Defining The Beliefs Of SDA Church Arcata

By Elizabeth Smith


Before visiting any church or house of worship, it is often good to understand the belief system of the denomination. In the case of SDA Church Arcata, the beliefs are that of all Seventh Day Adventists congregations. As such, the SDA accepts the Bible and only the Bible as the sole truth with regards to the Christian faith.

The church considers the denomination to be part and parcel to that of the protestant conviction and the Bible as pertaining to the practice and faith of Christians. In particular, Seventh Day Adventists hold twenty fundamental beliefs which can be separated into six categories with regards to doctrines related to last day events, the Christian life, the church, salvation, man and God.

In each teaching, God is always and forever architect of the world, grace, wisdom, and a love which is eternal and infinite. As a result, followers of the faith believe that a strong and lasting relationship with God, the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit will allow for a life that is eternal and everlasting.

In most cases, Seventh Day Adventists believe that God is Love, though also a higher power of splendor and mystery. In addition, those in the faith believe that powers which God possess are well beyond those of human kind. At the same time, it is clear that God has a way of reaching out to those in need.

God, often considered intimate and infinite among members is a Divine presence with which individuals can build a strong and lasting relationship over the course of eternity. While sin may create a great deal of distance, forgiveness is available simply for the asking. While this is the case, there are some sins in which the Bible states it is appropriate that an eye for eye be given as a means of justice. As such, the church often believes that while God is an all forgiving God, that there can also be punishment when it comes to sins of this magnitude.

While most Christian denominations consider the Bible, the Word of God, SDA recognizes that there are a number of different perspectives, styles and authors. Still, through the inspiration in the writings of these individuals, God reveals an ever-forgiving, ever-loving, ever-patient presence. While most books of the Bible were written by people of an earlier time, the message still has the power to open the hearts and minds of people living in the present.

The church believes Jesus to be the son of God, sent to share the message of the Father and love to all people of the earth, past, present and future. As such, like a number of other Christians, SDA believe that Jesus became mortal, died on the cross and came back to life, now sitting at the right hand of the father. That is, at least until the time of the second coming, when Jesus comes to take all whom are considered to be children of God, home.

Whereas, it is believed that until that time, believers are never alone. For, the Holy Spirit is present in the heart of all whom believe. As such, the presence can comfort, guide and inspire people as was the case with the early prophets. In the process, the Spirit represents the "Body of Christ, " and provides a number of spiritual gifts such as compassion, service, and a humble attitude.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment