Our Correspondent
KOHIMA, NOVEMBER 14
The 14th Nagaland Theological Colleges Association (NTCA) general conference got underway today at the NBCC Platinum Hall, Kohima under the theme ‘Theological Praxis: Living out the Authentic Christian Faith’.
During the inaugural session, a panel discussion on the theme was held wherein, deep concern that many Nagas claiming to be Christians today are not applying the Christian faith in practice, was underscored.
United College of Theology & Missions principal, Rev. Dr. Rabi Pame who was a panellist at the discussion pointed out that Nagaland is a Christian dominated state known for its popular slogan ‘Nagaland For Christ’, it has the highest number of Bible colleges, produces the biggest number of theological graduates within and outside Nagaland every year when compared with other states, and massive church structures occupy prominent locations in all the towns and villages. “The world can expect Nagaland to be the paradise on earth, but the ground reality is different,” Rev. Pame lamented and said the people claim to be Christians, followers and believers of Jesus Christ, but the society is shrouded with brokenness, divisions, selfishness and lacking in principles.
Citing the state’s infamous roads conditions, public properties and places that are uncared for, the neglected government schools, hospitals and even offices which lack basic facilities, he said, “Something is terribly wrong with us…. We are failing to live a genuine Christian life and we are failing to practice God’s principles.”
He highlighted that God has created humans in His likeness and Christians are supposed to represent Him by reflecting Godlike character in their daily lives. “As Christians, we must make a difference in the world by practicing love, justice, righteousness and purity in life. We should be making impact wherever we are planted,” Rev. Pame said.
He also expressed concern that hundreds of theological students are graduating every year but most of them are not anointed, and this, he feels is because many theological colleges fail to impart the power of the holy spirit. The mushrooming of prayer centres and the people’s preference to seek these centres is evident that the church is failing to meet the prayer and spiritual needs of its flock. Stating that main line churches have remained traditional and stagnant, he pointed to the need to update the time and the things that God is doing. “Living genuine Christian life is to make an impact in obedience to Christ’s command,” he asserted and called upon all Nagas to rededicate themselves and make Nagaland a vibrant Christian land.
“Our faith must be put into practice, not just in theory…. Our (Nagas) problem today is that the Word of God is not transforming us,” says Kohima Baptist Pastors’ Fellowship president Rev. Dr. Vevo Phesao. He made a clarion call that the time has come to pause and relook into why there is a lack in authenticity and genuineness in the life of many Nagas who call themselves Christians; how theological knowledge is being imparted; and how biblical teaching is being preached in the church.
He remarked that theologians and church leaders are bold and courageous when they are standing in their own parameters but remain silent when it comes to speaking out for public issues. There is a devastating famine of speaking the truth and there is lack in courage to raise issues in the public, he lamented.
“To live an authentic Christian life is a challenge but we can do it if we go back to the Word of God and rightly believe and rightly live in Christ,” he stated.
Another panellist, Shalom Bible Seminary principal, Rev. Dr. Sanyü Iralu also maintained that the Christian theory is becoming less visible in the Naga society today. Reflecting on the practice of theology, he said there is a glaring gap between the rich and poor, and expressed fear that the time will come when the gap will be impossible to fill unless the people practice their belief and faith as Christians. He also stated that right theology that is rightly taught will bring forth right actions. Towards this, he said if teaching is not grounded in the scripture, the people will not be grounded in the true faith.
On the failings in the Naga society today, he said everyone is responsible. “Let us point our fingers at all of us, not just at politicians and bureaucrats,” he urged.
Rev. Dr. Iralu also voiced concern that there are a lot of mistaken ideas and service in Christian ministry, and he underscored that the time has come to battle such falsehoods. “As long as we uphold the teachings, there is no problem but the problem comes when we don’t practice what we preach/teach,” he said.
Highland Dawn Media managing director Wabang Moa who was also a panellist, shared his thoughts on the topic from a layman’s point of view. He feels that Naga Christians are being influenced by the world and not by spirit. He also highlighted the need to give more attention to prayer life.
Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by NTCA president, Pete Z Krose.
On Sunday, a paper presentation session will be held at 8 am while worship service will commence from 9 am and later in the afternoon, new executive team of NTCA will be installed.
