I am in a process of editing a book on “food and worship.” I am deeply immersed in the works of various authors, contemplating diverse theological/missiological perspectives. While reading, an intriguing thought struck me: What if Apostle Paul was alive today and chose to write an epistle to the Seventh-day Adventist Church? Paul’s letters, are known for their directness and insight, aimed always at spiritual revival, correction, and encouragement. With this in mind, here’s my version of Paul addressing to SDA church [Imagining, No judgement please!].
1Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle by the grace of God, to the saints within the Seventh-day Adventist Church, beloved and called according to His purpose:
2Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
3I thank my God always as I remember your faithfulness in observing the Sabbath, your dedication to understanding prophecy, and your commitment to healthful living, which testifies to the transforming power of Christ among you. Truly, your zeal has encouraged many to honor God with their bodies and lives.
4 Yet, beloved, permit me to speak plainly, as a father addresses his children, that your zeal might not become a stumbling block to your faithfulness. 5 Remember, my brethren, the heart of our faith is Christ Himself, the righteousness of God revealed apart from the law (Romans 3:21). 6 Therefore, do not let the shadow overshadow the substance. 7Sabbath observance and dietary principles, though good and beneficial, find their ultimate meaning in Christ alone.
8Moreover, I urge you, brethren, to guard your hearts against divisions that threaten unity within your churches. 9Be cautious, lest in your passion for truth, you neglect the weightier matters of mercy, love, and humility. 10“Knowledge indeed puffs up, but love builds up” (1 Corinthians 8:1).
11Furthermore, do not forget your calling as ambassadors of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:20). 12You have been entrusted with the gospel message to preach to every tribe, tongue, and people. 13Let your emphasis be Christ crucified, resurrected, and soon returning, the blessed hope of all believers.
14I exhort you also, beloved, not to grow weary in doing good. Hold firmly to the precious truth given to you but hold it in grace and humility. 15“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone” (Colossians 4:6).
16And finally, brethren, stand firm, rooted and grounded in the love of Christ. 17Encourage one another and build each other up in faith. 18Let your light shine brightly in the world, that all may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
19The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.
Your friend,
Santosh Kumar