Philippe Buch

Is there a secret conclave of elites writing the rules for the Seventh-day Adventist Church? Shawn Boonstra sits down with Hensley Moorooven and Tami from the General Conference Secretariat to find out, one hundred years after the church's first working policy booklet.

They get into why the church has a policy book at all, what happens when a country's laws collide with it, and how a change makes it onto the screen at Annual Council. Along the way Shawn asks whether his work email, his pay and his 85 weeks of unused vacation are policy violations. (Asking for a friend.)

Who Really Writes the Adventist Church's Rules? | unScripted EP 39 Is there a secret conclave of elites writing the rules for the Seve...

October 02, 2026

Revival at the Water Gate
by Pastor Chuck Swindoll

They read from the Book of the Law of God and clearly explained the meaning of what was being read, helping the people understand each passage. (Nehemiah 8:8)

Tucked away in the old book of Nehemiah is the first recorded revival. And of all places, the revival occurred at the Water Gate. According to Nehemiah 8:1, “All the people gathered as one person at the square which was in front of the Water Gate” (NASB). This would be the setting of the most exciting experience since the completion of the wall.

It is helpful to know that at this time there was a spiritual vacuum in the city. The wall reconstruction project had been completed and the people had moved into their own dwellings. Nehemiah 7 provides a detailed description of the organizational structure, which shows that the people had become well organized, well defended, and well governed. But in this community, even though its residents had nice homes and good jobs and were well protected, they still lacked something.

This illustrates a timeless truth: It is pointless to have a well-constructed superstructure if little or no life exists on the inside. This is not only true in the church; the same can be said of any organization, Christian or secular.

Three factors ensured that the walls served their purpose.

Fresh personnel. Evidently, both the Lord and Nehemiah knew that Ezra would do a better job at getting things going inside that wall than Nehemiah. Here is another example of entrusting the ongoing tasks of a project to others who are more adept and better qualified than the person at the top.

Established truth. The Scripture was openly and boldly proclaimed. Often when success comes—whether in business or in the church—there is a tendency to operate on emotional highs (enthusiasm, good feelings) instead of using the “authentic fuel” of established truth. Remember that the first major thrust in a genuine revival is the proclamation of Scripture.

Distinguishing between the means and the end. This is, essentially, a distinction between long-term and short-term objectives. The wall was merely a means to an end. Discerning leaders know the difference. They avoid tunnel vision, choosing to view the whole scene and not just their own contributions. They observe how the whole project fits into the grander scheme.

If you are careful to observe Nehemiah’s leadership, you will find a consistent theme: unselfishness. Unconcerned about having his name in lights, Nehemiah stepped aside and strengthened the overall project with fresh reinforcements. And as Ezra did his job, Nehemiah stood among the people applying the truth he heard proclaimed.

Taken from Hand Me Another Brick by Charles R. Swindoll. Copyright © 2006 by Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. Used by permission of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. https://www.harpercollinschristian.com/

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October 01, 2026

Even as the Enemy Blasts, God Builds
by Pastor Chuck Swindoll

They were just trying to intimidate us, imagining that they could discourage us and stop the work. So I continued the work with even greater determination. (Nehemiah 6:9)

Sanballat’s weapon of choice was rumor, which has at least two distinctive characteristics. First, a source is never declared. Note the vague reference, “It is reported among the nations” (Nehemiah 6:6 NASB). This lends an air of credence to both the story and the storyteller. It suggests that the story is widely reported and, therefore, credible.

Second, rumors usually involve exaggeration and inaccuracy. A rumor builds upon a kernel of truth, which gives gullible people—or people with a motive—just enough reason to swallow the lie whole. Then it’s passed from person to person as the exaggeration compounds itself, almost like magic.

Nehemiah found himself on the horns of a dilemma. If he refused to go to Ono, it would be tantamount to saying, “I’m afraid to let the truth be known.” But if he went to Ono, he would leave the work on the wall and play into the hands of the enemy.

