by Onovae Akpoesiri | Mar 19, 2024 | world Church
In this blog post, we’re diving into the simple yet meaningful act of sending uplifting messages to our friends and family on the special day of Sabbath. We’ve gathered some lovely Sabbath messages to help you express your love and blessings to those you care about.
The Sabbath gives us a chance to slow down and connect with our faith and with each other. By using these messages, we can reach out and strengthen our bonds with those in our community. So whether you’re sending a quick text or a thoughtful card, let these messages remind you of the love and blessings we can share with others on this special day.
Happy Sabbath Messages
Happy Sabbath! May this day bring you the serenity of divine presence, filling your heart with joy and your soul with peace. Let the tranquility of this sacred day remind you of God’s love and grace, guiding you through the week ahead with unwavering faith and strength.
Happy Sabbath! As you rest in the embrace of God’s blessings, may you find solace in His promises and rejoice in His faithfulness. May the Sabbath be a sanctuary of peace amidst life’s challenges, renewing your spirit and uplifting your soul with every passing moment.
Happy Sabbath!
On this blessed day, may you experience the rest that only God can provide, replenishing your spirit and rejuvenating your soul. Let the rhythm of Sabbath rest bring harmony to your life, filling your heart with gratitude and your mind with peace.
Happy Sabbath! May this holy day be a reminder of God’s goodness and mercy, surrounding you with His love and grace. May you find comfort in His presence and strength in His Word, walking in the light of His truth and basking in the joy of His salvation.
Happy Sabbath! As you pause to worship and reflect, may you feel the presence of God’s peace enveloping you, calming every fear and soothing every worry. May this day be a sanctuary of rest for your soul, a time to draw closer to the One who gives us true and lasting peace.
Happy Sabbath! On this sacred day, may the peace of God that surpasses all understanding guard your heart and mind. May you find rest in His presence, comfort in His promises, and joy in His love, knowing that He is always with you, guiding you with His grace.
Happy Sabbath! As you gather with fellow believers to worship and praise, may the joy of the Lord fill your hearts and the peace of His presence reign in your midst. May this day be a testament to His faithfulness and a celebration of His goodness in your life.
Happy Sabbath! Let this day be a time of spiritual renewal and deepening communion with God. May His peace dwell richly within you, guiding your thoughts and actions as you rest in His love and walk in His ways.
Happy Sabbath! May the light of God’s truth illuminate your path, leading you to the rest and restoration that only He can provide. May you find joy in His presence and peace in His promises, trusting in His unfailing love.
Happy Sabbath! As you enter into this day of rest and reflection, may you be filled with the peace that comes from knowing God’s presence is always near. May His grace abound in your life, bringing you comfort, strength, and joy.
Happy Sabbath! May this day be a reminder of God’s faithfulness and a celebration of His love. May His peace reign in your hearts, and His joy be your strength as you rest in His promises and worship in His presence.
Happy Sabbath! In the stillness of this sacred day, may you find renewal for your spirit and peace for your soul. May God’s presence surround you, His love uphold you, and His blessings overflow in your life.
Happy Sabbath! May the peace of Christ rule in your hearts today and always, guiding you in every decision and comforting you in every trial. May this day be a time of rest and restoration, drawing you closer to the source of all joy and peace.
Happy Sabbath! As you observe this holy day, may you experience the deep and abiding peace that comes from resting in God’s presence. May His love fill your heart to overflowing, and His grace sustain you in every moment.
Happy Sabbath! May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you on this special day. May His peace dwell richly within you, bringing comfort, strength, and joy as you abide in Him.
Happy Sabbath! May this day be a testament to the rest and renewal found in God’s presence. May His peace reign in your heart, His joy be your strength, and His love surround you always.
Happy Sabbath! As you pause to worship and reflect, may you feel the gentle embrace of God’s peace, filling you with assurance and hope. May this day be a sanctuary of rest for your soul, a time to bask in the beauty of His creation and the richness of His grace.
Happy Sabbath! Let the rhythm of this holy day remind you of the eternal rest we find in Christ. May His presence be your refuge, His Word your guide, and His love your constant companion, now and forevermore.
Happy Sabbath! May the blessings of this sacred day overflow in your life, filling you with gratitude and praise. May you find strength in God’s promises, comfort in His presence, and peace in His unfailing love.
