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* Home
* About
* Mid-America Union
* News
* Mid-America Union
* Central States
* Dakota
* Iowa-Missouri
* Kansas-Nebraska
* Minnesota
* Rocky Mountain
* Union College
* MID-AMERICA UNION LAUNCHES ACF INSTITUTE TO PROMOTE GROWTH
Mid-America Union, October 29, 2024
* CSC TO HOST LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE IN OMAHA
Central States Conference News, October 29, 2024
* CEDAR RAPIDS LAUNCHES NEWSTART HEALTH INITIATIVE
Caleb Durant, October 23, 2024
* Features
* REFORMATION DAY: A DAY TO REMEMBER, REFLECT AND REIGNITE
OUTLOOK Staff, October 31, 2024
* HISTORICAL STUDY OF PROFESSOR DR. BEATRICE NEALL
Guest Contributor, October 29, 2024
* NANCY BUXTON AND WOMEN’S MINISTRIES
Guest Contributor, October 29, 2024
* Blogs
* Home, Church, School
* The Teacher’s Notes
* Soul Comfort
* Think About It
* In Favor
* Latiendo juntos
* HOW DO YOU OVERCOME FEAR AND FOLLOW GOD’S PLAN
The Shepherd's Voice, October 30, 2024
* VOTE FOR LOVING YOUR NEIGHBOR
The Teacher's Notes, October 28, 2024
* THE TEACHER’S NOTES–THE TESTIMONY OF THE SAMARITANS, LESSON 5
The Teacher's Notes, October 26, 2024
* Podcast
* Video
* HOW DO YOU OVERCOME FEAR AND FOLLOW GOD’S PLAN
The Shepherd's Voice, October 30, 2024
* HOW GREAT THOU ART
Hugh Davis, September 25, 2024
* A DECADE OF UNLEASHING THE POWER OF BIBLE STUDY
Hugh Davis, April 27, 2023
* Advertise
* Classifieds
* Resources
* Contact
* OCTOBER 29, 2024 MID-AMERICA UNION LAUNCHES ACF INSTITUTE TO PROMOTE GROWTH
Read more
* OCTOBER 29, 2024 NANCY BUXTON AND WOMEN’S MINISTRIES LEARNING, TEACHING AND
CONNECTING
Read more
* OCTOBER 23, 2024 LONGTIME LEADER STEVE LADIG REFLECTS ON FOUR DECADES OF
PATHFINDER SERVICE
Read more
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ADVENTIST NEWS
* Mid-America Union Launches ACF Institute to Promote Growth Mid-America Union
– October 29, 2024
The Mid-America Union Conference hosted its inaugural Adventist Christian
Fellowship Institute at the headquarters of the Central States Conference in
Kansas City, Kansas, on Aug. 30 – Sept , 2024. This landmark event brought
together 43 passionate students representing seven university campuses from
across the Mid-America Union. These universities included the University of
Kansas, Missouri State University, Iowa State University, Concordia
University in St. Paul, Minnesota, North Dakota State University, and the
Missouri University of Science and Technology. The theme for the weekend,
“Grounded in Christ,” was inspired by Col. 2:6-7. The gathering was a
spiritually enriching experience, characterized by vibrant and uplifting
worship sessions led by the praise team from the New Beginnings
Samoan-English Seventh-day Adventist Church in Independence, Missouri.
Attendees were blessed with inspirational devotional talks from Pastor Tyrone
Douglas, youth and young adult ministries director for the Mid-America Union,
Pastor Darrel Lindensmith, sponsor of the North Dakota State University
chapter, Chaplain Makenzy Jean from the University of Kansas, and Lane Elien,
an elder at the Adventist church in Ames, Iowa. The institute also featured
impactful seminars led by Esther Kim, a campus ministry leader at Iowa State
University, Pastor Darrel Lindensmith and Pastor Daniel Jeon, associate
pastor of the Collegedale Korean Seventh-day Adventist Church in Ooltewah,
Tennessee. One of the primary reasons students are encouraged to get involved
in an ACF chapter is for spiritual growth. College life, especially on public
campuses, can present a multitude of challenges as students are often exposed
to new ideas and lifestyles that may test their faith. ACF chapters provide a
safe and supportive environment where students can explore their beliefs, ask
probing questions, and deepen their understanding of the Bible. As students
navigate the complexities of college life, an active faith community serves
as a crucial anchor, helping them maintain their Christian values and
beliefs. Esther Kim, a student leader in the ACF chapter at Iowa State
University, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of these
communities. Beyond spiritual growth, ACF involvement also offers students
opportunities to engage in meaningful outreach programs both on and off
campus. During the MAUC ACF Institute, participants engaged in two service
projects over the weekend. One group took part in a faith-sharing event at
the University of Missouri-Kansas City, where they hosted a tabling event and
distributed books on apologetics. Another group volunteered at a food pantry
operated by the New Haven Seventh-day Adventist Church in Overland Park,
Kansas, providing much-needed assistance to the local community. Pastor
Makenzy highlighted the growing trend of young adults from Seventh-day
Adventist churches attending public universities and colleges. He emphasized,
“As a church, we need to support them in meaningful ways. These young adults
are poised to impact our church, community, and world in unique and
significant ways.” Pastor Lindensmith added, “There must be an organic
connection between the local church and campus ministries. Churches and
conferences should embrace campus ministry as integral to evangelism.”
