Remarkable Organization

The response of the believers to this counsel has developed a remarkable denominational organization. It is broad, practical, and efficient. It is based on the plan of organization established by Moses for Israel, and also on that of the New Testament church as it was developed by Christ and the apostles.AGP 299.3

The plan covers all phases of denominational activities throughout the world. Its units are the local church, the local conference, the union conference, the divisional conference, and the general, or world, conference. All these units are bound together by constitutional arrangements for united, harmonious, efficient action in every part of the world.AGP 299.4

In this world organization there are today 12 divisions, 70 union conferences, and 144 local conferences. Associated and interlocked with them in 1934 were 318 mission organizations, making a total of five hundred forty-four. In these units there were 7,818 churches, with a membership of 404,509.AGP 299.5

Writing to the young preacher Timothy, the apostle Paul said: “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15. Again: “Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine…. Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting [“growing proficiency,” Weymouth] may appear to all.” 1 Timothy 4:13-15. To all the Lord says: “Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge.” Proverbs 23:12.AGP 300.1

To those who follow this counsel the Lord declares: “Wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times.” Isaiah 33:6. Of those who fail in this it is said: “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” Hosea 4:6.AGP 300.2

The Scriptures abound with instruction regarding the right, thorough culture of the intellect as well as of the heart.AGP 300.3