山道期刊

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 religious pluralism 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.

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葉啟森

道學碩士生

Kai-sum Yip

M.Div. Student

　　聖樂在我的靈命成長和事奉中扮演非常關鍵的角色。對我來說，這不僅是敬拜的工具，更是一個重要途徑讓我與神親近，內心被更新，信仰被堅固。聖樂有神的真理和話語，並聖靈的力量，讓我在聆聽和唱頌時深刻經歷神的同在和教導。

　　首先，聖樂助我的靈命成長，因為它以旋律包裝神的話語，使我容易記住，讓我反復思想真理。很多時候，在我情緒低落、內心掙扎或疑惑的時刻，一首熟悉的詩歌在心中驀然響起，提醒我神的信實和愛。

　　而且，聖樂讓我在默想和禱告時更容易進入神的同在。有時候言語難以表達內心的情感，音樂卻能穿透心靈，幫助我將最真實的情感向神傾訴。敬拜詩歌就像一道橋樑，連結我的心和神的心，使我更深體會祂的愛和呼召。

　　事奉方面，聖樂更是我服侍的重要工具。無論是在敬拜團獻詩、領唱，或是帶領弟兄姊妹唱詩，我都發現聖樂能夠凝聚眾人的心，將焦點轉向神。這不只是一種藝術的表達，更是一種屬靈的服侍。當我在事奉中以心靈和誠實敬拜神，就深深感受神的同在，也看見祂藉著音樂觸摸人的生命，醫治破碎的心靈。

　　預備聖樂培靈會的過程中，我學會了更多交託、依靠神，與弟兄姊妹合作，並且操練自己對神的順服和敏銳。這些都不只是技巧的提升，更是屬靈生命的操練。透過音樂事奉，我看見弟兄姊妹被感動、被造就，這使我更加渴望成為神合用的器皿。

　　所以，聖樂不是信仰生活中的「陪襯」，而是一個湧流不息的靈命泉源。它使我在敬拜中被聖靈充滿，在困難中得著安慰，在服侍中經歷神蹟。聖樂，是神賜給教會和信徒的珍寶，是我們成長路上不可或缺的祝福。

　　Church music has played a significant role in my spiritual growth and ministry. For me, it is not only a tool for worship but also a vital way to become closer to God, to be renewed in my heart, and to be strengthened in my faith. Church music conveys God’s truth and word, and the power of the Holy Spirit. As I listen to and sing hymns, I profoundly experience God’s presence and teaching.

　　First of all, church music helps me grow spiritually because it presents God’s word melodically, making it easy for me to memorize and ponder the truth over and over again. Oftentimes, in moments of depression, inner struggle, or doubt, a familiar hymn would suddenly ring out in my heart, reminding me of God’s faithfulness and love.

　　Moreover, church music makes it easier for me to enter into God’s presence during meditation and prayer. Sometimes it is hard to express my innermost feelings with words, but music can penetrate my heart and help me pour out my true feelings to God. Worship songs are like a bridge between my heart and God’s, enabling me to realize His love and calling more deeply.

　　For ministry, church music is an important instrument in my service. Whether I am leading singing in the worship team or leading the brothers and sisters to sing praises, I find that church music can unite the hearts of the congregation and shift their focus to God. It is not just an artistic expression but a spiritual service. When I worship God in spirit and truth in my service, I deeply feel God’s presence and see Him touching people’s lives and healing broken hearts through music.

　　In preparation for the previous Spiritual Revival Concert, I learned to trust and rely on God more, to work with brothers and sisters, to practice my obedience, and to be sensitive to God. This is not just personal growth but the practice of spiritual discipline. In the music ministry, I regularly see brothers and sisters being touched and edified; it makes me eager to become a vessel fit for God.

　　Church music, therefore, is not an “accompaniment” to our Christian life, but an ever-flowing source of spiritual life. It enables me to be filled with the Holy Spirit in worship, to find comfort in difficulties, and to experience miracles in service. Church music is a treasure that God has given to the Church and believers, and it is an indispensable blessing to us on our way to growth.

