2 Flashcards
(13 cards)
When we use the term “eternal verities,” what are we referring to in Adventist theology?
Eternal verities are the unchanging, fundamental truths of Christianity that remain constant across time, such as the nature of God, the divinity of Christ, salvation by grace, and the authority of Scripture.
What are the core theological concepts of Protestantism which Adventism has adopted?
Key Protestant concepts adopted by Adventism include justification by faith alone, the priesthood of all believers, the authority of Scripture alone (sola scriptura), and salvation by grace through faith.
Why would Adventism be more closely related to the Wesleyan/Arminian sector of Protestantism than to the Calvinistic/Reformed tradition?
Because Adventism emphasizes human free will, conditional security (possibility of apostasy), and the universal offer of salvation, aligning more with Wesleyan/Arminian theology rather than the Calvinistic doctrines of predestination and irresistible grace.
What are the key doctrinal planks that make up the platform of Adventism’s “present truth”?
The key elements include the investigative judgment, the Sabbath (seventh-day observance), the state of the dead (soul sleep), the second coming of Christ (imminent), and healthful living.
When we speak of the unique factors involved in Adventist theology, are there doctrines professed that no other groups teach, or does it have more to do with the overall blending of “present truth”? Or is it both?
It is both. Some doctrines like the investigative judgment and specific eschatological views are unique, but Adventism is also defined by how it blends these with eternal verities as “present truth” relevant to its time.
What is the dynamic interrelationship between the “eternal verities” and the “present truth” which is so important to Adventism’s self-understanding?
Eternal verities provide the unchanging foundation of faith, while present truth represents the unfolding and timely application of truth in light of new biblical understanding and contemporary context. This balance helps Adventism remain faithful yet relevant.
Define Eternal Verities in Adventist theology.
Unchanging Christian doctrines fundamental to faith, such as God’s nature and salvation by grace.
Define Present Truth in Adventism.
Truth that is particularly relevant and revealed for a specific time period, updating understanding of biblical doctrines.
Who is a major figure in Wesleyan/Arminian theology influential to Adventism?
John Wesley, who emphasized free will and holiness.
What is the Investigative Judgment?
A unique Adventist doctrine that Christ began a heavenly judgment process in 1844 examining believers’ lives prior to His second coming.
What is the Sabbath doctrine?
The observance of Saturday, the seventh day, as the biblical Sabbath, a day of rest and worship.
What does Soul Sleep mean?
The belief that the dead remain unconscious until the resurrection at Christ’s return.
Who was a key early Adventist prophetess who shaped Adventist theology?
Ellen G. White.
