Seventh-Day Adventists believe death is an unconscious state.
According to the 28 Fundamental Beliefs, the wages of sin is death, but God will give eternal life to his followers. Until Christ returns, death is an unconscious state for all people.
This belief comes from Ecclesiastes 9, which says, “For the living know that they will die.” Another verse often pointed to for this belief is 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, which says, “For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord, himself will come down from heaven … After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.”
Sleep for death is an oft-used metaphor in the bible for death, and Adventists believe that eternal life will come to believers when Jesus returns.
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Their Sabbath is on Saturday
Seventh Day Adventists believe that the Sabbath begins at the end of the sixth day, which is considered Friday and lasts one day, which is Saturday. The Sabbath “protects man’s friendship with God and provides time essential for the development of that relationship.”
For that reason, on the Sabbath, there can be no secular labor, including any household tasks. Members are asked to “greet the Sabbath with the tranquility of mind.” Worship services are held on the Sabbath for the church for both worship and fellowship. Other rules for the Sabbath include avoiding weddings and funerals; however, the church does allow for seeking emergency healthcare on the Sabbath. Families are also encouraged to fellowship together over a meal.
You can read a full description of Adventist Sabbath observances here.
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What is the role of baptism in the Christian’s life?
Baptism is simply an outward expression of a Christian’s faith. Jesus’ example of baptism demonstrated his dedication to His Father in Heaven. Christians show their dedication to God through the biblical practice of baptism.
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