柯兆添

Timmy Or

　　回望自己靈命成長的道路，聖樂一直扮演重要的角色。在此，筆者希望借用英國浸信會學者費迪斯（Paul Fiddes）對浸信會做神學的方式的觀察，檢視上帝如何藉聖樂造就我的靈命。費迪斯指出，在具體信仰群體的涵義上，浸信會做神學的方式有三種：經驗、認信、故事。^*

　　在經驗層面，筆者回望自己在母會成長的日子，傳統詩歌──包括《頌主新歌》、《世紀頌讚》等詩集的詩歌──所帶來那種傾向史詩式（epic）的音樂經驗，形塑了我對教會音樂的印象，也培養我欣賞音樂敬拜如何以樂載道。在我現時事奉的教會，現代流行詩歌──不論是海外或本土的──所帶來那種傾向抒情式（lyric）的音樂經驗，則開闊了我對教會音樂的想像，也讓我認識不同弟兄姊妹的信仰表述。

　　至於認信層面，筆者相信傳統和現代風格的教會音樂所盛載的，同樣是基督信仰的內容，對我們的屬靈成長也有幫助。因此，要在傳統和現代的音樂風格之間只選其一，是一個偽命題。事實上，不論是哪一種風格的教會音樂，筆者都從中經歷到被教化（edification）的過程。我們從詩歌認識到自己所信仰的三一上帝是一個怎樣的神；而且，我們藉著詩歌以歌聲宣認、認信自己的信仰──正如聖經所說的，藉此彼此教導，互相勸戒，歌頌上帝（參西三16）。

　　最後在故事的層面，上帝藉聖樂建立筆者的屬靈生命：聖樂不只讓我在情感上投入敬拜，在信仰知識上得以長進，而且某程度上，聖樂更與筆者個人的屬靈成長經歷聯繫起來，成為我生命故事的一部分。相信不少弟兄姊妹也有這樣的體驗，在經歷上帝帶領的過程中，有一首詩歌成了我們的幫助、提醒和鼓勵。自此這詩歌對個人來說，就不僅是一首普通的詩歌，每次再聽見，也叫人回想起自己在上帝面前的經歷。聖樂和自己的生命故事，從此交織在一起。

　　願教會的聖樂繼續蒙上帝使用，並藉著我們的經驗、認信和故事建立我們的屬靈生命，榮歸三一上帝！

____________________________________________

^* Paul Fiddes, Tracks and Traces: Baptist Identity in Church and Theology (Carlisle: Paternoster, 2003), 4-12.

　　Reflecting on my spiritual journey, I realize that church music has always played a significant role. Here, I would like to draw upon the insights of British Baptist scholar Paul Fiddes on the Baptist way of doing theology to examine how God has molded my spiritual life through church music. Fiddes points out that in the context of faith communities, there are three ways of doing theology among Baptists: experience, confession, and stories.

　　In terms of experience, as I look back at my days of growing up in my mother church, traditional hymns, including those in such hymn books as New Songs of Praise and Century Praise, have created for us epic-like musical experiences, which have shaped my understanding of church music and cultivated in me an appreciation of how music in worship can be used as a vehicle for the Word. In the church which I now serve, modern popular hymns, whether foreign or local, have brought us a lyrical musical experience that has broadened my imagination of what church music can be and allowed me to recognize diverse expressions of faith amongst my fellow Christians.

　　In respect of confession, I believe that both traditional and modern styles of church music possess the same content of the Christian faith, which is equally beneficial to our spiritual growth. Therefore, it is a false proposition that one must choose between traditional and modern musical styles. In fact, regardless of the style, I have been equally edified by different styles of church music. We learn from hymns about the Triune God in whom we believe, and we profess and confess our faith through our singing—teaching and admonishing one another through hymns singing to God, just as the Bible says (cf. Col 3:16).

　　Finally, in terms of stories, God builds up my spiritual life through church music. Not only does church music help me worship passionately and grow in my knowledge of my faith but also, to a certain extent, it is connected with my personal spiritual growth and has become a part of my life story. I believe that many brothers and sisters have also experienced a time when a hymn has helped them by acting as a reminder or an encouragement to us in God’s providence. Afterward, that hymn becomes more than just an ordinary hymn; every time we hear it, it will remind us of our own experiences before God. Church music and our life stories are beautifully intertwined in this way.

