Biblical Foundation of Transmission of Values

Biblical Foundation of Transmission of Values

Njock David Vivian

Dmin Candidate, Adventist University of Africa, Dakar, Senegal

DOI: https://doi.org/10.51584/IJRIAS.2024.909016

Received: 25 August 2024; Accepted: 05 September 2024; Published: 03 October 2024

ABSTRACT

The transmission of values (TV) is one of the major objectives of God’s project for the redemption and restoration of all human beings. It has been observed through surveys and field research that the behaviors of church believers are challenging the standards of God’s values in terms of lifestyles specifically. For instance, in the Seventh Day Adventist church (SDA) in Douala 3 subdivision, issues like alcoholism, sexual misconduct, and cohabitation are tolerated. Unfortunately, the finding shows that there is no intentional project of transmission of values. This article presents the biblical foundation in which the church can stand to enhance the transmission of values. The theoretical underpinning of the study will focus on four major points: the divine revelation through which the Lord constantly communicates with humanity; the covenant theology which presents the binding agreement between God and humanity; the imitation and discipleship; and the community impact through good influence relationship. This article will also show the principles and models that can help minister to the church efficiently by emphasizing the TV and reducing the gap between values and behaviors.Transmission of values is embedded in God’s agenda as one of the priority activities; its practice includes divinity, humanity, and social institutions such as families, educational centers, churches, and nations. The practice of transmitting values can also be based on certain models seen in the Holy Scriptures, such as the resistance model embodied by Joseph, the interdependence model in the story of Daniel and his companions, the model of Jesus, and that of Paul. The TV must be incarnational, intentional, relational, and vocational to refine it. Reading this article will help us understand biblical thinking on transmitting values.

Keyword: Transmission of values. (TV)

INTRODUCTION

Divine revelation focused on the transmission of heavenly values for the wellbeing of the human being as it is written in 2 Timothy 3:16-17 “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”[1] This statement is the fact that God himself is involved in training and teaching. He intentionally organized human beings in a community to become a receptacle of the Divine will, and the channel par excellence for transmitting the resulting values ​​ from generation to generation as it is written in Joel 1:3 “Tell your children about it, let your children tell their children, And their children another generation.” However, we recognize that the transmission of values is the brought concept shared by all human beings depending on their culture, academic background, or religion. The purpose of this article is to raise relevant biblical insights and principles on the transmission of lifestyle values and demonstrate how those principles are useful to impact and transform the life of those who will follow them.  ​​

To accomplish this divine task, parents, spiritual leaders, teachers, schools, and all other church institutions should be involved in “The process by which beliefs and values of one person or a group of people are adopted/internalized by another person or group of people”[2]. The project focuses on young people and parents as well. The final will is to reach the point that transmission becomes the process of maturation for adolescents to personalize their faith rather than reflect their parents’ faith. Parents need to be supportive of the questioning, and searching stage of the faith journey[3].

METHODOLOGY

This article used a biblical analysis to study the TV. It is divided into three points: the first part is the transmission of values ​​as a Divine activity in the Bible; this element presents TV as an act of God through agents he selected to achieve his purpose. The second part is the principles of transmission of values in the Bible which give key elements, attitudes, and behaviours we are going through in the process of TV. The third part is the presentation of some models that help to elaborate, keep, preserve, and share values.

Transmission of Values as a Divine Activity in the Bible

God is very active in the transmission of values ​ all along the Holy Scriptures. From creation and throughout the history of redemption, divine involvement has been constant, active, dynamic, immanent, and transcendental[4]. He (God) uses celestial agents as well as humans and even institutions. The purpose of this first part is to present God himself as a vector of transmission of values, and how He uses human beings and institutions as well as a channel of transmission of values in the Bible.

God As Vector

God’s activities in TV can be summarised in three points: He used dream and vision to transmit to his children some values as written in Job 33: 14; direct instructions given to his children (Exodus 20) and through the chastened misbehavior to advise those involved in it. (Gen 20:3). God speaks to human beings is to gives useful instructions to distract them from evil, preserve them from pride, and keep them from falling. The psalmist emphasizes by saying: “He who instructs the nations, shall He not correct, He who teaches man knowledge? The Lord knows the thoughts of man, that they are futile. Blessed is the man whom You instruct, O Lord, and teach out of Your law,”. (Ps 94: 11, 12).

