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.

Please refer to the Chinese page.

Online Application

Grace Chan

Chaplain, Lecturer of Practical Theology

陳宇恩

Chaplain, Lecturer of Practical Theology

The Psalms are a collection of sacred songs from the nation of Israel, encompassing songs sung individually and collectively in worship. Throughout history, God's people have expressed their love and reverence for God and brought glory to Him through worship, praise, prayer, and thanksgiving. The psalms are rich in content, centering on God's attributes and deeds, encompassing His creation, sovereignty, redemptive history, protection, and providence. By proclaiming God's deeds, these psalms reveal who He is, demonstrating His greatness, power, justice, and love, and reminding His people that He is Lord over all, the eternal King. As they unite in honoring and praising God, His Kingdom is manifested on earth!

Psalm 145 is an acrostic psalm (an alphabetical psalm), with each verse beginning in alphabetical order. This neatly structured psalm is conducive to memorization. This psalm recognizes God as the reigning universal King and celebrates His eternal kingdom.His throne and kingship are eternal and unchanging from beginning to end, so the psalmist leads the entire congregation in worship to praise God and thank God for his wonderful works.

Praise God's great power

　　Introduction(1-2) Like a call to worship, the psalmist, as the celebrant, gathers and leads the people of Israel to honor and worship God together, focusing on the glorious Supreme King.

The psalmist begins by addressing Jehovah as "my God, my King," proclaiming Him as the one true God and the great King. He then declares his heart, pledging to offer Him the highest praise forever and ever, dedicating his life to worshiping and serving Him as an expression of his reverence, confession, and dedication to Him (verses 1-2). The psalmist then calls the entire congregation to join in fervent worship, using a series of verbs to express endless praise to God, including: "honor," "praise" (verse 1); "praise," "glorify" (verse 2); "praise," "proclaim" (verse 4); "tell," "meditate" (verse 5); "preach," "proclaim" (verse 6); "remember," "sing" (verse 7).

　　First paragraph(1-9) Point out the reason for praise:Because God is extremely great.He transcends all else, is incomparable, and uniquely works wonders, worthy of honor and praise. His greatness, wisdom, and power far surpass human imagination. For this reason, God's people must continually sing of God's infinite greatness and wonders. The psalmist uses a variety of terms, including "great" (verse 3); "mighty" (verse 4); "glory," "honor," and "wonderful works" (verse 5); and "awesome power," "greatness" (verse 6), to praise God's wondrous works in creation and history, revealing His glory and power everywhere.

The psalmist specifically uses words like "majesty," "glory," and "honor" (verse 5) to highlight God's regal identity. He alone is King of kings and Lord of lords, surpassing all power. God's majesty and glory inspire awe and submission, inspiring them to honor and revere Him and dedicate their lives to Him. Therefore, he calls on God's people to proclaim God's great grace and goodness, recounting His redemptive benefits, and passing them down from generation to generation, so that the sound of praise will flow continuously, forming a never-ending symphony (verses 4-7).

Next, in verse 8, the psalmist reflects on God's mighty deliverances throughout history. He particularly experiences a profound appreciation for God's abundant love, mercy, and forgiveness. This verse, set against the backdrop of Israel's exodus from Egypt, recalls God's righteousness, goodness, and faithfulness, as demonstrated among the Israelites as a historical testimony (see Exodus 34:6). This reminds God's people of their past experiences with God's love and mercy, and bears witness to His abundant grace. Verse 9 further emphasizes God's sovereignty over all creation, as well as His universal purpose (the plan of redemption), salvation, and protection. This reflects that His grace and mercy extend not only to the nation of Israel but also to all nations and peoples, as well as all creation, demonstrating that God is Lord of all and King of the universe!

Today we need to understand who we are worshipping.We worship the supreme God who controls the universe.In worship, as God's people, we must humbly bow before Him and openly acknowledge His sovereignty over us. He is the Lord of our lives, and we must allow His glory to be manifested in us!

Proclaim the glory of God's kingdom

existSecond paragraphAt the outset of the poem (verses 10-13a), the psalmist repeatedly calls upon the entire congregation to praise God, inviting all creation to join in the praise (verse 10), acknowledging Him as the supreme ruler, the eternal King, worthy of honor and worship. Praise is based not only on God's nature and deeds but also on His kingship. God's kingdom endures forever, full of majesty and power, bringing perfect justice, goodness, and peace. Therefore, the psalmist proclaims the glory of God's kingdom and celebrates God's universal rule, for He alone is the great King who rules and governs, and all things in heaven and on earth are subject to His authority (verses 11-13).

Throughout the ages, God's people have proclaimed His eternal kingdom and declared His victory and reign. God wants to bear witness to Him on earth through His people, allowing the world to know His mighty deeds. Today, God's kingship and rule are manifested in the world through the worship of the church, and can be experienced now. The church is called to exalt God and proclaim His name. The church's ministry is to proclaim God as King through worship, so that His kingdom can be expanded and His glory can be manifested. Therefore,We must live a life of worship, confess our faith to the world, and be loyal to God..

Praise God's loving care

existParagraph 3(13b-21), the psalmist praises God for being faithful, keeping His covenant, showing His love, and giving Him abundant grace, and expresses his gratitude for His grace.

God is the Creator of the universe and all things. All things depend on Him for their existence. He governs, protects, and controls the world and everything in it. God's care and protection of creation demonstrate His lovingkindness; all things in the world also manifest His glory and fulfill His good will. In short, all creation in the universe bears witness to God's glory and power.

　　God is not only a God full of majesty and power, but also a Lord who cares for and provides for all the needs of His creation.His grace extends throughout the earth, benefiting all peoples; all creation depends on His provision. Therefore, the psalmist repeatedly uses words like "all," "everything," and "everything" to emphasize that God's care encompasses the entire creation. The psalmist also uses a variety of verbs to describe God's care for the world and His people, including: "raise up" (twice, in verse 14); "give food" (verse 15); "open his hands," "satisfy every desire" (verse 16); "righteous" and "loving" (verse 17); "near to all who call on Him" (verse 18); "fulfill their desires," "he hears their cry," "saves them" (verse 19); "protects all who love Him," and "destroys the wicked" (verse 20).

On the one hand, God treats humanity with justice and kindness, generously providing all things, ensuring that all needs are met, thereby demonstrating His care, concern, and provision for all (verses 14-17). On the other hand, God bestows grace and blessings upon those who call upon Him. He hears their prayers, responds to their needs, and protects and delivers His people from evildoers and dangers (verses 18-20). God's lovingkindness is humanity's ultimate safeguard. His meticulous care and protection for His people instill in them a constant heart of gratitude and praise in response to His immense grace.

God's goodness and mercy have been continually manifested throughout the ages. Today, as we deeply experience His abundant grace and love, overflowing with joy and contentment, we should likewise offer Him our heartfelt reverence, praise, and gratitude, offering Him this tribute, so that our spiritual lives may be renewed and revived!

The whole world should come to praise God

PoeticConclusion(Verse 21) echoes the "Introduction" (verses 1-2). At the climax of worship, the psalmist leads the entire congregation in unison, pledging to spend their lives praising God, and further calls on all nations and peoples to join in the praise, together praising God's authority, power, and glory.

From this we can see that the songs of praise progress layer by layer, one after another, gradually extending from the inside out, from the presiding officer’s own announcement, to leading the entire congregation to join in, and even calling on all nations and peoples in the world to kneel down and worship, to cheer together, to praise all of God’s deeds and grace, and to give glory and praise to Him forever and ever!

　　Worship extends from the individual to the group, from the earth to the heaven, and throughout the universe.Today, whenever we offer reverent worship to God, it is as if we join the eternal choir in heaven, joining saints, angels, and the heavenly host throughout the ages in praising the Most High God. This embodies a broader, richer, and never-ending worship. In other words, the church on earth is closely connected with the heavenly host and saints of all ages. We worship together before the throne of God, singing, "Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God!" (Revelation 19:1). We recognize that God's kingdom and rule have come among us, enabling us to behold God's glory and live a life "as it were in heaven on earth."

Summarize

Psalm 145 particularly emphasizes God's majesty and power, as well as His eternal kingdom. God is the great King who rules over all creation. His greatness, wonder, and transcendence deserve praise from all creation, from ancient times to the present day and forever. God's rule and protection, grace, and mercy over all creation reflect His salvation, extending not only to Israel but to all nations and peoples. This psalm calls on God's people throughout all generations to sing songs of praise, proclaiming God's mighty salvation and miraculous deeds, and bearing witness to His presence and glory to the world.God wants to manifest His glory in His people so that the world can know Him and turn to Him.

Next year is the 75th anniversary of HKBT. We hope to gather choirs from all Baptist churches to participate."75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship and Music Praise Meeting", sing praises to God, offer praises as a sacrifice, and together witness His mighty salvation and wonderful deeds, thank Him for His great grace and virtue, in return for all His great grace, “For He is good, and His love endures forever”!

　　The ultimate meaning of life is to glorify God.May we always remember all of God’s abundant grace, guidance, and protection, offer our lives completely as a living sacrifice, honor God as holy every moment, live a life of worship, and become His children who delight in us!

* The scriptures quoted in this article are based on the Revised Union Version.

　　The Psalms are a collection of the lsraelites’ hymns, containing songs sung by individuals and congregations during worship. Throughout the ages, God’s people have expressed their love and reverence through worship, praise, supplication, and thanksgiving to the glory of God. These hymns are rich in content, focusing on God’s attributes and works, including His Creation, sovereignty, redemptive history, protection, and providence. By declaring God’s works, the Psalms reveal His nature, showcase His greatness, power, righteousness, and mercy, and remind God’s people that He is the Lord of all and the eternal King. As they join together to honor and praise Him, His kingdom is manifested on Earth!

　　Psalm 145 is an acrostic poem in which each verse begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Its orderly structure makes it easy for readers to memorize. This psalm extols God as the universal King and celebrates His everlasting kingdom. His throne and reign are forever and unchanging from beginning to end. Therefore, the psalmist leads the entire congregation in worship, praising God and giving thanks for His marvelous works.

Praise the Mighty Power of God

　　The introduction of the psalm (vv. 1-2) is like a call to worship. The psalmist, acting as the officiant, gathers and leads the Israelite congregation to worship God as the most glorious King.

　　At the outset, the psalmist addresses Yahweh as “my God and King,” acknowledging Him as the one true God and great King. He then expresses his resolve to praise His name forever, committing himself to worship and serve Him as an expression of reverence, faith, and devotion (vv. 1-2). The psalmist then calls the entire congregation to join in fervent worship, using a series of verbs—such as “extol,” “bless” (v. 1); “bless,” “praise” (v. 2); “commend,” “declare” (v. 4); “speak of” (see NIV note), “meditate” (v. 5); “speak of,” “declare” (v. 6); “pour forth,” “sing aloud” (v. 7)—to convey their unceasing adoration.

　　The first section (vv. 1-9) points out the reason for praise: God is great. He stands above all Creation, is incomparable, and performs awesome deeds independently; He is worthy of honor and praise. His greatness, wisdom, and might are way beyond human comprehension. Thus, God’s people should always sing about His infinite greatness and wonders. The psalmist employs various terms—including “great” (v. 3); “mighty” (v. 4); “glorious splendor,” “majesty, “wondrous works” (v. 5); “the might of your awesome deeds” and “greatness” (v. 6)—to extol God’s wondrous works in Creation and history, where His glory and power are revealed.

　　In particular, words such as “glorious,” “splendor,” and “majesty” (v. 5) to emphasize God’s exalted kingship. He alone is the King of kings and Lord of lords, surpassing all other powers. His majesty and glory inspire awe and submission, prompting people to honor and revere Him and to offer their lives as a sacrifice. Therefore, he calls God’s people to proclaim His great mercy and grace, to speak of His grace of redemption, and to pass this testimony from generation to generation, so that praises may pour forth, composing an everlasting symphony (vv. 4-7).

　　Next, in verse 8, the psalmist recalls God’s mighty acts of salvation in history with a specific reference to His abundant love, mercy, and forgiveness. This verse takes the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt as a backdrop, recounting how God’s righteousness, goodness, and faithfulness were manifested among them as a historical testimony (cf. Ex 34:6). It reminds God’s people how they experienced His love and mercy in the past and serves as a witness to His abundant grace. Verse 9 further highlights God’s sovereignty over all Creation and His purpose for the world (His redemptive plan), salvation, and providence. It reflects that His grace and mercy extends not only to Israel but also to all nations and peoples, as well as all created beings, thus revealing that God is the Lord of all and the King of the universe!

　　Today, we must be clear about whom we worship. We worship the Almighty God who rules the universe and possesses supreme power. In worship, we, as God’s people, must humbly bow before Him and publicly acknowledge His sovereignty. He is the Lord of our lives, and we must allow His glory to be revealed in us!

Proclaim the Glory of God’s Kingdom

　　At the beginning of the second section (vv. 10-13a), the psalmist calls again the entire congregation to praise God, even inviting all Creation to join in (v. 10), acknowledging Him as the supreme Ruler and eternal King, worthy of honor and worship. Praise is not only based on God’s nature and deeds but also on His kingship. The kingdom of God is everlasting, majestic, and powerful, bringing about perfect justice, goodness, and peace. Thus, the psalmist proclaims the glory of God’s kingdom and celebrates His universal reign, for He alone is the great King whose authority extends over everything in heaven and on Earth (vv. 11-13).

