ENDTIME ISSUES NEWSLETTER NO. 155

“Ellen White’s Theological Growth”

Graeme Bradford, D. Min.,

Retired Professor of Theology

Avondale College, Australia

“The Threat of Islam to Western Europe”

Samuele Bacchiocchi, Ph. D.

Retired Prof. of Theology and Church History

Andrews University

Traveling can be a learning experience about the past history and present social issues facing different countries today. During the past two weeks I spent in London, England, speaking at two rallies, I took time to observe, read, and ask about the challenge that Islam is posing to the future of Great Britain and other European countries

As Adventists we observe the SIGNS OF OUR TIMES in order to understand the prophetic fulfillment of the endtime showdown over worship predicted by Jesus, and clarified by Paul, Peter, and especially John the Revelator. Our past tendency has been to focus primarily on the prophetic role of the papacy in leading the world into idolatrous worship. Indeed, the papacy is still alive and well today, exerting considerable influence in Western Europe and in the rest of the world. But there are other powerful religious forces that seem to overshadow at this time the influence of the papacy on the future of Western Europe. The fastest growing and most influential religious movement is Islam.

THE THREAT OF ISLAM TO WESTERN EUROPE

Most people tend to think of Muslims as a Middle East problem, but Muslims are involved in practically all the trouble spots in the world today. There are Muslims versus Jews in “Palestine,” Muslims versus Hindus in Kshmir, Muslims versus Christians in Africa, Muslims versus Buddhists in Thailand, Muslims versus Russians in the Caucasus, Muslims versus Christians in France, Holland, and Great Britain.

In his first speech on national security, British Home Secretary, Mr. Reid warned that “Muslim terrorists are the greatest threat to the civilized world since Adoph Hitler.” Addressing the think tank Demos, “Reid said that judges, British politicians and commentators had all failed to realize that liberties enshrined in the 20th century and bolstered after the Second World War, could not all remain intact if today’s high-tech, global terrorists were not thwarted.” (London Telegraph, August 10, 2006).

One of the things that I learned while in London, is that the Muslim problem is different in Europe than in the U. S. A. The reason is that Muslim immigrants have come to Europe and the United States for very different reasons. The Muslims came to the U.S. in smaller numbers primarily to pursue economic opportunity and escape political oppression at home. But across the Continent the legacy of European colonialism has helped produce large, monolithic and increasingly hostile Islamic populations. These different motivations and histories, help us understand the difference in domestic terror threats on either side of the Atlantic.

“The sheer size of the respective U.S. and European Muslim populations is one telling difference. While growing quickly (and having surpassed the Jewish population in the U.S.), the American Muslim community at 7 million represents only about 2% of the U.S. populace. In contrast, the six million Muslim in France (9%), one million in the Netherlands (5.6%), three plus million in Germany (4%) and roughly two million in Great Britain (3%), constitute major and growing socio-cultural blocs. Stagnant Europeans birthrates and an ongoing influx of immigrants will only magnify their importance.” (Perspectives, August 13, 2006).

The Future of Europe: Judeo-Christian or Islamic Culture?

In a perceptive article entitled “Is France on the Way to Becoming an Islamic State?” Barbara Amiel writes: “France is facing the problem that dare not speak its name. Though French law prohibits the census from any reference to ethnic background or religion, many demographers estimate that as much as 20-30 per cent of the population under 25 is now Muslim. The streets, the traditional haunt of younger people, now belong to Muslim youths. In France, the phrase ‘les jeunes—young people’ is a politically correct way of referring to young Muslims.

“Given current birth rates, it is not impossible that in 25 years France will have a Muslim majority. The consequences are dynamic: is it possible that secular France might become an Islamic state?

“The situation is not dissimilar elsewhere in the EU. Europeans may at some point in the 21st century have to decide whether they wish to retain the diluted but traditional Judaeo-Christian culture of their minority or have it replaced by the Islamic culture of the majority.” (Telegraph, January 26, 2004).

Amiel continues noting: “The state of Christendom in France is perilous. Catholics may not have reached the secular nirvana of the Church of England’s working party that declared the Sunday Sabbath redundant, but French Catholicism, except for little pools of the faithful, is taken with the notion that their Church will be borne forward only if the next Pope is ready to ‘dialogue’ with Islam—a code word that augurs dilution of the faith.”

Simply stated, while Christianity is rapidly declining in most Western European countries, Islam is becoming the fastest growing religion. Old English churches which have been neglected for years, are being bought by Muslim who turned them into splendid Mosques. While church attendance in Europe has reached an all time low of less than 10% of the Christian population, attendance to the Mosques has greatly increased.

Muslim Have Overtaken the Church of England

An article in the Hindustan Times reports: “More people in Britain attend mosques than the Church of England. It is for the first time that Muslims have overtaken Anglicans. According to figures 930,000 Muslims attend a place of worship at least once a week, whereas only 916,000 Anglicans do the same. Muslim leaders are now claiming that, given such a rise of Islam in Britain, Muslims should receive a share of the privileged status of the Church of England.”

Muslim are asking not only for a share in the privilege status of the national Church of England, but also for a greater representation in the House of Lords and the House of Commons. A knowledgeable English friend informed me that it will not be long before Moslem will succeed in electing their own representatives to what is known as the “House of Commons.” This is a democratically elected body who are known as “Members of Parliament” or MPs.

For the first time in European history, Muslims are building large and growing communities across Western Europe, where their numbers have more than doubled in the past two decades. The impact is unfolding from Amsterdam to Paris to Madrid to London, as Muslims struggle with words, votes and sometimes violence, to stake out their place in their adopted countries.

In a recent protest in London, Muslims carried placards with slogans, such as: “Behead Those Who Insult Islam,” “Europe, you will pay, extermination is on the way” and “Butcher those who mock Islam.” They warn Europe of their own impending 9/11 with signs that say: “Europe: Your 9/11 will come.” You can see these disturbing pictures by clicking here: http://www.faithfreedom.org/Gallery/30.htm

In an article entitles “Islam Shaping a New Europe,” published in the Chicago Tribune, Evan Osnos writes: “By midcentury [that is, 2050], at least one in five Europeans will be Muslim. That change is unlike other waves of immigration because it poses a more essential challenge: defining a modern Judeo-Christian-Islamic civilization. The West must decide how its laws and values will shape and be shaped by Islam.

“For Europe, as well as the United States, the question is not which civilization, Western or Islamic, will prevail, but which of Islam’s many strands will dominate. Will it be compatible with Western values or will it reject them?” (Chicago Tribune, December 19, 2004).

In a symposium entitled Muslim Europe or Euro-Islam, the editors Nezar AlSayyad and Manuel Castells of the University of California, Berkeley, write: “Five centuries after the expulsion of Muslims and Jews from Spain, Europe is once again becoming a land of Islam—albeit for a minority of the European population. . . . “Many Europeans have been slow to recognize that there are now large, permanent, indigenous Muslim populations in most of the countries of Europe; that these will not assimilate in the same way as previous waves of migration; and that Islam is now a European religion.”