Human nature has been degraded Because of the breach opened by sin; unfortunately, it shakes between two forces: good and evil. But God in His culture of freedom gave words of love[5] named the Ten Commandments to communicate His character to humanity. Considering the work of redemption, the transmission of divine values ​​summed up in the Ten Commandments is an act of mercy and faithfulness as it says: “Who is the man that fears the Lord? Him shall He teach in the way He chooses. (Ps 25:12). “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye”. (Ps 32: 8) The prophet Isaiah goes in the same direction by reaffirming God’s willingness to become personally involved in the transmission of values: Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, The Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you to profit, Who leads you by the way you should go. (Isaiah 48:17). The ministry of Christ as the special revelation of the Father to the whole of humanity, through Him, the divine will to restore and save humanity is clear according to the prologue of the gospel of John: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men.… who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1: 1-4, 13- 14); see also Matthew 1:23; John 10; Revelation 3:20.

Jesus Christ has come to reveal God Almighty; it is undoubtedly the perfect revelation by which God made known his desire for humanity. The Lord through sermons, speeches, miracles, and various acts of love has revealed to all humanity all the celestial values. Ellen White says “Mind to Be Trained. The mind is the best possession we have; but it must be taught by study, by reflection, by learning in the school of Christ, the best and truest educator of the world.”^[6] He (Christ) died for me that I might be blessed and that his joy might remain in me. Therefore, I keep my mind in that channel; I educate it; I train it; I train my tongue; I train my thoughts; I train all of you that I can fasten it on Jesus Christ^[7].

After Jesus Christ, God continued to reveal Himself to His servants through visions and dreams. Examples like those of Peter (Acts 10:9-17) and Cornelius (Acts 10:3) are illustrated. A careful look at some writings, especially in the epistles, presents God’s transcendental and immanent activity for human beings. For Instance:  “for when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do the things in the law, these, although not having the law, are a law to themselves, who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them). ” (Romans 2: 14, 15)

Apostle Paul clearly states in his writings that the transmission of values ​​is a transcendental and immanent act of God that affects all individuals even those who do not know him, God works through their heart. In the same way, Peter affirms that it is through the channel of Divine power that we have the essential that contributes to our life of piety. “as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.” (2 Peter 1: 3-7)

Human Beings as Vector

God in his willingness to transmit values ​​to humanity has allowed all human beings to be His agents generation after generations. Several biblical passages and examples show how God used humanity in all generations as a means of transmitting values. This activity could be both oral through teachings and experimental through keeping and observations as it is written: “Now this is the commandment, and these are the statutes and judgments which the Lord your God has commanded to teach you, that you may observe them in the land which you are crossing over to possess, that you may fear the Lord your God, to keep all His statutes and His commandments which I command you, you and your son and your grandson, all the days of your life, and that your days may be prolonged… You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up”. (Deut 6: 1-7, 20)

In his wanderings in the desert, God intentionally asked the Israelite parents to take care of the children’s education. Parents should do this diligently and permanently, and this from generation to generation as a testimony of their belonging to God; according to what Solomon declares in Proverbs 22: 6 “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”. This call is an imperative one for all the parents of all generations.  King Solomon has made it a culture in his kingdom and the books of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and even Songs of Songs are collections of wisdom and instruction to the youth of his time as well as to that of today. “And moreover, because the Preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yes, he pondered and sought out and set in order many proverbs” (Ecclesiastes 12: 9)

The Lord Jesus, taking up the disciples who stood against the children who clung to him, expressly asked: “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God.“(Luke 18:16).  Jesus firmly demonstrated to his disciples his interest in the education of children of all ages and characters. He was not embarrassed to see them climb on him or break communication protocols. He accepted them and could take a few moments with them.

Apostle Paul also put himself in the training of young people such as Titus, Timothy, Philemon, and even John Mark. He emphasized the formation of character and the use of gifts and talents at their disposal. “But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way” (1 Cor 12:31) It was strongly recommended to them not to be motivated by their distractions the scorn of their youth and their leadership. (1 Timothy 4:12) Ellen White gives a testimonial of Paul’s ministry to challenge the more experienced mentors of the youngest and says: “This feature of Paul’s work teaches an important lesson to ministers today. Experienced laborers do noble work when, instead of trying to carry all the burdens themselves, they train younger men, and place burdens on their shoulders. It is God who wants to have an experience in His cause”[8].

By Organized Institutions

Several institutions have been established in the Jewish organization in the Bible, and have facilitated the transmission of values ​​in that society. Family, schools, nations, and churches are some of the institutions involved in it through teachings, worship, training, and good lifestyle.

