Safespace

In the middle of 2019, Malaysia’s Health Ministry under the previous government announced the process of decriminalising drug possession for personal use.  One of the main reasons for this was that putting drug abusers into prison doesn’t solve the problem. Relapses still happen without suitable recourse. Former Health Ministry Dr Zulkefly presented the paradigm that drug abusers were not to be treated as criminals but people with “complex chronic relapsing medical condition with many factors”. In short, drug addiction should be seen as an illness that needs treatment. This is expected to reduce barriers for people with drug abuse problems to seek help. Debbie chats with Samuel Lim, Coordinator for Community Development with Malaysian Care, on this matter.

Contemporary church life is often tested with goodbyes and farewells, and is particularly trying when church members leave for reasons related to conflict, disagreement, differences or misunderstandings. This episode is a heartfelt conversation on what draws people to the churches they choose, why they leave, where they go, and how to navigate these movements. Debbie chats with with two pastors from quite different contexts - Pr. Fergus Ong from SIBKL and Rev. Paul Lau from the Anglican Diocese of West Malaysia based in All Saints Church Cheras.

In the early 2000's, Alexa along with her then-cell group and church embarked on a discipleship course called Project Timothy, headed by Dr. Ron Choong, where she discovered a theological safe space to ask questions about God and the Bible. Her encounter with Ron Choong has also shaped her approach to ministry, particularly in the area of gracious and humble discipleship.  Incidentally, Ron was mentored by the late John Stott, who, in 1984, encouraged him to start a "ministry of the mind" in New York city. Ron is now well-known as an independent interdisciplinary researcher studying ancient civilizations. As the Director of the Academy of Christian Thought, Ron has journeyed with young pastors and leaders in grappling with their questions of God and the Bible in what he calls a “theological safe space”. Hear Alexa's conversation with Ron as they recount Project Timothy, and how discipleship can provide a theological safe space for minds that seek to be transformed by God.

Our news feeds all over the world are gripped with various global concerns - the impact of plastics on ocean creatures, unusual flooding activity in unusual times and places, sinking cities, political showdowns between people and politicians, various issues of injustice such as racial discrimination, the abuse of children, conflict and wars. Governments band together against each other to display their power and eminence, and the people face the consequences of these actions.  In such a scenario, the Christian cry is naturally, “Come, Lord Jesus.” As we look helplessly into the global situation and yet play our tiny parts in promoting responsible, sustainable living, the recurring question in our heard is “how can we put things right?” That is of course an eschatological longing as we wait for the return of Christ to fully reign as our just and righteous King. On this side of eschatology, it is fitting for us to ask the question “how can I live today in light of eternity?” Which extends to the questions of “how can I run my business, or lead a company, or lead my family, or ministry, or even how do I influence others along the journey towards becoming or bringing about righteousness and justice today?”  The United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals, or SDGs, are made up of 17 goals for transformation, that nations can pursue according to their unique priorities. The 17 sustainable development goals are developed acknowledging the serious costs and damage that unbridled development has done to people and planet for the sake of economic growth. Incidentally, it is our 17 episode and that was purely unintentional  In the recent SDG Summit in early November, the Minister of Islamic Affairs Mujahid Yusof Rawa presented the Islamic perspective of sustainable development. And so in this episode we take the opportunity to also lend the Christian voice to unpack what good governance, or right living is about in light of Scripture.   For this, Rev. Fr. Clarence Devadas, Director of the Catholic Research Centre has graciously recorded his view for us on the area of good governance. In this address he talks about 3 Scriptural concepts to look at: humanity’s responsibility to be stewards, God-given political authority, and the common good. Clarence is actively involved in Kairos Dialogue Network, an ecumenical network of Christian thinkers and leaders dedicated to the strengthening and advancement of Christian-Muslim relations in Malaysia. Kairos Dialogue Network believes that the peaceful coexistence of the two religious communities is entirely possible and greatly beneficial to the progress of civil society. On Rev. Fr. Clarence Devadas: Rev Fr Dr Clarence Devadass, a Catholic Priest of the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, holds a Doctorate in Theology (Moral Theology) from the Academia Alfonsiana, a Roma, Italia (2004). He is currently the Director of the Catholic Research Centre in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the Executive Secretary of the Office of Theological Concerns in the Federation of Asian Bishops Conferences (FABC) and a Visiting Research Associate at the University of Nottingham, Malaysia. In 2013, Pope Francis appointed him as a Consultor to the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue and in 2017, was a Visiting Research Fellow at the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom. Apart from teaching, speaking at conferences and writing regularly in some publications, he recently contributed and also co-edited the book ‘The Future of Evangelization in Asia’, published by Urbaniana University Press. As a Diocesan Priest, he also engages in some pastoral work in the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur.

