Plenary sessions shall focus on the sovereignty of God in three (3) different areas:
Plenary 1: Sovereignty of God in Vocation
Discerning and Living Out a Vocational Life Amidst Uncertainty
Speaker: Rev. Dr. Tan Soo Inn (GCF, Singapore)
The biggest change for graduates, including Christian graduates, is the entry into the world of work. The working world today is demanding, and constantly changing. Graduates are often exhausted and wondering what is the purpose of something that takes up so much of their lives. They wonder what God thinks of their daily work and if He is calling them to do something specific. This plenary will look at God’s purpose for our work and give biblical and practical guidelines as to how one can begin to discern what is one’s calling. We will look at how we can be good stewards of our strengths and burdens in the light of God’s sovereign guidance.
Plenary 2: Sovereignty of God in the Digital World
Discerning and Living Out a Life Amidst the Issues of the Digital World
Speaker: Mr. Alex Tso (CEF, Taiwan)
Our world is currently entangled into the reality of Internet. Almost everyone is online – transactions, and even relationships. The concept of the digital age is a progression of the modern world, sounding as intangible, seemingly far-off and different from the physical world, yet ironically is also very near, accessible and real.
Alongside its advantages in communication, versatile working, automation, transportation and many others, issues on data privacy, surveillance, AI ethics, individual autonomy, and ethical dilemmas also arise.
Is this an alternate world to stand against or otherwise extend God’s love to? The topic will explore God's power and grace to the digital world clarifying the role of faith communities in shaping digital ethics and provide an avenue to discuss how this modern platform will be used to express the love of Jesus.
Plenary 3: Sovereignty of God in Social Justice
Discerning and Living Out Life Amidst the Realities of Social Injustice
Speaker: Dr. Melba P. Maggay (IVCF, Philippines)
There is an aching cry for justice these days, and at the same time a disempowering sense of hopelessness in putting an end to all forms of injustice. There is massive poverty and inequality within and among nations, a global rise in authoritarianism and abuse of power, and increasing conflict among races and the rights of citizenship and human rights in global centers.
Scripture tells us to "speak for those who cannot speak for themselves, to defend the rights of the poor and needy."
(Proverbs 31.8-9) What does this mean when power is always on the side of the oppressor? (Ecclesiastes 4.1) When we cry like Habakkuk, "How long, O Lord" before the hardness and persistence of evil and injustice? Where is the sovereign God in all these?
This plenary session will explore what it means to discern the hand of God working in human society, and what it means to act in hope and live faithfully in such a time as this.