Shincheonji Church of Jesus Hosts Massive Bible Seminar on Revelation in Masan

In a significant religious gathering, Shincheonji Church of Jesus held a grand seminar on the "Testimony of the Fulfillment of Revelation" in Masan, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea on September 25, 2024. The event, which drew over 16,000 attendees including 100 pastors and 50 journalists, marks the largest Bible seminar in Masan since 1995.

Chairman Lee Man-hee delivered a sermon on the Book of Revelation, explaining its prophecies and realities. The seminar was organized in response to requests from pastors and believers in the Gyeongnam region who had attended previous Shincheonji seminars in Ulsan and Busan earlier in the year.

The event underscores the growing influence of Shincheonji Church of Jesus in religious education and biblical interpretation. As of August 2024, the church reported that 727 domestic churches in South Korea had signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) for Bible exchanges with Shincheonji. More strikingly, 13,053 churches across 84 countries have entered into similar agreements, with 1,671 churches in 43 countries going so far as to join Shincheonji Church of Jesus and change their church signboards.

This trend reflects a significant shift in religious dynamics, particularly in the approach to studying and interpreting the Book of Revelation. Pastor Lee, a 40-year ministry veteran who attended the seminar, admitted to previous neglect of Revelation studies, stating, "I attended seminary, but I was not taught about the Book of Revelation and I was neglectful." He added that Shincheonji's teachings have expanded his understanding of the Bible as a whole.

The impact of Shincheonji's biblical education is evident in its growing membership. Over the past three years, 318,034 individuals have chosen to join the church, with annual graduation figures consistently exceeding 100,000. In 2023 alone, 108,084 people graduated from Shincheonji's biblical studies program.

An official from Shincheonji Church of Jesus highlighted the positive cycle created by these seminars and exchanges with other religious leaders. "A positive virtuous cycle of sharing the Word through constant exchanges with pastors and deepening faith in the process continues to occur," the official stated, predicting that this trend will continue to spread.

The success of this seminar and the increasing global interest in Shincheonji's teachings could have far-reaching implications for religious education and interfaith dialogue. As more churches and individuals seek out Shincheonji's interpretation of Revelation and other biblical texts, it may lead to shifts in theological understanding and religious practices across various denominations.

This event also raises questions about the future of traditional religious education and the role of new interpretations in shaping faith communities. As Shincheonji continues to expand its influence, it may challenge established religious institutions to reconsider their approaches to biblical study and community engagement.

The growing international network of churches affiliated with Shincheonji suggests a potential for significant changes in the global religious landscape. As more churches align themselves with Shincheonji's teachings, it could lead to a reevaluation of doctrinal positions and practices in various parts of the world.

As Shincheonji Church of Jesus continues to attract followers and partner with other religious organizations, its impact on global Christianity and interfaith relations will be an important development to watch in the coming years.