Who was Rachel Oakes in the context of early Advent history?

Rachel Oakes is recognized in early Advent history as a pivotal figure in the promotion of Sabbath observance. As a Seventh-Day Baptist, she played a significant role in introducing the concept of observing the Sabbath on Saturday rather than Sunday to early Adventists. Her influence helped to shape the beliefs of early Adventist leaders, including key figures like Joseph Bates and James White.

Through her advocacy, she emphasized the importance of the biblical Sabbath, which aligned with the messages that would later become central to Seventh-day Adventism. Her contributions were crucial to the theological development of the movement, as they prompted discussions about the Sabbath and encouraged its practice among early Adventists. This connection to the historical and theological roots of the Seventh-day Adventist Church highlights her importance in this context.