Students who attended the ACF Institute expressed great enthusiasm about the
prospect of future union-sponsored events that would allow all the chapters
within the Mid-America Union to come together for fellowship, training and
inspiration. The ACF advisory for the Mid-America Union is committed to
meeting regularly to expand the growth of ACF chapters throughout the region,
ensuring that the impact of these ministries continues to flourish.
Information provided by Tyrone Douglas, church ministries director for the
Mid-America Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.
Read more...
* CSC to Host Leadership Conference in Omaha Central States Conference News –
October 29, 2024
The phone rings, it’s a member of the nominating committee asking you to take
a new church ministry position. You feel the Lord’s callin, but you are
unsure if you can do it! God has given you a passion for a ministry you
would like to use in His service…but how do you start? You have served in
this position for several years now, but the world and the church are
changing. How do you enhance your leadership skills for today’s world? These
are some of the dilemmas that leaders and aspiring leaders face. Well, we are
happy to announce that the Family Ministries Department of Central States
Conference is hosting a Leadership Summit. It will be held in beautiful
refashioned downtown Omaha, Nebraska, on Nov. 8-10. Pastor Phillip Baptiste,
North America Division secretary/treasurer of Adventist-laymen’s Services and
Industries (ASI) will be your lead facilitator. He will be joined by
empowered facilitators presenting a variety of leadership skill-building
workshops. Leaders and aspiring leaders as well as interested members are
invited to attend. For additional information and registration visit:
central-states.org/events/leadership-summit
Read more...
* Cedar Rapids Launches NEWSTART Health Initiative Caleb Durant – October 23,
2024
The Cedar Rapids Seventh-day Adventist Church successfully held its first
NEWSTART Health Expo in June, drawing 17 unchurched community members and
numerous local congregants. The event, part of a proven outreach initiative,
marks a significant step in the church’s community engagement efforts. Over
30 volunteers contributed to the expo, many participating in such an event
for the first time. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from volunteers
indicates strong support for future initiatives. The expo, preceded by a 3k
walk with 55 church volunteers, offered free health screenings and wellness
information. Medical professionals, including Dr. Sharon Collins and massage
therapist Julie Morse, provided expert guidance to attendees. “This expo is
what I need right now,” said one unchurched attendee who received prayer just
20 minutes into the event. Another recent widower participant spent over two
hours at the expo and has since been regularly attending church services. The
event’s success builds on Pastor Essam Habib’s experience organizing four
similar expos in other districts over the past decade. “The NEWSTART Health
Expo has consistently proven to be an effective tool for community outreach
and evangelism,” said Pastor Habib. “It opens doors to spiritual
conversations through addressing physical health needs.”
Read more...
* Longtime Leader Steve Ladig Reflects on Four Decades of Pathfinder Service
Hugh Davis – October 23, 2024
For 41 years, Steve Ladig has dedicated his life to guiding young people
through the Pathfinder organization, a global youth group sponsored by the
Seventh-day Adventist Church. He has served 20 years as the director of the
College View Trailblazers Pathfinder Club in Lincoln, Nebraska, leaving a
legacy that stretches back more than three decades. But this year marks a
turning point for Ladig as he steps down from his role as director, handing
over the reins to the next generation of leaders while reflecting on a
journey filled with memories, challenges and deep spiritual fulfillment.
Ladig’s involvement with Pathfinders began at a young age, although his path
to the Seventh-day Adventist Church was not typical. “I wasn’t raised a
Seventh-day Adventist,” Ladig explained. “I became an Adventist on my own
when I was 14 years old. I was active in Boy Scouts and even became an Eagle
Scout at 15 and a half.” His transition into the Pathfinder organization came
naturally after joining the Adventist Church, where he quickly rose through
the ranks due to his prior experience in the Boy Scouts. Over the years,
Ladig has been involved in various Pathfinder clubs across the country,
including in Oregon and North Dakota, before settling in Nebraska. His long
tenure as a leader has given him a unique perspective on the importance of
Pathfinders as a ministry for youth. “Pathfinders is more than just a club;
it’s a social and spiritual lifeline for young people,” Ladig said. “It’s one
of the most important youth ministries we have in our church because it
provides kids with a space to build relationships—with their peers and with
adult mentors—outside the traditional church setting. Ladig noted that
statistics show that kids who stay in Pathfinders for three or more years are
more likely to remain in the church. “That’s why this ministry is so
important,” he added. Ladig’s commitment to Pathfinders is rooted in his
belief that the ministry helps young people develop practical life skills
while also strengthening their connection to their faith. “We teach them
everything from camping and survival skills to community service,” he said.
