Seventh Day Adventists and Sola Scriptura

[troyjs]

Do Adventists believe in the reformation principle of Sola Scriptura?

First of all, what is Sola Scriptura -- Sola Scriptura is one of the 5 Solas of the protestant reformation:

Sola Scriptura; Sola Fidei; Sola Gratia; Solus Christus; Soli Deo Gloria.

It can be put in this way:Grace alone through faith alone, according to Scripture alone, by Christ alone, to the Glory of God alone. The Sola Scriptura part is the 'Scripture Alone' part.

It is the doctrine that the Bible of the Old and New Testaments, are the sole infallible rule of faith in practice.

This doctrine is founded upon the fact that the Bible is 'theopneustos', or 'God-breathed' as it says in 2 Timothy 3:16-17. Because Scripture is God's word, it can not fail to be true, and because it is God's word, it is binding upon our consciences.

According to the SDA church however, Scripture alone is not the only inspired Word of God.

If the prophetic writings of Ellen White have God as their primary author, are we not disbelieving God, when we disbelieve the words of her prophwetic writings?

If they are also God's words, then are they not also infallible and binding upon our consciences?

Seventh-day Adventists are the only protestant Christian group who claims to have writings which are inspired outside of the Bible. All other christian denominations which are protestant, maintain that Scripture alone is inspired of God. They believe this because Christ Jesus gave authority to His disciples to teach and keep His flock, and they passed on to us the Scriptures. The Apostles did not pass onto us Ellen White's visions, and therefore they are not backed by the authority of Jesus our God.

The reference in Acts where it says people will dream dreams and see visions, is a prophecy regarding the pouring of the Spirit upon all peoples -- which is why Peter quoted this prophecy from Joel when everyone could understand the Apostles preaching, even though they came from different parts of the world. In other words, Peter was claiming the reference to point and verify what was happening in front of him.

Does the SDA chuerch believe in Sola Scriptura?

kind regards

ThoroughlyFurnished.blogspot.com

[Gerr]

From the official book of SDA doctrine, "Seventh-day Adventists Believe" 1988 edition:

Fundamental Beliefs, #1

"Seventh-day Adventists Believe....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. Inthis Word, Good 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.

[Dr. Waite]

From the official book of SDA doctrine, "Seventh-day Adventists Believe" 1988 edition:

Fundamental Beliefs, #1

"Seventh-day Adventists Believe....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. Inthis Word, Good 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.

It does NOT state that the old and new testament scriptures are the ONLY infallible rule of faith and practice.

In Ellen White's day the SDA church was truly protestant. It is not the same today.

[Kevin H]

Let me remind you of what Sola Scriptura meant to the Protestants: The Bible and the Bible ONLY as the RULE of faith and duty. The Bible is the measuring rod to measure things claiming to be truth.

There is a difference between using a yard stick to measure wood to build a house and trying to live in a house built out of rulers, which is what too many people are trying to do today with the phrase sola scriptura. We are suposed to use the Bible for guidance on how to love the world as Jesus has loved it, not as a prision to lock ourselves away from God's world. It is what we use to test all things, to test the spirits, and to help us follow truth where ever it comes from.

ALL Protestants were much more Protestant in Mrs. White's day althought it was starting to change as Fundamentalism was startig to grow, then the pamflits the "fundamentals" starting to be published in the early 1900s and the Fundamentalist Bible Conference in Philadelphia in 1919. A large number of our problems stem from wanting to look at the Bible, Mrs. White or others through the eyes of the Fundamentalists.

[skyblue888]

If we will take the Bible alone for our authority, which is what we are supposed to do, we will find that the Bible itself says "Do not despise prophecies. Test all things, hold fast what is good." 1 Thess.5:18; 1 John 4:1.

If God sends a messenger or a prophet among us, it is for the purpose of magnifying the Scriptures and making them honorable.

I personally have tested the writings of Ellen White and also of Jones and Waggoner and I have found them to be not only in harmony with the Scriptures but they magnify them.

