Beliefs

Fundamental beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventists

Seventh-day Adventists accept the Bible as their only creed and hold certain fundamental beliefs to be the teaching of the Holy Scriptures. These beliefs, as set forth here, constitute the church's understanding and expression of the teaching of Scripture. Revision of these statements may be expected at a General Conference session when the church is led by the Holy Spirit to a fuller understanding of Bible truth or finds better language in which to express the teachings of God's Holy Word.

 1. The Holy Scriptures    Die Heilige Skrif
 2. The Trinity Die Drie-Eenheid
 3. The Father Die Vader
 4. The Son Die Seun
 5. The Holy Spirit Die Heilige Gees
 6. Creation Die Skepping
 7. The Nature of Man Die Natuur van die Mens
 8. The Great Controversy Die Groot Stryd
 9. The Life, Death, and Resurrection of Christ Die Lewe, Dood, en Opstanding van Christus
10. The Experience of Salvation Die Belewenis van die Verlossing
11. Growing in Christ  
12. The Church Die Kerk
13. The Remnant and Its Mission Die Oorblyfsel en Sy Sending
14. Unity in the Body of Christ Eenheid in die Liggaam van Christus
15. Baptism Die Doop
16. The Lord's Supper Die Heilige Nagmaal
17. Spiritual Gifts and Ministries Geestelike Gawes en Bedienings
18. The Gift of Prophecy Die Gawe van Profesie
19. The Law of God Die Wet van God
20. The Sabbath Die Sabbat
21. Stewardship Rentmeesterskap
22. Christian Behaviour Christelike Gedrag
23. Marriage and the Family Die Huwelik en Die Gesin
24. Christ's Ministry in the Heavenly Sanctuary Christus se Bediening in die Hemelse Heiligdom
25. The Second Coming of Christ Die Wederkoms van Christus
26. Death and Resurrection Die Dood en die Opstanding
27. The Millennium and the End of Sin Die Millennium en die Einde van die Sonde
28. The New Earth Die Nuwe Aarde

1. The Holy Scriptures:
The Holy Scriptures, Old and New Testaments, are the written Word of God, given by divine inspiration through holy men of God who spoke and wrote as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. In this Word, God has committed to man the knowledge necessary for salvation. The Holy Scriptures are the infallible revelation of His will. They are the standard of character, the test of experience, the authoritative revealer of doctrines, and the trustworthy record of God's acts in history. (2 Peter 1:20, 21; 2 Tim. 3:16, 17; Ps. 119:105; Prov. 30:5, 6; Isa. 8:20; John 17:17; 1 Thess. 2:13; Heb. 4:12.)

Die Heilige Skrif, Ou en Nuwe Testament, is die geskrewe Woord van God, deur middel van Goddelike ingewing gegee deur heilige mense van God wat gespreek en geskryf het soos hulle deur die Heilige Gees gedrywe is. In hierdie Woord het God aan die mensdom die kennis toevertrou wat noodsaaklik vir die saligheid is. Die Heilige Skrif is die onfeilbare openbaring van Sy wil. Dit is die standaard van die karakter, die toets van die ondervinding, die gesaghebbende openbaarder van leerstelings, en die betroubare verslag van die dade van God in die geskiedenis. (2 Pet. 1:20, 21; 2 Tim. 3:16, 17; Ps. 119:105; Spr. 30:5, 6; Jes. 8:20; Joh. 17:17; 1 Thess. 2:13; Heb. 4:12.)


2. The Trinity:
There is one God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, a unity of three co-eternal Persons. God is immortal, all-powerful, all-knowing, above all, and ever present. He is infinite and beyond human comprehension, yet known through His self-revelation. He is forever worthy of worship, adoration, and service by the whole creation. (Deut. 6:4; Matt. 28:19; 2 Cor. 13:14; Eph. 4:4-6; 1 Peter 1:2; 1 Tim. 1:17; Rev. 14:7.)

Daar is een God: Vader, Seun en Heilige Gees, 'n eenheid van drie mede-ewige Persone. God is onsterflik, almagtig, alwetend, bo alles, en altyd teenwoordig. Hy is oneindig en buite die begripsvermoë van die mens, tog bekend deur Sy self-openbaring. Hy is vir altyd die aanbidding, die verering en die diens van die hele skepping waardig. (Deut. 6:4; Matt. 28:19; 2 Kor. 13:14; Efe. 4:4-6; 1 Petrus 1:2; 1 Tim. 1:17; Openb. 14:7.)


3. The Father:
God the eternal Father is the Creator, Source, Sustainer, and Sovereign of all creation. He is just and holy, merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness. The qualities and powers exhibited in the Son and the Holy Spirit are also revelations of the Father. (Gen. 1:1; Rev. 4:11; 1 Cor. 15:28; John 3:16; 1 John 4:8; 1 Tim. 1:17; Ex. 34:6, 7; John 14:9.)

God die ewige Vader is die Skepper, Bron, Onderhouer, en Heerser van die ganse skepping. Hy is regverdig en heilig, barmhartig en genadig, lankmoedig, en loop oor van onwankelbare liefde en getrouheid. Die deugde en eienskappe wat in die Seun en die Heilige Gees vertoon word, is ook openbarings van die Vader. (Gen. 1:1; Openb. 4:11; 1 Kor. 15:28; Joh. 3:16; 1 Joh. 4:8; 1 Tim. 1:17; Ex. 34:6,7; Joh. 14:9.)


4. The Son:
God the eternal Son became incarnate in Jesus Christ. Through Him all things were created, the character of God is revealed, the salvation of humanity is accomplished, and the world is judged. Forever truly God, He became also truly man, Jesus the Christ. He was conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He lived and experienced temptation as a human being, but perfectly exemplified the righteousness and love of God. By His miracles He manifested God's power and was attested as God's promised Messiah. He suffered and died voluntarily on the cross for our sins and in our place, was raised from the dead, and ascended to minister in the heavenly sanctuary in our behalf. He will come again in glory for the final deliverance of His people and the restoration of all things. (John 1:1-3, 14; Col. 1:15-19; John 10:30; 14:9; Rom. 6:23; 2 Cor. 5:17-19; John 5:22; Luke 1:35; Phil. 2:5-11; Heb. 2:9-18; 1 Cor. 15:3, 4; Heb. 8:1, 2; John 14:1-3.)

God die ewige Seun het in Jesus Christus vlees geword. Deur Hom is alle dinge geskep, word die karakter van God geopenbaar, die verlossing van die mensdom volbring, en die wêreld geoordeel. Vir ewig waarlik God, het Hy ook waarlik mens, Jesus die Christus, geword. Hy is deur die Heilige Gees ontvang en uit die Maagd Maria gebore. Hy het soos 'n mens gelewe en versoeking ondervind, maar die geregtigheid en liefde van God volmaak beliggaam. Deur Sy wonderwerke het Hy Gods krag geopenbaar en is Hy as die beloofde Messias van God bevestig. Hy het vrywillig vir ons sondes en in ons plek aan die kruis gely en gesterf, is uit die dode opgewek, en het opgevaar om in die hemelse heiligdom vir ons in te tree. Hy sal in heerlikheid terugkeer vir die finale verlossing van Sy volk en die herstel van alle dinge. (Joh. 1:1-3, 14; Kol. 1:15-19; Joh. 10:30; 14:9; Rom.. 6:23; 2 Kor. 5:17-19; Joh. 5:22; Luk. 1:35; Fil. 2:5-11; Heb. 2:9-18; 1 Kor. 15:3, 4; Heb. 8:1, 2; Joh. 14:1-3.)


