A Different Plan for the World
Before “lockdown” became a household world, Beacon Baptist Theological College and Seminary hosted its 19th graduation. On March 7, 2020 fifteen students graduated. There were plans for months of ministry to follow. National leader Dr. Divakar recalls, “We had plans for Vacation Bible School and outreach in villages this summer, but the Lord seems to have a different plan for the world.”
Staying Committed in COVID-19
God did have a different plan for the world than we knew, but His plans for us continue. The mission of providing theological education as part of that plan continues.
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.
For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
(Isaiah 55:8-9)
COVID restrictions require a new approach to delivering higher education for the new semester. Courses move online to provide undergraduate and graduate level instruction. New enrollments decreased with restrictions in movement and economic impacts, but current students continue in coursework to earn one of these degrees:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Theology
- Master of Ministry
- Master of Divinity
- Master of Theology
Adapting to God's Different Plan
By using technical tools like Google Classroom and Zoom, learning continues from the State of Karnataka into other states of India. Because of COVID-19, instruction reaches beyond their own nation into neighboring countries.
As students persevere, they face challenges familiar to others where resources are strained. Obstacles include:
- Availability of phones and laptops for participation
- Problems with internet connectivity
- Reliability of technical equipment
- Equipment pressure to develop and deliver online courses
While students and faculty of Beacon Baptist Theological College & Seminary focus on learning, needs exist around them. Lockdowns stranded some students where they went for work. Others lost work altogether, resulting in a lack of resources. Despite the challenges, Dr. Divakar says, “We have our current students who are making every effort not to waste a year.”
Equipped with the Biblical training they received, the fifteen March graduates couldn’t have anticipated needs they would encounter in a COVID-19 world. No one planned for a Pandemic, but God prepared people to serve. Truly, “The Lord seems to have a different plan for the world.”
Pray for the leaders, faculty, and students of Beacon Baptist Theological Seminary as God provides for needs, overcomes challenges, and works out His good plans for them.
