Is Women's Ordination Biblical? - Ryan McCoy

How Big is Your God - Jim Ayer

Is Women's Ordination Biblical? (book) - Ryan McCoy

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Is Women’s Ordination Biblical?

A study on the Role of Women
in the Home and the Church

A Bible and Spirit of Prophecy Compilation & Study

By Ryan McCoy of Sealing Time Ministries

Scripture

“¹⁵but if I am delayed, I writeso that you may know how you ought to conduct yourselfin the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.” -1 Timothy 3:15 NKJV

From the Authors

About This Ministry

Sealing Time Ministries is a Seventh-day Adventist supporting, lay-evangelism, media ministry.  Sealing Time Ministries is owned by God, but operated and managed by Ryan and Kelly McCoy. We are home-based and located in Nampa, Idaho.

Goals

Our goals are threefold; a revival of the living testimony in our churches, reformation in the lives of God’s people, and to give the trumpet that certain sound in proclaiming the three angel's messages of Revelation 14 to a world that desperately needs the Savior.

About The Author(s)

Ryan & Kelly McCoy are members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and are in good standing. You can read more about us by visiting our website.

Updates

Sealing Time Ministries reserves the right to update these books/presentations at any time as necessary or as more truth is unfolded to us. As such these books/presentations will be updated periodically as new material is found and added. The date of print can be found in the lower right hand corner.

We do not claim to know all truth. We urge you, like the Bereans to study for yourself if these things are so. If you know of a Bible verse, or Ellen White statement that might help with any aspect of this book/presentation please feel free to contact us and share it.

Important Notes

• This book/presentation is created, printed, and published by Sealing Time Ministries.

Some Verses/Statements May be Used More Than Once

• Some Bible verses/statements may be repeated in different aspects of the book/presentation. This is not an accident because some verses/statements contain a large amount of information that may be relevant to more than one point of study, although we try to keep this to a minimum. Some sections of repeated statements may be “greyed out.”       This is done so context is still retained without having to reread something that has already been presented in this book/presentation.

Ellen White

• Some of the statements used in this study were written by Ellen G. White.       Ellen G. White was one of many pioneers of the Seventh-day Adventist church. She was well known and respected by many people of various denominations. In her lifetime she received over 2,000 visions and dreams, the subjects of which were quite diverse. She is still the most translated female author.

Views Expressed in this Book

• All these books/presentations are written from an individual Seventh-day Adventist viewpoint and are not necessarily the views of all Seventh-day Adventists, although in this case they are based on the polity and views of the General Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Book Design and Layout

• This book has been purposely designed and formatted for quick reference and to be an aide to teach others from. This insures that all major points are easily accessible from the table of contents and that the layout is in a logical outline form.

Book and Media Availability

• If you would like to order more copies of this book or a Blu-ray/DVD/CD/MP3 of this presentation please visit the “ordination” category of our website at www.SealingTime.com/ord

Prayer

(This page is intentionally left blank. We believe every study should begin with prayer.)

Is Women’s Ordination Biblical?

A Study on the Role of Women in the Home and the Church

Table of Contents

Table of Contents.. 7

Preface.. 11

Introduction... 13

Facts.. 15

1.      Basics.. 15

a.     The Main Question on this Issue is Whether it is Cultural or Scriptural. 15

b.      The Main Points Given For Women's Ordination.. 15

1.      Role of Women in the Church is Cultural15

A.     Sometimes patronizing terms are used like, “Patriarchal”, “authoritarian”, or “communist”.15

2.      All believers equal in Christ15

3.      Since there is no specific command not to ordain women in the Bible it must be "OK". 17

c.     Main Points for Women's Scriptural Role (Against Women's Ordination)17

1.      Bishop/Pastor. 17

2.      Biblical Instruction to Deacons. 17

3.      Biblical Counsel to Both Bishops and Deacons. 18

4.      Authority Over a Man Forbidden. 18

e.      Lack of Standards in Ordination in General. 19

2.      Issues at Stake - Outcome.. 19

a.     No Winners With This Issue. 19

b.      "Losers" Fail to Hear the Warning Because of Church Conflict/Turmoil. 19

c.     A Distraction from the Closing Work.. 19

3.      One Sided Publications and Committees.. 19

4.      Ellen G. White and Ordination... 20

a.     “Ordained Minister” Certificates. 20

1.      1883 – “Ordained Minister”. 20

2.      1885 – “Ordained Minister”. 20

3.      1887 – “Ordained Minister”. 20

b.      Ellen White, Arthur White (and the White Estate), answer the Ordination Question   20

5.      God's Original Design... 21

a.     Equality in All Things. 21

b.      Equality Does Not Banish Roles in Family. 21

c.     Adam Was Created First and is Head of the Race. 22

d.     Adam the Protector of Eve. 23

e.      Adam Held Responsible for Sin.. 23

f.      Jesus Came as a Man – The Second Adam... 23

g.     Summary. 23

6.      The Fall – God Makes Adjustments Because of Sin... 24

a.     "hast God said". 24

b.      "She Would Be a God" ... "A Law Unto Herself" ... "Acknowledge No Restraint". 24

7.      The Curse – It’s Beginning … and End... 24

a.     The Serpent. 24

b.      The Woman.. 25

1.      The Curse. 25

2.      Physical Aspects. 25

3.      Mental Aspects. 25

4.      Spiritual Aspects. 25

5.      Women's Subjection to Man Was Part of the Curse. 25

6.      Unionand HarmonyCould Now Only Be Maintained by Submission. 25

7.      Why Eve Was Sentenced to Submission. 26

8.      The Sentence of Submission for Women to be a Blessing. 26

9.      There are Positions God Does Not Qualify Women to Fill or Will Accept Them In. 26

10.        God’s Position for Women is as Important as a King or Pastor. 27

11.        Dangers of Reaching for Positions God Has Not Assigned. 27

12.        The Word of God Gives Preference to the Judgment of the Husband. 27

c.     The Man.. 28

1.      The Rebuke. 28

2.      The Curse. 28

3.      Physical Aspects. 28

4.      Mental Aspects. 28

5.      Death. 28

6.      Spiritual Aspects. 28

7.      Nature’s Response to Man’s Rebellion. 29

8.      The Curse Was Appointed in Love and Part of God’s Plan for Recovery of Man. 29

d.     No More Curse - Not Restored Until We Return to Heaven.. 29

e.      Summary. 29

8.      Rule of First Mention... 30

9.      Fruit.. 30

a.     Unchristian Behavior Towards Others. 30

b.      Name Calling.. 30

c.     Categorizing.. 31

d.     Friendships. 32

e.      Division.. 32

f.      “Free Thinking” or Rebellion.. 32

g.     Passing Judgment on Others. 32

h.     Insubordination Disqualifies for Church Leadership. 32

i.      Effect of Ordaining Women on Conversion Rates. 32

10.        Satan’s Rebellion... 33

a.     "I will also sit on the mount of the congregation". 33

b.      The Angel’s Decisions Mattered.. 33

11.        Jezebel.. 34

a.     The Only Female "High Priest" in Scripture. 34

b.      A Time of Apostasy – Just Before the “Rain”. 34

c.     The Only Woman in Scripture That Ever Ruled Over Priests. 35

d.     Before Jezebel became a high priest she first had to become a priestess.35

e.      The Spirit of Jezebel Heard in the Seven Churches. 35

f.      Why Satan Chooses Women and Why We Should Beware of This Issue. 35

g.     Pondering Elijah's View on Women's Ordination.. 36

12.        The Shaking... 36

a.     Unity and Separation.. 36

b.      Separation - Schism, Disunion and Dissension.. 37

c.     Heresies Will Come in Among God's People to Sift Them... 39

d.     "There is No Sanctuary". 39

e.      Compromise Starts Small and Ends Big.. 39

13.        Attack on the Sanctuary Model.. 40

a.     The Sanctuary and the Shaking.. 40

b.      The Roles of Husband and Wife Reflect the Role of Christ and His Church.. 40

c.     Maryology. 40

d.     The Harlot of Babylon - It's About Control. 41

e.      The Bride of Christ – Free Willing Obedience to Christ. 41

14.        Examples of Bad Influences/Advice by Women in Important Decisions   41

a.     Eve to Adam... 41

b.      Sarah to Abraham... 42

c.     Daughters to Lot. 42

d.     Witch of Endor to Saul. 42

e.      Job’s Wife to Job. 42

f.      Delilah to Sampson.. 42

g.     Harlot/Babylon to all the World.. 42

15.        Caution When Scripture is Silent on Some Matters.. 42

a.     Laypersons/Workers Should Exercise Caution.. 42

b.      Ministers Should Exercise Extreme Caution.. 42

c.     Example on Foot Washing Between Men and Women.. 44

d.     History - Young Workers Urged More Pleasing, False Doctrines. 44

16.        History - The Slippery Slope of Compromise.. 45

a.     Terrible Consequences Will Result from One Wrong Step. 45

b.      The History of the Episcopal Church.. 45

1.      Events That Led to the Ordination of Homosexual Bishops in 2003. 45

2.      1976 - Women's Ordination Permitted - Redefined Statements on Homosexuality. 45

3.      1977 - First Openly Homosexual Priest Ordained. 45

4.      1989 – The First Female Bishop Ordained. 45

5.      1991 – Tried to (re)Affirm Marriage … But too late.46

6.      2003 - First Homosexual Bishop. 46

c.     The Fallen Church of England.. 46

d.     King Ahab's Days. 46

17.        A Parallel in Acts of the Apostles Over Circumcision... 47

18.        Worldliness and Standards.. 47

a.     Standard After Standard Left to Trail in the Dust. 47

b.      Old Ways vs. New Ways. 48

c.     Where are the Voices of Warning?. 48

19.        Revelation’s Warning to Those Who Add To or Take Away From Scripture   49

20.        How Women May Minister (Exerpt from “Here We Stand” Chpt. 45)49

a.     In Their Homes. 49

b.      Personal Ministry. 49

c.     In a Public Ministry. 50

d.     The Same Holy Spirit. 50

21.        Jesus the Man... 50

a.     The Second Adam – Why Christ Came as a Man.. 50

b.      What if Christ Came as a Woman?. 50

22.        Questions for Thought.. 51

Conclusion... 54

Other Resources.. 56

Preface

            I was born and raised as a Seventh-day Adventist. I attended the schools and even with “Adventist culture” all around me, I was never really exposed to, or had the issues of women’s ordination presented to me. Maybe I was indifferent and didn’t notice, maybe this issue wasn’t as prevalent when I was growing up, and if you’re like me, maybe you’ve heard a lot more about this in the last year or so. I had always thought it was a pretty obvious issue based on scripture. I have always respected others right to believe what they want about these issues, but after all the recent turmoil with several unions in our church on this issue I was troubled.