5. The Holy Spirit:
God the eternal Spirit was active with the Father and the Son in Creation, incarnation, and redemption. He inspired the writers of Scripture. He filled Christ's life with power. He draws and convicts human beings; and those who respond He renews and transforms into the image of God. Sent by the Father and the Son to be always with His children, He extends spiritual gifts to the church, empowers it to bear witness to Christ, and in harmony with the Scriptures leads it into all truth. (Gen. 1:1, 2; Luke 1:35; 4:18; Acts 10:38; 2 Peter 1:21; 2 Cor. 3:18; Eph. 4:11, 12; Acts 1:8; John 14:16-18, 26; 15:26, 27; 16:7-13.)

God die ewige Gees was aktief saam met die Vader en die Seun in die skepping, vleeswording, en verlossing. Hy het die skrywers van die Skrif geïnspireer. Hy het Christus se lewe met krag gevul. Hy trek mense aan en oortuig hulle; en diegene wat reageer, hernu en verander Hy na die beeld van God. Hy is deur die Vader en die Seun gestuur om altyd by Sy kinders te wees, Hy gee geestelike gawes aan die Kerk, versterk dit om van Christus te getuig, en, in ooreenstemming met die Skrif, lei Hy dit in die hele waarheid. (Gen. 1:1,2; Luk. 1:35; 4:18; Hand. 10:38; 2 Pet.1:21; 2 Kor. 3:18; Efe. 4:11, 12; Hand. 1:8; Joh. 14:16-18, 26; 15:26, 27; 16:7-13.)


6. Creation:
God is Creator of all things, and has revealed in Scripture the authentic account of His creative activity. In six days the Lord made "the heaven and the earth" and all living things upon the earth, and rested on the seventh day of that first week. Thus He established the Sabbath as a perpetual memorial of His completed creative work. The first man and woman were made in the image of God as the crowning work of Creation, given dominion over the world, and charged with responsibility to care for it. When the world was finished it was "very good," declaring the glory of God. (Gen. 1; 2; Ex. 20:8-11; Ps. 19:1-6; 33:6, 9; 104; Heb. 11:3.)

God is die Skepper van alle dinge, en het in die Skrifte die egte weergawe van Sy skeppingsdade geopenbaar. In ses dae het die Here "die hemel en die aarde" en alle lewende dinge op die aarde gemaak, en op die sewende dag van daardie eerste week gerus. So het Hy die Sabbat as 'n ewige gedenkteken van Sy voltooide skeppingswerk ingestel. Die eerste man en die eerste vrou is na die beeld van God gemaak as die kroon van die Skepping; aan hulle is heerskappy oor die aarde gegee, en hulle is belas met die verantwoordelikheid om daarvoor te sorg. Nadat die wêreld voltooi is, was dit "baie goed," en het die heerlikheid van God verkondig. (Gen. 1; 2; Ex. 20:8-11; Ps. 19:1-6; 33:6, 9; 104; Heb. 11:3.)


7. The Nature of Man:
Man and woman were made in the image of God with individuality, the power and freedom to think and to do. Though created free beings, each is an indivisible unity of body, mind, and spirit, dependent upon God for life and breath and all else. When our first parents disobeyed God, they denied their dependence upon Him and fell from their high position under God. The image of God in them was marred and they became subject to death. Their descendants share this fallen nature and its consequences. They are born with weaknesses and tendencies to evil. But God in Christ reconciled the world to Himself and by His Spirit restores in penitent mortals the image of their Maker. Created for the glory of God, they are called to love Him and one another, and to care for their environment. (Gen. 1:26-28; 2:7; Ps. 8:4-8; Acts 17:24-28; Gen. 3; Ps. 51:5; Rom. 5:12-17; 2 Cor. 5:19, 20; Ps. 51:10; 1 John 4:7, 8, 11, 20; Gen. 2:15.)

Die man en die vrou is na die beeld van God geskape, met individualiteit en die vermoë om te dink en te doen. Alhoewel hulle as vrye wesens geskape is, is elkeen 'n onverdeelbare eenheid van liggaam, verstand en siel, wat van God afhanlik is vir die lewe, en asem en vir alle ander dinge. Toe ons eerste ouers ongehoorsaam aan God was, het hulle hul afhanklikheid van Hom ontken, en van hul hoë posisie onder God geval. Die beeld van God in hulle is geskend en hulle het aan die dood onderworpe geword. Hulle nakomgelinge deel in hierdie gevalle natuur en die gevolge daarvan. Hulle word met swakhede en neigings tot die sonde gebore. Maar God het die wêreld in Christus met Homself versoen en Sy Gees herstel die beeld van hul Maker in berouvolle sterflinge. Tot die heerlikheid van God geskape, word hulle opgeroep om Hom en mekaar lief te hê, en om vir hul omgewing te sorg. (Gen. 1:26-28; 2:7; Ps. 8:4-8; Hand. 17:24-28; Gen. 3; Ps. 51:5; Rom. 5:12-17; 2 Kor. 5:19,20; Ps. 51:10; 1 Joh. 4:7,8,11,20; Gen. 2:15.)


8. The Great Controversy:
All humanity is now involved in a great controversy between Christ and Satan regarding the character of God, His law, and His sovereignty over the universe. This conflict originated in heaven when a created being, endowed with freedom of choice, in self-exaltation became Satan, God's adversary, and led into rebellion a portion of the angels. He introduced the spirit of rebellion into this world when he led Adam and Eve into sin. This human sin resulted in the distortion of the image of God in humanity, the disordering of the created world, and its eventual devastation at the time of the worldwide flood. Observed by the whole creation, this world became the arena of the universal conflict, out of which the God of love will ultimately be vindicated. To assist His people in this controversy, Christ sends the Holy Spirit and the loyal angels to guide, protect, and sustain them in the way of salvation. (Rev. 12:4-9; Isa. 14:12-14; Eze. 28:12-18; Gen. 3; Rom. 1:19-32; 5:12-21; 8:19-22; Gen. 6-8; 2 Peter 3:6; 1 Cor. 4:9; Heb. 1:14.)