　　From generation to generation, God’s people have proclaimed His eternal kingdom and declared His victory and authority. God desires His people to bear witness on Earth so that all may know His mighty deeds. Today, His kingship and reign are manifested on Earth in the worship of the church and can be experienced here and now. The church is called to exalt God and proclaim His name. The church is to proclaim God’s kingship through worship so that His kingdom may expand and His glory be revealed. Therefore, we must live out a life of worship, openly confess our faith, and remain steadfast in our allegiance to God.

Praise the Loving Care of God

　　In the third section (vv. 13b-21), the psalmist praises God as the faithful, covenant-keeping, merciful, and gracious Lord, expressing profound gratitude for His kindness.

　　God is the Creator and Ruler of the universe. Every creature depends on Him for existence. He governs, provides for, and sustains the world and all that is in it. His care and providence reveal His love, and all Creation reflects His glory, fulfilling His good will. In short, all of Creation testifies to God’s glory and power.

　　God is not only majestic and powerful but also caring and providing for all the needs of His Creation. His grace extends across the Earth and benefits all peoples; all Creation depends on His provision. Therefore, the psalmist repeatedly uses words such as “all” and “every” to emphasize that God’s providence encompasses the entire created order. The psalmist uses various terms to describe God’s care for humanity and His people, including “upholds,” “raises up” (v. 14); “give … food” (v. 15); “open [His] hand,” “satisfy the desire” (v. 16); “[be] righteous,” “[be] kind” (v. 17); “[be] near to all who call on Him” (v. 18); “fulfills the desire,” “hears their cry,” “saves them” (v. 19); “preserves all who love Him” and “destroy the wicked” (v. 20).

　　On the one hand, God treats humanity with justice and mercy, generously providing for their needs so they lack nothing. This demonstrates His love, care, and provision for all people (vv. 14-17). On the other hand, He bestows grace and blessings on those who call upon Him—He hears their prayers, responds to their needs, and protects and delivers His people from evil and danger (vv. 18-20). God’s steadfast love is humanity’s ultimate assurance. His meticulous care and preservation of His people always evoke them to respond to His abundant grace with hearts filled with gratitude and praise.

　　The goodness and mercy of God have been revealed throughout the ages. Today, as we deeply experience His abundant grace and love, our hearts overflow with joy and satisfaction. We should likewise offer Him our reverence, praise, and gratitude from the depths of our hearts, presenting ourselves to Him so that our spiritual lives may be renewed and revived!

All the World Shall Come and Praise God

　　The conclusion of the psalm (v. 21) echoes its introduction (vv. 1-2). At the climax of worship, the psalmist leads the entire congregation in unison, committing to praising God all their lives, and he further invites every nation and people to join in, coming together to extol God’s authority, power, and glory.

　　As we can see, this song of praise builds step by step, starting from within and gradually extending outward: from the officiant’s opening declaration, to calling the congregation to join in, and finally to a universal call for all nations and peoples to bow down in worship. Together they offer joyful praise and acclamation, extolling all the works and blessings of God and giving Him glory and praise forevermore!

　　The worship spans from the individual to the community, from Earth to heaven, and even reaches across the entire universe. Today, whenever we offer reverent worship to God, it is as though we are joining the eternal choir in heaven, singing alongside saints of all ages, angels, and heavenly hosts to honor the Most High, partaking a worship that is broader, richer, and everlasting. In other words, church congregations on Earth are closely connected with these celestial worshippers, gathering before God’s throne and echoing, “Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God” (Rv 19:1). In worship, we realize that God’s kingdom and reign are now among us, enabling us to see His glory and live out a life on Earth “as it is in heaven.”

Conclusion

　　Psalm 145 highlights God’s majesty, power, and His everlasting kingdom. As Sovereign Ruler of the universe, God’s greatness, awesomeness, and transcendence deserve praise from all Creation throughout the ages, from eternity to eternity. His governance, protection, grace, and mercy over all Creation reflect that His salvation is not confined to Israel but extends to all nations and peoples. This psalm urges God’s people to sing praises to Him from generation to generation, proclaiming His mighty act of salvation and wondrous works, and bearing witness to His presence and glory in the world. God desires His people to reveal His glory so that all may come to know Him and turn to Him.

　　The next year marks the 75th anniversary of HKBTS. We look forward to gathering choirs from all Baptist churches to participate in the 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise. Let us sing praises to God as a sacrifice, testifying to His mighty salvation and wondrous works, giving thanks for His great mercy and grace, and showing gratitude for all His kindness, “for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!”

　　The ultimate meaning of life is to glorify God. May we always remember His abundant grace, guidance, and protection, and offer our lives as living sacrifices, hallowing God in every moment, living a life of worship, and becoming His children pleasing to Him!

____________________________________________

^* All Scripture quotations are taken from the ESV.

Zhang Zhaolun

Master of Theology

Oscar Cheung

(Th.M.)

Zhaolun with his wife and son

Looking back on the years I spent studying theology, every step I took was filled with God’s grace and guidance.

Equip Yourself for Deeper Service

Over the years, many brothers and sisters and friends have asked me, "Why study theology? What's the point?" This is a very real question. I deeply understand that the knowledge acquired in seminary—whether it's theological theory, biblical languages, or church history—is often difficult to directly and fully apply in pastoral settings or on the Sunday pulpit.However, this tension between knowing and doing reveals the value of equipment.

I once heard a beloved pastor share a metaphor. He said a pastor's daily work is like driving a car on a smooth road. Generally, you arrive at your destination smoothly. But if the car breaks down or encounters rough and difficult road conditions, you need to know how to repair it and adapt. For me, theological training means learning these repair techniques. After further studies, although I still may not be able to handle all "difficult problems," I at least have more confidence and ability to face challenges in my faith or pastoral work—after all, my "toolbox" now has several more methods and approaches to solving problems.

These past few years of study have been invaluable, broadening my horizons. Without this period of immersion in seminary, I would have been limited in my ministry to a pre-existing, relatively limited framework of knowledge. But as I delve deeper and more attentively into my studies, while I acknowledge the endless possibilities of learning, I have gained greater confidence in discerning different arguments and understanding the underlying context in certain areas, allowing me to make more appropriate choices in teaching and pastoring. This confidence, rooted in an understanding of the sources of knowledge and contemporary scholarly dialogue, allows me to more faithfully interpret the Lord's Word. I firmly believe that as long as we strive wholeheartedly, the Lord will accept our efforts.

迎見生命的禮物 體會群體的溫暖

During my master's program, God blessed our family with a most precious gift—the birth of our son, Xinyu, in early 2024. His arrival undoubtedly presented a significant challenge to my studies. Maintaining a focused focus amid the hectic and exhausting demands of caring for a newborn was no easy feat. I was able to persevere and successfully graduate during that time, thanks to the understanding of my classmates and the tolerance of my professors, who allowed me to complete the remainder of my studies step by step within the limited time and space available.This experience made me truly realize that the Lord’s grace is often manifested to us through the brothers and sisters and teachers around us.

I would like to express my special gratitude to Professor Huang Fuguang. From studying at Baptist Theological Seminary's evening program, to the Master of Divinity program, and finally the Master of Theology program, Professor Huang has not only provided meticulous academic guidance but also dedicated his time and energy to me, offering countless encouragement and support. I am deeply grateful for this mentorship.

The attached photo was taken at my mother church, the Chinese Zion Missionary Church, Tsz Wan Shan Zion Church. In the photo are my wife Shuheng and my son Xinyu in my arms. That day, the church held a baby dedication ceremony for our son. This moment seemed likeA microcosm of my theological journey: In the transition of family roles and under the watchful eye of the spiritual community, I learned to entrust the most precious gift in life to the Lord, and to resolve to faithfully serve His Church with all I have learned.

May all glory be to our Father in heaven!

Oscar, his wife Phoebe, and their son Ethan

　　Looking back on these years of study at the seminary, I have found that my every step was filled with God’s grace and guidance.

Equipping Myself for In-Depth Ministry

　　Over the years, many brothers and sisters, as well as friends, have asked me, “Why did you choose to pursue further studies in theology? What good do they bring?” These are very good questions. I have realized that the knowledge acquired at the seminary—be it theological theories, biblical languages, or church history—is often difficult to apply directly and fully to the pastoral setting or the Sunday pulpit. However, this tension between knowing and doing is what makes this training so precious.

　　I once heard a beloved pastor share a parable: daily pastoral ministry is like driving on a smooth highway. Normally, you arrive at your destination without issue. But when the car suddenly breaks down or the road turns rough, you need repair skills and contingency tactics. To me, theological training equipped me with those “repair” skills. Though receiving the training may not enable me to solve all difficult problems, it can at least give me the confidence to face any challenges of faith or pastoral crises. After all, I gained more strategies and tools for problem-solving in my “toolbox.”

　　These years of study are precious to me because they have broadened my options. Had I not immersed myself in the seminary study, I would have served only within my existing, relatively limited framework of reference. Now, having studied more attentively and in depth, even though I know that learning is endless, I can be more confident in distinguishing between competing arguments in certain areas and understanding their underlying contexts, so that I can make wiser choices in teaching and pastoral care. This confidence, rooted in knowing the sources of knowledge and the contemporary academic dialogues, helps me to interpret God’s Word more faithfully. I trust that as we are faithful in service, God will be pleased with us.

A Gift of Life and a Warm Community

　　During my master’s program, God gave our family the most cherished gift: our son, Ethan, born in early 2024. His arrival certainly brought great challenges to my academic studies. Amidst the hustle and bustle of caring for a newborn, it was not easy to stay focused on my studies. Yet, I persevered and graduated thanks to the understanding of my classmates and the patience of my wife and teachers. They enabled me to complete the rest of my studies, step by step, within my limited time and capacity. Through this, I learned how God’s grace often comes to us through the people around us, like our brothers, sisters, and teachers.

　　I give special thanks to Prof. Fook-kong Wong. From the HKBTS evening program through my M.Div. and Th.M. studies, Prof. Wong has been my mentor. He gave me academic guidance while caring for me and offering me countless encouragement and support far beyond the classroom. I am deeply grateful for his kindness.

　　The attached photo was taken at my mother church, Chinese Evangelical Zion Church Tsz Wan Shan Zion Church. In the photo, there are my wife Phoebe and my son Ethan, whom I am holding in my arms. On that day, the church held a baby dedication ceremony for our son. That moment seems to epitomize my theological journey: with a change in my family life and under the watchful gaze of my spiritual community, I learned to entrust the most cherished gift in my life to the Lord and resolve to serve His church faithfully with all I have learned.

　　To our Father in heaven be all the glory!

Cao Ye

Master of Divinity

Ye Cao

(M.Div.)

Cao Ye and his family

With reverence for God and a passion for service, I entered the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary. I never imagined that this journey of seeking knowledge would turn into a baptism that touched my soul. God, with his endless grace and subtle guidance, gradually shaped me into a worker fit for the Lord's use.

Hall of Knowledge: Opening the Door to Spiritual Wisdom

　　The seminary's curriculum system is like a magnificent palace of knowledge, and each subject is a key path to spiritual wisdom.Dr. Deng Shaoguang's "Systematic Theology" course gave me a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of Christian doctrine. I realized that faith is not just a personal pursuit, but also involves responsibility and accountability to the church, society, and even the world. This understanding is like a beacon, guiding me to focus on character building in my life and strive to be a preacher who glorifies God and benefits others. Dr. Zhang Kaixuan's "Biblical Interpretation" course, from a precise grasp of word meanings, meticulous analysis of sentence patterns, to the complete interpretation of paragraphs, gradually allowed me to appreciate the depth and subtlety of biblical texts. Dr. Qu Li's "Christian Ethics in Cultural Context" course inspired me to think deeply about real life, guiding me to reflect on how to put Christian ethical principles into practice in real life, how to maintain clarity and rationality in a complex and changing social environment, and how to provide constructive help and advice to believers on difficult issues in Christian ethics.

Spiritual Refinement: Transforming from a Cocoon to a Butterfly in the Face of Challenges

Life in seminary is not only about accumulating knowledge but also about tempering my spiritual life. The prayer meetings every Wednesday and Friday are the cradle of my spiritual growth. Monthly individual meetings with my spiritual mentor provide solace and nourishment amidst the pressures of study and life's challenges. Besides growing through prayer and communication with my mentor, I've also gained a lot from my coursework. In the "Pastoral Care" course, the instruction of Pastor Lin Guobin, Dr. Lan Zhiyang, and Teacher Peng Juncheng helped me understand the nature and importance of pastoral care. Through case studies and practical reports, I learned how to apply pastoral skills to care for and counsel believers. Pastor Lin's explanation of the mentor-mentee relationship made me understand that a true mentor-mentee relationship is not just about imparting skills but about passing on life. Dr. Lei Jiansheng's "Preaching Method" course helped me master the art of delivering sermons without a script, learn how to effectively utilize language, and enable me to comprehensively and objectively evaluate my own preaching, identifying shortcomings and improving them. Although every impromptu sermon is a severe test, it also allows me to grow through the hardships, break out of the cocoon and become a more confident and mature preacher.

