Interview “LET’S PRESERVE THE

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Apologetics PREDESTINATION (III

Eliseo Aquino “LET’S PRESERVE THE DOCTRINE” INTERVIEW

The purposes revealed by God to our ministry are based on two pillars: the Work and the doctrine. After 56 years, the Worldwide Missionary Movement (WMM) reaffirms its commitment to preserving its doctrinal essence in all its churches around the world.

Reverend Alberto Ortega has been serving Christianity for 45 years. Ever since he left his homeland, Spain, he has devoted his life to missionary work in different countries. Now he takes on a new responsibility as National Supervisor of the WMM in the USA.

In an exclusive interview with Impacto Evangelistic, he analyzes the current situation of the Movement in North America.

Could you tell us more about yourself and your career before your appointment as National Supervisor of the WMM in the USA?

I come from Spain. The Lord saved me and my beloved wife in 1974, when I started to serve the Lord. In 1983, I went with Pastor Luis M. Ortiz to France as his interpreter and it was there that he told me: “I believe the Lord wants you to stay here.” I accepted. In 1995, I was promoted to Supervisor of Europe, Africa and the Indian Ocean Region. I was called to Puerto Rico in 1999 by request of the International President, Reverend Rubén Rosas. From 2001 to 2007, I was National Supervisor of the US. In 2014, I was appointed Missionary Supervisor of Haiti.

What challenges will you face as National Supervisor of the US?

This is a very important question. Some things have evolved. I remember that back in 2001 our conventions were held in hotel conference rooms; now it is a totally different story. But other things are not as well. I am assuming this position amid an unfortunate conflict. I think that over these last three years the Work here has been walking in the wrong direction; it is like there has been a movement within the Movement.

In order to right the wrongs, first we need to make ourselves clear about the vision that the WMM had had since its foundation, as said by Pastor José Arturo Soto. To show the true values of the Worldwide Missionary Movement, we have to understand the concept of Work and doctrine. People are mixing things up. Some say that they support the doctrine but not the Work; others say that they support the Work but not the doctrine. But the truth is that both are important pillars that must be protected.

If we lack proper foundations, our growth will be weak. In order to prevent this, we will train presbyters so that they are committed to both the Work and the doctrine, and then we will do the same thing with all the brethren. A healthy leadership means a healthy church. In addition, the National Board will participate from now on in the decisions of the WMM in the USA.

What is your opinion about the detractors of the Work who state that the doctrine has changed?

Saying that we do not preserve the doctrine is an evil lie. We teach the same biblical instructions for the newly converted that I was taught 45 years ago.

I have been developing a study on the Work and the

doctrine. The parable of the mustard seed came to my mind. It is the smallest grain, but then becomes a large tree where birds make their nests. My take on the situation is that the Movement was as small as the mustard seed in the beginning, but now it has become an impressive tree. The birds, which are not part of the tree as the roots, the trunk, the branches and the fruits, just pass by, they use the tree and fly away when it is shaken.

The Work attracts birds of passage as well, people who come to nest in its thick foliage. However, as they do not feel part of us, they fly away when problems arise. That is why we have to teach the new workers to love God’s Work and make them understand that they are part of it.

You met pastor Luis M. Ortiz, founder of the WMM. What do you think his position about this situation would be?

Impacto Evangelistic recently published a message that he wrote back in 1985. He was very clear about people who divide. I was in France when he made that article and I witnessed the situation. Pastor Ortiz was calm but firm and categorical when dealing with divisiveness. I am surprised to see that the ones who are trying to divide the Work today are old members who approved and signed Pastor Ortiz’ letter 34 years ago.

What new changes will come for the WMM in the USA?

Despite the difficult times, there is now a harmonious, encouraging and united atmosphere. We have turned the page and we are focused on the upcoming activities, such as the ladies and youth fellowships. The Work in the USA is doing great and we will see huge progress by the end of the year. Growth comes after pruning.

You have spoken about the importance of unity in the US National Convention. What can you tell us about it?

Unity requires selflessness to achieve harmony and collective contribution. Unity demands sacrifice. We read in Ecclesiastes 4:12: “And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” As Supervisor of the WMM in the USA I have met immigrants from different countries and cultures. We need pastors who know how to deal with diversity, united in one purpose to make one Work.

What are your final words for the readers of Impacto Evangelistic around the world.

It is important to grow not only in numbers but also in roots as well. This is the time of centennials and millennials, but no one can change the foundations of God’s Work. We have tons of information on the Internet, so we have to teach this generation to tell what should be taken from what should be rejected. Doing this can be difficult if we lack a critical spirit and biblical knowledge. We must also teach future generations that no one is greater than God’s Work.