People who spread rumors invariably lack wisdom. Discernment causes a person to ask such searching questions as, “Is it necessary to say this? Is this confidential information? Is it even true? Do I have any right to pass this on?” Wisdom prompts the reply, “Don’t open your mouth because God hates those who sow discord among His people” (see Proverbs 6:16–19).

Nehemiah was confronted with an open letter containing accusations built upon a lie. And he responded beautifully. First, Nehemiah calmly denied the charge: “Nothing like these things that you are saying has been done” (Nehemiah 6:8 NASB). Second, he put the blame where it belonged: “You are inventing them in your own mind” (6:8 NASB). Third, he took his case before the Lord: “But now, O God, strengthen my hands” (6:9 NASB).

“So the wall was completed” (6:15 NASB). Such sweet, satisfying words. And what a magnificent accomplishment! Even as the attacks continued, the final bricks were laid in place. With the completion of the wall, the tables turned: “When all our enemies heard about it, and all the nations surrounding us saw it, they lost their confidence” (6:16 NASB).

That has to be the most thrilling experience in the world—to see God come to the rescue when you have been helpless. In the middle of the incessant assault of the enemy, in spite of the endless verbal barrage, the wall was built! Even as the enemy blasts, God builds.

Taken from Hand Me Another Brick by Charles R. Swindoll. Copyright © 2006 by Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. Used by permission of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. https://www.harpercollinschristian.com/

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Doing a Great Work
by Pastor Chuck Swindoll

“I am engaged in a great work, so I can’t come. Why should I stop working to come and meet with you?” (Nehemiah 6:3)

If you are a leader, you spend a lot of your time either on the top or on the bottom. You’re either hero or villain; respected or reviled. Rarely anything between those extremes. People in leadership must live on the yo-yo of public opinion: the target for cheap shots on the bottom, the object of great admiration on the upside. It’s when we are under the verbal attack of the intimidating public that we show our true colors.

Nehemiah was not in the penthouse. Even though he had been a faithful, stable, and consistent leader, a plot to defeat him was underway. The attack upon Nehemiah was very significant because it happened at a crucial juncture in his life. Not very long before they were ready to cut the ribbon and enjoy a jubilant celebration, the enemy began to plot Nehemiah’s demise.

Sanballat and Geshem sent a message to me, saying, “Come, let us meet together at Chephirim in the plain of Ono” (Nehemiah 6:2 NASB).

The word “together” suggests a desire for an amicable visit. In effect, they were saying, “You’ve been laying bricks too long, Nehemiah. We’ve had our spats, a few little disagreements, but let’s get together. Come on up to Ono.”

Nehemiah said, “Oh, no!” to Ono. Somehow, he knew their motives were not what they seemed. He writes, “They were planning to harm me” (6:2 NASB). I can’t explain how any leader in God’s family can be gifted with this sixth sense from above. He gets to the edge of danger and something inside says, “I don’t dare get into that; there’s something wrong.”

That doesn’t mean we should live the life of an isolationist; it does mean we should live a life of discernment. Discernment is a God-given quality a leader must possess. Discernment allows you to read between the lines.

So I sent messengers to them, saying, ‘I am doing a great work and am unable to come down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and come down to you?” (6:3 NASB)

There is a great difference between being an available man or woman of God and being a puppet of people. Some people never understand how you can say no. But every leader must reserve that right. One of the marks of maturity is the ability to say no without explanation. What a secure man! Unintimidated is the word.

Taken from Hand Me Another Brick by Charles R. Swindoll. Copyright © 2006 by Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. Used by permission of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. https://www.harpercollinschristian.com/

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Sermon Summary: “Gratitude for All Times: Past, Present and Future”

In his sermon on September 26, 2026, at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Mainz, Philippe Buch explores Christian gratitude through the perspective of the past, the present, and the future.

The sermon begins with 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, emphasizing that gratitude is God’s will for believers. Biblical gratitude is more than simply saying “thank you”; it is a way of recognizing God as the source of life and blessing, even while experiencing difficulties, sorrow, or uncertainty.