Preparation for Ministry: Rooted and Growing in Practice

The seminary not only provided me with a wealth of theoretical knowledge but also offered me valuable research opportunities. Through my research on the Baptist Aiqun Charitable Services, I gained a deep understanding of how to put theological knowledge into practice. During this research, I witnessed how churches integrate faith with practical action, caring for vulnerable groups and providing diverse services. This made me realize that as ministers of God, we must not only preach the gospel but also care for and help others through practical actions, practicing the teaching of "love your neighbor as yourself." Under the careful guidance of Dr. Lei Jiansheng, I successfully completed my paper for the Senior Integration Seminar (SIC), "Wang Weifan's Preaching Method: The Integration of Traditional Chinese Culture and Preaching Skills." Studying Pastor Wang Weifan's works not only enhanced my academic abilities but also led to profound reflection on my preparation for ministry.

Looking back on my time studying in seminary, my heart is filled with gratitude.God has led me with grace through the ocean of knowledge, across the valley of spiritual life, and into the field of service, allowing my young spiritual life to gradually grow and become a worker of the Lord with increased knowledge, a lively spiritual life, and a desire to serve.In the future, I will continue to move forward on the path of service with more determined steps to glorify the Lord's name.

Ye Cao and his family

　　With a deep reverence for God and a passion for service, I entered the gates of the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary. Little did I realize that this quest for knowledge would soon become a soul-stirring baptism—God, with His boundless grace and subtle guidance, gradually shaped me into a servant fit for His service.

A Hall of Knowledge: Opening the Door to Spiritual Wisdom

　　The seminary curriculum is like a grand hall of knowledge, each course serving as a key pathway to spiritual wisdom. In the course “Systematic Theology” taught by Dr. Andres Tang, I gained a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of Christian doctrines and realized that faith is not a mere personal pursuit but also involves responsibility and commitment to the church, society, and the world. This realization is like a guiding light, leading me to focus on building character in my life and to strive to become a preacher who glorifies God and benefits others. The course “Biblical Interpretation” taught by Dr. Kai-hsuan Chang guided me step-by-step from accurately understanding the literal meaning of words to carefully analyzing sentence structures and interpreting passages, so that I could appreciate the Bible’s profound subtleties and message. Dr. Curie Qu’s course “Christian Ethics in a Cultural Context” inspired me to engage in profound reflection on real-life situations. It guided me to consider how to apply Christian ethical principles in daily life, how to remain sober and rational in a complex and ever-changing social environment, and how to provide constructive assistance and guidance to believers on challenging issues within Christian ethics.

The Cultivation of Spirituality: Transformation through Challenges

　　Life at the seminary was not only about accumulating knowledge but also about cultivating spirituality. The prayer meetings on Wednesdays and Fridays were the cradle of my spiritual growth. The monthly one-on-one meetings with my spiritual mentor provided me with consolation and soul nourishment amidst academic pressure and life’s challenges. In addition to my growth through prayer and communication with my mentor, attending classes was also highly rewarding. In the course “Pastoral Care,” Rev. Brian Lam, Dr. Chi-yeung Lam, and Mr. Carter Pang helped me understand the essence and importance of pastoral care. Through case discussions and practice reports, I learned how to use pastoral care techniques to care for and counsel believers. Rev. Lam’s explanation of the mentor-mentee relationship helped me understand that a true mentor-mentee relationship involves the transmission not merely of skills but also of one’s life. Dr. Ken Lui’s course “Homiletics” enabled me to master the art of preaching without notes, effectively utilize language techniques, objectively evaluate and identify areas for improvement in my sermons, and make necessary adjustments. Although each preaching sermons without notes was a rigorous challenge to me, it fostered my own growth through the process of refinement, allowing me to emerge as a more confident and mature preacher.

Preparation for Service: Rooting and Growing through Practice

　　The seminary not only provided me with a wealth of theoretical knowledge but also offered me valuable research opportunities. Through my research project on the Baptist Oi Kwan Social Service, I gained a deep understanding of how to apply theological knowledge in practice. In this research, I saw how a church combined faith with action, caring for disadvantaged groups through diversified services. This made me realize that as a servant of God, I must not only preach the gospel but also care for and help others through actions, putting into practice the teaching of “love your neighbor as yourself.” Under the careful guidance of Dr. Lui, I completed my thesis titled “The Homiletics of Wei-fan Wang: The Practical Integration of Traditional Chinese Culture and Homiletical Techniques” for the Senior Integrative Colloquium (SIC). Studying Rev. Wei-fan Wang’s works not only enhanced my academic capabilities but also led me to a profound reflection on my preparation for ministry.

　　Looking back on my studies at the seminary, my heart is filled with gratitude. God has guided me with His grace through the ocean of knowledge, across the valleys of spirituality, and into the fields of ministry, allowing my fledgling spiritual life to gradually mature into a servant of the Lord who is growing in knowledge, vibrant in spirit, and committed to service. In the future, I will continue to walk on the path of ministry with even greater determination, bringing glory to the name of the Lord.

Zhi Peimin

Master of Divinity

Pakey Chik

(M.Div.)

Peimin and her mother

As graduation approaches, I look back on the past several years of seminary study with a heart filled with gratitude and awe for the Lord's guidance and grace. From my initial decision to embark on the path of theological training to now entering a new phase of pastoral ministry, the Lord, the Great Shepherd, has always firmly guided me forward. Whether in the days of longing to know Him and seeking to understand His will, or in times of challenge and struggle, He has always responded to my needs, ensuring that I am not in need.

Starting a journey: From struggle to igniting mission

For me, being called into full-time ministry is a journey of faith, a journey in which I increasingly see the Lord's abundant love and guidance. In 2018, I joined a new church ministry team. This coincided with a career change and the shifting social landscape. These challenges made me deeply aware of my spiritual weakness and my inadequacy in my faith. I longed to know the Lord more deeply, so I enrolled in an evening course at the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary's Believers' Theological Education Department, hoping to discern His will for our lives.

Through the course, the Lord broadened my horizons, allowing me to gain a deeper understanding of His Triune love and its relational nature, as well as His expectation for humanity: to grow and achieve harmony and unity through respect and care. I also gained a deeper appreciation for the passivity of human faith—without His unconditional sharing of this life-giving love, no one, regardless of their intelligence, could be saved. Studying the stories of the fervent devotion of pastors in Church history and personally experiencing how pastors walked with and mentored their brothers and sisters, I was ignited within me by the mission to devote myself to full-time service to the Lord.

Moving Forward: From Doubt to Obedient Response

However, I was like a lamb, timid and short-sighted. Although I envied the position of pastor, after much exploration, I still couldn't clearly discern my calling. Filled with doubt, I worried that it was just wishful thinking, and hesitated to give up my stable life. But the Lord, in His mercy, did not overlook my inner struggles, guiding me through prayer to learn to surrender and wait. It wasn't until a church ministry retreat that the Lord spoke a clear calling to me, completely dispelling my doubts and allowing me to no longer hesitate. With the confirmation of my pastor and the support of my family, I entered seminary in early 2021, embarking on a full-time journey of training and further exploring the Lord's will for me.

During my time in seminary, the Lord's word, sharp as a double-edged sword, penetrated the depths of my soul, inspiring self-reflection and gradually clarifying and affirming my calling. Since entering the seminary, everyday life has often led me to question: What kind of pastor can I truly be? Whenever I ponder this question, I feel lost, discouraged, and even tempted to withdraw. But in these moments, the Lord guides and sustains me with His rod. Through the various disciplines I study, I understand the essence of Christ's life of "walking with others" and how we must, relying on the Holy Spirit's help, imitate Christ and thereby shape our discipleship and practice. These insights have gradually guided me to grasp my true aspirations for pastoral ministry and to develop the theological foundation for my future ministry. In addition, through Christian coaching, pastoral care and other practical activities, as well as the encouragement of church pastors and the companionship of church members, His rod dispelled my self-doubt and anxiety when I was confused, discouraged, and retreated, guiding me to face and learn to accept the weaknesses and needs in my own and the group's nature, gradually shaping my own pastoral path.

Outlook: From Response to Commitment

Whether in full-time ministry, part-time ministry, or simply serving in everyday life, following in God's footsteps is never easy. This journey of theological training has reassured me that the hand of the Lord, the Great Shepherd, will continue to guide His sheep along the abundant path He has prepared. Whether the future finds us in green pastures, by streams, or in valleys of darkness, I remain steadfast in my original aspiration and faithful to my calling. Together with my brothers and sisters, we will be rooted in God's Word and grow according to His creative will, bearing witness to the glory and grace of Christ and striding toward His eternal light and peace.

Pakey and her mother

　　As my graduation date approaches, I look back on my time at the seminary with gratitude and awe for God’s guidance and grace. From the day I decided to embark on the path of theological training to my new phase of pastoral ministry, it is clear that the hand of God, the Great Shepherd, has faithfully guided me on this journey. Whether I longed to know Him, sought to understand His will, or faced challenges and struggles, He always provided timely feedback, ensuring that I lacked nothing.

Setting Out: From Struggle to Passion for Missions

　　For me, God’s vocational calling is a journey of faith where His abundant love and guidance has become increasingly evident along the way. In 2018, I joined my church’s ministry team, coinciding with my career change and the dynamic transformation of Hong Kong society. These challenges left me feeling spiritually weak and made me realize my inadequate understanding of faith. Longing to know God more deeply, I enrolled in an evening program at the Lay Theological Education Department of the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary, hoping to discern His will for life.

　　Through my studies, God broadened my horizons and enabled me to grasp more fully His triune love and relational nature, as well as His will for humankind to grow in harmony and unity through mutual respect and care. I have also come to deeply recognize humanity’s passivity in matters of faith—without God’s unconditional offer of His abundant love of life, no one, regardless of intellectual ability, could be saved. Studying the passionate dedication of saints in church history and personally observing pastors walking alongside and guiding their flocks rekindled my passion for full-time ministry.

Moving Forward: From Doubt to Submission

　　However, I was like a lamb, lacking courage and foresight. Although I had long admired the pastoral ministry, my several attempts to explore that calling bore no fruit. My heart was full of doubts, and I feared that it was merely my wishful thinking, so I hesitated to give up the stable life I enjoyed. Yet the Lord of compassion did not overlook every struggle in my heart. It was during a church retreat that God made a clear calling to me, completely dispelling my hesitation. With my pastor’s endorsement and my family’s support, I entered seminary in early 2021, embarking on a journey of full-time training to further explore God’s will for me.

　　During my seminary studies, God’s Word, which is sharper than any double-edged sword, cut deep into my heart, inspiring me to reflect on myself and enabling me to affirm my calling with clarity. Since entering seminary, the little things in life have often made me question myself: “What kind of pastor can I be?” Whenever I ponder this question, I would feel confused and discouraged about what I could do for the Lord and how I could fulfill His calling; I was even tempted to give up. But, during these moments of darkness and doubt, the Lord guided and supported me through His staff: by studying various disciplines, I came to understand the Christ-like quality of being with others and the importance of the Holy Spirit’s help for us to imitate Christ, which would shape the disciples’ identity and practices. This helped guide me to grasp my true pastoral vocation and create a theological foundation for my future ministry. In addition, through class activities on Christian coaching and pastoral care, and through the encouragement of pastors and the companionship of fellow believers, He dispelled my self-doubt and anxiety during times of confusion, discouragement, and retreat. He guided me to face and learn to accept my own weaknesses and needs, as well as those of the community, and gradually shaped my path as a pastor.

Looking Ahead: From Response to Commitment

　　Following the Lord’s footsteps in full-time ministry, bi-vocational service, or everyday life has never been easy. Yet, this journey of theological training has convinced me that the hand of God, the Great Shepherd, will continue to guide His sheep along the abundant path He has prepared. In the future, whether in green pastures, beside still waters, or in the valley of the shadow of death, I will remain true to my original aspiration, faithful to my vocation, and grow alongside my brothers and sisters in God’s Word, becoming the ones who He intends us to be, bearing witness to Christ’s glory and grace, and striving toward the eternal light and peace of the Lord.

Brian Lei

Master of Divinity

Brian Lei

(M.Div.)

As the ancients said, "A day without seeing you feels like three years." A poet longing for you felt that each day felt like three years. Now, for me, three years feel like just one day. Before I knew it, three years have passed since I enrolled at Baptist Theological Seminary, and graduation is just around the corner. After three years of full-time study, I still have to ask myself: Who am I? Why should I serve such a great Creator?

Learning Care

When I gave my testimony of my calling, I mentioned that God helped me see the needs of others and moved me to care for them. This was one of the reasons I considered studying theology full-time. I remember at the beginning of my freshman year, a classmate asked me what I wanted to learn most about seminary. I replied that I needed to learn about community life, how to care for others and be cared for, and how to become a companion to others. Three years later, I've come to realize that being a companion requires not only learning how to care but also learning to wait—waiting on God, waiting on others, and waiting on myself.

