Well-known, Beloved Adventist Preacher Morris Venden is Dead
by AT News Team
Elder Morris L. Venden, the widely-known and much loved Seventh-day Adventist preacher, passed to his death on Sunday evening, February 10. He was 80 years old and had struggled with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), a rare form of gradual cognitive loss that affected him in a form known as Pick's Disease*, for the past ten years, according to an announcement from the denomination's Upper Columbia Conference (UCC).
The pastor of several large congregations near Adventist colleges and universities over the years, Venden’s personal ministry was largely with students, professionals and young adults. When he retired from pastoral ministry in 1998, he became an associate speaker at the Voice of Prophecy media ministry and in addition to speaking for regular broadcasts was a guest speaker at many camp meetings, convocations and other events, including the 2000 World Ministerial Council at the time of the General Conference Session in Toronto.
During his many years of ministry, Venden is best known for advocating a grace-oriented perspective and for defending Adventist theology in a way that was acceptable to at least some evangelicals. He had a profound impact on the spiritual lives of large numbers of church members and others through his preaching and writing. For example, He is described as “the very first preacher who ever reached down deep into my stone-cold heart-of-hearts … with a gospel message that got right into my kitchen and would not let me go” by a member of New Earth Band, the country gospel group based in Reading, Pennsylvania. “He was my pastor for all of the years I attended Pacific Union College … and was such a blessing to me in shaping my daily walk with Jesus,” wrote Pastor Steve Dayen on the SDA Ministers page on Facebook yesterday.
Another ministerial student at the time remembers that at the height of the controversy kicked up by theologian Desmond Ford, during a meeting of the theology faculty and students at Pacific Union College, “after a series of papers 20 to 30 pages [each] parsing the Greek and Hebrew,” Venden passed out a two-and-a-half-page paper and made this simple statement; “You must be born again. You must be born again. You must be born again. There was something wrong with your first birth so you must be born again.”
In addition to the Pacific Union College Church, Venden was also senior pastor at the Collegeview Church on the campus of Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska; the La Sierra University Church in Riverside, California; the Keene (Texas) Church near Southwestern Adventist University; and the Azure Hills Church near Loma Linda, California. He focused on salvation and spiritual life, teaching that both justification and sanctification are by faith. He was famous for his dry humor and his stories, contemporary parables.
He wrote more than 30 books, many of them originating in his sermon manuscripts or transcriptions. The first, Salvation by Faith and Your Will, was published by the now-defunct Southern Publising Association in 1978. The most recent—other than some reprints with title changes—was Why Didn’t They Tell Me? in 2005 at Pacific Press. Among the most important of his books is a three-volume series published by the Review & Herald in 1984 covering the doctrines of the Adventist movement: Common Ground presented doctrines that Adventists hold in common with all Christians. Higher Ground reviewed doctrines that Adventists share with some other conservative Protestants, mainly focusing on spiritual growth. Uncommon Ground included those doctrines that are largely unique to Adventist faith.
Also widely quoted are Venden’s 1987 book 95 Theses on Righteousness by Faith and his 1991 book Hard to Be Lost, both from Pacific Press. Perhaps his most controversial book is Never Without an Intercessor (1996, Pacific Press). An earlier version was published under the title Good News and Bad News about the Judgment.
Venden spoke and wrote much about a widespread concern of his generation of Adventists—assurance of salvation. Many felt that the way the atonement and the sanctuary were presented from the 1920s into the 1950s left a person without knowing that their salvation was certain in Christ Jesus, a fundamental faith assertion very common among American evangelicals. As assurance was more widely emphasized by Venden and other preachers, an ultra-conservative reaction developed, rooted in the fear that Adventists would shift to the “once-saved, always-saved” attitude that has resulted in lax personal and social ethics among many evangelicals.
As a result of his themes, Venden is controversial on both former Adventist and ultra-conservative Adventist web sites. For example, on the greatcontroversy.org blog, Kevin Paulson begins a review of the 1996 Never Without an Intercessor by describing Venden as “one of the most curious yet tragic figures of modern Adventist history.” Paulson states that as a student at Pacific Union College, Venden got him started in his personal devotional life, then writes, “Yet the fundamental errors of Morris Venden’s salvation theology and his view of the church’s spiritual priorities continue to prevent clarity of understanding among many contemporary Adventists. … The theology of Morris Venden perhaps best epitomizes the modern Adventist obsession with the dangers of legalism,” when, in Paulson’s opinion, the concern should be focused on “the swelling floodwaters of worldliness and laxity in today’s church.” A similar critique of Venden, some of it very lengthy, can be found on many independent, ultra-conservative Adventist web sites.