“But it’s also about giving them ‘warm fuzzies’—positive memories and
experiences they can hold onto when they face the inevitable challenges and
‘cold pricklies’ that life and even the church might throw at them.” This
“warm fuzzy” philosophy is central to Ladig’s approach to leadership. He
believes that by building a foundation of positive experiences, Pathfinders
can be a source of strength for young people throughout their lives. He
recounted a story that exemplifies this philosophy—a story about a former
Pathfinder named Mike, whose life took a dark turn after his parents’
divorce. Despite the efforts of Ladig and his team, Mike eventually drifted
away from the church and found himself in and out of jail. Years later, at an
Oregon camp meeting, Ladig encountered Mike again. Mike had returned to the
church, inspired by a memory from his Pathfinder days—baking cinnamon apples
over a campfire. “He realized at that moment that he had walked away from
God, but God had never walked away from him,” Ladig recalled, his voice
filled with emotion. Today, Mike is a head elder in a small church in Eastern
Oregon, his faith rekindled by a warm memory from his Pathfinder years. As
Ladig prepares to step down, he reflects on the impact Pathfinders has had on
his own life and the lives of countless young people he has mentored. “It’s
time for me to step back and let someone else take over, but I’m not leaving
entirely,” he said. “I’ll still be involved, just in a different capacity. I
want to support the new director and continue to contribute where I can.”
Read more...
BLOGS
* How Do You Overcome Fear and Follow God’s Plan The Shepherd's Voice – October
30, 2024
Many voices in the world want to influence you. How do you know that you are
hearing God’s voice as the main influence? It’s God’s great pleasure to speak
to us every day. In the OUTLOOK blog ‘The Shepherd’s Voice’ Elder Marty
Thurber wants to help guide you to having a great conversation with Him. Join
Elder Thurber on OUTLOOK’s YouTube channel and here on our website.
Read more...
* Vote for Loving Your Neighbor Which Candidate Does It Better? The Teacher's
Notes – October 28, 2024
Hint: Bible references are hyperlinks! If there’s one guideline we can bring
with us to the voting booth this November, it is the important principle that
Jesus repeatedly brought to our attention. His mandate was to love one
another (John 13:35). That means we must love everyone–those who don’t look
like us, and surely those who don’t think or vote like us. Jesus goes so far
as to say that what we do to our neighbor is like doing it to Him. See
Matthew 25:40. Instead of the tit-for-tat retaliation that seems so prevalent
in this particular election cycle, we need to keep our focus on the most
vulnerable in society, and avoid fearmongering for certain groups of people,
as some have tended to do. Of course, we know that no political party will
follow the principle of love perfectly (they are only human, after all); but,
if, to the best of our knowledge, one side is better at loving our neighbors
than the other party, then perhaps we can prayerfully cast our ballot with a
clear conscience, knowing that God is in control of the final outcome.
Speaking of God being in control, let’s remember what our relationship should
be to government. Jesus pointed out that obedience was expected of us. After
all, we are to “give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is
God’s.” Matthew 22:21 It’s helpful to remember Romans 13:1-2 that reveals how
governments get their power. Simply put, God gives it to them. He appoints
earthly authorities above us, and we should obey them as much as possible, so
long as we don’t disobey God’s law while doing it (Acts 5:29). Some
authorities, of course, will abuse their power, whether they’re a preacher,
doctor, teacher, parent, or anyone in charge of others. Which is why we are
fortunate when we live in a country that gives us a chance to choose our
political leaders. Even so, we can trustingly know that God is in control of
the election results in our country this November, and we are obliged to
remain law-abiding citizens, while still helping and loving our neighbors to
the best of our ability. Loving our neighbors was the sermon theme at my
church this past Sabbath. Pastor Joel Navarro at Piedmont Park SDA Church
reminded us of the previous verses and also who are neighbors are. Using the
illustration of “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood”, a popular children’s program for
decades, he showed us a picture of Fred Rogers, sitting side by side with a
black police officer, with both of them soaking their feet in a kiddie’s
pool. The pastor mentioned how controversial this image was at the time,
breaking color barriers in the sixties. I can remember clearly those days. I
lived in a highly segregated city that had those laws of segregation. But,
whether it’s racial hatred, or maybe just a fear of immigrants, we need to
remember that every living person on this planet is our neighbor. After all,
the Bible says “For God so loved the world”, and therefore, so should we. See
another article on this subject, published last week… Vote for Jesus Every
Day!
Read more...
