The role of Mary, the mother of Jesus, in Christian theology has been a topic of theological discussion for centuries. One of the questions that arise in this context is whether Jesus wants us to pray to His physical mother, Mary. In this article, we will explore the perspective of Seventh-day Adventists on this matter. Adventists, like many Protestant denominations, typically approach this issue with a focus on direct communication with God through Jesus Christ, as supported by the teachings of the Bible.
The Primacy of Jesus Christ
Seventh-day Adventists, in line with their Protestant heritage, place a strong emphasis on the exclusive role of Jesus Christ as the mediator between humanity and God. The Bible affirms this belief in multiple passages:
1 Timothy 2:5 (NIV): “For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.”
This verse underscores the unique position of Jesus as the only mediator. From an Adventist perspective, prayer is directed to God through Jesus, recognizing Him as the sole intercessor who connects believers with the Father.
Sole Authority of Scripture
Seventh-day Adventists uphold the Bible as the authoritative source of doctrine and practice. While Mary is respected as the mother of Jesus, the Bible does not explicitly instruct believers to pray to her or any other human figure. Adventists, therefore, adhere to the principle of seeking guidance solely from the Scriptures.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV): “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
Adventists believe that the Bible is sufficient for spiritual instruction and do not incorporate practices such as praying to Mary into their worship and prayer life.
Avoidance of Idolatry
Seventh-day Adventists, along with many other Protestant denominations, are cautious about practices that might be construed as idolatrous or that could detract from the unique role of Jesus Christ as Savior and Intercessor.
Exodus 20:4-5 (NIV): “You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God…”
This commandment warns against the worship of idols or images, reinforcing the belief in the worship of God alone.
Conclusion
From an Adventist perspective, the question of whether Jesus wants us to pray to His physical mother, Mary, is rooted in a deep commitment to a direct relationship with God through Jesus Christ as the ultimate mediator. While Mary is revered as the mother of Jesus, Adventists typically do not seek her intercession in their prayers. Their faith centers on a personal connection with God, guided by the teachings of the Bible and the primacy of Jesus Christ as the sole mediator between God and humanity. In matters of prayer and devotion, the focus remains firmly on the Creator and Savior, Jesus Christ.