What is the duty of Christian people towards their country? Is “making a better place for future generations” the primary motivation? What is the Scriptural understanding of the Christian’s responsibility towards the nation? Is evangelisation the work of all, and working for the common good the work of some? Dr. David Tan, a policy researcher with the United Nations University shares his personal story on why he returned to Malaysia after 10 years living and working in the United States. He shares from Jeremiah 29 and 1 Peter how the people of God had been called to seek the good of the surrounding nation, even as a minority people. Full episode summary here.

How do we treat persons experiencing suicidal tendencies as people, and not as projects? How do we patiently love them and contribute to their lives for good? Finally, we grapple with the question that surfaces in every Christian conversation on suicide: Does a Christian who takes his own life sin, and is he saved? Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chan Lai Fong is Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Consultant Psychiatrist at UKM, and is the Malaysian representative of the International Association of Suicide Prevention (IASP). Dr. Alwyn Lau is presently the Dean of University-College Fairview’s Center for Post-Graduate Studies, and spent over 16 years as an educationist in various education and learning institutions. Full episode summary here.

With the suicides of public profiles surfacing from time to, coupled by controversial TV series such as 13 Reasons Why, there has been a buzz of discussion as to how to talk about suicide among youth. What does suicide mean in some segments of popular youth culture? What is the driving force? According to the World Health Organisation, 1 person dies every 40 seconds by suicide. On its website it says that, “Suicide was the second leading cause of death among young people aged 15-29 years, after road injury.” Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chan Lai Fong is Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Consultant Psychiatrist at UKM, and is the Malaysian representative of the International Association of Suicide Prevention (IASP). Dr. Alwyn Lau is presently the Dean of University-College Fairview’s Center for Post-Graduate Studies, and spent over 16 years as an educationist in various education and learning institutions.  Full episode summary here.

Archaeology is crucial to the reconstruction of any story, particularly those set in ancient times, by providing a backdrop from where the story emerges. Much more than a document of propositional truths or an index of instructions, the Bible is told in story and linked together to form a grand narrative that is set in real places and real times.  Rev. Dr. Lim Kar Yong sits down with Debbie on the occasion of the release of his new book, Following Jesus, to talk about his book and how archaeology can help to enliven our appreciation of what happens in the Scripture texts. Because much of Scriptural truth is told in story form, it is an unlikely ally in understanding that story better. Along with the interview are recommended resources for Christians to partner with archaeology as an aid to studying the Bible. (Full episode summary here.) Rev. Dr. Lim Kar Yong is well-known as a scholar of the New Testament, in particular his work on 1 Corinthians and the Gospels. Apart from lecturing in New Testament studies Kar Yong is Director of Postgraduate Studies and Director of the Centre for Bible Engagement for Seminari Theoloji Malaysia. Part of his activities at the CBE include study tours to biblical sites and hosting tours at their recently launched Biblical Studies Room which features various replicas and displays. Kar Yong is ordained as a Priest in the (Anglican) Diocese of West Malaysia.

How curious that Jesus likens the people of the Kingdom of God as those who are like children in Mark 10. There must be something in their spirit and demeanour for us to capture once again. In this episode, Debbie speaks to two child singers of the 95th Watoto Children's Choir - Matthew Kamukama (11) and Faima Brenda Nalalembe (9); a young adult singer and graduate of the Choir Livingstone Muwezera; along with their lead coordinator Edwin Naijuka. Also, the Watoto Children's Choir treat us to a beautiful tune, "Holding on to Your Love." Full episode summary here.

Recently adding a Master of Theology under her belt from Princeton Theological Seminary, Pr Melissa Chan talks to Alexa about the adventures (and misadventures) of being a female pastor, ranging from stories about stereotyping to being a single woman pastor. (Full episode summary here.)  

Being sexually attracted to someone of the same sex can be a harrowing experience. When sexual identity has the power to define who we are, finding oneself to be different to others can have stressful impacts. Yet the Christian response to same-sex attraction can often be simplistic and hurtful, being unaware of the gravity of the issues involved. At other times, persons facing these questions and struggles are conveniently ignored. How does the church craft a right approach towards persons who face such situations unique to them? Debbie speaks to Dr Hera Lukman to discuss the areas surrounding same-sex attention - what it is, why it is a big deal, whether a change in orientation is possible, lessons from the now defunct Exodus International and finally, and a right Christian approach in building helpful relationships with these persons.

Feminism is an important topic, especially with the growing concern over women’s rights around the world, sexual harassment in the workplace, the #metoo movement, religious discrimination of women and other similarly-related problems. But what about feminism and its relation to Christianity? Can a person be Christian and a feminist? In Malaysia, feminism is often seen as a movement with a lot of aggression, resentment and even competition against men. This particular F-word carries a lot of baggage, particularly among evangelicals. It is often seen as a worldly concept and its agenda when brought into the church, will break down families and real manhood. But are these descriptions and its associated stereotypes is true to what feminism stands for, or is it a fearmongering misinformation? Join Dr Alwyn Lau for a conversation with Assoc. Prof. Dr Sharon Bong who researches and writes on Gender Studies.  Full podcast summary here.

