Some modern day religions claim to be Christians...but are they really? Go through this series with a small group or mentor, and let's take a closer look at some religions that may actually be cultish. This week: Seventh Day Adventists.
--
The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.
Donate Now
--
Part I: The History
Origins in the Millerite Movement
- William Miller (1782–1849): A Baptist preacher who studied Bible prophecy, particularly the books of Daniel and Revelation. Based on his calculations of Daniel 8:14, Miller predicted that Christ would return to earth around 1843–1844.
- The Great Disappointment (October 22, 1844): When Jesus did not return on the predicted date, many of Miller’s followers abandoned the movement. However, a small group believed the date was correct but misunderstood the nature of the event (we will get into this more when we discuss some of the false doctrines they promote).
Formation of the Seventh-day Adventist Church
- The Sabbath Movement: A group led by Joseph Bates and others began emphasizing the importance of observing Saturday (the biblical Sabbath) as a day of worship, based on the fourth commandment.
- The Sanctuary Doctrine: After the Great Disappointment, followers like Hiram Edson taught that Jesus did not return to earth but instead entered the heavenly sanctuary to begin a new phase of His ministry (the “investigative judgment”).
- Ellen G. White (1827–1915): Considered a prophetess by Adventists, she played a central role in shaping SDA beliefs and practices. Her visions and writings helped unify the movement and promote distinctive doctrines.
Official Organization
- 1863: The Seventh-day Adventist Church was officially organized in Battle Creek, Michigan, with approximately 3,500 members.
- Expansion: By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the SDA Church grew rapidly, emphasizing evangelism, education, and healthcare.
Today’s SDA Church
- Global Reach: The SDA Church has grown into a worldwide denomination with over 21 million members.
- Focus Areas: It emphasizes education, healthcare, and missionary work while holding to its unique doctrines.
Part II: The Similarities and Differences
Similarities:
- The belief in the Trinity
- The humanity and deity of Christ (but there is a little twist here)
- Salvation by grace through faith (but we will discuss this)
- Authority of Scripture (but we will discuss this as well)
- The Second Coming of Christ
- Resurrection of the Dead
While there are many similarities in the beliefs between SDA and orthodox Christianity, there are some disturbing differences that Christians need to be aware of when considering SDA’s.
Observance of the Sabbath
- This is pretty deep. They firmly believe that the 4th commandment to observe the Sabbath is still enforced today and this part of the law was not “fulfilled” in Christ.
- SUNDAY LAW: They associate Sunday...