Over the past few years, whether in college or church, I have had many opportunities to learn how to listen and care for others. I have also learned many skills, so I thought I began to understand how to care for others. However, one time when I was practicing caring skills in class, I thought my response was pretty good, but the student I cared for later responded that he felt oppressed and denied. For me, this was a reminder: it turns out that my "care" for others may just be an imposition of my own ideas on the other person. In the name of "for your own good", I actually want to bring the other person under my control, rather thanWalk with each other in the Holy Spirit and wait for God to work in them..

Learning to wait

Through various classes, I learned that God is a patient God. He does not force creation to grow, but rather, with patience, allows creation to grow at its own pace, gradually becoming what God created it to be over time.The church is not a manipulative group, but a group of brothers and sisters who walk with each other at their own pace under the empowerment of the Holy Spirit and learn together to live under God's rule.However, when I was walking with others, I failed to live this kind of "waiting on God and others," believing instead that I could "help" others. Looking back, I realize that God was actually teaching me from the beginning to learn to wait, to understand that we cannot control everything. From submitting my application to seminary, passing the entrance exam, completing the various administrative procedures, and finally traveling from Macau to Hong Kong to study, every step was plagued by delays beyond my control. It was these unexpected circumstances that made me realize that I wasn't trusting and waiting on God as much as I had thought, but rather pursuing the security of "controlling everything." While we may all know mentally that we should let go and leave things to God, in this modern society obsessed with control, we also need to learn how to be "useless."

　　Besides waiting on God and others, I also learned to wait on myself.I remember attending a spiritual development group in first grade. One of the sessions involved reflecting on the darker aspects of my life. Over the past few years, I've gained a deeper understanding of my own darker aspects. I'm grateful that God has walked with me through His Word and through various brothers and sisters in this darkness, letting me know that He is waiting for me to grow. He has allowed me to understand and embrace my own weaknesses through these experiences. I don't need to force myself to be a "standard" preacher, but rather, to be an "incompetent" who learns to rely on the Holy Spirit for help.

Good works of life

Finally, I thank God for allowing me to attend this college, meet brothers and sisters from different churches, and even get to know my neighbors at a nearby restaurant. Hong Kong, for me, feels somewhere between home and a foreign land, yet these people make me feel at home. They care about whether I'm making enough for life in Hong Kong. I also met a fellow villager at church who took great care of me. This has allowed me to experience more personally and truly the abundance of God's grace. May I, too, be a channel of this grace.

　　Who am I? Just a "useless" worker, yet like all my brothers and sisters, we are children loved by God, waiting together for God to complete the good work He has begun in our lives.

　　There is an old Chinese saying: “One day apart feels like three years.” The poet, longing for his beloved, felt that a single day was like three years. Yet now I feel that three years are like a single day. It has been three years since I enrolled at HKBTS, and soon I will be graduating. Even after three years of full-time study, I still ask myself: Who am I? What qualifies me to serve God, the great Creator?

Learning to Care

　　When I shared my testimony of God’s calling, I explained how God opened my eyes to the needs around me and moved me to care for others. This was one of the reasons that led me to pursue full-time theological studies. At the start of my first year, a classmate asked what I was most looking forward to learning at the seminary. I replied that my greatest desire was to learn how to live meaningfully within a community, how to care for others and be cared for, and how to walk alongside others as companions in faith. Three years passed, and I now realize that to walk alongside others, I must learn not only how to care for them but also how to wait—to have patience for God, for others, and for myself.

　　Over the past few years in both seminary and church settings, I have had many opportunities to practice listening and pastoral care. As a result, I have acquired various counseling skills, and I thought I began to understand how to care for others. However, during a practicum on pastoral care techniques, while I believed my responses were effective, a classmate later said that she felt stressed and rejected by me, reminding me that my “care” can become an imposition of my own ideas—justified by “it’s for your own good”—when in truth I desire to control rather than to walk with them in step with the Holy Spirit and wait for God to work in their lives.

Learning to Wait

　　From various classes, I have come to understand that God is patient. He does not force Creation to grow but patiently allows each created being to develop at their own pace, gradually becoming what God intended them to be over time. Likewise, a church is not a community that manipulates its members; it is a body of brothers and sisters who, empowered by the Holy Spirit, walk together, each at their own pace under God’s guidance and governance. However, when walking alongside others, I believed I could “help” them. Yet, I failed to embody this spirit of waiting for God and others. Looking back, in fact, God had been teaching me right from the start to learn patience and to understand that humans cannot control everything. From submitting my seminary application to taking the entrance exam, completing administrative procedures, and finally moving from Macau to Hong Kong, unexpected delays reminded me again and again that there are always matters beyond my control. These unexpected circumstances made me realize that I was not trusting in God and waiting for Him as much as I thought. I was pursuing a sense of security and trying to have everything under my control. Perhaps we all know in our minds that we should let go and entrust everything to God, but in this modern society that seeks to control everything, learning to be a “useless” person as such turns out to be something that we need to learn.

　　In addition to waiting for God and others, I realized that I must also wait for myself. During a first-year spiritual formation group, one exercise invited us to examine our “dark side.” Over these years of study, I have gained a deeper understanding of my own weaknesses. In the midst of darkness, I am grateful that through His Word and the companionship of brothers and sisters, God has shown me that He has been waiting for me to grow, helping me to understand and embrace my weaknesses through these experiences. I need not force myself to be a minister who “meets the standards” but rather a “helpless one” who learns to rely on the Holy Spirit.

The Good Work God Has Begun in Our Lives

　　Finally, I thank God for allowing me to enter this seminary, where I met brothers and sisters from different churches and made friends with neighbors at nearby restaurants. While Hong Kong did not feel like home or a foreign land, these friends made me feel truly at home. They cared about whether I had enough to live on in Hong Kong. At church, I also met a fellow from my hometown who looked after me, allowing me to experience God’s abundant grace in a deeply personal way. I wish I could also become a channel of God’s grace.

　　Who am I? I am a mere “useless” servant, and yet one of God’s beloved children. Together with my brothers and sisters, I wait for God to complete the good work He has begun in our lives.

Zhang Lin

Bachelor of Theology

Lam Cheung

(B.Th.)

Zhang Lin and her family

Embark on a Journey of Grace by Faith

In the blink of an eye, I have completed four years of study at the seminary. Looking back on these days, I am filled with immense gratitude!

I am a quadriplegic, requiring a wheelchair for mobility and having difficulty writing. However, thanks to God's grace and the help of my faculty, colleagues, and classmates, I successfully and happily completed these four years of study.

Looking back on the call to ministry four years ago, I was genuinely apprehensive, fearing I wasn't up to the task. After all, my health wasn't ideal, and I'd been away from school and my studies for twenty years. There was also the matter of transportation. Would I go to school alone, or would I have a female worker accompany me? All of these things needed to be considered and arranged. It was a tremendous challenge for me. Not only did I have to step out of my comfort zone, but I also had to leave behind my husband, my daughter, who was about to enter secondary school and enter adolescence, and everything I knew. The only thing I could hold onto was God: I believed that His calling at this moment was the best possible one. I simply had to respond in faith and step forward faithfully. I trusted that He would provide for me in the future. Thus, with trepidation, yet also filled with inexplicable excitement and anticipation, I entered seminary to answer God's call.

Rich Theological Journeys

Looking back on these four years, the college has helped me build a solid foundation in my faith through various courses. These courses cover not only biblical subjects but also social and philosophical issues. Previously, my understanding of God was primarily through the Bible, but now my understanding has broadened to include history, the perspectives of various church fathers, and theologians. I used to accept instruction in a one-way manner, but now I've learned to verify, reflect, and integrate knowledge. Every course and every learning experience has broadened my horizons and expanded my thinking. I've changed my previous one-sided and simplistic way of thinking and have learned to consider it from a wider range of perspectives, enriching my understanding of God.

During these four years of seminary life, God has enriched me not only intellectually but also in my life. Previously, I only saw examples of faithful service in the pastors of my church. Now, in seminary, I see different models of service from teachers, co-workers, and classmates with diverse temperaments and gifts. I see how they pastor, coordinate, and care for us. All of this has exceeded my expectations and imagination.

Completing these four years of study has made me deeply appreciate the importance of continuous learning. Rather than feeling like I've "graduated and completed my studies," I feel a sense of inadequacy and a thirst for more. Although I'm currently unable to pursue further studies full-time due to church service, I'm fortunate to have a variety of further study options at the college. I'm even more grateful that the college has adjusted its course structure, allowing for greater flexibility in study time and subject selection. Most importantly, I have the dedicated guidance of my teachers and the enthusiastic support of my colleagues, which is why I've decided to continue my studies at HKBS.

Just be faithful and don't worry

Looking back and reflecting on these four years of study, I've deeply realized a crucial lesson: trust in God. If I didn't trust that He would care for my health and my family, I wouldn't have dared to step foot into seminary. Without His grace, I wouldn't have been able to complete the long hours of study each day, let alone the homework and exams. Without His sustaining power, I wouldn't have been able to successfully and joyfully complete my entire theological journey.God showed me that as long as I was willing to respond faithfully, His grace was more than sufficient and His mighty care was ongoing.All of this is very important to me as I embark on the path of ministry. The journey of ministry is a lifelong one, and I need to trust in God's grace and care, relying on His power as my support. I also deeply believe that:As long as I am willing to serve faithfully, He will provide the rest for me!

I'm grateful for God's calling and willingness to use me, allowing me to respond with a lifetime of service. I'm grateful to the college's teachers, co-workers, and classmates for adding more color to my life. May God continue to use the college, its teachers, co-workers, and classmates to be a blessing to even more people.

Lam Cheung and her family

Embark on a Journey of Faith and Grace

　　In the blink of an eye, my four years at the seminary have come to an end. Looking back, I am truly filled with gratitude!

　　As someone with physical disabilities, I rely on a wheelchair for mobility and have difficulty writing. Yet by God’s grace—and with the support of faculty, staff, and my fellow students at the seminary—I was able to complete my studies smoothly and joyfully!

　　I recall how anxious I felt when I was called to serve God four years ago. I was afraid that I was not capable; I had health issues, and I had been away from school for 20 years. I also had to think about practical issues like transportation to the seminary. Should I commute on my own, or have a domestic helper accompany me? I had to consider all these things and make the necessary arrangements. All these were huge challenges for me. Entering the seminary meant stepping out of my comfort zone and spending time away from my husband and pre-teen daughter, who was about to start secondary school, and everything I was familiar with. All I could cling to was God: I trusted that His call at that moment was the best, and I only needed to respond in faith and walk in obedience; the rest, I believed, He would prepare for me. Thus, with trepidation, yet also with inexplicable excitement and anticipation, I entered the seminary to respond to God’s call.

A Theological Journey of Abundance

　　Reflecting on the past four years, I find that the seminary has helped me build a solid foundation of faith through a diverse curriculum. The courses covered not only biblical topics but also social issues and philosophy. Previously, my understanding of God came almost exclusively from the Bible, but now my knowledge encompasses church history, the perspectives of church fathers and theologians, and much more. I used to absorb teachings passively; now I have learned to verify, reflect, and integrate them. Every subject and learning experience has broadened my horizon and enhanced my perspective, transforming my once-narrow and simplistic thinking. I have learned to consider issues from multiple angles, which has enriched my understanding of God.

　　Over those four years, God has enriched not only my mind but also my life. In the past, I only saw examples of faithful servants in the service of church pastors. Now, at the seminary, I see different models of faithful servants in the service of our teachers, staff, and fellow students—each with unique personalities and gifts. I have watched them shepherd, collaborate, and care for others in ways that exceeded my expectations and imagination.

　　After completing my studies, I have come to realize the importance of lifelong learning. Rather than feeling like “I made it,” I sense my inadequacy and feel a deep longing to learn more. Although my ministry responsibilities prevent me from further pursuing full-time studies right now, I am grateful that the seminary offers flexible continuing-education options. I am even more grateful that HKBTS has restructured these programs to allow greater flexibility in the courses available and their duration. Most importantly, inspired by the dedicated teachers and enthusiastic staff at the seminary, I have decided to continue my studies at HKBTS.

Be Faithful and Do Not Worry

　　Reflecting on my four years of study, I have learned one crucial lesson: trusting in God. Had I not trusted that He would care for my health and my family, I would never have dared to enter the seminary. Without His grace, I could not have endured long hours of daily study or completed my assignments and exams. Without His sustaining strength, this theological journey would not have been smooth or joyful. God has shown me that His grace overflows whenever I respond faithfully, and His mighty care never ceases. This is of the utmost importance to me as I am about to embark on the path of ministry. Ministry is a lifelong journey, and I must rely on God’s grace and care, making His power my steadfast support. I am convinced that as long as I serve faithfully, He will surely provide everything I need!

　　Thank God for calling me and allowing me to respond with a lifetime of service. I am also grateful to the teachers, staff, and fellow students at the seminary for enriching my life. May God continue to use this seminary community to bless many more people.

Brothers and sisters are called to Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary to equip themselves to be faithful servants of God. How do they navigate this learning journey? What are their reflections and experiences? This issue of "School News" invites graduates of the main campus' theology program to share their life transformations and testify to the God of grace.

Brothers and sisters are called to enroll in the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary (HKBTS) to equip themselves to become faithful servants of God. How have they navigated the course of theological training? What feelings and insights have they gained? In this issue of the Newsletter, several graduates of the Main Campus Programs share their life-transforming journeys and bear witness to the God of all grace.

