Hill Road Journal

Religious Commitment in a Pluralistic Society: An Old Testament Perspective

WONG Fook Kong

This essay begins with Brueggemann's observation about the “amazing pluralism” both within and without the Church. I agree with this statement with the qualification that this has been the experience of Asian churches all along. Pluralism both within and without its ranks is not new to Asian churches. When we look at the Old Testament against the background of the ancient Near East, it is evident that ancient Israel also lived in a pluralistic society. Different gods competed for loyalty among the nations. Within Israel too there were different views about YHWH . It is against these competing ideologies that the authors of the Bible affirmed their commitment to worship YHWH as the one and only God. Thus pluralism should not be a reason for abandoning one's commitment to worship YHWH as the one and only God. Rather, it is exactly in face of alternatives and competing claims that one needs to make a firm commitment to worship YHWH.

The Challenge of Religious Pluralism: The Book of Acts as a Test Case

Poling J. Sun

Since the 80s of the last century the issue of plural religiousism has become a challenge to Christian communities. Granted the highly developed connections among nations in this electronic age resulting in conversations and mutual influences, a plurality of cultural and religious phenomena seems inevitable. This is similar to the situation in which the early Christian communities found themselves, addressing and being addressed by a world characterized by cultural inter-penetration. With this in view, this article offers a study of several passages in the Book of Acts, attempting to explore how the early Christian communities encountered their surrounding culture in the course of finding their identity and appropriating their mission.

The Church and Pluralism in the Patristic Period: A Reconsideration of the Progress of Christianization of the Roman Empire during the Time of Constantine

Nathan K. Ng

The reason for the conversion of Constantine has long been a matter of scholarly debate. Traditionally, the emperor is believed to have been converted religiously by the power of Christ. Modern scholarship, however, tends to attribute the conversion to political reason. This article intends to reevaluate the controversial conversion through a reexamination of the progress of christianization of the Roman Empire.

The first section tries to show that the political stature of paganism was actually at that time much higher than the church. It would be very difficult to explain why Constantine chose to become a Christian if, as many modern scholars suggest, political stability was his sole concern. On this foundation, the second section argues that the emperor's bias towards Christianity was at least partially religious. Putting all evidences into consideration, a proposal of the spiritual journey of Constantine is tentatively reconstructed at the end of the discussion.

Zhang Peiyi

Volunteer chaplain

Zhang Peiyi

Volunteer chaplain

　　中國人有句話說：「國有國法，家有家規。」每個國家都有自己的體制和法律，使國家能夠運作暢順，並保障社會公平安定。國民有義務尊重這些體制並遵守法律。同樣，每個家庭都有自己的習慣和規範，通常稱為「家規」，用來約束成員之間的行為，並培養良好的個人品格。家庭成員有責任尊重這些習慣並遵守這些規範。無論今日的社會，或第一世紀的希羅社會，家庭都是組成社會的最基本單位。家庭成員融洽相處，能夠促進社會的和諧、穩定和繁榮。

　　新約聖經中的家規，主要是關於夫妻、父母子女，以及主僕之間相互責任（mutual responsibility）和彼此尊重的教導。其實，新約聖經沒有用上「家規」這個術語。「家規」（德文Haustafeln；英文household codes）這個術語源自馬丁路德（Martin Luther）的《小問答》（Small Catechism）。路德巡視教會，驚訝地發現許多平民連基本的教義都缺乏認識，於是制定一本簡單易明的問答集，幫助兒童、初信者和慕道友正確理解基督教的核心教導，內容涵蓋十誡、信經、主禱文、家規等等，而家規是說明社會和家庭各成員的角色和責任。

　　新約家規主要見於歌羅西書三章18節至四章1節、以弗所書五章21節至六章9節，以及彼得前書二章13節至三章7節。歌羅西書和以弗所書同樣論述家庭中夫妻、父母子女，以及主僕之間的關係，而彼得前書則論述執政者與人民、主僕，以及夫妻的關係，沒有論及父母子女的關係。歌羅西書是新約最早寫成的家規，而以弗所書則對歌羅西書的家規詳加闡述。本文主要討論歌羅西書和以弗所書中家規的異同。

新約家規的背景

　　第一世紀，希羅世界早已有家規的設立。亞里士多德（Aristotle）制定了一些家規，稱之為家庭管理（希臘文oikonomia；英文household management），涵蓋夫妻、父子和主僕的關係，旨在維護有權勢者的權利，並維持家庭及社會的秩序和安定。當時的家庭管理完全偏向男性主人，只注重妻子對丈夫的責任、子女對父親的責任，以及僕人對主人的責任。在第一世紀的希羅世界，男性的一家之主（拉丁文paterfamilias；英文father of the family）在家庭擁有絕對且不容置疑的權力，甚至掌控對妻子、兒女和僕人的生殺大權。
　　新約的家規具有護教、牧養和轉化社會的作用。第一世紀的基督徒與非信徒及羅馬政府有頗大的張力，原因包括：（1）當時的希羅世界，不同地區和不同行業都有各自的神祇和宗教儀式。但一個人成為基督徒後，就不再敬拜這些神祇，也不參加基督教以外的宗教儀式，因而被認為對所住地區或所屬行業缺乏忠誠，與眾人格格不入；（2）當時有些羅馬皇帝推行帝王崇拜（imperial cult），但基督徒只敬拜獨一的真神，拒絕參與。加上基督徒稱耶穌基督為王，所以被認為對皇帝不忠，甚至有推翻羅馬政權的嫌疑。

　　新約的家規要向當時的社會和政府表明，羅馬帝國有家規，基督徒也有家規；基督徒跟其他人一樣重視家庭和社會的秩序、和諧、安定。新約的家規並沒有試圖顛覆當時的社會秩序，沒有嘗試爭取完全的社會平等，卻重塑了傳統家庭中男性主導的權力結構，引入家庭成員之間相互責任和彼此尊重的教導，因為基督徒相信各人都同有一位主，都須向神負責。新約家規漸漸轉化當時的家庭和社會關係。

實踐新約家規的前提

　　可想而知，對於一個習慣在家中擁有絕對權力的男性家主來說，要求他約束或放棄自己部分既有的權力，並不容易。事實上，不論家庭或社會，擔任不同角色的人需要各有不同的權力；正當的權力運用是必須的。但權力往往使人腐化，絕對的權力使人絕對腐化。以弗所書提出家規之前提醒基督徒，他們已經有新的身分。他們在基督裏是新造的人，所以要脫去從前行為上的舊人，將心志改換一新，並且穿上新人，這新人是照神的形象造的，有真理的仁義和聖潔（弗四22-23）。而且，基督徒是被聖靈充滿的群體（弗五18）；靠著聖靈的幫助，有能力過敬虔的生活，實踐新約家規的教導。

　　講論家規的教導之前，保羅先提出一個基本原則，就是「當存敬畏基督的心，彼此順服」（弗五21；經文的粗體為筆者所加，下同）。一般羅馬家庭，只有妻子順服丈夫，兒女順服父親，僕人順服主人。但在基督徒家庭，各個成員也需要彼此尊重，樂意服侍對方。基督徒彼此順服，並非因社會壓力或想得著稱讚，而是基於敬畏基督的心（in the fear of Christ）和對基督的尊崇（out of reverence for Christ），因基督是所有基督徒共同的主，而且基督已為信徒立了犧牲的榜樣。

新約家規的內容

　　雖然新約的家規有別於當時希羅世界的家規，提出妻子和丈夫、兒女和父母、僕人和主人的相互責任，但仍是按照傳統，先談論從屬者的責任，即妻子對丈夫的責任、兒女對父母的責任，以及僕人對主人的責任，然後才談論家主的責任。

妻子和丈夫的相互責任

　　關於妻子和丈夫的相互責任，歌羅西書的教導只有兩節：「你們作妻子的，當順服自己的丈夫，這在主裏面是相宜的。你們作丈夫的，要愛你們的妻子，不可苦待她們。」（西三18-19）以弗所書還以教會與基督的關係，比喻妻子和丈夫的關係。作妻子的要順服自己的丈夫，如同順服主基督。教會怎樣順服基督，妻子也當怎樣順服自己的丈夫。除了說明妻子對丈夫的責任，以弗所書也說明丈夫對妻子的責任：作丈夫的要愛自己的妻子，正如基督愛教會，為教會捨己。

　　希羅社會的家規只講妻子要順服自己的丈夫，但新約家規還要求丈夫要愛自己的妻子。以弗所書更以兩個比喻說明丈夫當如何愛自己的妻子：第一，丈夫要以犧牲的愛去愛妻子，正如基督愛教會，為教會捨己（五25）；第二，丈夫要愛妻子，如同愛自己的身體（五28）。正常的人不會傷害自己的身體，總是保養愛惜。丈夫要以愛惜自己身體的心態去愛惜自己的妻子。一對男女結婚之後，夫妻已經成為一體，不分你我，所以愛妻子就如同愛自己了。

　　以弗所書總結妻子和丈夫的關係時，先提到丈夫要如何對待妻子：「你們各人都當愛妻子，如同愛自己一樣。妻子也當敬重她的丈夫。」（五33）作者可能想悄悄地轉化當時社會的價值觀。我們不時聽到一句話說：「男人需要尊重，女人需要愛」；男人渴望得到肯定和尊重，女人需要感受到被愛和接納。如果丈夫得到妻子的肯定和尊重，就會更愛妻子；同樣，若妻子感受到丈夫的愛和接納，就會更敬重丈夫，形成良性的互動和循環。在今日這個男女平等的社會，丈夫和妻子同樣需要愛和尊重，只是男女對愛和尊重的需求程度可能略有不同。

兒女和父母的相互責任

　　關於兒女對父母的責任，歌羅西書的教導是：「你們作兒女的，要凡事聽從父母，因為這是主所喜悅的。」（三20）兒女，尤其是未成年的兒女，要時常聽從父母的教導，這是神的旨意。對於聽從父母，以弗所書加上一個限制條件：「你們作兒女的，要在主裏聽從父母，這是理所當然的。」（六1）兒女理應聽從父母，但畢竟基督才是我們最終的主。如果父母的教導違背神的旨意、聖經真理、道德規範、法律規定等，兒女便不能聽從。因為順從神，不順從人，是應當的（徒五29）。

　　而且，以弗所書又指出，孝敬父母的人能夠得福，在世享長壽；這是第一條帶應許的誡命（六2-3）。十誡的首四誡是關於人和神的關係，其餘六誡是有關人與人的關係，而後者當中的第一條，即第五誡，就是「當孝敬父母」。這條誡命應許遵守的以色列人，得以在迦南美地長久安定地居住（出二十12）。同樣，今日信徒靠著聖靈的幫助，就能遵守孝敬父母的誡命，並且得以在地上長久生活。

　　關於父母對兒女的責任，歌羅西書的教導是：「你們作父親的，不要惹兒女的氣，恐怕他們失了志氣。」（三21）以前的父母，往往認為只有嚴厲的管教，才能培養出好孩子。孩子有良好的表現，父母只是甜在心裏，不會予以肯定或稱讚，恐怕「讚壞」孩子。但孩子有不良或不合乎父母期望的表現，就會加以批評或斥責，往往令孩子灰心喪志。今日有些父母卻走向另一極端，處處維護兒女，甚少要求他們盡上自己的責任，結果兒女變得自我中心，並且難以承受挫折。所以，以弗所書加上一句：「但要照著主的教導和勸戒養育他們」（六4下，和合本修訂版）。父母既要讓兒女感受到他們的愛，又要按著聖經的教導，幫助兒女學習敬神愛人。

僕人和主人的相互責任

　　關於僕人對主人的責任，以弗所書（六5-9）和歌羅西書（三22～四1）的教導大致相同：僕人要凡事順服主人，而且要誠實地服侍。即使沒有主人看管，也要忠心地完成工作。保羅呼籲僕人要以服侍基督的心態去服侍他們的主人，而且要知道他們這樣服侍主人，可以從神得著基業作為賞賜。僕人要明白，他們最終服侍的是主基督。關於主人對僕人的責任，以弗所書和歌羅西書同樣只有一節：主人要公正地對待僕人。以弗所書加上一句：「不要威嚇他們」（六9）。主人要知道，無論是他的僕人或他自己，都同有一位主在天上，大家都要向這位主負責。以弗所書又加上一句：這位主「並不偏待人」（六9）。今日我們可能是主人（例如老闆、僱主、上司），也可能是僕人（例如僱員、下屬），更可能是同時擁有雙重身分，既是上司，也是下屬；既是僱員，也是僱主。所以聖經關於僕人和主人相互責任的教導，同樣適用於今日的我們。

Summarize

　　新約家規具有護教、牧養和轉化社會的作用。新約家規的制定，讓第一世紀的希羅世界知道，基督徒同樣期盼社會保持和諧安定。希羅世界的家規，將權力集中在男性家主身上；新約的家規，則強調家中各成員要彼此順服，各有相互責任。基督徒家庭成員能夠彼此順服，是因為聖靈內住在他們中間，而且知道大家同有一位主，祂並不偏待人。雖然新約家規有其歷史背景，但仍然適用於今日的世界。今日基督徒遵循主的吩咐而有良好的夫妻、親子及主僕關係，就能夠為主作美好的見證，並且轉化這個世界。

Experiencing God's Love

Growing up in a Christian primary school, I regularly listened to teachers explain the Bible. From that time on, I had a simple faith in God and obeyed Him. Later, someone invited me to attend church worship services, which marked the beginning of my church life. However, at that time, I only participated in worship services, and since I subsequently studied abroad for many years, my connection with the church remained distant.

In October 2016, I returned to Hong Kong after graduating from a university, and shortly after, my grandfather passed away. I felt deeply saddened, but when the pastor expressed the church's condolences and care to me, I suddenly felt God's love, which stirred in me a desire to respond and seek Him further. Thereafter, I joined the church fellowship and genuinely experienced the love of brothers and sisters in Christ, joining them in the pursuit of spiritual growth.

Awakening My Heart for Missions

At the end of 2018, two brothers invited me to serve with them in Myanmar. This experience opened my eyes, deepening my understanding of faith and enriching my spiritual life. It also planted a blossoming desire in my heart for the Great Commission of spreading the gospel.

Praise be to the Lord for, after several years, my passion remained unfading, and I constantly kept the ministry of the Abundant Life Church in Myanmar in my thoughts and prayers. In the summer of 2023, I visited the area for the third time. In addition to meeting with co-workers, children, and other brothers and sisters, I took the opportunity to check the condition of the library which had been previously established. I also participated in the expansion project of that church.

Whether then or now, the situation in Myanmar remains heartbreaking. Since the military reclaimed power, the nation has been engulfed in endless warfare, leaving its people displaced and suffering. Hospitals lack doctors, schools lack teachers, and hope has vanished from the eyes of the people—alas! When I returned to the Abundant Life Church, my heart was often stirred, and I was moved to tears. I saw so many people in dire need, longing for blessings. The church's organ electronic had never worked properly; the girls' dormitory did not have a single fan, making summer nights unbearably hot and sleepless. Upon learning this, I immediately went to purchase fans, hoping that these young people could live a little better. Though such help may seem very limited in scope, I felt that it was important to do whatever I could to help.

Later, the children's pure hearts touched me yet again. They were filled with eagerness to understand Chinese literature, so I helped guide them through Su Dongpo's “Water Melody” and Li Houzhu's “Lady Yu.” Seeing their faces light up with satisfaction made the discomfort from the heat at night feel worthwhile. Their excitement reminded me to keep a pure and simple heart every day and led me to reflect that God values our innermost beings most. heart to follow the Lord?

While there, I also visited several impoverished families. Though destitute and living in conditions unfit for habitation by Hong Kong standards, they sang hymns and worshiped God from the depths of their hearts that evening. This sight moved me to tears. Additionally, I visited a newly established primary school in the rural outskirts. Despite being church-run, it even had young monks attending classes. I pray the Lord to bestow His grace upon that land and lead more teachers to come and teach them.