So when God is working through an instrument of His own, be it a messenger or prophet, is He acting contrary to the Scriptures? Of course not. He is pointing to the Scriptures and shedding light upon them to lead is into safe paths.

sky

[Gerr]

It does NOT state that the old and new testament scriptures are the ONLY infallible rule of faith and practice.

Please, note. It says, "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."

Quote:

In Ellen White's day the SDA church was truly protestant. It is not the same today.

Then you must watch AD TV.

[skyblue888]

In Ellen White's day the SDA church was truly protestant. It is not the same today.

Dr. Waite.

_____________

The order of things that exists in the church today and which has been waxing stronger and stronger is the very order of things of which the Lord, more than a century ago, said:

"The self-confident management of men has resulted in putting God aside and accepting the devisings of men. If you allow this to continue, your faith will soon become extinct." T.M.481. (1907)

In 1895 the Lord had sent this testimony:

"Men have taken unfair advantage of those whom they supposed to be under their jurisdiction. They were determined to bring the individuals to their terms; they would rule or ruin. There will be no material change until a decided movement is made to bring in a different order of things." Ibid,360.

There has been no decided movement to bring in a different order of things on the part of the General Conference ever since these words were written.

The only time the church was truly protestant was at the very beginning but it did not take many years for the Laodicean condition to settle in (1855) and only to worsen with every passing year until, in 1903, the Lord said,

"The message to the church of the Laodiceans applies especially to the people of God today. It is a message to professing Christians who have become so much like the world that no difference can be seen." RH Aug.20,1903.

In 1901 this message was sent:

"We may have to remain in this world because of insubordination many more years." Evangelism,696.

sky

[LifeHiscost]

Quote:

"We may have to remain in this world because of insubordination many more years." Evangelism,696.

Considering when that was written, we are the fulfillment of that prophecy.

God blesses!

[skyblue888]

Yes LHC and that will leave the Lord with no choice but to fulfill this other prophecy:

"Unless those who can help in--are aroused to a sense of their duty, they will not recognize the work of God when the loud cry of the third angel shall be heard. When light goes forth to lighten the earth, instead of coming up to the help of the Lord, they will want to bind about His work to meet their narrow ideas. Let me tell you that that the Lord will work in this last work in a manner very much out of the common order of things and in a way that will be contrary to any human planning." T.M.300.

sky :)

[LifeHiscost]

Quote:

that will leave the Lord with no choice but to fulfill this other prophecy

Thanks for the reminder, skyblue888. I already feel quite overwhelmed with what is happening now, as I listen to Amazing Discoveries with Walter Veight as well as the news from around the globe, not the least of which is the vast numbers of young people who are dedicating their lives to the spreading of the gospel on an unprecedented scale in the history of the world.

"[ I Am Coming Quickly ] He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming quickly.” Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!"Revelation 22:20 NKJV

God blesses!

[Dr. Waite]

Originally Posted By: Dr. Waite

It does NOT state that the old and new testament scriptures are the ONLY infallible rule of faith and practice.

Please, note. It says, "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."

Quote:

In Ellen White's day the SDA church was truly protestant. It is not the same today.

Then you must watch AD TV.

There is a reason why the pioneers of SDA church used the word "ONLY". The original SDA belief is this:

"That the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, were given by inspiration of God, contain a full revelation of his will to man, and are the only infallible rule of faith and practice."

It is obvious that the leaders of the SDA church left the word "ONLY" out of the 28 fundamental beliefs - they do not believe and teach that the Old and New Testament Scriptures are the "ONLY" infallible rule of faith and practice.

So do not following the leaders of the SDA church - follow the man Christ Jesus.

[troyjs]

Greetings,

skyblue said:

If we will take the Bible alone for our authority, which is what we are supposed to do, we will find that the Bible itself says "Do not despise prophecies. Test all things, hold fast what is good." 1 Thess.5:18; 1 John 4:1.