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Grace Chan

Chaplain, Lecturer of Practical Theology

陳宇恩

Chaplain, Lecturer of Practical Theology

The Psalms are a collection of sacred songs from the nation of Israel, encompassing songs sung individually and collectively in worship. Throughout history, God's people have expressed their love and reverence for God and brought glory to Him through worship, praise, prayer, and thanksgiving. The psalms are rich in content, centering on God's attributes and deeds, encompassing His creation, sovereignty, redemptive history, protection, and providence. By proclaiming God's deeds, these psalms reveal who He is, demonstrating His greatness, power, justice, and love, and reminding His people that He is Lord over all, the eternal King. As they unite in honoring and praising God, His Kingdom is manifested on earth!

Psalm 145 is an acrostic psalm (an alphabetical psalm), with each verse beginning in alphabetical order. This neatly structured psalm is conducive to memorization. This psalm recognizes God as the reigning universal King and celebrates His eternal kingdom.His throne and kingship are eternal and unchanging from beginning to end, so the psalmist leads the entire congregation in worship to praise God and thank God for his wonderful works.

Praise God's great power

　　Introduction(1-2) Like a call to worship, the psalmist, as the celebrant, gathers and leads the people of Israel to honor and worship God together, focusing on the glorious Supreme King.

The psalmist begins by addressing Jehovah as "my God, my King," proclaiming Him as the one true God and the great King. He then declares his heart, pledging to offer Him the highest praise forever and ever, dedicating his life to worshiping and serving Him as an expression of his reverence, confession, and dedication to Him (verses 1-2). The psalmist then calls the entire congregation to join in fervent worship, using a series of verbs to express endless praise to God, including: "honor," "praise" (verse 1); "praise," "glorify" (verse 2); "praise," "proclaim" (verse 4); "tell," "meditate" (verse 5); "preach," "proclaim" (verse 6); "remember," "sing" (verse 7).

　　First paragraph(1-9) Point out the reason for praise:Because God is extremely great.He transcends all else, is incomparable, and uniquely works wonders, worthy of honor and praise. His greatness, wisdom, and power far surpass human imagination. For this reason, God's people must continually sing of God's infinite greatness and wonders. The psalmist uses a variety of terms, including "great" (verse 3); "mighty" (verse 4); "glory," "honor," and "wonderful works" (verse 5); and "awesome power," "greatness" (verse 6), to praise God's wondrous works in creation and history, revealing His glory and power everywhere.

The psalmist specifically uses words like "majesty," "glory," and "honor" (verse 5) to highlight God's regal identity. He alone is King of kings and Lord of lords, surpassing all power. God's majesty and glory inspire awe and submission, inspiring them to honor and revere Him and dedicate their lives to Him. Therefore, he calls on God's people to proclaim God's great grace and goodness, recounting His redemptive benefits, and passing them down from generation to generation, so that the sound of praise will flow continuously, forming a never-ending symphony (verses 4-7).

Next, in verse 8, the psalmist reflects on God's mighty deliverances throughout history. He particularly experiences a profound appreciation for God's abundant love, mercy, and forgiveness. This verse, set against the backdrop of Israel's exodus from Egypt, recalls God's righteousness, goodness, and faithfulness, as demonstrated among the Israelites as a historical testimony (see Exodus 34:6). This reminds God's people of their past experiences with God's love and mercy, and bears witness to His abundant grace. Verse 9 further emphasizes God's sovereignty over all creation, as well as His universal purpose (the plan of redemption), salvation, and protection. This reflects that His grace and mercy extend not only to the nation of Israel but also to all nations and peoples, as well as all creation, demonstrating that God is Lord of all and King of the universe!

Today we need to understand who we are worshipping.We worship the supreme God who controls the universe.In worship, as God's people, we must humbly bow before Him and openly acknowledge His sovereignty over us. He is the Lord of our lives, and we must allow His glory to be manifested in us!

Proclaim the glory of God's kingdom

existSecond paragraphAt the outset of the poem (verses 10-13a), the psalmist repeatedly calls upon the entire congregation to praise God, inviting all creation to join in the praise (verse 10), acknowledging Him as the supreme ruler, the eternal King, worthy of honor and worship. Praise is based not only on God's nature and deeds but also on His kingship. God's kingdom endures forever, full of majesty and power, bringing perfect justice, goodness, and peace. Therefore, the psalmist proclaims the glory of God's kingdom and celebrates God's universal rule, for He alone is the great King who rules and governs, and all things in heaven and on earth are subject to His authority (verses 11-13).

Throughout the ages, God's people have proclaimed His eternal kingdom and declared His victory and reign. God wants to bear witness to Him on earth through His people, allowing the world to know His mighty deeds. Today, God's kingship and rule are manifested in the world through the worship of the church, and can be experienced now. The church is called to exalt God and proclaim His name. The church's ministry is to proclaim God as King through worship, so that His kingdom can be expanded and His glory can be manifested. Therefore,We must live a life of worship, confess our faith to the world, and be loyal to God..

Praise God's loving care

existParagraph 3(13b-21), the psalmist praises God for being faithful, keeping His covenant, showing His love, and giving Him abundant grace, and expresses his gratitude for His grace.

God is the Creator of the universe and all things. All things depend on Him for their existence. He governs, protects, and controls the world and everything in it. God's care and protection of creation demonstrate His lovingkindness; all things in the world also manifest His glory and fulfill His good will. In short, all creation in the universe bears witness to God's glory and power.

　　God is not only a God full of majesty and power, but also a Lord who cares for and provides for all the needs of His creation.His grace extends throughout the earth, benefiting all peoples; all creation depends on His provision. Therefore, the psalmist repeatedly uses words like "all," "everything," and "everything" to emphasize that God's care encompasses the entire creation. The psalmist also uses a variety of verbs to describe God's care for the world and His people, including: "raise up" (twice, in verse 14); "give food" (verse 15); "open his hands," "satisfy every desire" (verse 16); "righteous" and "loving" (verse 17); "near to all who call on Him" (verse 18); "fulfill their desires," "he hears their cry," "saves them" (verse 19); "protects all who love Him," and "destroys the wicked" (verse 20).

On the one hand, God treats humanity with justice and kindness, generously providing all things, ensuring that all needs are met, thereby demonstrating His care, concern, and provision for all (verses 14-17). On the other hand, God bestows grace and blessings upon those who call upon Him. He hears their prayers, responds to their needs, and protects and delivers His people from evildoers and dangers (verses 18-20). God's lovingkindness is humanity's ultimate safeguard. His meticulous care and protection for His people instill in them a constant heart of gratitude and praise in response to His immense grace.

God's goodness and mercy have been continually manifested throughout the ages. Today, as we deeply experience His abundant grace and love, overflowing with joy and contentment, we should likewise offer Him our heartfelt reverence, praise, and gratitude, offering Him this tribute, so that our spiritual lives may be renewed and revived!

The whole world should come to praise God

PoeticConclusion(Verse 21) echoes the "Introduction" (verses 1-2). At the climax of worship, the psalmist leads the entire congregation in unison, pledging to spend their lives praising God, and further calls on all nations and peoples to join in the praise, together praising God's authority, power, and glory.

From this we can see that the songs of praise progress layer by layer, one after another, gradually extending from the inside out, from the presiding officer’s own announcement, to leading the entire congregation to join in, and even calling on all nations and peoples in the world to kneel down and worship, to cheer together, to praise all of God’s deeds and grace, and to give glory and praise to Him forever and ever!

　　Worship extends from the individual to the group, from the earth to the heaven, and throughout the universe.Today, whenever we offer reverent worship to God, it is as if we join the eternal choir in heaven, joining saints, angels, and the heavenly host throughout the ages in praising the Most High God. This embodies a broader, richer, and never-ending worship. In other words, the church on earth is closely connected with the heavenly host and saints of all ages. We worship together before the throne of God, singing, "Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God!" (Revelation 19:1). We recognize that God's kingdom and rule have come among us, enabling us to behold God's glory and live a life "as it were in heaven on earth."

Summarize

Psalm 145 particularly emphasizes God's majesty and power, as well as His eternal kingdom. God is the great King who rules over all creation. His greatness, wonder, and transcendence deserve praise from all creation, from ancient times to the present day and forever. God's rule and protection, grace, and mercy over all creation reflect His salvation, extending not only to Israel but to all nations and peoples. This psalm calls on God's people throughout all generations to sing songs of praise, proclaiming God's mighty salvation and miraculous deeds, and bearing witness to His presence and glory to the world.God wants to manifest His glory in His people so that the world can know Him and turn to Him.

Next year is the 75th anniversary of HKBT. We hope to gather choirs from all Baptist churches to participate."75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship and Music Praise Meeting", sing praises to God, offer praises as a sacrifice, and together witness His mighty salvation and wonderful deeds, thank Him for His great grace and virtue, in return for all His great grace, “For He is good, and His love endures forever”!

　　The ultimate meaning of life is to glorify God.May we always remember all of God’s abundant grace, guidance, and protection, offer our lives completely as a living sacrifice, honor God as holy every moment, live a life of worship, and become His children who delight in us!

* The scriptures quoted in this article are based on the Revised Union Version.

　　The Psalms are a collection of the lsraelites’ hymns, containing songs sung by individuals and congregations during worship. Throughout the ages, God’s people have expressed their love and reverence through worship, praise, supplication, and thanksgiving to the glory of God. These hymns are rich in content, focusing on God’s attributes and works, including His Creation, sovereignty, redemptive history, protection, and providence. By declaring God’s works, the Psalms reveal His nature, showcase His greatness, power, righteousness, and mercy, and remind God’s people that He is the Lord of all and the eternal King. As they join together to honor and praise Him, His kingdom is manifested on Earth!

　　Psalm 145 is an acrostic poem in which each verse begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Its orderly structure makes it easy for readers to memorize. This psalm extols God as the universal King and celebrates His everlasting kingdom. His throne and reign are forever and unchanging from beginning to end. Therefore, the psalmist leads the entire congregation in worship, praising God and giving thanks for His marvelous works.

Praise the Mighty Power of God

　　The introduction of the psalm (vv. 1-2) is like a call to worship. The psalmist, acting as the officiant, gathers and leads the Israelite congregation to worship God as the most glorious King.

　　At the outset, the psalmist addresses Yahweh as “my God and King,” acknowledging Him as the one true God and great King. He then expresses his resolve to praise His name forever, committing himself to worship and serve Him as an expression of reverence, faith, and devotion (vv. 1-2). The psalmist then calls the entire congregation to join in fervent worship, using a series of verbs—such as “extol,” “bless” (v. 1); “bless,” “praise” (v. 2); “commend,” “declare” (v. 4); “speak of” (see NIV note), “meditate” (v. 5); “speak of,” “declare” (v. 6); “pour forth,” “sing aloud” (v. 7)—to convey their unceasing adoration.

　　The first section (vv. 1-9) points out the reason for praise: God is great. He stands above all Creation, is incomparable, and performs awesome deeds independently; He is worthy of honor and praise. His greatness, wisdom, and might are way beyond human comprehension. Thus, God’s people should always sing about His infinite greatness and wonders. The psalmist employs various terms—including “great” (v. 3); “mighty” (v. 4); “glorious splendor,” “majesty, “wondrous works” (v. 5); “the might of your awesome deeds” and “greatness” (v. 6)—to extol God’s wondrous works in Creation and history, where His glory and power are revealed.

　　In particular, words such as “glorious,” “splendor,” and “majesty” (v. 5) to emphasize God’s exalted kingship. He alone is the King of kings and Lord of lords, surpassing all other powers. His majesty and glory inspire awe and submission, prompting people to honor and revere Him and to offer their lives as a sacrifice. Therefore, he calls God’s people to proclaim His great mercy and grace, to speak of His grace of redemption, and to pass this testimony from generation to generation, so that praises may pour forth, composing an everlasting symphony (vv. 4-7).

　　Next, in verse 8, the psalmist recalls God’s mighty acts of salvation in history with a specific reference to His abundant love, mercy, and forgiveness. This verse takes the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt as a backdrop, recounting how God’s righteousness, goodness, and faithfulness were manifested among them as a historical testimony (cf. Ex 34:6). It reminds God’s people how they experienced His love and mercy in the past and serves as a witness to His abundant grace. Verse 9 further highlights God’s sovereignty over all Creation and His purpose for the world (His redemptive plan), salvation, and providence. It reflects that His grace and mercy extends not only to Israel but also to all nations and peoples, as well as all created beings, thus revealing that God is the Lord of all and the King of the universe!

　　Today, we must be clear about whom we worship. We worship the Almighty God who rules the universe and possesses supreme power. In worship, we, as God’s people, must humbly bow before Him and publicly acknowledge His sovereignty. He is the Lord of our lives, and we must allow His glory to be revealed in us!

Proclaim the Glory of God’s Kingdom

　　At the beginning of the second section (vv. 10-13a), the psalmist calls again the entire congregation to praise God, even inviting all Creation to join in (v. 10), acknowledging Him as the supreme Ruler and eternal King, worthy of honor and worship. Praise is not only based on God’s nature and deeds but also on His kingship. The kingdom of God is everlasting, majestic, and powerful, bringing about perfect justice, goodness, and peace. Thus, the psalmist proclaims the glory of God’s kingdom and celebrates His universal reign, for He alone is the great King whose authority extends over everything in heaven and on Earth (vv. 11-13).

