INTOUCH Vol. 1 2016
The Official Newsletter of the Asian Theological Seminary
www.ats.ph
ATS Vision
ATS Mission
To become the leading evangelical seminary in Asia that produces outstanding servant leaders.
To glorify God by providing quality theological education for Christian leaders to effect Biblical transformation in the Church and society in Asia and beyond.
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Center for Continuing Studies Stories
Dr. Zenet Maramara
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Going Global with ATS MBA in Biblical Stewardship and Christian Management
Dr. Joanna Feliciano-Soberano
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Leveling Up: Graduate Diploma in Christian Education Is Now Online!
Theo Forum 10 2016 Highlights
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Heart Beats for the World:ATSGraduates Batch 2016
Dr. Fernando Lua
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A Love for Learning: An Essential Habit for a Growing Disciple of Christ
ATS BOARD OF TRUSTEES Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro Chairman
INTOUCH STAFF President
Rev. Timoteo D. Gener, PhD
Editorial Staff
Ella Abigail Santos Marizol Duran Xaris Hope Tamayo Junette B. Galagala-Nacion Marc Vincent Peralta Layout Artist: Faye Castillo-Badiola
Contributors
Dr. Zenet Maramara Dr. Joanna Feliciano-Soberano Dr. Fernando Lua Batch 2016 Graduates
Bishop Cesar Vicente P. Punzalan III Vice Chairman Arch. Erlinda G. Tan Secretary Dr. Reynaldo Avante Treasurer MEMBERS OF THE BOARD Dr. Anastacio A. Escosar Jr. Rev. Dwayne F. Thielke Dr. Elyser M. Angeles Rev. James Q. Aberin Dr. Jay E. Hallowell Rev. Jose Gonzales, Jr. Mr. Noel P. Pabiona Bp. Noel Pantoja Rev. Peter Tan-chi Rev. Russel E. Simons
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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Technology is touching almost every aspect of human life. Media has not only reached masses, it has also become digitized—accessible to almost anyone, anywhere. Also before us is the Internet Generation, from young professionals to those in managerial positions. We are not only ministering to them. Many of us in ministry are them. So how does one remain relevant in such an increasingly changing world? One of the pillars of ATS education is being innovative and contextual. This means that we are constantly engaging new formats and modes of delivery while remaining true to our message, the Gospel. ATS continues to meet the challenges of a digital generation. A digitized era means that the gospel is also incarnated in digital ways—retaining the message of Jesus’ sacrifice and the new kingdom he has commenced while making this accessible in formats available to anyone through the Internet. As technology bridges gaps in distance and communication and provides massive amounts of free information, ATS strives to remain true to its mission. We aim to provide quality education that enables men and women to effect biblical change in the church and society in Asia and beyond. The sense of influencing the realm of the “beyond” is felt even more in our digital world. As ATS explores new frontiers, we pray that we will still deliver the same truth and experience that is in Jesus Christ. Even as Christ himself entered into humanity, we can also bring his transformation into unchartered digital waters.
DR. TIM GENER ATS President
CEBU
CENTERFORCONTINUINGSTUDIES
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BORACAY
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VISAYAS
BECAUSE there is a growing need for quality theological training for pastors and ministers, Asian Theological Seminary gathers the best trainers in their field to equip Christian leaders in remote areas. The Center for Continuing Studies (CCS) offers modules in order to help Christian workers address challenges in different areas of ministry. It takes sixteen (16) hours to complete one module and ten (10) modules to complete one certificate course. The modules are spread out daily or weekly. After successfully completing ten modules, Christian workers may receive their certificate in either Pastoral Ministry (CPM), Biblical Interpretation (CBI), Biblical Preaching (CBP), or Lay Counseling (CLC).
ATS currently hosts seven centers located in San Mateo, Rizal; Calumpit, Bulacan; DasmariĂąas, Cavite; Tagaytay, Boracay, and Cebu. Another set of modules starts on the first week of September in Cebu (in partnership with Compassion Philippines), Boracay, Tagaytay, and Bulacan. CCS partners with Christian organizations such as the Mission Ministries Philippines, International Care Ministries (ICM) as well as different local churches.
For more information, please contact Asian Theological Seminary Strategic Leader Development Center at 928.6717 local 107 and look for Ms. Edz Andaya. You may also email sldc@mail.ats.ph.