Remember, the doctrine of Sola Scriptura is the belief that the Old and New Testaments are the only or sole infallible rule of faith and practice. During the times of the prophets and apostles, when the Scriptures were still being written, Sola Scriptura was not adhered to. The early 1st century christians id not believe that the Bible was THE or the ONLY word we have from God. For example, when Jesus was preaching, His words coming from His mouth were not yet written in Scripture, but they were still regarded as being authoritative. Remember, Jesus gave teaching authority to His apostles. The word 'Apostle', means 'sent one'. The meaning of the word during that time denotes someone who has been given the authority to speak on behalf of another. For example, during that time an 'apostle' for someone could make legally binding decisions on behalf of another person. When Jesus sent out Apostles, He sent out persons who could speak on His behalf -- which is why the teachings of the Apostles must be recognised as teachings of Christ. That is the basis of why they could speak authoritatively.

During the times of the Apostles, there was a pouring out of the gifts of the Spirit, beginning at Pentecost. Infact, Peter qoutes the book of Joel, where it says that people will dream dreams and see visions and prophecy. Peter quoted this passage in Joel, because Peter believed that this prophecy was being fulfilled in his day. What this prophecy was to indicate was the universality of God's calling and salvation. During the Old Testament, it was the Israelites alone who were considered the children of God, as promised descendants of Abraham. In the New Testament era, everyone who holds to Christ by faith, is a spiritual child of Abraham -- whether Jew or Gentile.

Those prophecies during the time of the Apostles, as well as all of the teachings during that time, was for the laying of the foundation of the church. These gifts are mentioned in Ephesians 4:11:

11 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers,

However, none of these offices were regarded as to be continued, or given rules for continuance. Infact, the only church offices which have been given for continuance with the existence of the church on earth, are listed in 1 Tim 3, and Titus 1. These offices include only those of elder, and deacon.

During this time when Scripture was being made complete, Paul warned Timothy and the Church of the times to come, that deceivers would wax worse and worse. What Paul told Timothy to hold onto, was the Scriptures. It is the Scriptures alone which the Apostles ever gave to the church for continued and perpetual guidance:

Ephesians 3:

1 But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. 2 People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, 4 treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.

....

10 You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, 11 persecutions, sufferings—what kinds of things happened to me in Antioch, Iconium and Lystra, the persecutions I endured. Yet the Lord rescued me from all of them. 12 In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, 13 while evildoers and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. 14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15 and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God[a] may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

The apostles with the help of those who received gifts as listed in Ephesians 4, have finished laying down the foundation of the church, and we are to hold fast to what they have delivered to us. Also, in 1 Corinthians 12: 28, we see that Christ had appointed certain offices at that time:

28 And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues.

Today, we no longer have the apostles with us because that office was not instituted to be a permanent office. Likewise, all other offices have passed with the laying of the foundation of the church. The only permanent offices, are that of elder and deacon.

What the apostles have delivered to Timothy, and to the church for all ages however, is the Scriptures which are able to make the man of God thoroughly furnished for all good works.

Today, and since the end of the apostolic era, we have the all-sufficient, God-breathed Scriptures. The Apostles have not given or prescribed any body of truth other than that of Scriptures, and is why the protestant churches of the reformation believe that:

The Bible of the Old and New Testaents is the sole infallible rule of faith and practice.

Since the time of the reformation, some denominations have sprung up claiming to possess a source of inspiration apart from Scripture. These include pentecostals, the Roman Catholic church, the Mormons, and I am arguing also the Seventh-Day Adventist church.

I believe that the SDA church is a christian body of people who love the Lord Jesus Christ. That is not in contention here. What I am arguing, is that the SDA church doesn't consider the Bible to be the only infallible rule of faith and practice.

Rather, the SDA church considers other writings to be inspired of God, and terefore are to be believed and obeyed as the words of God.

If the SDA church believes anything else other than the Scriptures to be God's inspired word, then they can not believe that the Bible alone is God's word.

I love the ASdventist people, but it does not seem that these christians who love the Lord, also believe in Sola Scriptura.