The multitude of ministries there is beyond counting, making me keenly aware that the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few. After returning to Hong Kong that time, I visited various churches to share my experiences and insights, hoping that more brothers and sisters in Christ would learn about the Abundant Life Church, so they may give offerings generously, pray persistently, and work together to bless the churches in Myanmar.

Embracing the Missionary Vision

Through the ministry in Myanmar, God has given me a vision for mission. May God grant me His heart for the needy and persecuted. Let me not only worship Him sincerely but also lead all nations and peoples to know Him. Even if a lifetime of mission yields only a small harvest, how wonderful it would be if it could bring us, His creation, into fellowship with the Triune Creator, singing praises to Him with joyful voices!

On August 9, 2024, I turned thirty. I am grateful that I was in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, at that time, participating in a mission trip. Under the guidance of the Rev. Eric Wing-mun Tong and the Rev. Chi-kwong Chung, I was inspired to reflect on the idea of “establishing oneself at thirty”: First, I asked myself, “Why does the Lord give me all these gifts?” Then, I asked myself, “Why have I not girded my loins and set out, now that my youth is past? Why wait until old age overtakes me?” Thus, I resolved to answer God's call, enter the seminary for training, and aspire to be used by Him.

Lord, though I am weak and inadequate, I ask for Your grace and love. Send me forth and use me. I desire to follow You all my life! Amen!

洪美安

Master of Christian Studies

洪美安

Master of Christian Studies

一、神學不是教我掌握神，而是叫我謙卑地認識祂

　　入讀神學院以前，我心裏對信仰有很多疑問，對教會也帶著一些期望。我以為修讀神學，能讓我更好地掌握信仰和回應教會的需要。回望這段旅程，我看見神學不是教我完全掌握神，而是叫我謙卑地更深認識祂。

二、神的教會屬於祂

　　入學前幾年，我常因基督徒之間的分裂而感到挫敗。我相信公義十分重要，卻也困惑：為甚麼我們有時以追求公義之名，用具傷害性的話回應意見不同的弟兄姊妹？我們努力持守真理時，會否忘記了愛？這些問題使我不安，也加深了我對衝突以至戰爭的恐懼。我甚至想：在我有生之年，會不會發生第三次世界大戰呢？

　　透過認識教會歷史和不同的神學傳統，我漸漸明白，信徒之間的分歧並不是今天才出現。即使教會並不完美，神仍然掌權，並在人的限制和紛爭中保守祂的教會。從前，我在頭腦上知道神掌權；如今，我開始因明白這真理而心裏得著平安，對戰爭的恐懼也不知不覺減輕了。

三、神有時藉著人回應我的掙扎

　　我原本希望親身接觸與我想法不同的人，從而理解他們的經歷和立場。我曾預期自己將會進入一個充滿張力的環境，神卻為我預備了一群友善、真誠和充滿愛的同學。他們是我在神學院最珍惜的恩典之一。神給我的答案不是一套理論，而是一個彼此關懷的群體。祂不只在課堂裏教導我，也藉著同行者的接納、愛和榜樣，安慰並照顧我。

四、疑問能深化信仰，而不是摧毀信仰

　　我很珍惜神學院給予我們提問及思考的空間和平台。疑問不是需要隱藏的軟弱，反而可以成為尋求神的入口。很多人都帶著自己的觀點進來，我也不例外。神學院的觀點、教會的教導與個人經歷之間產生的衝擊，對每個人來說都不一樣。當我知道自己為何相信，也學習在未有完整答案時仍然信靠神，我的信仰反而站得更穩。神學院不能傳授我所有知識，卻教曉我如何繼續尋求。

五、知道關於神的事，不等於真正認識神

　　神學知識非常寶貴，能幫助我們更準確地閱讀，更謙卑地思考，並且讓我們聆聽歷代信徒的智慧。然而，它不能取代我們與神的關係。若沒有藉著聖靈禱告、聆聽和回應，我們就可能只是知道許多關於神的資料，卻沒有更深地認識祂。我認識到，傳福音不是靠獲取更多知識，使我有能力說服和改變別人；真正改變人心的是神自己。我們要靠著聖靈更深地認識祂，別人也是藉著聖靈信靠祂，而不是靠我們的作為。

　　畢業之際，我渴望為福音、教導和教會合一而努力。行政工作有其必要，教會不可能完全沒有行政和組織；但行政本身不是教會最終的使命，而是為了支援福音工作。耶穌吩咐門徒：「所以，你們要去，使萬民作我的門徒……。」（太二十八18-20）這使命不是只交給少數的傳道人或受過神學訓練的人，而是交給整個教會。因此，神學裝備對我的意義，不只是讓我多承擔一種事奉，而是幫助我更好地回應這個呼召，希望幫助更多信徒，把時間和恩賜投入傳福音、教導真理和建立生命的事工之中。

Experiencing God's Love

Growing up in a Christian primary school, I regularly listened to teachers explain the Bible. From that time on, I had a simple faith in God and obeyed Him. Later, someone invited me to attend church worship services, which marked the beginning of my church life. However, at that time, I only participated in worship services, and since I subsequently studied abroad for many years, my connection with the church remained distant.

In October 2016, I returned to Hong Kong after graduating from a university, and shortly after, my grandfather passed away. I felt deeply saddened, but when the pastor expressed the church's condolences and care to me, I suddenly felt God's love, which stirred in me a desire to respond and seek Him further. Thereafter, I joined the church fellowship and genuinely experienced the love of brothers and sisters in Christ, joining them in the pursuit of spiritual growth.

Awakening My Heart for Missions

At the end of 2018, two brothers invited me to serve with them in Myanmar. This experience opened my eyes, deepening my understanding of faith and enriching my spiritual life. It also planted a blossoming desire in my heart for the Great Commission of spreading the gospel.

Praise be to the Lord for, after several years, my passion remained unfading, and I constantly kept the ministry of the Abundant Life Church in Myanmar in my thoughts and prayers. In the summer of 2023, I visited the area for the third time. In addition to meeting with co-workers, children, and other brothers and sisters, I took the opportunity to check the condition of the library which had been previously established. I also participated in the expansion project of that church.

Whether then or now, the situation in Myanmar remains heartbreaking. Since the military reclaimed power, the nation has been engulfed in endless warfare, leaving its people displaced and suffering. Hospitals lack doctors, schools lack teachers, and hope has vanished from the eyes of the people—alas! When I returned to the Abundant Life Church, my heart was often stirred, and I was moved to tears. I saw so many people in dire need, longing for blessings. The church's organ electronic had never worked properly; the girls' dormitory did not have a single fan, making summer nights unbearably hot and sleepless. Upon learning this, I immediately went to purchase fans, hoping that these young people could live a little better. Though such help may seem very limited in scope, I felt that it was important to do whatever I could to help.

Later, the children's pure hearts touched me yet again. They were filled with eagerness to understand Chinese literature, so I helped guide them through Su Dongpo's “Water Melody” and Li Houzhu's “Lady Yu.” Seeing their faces light up with satisfaction made the discomfort from the heat at night feel worthwhile. Their excitement reminded me to keep a pure and simple heart every day and led me to reflect that God values our innermost beings most. heart to follow the Lord?

While there, I also visited several impoverished families. Though destitute and living in conditions unfit for habitation by Hong Kong standards, they sang hymns and worshiped God from the depths of their hearts that evening. This sight moved me to tears. Additionally, I visited a newly established primary school in the rural outskirts. Despite being church-run, it even had young monks attending classes. I pray the Lord to bestow His grace upon that land and lead more teachers to come and teach them.

The multitude of ministries there is beyond counting, making me keenly aware that the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few. After returning to Hong Kong that time, I visited various churches to share my experiences and insights, hoping that more brothers and sisters in Christ would learn about the Abundant Life Church, so they may give offerings generously, pray persistently, and work together to bless the churches in Myanmar.

Embracing the Missionary Vision

Through the ministry in Myanmar, God has given me a vision for mission. May God grant me His heart for the needy and persecuted. Let me not only worship Him sincerely but also lead all nations and peoples to know Him. Even if a lifetime of mission yields only a small harvest, how wonderful it would be if it could bring us, His creation, into fellowship with the Triune Creator, singing praises to Him with joyful voices!

On August 9, 2024, I turned thirty. I am grateful that I was in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, at that time, participating in a mission trip. Under the guidance of the Rev. Eric Wing-mun Tong and the Rev. Chi-kwong Chung, I was inspired to reflect on the idea of “establishing oneself at thirty”: First, I asked myself, “Why does the Lord give me all these gifts?” Then, I asked myself, “Why have I not girded my loins and set out, now that my youth is past? Why wait until old age overtakes me?” Thus, I resolved to answer God's call, enter the seminary for training, and aspire to be used by Him.

Lord, though I am weak and inadequate, I ask for Your grace and love. Send me forth and use me. I desire to follow You all my life! Amen!

劉芷茵

Master of Divinity

劉芷茵

Master of Divinity

上主眼中重要的事？重要的是……

　　還記得剛入學的時候，有前輩提過「很多東西（包括人和事）比成績更重要」。我本來不太明白，後來，我發現這句話正呼應剛入學時老師在屬靈操練營的提醒：「在上主眼中，甚麼才是最重要的？怎樣做才是祂所喜悅的？」三年過去，我開始明白，重要的不是向祂或他者證明自己，而是聚焦於主，回應主愛，活出基督的生命。

從回應主愛到學習與事奉

　　神是無所不知的；祂呼召我以先，已知道我的各種限制和軟弱。在三年的神學旅程中，我明白到自己只能天天靠主的恩典，讓神更新改變自己的生命。得主喜悅，就是聚焦於上主，好好運用祂所賜的一切去愛主愛人。學習與事奉不是非此即彼，而是彼此豐富。學習知識，是為了回應主的呼召和愛，更認識主，學習主愛，好好服侍主；在人群中事奉，是為了回應人的需要，實踐去愛，回應上主，從而學習並更認識何謂愛。

從軟弱中信靠，經歷神的豐盛

　　上主讓我學習從軟弱中仰賴主的恩典，這對我來說是莫大的挑戰。一年級暑假期間，親人接連患病、離世；自己亦因意外導致右肩韌帶撕裂，右手活動受限，加上復康的過程漫長，使我懷疑自己能否繼續學業。在掙扎中，上主讓我學習在軟弱時更要全然信靠祂，一邊接受復健治療，一邊完成學業，甚至同時在學生會與同學同心事奉。或者事奉的初衷只是一顆願意的心，並非聚焦於自己沒有甚麼而不能事奉神。我從沒想像過在限制中仍能平安和喜樂地事奉主，感謝神讓我經歷祂的豐盛。

從頭腦認識到從心認識

　　另一位前輩提醒我：「讀神學很多時是用這裏（指著頭腦）認識神，但不要忘記從這裏（指著心）認識神。」從心認識神包括常常親近主，辨明祂的心意，以及切身地體會耶穌基督深深的愛。耶穌基督在地上與人一同生活，包括替人治病、趕鬼和教導他們。基督的道成肉身，體現祂犧牲的愛和捨己，也教導門徒捨己跟從祂。耶穌既為神的兒子，亦是天上的君王，卻因著愛，甘願作僕人去服侍人，作我們的榜樣。

從群體中學習，明白主愛

　　感謝上主，讓我親眼看見師長、同工、同學如何在生活細節中活出主愛：在我傷口未愈合時，親自替我洗傷口；在我行動不便、孤單之時，主動關顧我，與我分享，為我禱告；在知悉我提不起右手時，主動借外置鍵盤給我，照顧我日用的飲食，替我到飯堂領飯等。他們不單顧自己的事，也顧別人的事，並以基督耶穌的心為心，活現出何謂彼此相顧，激發愛心，勉勵行善。他們的榜樣提醒我，能夠事奉和去愛的時候，不論多微小，都要好好把握機會。

　　學習與事奉不是對立的，認識神亦然。在神學院學習，除了頭腦上更認識神，也包括重新從心出發，向主學習，明白主愛。我們每天每刻在主面前學習，也在整個群體中彼此學習，在基督裏體現祂的愛。上主知道我們的需要，也知道我們的心，求主幫助和更新我們，貼近祂的心。

　　「你們若有彼此相愛的心，眾人因此就認出你們是我的門徒了。」（約十三35）

常常禱告，不可灰心

　　剛入學時，我問眾師姐：「讀神學要花上很多時間，尚且未必讀得明白，如何兼顧事奉，關心他人，又不忽略身邊的家人和朋友，還要安靜下來祈禱讀經呢？」她們只是說：「這也得去做的。」她們看似未有解釋，笑而不語，我現在開始明白箇中意思。不是我們能夠，只是我們仍要努力嘗試並順服，信靠並交託那呼召我們的上主。然而，最不能缺少的就是禱告。祈禱房裏的跪椅寫著「常常禱告」、「不可灰心」（路十八1）。不論是獨處安靜禱告，還是在群體中一同聆聽聖言後彼此代求，皆是我們成為門徒的生命中不可缺少的。

　　願上主繼續帶領我們前行，願聖靈時刻幫助，讓我們在路上彼此禱告守望，成為又忠心又蒙祂喜悅的僕人，活出基督因著愛而捨己的生命。

Experiencing God's Love

Growing up in a Christian primary school, I regularly listened to teachers explain the Bible. From that time on, I had a simple faith in God and obeyed Him. Later, someone invited me to attend church worship services, which marked the beginning of my church life. However, at that time, I only participated in worship services, and since I subsequently studied abroad for many years, my connection with the church remained distant.

In October 2016, I returned to Hong Kong after graduating from a university, and shortly after, my grandfather passed away. I felt deeply saddened, but when the pastor expressed the church's condolences and care to me, I suddenly felt God's love, which stirred in me a desire to respond and seek Him further. Thereafter, I joined the church fellowship and genuinely experienced the love of brothers and sisters in Christ, joining them in the pursuit of spiritual growth.

Awakening My Heart for Missions

At the end of 2018, two brothers invited me to serve with them in Myanmar. This experience opened my eyes, deepening my understanding of faith and enriching my spiritual life. It also planted a blossoming desire in my heart for the Great Commission of spreading the gospel.

Praise be to the Lord for, after several years, my passion remained unfading, and I constantly kept the ministry of the Abundant Life Church in Myanmar in my thoughts and prayers. In the summer of 2023, I visited the area for the third time. In addition to meeting with co-workers, children, and other brothers and sisters, I took the opportunity to check the condition of the library which had been previously established. I also participated in the expansion project of that church.

Whether then or now, the situation in Myanmar remains heartbreaking. Since the military reclaimed power, the nation has been engulfed in endless warfare, leaving its people displaced and suffering. Hospitals lack doctors, schools lack teachers, and hope has vanished from the eyes of the people—alas! When I returned to the Abundant Life Church, my heart was often stirred, and I was moved to tears. I saw so many people in dire need, longing for blessings. The church's organ electronic had never worked properly; the girls' dormitory did not have a single fan, making summer nights unbearably hot and sleepless. Upon learning this, I immediately went to purchase fans, hoping that these young people could live a little better. Though such help may seem very limited in scope, I felt that it was important to do whatever I could to help.

Later, the children's pure hearts touched me yet again. They were filled with eagerness to understand Chinese literature, so I helped guide them through Su Dongpo's “Water Melody” and Li Houzhu's “Lady Yu.” Seeing their faces light up with satisfaction made the discomfort from the heat at night feel worthwhile. Their excitement reminded me to keep a pure and simple heart every day and led me to reflect that God values our innermost beings most. heart to follow the Lord?

