Andrews, John Nevins

About the author

John Nevins Andrews (1829–1883) was a pioneering figure in the Seventh-day Adventist Church, recognized as both an erudite theologian and a dedicated missionary. Through writings such as The Complete Testimony of the Fathers of the First Three Centuries Concerning the Sabbath and First Day and History of the Sabbath and First Day of the Week, Andrews took an exhaustive approach in tracing Biblical and early Christian sources regarding the observance of the Sabbath. His scholarship sought to support the Adventist conviction that worship on the seventh-day (Saturday), rather than Sunday, aligned more faithfully with scriptural and historical precedent.

In History of the Sabbath and First Day of the Week, Andrews embarks on a chronological journey, beginning with Old Testament injunctions and continuing through early church councils and writings from church fathers (figures like Ignatius, Polycarp, and others). He sifts through doctrinal disputes that arose as Christianity shifted from its Jewish roots to a predominantly Gentile following in the Roman world. Andrews interprets the gradual acceptance of Sunday observance as influenced by both political pressures (e.g., Constantine’s laws) and internal theological shifts that distanced newer Christian communities from Judaic practices. While later historians sometimes argue for a more nuanced interplay of cultural and spiritual motivations, Andrews’ perspective championed a Protestant literalism: that the biblical edict of seventh-day rest was divinely mandated and should remain unaltered by historical tradition.

Drawing on patristic quotations, Andrews’ The Complete Testimony of the Fathers addresses how second- and third-century theologians or bishops viewed Sabbath observance. By comparing translations and contexts, he aimed to demonstrate that Sunday sanctification lacked a firm apostolic mandate. He contended that widespread confusion or incomplete scriptural interpretation led the early medieval Church to adopt Sunday as the normative gathering day. In making his case, Andrews displayed a methodical scholarly style, distinguishing between direct quotations, paraphrases, and later editorial insertions in church writings—an approach somewhat advanced for theological debate in the mid-19th century.

Beyond his literary contributions, Andrews lived his convictions: he served as the first official Adventist foreign missionary, establishing a lasting Adventist presence in Europe, particularly in Switzerland. This missionary role underscores the practical dimension of his theology—he believed that clarifying Sabbath doctrine worldwide could unify believers in preparation for what Adventists perceived as imminent end-times. His marriage of scholarship and missionary zeal epitomized the Adventist ethos: rigorous Bible study reinforcing evangelistic outreach.

John Nevins Andrews remains a cornerstone figure in Seventh-day Adventist history. Modern Adventist institutions, including Andrews University (named in his honor), stand as testaments to his profound influence on shaping doctrine and global missionary identity. While his strict Sabbatarian standpoint continues to be debated among Christian denominations, his meticulous research and extensive citation of early Christian sources illustrate how a 19th-century theologian employed historical-critical methods to solidify denominational beliefs. His legacy endures in the global Adventist community, reflecting a blend of academic diligence and fervent commitment to biblical principles.