            It seemed that the organized church and official polity was saying one thing and a number of church unions and conferences were saying another. Who was right? Was this a “cultural” issue like some were saying, or was this a Biblical issue like I first thought? It was clear that this issue is not going to go away, so I began to realize that I needed something more than a surface understanding of this issue if I was going to have to deal with it, both personally and as a leader of a ministry.

            As I began to hear more and more about several unions expressing opinions and voting to ordain women, -- clearly in disregard of the world church polity – I began to become more and more troubled. After studying some that Sabbath afternoon on the issue I posted a frustrated comment on Facebook expressing how I just could not understand how a woman could be “the husband of one wife.” -1 Tim 3:2, Titus 1:6 The heated discussion that followed surprised me. Within a very short time I had several Adventist church members, some even in high positions in the church “unfriend” me after I explained I just couldn’t agree with the view points they were expressing. In a very short time you could say that I discovered that this is a very volatile issue. I realized at that point that if this issue was this divisive I needed to research it more.

            I try to make it a rule to avoid hot topic issues in the church that aren’t productive, but I could see from multiple incidents and sources that this issue not only wasn’t going to go away, but might even eventually be forced on me (heaven forbid). So after some serious study and while quite troubled, I prayed and went to sleep that night.

            Very early the next morning I had a dream about the women’s ordination issue. I saw many things in the dream, each were in answer to specific areas of questions or areas of difficulty in study that I had. At times I was audibly read to (in my dream) and this was accompanied by what I can only best describe as those same audible words moving across in front of me, but written as if by a “pen of fire”. The words were of brilliant light, incredibly easy to read and understand, and they stood in stark contrast to a completely dark background. At times my attention was called to the relationships between related sub issues that I had never considered. In some cases entirely new but related issues I had never thought of were also clearly presented to me. (Every one of these led me back to further careful study of the Bible and Ellen White to confirm each point the next day.) When I woke up I felt an incredible calling to take a stand on this issue, but I fought it. I reasoned at first that I wasn’t anyone that mattered. Next I reasoned that I might lose more friends or somehow damage our ministry because of it. In a very short period of time I had concluded that while all I was learning was clearly the truth, I just didn’t want to “die on that hill” right now.

            So what did I do? Well other than verifying the things I was learning and documenting them, I just rationalized that they were for personal study. (This is not the first time I’ve had dreams like this.) So, I like Jonah, came up with other important things to work on. But God wasn’t going to let it go that easily. Again the next morning at the same time there was another dream. This dream picked up again where the last one left off and quickly the things I had learned and verified from the day before were being built on. After I woke up I did the same again, verified, documented and then went about my day while mulling these things over. Again I felt the calling to share what I was learning, but I still did not want to take a public stand on this issue. Day after day this continued. Maybe you’ve wrestled with God before, maybe not, but I can tell you that it’s draining physically, emotionally and mentally. After 4 days of only about 4 hours of sleep each night I was near the breaking point. I finally repented of my stubbornness and told God that I would do as He asked, regardless of the consequences. A powerful sense of relief came over me that I could not come close to expressing in words.

            So, for the last 5 months I have been studying, reading, writing and talking with many other church members on this issue. Although the contiguous nightly dreams stopped the day I answered the Lord’s call, I have still received occasional early morning dreams when stumped on issue, or when there was an issue I was missing and hadn’t thought of. The most recent of which were the last two mornings before completing this preface.

            Now before you get hung up with the dreams, just remember what the Bible says about God’s people near the end of time in the book of Joel. And I want to make it clear that everything I saw or learned in the dreams I verified against the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy. In fact, almost all that you are about to read in this book is from those sources (along with some church history and other pioneers thoughts). In the dreams the Lord showed where to find the pieces, how they were related, and basically how to assemble it all. So with that thought in mind, I actually want to take no credit for what you are about to read. This book was the Lord’s idea from the beginning and I am very reluctant to be the one to relate this all. However reluctant I am though, I want to be clear, I gave the Lord my word I’d follow through willingly and that’s exactly what I’m going to do. I also want to thank several others for their sending me lots of study material and their resources.

Ryan McCoy

Speaker/Director/Producer/Author - Sealing Time Ministries

Introduction

The subject of women’s ordination is a hot topic right now, especially in light of recent actions by several unions to proceed with ordaining women regardless of world church polity. It seems that everywhere we turn these days church members are discussing, debating and even arguing this issue. The issue has become so contentious in some areas that churches are about to split!

The issues at stake with this may be more important than many church members realize as there are consequences to every decision and action in the Great Controversy.

There are many questions to be answered not only about issues and consequences, but what are the Biblical ramifications? Is this simply a “cultural” issue as many claim? Or is it much more? These questions must be clearly answered before one can know where to stand. Knowing where to stand in the last days on issues can be critical to our salvation.

Join us in exploring one of the explosive, divisive, hot topic issues in the church today. We won’t use popular opinion, or what the preacher says in this study. The God given tools we will use are; the Bible, the writings of Ellen G. White (an Adventist church pioneer and prophetess), some church history, some common sense, and a couple thoughts from other authors. We are going to ask the hard questions, and follow action to consequence. We will discover a wonderful line of truth about the roles of men and women that stretches from Genesis to Revelation and more! We will also discover the origins of the women’s ordination issue and how they crept into the church. And finally we will follow the women’s ordination issue to its final consequences relating to the Heavenly Sanctuary and salvation.

We pray that you will be willing to put your preconceived ideas aside and learn from the Bible and the amazing gift to God’s last day church of prophecy. We pray that each person that reads this will receive a blessing from God and that you may be convicted by the Holy Spirit to know what is truth. Amen.

Is Women’s Ordination Biblical?

A Study on the Role of Women in the Home and the Church

Facts

• Jesus' call to salvation was for everyone.
• Jesus' specific call for the 12 disciples included men only. These He hand picked Himself.
• Jesus was not afraid of cultural norms as proven in many instances in the gospels. Jesus often put aside issues of "culture" at great annoyance of the Scribes and Pharisees. In fact He specifically spoke about the "commandments of men". So if Jesus thought this was a cultural issue He would most likely have taken it on. However, since this is clearly not the case in scripture, this would not have been a factor in his decision on whom He chose for disciples. – “If Jesus only picked male apostles because it was cultural, then everything else Jesus did was hypocritical. Christ died because He would not capitulate to the traditions and customs of the Jews.” – Doug Batchelor, Bible Answers Live (http://www.amazingfacts.org/media-library/media/e/1024/t/is-the-limitation-of-women-ordination-biblical-or-simply-cultural.aspx)
• There is not one example of a female elder in the Bible.
• There is not one example of an ordained female bishop (pastor) in the Bible.
• Ellen White was never "Ordained". While her ministerial credentials included this word, it was crossed out in some cases. (more on this later)