While there, I also visited several impoverished families. Though destitute and living in conditions unfit for habitation by Hong Kong standards, they sang hymns and worshiped God from the depths of their hearts that evening. This sight moved me to tears. Additionally, I visited a newly established primary school in the rural outskirts. Despite being church-run, it even had young monks attending classes. I pray the Lord to bestow His grace upon that land and lead more teachers to come and teach them.

The multitude of ministries there is beyond counting, making me keenly aware that the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few. After returning to Hong Kong that time, I visited various churches to share my experiences and insights, hoping that more brothers and sisters in Christ would learn about the Abundant Life Church, so they may give offerings generously, pray persistently, and work together to bless the churches in Myanmar.

Embracing the Missionary Vision

Through the ministry in Myanmar, God has given me a vision for mission. May God grant me His heart for the needy and persecuted. Let me not only worship Him sincerely but also lead all nations and peoples to know Him. Even if a lifetime of mission yields only a small harvest, how wonderful it would be if it could bring us, His creation, into fellowship with the Triune Creator, singing praises to Him with joyful voices!

On August 9, 2024, I turned thirty. I am grateful that I was in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, at that time, participating in a mission trip. Under the guidance of the Rev. Eric Wing-mun Tong and the Rev. Chi-kwong Chung, I was inspired to reflect on the idea of “establishing oneself at thirty”: First, I asked myself, “Why does the Lord give me all these gifts?” Then, I asked myself, “Why have I not girded my loins and set out, now that my youth is past? Why wait until old age overtakes me?” Thus, I resolved to answer God's call, enter the seminary for training, and aspire to be used by Him.

Lord, though I am weak and inadequate, I ask for Your grace and love. Send me forth and use me. I desire to follow You all my life! Amen!

李秋雨

Master of Divinity

李秋雨

Master of Divinity

　　6月某天，一位同學突然發信息給我：「秋雨早晨！忽然想起，我從未聽你說為何要進修。你犧牲這麼多，特別是家庭生活，背後的動力和原因是甚麼？」我含糊地講了幾個理由，也承認有時並非完全理解自己所做的選擇。這條神學路，來時也許沒有清晰的答案，但仍可以與上帝的恩典不期而遇。除了增長知識和見識，這更是一場內在自我成長之旅。我遇見了真實的自己，遇見上帝，也遇到一個真信仰群體。

遇見自己：在破碎中接納本相

　　從小到大，我可算是個比較「乖」的人。學生時代是「乖乖女」、「好學生」。結婚後，我是個全能主婦。在教會裏，我立志做個謙卑的基督僕人。我總在暗暗要求自己，別讓他人失望，努力做到最好……。但讀到巴默爾（Parker J. Palmer）的著作《與自己對話》（Let Your Life Speak）時，被問及「你現在過得幸福嗎？」，我幾乎情緒失控。「我真的可能正過著一個不屬於自己的生活。」這樣的聲音讓我感到害怕。我只是找到一種「聖潔」的方式生活，但其實那並不是我真正的自己。安靜下來，我甚至不知道自己喜歡吃甚麼，真正想做甚麼。我察覺自己內外有許多不一致，這樣的割裂令我迷失。我不過是用各樣身分和事務，掩蓋內在的匱乏和破碎。

　　我嘗試正視那個真實的自己：混亂、疲憊、迷茫、無助。我承認自己有許多事做不到，承認自己的軟弱和需要。這並不是失敗，而是信心的開始。

遇見上帝：在靜默中回應祂的呼喚

　　禱告對我來說，有時很困難，因我從小的信仰經驗告訴我，敬虔的人都是花大量時間跪在主面前禱告的。我過往的禱告，更多是我在說，讓神聽，或我把需要告訴神，等著祂來成就。彷彿我是主動者，上帝是回應者。靈閱（Lectio Divina）和歸心祈禱對我很有幫助。兩者的共通點是人要在神面前安靜，聆聽上帝的聲音，順從聖靈的感動.

　　原來在我與神的關係中，我從來不是也不應該是主動者，而是回應者。上帝來尋找我，是祂先渴望我（如奧古斯丁所言）。無論是信靠、事奉，還是祈禱，這些都不只是我的行動，更是祂的行動。我需要的就是安靜去聆聽祂，聆聽這位一直向我發出邀請和呼喚的父神，並且相信祂的慈愛永遠穩固。

遇見群體：在差異中彼此建立

　　之前有同學說，神學院裏「I人」（introvert，即性格內向者）居多，說我很E（extrovert，即性格外向者）。也有人說教會裏「I人」居多，所以帶活動不容易。這兩年的信仰群體經歷，讓我體會真群體凝聚在一起，最重要的並不是性格，而是我們是否都願意在基督裏調整自己。因為團契的根基從來不是各人投緣與否，性格是否合拍，而是藉著耶穌基督、在耶穌基督裏相交（如潘霍華所言）。

　　沒有基督，情投意合的愛人都可能鬧掰，何況一群本來互不相干的陌生人。群體中各人的年齡、認知、性格各不相同，有人理性，有人感性……差異性正是上帝給群體的禮物，因我們每個人都只能看見上帝的一面，但當我們彼此聆聽，互相學習，上帝的形象就在我們中間變得更加完整。

　　感恩在這次神學之旅中，我遇到與自己不同的同路人，他們似兄長、牧者、老師、朋友，給予我接納、尊重、支持、提醒、幫助、陪伴，使我對「教會是基督的身體」有了更切身的體會。我們如此不同，卻可以互相建立。

　　願上帝繼續施恩帶領，讓我在每一個當下，都能遇見祂，並且遇見祂放在我生命中的每一個人。

Experiencing God's Love

Growing up in a Christian primary school, I regularly listened to teachers explain the Bible. From that time on, I had a simple faith in God and obeyed Him. Later, someone invited me to attend church worship services, which marked the beginning of my church life. However, at that time, I only participated in worship services, and since I subsequently studied abroad for many years, my connection with the church remained distant.

In October 2016, I returned to Hong Kong after graduating from a university, and shortly after, my grandfather passed away. I felt deeply saddened, but when the pastor expressed the church's condolences and care to me, I suddenly felt God's love, which stirred in me a desire to respond and seek Him further. Thereafter, I joined the church fellowship and genuinely experienced the love of brothers and sisters in Christ, joining them in the pursuit of spiritual growth.

Awakening My Heart for Missions

At the end of 2018, two brothers invited me to serve with them in Myanmar. This experience opened my eyes, deepening my understanding of faith and enriching my spiritual life. It also planted a blossoming desire in my heart for the Great Commission of spreading the gospel.

Praise be to the Lord for, after several years, my passion remained unfading, and I constantly kept the ministry of the Abundant Life Church in Myanmar in my thoughts and prayers. In the summer of 2023, I visited the area for the third time. In addition to meeting with co-workers, children, and other brothers and sisters, I took the opportunity to check the condition of the library which had been previously established. I also participated in the expansion project of that church.

Whether then or now, the situation in Myanmar remains heartbreaking. Since the military reclaimed power, the nation has been engulfed in endless warfare, leaving its people displaced and suffering. Hospitals lack doctors, schools lack teachers, and hope has vanished from the eyes of the people—alas! When I returned to the Abundant Life Church, my heart was often stirred, and I was moved to tears. I saw so many people in dire need, longing for blessings. The church's organ electronic had never worked properly; the girls' dormitory did not have a single fan, making summer nights unbearably hot and sleepless. Upon learning this, I immediately went to purchase fans, hoping that these young people could live a little better. Though such help may seem very limited in scope, I felt that it was important to do whatever I could to help.

Later, the children's pure hearts touched me yet again. They were filled with eagerness to understand Chinese literature, so I helped guide them through Su Dongpo's “Water Melody” and Li Houzhu's “Lady Yu.” Seeing their faces light up with satisfaction made the discomfort from the heat at night feel worthwhile. Their excitement reminded me to keep a pure and simple heart every day and led me to reflect that God values our innermost beings most. heart to follow the Lord?

While there, I also visited several impoverished families. Though destitute and living in conditions unfit for habitation by Hong Kong standards, they sang hymns and worshiped God from the depths of their hearts that evening. This sight moved me to tears. Additionally, I visited a newly established primary school in the rural outskirts. Despite being church-run, it even had young monks attending classes. I pray the Lord to bestow His grace upon that land and lead more teachers to come and teach them.

The multitude of ministries there is beyond counting, making me keenly aware that the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few. After returning to Hong Kong that time, I visited various churches to share my experiences and insights, hoping that more brothers and sisters in Christ would learn about the Abundant Life Church, so they may give offerings generously, pray persistently, and work together to bless the churches in Myanmar.

Embracing the Missionary Vision

Through the ministry in Myanmar, God has given me a vision for mission. May God grant me His heart for the needy and persecuted. Let me not only worship Him sincerely but also lead all nations and peoples to know Him. Even if a lifetime of mission yields only a small harvest, how wonderful it would be if it could bring us, His creation, into fellowship with the Triune Creator, singing praises to Him with joyful voices!

On August 9, 2024, I turned thirty. I am grateful that I was in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, at that time, participating in a mission trip. Under the guidance of the Rev. Eric Wing-mun Tong and the Rev. Chi-kwong Chung, I was inspired to reflect on the idea of “establishing oneself at thirty”: First, I asked myself, “Why does the Lord give me all these gifts?” Then, I asked myself, “Why have I not girded my loins and set out, now that my youth is past? Why wait until old age overtakes me?” Thus, I resolved to answer God's call, enter the seminary for training, and aspire to be used by Him.

Lord, though I am weak and inadequate, I ask for Your grace and love. Send me forth and use me. I desire to follow You all my life! Amen!

陳柏銳

Master of Divinity

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

陳牧師與太太彩玲及兒子若天

重踏神學之路

　　2014年神學學士畢業到現在，剛好十二個年頭。畢業之初，有感這個大眾學歷普遍偏高的時代，只帶著神學學士學位來牧會，在不久的將來或會略顯不足，於是畢業後第一年，我就毅然決定回到母校報讀道學碩士。眼見身邊不少前輩、好友，因種種原因未能完成第二個學位；在修讀之初我就暗自立志，非完成不可，絕不讓自己半途而廢。只是，教會、家庭、社會及個人發生種種變動，一度打擊我繼續進修的決心。後來，太太蒙召讀神學，這成為我重新開始及完成學業的契機。感謝天父的恩典，今年我將會與她一同站在畢業典禮的台上。

渴求成長進深

　　休學後重啟學業，我發覺自己上課及學習時的心態出現了微妙的變化。由原初出於單純為了學歷上的需要，逐漸變成對學習聖經、神學和實踐技巧的熱切渴求。我越來越希望自己能夠將牧會多年的經驗，與所學的聖經和神學知識互相對話和整合，並在眾多神學、倫理取態中尋覓屬於自己的取向。而且我渴望在不同老師身上學習不同的事奉技巧，成為我牧養上的助益，以應對這個瞬息萬變時代的需要。相比進修初期，我越來越清楚自己的「短板」和需要，並且更深切地渴求成長和進深，以回報天父的恩情和弟兄姊妹生命的需要。

突破迷惘困境

　　這十二年裏，我看到、聽到不同師長的到來和離開；從他們身上，我學習到聖經、神學、歷史、實踐等方面不同的研究進路及其背後的方法論。這些不同學說，一度使我十分迷惘和混亂，尤其是回應教會需要和社會議題時，賴特（N. T. Wright）的保羅新觀和侯活士（Stanley Hauerwas）的教會倫理學，是否唯一的聲音和出路？假如我們將福音信息完全拆解成為零碎，是否真的有能力將它們重新整合起來？宗教改革先賢花一生心血努力所得的成果，對於今天的我們來說，其價值和意義何在？我們是否真的可以憑一兩代人的努力，就取代宗教改革至今芸芸眾多先賢的努力？我們是否真的認識他們的看法和想法？這些思想上的掙扎，多年來一直困擾著我。

　　及至後來張楷弦老師講授「天啟保羅」，讓我發現聖經研究並非只有單一方向，一成不變。不同學者的聲音雖有其價值，也有其限制。在教會的處境中，我們需要學會聆聽不同的聲音（包括弟兄姊妹和學者），辨識上帝此刻對教會的心意，以及上帝要我們如何（在方法層面）牧養群羊，帶領他們回應這個時代的需要。此外，黃福光教授教導的聖經神學，幫助我在眾多不同聖經研究進路中，找到屬於自己的定位，讓我不再像鸚鵡學舌一樣，只停留於某某老師、某某學者的想法和意見，而是開始嘗試建立一個屬於自己的聖經神學立場和神學方法論。誠如《基督徒的神學思考》一書所言，每個基督徒都是神學家，有屬於他們的信仰思考。又如鄧紹光教授在課堂上經常提醒我們：「正信、正行」，信仰不只是尋求理解，真實的信仰更直接影響我們的所是、所為。最後吳國傑教授曾在多個不同場合提醒我們，要了解一個人的思想和生平，最好的方法是研究第一手資料，而不是通過別人覆述。這讓我對人和事物多了一份警覺，不再只停留在單一的敍述和覆述，而是尋求原典或更多的敍述角度，對所認識的事物進行反覆的比對、思考和學習。

　　最後，感謝每一位在神學學習路上幫助過我的師長、同工、同學、家人、朋友、教會的肢體，更感謝那位拯救我、呼召我的三一上帝。願榮耀頌讚歸給祂，直到永遠。

Experiencing God's Love

Growing up in a Christian primary school, I regularly listened to teachers explain the Bible. From that time on, I had a simple faith in God and obeyed Him. Later, someone invited me to attend church worship services, which marked the beginning of my church life. However, at that time, I only participated in worship services, and since I subsequently studied abroad for many years, my connection with the church remained distant.

In October 2016, I returned to Hong Kong after graduating from a university, and shortly after, my grandfather passed away. I felt deeply saddened, but when the pastor expressed the church's condolences and care to me, I suddenly felt God's love, which stirred in me a desire to respond and seek Him further. Thereafter, I joined the church fellowship and genuinely experienced the love of brothers and sisters in Christ, joining them in the pursuit of spiritual growth.

Awakening My Heart for Missions

At the end of 2018, two brothers invited me to serve with them in Myanmar. This experience opened my eyes, deepening my understanding of faith and enriching my spiritual life. It also planted a blossoming desire in my heart for the Great Commission of spreading the gospel.

Praise be to the Lord for, after several years, my passion remained unfading, and I constantly kept the ministry of the Abundant Life Church in Myanmar in my thoughts and prayers. In the summer of 2023, I visited the area for the third time. In addition to meeting with co-workers, children, and other brothers and sisters, I took the opportunity to check the condition of the library which had been previously established. I also participated in the expansion project of that church.

Whether then or now, the situation in Myanmar remains heartbreaking. Since the military reclaimed power, the nation has been engulfed in endless warfare, leaving its people displaced and suffering. Hospitals lack doctors, schools lack teachers, and hope has vanished from the eyes of the people—alas! When I returned to the Abundant Life Church, my heart was often stirred, and I was moved to tears. I saw so many people in dire need, longing for blessings. The church's organ electronic had never worked properly; the girls' dormitory did not have a single fan, making summer nights unbearably hot and sleepless. Upon learning this, I immediately went to purchase fans, hoping that these young people could live a little better. Though such help may seem very limited in scope, I felt that it was important to do whatever I could to help.

Later, the children's pure hearts touched me yet again. They were filled with eagerness to understand Chinese literature, so I helped guide them through Su Dongpo's “Water Melody” and Li Houzhu's “Lady Yu.” Seeing their faces light up with satisfaction made the discomfort from the heat at night feel worthwhile. Their excitement reminded me to keep a pure and simple heart every day and led me to reflect that God values our innermost beings most. heart to follow the Lord?