Die ganse mensdom is nou betrokke in 'n stryd tussen Christus en Satan betreffende die karakter van God, Sy wet, en Sy heerskappy oor die heelal. Hierdie konflik het in die hemel sy oorsprong toe 'n geskape wese, toegerus met die vryheid van keuse, in selfverheffing die Satan, Gods vyand, geword het, en hy 'n deel van die engele tot opstand gelei het. Hy het die gees van opstand na die aarde gebring toe hy Adam en Eva laat sondig het. Die gevolg van hierdie menslike sonde was dat die beeld van God in die mens geskend is, die ontwrigting van orde in die geskape wêreld, en uiteindelike vernietiging daarvan tydens die wêreldwye sondvloed. Ten aanskoue van die ganse heelal het hierdie aarde die arena van universele konflik geword, waaruit die God van liefde uiteindelik geregverdig sal word. Om Sy volk in hierdie groot stryd by te staan, stuur Christus die Heilige Gees en die lojale engele om hulle op die weg van verlossing te lei, te beskerm, en te ondersteun. (Openb. 12:4-9; Jes. 14:12-14; Ese. 28:12-18; Gen. 3; Rom. 1:19-32; 5:12-21; 8:19-22; Gen. 6:8; 2 Petrus 3:6; 1 Kor. 4:9; Heb. 1:14.)


9. The Life, Death, and Resurrection of Christ:
In Christ's life of perfect obedience to God's will, His suffering, death, and resurrection, God provided the only means of atonement for human sin, so that those who by faith accept this atonement may have eternal life, and the whole creation may better understand the infinite and holy love of the Creator. This perfect atonement vindicates the righteousness of God's law and the graciousness of His character; for it both condemns our sin and provides for our forgiveness. The death of Christ is substitutionary and expiatory, reconciling and transforming. The resurrection of Christ proclaims God's triumph over the forces of evil, and for those who accept the atonement assures their final victory over sin and death. It declares the Lordship of Jesus Christ, before whom every knee in heaven and on earth will bow. (John 3:16; Isa. 53; 1 Peter 2:21, 22; 1 Cor. 15:3, 4, 20-22; 2 Cor. 5:14, 15, 19-21; Rom. 1:4; 3:25; 4:25; 8:3, 4; 1 John 2:2; 4:10; Col. 2:15; Phil. 2:6-11.)

In Christus se lewe van volkome gehoorsaamheid aan die wil van God, het God die enigste versoenmiddel vir menslike sonde voorsien, sodat diegene wat hierdie versoening in geloof aanneem, die ewige lewe kan hê, en sodat die hele skepping die oneindige en heilige liefde van die Skepper beter kan verstaan. Hierdie volkome versoening regverdig die geregtigheid van Gods wet en die barmhartigheid van Sy karakter; want dit veroordeel ons sonde terwyl dit ook voorsiening maak vir ons vergifnis. Die dood van Christus is plaasvervangend en boetend, versoenend en hervormend. Die opstanding verkondig God se oorwinning oor die magte van die boosheid, en vir diegene wat die versoening aanvaar, verseker dit hul uiteindelike oorwinning oor sonde en die dood. Dit verklaar die Heerskappy van Jesus Christus, voor wie elke knie in die hemel en op aarde sal buig. (Joh. 3:16; Jes. 53; 1 Petrus. 2:21. 22; 1 Kor. 15:3, 4, 20-22; 2 Kor. 5:14,15; 19-21; Rom. 1:4; 3:25; 4:25; 8:3, 4; 1 Joh. 2:2; 4:10; Kol. 2:15; Fil. 2:6-11.)


10. The Experience of Salvation:
In infinite love and mercy God made Christ, who knew no sin, to be sin for us, so that in Him we might be made the righteousness of God. Led by the Holy Spirit we sense our need, acknowledge our sinfulness, repent of our transgressions, and exercise faith in Jesus as Lord and Christ, as Substitute and Example. This faith which receives salvation comes through the divine power of the Word and is the gift of God's grace. Through Christ we are justified, adopted as God's sons and daughters, and delivered from the lordship of sin. Through the Spirit we are born again and sanctified; the Spirit renews our minds, writes God's law of love in our hearts, and we are given the power to live a holy life. Abiding in Him we become partakers of the divine nature and have the assurance of salvation now and in the judgment. (2 Cor. 5:17-21; John 3:16; Gal. 1:4; 4:4-7; Titus 3:3-7; John 16:8; Gal. 3:13, 14; 1 Peter 2:21, 22; Rom. 10:17; Luke 17:5; Mark 9:23, 24; Eph. 2:5-10; Rom. 3:21-26; Col. 1:13, 14; Rom. 8:14-17; Gal. 3:26; John 3:3-8; 1 Peter 1:23; Rom. 12:2; Heb. 8:7-12; Eze. 36:25-27; 2 Peter 1:3, 4; Rom. 8:1-4; 5:6-10.)

In oneindige liefde en genade het God Christus, wat geen sonde geken het nie, sonde vir ons gemaak, sodat ons in Hom die geregtigheid van God gemaak kan word. Deur die Heilige Gees gelei, besef ons ons behoefte, erken ons ons sondigheid, het ons berou oor ons oortredinge, en beoefen ons geloof in Jesus as Here en Christus, as ons Plaasvervanger en ons Voorbeeld. Hierdie geloof wat verlossing aanneem kom deur die Goddelike krag van die Woord en is 'n gawe van Gods genade. Deur Christus is ons geregverdig, aangeneem as seuns en dogters van God, en verlos van die heerskappy van die sonde. Deur die Gees is ons weer gebore en geheilig; die Gees hernu ons verstand, skryf Gods wet van liefde in ons hart, en ons word die krag gegee om 'n heilige lewe te lei. Waar ons in Hom bly, word ons deelgenote aan die Goddelike natuur en het ons die versekering van verlossing nou en in die oordeel. (2 Kor. 5:17-21; Joh. 3:16; Gal. 1:4; 4:4-7; Titus 3:3-7; Joh. 16:8; Gal. 3:13, 14; 1 Petrus 2:21, 22; Rom. 10:17; Lukas 17:5; Markus 9:23, 24; Efe. 2:5-10; Rom. 3:21-26; Kol. 1:13, 14; Rom 8:14-17; Gal. 3:26; Joh. 3:3-8; 1 Petrus 1:23; Rom. 12:2; Heb. 8:7-12; Ese. 36:25-27; 2 Petrus 1:3, 4; Rom. 8:1-4; 5:6-10.)


11. Growing in Christ:
By His death on the cross Jesus triumphed over the forces of evil. He who subjugated the demonic spirits during His earthly ministry has broken their power and made certain their ultimate doom. Jesus' victory gives us victory over the evil forces that still seek to control us, as we walk with Him in peace, joy, and assurance of His love. Now the Holy Spirit dwells within us and empowers us. Continually committed to Jesus as our Saviour and Lord, we are set free from the burden of our past deeds. No longer do we live in the darkness, fear of evil powers, ignorance, and meaninglessness of our former way of life. In this new freedom in Jesus, we are called to grow into the likeness of His character, communing with Him daily in prayer, feeding on His Word, meditating on it and on His providence, singing His praises, gathering together for worship, and participating in the mission of the Church. As we give ourselves in loving service to those around us and in witnessing to His salvation, His constant presence with us through the Spirit transforms every moment and every task into a spiritual experience. (Ps 1:1, 2; 23:4; 77:11, 12; Col 1:13, 14; 2:6, 14, 15; Luke 10:17-20; Eph 5:19, 20; 6:12-18; 1 Thess 5:23; 2 Peter 2:9; 3:18; 2 Cor. 3:17, 18; Phil 3:7-14; 1 Thess 5:16-18; Matt 20:25-28; John 20:21; Gal 5:22-25; Rom 8:38, 39; 1 John 4:4; Heb 10:25.)