1. 1.Basics
   1. a.The Main Question on this Issue is Whether it is Cultural or Scriptural
   2. b.The Main Points Given For Women's Ordination
      1. 1.Role of Women in the Church is Cultural
      2. A.Sometimes patronizing terms are used like, “Patriarchal”, “authoritarian”, or “communist”.
         1. 2.All believers equal in Christ
         2. A.This ideology comes from the "Priesthood of all Believers" -1 Peter 2:9
            1. a.“⁹But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; ¹⁰who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.” -1 Peter 2:9-10 NKJV
            2. B.“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” -Galatians 3:28 NKJV
            3. C.“No distinction on account of nationality, race, or caste, is recognized by God. He is the Maker of all mankind. All men are of one family by creation, and all are one through redemption. Christ came to demolish every wall of partition, to throw open every compartment of the temple, that every soul may have free access to God. … His love is so broad, so deep, so full, that it penetrates everywhere. It lifts out of Satan's circle the poor souls who have been deluded by his deceptions. It places them within reach of the throne of God, the throne encircled by the rainbow of promise.” {COL 386.2}
               “In Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek, bond nor free. All are brought nigh by His precious blood.” (Galatians 3:28; Ephesians 2:13.) {COL 386.3}
            4. D.“All who are found worthy to be counted as the members of the family of God in heaven, will recognize one another as sons and daughters of God. They will realize thatthey all receive their strength and pardon from the same source, even from Jesus Christ who was crucified for their sins. They know that they are to wash their robes of character in His blood, to find acceptance with the Father in His name, if they would be in the bright assembly of the saints, clothed in the white robes of righteousness.” {1SM 259.1}
            5. E.“Then as the children of God are one in Christ, how does Jesus look upon caste, upon society distinctions, upon the division of man from his fellow man, because of color, race, position, wealth, birth, or attainments? The secret of unity is found in the equality of believers in Christ. … The reason for all division, discord, and difference is found in separation from Christ. Christ is the center to which all should be attracted; for the nearer we approach the center, the closer we shall come together in feeling, in sympathy, in love, growing into the character and image of Jesus. With God there is no respect of persons.” {1SM 259.2}
               1. 3.Since there is no specific command not to ordain women in the Bible it must be "OK"
               2. 4.Women "Pastors" - Ellen White
               3. A."All who wish an opportunity for true ministry, and who will give themselves unreservedly to God, will find in the canvassing work opportunities to speak upon many things pertaining to the future immortal life. The experience thus gained will be of the greatest value to those who are fitting themselves for the work of the ministry. It is the accompaniment of the Holy Spirit of God that prepares workers, bothmenandwomen, to becomepastorsto the flock of God. ..." {RH, January 15, 1901 par. 5} "Canvassers as Gospel Evangelists" Careful context reading here reveals there is clearly more to the story. Continuing on the next paragraph says:
               4. B."There are some who are adapted to the work of a colporteur, and who can accomplish more in this line thanby preaching. If the Spirit of Christ dwells in their own hearts, they will find opportunity to present His word to others, and to direct minds to the special truths for this time. Mensuited to this work undertake it; but some injudicious minister flatters them that their giftsshould be employedin the desk, instead ofin the work of the colporteur. Thus they are influenced to get a license to preach, and the very ones who might have been trainedto make good missionariesto visit families at their homes, to talk and pray with them, are turned away from a work for whichthey are fitted, to makepoor ministers, and the field where so much labor is needed, and where so much good might be accomplished for the cause, is neglected. The canvassers in the field, if consecrated to God, will learn every day by practice how to reach the souls for whom Christ has died." {RH, January 15, 1901 par. 6} "Canvassers as Gospel Evangelists"
      3. c.Main Points for Women's Scriptural Role (Against Women's Ordination)
         1. 1.Biblical Instruction to the Bishop/Pastor
         2. A.“¹This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work. ²Abishopthen must beblameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach; ³not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous; ⁴one who rules his own house well, having his children in submission with all reverence⁵(for if a man does not know how to rulehisown house, how willhetake care of the church of God?); ⁶not a novice, lest being puffed up with pridehefall into the same condemnation as the devil. ⁷Moreover he must have a good testimony among those who are outside, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.” -1 Timothy 3:1-7 NKJV
         3. B."⁵For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you— ⁶if amanis blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of dissipation or insubordination. ⁷For a bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, ⁸but hospitable, a lover of what is good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled, ⁹holding fast the faithful word ashehas been taught, thathemay be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict." -Titus 1:5-9 NKJV
            1. 2.Biblical Instruction to Deacons
            2. A.“⁸Likewise deacons must bereverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money, ⁹holding the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience. -¹⁰But let these also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons, being found blameless. ¹¹Likewise, their wivesmust be reverent, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things. -¹²Let deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. ¹³For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.” -1 Timothy 3:8-13 NKJV
               1. 3.Biblical Counsel to Both Bishops and Deacons
               2. A."¹⁴These things I write to you, though I hope to come to you shortly; ¹⁵but if I am delayed, I write so that you may know how you ought to conduct yourselfin the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. ¹⁶And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, Justified in the Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up in glory." -1 Timothy 3:14-16 NKJV
                  1. 4.Authority Over a Man Forbidden
                  2. A.“But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurpauthority over the man, but to be in silence.” -1 Timothy 2:12 KJV
                     1. a.αὐθεντέω - authenteō - ow-then-teh'-o - From a compound of G846 and ἕντηςhentēs (obsolete; a worker); to actofoneself, that is, (figuratively) dominate: - usurp authority over.
                     2. B.“¹²As for My people, children are their oppressors, and women rule over them. O My people! Those who lead you cause you to err, and destroy the way of your paths.” -Isaiah 3:12 NKJV (more on this Bible verse later)
                     3. C.“To be keepers at home … obedient to their own husbands …” Titus 2:5
                     4. D.“As parentsfaithfully do their duty in the family, restraining, correcting advising, counseling, guiding, - the father as a priest of the household, the mother as a home missionary, -they are filling the sphere God would have them fill.” GCB Apr 1. 1891
                     5. E.Thought: The Biblical phrase, “the husband of one wife” is often explained by those “for the ordination of women” as being “cultural”. But what about the rest of the words in these texts? Is “temperance” and “sober minded” and “not given to wine” cultural? What about “blameless”? “Good behavior”, “hospitable”, “able to teach”, “not violent”, “not greedy for money”, “not quarrelsome”, “not coveteous”, “not a novice”, are any of these “cultural”? When one standard of scripture is given up, often others follow. So if we begin to explain away parts of these verses as being “cultural” then what is next? Does drinking and temperance become cultural and thereby acceptable next? What about the ordinance of foot washing? Does this become the next victim of “culture”? What about the “revival of primitive Godliness” associated with the latter rain? Would that just be labeled as “culture”? Make no mistake; this issue is about compromise on the word of God, not “culture”.
                        1. 5.Ellen White "Very Cautious" About Ordination of Women
                        2. A."IT IS LIKELY THAT ELLEN WHITE DID NOT SUGGEST AT ANY TIME THAT THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH SHOULD COMMENCE THE PRACTICE OF ORDAINING WOMEN TO THE GOSPEL MINISTRY. HER SECRETARY, C. C. CRISLER, SAYS THAT SHE WAS VERY CAUTIOUS ON THIS POINT. HERE IS THE CORRESPONDENCE RELATING TO THIS QUESTION: ..." {DG 253.2}
                        3. B."WHILE I DO NOT MAKE IT A PART OF MY WORK TO PRESUME TO INTERPRET THAT WHICH HAS BEEN WRITTEN, YET I MAY BE PARDONED FOR EXPRESSING AS MY CONVICTION THE THOUGHT THAT THIS ARTICLE PUBLISHED IN THE REVIEW DOES NOT REFER TO THE ORDINATION OF WOMEN AS MINISTERS OF THE GOSPEL, BUT RATHER TOUCHES UPON THE QUESTION OF SETTING APART, FOR SPECIAL DUTIES IN LOCAL CHURCHES, GOD-FEARING WOMEN IN SUCH CHURCHES WHERE CIRCUMSTANCES CALL FOR SUCH ACTION." {DG 255.1}
                        4. C."AND MAY I ADD THAT SISTER WHITE, PERSONALLY, WASVERY CAREFULABOUT EXPRESSING HERSELFIN ANY WISEAS TO THE ADVISABILITY OF ORDAINING WOMEN AS GOSPEL MINISTERS. SHE HAS OFTEN SPOKEN OF THEPERILSTHAT SUCH GENERAL PRACTICE WOULD EXPOSE THE CHURCH TO BY A GAINSAYING WORLD; BUT AS YET I HAVE NEVER SEEN FROM HER PEN ANY STATEMENT THAT WOULD SEEM TO ENCOURAGE THE FORMAL AND OFFICIAL ORDINATION OF WOMEN TO THE GOSPEL MINISTRY, TO PUBLIC LABOR SUCH AS IS ORDINARILY EXPECTED OF AN ORDAINED MINISTER." {DG 255.2}
                        5. D."THIS IS NOT SUGGESTING, MUCH LESS SAYING, THAT NO WOMEN ARE FITTED FOR SUCH PUBLIC LABOR, AND THAT NONE SHOULD EVER BE ORDAINED; IT IS SIMPLY SAYING THAT SO FAR AS MY KNOWLEDGE EXTENDS, SISTER WHITENEVER ENCOURAGEDCHURCH OFFICIALS TO DEPART FROM THE GENERAL CUSTOMS OF THE CHURCH IN THOSE MATTERS."--C. C. CRISLER. {DG 255.3} (Written June 16, 1916, nearly one year after Ellen White's death.)
      4. d.Lack of Standards in Ordination in General
         1. 1.Thoughts:
         2. A.Ordination does not make the man, or the woman.
         3. B.There are many men who have been ordained as elders that clearly are not living in harmony with the scriptural qualifications or their history disqualifies them from this capacity of church leadership. Compromise here is obviously leading to further compromise.

1. 2.Issues at Stake - Outcome
   1. a.No Winners With This Issue
   2. b."Losers" Fail to Hear the Warning Because of Church Conflict/Turmoil
      1. 1.Losers are those who are not reached with the final warning message because of church members that were too busy fighting with each other.
      2. c.A Distraction from the Closing Work
         1. 1."I am instructed to say that these theories are the production of minds unlearned in the first principles of the gospel. By such theories the enemy strives to eclipse the great truths for this time." {GW 313.2}
         2. 2.“Our ministers must cease to dwell upon their peculiar ideas, with the feeling, "You must see the point as I do, or you cannot be saved." Away with this egotism!The great work to be done in every case is to win souls to Christ. Men must see Jesus on the cross; they must look and live. It is not your ideas they must feed upon, but it is the flesh and blood of the Son of God. He says, "My flesh is meat indeed." "The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life." John 6:55, 63. The soul that accepts Jesus places himself under the care of the Great Physician, and let men be careful how they come between the patient and the Physician who discerns all the needs of the soul.” {3MR 32.1}

1. 3.One Sided Publications and Committees
   1. a.Multiple articles on this subject have been published by several unions. In nearly every case the agenda of the article has been clearly one sided. This is unbalanced journalism at best, and planned bias at worst. In the few articles that have printed both sides of the issue the views expressed have clearly been preferential towards ordaining women, and in some cases demeaning towards those against it. This is offensive to a number of Adventists. It’s using the tool of intimidation as a means to gain an end. Many feel this type of use of Adventist publications is not acceptable.
      1. 1.Question: Why don’t you direct all of your responses through the Gleaner?
      2. 2.Answer: "In 1997, North American Division voted to recommend the use of the union papers (The Gleaner is one of nine) as vehicles promoting a pro-Women’s Ordination position. The report recommended that the union papers publish multiple articles favorable to WO, that “advocacy for women in ministry be channeled through the union papers,” that NAD materials be “monitored and audited” for “compliance with a gender-inclusive model of ministry,” “that the NAD produce and endorse only gender-inclusive resource materials,” and so on (The items above are found in “President’s Commission on women in Ministry—Report” (1997), items XIII, A. i, ii, B. i, ii, available in our “Resources” section of this site). None of us can recall even one article opposing Women’s Ordination being published in the Gleaner."
         "Action through other union papers confirms our concerns. For example, the July 2012 Pacific Union Recorder promoted not two contrasting views but exactly one view: pro-WO. No different ideas were allowed. In July 2012, the theme of the entire issue of the Columbia Union Visitor was to openly advocate for Women’s Ordination. No forum for any opposing view was provided."
         "The January 2013 Gleaner reports on the renewed presentation of WO appearing there, stating that “. . . such a change in current practice [for the church to ordain women] would no doubt be a significant cultural shift for some members.” The Gleaner asked “concerned” members to send in their comments (p. 4). Here then, before the current “discussion” has really started, the issue of WO is already portrayed by the editor as merely a matter of culture. What’s more, those who favor WO know that those who oppose it do so on the basis of what they see as its failure to comport with the teaching of Scripture—a completely different argument, and the singular basis for virtually all opposition to Women’s Ordination in the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The Gleaner staff may not concur with that assessment, but they demonstrate bias for their private opinion when they frame the discussion so that the opposite view is demeaned."
         "Add to this that the Ad Hoc Committee on Women in Leadership was formed without including any participants substantially opposed to WO. Nor has the Gleaner yet found anyone to write an article opposing WO although, as can be seen by the list of NPUC supporting pastors, we exist; we are not difficult to find. Articles have already been submitted but not published. Indeed, there has been no response from the Gleaner."
         "Considering the above, there should be no surprise. We are not directing our main responses to the Gleaner at this time. The evidence so far suggests that such a discussion might be nothing more than a fake dialogue. We would be pleased to be shown otherwise in a sustained and concrete manner. Until then, it is not our purpose to legitimize a process which, by what we have seen so far, may be intended, at least by some, to be predetermined. We offer the materials published on OrdinationTruth.com to the reader as alternative resources." -www.OrdinationTruth.com
      3. b.In some unions, committees have been formed to “study” the issue. But on careful examination these committees are, in every case we’ve seen so far, completely one sided, and are just a veiled way of pushing this agenda on every church through the influence of the pastors. This is neither a prudent nor Biblical process.