　　From generation to generation, God’s people have proclaimed His eternal kingdom and declared His victory and authority. God desires His people to bear witness on Earth so that all may know His mighty deeds. Today, His kingship and reign are manifested on Earth in the worship of the church and can be experienced here and now. The church is called to exalt God and proclaim His name. The church is to proclaim God’s kingship through worship so that His kingdom may expand and His glory be revealed. Therefore, we must live out a life of worship, openly confess our faith, and remain steadfast in our allegiance to God.

Praise the Loving Care of God

　　In the third section (vv. 13b-21), the psalmist praises God as the faithful, covenant-keeping, merciful, and gracious Lord, expressing profound gratitude for His kindness.

　　God is the Creator and Ruler of the universe. Every creature depends on Him for existence. He governs, provides for, and sustains the world and all that is in it. His care and providence reveal His love, and all Creation reflects His glory, fulfilling His good will. In short, all of Creation testifies to God’s glory and power.

　　God is not only majestic and powerful but also caring and providing for all the needs of His Creation. His grace extends across the Earth and benefits all peoples; all Creation depends on His provision. Therefore, the psalmist repeatedly uses words such as “all” and “every” to emphasize that God’s providence encompasses the entire created order. The psalmist uses various terms to describe God’s care for humanity and His people, including “upholds,” “raises up” (v. 14); “give … food” (v. 15); “open [His] hand,” “satisfy the desire” (v. 16); “[be] righteous,” “[be] kind” (v. 17); “[be] near to all who call on Him” (v. 18); “fulfills the desire,” “hears their cry,” “saves them” (v. 19); “preserves all who love Him” and “destroy the wicked” (v. 20).

　　On the one hand, God treats humanity with justice and mercy, generously providing for their needs so they lack nothing. This demonstrates His love, care, and provision for all people (vv. 14-17). On the other hand, He bestows grace and blessings on those who call upon Him—He hears their prayers, responds to their needs, and protects and delivers His people from evil and danger (vv. 18-20). God’s steadfast love is humanity’s ultimate assurance. His meticulous care and preservation of His people always evoke them to respond to His abundant grace with hearts filled with gratitude and praise.

　　The goodness and mercy of God have been revealed throughout the ages. Today, as we deeply experience His abundant grace and love, our hearts overflow with joy and satisfaction. We should likewise offer Him our reverence, praise, and gratitude from the depths of our hearts, presenting ourselves to Him so that our spiritual lives may be renewed and revived!

All the World Shall Come and Praise God

　　The conclusion of the psalm (v. 21) echoes its introduction (vv. 1-2). At the climax of worship, the psalmist leads the entire congregation in unison, committing to praising God all their lives, and he further invites every nation and people to join in, coming together to extol God’s authority, power, and glory.

　　As we can see, this song of praise builds step by step, starting from within and gradually extending outward: from the officiant’s opening declaration, to calling the congregation to join in, and finally to a universal call for all nations and peoples to bow down in worship. Together they offer joyful praise and acclamation, extolling all the works and blessings of God and giving Him glory and praise forevermore!

　　The worship spans from the individual to the community, from Earth to heaven, and even reaches across the entire universe. Today, whenever we offer reverent worship to God, it is as though we are joining the eternal choir in heaven, singing alongside saints of all ages, angels, and heavenly hosts to honor the Most High, partaking a worship that is broader, richer, and everlasting. In other words, church congregations on Earth are closely connected with these celestial worshippers, gathering before God’s throne and echoing, “Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God” (Rv 19:1). In worship, we realize that God’s kingdom and reign are now among us, enabling us to see His glory and live out a life on Earth “as it is in heaven.”

Conclusion

　　Psalm 145 highlights God’s majesty, power, and His everlasting kingdom. As Sovereign Ruler of the universe, God’s greatness, awesomeness, and transcendence deserve praise from all Creation throughout the ages, from eternity to eternity. His governance, protection, grace, and mercy over all Creation reflect that His salvation is not confined to Israel but extends to all nations and peoples. This psalm urges God’s people to sing praises to Him from generation to generation, proclaiming His mighty act of salvation and wondrous works, and bearing witness to His presence and glory in the world. God desires His people to reveal His glory so that all may come to know Him and turn to Him.

　　The next year marks the 75th anniversary of HKBTS. We look forward to gathering choirs from all Baptist churches to participate in the 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise. Let us sing praises to God as a sacrifice, testifying to His mighty salvation and wondrous works, giving thanks for His great mercy and grace, and showing gratitude for all His kindness, “for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!”

　　The ultimate meaning of life is to glorify God. May we always remember His abundant grace, guidance, and protection, and offer our lives as living sacrifices, hallowing God in every moment, living a life of worship, and becoming His children pleasing to Him!

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^* All Scripture quotations are taken from the ESV.

Zhang Zhaolun

Master of Theology

Oscar Cheung

(Th.M.)

Zhaolun with his wife and son

Looking back on the years I spent studying theology, every step I took was filled with God’s grace and guidance.

Equip Yourself for Deeper Service

Over the years, many brothers and sisters and friends have asked me, "Why study theology? What's the point?" This is a very real question. I deeply understand that the knowledge acquired in seminary—whether it's theological theory, biblical languages, or church history—is often difficult to directly and fully apply in pastoral settings or on the Sunday pulpit.However, this tension between knowing and doing reveals the value of equipment.

I once heard a beloved pastor share a metaphor. He said a pastor's daily work is like driving a car on a smooth road. Generally, you arrive at your destination smoothly. But if the car breaks down or encounters rough and difficult road conditions, you need to know how to repair it and adapt. For me, theological training means learning these repair techniques. After further studies, although I still may not be able to handle all "difficult problems," I at least have more confidence and ability to face challenges in my faith or pastoral work—after all, my "toolbox" now has several more methods and approaches to solving problems.

These past few years of study have been invaluable, broadening my horizons. Without this period of immersion in seminary, I would have been limited in my ministry to a pre-existing, relatively limited framework of knowledge. But as I delve deeper and more attentively into my studies, while I acknowledge the endless possibilities of learning, I have gained greater confidence in discerning different arguments and understanding the underlying context in certain areas, allowing me to make more appropriate choices in teaching and pastoring. This confidence, rooted in an understanding of the sources of knowledge and contemporary scholarly dialogue, allows me to more faithfully interpret the Lord's Word. I firmly believe that as long as we strive wholeheartedly, the Lord will accept our efforts.

迎見生命的禮物 體會群體的溫暖

During my master's program, God blessed our family with a most precious gift—the birth of our son, Xinyu, in early 2024. His arrival undoubtedly presented a significant challenge to my studies. Maintaining a focused focus amid the hectic and exhausting demands of caring for a newborn was no easy feat. I was able to persevere and successfully graduate during that time, thanks to the understanding of my classmates and the tolerance of my professors, who allowed me to complete the remainder of my studies step by step within the limited time and space available.This experience made me truly realize that the Lord’s grace is often manifested to us through the brothers and sisters and teachers around us.

I would like to express my special gratitude to Professor Huang Fuguang. From studying at Baptist Theological Seminary's evening program, to the Master of Divinity program, and finally the Master of Theology program, Professor Huang has not only provided meticulous academic guidance but also dedicated his time and energy to me, offering countless encouragement and support. I am deeply grateful for this mentorship.

The attached photo was taken at my mother church, the Chinese Zion Missionary Church, Tsz Wan Shan Zion Church. In the photo are my wife Shuheng and my son Xinyu in my arms. That day, the church held a baby dedication ceremony for our son. This moment seemed likeA microcosm of my theological journey: In the transition of family roles and under the watchful eye of the spiritual community, I learned to entrust the most precious gift in life to the Lord, and to resolve to faithfully serve His Church with all I have learned.

May all glory be to our Father in heaven!

Oscar, his wife Phoebe, and their son Ethan

　　Looking back on these years of study at the seminary, I have found that my every step was filled with God’s grace and guidance.

Equipping Myself for In-Depth Ministry

　　Over the years, many brothers and sisters, as well as friends, have asked me, “Why did you choose to pursue further studies in theology? What good do they bring?” These are very good questions. I have realized that the knowledge acquired at the seminary—be it theological theories, biblical languages, or church history—is often difficult to apply directly and fully to the pastoral setting or the Sunday pulpit. However, this tension between knowing and doing is what makes this training so precious.

　　I once heard a beloved pastor share a parable: daily pastoral ministry is like driving on a smooth highway. Normally, you arrive at your destination without issue. But when the car suddenly breaks down or the road turns rough, you need repair skills and contingency tactics. To me, theological training equipped me with those “repair” skills. Though receiving the training may not enable me to solve all difficult problems, it can at least give me the confidence to face any challenges of faith or pastoral crises. After all, I gained more strategies and tools for problem-solving in my “toolbox.”

　　These years of study are precious to me because they have broadened my options. Had I not immersed myself in the seminary study, I would have served only within my existing, relatively limited framework of reference. Now, having studied more attentively and in depth, even though I know that learning is endless, I can be more confident in distinguishing between competing arguments in certain areas and understanding their underlying contexts, so that I can make wiser choices in teaching and pastoral care. This confidence, rooted in knowing the sources of knowledge and the contemporary academic dialogues, helps me to interpret God’s Word more faithfully. I trust that as we are faithful in service, God will be pleased with us.

A Gift of Life and a Warm Community

　　During my master’s program, God gave our family the most cherished gift: our son, Ethan, born in early 2024. His arrival certainly brought great challenges to my academic studies. Amidst the hustle and bustle of caring for a newborn, it was not easy to stay focused on my studies. Yet, I persevered and graduated thanks to the understanding of my classmates and the patience of my wife and teachers. They enabled me to complete the rest of my studies, step by step, within my limited time and capacity. Through this, I learned how God’s grace often comes to us through the people around us, like our brothers, sisters, and teachers.

　　I give special thanks to Prof. Fook-kong Wong. From the HKBTS evening program through my M.Div. and Th.M. studies, Prof. Wong has been my mentor. He gave me academic guidance while caring for me and offering me countless encouragement and support far beyond the classroom. I am deeply grateful for his kindness.

　　The attached photo was taken at my mother church, Chinese Evangelical Zion Church Tsz Wan Shan Zion Church. In the photo, there are my wife Phoebe and my son Ethan, whom I am holding in my arms. On that day, the church held a baby dedication ceremony for our son. That moment seems to epitomize my theological journey: with a change in my family life and under the watchful gaze of my spiritual community, I learned to entrust the most cherished gift in my life to the Lord and resolve to serve His church faithfully with all I have learned.

　　To our Father in heaven be all the glory!

Cao Ye

Master of Divinity

Ye Cao

(M.Div.)

Cao Ye and his family

With reverence for God and a passion for service, I entered the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary. I never imagined that this journey of seeking knowledge would turn into a baptism that touched my soul. God, with his endless grace and subtle guidance, gradually shaped me into a worker fit for the Lord's use.

Hall of Knowledge: Opening the Door to Spiritual Wisdom

　　The seminary's curriculum system is like a magnificent palace of knowledge, and each subject is a key path to spiritual wisdom.Dr. Deng Shaoguang's "Systematic Theology" course gave me a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of Christian doctrine. I realized that faith is not just a personal pursuit, but also involves responsibility and accountability to the church, society, and even the world. This understanding is like a beacon, guiding me to focus on character building in my life and strive to be a preacher who glorifies God and benefits others. Dr. Zhang Kaixuan's "Biblical Interpretation" course, from a precise grasp of word meanings, meticulous analysis of sentence patterns, to the complete interpretation of paragraphs, gradually allowed me to appreciate the depth and subtlety of biblical texts. Dr. Qu Li's "Christian Ethics in Cultural Context" course inspired me to think deeply about real life, guiding me to reflect on how to put Christian ethical principles into practice in real life, how to maintain clarity and rationality in a complex and changing social environment, and how to provide constructive help and advice to believers on difficult issues in Christian ethics.

Spiritual Refinement: Transforming from a Cocoon to a Butterfly in the Face of Challenges

Life in seminary is not only about accumulating knowledge but also about tempering my spiritual life. The prayer meetings every Wednesday and Friday are the cradle of my spiritual growth. Monthly individual meetings with my spiritual mentor provide solace and nourishment amidst the pressures of study and life's challenges. Besides growing through prayer and communication with my mentor, I've also gained a lot from my coursework. In the "Pastoral Care" course, the instruction of Pastor Lin Guobin, Dr. Lan Zhiyang, and Teacher Peng Juncheng helped me understand the nature and importance of pastoral care. Through case studies and practical reports, I learned how to apply pastoral skills to care for and counsel believers. Pastor Lin's explanation of the mentor-mentee relationship made me understand that a true mentor-mentee relationship is not just about imparting skills but about passing on life. Dr. Lei Jiansheng's "Preaching Method" course helped me master the art of delivering sermons without a script, learn how to effectively utilize language, and enable me to comprehensively and objectively evaluate my own preaching, identifying shortcomings and improving them. Although every impromptu sermon is a severe test, it also allows me to grow through the hardships, break out of the cocoon and become a more confident and mature preacher.

