Julius,

Thanks indeed for your graciousness. Your willingness to understand the spirit of those who may be considered your theological opponents sets a new standard within the Adventist Church.

For the record, perhaps Russell’s single most significant contribution to the theological ferment of the last 40 years was his co-authorship of ‘Conflicting Concepts of Righteousness by Faith’ (1975, if I am not mistaken). His co-author was a fellow Melbourne medico, one Dr Clifford. It was this book, bankrolled by my late father, that galvanized theological discussion in the South Pacific Division with regard to Des Ford and his theology. It was pre-empted by the unwillingness of the South Pacific Division to send representatives of the original 12 or so ‘Concerned Brethren’ to the Palmdale Conference c1975.

That unwillingness by the South Pacific Division leadership to engage in much meaningful dialogue with those whose theology was more sharply defined than theirs reminds me of the earlier unwillingness of the GC to listen to the concerns of ML Andreasen.

Russell and Colin Standish have turned many from the path of destruction to the light of salvation, and particularly many in the SDA Church who remained unwarned of the doctrinal crisis and tragedies occurring more specifically in the Church over the last almost 60 or so years. Russell will be very missed by those grateful to him for standing for the right regarding true Bible doctrine no matter what persecution or deprivation he suffered, as has done Colin, his brother. Another warrior has fallen, but we look forward to the day when the Lord shall bring back to life those who love Him and are now resting in the grave and reunite them with their believing loved ones. “O Death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?”

Major loss for the church. His books speak for themselves. It would be wise to purchase and read two key books. The Gathering Storm and The Storm Burst and Deceptions of The New Theology. Along with M. L. Andreasens’ The Sanctuary and Herb Douglasss’ A Fork In The Road. These books all together give a clear understanding of histrory and the developing of theology in our church.

Peter - Thanks for your comment … but I should say that I’ve never considered Russell an “opponent” of mine. I disagree with him on many things, but I think there are many more points of agreement.

I once had a pleasant conversation with Colin Standish at Loma Linda. I had read his books, as well as books by the other side. I was, and remain, conflicted. The problems presented by the liberals were real and legitimate. The concerns and dangers of liberal thought presented by the conservatives were real and legitimate. The solutions of both side were, and remain, lacking. I became attracted to the ministry of Robert H. Schuller…and sang in his choir…and often I have longed for an integration of his approach with the best of Adventist thought. Oh wretched man that I am…I hope somebody figures it out…

I am saddened to hear of the death of Russell Standish. Although I never met him, I know his brother Colin well. Colin was president of West Indies College in Mandeville, Jamaica when I was a student. His steady life informed my conservative stance on Adventism. He taught me Educational Tests and Measurements and he inspired me to enter into Adventist presidential leadership.

Sylvan Lashley
Leominster, Massachusetts

I knew his two sons, James and Timothy, in college — and based on my knowing them during college years was surprised years later to learn that their father and uncle were such significant voices within conservative Adventism. While I’ve never read anything that Russell Standish wrote and I’m pretty sure from what I know of him that I’d disagree with most of it if I did, I am sorry to hear of his death. I admire people who speak out on their convictions even when I disagree with them, especially as we’ll never know for sure who was right about what until we all sit down and have a good laugh over our doctrinal differences in heaven.

Julius, I want to thank you for such a kind characterization of Russell and Colin. Though separated by half a continent they were as true to each other as they were to the message as they understood it and not only walked and thought together even when apart but wrote together. Your tribute strikes the right note and may God use it in some way to help us all humble ourselves in relation to each other and especially to those with whom we have some differences in understanding. Russell and Colin have indeed given hope and courage to many who have seen vital Adventist principles threatened. My prayer is that we may all reflect the willingness to compromise in our strong accepts while maintaining our integrity in truth and recognize that our unduly strong accepts tend to divide rather than to unite, thus disappointing Christ’s earnest “Day of Atonement” prayer, “that they may be one.” May we, while maintaining 100% integrity to principles of truth, exercise the same degree of commitment to unity.

What a beautiful tribute to Dr. Standish. I have been privileged to hear both of them speak and to talk with them (as well as read most of their books). He was indeed personable men and very down to earth as is his brother. Thank you, Julius, for taking the time to pen your tribute. Dr. Standish will be missed by many.

Thank you, Julius for this thoughtful tribute to a faithful Adventist.

Like you, there was a time when I wouldn’t have appreciated this man as much as I recently came to. Although I never met him, it is revealing that, based on your experience, he was different in person than a perception based on his writings might have led someone to believe. There’s probably a lesson there somewhere regarding how we should judge people based on their writings or Web comments.

While I am more on the progressive side of Adventism and Christianity than Mr. Standish, I join you in acknowledging that his death is a terrible loss; but I also join you in celebrating his life’s dedication.

