Edward Rodriguez, Southern Asia-Pacific Division, for ANN
Seventh-day Adventists gathered on Saturday (Sabbath), July 12, 2025, as newly elected General Conference (GC) president Erton Köhler delivered his inaugural Sabbath message at the close of the 62nd GC Session, calling the worldwide body to embrace their identity and to continue rising for mission.
In a message grounded in Scripture, charged with urgency, and saturated with hope, Köhler declared, “This is a new season—a sacred responsibility entrusted to us by God. We are not just attendees of a conference; we are torchbearers of the soon coming of Jesus Christ.”
Honoring the Past, Leading Forward
Köhler acknowledged the leadership of outgoing president Ted N.C. Wilson and his wife Nancy, honoring their unwavering commitment to the global mission. As he steps into this new role, Köhler invited the Church to pray for all leaders entrusted with the spiritual stewardship of God’s people.
“This is a sacred responsibility—grounded in the Bible and focused on mission,” he said.
Throughout the week, the session bore witness to heartfelt prayers, exhibit showcases, powerful reports, and interactive “I Will Go” discussions. Delegates and attendees engaged in prayer seasons, including intercessions for those affected by disasters in Texas, where Adventist Community Services responded with aid. The Church also lifted prayers for war-torn regions, those experiencing humanitarian crises, and families mourning the loss of loved ones.
A Church Rising for Mission
Citing Matthew 24, Köhler walked the audience through the undeniable signs of Jesus’ return: wars, disasters, moral decline, and global turmoil. “How close are these footsteps?” he asked. From Matthew 24:4–13, he described a world rapidly unraveling, yet underscored Matthew 24:14 as the Church’s defining mission—“And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world… and then shall the end come.”
“This is not a time for the Church to retreat,” Köhler affirmed. “We are not a warehouse of worry but a distribution center of hope.” He emphasized that Revelation 14:6, the everlasting gospel proclaimed by the three angels, remains at the heart of the Church’s identity and responsibility. “The Adventist DNA is the hope of Jesus’ second coming.”
Hope Over Fear
In an age of uncertainty, Köhler urged the Church not to dwell in fear or anxiety but to stand as light and salt in a darkened world, referencing Matthew 5.
“Destruction is not our priority. Our focus is a church rising powerfully for mission,” he said. “We must not wait for tragedy to motivate us.”
He reminded the congregation that the Second Coming is not a threat—it is the Blessed Hope. In contrast to the despair saturating global headlines, Köhler called for a revival rooted in love, grounded in Scripture, guided by prayer, and shaped by the Spirit of Prophecy.
“We want a Church that loves, believes, and seeks guidance through all available means for the mission.”
A Church for All Generations
Köhler emphasized that this call to mission is for everyone.
“We will rise for mission only if we are deeply committed to the Bible and pray earnestly for the Holy Spirit.”
He challenged leaders to prioritize revival over attendance numbers, disciple-making over buildings, and commitment over cash. “We are called to be distinct, but not distant,” he reminded the Church.
As the sun set on the 10-day session, the light of purpose grew stronger. With the world groaning under the weight of brokenness, the Adventist Church emerged from Missouri not only organized, but energized—rising with hope, compassion, and urgency.
“Our message is not about fear,” Köhler concluded. “It is about Jesus. He is coming again—and we are the people of that hope.”
The original article was published at adventist.news.
