Every now and again, someone comes along with a new idea to influence souls for the kingdom. Such an idea was born when the NET ’95 evangelistic series, hosted by Mark Finley, was broadcast via satellite.
More than 676 locations down-linked the first night, and attendance averaged 40,243 throughout the series. As a result of those nightly meetings featuring the “It Is Written” speaker/director, there were more than 5,000 baptisms.
Finley was featured again in NET ’96; followed by Pioneer Memorial Church Senior Pastor Dwight Nelson in ’98; Amazing Facts Speaker/Director Doug Bachelor in ’99; and Voice of Prophecy Speaker/Director Lonnie Melashanko in 2003. These campaigns have also drawn hundreds of non-practicing Adventists back to the Church.
Ninety-five percent of pastors who participated in the first NET services expressed that the use of a satellite video link in public evangelism is “excellent” or “a useful tool.” Satellite technology provides access to cream-of-the-crop preachers for churches that may not otherwise be able to afford to hire an evangelist.
In October, “NET 2004: Experience the Power” will feature Breath of Life Director/Speaker Walter L. Pearson, Jr. Pearson has communicated the gospel to millions in 59 countries on six continents.
Before joining the Breath of Life ministry, Pearson pastored congregations in Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Georgia. He has been recognized for his dynamic, compelling presentation style, his scholarly yet simple approach to sharing the Gospel, and his humor.
“While I was interim pastor at the Van Nuys church, we participated in a NET program. Seven individuals were baptized as a result,” said Gerry Chudleigh, publisher of the Recorder. “I’m glad to see Walt Pearson take the helm for 2004. It would be wonderful to see all of our churches get involved in this campaign.”
From pastors and members to new believers and visitors, previous NET meetings appear to have had a positive effect. The candor and diversity of the speakers has helped to show the spectrum of the Adventist Church. While the NAD has not sponsored a NET meeting since ’96, it has given its blessings to the ministries that have kept the ball rolling. It's no different for NET ’04.
Experience the Power will be uplinked from the Miracle Temple Worship Center in Baltimore, Md., and will begin on Oct. 2.