European Countries Are not Immigrant Societies

To understand the threat of Islam to European countries, it is important to remember that these are not immigrant societies that favor the American melting-pot principle. Immigrants who came to America in the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, came to become Americans. They wanted to shed their past and, within a generation, they did. This has been true of our own family. We came to America 32 years ago to become Americans. We still treasure our Italian heritage, but we have become Americans at heart. We treasure the fact that that America stands for the separation of church and state, not to promote secularism like in Western Europe, but to ensure that no state religion interferes with religious freedom.

The situation is different in European countries. There is no melting-pot principle. You cannot become German or Italian with the same ease with which you become American. More important still, not only is the European environment different, but even the immigrant themselves are different. For example, Muslims have no interest in assimilation at all. They came to European countries as settlers, wanting to establish their own communities, and eager to protect their religion and culture. The result is that countries like France, Germany, Holland, and Britain, have huge Muslim populations which are increasingly alienated from and hostile to mainstream society. “‘Londonistan’ is no longer just a safe haven for foreign extremists. Today, it nurtures home-grown terrorists, many born in Britain, educated at British schools and attending British universities” (The Australian August 21, 2006).

Europe Faces Homegrown Terrorists

The source of terrorism is no longer to be found in the caves of Afghanistan. European colleges have become the new terrorist training camps. An article in the Washington Post indicates that the British Security Service, known as MI5, is overwhelmed by the volume of terrorism suspects and potential plots.

“The British security service disclosed last month that it had about 1,200 Islamic militants under surveillance who were considered capable of carrying out violent attacks. Peter Clarke, the head of Scotland Yard’s anti-terrorism branch, said police were engaged in 70 separate terrorism investigations, the most ever. ‘This is unprecedented and the flow of new cases shows no sign of abating,’ Clarke said. ‘If anything, it is accelerating.’”(Washington Post August 14, 2006).

To meet the heighten threat the British and U. S. governments have increased security measures at airports, but such measures provide an illusion of safety. “Banning toothpaste and lip gloss on airplanes isn’t going to stop terrorists. It’s not a solution to the actual problem. As one Israeli expert noted on CNN: ‘You Americans look for weapons. We look for terrorists.’ Translation: time to profile and stop the ludicrous random checks that lead to searches of grandmothers and infants.” ( Media Cynic, August 14, 2006).

Last Monday when I flew back from London, I had to check in everything, including my carrying case with my precious electronic equipment. I was allowed to carry with me on the plane only my lap top computer. When I retrieved my carying case in Chicago, to my shock I discovered that several valuable items, including my earphone and wireless router, had been stolen. What was supposed to be a security service, proved to be a stealing opportunity. This raises the question: How secure is the security system when some officers are thieves?

My loss was insignificant comparing to the astronomical financial loss of UNITED AIRLINE that had to fly a 777 jumbo plane from London to Chicago practically empty. In business class only 5 of the 38 seats were taken. In Economy Plus where I sat, only 12 of the 90 seats were occupied. It is evident that Muslim terrorists are succeeding in scaring away prospective passengers and causing incalculable financial losses, especially to Britain and America.

The Root of the Muslim Problem

The root of the Muslim problem lies in the blinding effects of their religious indoctrination. Muslims are taught from birth to believe that Islam is the only true religion destined to rule the world. All others relligions are to be suppressed by any means, including warfare, if necessary.

In his book Jihad in Classical and Modern Islam (Princeton 1996), Rudolf Peters, Professor of Islamic Law at the University of Amsterdam, observes: “The crux of the doctrine is the existence of one single Islamic state, ruling the entire umma [Muslim community]. It is the duty of the umma to expand the territory of this state in order to bring as many people under its rule as possible. The ultimate aim is to expand the territory of this state in order to bring the whole earth under the sway of Islam and to extirpate unbelief” (p. 3).

The fact that the expansionistic vision of Islam to bring the whole earth under its sway, has suffered constant set backs during the past two centuries, and especially in recent years, is inspiring some concerned Muslims to commit the terroristic acts reported in the daily news. Their aim is to show that in spite of their state of humiliation, Muslims are still capable of terrorizing Western superpowers like America. This is another way for them to show that Allah is still empowering them to accomplish their mission.

A telling example of this Muslim conviction, is provided by most comprehensive survey to date of Muslim opinion in Britain. According to the report, “When asked, ‘Is Britain my country or their country?’ only one in four say it is.”(National Review, August 14, 2006). This means that 75% of the British Muslims do not view Britain as their country, because it is not yet an Islamic state.

The same report indicates that “Twenty-eight percent British Muslims hope for Great Britain one day to become a fundamentalist Islamic state. This comports with last year’s Daily Telegraph newspaper survey that found one-third of British Muslims believe that Western society is decadent and immoral and that Muslims should seek to end it.” (National Review, August 14, 2006).

An Islamic Threat like the Nazis

The threat posed by radical Muslims to Western European Countries is recognized by social analysts. In an article entitled “An Islam Threat like the Nazis,” published in Washington Times, Tony Blankley, editorial-page editor, describes the present danger posed by militant Islam with these words; “The threat of the radical Islamists taking over Europe is every bit as great to the United States as was the threat of the Nazis taking over Europe in the 1940s. We cannot afford to lose Europe. We cannot afford to see Europe transformed into a launching pad for Islamist jihad.

“While we in the United States and Europe have vast resources for protecting ourselves, we have thought ourselves into a position of near impotence. Beyond the growing number of Muslims committed to terrorism is the threat from the Islamic diaspora’s growing cultural and religious assertiveness—particularly in largely secular Europe, where Muslim cultural assimilation has not occurred.

“It is beginning to dawn on Europeans that the combination of a shrinking ethnic-European population and an expanding, culturally assertive Muslim population might lead to the fall of Western civilization in Europe within a century. (The Washington Times, September 12, 2005).

Are Islam and the Papacy Two Manifestations of the Antichrist?

The preceding observations on the threat that Islam is posing, not only to the Middle East, but also to Europe, should cause Adventists to take a fresh look at a possible prophetic connection between Islam and the Papacy. About two years ago I attempted to explore this connection in a study that generated considerable controversy on the part of a few “ultra-conservative Adventists.” For the sake of peace I decided to suspend the posting of any further research. If you are interested in this study, feel free to contact me at <[email protected]> I will email you information on how to order this study which is included in the new CD-ROM with all my published and unpublished writings.

As we witness today the expansion of Islam through warfare and demographic explosion, perhaps the time has come to reconsider the claim of two Great Reformers, Luther and Calvin, that the Papacy and Islam are the two legs or the two horns of the Antichrist.

The interest of the Reformers for Islam and the Papacy stemmed from the fact that they lived at a time when Papacy had corrupted the Western Church, while Islam was swallowing up much of what was left of the Eastern Church. In many ways the Muslims threat was as real in Luther and Calvin’s days, as the threat of Muslims expansion is today through terroristic acts and demographic explosion.

In the light of the historic role Islam has played during the past fifteenth centuries in persecuting God’s people and promoting false worship, should we as Adventists today include also Islam among the key players of the final showdown over worship? Let us give prayerful consideration to this suggestion!

