I agree, as I've said before, that for what seem obvious reasons to me, Christians should not belong to secret societies such as the Free Masons. Yet Dr. Veith works in a way that unnecessarily alienates and divides us from those we should be trying to help. I can't see his methods as being in harmony with the methods of Christ.

I came across your site while checking on Dr. Veith's background. I was just recently introduced to his videos, and I've seen several of his creation/health videos, and 2 of his conspiracy type videos from the total onslaught series (Secret Behind Secret Societies and Islamic Connection). I always subscribe to the practice of "believing half of what you hear", keeping an honest objective eye on things. His science videos are solid to me, and I appreciate his work in this field, discrediting evolution. And the two videos on secret societies help reveal what goes on in the background. I don't know if they're all 100% true, but those two videos are basically him showing pictures he took of various Catholic, Islamic cathedrals, Masonic temples and showing the various hidden symbols, and connecting it with various symbols used by past civilizations who worship the Sun (Egyptian, Babylonian, Mithraism). I don't think you can make that stuff up, unless he's good at photoshop. I drive by a Masonic temple on the way to work, and I now "see" the symbols that were once hidden to me. I always wondered why Anglo-Saxon Shriners wore Islamic hats, and his videos explained why, it makes perfect sense, so I can't say he's totally nuts on that subject.
As far as the other videos I can't speak on that, but objectively speaking, I think there is merit to his scientific based videos, and the two occult expose videos seem credible enough. If you can stomach it, try watching the two videos I mentioned and maybe you won't think he's totally off. God Bless.

Good question. The Biblical Research Committee is meant to function as an interpretive, apologetic, advisory body rather than legislative. Their work seems to have "official" weight because of their direct relationship with the General Conference. How much actual influence they have on the church's theology as a whole, I can't say. The "about" link on their website reveals a very broad mandate. I can't speak from any personal knowledge about their actual working relationship within the General Conference.

I would not expect or want the church to take an "official" session stand on the question raised in this post, certainly not in any way that would treat ones belief as a test of faith. But I do think the BRI's position is the historical, orthodox exegesis, not only of Adventism in particular but of evangelicals in general. At least that is the sense I get from Reformed commentaries on the subject. I'm not saying that makes it so. It's just what it seems to be.

Any light you have on the subject would be appreciated.

As for your most recent comment, I deleted that because your accusative attitude isn't something I want to promote. If you can disagree without an accusing spirit then your welcome to comment. Some of the issues you raised do matter to me and others in the church.

Jan

Furthermore I wish to thank Walter Veith for his videos, every ‘foolish idea’ or faulty ‘conspiracy theory’ in them, as it enabled me to come closer to the true God. Although I may disagree with some aspects, I accept all of these ‘flaws’ and will focus on the positive elements in the hope that God will also accept me with all my flaws.

Personally I feel that subjects like ‘Walter Veith: Conspiracy Theorist Persona Non Grata’ is an attack on the person and not attacking the error, and that such actions serve to alienate the person and not the error. Therefore such criticism cannot be inspired by God. But that is just how I feel and who am I? Open your hearts and let God do the ‘talking’ if you really want to serve the true God.

With love in Jesus Christ, the only Life Giver

After preaching today, later in the afternoon, I was re-reading in John Stott's "The Cross of Christ". There is so much I still don't know about the plan of salvation as it is unfolded at Calvary. I'm praying God will give me the grace to waste less time with minor matters and dig deeper into the meaning of his self-sacrificing love for us.

Love to the family. And stay warm up there.