ATSS: Marko Lukić, “A Useless Doctrine? Revisiting the Investigative Judgment”
1 January 2025 |
The doctrine of the investigative judgment (particularly when expressed in metaphors regarding the sanctuary and day of atonement) is regarded by many as one of the three major pillars of Adventist identity. It has shaped the way we Adventists understand ourselves and our special mission.
But it has for a long time, since early in denominational history, also been a bone of contention. Desmond Ford was among the scholars who recognized that the way early Adventists formulated it did not make sense biblically, and it was finally the cause for his departure from the church.
But beyond being biblically insupportable, its major problem is that it has no practical value. So what if the final judgment began in 1844 in the heavenly sanctuary? What does that have to do with me now, today?
Some pastors have utilized this teaching to instill fear in the hearts of church members in the hope that it will wake them up from their Laodicean slumber: “Get right with God today!” they say. “Who knows when your name will come up in the investigative judgment? It may be tonight! You may never have another chance!” These interpretations have led to a last-generation perfectionism theology which enjoys considerable popularity in some corners of the church.
But what good is it to those who believe in the finished work of Jesus Christ at the cross, and God’s ongoing forgiveness of our sins since creation?
In my presentation I will try to revisit this teaching in the light of Yom Kippur and Adventist history. I will search for a more practical, more beneficial use for it that is closer to the Bible, while remaining faithful to the core Adventist ethos.
As a preparation for this class, I suggest forgetting all you think you’ve been told about the “investigative judgment.” Let’s instead take a completely fresh look at its source and meaning. I apologize in advance that I probably won’t be able to avoid everything that might trigger some listeners, but I believe we can together start a new conversation around this barren doctrine.
At the beginning of the 20th century, the doctrine of the Trinity got resurrected from what many thought was a useless, highly speculative teaching, to become an organizing principle for worship, mission, and ecclesiological self-understanding. Perhaps we can turn around the investigative judgment teaching, too, and give it a new lease.
Teacher:
Marko Lukic, PhD is a full-time pastor in the South-East European Union Conference. He also has a YouTube channel in the Serbian language, where he comments on theological, philosophical, psychological, and practical aspects of the Sermon on the Mount, and is planning to do the same for the English-speaking audience.
Moderator:
How to join:
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84660232090
Passcode: DANIEL [ALL CAPS]
ATSS starting time depends on where you are. If you’re on the west coast of the United States, it’ll be 10:30 AM. On the east coast, 1:30 PM. Times in Europe, Africa, and elsewhere will vary with local time changes. Please double-check the correct time where you live.
The class is intended to last about 2 hours, though the conversation often continues to 4 PM (Eastern time).
About our class:
- The AT Sabbath Seminar is intended to be a courteous forum.
- Stick to the topic in both comments and chat discussion.
- Make your comments and questions short—don’t dominate.
- Keep your microphones muted unless you are called upon to make your comment or ask your question.
- Indicate your interest in speaking by raising your electronic hand.
- Please use your name when you sign in, so we know who we’re addressing.
We look forward to getting acquainted with you!
YouTube channel:
You can see all of our previous ATSS recordings here.
Coming up:
- Maury Jackson
- Bryan Ness
- Jeffrey Gang
- Reinder Bruinsma
- Kärt Lazik
- Tom Dybdahl
