Unveiling the Prophetic Legacy of Seventh-day Adventists

Have you ever asked what sets Seventh-day Adventists apart from other denominations? It is not just about worshiping on Saturday or our health principles, it’s also about our belief in prophecy as a gift of the Holy Spirit. This gift, we believe, is a defining characteristic of the remnant church and is expressed in the ministry of Ellen G. White.

Ellen G. White’s writings are not meant to be just books on a shelf that collect dust; they are meant to be used as a guiding light for our church. They speak with prophetic authority, offering comfort when we are down, guidance when we are lost, instruction when we are confused and correction when we stray off course. But here is the crucial part: they always point back to the Bible. We believe the Bible is the ultimate standard by which we measure all teaching and experience. It is like our North Star, guiding us through life’s journey.

How does this belief make us stand out? For starters, not every church puts as much emphasis on prophecy as we do. While other denominations might acknowledge prophecy as part of history, we see it as a living, breathing gift that is relevant today. It is not just about predicting the future, it is about understanding God’s will for us in the here and now.

Our prophetic teachings are not just about doom and gloom either. They are about hope. In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, these teachings offer a sense of purpose and direction. They remind us that God has a plan, even when things seem out of control. They reassure us that no matter how dark the night may seem, the dawn is always on the horizon.

Nonetheless, it is not enough to just believe in prophecy; we must live it out too. That means spreading a message of love and hope to all who will listen. It is about embodying the values that our prophetic teachings support, values like compassion, humility and integrity.

So, the next time someone asks you what it means to be a Seventh-day Adventist, do not just talk about our beliefs or our practices. Talk about our prophetic heritage, about the gift of prophecy that sets us apart and the hope it brings to a world in need. After all, it is not just what we believe, it is how we live it out that truly matters.

Overall, our belief in prophecy is not just a quaint relic of the past, it is a living testament to our faith and our commitment to making the world a better place. That is something worth celebrating.

By Lee-Roy Chacon
President