The Assemblies of God, Guyana Each One, Win One Conference, Edition 2.0, opened on April 8th, 2022. Bishop Dr Murtland Raphael Massiah delivered the keynote address, in which he addressed Global Warming from a biblical perspective.
Bishop commenced his presentation with the premise that without an understanding of science, we would be at odds with reality. This premise, he reminded the audience, is grounded in the Word of God; ‘the Earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof.’ The world, he observed, is very critical of Christian ideas, and as believers, we must be cautious about the information we consume, being ever mindful of distractions by non-biblical principles and ideologies. He proposed that remaining constant in God’s Word helps us to be assertive, and well-positioned to accept or reject concepts or principles that contradict the Word of God.
Reflecting on an occasion while flying over the Atlantic Ocean, he recalls looking for the low coastal plain but could not see it since the waters of the Atlantic Ocean is above the land level. In awe, Bishop Massiah expressed that God does a Miracle in Guyana every day [where coastal portions of the country are below sea level, by up to one metre in some places]. We all contribute to global warming in some way; gas emissions from vehicles and toxins from a plethora of everyday products are just a few of the environmental pollutants. Bishop emphasised that we must learn and practice stewardship of the environment, not only in our homes and churches but also in our communities. He concluded his message by encouraging the attendees (virtual and physical) to share the Word of God with humility.
On the second evening, using a tag-team approach Bishop Chaitram Lall, Reverend Selwyn Sills and Bishop Ronald Surujbally presented on the Theme: ‘Why Return to Church?’ Leading the team Bishop Lall, basing his Scripture text on Hebrews 10:25, reminded those in attendance that it is essential for us (Christians) to be in the house of the Lord since we have a biblical mandate and precedent. As such, we should not live in isolation but exhort one another. Using the analogy of burning coal he expressed that when Christians are together they feed off each other keeping each other red hot, but if the coal is by itself, it will cool off becoming black and eventually cold. This he stated is what will happen if we stay away from the presence of God. Further, if a lump of single coal is put back into the fire the other coal will help to heat it.
Following Bishop Lall, Reverend Sills focused on the five purposes of the church. According to him, we (Christians) need to meet the God of the church and this cannot be fulfilled by staying at home. He proposed that we need to come to church for Worship which includes Vertical worship. Here is where the worshipper communes with God. Horizontal worship, where the worshipper worships with his fellow saints and together, lifts praises to God. Lastly, the Inward worship where we are transformed on the inside. The other purposes include discipleship, where we become mature (more like God); ministry, where we utilise the gifts God has given us; Evangelism, where we let the world know about God; and Fellowship, which helps to make us stronger as we draw from each other. This he emphasised gives a sense of belonging which allows us to build lasting relationships, and in so doing help us to grow.
Finally, Bishop Surujbally underscored that the church is the pillar of truth – a place where we can be real since nothing is hidden from God. The local church serves the purpose of being a witness to the community, which is why its existence is pivotal. As the second night came to a close, the congregation was encouraged to take up the charge and run with the vision, Each One to Win One.
On the final night, Bishop Dr John Smith highlighted the difference between the Rapture and Revelation, stating that the rapture is when Jesus comes for his church while Revelation happens when Jesus comes to the church on Earth. Further, he stated that between these two R’s is the tribulation period, which is divided into the tribulation and great tribulation. Bishop Smith emphasised that we (Christians) need to read the Word and seek counsel, guidance, and clarity from our pastors on Scriptures we do not understand. This will help us to live the Word.
He further stated that God has spoken about the end times but this trust is presumed a mystery because we have not read the Bible, beginning with the Old Testament to understand the New Testament. As he closed, Bishop Dr Smith reminded the audience that they are not here (on Earth) forever. For this reason, it is our job to bring as many people to the Lord. Most importantly, we are not called to save people but to witness, in doing this God grants salvation once they repent and accept Him and draws them into His kingdom.
The resounding message from the conference was that God does not wish anyone to die without knowing him but that all should come to repentance. It is therefore our responsibility to share His Word not only by telling others about Him but by living in a way that others can see God through us. This cannot be done by ourselves but with God’s help, Each One can Win One.
