I am so glad that you have shown an interest in wanting to know more about the Adventist Health Ministries Department of the SDA church. I have personally experienced following the eight laws/pillars/principles of the health message and I have seen wonderful results both physically, mentally, spiritually, and emotionally. I have also witnessed life changing outcomes in the lives of others through their adherence to these amazing principles.
Why do we have a health message? Why does it exist? Well, for starters, the health message was divinely given by God out of love to restore humanity and guide His people toward wholistic well-being.
The health message was revealed progressively:
1848: God warned about the harmful effects of tea, coffee, and tobacco to help believers maintain clear minds and better hear the Holy Spirit.
1854:The Brookfield vision connected health with morality, emphasizing self-control, purity, and disciplined appetite.
1863: The comprehensive blueprint presented health reform as a sacred duty, introducing key principles such as personal cleanliness, health education, the eight natural laws, and a vegetarian diet.
The health message exists because God saw humanity suffering from disease, moral weakness, and spiritual decline. In His mercy, He provided light through visions, counsels, and warnings so people could experience healing physically, mentally, morally, and spiritually. Ultimately, the health message teaches that caring for the body is a sacred duty and serves as a practical framework to help believers and humanity to live healthier lives, think clearly, listen to the Holy Spirit and reflect God’s purpose for health and happiness. The following highlights its primary objectives.
Purpose of the Health Message
1. To Secure the Highest Development of Body, Mind, and Soul
Ministry of Healing, p.146.
2. For Our Salvation and the Salvation of the World
The Review and Herald, November 12, 1901; Welfare Ministry, p.130.
3. Part of the Third Angel’s Message to Prepare a People for the Second Coming
Medical Ministry, p. 188; The Three Angels’ Messages, p.174; Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 161.
4. The Lord’s Means for Lessening Suffering in Our World and Purifying His Church
Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, pp. 112–113; Welfare Ministry, p.137.
5. To Rescue Many from Physical, Mental, and Moral Degeneracy
Review and Herald, June 6, 1912.
6. The Door Through Which Truth Is to Find Entrance
Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, p. 167; Welfare Ministry, p.138.2.
7. An Avenue for Truth to Be Presented to Unbelievers
Letter 1, 1875; cited in Evangelism, p. 514.
8. To Have a Clear Mind to Comprehend Heavenly Things
Counsels on Health, p. 95.
9. To Be a Temple in Which God Can Dwell
Ministry of Healing, p. 271.
I praise God for this wonderful message divinely given from a heart of love. As you have just read, this message is so much more than just eating and exercise – it has spiritual implications for all. May you be inspired to follow each principle and its teachings. Utilize God’s power to stay committed and consistent and I’m sure that you will not be disappointed in your outcomes. Taste and see that the Lord is good! And do not forget to share this message with those around you!
Sincerely,
Cathy Coleman
Gulf Field Health Ministries Director