The Former Adventist Fellowship Forum presents a contrasting view of Venden’s work. Commenting on 95 Theses on Righteousness by Faith, one man wrote, “I find it disgusting that Venden would rely on a reference to Luther in order to teach many doctrines directly opposed to the central core of the Reformation. [He] teaches that righteousness by faith comes through the combined efforts of man and God … the Roman Catholic view that Luther, Calvin and others fought so strongly against. [He] denies original sin.”
“Perhaps the fact that he got disagreement from both sides is evidence that he was solidly in the center of both Biblical theology and the Adventist heritage,” one pastor told Adventist Today. “It is certainly true that no one since H. M. S. Richards has had such a widespread and deeply spiritual influence on a generation of Adventists. What Richards was to the World War II generation, Venden has been to the Baby Boom generation, at least among Adventists in North America.”
A memorial service will be held in the Loma Linda University Church on Sunday, March 3, at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that gifts be sent in memory of Venden to the SonBridge Community Center in College Place, Washington, or to Maranatha Schools and One-Day Churches. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn; son, Lee; and daughter-in-law, Marji; daughters, Lynn and LuAnn; grandchildren, Kris, Lindsey and Mark; his brother, Louis, and sister-in-law, Margie.
Pastor Lee Venden, Morris Venden's son and a minister on the UCC staff, said, "Dad will be remembered for the one string on his violin that he consistently talked about, Jesus, and the privilege available to everyone to have a meaningful friendship with Him. At this point, it seems clear that Dad will be able to sleep this disease off, the long sleep from our perspective; the short sleep from his."
Most of Venden’s books can be purchased through www.adventistbookcenter.com and used copies of his out-of-print titles can be obtained through www.LNFbooks.com as well as the major online book sellers. Many audio and video files of Venden preaching can be found at www.allaboutjesusseminars.org. Many articles by Venden can be found through the General Conference Archives web site by searching the collections of Adventist periodicals there. Note: Because of peculiarities of our web hosting technology that we do not fully understand, some readers may not be able to click on the links above and successfully get to the referenced sites. It may be necessary to copy the link, go to your browser and paste it into the browser.
*Pick's Disease shares some characteristics with the far-better-known but equally tragic Alzheimer's, but its early symptoms usually affect the personality and emotions rather than the memory. A person with Pick's may develop urges to consume large quantities of food and may display other forms of out-of-character behavior. As these symptoms intensify and speech and other activities gradually slow down, MRI examinations of the brain show a telltale Pick's-pattern loss of tissue. There is no known current medical protocol to reverse Pick's, though medications can alleviate symptoms and tests are under way to study promising new treatments. Pick's patients, on average, survive eight years after the appearance of first symptoms, which may strike as early as age 45. Other forms of Frontotemporal Dementia are known by other names.
If I had to name one person that I considered more of a spiritual father than any other, it would be Morris Venden. This is hitting hard. May he rest in peace and meet the Great Semi Driver on the day when all tears are wiped away.
Sorry to hear of this. He was a great preacher. His sermons and books always revealed he had a very close walk with Jesus. He had a way of passing that on to his listeners as well as in his books.
Our sympathy to the Venden family.
Morris Venden was responsible for my staying an SDA. I grew up in an ultra conservative Adventist community and was on my way out when Morris came to Southern and did a week of prayer. I decided there was hope for Adventism. I would stay in and make sure Adventism was more like Morris’s theology and less like the ultra-conservative Adventism I grew up with. I will miss him.
Morris Vendon and Lee Vendon Changed my life, Despite being raised SDA and going to SDA schools I was as dead as an unbeliever inside. Listening to Morris and Lee Vendon on CD's taught me to read the Bible to get to know Him, Pray to get to know Him and share what he has done for you. So Simple but so amazing. RIP Morris Vendon you Warrior for Jesus.
Three years into pastoral ministry, baptizing people who had an experience with Jesus that I knew little about, and lacking assurance of my salvation, the Heritage Singers and Pastor Morris Venden became my saviors (that's a lower-case "s" for the benefit of the pharisees). Watching Jesus Christ bring victory over my sins as He revealed them, and not "serving Sin," has been a very precious forty-year journey. I expect to enjoy this growth trek with Jesus right on into Eternity. This grateful "branch" chooses to remain connected to the "Vine" forever, by His grace. Our Friend, Holy Spirit, is indeed "another Comforter!" "Thank You, Father."
Adventism has lost a great preacher. How wonderful to know we have grace and for Morris Venden's emphasis on getting to know Christ better.
My husband and I were in Chicago for a One Project gathering this week when we learned about the death of Morris Venden. How appropriate then that for the next two days we were bathed in the love and grace of "Jesus. All." The gospel message of Morris Venden lives on to bless new generations . . .