Maybe the SDA church believes in Prima Scriptura, which gives greater or primary authority to the Scriptures. Prima Scriptura is not Sola Scriptura though.

kind regards

[troyjs]

I respond to SDA apologist on this issue at my website:

ThoroughlyFurnished.blogspot.com

[rudywoofs (Pam)]

I respond to SDA apologist on this issue at my website:

ThoroughlyFurnished.blogspot.com

Originally Posted By: troyjs

Rather, they [sDA's] maintain that the writings of Ellen G. White are necessary to have the complete body of doctrine, which God has delivered for His people.

That is so not true.

If you already had your mind made up, why did you begin this thread, except to start another unprofitable debate, the topic of which has been hashed and rehashed, beaten to death?

Here's an excellent quote by someone who should be familiar to you:

Originally Posted By: troyjs

I believe that possibly, people have gotten tired of the same old debates, and hence one can almost hear the crickets chirping away...

[troyjs]

rudywoofs,

I am trying to provide a platform for members of the SDA church to clarify and defend their position.

I believe that the SDA church is a christian body of people, who love the Lord. However, there is something which is dear to all of us, and it clearly teaches us that it is profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness. I believe that the doctrine of Sola Scriptura is Biblical, and I am appealing to fellow christians who love God's word, and are willing to join me in 'reasoning together' upon God's inspired word. I would gladly discuss other topics such as the Sabbath and the Investigative Judgement, if any Adventist desired to teach me what they believe concerning these things. We as christians, are not only 'allowed', but are edified and commanded to fellowship and learn by the Spirit through the Word. I believe that the SDA church does not actually affirm Sola Scriptura, even though it may claim to do so. I am not slandering anyone, and I sincerely love the Adventist people. I believe God has blessed the Adventist church with talents which glorify Him.

I apologise for appearing to be uncharitable, but let me say that I speak and proclaim what I believe to be true concerning God's word, because I love you, and want to share what I have come to cherish with you.

I understand if you or other Adventists would prefer if I do this in another context, if you believe that what I am doing is causing greater confusion that what the purpose of this forum is -- this forum is an Adventist forum, primarily for Adventists after all.

Only say the word, and I will leave peacefully. If however, I have done nothing which is spiritually harmful or ungracious, then please allow me to continue to share and study the Scriptures with those who don't agree with myself on certain issues.

kind regards

ThoroughlyFurnished.blogspot.com

[Gerr]

There is a reason why the pioneers of SDA church used the word "ONLY". The original SDA belief is this:

"That the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, were given by inspiration of God, contain a full revelation of his will to man, and are the only infallible rule of faith and practice."

We are quibbling here about words. Would it make you feel better if I quoted to you the words of the Lord's messenger herself?

"I know that we are living near the close of this earth’s history; startling events are preparing for development. I am fully in harmony with you in your work when you present the Bible, and the Bible alone, as the foundation of our faith."

White, E. G. (1958; 2002). Selected Messages From the Writings of Ellen G. White, Book 2; Selected Messages, Book 2 (85). Review and Herald Publishing Association.

Quote:

It is obvious that the leaders of the SDA church left the word "ONLY" out of the 28 fundamental beliefs - they do not believe and teach that the Old and New Testament Scriptures are the "ONLY" infallible rule of faith and practice.

So do not following the leaders of the SDA church - follow the man Christ Jesus.

Is there anyone of our leaders saying, "Follow me?"

[Gerr]

In case you missed what I had already posted, here it is again:

NUMBER ONE of the 28 SDA Fundamental Beliefs.

"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." Seventh-day Adventists Believe, p.4 1988 ed.

And from the pen of the one the SDA Church recognize as a divinely inspired messenger:

I recommend to you, dear reader, the Word of God as the rule of your faith and practice. By that Word we are to be judged. God has, in that Word, promised to give visions in the "last days"; not for a new rule of faith, but for the comfort of His people, and to correct those who err from Bible truth. Thus God dealt with Peter when He was about to send him to preach to the Gentiles. (Acts 10.) {EW 78.1}

White, E. G. (1882; 2002). Early Writings of Ellen G. White; Early Writings (78). Review and Herald Publishing Association.

