The 28 Beliefs of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church
The Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church is a global Christian denomination known for its distinct SDA Beliefs, doctrines and practices, many of which reflect its emphasis on Scripture, prophecy, health, and the Second Coming of Christ. The church’s teachings are encapsulated in a set of 28 fundamental beliefs, which guide the spiritual life and doctrinal understanding of its members. These beliefs are rooted in the Bible and are interpreted in a way that emphasizes the hope of Christ’s return and the importance of living a life that reflects biblical principles.
Here is an overview of the 28 Fundamental SDA Beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church:
1. The Holy Scriptures
Seventh-day Adventists believe that the Bible is the inspired Word of God, serving as the ultimate authority for faith and practice. It contains everything needed for salvation and is the source of truth for believers. Key Verse: 2 Timothy 3:16-17
2. The Trinity
Adventists believe in one God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. These three persons are co-eternal, equal, and united in purpose. God is the Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer of all. Key Verse: Matthew 28:19
3. The Father
God the Father is the Creator of all things and the loving Father to all believers. He is the source of all life and is worthy of worship and praise. Key Verse: 1 Corinthians 8:6
4. The Son
Jesus Christ is the Son of God, fully divine and fully human. He was born of the Virgin Mary, lived a sinless life, died on the cross for humanity’s sins, and rose from the dead. His life, death, and resurrection offer salvation to all. Key Verse: John 3:16
5. The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is God’s active presence in the world today. The Spirit empowers believers, convicts of sin, leads to truth, and equips the church for mission and service. Doctrine Key Verse: John 14:16-17
6. Creation
Adventists believe that God created the universe in six literal days, as described in the book of Genesis. The creation was good and reflects God’s power and love. Humanity was created in God’s image, and the world was designed to be a place of peace and harmony. Key Verse: Genesis 1:1-2:3
7. The Nature of Humanity
Humanity was created in God’s image, but through disobedience, sin entered the world. All humans are born with a sinful nature but have the potential to choose salvation through Jesus Christ. Key Verse: Genesis 1:26-27
8. The Great Controversy
Adventists understand history as a conflict between good and evil, between Christ and Satan. This cosmic battle began in heaven, spread to earth, and will ultimately be resolved with the second coming of Christ, when evil will be defeated forever. Key Verse: Revelation 12:7-9
9. The Life, Death, and Resurrection of Christ
The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus are central to the Adventist faith. His sacrifice on the cross provides forgiveness for sin and the hope of eternal life for all who believe in Him. Key Verse: 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
10. The Experience of Salvation
Salvation is a gift from God, received by grace through faith. It involves justification (being made right with God), sanctification (growth in holiness), and ultimately glorification (the full restoration of believers in the image of God). This is another popular among the SDA Beliefs and Doctrines. Key Verse: Ephesians 2:8-9
11. The Church
The church is the body of Christ, a community of believers united by faith in Jesus Christ. The mission of the church is to spread the gospel, teach the Word of God, and serve the world through acts of love and compassion. Key Verse: Ephesians 4:11-13
12. The Remnant and Its Mission
The Seventh-day Adventist Church sees itself as part of God’s remnant people in the last days, called to proclaim the everlasting gospel and to prepare the world for Christ’s return. This mission is central to its identity. Key Verse: Revelation 12:17
13. Unity in the Body of Christ
The SDA Church affirms the unity of believers in Christ, regardless of cultural or denominational differences. The church values the diversity of gifts and talents, and the collective mission of spreading the gospel. Key Verse: John 17:20-23
14. Baptism
Baptism by immersion is practiced as an outward symbol of an inward transformation, signifying repentance, forgiveness, and the beginning of a new life in Christ. It is a public declaration of faith. Key Verse: Romans 6:3-4
15. The Lord’s Supper
The Lord’s Supper is one of the SDA Beliefs, also known as Communion, is a sacred ordinance remembering the body and blood of Christ. It symbolizes Jesus’ sacrifice and is a time of reflection, repentance, and unity among believers. Key Verse: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
16. Spiritual Gifts and Ministries
Believers are endowed with spiritual gifts by the Holy Spirit for service to the church and the world. These gifts are diverse, and every member has a role to play in the work of God’s kingdom. Key Verse: 1 Corinthians 12:4-7
17. The Law of God
Adventists uphold the Ten Commandments as God’s moral law for humanity. They believe that the law is still relevant today, and obedience to God’s commands is an expression of love and gratitude for His grace. Key Verse: Exodus 20:1-17
18. The Sabbath
The seventh day of the week, Saturday, is the Sabbath, a day of rest and worship. Adventists observe the Sabbath in honor of God’s creation and as a sign of their relationship with Him. Key Verse: Exodus 20:8-11
19. Stewardship
Stewardship involves the responsible management of all that God has entrusted to humanity, including time, talents, finances, and the environment. Adventists are called to live lives of integrity, generosity, and care for creation. Key Verse: 1 Corinthians 4:2
20. Christian Behavior
Christians are called to live holy lives, reflecting the character of Christ in their thoughts, actions, and relationships. Adventists emphasize personal integrity, respect for others, and compassion. Key Verse: 1 Peter 2:12
21. Marriage and the Family
Adventists believe that marriage is a sacred institution ordained by God, and the family is the foundational unit of society. Marriage is a union between one man and one woman, and the family plays a vital role in nurturing faith and values. Key Verse: Genesis 2:24
22. Christ’s Ministry in the Heavenly Sanctuary
Adventists believe that after His ascension, Christ entered the heavenly sanctuary to begin a ministry of intercession on behalf of humanity. This includes a final judgment in which the righteousness of believers is confirmed and the fate of the wicked is decided. Key Verse: Hebrews 8:1-2
23. The Second Coming of Christ
Adventists eagerly anticipate the literal, visible return of Jesus Christ to earth. This event will bring an end to sin, suffering, and death, and usher in God’s eternal kingdom. Key Verse: Revelation 1:7
24. Death and Resurrection
Adventists believe that death is a sleep, and the dead remain unconscious until the resurrection at Christ’s Second Coming. At that time, the righteous will be raised to eternal life, and the wicked will face final judgment. Key Verse: 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
25. The Millennium and the End of Sin
The millennium is a 1,000-year period after Christ’s return when the righteous will reign with Him in heaven. During this time, the earth will be desolate, and the final judgment of the wicked will take place, ending sin and suffering forever. Key Verse: Revelation 20:1-6
26. New Earth
After the millennium, God will create a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness dwells. There will be no more sin, death, or sorrow, and God’s people will live in perfect harmony with Him. Key Verse: Revelation 21:1-4
27. The Gift of Prophecy
Adventists believe that the gift of prophecy continues in the church today. The writings of Ellen G. White, one of the founders of the church, are considered inspired and provide guidance for faith and practice. Key Verse: Revelation 19:10
28. Growing in Christ
Like the branches of a grape vine that can only bear fruit when they are given strength and nutrients through the vine, we can only grow in Christ if we maintain a connection to Him. His power and grace are the only things that can truly make us righteous.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing… If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples” (John 15: 5-8, ESV).
These 28 SDA beliefs or SDA Doctrines form the foundation of the Seventh-day Adventist faith. They are derived from a careful study of Scripture and represent the core principles that guide the lives and mission of Adventist believers worldwide. Through these beliefs, Adventists seek to fulfill their calling to be witnesses of Christ’s love, truth, and soon return.
