The Heart of the Seventh-day Adventist Health Message

Abstract

The article explores the circumstances relating to the historical emergence of the Seventh-day Adventist Health Message. The author raises the question whether the vision given to Ellen White, during her opening Sabbath prayer on Friday evening, June 5, 1863, was simply a matter of coincidence? Or, in view of the prevailing views and practices was God’s choice to communicate at such a specific point of time, intentional? In this context, the author explores the heart of the heath message suggesting that the “Otsego Health” vision drew attention to what matters to God most, namely spiritual health. Secondly, it prompted an awareness of a holistic approach to well-being. Finally, the author asserts the “health message” contains a motivational and inspirational framework for God’s mission in the world.