A critical analysis of the application of the sola Scriptura principle in Adventist theological thinking and practical action with special reference to the Zambian context

Abstract

Theological divisions are threatening the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s unity and focus on mission. Some Adventist theologians suggest that the cause of these divisions is a departure by other Adventist theologians from adhering to and applying the sola Scriptura principle. This study analyzes this problem. Chapter one presents reasons for a call during the 16th century, to reform the church to its apostolic purity. Martin Luther and other Protestant Reformers argued against the medieval church, popes, and church councils’ claim for authority to properly interpret and teach Scripture and Tradition. Differing views of reforming the church sparked divisions among the Protestant Reformers, creating two main streams, the magisterial and the radical Reformers. The Roman Catholic Church responded to the Protestant Reformations with a Counter-Reformation. Chapter two discusses Seventh-day Adventism’s application of the sola Scriptura principle. Although Adventism claims to descend from the radical wing of the Protestant Reformations, its acceptance of Ellen G. White’s prophetic ministry and her non-canonical inspired writings departs from a radical application of the sola Scriptura principle. Chapter three presents Biblical evidences for God’s use of multiple media of communication beside the Bible. Therefore Adventism needs to clearly define its understanding and application of the sola Scriptura principle to accommodate other theological sources in addition to the Bible. Chapter four presents Scripture in Zambian Adventist context, tracing Adventism’s use of the Bible in evangelization. Adventism’s responses to changing socio-political and religiopluralistic trends which threatened to marginalize Bible Instructions, and the development of, but failed attempt to implement an Adventist Bible-based Religious Education syllabus at Rusangu Secondary School are presented. Chapter five gives the general summary, conclusion and recommendations.