Seventh-day Adventists: the name highlights two beliefs that reflect two core Christian values important to the Church The second coming (or “advent”) of Jesus expresses the vital hope of the Church; the seventh-day Sabbath (Saturday) emphasizes the Biblical day of worship of the Creator and Saviour of the world.
The most important truth Adventists want to share is belief in the trustworthy and gracious God of the Bible. Adventists believe in God as Creator, as Saviour, but most of all as both Friend and Lord; the God who values most highly the freedom of His created beings, to whom He offers salvation in the present and eternal life in the soon-coming future.
Adventist Church membership is growing at the rate of almost one million every year, with new members joining the Church at the rate of one every 35 seconds. Globally the church is doubling every twelve years, with a current baptized membership of 11 million.
Adventists believe in sharing beliefs and values, and recognize the importance of telling others of the gospel message of Jesus Christ. The church’s “Global Mission” initiative attempts to communicate this message through seminars and outreach programs, the church’s medical mission and education system, and through pastors and members who dedicate their lives service to others.
Through organizations like the Adventist Development and Relief Agency International and other programs, the Adventist Church reaches out to provide practical help to those affected by disaster and requiring development assistance. This aid is provided without discrimination to all those in need, and includes food aid, medical supplies, equipment, and building materials, as well as educational programs and facilities, drug-awareness, social action, and agricultural development.
Adventists value the opportunity to share their faith through actions in the service of others, recognizing the Bible’s words: “let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.” (1 John 3:18)