The Lord desires you to study your Bibles. He has not given any additional light to take the place of His Word. This light is to bring confused minds to His word, which, if eaten and digested, is as the lifeblood of the soul. Letter 130, 1901

“The Spirit was not given—nor can it ever be bestowed—to supersede the Bible; for the Scriptures explicitly state that the word of God is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested” (GC vii).

Dederen, R. (2001). Vol. 12: Handbook of Seventh-Day Adventist Theology (electronic ed.). Commentary Reference Series (97). Hagerstown, MD: Review and Herald Publishing Association.

If the Testimonies speak not according to the word of God, reject them.

Testimonies for the Church, Volume 5. 1855; 2002 (691). Pacific Press Publishing Association.

I hope this lays to rest the charge that SDAs do not believe is Sola Scriptura.

[Gerr]

I believe that the doctrine of Sola Scriptura is Biblical, and I am appealing to fellow christians who love God's word, and are willing to join me in 'reasoning together' upon God's inspired word. I would gladly discuss other topics such as the Sabbath and the Investigative Judgement, if any Adventist desired to teach me what they believe concerning these things. We as christians, are not only 'allowed', but are edified and commanded to fellowship and learn by the Spirit through the Word. I believe that the SDA church does not actually affirm Sola Scriptura, even though it may claim to do so. I am not slandering anyone, and I sincerely love the Adventist people. I believe God has blessed the Adventist church with talents which glorify Him.

Bro. Troy, I appreciate your kind words and your wish for us to clarify our position instead of going about with a preconceived notion about what we believe. I would like to welcome you into this forum. While I am only one member of our church, I have stated in another post what I believe is the official position of my church. If after we have discussed this subject about Sola Scriptura to your satisfaction, we would be very happy to also discuss the Sabbath and the Investigative Judgment, or whatever other subject you might wish to discuss about SDA beliefs.

[rudywoofs (Pam)]

I am trying to provide a platform for members of the SDA church to clarify and defend their position.

sorry...it appeared that you were interested in pushing your view of what Adventists believe..

Originally Posted By: troyjs

I speak and proclaim what I believe to be true concerning God's word, because I love you, and want to share what I have come to cherish with you.

the reason I wrote my first post was that this issue **has** been discussed:

here

[rudywoofs (Pam)]

@troyjs: rest assured that my opinions and ideas are not the consensus of this forum; indeed, quite the opposite..

[CoAspen]

I agree with both your posts...sounds like a set up for 'you say, I say', which often has no ending. Perhaps the author of the post would like to tell us more about themself and what the end result of such a 'discussion' would be. For any official belief by the church, going to the .org site will answer the question, simple and easy to do. However, asking individuals on their views is not necessarily the view of the .org church and may/will not lead to any conclusion as to membership belief systems, but open room for argument.

So what is the real reason for the question posed???

Quote:

I am trying to provide a platform for members of the SDA church to clarify and defend their position.

Really??

[troyjs]

Thank you all for kindly allowing me to stay and continue on this topic.

I understand that Ellen White, Miller, James White, the pioneers, and the document, '28 Fundamental Beliefs', claim that Seventh Day Adventists hold to the Bible alone as their infallible rule of faith and practice.

The issue for me is that it is also claimed that Ellen White's prophetic writings are just as inspired as the writings of Scripture. If that is true, then we have several points which seem to be irreconcilable with the doctrine of Sola Scriptura. We all agree that wherever God speaks, His words:

are infallible; teach us; and we are bound by conscience to believe them.

Through Ellen White's inspired, prophetic writings, God has spoken.

Therefore, Ellen White's inspired, prophetic writings are: infallible; teach us; and we are bound by conscience to believe them.

I pray that we may all be sanctified in Truth -- His word is Truth.

John 17:17 "Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.

kind regards

[Gerr]

I think I understand the dilemma that you are presenting. It even puzzles many Adventists. Let me remind you that not all the writings of the prophets made it to the canon. The prophets Jashar, Gad, & Nathan also wrote books. If we were to discover these books, how are we to regard them? The canon of Scripture is closed.

