Training Program for Local Church Leaders Emphasizes “Search and Rescue” Message from Genesis

Pastor Rudi Situmorang, Ministerial Secretary of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD), delivered a powerful message at the opening ceremony of the Church Elders, Deacons, and Deaconesses Certification Training Program, which took place at the headquarters of the South Bangladesh Mission in Gopalgonj on July 23–26, 2023.

Situmorang focused his keynote message on Genesis 18–19, emphasizing the topic of “Search and Rescue.” He encouraged the audience to consider biblical narratives of God’s involvement and deliverance, notably the story of Lot and his family.

“In the midst of life’s difficulties, it’s critical to remember that God has countless ways to rescue us,” Situmorang said, drawing parallels between the biblical story and current issues faced by people and groups alike. He highlighted that, just as God delivered Lot and his family from the devastation of Sodom and Gomorrah, He continues to deliver people who trust in Him.

Throughout the lesson, Situmorang urged the attendees to pay attention to the Lord’s calling and warnings and react with trust and obedience. “By listening to and responding to God’s calling,” he explained, “we can find deliverance from the perishing ways of the world.”

The speech struck a chord with the audience, which included local church leaders training for ministry responsibilities. The training program seeks to provide them with the skills and spiritual awareness they need to effectively serve their local churches and communities.

Participants expressed thanks for the chance to dive into the Scriptures and obtain a fresh perspective on God’s redeeming power in response to the inspiration and biblical message. Many expressed their commitment to apply what they had learned throughout the program to their own lives and ministries, with the common goal of being conduits for communicating the good news of salvation.

The Church Elders, Deacons, and Deaconesses Certification Training Program is an important event within the South Bangladesh Mission, encouraging spiritual growth and leadership development among church members.

The original version of this story was posted on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division website.