In our present context, in which church authority and unity are being challenged in various quarters of the denomination relative to the ordination question, it is imperative that our people understand the simple truths of God’s written counsel which undergird the thrice-rendered decision of the worldwide Adventist body on this subject.
In the refrain of the song “Standing By a Purpose True,” the author (Philip Bliss) sings, “Dare to be a Daniel!” In fact, the desire to be a Daniel is a necessity in the life of every heaven-bound Christian.
Destructive belief systems and thought patterns will abound in our world till the end comes. All of these will have to be met and opposed on the basis of God's Word. But our prophetic scenario need not—indeed, cannot—be changed to accomplish this.
Both Scripture and Ellen White explicitly tell us that we are not saved by “faith alone.” Even so, over the past several decades there has been a growing movement in the Seventh-day Adventist Church promoting the “faith alone” doctrine.
Non-compliance with the collective testimony of God’s Word and the corporate judgment of the faith community finds no endorsement in the Sacred Pages.
“The right to a free ballot has been purchased by the blood of patriots. The Christian will not regard it lightly, nor permit it to be lost through apathy or disuse..”
Kenneth H. Wood, “The Christian and the Ballot,” Review and Herald, Oct. 19, 1972
Memories of a fallen champion
It’s apparently fine for some if intolerance of opposing views is practiced by those believing as they do, but very wrong if a similar course is pursued by others.
If a myth is repeated often enough, it is frequently accepted as fact.
The General Conference answers questions on the 2018 Annual Council Compliance Document.
Background of the Annual Council 2018 Compliance Document