The 15th South American Biblical-Theological Symposium, held from January 29 to February 2, 2025, at the Amazon Adventist College (Faama) in Pará, Brazil, brought together theologians, pastors, and students from across South America to discuss the practical application of theology in contemporary times.

Centered on the theme "Principles and Responses to the Challenge of Ecclesiastical Praxis in the End Times," the event addressed how faith and doctrine can be effectively upheld amidst evolving societal and ideological challenges.

A Call for Theological Depth

Over four days, attendees engaged in plenary sessions, panel discussions, and academic presentations exploring hermeneutical approaches to contemporary theological dilemmas. The symposium examined how various ideological frameworks—including political theories, the social gospel, Marxism, feminism, psychoanalysis, evolutionism, dominion theology, and prosperity theology—impact Christian faith and practice in the post-digital era.

Among the featured speakers were Elias Brasil, director of the Biblical Research Institute (BRI), an entity of the Adventist General Conference dedicated to promoting the study and practice of Adventist theology.

He was joined by Daniel Bediako, Frank Hasel, Alberto Timm, and Clinton Whalen, all associate directors of the BRI. Also participating were Bruno Raso, vice president of the Adventist Church for South America, and Adolfo Suárez, director of the Latin American Adventist Theology Seminary (SALT), who were both members of the event’s organizing committee and keynote speakers.

The symposium featured over 10 panel discussions, research presentations, and plenary sessions. Saturday’s program focused on "Evolutionism, Language, and Psychoanalysis in Biblical Reading," followed by an afternoon session on "Contextualization and Its Consequences."

Consensus Statement and Theological Affirmation

One of the highlights of the symposium was a discussion on how new interpretations of the Bible and ecumenism influence biblical hermeneutics. The event concluded with a vote on the Symposium Consensus Statement, a document reaffirming key Adventist theological and doctrinal positions. Led by Suárez and Diogo Cavalcanti, who were part of the working group that developed the text, the statement underscored the authority of Scripture and the Church’s commitment to sound biblical interpretation.

The document addressed fundamental theological principles, including the supreme authority of Scripture, Christ as the center of biblical interpretation, the biblical system of truth, the prophetic mission, and the role of local churches as centers of Bible teaching. Participants reviewed and provided input on the statement, which will now be submitted for evaluation and potential approval by the South American Division and other administrative bodies.

“In a world where everything is fluid and open to reinterpretation, we affirm that the Word of God does not bow to the spirit of the times,” said Suárez.

Commitment to Biblical Interpretation

Reflecting on the event, organizers highlighted its impact on theological education and ministerial preparation. Jean Carlos Zukowski, director of SALT at Faama, emphasized that the symposium allowed pastors and students to deepen their understanding of biblical truth while reaffirming their commitment to divine revelation.

In the final devotional message, Raso reinforced the importance of hermeneutics as a structured approach to biblical interpretation that honors Scripture’s authority and God’s sovereignty.

“The correct interpretation of the Scriptures leads followers of Christ to transformation, equipping them to share this transformative power with others,” Raso said.

Looking Ahead

The next South American Biblical-Theological Symposium will be held from May 21 to 26, 2026, at the Adventist University of Chile, under the theme "Adventist Identity and Contemporary Culture."

By addressing complex theological issues and reaffirming the Church’s commitment to biblical truth, the symposium continues to serve as a vital platform for strengthening theological education and doctrinal clarity within the Adventist Church in South America.

The original article was published on the South American Portuguese website.