Correspondent
KOHIMA, NOV 14 (NPN): The three-day 61st National Convention commenced on Saturday at the NBCC Convention Centre, Kohima, under the theme, “Intentional Discipleship, Transforming the World.” The convention, hosted by Kohima Lotha Baptist Church (KLBC), commenced will conclude on November 15.
Speakers for the convention include general secretary of Indian Evangelical Mission (IEM), Rev. Dr. Raja Singh Elias; general secretary of Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), Rev. Dr. Mar Pongener; director of Nagaland Missions Movement (NMM), Rev. Lipokinba Ao; and president of Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF), Rev. Dr. Paphino.
Delivering the message, IEM general secretary Rev. Dr. Raja Singh Elias emphasised the importance of true discipleship and wholehearted commitment to God.
He observed that discipleship often focuses on the call to “go and serve God” but questioned why the message could not also be “come and be blessed.” He said misinformation frequently creates misconceptions and noted that despite reports of persecution in various parts of the country, many people continue to accept Jesus Christ.
Rev. Dr. Elias said those who quietly uphold genuine faith are better than those who merely preach loudly from the pulpit. Stressing the greatness of God’s love, he stated that choosing to follow Jesus Christ should be the ultimate goal of life.
He further said the journey of faith was not about individuals alone but about moving forward together with God. According to him, accepting God as Saviour brings peace into one’s life.
Pointing out that being a Christian involves more than merely professing faith, Rev. Dr. Elias said confessing with the mouth alone was not enough but requires surrendering one’s entire life to God. He reminded the gathering that God is the owner of life and that everyone belongs to Him, adding that true peace comes through complete commitment to God.
Earlier, the programme was led by KLBC pastor Renthungo Kikon, while the invocation was pronounced by Tseminyu Old Town Baptist Church pastor Ahyulo Seb. The offertory prayer was delivered by Zeme Baptist Church, Kohima pastor Rev. Iringtie Kauring, while the prayer for the host church’s mission work was offered by associate pastor (Mission and Evangelism), KABA Kohima, Imnazula Jamir.
Special songs were presented by El Elyon Choir, Shillong, and Konyak Baptist Church Choir, Kohima.
Greetings were conveyed by executive secretary, Mission ECM, Mizoram, Rev. Khabi Chozah, while the Scripture reading was led by director, CNY, KLBC, Zubeni Humtsoe. The closing prayer was pronounced by Sumi Baptist Church, Kohima pastor Rev. Khekavi. Praise and worship were led by the KLBC praise team.