12. The Church:
The church is the community of believers who confess Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour. In continuity with the people of God in Old Testament times, we are called out from the world; and we join together for worship, for fellowship, for instruction in the Word, for the celebration of the Lord's Supper, for service to all mankind, and for the worldwide proclamation of the gospel. The church derives its authority from Christ, who is the incarnate Word, and from the Scriptures, which are the written Word. The church is God's family; adopted by Him as children, its members live on the basis of the new covenant. The church is the body of Christ, a community of faith of which Christ Himself is the Head. The church is the bride for whom Christ died that He might sanctify and cleanse her. At His return in triumph, He will present her to Himself a glorious church, the faithful of all the ages, the purchase of His blood, not having spot or wrinkle, but holy and without blemish. (Gen. 12:3; Acts 7:38; Eph. 4:11-15; 3:8-11; Matt. 28:19, 20; 16:13-20; 18:18; Eph. 2:19-22; 1:22, 23; 5:23-27; Col. 1:17, 18.)

Die kerk is die gemeenskap van gelowiges wat Jesus Christus as Heer en Verlosser bely. In aaneenskakeling met die volk van God in die Ou-Testamentiese tye, word ons uit die wêreld uitgeroep; en ons kom saam om te aanbid, vir gemeenskap, vir onderrig in die Woord, vir die viering van die Nagmaal, vir diens aan die ganse mensdom, en vir die wêreldwye verkondiging van die evangelie. Die kerk kry sy gesag van Christus, wat die vleesgeworde Woord is, en uit die Skrif, wat die geskrewe Woord is. Die kerk is die huishouding van God; deur Hom as Sy kinders aangeneem, lewe die lede op die basis van die nuwe verbond. Die kerk is die liggaam van Christus, 'n gemeenskap van gelowiges waarvan Christus self die Hoof is. Die kerk is die bruid vir wie Christus gesterf het sodat Hy haar kan heilig en reinig. By Sy terugkeer in triomf, sal Hy haar as verheerlikte gemeente voor Hom stel, die getroues van alle eeue, die gekooptes deur Sy bloed, sonder vlek of rimpel, maar heilig en sonder gebrek. (Gen. 12:3; Hand. 7:38; Efe. 4:11-15; 3:8-11; Matt. 28:19, 20; 16:13-20; 18:18; Efe. 2:19-22; 1:22, 23; 5:23-27; Kol. 1:17, 18.)


13. The Remnant and Its Mission:
The universal church is composed of all who truly believe in Christ, but in the last days, a time of widespread apostasy, a remnant has been called out to keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. This remnant announces the arrival of the judgment hour, proclaims salvation through Christ, and heralds the approach of His second advent. This proclamation is symbolized by the three angels of Revelation 14; it coincides with the work of judgment in heaven and results in a work of repentance and reform on earth. Every believer is called to have a personal part in this worldwide witness. (Rev. 12:17; 14:6-12; 18:1-4; 2 Cor. 5:10; Jude 3, 14; 1 Peter 1:16-19; 2 Peter 3:10-14; Rev. 21:1-14.)

Die universele kerk bestaan uit al diegene wat waarlik in Christus glo, maar in die laaste dae - 'n tyd van wydverspreide afvalligheid - is 'n oorblyfsel uitgeroep wat die gebooe van God en die geloof in Jesus bewaar. Die oorblyfsel kondig die oordeelsuur aan, verkondig verlossing deur Christus, en kondig die nadering van Sy tweede advent aan. Hierdie verkondiging word deur die drie engele van Openbaring 14 gesimboliseer; dit val saam met die oordeelswerk in die hemel en loop uit in 'n werk van bekering en hervorming op die aarde. Elke gelowige word geroep om 'n persoonlike deel aan hierdie wêreldwye getuienis te hê. (Openb. 12:17; 14:6-12; 18:1-4; 2 Kor. 5:10; Judas 3, 14; 1 Petrus 1:16-19; 2 Petrus 3:10-14; Openb. 21:1-14.)


14. Unity in the Body of Christ:
The church is one body with many members, called from every nation, kindred, tongue, and people. In Christ we are a new creation; distinctions of race, culture, learning, and nationality, and differences between high and low, rich and poor, male and female, must not be divisive among us. We are all equal in Christ, who by one Spirit has bonded us into one fellowship with Him and with one another; we are to serve and be served without partiality or reservation. Through the revelation of Jesus Christ in the Scriptures we share the same faith and hope, and reach out in one witness to all. This unity has its source in the oneness of the triune God, who has adopted us as His children. (Rom. 12:4, 5; 1 Cor. 12:12-14; Matt. 28:19, 20; Ps. 133:1; 2 Cor. 5:16, 17; Acts 17:26, 27; Gal. 3:27, 29; Col. 3:10-15; Eph. 4:14-16; 4:1-6; John 17:20-23.)

Die kerk is een liggaam met baie lede, uit elke nasie, stam, taal en volk. In Christus is ons 'n nuwe skepping; verskille van ras, kultuur, geleerdheid, nasionaliteit, en verskille tussen hoës en laes, rykes en armes, manne en vroue, moet nie verdelend onder ons wees nie. Ons is almal gelyk in Christus, wat ons deur een Gees saamgebind het tot een gemeenskap met Hom en met mekaar; ons moet dien en bedien word sonder begunstiging of terughouding. Deur die openbaring van Jesus Christus in die Skrif is ons deelgenote aan dieselfde geloof en hoop, en lewer ons een getuienis voor almal. Hierdie eenheid het sy oorsprong in die eenheid van die drie-enige God, wat ons as Sy kinders aangeneem het. (Rom. 12:4, 5; 1 Kor. 12:12-14; Matt. 28:19, 20; Ps. 133:1; 2 Kor. 5:16, 17; Hand. 17:26, 27; Gal. 3:27, 29; Kol. 3:10-15; Efe. 4:14-16; 4:1-6; Joh. 17:20-23.-23.)


15. Baptism:
By baptism we confess our faith in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and testify of our death to sin and of our purpose to walk in newness of life. Thus we acknowledge Christ as Lord and Saviour, become His people, and are received as members by His church. Baptism is a symbol of our union with Christ, the forgiveness of our sins, and our reception of the Holy Spirit. It is by immersion in water and is contingent on an affirmation of faith in Jesus and evidence of repentance of sin. It follows instruction in the Holy Scriptures and acceptance of their teachings. (Rom. 6:1-6; Col. 2:12, 13; Acts 16:30-33; 22:16; 2:38; Matt. 28:19, 20.)