MESSAGES OF ENCOURAGEMENT ABOUT MORE THAN A PROPHET

Were you to ask me, “Sam, what motivates you to spend long hours preparing your newsletters and writing books?” My answer would be simple: “It is the satisfaction of helping sincere fellow believers in many parts of the world to understand and experience more fully Bible truths.”

My greatest reward comes in the form of messages of appreciation and encouragement I constantly receive. A few messages are long, but most of them are very short, consisting of a paragraph or two. For example, a pastor wrote: “Thank you for your initiave and courage to publish More than a Prophet. It could not have come out at a better time. Several families in our church were considering leaving because of serious questions about Ellen White. I ordered a case of 30 copies and I gave a copy of the book to each family. So far the response has been very positive. They seem to have gained a new appreciation for Ellen White. I just wanted you to know how helpful the book has been for our congregation. God’s blessing in your ministry.”

Of special encouragement are the messages from members who were on the verge of leaving the church. After reading More than a Prophet, their faith was reaffirmed on Ellen White’s prophetic gift. An example is brother, Lance Wearmouth, who gave me the permission to mention his name. He was “teetering on the edge” of leaving the church. He found the book so helpful that he has gone as far as offering the use of his credit card to two local churches to order cases of the book. Let me share with you a few paragraph from the message he sent out to his own list of church members.

“Dear Friends:

I have almost finished reading the book More than a Prophet by Dr. Graeme S. Bradford. This book needs to be read by every Adventist. It is made available through the services of Sam Bacchiocchi for only $5 a book for a case of 30 copies. The retail price for a single copy is $25.00. I have obtained for myself a copy of the book, together with the album containing a CD of all of Bradford’s publications and a DVD with a 2 hour live presentation on ‘More than a Prophet’. . . .

At a time when Ellen White is being attacked by hundreds of websites and disgruntled former and current Adventists, this book tells of the human side of Ellen White and deals with the many negative statements abounding around at present. . . .

The book sets right what should have been revealed to the church following the 1919 general conference, the notes of which were unfortunately hidden away until the mid 1970’s.

The church is in danger of loosing altogether all the blessings the writings of Ellen White contain, if it does not face reality. Many members and quite a few Pastors have already left the church over the issue of Ellen White and how she is viewed and used in the church.

This book seeks to prevent this situation and also seeks to win back former Adventists who have left the church after being disgruntled over what they have discovered about Ellen White and what the anti EGW websites are saying. I myself have been teetering on the edge for quite a while and once submitted a resignation in the early 1990’s, mainly over the church’s attitude to Ellen White.

I have offered Pastors of the Harrisville and Ipswich churches the facility of my credit card to purchase cases of 30 books for distribution to members. I am also willing to assist individual members get hold of this timely book. I will also make my electronic copies available for loan and have offered the DVD 2 hour presentation to both churches.

Feel free to contact me if you want my assistance.

Peace be unto you.

Lance Wearmouth”

Thank you, Brother Wearmouth for your unselfish efforts to promote More than a Prophet. As a result of such efforts over 3000 copies were sold during the past two months. If you or your church have not yet ordered copies of More than a Prophet, we would be glad to send them to you immediately. To facilitate the distribution of this timely book, we offer it by the case of 30 copies for the basic cost price of $5.00 per copy, instead of the retail price of $25.00. This means that the cost for a case of 30 copies is only $150.00, mailing expenses included, instead of the regular price of $750.00.

Furthermore, to facilitate your promotional efforts, with a case of 30 books, we offer also Prof. Bradford CD/DVD album containing two disks, one with his publications and the other with his two hour live video lecture on Ellen White. See the details below or at the website: http://www.biblicalperspectives.com/BradfordOffer/offer.htm

AN ENCOURAGING RESPONSE FROM A FORMER CRITIC OF THE DVD ON THE MARK AND NUMBER OF THE BEAST

A few months ago I shared with you the highlights of my research on The Mark and Number of the Beast. This research was commissioned by Prof. Jon Paulien, Chairman of the NT Department at Andrews University Theological Seminary, and Prof. Ranko Stefanovich, Professor of NT and author of the widely acclaimed Commentary on Revelation. I was asked to investigate the historical interpretation of 666 (Rev 13:8), especially as it relates to the pope’s title Vicarius Filii Dei.

The response surpassed my fondest expectations. Practically every person who attended first the lectures at the Seminary and then the live two hours video recording at the Andrews University Tower Auditorium, was eager to order the DVD album with 195 powerpoint slides which are included as a separate file at the end of the second DVD disk. Since then, requests for the DVD on The Mark and Number of the Beast, have come in from many parts of the world. Some conference presidents have also invited me to share this research with their workers.

Study Challenged by a Small Group of Adventists

But, a small group of about 15 Adventists, mostly pastors and a few lay persons, attempted to challenge my symbolic interpretation of 666, accusing me of abandoning the traditional application of 666 to the pope’s title Vicarius Filii Dei, allegedly inscribed in the papal tiara. The accusation ignore two things. First, our church papers Adventist Review and Ministry have issued warnings against the application of 666 to the pope’s title Vicarius Filii Dei, because such title has never been found on papal tiaras, in spite of GC sponsored investigations.

Second, my study does not represent a personal, isolated interpretation. Rather, it expands the symbolic interpretation proposed in Adventist publications, especially the Sabbath School Lesson of June 1-7, 2002, which deals with the Mark and Number of the Beast. Its principal author, Dr. Angel Rodriguez, Director of the Biblical Research Institute, offers compelling reasons for abandoning the traditional numeric interpretation of the pope’s title Vicarius Filii Dei, and for adopting instead the symbolic interpretation of the number 666. About 150 church leaders pre-approved the content of the Sabbath School Quarterly before it went to the press. My study expands the arguments of the Sabbath School lesson, offering valuable documentation that took me six months to gather.

Unfortunately, the small group attacking my interpretation, chose to ignore recent Adventist studies, arguing instead among themselves for the defense of the traditional application of 666 to the pope’s title Vicarius filii Dei. This is a good example of the blinding effect of tradition. It makes people afraid to examine any new study that could cause them to change their views. Such a close mind-set is strongly condemned by Ellen White, as shown in the study you are about to read. A member of the group, however, Wendell Slattery, a perceptive Adventist, decided to break ranks with the group, by purchasing the DVD album in order to view it critically.

After viewing the DVD and reading the script of the 195 powerpoint slides, he shared his reaction with the group. He has given me permission to quote a few paragraphs from his lengthy evaluation. What I appreciate about Brother Wendell, is his willingness to examine my study, though at first he was prone to reject.

In his message to the group, Wendell writes: “Dr. Bacchiocchi invited me to purchase a copy of his DVD album on The Mark and the Number of the Beast. I did purchase a copy and have carefully reviewed both the video and the PowerPoint slides.

“I must say the information he gathered together to demonstrate that Vicarius Filii Dei is historically based on a forgery, is most interesting, impressive, and very useful. I have found some of this same material from my own research in the past, but he adds quite a bit of useful information to it. The copies of the documents and the history behind them that he includes are worth a lot regardless of your position on the Vicarius Filii Dei. . . .