Boracay CCS. On June 30 of this year, 14 Christian workers successfully completed 10 modules and were able to receive their CertiďŹ cate in Christian Counseling. Dr. Anabelle Manalo facilitated modules on counseling.
GOINGGLOBAL with the ATS MBA in Biblical Stewardship and Christian Management DR. ZENET MARAMARA
Director, Strategic Leader Development Center
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INFORMATION technology now enables Asian Theological Seminary to reach more leaders globally to effect biblical transformation in their local communities. Two fullyonline programs are now offered in 2016, one of which is the MBA in Biblical Stewardship and Christian Management. In 2004, Asian Theological Seminary first offered the MBA in Biblical Stewardship and Christian Management, an executive MBA program. This was designed to meet the needs of leaders of Christcentered organizations for effective management by integrating Christian faith and values with corporate disciplines. The program’s goal is twofold. First, it aims to provide a Christian framework in doing business and managing and leading non-profit organizations. Secondly, it aims to develop competency-based excellence in stewardship, governance, resource mobilization, and strategic and entrepreneurial leadership.
The Online MBA in Biblical Stewardship and Christian Management The MBA in Biblical Stewardship and Christian Management goes fully online on August 2016. Students who otherwise cannot come on campus can now obtain their MBA degree via their computer or mobile phone, making the program more accessible and affordable. Each course will take eight weeks, including a one week break in between courses. Students can finish six courses per year and complete the program in two years. Obtaining the ATS MBA program now comes in very flexible formats.
7 The face-to-face MBA program will continue to be offered at the Asian Theological Seminary campus on Scout Madrinan, Quezon City, Philippines. Students can combine taking on-campus courses with online courses if they prefer. Target Students This unique MBA program seeks to equip non-profit executives; administrators; board members of churches, denominations, missions, parachurch, NGOs; and government workers throughout Asia and beyond. These leaders would be seeking
“Information technology now enables Asian Theological Seminary to reach more leaders globally to effect biblical transformation in their local communities.” knowledge, skills, and tools to make them more effective stewards in their workplaces and personal lives. Meeting the Needs of Non-Profit Leaders and Business People We recognize that the person of the leader is crucial in leading and growing the organization. This is why the curriculum includes courses such as: Theology and Practice of the Steward Leader; Work, Calling and Human Dignity; Biblical Leadership
Development; Biblical and Theological Bases for Social Transformation and Conflict Transformation. Other courses are standard MBA courses taught from a biblical perspective. These are Strategic Planning and Control; Organizational Development; Managerial Accounting and Financial Management; Strategic Marketing; Biblical Stewardship and Resource Development; Entrepreneurial Leadership; and Program Management, Monitoring and Evaluation. The online MBA in Biblical Stewardship and Christian Management consists of 42-credit units, which is composed of eight core courses and a choice of four electives. This includes an MBA capstone project that is work-related or implementable. The MBA Faculty The faculty is at the heart of the ATS MBA program. They are a combination of credentialed academicians and practitioners who are experts in various fields such as organizational leadership, management, business, ministry, education, and government. The MBA faculty is composed of global thinkers who bring their wisdom and their passion for advancing kingdom values in the workplace. Prospective students for the online MBA in Biblical Stewardship and Christian Management can apply online at http://mba.ats.ph. They can also contact the ATS Strategic Development Center at (632) 929 7806.
Leveling Up:
Graduate Diploma in Christian Education
Is Now Online!