Julius,
I learned of the tragic event through my forum. My heart and well wishes go out to Colin, family and friends.
I met the Standishs through the old Adventist Round Table videos, along with Ralph Larson and Ron Spear back in the 1980s. They were a big help to me on my journey back to the church, even though today I would be nearer to Knight theologically. Also, I wan’t sure, as a Historic Adventist, how far back we were suppose to go. He and his brother surely made things interesting. He will be missed. I am sure that he will be among the called when Jesus comes. While never able to meet him in life, I’m sure to meet him in the new earth.

The tribute was very appropriate. Dr. Standish will be missed. A death seems to soften our attitudes. Death makes us face ourselves…and think…

A. Leroy Moore’s comment reminded me of a book of his regarding the conflict of liberal and conservative thought in Adventism. As I remember, it was more of a ‘both’ rather than a ‘either/or’ approach. Perhaps we should work toward integrative rather than segregative thinking. Not compomising integrity, but framing statements in non-inflamatory language and attitudes. Being wise as serpents and harmless as doves is hard to do.

What a sad time for the Standish family as the death of a loved one is experienced, being the result of a fatal accident. I know God will enfold you with in His comforting arms at this terrible time of loss and grief. Russell was truely a committed servant of God playing his part in the furtherance of God’s work here on earth. The world is definitely a better place for him having been here. He will be sorely missed. Sympathy to his wife and family at this time.

I have known Russell for many years, and have attended most of his meetings here in Adelaide, and read most of his books. Both he and his wife Glenice were/are lovely people.

Many years ago, when I first met Russell, I remember telling him that I felt as if I was alone in the church trying to stand for truth. He replied,”Not any more brother, not any more.”

The preaching of people like Russell has helped me to press on with courage. I too, did not agree with some of Russell’s conclusions, but does anyone in the world agree with everything that anyone else says?

Just before leaving Russell’s meetings on the Sabbath prior to his death, I said to him: I hope to see you again next year Russell, if I am still around (I am 83). Little did I imagine that Russell would not be around himself. However, as Scripture says:

Rev 14:13 And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.”

Dear brother Russell faithfully completed the work that God gave him to do, along with his wife and associates. May we all be as faithful as was he, and meet him again in the heavenly kingdom.

Robert Parker

Blog owner’s note: There have been some comments made that have sought to criticize the value of Russell Standish’s theological activities. It goes against my personal sense of decorum and decency to be doing so during this time of mourning (especially when the memorial service for the deceased has not even taken place). Hence, I have deleted those comments. There will plenty of time to reflect, debate, and argue—but now is not that time, at least not here.

Firstly let us say it was a privilage to know and be known by Russell.

He was man of greath warmth and concern for God’s people. He was called to do a work that was not always met favourably by many people. However, his faithfulnes and fidelity to God was uttermost in his motives and were always carried out with a sincere and deep love for his church (God’s people).

He was a Daniel standing in the midst of denominational apostasy and now that voice has been silenced. This is indeed a very dark, dark day for Adventism. Our prayers are with Colin as he continues to do this work alone.

His untimely passing is going to leave a huge vacuum but we know that Russell awaits the call of the lifegiver to hear those wondereful words - “well done thou good and faithful servant.”

Our prayer is that we will be there to met him on that glorious day as I know he will be looking anxiously for all those he knew - will you be there also ?

Glenice, thank you for being a good wife and helpmate in supporting Russell with the burden that God had laid upon him. I know he loved you dearly and you him. We weep at your loss and we weep for ourselves. It won’t be long before you will be reunited once again. May that day come soon.

Colin, may God give you strength to do the work you are called to do also.

To his other siblings and his 3 sons, God comfort you also. I know his great desire is that you will be ready when he comes.

Sadly missed

B & D Svensson

Condolences to the Standish family at the passing away of Dr Russell Standish.

Having neither met him, nor read any of his written works, it was sufficient to hear about him.

Till the time when God shall wipe away all tears, no more death, no pain, no fears…

Thanks Julius for modeling an open and thoughtful Adventism.

My mother is an Aussie and I grew up attending one or two Standish meetings. I’m glad that Russell cared so much.

I was shocked and saddened to hear of Russell’s tragic death. I had the privilige of knowing Russell for over 20 years and still remember the first sermon I heard him deliver … “The Least Happy Day in Heaven” Russell suggested that the least happy day in heaven would be the first day … then it would get progressively better and better! The last time I saw Russell was at his nephew’s wedding where I sat with Russell on one side of me and Colin (his brother) on the other at the reception. It was a wonderful night generating many happy memories. Russell was a faithful soldier for Michael the Archangel and will be present on the sea of glass along side all those who remain true and faithful to the high calling in Christ Jesus.

For those of us who have not gone to the qod.andrews.edu website it would be well to pause to do so. Click on downloads scroll down pass the audio section to the documents and read Russell Standishs’ contribution to the conference entitled ” A History of Questions on Doctrine Fidelity or Comprimise? “. It was his last major speaking engagement in the U.S. Also two more books to read connected to His understanding of truth, The Word Was Made Flesh by Ralph Larson and Touched With Our Feelings by J.R. Zurcher these items are a help in understanding of where Russell was coming from in his preaching, teaching and writing. It won’t be long, friends.