Here again is what EG White had to say about her own writing. I present them again because you have not commented about them.

I recommend to you, dear reader, the Word of God as the rule of your faith and practice. By that Word we are to be judged. God has, in that Word, promised to give visions in the "last days"; not for a new rule of faith, but for the comfort of His people, and to correct those who err from Bible truth. Thus God dealt with Peter when He was about to send him to preach to the Gentiles. (Acts 10.) {EW 78.1}

White, E. G. (1882; 2002). Early Writings of Ellen G. White; Early Writings (78). Review and Herald Publishing Association.

The Lord desires you to study your Bibles. He has not given any additional light to take the place of His Word. This light is to bring confused minds to His word, which, if eaten and digested, is as the lifeblood of the soul. Letter 130, 1901

“The Spirit was not given—nor can it ever be bestowed—to supersede the Bible; for the Scriptures explicitly state that the word of God is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested” (GC vii).

Dederen, R. (2001). Vol. 12: Handbook of Seventh-Day Adventist Theology (electronic ed.). Commentary Reference Series (97). Hagerstown, MD: Review and Herald Publishing Association.

If the Testimonies speak not according to the word of God, reject them.

Testimonies for the Church, Volume 5. 1855; 2002 (691). Pacific Press Publishing Association.

It is absolutely clear to me that while her writings are very important to the church, everything she wrote is subject to the ultimate standard, i.e. the canon of Scripture, hence the SDA position of Sola Scriptura.

[troyjs]

Gerry,

Thank you for your response.

Allow me to state your position, so that I will not be responding to a misunderstanding.

It seems to me that the SDA church believes Ellen White's writings to be inspired, but the authority of her writings is founded or posterior to the authority of the Scriptures. Analogously, the authority of the New Testament is posterior or founded upon the testimony of the Old Testament.

The Spirit of Prophecy does not add to the Scriptures, but confirms, directs us to, and explains more fully, the doctrine of Scripture.

I now respond to your quotes:

quote 1:

I recommend to you, dear reader, the Word of God as the rule of your faith and practice. By that Word we are to be judged. God has, in that Word, promised to give visions in the "last days"; not for a new rule of faith, but for the comfort of His people, and to correct those who err from Bible truth. Thus God dealt with Peter when He was about to send him to preach to the Gentiles. (Acts 10.) {EW 78.1}

White, E. G. (1882; 2002). Early Writings of Ellen G. White; Early Writings (78). Review and Herald Publishing Association.

Here, E.G White prescribes for us the Scriptures. This is what Paul did for us in 2 Timothy 3. When Paul was writing to Timothy, the canon had not been closed. Rather, the Scriptures which Timothy had known since childhood, was the Old Testament Scriptures. Paul was not teaching us to hold to the Old Testament alone however, but was prescribing that which is 'theopneustos', which is thoroughly furnishing unto every good work. In this quote, White does not define the extent of Scriptures, although she does do so elsewhere. Because she elsewhere explicitly refers to the Bible alons as our rule of faith, she elsewhere explicitly affirms Sola Scriptura.

quote 2:

The Lord desires you to study your Bibles. He has not given any additional light to take the place of His Word. This light is to bring confused minds to His word, which, if eaten and digested, is as the lifeblood of the soul. Letter 130, 1901

“The Spirit was not given—nor can it ever be bestowed—to supersede the Bible; for the Scriptures explicitly state that the word of God is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested” (GC vii).

Dederen, R. (2001). Vol. 12: Handbook of Seventh-Day Adventist Theology (electronic ed.). Commentary Reference Series (97). Hagerstown, MD: Review and Herald Publishing Association.

In this quote, White teaches us that her writings do not supersede or abrogate the Scriptures. Rather, she directs us to the Scriptures. She explicitly says that her writings are not a new rule of faith. We must test all things by Scripture alone.