Happy Sabbath! As you gather with loved ones to honor God’s commandment and delight in His goodness, may His peace permeate every aspect of your day. May you find rest for your soul and joy in His presence, knowing that He is with you always.
Happy Sabbath! May this day be a time of spiritual refreshment and renewal, as you draw near to God in worship and prayer. May His peace guard your heart and mind, and His grace sustain you in every season of life.
Happy Sabbath! On this blessed day, may you experience the restorative power of God’s presence, filling you with peace and joy. May His Word be a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path, guiding you in righteousness and truth.
Happy Sabbath! May the peace of Christ, which surpasses all understanding, guard your hearts and minds in Him. May this day be a reminder of God’s faithfulness and a time to rejoice in His love and grace.
Happy Sabbath! As you enter into this day of rest and reflection, may you find solace in God’s presence and strength in His Word. May His peace envelop you, His joy fill you, and His love sustain you, now and always.
Happy Sabbath! May the Lord bless you and keep you; may His face shine upon you and give you peace. May this day be a sanctuary of rest for your soul, a time to draw near to God and find refuge in His unfailing love.
Happy Sabbath! Let the peace of God rule in your hearts today and always, guiding you in every decision and comforting you in every trial. May His presence be your constant companion, filling you with hope and joy.
Happy Sabbath! As you honor God’s commandment to rest and worship, may you experience the fullness of His presence and the richness of His grace. May His peace reign in your heart, and His love surround you like a shield.
Happy Sabbath! May this day be a time of spiritual renewal and deepening fellowship with God. May His Word dwell richly in your hearts, His peace abide in your homes, and His blessings overflow in your lives.
Happy Sabbath! On this blessed day, may you find rest for your soul and renewal for your spirit in the presence of the Lord. May His peace be a constant presence in your life, guiding you in every step and comforting you in every trial.
Happy Sabbath! As you rest in the grace and love of our Savior, may you be filled with the peace that surpasses all understanding. May this day be a reminder of God’s faithfulness and a time to rejoice in His goodness and mercy.
Happy Sabbath! May this sacred day be filled with the light of divine joy, illuminating your path with blessings and grace. Let your heart resonate with the melodies of peace and serenity as you rejoice in the presence of the Almighty.
Blessed Sabbath to you! May each moment of this holy day be a testament to the boundless love and mercy of our Creator. May you find solace in His embrace and delight in the beauty of His creation.
Happy Sabbath! As you gather with loved ones to honor this day of rest, may your spirits be lifted by the promise of eternal happiness and fulfillment in the Lord. Let your soul be refreshed and renewed in His presence.
Wishing you a joyous Sabbath! May the peace that surpasses all understanding guard your heart and mind today and always. May you find strength in the sanctuary of His love and grace.
Happy Sabbath! Let the rhythm of this sacred day remind you of the harmony of creation and the joy of fellowship with God and His children. May your soul be nourished and your spirit uplifted in His presence.
Sabbath blessings to you! May this day be a sanctuary of peace and joy, a time to reflect on the goodness of the Lord and His abundant blessings. May His love surround you and fill you with happiness.
Happy Sabbath! May the warmth of His love and the radiance of His grace envelop you on this blessed day. May you find rest for your soul and joy in His presence.
Blessed Sabbath to you and your loved ones! May this day be a beacon of hope and renewal, a reminder of God’s faithfulness and His promise of everlasting joy. Rejoice in His goodness!
Happy Sabbath! As you rest in the embrace of His love, may you find comfort in His promises and strength in His presence. May your heart overflow with gratitude and joy.
Wishing you a blessed Sabbath filled with the peace that comes from knowing you are cherished by the Almighty. May His joy be your strength, and His love your guide.
Happy Sabbath! May the beauty of this day remind you of the wonders of His creation and the depth of His love for you. May your heart be filled with gratitude and joy.
Blessed Sabbath to you and your family! May this day be a time of rest and reflection, a sanctuary of peace and joy in the presence of the Lord. May His blessings abound in your life.
Happy Sabbath! May the sweetness of His presence and the richness of His love fill your heart with joy today and always. Rejoice in His faithfulness and His unending grace.