The Family. “And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the river or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15

The first institution designed by God is the family as a factor of transmission of values. Family worship is a value shared in Biblical culture, especially in the Old Testament: Cain and Abel were instructed on the worship due to God, (Gen 4: 3-5) Job offered prayers for his children, (Job 1: 5) Isaac knew the sacrificial process, (Gen 22: 7) El kana and all his family went to Silo frequently to worship. (1 Sam 1: 4) All these scenes show how important the family circle is to the transmission of spiritual, moral, and even vocational values.

Going through some stories in the New Testament, certain characters show some family involved in the process of transmission of values. The Bible declares that Cornelius and his entire house feared God. This testimony of Holy Scripture about this gentile shows that the values presented by parents have an impact on the spiritual growth of the children. (See Acts 10:1,2)

The family represented the place of training for dedicated young people such as John the Baptist, who was carefully trained by his parents according to the will of God, (Luke 1:11-80) Lois and Eunice were the first biblical instructors of Timothy, (2Timothy 1:5) and Jesus Himself grew up in wisdom, stature, and grace before men and God because of the values and training his family was teaching to him. (Luke 2:52) Ellen White argues that: “it is in the home that the education of the child is to begin. Here is his first school. Here, with his parents as instructors, obedience, reverence, self-control”[9].

Schools. The School of Sons of Prophets and other schools mentioned in the bible were institutions strongly integrated into Jewish history, it allowed the formation of the character of several prophets and other famous priests and servants of God. Ellen White stated: “The school of the prophets was a special school for the endowment of the Holy Spirit of God and then testimony that they had to bring”[10]. Paul testified that he was tough by Gamaliel: “I am indeed a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, taught according to the strictness of our fathers’ law, and was zealous toward God as you all are today.” (Acts 22:3)

The Nation of Israel and its kings. God has sovereignly chosen Israel as his people, his property so that he may be permanently in his service. Exodus 4: 22, 23. But it is also for God a people of witnesses, to reveal to the whole world the mysteries of God. Exodus 19:5, 6

“Many people shall come and say, “Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, To the house of the God of Jacob; He will teach us His ways, and we shall walk in His paths.” For out of Zion shall go forth the law, And the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.”  (Isaiah 2:3) This verse is also repeated by the prophet Micah (Micah 4: 2) to emphasize God’s purpose for the people of Israel. It is simply a question that all the nations of the world identify Israel as the channel chosen by God to transmit His will. In his time Solomon succeeded in this mission and all peoples came to hear Solomon’s wisdom and knowledge (1 Kings 4:34). Hezekiah also received a strong delegation from the King of Babylon who came to admire the greatness of God after the 10-degree time difference wanted by God as proof of his faithfulness to Him. The Bible presents the coming of the Messiah in Israel’s nation, beyond the conflict situation in which she stood was the symbol of God’s love for this nation and from her to all the nations of the world. “Emmanuel God is with us” (Matthew 1:23) is the specific revelation of God to his people through Jesus Christ. The Greeks, (John 12:20, 21) Romans, (Matth 8:5-8) Syro-Phoenicians, (Mark 7:26) all found themselves in the ministry of Jesus in Israel. As he said to the Samaritan woman: “the salvation comes from the Jews” John 4:22. By saying that Jesus wanted to break down all the barriers because he knew that, “Great truths of redemption had been committed to the Jews, and from among them the Messiah was to appear.”[11]  It appears all along the Holy Scriptures that the Israel kingdom is God’s chosen people as a means of transmission of values in the world.

Churches. God made the church as a means of transmission of values. If it is true that it has experienced different forms across generations, the main mission has remained the same which is to lead humanity into salvation. God expressly asked Moses to build the sanctuary so that He resides with his people. (Exodus 25:8) The service of the Sanctuary was the evidence of a divine presence whose purpose was to keep his people in purity, in sanctification, and in the expectation of fulfilling the promise of the Messiah. (Exodus 40:34-40)

Values were passed down through generations and young people identified themselves as the servants of a living and creative God. They received from the elders a culture of respect for the sacred, respect for elders, respect for human dignity, and life. The various sacrificial services sufficiently demonstrated their vulnerability and the desire for salvation through a constant fellowship with God[12]. “To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly [places] might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God. According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord” Ephesians 3:10, 11. (1Cor 12; Eph 4:1-12)

The New Testament presents a new form of the church which beyond the sacrificial scenes exposed in the Old Testament will appeal to the knowledge of God in spirit and truth (John 4:23). Jesus (Emmanuel God with us) was the fulfillment of the Law and the prophets (Math 5:17). He positioned himself as the head of the church (Rev 2:1, Col 1:18, Math 28:18, Acts 20:28). It (church) will take shape with the disciples who in their time will institutionalize and organize it. (Acts 6:1-7; 15:4) Values will be preserved and the church will be the center of education for many young people, the place of sharing and fellowship. The children of God of all races, of all the tribes of all peoples, will remain attached to the principles of heaven, and the church as a community, and as an institution, was its depositary.