“I am disappointed with those who do not seem interested to giving Dr. Bacchiocchi a full hearing. When I called Dr. Bacchiocchi to order the DVDs, he informed me that none of you to that point in time, had bothered to order a copy for yourselves. Apparently, he sent to one of you a complimentary review album, but so far no word has come to him on whether that person viewed it or not. Perhaps that person did. I would certainly hope so. I can tell you from having viewed the DVD, that you will learn things of value. That does not mean you will agree with all his conclusions, but the information on the DVDs is worth hearing. . . .

“Whether you agree or disagree with him, all of you should give him a fair hearing on this. While it is true that Ellen White did tell us no to listen to certain things, the question of the interpretation of 666, is not one of them. As a matter of fact, she says the following about giving people a fair hearing on positions that differ from our own:

“We are on dangerous ground when we cannot meet together like Christians, and courteously examine controverted points. I feel like fleeing from the place lest I receive the mold of those who cannot candidly investigate the doctrines of the Bible.” (1SM 411.1; Emphasis supplied)

“Those who cannot impartially examine the evidences of a position that differs from theirs, are not fit to teach in any department of God’s cause. What we need is the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Without this, we are no more fitted to go forth to the world than were the disciples after the crucifixion of their Lord” (1SM 411.2; Emphasis supplied). . .

“Dr. Bacchiocchi makes it plain in his DVD that not a few scholars and church leaders hold to the same symbolic interpretation.He is encouraged by the many favorable reviews. He mentions also that 250 people [actually 150] or so reviewed the 2002 Sabbath School Lesson in which the symbolic interpretation was presented. That probably represents a a good number of church leaders! Thus, this is not an interpretation that has the support of only a few Adventists. A good number of influential people in the church have at least accepted that this interpretation is probably right and should be taught. . . .

“As for Dr. Bacchiocchi’s video presentation, I thought it is very effectively done. He is a good speaker and interesting to listen to. I enjoy his Italian accent too, though with my hearing difficulty, it does cause me a bit of a problem sometimes. . . . I strongly urge each of you to consider buying a copy of Dr. Bacchiocchi’s DVD album on The Mark and Number of the Beast. It will be worth your time to view the live video lecture and carefully analyze the powerpoint slides with the script.

“In another week or two, I’ll send out part II of this series.

Wendell Slattery”

Brother Wendell is to be commended for his willingness to examine my study on the Mark of the Beast, in spite of his initial critical attitude toward it. He may not agree with every aspect of my study, but that is not an issue. The issue is: Are we willing to expose ourselves to biblical studies that can broaden our understanding of Bible teachings, or do we avoid any study that may cause us to modify our views? The warning of Ellen White is unequivocal: “Those who cannot impartially examine the evidences of a position that differs from theirs, are not fit to teach in any department of God’s cause.” (1SM 411.2; Emphasis supplied)

The history of the Adventist church is a history of theological growth. This is exemplified even in the life of Ellen White. Prof. Bradford’s essay you are about to read will help you appreciate how Ellen White changed her views on certain Bible teachings during her lifetime. Let us follow the worthy example of Ellen White by striving to grow in knowledge and grace.

If you have not yet ordered the DVD album on The Mark and Number of the Beast, you are still in time to take advantage of the special introductory offer of $50.00, instead of $100.00. The airmailing expenses to any foreign country are included in the special price. See the details below or by clicking here: http://www.biblicalperspectives.com/BeastAD/

CRACKING THE DA VINCI CODE

The preparation for the video-taping of the lecture on “Cracking the Da Vinci Code” is proceeding slowly. While in London, I was able to devote a few days to this project. By God’s grace, I will spend every spare moment to this project for the next few weeks, hoping to be ready for the recording before the end of September.

I have spent considerable time viewing over 20 powerpoint presentations on The Da Vinci Code done by competent scholars and church leaders. This has been a learning experience for me. I wanted to see which are the issues of the book and/or movie and how they are dealt with.

This preparatory review of existing powerpoint lectures, has convinced me that what is missing in the studies that I have seen, is an understanding of the REAL CONSPIRACY hidden in The Da Vinci Code. Most authors spend their time exposing the fallacies of the alledged Catholic conspiracy to conduct, through secret societies, a massive cover up to conceal from the public the truth that Jesus married Mary Magdalene, had a daughter name Sarah, and his bloodline extends to this very day. Such a conspiracy is laughable for its absurdity and hardly deserves a lengthy refutation. The same is true of the claim that Constantine arbitrarily chose the four Gospels, rejecting the 80 Gnostic gospels. Any one familiar with the history of the early church and of the formation of the NT canon, find such claims totally absurd.

In my mind what deserves serious consideration is the REAL CONSPIRACY hidden in the The Da Vinci Code. This is not the CATHOLIC CONSPIRACY, which is totally devoid of historical support, but DAN BROWN CONSPIRACY. In subtle, deceptive ways, Dan Brown conspires to destroy the credibility of Christianity, in order to promote his neo-pagan style of worship with ritual sex.

For example, Robert Langdon, a main character of the novel that plays the role Professor of Religious Symbology, explains to Sophie Neveu that “although what she saw probably looked like a sex ritual, Hieros Gamos [sacred marriage] had nothing to do with eroticism. It was a spiritual act. Historically, intercourse was the act through which male and female experienced God. The ancients believed that the male was spiritually incomplete until he had carnal knowledge of the sacred feminine. Physical union with the female remained the sole means through which man could become spiritually complete and ultimately achieve gnosis – knowledge of the divine. Since the days of Isis, sex rites had been considered man’s only bridge from earth to heaven. ‘By communing with woman, ‘ Langdon said, ‘man could achieve a climactic instant when his mind went totally blank and he could see God.’ Sophie looked skeptical. ‘Orgasm as prayer?’” (DVC 308-309).

Brown’s secret agenda is to discredit Christianity, in order for him to promote a neo-pagan, humanistic self-centered type of worship, that excludes the God of biblical revelation. It is the worship of the “sacred feminine” with ritual sex. The sad reality is that million of people in various countries, according to recent surveys, are accepting The Da Vinci deception.

The impact of this deception is greatest in European countries where Christianity has become a cultural vestige of the past. In England, for example, according to Opinion Research Business (ORB) poll, 60% of the people who read the Da Vinci Code, believe that Jesus had children with Mary Magdalene.

A major question I intend to discuss in the video lecture, is the prophetic implications of the false worship promoted by the Dan Brown book and movie. How does it fit into the prophetic scenario of the endtime showdown over worship? Is Dan Brown one of the key players like the Papacy and Islam? I look forward to complete this project and to offer you the DVD to enjoy.

ANNOUNCEMENTS AT THE END OF THE NEWSLETTERS

A detailed description of the special offers on goods and services is provided at the end of this newsletter. Here is a brief listing of the announcements that are expanded at the end of this newsletter.

1. CALENDAR OF FORTHCOMING WEEKEND SEMINARS for the months of September and October 2006. See the details at the end of this newsletter.

