Integrity is a prerequisite to justice. Justice is a prerequisite to confidence. Confidence is a prerequisite to unity. Think about it as you peruse this issue of Adventist Today, which is dedicated to these qualities in the life and mission of the church.

Ever since the twelve accepted Jesus' invitation, "Follow me," there have been differences of opinion on a myriad of matters among dedicated followers of the Master of human relationships--for the simple reason that we are, one and all, imperfect human beings.

Our cover article by Barry Casey addresses one important element in the preservation of unity in the church, under the rubric of conflict resolution. We believe our readers will appreciate Barry's recognized expertise in such matters.

Next, with his inside awareness of such matters, David Newman, editor of Ministry, laments instances in which the church has suffered because integrity, justice, confidence, and unity in the church have been compromised, and tactfully suggests remedial measures.

Third in this trilogy is a white paper by Doug Hackleman documenting a recent instance in which a lack of integrity and justice in the Southeastern California Conference has subjected confidence and unity to unnecessary stress and strain. The account of events has been rigorously verified by a number of competent, knowledgeable persons. It is presented here, not with the intent to parade so-called "dirty linen," but in the sincere hope that this narrative may encourage all of us--including the participants--to avoid similar lapses of integrity and justice in time to come.

In a heart-warming account of the way in which one congregation related to what could have been a divisive issue, Scott Stevens illustrates gospel principles that bring healing. This community of Christians was stronger and happier as the result of a situation that might otherwise have inflicted wounds that would never have healed.

Gospel principles for resolving differences within the church are clear, eminently fair to all, and effective. According to Matthew 18:7, "occasions for stumbling are bound to come" (NSRV). In verses 15 to 18 Christ outlines what we might call an appellate procedure by which to resolve these differences, with the church itself as the final court of appeal. One of the major needs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church today is an adequate adjudicatory system. As reported in our July/August issue, a case currently in process before the Maricopa County Superior Court in Phoenix is the first time one entity of the church has taken another church entity to court--a poignant reminder that present provisions for resolving differences of opinion within the church are woefully inadequate. The fifth article in the conflict resolution series addresses this need.

Two letters to the editor on page 22 of this issue, in response to the anti-Catholic billboard campaign in Orlando and elsewhere, reflect the concern of many with respect to the way in which Ellen White's book The Great Controversy is being used. In its scenario of last-day events, which was altogether accurate with respect to events during the closing decades of the nineteenth century, still valid today? On pages 14 to 17 of this issue three highly respected Adventist Bible scholars reply to this question.
On pages 20 and 21 two writers in Colorado report on an aborted attempt on the part of some to welcome the arrival of Pope John Paul II with a series of similar billboards in Denver. The way in which the church in Colorado avoided this unwise confrontation is highly commendable.