Principles of Transmissions of Values in the Scriptures

This chapter will present some key principles that will help develop good attitudes, and behaviors to keep and facilitate the process of TV. This article will stand on four of them: incarnation, intention, relation, and vocation.

The Transmission of Values ​​as Incarnational Ministry

Incarnation is defined here as an act by which a person embodies in the flesh a deity, spirit, or quality[13]. Or for the case of this study, the human form of a spirit or the human representation of a principle or idea[14]. This paragraph will demonstrate that to succeed in the transmission of values, ​​the process of incarnation is cardinal so that young people may see Christ dwell in them. That was the earnest prayer of Paul according to Galatians 4:19 “My little children, for whom I labor in birth again until Christ is formed in you; the same idea is shown in the relationship between Elisha and Elijah. The ministry of Elisha is the reflection of the ministry of Elijah who did not hesitate one moment to respond favorably to the request of the young Elisha. (2 Kings 2: 9-15). Moses did the same to Joshua, (Deut. 31:14).

Jesus is the great sample of the incarnation as it is presented by the apostle Paul in Phil 2: 4-10. “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore, God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth.”

The transmission of values ​​works with incarnation. Go down to the level of the smallest and communicate to him the nature that will lead him to excellence. Paul’s ministry to Timothy was also evidence of incarnation ministry; he wanted him to partake of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God. (2Timothy 1:7, 8) Easily say Paul wanted Timothy to continue as he did the proclamation of the gospel despite the difficulties ahead.

The Transmission of Values ​​as an Intentional Activity

The transmission of values ​​must be intentional, as well as a formulated project, it is a program. Speaking to Israelites, God’s plan for these people was formal, known, and very specific. “You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Myself.” (Exodus19: 4). Drive Israel to him, which means that bring them back to the knowledge of the true God who revealed himself to their parents and before that who created the heaven and earth. The following example, not the least, is about Solomon, who in his kingship has affected the youth, by instructions and words of wisdom. The books of Ecclesiastes, Proverbs, and Song of Solomon are the materialization of Solomon’s plans for his youth. “Moreover, because the Preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yes, he pondered and sought out and set in order many proverbs. (Ecclesiastes 12: 9)

Paul’s ministry to the Gentiles and to the young people who accompanied him was the manifestation of a well-inspired project, but also of a well-developed program. “But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel” (Acts 9:15) Paul knew what his mission was, and that one was conducted with zeal and professionalism. Young people like Titus and Timothy have been deeply imbued with it and have had useful hands with him in the administration of values. The books of Timothy and Titus are perfect testimonies

Relational Ministry

The construction of relationships in the transmission of values ​​is paramount. She goes from the family circle to friendships and even to professional circles.

“But Isaac spoke to Abraham his father and said, “My father!” And he said, “Here I am, my son.” Then he said, “Look, the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?” And Abraham said, “My son, God will provide for Himself the lamb for a burnt offering.” So the two of them went together.” (Gen22: 7; 8) …The intimacy between Abraham and Isaac fostered a healthy growth of Isaac who was initiated into the knowledge of God and could perpetuate through his children. He did not hesitate to trust his father and firmly believed in the providence of the God of Abraham. Jacob and Joseph, Naomi and Ruth are examples that still speak today so that the young people will be quick to answer as Ruth did to Naomi: “But Ruth said: “Entreat me not to leave you, Or to turn back from following after you; For wherever you go, I will go; And wherever you lodge, I will lodge; Your people shall be my people, And your God, my God. Where you die, I will die, and there will I be buried. The Lord do so to me, and more also If anything but death parts you and me.”! (Ruth 1:16-17)

The case of Jesus and the Samaritan woman wishfully demonstrates the strength of building relationships in the process of TV. This is how He succeeded in showing the way of salvation to the Samaritan woman and making her an agent of salvation for others. John 4: 28, 29; the woman then left her waterpot, and went to the city, and knew to the men, Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever did I do: is not this the Christ? Mary Magdalene’s destiny was changed because of the encounter with Jesus.

