Reflections from the 2025 BAM Philippines Conference
The 5th BAM Asia Conference launches with a powerful reminder: Our foundation isn't built on human strength, but on the unshakeable Rock – the One who holds all things together, and in whom our businesses, lives, and legacies find true meaning and power. Reverend Tony Yeo's morning devotion sets the tone, delivering the power of being “In Christ,” where we experience eternal life, meaningful life, and transformed life, bearing fruit in every good work, as Colossians 1:13-14 reminds us that we are rescued from darkness into the Kingdom of God’s marvelous light.
PLENARY 1: Building on the Rock: Foundation for a God-Centered Business by Rev. Dr. Edmund Teo
“When it comes to tithing the real issue is NOT money but trust.”
Reverend Dr. Edmund Teo outlines three key principles for building a God-centered business. First, "Serve God with Your Money" reminds us that God is the ultimate owner of all resources. Second, "Bring the Best, God Blesses the Rest" demonstrates trust in God's provision through tithing. Third, "Render to God What is God's" prioritizes spiritual obligations.
Through giving, including tithing, we cultivate a mindset of true worship and stewardship, honoring God and experiencing His blessings. Reverend Dr. Teo identifies three types of giving:
- Giving out of Duty – giving back out of obligation
- Giving out of Donation – giving away to help others
- Giving out of Devotion and Delight – sacrificially giving up as an act of worship
By giving in these ways, we deepen our worship and stewardship, which is crucial in building a God-centered business.
PLENARY 2: Generational Stewardship: Honoring God through Lasting Business and Wealth by Matthew Kok
“BAM is NOT an organization but a movement.”
Matthew Kok points out that Christian business leaders should be stewards of God’s resources, planning for generations to come. By prioritizing a lasting legacy and faithfully serving God, businesses can reflect His glorious light and yield fruit that brings glory to His name. This is achieved by adopting godly family business practices that prioritize family bonding, fairness, and justice, while embodying kingdom values like generosity, mercy, and compassion.
As Christians in business, we're called to be light bearers in the darkness, demonstrating integrity, justice, and love. Our business becomes a platform to live and share the Gospel, thriving for generations as we steward God's resources with purpose and integrity.
PLENARY 3: Building a Legacy for Generations to Come by Bernard Lim
“The power to transform lives comes from the power of a transformed life.”
Bernard Lim demonstrates that building a lasting legacy involves three key aspects: perception of value, preservation of values, and preparation of valuables. By focusing on what truly matters – preserving spiritual legacy and character, and preparing others for the wealth and legacy they'll inherit – we can build a legacy that honors God and reflects His values. This means emphasizing Kingdom values like ethical practices, family relationships and spiritual legacy.
As Deuteronomy 8:18 reminds us, "God gives us power to get wealth, and we should remember His covenant with our fathers." Ultimately, the question remains: What legacy are we building for the generations to come?