Wishing you a Sabbath filled with the peace that comes from trusting in His perfect plan for your life. May His joy be your strength, and His love your constant companion.
Happy Sabbath! May this day be a reminder of the rest and restoration found in the Lord, a time to rejoice in His goodness and grace. May your heart be filled with joy as you worship Him.
Sabbath blessings to you and yours! May this day be a celebration of His faithfulness and a testament to His love. May you find joy in His presence and peace in His promises.
Happy Sabbath! May the light of His love shine upon you, guiding your steps and filling your heart with joy. May you find rest and renewal in His presence today and always.
Wishing you a blessed Sabbath filled with the peace and joy that come from knowing you are loved by the King of Kings. May His grace abound in your life, and His joy be your strength.
Happy Sabbath! May this day be a time of reflection and gratitude, a sanctuary of peace and joy in the presence of the Lord. Rejoice in His goodness and trust in His unfailing love.
Sabbath blessings to you! May this day be a reminder of the rest and restoration found in His presence, a time to rejoice in His faithfulness and His love. May your heart overflow with joy as you worship Him.
Happy Sabbath! May this sacred day bring you a profound sense of renewal and spiritual rejuvenation. As you immerse yourself in worship and reflection, may you find peace that transcends all understanding, filling your heart with joy and gratitude.
On this blessed Sabbath, may the light of God’s love shine upon you, illuminating your path with clarity and purpose. May each moment be infused with divine grace, guiding you towards deeper understanding and profound renewal of spirit.
Happy Sabbath! As you rest in the embrace of God’s presence today, may you experience a renewal of faith, hope, and strength. May this Sabbath bring you closer to the source of all joy and fulfillment, filling your soul with divine inspiration.
On this holy Sabbath day, may you be surrounded by the warmth of God’s love and the peace that surpasses all understanding. May your spirit be renewed as you draw near to Him in worship and praise, finding solace and strength in His unfailing grace.
Happy Sabbath! May the sacred rhythms of this day lead you to a place of deep renewal and spiritual refreshment. May you find rest for your soul and inspiration for your journey as you bask in the presence of the Almighty.
As the Sabbath dawns upon us, may you feel the gentle embrace of God’s love enveloping you, bringing renewal to your spirit and joy to your heart.
Happy Sabbath! May this day be filled with peace, reflection, and the blessings of divine grace.
Happy Sabbath! Let this day be a sanctuary of rest and renewal for your soul, a time to bask in the light of God’s love and find solace in His presence.
May you emerge from this Sabbath refreshed, renewed, and ready to embrace the challenges ahead with faith and courage.
On this blessed Sabbath, may the peace of God reign in your heart, bringing renewal and restoration to your weary soul. May you find joy in His presence and strength in His promises as you worship Him in spirit and truth. Happy Sabbath!
Happy Sabbath! As you enter into this sacred day of rest and renewal, may you experience the fullness of God’s grace and the depth of His love. May His peace dwell within you, filling you with joy and tranquility beyond measure.
On this holy Sabbath, may you find sanctuary in the presence of the Almighty, experiencing a deep sense of renewal and spiritual awakening.
Happy Sabbath! May your heart be filled with gratitude and your soul be replenished with divine blessings.
Happy Sabbath! May this day be a sacred oasis in the midst of life’s busyness, a time of renewal and refreshment for your spirit. May you find solace in God’s presence and strength in His promises as you rest in His love.
As the Sabbath arrives, may you feel the gentle touch of God’s hand upon your life, bringing renewal and restoration to your weary soul. Happy Sabbath! May this day be filled with His peace, His joy, and His abundant blessings.
Happy Sabbath! May the tranquility of this sacred day bring renewal to your spirit and restoration to your soul. May you find comfort in the presence of God and strength in His unfailing love as you rest in His grace.
On this blessed Sabbath, may you experience the profound joy of God’s presence, finding renewal and refreshment for your soul. Happy Sabbath! May His love surround you like a warm embrace, filling you with peace and contentment.
Happy Sabbath! May this day be a time of deep spiritual renewal and transformation for you. May you encounter the restorative power of God’s grace and emerge from this Sabbath strengthened, refreshed, and renewed in spirit.