The Transmission of Values ​​and Vocations

And she [was] in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the LORD, and wept sore.  And she vowed a vow, and said, O LORD of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head.  1Sam 1:10, 11. “Whatever business parents may think suitable for their children, they would like to be manufacturers, agriculturists, mechanics, or to follow some professional calling, they would reap great benefits from the discipline of an education. Your children should have an opportunity to study the Bible in the school. “[15]

Hannah the mother of Samuel builds in his mind that his son Samuel will be trained as a servant of God, she made a vow and she fulfils it. Samuel grew up in the Eli house and he became Prophet of God, Priest in the house of God, and Judge in Israel.  As David did to Solomon, (1 Kings 1:30-32) and Elijah to Elisha, (2 Kings 2:9) the examples above show how experienced people, parents, and youth leaders can build vocations for the youngest.

The ministry of Barnabas is an exalting example in terms of vocation. He led and encouraged Paul and contributed effectively to the establishment of his ministry. (Acts 11:25, 26) “Barnabas was successful in finding Paul and in persuading him to return to his companion in ministry”[16]. Subsequently, he restored the young John-Mark rejected by Paul. (Acts 15:37-39) “He felt anxious that Mark should not abandon the ministry; for he saw in him the qualifications of a useful worker for Christ. In after-years, his solicitude in Mark’s name was richly rewarded; for Mark Gave Himself unreservedly to the Lord and to the Work of Proclaiming the Gospel Message in Difficult Fields. Under the blessing of God and the wise training of Barnabas, he developed into a valuable worker”[17].

Models of Transmission of Values against the Usage of Drugs, Alcohol, and Sex in the Bible.

The lifestyle of God’s chosen people is one of the best ways used by the Lord to educate human beings after sin in the Garden of Eden. People like Joseph, Salomon, Daniel, and their companions, were listed as those who by their life, and teachings, remember from their generation till today the standards of God in terms of the use of alcohol and sex. This paragraph aims to highlight some attitudes or models observed in the transmission of some values.

The Resistance Model

The resistance model is the concept developed from the life of some young people in the Bible as a testimony of the upheld values. It is also a demonstration importance of the values in the preservation of good lifestyle.

Among the young people in the Bible, the Story of Joseph is one of the best samples of the resistance model. Though he grew up in a difficult family environment due to Polygamy, violence, and competition, he didn’t lower the standards of God about the use of sex. Facing the wife of Potiphar Joseph reminded her of the principle of integrity and the courage to say no even though the whole world will fall as it is written: But he refused and said unto his master’s wife: “Look, with me here, my master has no concern about anything in the house, and he has put everything that he has in my hand. He is not greater in this house than I am, nor has he kept back anything from me except yourself, because you are his wife. How then could I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” Genesis 39:8-9

Ellen White describes this attitude as a revelation of the power of religious principles. He would not betray the confidence of his master on earth, and, whatever the consequences, he would be true to his Master in heaven.[18]

Training young people on how to resist temptation is one of the key values. It is the greatest need of the world today. Ellen White looked after such young people when she says “The greatest want of the world is the want of men—men who will not be bought or sold, men who in their inmost souls are true and honest, men who do not fear to call sin by its right name, men whose conscience is as true to duty as the needle to the pole, men who will stand for the right though the heavens fall.”[19]

The Peer’s Interdependent Model

This model shows how friends can share the same values and preserve themselves from misbehaviors. Its contribution will suggest the importance of good fellowship in the transmission of values.

Daniel and his friends were able to resist the temptation because they shared the same values in terms of lifestyle and appetites. People who drink alcohol usually get involved with others. Daniel’s team resists sharing the table of the kings. They were trained to keep their souls pure and holy. They boldly say to the Kings’: “Please test your servants for ten days. Let us be given vegetables to eat and water to drink”. Daniel 1:12

Ellen White argues that “Every act of our lives affects others for good or evil. Our influence is trending upward or downward; it is felt, acted upon, and to a greater or lesser degree reproduced by others. If by our example we aid others in the development of good principles, we give them the power to do well. In their turn, they exert the same beneficial influence upon others, and thus hundreds and thousands are affected by our unconscious influence. If we by acts strengthen or force into activity the evil powers possessed by those around us, we share their sin, and will have to render an account for the good we might have done them and did not do, because we made not God our strength, our guide, our counselor”[20].

Transmission of values works with peers’ pressures it is important to help young people to share the same values and to develop peers’ positive pressures to resist the temptation, especially in the area of alcohol addiction.

Celebrities’ Testimony Model

This concept will suggest the importance of celebrities in the process of TV. Many lives have been impacted by the lifestyle of some people. How the church can use some of them as references on TV.