DR. JOANNAFELICIANO-SOBERANO
Academic Dean
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ASIAN Theological Seminary welcomes the possibilities that Information and Communications Technology (ICT) offers as it now makes online ministerial training accessible to all! This innovation in teaching and learning redefines traditional perspectives on learning spaces. ICT-enabled education in institutions of higher learning are no longer new as “nearly every institution…has incorporated or intends to incorporate some aspects of online technology into its curriculum delivery” (Rudestam & SchoenholtzRead 2010, 4). ATS also responds creatively to the learning needs of the Net Geners who are just so at home in the use of technology as a source of information and as a medium for conversations. Today the demand for online leaning
is increasing. The 2016 Annual Report on online learning (National Center for Education Statistics) reveals that 5.8+ million adult students are taking at least one distance education course in the United States. The same report attests that 2/3 of academic leaders consider online learning as “critical to the long term strategy of their school.” Indeed, this 21st century innovation in education has now advanced to exciting phases of engagement globally so that we can no longer assume that online learning will not work or that we can still remain the way we are. Surely, to accept the challenge of online learning is to welcome possibilities and growth! The online Graduate Diploma in Christian Education is a very strategic program for ministerial training. On the mode of learning, the primary
benefit is accessibility. If students work full time or are outside of Metro Manila or even the Philippines, they would still have the opportunity to finish a 30-credit graduate pogram in Christian Education. The online learning platform boasts of applying engaged pedagogies (learner-centered and participative teaching methods), whether the virtual learning experience
Aside from being a self-directed learner, adults are required to develop the skills of critical reflection, knowledge creation, integration, and the skill to make meaningful
ATS also responds creatively to the learning needs of the Net Geners who are just so at home in the use of technology as a source of information and as a medium for conversations. is synchronous or asynchronous. The learning-in-community ethos of ATS will still be experienced as in face-toface. On the long-term value of the program, earning 18 credits of education courses qualifies students to take the LET (Licensure Exam for Teachers) so that they can teach Values Education subjects in the K-12 basic curriculum anywhere in the Philippines. Finishing a graduate diploma in CE (30 credits) with the balance of Theology, Spirituality, Bible and Education courses provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to assist local churches in its CE programs. Transformational learning is also emphasized in all subjects. Additionally, earning a Grad Dip CE is one step closer to finishing an MA in Christian Education. How can the adult learner successfully engage in the ATS virtual classroom for graduate education?
connections. The learner should also be involved in church-related ministries so that the application of learning to ministry contexts is ensured. As ATS ventures into the global arena with our online programs, the road will be challenging and exciting. But the opportunities for students are unquantifiable. Some References: Lombardi, Marilyn M. 2007. Authentic Learning for the 21st Century: An Overview. An Educause Learning Initiative Paper, http:// net.educause.edu/ir/library/pdf/ELI3009.pdf. Accessed on April 1, 2012. Nguyen, Tuan. 2015. The Efectiveness of Online Learning: Beyond No Significant Difference and Future Horizons. MERLOT Journal of Online Learning and Teaching. Vol.11, No.2, 309-319. Palloff, Rena M. and Keith Pratt. 2007. Building Online Learning Communities: Effective Strategies for the Virtual Classroom. CA: Wiley and Sons, Inc. Rudestam, Kjell E. and Judith SchoenholtzRead, eds. 2010. The Flourishing of Adult Online Education. In Rudestam, Kjell E. and Judith Schoenholtz-Read, eds Handbook of Online Learning. 2nd Edition. CA: SAGE Publications, Inc., pp. 1-28.
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ATS 2016
THEOLOGICALFORUM HIGHLIGHTS
THE path to peace is rocky and arduous. But at the ATS 2016 Theological Forum, we heard encouraging voices and saw inspiring models that urge us to carry on. On February 18-19, 2016, around 500 participants gathered at Greenhills Christian Fellowship, Ortigas Center, Pasig City for the forum. It had the timely theme, “How Long, O Lord?: the Challenge and Promise of Reconciliation.” Dr. Christopher Wright, international ministries director of Langham Partnership, emphasized that true peace comes only with God, justice, and the earth (Psalm 85). He traced peace and reconciliation from the fragmentation and separation of both creation and humanity (Genesis 3-11)
To reconcile “with each
other is not an issue merely of friendship but the credibility and truth of the Gospel and God’s mission is at stake.
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Rev. Dr. Christopher J. H. Wright
ATS 2016 Theological Forum “How Long, O Lord...?”
11 towards their restoration and healing (Revelation 21-22). Dr. Wright then pointed to the cross and resurrection of Jesus as the central feature of Scripture and the main reconciling event of both creation and humanity. The challenge for the church to carry out genuine “missional” reconciliation in the world needs an understanding of the cosmic (including ethnic) effects of Christ’s reconciliatory work. Meanwhile, Atty. Anna Tarhata Basman (head of the legal team assisting the Philippine government in the peace talks with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front) provided an overview of the historical, legal, and sociological challenges of the peace negotiations in Mindanao. She explained the root of the conflict between Muslims and non-Muslims—how foreign powers incited local indios (lowland Filipinos) and Moros against each other. She pointed out the high cost of war, with damages to both parties and civilians and hashed out the various legal aspects of the Bangsamoro Basic Law. On the second day, Dr. Salim J. Munayer (director and founder of Musalaha Ministry of Reconciliation) spoke from his own experience of providing venues for reconciliation among Israelis and Palestinians through his ministry. He touched on the various challenges to peace, including imbalance of power, the necessity of justice in the outworking of love, and the recognition that our neighbor (even our enemies) is created in the image and likeness of God.
