Sometimes one class can change the direction of a student’s life; this summer, three Southern students made the decision for baptism as a result of taking a religion course. Taught by David Hartman, D.Min., associate professor of religion, the four-week Christian Beliefs course covered various aspects of the Adventist-Christian faith such as the narrative of Creation, the fall, and God’s ultimate plan to restore all things. The class also provided understanding of the 28 fundamental beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church as found in Scripture.
“In every doctrine, we looked at what it reveals about the character of God and how it addresses a human need and longing,” Hartman said. “So, the biblical truths hit not just the head but also the heart. In all this, I want students to see God in a fresh new light and fall in love with Him.”
With this goal, Hartman was particularly thrilled to have the privilege of baptizing three of his students at the conclusion of the summer term. Approximately 60 friends, classmates, faculty, and family members came together on Sabbath, August 24, 2019, to witness and support the students’ baptisms at nearby Harrison Bay State Park.
“After a prayer over all three, we exited the lake to cheers, tears, and hugs. I can’t help but believe that all Heaven was celebrating as well,” Hartman said. “This whole event reminded us that the true purpose of Adventist Christian education is for each student to be brought into a saving relationship with Jesus Christ.”
Southern Adventist University | November 2019
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