　　May the church’s music remain in God’s use to build our spiritual lives through our experiences, confessions, and stories. Glory be to the Triune God!

李天慧

校友會詩班員

Grace Lee

HKBTS Alumni Choir member

天慧與母親

　　當自己或身邊的人處於死蔭幽谷，當人說的話已無法帶來慰藉，聖詩卻可以成為一個途徑，讓我們的心思意念轉向神，幫助我們向神表達內心最深切的渴望，藉此向神禱告。

　　九年前，母親患病，身體極度虛弱，無法接受進一步的治療。當時母親在醫院床上要求播放〈祢真偉大〉這首詩歌。我們一起讚美天父，深受身體痛苦煎熬的母親立時感受到神的同在，心裏滿有盼望。過了幾天，神接了媽媽回天家。我在悲傷之中，神透過福音歌手Laura Story 的詩歌“Blessings”不斷給我安慰。以下是一些特別觸動我心的歌詞（附中文意譯）：

Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things.
但祢只會把最好的給我們，因為祢非常愛我們。

And when darkness seems to win,
we know the pain reminds this heart
that this is not, this is not our home.
當黑暗似乎佔上風，
這些傷痛提醒我們，
這個世界不是我們的家。

And what if trials of this life,
the rain, the storms, the hardest nights,
are Your mercies in disguise?
或許這一生的磨煉，
那些狂風、暴雨、無眠之夜，
原來背後藏著祢的恩典和憐憫。

這些歌詞帶給我對永恆的見解，提醒我主仍然在掌管，我必須選擇繼續相信祂，因為祂愛我和我的家人。祂不會給我們無用的東西。

　　我相信其他人也有類似的經歷。神藉著詩歌賜下幫助、平安和安慰。我曾經唱詩歌給一位患有腦退化的主內弟兄聽，儘管他的腦部功能正在衰退，但那次所唱的詩歌確能喚醒那位似乎在「消失中」的弟兄。我體驗到詩歌的力量。感謝主賜下詩歌，讓我們可以藉此與祂連結：在真理中，以我們的心靈、情感，讚美敬拜祂。

Grace and her mother

　　In times when we are in the darkest valley and human words can no longer comfort us, hymns can be a means of turning our hearts and minds to God, helping us to express our deepest longing to Him and to pray to Him.

　　Nine years ago, my mother became seriously ill and was too weak to continue treatment. While resting in her hospital bed, she asked us to play the hymn “How Great Thou Art.” As we worshipped our Heavenly Father together, my mother—despite her intense physical pain—immediately sensed God’s presence. Her heart was filled with hope. Just a few days later, God called her home to heaven. During my time of grief, I continually experienced God’s comfort through Laura Story’s hymn “Blessings.” Here are some lines from the hymn that deeply moved me:

Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things.
And when darkness seems to win,
we know the pain reminds this heart
that this is not, this is not our home.
And what if trials of this life,
the rain, the storms, the hardest nights,
are Your mercies in disguise?

These lyrics gave me insight into eternity and reminded me that the Lord is in control and I must choose to trust Him because He loves me and my family. God never gives us challenges for which He has not already prepared us.

　　I am sure many others have had such experiences. God offers us help, peace, and comfort through hymns. I once sang a hymn to a brother in Christ who was suffering from dementia. Even though his brain was failing, the hymn I sang at that time did awaken that seemingly “disappearing” brother. I have experienced the power of hymns many times. I thank the Lord for blessing us with hymns that draw us near to Him and enable us to worship Him genuinely from the depth of our hearts and souls.