2. PROF. BRADFORD NEWLY RELEASED BOOK MORE THAN A PROPHET, AND HIS CD/DVD ALBUM. Both the book, the CD/DVD album, are being offered at a special introductory price. See the details at the end of this newsletter.

3. DR. BACCHIOCCHI’S NEW DVD ALBUM ON THE MARK AND NUMBER OF THE BEAST. See the details at the end of this newsletter.

4. DR. BACCHIOCCHI’S PACKAGE OF ALL HIS RECORDINGS. The package consists of 5 albums which are offered for only $100.00, instead of the regular price of $500.00. See the details at the end of this newsletter.

5. PROF. JON PAULIEN PUBLICATIONS IN ONE CD ALBUM.  The album contains more than a dozen of books and scores of articles written during the past 20 years of research. See the details at the end of this newsletter.

6. PROF. JON PAULIEN’S 60 CD DISKS containing 120 lectures that explain verse by verse the book of Revelation. See the details at the end of this newsletter.

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EDITORIAL INTRODUCTION

Samuele Bacchiocchi, Ph. D.

Retired Prof. of Theology and Church History

Andrews University

The essay you are about to read on “Ellen White’s Theological Growth,” is taken from chapter 15 of More than a Prophet. You have already read two other chapters of this timely book in recent newsletters.

In this chapter Prof. Graeme Bradford deals with Ellen White’s theological growth. It may surprise you to learn that over the years Ellen White changed her positions as a result of further Bible study. She was not embarassed to change her views. She wanted her doctrinal understanding to be in harmony with any new light shed by further Biblle studies. She was nto bound to traditional teachings, as some Adventist are today.

So far I have posted three chapters of More than Prophet, because I wanted to give you a foretaste of the book. I believe that the proof is in the pudding. If you have found these chapters enlightening, please order a copy of the book without delay. Thank you also for announcing to your church members the possibility of ordering a case of 30 copies, for only $5.00 per copy, instead of $25.00. You will see that this timely study wil help your church members to discover and appreciate the REAL Ellen White.

“Ellen White’s Theological Growth”

Graeme Bradford, D. Min.,

Retired Professor of Theology

Avondale College, Australia

Ellen White theological growth is a fascinating journey to trace. Take, for example, her understanding of the meaning of the law in Galatians. In the 1850s J. H. Waggoner had written a book in which he took the position that the law in Galatians was the moral law. Stephen Pierce opposed him arguing that it was the law system including the ceremonial law. She opposed Waggoner and supported Pierce. Later the denominational position accepted that the law in Galatians was the ceremonial law alone. She supported this position. She published this view in her book Sketches from the Life of Paul.

At the time of the debate over the subject at Minneapolis in 1888 she began to doubt the position she had held that it was the ceremonial law. When hearing E. J. Waggoner, “For the first time I began to think it might be we did not hold correct views, after all upon the law in Galatians.” It seems she did change her position again later when Acts of the Apostles was published in 1911. She wrote of the moral law as the schoolmaster. (Some scholars today would say this position is incorrect and would contend that the law referred to in Galatians means the Torah as a covenant and national system.)

In the context of the debate over the law in Galatians around 1888 she came out with statements like: “We have many lessons to learn, and many, many to unlearn. God and heaven alone are infallible. Those who think that they will never have to give up a cherished view, never have occasion to change an opinion, will be disappointed.”201

The illustrates well that we find her changing her position on the basis of others pointing out a more correct position from the Bible. She was prepared to change her own previously published position on a basis of further Bible study.202 She also refused to let her writings be the final arbiter in the matter; instead she requested that the matter be resolved from the Bible alone.

This was also her way of handling the controversy over the “Daily” which raged for decades in Adventism. She had previously written that the pioneer position was correct. The pioneer position was that the Daily mentioned in Daniel chapter 8 represented Pagan Rome.203 A new position was put forward that it represented the Papacy in their counterfeit of the work of Christ through the mass. The new view was opposed by old stalwarts who appealed to the statement in Early Writings as having settled the matter forever. Ellen White eventually took herself out of the contest by declaring that she had no special light on the matter and that they should work it out from the Bible and not her writings.204

We find that she could also change her position on the proper time to open and close Sabbath. For a time she felt it should be kept from 6 p. m. to 6 p. m. However others convinced her it was more biblical to observe the Sabbath from sunset to sunset.205 At first she felt it was acceptable to eat pork and proclaimed it to be “a healthy and nourishing food.” Later, when it was pointed out to her that this was not the case, she changed her position.206 Some have criticised her for requesting oysters in a letter she wrote to her daughter-in-law in 1882, but they fail to understand that the distinction between clean and unclean foods was largely an undeveloped concept in Adventism in the nineteenth century.207

Early Adventists had in their copy of the Bible the books of the Apocrypha. Most Christians in her era probably thought that although the Apocrypha did not rate on the same level as the Bible yet these books did contain some wisdom and truth. Today Protestants have these books removed from their Bibles and they are usually found only in Roman Catholic Bibles. It comes as a surprise to some Adventists to see in her writings, such as “A Word to the Little Flock,” references to 2 Esdras. These references were added by James White in the footnotes. That she would refer to the language used by an Apocryphal book would not appear strange or wrong to her, her husband or early Adventists. The later writings of Ellen White do not contain such allusions or references. She, along with the rest of the Protestant world, gradually saw a clearer distinction between these books and the Bible.208

These points are important. To fail to detect her theological growth means you may be able to see inconsistencies within her writings. You can pit the early Ellen White against the later; but that would be unfair and constitute a failure to see what really was one of her strengths—her ability to grow in her understanding. But in seeing her strengths we must also acknowledge her weaknesses. As an ordinary human being, we must let her be what she was and honestly accept that. At times she does not always appear to be consistent in what she says.

The Importance of Context

It is true that she encouraged openness to finding out more from the Bible. But there are times when she seems to put the dampener on more investigation and growth. The following few examples demonstrate this. First a sampling of the statements which seem to invite open inquiry: “Our brethren should be willing to investigate in a candid way every point of controversy. . . . We should all know what is being taught among us; for if it is the truth, we need it. . . . If the pillars of our faith will not stand the test of investigation, it is time that we knew it. . . . We must study the truth for ourselves. No living man should be relied upon to think for us. . . .”209

On the other hand she wrote: “As a people we are to stand firm on the platform of eternal truth that has withstood test and trial. We are to hold to the sure pillars of our faith. . . . No line of truth that has made the Seventh-day Adventist people what they are, is to be weakened. We have the old landmarks of truth. . . . Woe to him who shall move a block or stir a pin of these messages. . . . Not one pin is to be removed from that which the Lord has established. The enemy will bring in false theories, such as the doctrine that there is no sanctuary. This is one of the points on which there will be a departing from the faith. Where will we find safety unless it be in the truths that the Lord has been giving for the last fifty years.”210

In Adventist history, whenever the church is about to look at some new point of view from the Scriptures, both types of statements are appealed to. Usually those who are for the new ideas will quote the former and those who are against the new ideas will quote the latter. So, which is the real Ellen White?