* The Teacher’s Notes–The Testimony of the Samaritans, Lesson 5 Adult Bible
Study Guide, 2024 4Q, "Themes in the Gospel of John" The Teacher's Notes –
October 26, 2024
Sabbath School Lesson for October 26-November 1, 2024 Overview and
Introduction of Lesson 5, The Testimony of the Samaritans Memory Text: “Then
they said to the woman, ‘Now we believe, not because of what you said, for we
ourselves have heard Him and we know that this is indeed the Christ, the
Savior of the world.’ ” John 4:42 NKJV There was a long history of unstable
relations between Judea, where Jerusalem and Bethlehem were located, and
Samaria just to the north. The northern kingdom of Samaria was overrun by
Assyrians in 722 B.C. The Assyrians made it a practice to populate their
conquered lands with captives brought in from other conquests, resulting in a
strong, cultural mixture of Judaism and paganism in Samaria. It was not
forgotten that, when the Jewish exiles were sent home by the Persians to
rebuild Jerusalem, it was Sanballot, the Samaritan governor, who made
Nehemiah’s work so difficult. It’s no wonder that the situation over the
centuries had caused the Jews to the south to view their northern neighbors
with suspicion, avoiding them whenever possible. Apparently, the Jews in
Jesus’ time viewed the Samaritans with more contempt than their Roman
oppressors. To them, the Samaritans were a despised, impure people, making us
wonder why Jesus saw them as a ripened harvest, ready to be reaped. Looking
at John, chapters 3 and 4, we discover these things: Sunday: The Setting of
the Encounter–What brought Jesus to the well near Sychar, in Samaria? Monday:
The Woman at the Well–Who was the woman Jesus met at the well? Tuesday: ”
‘Sir, Give Me This Water’ “–How did Jesus open up the conversation?
Wednesday: The Revelation of Jesus–What did Jesus reveal to the woman at the
well? Thursday: The Testimony of the Samaritans–How did the townspeople
receive her witness? Sunday: The Setting of the Encounter The beginning of
John, chapter 4, is thought to include the reason Jesus chose to minister in
Galilee, north of Samaria. People were noticing that Jesus’ disciples were
baptizing more than John the Baptist was. This probably caused some alarm
among the Pharisees, but perhaps even some friction between the two
ministries in Judea. In any event, for the time being, Jesus felt it would be
more profitable for Him to work further north, closer to His hometown of
Nazareth. Most of the Jews would avoid going through Samaria, however, and
take a longer route into Perea, just east of the territory of those
contemptible Samaritans. But John 4:4 tells us that Jesus “needed to go
through Samaria.” He knew there was work to be done there that would shock
His disciples and begin their education about who He came to save. Jesus
found Himself sitting by Jacob’s well about a mile outside the town of
Sychar, while His disciples went into the town to purchase some food. They
probably thought that was the best way to keep their Master safe from those
untrustworthy, unpredictable Samaritans. But when a Samaritan woman came to
the well in the middle of the day and found Jesus sitting there, she was
surprised that He would request some water from her. It was unheard of that a
Jew would ask a Samaritan for even the smallest favor, as that might start a
relationship when the favor was returned, as was required. Bible Verses: John
4:1-4 Why might Jesus have felt it was better for Him to minister in Galilee,
north of Judea? John 4:5-9 What surprised the woman about Jesus request for
water? Monday: The Woman at the Well Just like the encounter Jesus previously
had with wealthy Nicodemus, the unlikely conversation that unfolded with the
spiritually-thirsty woman at the well was nothing anyone would have expected.
Instead of turning Him down or simply walking away, she began a conversation
by asking Him about His request. Jesus seized the opportunity to tell her
about living water that can satisfy your thirst forever. Of course, Jesus is
the fountain of living water, alluded to in Jeremiah 2:13 and Zechariah 14:8.
Water, that ingredient so needed for man’s survival, is a perfect symbol of
Jesus and eternal life that only He can provide. Jesus later expounded on
this in John 7:37, 38. This special living water is obtained by anyone who
believes and accepts Jesus into his/her heart. Both this woman at the well
and Nicodemus were in need of a conversion experience, and they found
themselves drawn to the Son of Man who could provide it. Bible Verses: John
4:10-15, Jeremiah 2:13, and John 7:37-38 Why is Jesus called a fountain of
living water? How can we, too, have this kind of water? Tuesday: ” ‘Sir, Give
Me This Water’ ” Jesus often used the natural world to illustrate spiritual
truths. With Nicodemus, He talked about being born again. Nicodemus
questioned Him about how this was physically possible, just as the woman at
the well questioned Jesus’ suggestion that living water would satisfy your
thirst forever. They were taking the topic literally to avoid its spiritual
implications. As the truth began to sink in for the woman, however, the
conversation suddenly turned from Jesus asking for a drink, to her asking for
His living water. But, Jesus, aware that some issues needed to be cleared up
before her request could be fulfilled, asked her to call her husband, so He
could share the living water with him as well. This shift in their exchange
was necessary. Before she could fully appreciate the Savior, she must be
brought to recognize her sin. Jesus’ suggestion to get her husband led her to
admit her failed marital attempts and shameful, current lifestyle. Bible
Verses: John 3:4 and 4:11-12 How were Nicodemus and the woman at the well
both avoiding spiritual truths? How do we do the same today, when we hear
doctrines that we are not comfortable with? What is a better way to find
spiritual answers? John 4:16 Why did Jesus make this unexpected request?
