“The Nature and Characteristics of Prophetic Literature: A Treasure-Trove of Theological Tools to Address Issues of Independent Ministries in the Pacific Islands”

Abstract

The Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Pacific Islands faces the increasing challenge of rival ministry groups, threatening the church’s unity and the Adventist ethos and message. In this paper, I explore the nature and features of prophetic literature as a robust theological framework to curb the challenge of heretical teachings spread by rival groups in the Pacific region. The paper examines the prophetic call as a divine initiative, distinguishing authentic leaders from self-appointed figures (e.g., Jer. 14:14; Acts 13:2–3). The study also categorizes the writings of the prophets. It highlights the differences between the closed canon of Scripture and the writings of extra-canonical writers, such as Ellen G. White. In this article, I suggest that the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, including the apocalyptic genre (Daniel & Revelation), provides a treasure-trove of theological tools. These tools are essential for pastors and lay members to reduce the misinterpretation and misapplication of the Bible and EGW’s writings in the Pacific region. This accomplishment would help to promote unity, combat the flourishing of heretical teachings, establish SDA members on the solid teachings of the Bible, and ensure they remain faithful and committed to correctly interpreting the Bible and the writings of EGW.