A few months after its status was changed to a university, the Surya Nusantara Adventist University (SAU) held its first-ever International Theological Forum from January 25 to 26, 2025, at the university’s chapel building. The forum, themed “Eschatological Hope in a Postmodern World,” brought together around 200 participants, including theology students from SAU and guests from Institut Agama Kristen Renatus, a non-Adventist Christian institution.
The event featured Dr. Bienvenido G. Mergal, Education Director of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD), and Dr. Vicky Mergal, professor at the Adventist University of the Philippines (AUP), as keynote speakers. Their presentations covered a wide range of theological and scientific topics relevant to faith in the modern world.
Addressing Eschatological Hope in a Changing Society Dr. Bienvenido Mergal opened the forum with a message of hope, emphasizing that "Jesus is the answer to the quest of postmodern society." His sessions explored the role of eschatology in today's world and the challenges of upholding biblical truths in an era of shifting beliefs. He also delved into the Creation story and the Trinity doctrine, addressing modern perspectives that question their biblical foundation.
Dr. Vicky Mergal presented insightful discussions on science and Scripture, including a session on fossils and the Bible, which sparked curiosity among participants about the relationship between faith and scientific discoveries.
A First Encounter with Adventist Worship
For many guests from Institut Agama Kristen Renatus, the forum was their first experience attending an Adventist Church worship service. The Adventist choir and music deeply moved them, and they were particularly impressed by the sermon during the opening ceremony.
Miss Tarapul Lubis, one of the participants, shared her thoughts: "The music was wonderful, the sermon was powerful, and the food was delicious. Most of all, the lectures and seminars provided us with new insights into Bible truth. Thank you so much for inviting us."
Spreading Truth Through Literature
A key highlight of the event was the distribution of Ellen G. White’s book, The Great Controversy, which was warmly received by attendees. Many of the non-Adventist students found the seminar topics new and thought-provoking, showing a keen interest in learning more about Adventist beliefs.
One of the speakers reminded participants of the importance of diligent study, saying, "Knowledge is not granted to everyone—you must study hard to gain it. Without proper knowledge, you will be misled by false teachings and beliefs.”
A Seed Planted for Future Engagement
The forum left a lasting impact, with many attendees expressing a desire to join similar events in the future. "We want to attend theological forums like this again if invited," one guest remarked.
Reflecting on the event, an organizer shared, "My heart was deeply touched seeing around 100 guests come to church on Sabbath to listen to God's word and receive The Great Controversy. May the seeds planted during this forum grow and, by God’s grace, may we find them in heaven one day."
This milestone event at Surya Nusantara Adventist University marks a significant step in engaging with students beyond the Adventist faith, fostering meaningful discussions on theology, science, and biblical truth in a postmodern world.
Edward Rodriguez
Email: erodriguez@ssd.org