Wednesday: The Revelation of Jesus The The Teacher’s Notes–The Testimony of
the Samaritans, Lesson 5 Adult Bible Study Guide, 2024 4Q, “Themes in the
Gospel of John”“>Read more…
Read more...
* How To Land When We Fall! Trust, Love, Vulnerability, and Healing – October
22, 2024
How often do you consider how to land? Is it when you have to throw laundry
into the basket and it just misses the rim landing on the floor? Is it when
you try to throw that pillow onto the couch, it lands on the couch but some
mysterious gust of wind topples onto the floor? Is it when instead of walking
to the trash can, you become a Steff Curry wanna be, and airball that trash
just to see it land nowhere near the rim of the trashcan? Is it when putting
groceries into your car thinking you securely put the bag of groceries into
the trunk but helplessly you watch it topple over and land onto the ground?
Poor spilled blueberries! Is it when trying to run with socks on forgetting
there is no grip under them like the ones from the hospital. Instead of
running upright, you run tilted and I don’t mean like a football slant route,
instead like the Tower of Pisa, trying to regain vertical equilibrium but
landing hip sliding first? Is it when skipping down the stairs you try to
clear two steps at a time but totally miscalculate and instead of landing on
your feet you land bottom first or up? For me it depends on the day! Don’t
worry, I don’t know your business, I am spilling the tea on my clumsy self.
Now that you have a glimpse of my inner world, it should not surprise you
that I have a fascination with landings. I have been watching a lot of
landings lately. Including my slips and falls, I have seen birds land,
airplanes landing, skydive landings, and more. I thought the intrigue was the
descent but within the last four months I now understand that God was trying
to remind me of an important guide post for living as a Christian. He was
teaching me how and where to land, and what will guide me to land safely. In
life it is not about how high you can go or from what level of floor you have
to pick yourself up from, it’s the landing for me. I believed more times than
others that the picture of that righteous man falling a slew of times (7) but
getting up instead of the wicked who stumble when disaster comes was
independent of Jesus’ grim metaphoric picture of the wise man building on the
rock vs the foolish man building on the sand. Here are the two passages.
Proverbs 24:16 (ESV) for the righteous falls seven times and rises again, but
the wicked stumble in times of calamity. Matthew 7:24-27 (KJV) 24 Therefore
whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him
unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: 25 And the rain
descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house;
and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. 26 And every one that
heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a
foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: 27 And the rain descended,
and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it
fell: and great was the fall of it. It had to take more than one fall in my
life for these two life lessons to hit home. Now when I say falls I don’t
mean the countless falls we have while learning how to walk, ride a bike,
run, climb, after surgery, or slipping on rocks into a bed of sea urchins
like me! These falls, through the encouragement of our parents, mentors,
doctors, or friends. Although mentally and physically touch, there is that
thing in us which we find and then we do it. Why, because we believe that we
could or we believe the ones who believed that we could and that faith
transferred into our minds and we did! I believe that one of the reasons why
we don’t think twice about these experiences as having deeper life lessons is
because these are normal growing experiences but they do not hold the shame
and vulnerability component which emotional, spiritual, or mental falls
bring. The stigma that only the weak suffer from those falls and can’t come
back from them, have put these falling experiences into the category of the
unforgiving and judgmental discouragement section of the Christian family.
The section is where a person is never allowed to get back up again. Instead
of encouragement and help to get back up again, one is met with harsh,
scathing, silence or gossip with words which in themselves weigh more than
the reason for the fall in the first place. Cruel words, lack of empathy, and
compassion, and cruel treatment are so heavy that many stay down because the
weight of accusatory words and discouragement pins them down. The weight of
these words and the actions which accompany them carry a weighty penalty
which Jesus lifted for everyone. Mental health is one of those life
experiences which is in the forefront of not just society and the medical
realm but in our homes, schools, places of employment, worship, in many other
spaces, and if we can be honest we see it looking back at us in the mirror.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Health on their web page
entitled Mental Health by the Numbers, they remind us that; Millions of
people in the U.S. are affected by mental illness each year. It’s important
to measure how common mental illness is, so we can understand its physical,
social and financial impact — and so we can show that no one is alone. These
numbers are also powerful tools for raising public awareness, stigma-busting
and advocating for better health care. Fast Facts 1 in 5 U.S. adults
experience mental illness each year 1 in 20 U.S. adults experience serious
mental illness each year 1 in Read more…
Read more...