As you enter into the sacred space of the Sabbath, may you feel the presence of God surrounding you with His love and grace. Happy Sabbath! May this day be a time of renewal and restoration for your soul, filling you with peace and joy beyond measure.
Happy Sabbath! May this day of rest and worship bring you closer to God, filling your heart with renewal and your soul with peace. May His presence be a constant source of joy and strength as you journey through life.
On this blessed Sabbath, may you find solace in the arms of God, experiencing a deep renewal of spirit and a profound sense of His presence. Happy Sabbath! May His peace reign in your heart, now and always.
Happy Sabbath! As you pause to worship and rest in the presence of God, may you find renewal for your soul and strength for the journey ahead. May His love surround you, filling you with joy and peace beyond measure.
May this Sabbath be a time of profound renewal and spiritual awakening for you, as you bask in the light of God’s love and grace. Happy Sabbath! May His presence fill you with peace, joy, and abundant blessings, today and always.
Happy Sabbath! May the peace of the Lord reign in your heart as you rest in His presence today. May this day be filled with blessings, joy, and spiritual rejuvenation for you and your loved ones.
Wishing you a blessed Sabbath filled with the warmth of God’s love and the beauty of His creation. May your soul find solace and your spirit be uplifted as you worship Him on this holy day.
Happy Sabbath! May the Lord’s grace shower upon you abundantly, filling your life with His blessings and guiding you along the path of righteousness. May you find strength and renewal in His word today.
As the Sabbath arrives, may your heart be filled with gratitude for God’s goodness and mercy. May His presence surround you, bringing peace and comfort to your soul. Have a blessed and joyous Sabbath!
Happy Sabbath! On this sacred day, may you experience the rest and restoration that only God can provide. May His light shine brightly upon you, illuminating your path with hope and love.
Wishing you a Sabbath filled with God’s presence and His unwavering love. May you find delight in His word and experience the joy of fellowship with fellow believers. Have a blessed and peaceful Sabbath!
Happy Sabbath! May this day be a reminder of God’s faithfulness and a time for you to rejoice in His goodness. May His blessings overflow in your life, bringing you closer to Him and to those around you.
As the Sabbath dawns, may you feel the embrace of God’s love surrounding you. May His peace dwell within you, calming every worry and fear. Have a blessed Sabbath filled with His presence and joy.
Happy Sabbath! May this day be a sanctuary for your soul, a time to draw near to God and find rest in His presence. May His spirit fill you with strength and peace as you worship Him today.
Wishing you a Sabbath filled with God’s grace and favor. May His love shine brightly upon you, illuminating your path and guiding you towards His perfect will. Have a blessed and joyous Sabbath!
Happy Sabbath! May the Lord’s blessings be upon you as you honor and worship Him on this holy day. May His presence fill your heart with peace and joy, and His word nourish your soul.
On this Sabbath day, may you experience the depth of God’s love and the richness of His grace. May His peace reign in your heart, and His joy overflow in your life. Have a blessed and fulfilling Sabbath!
Happy Sabbath! May this day be a time of spiritual renewal and refreshment for you. May you find strength in God’s promises and joy in His presence as you rest in Him.
Wishing you a blessed Sabbath filled with the goodness of the Lord. May His blessings follow you wherever you go, and His peace be with you always. Have a joyous and uplifting Sabbath!
Happy Sabbath! May this day be a reminder of God’s faithfulness and a time for you to draw closer to Him. May His presence surround you, filling you with His peace and joy. Blessings to you on this holy day!
Happy Sabbath! May this sacred day bring you peace that surpasses all understanding. May you find guidance in His word and strength in His presence as you rest and reflect on His goodness. Let His light illuminate your path and fill your heart with joy.
Happy Sabbath! As you enter into this day of rest, may you feel the embrace of God’s love surrounding you. May His guidance lead you to greater understanding and wisdom, and may His grace empower you to walk in faith and righteousness.
Happy Sabbath! Let this day be a reminder of God’s faithfulness and provision in your life. May His guidance direct your steps and His blessings overflow in abundance. May you find rest in His presence and joy in His promises.
Happy Sabbath! As you honor this day set apart for rest and worship, may you be filled with the peace of God that transcends all circumstances. May His guidance lead you to paths of righteousness and His presence be a constant source of strength and comfort.