Atty. Anna Tarhata Basman Head of the legal team assisting the Philippine government in the peace talks with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front
Twenty-four break-out sessions discussed various aspects of the topic, including peacemaking methods among Christians and Muslims; in various areas in Mindanao; and in peace-promoting slum neighborhoods. The sessions also covered readings on suffering, ethnic reconciliation, and family conflict resolution in Scripture; theological inquiry into religious and doctrinal violence; as well as cases studies on mental health and healing ministries and interfaith dialogue and Bible translation.
HEARTS beat for the world: BATCH 2016
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13 Caleb Ricardo D. Pantoja Master of Arts in Christian Education For me, ATS has been an invaluable source of great learning experiences. I discovered a new paradigm of learning—that learning is best attained when it is pursued by a community committed to search for the truth and willing to be transformed by it at the same time. With this I have truly become aligned with Christ: in His selflessness, humility and redemptive ministry. In many ways, the ATS community has contributed to the transformation of my perspective specifically in the way I see myself (as a knower) and the way I see the world. I am now working with the Department of Education. In one of our projects, we are making education more inclusive to students marginalized by the system. My work, which I consider my ministry, requires me to examine the prevailing educational system from the eyes of marginalized students. I have to figure out the best way to bring these students in and help them become active participants and valuable contributors not only in their schools but also in society later on. I am thankful that the lessons and disciplines I have acquired from ATS are sustaining and inspiring me to press on in this endeavor.
Eugene G. Hao Master of Arts in Intercultural Ministries The most significant lesson I learned from ATS is the discipline of studying the Word of God intensively and extensively. Intensively, in that you have to be very thorough in its exegesis, not haphazardly and recklessly. Extensively, in that you must cover all the grounds needed to make sure of its inerrancy. Proper hermeneutics will greatly affect the way we reach the different people groups of the world, in terms of bringing them to the saving grace and knowledge of our God. I will definitely use this very significant lesson I have learned to the hilt for the glory of God!
Jupiter N. De Guzman Master of Arts in Intercultural Ministries If one aspires to effect transformation in his community, his personality and spirituality as a whole must first be transformed . This touches his mind, words, actions, and way of thinking. One professor said on my first semester of study, “The knowledge and the grades you will get will not define you as a person. What defines you is what people will see in you outside the walls of this seminary.” As a future missionary and an aspiring agent of transformation, I should be aware of how I deal with the people I will serve. In order to properly share the message of the gospel and the transformation it entails, I should craft it using the people’s cultural lenses and tools. This way, people can better understand and own the gospel. This can only be achieved if I am aware that it is not my message that I should express but the message from the Most High, which I was tasked to impart.
Jerome Uson Gaditano Master of Divinity in Theology Before entering ATS, I thought that my secular job was a hindrance to God’s calling. I felt guilty going to work and spending 40 hours of my week working outside the church. But then ATS taught me the “kingdom perspective.” It made me realize that God is the creator of the whole world. His sovereignty extends beyond the church walls so every good work done, whether in “secular” or “sacred” institutions, is a means for His glorification. Now that I'm a professional software engineer and a volunteer pastor, this perspective drives me to find ways of exalting Him in my work place. Thankfully, ATS equipped me with skills to deal with the rich cultural and religious diversity of the marketplace in ways that Jesus would shine through.
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14 15 Nick A. Nava Graduate Diploma in Theological Studies An ATS education is synonymous with critical thinking and intellectual honesty. Consistent with its vision of transforming leaders, ATS has taught me the value of seeking the truth while allowing me to express my own point of view. The lectures and discussions opened my eyes to certain perspectives that were alien to me. My interaction with friends and other students also enabled me to know them and their ministries. I marveled at their dedication and their ability to balance school and vocation. I spent my most fruitful days at ATS. I can say I am better prepared now in meeting the challenges ahead.
Krissanapong Samruamram Master of Divinity in Biblical Studies Giving and sharing are the most significant lessons I learned at ATS. All things that we do at ATS are meant for others. We always contextualize difficult theological knowledge to suit the people we serve. We always think about how to share the gospel effectively. We always think about how our knowledge and experiences from ATS will benefit other people. I came to ATS with the vision that I would be a pastor, missionary, or professor of some Bible school after graduation. But in reality, I do not have any opportunities in those positions yet. But that vision from God is still here. Even though I am working in the corporate world right now, I believe that the lessons of giving and sharing will help me in effectively giving and sharing the love of God in my workplace, community and the world. His presence is always with me.
