In a world marked by uncertainty, spiritual hunger, and great need, Adventist lay members and professionals gathered in General Santos City to be reminded that the mission of the gospel is not the work of a select few - it belongs to every believer.
On September 25–26, Adventist-laymen’s Services and Industries (ASI) and the Adventist Professionals Organization (AdPro) hosted a two-day Comprehensive Personal Evangelism Training at the Wong’s Multipurpose Complex, Southern Mindanao Mission (SMM) Compound, Ge, Santos City. The event, anchored on the theme “Prepared to Proclaim, Preparing God’s People for the Final and Great Crisis,” sought to strengthen believers to share their faith with courage, compassion, and conviction.
The training brought together church members, professionals, and ministry leaders for worship, teaching, and practical equipping. Guest speakers included Pastor Segundino Asoy, the Sabbath School and Personal Ministries Director/ ASI Coordinator of the church in the Southern Asia-Pacific region or SSD; Retired Police Colonel Jovy Espenido, and Pr. Jerson Arellano, a doctor in ministry evangelist. Their messages emphasized that personal evangelism is not merely a program or strategy—it is a calling rooted in love for Christ and a burden for souls.
The central message was clear: every believer is called to witness. More than teaching methods, the event underscored the church’s mission in the world. Participants were challenged to “equip the believer, empower the church, engage the community, and expect Christ’s return.” It reiterates, evangelism is not reserved only for pastors or church leaders. It is the responsibility and privilege of all who follow Jesus.
This reminder resonates deeply with the biblical call to share the gospel. Jesus Himself commissioned His disciples with the words: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you.” Matthew 28:19-20. The Great Commission is not merely a historical command; it is a living mission for the church today. Paul also declared, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes.” Romans 1:16. The message of Christ remains the hope of the world, and every believer is entrusted with its proclamation.
The gathering also reflected the biblical understanding that the Holy Spirit empowers witness. In Acts 1:8, Jesus tells His disciples, “You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” The call to witness is not dependent on human brilliance or polished presentation, but on the empowering presence of God.
This same conviction is echoed by Ellen G. White, whose writing continues to inspire Adventists in mission. She wrote, “Christ’s method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Saviour mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed His sympathy for them.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 143. Her words challenge believers to abandon fear and embrace Christlike connection; meeting people where they are, listening with compassion, and speaking with sincerity.
The Spirit-driven American writer, Ellen G. White, also reminds believers that the work of soul-winning is not a distant ideal but a daily responsibility. “Every soul is to be sought for Christ.” she emphasized, pointing to the personal and relational nature of evangelism. This training served as a practical expression of that call, helping participants see that they do not need a platform or title to make an impact. They need faithful hearts, available hands, and a willingness to be used by God in everyday life.
The event’s significance went beyond the classroom. It was a call to action. As participants returned to their churches, neighborhoods, workplaces, and homes, they were encouraged to carry not only information but transformation—renewed courage, spiritual readiness, and an urgent sense of mission. The training reminded them that evangelism is not simply about winning arguments or delivering polished programs. It is about living the gospel, speaking the truth in love, and pointing others to Christ.
For ASI and AdPro, the goal is not only to instruct but to mobilize. Their prayer is that believers will not remain spectators in the mission of the church. Rather, they will be prepared to proclaim, willing to serve, and faithful in the final work before Christ’s return. As the theme declared, the church must be prepared for the “final and great crisis,” and that preparation begins with each believer being ready to witness.
The two-day training in General Santos City was more than an event; it was a call to discipleship. It reminded Adventists that the Gospel is not only to be believed but shared. And as believers step into their communities with confidence and compassion, they do so with the assurance that Christ is with them and that the mission is not theirs alone, but the Lord’s. In the words of Scripture, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” Mark 16:15. The question is not whether the world needs the message—it does. The question is whether believers are ready to proclaim it.
“We are not to sit in calm expectancy of oppression and tribulation, and fold our hands, doing nothing to avert the evil. Let our united cries be sent up to heaven. Pray and work, and work and pray… The truth must not be hid, it must not be denied or disguised, but fully avowed, and boldly proclaimed.” Ellen G. White, Selected Messages, volume 2, 369:3, 370:3
Story Contributor: Sis. Sheena Dotarot
Photo Crerdits: Hope Channel Southern Mindanao
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