Happy Sabbath! May this day be a time of spiritual renewal and refreshment for you. May you find guidance in His word and solace in His presence. Let His love fill your heart and His peace reign in your life.
Happy Sabbath! On this blessed day, may you experience the fullness of God’s grace and mercy. May His guidance illuminate your way and His wisdom be your constant companion. May you find joy in His presence and rest in His unfailing love.
Happy Sabbath! As you gather with fellow believers to worship and praise His holy name, may you be reminded of His faithfulness throughout the ages. May His guidance lead you in paths of righteousness and His peace guard your heart and mind.
Happy Sabbath! Today, as you set aside time to rest and commune with God, may His presence fill you with hope and encouragement. May His guidance direct your steps and His blessings overflow in your life.
Happy Sabbath! May this day be a time of deep spiritual reflection and renewal for you. May you find guidance and strength in God’s word, and may His presence be a source of comfort and peace in every season of your life.
Happy Sabbath! As you enter into this day of rest and worship, may you be reminded of God’s unfailing love and faithfulness towards you. May His guidance lead you in paths of righteousness, and His peace fill your heart and mind.
Happy Sabbath! On this sacred day, may you experience the joy of His presence and the peace that comes from knowing Him. May His guidance be your light in times of darkness, and His love your strength in moments of weakness.
Happy Sabbath! As you rest in His grace today, may you be renewed in spirit and strengthened in faith. May His guidance lead you on paths of righteousness, and His peace be a constant presence in your life.
Happy Sabbath! May this day be a reminder of God’s faithfulness and provision in your life. May His guidance lead you in all your ways, and His presence bring you comfort and joy beyond measure.
Happy Sabbath! As you take time to rest and reflect on God’s goodness, may you find guidance and direction for the days ahead. May His peace fill your heart and His love surround you always.
Happy Sabbath! On this holy day, may you be refreshed and renewed in His presence. May His guidance light your path and His love sustain you through every trial. Wishing you a blessed Sabbath filled with joy and peace.
Reference: Message.Tips
Worship with us in any Adventist branch
by Deborah Onovae | Feb 19, 2024 | world Church
Marriage is an institution that was established by God. It started right from the garden of Eden. In marriage the couple pledge their love, loyalty, and devotion to each other as long as they are both alive.
Ephesians 5:28, 29 says ‘Even so husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no man ever hates his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, as Christ does the church. The marriage covenant is built upon love as seen in the text above.
The Seventh-day Adventist Church have studied the topic of marriage and the issues of divorce and remarriage through various committees, commissions, and councils. the views of the church is sorely from the Bible.
What is God’s plan for marriage?
God Himself performed the first marriage on the sixth day of creation when He brought together Adam and Eve as husband and wife (Gen 2:18-25). In declaring their marital union God said, “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh” (Gen 2:24). Christ endorsed the original concept of marriage (Matt 19:3-6). Thus marriage was blessed by God as the closest human relationship.
The Sacred Agreement of Marriage
Mark 10:2-9 “But at the beginning of creation God ‘made them male and female. ‘ ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. ‘ So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate“. Marriage is a life-long commitment of both partners to each other Paul indicates that the commitment which Christ has for the church is a model of the relationship between husband and wife (Eph 5:31, 32). God intended this relationship to be as permanent as Christ’s relationship with the church.
Paul recognized the husband-wife relationship as the primary relationship in the family (Eph 5:22-33). Marriage takes precedence over all other human relationships, even those between the spouses and their parents (Gen 2:24). No other human relationship should interfere in an inappropriate way with the marriage relationship.
Should Adventists Marry an Unbeliever?
Spiritual compatibility is vital if marriage is to be fully in harmony with God’s plan. Amos 3:3 Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?; 2 Cor 6:14) Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?. God desires that, through their union, husband and wife experience His love, exalt His name, and witness to His power. Throughout Scripture, marriage is used as a figure of the relationship between God and His people (Isa 54:5-7; Hos 2:19, 20; Eph 5:25-28; Rev 21:2).