The Bible is the book of testimonies. God uses people’s experiences to share values with the next generation. In that area, Solomon through his life especially in the books of Proverbs, Ecclesiastics, and Songs of Songs promotes lifestyles based on God’s standards. As a king, he became around the oriental people the reference of wisdom and intelligence (1 Kings 4:34) “And men of all nations, from all the kings of the earth who had heard of his wisdom, came to hear the wisdom of Solomon.” If the reputation of King Solomon was not good related to sex, he promoted abstinence, prudence, and wisdom in the use of sex.

Celebrities and famous personalities such as pastors, kings and heads of state, authorities can have a great impact on the lifestyles of young people by sharing moral values that can build their future and prevent moral depravity.

Jesus Model

Jesus’ model is the contribution of the son of God living on the earth in TV; he will not use dreams or visions but through good relationships with people he shares celestial values with them and surrounds himself in the level of humanity.

“Christ’s method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Savior mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed His sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He bade them, ‘Follow Me.’” . . . “Accompanied by the power of persuasion, the power of prayer, the power of the love of God, this work will not, cannot, be without fruit” (The Ministry of Healing, pp. 143, 144).

A balanced way of reaching people is fully described in this quotation. Four steps are required for a successful ministry, especially in the area of transmission of values.

Mingle as one who desired their good. Jesus’ first step was to mingle with people. He was able to mingle with all kinds of people; the Pharisees were angry to see Jesus walk with sinners and publicans. (Matthew 9:11) Jesus’ answer to them was very purposeful, his ministry was designed for sinners. He spent more time close to people seeking to save and cure them. Ellen White advised following Jesus Christ’s steps by “come close to the people by personal effort, by giving less time to sermonizing and more time to personal ministry. Accompanied by the power of persuasion, the power of prayer, the power of the love of God, this work will not cannot, be without fruit.[21]

Show sympathy. The second step of Jesus’ Ministry was to sympathize with people. Sympathizing with people helps him to be more concerned about their needs and find ways to address them. Though he did not agree with the lifestyle of some young people he did not reject them or condemn but by saving and giving them a second chance Jesus helped them to grow up and to change their ways of life. Ellen White says “The grace of Christ in the soul is like a spring in the desert, welling up to refresh all, and making those who are ready to perish eager to drink of the water of life.”[22]

Ministered their needs. Ministering the needs of people was a key in Jesus Christ’s Ministry. Jesus Christ was not interested in the failure or sins of human beings. Ellen White says about that: Since Jesus came to dwell with us, we know that God is acquainted with our trials, and sympathizes with our griefs. Every son and daughter of Adam may understand that our Creator is the friend of sinners. For in every doctrine of grace, every promise of joy, every deed of love, every divine attraction presented in the Saviour’s life on earth, we see “God with us.”[23]

Won their confidence. Building relationships is very important in the area of transmission of values. To succeed in it winning confidence is very important. The story of Jesus with the Samaritan woman in Jacob well demonstrates his ability to win the confidence of others. The Samaritan woman built barriers to escape from Jesus’ advice and teachings, but tactfully Jesus won her and they became friends. “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do well unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” Galatians 6:10.

Paul Model of Teachings and Sample

The apostle Paul is one of the prolific writers of the New Testament in the Bible. His story began with his call on the Damascus road by the Lord himself. Help by Barnabas he fulfilled the mission of the Lord to the pagans. Beyond the missionary aspect of Paul’s ministry, one can also perceive in his ministry an express desire to train young people and to transmit to them values ​​favourable to the accomplishment of their ministry. James Nathan in that direction presents Paul as a spiritual father whose foundation is laid on relational leadership and mentoring.[24] As a result of that, the ministry of Timothy and Titus was strongly influenced by Paul. Philemon, Priscilla and Aquila, and many other people quoted in his writings are the testimony of a ministry of proximity on the part of Paul.

Paul’s relational leadership. As mentioned earlier, Paul’s focus in ministry was to reach pagans. To achieve this, he trains young people to carry along the new communities. He knew that those people especially young ones, needed to be equipped by helping them to stand firm in their beliefs and live by good standards.

The relationship between Paul with Timothy and Titus was intimate at the level of family dependence. Paul expressly identifies them as his own sons as it is written in 1 Timothy 1:2 and Titus 1:4. This attitude is the backbone of Paul’s method of transmission of values through which some characters are built. The Paul letters to Timothy and Titus acknowledge the importance of the relationship through which values are shared to young people, especially to those engaged in the ministry.