Deur die doop bely ons ons geloof in die dood en opstanding van Jesus Christus, en getuig van ons dood tot die sonde en ons voorneme om in 'n nuwe lewe te wandel. So erken ons Christus as Heer en Verlosser, word ons Sy volk, en word ons as lede deur Sy kerk aangeneem. Die doop is 'n simbool van ons eenheid met Christus, die vergifnis van ons sondes, en ons ontvangs van die Heilige Gees. Dit geskied deur indompeling in water en is afhanklik van 'n bevestiging van geloof in Jesus en die bewys van berou oor sondes. Dit volg op onderrig in die Skrif en aanname van wat dit leer. (Rom. 6:1-6; Kol. 2:12, 13; Hand. 16:30-33; 22:16; 2:38; Matt. 28:19, 20.)


16. The Lord's Supper:
The Lord's Supper is a participation in the emblems of the body and blood of Jesus as an expression of faith in Him, our Lord and Saviour. In this experience of communion Christ is present to meet and strengthen His people. As we partake, we joyfully proclaim the Lord's death until He comes again. Preparation for the Supper includes self-examination, repentance, and confession. The Master ordained the service of foot washing to signify renewed cleansing, to express a willingness to serve one another in Christ like humility, and to unite our hearts in love. The communion service is open to all believing Christians. (1 Cor. 10:16, 17; 11:23-30; Matt. 26:17-30; Rev. 3:20; John 6:48-63; 13:1-17.)

Die Nagmaal is 'n deelname aan die embleme van die liggaam en bloed van Jesus as 'n uitdrukking van geloof in Hom, ons Here en Verlosser. In hierdie belewenis van gemeenskap, is Christus teenwoordig om Sy volk te ontmoet en te versterk. Wanneer ons daarvan eet, verkondig ons met blydskap die Here se dood tot Hy weer kom. Voorbereiding vir die Avondmaal sluit selfondersoek, berou en belydenis in. Die Meester het die diens van die voetewassing ingestel om hernude reiniging voor te stel, om 'n gewilligheid te toon om die een die ander met Christelike nederigheid te dien, en om ons harte in liefde te verenig. Die Nagmaal is oop vir alle gelowige Christene. (1 Kor. 10:16, 17; 11:23-30; Matt. 26:17-30; Openb. 3:20; Joh. 6:48-63; 13:1-17.)


17. Spiritual Gifts and Ministries:
God bestows upon all members of His church in every age spiritual gifts which each member is to employ in loving ministry for the common good of the church and of humanity. Given by the agency of the Holy Spirit, who apportions to each member as He wills, the gifts provide all abilities and ministries needed by the church to fulfill its divinely ordained functions. According to the Scriptures, these gifts include such ministries as faith, healing, prophecy, proclamation, teaching, administration, reconciliation, compassion, and self-sacrificing service and charity for the help and encouragement of people. Some members are called of God and endowed by the Spirit for functions recognized by the church in pastoral, evangelistic, apostolic, and teaching ministries particularly needed to equip the members for service, to build up the church to spiritual maturity, and to foster unity of the faith and knowledge of God. When members employ these spiritual gifts as faithful stewards of God's varied grace, the church is protected from the destructive influence of false doctrine, grows with a growth that is from God, and is built up in faith and love. (Rom. 12:4-8; 1 Cor. 12:9-11, 27, 28; Eph. 4:8, 11-16; Acts 6:1-7; 1 Tim. 3:1-13; 1 Peter 4:10, 11.)

God skenk in elke eeu aan al die lede van Sy kerk geestelike gawes wat deur elke lidmaat gebruik moet word in liefdevolle diens vir die gesamentlike voordeel van die kerk en van die mensdom. Deur middel van die Heilige Gees, wat aan elkeen gee soos Hy wil, verskaf die gawes al die bekwaamhede en dienste wat die kerk nodig het om sy deur God geordende funksies te volbring. Volgens die Skrif sluit hierdie gawes sulke bediening in soos geloof, gesondmaking, profesie, verkondiging, lering, administrasie, versoening, medelyde, en selfopofferende diens en liefdadigheid vir die hulp en bemoediging van mense. Sommige is deur God geroep en deur die Gees toegerus vir funksies wat deur die kerk erken word in pastorale, evangelisasie, apostoliese en onderrigtende dienste wat in die besonder nodig is om die lidmate vir diens toe te rus, om die kerk tot geestelike volwassenheid op te bou, en om die eenheid van die geloof en kennis van God te koester. Wanneer lidmate hierdie geestelike gawes gebruik as getroue rentmeesters van God se veelsydige genade, word die kerk teen die vernietigende invloed van valse leerstellings beskerm, groei dit met 'n opwassing wat van God kom, en word dit in geloof en liefde gebou. (Rom. 12:4-8; 1 Kor. 12:9-11, 27, 28; Efe. 4:8, 11-16; Hand. 6:1-7; 1 Tim. 3:1-13; 1 Petrus 4:10, 11.)


18. The Gift of Prophecy:
One of the gifts of the Holy Spirit is prophecy. This gift is an identifying mark of the remnant church and was manifested in the ministry of Ellen. G. White . As the Lord's messenger, her writings are a continuing and authoritative source of truth which provide for the church comfort, guidance, instruction, and correction. They also make clear that the Bible is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested. (Joel 2:28, 29; Acts 2:14-21; Heb. 1:1-3; Rev. 12:17; 19:10.)

Een van die gawes van die Heilige Gees is profesie. Hierdie gawe is een van die kenmerke van die oorblyfselkerk en dit is in die bediening van Ellen G. White geopenbaar. As boodskapster van die Here, is haar skrywe 'n voortdurende en gesaghebbende bron van waarheid en voorsien dit die kerk van vertroosting, leiding, onderrig, en teregwysing. Dit leer ook duidelik dat die Bybel die maatstaf is waarvolgens alle lering en ondervinding getoets moet word. (Joël 2:28, 29; Hand. 2:14-21; Heb. 1:1-3; Openb. 12:17; 19:10.)


19. The Law of God:
he great principles of God's law are embodied in the Ten Commandments and exemplified in the life of Christ. They express God's love, will, and purposes concerning human conduct and relationships and are binding upon all people in every age. These precepts are the basis of God's covenant with His people and the standard in God's judgment. Through the agency of the Holy Spirit they point out sin and awaken a sense of need for a Saviour. Salvation is all of grace and not of works, but its fruitage is obedience to the Commandments. This obedience develops Christian character and results in a sense of well-being. It is an evidence of our love for the Lord and our concern for our fellow men. The obedience of faith demonstrates the power of Christ to transform lives, and therefore strengthens Christian witness. (Ex. 20:1-17; Ps. 40:7, 8; Matt. 22:36-40; Deut. 28:1-14; Matt. 5:17-20; Heb. 8:8-10; John 15:7-10; Eph. 2:8-10; 1 John 5:3; Rom. 8:3, 4; Ps. 19:7-14.)