Mark Floyd P. Bilang Master of Divinity in Biblical Studies My ATS journey challenged me to be a humble and hardworking servant of God and His Word. Humility made my heart and mind open to the view of others while willing to put my own views under scrutiny. Hard work helped me dig deeper and pray harder. There are no simple answers to life’s complexities. As a pastor, it is essential that I develop the habit of listening and observing that I may understand better and learn more about those I serve. I hope that these practices will enable me to be a better servant of God and minister of his Word.
Kevin Yau Master of Divinity in Counseling ATS has changed me irreversibly. As someone from a highly developed part of the world, I have been challenged to take up an advocacy for the marginalized, living up to the biblical values on preferential care for the poor. I found the said advocacy when I conducted psychosocial debriefing among the typhoon survivors, prepared city dwellers at risk for upcoming natural hazards, and listened to the deepest cries of those who had been wounded in the past. Such work calls for a journey of descent, which I am learning to take up. I am now back to Hong Kong and will serve in the newly established English ministry of my church. I hope to widen this platform to accommodate the foreign workers residing in Hong Kong, facilitate their integration into the local community, as well as prepare them in returning home when the time comes. Sometime next year, I will move into a developing country where I will join a team that ministers to the urban poor. I hope that I will live a life of service and learning.
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17 18 Micah R. Abalos Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling Before I entered ATS, I kept on doubting myself as I served God because I had no Bible school background or any formal training on leadership. But now, I am overwhelmed with the lessons and experiences I had through the ATS community. I learned the value of self-awareness through our counseling classes and internship. Being voted as the president in student association taught me how to become a servant leader. I also understood how to be faithful and careful in studying and sharing the word of God. Finally, I was able to integrate these skills and knowledge into my own practice of the counseling ministry in both rural and urban communities.
Ricardo O. Tapao Master of Divinity in Transformational Urban Leadership Studying at Asian Theological Seminary is worthwhile and a great privilege. There was a time when the temptation to be prideful knocked on my door but the word of God always reminds me not to lean on my own understanding but instead to acknowledge him in all of my walks of life and he will direct me (Proverbs 3: 5-6). One of my professors said, “Ang palay habang nag-uuhay lalong nagpupugay� (As the grain ripens, it salutes). I learned not only to focus on academic excellence and theoretical endeavors but also to understand the implications of my studies on society, attitudes and relationships. ATS taught me not to be a one-sided Christian. There is a place for preaching the gospel and doing missions. However, the gospel is also relevant to the transformation of communities. In order for me to really be involved in the process of transformation, I should live out servanthood. This means empowering the people regarding the vertical and horizontal dimensions of their lives and enabling them to reach the full potential of their humanity as God’s creation with dignity. I praise God for the ATS community.
Joyce A. Dispulo Master of Arts in Transformational Urban Leadership What can I live without? Is the God I know a product of my projections? What does it take to be a Muslim by heart? Such reflective questions led to the deconstruction of my understanding about God, the whole self, and one’s neighbor. This process then brought me to the reconstruction of these concepts through the careful, proper interpretation of the Word and the immanencetranscendence of our Redeemer-Creator. The journey of deconstruction to reconstruction taught in the ATS-MATUL program trained my eyes to see, my mind to think critically, and my heart to listen. I also learned to nurture a sacred space that enables me to embrace people of diverse cultures and contexts. I am balancing these concepts as I continually live out the kingdom values and convey God's love through a missions agency. I also desire to apply these soon as a missionary-in-training serving urban poor communities. As I have been empowered, I am now empowering others to give their utmost for Christ's highest glory in their being, going, and doing.
Irene Langbayan Prudenciano Master of Business Administration in Biblical Stewardship and Christian Management At the ATS MBA program, I realized that I am the steward-servant of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Lord points out the principles of biblical stewardship I learned in every experience outside the classroom. The qualities of self-denial, wisdom, humility, and generosity were especially emphasized. As God’s love compels me to abide in love and fear of him, I am learning to depend on him in faith (Hebrews 11:6) as he reveals himself (John 15). I am serving at the Alfonso Lista Multi Purpose Cooperative and we started adopting these biblical stewardship principles in our operations. When we experience opposition, we draw wisdom from God and His word out of love and fear of Him as our guide.