羅潔盈

實踐神學科助理教授（崇拜與聖樂）
七十五週年院慶籌備委員會．執行委員

Kit-ying Law

Assistant Professor (Worship and Church Music)
75th Anniversary Celebration Organizing Committee Executive Member
75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise Conductor

天國敬拜的地上預演

七十五週年院慶感恩崇拜暨音樂頌讚會之籌備感想

Earthly Rehearsal for Heavenly Worship

Thoughts on the Preparations for the 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise

祈願與想像

　　明年便是香港浸信會神學院七十五週年院慶。感恩，有機會參與院慶的籌備工作，並且在明年4月舉行的七十五週年院慶感恩崇拜暨音樂頌讚會擔任指揮。

　　七十五週年院慶感恩崇拜暨音樂頌讚會，以「立於基督‧迎向未來」為主題。祈願上主繼續保守並帶領我們，藉著本院的神學教育服侍眾教會，培育屬神的工人，使他們在堅定的信仰根基上牧養群羊，勇敢面對未來種種挑戰。在此，筆者除了想漫談一下有關這場感恩崇拜的一些構思、編排、音樂形式、歌詞等等，也誠願大家一同領受上主的啟示，一同更新，建立我們對這場感恩崇拜的共同想像──這是我向主的禱告。

主基督　房角石

　　首先，回想一下我們（包括來自不同堂會的傳道人）是如何在同一根基上被基督建造，再共同想像未來如何繼續靠復活主的能力，在這多變的世代，傳講這永恆不變的福音。誠然，基督是我們的信仰基礎，是我們的房角石。所以我們計劃在恩感崇拜上獻唱〈主基督，房角石〉。早在一年前，學院詩班便開始練習這首由基督徒作曲家陳偉光博士創作的四部無伴奏合唱（a cappella）的聖樂作品。詩歌引導我們宣認基督是我們的房角石，在祂以外，別無拯救：

主基督─房角石！主基督─房角石！
匠人所棄的石頭（房角的石頭），
已成了房角的頭塊石頭！
除祂以外，別無拯救；
因為在天下人間，沒有賜下別的名，我們可靠著得救！

其中「主基督」這句先由女聲以活躍有力的切分音唱出，男聲應唱「房角石」則用平均的節拍，加上明顯而堅決的重音（marcato）呼應。這與聖經以弗所書二章20節的經文相互配合，表達耶穌基督自己成為這個穩固根基的重要性。音樂隨後擴展為四部合唱，強調「匠人所棄的石頭，卻成了房角的頭塊石頭」（參詩一一八22；徒四11）──和聲以懸疑音（suspension）及延遲解決（resolve）的撞音，展現當下的文化處境與基督對話時的張力。

　　崇拜是公開宣認（public proclamation）基督信仰的場景。祈求在七十五週年院慶感恩慶崇拜之時，主再次召聚我們在一起，共同聆聽主道，並且表達我們的感恩、祈求和頌讚，公開展示我們的信仰。歷代聖樂前輩藉著追求卓越，在崇拜中運用音樂與崇拜藝術（worship and the arts），表達出經世（economic）與內蘊（immanent）的三一上主的真、善、美。美學（aesthetics）本身反映天父創造時的美好，但也需要被救贖。基督的真理使我們成為聖潔、君尊的祭司，讓我們在聖靈的引導下努力活出美善，建立屬於上主的愛的群體，見證主的臨在和恩惠。

光照與更新

　　其次，檢視我們所信的真理根基。學院於1951年創校，明年將屆七十五週年了，有甚麼需要提醒？有甚麼忘記了？有甚麼需要被光照和更新？耶穌在最後晚餐上擘餅、拿杯時，囑咐門徒要如此行，「為的是記念我」（參路二十二19；林前十一24-25）。「記念」的希臘原文anamnesis，意思就是「免得忘記」。

　　有時轉變可以帶給我們新穎的眼光，讓我們有新的發現和提醒。我們將會獻唱的另一首詩歌〈承擔未竟的使命〉，便是一個例子。這詩歌是把會眾詩〈教會根基歌〉填上新的歌詞，又重新編曲；這不單是風格上的轉變，更是從新的角度詮釋我們該如何繼續成為屬於基督的教會。

　　當日本院詩班與聯合詩班合唱的〈哈利，哈利，哈利〉和〈主基督，房角石〉將會互相呼應，一同以歌聲和信心宣認這「匠人所棄的石頭」正是我們唯一的依靠。在此石頭上的建築，即使被拆毀，或者經歷黑夜，也必定能夠靠復活的基督──那清晨的日光──重新看見光明，成為活石，被建造成為父神藉著聖靈居住的所在，獲得終極的拯救和希望。