Someone comes up to you with an issue. Even, a moral issue. Do you struggle between providing a shoulder to cry on, and telling them what’s right? The issues being experienced today especially among youth are many, ranging from sexual temptation, thoughts of suicide and self-harm, to troubles in the family, interpersonal problems and struggles with same-sex attraction. How do we help someone struggling through an issue without turning them away? What do people struggling deeply need from those to whom they open up? Full episode summary here.

In a poignant way, Jesus invites us into friendship. No longer a Master-servant relationship, but a mutually committed friendship. It is puzzling because while He is perfectly capable to be our friend, He invites us to be His, and to listen to Him as He shares His burdens. But such is Jesus, the Son of Man. Can we handle such vulnerability on the part of Jesus? Have we in our twisted way reduced Him to a Boss figure that is task-oriented, like us? In our heartfelt cry, “use me Lord” have we in our performance oriented culture totally missed the point?” Full episode summary here.

What is a Christian’s contribution in the political, social and economic realms? From where do Christians draw our ethics to inform our activities in the public sphere?Does our life in Jesus inform only the private life but not the public life? Is it normal or acceptable for Christians to have Bible-based convictions on their private matters such as marriage fidelity, but no Bible-based convictions on the socio-economic situation of the world he or she is living in? Is it normal for Christians to hold the highest standards on sexual sin, but be lax on racial discrimination? The example of Jesus Christ shows His boldness in confronting the social issues of his time as a prophetic voice, yet Christians seem to have many reasons not to be involved in such matters. Full episode summary here.

There is an important relationship between philosophy and faith. After all philosophy emerged out of a knowledge of the divine, attempting to see God in the midst of human existence and experience. If the Cross appeared foolish to philosophers, how did it shape Christian thinking? Specifically, how did Greek philosophy influence Christian thinking? Doesn’t it make our conception of our faith more exclusively Western? What is the proper way for philosophy and faith to intermingle with each other? Full summary here.

We seem to often hear about Jesus only during two seasons of the church calendar - Advent and Lent. For the rest of the year, we hear more of themes such as justification by faith and redemption which is essentially Pauline in nature. When was the last time you heard the parables of Jesus being preached, or an exposition on the Kingdom of heaven that Jesus came to bring? Both Jesus and Paul's methods of engaging their audience were also very different. The Gospels show Jesus using much storytelling or parables, while Paul often communicated his points through arguments and matter-of-fact statements when he talks about God. Why the different methods? And whose is more effective? This Christmas, let us revisit the person of Jesus and consider His parables. Alexa Ho speaks to Rev. Dr Lim Kar Yong on his books, Jesus the Storyteller: Hearing the Parables Afresh Today (2013), and his newly published book Metaphors and Social Identity Formation in Paul's Letters to the Corinthians’ (2017). Find out why the different engagement methods of Jesus and Paul, and what does it mean for us today. Episode link here: https://safespace.my/episode-3

Calvinism arose out of the Protestant Reformation and was largely defined by John Calvin. The doctrine emphasizes God’s sovereignty, man’s depravity and the salvation of God’s elect by grace alone. Well-known Calvinists are George Whitefield, Jonathan Edwards, and Charles Spurgeon and more recently, R.C. Sproul, J.I. Packer, Tim Keller and John Piper. Churches that subscribe to Calvinism include the Presbyterian Denominations and the various Reformed Churches around the world. Arminianism is a school of theology based on the teachings of Dutch theologian Jacobus Arminius in the late 16th century. It arose as an objection to Calvinism in relation to its doctrines of predestination and election. Arminius and his followers, the Remonstrants taught that God has given humans free will, and humans are able to freely choose or reject salvation. The debate between Calvinists and Arminians has been ongoing among the evangelicals for a long time, drawing from various Scriptures and the early church fathers to support their respective views. However the differences remain – particularly as related to the sovereignty of God in salvation and the ideas of election and predestination, and atonement. The question remains: How big are the differences between the two views? Alexa Ho speaks to Pastor Jeremy Lim who offers a Calvinist standpoint and David Tan who speaks from an Arminian perspective. Will sparks fly? Read full summary here.

October 2017 marked 500 years since the Protestant Reformation. In Safespace's inaugural episode, we brought together a Catholic priest and a Lutheran pastor to talk about the rift, and how things are beginning to change towards a more amicable relationship, particularly in Malaysia. At the time of the interview, Rev. Dr. Sivin Kit was lecturer and Director of the Centre of Religion and Society at the Malaysian Theological Seminary (STM), Seremban. He founded and pastors Bangsar Lutheran Church. Rev. Fr. George Harrison was parish priest for the Church of Visitation, Seremban. They were both involved in organising a series of Catholic-Lutheran events in Kuala Lumpur in 2017, including the seminar From Conflict to Communion. [Warning: We've learned a lot about production quality since 2017. Please excuse some level of discomfort in how we sound, and enjoy the conversation we managed to have with these two gentlemen. Also, as this podcast was converted from a video version, please excuse the language of "watching" the episode.]