1. 4.Ellen G. White and Ordination
   1. a.“Ordained Minister” Certificates
      1. 1.1883 – “Ordained Minister”
      2. A.
         1. 2.1885 – “Ordained Minister”
         2. A.
            1. 3.1887 – “Ordained Minister”
            2. A.
      3. b.Ellen White, Arthur White (and the White Estate), answer the Ordination Question
         1. 1.“There is no record of Ellen White ever having been ordained by human hands. Yet from 1871 until her death she was granted ministerial credentials by various organizations of the church. The certificate that was used read “Ordained Minister.” Several other credential certificates from the mid-1880s are still in our possession. On the one from 1885 the word ordained is neatly struck out. On the 1887 certificate, the next one we have, it is not.”
            “Had she been ordained in the interim? Some have argued that she had. But the question is settled definitely by her own hand. In 1909 she filled out a “Biographical Information Blank” for the General Conference records. On the blank for item 19, which asks, “If ordained, state when, where, and by whom,” she simply inscribed an X. This is the same response she made to item 26, which asked, “If remarried, give date, and to whom.” In this way she indicated that she had never remarried, nor had she ever been ordained. She was not denying that God had chosen and equipped her, but she indicated that there had never been an ordination ceremony carried out for her. 29”
            “Why then do some of her credentials say ordained minister? The fact that ordained was sometimes crossed out highlights the awkwardness of giving credentials to a prophet. The church has no such special category of credentials. So it utilized what it had, giving its highest credentials without performing an ordination ceremony. In actuality, the prophet needed no human credentials. She functioned for more than 25 years prior to 1871 without any.” - Arthur L. White, “Ellen G. White the Person,” Spectrum 4, No. 2 (Spring 1972): p. 8
         2. A.http://www.adventistsaffirm.org/article/143/women-s-ordination-faqs/9-ellen-g-white-and-the-ministry-of-women
         3. B.http://christorculture.com/portfolio-view/was-ellen-white-herself-ordained-2/

1. 5.God's Original Design
   1. a.Equality in All Things
      1. 1."When God created Eve, He designed that she should possessneither inferioritynor superiorityto the man, but thatin all thingsshe should be his equal. The holy pair were to have no interest independent of each other; and yet each had an individuality in thinking and acting." {3T 484.1} (part 2)
      2. 2.Equal in worth = Ontological Equality, Not Homogeneous
      3. 3.Equal in salvation
      4. A.“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” -Galatians 3:28 NKJV
         1. 4.Functionally different – Male and female are necessary for a family.
      5. b.Equality Does Not Banish Roles in Family
         1. 1.“So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” -Genesis 1:27 NKJV
         2. 2.“And the LORD God said, “It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helpercomparable to him.”-Genesis 2:18 NKJV
         3. 3.“Then the rib which the LORD God had taken from man He made into a woman, and He brought her to the man.” -Gen 2:22 NKJV
         4. 4.“And Adam said: “This is now bone of my bones And flesh of my flesh; She shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.” -Genesis 2:23 NKJV
         5. 5.“The angels had cautioned Eve to beware of separating herself from her husband while occupied in their daily labor in the garden; with him she would be in less danger from temptation than if she were alone. …” {PP 53.5}
         6. 6.“Then the LORD God calledto Adam and said to him, "Where are you?” -Genesis 3:9 NKJV
         7. A.“So he said, "I heard Your voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; and I hid myself.” -Genesis 3:10 NKJV
      6. c.Adam Was Created First and is Head of the Race
         1. 1.“For Adam was formed first, then Eve.” 1 Timothy 2:13 NKJV
         2. 2.“The divine arrangement, even from the beginning, is this, that the man is the head of the woman. Every relation is disregarded or abused in this lawless age. But the Scriptures always maintain this order in the family relation. “For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the Head of the church” (Ephesians 5:23). Man is entitled to certain privileges which are not given to woman; and he is subjected to some duties and burdens from which the woman is exempt. A woman may pray, prophesy, exhort, and comfort the church, but she cannot occupy the position of a pastor or a ruling elder. This would be looked upon as usurping authority over the man, which is here [1 Timothy 2:12] prohibited” … “Neither do the words of Paul confine the labors of women to the act of prophesying alone. He refers to prayers, and also speaks of certain women who “labored in the Lord,” an expression which could only refer to the work of the Gospel. He also, in remarking on the work of the prophets, speaks of edification, exhortation, and comfort. This “labor in the Lord,” with prayer, comprises all the duties of public worship. Not all the duties of business meetings, which were probably conducted by men, or all the duties of ruling elders, and pastors, compare 1 Timothy 5:17, with 2:12, but all that pertain to exercises purely religious. We sincerely believe that, according to the Scriptures, women, as a right may, and as duty ought to, engage in these exercises” –J. H. Waggoner (1820-1889, Father of E. J. Waggoner) ( The Signs of the Times, December 19, 1878, p. 320, emphasis his)
      7. d.Adam the Protector of Eve
         1. 1.“God Himself gave Adam a companion. He provided "an help meet for him"--a helper corresponding to him--one who was fitted to be his companion, and who could be one with him in love and sympathy. Eve was created from a rib taken from the side of Adam, signifying that she was not to control him as the head, nor to be trampled under his feet as an inferior, but to stand by his side as an equal, to be loved and protected by him. A part of man, bone of his bone, and flesh of his flesh, she was his second self, showing the close union and the affectionate attachment that should exist in this relation. "For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it." Ephesians 5:29. "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife; and they shall be one.” {PP 46.2} (Mentioned 10 pages before the fall in PP)
         2. A.Protected from what? See Chapter 8-b-7 below.
      8. e.Adam Held Responsible for Sin
         1. 1.“Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned—” … “Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those who had not sinned according to the likeness of the transgression of Adam, who is a type of Him who was to come.” -Romans 5:12,14 NKJV (see Romans 12-21 for complete context)
         2. 2.“For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive.” -1 Corinthians 15:22 NKJV
      9. f.Jesus Came as a Man – The Second Adam
         1. 1.“Christ is called the second Adam. In purity and holiness, connected with God and beloved by God, he began wherethe first Adambegan. Willingly he passed over the ground whereAdam fell, and redeemed Adam's failure.” {YI, June 2, 1898 par. 1} (More on this subject later.)
      10. g.Summary
          1. 1.Even though there was equal value before sin their family roles were not identical.

1. 6.The Fall – God Makes Adjustments Because of Sin
   1. a."hast God said"
      1. 1.This involved Satan's first lie. Satan's lies have not changed. They only assume new forms. If this issue is something that God has been clear about, then we can be sure that "God hast said". You can rest assured that for everything that God has said, Satan with challenge it by twisting it to suit his purpose. "Hast God not said..." It worked in the garden and it still works today. It can be distinctly heard in the argument put forth that because Ordination of women is not mentioned in scripture that makes it “OK”.
      2. b."She Would Be a God" ... "A Law Unto Herself" ... "Acknowledge No Restraint"
         1. 1."Ye shall be as gods knowing good and evil.” That knowledge was obtained, but what a knowledge it was! The curse of sin was the knowledge they gained. Eve coveted the thing God had forbidden. She revealed a distrust of God and His goodness, and a desire to be independent and doas she thought best. Eve offered the fruit to Adam and became his tempter. She would be a god. She would be a law unto herself. She would acknowledge no restraint. But that apparentlysmallest of sinsconstituted her a transgressor of the law of God. . . ." {CTr 22.4} (This is the only occurrence of this statement in all of EGW’s writings currently available.)