While there, I also visited several impoverished families. Though destitute and living in conditions unfit for habitation by Hong Kong standards, they sang hymns and worshiped God from the depths of their hearts that evening. This sight moved me to tears. Additionally, I visited a newly established primary school in the rural outskirts. Despite being church-run, it even had young monks attending classes. I pray the Lord to bestow His grace upon that land and lead more teachers to come and teach them.

The multitude of ministries there is beyond counting, making me keenly aware that the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few. After returning to Hong Kong that time, I visited various churches to share my experiences and insights, hoping that more brothers and sisters in Christ would learn about the Abundant Life Church, so they may give offerings generously, pray persistently, and work together to bless the churches in Myanmar.

Embracing the Missionary Vision

Through the ministry in Myanmar, God has given me a vision for mission. May God grant me His heart for the needy and persecuted. Let me not only worship Him sincerely but also lead all nations and peoples to know Him. Even if a lifetime of mission yields only a small harvest, how wonderful it would be if it could bring us, His creation, into fellowship with the Triune Creator, singing praises to Him with joyful voices!

On August 9, 2024, I turned thirty. I am grateful that I was in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, at that time, participating in a mission trip. Under the guidance of the Rev. Eric Wing-mun Tong and the Rev. Chi-kwong Chung, I was inspired to reflect on the idea of “establishing oneself at thirty”: First, I asked myself, “Why does the Lord give me all these gifts?” Then, I asked myself, “Why have I not girded my loins and set out, now that my youth is past? Why wait until old age overtakes me?” Thus, I resolved to answer God's call, enter the seminary for training, and aspire to be used by Him.

Lord, though I am weak and inadequate, I ask for Your grace and love. Send me forth and use me. I desire to follow You all my life! Amen!

Please refer to the Chinese page.

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In 1951, the forefathers of the Baptist Church received their calling and established the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary during a difficult time. Protected by the Lord, the Baptist Theological Seminary has grown continuously through transformation over the past 75 years, striving to fulfill its mission of theological education and research in Hong Kong. It diligently cultivates servant leaders with theological wisdom, spiritual character, and practical service abilities, nurturing generation after generation of pastors, missionaries, and believer leaders. Together with brothers and sisters, it builds up the church, expands God's Kingdom, and exerts influence in society, serving as salt and light, and witnessing to the Gospel of Christ and peace.

To commemorate the Lord's profound grace and love, our institution held a series of anniversary events under the theme "Standing in Christ, Facing the Future." In a world of chaos and constant change, only by standing firmly on the solid cornerstone of Jesus Christ can we navigate the turbulent currents of the world and face the unpredictable future, putting the true word of Christ into practice in this era. Among the most important anniversary events were the "75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship and Musical Concert" and the "75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Dinner." This issue of the institution's newsletter features photos from these two gatherings, allowing readers to relive moments from them.

Thanksgiving Worship and Musical Praise Meeting

On the afternoon of April 19th this year, our college held its 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship and Musical Praise Meeting at the Kowloon City Baptist Church. The college choir, alumni choir, and choir members from nineteen Baptist churches formed a large joint choir of over 250 people, offering a sacrifice of thanksgiving and praise to the Lord together with brothers and sisters in Christ, becoming a beautiful mark of unity in serving God during this historic moment of "Baptism of God."

In 1951, our Baptist forebears, responding to a divine calling, established the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary (HKBTS) during a troubled time. By God's grace, over the past seventy-five years, HKBTS has grown steadily amidst changing times, while striving to fulfill its mission of theological education and research in Hong Kong. Diligently nurturing servant-leaders who possess theological wisdom, spiritual character, and practical ministry skills, HKBTS has trained generation after generation of pastors, missionaries, and lay leaders. In unity with brothers and sisters in Christ, they have built up churches, expanded the Kingdom of God, and exerted a positive influence in society, serving as salt and light and bearing witness to Christ's Gospel of peace.

To commemorate the Lord's abundant grace and love, HKBTS has organized a series of anniversary events under the theme “Stand Firm in Christ, Advance Toward the Future.” In a world of turmoil and ever-changing circumstances, only by standing firm on the solid cornerstone of Jesus Christ can we face an uncertain future amidst the world's currents and put His truth into practice in this age. The highlights of the celebrations were the “75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise” and the “75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Banquet.” This issue of the Newsletter features a selection of photos from these two events, inviting readers to relive the moments captured therein.

The Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise

On the afternoon of April 19 this year, HKBTS held a “75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise” at the Kowloon City Baptist Church. On that day, the Seminary Choir and the Alumni Choir joined forces with choir members from 19 Baptist churches to form a single choir of over 250 singers. This choir, together with the congregation, offered a sacrifice of thanksgiving and praise to the Lord, creating a beautiful evening of unity and serving God during this historic moment for HKBTS.

"Please... grant us to encounter You in music and truth!"

Pastor Tang Rongmin, a member of the board of directors of the seminary, led the congregation in prayer for the seminary's educational ministry and for the day's gathering.

“We pray … that we may encounter You through music and truth!”

The Rev. Wing-mun Tong, a member of our Board of Directors, led the congregation in prayer for HKBTS's educational ministry and the events of the day.

"...together we will witness God's profound grace and love, and the historic moment of 'Baptism by God'."

Reverend Chung Chi-kwong, Chairman of the Board of Directors, welcomed all the friends who came to worship with us and gave a brief introduction to the college's recent situation and future prospects.

“… to witness together God’s profound grace and love, as well as this historic moment of HKBTS.”

The Rev. Chi-kwong Chung, Chairman of our Board of Directors, welcomed our friends from all quarters who joined us in worship and provided an overview of HKBTS's recent developments and plans for the future.

"The Lord Jesus Christ, the cornerstone!..."

A large choir of over 250 people sang "Christ, Cornerstone!" Their voices, melodious and powerful, resonated throughout the venue, deeply moving everyone present.

“Lord Jesus, the Cornerstone! …”

The joint choir of over 250 singers presented “Lord Jesus, the Cornerstone!” Their voices, melodious yet powerful, echoed throughout the venue, deeply moving the hearts of all present.

"This is our story of gratitude."

The college choir performed three stories of students on their faith journey in the form of mime: "Seeing the Lord's grace on the path of raising children", "Being a blessing to family members on the path of faith", and "Being loved by God on the path of theological study".

“"These are our stories of gratitude."”

The Seminary Choir presented three stories about students' journeys of faith through a pantomime: "Witnessing God's Grace in Parenting," "Becoming a Blessing to Our Families on Their Faith Journeys," and "Loved by God on the Seminary Journey."’

"I offer you a sacrifice of thanksgiving."

Our board member, Evangelist Yang Baohua, led the congregation in reciting the Response Text.

“"I will offer to You the sacrifice of thanksgiving."”

Ms. Po-wah Yeung, Honorary Secretary of our Board of Directors, led the congregation in reciting the responsorial prayer.

"Jesus himself approached them and walked with them..."

Reverend Chen Zhiqiang, Vice Chairman of the Board, read aloud from the Word of God, Luke 24:13-35, concerning the story on the road to Emmaus.

“Jesus himself drew near and went with them…”

The Rev. Che-keung Chan, Vice Chairman of our Board of Directors, read from Luke 24:13-35, the account of the journey to Emmaus.

"May you...hold hope in your hearts...stand in Christ, face the present together, and embrace the future."

"May you...hold hope in your hearts...stand in Christ, face the present together, and embrace the future."
Dean Tsao Wei-tung, in his speech entitled "Standing in Christ, Facing the Future: Hope on the Road to Emmaus," encouraged us to always have hope: to wait patiently, to believe that Jesus Christ is our salvation in times of trouble; to believe that the Bible is the source of hope; and to believe that practical theology, which takes the Bible as the source of hope, can appropriately respond to the challenges of the present.

“"I earnestly hope that you … will keep hope in your hearts … stand firm in Christ, face today's challenges together, and look forward to the future."”

President Joshua Cho, speaking on the theme “Stand Firm in Christ, Advance Toward the Future: Hope on the Road to Emmaus,” encourages us to persist in hope: to wait patiently, trusting that Jesus Christ is our salvation in times of trouble; to believe that Scripture is the source of hope; and to affirm that practical theology, grounded in Scripture as the source of hope, can respond appropriately to the challenges of our time.

Thanksgiving Dinner

That evening, our institute hosted its 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Dinner at the London Grand Restaurant. Board members, faculty, students, staff, and friends from all walks of life gathered to reflect on God's blessings, exchange ideas, encourage one another, and enjoy a joyful time of fellowship. Guests included pastors and staff from Baptist and other denominations, friends from the theological community, leaders of Christian organizations, members of the Institute's Council, the president, general secretary, and standing committee members of the Hong Kong Baptist Convention, alumni, guests from afar, and brothers and sisters who care about "Baptismal God." We sincerely thank all members for their blessings and support!

Thanksgiving Banquet

That evening, HKBTS hosted a “75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Banquet” at the London Restaurant. Our Board members, faculty, students, staff, and friends from all quarters gathered to count God's blessings, commune with one another, share encouragement, and enjoy a joyful time of fellowship. Guests included pastors and ministers from the Baptist churches and other denominations, friends from the theological community, leaders of Christian organizations, members of our President's Council, the President, General Secretary, and Standing Committee members of the Baptist Convention of Hong Kong, as well as alumni from different years, guests coming from afar, and brothers and sisters who care deeply about HKBTS. We sincerely thank all these members of the body of Christ for their blessings and support!

"I rejoice, and thank God in my heart..."

As the banquet began, teachers, students, alumni, and guests gathered together to sing "Joy" in thanksgiving to God.

“Give thanks with a grateful heart…”

As the banquet began, our faculty, students, alumni, and all guests gathered together to sing “Give Thanks” as an expression of gratitude to God.

"Tonight, we are surrounded by distinguished guests... Christ family members sharing and exchanging blessings."

On behalf of the hospital, Chairman of the Board, Pastor Zhong Zhiguang, welcomed all the friends who came to offer their congratulations and express their gratitude with us. He also hoped that everyone would continue to walk with "Baptismal God" and work together to cultivate more servant leaders for God's Kingdom.

“Tonight, we are honored to have such a distinguished gathering … as members of the Lord’s family come together to fellowship and share in His grace.”

On behalf of HKBTS, Chairman of our Board of Directors, the Rev. Chi-kwong Chong, extended a warm welcome to all who joined us to celebrate and give thanks. He also expressed his hope that they would continue to walk alongside HKBTS, working together to raise up more servant-leaders for the Kingdom of God.

"May there be no shortage of soldiers, no retreat from the truth, and no slumber of the church."

Reverend Tong Wing-man, President of the Hong Kong Baptist Convention, congratulated the church on behalf of the convention and called on everyone and all churches to be partners with "Baptist God" and fight together for God's kingdom.

“"May faithful soldiers never be lacking, the truth never waver, and the church never slumber."”

The Rev. Wing-mun Tong, President of the Baptist Convention of Hong Kong, extended congratulations to HKBTS on behalf of the Convention and called upon all individuals and churches to partner with HKBTS in striving together for the Kingdom of God.

"Through seventy-five years of vicissitudes, we have tasted the Lord's grace; planting peaches and nurturing plums, the city is filled with fragrance."

Rooted in Christ, looking towards the future; tomorrow's spiritual palace, today's school.

Reverend Chung Kin-kai (left), Chairman of the Hong Kong Chinese Christian Churches Union, presented the church with a seven-character quatrain and a memorial seat on behalf of his union, wishing that God would continue to use "Baptismal God" to stand on the rock of Christ, nurturing more worthy workers, igniting the light of truth for the churches in Hong Kong, mainland China and the world, and glorifying the Father.

“Seventy-five years of trials and grace,
Peach and plum trees cultivated,
whose scent fills the city's space.
We look ahead with Christ as our base:
Tomorrow's spiritual temple,
today’s discipleship place.”

The Rev. Kin-kai Chung (left), Chairman of the Hong Kong Chinese Christian Churches Union, presented HKBTS with a poem and a keepsake on behalf of the Union, conveying their wishes that God would continue to use HKBTS so that it keeps on standing firm in Christ, the Rock, and train more faithful workers who will shine the light of truth for churches in Hong Kong, mainland China, and around the world, bringing glory to the Heavenly Father.

"The shepherd is the messenger of hope."

Dean Cao Weitong began by sharing short videos from three alumni, pointing out that one of the characteristics of "Baptismal Theology" theological education is to cultivate students' spiritual qualities of "faith, hope and love," and in recent years, it has focused on deepening the element of "hope," hoping that students will become pastors who convey hope.

“"Pastors are bearers of hope."”

President Joshua Cho began his remarks by referring to a short video in which three alumni shared their stories, noting that one of the distinctive features of HKBTS's theological education is its commitment to nurturing students' spiritual character marked by ’faith, hope, and love.“ In recent years, HKBTS has placed particular emphasis on deepening the element of ”hope“ so that students may become pastors who convey hope.

"Continue to lead the seminary on the path ahead, and glorify Your name."

Reverend Lee Kwok-hung, General Secretary of the Hong Kong Baptist Convention, led everyone in a prayer of thanksgiving and offered thanks for the 75 years of "Baptist God" nurturing countless workers of the Kingdom of Heaven, and prayed that the Lord would establish the college to continue to be faithful to its mission of theological education.

“We pray that You continue to lead the seminary on the path ahead, to the glory of Your name.”

The Rev. Vincent Kwok-hung Lee, General Secretary of the Baptist Convention of Hong Kong, led the congregation in the table prayer, giving thanks for the countless workers for the Kingdom of Heaven that HKBTS has nurtured over the past 75 years, and praying that the Lord would strengthen HKBTS to remain faithful to its mission of theological education.

Embark on the 7.5-second challenge!

The guests enthusiastically participated in the games, nervously pressing the timer. The three who came closest to 7.5 seconds received gifts, creating a joyful atmosphere.

The 7.5-Second Challenge

Guests enthusiastically joined the party game, stopping the timer with bated breath. The three participants whose times came closest to 7.5 seconds were awarded gifts, bringing joy throughout the dining hall.

"I am truly grateful to God... I have not forgotten the nurturing I received from Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary, which has made me a worker who is not ashamed and who rightly divides the word of truth."

The oldest alumnus that evening, 81-year-old Reverend Liang Deshun, has faithfully served the Lord around the world for many years. A year ago, upon learning of his alma mater's anniversary celebration, he planned to return from the United States specifically to attend and express his gratitude to God.

“I am truly grateful to God … I have not forgotten the training I received at the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary, which has enabled me to be a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.”

The oldest alumnus in attendance that evening, the 81-year-old Rev. Peter Tuk-soon Leong, has faithfully served the Lord around the world for many years. Upon learning a year ago that his alma mater was organizing this anniversary celebration, he made plans to return from the United States specifically to attend and express his gratitude to God.

"Keep going, Baptismal God!"

Among the guests born in the same year the college was founded (1951) were alumni, former staff members, and church members, who offered sincere blessings to "Baptism God".

“"Go, HKBTS!"”

Among the guests born in the same year HKBTS was founded (1951) were alumni, former staff members, and church members, who offered heartfelt blessings to HKBTS.

"May 'Baptismal Spirit' continue to steadfastly fulfill the mission God has given us..."

Alumnus Reverend Chen Keping (right) has been a strong supporter of theological education ministry of "Baptismal God" for many years. He wishes the college to continue to steadfastly fulfill the mission God has given us and to continue to cultivate more workers of God.

“I hope that HKBTS will continue to steadfastly carry out the mission God has entrusted to us…”

Alumnus the Rev. Hak-ping Chan (right) has been a staunch supporter of the theological education ministry at HKBTS for many years. He expressed his hope that HKBTS will continue to carry out faithfully the mission God has entrusted to us and raise up more workers for the Lord.

I have something to say about baptism...

Each colorful greeting card, filled with heartfelt messages, carried the guests' blessings and gratitude to the college, filling the venue with warmth and laughter as they celebrated the college's 75th anniversary.