-----------------------------------------------------------

I understand that she explicitly proclaims and defends the doctrine of Sola Scriptura, however I don't believe that is sufficient to prove that one can hold her writings to be inspired, while also believing in Sola Scriptura.

You mention the canon, and the inspired prophets whose teachings we do not possess. Remember what the canon is, and why it is regarded as canonical in the first place:

A 'canon' is a rule, measure, or standard, by which one tests other things, and of which one believes to be normative.

As God spoke through those prophets, their teachings were canonical to all those God providentially delivered it to. The Jews who were the 'oracles of God', passed down to us the 39 books of the Old Testament because it is those alone which God in His providence, had delivered for the people of God in the Old Testament. The Gospel of John records that there were many things Jesus said and did, which he did not record. However, there was a peculiar task for that canonical writer, which did not include those unrecorded things. The task of the prophets we do not consider canonical, was not to give something to the church for all ages, but was peculiar to those God delivered it unto. It would actually be impossible for us to find one of these writings, unless God did not consider these writings necessary for His people. It would mean that for 2000+ years, God had failed to sustain His word within the body of His people. However, we know that His words never pass away.

What our Lord Jesus confirmed however, was the Jewish canon of the Old Testament, by noting the first and last deaths which correspond to that canon, and by declaring the Jews to be the oracles of God. The New Testament canon, is founded upon the authority of Christ, sending out apostles with His own authority to teach. These apostles had the task of laying the foundation for the church, with the help of the New Testament prophets and teachers:

Ephesians 4

11 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, 12 to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

14 Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. 15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. 16 From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.

In this passage, we learn that after the work of these New Testament apostles, prophets, teachers, evangelists, and pastors, we will be able to work together in maturity, and will not be tossed back and forth by every wind of doctrine. The church has been built up, and we now have the complete body of doctrine these early builders of the church gave to us -- the Scriptures.

See the parallel of this passage, with 2 Timothy 3. In this passage, we learn of the apostles prophets, and teachers who will build us up to a point where will no longer be blown about by every wind of doctrine, but may work together in unity. In 2 Timothy 3, Paul teaches us that deceivers will wax worse and worse, and prescribes for the Scriptures which are thoroughly furnishing for every good work.

The work of the apostles, prophets, teachers, and evangelists has the same function as the Scriptures, because they are exactly the same. The Scriptures is the work of the Old Testament prophets, the New Testament apostles, prophets, teachers, and evangelists. Remember that the apostles task was to build up the church so that we will not be tossed about by every wind of doctrine? They completed their task, before the last apostle died. Likewise, the task of the New Testament builders of the church, finished their task of delivering to us an unshakeable foundation with the close of the canon of Scripture.

The early offices of building up the church, was completed 2000 years ago. We now have only 2 offices, which were prescribed to be normative for the church of all ages -- elder and deacon. Those who hold these offices, as well as those who hold the priesthood of all believers, are commanded to hold to the Scriptures which the early builders of the church gave us, so that we will not be deceived.

The doctrine of Sola SCriptura then, is founded upon the following principles:

The Word of God alone, and in its entirety, is infallible and normative for all His people.

The Bible alone, is the only Word of God He has providentially delivered unto the church, for sound doctrine and faith.

Therefore, the Bible alone is infallible, and is normative for all God's people.

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Although the SDA church explicitly says that the canon is closed, it also explicitly teaches that revelation has not ceased. The problem I see with this, is that if God reveals something to anyone something apart from Scripture, is that person not bound by conscience to obey the content of that revelation? Is not that person to regard what has been revealed by God, as infallible?

The doctrine of the canon being closed, is intimately tied to the doctrine that revelation has ceased. And the doctrine of Sola Scriptura, is intimately tied to the belief that one will not receive God's word apart from Scripture.

It is believed that the SOP is God's word, only so far as it is confirmed by The Bible. However, it is also true that the New Testament is true, only so far as it is confirmed by the Old Testament. Does this mean that the early Judaeo-christians held to 'Sola Old-Testament'? No. Rather, The Old Testament confirmed that the words of the New Testament were God's words, and therefore both the Old and New Testaments are God's infallible word. If the Bible confirms Ellen White to be a prophetess, aren't her inspired writings to be regarded as God's infallible word as well?

