What to Study? Why Study?
Alben Wong
(Th.M.)
Rethinking the Meaning of Learning
As graduation is fast approaching, my mind is brimming with gratitude. Time is limited, yet God’s grace transcends the constraints of time. The entire period throughout which I pursued my Master of Divinity program and my Master of Theology program has been filled with abundant grace, allowing someone like me, who tends to be lazy, ample time to enjoy again the pleasures of learning. Under the patient guidance of the faculty members, I have once again understood the significance of “what to study” and “why study” for those who serve God. The question of why we should study serves as a cautionary reminder to individuals like me, who are already engaged in pastoral work, not to become lost in the burdensome workload of being a pastor. Learning possesses intrinsic value, hence my sharing is focused on the edification of the seminary. I believe this also serves as pastors’ own critique of themselves. While perfection remains elusive, the teachings I have received here have awakened me to the realization that I must not passively succumb to the current trends of the times.
Chinese philosopher Deng Xiao-mang issues a warning in his article “What is the Purpose of Learning?” He said that contemporary education has faltered due to the prevalence of utilitarians. From parents to society to students themselves, all are driven by the pursuit of “success.” Educational institutions have become “breeding grounds for ‘refined egoists.’” This is purportedly considered “beneficial” for students, enabling them to get ahead of others. Deng Xiao-mang further argues that in the past, when contemplating the desired outcomes of education for future generations, a distinction between individuals of decency and vulgarity still existed. However, the current state of education has lost its purpose. It has primarily devolved into vocational training, with students pursuing education solely for the sake of “muddling through to get a diploma.” The crisis at hand is that “people’s distinctiveness is eroded through education, resulting in sophisticated individuals.” This is a far cry from engaging with knowledge in passionate debates; instead, it becomes a mere parroting of information. I agree with his observation that in the current atmosphere, after years of rigorous education, we have ultimately been shaped into preprogrammed answering machines. Learning has lost its fun; without interest in learning, we are left with no choice but to merely “muddle through to get a diploma.” When it reaches the point of “muddling through to get a diploma,” one is as good as dead.
Breaking Free from Utilitarian Learning
I thank the Lord that the seminary teachers make the effort to dismantle the mindset of “muddling through to get a diploma,” discouraging studying solely for employment or career advancement. Echoing the principles of education at the seminary, I would like to paraphrase Chinese educator Lufei Kui’s article written in 1923, “Why Do We Study?” Lufei presented five reasons for studying: character development, acquiring knowledge, developing skills, vocational pursuits, and personal cultivation. Additionally, Lufei pointed out three purposes regarding what studying is for and not for, all refuting the utilitarian approach to studying: studying for the sake of studying without practical application; studying solely for future application without immediate relevance; and studying not for monetary gains. These perspectives align with the tireless dedication of the seminary teachers throughout the years.
In tumultuous times, reading more and engaging with good books becomes even more crucial. This was the motto I embraced during my time at HKBTS, and it remains an integral part of my being that cannot be taken away. I would like to conclude with the words of Tang Chun-I in “The Importance of Reading”: “Although books came later in human culture, they serve as a mirror reflecting the entirety of human culture. It is through this mirror that we can understand the general nature of human culture and transition from the natural world to the world of humanities. … Reading involves placing our small mirror in front of the vast mirror of books, allowing our small mirror to reflect the knowledge and truths illuminated by countless wise and intelligent minds throughout history.”
Years of learning at the seminary have taught me not to be deceived by utilitarianism and not to “muddle through” my days simply to “get a diploma.” HKBTS has made me understand that the purpose of learning is to understand the Lord under the guidance of the Holy Spirit and, in turn, expand the depth of our thinking.