How Far Back Does Our Church Go?
Throughout the ages, from the time of apostles, the church underwent many persecutions. In 70 AD the temple in Jerusalem was destroyed by General Titus from Rome. Jews and the early Christians (Messianic) believers were scattered throughout Europe and other regions. In later years the believers moved on to the USA, which became a safe haven for them. These believers maintained the original teachings that they had received since the time of the apostles.
Do We Regard the Old Testament Writings?
Yes, we do. The Old Testament (from Genesis to Malachi) validates the New Testament. There are many Old Testament prophecies that were fulfilled in the New Testament with astounding precision. In these early writings, the prophets laid the foundation upon which our faith is built. We no longer have to offer sacrifices of lambs or pigeons or practice the rule of “an eye for an eye,” but we do acknowledge the importance of the Old Testament as a sure foundation for our faith. 2 Timothy 3:15-17.
What About Keeping God’s Commandments?
We believe in the faith of Jesus [Yahshua] and the keeping of God’s Commandments. In the final book of the Revelation, the saints are described as those who have the faith of Jesus (Yahshua), the testimony of salvation, and keep the commandments: Reference Rev 14:12 and Rev 22:14. We believe that faith without action is dead, and the words of Jesus (Yahshua) to the young man in Matthew 19:16-17 confirms this. We can also see this truth in the book of James 2:26
What about the Sabbath?
The Sabbath is part of the 10 commandments found in Exodus chapter 20, and we believe it is still binding even today. From the time of Jesus (Yahshua) and the early apostles, including Paul, the Sabbath continued to be kept. We are aware of the work of Emperor Constantine who, in 321 A.D., advocated the change of the Sabbath from Saturday to Sunday (refer to any historical reference about his work) but we do not see any Biblical justification to do so. Jesus (Yahshua) kept the Sabbath: Luke 4:16, and Paul also kept the Sabbath: Acts 18:2. We keep the Sabbath on the same day (Saturday), as is still done in Israel, because it has relevance today and it will be observed in the coming kingdom: Refer: Isaiah 66:22-23.
The Grafting of Gentiles into the Commonwealth of Israel.
Romans 11 and Ephesians 2 explain that the Gentiles would be grafted into the good olive tree (Israel) through salvation and by the blood of Jesus (Yahshua) the Savior. We join the house of Israel in faith and we serve the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Jesus (Messiah) talked about removing the wall of partition that separated us. We are now all one family of Abraham and heirs according to His promises: Gal 3:7, 29, Genesis 12:3, Romans 4:13, John 10:16. These scriptures help us to understand better the promises of Abraham. The Savior will return to sit on the throne of His father David in Jerusalem. His kingdom will be for ever and ever.
Baptism
We baptize by complete water immersion in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit and in the name of Jesus (Yahshua) for the remission of sins. Just as John called people to repentance, we call upon all who will accept salvation through the blood of the Savior to receive this gift. The eunuch from Ethiopia is a great example of how this gift was received. Ref: Acts 8:27, 35-38 We accept Jesus (Yahshua ) as our personal Savior in our lives and we invite all those who embrace this truth to join us in this journey. We extend a hand of kindness to all. We worship and fellowship together, having the awareness that this calling is for everyone.
USA and International Presence
This doctrinal faith is embraced by other assemblies throughout the USA and all over the world. According to the prophecy in Isaiah 2:2-3, we were able to receive this message just like many others across the world. You will find us in all the continents, bearing the same name: Church of God 7th Day. Let us know how we can be of assistance and minister to you wherever you are, or If you would like information on our affiliate fellowships across the USA (Boston MA, Springfield MA, Spring Valley, NY, Elizabeth, NJ) and in other states and countries across the world.
God Bless You,
Shalom