天國敬拜的地上預演

　　七十五週年院慶的紀念活動，的確需要很大的能量去籌備。願我們都被召聚，對「浸神」及所服侍的教會有共同的想像。這不只是一個活動而已，每次聯合詩班的練習或獻唱也可以想像為「天國敬拜在地上的預演」。讓我們運用神所賜的恩賜，藉著以聖經為中心的敬拜，一起重述並表達對祂的讚美和感謝，並且繼續參與祂的更新和創造工作。我們所相信的三一上主，是既超越又內住的神。我們需要匯聚彼此的恩賜和想像力，才能看見那「日光之上」的進路，才能成為活祭，一起帶著從上而來的平安進入世界（go in peace），去敬愛並事奉主！願祂得著最大的榮耀！Soli Deo gloria!

Be Thou Our Vision

　　Next year will be the 75th anniversary of the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary. I am grateful to have the opportunity to participate in organizing the celebration and conducting the 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise to be held in April of next year.

　　The 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise will be held with the theme of “Stand Firm in Christ, Advance Toward the Future.” We pray that the Lord will continue to keep us and lead us to serve churches through our theological education and to nurture servants of God, so that they can tend the flock on a firm foundation of faith and bravely face the challenges of the future. Here, I would like to talk about the ideas, arrangements, music, and lyrics of this Thanksgiving Service. I sincerely hope that we shall all receive the Lord’s revelation, are renewed together, and are united through this Thanksgiving Service. This is my prayer to the Lord.

Lord Jesus, the Cornerstone ^*

　　Firstly, let us recall how we, including ministers from different congregations, have been built up by Jesus Christ on the same foundation, and together we can imagine how we will continue to preach the everlasting Gospel by the power of the risen Lord in this ever-changing time and age. Truly, Jesus Christ is the foundation of our faith, our cornerstone. Therefore, we will be singing “Lord Jesus, the Capstone” at the Thanksgiving Service. A year ago, the HKBTS Choir began practicing this four-part a cappella music piece written by Christian composer Dr. Victor Wai-kwong Chan. The hymn leads us to confess that Jesus Christ is our cornerstone and that apart from Him, there is no salvation (English translation of the quoted Chinese lyrics as follows):

Lord Jesus, the cornerstone! Lord Jesus, the cornerstone!
The stone that the builders rejected (the cornerstone)
Has become the cornerstone.
There is salvation in no one else,
For there is no other name under heaven given among people by which we must be saved.

The phrase “Lord Jesus” is first sung by female voices in an energetic syncopation, while the male voices sing “the cornerstone” in an even meter with a distinct and firm marcato. This is in harmony with the Bible passage in Ephesians 2:20, which expresses the importance of Jesus Christ as the solid foundation. The music then expands into a four-part chorus emphasizing “the stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone” (cf. Ps 118:22; Acts 4:11). The harmonies, with their suspensions and delayed resolution of dissonance, demonstrate the tension within dialogues surrounding contemporary cultural contexts and Christ.

　　Worship is a public proclamation of the Christian faith. We pray that the Lord will gather us together in our 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service to hear the Word of God and to express our thanksgiving, prayers, and praises while we make public professions of our faith. Through the pursuit of excellence, the predecessors of church music have used music as well as worship and visual and literary arts to express the truth, goodness, and beauty of the economic and immanent Trinity in worship. Aesthetics itself reflects the beauty of God the Father’s creation, but it still needs to be redeemed. The truth of Christ makes us a holy, royal priesthood, so that the Holy Spirit may guide us in our efforts to live out the good, to build up a community of love that belongs to the Lord, and to witness to His presence and favor.

Enlightenment and Renewal

　　Secondly, let us examine the foundation of the truth we believe in. The seminary was founded in 1951, and it will celebrate its 75th anniversary next year. Is there anything we need to be reminded of? Is there anything that we have forgotten? What do we need to be enlightened and renewed? When Jesus broke the bread and took the cup at the Last Supper, He commanded His disciples to do this “in remembrance of me” (cf. Lk 22:19; I Cor 11:24-25). The Greek word for “remembrance” is anamnesis, which means “reminder.”