Morris Venden not only gave me a fresh perspective on a saving relationship with Christ, but his emphasis on relationship rather than performance reinforced my doctoral studies in Speech Communication at UCLA. That influenced my teaching of speech at La Sierra University, Pacific Union College, and Weimar College by placing the emphasis on a speaker building a trusting relationship with his/her audience rather than emphasizing oratorical skills (public speaking behaviors) which are supposed to hold attention and be persuasive. Behaviors are important, but genuine communication is the primary goal. And that is how I desire to experience my faith–a genuine relationship with Christ. Thank you, Morris Venden.
Though born and raised in a Christian home, I gave my heart to Jesus at the age of 19 after reading an artile on righteousness by faith by Pastor Morris Venden. In the chaos of the 80's and 90's I became discouraged as I watched how a self righteous church treated those who dared to disagree with it. I only remained an SDA because of the balanced and grace-filled ministry of Pastor Venden. One could say, his ministry of grace has guided me through many upheavals. I can't wait to take a long walk with him on the new earth.
Morris Venden is dead. It is never a good thing when anyone dies. Yes, he knew how to tell a story and get your attention. Yes he was gifted in many areas. He also had a large following among Seventh-day Adventists including myself at one time.
Some observations on Morris Venden's impact on God's remnant church. I have read practically all of his books and listened to many of his sermons both on recordings and live. His basic teachings were and are nothing more than the "new theology". Morris Venden, Desmond Ford and Jack Sequira all drifted down the same theological stream as did their forerunner Edward Heppenstall.
I would advise the readers ( and especially Ken Lockwood who is married to one of my cousins and Paul Hawks who has been my pastor for the past seven years) of this post to read "A Saving Relationship" by Lloyd and Leola Rosenvald, this may be found by an internet search. It is a complete analysis of the book by Morris Venden entitled " To Know God". The damage caused to the members of the SDA church by Venden, Ford and Sequira and their teachings can only be measured in in eternity. May the Lord have mercy.
All I know Danny is before I was dead and now i am alive…… I will never go Back !!!!!
"The damage caused to the members of the SDA church by Venden, Ford and Sequira and their teachings can only be measured in in eternity."
I find it amazing that when people say, 'I was going to leave the SDA church but the writings of these men stopped me.' Or 'I was an unbeliever until I listened/read material from these men', some like Danny here will say something like the above. What 'damage' exactly has occurred from a soul that becomes saved? What he really means is 'it has caused damage to us maintaining the status quo of what we believe the truth to be and what we want the SDA masses to accept without question.'
I see no damage caused by these writings. What I have seen are those with a new refreshing outlook on their salvation. Where they were crushed and burdened, they now understand the love and grace of God (and not at the expense of obedience). It saddens me that some like Danny would rather see people leave the church than accept grace by faith saving theology like the above people espouse. Tragic Pharisaism.
Many have already posted of of the "damage" to their faith. But you, Danny, have failed to show how and why this "damage" is to be feared. You have not given a reason to view this internet analysis other than to criticize Venden. Do you not believe that it is good to "speak well of the dead"?
Morris Venden was a tremendous inluence on my christian experience. I heard him at Oregon campmeeting and then moved later to PUC and was blessed by his ministry there. I have read many of his books and they have been a blessing to me and have helped my journey with Christ. I will look forward to seeing him again in heaven and i will be able to say "Thank You"
Having grown up in the era of non-assurance of salvation theology which kept many an SDA academy student busy listing their sins, I appreciated the lifting of this burden with the introduction of a theology that suggested that once we accept Jesus our salvation is assured. I recognize the former theology would be a very strong motivator for one to be constantly on guard against the enroachments of "secular" society. Indeed once saved always saved would strike fear in fundamentalists who see salvation as a field that needs constant attention. If Vendens theology is not true and the conditional salvation theology is true I wonder if the angels keeping the books use pencil instead of pen. As I understood it our names could be written in the book of life or death. If gods assistants use pencil then the names of those who qualify for removal from the book of life, their names can easily be erased and written in the book of death. On the other hand if by continual contrition and maintaining a rigid SDA lifestyle is a path to salvation then one who has slipped could have their name erased from the book of death and rewritten in the book of life. Maybe god has moved up to electronic devices and uses WORD to maintain the documents. This would also allow for movement of names from one category to the next with the highlight and delete functions. The conditional salvation theology I was taught is a much more effective means of control to those minds that are susceptible to such notions. I can see why Dr. Venden's assurance of salvation theology would unnerve some.
I never knew Morris Venden but from what has been said he was a man who ministered to the needs of his parish and did so with stalwart, compassion and kindness. Thus, he blessed many lives. It seems to me that fact is much more important than an argument about his theological perspectives.
The reason that some do not like Morris Venden is his clear articulation of justification by faith and grace as the foundation and reason why God God takes us to heaven. There is another stream of Adventist theology that mixes grace and behavior and teaches that both are necessary for salvation. Venden was very clear that this was not the case, thus the ire of those who hold the opposing theology. You can find this theology on the website greatcontroversy.org.