1. 7.The Curse – It’s Beginning … and End
   1. a.The Serpent
      1. 1.“So the LORD God said to the serpent: "Because you have done this, you are cursed more than all cattle, and more than every beast of the field; On your belly you shall go, and you shall eat dust all the days of your life. And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her Seed; He shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise His heel.” -Genesis 3:14-15 NKJV
      2. 2.“This curse has reference chiefly to the originator of sin, the devil, and not to the serpent, the medium. Satan and his associates fell under the curse.” {13MR 382.4} [At the end of the typewritten copy of this manuscript, Ellen White wrote: "To be used when needed."]--Manuscript 5, 1904. Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. July 19, 1984 Entire Manuscript Released
      3. b.The Woman
         1. 1.The Curse
         2. A."To the womanHe said: "I will greatly multiply your sorrow and your conception; In pain you shall bring forth children; Your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you." -Genesis 3:16 NKJV
            1. 2.Physical Aspects
            2. A."... I will greatly multiply your sorrow and your conception; In pain you shall bring forth children ..." -Genesis 3:16 NKJV
               1. 3.Mental Aspects
               2. A.“...Your desire shall be for your husband...”-Genesis 3:16 NKJV
                  1. 4.Spiritual Aspects
                  2. A.“... and he [your husband] shall rule over you ...”-Genesis 3:16 NKJV
                     1. 5.Women's Subjection to Man Was Part of the Curse
                     2. A."But after Eve's sin, as she was first in the transgression, the Lord told her that Adam should rule over her. She was to be in subjection to her husband, and this was a part of the curse. In many cases the curse has made the lot of woman very grievous and her life a burden. The superiority which God has given man he has abused in many respects by exercising arbitrary power. Infinite wisdom devisedthe plan of redemption, which places the race on a second probation by giving them another trial." {3T 484.1} (part 3)
                        1. a.Question: Are the roles of men and women in the church an exercise of “arbitrary power” on the part of man, or are they part of “the plan of redemption” devised by Infinite wisdom?
                        2. b.Question: Even if a husband is guilty of “exercising arbitrary power” does this excuse a wife from “subjection to her husband”? Might this attitude have become an excuse? Was Eve guilty of making excuses when the curse was originally spoken by God?
                           1. 6.Unionand HarmonyCould Now Only Be Maintained by Submission
                           2. A.“Eve was told of the sorrow and pain that must henceforth be her portion. And the Lord said, "Thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee." In the creation God had made herthe equalof Adam. Had they remainedobedient to God--in harmony with His great law of love--they would ever have beenin harmony with each other; but sin had brought discord, and nowtheir unioncould bemaintained and harmony preservedonly by submissionon the part ofthe oneorthe other. …” {PP 58.3} (AH 115.1) (part 1)
                              1. 7.Why Eve Was Sentenced to Submission
                              2. A.“And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression. Nevertheless she will be saved in childbearing if they continue in faith, love, and holiness, with self-control.” -1 Timothy 2:14-15 NKJV
                              3. B.“… Eve had been thefirstin transgression; and she had fallen into temptation byseparating from her companion, contrary to the divine direction. It was byher solicitationthat Adam sinned, and she wasnow placed in subjection to her husband. …” {PP 58.3}(AH 115.1) (part 2)
                              4. C.“And now, having herself transgressed, she became the agent of Satanin working the ruin of her husband. In a state of strange, unnatural excitement, with her hands filled with the forbidden fruit, she sought his presence, and related all that had occurred.” {PP 55.3}
                                 1. 8.The Sentence of Submission for Women to be a Blessing
                                 2. A.“… Had the principles joined in the law of God been cherished by the fallen race, this sentence, though growing out of the results of sin, would have proved a blessing to them; but man's abuse of the supremacy thus given him has too often rendered the lot of woman very bitter and made her life a burden.” {PP 58.3}(AH 115.1) (part 3)
                                    1. 9.There are Positions God Does Not Qualify Women to Fill or Will Accept Them In
                                    2. A."A neglect on the part of woman to follow God's plan in her creation, an effort to reach for important positions whichHe has not qualified her to fill, leaves vacant the position that she could fillto acceptance. In getting out of her sphere, she loses true womanly dignity and nobility." {3T 484.1} (part 1)
                                       1. a.Careful review of this statement seems to make it clear that if a woman reaches for positions which God has not qualified her to fill it will not be accepted. This brings us back to the story of Cain and Abel. Which sacrifice was accepted? Only the one God specified.
                                          1. i.Abel – Offering God Specified
                                             1. 1.Biblical Accuracy/Obedience to Christ
                                             2. ii.Cain – Offering of Something God Did Not Ask For
                                                1. 1.Traditions of Men/Culture
                                                   1. 10.God’s Position for Women is as Important as a King or Pastor
                                                   2. A.“The mother who trains her children for Christ is as truly working for God as is the minister in the pulpit.” {PK 219.1}
                                                   3. B.“The king upon his throne has no higher work than has the mother. The mother is queen of her household. She has in her power the molding of her children's characters, that they may be fitted for the higher, immortal life. An angel could not ask for a higher mission; for in doing this work she is doing service for God. Let her only realize the high character of her task, and it will inspire her with courage. Let her realize the worth of her work, and put on the whole armor of God, that she may resist the temptation to conform to theworld's standard. Her work is for time and for eternity.” {ST, March 16, 1891 par. 1}
                                                      1. 11.Dangers of Reaching for Positions God Has Not Assigned
                                                      2. A.“Eve had been perfectly happy by her husband's side in her Eden home; but, like restless modern Eves, she was flattered with the hope of enteringa higher spherethan that whichGod had assigned her. In attempting to rise above her original position, she fellfarbelowit. A similar result will be reached byallwho are unwilling to take up cheerfully their life duties in accordance withGod's plan. In their efforts to reach positions for whichHe has not fitted them, manyare leaving vacant the place where they might be a blessing. In their desire fora higher sphere, manyhave sacrificedtrue womanly dignityandnobility of character, andhave left undonethe very workthatHeaven appointedthem.” {PP 59.1} (AH 115.2)
                                                         1. 12.The Word of God Gives Preference to the Judgment of the Husband
                                                         2. A.“The husband is the head of the family, as Christ is the head of the church; andany coursewhich the wife may pursue tolessen his influenceandlead him to come down from that dignified, responsible positionisdispleasing to God. It is thedutyof the wifeto yield her wishes and will to her husband. Both should be yielding, butthe Word of God gives preferenceto the judgment of the husband. And it will not detract from the dignity of the wife to yield to him whomshe has chosento beher counselor, adviser, andprotector. The husbandshould maintain his position in his familywith all meekness, yet with decision.” --1T 307, 308 (1862). {1MCP 161.1}
      4. c.The Man
         1. 1.The Rebuke
         2. A.“Then to AdamHe said, "Because you have heeded the voice of your wife, and have eaten from the tree of whichI commandedyou, saying, 'You shall not eat of it': …” -Genesis 3:17 NKJV
            1. 2.The Curse
            2. A.“… Cursed is the ground for your sake; In toil you shall eat of it All the days of your life. Both thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you, And you shall eat the herb of the field. In the sweat of your face you shall eat bread Till you return to the ground, For out of it you were taken; For dust you are, And to dust you shall return." -Genesis 3:17-19 NKJV
               1. 3.Physical Aspects
               2. A.“… Cursed is the ground for your sake; In toil you shall eat of it All the days of your life. Both thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you, And you shall eat the herb of the field. In the sweat of your face you shall eat bread Till you return to the ground …”
                  1. 4.Mental Aspects
                  2. A.“… Cursed is the ground for your sake; In toil you shall eat of it All the days of your life. Both thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you, And you shall eat the herb of the field. In the sweat of your face you shall eat bread Till you return to the ground …”
                     1. 5.Death
                     2. A.“… For out of it you were taken; For dust you are, And to dust you shall return.”
                        1. 6.Spiritual Aspects
                        2. A.The spiritual part of the curse pronounced on the man does not appear to be addressed in context.
                           1. 7.Nature’s Response to Man’s Rebellion
                           2. A.“Under the curse of sin all nature was to witness to man of the character and results of rebellion against God. When God made man He made him rule over the earth and all living creatures. So long as Adam remained loyal to Heaven, all nature was in subjection to him. But when he rebelled against the divine law, the inferior creatures were in rebellion against his rule. Thus the Lord, in His great mercy, would show men the sacredness of His law, and lead them, by their own experience, to see the danger of setting it aside, even in the slightest degree.” {PP 59.4}
                              1. 8.The Curse Was Appointed in Love and Part of God’s Plan for Recovery of Man
                              2. A.“… Cursed is the ground for your sake ...” -Genesis 3:17 NKJV
                              3. B.“And the life of toil and care which was henceforth to be man's lot was appointed in love. It was a discipline rendered needful by his sin, to place acheckupon the indulgence of appetite and passion, to develop habits ofself-control. It was a part of God's great plan ofman's recoveryfrom theruinanddegradation of sin.” {PP 60.1}
      5. d.No More Curse - Not Restored Until We Return to Heaven
         1. 1."¹And he showed me apure riverofwater of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb.   ²In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, wasthe tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. ³And there shall be no more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him. ⁴They shall see His face, and His name shall be on their foreheads. ⁵There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light. And they shall reign forever and ever. ⁶Then he said to me, "These words are faithful and true." And the Lord God of the holy prophets sent His angel to show His servants the things which must shortly take place." -Revelation 22:1-6 NKJV
      6. e.Summary
         1. 1.“By following his own way, by acting in harmony with Satan's temptations and in opposition to the known will of God, man vainly attempted to elevate and bless himself. Thus he gained an experimental knowledge of disobedience to God's commandments. Thus he knew good and evil; thus he lost his fidelity and loyalty to God and opened the floodgates of evil and suffering to the whole human family. How many today are making the same experiment! When will man learn that the only means for his safety is through a full confidence in a "thus saith the Lord"?” {18MR 34.1}
         2. 2.Since God said these things, can we dismiss them as just being cultural?
         3. 3.Can the serpent/Satan change this curse?
         4. 4.Can the evil angels change this curse?
         5. 5.Can the man change this curse?
         6. 6.Can the woman change this curse?
         7. 7.Who is the only one that has the Authority to change this curse?
         8. 8.If God was the one that “assigned” these roles (PP 59.1 & 3T 484.1), are they cultural?

1. 8.Rule of First Mention
   1. a.There is a Rule of First Mention that theologians apply when they interpret scripture. It is stated as follows, "When a word or phrase is first mentioned in the Bible, it will give a clue as to its meaning in later portions of scripture where its meaning may not be too clear."
   2. b.Genesis 3:16 is the first place in scripture where this issue is mentioned.

1. 9.Fruit
   1. a.Unchristian Behavior Towards Others
      1. 1.“This is the day of the Lord's preparation. We have no time now to talk unbelief or to gossip, no time now to do the devil's work. Let everyone beware of unsettling the faith of others by sowing seeds of envy, jealousy, disunion; for God hears the words, and he judges, not by assertions which are yea and nay, but by the fruit of one's course of action. “By their fruits ye shall know them.” The seed sown will determine the character of the harvest.” {RH, November 27, 1900 par. 9}
      2. 2.“There is no greater evidence that Satan is working than that those who profess to be sanctified to God's service persecute their fellow beings because they do not believe the same doctrine that they themselves believe.” {RH, December 28, 1897 par. 17}
      3. b.Name Calling
         1. 1."Talibanistic stupidity"
         2. A.While we will not mention the persons name, location, or specific position, we will say that we witnessed this remark made by a well known leader of an official church ministry recently. This person used this phrase to describe/categorize those who are against Women's Ordination. It's not difficult at all to detect an attitude of disrespect for others, divisiveness, antagonism and a spirit of conflict.
            1. 2.Questions:
            2. A.Since God gave the curse and this role for woman, would we dare call God "Taliban" or "stupid"?
            3. B.What if Eve had displayed this attitude in the Garden of Eden?
            4. C.What if Eve had raised her fist at God in rebellion after He uttered the words "... and he [your husband] shall rule over you ..."? -Genesis 3:16 NKJV What if she had replied, "your not being fair?" What if she had called God's actions "Talibanistic stupidity"?
            5. D."Yet the children of your people say, 'The way of the LORD is not fair.' But it is their way which is not fair! … 'The way of the LORD is not fair.' O house of Israel, I will judge every one of you according to his own ways." -Ezekiel 33:17-20 NKJV
            6. E.Are we not doing the same thing today by our actions?
               If God was here and had just uttered those words to us, would we even be having this issue of Women's Ordination?
               Would some accuse God of not allowing "free thinking"?
            7. F.Does name calling and disrespect have a place among God's people?
               1. 3.Thought:
               2. A.As I have mulled over the "Talibanistic stupidity" comment I have wondered, if for a second, at Satan's suggestion, Eve's thoughts might have run in this channel after God spoke those words to her.
      4. c.Categorizing
         1. 1.In many issues and instances we have witnessed people use the tool of "categorization" to dismiss another's view point. A favorite is "conservative" or "liberal", but there are others as well. Once this view point or person has been placed in the desired category, then the next step is to dismiss the viewpoint because you aren't a "conservative" or "liberal". This discourages critical thinking for ourselves.
      5. d.Friendships
         1. 1."Can we still be friends?" – I recently asked a Pastor friend of mine about their stand on Women’s Ordination. Their reply, “If I tell you can we still be friends?” This response reveals just how contentious this issue has become.
      6. e.Division
         1. 1.Many churches have a sharp divide on this issue. Hard feelings are being developed on both sides. Some pastors and conference leaders are fanning the flames of conflict instead of urging unity.
      7. f.“Free Thinking” or Rebellion
         1. 1.Is this an issue of “Free Thinking” or Rebellion? Could it be that Satan asked this same question? Most likely He called himself a "free thinker" as well. [satan thinkingslide]
      8. g.Passing Judgment on Others
         1. 1."Things will be constantly arising to cause disunion, to draw away from the truth. This questioning, criticizing, denouncing, passing judgment on others, is not an evidence of the grace of Christ in the heart. It does not produce unity. Such work has been carried on in the past by persons claiming to have wonderful light, when they were deep in sin." {Mar 158.6}
      9. h.Insubordination Disqualifies for Church Leadership
         1. 1."¹⁰For there are many insubordinate, both idle talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision, ... ¹⁶They profess to know God, but in works theydeny Him, being abominable, disobedient, anddisqualified for every good work." -Titus 1:16 NKJV (same chapter on Elders 1:5)
      10. i.Effect of Ordaining Women on Conversion Rates
          1. 1.While debatable and there are admittedly many factors to conversions rates. It is an observable fact that conversion rates are lower in the geographical regions that ordain women. “There is something about most men that resists being led by women. Call it chauvinism, call it bigotry, call it whatever you like. But a church dominated by women does not appeal to men. This is a great danger for evangelism. Winning women to our church has always been easier than winning men. Why add further hurdles to drawing men?” –Laurel Damsteegt, MDiv, MPH - Here We Stand, Chpt. 45, “Shall Women Minister?” p. 729