FEATURED STORIES
* Reformation Day: A Day to Remember, Reflect and Reignite OUTLOOK Staff –
October 31, 2024
Each year, October 31 marks Reformation Day, a commemoration of the bold act
of Martin Luther in 1517. By nailing his Ninety-Five Theses to the door of
the All Saints’ Church in Wittenberg, Germany, Luther sparked a movement that
sought to return Christianity to the pure teachings of Scripture. This day
ignited the Protestant Reformation, a revival that sought to challenge
corruption, promote biblical literacy, and put God’s Word back into the hands
of everyday believers. For Seventh-day Adventists, Reformation Day is more
than a historic milestone; it’s a reminder of the heritage we embrace and a
calling to continue reform. Our roots in the Protestant tradition are deeply
intertwined with the principles Luther championed: sola scriptura (Scripture
alone), sola fide (faith alone), and sola gratia (grace alone). These
principles remind us of the priority of Scripture and the beauty of salvation
by faith, gifts we continue to cherish and proclaim. To reignite our passion
for God’s Word and truth, Adventists can celebrate Reformation Day by
immersing in personal and group Bible study, reflecting on the principles of
the Reformation. This day can be an opportunity to read a portion of Luther’s
works or the writings of Ellen White, both of which emphasize a return to
Scripture. Prayer groups can focus on petitions for revival and reformation
in our lives and church, asking God for the courage to stand for truth as
Luther did. Finally, consider using Reformation Day to share the message with
others—whether through social media, small group discussions, or community
outreach. By rediscovering our history, we can reignite our commitment to the
timeless message of God’s love and truth, preparing ourselves and the world
for Christ’s soon return. May this day inspire us to live with conviction,
courage, and clarity as we continue the work of reformation. This article
was generated by chatGPT. Prompting, editing, and curation by Hugh Davis
Read more...
* Historical Study of Professor Dr. Beatrice Neall Guest Contributor – October
29, 2024
by Lena Toews Dr. Lena Toews, president of the Adventist Society for
Religious Studies and professor of religion at Union Adventist University,
presented a paper during the Women in History Conference organized by the
North American Division last year. Following is a summary of her
presentation, which explored the developing understanding of select issues
and doctrines of long-time Union College (at that time) religion professor
Dr. Beatrice Neall. Beatrice (Short) Neall was an Adventist missionary,
educator, editor and author. In 1980, while teaching at Union alongside her
husband Dr. Ralph Neal, Beatrice Neall was invited to serve on the Sanctuary
Review Committee, which consisted of 114 members, and met at Glacier View
Ranch, Colorado, in response to the Desmond Ford controversy over the
sanctuary doctrine. Dr. Neall was the only woman on the committee. Neall took
this assignment seriously and prepared well. She read over 2,000 pages on
both sides of the argument. She was determined to study the sanctuary
doctrine; she was dedicated to finding the truth. Beatrice did come to the
conclusion, after 15 years of study, that Des Ford was not correct. She
studied in depth and she stood her ground. However, that was not the case
with her studies of the materials on women’s ordination. Her views on women
gradually changed in the process of her studying. In 1975 the Adventist
Church voted to not ordain women to gospel ministry. At Union College, women
who wanted to study theology were told by faculty to take a second major
because chances they would get a job as a pastor were bleak. Beatrice
realized young women were being lost to jobs outside the church, and were not
teaching Bible at our academies. She believed that for practical reasons it
is good to ordain women. “They are doing the job; we should pay them,” she
said. During the 1980s Union College struggled financially and was on the
verge of closing. In addition to Beatrice, there were three men teaching
religion, but due to finances it was Beatrice’s pay that was reduced to that
of an adjunct/part-time faculty even though her teaching load was not
reduced. Despite the difficult circumstances this placed her in, she offered
to teach some classes for free. She believed in the mission of Union College
and she loved her students. Beatrice dedicated her talents and time to
teaching students with minimal pay. Open to new light There is one pivotal
article that Beatrice wrote that is crucial to mention when discussing her
position on women in ministry. She was asked to write an article on the
subject of women’s ordination. She started with one viewpoint, and in the
course of her research, completely changed that view. In the course of her
studying, Beatrice looked at many difficult Old Testament and New Testament
texts, including the passages in Titus 2, 1 Timothy 2 and 4, 1 Corinthians,
Acts and many others. She analyzed the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy
references on the role and status of women. She mostly relied on her
knowledge of biblical languages. In her analysis of Scripture and
hermeneutics, she used a variety of scholarly sources, Adventist and
non-Adventist alike. In this article, she did a careful exegesis of both Old
Testament and New Testament texts related to the role of women, determining
the original intent of the writer and what he had intended to say to the
original readers. Beatrice knew there was no term such as “ordination” in
the gospels. But the prophetic gift of Ellen White was the fulfillment of
Acts 2:17: “Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy.” Beatrice called it
“a clear example of the New Testament empowering of women for the
proclamation of the gospel.” Peter believed on scriptural grounds that Jews
should not associate with Gentiles. The Holy Spirit demolished his theology
by acting contrary to his expectations. God was moving. And Peter had to
move with Him. The Seventh-day Adventist Church recognizes that God called
a woman to be His messenger in these last days. God’s actions should be a
check on our interpretation of Scripture. Was Ellen White ordained? Beatrice
asked, “How could human hands ordain her when God Himself had signally
empowered her with the greatest of gifts?” White taught, helped with defining
the church’s doctrines, exercised authority over men, and did the work of the
prophet and the apostle. How is God moving today? Does He use women to
teach, to lead, to exercise authority? Beatrice shared her discovery from
Genesis 1:26, “he created him, male and female, He created them.” Therefore,
together male and female would reflect His likeness. The persons of the
Godhead work together, and so should men and women. History and tradition
have separated the roles of men and women. But human creativity and
potential, derived from the image of God, are limitless and unpredictable.
