Pastors from the Japan Union Conference gathered together at Tachikawa church, Tokyo to participate in a Bible Conference January 25 through 28, 2010.  The Conference was organized by the JUC Ministerial Association in coordination with NSD Ministerial Association.  The Biblical Research Institute scholars Angel Manuel Rodriguez, Gerhard Pfandl, Kwabena Donkor, Ekkerhardt Mueller, and Clinton Wahlen were the main speakers at the Conference.

For a biblical study and interpretation of the book of Revelation JUC invited Dr. Jon Paulien, Dean of the School of Religion and Vice-president for Religious Education and Dr. Merlin Burt, Associate Professor of Church History and Director of Center for Adventist Research from Andrews University. Both gave important presentations on the authority and interpretation of Ellen G. White writings.

At the inaugural address of the Conference, Dr. Jairyong Lee, NSD president suggested that pastors “look for truth and for Christ who is the truth looking for a deeper significance of the Scripture. Human ideas never will replace the word of God. This is the church of God and the church that holds the truth, a truth that signified life in Jesus because He is “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6).

The Conference addressed a series of topics and issues related to the doctrine of revelation-inspiration, Authority of the Scriptures, theology of Church Mission, the remnant, Ellen G. White a prophetess to Christianity, Ellen G White and her writings, Authority of Ellen G White, Ellen G. White Jesus and the Scriptures, interpretation of Ellen G. White, and current theological trends in Adventism.

Dr. Paulien gave fours important presentations on the interpretation of the book of Revelation.  His presentation were felt to bring a new perspective and deep understanding emphasizing God’s care for His church and the fulfillment of church eschatological promises.

In the words of Masaki Shoji, president of the Japan Union Conference, “at this Conference I got new thoughts and I was so moved and encouraged by these new suggestions. It stimulated theological thought.  These presentations produced in me a wide vision as an Adventist pastor.  A very stimulating message presented by each of the speakers indeed.”

According to Manuel Angel Rodriguez, “the Bible Conference has been a blessing for all participants and gives us the opportunity to interact with pastors, theologians and church leaders by having fellowship and the ability to reaffirm our faith and doctrine.”

At the close of the Conference many words of appreciation were spoken by JUC leaders and church pastors.  This was a Conference that enriched pastors theologically and in their understanding of biblical hermeneutics, exegesis and Seventh-day Adventist doctrine.  Young pastors approached the speakers with a commitment to study the Scriptures and read the writings of Ellen G. White.