On Dr. Stephen Tong

This is the second time I saw him. This is an intellectual who holds onto the Word of God very tightly. We know how easy it is for intellectuals to forget about the WOG and start embracing human philosophies. Dr Tong, on the other hand, studies human philosophies and use the bible to show why God's wisdom is always superior. As he said, Reason cannot be above the word of God.

He unapologetically names philosophers and quotes philosophies, presuming that the audience understand it. I believe some of us were indeed lost. Kant's categorical imperative as an alternative to traditional arguments for God's existence. Barth's revelation in Christ and his denial of common revelation. Hegel's dialetics shown in history. Aristotle's belief in a single source of life. He just quotes all these philosophies as if you know them. Indeed, if one has not at least has some idea of what these philosophies are about, he might easily be lost. Above all, Scripture (particularly reformed theology) is shown to be true with the test of time and influence of cultures through history.

And I have concluded. That his teachings are hard to understand. But what is even harder, is to know what to do. The implications are so great, so universal, so transcending all cultures (as the topic is really about). Yet the irony is that we are stuck here in a tiny culture of our own, and we must think how to influence this culture, and then the next. It cannot be anymore ironic than the fact that many who will listen to what Dr Tong preached, shall go out of that church with much knowledge, but no more as to what they can do to shape the culture. The culture will very likely remain as it is. This is what is bothering me as I left yesterday. You realize that it will take you much effort and diligence, not of a single man, but of entire nations, to shape cultures. What can it be done?

Nevermind. I hope to get more insight tonight.