Paul commends the Christian brethren in Macedonia who, though themselves suffering economic want after three subsequent wars reduced the Macedonians to petitioning Tiberius for a reduction of taxes, nevertheless managed to raise a considerable offering for the church in Jerusalem. The Macedonians had faced famine conditions following widespread crop failures in Judea.
Read MoreTrue obedience comes from the heart
Multiple times I have heard well-meaning Adventists–in an attempt to prove that we should force ourselves to obey even if we don't want to–quote Ellen White where she says we are to "do right because it is right." This has perplexed me and given me quite a bit of anxiety, because while I have seen a lot of evidence against this, the phrase still seemed to back up their belief.
Read More