Week 9 - Class Lecture Review - International Relations and Globalization - Emmanuel Entee

This week’s lecture series, led by Emmanuel K. Entee, provided a profound and multidimensional exploration of International Relations and Globalization. Emmanuel, a Ghanaian-British leader and Founding Director of Mozaik Institute, brought decades of experience in leadership, peacebuilding, and societal transformation to our discussions. His ability to integrate political theories with a biblical perspective created a deeply engaging and thought-provoking atmosphere that left me with lasting insights.

The lectures began with Emmanuel grounding our conversations in Genesis 2:15, reminding us that humanity’s calling to “care for and steward” creation goes far beyond environmental concerns. This mandate, he explained, extends to our engagement with governance, international systems, and societal structures. He challenged us to consider the brokenness of the world—not as a reason for despair but as an invitation to participate in God’s redemptive work in broken places and among broken people.

Throughout the week, Emmanuel unpacked the complexities of global systems through the lens of three major political theories: realism, idealism, and liberalism. He drew clear connections between these ideologies and the policies of various governments, offering examples such as the “America First” rhetoric of Trump’s administration to illustrate realist tendencies, and Justin Trudeau’s approach in Canada as a reflection of idealist priorities. Emmanuel did not merely present these theories academically; he showed how they shape not only geopolitics but also societal values and global culture. His insights revealed how these philosophies intersect with power dynamics, human rights, and international collaboration, encouraging us to critically evaluate their influence on both global and local levels.

One of the most striking parts of the lectures was Emmanuel’s critique of “mission drift.” He warned against the tendency for organizations, governments, and even individuals to lose sight of their foundational convictions and purposes. Drawing from examples in scripture, such as Samuel’s role during a visionless time in Israel, Emmanuel emphasized the necessity of anchoring our work in a clear vision and abiding conviction. His statement, “Without a solid foundation in conviction, we drift into chaos,” felt both timely and challenging as I reflected on the projects and organizations I am involved with.

Another highlight was Emmanuel’s recounting of his encounter with students from Sudan and South Sudan. Despite longstanding political and cultural tensions between these regions, he described a classroom setting where individuals from opposing sides engaged in unity and collaboration. This story beautifully illustrated the reconciling power of the Kingdom of God, offering a tangible example of what it means to embody biblical stewardship in the face of deep societal divides. It also reminded me that transformation begins not in grand gestures but in the willingness to love, listen, and work together, even in the most divided contexts.

The impact of the lectures was deeply personal. Emmanuel’s ability to frame global concerns, such as the environment, immigration, and conflict resolution, within a biblical context helped me see these issues not as abstract problems but as opportunities for faithful engagement. His discussion of cultural humility and collaboration challenged me to consider how my worldview shapes my approach to international relations. It also underscored the importance of listening—both to God’s word and to the voices of others—as a foundational step in fostering meaningful change.

Emmanuel’s emphasis on maintaining a redemptive focus stood out as particularly transformative. Whether addressing political structures or societal issues, he continually pointed us back to the question: “What is the redemptive story here?” This approach, rooted in both scripture and practical wisdom, challenged me to rethink how I approach complex issues. For example, his discussion on how globalization intersects with human rights and cultural values revealed the tensions between advocating for freedoms and respecting diverse cultural perspectives.

Reflecting on the week, I found myself deeply encouraged but also challenged. Emmanuel’s lectures reminded me that global engagement is not for the faint of heart. It requires resilience, humility, and a steadfast commitment to biblical principles, even when the path forward is unclear. His ability to weave together the theological, practical, and relational dimensions of international relations inspired me to consider how I can engage more intentionally with global issues while remaining rooted in my faith.

In conclusion, Emmanuel Entee’s lectures on International Relations and Globalization were a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of faith, governance, and societal transformation. His teachings equipped us with tools to navigate the complexities of our world with clarity, conviction, and a redemptive vision. This week was not just an academic exercise but a call to action—one that left me reflecting deeply on my role as a steward of God’s creation and a participant in His redemptive mission in the world.