Preparation for Ministry: Rooted and Growing in Practice

The seminary not only provided me with a wealth of theoretical knowledge but also offered me valuable research opportunities. Through my research on the Baptist Aiqun Charitable Services, I gained a deep understanding of how to put theological knowledge into practice. During this research, I witnessed how churches integrate faith with practical action, caring for vulnerable groups and providing diverse services. This made me realize that as ministers of God, we must not only preach the gospel but also care for and help others through practical actions, practicing the teaching of "love your neighbor as yourself." Under the careful guidance of Dr. Lei Jiansheng, I successfully completed my paper for the Senior Integration Seminar (SIC), "Wang Weifan's Preaching Method: The Integration of Traditional Chinese Culture and Preaching Skills." Studying Pastor Wang Weifan's works not only enhanced my academic abilities but also led to profound reflection on my preparation for ministry.

Looking back on my time studying in seminary, my heart is filled with gratitude.God has led me with grace through the ocean of knowledge, across the valley of spiritual life, and into the field of service, allowing my young spiritual life to gradually grow and become a worker of the Lord with increased knowledge, a lively spiritual life, and a desire to serve.In the future, I will continue to move forward on the path of service with more determined steps to glorify the Lord's name.

Ye Cao and his family

　　With a deep reverence for God and a passion for service, I entered the gates of the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary. Little did I realize that this quest for knowledge would soon become a soul-stirring baptism—God, with His boundless grace and subtle guidance, gradually shaped me into a servant fit for His service.

A Hall of Knowledge: Opening the Door to Spiritual Wisdom

　　The seminary curriculum is like a grand hall of knowledge, each course serving as a key pathway to spiritual wisdom. In the course “Systematic Theology” taught by Dr. Andres Tang, I gained a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of Christian doctrines and realized that faith is not a mere personal pursuit but also involves responsibility and commitment to the church, society, and the world. This realization is like a guiding light, leading me to focus on building character in my life and to strive to become a preacher who glorifies God and benefits others. The course “Biblical Interpretation” taught by Dr. Kai-hsuan Chang guided me step-by-step from accurately understanding the literal meaning of words to carefully analyzing sentence structures and interpreting passages, so that I could appreciate the Bible’s profound subtleties and message. Dr. Curie Qu’s course “Christian Ethics in a Cultural Context” inspired me to engage in profound reflection on real-life situations. It guided me to consider how to apply Christian ethical principles in daily life, how to remain sober and rational in a complex and ever-changing social environment, and how to provide constructive assistance and guidance to believers on challenging issues within Christian ethics.

The Cultivation of Spirituality: Transformation through Challenges

　　Life at the seminary was not only about accumulating knowledge but also about cultivating spirituality. The prayer meetings on Wednesdays and Fridays were the cradle of my spiritual growth. The monthly one-on-one meetings with my spiritual mentor provided me with consolation and soul nourishment amidst academic pressure and life’s challenges. In addition to my growth through prayer and communication with my mentor, attending classes was also highly rewarding. In the course “Pastoral Care,” Rev. Brian Lam, Dr. Chi-yeung Lam, and Mr. Carter Pang helped me understand the essence and importance of pastoral care. Through case discussions and practice reports, I learned how to use pastoral care techniques to care for and counsel believers. Rev. Lam’s explanation of the mentor-mentee relationship helped me understand that a true mentor-mentee relationship involves the transmission not merely of skills but also of one’s life. Dr. Ken Lui’s course “Homiletics” enabled me to master the art of preaching without notes, effectively utilize language techniques, objectively evaluate and identify areas for improvement in my sermons, and make necessary adjustments. Although each preaching sermons without notes was a rigorous challenge to me, it fostered my own growth through the process of refinement, allowing me to emerge as a more confident and mature preacher.

Preparation for Service: Rooting and Growing through Practice

　　The seminary not only provided me with a wealth of theoretical knowledge but also offered me valuable research opportunities. Through my research project on the Baptist Oi Kwan Social Service, I gained a deep understanding of how to apply theological knowledge in practice. In this research, I saw how a church combined faith with action, caring for disadvantaged groups through diversified services. This made me realize that as a servant of God, I must not only preach the gospel but also care for and help others through actions, putting into practice the teaching of “love your neighbor as yourself.” Under the careful guidance of Dr. Lui, I completed my thesis titled “The Homiletics of Wei-fan Wang: The Practical Integration of Traditional Chinese Culture and Homiletical Techniques” for the Senior Integrative Colloquium (SIC). Studying Rev. Wei-fan Wang’s works not only enhanced my academic capabilities but also led me to a profound reflection on my preparation for ministry.

　　Looking back on my studies at the seminary, my heart is filled with gratitude. God has guided me with His grace through the ocean of knowledge, across the valleys of spirituality, and into the fields of ministry, allowing my fledgling spiritual life to gradually mature into a servant of the Lord who is growing in knowledge, vibrant in spirit, and committed to service. In the future, I will continue to walk on the path of ministry with even greater determination, bringing glory to the name of the Lord.

Zhi Peimin

Master of Divinity

Pakey Chik

(M.Div.)

Peimin and her mother

As graduation approaches, I look back on the past several years of seminary study with a heart filled with gratitude and awe for the Lord's guidance and grace. From my initial decision to embark on the path of theological training to now entering a new phase of pastoral ministry, the Lord, the Great Shepherd, has always firmly guided me forward. Whether in the days of longing to know Him and seeking to understand His will, or in times of challenge and struggle, He has always responded to my needs, ensuring that I am not in need.

Starting a journey: From struggle to igniting mission

For me, being called into full-time ministry is a journey of faith, a journey in which I increasingly see the Lord's abundant love and guidance. In 2018, I joined a new church ministry team. This coincided with a career change and the shifting social landscape. These challenges made me deeply aware of my spiritual weakness and my inadequacy in my faith. I longed to know the Lord more deeply, so I enrolled in an evening course at the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary's Believers' Theological Education Department, hoping to discern His will for our lives.

Through the course, the Lord broadened my horizons, allowing me to gain a deeper understanding of His Triune love and its relational nature, as well as His expectation for humanity: to grow and achieve harmony and unity through respect and care. I also gained a deeper appreciation for the passivity of human faith—without His unconditional sharing of this life-giving love, no one, regardless of their intelligence, could be saved. Studying the stories of the fervent devotion of pastors in Church history and personally experiencing how pastors walked with and mentored their brothers and sisters, I was ignited within me by the mission to devote myself to full-time service to the Lord.

Moving Forward: From Doubt to Obedient Response

However, I was like a lamb, timid and short-sighted. Although I envied the position of pastor, after much exploration, I still couldn't clearly discern my calling. Filled with doubt, I worried that it was just wishful thinking, and hesitated to give up my stable life. But the Lord, in His mercy, did not overlook my inner struggles, guiding me through prayer to learn to surrender and wait. It wasn't until a church ministry retreat that the Lord spoke a clear calling to me, completely dispelling my doubts and allowing me to no longer hesitate. With the confirmation of my pastor and the support of my family, I entered seminary in early 2021, embarking on a full-time journey of training and further exploring the Lord's will for me.

During my time in seminary, the Lord's word, sharp as a double-edged sword, penetrated the depths of my soul, inspiring self-reflection and gradually clarifying and affirming my calling. Since entering the seminary, everyday life has often led me to question: What kind of pastor can I truly be? Whenever I ponder this question, I feel lost, discouraged, and even tempted to withdraw. But in these moments, the Lord guides and sustains me with His rod. Through the various disciplines I study, I understand the essence of Christ's life of "walking with others" and how we must, relying on the Holy Spirit's help, imitate Christ and thereby shape our discipleship and practice. These insights have gradually guided me to grasp my true aspirations for pastoral ministry and to develop the theological foundation for my future ministry. In addition, through Christian coaching, pastoral care and other practical activities, as well as the encouragement of church pastors and the companionship of church members, His rod dispelled my self-doubt and anxiety when I was confused, discouraged, and retreated, guiding me to face and learn to accept the weaknesses and needs in my own and the group's nature, gradually shaping my own pastoral path.

Outlook: From Response to Commitment

Whether in full-time ministry, part-time ministry, or simply serving in everyday life, following in God's footsteps is never easy. This journey of theological training has reassured me that the hand of the Lord, the Great Shepherd, will continue to guide His sheep along the abundant path He has prepared. Whether the future finds us in green pastures, by streams, or in valleys of darkness, I remain steadfast in my original aspiration and faithful to my calling. Together with my brothers and sisters, we will be rooted in God's Word and grow according to His creative will, bearing witness to the glory and grace of Christ and striding toward His eternal light and peace.

Pakey and her mother

　　As my graduation date approaches, I look back on my time at the seminary with gratitude and awe for God’s guidance and grace. From the day I decided to embark on the path of theological training to my new phase of pastoral ministry, it is clear that the hand of God, the Great Shepherd, has faithfully guided me on this journey. Whether I longed to know Him, sought to understand His will, or faced challenges and struggles, He always provided timely feedback, ensuring that I lacked nothing.

Setting Out: From Struggle to Passion for Missions

　　For me, God’s vocational calling is a journey of faith where His abundant love and guidance has become increasingly evident along the way. In 2018, I joined my church’s ministry team, coinciding with my career change and the dynamic transformation of Hong Kong society. These challenges left me feeling spiritually weak and made me realize my inadequate understanding of faith. Longing to know God more deeply, I enrolled in an evening program at the Lay Theological Education Department of the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary, hoping to discern His will for life.

　　Through my studies, God broadened my horizons and enabled me to grasp more fully His triune love and relational nature, as well as His will for humankind to grow in harmony and unity through mutual respect and care. I have also come to deeply recognize humanity’s passivity in matters of faith—without God’s unconditional offer of His abundant love of life, no one, regardless of intellectual ability, could be saved. Studying the passionate dedication of saints in church history and personally observing pastors walking alongside and guiding their flocks rekindled my passion for full-time ministry.

Moving Forward: From Doubt to Submission

　　However, I was like a lamb, lacking courage and foresight. Although I had long admired the pastoral ministry, my several attempts to explore that calling bore no fruit. My heart was full of doubts, and I feared that it was merely my wishful thinking, so I hesitated to give up the stable life I enjoyed. Yet the Lord of compassion did not overlook every struggle in my heart. It was during a church retreat that God made a clear calling to me, completely dispelling my hesitation. With my pastor’s endorsement and my family’s support, I entered seminary in early 2021, embarking on a journey of full-time training to further explore God’s will for me.

　　During my seminary studies, God’s Word, which is sharper than any double-edged sword, cut deep into my heart, inspiring me to reflect on myself and enabling me to affirm my calling with clarity. Since entering seminary, the little things in life have often made me question myself: “What kind of pastor can I be?” Whenever I ponder this question, I would feel confused and discouraged about what I could do for the Lord and how I could fulfill His calling; I was even tempted to give up. But, during these moments of darkness and doubt, the Lord guided and supported me through His staff: by studying various disciplines, I came to understand the Christ-like quality of being with others and the importance of the Holy Spirit’s help for us to imitate Christ, which would shape the disciples’ identity and practices. This helped guide me to grasp my true pastoral vocation and create a theological foundation for my future ministry. In addition, through class activities on Christian coaching and pastoral care, and through the encouragement of pastors and the companionship of fellow believers, He dispelled my self-doubt and anxiety during times of confusion, discouragement, and retreat. He guided me to face and learn to accept my own weaknesses and needs, as well as those of the community, and gradually shaped my path as a pastor.

Looking Ahead: From Response to Commitment

　　Following the Lord’s footsteps in full-time ministry, bi-vocational service, or everyday life has never been easy. Yet, this journey of theological training has convinced me that the hand of God, the Great Shepherd, will continue to guide His sheep along the abundant path He has prepared. In the future, whether in green pastures, beside still waters, or in the valley of the shadow of death, I will remain true to my original aspiration, faithful to my vocation, and grow alongside my brothers and sisters in God’s Word, becoming the ones who He intends us to be, bearing witness to Christ’s glory and grace, and striving toward the eternal light and peace of the Lord.

Brian Lei

Master of Divinity

Brian Lei

(M.Div.)

As the ancients said, "A day without seeing you feels like three years." A poet longing for you felt that each day felt like three years. Now, for me, three years feel like just one day. Before I knew it, three years have passed since I enrolled at Baptist Theological Seminary, and graduation is just around the corner. After three years of full-time study, I still have to ask myself: Who am I? Why should I serve such a great Creator?

Learning Care

When I gave my testimony of my calling, I mentioned that God helped me see the needs of others and moved me to care for them. This was one of the reasons I considered studying theology full-time. I remember at the beginning of my freshman year, a classmate asked me what I wanted to learn most about seminary. I replied that I needed to learn about community life, how to care for others and be cared for, and how to become a companion to others. Three years later, I've come to realize that being a companion requires not only learning how to care but also learning to wait—waiting on God, waiting on others, and waiting on myself.

Over the past few years, whether in college or church, I have had many opportunities to learn how to listen and care for others. I have also learned many skills, so I thought I began to understand how to care for others. However, one time when I was practicing caring skills in class, I thought my response was pretty good, but the student I cared for later responded that he felt oppressed and denied. For me, this was a reminder: it turns out that my "care" for others may just be an imposition of my own ideas on the other person. In the name of "for your own good", I actually want to bring the other person under my control, rather thanWalk with each other in the Holy Spirit and wait for God to work in them..

