What is Seventh-Day Adventism?

Origins and Historical Developments

Seventh-day Adventism emerged in the mid-19th century from a broader movement focused on the anticipated Second Coming of Christ. Early momentum began under William Miller, who emphasized study of Daniel and Revelation to predict the nearness of Jesus’ return. Although Miller’s specific dates did not come to fruition, many followers continued seeking discernment in Scripture regarding the end times.

In the years following the Millerite movement, figures such as Joseph Bates, James White, and Ellen G. White greatly shaped the theological framework of Seventh-day Adventism. Their efforts to interpret biblical prophecy, affirm the Sabbath (Saturday) as a day of rest, and establish distinctive teachings on Christ’s ministry led to the formal organization of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in 1863. While not all appraisals of Adventism uniformly classify it, the movement holds a place among Protestant traditions.

Foundational Beliefs

Seventh-day Adventists affirm core Christian doctrines such as the divinity of Jesus Christ, salvation by grace through faith, the authenticity of biblical miracles, and the anticipation of Christ’s bodily, visible return. Strong emphasis is placed on the authority of Scripture. Seventh-day Adventists typically hold to a literal six-day understanding of Creation, referencing passages like Genesis 1 and upholding the biblical timeline in a manner consistent with a young earth viewpoint.

Adherents generally maintain that salvation is obtained exclusively through Jesus Christ’s atoning sacrifice and that believers are called to live lives of holiness, looking forward to His imminent return. They understand that “by grace you have been saved through faith” (Ephesians 2:8–9).

The Sabbath

Central to Seventh-day Adventism is the observance of the seventh-day Sabbath—from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset. This is derived primarily from the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20:8–11, in which the people of Israel are called to remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy. Adventists see the Sabbath as a universal directive for all humanity, tracing its origin to the Creation narrative (Genesis 2:2–3) rather than it being limited to any single culture or era.

Sabbath rest is considered an opportunity to honor God, set aside daily labor, and nurture one’s relationship with the Creator. In their perspective, the Sabbath exemplifies God’s desire to grant physical, emotional, and spiritual refreshment (cf. Isaiah 58:13–14).

Prophecy and the Second Advent

Adventist eschatology (end-time teachings) places strong emphasis on Christ’s imminent Second Coming. Key texts include Matthew 24 and Revelation 14, which describe the signs of the end and the proclamation of the eternal gospel worldwide. The term “Adventist” itself highlights a belief in “the advent,” or coming, of Christ.

Seventh-day Adventists apply a historicist approach to the books of Daniel and Revelation, interpreting many prophetic symbols as spanning human history and culminating in Christ’s return. They anticipate a final time of tribulation, God’s judgment, and the resurrection of the righteous, echoing passages such as “the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a loud command” (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17).

The Investigative Judgment

A distinctive aspect of Seventh-day Adventism is the teaching of the “investigative judgment,” which they believe commenced in 1844 based on a reading of Daniel 8:14. In this view, Jesus, as High Priest, is in the heavenly sanctuary, examining the records of believers prior to His Second Coming. Although other Christian traditions might approach this passage differently, Adventists believe this investigative judgment highlights God’s fairness and mercy. According to their perspective, it ensures that salvation is properly offered through Christ’s atoning work (Hebrews 9:11–12) and that no sin remains concealed or unaccounted for.

View of Scripture and Ellen G. White

Adventists hold the Bible as the supreme rule of faith and practice. Ellen G. White is recognized within the denomination as one who possessed a prophetic gift. Her writings, including The Great Controversy and Steps to Christ, have deeply influenced Adventist thought and mission endeavors. However, Adventists officially maintain that her writings are secondary to Scripture and should be tested by the Bible, in line with the biblical directive to “test all things” (1 Thessalonians 5:21).

While many consider her insights beneficial for spiritual growth, the unwavering stance in Adventism is that Scripture alone is definitive and final (2 Timothy 3:16–17).

Health and Lifestyle

Seventh-day Adventists often emphasize a health-minded lifestyle, advocating physical well-being as part of spiritual stewardship. This emphasis is drawn partly from passages such as 1 Corinthians 6:19–20, which refer to the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit.

Many Adventists encourage a plant-based diet, abstaining from unclean meats as outlined in Leviticus 11. They also promote moderating or abstaining from potential health risks such as caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco. Adventists see these practices as reflecting a holistic approach to honoring God with one’s entire being.

Evangelism and Global Impact

Seventh-day Adventists are known for robust missionary work and educational initiatives. Operating thousands of schools and hospitals worldwide, they seek to share the gospel and provide community service. Their media ministries—broadcasting biblical presentations and health programs—aim to reach diverse cultures.

Their strong emphasis on evangelism echoes the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20) and aligns with their belief that the end will come once the gospel has been proclaimed to every nation (Matthew 24:14). This global scope has practically shaped Adventist strategies in literature, broadcasting, and medical outreach.

Points of Agreement and Divergence

In many respects, Seventh-day Adventists agree with mainstream evangelical Christianity on beliefs such as the Trinity, the divine inspiration of Scripture, salvation by grace, and the historical reliability of the miracles in the Bible. Their focus on Christ’s literal resurrection also resonates with the biblical account (1 Corinthians 15:3–8).

However, notable divergences include the Sabbath observance, the timing and specifics of end-time events, the investigative judgment teaching, certain perspectives on the state of the dead (often referred to as “soul sleep”), and the role of Ellen G. White’s writings in shaping devotional life.

Conclusion

Seventh-day Adventism stands as a Christian movement that underscores the seventh-day Sabbath, the soon return of Christ, and a strong commitment to Scripture as the ultimate authority. Central figures and distinctive teachings have guided its growth and global presence since the mid-19th century. Employing a historicist interpretation of prophecy, Adventists proclaim a Savior who offers salvation by grace and who will return to redeem His people at a climactic point in history. Holding diligently to biblical principles for health, worship, and Christian life, they seek to honor God in every aspect of their doctrine and practice, ever pointing to the promise of Christ’s imminent advent.