Die groot beginsels van Gods wet word in die Tien Gebooie omvat en in die lewe van Christus beliggaam. Dit betuig die liefde, wil en doel van God met betrekking tot menslike gedrag en die verhoudinge wat vir alle mense in alle eeue verpligtend is. Hierdie grondreëls is die grondslag van Gods verbond met Sy volk en die maatstaf in Sy oordeel. Deur die bemiddeling van die Heilige Gees wys dit sonde uit en laat dit 'n bewustheid van die behoefte aan 'n Verlosser ontstaan. Die verlossing is enkel uit genade en nie uit werke nie, maar sy vrug is gehoorsaamheid aan die Gebooie. Hierdie gehoorsaamheid ontwikkel die Christelike karakter en lei tot 'n welsynsgevoel. Dit is 'n bewys dat ons die Here liefhet en oor ons medemense begaan is. Die gehoorsaamheid van geloof is 'n bewys van die krag van Christus om lewens te verander en om dié rede versterk dit die Christelike getuienis. (Exod. 20:1-17; Ps. 40:7, 8; Matt. 22:36-40; Deut. 28:1-14; Matt. 5:17-20; Heb. 8:8-10; Joh. 15:7-10; Efe. 2:8-10; 1 Joh. 5:3; Rom. 8:3, 4; Ps. 19:7-14.)


20. The Sabbath:
The beneficent Creator, after the six days of Creation, rested on the seventh day and instituted the Sabbath for all people as a memorial of Creation. The fourth commandment of God's unchangeable law requires the observance of this seventh-day Sabbath as the day of rest, worship, and ministry in harmony with the teaching and practice of Jesus, the Lord of the Sabbath. The Sabbath is a day of delightful communion with God and one another. It is a symbol of our redemption in Christ, a sign of our sanctification, a token of our allegiance, and a foretaste of our eternal future in God's kingdom. The Sabbath is God's perpetual sign of His eternal covenant between Him and His people. Joyful observance of this holy time from evening to evening, sunset to sunset, is a celebration of God's creative and redemptive acts. (Gen. 2:1-3; Ex. 20:8-11; Luke 4:16; Isa. 56:5, 6; 58:13, 14; Matt. 12:1-12; Ex. 31:13-17; Eze. 20:12, 20; Deut. 5:12-15; Heb. 4:1-11; Lev. 23:32; Mark 1:32.)

Na ses dae van skeppingswerk het die welddadige Skepper op die sewende dag gerus en die Sabbat vir alle mense as gedenkteken van die skepping ingestel. Die vierde gebod van Gods onveranderlike wet vereis dat die sewendedag-Sabbat as dag van rus, aanbidding en bediening gevier moet word in ooreenstemming met wat Jesus, die Here van die Sabbat, geleer en gedoen het. Die Sabbat is 'n dag van genoeglike gemeenskap met God en met mekaar. Dit is 'n simbool van ons verlossing in Christus, 'n teken van ons heiliging, 'n bewys van ons trou en 'n voorsmaak van ons ewige toekoms in die koninkryk van God. Die Sabbat is Gods voortdurende teken van Sy ewige verbond tussen Hom en Sy volk. Die vreugdevolle onderhouding van hierdie heilige tyd van aand tot aand, sononder tot sononder, is 'n viering van die skeppings- en die reddingsdaad van God. (Gen. 2:1-3; Exod. 20:8-11; Lukas 4:16; Jes. 56:5, 6; 58:13, 14; Matt. 12:1-12; Ex. 31:13-17; Ese. 20:12, 20; Deut. 5:12-15; Heb. 4:1-11; Lev. 23:32; Markus 1:32.)


21. Stewardship:
We are God's stewards, entrusted by Him with time and opportunities, abilities and possessions, and the blessings of the earth and its resources. We are responsible to Him for their proper use. We acknowledge God's ownership by faithful service to Him and our fellow men, and by returning tithes and giving offerings for the proclamation of His gospel and the support and growth of His church. Stewardship is a privilege given to us by God for nurture in love and the victory over selfishness and covetousness. The steward rejoices in the blessings that come to others as a result of his faithfulness. (Gen. 1:26-28; 2:15; 1 Chron. 29:14; Haggai 1:3-11; Mal. 3:8-12; 1 Cor. 9:9-14; Matt. 23:23; 2 Cor. 8:1-15; Rom. 15:26, 27.)

Ons is God se rentmeesters, deur Hom met tyd en geleenthede, bekwaamhede en besittings, en die seëninge van die aarde en al sy bronne toevertrou. Ons is aan Hom verantwoordelik vir hul behoorlike gebruik. Ons erken Sy eienaarskap deur getroue diens aan Hom en ons medemens, en deur tiendes en offergawes vir die verkondiging van Sy evangelie en die ondersteuning en uitbreiding van Sy kerk aan Hom terug te gee. Rentmeesterskap is 'n voorreg wat ons van God ontvang het vir versorging en liefde en die oorwinning oor selfsug en hebsug. Die rentmeester verbly hom in die seëninge wat andere ontvang as gevolg van sy getrouheid. (Gen. 1:26-28; 2:15; 1 Kron. 29:14; Haggai 1:3-11; Mal. 3:8-12; 1 Kor. 9:9-14; Matt. 23:23; 2 Kor. 8:1-15; Rom. 15:26, 27.)


22. Christian Behaviour:
We are called to be a godly people who think, feel, and act in harmony with the principles of heaven. For the Spirit to recreate in us the character of our Lord we involve ourselves only in those things which will produce Christ like purity, health, and joy in our lives. This means that our amusement and entertainment should meet the highest standards of Christian taste and beauty. While recognizing cultural differences, our dress is to be simple, modest, and neat, befitting those whose true beauty does not consist of outward adornment but in the imperishable ornament of a gentle and quiet spirit. It also means that because our bodies are the temples of the Holy Spirit, we are to care for them intelligently. Along with adequate exercise and rest, we are to adopt the most healthful diet possible and abstain from the unclean foods identified in the Scriptures. Since alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and the irresponsible use of drugs and narcotics are harmful to our bodies, we are to abstain from them as well. Instead, we are to engage in whatever brings our thoughts and bodies into the discipline of Christ, who desires our wholesomeness, joy, and goodness. (Rom. 12:1, 2; 1 John 2:6; Eph. 5:1-21; Phil. 4:8; 2 Cor. 10:5; 6:14-7:1; 1 Peter 3:1-4; 1 Cor. 6:19, 20; 10:31; Lev. 11:1-47; 3 John 2.)

