How to Argue Adventist-Style and Win (or at Least Come Out with Your Dignity Intact)

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Whether we’re discussing new church carpet colors or the intricacies of the Investigative Judgment, we Adventists can disagree with each other pretty strongly from time to time. So, if you’re currently in the middle of a lively discussion (or full-blown argument) with fellow Adventists, we’ve got your back. We’ve put together a toolbox of options to help you get your point  across without resorting to throwing hymnals at each other (because who has hymnals anymore?) You’re welcome:

1. Use Ellen G. White’s quotes

When in doubt, quote Sister White! Her writings are the holy grail of Adventist literature, so throw in a few well-placed quotes to make your point. Bonus points if you can work in “Testimonies for the Church” or “The Desire of Ages.”

2. Mention the health message

If nothing sticks, bring up the Adventist health message. “Maybe if you laid off the fried chicken, you wouldn’t be so ornery.” It’s the ultimate mic drop and a subtle reminder that we are the healthiest (and most vegetarian) people on the planet.

3. Happy Sabbath!

If you’re arguing over text on a Sabbath day, punctuate each point with a cheery “Happy Sabbath!” It’s a surefire way to show your opponent that you are a true Sabbath keeper and also a bit of a sass-master.

4. Use Daniel and Revelation

Adventists love a good prophetic interpretation, so if you want to win an argument, throw in a reference to Daniel or Revelation. Just make sure you have a solid grasp on the prophetic timeline or risk getting called out by your opponent.

5. Name-drop a prominent Adventist theologian

If you can’t make a convincing argument on your own, just name-drop a famous Adventist theologian who agrees with you. Make sure it isn’t Desmond Ford.

6. Mention your Adventist pedigree

If you come from a long line of Adventists, don’t be afraid to play the family card. “I may not have a PhD in theology, but my great-great-grandfather ate the first bowl of cornflakes.” It’s a way of saying, “I may not know everything, but I know where I come from.”

7. Offer to pray

Even if you don’t win the argument, always end on a gracious note. Offer to pray for your opponent, and they’ll have a hard time holding a grudge. Plus, it’s a reminder that we’re all part of the same Adventist family and your sparring partner should still invite you over for haystacks.


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