Generally speaking, the statements she makes appealing for openness are dated around the 1880s and 1890s. This was during the discussions over the meaning of the word “law” in Galatians. It was a time when the gospel news was about to make a greater impact on Adventism. At this time she stood with those advocating uplifting Jesus. She is saying to the old vanguard to open up their minds and allow this uplifting of Jesus to bring us back into a more balanced position. She did this even though it would appear that not all they were saying was correct—for instance, recent studies indicate that both Jones and Waggoner were advocating a form of sinless perfectionism.211

On the other hand the statements that appear to close the door against new understandings come at the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century. This was the era of Kellogg and his teachings. Kellogg’s teachings were coming close to pantheism. If he was right, then it would lead to the teaching that there was no sanctuary in heaven. These new ideas would have brought confusion to the Adventist movement. She personally stood against them and saved the church from being shipwrecked.

There were other times when she used her prophetic office to put people down and effectively end discussion. Such was the case with A. F. Ballenger and his ideas on the sanctuary. She said that he had gathered together a mass of Scripture and his application of these passages was misleading. She appears not to have attempted to show where he was wrong from the Bible rather she defended the traditional views on a basis of “the remarkable beginnings and the long history of the doctrine, and the confirmation of the doctrine given to her in her own visions.”212 It is significant that she does not even try to exegete the passages of Scripture used by Ballenger rather she says this truth had been “sought out by prayerful study, and testified to by the miracle working power from the Lord.”213 It is to her visions that she makes the final court of appeal.214

In 1906 she wrote to an evangelist W. W. Simpson: “The visions that the Lord has given me are so remarkable that we know that what we have accepted is the truth. . . . The power of God would come on me, and I was enabled clearly to define what is truth, and what is error. . . . under the demonstration of the Holy Spirit. I would be taken off in vision, and explanations would be given to me. . . . All these truths are immortalized in my writings. . . . I am thankful that the instruction contained in my books establishes present truth for this time. These books were written under the demonstration of the Holy Spirit.”215

She also wrote in a letter to her son Willie, “For there is instruction that the Lord has given me for His people. It is the light that they should have, line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little there a little. This is now to come before the people, because it has been given to correct specious errors and to specify what is truth”216 (emphasis added).

These statements have serious implications. She appeals to her experiences as the final authority for the teachings of the church. If this is true then the experiences of the church through her prophetic gift becomes the final authority for Adventist doctrines. If that is so then the church may be said to have another authority outside of the Scriptures. This is not consistent with what she says elsewhere. It could be that when she sees the future of the church at stake and threatened, she sees the need to use the full weight of her prophetic authority to keep everything in place.

But, there are also those other statements where, in many other places she says we are not to use her writings to settle doctrinal issues. For instance, “The testimonies of Sister White should not be carried to the front. God’s Word is the unerring standard. The Testimonies are not to take the place of the Word. . . . Let all prove their positions from the Scriptures and substantiate every point the claim as truth from the revealed Word of God.”217 And “But God will have a people upon the earth to maintain the Bible, and the Bible only, as the standard of all doctrines, and the basis of all reforms. . . . Before accepting any doctrine or precept we should demand a plain ‘Thus saith the Lord in its support.”218

Indeed she seems condemned by her own counsel when she says, “But as real spiritual life declines, it has ever been the tendency to cease to advance in the knowledge of the truth. Men rest satisfied with the light already received from God’s Word, and discourage any further investigation of the Scriptures. They become conservative and seek to avoid discussion.”219

There is an inconsistency in these statements. And in this we find a revelation of her humanity. What human can pass the test of always being consistent in what we say and what we live—now stretch that over a 60-year ministry. However, that does not invalidate the fact that she has been genuinely used of God. Remember, earlier we discovered that some of the great men, used in the Bible by God, were not always consistent either. She certainly was using all her prophetic authority to protect Adventism against what she perceived to be threatening teachings, in doing this she may not have always been consistent with her often made statements regarding the importance of recognising no other authority than the Bible.

The Issue of Ellen White’s Authority

There are some important principles at stake here. Are Seventh-day Adventists truly Protestants as they claim? If so, then we are to have no other authority in doctrine outside the Bible. Fundamental Belief number one states: “The Holy Scriptures are the infallible revelation of his will. They are the standard of character, the test of experience, the authoritative revealer of doctrines, and the trustworthy record of God’s acts in history.”

The church’s first baptismal vows states: “Do you believe that the Bible is the full, sufficient and only basic rule of faith and practice for the Christian?” Do new converts have to give assent to this only to be told later that they must bow their judgment to Ellen White?

When asked to explain further the authority of Ellen White, the General Conference put out a statement of “Affirmations and Denials.” Here are a few: “We believe that Scripture is the foundation of faith and the final authority in all matters of doctrine and practice.” “We do not believe that the writings of Ellen White function as the foundation and final authority of Christian faith as does Scripture.” “We do not believe that the writings of Ellen White may be used as the basis of doctrine.” And, “We do not believe that Scripture can be understood only through the writings of Ellen White.”220

It is important to note that what is at stake is not her inspiration, but her authority. At the present time there is going on in the church widespread discussion among members that take into account issues such as:

What if she is not always totally original? She did borrow from others, who can sort out what is borrowed and what has been shown to her?

What if she is not always totally accurate? We know she did not always use the best sources available or use them correctly.

What about the fact that she lived in a world so different to us today? That was a world when Adventism was mainly in North America. She only lived fifteen years into the 20th century and never saw most of the big issues we have to face today.

Then, in what way is she an authority for the church today? Authority today is not something that can be claimed it must be earned. We have a division of opinion at the present time to these questions. While some will say she is an authority and we must not question her right to prescribe to us, there is a growing number (particularly among the younger generation) who would say she has no relevance today. This discussion has been going on in the homes and hearts of thousands of Adventists since the early 1980s.

So what is Ellen White’s function? This is a question we will continue to wrestle with here, in this book, and in other places. A lot is at stake. The question must be asked, Are we a free people? Free to grow in our understanding of the Bible? Free to disagree with what she has written in the areas of science, health, history, prophecy and education, etc. What should a person do if they find they have come to some other conclusion than what she has written? Do they surrender their private judgement? These questions are crucial to the future of Adventism.

Here again we must keep before us the statement in Scripture telling us the purpose of prophecy. This passage is the only place in the New Testament that defines the purpose of prophecy. “But everyone who prophecies speaks to men for their strengthening, encouragement, and comfort”(1 Corinthians 14: 3).

There can be no doubt that she earned tremendous respect from her contemporaries in Adventism as they found her able to give advice and counsel that was so often correct and timely. When a person is in close contact with God over so long a period of time, as she was, their abilities in the area of wisdom and discernment can be sharpened. She herself was conscious of this when she wrote to her critics, “For the last forty-five years the Lord has been revealing to me the needs of His cause and the cases of individuals in every phase of experience, showing where and how they have failed to perfect Christian character. The history of hundreds of cases has been presented to me, and that which God approves, and that which He condemns, has been plainly set before me. . . .