Marriage as Partnership
Adventists believe husband and wife bear equal responsibility for the success of the marriage (Gen 1:26-28). While their responsibilities may differ, neither is more important than the other and neither is to dominate the other. Their relationship is one of mutuality and companionship (Gen 2:18). As husband and wife mutually submit to one another (Eph 5:21), they seek to encourage and build each other up in love (1 Thess 5:11).
Adventist Views Regarding Divorce and Remarriage
The Seventh-day Adventist Church’s treatment of divorce and remarriage must be divinely guided. In addition to directives and specific examples, the Bible provides broad principles that enable the Church to be faithful to the divine intent and gracious in caring for its members who experience divorce.
Divorce is contrary to God’s original purpose in creating marriage (Matt 19:3-8; Mark 10:2-9), but the Bible is not silent about it. Because divorce occurred as part of the fallen human experience, biblical legislation was given to limit the damage it caused (Deut 24:1-4).
The Bible consistently seeks to elevate marriage and to discourage divorce by describing the joys of married love and faithfulness (Prov 5:18-20; Song of Sol 2:16; 4:9-5:1), by referring to the marriage-like relationship of God with His people (Isa 54:5; Jer 3:1), by focusing on the possibilities of forgiveness and marital renewal (Jer 3:1; Hos 3:1-3; 11:8, 9), and by indicating God’s hatred of divorce and the misery it causes (Mal 2:15, 16; Hos 2; 3). Jesus restored the creation view of marriage as a lifelong covenant between a man and a woman (Matt 19:4-6; Mark 10:6-9). Much biblical instruction affirms marriage and seeks to correct problems which tend to weaken or destroy the marriage covenant (Eph 5:21-33; Heb 13:4; 1 Peter 3:7).
The covenant of marriage rests on principles of love, loyalty, exclusiveness, trust, and support upheld by both partners in obedience to God (Gen 2:24; Matt 19:6; 1 Corinthians 13; Eph 5:21-29; 1 Thess 4:1-7). When these principles are violated, the essence of the marriage covenant is endangered. Scripture acknowledges that tragic circumstances can destroy the marriage covenant.
Reasons That Can Lead to Divorce
- Sexual immorality
- Death
- Unbelieving partner no longer willing to be married
Jesus taught that the marriage covenant may be irreparably broken through sexual immorality (Matt 5:32; 19:9), which includes a range of improper sexual behaviors. Paul indicated that death brings the marriage covenant to an end (Rom 7:2, 3), as does desertion by an unbelieving partner no longer willing to be married (1 Cor 7:15). The above do not exhaust the destructive factors that may lead to brokenness and divorce.
Violence in Marriage
God’s Word condemns violence in personal relationships (Gen 6:11, 13; Ps 11:5; Isa 58:4, 5; Rom 13:10; Gal 5:19-21). It is the spirit of Christ to love and accept, to seek to affirm and build others up, rather than to abuse or demean them (Rom 12:10; 14:19; Eph 4:26; 5:28, 29; Col 3:8-14; 1 Thess 5:11). There is no room among Christ’s followers for tyrannical control and the abuse of power or authority (Matt 20:25-28; Eph 6:4). Violence in the setting of marriage and family is especially abhorrent, destroying the marriage covenant (Mal 2:14-16).
Church Effort
When a couple’s marriage is in danger of breaking down, every effort should be made by the partners and those in the church or family who minister to them to bring about their reconciliation in harmony with divine principles for restoring wounded relationships (Hos 3:1-3; 1 Cor 7:10, 11; 13:4-7; Gal 6:1).
For the brokenness of divorce, divine grace is the only remedy. When marriage fails, despite efforts toward reconciliation, former partners should be encouraged to examine their experience and to embrace the mercy and compassion of God. God is willing to comfort those who have been wounded. God also accepts the repentance of individuals who commit the most destructive sins, even those that carry with them irremediable consequences (2 Samuel 11, 12; Ps 34:18; 86:5; Joel 2:12, 13; John 8:2-11; 1 John 1:9).
Church members are called to forgive and accept those who have failed as God has forgiven them (Isa 54:5-8; Matt 6:14, 15; Eph 4:32). The Bible urges patience, compassion, and forgiveness in the Christian care of those who have erred (Matt 18:10-20; Gal 6:1, 2).