Learning to wait

Through various classes, I learned that God is a patient God. He does not force creation to grow, but rather, with patience, allows creation to grow at its own pace, gradually becoming what God created it to be over time.The church is not a manipulative group, but a group of brothers and sisters who walk with each other at their own pace under the empowerment of the Holy Spirit and learn together to live under God's rule.However, when I was walking with others, I failed to live this kind of "waiting on God and others," believing instead that I could "help" others. Looking back, I realize that God was actually teaching me from the beginning to learn to wait, to understand that we cannot control everything. From submitting my application to seminary, passing the entrance exam, completing the various administrative procedures, and finally traveling from Macau to Hong Kong to study, every step was plagued by delays beyond my control. It was these unexpected circumstances that made me realize that I wasn't trusting and waiting on God as much as I had thought, but rather pursuing the security of "controlling everything." While we may all know mentally that we should let go and leave things to God, in this modern society obsessed with control, we also need to learn how to be "useless."

　　Besides waiting on God and others, I also learned to wait on myself.I remember attending a spiritual development group in first grade. One of the sessions involved reflecting on the darker aspects of my life. Over the past few years, I've gained a deeper understanding of my own darker aspects. I'm grateful that God has walked with me through His Word and through various brothers and sisters in this darkness, letting me know that He is waiting for me to grow. He has allowed me to understand and embrace my own weaknesses through these experiences. I don't need to force myself to be a "standard" preacher, but rather, to be an "incompetent" who learns to rely on the Holy Spirit for help.

Good works of life

Finally, I thank God for allowing me to attend this college, meet brothers and sisters from different churches, and even get to know my neighbors at a nearby restaurant. Hong Kong, for me, feels somewhere between home and a foreign land, yet these people make me feel at home. They care about whether I'm making enough for life in Hong Kong. I also met a fellow villager at church who took great care of me. This has allowed me to experience more personally and truly the abundance of God's grace. May I, too, be a channel of this grace.

　　Who am I? Just a "useless" worker, yet like all my brothers and sisters, we are children loved by God, waiting together for God to complete the good work He has begun in our lives.

　　There is an old Chinese saying: “One day apart feels like three years.” The poet, longing for his beloved, felt that a single day was like three years. Yet now I feel that three years are like a single day. It has been three years since I enrolled at HKBTS, and soon I will be graduating. Even after three years of full-time study, I still ask myself: Who am I? What qualifies me to serve God, the great Creator?

Learning to Care

　　When I shared my testimony of God’s calling, I explained how God opened my eyes to the needs around me and moved me to care for others. This was one of the reasons that led me to pursue full-time theological studies. At the start of my first year, a classmate asked what I was most looking forward to learning at the seminary. I replied that my greatest desire was to learn how to live meaningfully within a community, how to care for others and be cared for, and how to walk alongside others as companions in faith. Three years passed, and I now realize that to walk alongside others, I must learn not only how to care for them but also how to wait—to have patience for God, for others, and for myself.

　　Over the past few years in both seminary and church settings, I have had many opportunities to practice listening and pastoral care. As a result, I have acquired various counseling skills, and I thought I began to understand how to care for others. However, during a practicum on pastoral care techniques, while I believed my responses were effective, a classmate later said that she felt stressed and rejected by me, reminding me that my “care” can become an imposition of my own ideas—justified by “it’s for your own good”—when in truth I desire to control rather than to walk with them in step with the Holy Spirit and wait for God to work in their lives.

Learning to Wait

　　From various classes, I have come to understand that God is patient. He does not force Creation to grow but patiently allows each created being to develop at their own pace, gradually becoming what God intended them to be over time. Likewise, a church is not a community that manipulates its members; it is a body of brothers and sisters who, empowered by the Holy Spirit, walk together, each at their own pace under God’s guidance and governance. However, when walking alongside others, I believed I could “help” them. Yet, I failed to embody this spirit of waiting for God and others. Looking back, in fact, God had been teaching me right from the start to learn patience and to understand that humans cannot control everything. From submitting my seminary application to taking the entrance exam, completing administrative procedures, and finally moving from Macau to Hong Kong, unexpected delays reminded me again and again that there are always matters beyond my control. These unexpected circumstances made me realize that I was not trusting in God and waiting for Him as much as I thought. I was pursuing a sense of security and trying to have everything under my control. Perhaps we all know in our minds that we should let go and entrust everything to God, but in this modern society that seeks to control everything, learning to be a “useless” person as such turns out to be something that we need to learn.

　　In addition to waiting for God and others, I realized that I must also wait for myself. During a first-year spiritual formation group, one exercise invited us to examine our “dark side.” Over these years of study, I have gained a deeper understanding of my own weaknesses. In the midst of darkness, I am grateful that through His Word and the companionship of brothers and sisters, God has shown me that He has been waiting for me to grow, helping me to understand and embrace my weaknesses through these experiences. I need not force myself to be a minister who “meets the standards” but rather a “helpless one” who learns to rely on the Holy Spirit.

The Good Work God Has Begun in Our Lives

　　Finally, I thank God for allowing me to enter this seminary, where I met brothers and sisters from different churches and made friends with neighbors at nearby restaurants. While Hong Kong did not feel like home or a foreign land, these friends made me feel truly at home. They cared about whether I had enough to live on in Hong Kong. At church, I also met a fellow from my hometown who looked after me, allowing me to experience God’s abundant grace in a deeply personal way. I wish I could also become a channel of God’s grace.

　　Who am I? I am a mere “useless” servant, and yet one of God’s beloved children. Together with my brothers and sisters, I wait for God to complete the good work He has begun in our lives.

Zhang Lin

Bachelor of Theology

Lam Cheung

(B.Th.)

Zhang Lin and her family

Embark on a Journey of Grace by Faith

In the blink of an eye, I have completed four years of study at the seminary. Looking back on these days, I am filled with immense gratitude!

I am a quadriplegic, requiring a wheelchair for mobility and having difficulty writing. However, thanks to God's grace and the help of my faculty, colleagues, and classmates, I successfully and happily completed these four years of study.

Looking back on the call to ministry four years ago, I was genuinely apprehensive, fearing I wasn't up to the task. After all, my health wasn't ideal, and I'd been away from school and my studies for twenty years. There was also the matter of transportation. Would I go to school alone, or would I have a female worker accompany me? All of these things needed to be considered and arranged. It was a tremendous challenge for me. Not only did I have to step out of my comfort zone, but I also had to leave behind my husband, my daughter, who was about to enter secondary school and enter adolescence, and everything I knew. The only thing I could hold onto was God: I believed that His calling at this moment was the best possible one. I simply had to respond in faith and step forward faithfully. I trusted that He would provide for me in the future. Thus, with trepidation, yet also filled with inexplicable excitement and anticipation, I entered seminary to answer God's call.

Rich Theological Journeys

Looking back on these four years, the college has helped me build a solid foundation in my faith through various courses. These courses cover not only biblical subjects but also social and philosophical issues. Previously, my understanding of God was primarily through the Bible, but now my understanding has broadened to include history, the perspectives of various church fathers, and theologians. I used to accept instruction in a one-way manner, but now I've learned to verify, reflect, and integrate knowledge. Every course and every learning experience has broadened my horizons and expanded my thinking. I've changed my previous one-sided and simplistic way of thinking and have learned to consider it from a wider range of perspectives, enriching my understanding of God.

During these four years of seminary life, God has enriched me not only intellectually but also in my life. Previously, I only saw examples of faithful service in the pastors of my church. Now, in seminary, I see different models of service from teachers, co-workers, and classmates with diverse temperaments and gifts. I see how they pastor, coordinate, and care for us. All of this has exceeded my expectations and imagination.

Completing these four years of study has made me deeply appreciate the importance of continuous learning. Rather than feeling like I've "graduated and completed my studies," I feel a sense of inadequacy and a thirst for more. Although I'm currently unable to pursue further studies full-time due to church service, I'm fortunate to have a variety of further study options at the college. I'm even more grateful that the college has adjusted its course structure, allowing for greater flexibility in study time and subject selection. Most importantly, I have the dedicated guidance of my teachers and the enthusiastic support of my colleagues, which is why I've decided to continue my studies at HKBS.

Just be faithful and don't worry

Looking back and reflecting on these four years of study, I've deeply realized a crucial lesson: trust in God. If I didn't trust that He would care for my health and my family, I wouldn't have dared to step foot into seminary. Without His grace, I wouldn't have been able to complete the long hours of study each day, let alone the homework and exams. Without His sustaining power, I wouldn't have been able to successfully and joyfully complete my entire theological journey.God showed me that as long as I was willing to respond faithfully, His grace was more than sufficient and His mighty care was ongoing.All of this is very important to me as I embark on the path of ministry. The journey of ministry is a lifelong one, and I need to trust in God's grace and care, relying on His power as my support. I also deeply believe that:As long as I am willing to serve faithfully, He will provide the rest for me!

I'm grateful for God's calling and willingness to use me, allowing me to respond with a lifetime of service. I'm grateful to the college's teachers, co-workers, and classmates for adding more color to my life. May God continue to use the college, its teachers, co-workers, and classmates to be a blessing to even more people.

Lam Cheung and her family

Embark on a Journey of Faith and Grace

　　In the blink of an eye, my four years at the seminary have come to an end. Looking back, I am truly filled with gratitude!

　　As someone with physical disabilities, I rely on a wheelchair for mobility and have difficulty writing. Yet by God’s grace—and with the support of faculty, staff, and my fellow students at the seminary—I was able to complete my studies smoothly and joyfully!

　　I recall how anxious I felt when I was called to serve God four years ago. I was afraid that I was not capable; I had health issues, and I had been away from school for 20 years. I also had to think about practical issues like transportation to the seminary. Should I commute on my own, or have a domestic helper accompany me? I had to consider all these things and make the necessary arrangements. All these were huge challenges for me. Entering the seminary meant stepping out of my comfort zone and spending time away from my husband and pre-teen daughter, who was about to start secondary school, and everything I was familiar with. All I could cling to was God: I trusted that His call at that moment was the best, and I only needed to respond in faith and walk in obedience; the rest, I believed, He would prepare for me. Thus, with trepidation, yet also with inexplicable excitement and anticipation, I entered the seminary to respond to God’s call.

A Theological Journey of Abundance

　　Reflecting on the past four years, I find that the seminary has helped me build a solid foundation of faith through a diverse curriculum. The courses covered not only biblical topics but also social issues and philosophy. Previously, my understanding of God came almost exclusively from the Bible, but now my knowledge encompasses church history, the perspectives of church fathers and theologians, and much more. I used to absorb teachings passively; now I have learned to verify, reflect, and integrate them. Every subject and learning experience has broadened my horizon and enhanced my perspective, transforming my once-narrow and simplistic thinking. I have learned to consider issues from multiple angles, which has enriched my understanding of God.

　　Over those four years, God has enriched not only my mind but also my life. In the past, I only saw examples of faithful servants in the service of church pastors. Now, at the seminary, I see different models of faithful servants in the service of our teachers, staff, and fellow students—each with unique personalities and gifts. I have watched them shepherd, collaborate, and care for others in ways that exceeded my expectations and imagination.

　　After completing my studies, I have come to realize the importance of lifelong learning. Rather than feeling like “I made it,” I sense my inadequacy and feel a deep longing to learn more. Although my ministry responsibilities prevent me from further pursuing full-time studies right now, I am grateful that the seminary offers flexible continuing-education options. I am even more grateful that HKBTS has restructured these programs to allow greater flexibility in the courses available and their duration. Most importantly, inspired by the dedicated teachers and enthusiastic staff at the seminary, I have decided to continue my studies at HKBTS.

Be Faithful and Do Not Worry

　　Reflecting on my four years of study, I have learned one crucial lesson: trusting in God. Had I not trusted that He would care for my health and my family, I would never have dared to enter the seminary. Without His grace, I could not have endured long hours of daily study or completed my assignments and exams. Without His sustaining strength, this theological journey would not have been smooth or joyful. God has shown me that His grace overflows whenever I respond faithfully, and His mighty care never ceases. This is of the utmost importance to me as I am about to embark on the path of ministry. Ministry is a lifelong journey, and I must rely on God’s grace and care, making His power my steadfast support. I am convinced that as long as I serve faithfully, He will surely provide everything I need!

　　Thank God for calling me and allowing me to respond with a lifetime of service. I am also grateful to the teachers, staff, and fellow students at the seminary for enriching my life. May God continue to use this seminary community to bless many more people.

Brothers and sisters are called to Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary to equip themselves to be faithful servants of God. How do they navigate this learning journey? What are their reflections and experiences? This issue of "School News" invites graduates of the main campus' theology program to share their life transformations and testify to the God of grace.

Brothers and sisters are called to enroll in the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary (HKBTS) to equip themselves to become faithful servants of God. How have they navigated the course of theological training? What feelings and insights have they gained? In this issue of the Newsletter, several graduates of the Main Campus Programs share their life-transforming journeys and bear witness to the God of all grace.

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