A memorial service will be held in the Loma Linda University Church on Sunday, March 3, at 10 a.m."
"A memorial service will be held in the Loma Linda University Church on Sunday, March 3, at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that gifts be sent in memory of Venden to the SonBridge"
Without a doubt, Morris Venden's Campmeeting Crusades of the mid-70's made the greatest impact on Adventism since Ellen White. Whereas it is true that his sermons were considered quite profound at the time and his tapes were purchased as fast as they could be duplicated, what is fascinating in retrospect, is that what he brought to the people should have already been understood as a part of Christianity 101. What he brought the "assurance starved masses" was nothing more than the basic tenents of Christianity in keeping with: "These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God." 1 John 5:13 Isn't it sad that his ministry was so incredibly necessary?
Not long after the turn of the century, it became known that Elder Venden made a few unexpected turns in his life and I noticed a curious right turn in his theology at Minnesota Campmeeting around 2003. There he preached on the wedding parable and made some very unusual statements. For example, Morris told the audience that the wedding invitation was justification and that the robe was sanctification. I would have loved to have sat down with him to ask him why the re-interpretation of this parable when all are called (invited), but few are chosen (justified/sanctified)? I guess I'll have to wait and ask him that question in heaven.
I'm an saddened to hear of Morris Venden's passing away. No one in modeern day Adventism has has such a profound impact on my christian life as did Morris Venden. It was his sermons and books that helped bring me back to the SDA Chruch and grounded me in righteousness by faith. I probably wouldn't be an Adventist today were it not for his influence on me during those turbulent theological times in the 1980's when I came back.
For people to mention his name in the same breath with Des Ford and Jack Sequira as a fellow travelor is unfortunate. Nothing can be further from the truth. Oh well, Venden was never popular with those on the far right in the church, which is to his credit. One is always complimented by his friends but distinquished by his adversaries!
Tom
Interesting that "Danny" mentioned all the names of evangelists who preach(ed) righteousness by faith. Des Ford I didn't know, but I can tell you that the others were all Gospel preachers that added to my spirituality and still do. As persons their lives represent(ed) Christ and reflected His love. That is where the Truth lies–in individual lives. Too bad,"Tom", you haven't studied or know Jack Sequeira and his righteousness by faith theology. He is a real biblical scholar, and I think has memorized the whole Bible!
Praise God that Jesus came to save us and that He promised us we can be with Him forever. How comforting it is to know that our faith in Him alone is what saves us. I have been so thankful through the years for Morris Venden's wonderful stories that illustrate salvation and the assurance we can have through Jesus that we are HIS children and HE wants us with Him for all eternity. Come quickly, Lord Jesus, that we may all enjoy one another's company forever in a land where there will be no more death or tears. May the whole Venden family find peace in God's promises and the assurance they can be with their loved one again soon.
Hearing of Pastor Venden's death, I recall the wonderful messages he shared with the students at Union College back in the early seventies. Brought quite a revival that for many still echoes in our souls. One need not agree with every nuance of his theology to be blessed by this servant of God's long and fruitful ministry.
I agree with those who found Venden's message in the 70's as a refreshing stream. And I agree with those who found him later as someone who had changed course. What a disappointment the last time we heard him in the 90s. One devout SDA told us s/he wept because of the change – not for the good. God is his Judge, not you or me.
Maranatha
I have read the book by Claudia Burrow "Unrighteousness Uncovered" and if true then Morris has missed an opportunity for repentance and restitution, and the consequences would be fatal. Maybe this is why he changed his theology to suit his lifestyle
Are you one of those "accusers of the brethren" we hear about? Do you believe everything you read?
This death notice is no place to bring up unconfirmed gossip or any gossip, and you should be ashamed.
I thank God for directing me to one of Morris Venden's sermons on righteousness by faith many years ago. He, through God, turned my life around from legalism to grace. God bless Morris Venden and his family. I am forever grateful!
1 Cor 15:51 Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed– 52 in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
I just learned today that Morris Venden died in February. In May 1985, I was baptized by Jack Sequeira, and as a baptismal gift, Pastor Sequeira gave me a little book called To Know God, by Morris Venden. At the time it didn't seem significant, but over the next 15 years I would slowly drift away from the church. During this time, the only spiritual reading I did was Romans, John, and To Know God. I have taped that book together a few different times. I am indebted to Morris Venden for his writings and presentations on righteousness by faith and the importance of staying connected to the Vine day by day. I doubt I would be back in the church today if it weren't for his influence.
I have heard Des Ford say on many occasions……unless you are accused of preaching cheap grace, you're probably not preaching the gospel. Maybe this is part of the problem many have with the "new" theology. This "new" theology has been a blessing to me; I don't know where I would be without it. I look forward to one day taking a stroll with Elder Venden.