1. 10.Satan’s Rebellion
   1. a."I will also sit on the mount of the congregation"
      1. 1.The pinnacle of the Satan’s rebellion in heaven was when he rebelled against the position God gave him and tried to have himself ordained to the position that God had not given him. In his pride and arrogance Satan said, “I will ascend into heaven, … I will also[slide halo] sit on the mount of the congregation, … I will be like the Most High.”
      2. 2."For you have said in your heart: 'I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; I will also sit on the mount of the congregation on the farthest sides of the north; I will ascend above the heights of the clouds, I will be like the Most High.'" -Isaiah 14:13-14 NKJV
      3. 3.“It is only by a clear discernment of spiritual things that the original apostasy can be understood. The controversy in heaven began with selfish strife for position, a desire on the part of Lucifer to beequalwith God. The disaffection of Satan in entertaining the thought that he should stand as head of the heavenly order at first seemed a small thing, but by dwelling upon this thought, it was strengthened. Step by step he miscalculatedthe position that had been assigned him by God, to be maintainedonly in God, until he finally came to look with enmity upon everything coming from Jesus Christ. Satan rebelled againstthe laws governing the heavenly intelligences; and by representing these in adeceptive light, by hisunbelief and complaints, he drew others with him into rebellion.” {RH, May 30, 1899 par. 3}
      4. b.The Angels' Decisions Mattered
         1. 1.“All the heavenly host were summoned to appear before the Father, to have each case determined. Satan unblushingly made known his dissatisfaction that Christ should be preferred before him. He stood up proudly andurged that he should be equal with God, and should be taken into conference with the Father and understand his purposes. God informed Satan that to his Son alone He would reveal his secret purposes, and He required all the family in Heaven, even Satan, to yield him implicit, unquestioned obedience; but that he (Satan) had proved himself unworthy a place in Heaven. Then Satan exultingly pointed to his sympathizers, comprising nearlyone half of all the angels, and exclaimed, These are with me! Will you expel these also, and make such a void in Heaven? He then declared that he was prepared to resist the authority of Christ, and to defend his place in Heaven by force of might, strength against strength.” {1SP 22.2}
         2. 2.Thought: One Third of the Angels United with Satan in the Rebellion Against Their Ordained Positions in Heaven (Originally one half according to ST, January 9, 1879 par. 9) The Shaking may have a very similar parallel on a number of issues, ordination being just one of them.

1. 11.Jezebel
   1. a.The Only Female "High Priest" in Scripture
      1. 1."Through theinfluenceof Jezebel andherimpious priests, the people were taught that the idol gods that had been set up were deities, ruling by their mystic power the elements of earth, fire, and water. All the bounties of heaven--the running brooks, the streams of living water, the gentle dew, the showers of rain which refreshed the earth and caused the fields to bring forth abundantly--were ascribed to the favor of Baal and Ashtoreth, instead of to the Giver of every good and perfect gift. The people forgot that the hills and valleys, the streams and fountains, were in the hand of the living God, that He controlled the sun, the clouds of heaven, and all the powers of nature." {PK 115.3}
         "Throughfaithful messengersthe Lord sentrepeated warningsto the apostate king and the people, but in vain were these words of reproof. In vain did the inspired messengers assert Jehovah's right to be the only God in Israel; in vain did they exalt the laws that He had entrusted to them. Captivated by the gorgeous display and the fascinating rites of idol worship, the people followed the example of the king and his court, and gave themselves up to the intoxicating, degrading pleasures of asensual worship. In their blind folly they chose to reject God andHis worship. The light so graciously given them had become darkness. The fine gold had become dim." {PK 116.1}
      2. b.A Time of Apostasy – Just Before the “Rain”
         1. 1."Alas, how had the glory of Israel departed! Never before had the chosen people of God fallen so low in apostasy. Of "the prophets of Baal" there were "four hundred and fifty," besides four hundred "prophets of the groves." 1 Kings 18:19. Nothing short of the miracle-working power of God could preserve the nation from utter destruction. Israel had voluntarily separated herself from Jehovah, yet the Lord in compassion still yearned after those who had been led into sin, and He was about to send to them one of the mightiest of His prophets[Elijah], through whom many were to be led back to allegiance to the God of their fathers." {PK 116.2}
      3. c.The Only Woman in Scripture That Ever Ruled Over Priests
         1. 1.Jezebel - Meaning of the Name
         2. A.In the Hebrew, the name Jezebel means literally "without cohabitation"
            1. a.H369 -אין - 'ayin - ay'-yin - As if from a primitive root meaning to benothing or notexist; a non-entity; generally used as a negative particle: - else, except, fail [father-] less, be gone, in [-curable], neither, never, no (where), none, nor (any, thing), not, nothing, to nought, past, un [-searchable], well-nigh, without, Compare H370.
            2. b.H2082 – זבל - zâbal - zaw-bal' - A primitive root; apparently properly to inclose, that is, to reside: - dwell with.
            3. c.H2074 - זבוּלן   זבלוּן   זבוּלוּן - z^ebûlûn zebûlûn zebûlûn - zeb-oo-loon' - From H2082; habitation; Zebulon, a son of Jacob; also his territory and tribe: - Zebulun.
            4. d.Do the phrases mentioned earlier about Eve's attitude in the Garden sound familiar? "She Would Be a God" ... "A Law Unto Herself" ... "Acknowledge No Restraint" How about "without cohabition" or more accurately "will never acknowledge a husband's authority".
      4. d.Before Jezebel became a high priest she first had to become a priestess.
         1. 1.Thought: This involved a series compromises on both the part of Jezebel, and that of the other priests and spiritual leaders at the time. At each point of ascension in ordination.
      5. e.The Spirit of Jezebel Heard in the Seven Churches
         1. 1."Nevertheless I have a few things against you, because youallow that woman Jezebel, who callsherselfa prophetess, to teachandseduceMy servantstocommit sexual immoralityand eat things sacrificed to idols." -Revelation 2:20 NKJV
         2. 2.Thought: Immorality in relation to the harlot of Revelation 17 has to do with false or incorrect teachings (the abominations in the cup), and this most likely is the main application of this verse. Spiritual immorality taught through the Old Testament lesson on physical (sexual) immorality.
      6. f.Why Satan Chooses Women and Why We Should Beware of This Issue
         1. 1."Thus Satan used an unconsecrated woman to sway the heart of the king, and through the king to cause all Israel to sin. It is a terrible thing to be an instrument in the hands of Satan. Satan chooses women, for he can use them more successfully than he can men." --Ms. 29, 1911, p. 13. -- Satan's Use of Women -- ("Fragments of Old Testament History," November 17, 1911.) White Estate Washington, D. C. July 16, 1980 {10MR 76.2} Remember this was written by Ellen G. White, a woman who dedicated her life to God.
         2. 2.Thought: This idea clearly comes from the Bible’s account of Eve in the Garden of Eden.
         3. 3.“Adam was not deceived by the serpent, as was Eve, and it was inexcusable in Adam to rashly transgress God's positive command. ...” {RH, April 1, 1875 par. 5}
      7. g.Pondering Elijah's View on Women's Ordination
         1. 1.Although admittedly not mentioned in scripture, Elijah may have well preached a sermon or two, (maybe many) about the dangers of Women's Ordination in ancient Israel.