　　Sometimes changes can bring us new insights, discoveries, and reminders. An example of this is the other hymn we will be singing, “Facing a Task Unfinished.” It is a new arrangement of the congregational hymn, “The Church’s One Foundation,” with new lyrics. It is not only a change in style but also gives us a new perspective on how we keep on being the church of Christ.

　　On that day, the hymns “Halle, Halle, Halle” and “Lord Jesus, the Capstone” will be sung by the HKBTS Choir and the joint choir will echo each other; together we will declare in praise and in faith that this “stone that the builders have rejected” is our only dependence. Even if the building on this stone is torn down or endures the darkness of night, it will surely see the light again through the risen Christ, the morning light, and become a living stone to be built into a place where God the Father dwells through the Holy Spirit, enjoying the ultimate salvation and hope.

Earthly Rehearsal for Heavenly Worship

　　It does take a lot of energy to prepare for our 75th anniversary celebration. May we all be summoned to share a common vision for HKBTS and the churches we serve. This is not just an event; in fact, every practice or performance of the joint choir can be imagined as “earthly rehearsal for heavenly worship.” Let us use our God-given gifts to offer our praise and thanksgiving to Him together through Bible-centred worship, and to participate in His ongoing work of renewal and creation. We believe in the Triune God, who is both transcendent and indwelling. We have to bring together each other’s spiritual gifts and imaginations in order to see the way “above the sun,” to become living sacrifices, to go into the world together in peace from above, and to love and serve the Lord! Let Him be glorified to the fullest! Soli Deo gloria!

____________________________________________

^* Or capstone; also in the following paragraph.

陳合英

聖經研究科講師、教牧持續教育中心課程主任、學生事務主任
七十五週年院慶籌備委員會．召集人

Michelle Chan

Lecturer (Biblical Studies)
Director of Pastoral Continuing Education Program
Director of Student Affairs
75th Anniversary Celebration Organizing Committee Convener

荊棘路上　堅守使命

　　回想2010年底返回母校香港浸信會神學院事奉，轉眼間已過了十五個年頭。當時等待著我處理的頭等大任務，就是籌辦六十週年鑽禧院慶活動。隨著時間推移，我還經歷了六十五週年及七十週年院慶，現在又迎來明年七十五週年這個值得感恩慶賀的院慶年！

　　2011年是六十週年鑽禧院慶年，也是「浸神」第六任院長曹偉彤教授就職將滿兩年的日子。當時學院從艱難中再次靠主站穩，逐步開展「信望愛工程」。時任《時代論壇》社長李錦洪先生揮筆，為學院敲定了院慶的主題──「展翅騰揚信望愛」，意指「浸神」在基督的信、望、愛中，乘著聖靈的風，展翅騰揚。籌辦院慶活動的過程中，最令我難忘的其中一幕，是眾浸信教會肢體組成的聯合詩班，獻唱梅廣文博士為祝賀「浸神」而專誠創作的新曲〈感恩的禱告〉。那時學院的境況，猶如歌詞的描述，大意是：我們這群走在朝聖路上的浸信會人，曾經歷神從陰間把我們救拔出來，因此我們要尊崇祂！我們又曾經在深坑中呼求神，得蒙神的恩惠，將我們的哀哭變為舞蹈，我們要為此稱謝頌讚祂！

　　2016年，「浸神」懷著喜樂的心踏進六十五週年院慶年。此前，承蒙眾浸信教會的支持和信任，學院得以於2013年在香港成功註冊為法人團體，在神的引領下踏上新里程，也承擔新的責任。「尊主為大．跨界傳承」是當年院慶的主題，也是我們的心志：無論在安穩抑或艱難的年代，我們的心都願意尊主為大，為神的家培育忠心服侍的僕人領袖；並且我們的師生要傳承浸信會傳統，跨越時間、空間、種種差異的界限，繼續跟隨主，踏上當跑之路。