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19 20 Remar L. San Jose Master of Business Administration In Biblical Stewardship and Christian Management I am thankful to God for bringing me to ATS. It was, I believe, a move from God not only to equip me to become more effective and efficient in the ministry but also to change me inwardly. I am now practicing one of the significant lessons I learned—giving importance to my upward personal relationship with God. It was a change of heart from “doing” to “being” as a steward leader. My real concern now is how and who I am in God’s sight, not pleasing people but the God whom I am serving. This is what I am now applying in the next chapter of my life and ministry—being confident of my personal relationship with the Lord. As I grow and know him as apostle Paul declared in Philippians 3:10, I will also influence and motivate others to do as I do.
Coming in 2017
Ph.D. in Contextual Theology
Deadline for Application: January 15, 2017
This program is recognized by the Commission on Higher Education. For more details, contact Dr. Athena Gorospe, Ph.D. Program Director thru info@mail.ats.ph
VENUE: ATS CAMPUS
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Congratulations to our
Graduates with Distinction! MERRY CHRIS B. ABELADO
JUNETTE B. GALAGALA-NACION
ARVIN G. TAMBIO
JUPITER N. DE GUZMAN
CALEB RICARDO D. PANTOJA
KEVIN KAI CHEONG YAU
HANNAH FAYE O. CASTILLO
RANEL A. RIVERA
EUGENE G. HAO
RICARDO O. TAPAO
Outstanding academic achievement is recognized by granting a degree "with honors." Graduation with honors indicates that the M.Div. or M.A. student has fulfilled the following criteria: - Completion of at least 51 units of credit earned at ATS. - A grade point average of at least 1.2549 - No grade lower than 2.0
We praise the Lord for His work in and through
Dr. Vicente Y. Sia. We recognize his invaluable contribution to the life of the seminary, as a member of the Board of Trustees for sixteen years. He embodied for us what it means to be a loving pastor as well as a wise humble Servant - Leader.
A LOVE FOR LEARNING: an essential habit for a growing disciple of Christ DR. FERNANDO LUA
Dr. Fer or Sir Lua (as the staff fondly calls him) is the ATS Vice President for Admin and Finance
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THE writer of Ecclesiastes says, “Of making many books there is no end and much study wearies the body” (12:12b). This observation was made almost 3,000 years ago and is still very true in our day. On Amazon, just hit the search button for books about success and you will be led to more than 7,000 titles. The fact that many people are writing means that there are indeed many people who love to read and learn. Of course, too much studying could become wearisome just as we are told in Ecclesiastes. That is why we need to focus on what we want to learn and pace ourselves. At the seminary level, reading and the love for learning are disciplines taught and cultivated until they become a habit. We believe that if we are to
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serve God and his people effectively and faithfully, we need to keep learning. As we always say, we can only give others what we have in us. One of my favorite passages in the Bible is the account of Jesus, who at the age of 12, interacted with the teachers in the temple courts (Luke 2:41-47). He got left behind by his parents and remained with the teachers of the Law for three days. The teachers were amazed at the questions he asked while they were teaching.
Indeed, if we are to be faithful followers of Jesus today, we need to develop that habit of learning. We live in challenging times. Jesus did not just get into a moment of inspiration. As a Jewish boy, he would have been taught by his father about the Scriptures and the Law starting at the age of seven. These private study times with his father Joseph and their yearly journey to the temple in Jerusalem to celebrate Passover must have developed Jesus’ love for learning. Thus, when the time came for him to start his ministry, he
was well-prepared. He resisted the devil’s temptations in the wilderness by using the Word of God. He surely meditated and memorized the Scriptures faithfully. The challenge for many of us today is the discipline of study. Information is easily accessed through the Internet. The message people are getting is that we do not need to do our own research and study because all questions have been answered. This is not true. The Internet is also full of false and faulty teachings. There is no Internet police that will remove everything that is false. There is also the challenge of several possible views on many different issues. Not everything being clear cut or easily classified as either black or white. One has to investigate them all in order to come up with one’s own convictions. Indeed, if we are to be faithful followers of Jesus today, we need to develop the habit of learning. We live in challenging times. As Christians are divided over various issues, we need to study carefully these concerns first before making our own stand. As Peter admonishes the believers, “but grow in the grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18). “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” (Mahatma Gandhi)