Implicit in God’s forgiving grace and healing is the possibility of a new beginning (Ps 34:22; Jer 3:22; 31:17; Mark 5:1-20; John 8:11; 2 Cor 5:17; 1 John 1:9; see also 2SM 339, 340).
Marriage is an important part of the social fabric of the community of believers and involves responsibilities of the couple to the church and of the church to the couple. In their marriage, the couple bears witness to their Adventist faith and accepts the moral authority of the church (1 Corinthians 12; Ephesians 4). The church, as the body of Christ in which His Spirit dwells, is called upon to affirm, bless, nurture, preserve, and uphold marriage.
The church has the responsibility to provide guidance and the authority to apply the principles of God’s Word in difficult and complex cases of divorce and remarriage (Matt 16:19; 18:18; John 20:22, 23; 1 Cor 5:3-5; 6:1-6). Further, through the exercise of redemptive discipline and pastoral care and nurture, the church has the obligation to help erring members return to discipleship (Matt 18:15-20; Gal 6:1; Heb 12:7-12).
Role of the Church in Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage
Because marriage is part of the fabric of the community of believers, the Seventh-day Adventist Church upholds, affirms, and supports this primary human relationship. It recognizes the challenges that characterize marriage in our age and is committed to biblical principles in its ministry to families. The local church is primarily responsible for administering the policies and standards of the Seventh-day Adventist Church with reference to marriage, divorce and remarriage.
Encouraging Marital Reconciliation
The church encourages individuals in marital crisis to resolve differences and build healthy marriages. It provides appropriate spiritual nurture and support. When violence and abuse are involved, special care is taken to protect the vulnerable, stop the abuse, and hold the abuser accountable for the abuse. In some cases of abuse and violence, reconciliation may not be possible.
Ministering After Marital Breakdown
Despite their own efforts and the pro-active ministry of the Church, some couples fail to sustain their marital relationship. Such breakdown calls for God’s grace to be demonstrated by the church. It fosters a healing ministry which provides divorce recovery for adults and children, referrals for abusers and for victims of abuse and violence, and assistance with everyday needs.
Ministering to Remarried Couples
The church provides specialized premarital guidance for individuals considering remarriage. It also offers marriage enrichment experiences adapted to the unique issues confronting remarried couples and parent education designed for families with children joined together through remarriage.
Maintaining Church Integrity and Discipline
In carrying out its responsibility to reflect to the world the justice and grace of God, the church cares for the well-being of its members and thereby protects its reputation. The behavior of each member affects the entire community. Likewise, the demeanor of the church affects each member. As a worshiping and witnessing body, the church has a responsibility to teach and apply the principles of the Word of God. Thus, it builds up and supports; it comforts, teaches, and corrects. With respect to the individual, the church understands the ultimate purpose of discipline to be the restoration of the person to faithful discipleship and fellowship within the church. Discipline is also an opportunity for the church to reaffirm and demonstrate its commitment to biblical standards.
When Divorce Occurs. In order to protect its members when divorce occurs, the church guards the reputation and privacy of the spouses and all those impacted directly by the divorce. It reaches out to those going through the divorce process, encouraging them to remain within the fellowship of the community of faith. The church also makes the security and welfare of children a priority. It encourages the parents to put their children’s needs above their own interests and desires. It holds parents accountable for their responsibilities to their children, including financial obligations.
Divorced individuals are encouraged to take sufficient time, usually a period of years, to address the reasons for the failure of their marriage, to accept responsibility for their part in the breakdown of the marriage, to work through the process of healing and forgiveness, and to experience a sense of closure. In order to protect the community of faith when divorce occurs, the church endeavors to minimize divisive and disruptive behavior often associated with divorce.
In the interest of pastoral care, the church may decide that those in divorce recovery will not function in leadership roles. If, in the judgment of the church, individuals demonstrate no repentance, make little or no effort to support their families, bring the church into disrepute, or otherwise refuse to accept the above guidelines, the congregation may regretfully discipline them. Such discipline may include a period of removal from church office, censure, or disfellowshipping.
Considerations Regarding Remarriage.
Before individuals become involved in another serious relationship, they should be encouraged to complete the above recovery process. If remarriage is contemplated, the local church offers counsel. It supports their decision when it is in harmony with biblical principles. Those whose remarriage is out of harmony with biblical principles are subject to church discipline.