1. 12.The Shaking
   1. a.Unity and Separation
      1. 1."As trials thicken around us, both separationunity will be seen in our ranks. Some who are now ready to take up weapons of warfare will in times of real peril make it manifest that they have not built upon the solid rock; they will yield to temptation. Those who have had great light and precious privileges, but have not improved them, will, under one pretext or another, go out from us. Not having received the love of the truth, they will be taken in the delusions of the enemy; they will give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils, and will depart from the faith. [slide break] But, on the other hand, when the storm of persecutionreally breaksupon us, the true sheep will hear the true Shepherd's voice. Self-denying efforts will be put forthto save the lost, and many who have strayed from the fold will come back to follow the great Shepherd. The people of God will draw together and present to the enemy a united front. In view of the common peril, strife for supremacy will cease; there will be no disputing as to who shall be accounted greatest. No one of the true believers will say: "I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas." The testimony of one and all will be: "I cleave unto Christ; I rejoice in Him as my personal Saviour."  {6T 400.3}
      2. A.Attributes of the Two Groups
         1. a.Focused on Issues – “separation … under one pretext or another, go out from us. …”
         2. b.Focused on Efforts to Save the Lost – “unity … Self-denyingefforts will be put forthto save the lost …”
      3. b.Separation - Schism, Disunion and Dissension
         1. 1.“… there should be no schism in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another.” -1 Corinthians 12:25 NKJV
         2. 2."Christ is our teacher, our ruler, our strength, our righteousness; and in Him we are pledged to shunany course of actionthat will cause schism. ... let there beno shade of strifeamong Seventh-day Adventists." -Ellen G. White, Fundamentals of Christian Education 479.2
         3. A.Schism defined: (Ecclesiastical definition A) “a formal division within, or separation from, a church or religious body over some doctrinal difference.” –Dictionary.com
            1. 3.Unity of Action Essential - "The great enemy of the church isdeterminedto introduce among God's people that which will result indisunionandvariance. Schismanddivisionare not the fruit of righteousness; they are of the evil one. The great hindrance to our advancement is the selfishness that prevents believers from having true fellowship with one another." {RH, May 12, 1903 par. 8}
               "The last prayer that Christ offered for his disciples before his trial was that they might be one in him. Satan is determined that this oneness shall not be; for it is the strongest witness that can be borne that God gave his Son to reconcile the world to heaven. But the union for which Christ prayed must exist among God's people before he can bestow on the church the enlargement and power that he longs to bestow on it." {RH, May 12, 1903 par. 9}
               "Unity should be recognized as the element of preservation in the church. Those who are united in church capacity have entered into a solemn covenant with God to obey his word, and to unite in an effort to strengthen the faith of one another. They are to be one in him, even though they are scattered the world over. This is God's purpose concerning them, and the heart of the Saviour is set upon his followers fulfilling this purpose. But God can not make them one with Christ and with one another unless they are willing to give up their way for his way." {RH, May 12, 1903 par. 10}
               "How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth! Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing: for they shall see eye to eye, when the Lord shall bring again Zion." Thus is portrayed the happiness and grace that will be revealed whenunityandloveabide in the church." {RH, May 12, 1903 par. 11}
            2. 4.“Dissension is the moral poison taken into the system by human beings who are selfish.” –Ellen G. White, Gospel Workers 395.3
            3. A.Meaning of dissension: "1.strong disagreement; a contention or quarrel; discord. 2. difference in sentimentoropinion; disagreement." -Dictionary.com
               1. 5."It is the purpose of God that His children shall blend in unity. Do they not expect to live together in the same heaven? Is Christ divided against Himself? Will He give His people success before they sweep away the rubbish ofevil surmisinganddiscord, before the laborers, with unity of purpose, devote heart and mind and strengthto the workso holy in God's sight? Union brings strength; disunion, weakness. Unitedwith one another, working togetherin harmonyfor the salvation of men, we shall indeed be "laborers together with God." Those who refuse to work in harmony greatly dishonor God. The enemy of souls delights to see them working at cross purposes with one another. Such ones need to cultivate brotherly love and tenderness of heart. If they could draw aside the curtain veiling the future and see the result of their disunion they would surely be led to repent.” {8T 240.1}
               2. 6.“Harmonyandunionexisting among men ofvaried dispositionsis thestrongest witnessthat can be borne that God has sent His Son into the world to save sinners. It is our privilege to bear this witness. But, in order to do this, we must place ourselves under Christ's command. Our characters must be molded in harmony with His character, our wills must be surrendered to His will. Then we shall work together without a thought of collision.” {CCh 44.6}
               3. 7."No advice or sanction is given in the Word of God to those who believe the third angel's message to lead them to suppose that they can draw apart. This you may settle with yourselves forever. [slide halo] It is the devising of unsanctified minds that would encourage a state of disunion. The sophistry of men may appear right in their own eyes, but it is not truth and righteousness. "For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; . . . that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross" (Ephesians 2:14-16). {LHU 296.5}
               4. 8."Christ is the uniting link in the golden chain which binds believers together in God. There must be no separating in this great testing time. . . . The children of God constitute one united whole in Christ, who presents His cross as the center of attraction. All who believe are one in Him." {LHU 296.6}
               5. 9."We should not needlessly take a course that will make differences or cause dissension." {3MR 33.2}
      4. c.Heresies Will Come in Among God's People to Sift Them
         1. 1."God will arouse His people; if other means fail, heresies will come in among them, which will sift them, separating the chaff from the wheat. The Lord calls upon all who believe His word to awake out of sleep. Precious light has come, appropriate for this time. It is Bible truth, showing the perils that are right upon us. This light should lead us to a diligent study of the Scriptures and a most critical examination of the positions which we hold. God would have all the bearings and positions of truth thoroughly and perseveringly searched, with prayer and fasting. Believers are not to rest in suppositions and ill-defined ideas of what constitutes truth. Their faith must be firmly founded upon the word of God so that when the testing time shall come and they are brought before councils to answer for their faith they may be able to give a reason for the hope that is in them, with meekness and fear." {5T 707.3}
         2. A.Heresy Defined 1:c (best related definition) “an opinion or doctrine contrary to church dogma” –Merriam-Webster.com
      5. d."There is No Sanctuary"
         1. 1."In the future, deception of every kind is to arise, and we want solid ground for our feet. We want solid pillars for the building. Not one pin is to be removed from that whichthe Lord has established. The enemy will bring in false theories such as the doctrine that there is no sanctuary. … “ {MR760 12.3} (We examine this statement further in the next section.)
      6. e.Compromise Starts Small and Ends Big
         1. 1.Compromise on this issue could lead to further compromise when it comes to bigger issues like forced worship (Sunday Laws).

1. 13.Attack on the Sanctuary Model
   1. a.The Sanctuary and the Shaking
      1. 1."In the future, deception of every kind is to arise, and we want solid ground for our feet. We want solid pillars for the building. Not one pin is to be removed from that whichthe Lord has established.The enemy will bring in false theories such as the doctrine that there is no sanctuary. This is one of the points on which there will be a departing from the faith. Where shall we find safety unless it be in the truths that the Lord has been giving for the last fifty years?" {MR760 12.3}
      2. b.The Roles of Husband and Wife Reflect the Role of Christ and His Church
         1. 1."For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body. Therefore, justasthe church is subject to Christ, solet the wives be to their own husbandsin everything." -Ephesians 5:23-24 NKJV In everything would include at church wouldn't it? Shouldn’t the body also be subject to the Savior?
         2. A.Question: Can the church (the wife) enter the heavenly sanctuary of her own accord and intercede as Christ's equal, or in place of Christ?
         3. B.Thought: Theology like this could end up in a direct attack upon our Sanctuary doctrine.
      3. c.Maryology
         1. 1.Maryology/Mariology – “The body of belief or dogma or the systematic study of the Virgin Mary and her role in the Incarnation.” ---American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition copyright ©2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

(Photo taken in front of a Roman Catholic church in Panama City,
Panama by our mission trip team in 2006.)

1. d.The Harlot of Babylon - It's About Control
   1. 1.“And another angel followed, saying, "Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she has made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.” -Revelation 14:8 NKJV
   2. 2.“The woman was arrayed inpurpleandscarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls, having in her hand a golden cup full of abominations and the filthiness of her fornication.” -Revelation 17:4 NKJV
   3. A.Bishops = Purple, Cardinals = Scarlet
   4. B.So this “Mary” is clothed with the Bishops and Cardinals. Or in plain English she is in control of them.
   5. e.The Bride of Christ – Free Willing Obedience to Christ
      1. 1.“Now a great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a garland of twelve stars.” -Revelation 12:1 NKJV
      2. 2.“I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, My soul shall be joyful in my God; For He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered mewith the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.” -Isaiah 61:10 NKJV
      3. A.Thought: This woman of Revelation 12 does not force anyone to do anything. She is wearing the garment Christ has given to her, and this represents not only Christ’s righteousness, but her submission to Christ (her husband) in all things. Even the moon she is pictured as standing on reflects light of Christ.

1. 14.Examples of Bad Influences/Advice by Women in Important Decisions
   1. a.Eve to Adam
      1. 1.No other Gods, covet – Genesis 3:6,17
      2. b.Sarah to Abraham
         1. 1.Adultery – Genesis 16:2
      3. c.Daughters to Lot
         1. 1.Adultery, honor your Father - children – Amalekites – Genesis 19:32+
      4. d.Witch of Endor to Saul
         1. 1.No other Gods before Me, no graven images – 1 Samuel 28:7+
      5. e.Job’s Wife to Job
         1. 1.“Curse God and die!” - Thou Shalt Not Take the Lord’s Name in Vain - Job 2:9
      6. f.Delilah to Sampson
         1. 1.False witness - Judges 16:6+
      7. g.Harlot/Babylon to all the World
         1. 1.“She has made all nations” – Revelation 14:8

1. 15.Caution When Scripture is Silent on Some Matters
   1. a.Laypersons/Workers Should Exercise Caution
      1. 1."Workers for God should not spend time speculating as to what conditions will prevail in the new earth. (sic) It is presumption to indulge in suppositions and theories regarding matters that the Lord has not revealed. He has made every provision for our happiness in the future life, and we are not to speculate regarding His plans for us. Neither are we to measure the conditions of the future life by the conditions of this life." {GW 314.2}
      2. 2."When questions arise upon which we are uncertain, let us ask, What saith the Scripture? And if the Scripture is silent upon the question at issue, let it not be made the subject of discussion. Let those who wish for something new, seek for that newness of life resulting from the new birth. Let them purify their souls by obeying the truth, and act in harmony with the instruction that Christ has given." {GW 314.4}
      3. 3."I am instructed to saythat these theories are the production of minds unlearned in the first principles of the gospel. By such theories the enemy strives to eclipse the great truths for this time." {GW 313.2}
      4. 4.“I have often been instructed by the Lord that no man's judgment should be surrendered to the judgment of any other one man. Never should the mind of one man or the minds of a few men be regarded as sufficient in wisdom and power to control the work, and to say what plans shall be followed. But when, in a General Conference, the judgment of the brethren assembled fromall parts of the field, is exercised, private independence and private judgment must not bestubbornly maintained, but surrendered. Nevershould a laborer regard as a virtue the persistent maintenance of his position of independence, contrary to the decision of the general body.” {GW 489.2}
      5. b.Ministers Should Exercise Extreme Caution
         1. 1."To my ministering brethren I would say, Preach the word. Do not bring to the foundation wood, hay, and stubble,--your own surmisings and speculations, which can benefit no one. Subjects of vital importance are revealed in the word of God, and these are worthy of our deepest thought. But we are not to search into matters on which God has been silent." {GW 314.3}
         2. 2."The only question asked in the judgment will be, "Have they been obedient to My commandments?" Petty strife and contention over questions of no importance has no part in God's great plan. Those who teach the truth should bemenof solid minds, who will not lead their hearers into a field of thistles, as it were, and leave them there." {GW 315.1}
         3. 3."We should not needlessly take a course that will make differences or cause dissension. We should not give the impression that if our particular ideas are not followed, it is because the ministers are lacking in comprehension. There are in the lessons of Christ subjects in abundance that you can speak upon; and mysteries which neither you nor your hearers can understand or explain might better be left alone. Give the Lord Jesus Christ Himself room to teach; let Him by the influence of His Spirit open to the understanding the wonderful plan of salvation. There is a time of trouble coming to the people of God, but we are not to keep that constantly before the people, and rein them up to have a time of trouble beforehand. There is to be a shaking among God's people; but this is not the present truth to carry to the churches; it will be the result of refusing the truth presented." {3MR 33.2}
         4. 4."The ministers should not feel that they have some wonderful advanced ideas, and unless all receive these, they will be shaken out, and a people will arise to go forward and upward to the victory. Satan's object is accomplished just as surely when men run ahead of Christ and do the work He has never entrusted to their hands, as when they remain in the Laodicean state, lukewarm, feeling rich and increased with goods, and in need of nothing. The two classes are equally stumbling-blocks." {3MR 34.1}
         5. 5."A devoted, spiritual worker will avoid bringing up minor theoretical differences, and will devote his energies to the proclamation of the great testing truths to be given to the world. He will point the people to the work of redemption, the commandments of God, the near coming of Christ; and it will be found thatin these subjects there is food enough for thought." {GW 312.4}
         6. 6."Satan is working in many ways, that the very men who ought to preach the message may be occupied with fine-drawn theories which he will cause to appear of such magnitude and importance as to fill the whole mind; and while they think they are making wonderful strides in experience, they are idolizing a few ideas, and their influence is injured, and tells but little on the Lord's side. Let every minister make earnest efforts to ascertain what is the mind of Christ. There are those who pick out from the Word of God, and also from the Testimonies, detached paragraphs or sentences that may be interpreted to suit their own ideas, and they dwell upon these, and build themselves up in their own positions, when God is not leading them. Now all this pleases the enemy." {3MR 33.1}
      6. c.Example on Foot Washing Between Men and Women
         1. 1."There is no example given in the Word for brethren to wash sisters' feet; [SEE APPENDIX.] but there is an example for sisters to wash the feet of brethren. Mary washed the feet of Jesus with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head. (See also 1 Timothy 5:10.) I saw that the Lord had moved upon sisters to wash the feet of brethren and that it was according to gospel order. All should move understandingly and not make the washing of feet a tedious ceremony." {EW 117.1}
      7. d.History - Young Workers Urged More Pleasing, False Doctrines
         1. 1."But after a time the zeal of the believers began to wane, and theirlove for Godandfor one anothergrew less. Coldnesscrept into the church. Some forgot the wonderful manner in which they had received the truth. [1844 popup] One by one the oldstandard-bearersfell at their post. Some of the younger workers, who might have shared the burdens of these pioneers, and thus have been prepared forwise leadership, had become weary of oft-repeated truths. In their desire for something novel and startling they attempted to introduce new phases of doctrine, more pleasing to many minds, but not in harmony with the fundamental principles of the gospel. In their self-confidence and spiritual blindness they failed to discern that these sophistries would cause many to question the experiences of the past, and would thus lead to confusion and unbelief."  {AA 580.1}
         2. 2."As these false doctrines were urged, differences sprang up, and the eyes of many were turned from beholding Jesus as the Author and Finisher of their faith. The discussion of unimportant points of doctrine, and the contemplation of pleasing fables of man's invention, occupied time that should have been spent in proclaiming the gospel. The masses that might have been convicted and converted by a faithful presentation of the truth were left unwarned. Piety was rapidly waning, and Satan seemed about to gain the ascendancy over those who claimed to be followers of Christ."  {AA 580.2}