　　疫情肆虐期間，「浸神」於2021年度過了七十週年白金禧院慶年。當時，社會動盪，疫情一波接一波爆發，經濟不斷下滑，人際關係撕裂；在如此陰霾下，學院以「恩澤七十載．傳承信望愛」為院慶主題，向呼召我們的主忠心宣告：無論順逆，總不忘記神在過去歲月對學院的恩情和帶領；我們依舊專心仰賴主，致力建立一群以「信望愛」為標記的門徒群體。

　　這十五年來，有幸見證母校走過的路，儘管荊棘滿途，仍然堅守使命，為神國培育一批又一批的工人。當得知獲選上擔任七十五週年院慶籌備委員會的召集人，我懷著既戰兢又興奮的心情接受這項任務。戰兢，是因為想到自己的職務原本已不輕省，再額外承擔這項工作，惟恐力有不逮；但一想到自己竟然可有分參與籌辦慶賀母校蒙主恩七十五載的活動，便馬上抖擻精神，毅然接過這個榮耀的棒子。

立於基督　迎向未來

　　院慶籌委會的首項工作，是要訂定七十五週年院慶的主題及徽號。經過一輪熱烈的商議，我們最終決定以「立於基督‧迎向未來」為院慶主題。討論的過程中，我們腦海浮現了曹院長提出的「浸神」的神學教育理念：培育一群「以耶穌基督的心為心」的僕人領袖，也就是建立一個門徒群體，他們認識耶穌基督的心腸和思想，效法祂的行動，充滿實踐的智慧。迎接七十五週年之際，我們不忘初心，堅定地宣告：「浸神」屹立在基督這穩固、可靠、永恆的磐石上，並且仰賴聖靈的恩領，滿懷信心、愛心和盼望，展翅翱翔，迎向神為我們預備的未來。

　　主題既定，徽號設計的工作就隨之展開。設計的主要元素分別為「七十五週年」（數目字「75」）和「浸神」的院徽。院徽中的十字架，象徵耶穌基督乃學院永恆不變的根基；數目字「7」和「5」上方的橫線加入翅膀的設計，而斜線則一直伸延至院徽，象徵「浸神」乘著聖靈的風，無畏無懼地向著未來飛翔。

齊來敬拜　頌讚真神

　　接著，籌委會將會承擔籌辦院慶各項活動的工作。院慶活動將以「七十五週年院慶感恩崇拜暨音樂頌讚會」揭開序幕，因為沒有任何事情，較之向三一真神獻上感恩的祭，更為重要。「浸神」是所有浸信會教會的神學院，因此，學院盼望招聚眾浸信教會的主內肢體，組成大型聯合詩班，與我們同心謳歌頌讚神的權能和榮耀。

　　這是一個值得眾浸信會肢體懷著謙卑、感恩的心靈投入參與的可喜之事。深願眾浸信會人支持「浸神」的神學教育事工，踴躍參與學院七十五週年院慶的各項活動，以行動見證神在我們當中。

Upholding the Mission Despite the Thorny Path

　　It has been fifteen years since I returned to my alma mater, the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary (HKBTS), and began serving as a full-time staff member at the end of 2010. At that time, my first and foremost task was to organize the 60th Diamond Jubilee Celebration. As time went by, I also witnessed the 65th and 70th anniversaries. Now we are approaching the 75th anniversary next year. It will certainly be a year of thanksgiving and celebration!

　　The year 2011 marked HKBTS’s 60th Diamond Jubilee, and it was also the second year since the sixth President, Professor Joshua Cho, took up his post. At that time, the seminary reestablished itself in the grace of the Lord amid difficulties and launched the “Faith, Hope, and Love Project.” Mr. Kam-hung Lee, the then Publisher of the Christian Times, proposed the theme of the seminary’s anniversary celebration: “Soaring High in God’s Faith, Hope, and Love.” It signified that HKBTS rode on the wind of the Holy Spirit and spread its wings to soar in the faith, hope, and love of Christ. One of my most memorable moments in organizing the celebration was when a joint choir formed by members of the Baptist churches sang “A Prayer of Thanksgiving,” a new song written by Dr. Cainan Mui in celebration of the seminary. At that time, the situation of the seminary was just like the lyrics of the song: As we Baptists on a pilgrimage have been delivered by God from Sheol, we must exalt Him! As we have cried out to God from the depths of the pit, and in His grace, God turned our weeping into dancing, we must give thanks and praise to Him!