“Through this experiential training, Timothy begins to develop the necessary skills to one day pastor, shepherd, and lead the church. Paul’s ultimate confidence in Timothy is based on this very fact; Timothy was a firsthand witness to Paul’s teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, patience, love, and steadfastness.[25]”

SUMMARY

TV is fundamental to the mental, physical, and spiritual development of a society, and today it is the confluence of several ministries exercised in the Church. Among other things, it allows us to highlight all the stands of the faith that is professed. This article reconsiders TV’s place in the exercise of ecclesial activities, placing the emphasis on the responsibility of elders over younger members. To achieve this, it’s important to consider the principles that guarantee its execution, i.e. incarnational, relational, and vocational, framed in a well-conceived project.

Furthermore, it’s important to note that the Bible emphasizes models that can be adapted to suit the context. Models of resistance, interdependence, the testimony of celebrities, and the model of Paul and Jesus have all been explored to facilitate TV.

It’s an arduous task indeed, but one governed by God who has taken the initiative from a redemptive and restorative perspective. Human beings have been associated in the sense of an integration of values that is demonstrated in living and sharing.

CONCLUSION

The TV is essential as seen in the Bible. God himself has played a great role in that issue since the creation of the world till now. He expects ministers, parents, church, and society to fulfil this assignment by training up their children, teaching them God’s values, and by helping them to grow according to His will. All this has to be done carefully. It’s incarnational ministry, intentional, relational, and vocational as well. It is important to combine these four elements to achieve this important mission which is commanded by God. Some Models described in the Bible are inspiring to raise some ministries as we involve ourselves in the transmission of values such as the resistance model, peers interdependence model, celebrity  testimonies model, Jesus model and Paul teaching and mentoring model; these models give  more insight and approaches on how young people can be trained and involved in the process of sharing values which can be a panacea to solve the problem of moral corruption among them inside the church.

REFERENCES

1. All the Bible quotations are taken from New King James Version, 1975.
2. Gane, Barry A. “Youth Ministry and Beliefs and Values Among 10- to 19 year-old Students in the Seventh-day Adventist School System in North America” (PhD diss., Andrews University, 2005),39,
3. Rodriguez, Angel. “Stewardship Roots”: Toward a Theology of Stewardship, Tithe and Offerings,8, https://stewardship.adventist.org/stewardship-roots-tithing-in-the-old-testament.pdf, accessed on 07 June 2018
4. Seventh Day Adventist Believes states that The Ten Commandments reveal God have will and love for us. Its guidelines tell how to relate to God and others. Jesus lived out the law as both our example and perfect substitute. https://www.adventist.org/en/beliefs/living/the-law-of-god/ accessed 07June 2018
5. White, Ellen G. The Review and Herald, January 6, 1885. The Published Ellen G. White Writings, CD ROM, Ellen G. White Estate, 2008.
6. White, Ellen G. Mind, Character, and Personality, 666.1, Vol 2, complete Published Ellen G. White Writings, [CD ROM], (Silver Spring, MD: Ellen G. White Estate, 2008.)
7. White, Ellen G. The Retirement Years, 50.2, 1990, complete Published Ellen G. White Writings, [CD ROM], (Silver Spring, MD: Ellen G. White Estate, 2008.)
8. White, Ellen G. The Great Controversy, C 17.1, 1911. Complete Published Ellen G. White Writings, [CD ROM], (Silver Spring, MD: Ellen G. White Estate, 2008.)
9. White, Ellen G. Loma Linda Message 535, 1981. Complete Published Ellen G. White Writings, [CD ROM], (Silver Spring, MD: Ellen G. White Estate, 2008.)
10. White, Ellen G. From Heaven with Love 119.1, 1984, complete Published Ellen G. White Writings, [CD ROM], (Silver Spring, MD: Ellen G. White Estate, 2008.)
11. White, Ellen G. Home and Church School Manual, 1900, complete Published Ellen G. White Writings, [CD ROM], (Silver Spring, MD: Ellen G. White Estate, 2008.)
12. White, Ellen G. The Review and Herald, April 20, complete Published Ellen G. White Writings, [CD ROM], (Silver Spring, MD: Ellen G. White Estate, 2008.) 1911,
13. White, Ellen G. Testimonies for the Church 2: (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Publishing Association), 133.
14. White, Ellen G. The Ministry of Health and Healing, (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Publishing Association, 1905), p 73
15. White, Ellen G. The Desire of Ages, (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Publishing Association, 1898), p195
16. Boldt, James Nathan. Spiritual Fatherhood, Mentorship, and Relational Reciprocation: Examining the Apostle Paul’s Relationship to Timothy as a Model for Church Leadership Development, (Reformed Theological Seminary, Atlanta Spring 2020), p 5.
17. Oxford Dictionaries, Definition of incarnation in English by Oxford Dictionaries, accessed on 10 June 2018 https:// en.oxforddictionaries.com,
18. Cambridge Dictionary, Incarnation signification, accessed on 10 June 2018, https//dictionary.cambridge.org.
19. Churchyard, Gordon. Leviticus Bible Study Commentary book, accessed on 10 June 2018, www. easyenglish. bible.

