Christian Conduct Honor

Missionary Activities - Bible Studies

Requirements

1. Study how it is possible to live in the world without being contaminated by practices and values contrary to biblical teachings. (Romans 12:2; John 17:15-16; 1 John 2:15-17)

   Answer: Living in the world without being contaminated means being physically present in society but without adopting its values and practices contrary to the Word of God. Biblical principles: 1) Romans 12:2 - do not conform (mold yourself) to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of the mind, in order to discern the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God. 2) John 17:15-16 - Jesus does not ask that we be taken out of the world, but kept from evil; we are in the world, but we are not of the world. 3) 1 John 2:15-17 - do not love the world or the things of the world (the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life), for the world passes away, but whoever does the will of God remains forever. In practice: maintain daily communion with God (prayer, Bible study), choose good company, filter entertainment and media, be light and salt through your witness, and influence the world for good rather than being influenced by it. — The phrase 'in the world but not of the world', based on John 17, is a central principle of historic Christianity and is adopted by all Christian denominations as a model for relating to society.

2. Identify what foods were originally given by God to human beings at creation. (Genesis 1:29)

   Answer: Genesis 1:29 declares that God gave 'every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed'. The original foods of human beings were, therefore, fruits, seeds, nuts, grains, and fresh vegetables, making up an entirely vegetarian or plant-based diet. — The original diet (Genesis 1:29) was frugivorous-vegetarian. After Sin and the Flood, vegetables (Genesis 3:18) and clean meats (Genesis 9:3-4) were permitted. The Seventh-day Adventist Church values the original diet as the ideal for health, according to Ellen White in The Ministry of Healing. Modern studies confirm the benefits: lower risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer among Adventist vegetarians, especially in Loma Linda, an area considered a Blue Zone.

3. Distinguish between the clean and unclean animals mentioned in the Bible, explaining why some are not appropriate for consumption. (Leviticus 11; Deuteronomy 14)

   Answer: Clean animals: ruminants with split hooves (ox, sheep, goat), fish with scales and fins, non-predatory birds (chicken, dove). Unclean: pigs (do not ruminate), shrimp, lobster, catfish (without scales), birds of prey (vulture, buzzard). Reasons: sanitary habits, disease transmission, and the spiritual principle of separation of God's people. — Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14 establish criteria. Swine are carriers of Trichinella spiralis (trichinosis) and Taenia solium. Crustaceans and mollusks without scales are filter feeders and accumulate toxins and heavy metals. Scavengers' meat is exposed to diseases. Studies confirm the risks: pork has more saturated fats, seafood raises uric acid. The Seventh-day Adventist Church considers these laws permanent health principles, with a biblical and scientific basis.

4. Explain the biblical principles about the Christian way of dressing. (1 Peter 3:3-4)

   Answer: 1 Peter 3:3-4 teaches that the Christian adornment is the 'incorruptible, that of the inner person, in the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit'. Principles: modesty, simplicity, decency, avoiding ostentation, flashy jewelry, and excessively revealing clothing. Dressing tastefully reflects Christian character and respect for the body as the temple of the Holy Spirit. — Other texts: 1 Timothy 2:9-10, Isaiah 3:16-26. Historic Adventism discourages jewelry (rings, earrings, necklaces) based on Exodus 33:5-6. Clothing should be clean, modest, and suitable for the occasion. The principle of the steward: invest money well, not in ostentatious luxury. Ellen White in Education and Messages to Young People advises moderation. The Seventh-day Adventist Church values inner beauty above outward appearance.

5. Understand the biblical principles about sexual purity and write a personal vow to keep yourself pure. (1 Corinthians 6:18-20; Matthew 5:27-28)

   Answer: 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 teaches us to flee sexual immorality, for the body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 5:27-28 expands on it: looking with lust is adultery in the heart. Principles: chastity until marriage, marital fidelity, control of thoughts and eyes, avoiding pornography and provocative contexts that stimulate impure desires. — Purity involves the body, the mind, and the eyes. 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 condemns immorality ('porneia' in Greek), including fornication and adultery. Matthew 5 shows that sin begins in the thoughts. Practical principles: internet filters, limits in relationships, modest dress, a healthy circle of friends, prayer, and the biblical shield. A personal vow of purity is a public commitment to honor God with the body until permanent heterosexual marriage.

6. Memorize and recite Philippians 4:8.

   Answer: Philippians 4:8: 'Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things'. It teaches the believer to control thoughts, focusing on what is noble, edifying, and virtuous, transforming the mind to reflect the character of Christ in daily life. — The verse lists 6 criteria (truth, honesty, justice, purity, loveliness, good report) and two summaries (virtue, praise). It applies to the consumption of media, conversations, reading, and company. The Seventh-day Adventist Church uses this list as a Christian mental filter. Studies confirm: healthy thoughts affect mental health, behavior, and relationships. Romans 12:2 complements it: 'be transformed by the renewing of your mind'. Philippians 4:8 is truly an invitation to a disciplined and Christ-centered mind.

7. Share with a friend the benefits of living according to biblical principles and adopting healthy practices.

   Answer: Benefits include: inner peace through faith, life purpose, healthy relationships, a balanced mind, physical longevity through diet and exercise, a supportive community at church, eternal hope in Christ. Studies show Adventists live 7-10 years longer than the average (Loma Linda Blue Zone), with notably fewer chronic diseases. — The 8 natural remedies (NEW START): Nutrition, Exercise, Water, Sunlight, Temperance, Air (pure), Rest, Trust in God. Research from Loma Linda University associates the Adventist lifestyle with +10 years of life expectancy, less cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Share by telling a personal experience, offering books (Health and Healing, Living Hope), and inviting people to lectures and worship services. Testimony generates curiosity.