The sermon also highlights research suggesting that gratitude contributes to psychological well-being, stronger relationships, and reduced stress, anxiety, and other negative experiences. Expressing sincere gratitude strengthens relationships because it creates connection and mutual appreciation.

The central message is then developed through three dimensions:

* Past: We can be grateful for Christ’s death and resurrection, God’s forgiveness, His guidance through difficult experiences, and the faithful generations who preserved and transmitted the Christian faith.
* Present: We can recognize God’s provision in ordinary things such as food, health, work, relationships, and daily grace. The Holy Spirit’s presence and the support of the Christian community are also reasons for gratitude.
* Future: Christians can be grateful because their future rests in God’s promises: eternal life, Christ’s return, the end of suffering and death, and God’s continuing work of spiritual transformation.

The conclusion: Christians can live with gratitude because God holds their past, present, and future in His hands. The greatest reason for gratitude is God’s love revealed in Jesus Christ, who became human, died for humanity’s sins, and was resurrected to offer eternal life. This assurance enables believers to practice gratitude every day, regardless of their circumstances.

Sermon by Philippe Buch, Sabbath, September 26, 2026, Seventh-day Adventist Church of Mainz, Germany

The sermon “Gratitude for All Seasons: Past, Present and Future” presents gratitude as a fundamental Christian attitude. Based on 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18, it emphasizes thanking God for His goodness in every circumstance.

We can be grateful for the past, remembering God’s guidance, forgiveness, and Christ’s sacrifice; for the present, recognizing His daily care, presence, and blessings; and for the future, trusting His faithfulness, the promise of eternal life, and Christ’s return.

The central message is simple: we can look back with gratitude, live today by God’s grace, and face the future with hope because our lives are in His hands.

September 25, 2026, Cures for Discouragement by Pastor Chuck Swindoll

Then as I looked over the situation, I called together the nobles and the rest of the people and said to them, “Don’t be afraid of the enemy! Remember the Lord, who is great and glorious, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes!” (Nehemiah 4:14)

How involved are you in the lives of others? If you are a leader, how much do you really care for the people in your organization—I mean as individuals? This week, how much of your life will be spent meeting the needs of another? Or is it all wrapped up in yourself? If we want to foster a spirit of service within the groups we lead, we must be the first to step out and model the behavior we hope to see. Each one of us should take a long look at our short lives, taking special note of our personal investment in the lives of others, especially the people we lead.

Discouragement is indeed a debilitating disease, but it need not become terminal. Left to itself, it can be. But remedies are available. Nehemiah utilized at least five strategies to keep the people of Jerusalem on-task and on-target, helping them achieve more than they imagined and all they dared to hope for. Glance back over Nehemiah’s experience and compare his set of circumstances to yours. Be honest as you carry out this next mental project. Do you detect symptoms of discouragement in your organization? Think objectively. Study Nehemiah’s five strategies below and see how you might adapt them to your situation.

1. Unify your efforts toward a goal. The first thing Nehemiah did was rally the people around the goal.

2. Direct your attention to the Lord. Nehemiah directed the attention of the people to the Lord and away from the rubble.

3. Maintain a balance between faith and action. Nehemiah urged the people to resume building the wall, but his urging didn’t ignore the very real danger of attack. Guard against the subtle teaching that suggests that God does everything and you step back and do nothing.

4. Determine a rallying point. The purpose of the rallying point is to ensure that the people face their attackers together. The principle: don’t try to fight alone. To overcome discouragement, always face adversity together.

5. Develop a “serve-one-another” mentality. If we want to foster a spirit of service within the groups we lead, we must be the first to step out and model the behavior we hope to see.

Don’t allow the disease of discouragement to run its course. Otherwise, you’ll never know what great things could have been accomplished.

God bless you! 😁👍🏻
Shared by Philippe Buch

Source: Taken from Hand Me Another Brick by Charles R. Swindoll. Copyright © 2006 by Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. Used by permission of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. https://www.harpercollinschristian.com/

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