1. 16.History - The Slippery Slope of Compromise
   1. a.Terrible Consequences Will Result from One Wrong Step
      1. 1.“To Eve it seemed a small thing to disobey God by tasting the fruit of the forbidden tree, and to tempt her husband also to transgress; but their sin opened the floodgates of woe upon the world. Who can know, in the moment of temptation, theterrible consequencesthat will result fromone wrong step?” {PP 61.2}
      2. b.The History of the Episcopal Church
         1. 1.Events That Led to the Ordination of Homosexual Bishops in 2003
         2. 2.1976 - Women's Ordination Permitted - Redefined Statements on Homosexuality
         3. A.“The General Convention permitted the ordination of women in 1976. The first women were canonically ordained to the priesthood in 1977.
            1. 3.1977 - First Openly Homosexual Priest Ordained
            2. A.“The Episcopal Church affirmed at the 1976 General Convention that homosexuals are "children of God" who deserve acceptance and pastoral care from the church and equal protection under the law. … The first openly homosexual priest, Ellen Barrett, was ordained in 1977.^[43]” -Wikipedia.org – Episcopal Church
               1. 4.1989 – The First Female Bishop Ordained
               2. A.“The first female bishop, Barbara Harris, was consecrated on February 11, 1989.^[40] At the time of the formation of ACNA, three U.S. dioceses did not ordain women at all. All dioceses of TEC now ordain women. The 2006 election of Jefferts Schori as the Church's 26th presiding bishop was controversial in the wider Anglican Communion because she is a woman, and the full communion does not recognize the ordination of women. She is the only national leader of a church in the Anglican Communion who is a woman. In addition, eight American dioceses have rejected her authority and have asked the Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams, to assign them another national leader.^[41] ” -Wikipedia.org – Episcopal Church
                  1. 5.1991 – Tried to (re)Affirm Marriage … But too late.
                  2. A.“Despite the affirmation of gay rights, the General Convention affirmed in 1991 that "physical sexual expression" is only appropriate within the monogamous, lifelong "union of husband and wife."^[42]” -Wikipedia.org – Episcopal Church
                     1. 6.2003 - First Homosexual Bishop
                     2. A.“The first openly homosexual bishop, Gene Robinson, was elected in June 2003.^[44] Robinson's election caused a crisis in both the American church and the wider Anglican Communion. In October 2003, an emergency meeting of the Anglican primates (the heads of the Anglican Communion's 38 member churches) was convened. The meeting's final communiqué included the warning that if Robinson's consecration proceeded, it would "tear the fabric of the communion at its deepest level."^[45]” -Wikipedia.org – Episcopal Church
                        1. 7.A Parallel in the 2012 Adventist General Council
                        2. A.“The Seventh-day Adventist Church on Wednesday reaffirmed its stance against homosexual activity and same-sex marriage, but also softened the denomination’s position statement to offer compassion toward gays and lesbians.” -Oct. 17, 2012 Silver Spring, Maryland, United States, Edwin Manuel Garcia/ANN - http://news.adventist.org/en/archive/articles/2012/10/17/churchs-view-on-homosexuality-adjusted-to-include-compassion
                           1. a.Note: We are not saying this action is wrong, but it is an intriguing parallel.
      3. c.The Fallen Church of England
         1. 1.2013 (January 4) – Church of England Ends Ban on Gay Bishops - http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/50366588
      4. d.King Ahab's Days
         1. 1."Under the blighting influence of Ahab's rule, Israel wandered far from the living God and corrupted their ways before Him. For many years they had been losing their sense of reverence and godly fear; and now it seemed as if there were none who dared expose their lives by openly standing forth in opposition to the prevailing blasphemy. The dark shadow of apostasy covered the whole land. Images of Baalim and Ashtoreth were everywhere to be seen. Idolatrous temples and consecrated groves, wherein were worshiped the works of men's hands, were multiplied. The air was polluted with the smoke of the sacrifices offered to false gods. Hill and vale resounded with the drunken cries of a heathen priesthood who sacrificed to the sun, moon, and stars." {PK 115.2}

1.

1. 17.A Parallel in Acts of the Apostles Over Circumcision
   1. a."The entire body of Christians was not called to vote upon the question. The "apostles and elders," men of influence and judgment, framed and issued the decree, which was thereupon generally accepted by the Christian churches. Not all, however, were pleased with the decision; there was a faction of ambitious and self-confident brethren who disagreed with it. These men assumed to engage in the work on their own responsibility. They indulged inmuch murmuringandfaultfinding, proposingnew plansandseeking to pull down the work of the men whom God had ordained to teach the gospel message. From the first the church has had such obstacles to meet and ever will have till the close of time." {AA 196.2}
      1. 1.Note: We are not making a direct comparison here between circumcision and women’s ordination, but reviewing the historical conflict involved in the issue.

1. 18.Worldliness and Standards
   1. a.Standard After Standard Left to Trail in the Dust
      1. 1.“In vision I saw two armies in terrible conflict. One army was led by banners bearingthe world's insignia; the other was led by thebloodstained banner of Prince Immanuel. Standard after standard was left to trail in the dustascompany after company from the Lord's army joined the foeandtribe after tribe from the ranks of the enemy united with the commandment-keeping people of God. An angel flying in the midst of heaven put the standard of Immanuel into many hands, while amighty generalcried out with aloud voice: "Come into line. Let those who are loyal to the commandments of God and the testimony of Christ now take their position. Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean, and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters. Let all who will come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty.” {8T 41.1}
      2. A.Thoughts:
         1. a.What standards? If we leave this statement alone and move on, most people don’t have an issue. This is because we all have our own conception of “standards”. Instead of moving on, let’s ask the hard questions here. Are there standards in diet? Dress? Music? Worship? What about standards in our schools? Are there standards in church organization?
         2. b.In Ellen White's first vision she says, "I raised my eyes, and saw a straight and narrow path, cast up high above the world. On this path the Advent people were traveling to the city, which was at the farther end of the path." {EW 14.1} Friends, we will not travel that path "high above the world" by attempting to take the shortcut of compromise and worldliness in the church. We need to raise the standard, not lower it.
      3. b.Old Ways vs. New Ways
         1. 1.“¹⁶Thus says the LORD: "Stand in the ways and see, and ask for theold paths, where the good way is, and walk in it; Then you will find rest for your souls. But they said, 'We will not walk in it.' ¹⁷Also, I set watchmen over you, saying, 'Listen to the sound of the trumpet!' But they said, 'We will not listen.'” -Jeremiah 6:16-17 NKJV
         2. 2.“¹²As forMy people, children are their oppressors, and women rule over them. O My people! Those who lead you cause you to err, and destroy the way of your paths." ¹³The LORD stands up toplead, and stands tojudgethe people.” -Isaiah 3:12-13 NKJV
      4. c.Where are the Voices of Warning?
         1. 1.“… The barriers which God's word places about His people are being broken down. Men who are acquainted with the way in which God has led His people in the past, instead of inquiring for theold pathsanddefending our positionas a peculiar people, have linked hands with the world. The most alarming feature in the case is that warning voices have not been heard in remonstrance, entreaties, andwarnings. The eyes of God's people seem to be blinded, while the church is fast drifting into the channel of worldliness.” {4T 513.1}
            “God does not desire wooden men to guard the interests of His institutions and the church, but He wants living, working men,--men who have ability and quick perception,--men who have eyes, and open them that they may see, andhearts that are susceptible to the influences of His Spirit. He holds men to a strict accountability in guarding the interests of His cause at Battle Creek.” {4T 513.2}
      5. d.Creeping Compromise
         1. 1.It’s interesting to note that most churches that compromise in music, compromise in diet, compromise in dress, and even compromise on the Sabbath are the most active proponents of Women’s Ordination.
         2. 2.Parents: The compromise we make today becomes the standard for our children. If each generation compromises where does that leave the standard?