FOOTNOTES

[1] All the Bible quotations are taking from New King James Version, 1975.

[2] Barry A. Gane, “Youth Ministry and Beliefs and Values Among 10- to 19 year-old Students in the Seventh-day Adventist School System in North America” (PhD diss., Andrews University,2005),39, accessed 27 June 2017, ProQuest Dissertation and Theses

[3] Ibid

[4] Angel Rodriguez, Stewardship Roots: Toward a Theology of Stewardship, Tithe and Offerings,8, https://stewardship.adventist.org/stewardship-roots-tithing-in-the-old-testament.pdf, accessed on 07 June 2018

[5] Seventh Day Adventist Believes states that The Ten Commandments reveal God have will and love for us. Its guidelines tell how to relate to God and others. Jesus lived out the law as both our example and perfect substitute. https://www.adventist.org/en/beliefs/living/the-law-of-god/ accessed 07June 2018

[6] Ellen G White, The Review and Herald, January 6, 1885. The Published Ellen G. White Writings, CD ROM, Ellen G. White Estate, 2008.

[7] Ellen G White, Mind, Character, and Personality, 666.1, Vol 2, complete Published Ellen G. White Writings, [CD ROM], (Silver Spring, MD: Ellen G. White Estate, 2008.)

[8] Ellen G white, The Retirement Years, 50.2, 1990, complete Published Ellen G. White Writings, [CD ROM], (Silver Spring, MD: Ellen G. White Estate, 2008.)

[9] Ellen G White, The Great Controversy, C 17.1, 1911. Complete Published Ellen G. White Writings, [CD ROM], (Silver Spring, MD: Ellen G. White Estate, 2008.)

[10] Ellen G White, Loma Linda Message 535, 1981. Complete Published Ellen G. White Writings, [CD ROM], (Silver Spring, MD: Ellen G. White Estate, 2008.)

[11] Ellen G White, From Heaven with Love 119.1, 1984, complete Published Ellen G. White Writings, [CD ROM], (Silver Spring, MD: Ellen G. White Estate, 2008.)

[12] Gordon Churchyard, Leviticus Bible Study Commentary book, accessed on 10 June 2018, www.easyenglish.bible.

[13] Oxford Dictionaries, Definition of incarnation in English by oxford Dictionaries, accessed on 10 June 2018 https:// en.oxforddictionaries.com,

[14] Cambridge Dictionnary, incarnation signification, accessed on 10 June 2018, https//dictionary.cambridge.org.

[15]Ellen G White, Home and Church School Manual, 1900, complete Published Ellen G. White Writings, [CD ROM], (Silver Spring, MD: Ellen G. White Estate, 2008.)

[16] Ellen G. White, The Review and Herald, April 20, complete Published Ellen G. White Writings, [CD ROM], (Silver Spring, MD: Ellen G. White Estate, 2008.) 1911,

[17] Ellen G White, The Review and Herald, May 18, 1911, Art. B, Para. 12, 1851, complete Published Ellen G. White Writings, [CD ROM], (Silver Spring, MD: Ellen G. White Estate, 2008.)

[18] Ellen white, Patriarchs and prophets, Ellen G White estate, Inc eBook, 2018, p 189

[19] Ellen White, Education, Ellen G White estate, Inc, eBook, 2017, p 43

[20] Ellen White, Testimonies for the Church 2: (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Publishing Association), 133.

[21] Ellen White, The Ministry of health and healing, (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Publishing Association, 1905), p 73

[22] Ellen White, The Desire of Ages, (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Publishing Association, 1898), p195

[23] Ibid 24,

[24] James Nathan Boldt, Spiritual Fatherhood, Mentorship, and Relational Reciprocation: Examining the Apostle Paul’s Relationship to Timothy As a Model for Church Leadership Development, (Reformed Theological Seminary, Atlanta Spring 2020), p 5.

[25] Ibid, p5