The Seventh Day Adventist church, famous for observing Sabbath on Saturdays and its own set of unique beliefs and practices, was founded by preacher William Miller during the early half of the 19th century. Like other evangelical Christian denominations, Seventh-day Adventists adhere to 28 Fundamental Beliefs that include teachings on God, man, salvation, church membership and Christian living. Furthermore, Seventh-day Adventists are active advocates for religious freedom worldwide and have been involved with this cause for years.
Named to reflect two core aspects of its theology: "Seventh-Day Adventist Church" is inspired by two key aspects: 1) Sabbath was instituted at creation and observed during Jesus' earthly ministry and 2) Jesus is expected to return (adventists).
Adventism stands out from other Christian groups with its interpretation of Scripture and prophetic ministry, particularly its Sabbath observance. Adventists consider themselves part of Revelation 12:17's Remnant Church and thus are charged to "announce salvation through Christ, warn of judgment day, and proclaim nearness of second coming" (Fundamental Belief no 13). Furthermore, its teachings about Sabbath laws, food regulations, and investigative judgement differ significantly.
As these differences can cause dissonance within a church and its emphasis on its leadership and prophetic claims over individual experiences of people following it, leaving can result in feelings of alienation when leaving is decided upon - this can especially be felt when former church members were second, third or fourth generation.
