Joan Didion's essays in "Slouching Towards Bethlehem" explore the lives of two schoolteachers who are both committed to the Seventh-Day Adventist Church. Their beliefs reflect a unique lifestyle characterized by a deep commitment to their faith, which includes observing the Sabbath on Saturday and anticipating an apocalyptic Second Coming. This dedication also manifests in a strong inclination towards missionary work.

The teachers adhere to strict personal practices that align with their religious principles. They avoid smoking, drinking, eating meat, and using makeup or jewelry, including wedding rings. Their lifestyle choices highlight the influence of their beliefs on their everyday lives, demonstrating the intersection of faith and personal conduct within the Seventh-Day Adventist community.