Gifts should not be suppressed, but valued and encouraged. God Himself is
complex; so is humanity, since we are made in His image. Neither sex should
seek to dominate the other. Power is not in short supply and must not be
fought over. In summary, when God works no human being can stop His work.
Beatrice was an example of this work. She was not afraid to question and
challenge her own or the church’s beliefs. She studied and she grew. She had
an open mind and heart to the Spirit and its work in her understanding of
Scripture. She took risks and was willing to take shots from all sides by
embracing both traditional and feminist views in her articles on male-female
roles. Beatrice’s dedication as a woman professor and scholar still stands
as an example of deep conviction, courage and lifelong learning. What makes
Beatrice unique is that she was committed to lifetime learning and was
willing to put her beliefs and Bible knowledge to the test. She was not
satisfied with the status quo. And through that learning, she grew and
changed and helped her students to grow in their understanding of Scripture,
doctrines Read more…
Read more...
* Nancy Buxton and Women’s Ministries Learning, teaching and connecting Guest
Contributor – October 29, 2024
Nancy Buxton, long-time director of women’s ministries for the Mid-America
Union, is retiring at the end of 2024. Here are some thoughts from Nancy as
she reflects on her years of service. Someone asked me what my dream is for
women’s ministries, and it has given me something to really ponder. I do
believe, and have said many times, that if we make a difference in a woman’s
life we make a difference in her family, friends, church and community. We
must grow in inclusiveness, knowing there is room for anyone who wants to be
involved. I dream that we will continue to equip women to mentor, teach and
love each other, and learn that Jesus loves us and is willing to fight for
each of us. I dream that women’s ministries will be seen as an important
department at the different levels of the church. Also, it is vital that we
learn to communicate better with each other. At our women’s ministries
website www.nadwm.org there is so much information and yet very few people
know about it. Sermons complete with powerpoint, children’s stories,
bulletin announcements, information about college scholarships, how to for
our devotional book—it’s all there plus more! Over the years women’s
ministries has had a large impact on my life. When my friend Angel Bock
decided our College View Church in Lincoln, Nebraska, needed to have
something for women I knew there was one thing I could do, and that was cook.
Cooking was the best I had to offer and cook we did! Our small group of women
soon grew to over 300. Women who were taking a break from church, women from
the community, and church members all started showing up once a month for
great food, some fun, a devotion and a planned program. And then I found I
could do other things besides cook. By being involved Jesus gave me the
ability to do other things aligned with my love for women and cooking.
Through this ministry I have learned the art of listening, loving, caring,
speaking and realizing how much we need each other. I truly believe that
Jesus will give us the ability to work and speak for Him—all we have to do is
be willing and ask. As I think back to 35 years ago when I first got involved
with women’s ministries, a lot has changed. We have many more resources for
women and we have women’s retreats in every conference each year. We have
certainly become aware of the importance of young women and their views; we
want them to be involved in leadership. We crave and value diversity,
inclusiveness, and there is value in a party with a purpose. We have always
known how important the friendships of women are, but with so much social
media it is rare to see a group of women together. We know more now, than
ever, it is vital to get together whether it’s at church, at a restaurant,
someone’s home or the park. If you are not involved in ministry of some kind,
get involved! If you would like to see some changes in your church, get
involved. If you want to tell others about Jesus get involved. If you are
thinking about starting women’s ministries in your church I have a little
advice for you: Pray, pray, pray! And always include your pastor in your
ideas for women’s ministries. You must have a team! Even if you can only
find one other person, have a team. Do an assessment of your church to find
out what women see as needs. Get together with your team and decide what one
thing from that list you want to do. Put the idea together and make a
budget. Go to your pastor and discuss what you have in mind. Finally, it is
vital to prepare your core team to be friendly, welcoming and to be present.
