MOTIVATED BY HOPE Sabbath School Lesson - MAY 18 2024

The Seventh-day Adventist Church is motivated by the belief in the imminent Second Coming of Jesus Christ. This belief shapes their teachings, outreach, and daily lives. The movement originated in the 19th century with William Miller, who believed Christ's return was near. Though there was a great disappointment when Christ did not return as expected, further study led to a clearer understanding of biblical prophecy. The church focuses on proclaiming the three angels' messages of Revelation 14 and believes in the literal, visible, and worldwide event of Christ's second coming. They emphasize spiritual readiness, health and wellness, education, and service to others. The church's mission is driven by the desire to share the hope and joy of Christ's return with others. They believe the second coming brings the triumph of good over evil and the beginning of an eternal existence with God. The belief in the second coming is central to the church's identity and mission. motivated by Hope May 18, 2024, the Seventh-day Adventist Church's identity and mission, are deeply rooted in the belief of the imminent Second Coming of Jesus Christ. This cornerstone of Adventist theology shapes the Church's teachings, outreach, and the daily lives of its members, fostering a sense of urgency and purpose in preparing for this momentous event. The anticipation of Christ's return is not merely a distant hope, but a vibrant, ever-present reality that influences every aspect of Adventist life and thought. The origins of the Adventist movement can be traced back to the early 19th century, when a Baptist farmer named William Miller embarked on a profound study of biblical prophecy. Through his diligent examination of the scriptures, particularly the prophecies of Daniel 8.14 and 9.24-27, Miller became convinced that Christ's Second Coming was near at hand. His methodical approach to Bible study, allowing the Bible to interpret itself and comparing scripture with scripture, led him to conclude that the cleansing of the sanctuary mentioned in Daniel 8 referred to the purification of the earth by fire at Christ's return. Miller's interpretation of the 2300s-today prophecy, though later understood to be a misinterpretation regarding the nature of the sanctuary to be cleansed, nevertheless sparked a powerful spiritual awakening and revival. Thousands of believers, gripped by the conviction of Christ's imminent return, committed themselves to living in readiness for this divine event. This historical moment underscores the Adventist emphasis on the importance of prophecy in understanding God's plan for humanity and the future He promises. The great disappointment of October 22, 1844, when Christ did not return as expected, tested the faith of the Millerite Adventists. However, through further study and prayer, they came to understand that the cleansing of the sanctuary referred to Christ's ministry in the heavenly sanctuary, not the earthly purification they had anticipated. This realization led to a renewed emphasis on the importance of Christ's ongoing intercession on behalf of His people, and the significance of living a life of faithfulness and obedience in preparation for His return. In the years following the great disappointment, the Seventh-day Adventist church emerged, built upon the foundation of the Millerite movement, but with a clearer understanding of biblical prophecy and the role of God's commandments, including the Seventh-day Sabbath. The church's mission became focused on proclaiming the three angels' messages of Revelation 14, calling people to worship the Creator, announcing the hour of God's judgment, and warning against false religious systems. Central to Adventist theology is the belief that Christ's second coming will be a literal, visible, and worldwide event, culminating in the resurrection of the righteous dead and the translation of the living saints to heaven. This hope is rooted in the promises of Scripture and the assurance of God's love and justice. Adventists believe that the signs of Christ's return, as outlined in biblical prophecy, are being fulfilled in the world today, adding to the urgency of their mission to prepare themselves and others for this glorious event. The Seventh-day Adventist church's commitment to preparing for the second coming is not limited to spiritual readiness alone. It also encompasses a strong emphasis on health and wellness, education, and service to others. Adventists believe that caring for one's physical health is a matter of stewardship and an expression of love for God, as the body is his temple. The church's extensive network of health care institutions, schools, and community service organizations reflects this holistic approach to preparing for Christ's return. Adventist outreach and mission work are driven by the desire to share the hope and joy of the second coming with people from all walks of life. The story of the Syrian refugees being welcomed into the Kingston Seventh-day Adventist church in Ontario exemplifies the practical application of Adventist beliefs. This act of love and acceptance mirrors Christ's method of outreach, showing sympathy, ministering to needs, and winning confidence, which is foundational to the Adventist approach to mission work. It is through such genuine acts of kindness that the church extends a warm invitation to others to join in the blessed hope of Christ's return. The theological perspective of the Seventh-day Adventist church recognizes that the second coming is not an event to be feared but rather a promise to be embraced with joy and anticipation. The church teaches that the second coming brings the ultimate triumph of good over evil, the end of sin and suffering, and the beginning of an eternal existence in the presence of God. This hope is not a mere wishful thinking but a confident assurance based on the unfailing promises of Scripture and the faithfulness of God throughout history. In conclusion, the belief in the second coming of Jesus Christ is the heartbeat of the Seventh-day Adventist church, shaping its identity, mission, and daily life. From its roots in the Millerite movement to its present-day global presence, the church continues to proclaim the urgent message of readiness for Christ's return. Through understanding biblical prophecy, embracing a holistic approach to spiritual and physical well-being, and engaging in acts of love and service, Seventh-day Adventists worldwide are living out their faith in anticipation of the glorious appearing of their Savior. As they eagerly await this divine event, they find joy, purpose, and strength in the promise of an eternal future with God.