If her writings are inspired by God:

Are her inspired writings not infallible, being God's word?

Is the person reading her inspired writings, not also to believe them, since they are God's word?

Is the man of God reading her inspired writings, not bound by conscience to believe what God has said therein?

If so, then how are her inspired writings not: infallible; to believed; and binding upon the conscience of the one who recognises them to be God's word?

If so, then how is the SDA person in the pew, to believe that the Bible alone is God's infallible word?

kind regards

ThoroughlyFurnished.blogspot.com

[Gerr]

Bro. Troy, may I suggest you make your posts more brief? I have a rather short attention span. Make multiple posts if necessary. It will also make it easier to respond to.

I understand that she explicitly proclaims and defends the doctrine of Sola Scriptura, however I don't believe that is sufficient to prove that one can hold her writings to be inspired, while also believing in Sola Scriptura.

[color:blue]

Why not? If we were to discover the Book of Nathan or of Gad, or writings of the NT prophets, how would we deal with them? They are inspired, but are we not to test them by the Scriptures? John says, "Do not believe every Spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world." 1 Jn 4:1. How do we test them? By the ruler that has been established as normative.

Originally Posted By: Troy

Although the SDA church explicitly says that the canon is closed, it also explicitly teaches that revelation has not ceased. The problem I see with this, is that if God reveals something to anyone something apart from Scripture, is that person not bound by conscience to obey the content of that revelation? Is not that person to regard what has been revealed by God, as infallible?

The doctrine of the canon being closed, is intimately tied to the doctrine that revelation has ceased. And the doctrine of Sola Scriptura, is intimately tied to the belief that one will not receive God's word apart from Scripture.

Your premise that revelation ceased when the canon was established, is false, imho. I don't believe that the promise in Joel 2:28 applies only before the canon was closed. In fact, two of the distinguishing marks of the true end-time church given in Rev 12:17 is that this church, represented by the woman, keeps ALL of God's commandments and not just 9/10, and also will have the "testimony of Jesus," which John says is "the spirit of prophey," Rev 19:10.

Everything we need to know about the Plan of Salvation is in the Bible. But do all understand it? Here's what EGW had to say:

That the Testimonies were not given to take the place of the Bible, the following extract from a testimony published in 1876 will show: {5T 663.1}

"Brother J would confuse the mind by seeking to make it appear that the light God has given through the Testimonies is an addition to the word of God, but in this he presents the matter in a false light. God has seen fit in this manner to bring the minds of His people to His word, to give them a clearer understanding of it." [VOL. 4, P. 246 (1876).] The word of God is sufficient to enlighten the most beclouded mind and may be understood by those who have any desire to understand it. But notwithstanding all this, some who profess to make the word of God their study are found living in direct opposition to its plainest teachings. Then, to leave men and women without excuse, God gives plain and pointed testimonies, bringing them back to the word that they have neglected to follow." [VOL. 2, P. 455 (1870).] The word of God abounds in general principles for [bEGIN P.664] the formation of correct habits of living, and the testimonies, general and personal, have been calculated to call their attention more especially to these principles." [VOL. 4, P. 323 (1879).] {5T 663.2}

Testimonies for the Church, Volume 5. 1855; 2002 (663–664). Pacific Press Publishing Association.

In the Scriptures God has set forth practical lessons to govern the life and conduct of all; but though He has given minute particulars in regard to our character, conversation, and conduct, yet in a large measure, His lessons are disregarded and ignored. Besides the instruction in His Word, the Lord has given special testimonies to His people, not as a new revelation, but that He may set before us the plain lessons of His Word, that errors may be corrected, that the right way may be pointed out, that every soul may be without excuse.-- Letter 63, 1893. (See Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 665.) {3SM 31.3}

White, E. G. (1980; 2002). Selected Messages From the Writings of Ellen G. White, Book 3; Selected Messages, Book 3 (31). Review and Herald Publishing Association.