Let those who attend know they are valued. There are so many people who need
to hear about Jesus and yet we are sometimes uncomfortable to tell others
about Him. I do believe, however, it’s important to establish a friendship
before jumping into deep spiritual discussions. Having something going on at
your church to invite community women and church members to is a great way to
form friendships. It’s always more enjoyable if we can enjoy eating
together. Whether it’s dessert, popcorn or a meal we all seem to enjoy
fellowshipping over food. I pray you will take that leap of faith and ask God
where you should start. Every time you trust God and want to obey His call,
God will get bigger, and your life will grow deeper, richer and stronger in
Him.
Read more...
* The Voice of Prophecy Turns 95 Years Old Brenda Dickerson – October 19, 2024
The Voice of Prophecy, Seventh-day Adventism’s oldest existing media
ministry, celebrates its 95th birthday this month. From its first day to now,
VOP has used cutting-edge technology to proclaim the everlasting Gospel of
Christ, touching millions of lives worldwide. The ministry began on October
19, 1929, when Adventist preacher Harold Marshall Sylvester (H.M.S.) Richards
Sr. started regularly broadcasting biblical messages on California radio
stations. Although some church leaders at the time called radio “the devil’s
tool,” Richards Sr. was determined to harness the recently popularized
invention for Christ. Soon, the young evangelist was broadcasting his
program, The Tabernacle of the Air (renamed The Voice of Prophecy in 1937),
on a daily basis. His headquarters, a renovated chicken coop in his garage,
reflected his humility, a trait he retained even as his broadcast’s fame
grew—and grow it did. In 1942, just weeks after the attack on Pearl Harbor,
listeners across the United States turned on their radios to hear “Lift up
the trumpet, and loud let it ring: Jesus is coming again!” The Voice of
Prophecy, which began each segment with its uplifting theme song, had become
the Adventist Church’s national radio program. This brand-new appointment,
created in 1941 by the General Conference Radio Commission, distinguished The
Voice of Prophecy as one of the first religious programs to be broadcast
coast to coast. Five years later, the broadcast went international, and
communities around the world became acquainted with the sound of VOP’s
signature male quartet, The King’s Heralds, the contralto Del Delker, and the
friendly voice of Richards Sr. By the 1960s, over 1,300 stations in 30
languages carried The Voice of Prophecy. Also growing was the ministry’s
Bible Correspondence School (now called the Discover Bible School),
established in 1942. A month after the school was announced, more than 2,000
students had enrolled. By 1946, that number had soared to 85,000. H.M.S.
Richards Jr. succeeded his father in leadership in 1969. He was followed by
Lonnie Melashenko, Fred Kinsey, and current Speaker/Director Shawn Boonstra.
Under these leaders and their associates, the Voice of Prophecy expanded its
reach, developing specialized radio programs, branching into television, and
organizing preaching campaigns and evangelistic crusades across the country
and world. “Ninety-five years—and look at the way God blessed a spark in a
young preacher’s heart!” Boonstra expressed. “The ministry started so
humbly—in a chicken coop—and now it’s across the face of the Earth,
ministering in more than 70 languages. It’s become a front-line evangelistic
agency for the church.” Boonstra, alongside his wife, Jean Boonstra, has been
leading VOP for 12 years. The ministry is now based in Loveland, Colorado,
the city where Richards Sr. grew up and was baptized. VOP’s current flagship
program is the weekly television show Authentic, in which Shawn Boonstra
pursues answers to the deepest questions of human existence. Jean Boonstra
leads the children’s ministry, Discovery Mountain, a weekly Bible-based audio
adventure series that has captured the imaginations of kids worldwide—it even
hosted the nightly broadcasts of the recent International Pathfinder
Camporee! The Discover Bible School continues to offer free courses for both
children and adults. It now supports over 2,000 churches in North America and
hundreds more across the globe. United States graduates alone exceed one
million. Far higher is the sum of worldwide graduates, which has soared into
the millions. More than ever before, the Voice of Prophecy is focused on
supporting local church evangelism by producing high-quality media resources
and bridge events. Its next series, Primordial, decodes the origins of
existence to point audiences toward their loving Creator. VOP’s partnership
with Pentecost 2025, a North American Division initiative, will allow
participating churches to host Primordial and other VOP events for free. “I
can’t believe I get to be a part of this enduring ministry,” Shawn Boonstra
shared. “I’m looking forward to the report we can give H.M.S. Richards Sr. on
resurrection morning about the way God continued to expand his vision.”
Visit vop.com to learn more about the Voice of Prophecy. Amanda Blake is a
writer for the Voice of Prophecy.
Read more...
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