Blessings for HKBTS

Colorful greeting cards, each bearing heartfelt messages, conveyed the guests' blessings and gratitude to HKBTS. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and laughter as everyone came together to celebrate HKBTS's 75th anniversary.

Please refer to the Chinese page.

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Please refer to the Chinese page.

Online Registration

Download registration form

Online Application

Download the application form

The Political Intention of the “Oracles against the Nations” in the Book of Isaiah

CHEUNG Ming Kwong

This article explores the formation process and purpose of the section “Oracles against the Nations” (Isaiah 13-23). The section occupied a strategic position as one of the few places in the book that references Babylon. This article argues that this series of oracles constitutes two earlier collections, each serving a distinct political function in its respective period during pre-exilic time. These collections later function rhetorically to support the Babylonian oracle, which was added during the exilic or post-exilic time.

Within the Babylonian oracle, the mythic Helel, son of Dawn (Is 14:12), whose image is used to portray Babylon, is examined. The analysis suggests that the oracle seeks to subvert Babylonian imperial propaganda by mocking of this image. The genre of “Oracles against the Nations” survives after the fall of Judah and assumes a new political function in exilic and post-exilic contexts.

Zhang Peiyi

Volunteer chaplain

Zhang Peiyi

Volunteer chaplain

　　中國人有句話說：「國有國法，家有家規。」每個國家都有自己的體制和法律，使國家能夠運作暢順，並保障社會公平安定。國民有義務尊重這些體制並遵守法律。同樣，每個家庭都有自己的習慣和規範，通常稱為「家規」，用來約束成員之間的行為，並培養良好的個人品格。家庭成員有責任尊重這些習慣並遵守這些規範。無論今日的社會，或第一世紀的希羅社會，家庭都是組成社會的最基本單位。家庭成員融洽相處，能夠促進社會的和諧、穩定和繁榮。

　　新約聖經中的家規，主要是關於夫妻、父母子女，以及主僕之間相互責任（mutual responsibility）和彼此尊重的教導。其實，新約聖經沒有用上「家規」這個術語。「家規」（德文Haustafeln；英文household codes）這個術語源自馬丁路德（Martin Luther）的《小問答》（Small Catechism）。路德巡視教會，驚訝地發現許多平民連基本的教義都缺乏認識，於是制定一本簡單易明的問答集，幫助兒童、初信者和慕道友正確理解基督教的核心教導，內容涵蓋十誡、信經、主禱文、家規等等，而家規是說明社會和家庭各成員的角色和責任。

　　新約家規主要見於歌羅西書三章18節至四章1節、以弗所書五章21節至六章9節，以及彼得前書二章13節至三章7節。歌羅西書和以弗所書同樣論述家庭中夫妻、父母子女，以及主僕之間的關係，而彼得前書則論述執政者與人民、主僕，以及夫妻的關係，沒有論及父母子女的關係。歌羅西書是新約最早寫成的家規，而以弗所書則對歌羅西書的家規詳加闡述。本文主要討論歌羅西書和以弗所書中家規的異同。

新約家規的背景

　　第一世紀，希羅世界早已有家規的設立。亞里士多德（Aristotle）制定了一些家規，稱之為家庭管理（希臘文oikonomia；英文household management），涵蓋夫妻、父子和主僕的關係，旨在維護有權勢者的權利，並維持家庭及社會的秩序和安定。當時的家庭管理完全偏向男性主人，只注重妻子對丈夫的責任、子女對父親的責任，以及僕人對主人的責任。在第一世紀的希羅世界，男性的一家之主（拉丁文paterfamilias；英文father of the family）在家庭擁有絕對且不容置疑的權力，甚至掌控對妻子、兒女和僕人的生殺大權。
　　新約的家規具有護教、牧養和轉化社會的作用。第一世紀的基督徒與非信徒及羅馬政府有頗大的張力，原因包括：（1）當時的希羅世界，不同地區和不同行業都有各自的神祇和宗教儀式。但一個人成為基督徒後，就不再敬拜這些神祇，也不參加基督教以外的宗教儀式，因而被認為對所住地區或所屬行業缺乏忠誠，與眾人格格不入；（2）當時有些羅馬皇帝推行帝王崇拜（imperial cult），但基督徒只敬拜獨一的真神，拒絕參與。加上基督徒稱耶穌基督為王，所以被認為對皇帝不忠，甚至有推翻羅馬政權的嫌疑。

　　新約的家規要向當時的社會和政府表明，羅馬帝國有家規，基督徒也有家規；基督徒跟其他人一樣重視家庭和社會的秩序、和諧、安定。新約的家規並沒有試圖顛覆當時的社會秩序，沒有嘗試爭取完全的社會平等，卻重塑了傳統家庭中男性主導的權力結構，引入家庭成員之間相互責任和彼此尊重的教導，因為基督徒相信各人都同有一位主，都須向神負責。新約家規漸漸轉化當時的家庭和社會關係。

實踐新約家規的前提

　　可想而知，對於一個習慣在家中擁有絕對權力的男性家主來說，要求他約束或放棄自己部分既有的權力，並不容易。事實上，不論家庭或社會，擔任不同角色的人需要各有不同的權力；正當的權力運用是必須的。但權力往往使人腐化，絕對的權力使人絕對腐化。以弗所書提出家規之前提醒基督徒，他們已經有新的身分。他們在基督裏是新造的人，所以要脫去從前行為上的舊人，將心志改換一新，並且穿上新人，這新人是照神的形象造的，有真理的仁義和聖潔（弗四22-23）。而且，基督徒是被聖靈充滿的群體（弗五18）；靠著聖靈的幫助，有能力過敬虔的生活，實踐新約家規的教導。

　　講論家規的教導之前，保羅先提出一個基本原則，就是「當存敬畏基督的心，彼此順服」（弗五21；經文的粗體為筆者所加，下同）。一般羅馬家庭，只有妻子順服丈夫，兒女順服父親，僕人順服主人。但在基督徒家庭，各個成員也需要彼此尊重，樂意服侍對方。基督徒彼此順服，並非因社會壓力或想得著稱讚，而是基於敬畏基督的心（in the fear of Christ）和對基督的尊崇（out of reverence for Christ），因基督是所有基督徒共同的主，而且基督已為信徒立了犧牲的榜樣。

新約家規的內容

　　雖然新約的家規有別於當時希羅世界的家規，提出妻子和丈夫、兒女和父母、僕人和主人的相互責任，但仍是按照傳統，先談論從屬者的責任，即妻子對丈夫的責任、兒女對父母的責任，以及僕人對主人的責任，然後才談論家主的責任。

妻子和丈夫的相互責任

　　關於妻子和丈夫的相互責任，歌羅西書的教導只有兩節：「你們作妻子的，當順服自己的丈夫，這在主裏面是相宜的。你們作丈夫的，要愛你們的妻子，不可苦待她們。」（西三18-19）以弗所書還以教會與基督的關係，比喻妻子和丈夫的關係。作妻子的要順服自己的丈夫，如同順服主基督。教會怎樣順服基督，妻子也當怎樣順服自己的丈夫。除了說明妻子對丈夫的責任，以弗所書也說明丈夫對妻子的責任：作丈夫的要愛自己的妻子，正如基督愛教會，為教會捨己。

　　希羅社會的家規只講妻子要順服自己的丈夫，但新約家規還要求丈夫要愛自己的妻子。以弗所書更以兩個比喻說明丈夫當如何愛自己的妻子：第一，丈夫要以犧牲的愛去愛妻子，正如基督愛教會，為教會捨己（五25）；第二，丈夫要愛妻子，如同愛自己的身體（五28）。正常的人不會傷害自己的身體，總是保養愛惜。丈夫要以愛惜自己身體的心態去愛惜自己的妻子。一對男女結婚之後，夫妻已經成為一體，不分你我，所以愛妻子就如同愛自己了。

　　以弗所書總結妻子和丈夫的關係時，先提到丈夫要如何對待妻子：「你們各人都當愛妻子，如同愛自己一樣。妻子也當敬重她的丈夫。」（五33）作者可能想悄悄地轉化當時社會的價值觀。我們不時聽到一句話說：「男人需要尊重，女人需要愛」；男人渴望得到肯定和尊重，女人需要感受到被愛和接納。如果丈夫得到妻子的肯定和尊重，就會更愛妻子；同樣，若妻子感受到丈夫的愛和接納，就會更敬重丈夫，形成良性的互動和循環。在今日這個男女平等的社會，丈夫和妻子同樣需要愛和尊重，只是男女對愛和尊重的需求程度可能略有不同。

兒女和父母的相互責任

　　關於兒女對父母的責任，歌羅西書的教導是：「你們作兒女的，要凡事聽從父母，因為這是主所喜悅的。」（三20）兒女，尤其是未成年的兒女，要時常聽從父母的教導，這是神的旨意。對於聽從父母，以弗所書加上一個限制條件：「你們作兒女的，要在主裏聽從父母，這是理所當然的。」（六1）兒女理應聽從父母，但畢竟基督才是我們最終的主。如果父母的教導違背神的旨意、聖經真理、道德規範、法律規定等，兒女便不能聽從。因為順從神，不順從人，是應當的（徒五29）。

　　而且，以弗所書又指出，孝敬父母的人能夠得福，在世享長壽；這是第一條帶應許的誡命（六2-3）。十誡的首四誡是關於人和神的關係，其餘六誡是有關人與人的關係，而後者當中的第一條，即第五誡，就是「當孝敬父母」。這條誡命應許遵守的以色列人，得以在迦南美地長久安定地居住（出二十12）。同樣，今日信徒靠著聖靈的幫助，就能遵守孝敬父母的誡命，並且得以在地上長久生活。

　　關於父母對兒女的責任，歌羅西書的教導是：「你們作父親的，不要惹兒女的氣，恐怕他們失了志氣。」（三21）以前的父母，往往認為只有嚴厲的管教，才能培養出好孩子。孩子有良好的表現，父母只是甜在心裏，不會予以肯定或稱讚，恐怕「讚壞」孩子。但孩子有不良或不合乎父母期望的表現，就會加以批評或斥責，往往令孩子灰心喪志。今日有些父母卻走向另一極端，處處維護兒女，甚少要求他們盡上自己的責任，結果兒女變得自我中心，並且難以承受挫折。所以，以弗所書加上一句：「但要照著主的教導和勸戒養育他們」（六4下，和合本修訂版）。父母既要讓兒女感受到他們的愛，又要按著聖經的教導，幫助兒女學習敬神愛人。

僕人和主人的相互責任

　　關於僕人對主人的責任，以弗所書（六5-9）和歌羅西書（三22～四1）的教導大致相同：僕人要凡事順服主人，而且要誠實地服侍。即使沒有主人看管，也要忠心地完成工作。保羅呼籲僕人要以服侍基督的心態去服侍他們的主人，而且要知道他們這樣服侍主人，可以從神得著基業作為賞賜。僕人要明白，他們最終服侍的是主基督。關於主人對僕人的責任，以弗所書和歌羅西書同樣只有一節：主人要公正地對待僕人。以弗所書加上一句：「不要威嚇他們」（六9）。主人要知道，無論是他的僕人或他自己，都同有一位主在天上，大家都要向這位主負責。以弗所書又加上一句：這位主「並不偏待人」（六9）。今日我們可能是主人（例如老闆、僱主、上司），也可能是僕人（例如僱員、下屬），更可能是同時擁有雙重身分，既是上司，也是下屬；既是僱員，也是僱主。所以聖經關於僕人和主人相互責任的教導，同樣適用於今日的我們。

Summarize

　　新約家規具有護教、牧養和轉化社會的作用。新約家規的制定，讓第一世紀的希羅世界知道，基督徒同樣期盼社會保持和諧安定。希羅世界的家規，將權力集中在男性家主身上；新約的家規，則強調家中各成員要彼此順服，各有相互責任。基督徒家庭成員能夠彼此順服，是因為聖靈內住在他們中間，而且知道大家同有一位主，祂並不偏待人。雖然新約家規有其歷史背景，但仍然適用於今日的世界。今日基督徒遵循主的吩咐而有良好的夫妻、親子及主僕關係，就能夠為主作美好的見證，並且轉化這個世界。

Experiencing God's Love

Growing up in a Christian primary school, I regularly listened to teachers explain the Bible. From that time on, I had a simple faith in God and obeyed Him. Later, someone invited me to attend church worship services, which marked the beginning of my church life. However, at that time, I only participated in worship services, and since I subsequently studied abroad for many years, my connection with the church remained distant.

In October 2016, I returned to Hong Kong after graduating from a university, and shortly after, my grandfather passed away. I felt deeply saddened, but when the pastor expressed the church's condolences and care to me, I suddenly felt God's love, which stirred in me a desire to respond and seek Him further. Thereafter, I joined the church fellowship and genuinely experienced the love of brothers and sisters in Christ, joining them in the pursuit of spiritual growth.

Awakening My Heart for Missions

At the end of 2018, two brothers invited me to serve with them in Myanmar. This experience opened my eyes, deepening my understanding of faith and enriching my spiritual life. It also planted a blossoming desire in my heart for the Great Commission of spreading the gospel.

Praise be to the Lord for, after several years, my passion remained unfading, and I constantly kept the ministry of the Abundant Life Church in Myanmar in my thoughts and prayers. In the summer of 2023, I visited the area for the third time. In addition to meeting with co-workers, children, and other brothers and sisters, I took the opportunity to check the condition of the library which had been previously established. I also participated in the expansion project of that church.

Whether then or now, the situation in Myanmar remains heartbreaking. Since the military reclaimed power, the nation has been engulfed in endless warfare, leaving its people displaced and suffering. Hospitals lack doctors, schools lack teachers, and hope has vanished from the eyes of the people—alas! When I returned to the Abundant Life Church, my heart was often stirred, and I was moved to tears. I saw so many people in dire need, longing for blessings. The church's organ electronic had never worked properly; the girls' dormitory did not have a single fan, making summer nights unbearably hot and sleepless. Upon learning this, I immediately went to purchase fans, hoping that these young people could live a little better. Though such help may seem very limited in scope, I felt that it was important to do whatever I could to help.

Later, the children's pure hearts touched me yet again. They were filled with eagerness to understand Chinese literature, so I helped guide them through Su Dongpo's “Water Melody” and Li Houzhu's “Lady Yu.” Seeing their faces light up with satisfaction made the discomfort from the heat at night feel worthwhile. Their excitement reminded me to keep a pure and simple heart every day and led me to reflect that God values our innermost beings most. heart to follow the Lord?

While there, I also visited several impoverished families. Though destitute and living in conditions unfit for habitation by Hong Kong standards, they sang hymns and worshiped God from the depths of their hearts that evening. This sight moved me to tears. Additionally, I visited a newly established primary school in the rural outskirts. Despite being church-run, it even had young monks attending classes. I pray the Lord to bestow His grace upon that land and lead more teachers to come and teach them.

The multitude of ministries there is beyond counting, making me keenly aware that the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few. After returning to Hong Kong that time, I visited various churches to share my experiences and insights, hoping that more brothers and sisters in Christ would learn about the Abundant Life Church, so they may give offerings generously, pray persistently, and work together to bless the churches in Myanmar.

Embracing the Missionary Vision

Through the ministry in Myanmar, God has given me a vision for mission. May God grant me His heart for the needy and persecuted. Let me not only worship Him sincerely but also lead all nations and peoples to know Him. Even if a lifetime of mission yields only a small harvest, how wonderful it would be if it could bring us, His creation, into fellowship with the Triune Creator, singing praises to Him with joyful voices!

