A HOUSE OF PRAYER & REVIVAL

This week I eagerly waited for the first address of newly elected church President Ted N. C. Wilson to employees of the church.  Wednesday, July 28^th, together with Mark Finley, recently retired VP and the newly appointed assistant to the president for evangelism, he outlined a strategic plan for the denomination meant to spur a renewal of members' commitment to the church's mission.

A new initiative, the launch of a Revival and Reformation Committee at church headquarters, chaired by Armando Miranda, was featured prominently in the plan. The belief that Christians cannot "hasten or delay" the Second Coming is a misconception, Wilson said. While the "manufacture" of programs or activities at church headquarters cannot "force" Christ's return, a "revival of true godliness" and "humble submission to God" among Christians can, he said, citing a quote by church co-founder Ellen G. White.

He challenged Adventist believers to return to the mindset of the early church described in the New Testament book of Acts, where believers were "of one accord" and "in one place" - conditions responsible for the outpouring of God's spirit. Revival is not about ushering in legalism or an exclusivist spirit. True unity cannot be legislated and is ushered by the work of the Holy Spirit within.  Revival is a message of love, of hope and of encouragement.  God has given us this message, and we are to share it, being as inclusive as possible, hinging our efforts on prayer first.

"You are dedicated, educated, consecrated people," Wilson said to over 400 workers gathered at the headquarters, "but if we're not praying in humility our talents are worth virtually nothing,"

Wilson outlined some specific expectations for the next five years. First he introduced the launch of international bible and mission conferences, hubs where pastors, teachers, and other workers can convene to study the bible together to better grasp the church's "spiritual destiny" and spur outreach.

Secondly, a continued emphasis on outreach through technology, the Global Internet Evangelism Network and the church's many Web-based ministries, and increase the impact of the Hope TV & Adventist World Radio.

We are to safeguard core emphases on Adventist education and Health Ministries. A special priority will be given to the “Connecting with Jesus” project, in which Ellen G. White books are distributed to members worldwide, suggesting churches send copies of The Great Controversy to every household in the surrounding postal district.

The top priority is in involving young people in the church's mission. A focus on both evangelism and stewardship is expected to be the catalyst for the church's success the next five years.

The strategic plan presented is admittedly not comprehensive or concrete, and is open to suggestion.  President Wilson said. "The Adventist Church is not an organization that promotes 'kingly power.' We don't just have someone at the head who says, 'That's it, do it,' and it happens” He invited all members to be a “multitude of counsellors.” Soliciting the prayers and participation of employees as the church moves forward, Wilson said he wanted "open communication" throughout the building and the church. "My office is open. If you have an idea or suggestion -- I don't care how small or large it is -- you can contact me and talk to me."

This blog will be featured in bulletins for the next couple of weeks for more members to read, also providing you with Presidents email: WilsonT@gc.adventist.org

Prayer & Revival of true godliness is our goal.