult to accept is the existing relationship between the Review and the General Conference. As is with the Adventist News Network, which is under the direct control of the GC, they are not wholly supporting the General Conference in its call for revival and reformation. They are publishing articles that go contrary to the spirit and doctrines being promoted by the General Conference.
There is great need for reformation in some of our publishing houses. The October 11, 2012 issue of the Review featured an article by Ryan Bell. It is indicative of the problem at the Review. The article has no place in a church publication. I suppose that this will meet some resistance. But, not so much today as it would have if I had spoken it a month ago. Yet, the character and teachings of the author of that article has not changed. What has changed? The author, Ryan Bell, a Seventh-day Adventist pastor is leaving his job as pastor of the Hollywood Seventh-day Adventist Church. While the Review sympathizes with his theological beliefs, the Southern California Conference, not a bastion of conservative beliefs, rejects Bell's work as a pastor. This is what Ryan Bell stated in an open letter dated March 25, 2013. "Some of the leadership decisions I have made have led the Southern California Conference administration to the conclusion that they cannot trust me to lead this church as a Seventh-day Adventist Church." [10]
Why is it that the Review has chosen to publish this man's work? It is true that Ryan Bell has a DMin from Fuller. Our concern, and Pastor Wilson's plea regarding the dangers of looking to Sunday churches for our wisdom is confirmed in the sad results with Ryan Bell. Here is what Fuller has published on their web site regarding their influence upon this Seventh-day Adventist pastor. "'Fuller's DMin program quite literally transformed my ministry,' he states, recalling how he was able to begin his work in Hollywood with a 'different kind of leadership--more in harmony with my theology and better able to address the world I actually inhabit.'" [11]
Ryan Bell is only one of many who are working contrary to the truth and has been given influence by the Review and other of our publishing media. La Sierra University is continually lifted up in our church journals. The time has come for this to stop. The school has long ago passed the point of being a Seventh-day Adventist institution. The leadership of the Pacific Union Conference is responsible for allowing the school to reach this point, and allowing the school to continue the abominations that influence our young people who attend the school. We have pointed to the teaching of evolution as fact at La Sierra University, but we have not fully understood that there are things much worse being taught at the school. It is a hotbed of rebellion that has infected the church. Some will be greatly offended by the attitude being expressed, but none can remain offended after watching this sermon delivered by the Director of the Women's Resource Center and Adjunct Professor of Religion and Philosophy at La Sierra University. She is also the director of their honors program. This sermon was preached from one our church pulpits on February 23, just six weeks ago. In it you will hear this church leader extol Lady Gaga and attempt to legitimize homosexuality in the church. This woman has a position of leadership at what is called a Seventh-day Adventist university. She teaches Seventh-day Adventist theology students. The world is listening to her and thinking that she represents what we believe as a people. Others are hearing her words and thinking that this is what the Bible teaches, that this represents the creator God. Judge for yourself if our concern is not justified.
Why is it that the Review is giving much influence to La Sierra University? Why is the Adventist Review not fully supporting the call for revival and reformation, but is pushing against the current of change? Either those responsible at the Review are working for revival and reformation or they are not. Either they are working in harmony with Scripture and the Spirit of Prophecy or they are not. Either they are working with the General Conference leadership, or they are not.
There is entirely too much influence coming from some of our schools of higher education. Having allowed the world to come into them, they, like their counterparts in the world, are leading away from Scripture. This problem is not strictly our problem. Even the Roman Church has the very same problem with Catholic institutions of so called "higher education." They are hotbeds of rebellion and are leading young people to perdition. Jesus said, "God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God." Luke 16:15. Let the Review print material that points to Jesus Christ and the Bible, and not one more article that exalts the wisdom of infidel authors. Let the institutions in our church wholly support the call for revival and reformation and cease using their influence to counteract the influence of those choosing to follow Jesus. Either we follow the traditions of man, or we follow the commandments of God.
Man's only safety is constant, earnest belief in the truth. We are to follow the very lines of work God has laid down.....The only safety for the cause and the work of God in these last days, when deception is so prevalent, is to preserve the principles which have been the foundation of our success. If we desire to have God's blessing, we must practice Christ's self-denial and self-sacrifice. Study the Word of God. Walk and work as Christ walked and worked. Men must put away the ambitious schemes which have puffed them up and exalted them in their own estimation, when they should always keep humble. Let those who desire to follow a course of action which represents the life of Christ, hear His words, "He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me."
God help his servants to cease from man, whose breath is in his nostrils. They have trusted in human help until they stand under the displeasure of God.
Right principles are to be strenuously maintained by the people who claim to be chosen of God. The work in our institutions is to be as open as the day. The people have a perfect right to know what is done in these institutions....Christ says, "Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." That which makes the burden so grievously heavy is to have to meet the influence of men who have the intense desire to be original, to bring in a new order of things. Men who know little of practical godliness and true Christian service have been placed first as leaders.
Christ's atonement includes the whole human family. No one, high or low, rich or poor, free or bond, has been left out of the plan of redemption. "God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." The duty of God's stewards is to represent Christ, to stimulate men to rise from the atmosphere of heaven. Men and women need to realize day by day that Christ is their pattern. They are to follow his footsteps. He says, "Learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart." This is the great practical lesson which is to be thoroughly and intelligently learned. [12]
[1] Gary Bradley, biology professor-La Sierra University, teaches evolution to his class. Creating Controversy; Inside Higher Ed. September 1, 2009
[2] Ted N.C. Wilson, President General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, letter of response to rebellion, Adventist Review, August 19, 2012;
http://www.adventistreview.org/article/5625/archives/issue-2012-1523/a-response-to-the-pacific-union-conference-constituency-vote
[3] General Conference Appeal document, Adventist Review, June 29, 2012; http://www.adventistreview.org/article/5488/archives/issue-2012-1518/18-cn-an-appeal-for-unity
[4] Ted N.C. Wilson, President General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, "Go Forward" Address at Atlanta General Conference Session, July 3, 2010
[5] Bill Knott, Adventist Review; March 14, 2013; http://www.adventistreview.org/issue.php?issue=2013-1507&page=6
[6] Sampling of Andrews' assigned reading, recommended reading, and course material sources:
(a) Richard Foster, Celebration of Discipline; Dallas Willard, The Spirit of the Disciplines; Capps, Walter Holden, and Wendy M. Wright. Silent Fire: An Invitation to Western Mysticism; Andrews University class SDRE 541 Biblical Foundations of Spirituality, Dr. S. Joseph Kidder, 2012; http://www.andrews.edu/sem/inministry/uploads/2012coursesyllabi/summercourses/dsre541_biblical_foundations_of_spirituality-andrews-sum_12_kidder.pdf
(b) Richard Foster, The Path to Spiritual Growth; John Eldredge, The Journey of Desire; Andrews University Class RELT 250-001, Personal Spirituality and Faith, Susan Zork, 2012; https://vault.andrews.edu/vault/ws/syllabus/201241/RELT/250/001
[7] Ted N.C. Wilson, President General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, "Go Forward" Address at Atlanta General Conference Session, July 3, 2010
[8] Ellen G. White, The Desire of Ages; pg 232
[9] Ellen G. White, Adventist Home; pg. 413
[10] Ryan Bell; An open letter to friends and church family; March 25, 2013
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