On August 9, 2024, I turned thirty. I am grateful that I was in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, at that time, participating in a mission trip. Under the guidance of the Rev. Eric Wing-mun Tong and the Rev. Chi-kwong Chung, I was inspired to reflect on the idea of “establishing oneself at thirty”: First, I asked myself, “Why does the Lord give me all these gifts?” Then, I asked myself, “Why have I not girded my loins and set out, now that my youth is past? Why wait until old age overtakes me?” Thus, I resolved to answer God's call, enter the seminary for training, and aspire to be used by Him.

Lord, though I am weak and inadequate, I ask for Your grace and love. Send me forth and use me. I desire to follow You all my life! Amen!

洪美安

Master of Christian Studies

洪美安

Master of Christian Studies

一、神學不是教我掌握神，而是叫我謙卑地認識祂

　　入讀神學院以前，我心裏對信仰有很多疑問，對教會也帶著一些期望。我以為修讀神學，能讓我更好地掌握信仰和回應教會的需要。回望這段旅程，我看見神學不是教我完全掌握神，而是叫我謙卑地更深認識祂。

二、神的教會屬於祂

　　入學前幾年，我常因基督徒之間的分裂而感到挫敗。我相信公義十分重要，卻也困惑：為甚麼我們有時以追求公義之名，用具傷害性的話回應意見不同的弟兄姊妹？我們努力持守真理時，會否忘記了愛？這些問題使我不安，也加深了我對衝突以至戰爭的恐懼。我甚至想：在我有生之年，會不會發生第三次世界大戰呢？

　　透過認識教會歷史和不同的神學傳統，我漸漸明白，信徒之間的分歧並不是今天才出現。即使教會並不完美，神仍然掌權，並在人的限制和紛爭中保守祂的教會。從前，我在頭腦上知道神掌權；如今，我開始因明白這真理而心裏得著平安，對戰爭的恐懼也不知不覺減輕了。

三、神有時藉著人回應我的掙扎

　　我原本希望親身接觸與我想法不同的人，從而理解他們的經歷和立場。我曾預期自己將會進入一個充滿張力的環境，神卻為我預備了一群友善、真誠和充滿愛的同學。他們是我在神學院最珍惜的恩典之一。神給我的答案不是一套理論，而是一個彼此關懷的群體。祂不只在課堂裏教導我，也藉著同行者的接納、愛和榜樣，安慰並照顧我。

四、疑問能深化信仰，而不是摧毀信仰

　　我很珍惜神學院給予我們提問及思考的空間和平台。疑問不是需要隱藏的軟弱，反而可以成為尋求神的入口。很多人都帶著自己的觀點進來，我也不例外。神學院的觀點、教會的教導與個人經歷之間產生的衝擊，對每個人來說都不一樣。當我知道自己為何相信，也學習在未有完整答案時仍然信靠神，我的信仰反而站得更穩。神學院不能傳授我所有知識，卻教曉我如何繼續尋求。

五、知道關於神的事，不等於真正認識神

　　神學知識非常寶貴，能幫助我們更準確地閱讀，更謙卑地思考，並且讓我們聆聽歷代信徒的智慧。然而，它不能取代我們與神的關係。若沒有藉著聖靈禱告、聆聽和回應，我們就可能只是知道許多關於神的資料，卻沒有更深地認識祂。我認識到，傳福音不是靠獲取更多知識，使我有能力說服和改變別人；真正改變人心的是神自己。我們要靠著聖靈更深地認識祂，別人也是藉著聖靈信靠祂，而不是靠我們的作為。

　　畢業之際，我渴望為福音、教導和教會合一而努力。行政工作有其必要，教會不可能完全沒有行政和組織；但行政本身不是教會最終的使命，而是為了支援福音工作。耶穌吩咐門徒：「所以，你們要去，使萬民作我的門徒……。」（太二十八18-20）這使命不是只交給少數的傳道人或受過神學訓練的人，而是交給整個教會。因此，神學裝備對我的意義，不只是讓我多承擔一種事奉，而是幫助我更好地回應這個呼召，希望幫助更多信徒，把時間和恩賜投入傳福音、教導真理和建立生命的事工之中。

Experiencing God's Love

Growing up in a Christian primary school, I regularly listened to teachers explain the Bible. From that time on, I had a simple faith in God and obeyed Him. Later, someone invited me to attend church worship services, which marked the beginning of my church life. However, at that time, I only participated in worship services, and since I subsequently studied abroad for many years, my connection with the church remained distant.

In October 2016, I returned to Hong Kong after graduating from a university, and shortly after, my grandfather passed away. I felt deeply saddened, but when the pastor expressed the church's condolences and care to me, I suddenly felt God's love, which stirred in me a desire to respond and seek Him further. Thereafter, I joined the church fellowship and genuinely experienced the love of brothers and sisters in Christ, joining them in the pursuit of spiritual growth.

Awakening My Heart for Missions

At the end of 2018, two brothers invited me to serve with them in Myanmar. This experience opened my eyes, deepening my understanding of faith and enriching my spiritual life. It also planted a blossoming desire in my heart for the Great Commission of spreading the gospel.

Praise be to the Lord for, after several years, my passion remained unfading, and I constantly kept the ministry of the Abundant Life Church in Myanmar in my thoughts and prayers. In the summer of 2023, I visited the area for the third time. In addition to meeting with co-workers, children, and other brothers and sisters, I took the opportunity to check the condition of the library which had been previously established. I also participated in the expansion project of that church.

Whether then or now, the situation in Myanmar remains heartbreaking. Since the military reclaimed power, the nation has been engulfed in endless warfare, leaving its people displaced and suffering. Hospitals lack doctors, schools lack teachers, and hope has vanished from the eyes of the people—alas! When I returned to the Abundant Life Church, my heart was often stirred, and I was moved to tears. I saw so many people in dire need, longing for blessings. The church's organ electronic had never worked properly; the girls' dormitory did not have a single fan, making summer nights unbearably hot and sleepless. Upon learning this, I immediately went to purchase fans, hoping that these young people could live a little better. Though such help may seem very limited in scope, I felt that it was important to do whatever I could to help.

Later, the children's pure hearts touched me yet again. They were filled with eagerness to understand Chinese literature, so I helped guide them through Su Dongpo's “Water Melody” and Li Houzhu's “Lady Yu.” Seeing their faces light up with satisfaction made the discomfort from the heat at night feel worthwhile. Their excitement reminded me to keep a pure and simple heart every day and led me to reflect that God values our innermost beings most. heart to follow the Lord?

While there, I also visited several impoverished families. Though destitute and living in conditions unfit for habitation by Hong Kong standards, they sang hymns and worshiped God from the depths of their hearts that evening. This sight moved me to tears. Additionally, I visited a newly established primary school in the rural outskirts. Despite being church-run, it even had young monks attending classes. I pray the Lord to bestow His grace upon that land and lead more teachers to come and teach them.

The multitude of ministries there is beyond counting, making me keenly aware that the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few. After returning to Hong Kong that time, I visited various churches to share my experiences and insights, hoping that more brothers and sisters in Christ would learn about the Abundant Life Church, so they may give offerings generously, pray persistently, and work together to bless the churches in Myanmar.

Embracing the Missionary Vision

Through the ministry in Myanmar, God has given me a vision for mission. May God grant me His heart for the needy and persecuted. Let me not only worship Him sincerely but also lead all nations and peoples to know Him. Even if a lifetime of mission yields only a small harvest, how wonderful it would be if it could bring us, His creation, into fellowship with the Triune Creator, singing praises to Him with joyful voices!

On August 9, 2024, I turned thirty. I am grateful that I was in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, at that time, participating in a mission trip. Under the guidance of the Rev. Eric Wing-mun Tong and the Rev. Chi-kwong Chung, I was inspired to reflect on the idea of “establishing oneself at thirty”: First, I asked myself, “Why does the Lord give me all these gifts?” Then, I asked myself, “Why have I not girded my loins and set out, now that my youth is past? Why wait until old age overtakes me?” Thus, I resolved to answer God's call, enter the seminary for training, and aspire to be used by Him.

Lord, though I am weak and inadequate, I ask for Your grace and love. Send me forth and use me. I desire to follow You all my life! Amen!

劉芷茵

Master of Divinity

劉芷茵

Master of Divinity

上主眼中重要的事？重要的是……

　　還記得剛入學的時候，有前輩提過「很多東西（包括人和事）比成績更重要」。我本來不太明白，後來，我發現這句話正呼應剛入學時老師在屬靈操練營的提醒：「在上主眼中，甚麼才是最重要的？怎樣做才是祂所喜悅的？」三年過去，我開始明白，重要的不是向祂或他者證明自己，而是聚焦於主，回應主愛，活出基督的生命。

從回應主愛到學習與事奉

　　神是無所不知的；祂呼召我以先，已知道我的各種限制和軟弱。在三年的神學旅程中，我明白到自己只能天天靠主的恩典，讓神更新改變自己的生命。得主喜悅，就是聚焦於上主，好好運用祂所賜的一切去愛主愛人。學習與事奉不是非此即彼，而是彼此豐富。學習知識，是為了回應主的呼召和愛，更認識主，學習主愛，好好服侍主；在人群中事奉，是為了回應人的需要，實踐去愛，回應上主，從而學習並更認識何謂愛。

從軟弱中信靠，經歷神的豐盛

　　上主讓我學習從軟弱中仰賴主的恩典，這對我來說是莫大的挑戰。一年級暑假期間，親人接連患病、離世；自己亦因意外導致右肩韌帶撕裂，右手活動受限，加上復康的過程漫長，使我懷疑自己能否繼續學業。在掙扎中，上主讓我學習在軟弱時更要全然信靠祂，一邊接受復健治療，一邊完成學業，甚至同時在學生會與同學同心事奉。或者事奉的初衷只是一顆願意的心，並非聚焦於自己沒有甚麼而不能事奉神。我從沒想像過在限制中仍能平安和喜樂地事奉主，感謝神讓我經歷祂的豐盛。

從頭腦認識到從心認識

　　另一位前輩提醒我：「讀神學很多時是用這裏（指著頭腦）認識神，但不要忘記從這裏（指著心）認識神。」從心認識神包括常常親近主，辨明祂的心意，以及切身地體會耶穌基督深深的愛。耶穌基督在地上與人一同生活，包括替人治病、趕鬼和教導他們。基督的道成肉身，體現祂犧牲的愛和捨己，也教導門徒捨己跟從祂。耶穌既為神的兒子，亦是天上的君王，卻因著愛，甘願作僕人去服侍人，作我們的榜樣。

從群體中學習，明白主愛

　　感謝上主，讓我親眼看見師長、同工、同學如何在生活細節中活出主愛：在我傷口未愈合時，親自替我洗傷口；在我行動不便、孤單之時，主動關顧我，與我分享，為我禱告；在知悉我提不起右手時，主動借外置鍵盤給我，照顧我日用的飲食，替我到飯堂領飯等。他們不單顧自己的事，也顧別人的事，並以基督耶穌的心為心，活現出何謂彼此相顧，激發愛心，勉勵行善。他們的榜樣提醒我，能夠事奉和去愛的時候，不論多微小，都要好好把握機會。

　　學習與事奉不是對立的，認識神亦然。在神學院學習，除了頭腦上更認識神，也包括重新從心出發，向主學習，明白主愛。我們每天每刻在主面前學習，也在整個群體中彼此學習，在基督裏體現祂的愛。上主知道我們的需要，也知道我們的心，求主幫助和更新我們，貼近祂的心。

　　「你們若有彼此相愛的心，眾人因此就認出你們是我的門徒了。」（約十三35）

常常禱告，不可灰心

　　剛入學時，我問眾師姐：「讀神學要花上很多時間，尚且未必讀得明白，如何兼顧事奉，關心他人，又不忽略身邊的家人和朋友，還要安靜下來祈禱讀經呢？」她們只是說：「這也得去做的。」她們看似未有解釋，笑而不語，我現在開始明白箇中意思。不是我們能夠，只是我們仍要努力嘗試並順服，信靠並交託那呼召我們的上主。然而，最不能缺少的就是禱告。祈禱房裏的跪椅寫著「常常禱告」、「不可灰心」（路十八1）。不論是獨處安靜禱告，還是在群體中一同聆聽聖言後彼此代求，皆是我們成為門徒的生命中不可缺少的。

　　願上主繼續帶領我們前行，願聖靈時刻幫助，讓我們在路上彼此禱告守望，成為又忠心又蒙祂喜悅的僕人，活出基督因著愛而捨己的生命。

Experiencing God's Love

Growing up in a Christian primary school, I regularly listened to teachers explain the Bible. From that time on, I had a simple faith in God and obeyed Him. Later, someone invited me to attend church worship services, which marked the beginning of my church life. However, at that time, I only participated in worship services, and since I subsequently studied abroad for many years, my connection with the church remained distant.

In October 2016, I returned to Hong Kong after graduating from a university, and shortly after, my grandfather passed away. I felt deeply saddened, but when the pastor expressed the church's condolences and care to me, I suddenly felt God's love, which stirred in me a desire to respond and seek Him further. Thereafter, I joined the church fellowship and genuinely experienced the love of brothers and sisters in Christ, joining them in the pursuit of spiritual growth.

Awakening My Heart for Missions

At the end of 2018, two brothers invited me to serve with them in Myanmar. This experience opened my eyes, deepening my understanding of faith and enriching my spiritual life. It also planted a blossoming desire in my heart for the Great Commission of spreading the gospel.

Praise be to the Lord for, after several years, my passion remained unfading, and I constantly kept the ministry of the Abundant Life Church in Myanmar in my thoughts and prayers. In the summer of 2023, I visited the area for the third time. In addition to meeting with co-workers, children, and other brothers and sisters, I took the opportunity to check the condition of the library which had been previously established. I also participated in the expansion project of that church.

Whether then or now, the situation in Myanmar remains heartbreaking. Since the military reclaimed power, the nation has been engulfed in endless warfare, leaving its people displaced and suffering. Hospitals lack doctors, schools lack teachers, and hope has vanished from the eyes of the people—alas! When I returned to the Abundant Life Church, my heart was often stirred, and I was moved to tears. I saw so many people in dire need, longing for blessings. The church's organ electronic had never worked properly; the girls' dormitory did not have a single fan, making summer nights unbearably hot and sleepless. Upon learning this, I immediately went to purchase fans, hoping that these young people could live a little better. Though such help may seem very limited in scope, I felt that it was important to do whatever I could to help.

Later, the children's pure hearts touched me yet again. They were filled with eagerness to understand Chinese literature, so I helped guide them through Su Dongpo's “Water Melody” and Li Houzhu's “Lady Yu.” Seeing their faces light up with satisfaction made the discomfort from the heat at night feel worthwhile. Their excitement reminded me to keep a pure and simple heart every day and led me to reflect that God values our innermost beings most. heart to follow the Lord?

While there, I also visited several impoverished families. Though destitute and living in conditions unfit for habitation by Hong Kong standards, they sang hymns and worshiped God from the depths of their hearts that evening. This sight moved me to tears. Additionally, I visited a newly established primary school in the rural outskirts. Despite being church-run, it even had young monks attending classes. I pray the Lord to bestow His grace upon that land and lead more teachers to come and teach them.

The multitude of ministries there is beyond counting, making me keenly aware that the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few. After returning to Hong Kong that time, I visited various churches to share my experiences and insights, hoping that more brothers and sisters in Christ would learn about the Abundant Life Church, so they may give offerings generously, pray persistently, and work together to bless the churches in Myanmar.

Embracing the Missionary Vision

Through the ministry in Myanmar, God has given me a vision for mission. May God grant me His heart for the needy and persecuted. Let me not only worship Him sincerely but also lead all nations and peoples to know Him. Even if a lifetime of mission yields only a small harvest, how wonderful it would be if it could bring us, His creation, into fellowship with the Triune Creator, singing praises to Him with joyful voices!

