From September 22-28, 2024, representatives from Olivet University participated in the Fourth Lausanne Congress in Seoul-Incheon, South Korea. This pivotal gathering brought together evangelical leaders from around the world to address the pressing challenges and opportunities in fulfilling the Great Commission. Representing the university were Vice President Dr. Walker Tzeng and Senior Professor Dr. Mark Wagner from the Zinzendorf School of Doctoral Studies. Their engagement reaffirmed OU's commitment to its foundational mission of raising biblical scholars and leaders to spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth.
Dr. Tzeng's participation was marked by fruitful conversations with a diverse array of evangelical leaders across various sectors. His extensive background in theological education and technology has facilitated discussions about innovative approaches to ministry in the digital age. Notably, he rekindled connections with leaders from the International Council for Evangelical Theological Education (ICETE) and the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE), collaborating on plans for ICETE’s upcoming global consultation scheduled for March 3-7, 2025.
Meanwhile, Dr. Wagner focused on promoting OU’s vision within church networks dedicated to discipleship, an area of his expertise. His time at Lausanne was filled with meaningful interactions, reinforcing the university's role in equipping leaders for effective ministry.
The Fourth Lausanne Congress served as a vibrant platform for discussions centered on the Holy Spirit, the Church, and the realities of persecution faced by believers worldwide. Speakers consistently emphasized the significance of the Great Commission, encouraging attendees to reflect on their roles in advancing God’s Kingdom.
Throughout the event, OU’s first honorary chairman, renowned missiologist Dr. Ralph Winter, was honored for his clarion call to share the Gospel with unreached people groups during Lausanne I in 1974, which catalyzed a paradigm shift that accelerated global missions. The vision of Dr. Winter continues to inspire and orient the goals of OU’s educational programs today.
As OU representatives absorbed the insights and inspiration from this historic congress, they were reminded of the university's enduring mission: to spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth and disciple all nations. They felt deeply touched by the koinonia shared with the global body of Christ, a powerful reminder of the collective effort required to fulfill the Great Commission.
“It was such a blessing to learn about the impact of so many ministries for the Great Commission. And as I shared what God is doing through Olivet University, everyone I met at Lausanne 4 was overwhelmingly supportive of our work. I was encouraged that OU’s mission, vision, and Kingdom-impact are biblically sound and serving the global body of Christ,” Dr. Tzeng said.
Having also participated in Lausanne III in Cape Town, South Africa 14 years ago, Dr. Tzeng reflected on younger leadership.
“I’m not the young man I was at Cape Town 2010, so it was encouraging to interact with the next generation,” Dr. Tzeng said, “To younger leaders in the next generation, I encourage you to apply for Lausanne’s next global younger leaders gathering in 2026.”
In reflecting on their experiences, both Dr. Tzeng and Dr. Wagner expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with a diverse community of faith leaders, testifying that God is indeed blessing OU in discipleship and theological education. The congress not only strengthened existing relationships but also opened doors for future collaborations.
As Olivet University continues its mission to empower future leaders in ministry, the experiences and lessons gleaned from the Fourth Lausanne Congress will help shape its ongoing efforts to fulfill the calling of the Great Commission. With a steadfast commitment to making disciples and spreading the Good News, OU looks forward to building on the momentum generated at Lausanne, giving all glory to God for His faithfulness in this essential work.