The following resolution was unanimously voted late in the business session of Friday, July 7.
-----------
Through Scripture God has communicated the truth and good news about Himself and the plan of redemption. The Bible is the foundation of the faith and daily life of His people. It draws us closer to Jesus Christ our Savior, and fills our lives with meaning and purpose as we wait for His second coming.
Since the very beginning of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, we have been known as “the people of the Book.” Bible study has been a hallmark of the Adventist ethos. We support our existence and beliefs from Scripture, recognizing Jesus Christ as the Incarnate Word. The Bible is at the core of our existence.
We believe “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works,” keeping in mind that the Bible is its own interpreter. (2 Timothy 3:16,17). The gift of Prophecy as manifested through Ellen G White also points tot he supremacy of Scripture.
In light of these considerations we express our thanks to God for His Word and its revelation of Jesus Christ. Humbling our hearts before God, we desire to show our appreciation for the Bible by allowing its teaching to bear fruit in our lives.
To emphasize the primacy of Scripture in the church and in the world, we recommend that:
1. Efforts be intensified to encourage society in general and church members specifically, including children and youth and those new to our faith, to seek a relationship with God through reading and studying the Bible.
2. All individual members make daily Bible reading a priority in their lives and that all church ministries make Bible study a priority in their programs.
3. Efforts be made to make the Bible as accessible as possible to all people, free of charge or at the lowest price possible.
4. Local churches seek to provide a variety of commentaries, source material, and training facilities for use of their members.
5. The church seek intentionally to present the Bible as relevant to today’s society, using all appropriate means. |