On August 9, 2024, I turned thirty. I am grateful that I was in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, at that time, participating in a mission trip. Under the guidance of the Rev. Eric Wing-mun Tong and the Rev. Chi-kwong Chung, I was inspired to reflect on the idea of “establishing oneself at thirty”: First, I asked myself, “Why does the Lord give me all these gifts?” Then, I asked myself, “Why have I not girded my loins and set out, now that my youth is past? Why wait until old age overtakes me?” Thus, I resolved to answer God's call, enter the seminary for training, and aspire to be used by Him.

Lord, though I am weak and inadequate, I ask for Your grace and love. Send me forth and use me. I desire to follow You all my life! Amen!

李秋雨

Master of Divinity

李秋雨

Master of Divinity

　　6月某天，一位同學突然發信息給我：「秋雨早晨！忽然想起，我從未聽你說為何要進修。你犧牲這麼多，特別是家庭生活，背後的動力和原因是甚麼？」我含糊地講了幾個理由，也承認有時並非完全理解自己所做的選擇。這條神學路，來時也許沒有清晰的答案，但仍可以與上帝的恩典不期而遇。除了增長知識和見識，這更是一場內在自我成長之旅。我遇見了真實的自己，遇見上帝，也遇到一個真信仰群體。

遇見自己：在破碎中接納本相

　　從小到大，我可算是個比較「乖」的人。學生時代是「乖乖女」、「好學生」。結婚後，我是個全能主婦。在教會裏，我立志做個謙卑的基督僕人。我總在暗暗要求自己，別讓他人失望，努力做到最好……。但讀到巴默爾（Parker J. Palmer）的著作《與自己對話》（Let Your Life Speak）時，被問及「你現在過得幸福嗎？」，我幾乎情緒失控。「我真的可能正過著一個不屬於自己的生活。」這樣的聲音讓我感到害怕。我只是找到一種「聖潔」的方式生活，但其實那並不是我真正的自己。安靜下來，我甚至不知道自己喜歡吃甚麼，真正想做甚麼。我察覺自己內外有許多不一致，這樣的割裂令我迷失。我不過是用各樣身分和事務，掩蓋內在的匱乏和破碎。

　　我嘗試正視那個真實的自己：混亂、疲憊、迷茫、無助。我承認自己有許多事做不到，承認自己的軟弱和需要。這並不是失敗，而是信心的開始。

遇見上帝：在靜默中回應祂的呼喚

　　禱告對我來說，有時很困難，因我從小的信仰經驗告訴我，敬虔的人都是花大量時間跪在主面前禱告的。我過往的禱告，更多是我在說，讓神聽，或我把需要告訴神，等著祂來成就。彷彿我是主動者，上帝是回應者。靈閱（Lectio Divina）和歸心祈禱對我很有幫助。兩者的共通點是人要在神面前安靜，聆聽上帝的聲音，順從聖靈的感動.

　　原來在我與神的關係中，我從來不是也不應該是主動者，而是回應者。上帝來尋找我，是祂先渴望我（如奧古斯丁所言）。無論是信靠、事奉，還是祈禱，這些都不只是我的行動，更是祂的行動。我需要的就是安靜去聆聽祂，聆聽這位一直向我發出邀請和呼喚的父神，並且相信祂的慈愛永遠穩固。

遇見群體：在差異中彼此建立

　　之前有同學說，神學院裏「I人」（introvert，即性格內向者）居多，說我很E（extrovert，即性格外向者）。也有人說教會裏「I人」居多，所以帶活動不容易。這兩年的信仰群體經歷，讓我體會真群體凝聚在一起，最重要的並不是性格，而是我們是否都願意在基督裏調整自己。因為團契的根基從來不是各人投緣與否，性格是否合拍，而是藉著耶穌基督、在耶穌基督裏相交（如潘霍華所言）。

　　沒有基督，情投意合的愛人都可能鬧掰，何況一群本來互不相干的陌生人。群體中各人的年齡、認知、性格各不相同，有人理性，有人感性……差異性正是上帝給群體的禮物，因我們每個人都只能看見上帝的一面，但當我們彼此聆聽，互相學習，上帝的形象就在我們中間變得更加完整。

　　感恩在這次神學之旅中，我遇到與自己不同的同路人，他們似兄長、牧者、老師、朋友，給予我接納、尊重、支持、提醒、幫助、陪伴，使我對「教會是基督的身體」有了更切身的體會。我們如此不同，卻可以互相建立。

　　願上帝繼續施恩帶領，讓我在每一個當下，都能遇見祂，並且遇見祂放在我生命中的每一個人。

Experiencing God's Love

Growing up in a Christian primary school, I regularly listened to teachers explain the Bible. From that time on, I had a simple faith in God and obeyed Him. Later, someone invited me to attend church worship services, which marked the beginning of my church life. However, at that time, I only participated in worship services, and since I subsequently studied abroad for many years, my connection with the church remained distant.

In October 2016, I returned to Hong Kong after graduating from a university, and shortly after, my grandfather passed away. I felt deeply saddened, but when the pastor expressed the church's condolences and care to me, I suddenly felt God's love, which stirred in me a desire to respond and seek Him further. Thereafter, I joined the church fellowship and genuinely experienced the love of brothers and sisters in Christ, joining them in the pursuit of spiritual growth.

Awakening My Heart for Missions

At the end of 2018, two brothers invited me to serve with them in Myanmar. This experience opened my eyes, deepening my understanding of faith and enriching my spiritual life. It also planted a blossoming desire in my heart for the Great Commission of spreading the gospel.

Praise be to the Lord for, after several years, my passion remained unfading, and I constantly kept the ministry of the Abundant Life Church in Myanmar in my thoughts and prayers. In the summer of 2023, I visited the area for the third time. In addition to meeting with co-workers, children, and other brothers and sisters, I took the opportunity to check the condition of the library which had been previously established. I also participated in the expansion project of that church.

Whether then or now, the situation in Myanmar remains heartbreaking. Since the military reclaimed power, the nation has been engulfed in endless warfare, leaving its people displaced and suffering. Hospitals lack doctors, schools lack teachers, and hope has vanished from the eyes of the people—alas! When I returned to the Abundant Life Church, my heart was often stirred, and I was moved to tears. I saw so many people in dire need, longing for blessings. The church's organ electronic had never worked properly; the girls' dormitory did not have a single fan, making summer nights unbearably hot and sleepless. Upon learning this, I immediately went to purchase fans, hoping that these young people could live a little better. Though such help may seem very limited in scope, I felt that it was important to do whatever I could to help.

Later, the children's pure hearts touched me yet again. They were filled with eagerness to understand Chinese literature, so I helped guide them through Su Dongpo's “Water Melody” and Li Houzhu's “Lady Yu.” Seeing their faces light up with satisfaction made the discomfort from the heat at night feel worthwhile. Their excitement reminded me to keep a pure and simple heart every day and led me to reflect that God values our innermost beings most. heart to follow the Lord?

While there, I also visited several impoverished families. Though destitute and living in conditions unfit for habitation by Hong Kong standards, they sang hymns and worshiped God from the depths of their hearts that evening. This sight moved me to tears. Additionally, I visited a newly established primary school in the rural outskirts. Despite being church-run, it even had young monks attending classes. I pray the Lord to bestow His grace upon that land and lead more teachers to come and teach them.

The multitude of ministries there is beyond counting, making me keenly aware that the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few. After returning to Hong Kong that time, I visited various churches to share my experiences and insights, hoping that more brothers and sisters in Christ would learn about the Abundant Life Church, so they may give offerings generously, pray persistently, and work together to bless the churches in Myanmar.

Embracing the Missionary Vision

Through the ministry in Myanmar, God has given me a vision for mission. May God grant me His heart for the needy and persecuted. Let me not only worship Him sincerely but also lead all nations and peoples to know Him. Even if a lifetime of mission yields only a small harvest, how wonderful it would be if it could bring us, His creation, into fellowship with the Triune Creator, singing praises to Him with joyful voices!

On August 9, 2024, I turned thirty. I am grateful that I was in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, at that time, participating in a mission trip. Under the guidance of the Rev. Eric Wing-mun Tong and the Rev. Chi-kwong Chung, I was inspired to reflect on the idea of “establishing oneself at thirty”: First, I asked myself, “Why does the Lord give me all these gifts?” Then, I asked myself, “Why have I not girded my loins and set out, now that my youth is past? Why wait until old age overtakes me?” Thus, I resolved to answer God's call, enter the seminary for training, and aspire to be used by Him.

Lord, though I am weak and inadequate, I ask for Your grace and love. Send me forth and use me. I desire to follow You all my life! Amen!

陳柏銳

Master of Divinity

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陳牧師與太太彩玲及兒子若天

重踏神學之路

　　2014年神學學士畢業到現在，剛好十二個年頭。畢業之初，有感這個大眾學歷普遍偏高的時代，只帶著神學學士學位來牧會，在不久的將來或會略顯不足，於是畢業後第一年，我就毅然決定回到母校報讀道學碩士。眼見身邊不少前輩、好友，因種種原因未能完成第二個學位；在修讀之初我就暗自立志，非完成不可，絕不讓自己半途而廢。只是，教會、家庭、社會及個人發生種種變動，一度打擊我繼續進修的決心。後來，太太蒙召讀神學，這成為我重新開始及完成學業的契機。感謝天父的恩典，今年我將會與她一同站在畢業典禮的台上。

渴求成長進深

　　休學後重啟學業，我發覺自己上課及學習時的心態出現了微妙的變化。由原初出於單純為了學歷上的需要，逐漸變成對學習聖經、神學和實踐技巧的熱切渴求。我越來越希望自己能夠將牧會多年的經驗，與所學的聖經和神學知識互相對話和整合，並在眾多神學、倫理取態中尋覓屬於自己的取向。而且我渴望在不同老師身上學習不同的事奉技巧，成為我牧養上的助益，以應對這個瞬息萬變時代的需要。相比進修初期，我越來越清楚自己的「短板」和需要，並且更深切地渴求成長和進深，以回報天父的恩情和弟兄姊妹生命的需要。

突破迷惘困境

　　這十二年裏，我看到、聽到不同師長的到來和離開；從他們身上，我學習到聖經、神學、歷史、實踐等方面不同的研究進路及其背後的方法論。這些不同學說，一度使我十分迷惘和混亂，尤其是回應教會需要和社會議題時，賴特（N. T. Wright）的保羅新觀和侯活士（Stanley Hauerwas）的教會倫理學，是否唯一的聲音和出路？假如我們將福音信息完全拆解成為零碎，是否真的有能力將它們重新整合起來？宗教改革先賢花一生心血努力所得的成果，對於今天的我們來說，其價值和意義何在？我們是否真的可以憑一兩代人的努力，就取代宗教改革至今芸芸眾多先賢的努力？我們是否真的認識他們的看法和想法？這些思想上的掙扎，多年來一直困擾著我。

　　及至後來張楷弦老師講授「天啟保羅」，讓我發現聖經研究並非只有單一方向，一成不變。不同學者的聲音雖有其價值，也有其限制。在教會的處境中，我們需要學會聆聽不同的聲音（包括弟兄姊妹和學者），辨識上帝此刻對教會的心意，以及上帝要我們如何（在方法層面）牧養群羊，帶領他們回應這個時代的需要。此外，黃福光教授教導的聖經神學，幫助我在眾多不同聖經研究進路中，找到屬於自己的定位，讓我不再像鸚鵡學舌一樣，只停留於某某老師、某某學者的想法和意見，而是開始嘗試建立一個屬於自己的聖經神學立場和神學方法論。誠如《基督徒的神學思考》一書所言，每個基督徒都是神學家，有屬於他們的信仰思考。又如鄧紹光教授在課堂上經常提醒我們：「正信、正行」，信仰不只是尋求理解，真實的信仰更直接影響我們的所是、所為。最後吳國傑教授曾在多個不同場合提醒我們，要了解一個人的思想和生平，最好的方法是研究第一手資料，而不是通過別人覆述。這讓我對人和事物多了一份警覺，不再只停留在單一的敍述和覆述，而是尋求原典或更多的敍述角度，對所認識的事物進行反覆的比對、思考和學習。

　　最後，感謝每一位在神學學習路上幫助過我的師長、同工、同學、家人、朋友、教會的肢體，更感謝那位拯救我、呼召我的三一上帝。願榮耀頌讚歸給祂，直到永遠。

Experiencing God's Love

Growing up in a Christian primary school, I regularly listened to teachers explain the Bible. From that time on, I had a simple faith in God and obeyed Him. Later, someone invited me to attend church worship services, which marked the beginning of my church life. However, at that time, I only participated in worship services, and since I subsequently studied abroad for many years, my connection with the church remained distant.

In October 2016, I returned to Hong Kong after graduating from a university, and shortly after, my grandfather passed away. I felt deeply saddened, but when the pastor expressed the church's condolences and care to me, I suddenly felt God's love, which stirred in me a desire to respond and seek Him further. Thereafter, I joined the church fellowship and genuinely experienced the love of brothers and sisters in Christ, joining them in the pursuit of spiritual growth.

Awakening My Heart for Missions

At the end of 2018, two brothers invited me to serve with them in Myanmar. This experience opened my eyes, deepening my understanding of faith and enriching my spiritual life. It also planted a blossoming desire in my heart for the Great Commission of spreading the gospel.

Praise be to the Lord for, after several years, my passion remained unfading, and I constantly kept the ministry of the Abundant Life Church in Myanmar in my thoughts and prayers. In the summer of 2023, I visited the area for the third time. In addition to meeting with co-workers, children, and other brothers and sisters, I took the opportunity to check the condition of the library which had been previously established. I also participated in the expansion project of that church.

Whether then or now, the situation in Myanmar remains heartbreaking. Since the military reclaimed power, the nation has been engulfed in endless warfare, leaving its people displaced and suffering. Hospitals lack doctors, schools lack teachers, and hope has vanished from the eyes of the people—alas! When I returned to the Abundant Life Church, my heart was often stirred, and I was moved to tears. I saw so many people in dire need, longing for blessings. The church's organ electronic had never worked properly; the girls' dormitory did not have a single fan, making summer nights unbearably hot and sleepless. Upon learning this, I immediately went to purchase fans, hoping that these young people could live a little better. Though such help may seem very limited in scope, I felt that it was important to do whatever I could to help.

Later, the children's pure hearts touched me yet again. They were filled with eagerness to understand Chinese literature, so I helped guide them through Su Dongpo's “Water Melody” and Li Houzhu's “Lady Yu.” Seeing their faces light up with satisfaction made the discomfort from the heat at night feel worthwhile. Their excitement reminded me to keep a pure and simple heart every day and led me to reflect that God values our innermost beings most. heart to follow the Lord?

While there, I also visited several impoverished families. Though destitute and living in conditions unfit for habitation by Hong Kong standards, they sang hymns and worshiped God from the depths of their hearts that evening. This sight moved me to tears. Additionally, I visited a newly established primary school in the rural outskirts. Despite being church-run, it even had young monks attending classes. I pray the Lord to bestow His grace upon that land and lead more teachers to come and teach them.

The multitude of ministries there is beyond counting, making me keenly aware that the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few. After returning to Hong Kong that time, I visited various churches to share my experiences and insights, hoping that more brothers and sisters in Christ would learn about the Abundant Life Church, so they may give offerings generously, pray persistently, and work together to bless the churches in Myanmar.

Embracing the Missionary Vision

Through the ministry in Myanmar, God has given me a vision for mission. May God grant me His heart for the needy and persecuted. Let me not only worship Him sincerely but also lead all nations and peoples to know Him. Even if a lifetime of mission yields only a small harvest, how wonderful it would be if it could bring us, His creation, into fellowship with the Triune Creator, singing praises to Him with joyful voices!

