Righteousness by faith and the lifestyle beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church : suggested instructional guide for the North Philippine Union Mission

Abstract

This project focuses on a guide of instruction for the lay leaders in the NPUM to rightly present the fundamental beliefs of SDAs in the context of righteousness by faith. This study shows that although the church members adequately understand justification by grace through faith, the relationship between faith and works in obtaining salvation is not clear in the minds of many SDAs in the NPUM. Church members perceive that the observance of doctrines (especially those that are behavioral in nature) constitutes the basis of salvation and assurance. Perhaps, many understand sin mainly as wrong behavior.

Data was collected and analyzed concerning the perception of members with regard to righteousness by faith and the need for integration (through questionnaires answered by representative group of SDA in the NPUM) . A brief and descriptive study of the bibllcal principles of righteousness by faith is presented. And an instructional guide designed in teaching the SDA fundamental doctrines in the context of righteousness by faith.

By embracing this instructional guide it is hoped the NPUM will gain much in integrating righteousness by faith in presenting the SDA fundamental beliefs as an effective approach to church growth. Placing Jesus Christ at the center of every doctrinal presentation it is believed it will naturally result in more power to the presenter, more conversion, more active participation of lay members in evangelism, and spiritual enrichment.