The Sabbath programme provided much food for thought, beginning with a fascinating presentation by Pastor Julian Thompson on the digitalisation of the Bible. Using the philosopher Marshall McLuhan\u2019s famous quote, \u201cThe medium is the message,\u201d he explained how digital technology, mobile devices, texting, and even emojis impact how people interpret biblical text and understand the Bible. Dr Ivan Milanov, Senior Lecturer in Old Testament, followed with a presentation on the pitfalls of conspiracy theories, unveiling a list of similarities between the views of some Adventists and conspiracy theorists, and showing how easy it is to be lured into a culture of conspiracy. Aware that God has already revealed Satan\u2019s intentions and plans in scripture, he warned, \u201cwhatever conspiracy theory you are exposed to, pray for wisdom,\u201d and pointed out that \u201cwise people are a faithful people with a special bond with the Lord.\u201d<\/p>\n Dr Laszlo Gallusz\u2019s following presentation focused on the \u2018perceived delay\u2019 of Jesus\u2019 second coming, challenging Adventists to hold on to the hope of Jesus\u2019 \u2018soon return,\u2019 which is \u201cat the very core of Adventism\u2019s\u201d identity, theology, and mission. Dr Laszlo noted that with \u201cthe passing of time,\u201d the expectation of the Second Coming became harder to sustain, most notably during and after major world events such as World War I, World War II and, more recently, the Covid-19 pandemic. He said the issue \u201cpenetrates to the core of who we are\u201d as Adventists and summed up his talk by saying, \u201cGod will not take short-cuts when he is solving the problem of the Cosmic Conflict. He knows how and when to act,\u201d so we can say, \u201cMaranatha! Come Lord Jesus!\u201d at the appropriate time.<\/p>\n Pastor Jonathan Holder and Dr Daniel Duda were tasked with \u2018preaching the Word,\u2019 with Pastor Holder exploring further on Dr Laszlo\u2019s theme, \u2018Waiting for Jesus\u2019 Return\u2019 in Salisbury Hall, while Dr Duda shared a message on wrestling with identity at Newbold Church.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ted.adventist.org\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/image-18.jpg\")
<\/a>On Friday evening, Dr Laszlo Gallusz, Senior Lecturer in New Testament, set the scene for the theme of the Conference with the opening remark, \u201cEvery society and organisation run by human beings have their own issues and challenges, which includes the Seventh-day Adventist Church. To deny or ignore the issues is equal to ignoring reality and missing the opportunity for constructive growth.\u201d Opening keynote speaker Dr Stephen Currow, Newbold Principal delivered Seven Challenges Facing Adventists Today<\/em>, based on Paul\u2019s letters to Timothy with an appeal for all to \u201cpreach the Word, fight the fight of faith, pursue godliness, be rich in good deeds and take hold of eternal life\u201d.<\/p>\n