On August 9, 2024, I turned thirty. I am grateful that I was in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, at that time, participating in a mission trip. Under the guidance of the Rev. Eric Wing-mun Tong and the Rev. Chi-kwong Chung, I was inspired to reflect on the idea of “establishing oneself at thirty”: First, I asked myself, “Why does the Lord give me all these gifts?” Then, I asked myself, “Why have I not girded my loins and set out, now that my youth is past? Why wait until old age overtakes me?” Thus, I resolved to answer God's call, enter the seminary for training, and aspire to be used by Him.

Lord, though I am weak and inadequate, I ask for Your grace and love. Send me forth and use me. I desire to follow You all my life! Amen!

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In 1951, the forefathers of the Baptist Church received their calling and established the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary during a difficult time. Protected by the Lord, the Baptist Theological Seminary has grown continuously through transformation over the past 75 years, striving to fulfill its mission of theological education and research in Hong Kong. It diligently cultivates servant leaders with theological wisdom, spiritual character, and practical service abilities, nurturing generation after generation of pastors, missionaries, and believer leaders. Together with brothers and sisters, it builds up the church, expands God's Kingdom, and exerts influence in society, serving as salt and light, and witnessing to the Gospel of Christ and peace.

To commemorate the Lord's profound grace and love, our institution held a series of anniversary events under the theme "Standing in Christ, Facing the Future." In a world of chaos and constant change, only by standing firmly on the solid cornerstone of Jesus Christ can we navigate the turbulent currents of the world and face the unpredictable future, putting the true word of Christ into practice in this era. Among the most important anniversary events were the "75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship and Musical Concert" and the "75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Dinner." This issue of the institution's newsletter features photos from these two gatherings, allowing readers to relive moments from them.

Thanksgiving Worship and Musical Praise Meeting

On the afternoon of April 19th this year, our college held its 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship and Musical Praise Meeting at the Kowloon City Baptist Church. The college choir, alumni choir, and choir members from nineteen Baptist churches formed a large joint choir of over 250 people, offering a sacrifice of thanksgiving and praise to the Lord together with brothers and sisters in Christ, becoming a beautiful mark of unity in serving God during this historic moment of "Baptism of God."

In 1951, our Baptist forebears, responding to a divine calling, established the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary (HKBTS) during a troubled time. By God's grace, over the past seventy-five years, HKBTS has grown steadily amidst changing times, while striving to fulfill its mission of theological education and research in Hong Kong. Diligently nurturing servant-leaders who possess theological wisdom, spiritual character, and practical ministry skills, HKBTS has trained generation after generation of pastors, missionaries, and lay leaders. In unity with brothers and sisters in Christ, they have built up churches, expanded the Kingdom of God, and exerted a positive influence in society, serving as salt and light and bearing witness to Christ's Gospel of peace.

To commemorate the Lord's abundant grace and love, HKBTS has organized a series of anniversary events under the theme “Stand Firm in Christ, Advance Toward the Future.” In a world of turmoil and ever-changing circumstances, only by standing firm on the solid cornerstone of Jesus Christ can we face an uncertain future amidst the world's currents and put His truth into practice in this age. The highlights of the celebrations were the “75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise” and the “75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Banquet.” This issue of the Newsletter features a selection of photos from these two events, inviting readers to relive the moments captured therein.

The Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise

On the afternoon of April 19 this year, HKBTS held a “75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise” at the Kowloon City Baptist Church. On that day, the Seminary Choir and the Alumni Choir joined forces with choir members from 19 Baptist churches to form a single choir of over 250 singers. This choir, together with the congregation, offered a sacrifice of thanksgiving and praise to the Lord, creating a beautiful evening of unity and serving God during this historic moment for HKBTS.

"Please... grant us to encounter You in music and truth!"

Pastor Tang Rongmin, a member of the board of directors of the seminary, led the congregation in prayer for the seminary's educational ministry and for the day's gathering.

“We pray … that we may encounter You through music and truth!”

The Rev. Wing-mun Tong, a member of our Board of Directors, led the congregation in prayer for HKBTS's educational ministry and the events of the day.

"...together we will witness God's profound grace and love, and the historic moment of 'Baptism by God'."

Reverend Chung Chi-kwong, Chairman of the Board of Directors, welcomed all the friends who came to worship with us and gave a brief introduction to the college's recent situation and future prospects.

“… to witness together God’s profound grace and love, as well as this historic moment of HKBTS.”

The Rev. Chi-kwong Chung, Chairman of our Board of Directors, welcomed our friends from all quarters who joined us in worship and provided an overview of HKBTS's recent developments and plans for the future.

"The Lord Jesus Christ, the cornerstone!..."

A large choir of over 250 people sang "Christ, Cornerstone!" Their voices, melodious and powerful, resonated throughout the venue, deeply moving everyone present.

“Lord Jesus, the Cornerstone! …”

The joint choir of over 250 singers presented “Lord Jesus, the Cornerstone!” Their voices, melodious yet powerful, echoed throughout the venue, deeply moving the hearts of all present.

"This is our story of gratitude."

The college choir performed three stories of students on their faith journey in the form of mime: "Seeing the Lord's grace on the path of raising children", "Being a blessing to family members on the path of faith", and "Being loved by God on the path of theological study".

“"These are our stories of gratitude."”

The Seminary Choir presented three stories about students' journeys of faith through a pantomime: "Witnessing God's Grace in Parenting," "Becoming a Blessing to Our Families on Their Faith Journeys," and "Loved by God on the Seminary Journey."’

"I offer you a sacrifice of thanksgiving."

Our board member, Evangelist Yang Baohua, led the congregation in reciting the Response Text.

“"I will offer to You the sacrifice of thanksgiving."”

Ms. Po-wah Yeung, Honorary Secretary of our Board of Directors, led the congregation in reciting the responsorial prayer.

"Jesus himself approached them and walked with them..."

Reverend Chen Zhiqiang, Vice Chairman of the Board, read aloud from the Word of God, Luke 24:13-35, concerning the story on the road to Emmaus.

“Jesus himself drew near and went with them…”

The Rev. Che-keung Chan, Vice Chairman of our Board of Directors, read from Luke 24:13-35, the account of the journey to Emmaus.

"May you...hold hope in your hearts...stand in Christ, face the present together, and embrace the future."

"May you...hold hope in your hearts...stand in Christ, face the present together, and embrace the future."
Dean Tsao Wei-tung, in his speech entitled "Standing in Christ, Facing the Future: Hope on the Road to Emmaus," encouraged us to always have hope: to wait patiently, to believe that Jesus Christ is our salvation in times of trouble; to believe that the Bible is the source of hope; and to believe that practical theology, which takes the Bible as the source of hope, can appropriately respond to the challenges of the present.

“"I earnestly hope that you … will keep hope in your hearts … stand firm in Christ, face today's challenges together, and look forward to the future."”

President Joshua Cho, speaking on the theme “Stand Firm in Christ, Advance Toward the Future: Hope on the Road to Emmaus,” encourages us to persist in hope: to wait patiently, trusting that Jesus Christ is our salvation in times of trouble; to believe that Scripture is the source of hope; and to affirm that practical theology, grounded in Scripture as the source of hope, can respond appropriately to the challenges of our time.

Thanksgiving Dinner

That evening, our institute hosted its 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Dinner at the London Grand Restaurant. Board members, faculty, students, staff, and friends from all walks of life gathered to reflect on God's blessings, exchange ideas, encourage one another, and enjoy a joyful time of fellowship. Guests included pastors and staff from Baptist and other denominations, friends from the theological community, leaders of Christian organizations, members of the Institute's Council, the president, general secretary, and standing committee members of the Hong Kong Baptist Convention, alumni, guests from afar, and brothers and sisters who care about "Baptismal God." We sincerely thank all members for their blessings and support!

Thanksgiving Banquet

That evening, HKBTS hosted a “75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Banquet” at the London Restaurant. Our Board members, faculty, students, staff, and friends from all quarters gathered to count God's blessings, commune with one another, share encouragement, and enjoy a joyful time of fellowship. Guests included pastors and ministers from the Baptist churches and other denominations, friends from the theological community, leaders of Christian organizations, members of our President's Council, the President, General Secretary, and Standing Committee members of the Baptist Convention of Hong Kong, as well as alumni from different years, guests coming from afar, and brothers and sisters who care deeply about HKBTS. We sincerely thank all these members of the body of Christ for their blessings and support!

"I rejoice, and thank God in my heart..."

As the banquet began, teachers, students, alumni, and guests gathered together to sing "Joy" in thanksgiving to God.

“Give thanks with a grateful heart…”

As the banquet began, our faculty, students, alumni, and all guests gathered together to sing “Give Thanks” as an expression of gratitude to God.

"Tonight, we are surrounded by distinguished guests... Christ family members sharing and exchanging blessings."

On behalf of the hospital, Chairman of the Board, Pastor Zhong Zhiguang, welcomed all the friends who came to offer their congratulations and express their gratitude with us. He also hoped that everyone would continue to walk with "Baptismal God" and work together to cultivate more servant leaders for God's Kingdom.

“Tonight, we are honored to have such a distinguished gathering … as members of the Lord’s family come together to fellowship and share in His grace.”

On behalf of HKBTS, Chairman of our Board of Directors, the Rev. Chi-kwong Chong, extended a warm welcome to all who joined us to celebrate and give thanks. He also expressed his hope that they would continue to walk alongside HKBTS, working together to raise up more servant-leaders for the Kingdom of God.

"May there be no shortage of soldiers, no retreat from the truth, and no slumber of the church."

Reverend Tong Wing-man, President of the Hong Kong Baptist Convention, congratulated the church on behalf of the convention and called on everyone and all churches to be partners with "Baptist God" and fight together for God's kingdom.

“"May faithful soldiers never be lacking, the truth never waver, and the church never slumber."”

The Rev. Wing-mun Tong, President of the Baptist Convention of Hong Kong, extended congratulations to HKBTS on behalf of the Convention and called upon all individuals and churches to partner with HKBTS in striving together for the Kingdom of God.

"Through seventy-five years of vicissitudes, we have tasted the Lord's grace; planting peaches and nurturing plums, the city is filled with fragrance."

Rooted in Christ, looking towards the future; tomorrow's spiritual palace, today's school.

Reverend Chung Kin-kai (left), Chairman of the Hong Kong Chinese Christian Churches Union, presented the church with a seven-character quatrain and a memorial seat on behalf of his union, wishing that God would continue to use "Baptismal God" to stand on the rock of Christ, nurturing more worthy workers, igniting the light of truth for the churches in Hong Kong, mainland China and the world, and glorifying the Father.

“Seventy-five years of trials and grace,
Peach and plum trees cultivated,
whose scent fills the city's space.
We look ahead with Christ as our base:
Tomorrow's spiritual temple,
today’s discipleship place.”

The Rev. Kin-kai Chung (left), Chairman of the Hong Kong Chinese Christian Churches Union, presented HKBTS with a poem and a keepsake on behalf of the Union, conveying their wishes that God would continue to use HKBTS so that it keeps on standing firm in Christ, the Rock, and train more faithful workers who will shine the light of truth for churches in Hong Kong, mainland China, and around the world, bringing glory to the Heavenly Father.

"The shepherd is the messenger of hope."

Dean Cao Weitong began by sharing short videos from three alumni, pointing out that one of the characteristics of "Baptismal Theology" theological education is to cultivate students' spiritual qualities of "faith, hope and love," and in recent years, it has focused on deepening the element of "hope," hoping that students will become pastors who convey hope.

“"Pastors are bearers of hope."”

President Joshua Cho began his remarks by referring to a short video in which three alumni shared their stories, noting that one of the distinctive features of HKBTS's theological education is its commitment to nurturing students' spiritual character marked by ’faith, hope, and love.“ In recent years, HKBTS has placed particular emphasis on deepening the element of ”hope“ so that students may become pastors who convey hope.

"Continue to lead the seminary on the path ahead, and glorify Your name."

Reverend Lee Kwok-hung, General Secretary of the Hong Kong Baptist Convention, led everyone in a prayer of thanksgiving and offered thanks for the 75 years of "Baptist God" nurturing countless workers of the Kingdom of Heaven, and prayed that the Lord would establish the college to continue to be faithful to its mission of theological education.

“We pray that You continue to lead the seminary on the path ahead, to the glory of Your name.”

The Rev. Vincent Kwok-hung Lee, General Secretary of the Baptist Convention of Hong Kong, led the congregation in the table prayer, giving thanks for the countless workers for the Kingdom of Heaven that HKBTS has nurtured over the past 75 years, and praying that the Lord would strengthen HKBTS to remain faithful to its mission of theological education.

Embark on the 7.5-second challenge!

The guests enthusiastically participated in the games, nervously pressing the timer. The three who came closest to 7.5 seconds received gifts, creating a joyful atmosphere.

The 7.5-Second Challenge

Guests enthusiastically joined the party game, stopping the timer with bated breath. The three participants whose times came closest to 7.5 seconds were awarded gifts, bringing joy throughout the dining hall.

"I am truly grateful to God... I have not forgotten the nurturing I received from Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary, which has made me a worker who is not ashamed and who rightly divides the word of truth."

The oldest alumnus that evening, 81-year-old Reverend Liang Deshun, has faithfully served the Lord around the world for many years. A year ago, upon learning of his alma mater's anniversary celebration, he planned to return from the United States specifically to attend and express his gratitude to God.

“I am truly grateful to God … I have not forgotten the training I received at the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary, which has enabled me to be a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.”

The oldest alumnus in attendance that evening, the 81-year-old Rev. Peter Tuk-soon Leong, has faithfully served the Lord around the world for many years. Upon learning a year ago that his alma mater was organizing this anniversary celebration, he made plans to return from the United States specifically to attend and express his gratitude to God.

"Keep going, Baptismal God!"

Among the guests born in the same year the college was founded (1951) were alumni, former staff members, and church members, who offered sincere blessings to "Baptism God".

“"Go, HKBTS!"”

Among the guests born in the same year HKBTS was founded (1951) were alumni, former staff members, and church members, who offered heartfelt blessings to HKBTS.

"May 'Baptismal Spirit' continue to steadfastly fulfill the mission God has given us..."

Alumnus Reverend Chen Keping (right) has been a strong supporter of theological education ministry of "Baptismal God" for many years. He wishes the college to continue to steadfastly fulfill the mission God has given us and to continue to cultivate more workers of God.

“I hope that HKBTS will continue to steadfastly carry out the mission God has entrusted to us…”

Alumnus the Rev. Hak-ping Chan (right) has been a staunch supporter of the theological education ministry at HKBTS for many years. He expressed his hope that HKBTS will continue to carry out faithfully the mission God has entrusted to us and raise up more workers for the Lord.

I have something to say about baptism...

Each colorful greeting card, filled with heartfelt messages, carried the guests' blessings and gratitude to the college, filling the venue with warmth and laughter as they celebrated the college's 75th anniversary.

Blessings for HKBTS

Colorful greeting cards, each bearing heartfelt messages, conveyed the guests' blessings and gratitude to HKBTS. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and laughter as everyone came together to celebrate HKBTS's 75th anniversary.

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The Political Intention of the “Oracles against the Nations” in the Book of Isaiah

CHEUNG Ming Kwong

This article explores the formation process and purpose of the section “Oracles against the Nations” (Isaiah 13-23). The section occupied a strategic position as one of the few places in the book that references Babylon. This article argues that this series of oracles constitutes two earlier collections, each serving a distinct political function in its respective period during pre-exilic time. These collections later function rhetorically to support the Babylonian oracle, which was added during the exilic or post-exilic time.

Within the Babylonian oracle, the mythic Helel, son of Dawn (Is 14:12), whose image is used to portray Babylon, is examined. The analysis suggests that the oracle seeks to subvert Babylonian imperial propaganda by mocking of this image. The genre of “Oracles against the Nations” survives after the fall of Judah and assumes a new political function in exilic and post-exilic contexts.