Ons is geroep om 'n Goddelike volk te wees wat in ooreenstemming met die beginsels van die hemel dink, voel en handel. Vir die Gees om die karakter van onse Here in ons te herskep, is ons met daardie dinge alleen gemoeid wat reinheid, gesondheid, en vreugde in ons lewens sal bewerkstellig. Dit beteken dat ons vermaak en pret die hoogste standaard van Christelike smaak en skoonheid moet nakom. Terwyl ons kulturele verskille erken, is ons kleredrag eenvoudig, beskeie, en netjies, paslik by diegene wie se ware skoonheid nie uit uiterlike versiering bestaan nie maar uit die onverganklike versiering van 'n sagmoedige en stille gees. Dit beteken ook, omdat ons liggame die tempels van die Heilige Gees is, dat ons hulle op intelligente wyse moet versorg. Saam met voldoende oefening en rus, moet ons die gesondste dieet volg wat moontlik is en ons van onreine voedsel onthou soos in die Skrif uitgewys. Aangesien alkoholiese drank, tabak, en die onverantwoordelike gebruik van dwelm- en verdowingsmiddels skadelik vir ons liggame is, moet ons ons daarvan ook onthou. Instede daarvan moet ons ons besig hou met wat ons gedagtes en liggame onder die dissipline van Christus plaas, wat vir ons heilsaamheid, geluk en goedheid begeer. (Rom. 12:1, 2; 1 Joh. 2:6; Efe. 5:1-21; Fil. 4:8; 2 Kor. 10:5; 6:14-7:1; 1 Petrus 3:1-4; 1 Kor. 6:19, 20; 10:31; Lev. 11:1-47; 3 Joh. 2.)


23. Marriage and the Family:
Marriage was divinely established in Eden and affirmed by Jesus to be a lifelong union between a man and a woman in loving companionship. For the Christian a marriage commitment is to God as well as to the spouse, and should be entered into only between partners who share a common faith. Mutual love, honor, respect, and responsibility are the fabric of this relationship, which is to reflect the love, sanctity, closeness, and permanence of the relationship between Christ and His church. Regarding divorce, Jesus taught that the person who divorces a spouse, except for fornication, and marries another, commits adultery. Although some family relationships may fall short of the ideal, marriage partners who fully commit themselves to each other in Christ may achieve loving unity through the guidance of the Spirit and the nurture of the church. God blesses the family and intends that its members shall assist each other toward complete maturity. Parents are to bring up their children to love and obey the Lord. By their example and their words they are to teach them that Christ is a loving disciplinarian, ever tender and caring, who wants them to become members of His body, the family of God. Increasing family closeness is one of the earmarks of the final gospel message. (Gen. 2:18-25; Matt. 19:3-9; John 2:1-11; 2 Cor. 6:14; Eph. 5:21-33; Matt. 5:31, 32; Mark 10:11, 12; Luke 16:18; 1 Cor. 7:10, 11; Ex. 20:12; Eph. 6:1-4; Deut. 6:5-9; Prov. 22:6; Mal. 4:5, 6.)

Die huwelik is in Eden deur God ingestel en deur Jesus bevestig as 'n lewenslange verbintenis tussen 'n man en 'n vrou in 'n liefdevolle kameraadskap. Vir die Christen is die huweliksverpligting sowel teenoor God as teenoor die gade, en dit behoort net tussen mense van dieselfde geloof aangegaan te word. Wedersydse liefde, eer, respek en verantwoordelikheid, is die raamwerk van hierdie verhouding, wat die liefde. Heiligheid, nabyheid en permanensie van die verhouding tussen Christus en Sy kerk weerspieël. Wat egskeiding betref, het Jesus geleer dat die persoon wat 'n gade skei, behalwe oor egbreuk, en met 'n ander trou, egbreuk pleeg. Al sou sommige huwelike nie by die ideaal bykom nie, kan huweliksgenote wat hulleself ten volle aan mekaar oorgee in Christus, 'n liefdevolle eenheid bereik deur middel van die leiding van die Heilige Gees en die versorging van die kerk. God seën die gesin en wil hê dat die lede mekaar moet aanhelp tot meer volkome volwassenheid. Ouers moet hul kinders so grootmaak dat hulle die Here liefhet en gehoorsaam is. Deur hulle voorbeeld en hul woorde moet hulle hul kinders leer dat Christus 'n liefdevolle tugmeester is, altyd teer en besorg, wat wil hê hulle moet lede van Sy liggaam word, die huishouding van God. Toenemende gesinsgehegtheid is een van die merktekens van die finale evangelieboodskap. (Gen. 2:18-25; Matt. 19:3-9; Joh. 2:1-11; 2 Kor. 6:14; Efe. 5:21-33; Matt. 5:31, 32; Markus 10:11, 12; Luk. 16:18; 1 Kor. 7:10, 11; Ex. 20:12; Efe. 6:1-4; Deut. 6:5-9; Spr. 22:6; Mal. 4:5, 6.)


23. Christ's Ministry in the Heavenly Sanctuary:
There is a sanctuary in heaven, the true tabernacle which the Lord set up and not man. In it Christ ministers on our behalf, making available to believers the benefits of His atoning sacrifice offered once for all on the cross. He was inaugurated as our great High Priest and began His intercessory ministry at the time of His ascension. In 1844, at the end of the prophetic period of 2300 days, He entered the second and last phase of His atoning ministry. It is a work of investigative judgment which is part of the ultimate disposition of all sin, typified by the cleansing of the ancient Hebrew sanctuary on the Day of Atonement. In that typical service the sanctuary was cleansed with the blood of animal sacrifices, but the heavenly things are purified with the perfect sacrifice of the blood of Jesus. The investigative judgment reveals to heavenly intelligences who among the dead are asleep in Christ and therefore, in Him, are deemed worthy to have part in the first resurrection. It also makes manifest who among the living are abiding in Christ, keeping the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, and in Him, therefore, are ready for translation into His everlasting kingdom. This judgment vindicates the justice of God in saving those who believe in Jesus. It declares that those who have remained loyal to God shall receive the kingdom. The completion of this ministry of Christ will mark the close of human probation before the Second Advent. (Heb. 8:1-5; 4:14-16; 9:11-28; 10:19-22; 1:3; 2:16, 17; Dan. 7:9-27; 8:13, 14; 9:24-27; Num. 14:34; Eze. 4:6; Lev. 16; Rev. 14:6, 7; 20:12; 14:12; 22:12.)

Daar is 'n heiligdom in die hemel, die ware tabernakel wat die Here opgerig het en nie 'n mens nie. Daarin tree Christus vir ons in, en stel Hy tot die beskikking van die gelowiges, die voordele van Sy soenoffer wat Hy eens en vir altyd aan die kruis geoffer het. Hy is ingehuldig as ons groot Hoëpriester en Hy het Sy middelaarswerk by Sy hemelvaart begin. In 1844, aan die einde van die profetiese tydperk van 2 300 dae, het Hy die tweede en laaste fase van Sy versoeningswerk ingegaan. Dit is 'n werk van ondersoekende oordeel wat deel is van die uiteindelike wegdoening van alle sonde, getipeer deur die reiniging van die ou Hebreeuse heiligdom op die Versoendag. In daardie tiperende diens is die heiligdom deur die bloed van diereoffers gereinig, maar die hemelse dinge word met die volmaakte offer van die bloed van Jesus gereinig. Die ondersoekende oordeel openbaar aan hemelse wesens wie onder die dode in Christus Jesus slaap, en daarom, in Hom, waardig geag word om deel te hê aan die eerste opstanding. Dit openbaar ook wie, onder die lewendes, in Christus bly, wat die gebooie van God en die geloof in Jesus bewaar, en is dus in Hom gereed om na Sy ewige koninkryk geneem te word. Hierdie oordeel handhaaf die regverdigheid van God om diegene te red wat in Jesus glo. Dit verklaar dat diegene wat getrou aan God gebly het, die koninkryk sal ontvang. Die voltooiing van hierdie bediening van Christus sal die sluiting van menslike genadetyd voor die tweede koms wees. (Heb. 8:1-5; 4:14-16; 9:11-28; 10:19-22; 1:3; 2:16, 17; Dan. 7:9-27; 8:13, 14; 9:24-27; Num. 14:34; Ese. 4:6; Lev. 16; Openb. 14: 6, 7; 20:12; 14:12; 22:12.)


