Theology Archives - Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies

CENTENNIAL REFLECTIONS ON ELLEN G. WHITE

We, the attendees at the 18th AIIAS Annual Theological Forum, with full confidence in the end-time prophetic guidance through the ministry of Ellen G. White (1827-1915), adopt the following Statement of Consensus:

We reaffirm our full commitment to the Bible as the only rule of faith and practice, recognizing that the Bible itself lists the prophetic gift among the gifts of the Spirit intended to build up the Christian church toward “the unity of the faith” and “the fullness of Christ” (Eph 4:11-14).

We reaffirm our confidence that God has blessed His end-time remnant with the gift of prophecy (Rev 12:17; 19:10) in the life, ministry, and writings of Ellen White, to keep His children faithful to the Bible and its teachings.

We reaffirm that the inspired writings of Ellen White are as authoritative today as they were during the formative years of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

We reaffirm that when interpreting Ellen White’s writings, we should seek their most natural meaning, considering all her writings within their historical and literary contexts, recognizing the need for human reason to be aided by the illumination of the Holy Spirit.

We reaffirm that the principles found in Ellen White’s writings dealing with the practical aspects of Christian life and behavior are still relevant and necessary for us today.

We reaffirm that sermons should be based on Scripture and informed by the writings of Ellen White.

We reaffirm that the mission of the Church and its outreach methods should be informed and guided by sound biblical principles and the writings of Ellen White.

We reaffirm our commitment to read and study the Bible and Ellen White’s writings, as well as to encourage others to do so.

We reaffirm our responsibility to reach and engage new generations whose questions and challenges require innovative approaches in making Ellen White’s prophetic ministry relevant.

As Seventh-day Adventist theologians, editors, pastors, and teachers, we reaffirm our unconditional commitment to the Bible as the inspired Word of God, and to the theological and practical guidance and end-time applications given in Ellen White’s writings.

Drafting Committee: Alberto R. Timm, Chair; Reuel Almocera, Secretary, Michael W. Campbell; George R. Knight, Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies, Silang, Cavite, Philippines, November 14, 2015

The AIIAS Theological Seminary along with the community inaugurated its building extension with a ceremony today. The new facility holds three faculty offices, a resource room, secretarial cubicles and a chapel with seating capacity of 120 people.

AIIAS President Dr. Stephen Guptill, Seminary Dean Dr. Richard Sabuin, Donor Representative Cedric Lanchenal, Student Representative Budi Hartanto, and Architect Augustine Dela Paz cut the ribbon together symbolizing the official opening.

The community then gathered in the chapel for a session of praise beginning with a song of praise. Dr. Sabuin and his family then sang a special song.

“God and God alone. That’s the reason for this building. That’s the reason for this Seminary. That’s the reason why we are each here,” remarked Dr. Guptill before more than 150 people who filled the chapel to capacity. “This is an exciting moment for AIIAS and for all who have been a part of the project.” He also mentioned important individuals who were responsible for the ‘beautiful building.’

The physical look of the chapel provides a spiritual, open atmosphere. A high ceiling gives the room a spacious feel. The prominent Good Shepherd metal artwork is at the front of the room. The stained glass windows provide color and light.

Seminary Dean, Dr. Richard Sabuin extended appreciation to all the donors who have made this building possible. Some of the gold donors include AIIAS, Felix Tanny Family, Jonathan & Kathleen Kuntaraf, Wu Shuhui, Liang Chenghui, Paul Hadi and the Korean AIIAS Alumni Association.

“God is the source of the funds, and they have become the channel of these resources,” Dr. Sabuin gladly concluded by unfolding a scroll with the words ‘Praise the Lord’ printed on the reverse side.

A litany of praise by the congregation was led by the Vice President for Academic Administration Dr. Dolf Oberholster. A group picture was then taken, birds were released, and light refreshments followed.

The new extension building, measuring 450 sq. meters and costing $80,000, took approximately six months to build.

Dr. Stephen Guptill, AIIAS President, takes time to appreciate the people who made this extension a reality.

Students and staff join together in a litany of praise.

Representatives release birds after a group picture was taken.

For more pictures, please visit our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/AIIAS

By: Ingrid Oberholster

AIIAS Assistant for Institutional Writing