hese studies will explore the historical evolution of the Sabbath, the Ten Commandments, and our connection as Christians to the everlasting covenant.

t feels threatening to questions beliefs that have defined our lives. But refusing to do so suggests fear that the teachings cannot stand up under scriptural scrutiny.

Legitimate questions arise as we undertake the study of the foundations and doctrines unique to Adventism. “Why should we study them?  Isn’t this just a distraction from the gospel and from Jesus? Is this just another form of legalism and the religious spirit? Who cares? Do you think we are hung up on that old stuff?”

Because the Adventist Church has stated that none of its beliefs come from Ellen White but from the Bible alone (as supported by Ellen White), I believe it is very important to investigate this claim and to be clear on what scriptures actually teach. Are any of the above assertions true? 

“What, then, was the purpose of the law? It was added because of transgressions until the Seed to whom the promise referred had come. The law was put into effect through angels by a mediator.  A mediator, however, does not represent just one party; but God is one. ” Gal 3:19-20 (NIV)

Summary of the Old Covenant: Covenant partners: God and Israel as they replied “All you have said we will do”. Beneficiaries: the people of Israel.  The prerequisite sign: circumcision The repetitive sign: The Sabbath

There is a teaching in Adventism that alleges that the Ten Commandments are eternal and unchanging. We were taught, “they are a transcript of God’s character.” And since God never changes this law can never change. Even speaking those words seems to carry with them the weight of cannon truth. The difficulty comes when one tries to find that teaching in the Bible. 

On the seventh day, God rested from creating the Earth.

Jesus went out of His way to demonstrate that He had taken authority or precedence over the Sabbath by breaking or destroying the Sabbath.  The religious leaders understood this to the point that they set about to kill Him.

"The women represent two covenants. One covenant is from Mount Sinai and bears children who are to be slaves: This is Hagar. "

The Lord’s Day did not begin as a combination of pagan and Christian observances.  The Christian church, by meeting on Sunday, The Lord’s Day, is not keeping a Sabbath.