With the light communicated through the study of His word, with the special knowledge given of individual cases among His people under all circumstances and in every phase of experience, can I now be in the same ignorance, the same mental uncertainty and spiritual blindness, as at the beginning of this experience? Will my brethren say that Sister White has been so dull a scholar that her judgement in this direction is no better than before she entered Christ’s school, to be trained and disciplined for a special work? Am I no more intelligent in regard to the duties and perils of God’s people than are those before whom these things have never been presented? I would not dishonor my Maker by admitting that all this light, all the display of His mighty power in my work and experience, has been valueless, that it has not educated my judgement or better fitted me for His work.”221

She earned the respect of her contemporaries and, in turn, they gave her authority. She was established, in their minds, with prophetic authority because of her wise counsel. However, umpires in sport can have authority even when they make a wrong decision. Today we can see that, in hindsight, she did at times make some wrong calls. But that does not rob her of her prophetic authority anymore than Nathan lost his when he gave the wrong advice to David regarding the building of the temple. Or when John the Baptist got it wrong regarding the nature of the kingdom that Christ was setting up.

So what sort of authority does she have with the Adventist community? We know that some would want to give her formal authority. That is, her words are always taken to be true simply because she say so. To them she is the last word on the sciences of biology, geology and history, as well as theology. They would say she can tell you how tall was Adam, how old is the earth and what causes earthquakes. But that type of authority has now gone forever as more Adventists become aware of her sources in some of those areas. No longer can she speak outside of her culture as a timeless voice of authority.

Many others in Adventism would say that they prefer to give her “internal authority.” That is when she speaks we will listen to what she has to say and treat her words with respect as one so often used by God. However, when she speaks, they declare that they will weigh up the “intrinsic truthfulness” of what she has to say. They are saying that they will have to be convinced by the strength of argument that she presents. As such they are wittingly or unwittingly following Paul’s counsel of 1 Corinthians 14: 29 and 1 Thessalonians 5: 21 where Paul admonishes believers to “judge” or “test” the ideas that come from prophets.

In doing this they also follow the counsel of Ellen White herself who when rebuking those who took an inflexible approach to what she had previously written concerning the age children should commence school, said, “That is how it is, and my mind has been greatly stirred in regard to the idea, ‘Why, Sister White has said so and so, and Sister White has said so and so; and therefore we are going right up to it.’ God wants us all to have common sense, and He wants us to reason from common sense. Circumstances alter conditions. Circumstances change the relation of things.”222

Accepting her prophetic authority does not involve laying aside our mind or personal judgment. It means that we will listen carefully to what she has to say and, guided by the same Spirit who gave her a prophetic ministry, we will make valued judgements as to the wisdom of the counsel as Paul admonishes in 1 Corinthians 14: 29 and 1 Thessalonians 5: 21.

ENDNOTES

For the sake of brevity, the endnotes has been left out. You will find the notes at the end of More than a Prophet.

UPCOMING WEEKEND SEMINARS

As a service to our subscribers, I am listing the date and the location of the upcoming seminars for the months of September and October 2006. I wish to extend my personal, warm invitation to all who are able to attend one of the followings rallies.

SEPTEMBER 15-16: CANADA - KENDALWOOD SDA CHURCH

Location: 300 Kendalwood Road, Whitby, Ontario L1N 2G3, Canada

For information call Pastor Hymers Wilson, at (905) 728-6459

SEPTEMBER 22-23: RIDGECREST SDA CHURCH

Location: 555 West Las Flores Avenue, Ridgecrest, CA 93555

For information call Pastor John D Aiken at (760) 499-7475 or (760) 221-5448

SEPTEMBER 29-30: ORLANDO -ALTAMONTE SPRINGS SDA CHURCH

Location: 455 Mailand Avenue, Altamonte Springs, Florida 32701

For information call Pastor Ron Bentzinger at (407) 767-7522

OCTOBER 6-7: CANADA -MISSISSAUGA SDA CHURCH

Location: 2250 Credit Valley Road, Mississauga, Ontario L5M 4L9, Canada.

For information call Pastor Nerval Myrie at (905) 755-0014 or (416) 303-7287.

OCTOBER 13-14: ONTARIO SDA CHURCH, CALIFORNIA

Location: 856 North Sultana Avenue, Ontario, CA 91764

For information call Pastor Mike Leno at (909) 997-7870 or (909) 986-8261.

OCTOBER 20-21: LOS ANGELES - NORWALK SDA CHURCH

Location: 12191 Firestone Boulevard, Norwalk, CA 90650.

For information call Pastor Frank Haynes at (562) 863-0614 or (909) 399-0949

OCTOBER 27-28: OMAHA: WESTSIDE COMMUNITY CONFERENCE CENTER

Location: 3534 South 108th Street, Omaha, NE 68144.

For information call Pastor Jim Anderson at (402) 932-0046 or (402) 616-7811.

ANNOUNCEMENTS OF SERVICES AND PRODUCTS

NEW RELEASES BY PROF. GRAEME BRADFORD

* The book More than a Prophet

* The CD/DVD album with Prof. Bradford’s writings

and live video lecture on Ellen White

The book More than a Prophet

The book More than a Prophet was born out of the raging controversy over the credibility of Ellen White as an inspired writer. This timely book that can restore confidence in the prophetic ministry of Ellen White and help reclaim former Adventists who have left the church because of unresolved questions about Ellen White’s writings.

With clear reasoning and compelling documentation, Prof. Bradford helps the reader to rediscover the TRUE Ellen White–a frail woman used by God in a mighty way, in spite of her limitations and personal problems. She has left a rich legacy not only for the Seventh-day Adventist Church but for the world at large.

The CD/DVD Album with Prof. Bradford’s Publications and Video Recording

The CD-ROM Disk

The CD disk offers a searchable data base of most of Prof. Graeme Bradford published and unpublished writings. It includes also the latest book More than a Prophet! During the past 30 years, he has written books and articles on a wide variety of subjects such as occultism, near death experiences, Israel in Prophecy, expository preaching, kids and drugs, the Bible and Archeology, and endtime prophecies. His articles always offer a refreshing biblical perspective on current issues.

Until now Prof. Bradford’s books and articles were available only in a printed form, often unavailable at local ABC stores. In view of my indebtedness to Prof. Bradford scholarship, I have offered to help him to place all of his books and articles on a CD album. This makes it possible with the ACROBAT global search, to locate immediately what he has written on biblical texts or current topics.

You will find in this collection a priceless resource to enrich your understanding and experience of biblical truths. You will especially appreciate his latest book More than a Prophet–a book that has been long overdue and will do much to restore confidence in the validity of Ellen White’s prophetic ministry.

The DVD Video Recording

On June 20, a professional crew recorded Prof. Bradford’s popular two hours powerpoint lecture on “More than a Prophet,” at the Avondale College Media Center in Australia. With the help of 75 slides, he discusses in an open and objective ways the major issues related to the prophetic ministry of Ellen White.

This lectures clears the air of prevailing misconceptions about Ellen White which have caused thousands of Adventists to leave church. Listening to this dynamic, visual presentation will enhance your appreciation for the gift of prophecy manifested in the writings, preaching, and teachings of Ellen White.