25. The Second Coming of Christ:
The second coming of Christ is the blessed hope of the church, the grand climax of the gospel. The Saviour's coming will be literal, personal, visible, and worldwide. When He returns, the righteous dead will be resurrected, and together with the righteous living will be glorified and taken to heaven, but the unrighteous will die. The almost complete fulfillment of most lines of prophecy, together with the present condition of the world, indicates that Christ's coming is imminent. The time of that event has not been revealed, and we are therefore exhorted to be ready at all times. (Titus 2:13; Heb. 9:28; John 14:1-3; Acts 1:9-11; Matt. 24:14; Rev. 1:7; Matt. 24:43, 44; 1 Thess. 4:13-18; 1 Cor. 15:51-54; 2 Thess. 1:7-10; 2:8; Rev. 14:14-20; 19:11-21; Matt. 24; Mark 13; Luke 21; 2 Tim. 3:1-5; 1 Thess. 5:1-6.)

Die wederkoms van Christus is die salige hoop van die kerk, die groot klimaks van die evangelie. Die Heiland se koms sal letterlik, persoonlik, sigbaar, en wêreldwyd wees. Wanneer Hy terugkeer, sal die regverdige dode opgewek word, en saam met die regverdige lewendes sal hulle verheerlik en na die hemel geneem word, maar die onregverdiges sal sterf. Die byna volledige vervulling van die meeste profesierigtings dui daarop dat Christus se koms op hande is. Die tyd van daardie gebeurtenis is nie geopenbaar nie, en ons word vermaan om te eniger tyd gereed te wees. (Titus 2:13; Heb. 9:28; Joh. 14:1-3; Hand. 1:9-11; Matt. 24:14; Openb. 1:7; Matt. 24:43, 44; 1 Thess. 4:13-18; 1 Kor. 15:51-54; 2 Thess. 1:7-10; 2:8; Openb. 14:14-20; 19:11-21; Matt. 24; Markus 13; Lukas 21; 2 Tim. 3:1-5; 1 Thess. 5:1-6.)


26. Death and Resurrection:
The wages of sin is death. But God, who alone is immortal, will grant eternal life to His redeemed. Until that day death is an unconscious state for all people. When Christ, who is our life, appears, the resurrected righteous and the living righteous will be glorified and caught up to meet their Lord. The second resurrection, the resurrection of the unrighteous, will take place a thousand years later. (Rom. 6:23; 1 Tim. 6:15, 16; Eccl. 9:5, 6; Ps. 146:3, 4; John 11:11-14; Col. 3:4; 1 Cor. 15:51-54; 1 Thess. 4:13-17; John 5:28, 29; Rev. 20:1-10.)

Die loon van d ie sonde is die dood. Maar God, wat alleen onsterflik is, sal die ewige lewe aan Sy verlostes toestaan. Tot daardie dag toe, is die dood 'n toestand van onbewustheid vir alle mense. Wanneer Christus, wat ons lewe is, verskyn, sal die opgewekte regverdiges verheerlik en weggevoer word om hulle Here te ontmoet. Die tweede opstanding, die opstanding van die goddelose, sal 'n duisend jaar later plaasvind. (Rom. 6:23; 1 Tim. 6:15, 16; Pred. 9:5, 6; Ps. 146:3, 4; Joh. 11:11-14; Kol. 3:4; 1 Kor. 15:51-54; 1 Thess. 4:13-17; Joh. 5:28, 29; Openb. 20:1-10.)


27. The Millennium and the End of Sin:
The millennium is the thousand-year reign of Christ with His saints in heaven between the first and second resurrections. During this time the wicked dead will be judged; the earth will be utterly desolate, without living human inhabitants, but occupied by Satan and his angels. At its close Christ with His saints and the Holy City will descend from heaven to earth. The unrighteous dead will then be resurrected, and with Satan and his angels will surround the city; but fire from God will consume them and cleanse the earth. The universe will thus be freed of sin and sinners forever. (Rev. 20; 1 Cor. 6:2, 3; Jer. 4:23-26; Rev. 21:1-5; Mal. 4:1; Eze. 28:18, 19.)

Die millennium is die duisendjarige regering van Christus met Sy heiliges in die hemel tussen die eerste en die tweede opstanding. In hierdie tyd sal die goddelose dode geoordeel word; die aarde sal totaal vervalle wees, sonder lewende menslike inwoners, maar deur die duiwel en sy engele bewoon. Aan die einde sal Christus en Sy heiliges uit die hemel na die aarde neerdaal. Die goddelose dode sal dan opgewek word, en sal saam met die duiwel en sy engele die stad omsingel; maar vuur van God sal hulle verslind en die aarde reinig. Die heelal sal dan vir ewig van sonde en sondaars gereinig wees. (Openb. 20; 1 Kor. 6:2, 3; Jer. 4:23-26; Openb. 21:1-5; Mal. 4:1; Ese. 28:18, 19.)


28. The New Earth:
On the new earth, in which righteousness dwells, God will provide an eternal home for the redeemed and a perfect environment for everlasting life, love, joy, and learning in His presence. For here God Himself will dwell with His people, and suffering and death will have passed away. The great controversy will be ended, and sin will be no more. All things, animate and inanimate, will declare that God is love; and He shall reign forever. Amen. (2 Peter 3:13; Isa. 35; 65:17-25; Matt. 5:5; Rev. 21:1-7; 22:1-5; 11:15.)

Op die nuwe aarde, waarin geregtigheid woon, sal God 'n ewige woning vir die verlostes en 'n volmaakte omgewing in Sy teenwoordigheid verskaf om lewe, liefde en geluk te smaak en om in te leer. Want hier sal God self onder Sy volk woon, en lyding en die dood sal daar nie meer wees nie. Die groot stryd sal verby wees, en die sonde sal daar nie meer wees nie. Alle dinge, sienlik en onsienlik sal verklaar dat God liefde is, en Hy sal vir ewig regeer. Amen. (2 Petrus 3:13; Jes. 35; 65:17-25; Matt. 5:5; Openb. 21:1-7; 22:1-5; 11:15.)