Following God’s Will Through Academia and Into the Academy: The Short Story of Rachael TanBy Liz Lockwood Rachael Tan had the privilege of being raised in a Christian home in the Philippines, which undoubtedly provided a strong foundation for the future ministry the Lord was preparing for her. Building on the Christian influence of her parents, Rachael furthered her preparation for the ministry with several educational pursuits. She earned a bachelor of science degree in psychology from St. Louis University in the Philippines, a master of divinity degree from Taiwan Baptist Theological Seminary [TBTS], and a doctor of theology degree from Asia Baptist Graduate Theological Seminary.
Aside from gaining theological knowledge in her educational pursuits, Rachael was preparing for a role in higher education not originally in her plans. Currently, Rachael serves as Assistant Professor at TBTS, as well as the Associate Dean of Asia Baptist Graduate Theological Seminary-Taiwan [ABGTS-Taiwan].
Arguably, the most important passion one can have beyond the gospel is a commitment to the local church. A strong love for the local church will serve as a valuable bedrock for all other ministry investments. Perhaps the strongest aspect of Rachael’s teaching is her commitment to local church ministry. In fact, Rachael says, “when I committed my life to God to be in the full time ministry, I was only thinking of church ministry.”
Submitting herself to the Lord’s will has become a lifelong journey for Rachael, who has learned that “there are many ways to serve God full time” and what matters more than our own plans is whether or not we are submitting to God’s will for our lives. Rachael spent more than a decade serving Dagupan Chinese Baptist Church in the Philippines. When offered the position at TBTS, it took her a full year and a half before accepting the position. Rachael now teaches courses on the New Testament, Bible Study Methods, and Theological English. She values every aspect of her education; her background in psychology helps her understand students, and her experience at seminary enables her to empathize with the struggles students face in balancing studies, family, and finances. At this point in her life, it is clear how the providence of God has woven all her life experiences together for the area of ministry in which He has placed her.
Rachael is a driven and purposeful woman in her career and ministry. She admits her dependence on the Lord for His guidance and wisdom as she, at times, struggles through the language barrier with her students.
Rachael admits, “Who I am is more important than what I do.” Through God’s grace, He has taught Rachael that her value in Christ is of more importance than her human accolades or perfection.
Rachael’s passion for the local church is clearly seen in the mission she has as a theological educator. She shares, “I desire to inspire my students to love God and serve Him wholeheartedly . . . to love and treasure God’s Word . . . to love His people and edify His church.” The years Rachael spent in local church ministry undoubtedly prepared her for this current role as professor and Associate Dean.
Rachael offers advice to any woman trying to discern the Lord’s will in ministry: “Pray and seek the Lord’s will first. . . . Real fulfillment comes when we are at the center of God’s will, and not just accomplishing something.” Rachael’s second piece of advice is directly connected to the local church, as she advises women to seek Christian confirmation of their calling. When facing a decision of whether or not to go overseas, one must be sure it is more than a desire for adventure driving her beyond the border.
Rachael Tan provides an example of what can be accomplished through educational training and submission to the will of God. Join with me in praying for her ministry, her students, and the Buddhist men and women that fill her country.
Liz Lockwood, MDiv, ThM, resides in Charleston, South Carolina, where she serves as the Adult Ministry Associate at East Cooper Baptist Church.
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