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CD/DVD ALBUM WITH PROF. BRADFORD’S PUBLICATIONS AND VIDEO LECTURE

The Album contains both the CD disk with all Prof. Bradford’s publications and the DVD disk with his two hours video lecture. The introductory offer is only $50.00 (instead of $100.00). Airmailing expenses are included to any foreign destination.

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SPECIAL OFFER ON THE NEW DVD ALBUM ON THE MARK AND NUMBER OF THE BEAST

The DVD album consists of two disks which contain the live recording that was done at the Andrews University Towers Auditorium on Wednesday, February 1, 2006. The marathon lecture lasted over two hours and was delivered with the help of 175 powerpoint slides. The lecture was introduced by Prof. Jon Paulien and Prof. Ranko Stefanovich, two foremost Adventist experts on the book of Revelation.

You will be thrilled by this passionate lecture that will help you understand what the mark and number of the beast are all about. This prophecy is not about external markings, barcodes, biochips, or pope’s titles, but rather about the internal control of the mind of every human being. It is a battle over who will people worship in the final showdown: the true God or Satan. This visual presentation will help you to see the role of the Sabbath in the battle over worship in the endtime showdown.

At the end of the second DVD disk, there is a separate powerpoint file with all the 195 slides and accompanying script. This should prove to be a valuable resource for evangelists, pastors, and anyone engaged in sharing the prophetic message of Revelation. They can use some of the stunning pictures for their own presentation.

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SPECIAL OFFER ON THE 5 ALBUMS CONTAINING ALL OF DR. BACCHIOCCHI’S PUBLICATIONS AND RECORDINGS

 In occasion of the release of the new DVD album on The Mark and Number of the Beast, I am pleased to offer you the complete package of all my DVD and CD recordings, consisting of 5 Albums, for only $100.00, instead of the regular price of $500.00. This is a one-time incredible offer.

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CD-ROM WITH PROF. JON PAULIEN BOOKS & ARTICLES

Prof. Jon Paulien is one of the most respected Adventist scholars. Besides serving as the chairman of the New Testament at Andrews University Theological Seminary, he writes and lectures extensively in many parts of the world.

Until now Prof. Paulien books and articles were available only in a printed form, often unavailable at local ABC stores. In view of my indebtedness to Prof. Paulien’s scholarship, I have offered to help him to place all of his books and articles on a CD disk. This makes it possible with the ACROBAT global search, to locate immediately what he has written on biblical texts or current topics.

The new CD-ROM, released on May 1, 2006, contains more than a dozen of books and scores of articles written by Prof. Paulien during the past 20 years of research. You will find in this collection a priceless resource to enrich your understanding and experience of biblical truths. Prof. Paulien examines fundamental biblical beliefs in a profound and yet popular way. He is a recognized expert on the book of Revelation. Several of his books will help you to unlock the secrets of Revelation.

         The special introductory offer of the newly released CD-ROM ALBUM with all of Prof. Paulien books and articles is only $35.00 instead of the regular price of $50.00. The price includes the airmailing expenses to any overseas destination.

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(2)  Phone: By calling us at (269) 471-2915 to give us your credit card number and postal address.

(3) Email:  By emailing your order to <[email protected]>.

(4) Regular Mail: By mailing a check for $175.00 to BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES, 4990 Appian Way, Berrien Springs, Michigan 4990, USA. We guarantee to process your order immediately.

INCREDIBLE NEW OFFERS ON HITACHI PROJECTORS

Lately HITACHI has given an additional discount on their projectors to help especially our churches and schools in developing countries. This is the special offer on the following four models:

CP-X250 HIGH RESOLUTION 2000 LUMENS - Only $1095.00

Previous SDA price for the 2000 lumens was $1900.00.

CP-X260 HIGH RESOLUTION 2500 LUMENS - Only $1495.00

Previous SDA price for the 2500 lumens was $2900.00.

CP-X444 HIGH RESOLUTION 3200 LUMENS - Only $1895.00

Previous SDA price for the 3200 lumens was $3295.00.

CP-X1250 HIGH RESOLUTION 4500 LUMENS - Only $3995.00

Previous SDA price for the 4500 lumens was $4900.00.

WARRANTY: The above prices include a 3 years 24/7 replacement warranty that is worth about $285.00.You can order these projectors in four ways:

You can order the HITACHI projectors in four ways:

(1) Online: By clicking here: http://www.biblicalperspectives.com/bpprojectors/

(2)  Phone: By calling us at (269) 471-2915 to give us your credit card number and postal address.

(3) Email:  By emailing your order to <[email protected]>.

(4) Regular Mail: By mailing a check to BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES, 4990 Appian Way, Berrien Springs, Michigan 4990, USA. We guarantee to process your order immediately.

NEW TOSHIBA LAPTOP TECRA A8-EZ8312

This is the latest TOSHIBA laptop that was first released on June 27, 2006. These are the specifications: Duo processor 1.66Hz, Memory size 512MB, Monitor size 15.4”, Resolution 1280x800, Hard drive 60GB, Optical drive CD-RW/DVD-Rom, Wireless, 3-USB ports, Microsoft Office and Microsoft Works software. The special price is $895.00.

You can order the TECRA A8-EZ8312 in four ways:

(1) Online: By clicking here: http://www.biblicalperspectives.com/Toshiba/Notebooks.html

(2)  Phone: By calling us at (269) 471-2915 to give us your credit card number and postal address.

(3) Email:  By emailing your order to <[email protected]>.

(4) Regular Mail: By mailing a check to BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES, 4990 Appian Way, Berrien Springs, Michigan 4990, USA. We guarantee to process your order immediately.

THE MOST POWERFUL REMOTE PRESENTER

If you are looking for an outstanding REMOTE for your PowerPoint presentations, you will be pleased to know HONEYWELL has just come out with the smallest and most powerful remote in the market.

The size of the transmitter is smaller than a credit card. You can stick it inside the palm of your hand and nobody can see it. I tested the remote in an open environment, and the radio signal can go up to 400 feet of distance. IT IS INCREDIBLE! The transmitter has three button: forward, backward, and laser.

You can order online the new POWERPOINT PRESENTER simply by clicking here:  http://www.biblicalperspectives.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=bookstore&Category_Code=RP

If you have a problem ordering online, simply call us at (269) 471-2915. We will take your order by phone.

You can also email us your order at <[email protected]>, giving us your address, credit card number, and expiration date.

DOES YOUR CHURCH OR SCHOOL NEED A SCREEN?

 If your church/school is looking for a screen, the DA-LITE SCREEN COMPANY, the largest manufacture of screens in the world, has agreed to offer their line of screens to our Adventist churches and schools at a about 30% discount.

The procedure is very simple. Visit the DA-LITE SCREEN COMPANY website at http://www.da-lite.com. You will see hundreds of models of screens with their respective prices. Once you find the screen that you need, give us the model number by phone (269) 471-2915 or email your request <[email protected]> We will forward your order immediately to DA-LITE that will ship the screen directly to your address. You will receive the screen at about 30% discount.