　　In 2016, HKBTS celebrated its 65th anniversary with joy. Thanks to the support and trust of the Baptist churches, the seminary was successfully registered as a corporate body in Hong Kong in 2013, embarking on a new stage and assuming new responsibilities under God’s guidance. The theme of that anniversary celebration was “Magnifying God the Almighty, Preaching the Gospel across Boundaries.” It was also our heart’s desire: whether in times of peace or hardship, our hearts would magnify the Lord and cultivate faithful servant-leaders for churches; and our teachers and students would carry on the Baptist tradition, transcending the barriers of time, space, and differences, to follow the Lord and run the race set for us.

　　In 2021, HKBTS celebrated its 70th Platinum Jubilee during the pandemic period. In the midst of social unrest, pandemic outbreaks, economic downturns and severed relationships, the seminary celebrated its 70th anniversary on the theme “Endowed in Grace for 70 Years; Forward with Faith, Hope, and Love,” proclaiming faithfully to the Lord who called us that we would never forget God’s grace and guidance to the seminary in the past regardless of the ups and downs; and that we would continue to rely on the Lord and strive to build up a disciple community with “faith, hope, and love” as our beacon.

　　Over the past fifteen years, I have had the privilege of witnessing the progress my alma mater has made. Despite the thorny path, HKBTS remains steadfast in its mission to nurture workers for the Kingdom of God. When I learned that I had been selected to serve as the convener of the 75th Anniversary Organizing Committee, I accepted the appointment with trepidation and excitement. I trembled because I was afraid that I would not be able to cope with the additional work amid my existing duties, which are already quite demanding. But considering that I could have a part to play in organizing the celebration of my alma mater’s seventy-five years of blessings from the Lord, I immediately perked up and resolutely took this honor.

Stand Firm in Christ, Advance Toward the Future

　　The first task of the Organizing Committee was to determine the theme and logo of the 75th Anniversary Celebration. After a vigorous discussion, we finally decided to adopt the theme of “Stand Firm in Christ, Advance Toward the Future.” During the deliberation, HKBTS’s core theological education concept, which President Cho created, came to mind: to nurture a group of servant-leaders who “have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.” That means building a disciple community that knows the heart and mind of Jesus Christ, imitates His example, and is filled with wisdom in praxis. As we move forward to our 75th anniversary, we will not forget our fundamental aspiration and firmly proclaim that HKBTS stands on the solid, dependable, and eternal rock of Christ, and that we rely on the Holy Spirit’s gracious guidance to spread our wings and soar with faith, hope, and love into the future that God has prepared for us.

　　With the theme set, we began work on the logo design. The main elements of the design are the “75th Anniversary” (the number “75”) and the HKBTS emblem. The cross in the logo symbolizes that Jesus Christ is the unchanging foundation of the seminary. The horizontal lines in the upper part of the numerals “7” and “5” are designed with wings, while the diagonal line extends to HKBTS’s emblem. It symbolizes that HKBTS is riding on the winds of the Holy Spirit and flying toward the future without fear or hesitation.

Come, Worship, and Praise the Lord Together

　　Next, the Organizing Committee will take up the task of organizing various activities for the celebration. The celebration will begin with the 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise because there is nothing more important than offering thanks to the Triune God. HKBTS is a seminary for all Baptist churches; therefore, the seminary is looking forward to gathering members of Baptist churches to form a single united choir to sing with us in praise of God’s power and glory.

　　This is a joyful event that deserves the humble and thankful participation of all Baptists. We hope that all Baptists will support the theological education ministry of HKBTS, participate wholeheartedly in the activities of the 75th anniversary of HKBTS, and witness God’s presence in our midst.

明年，香港浸信會神學院將踏入七十五週年。學院正積極籌劃以聖樂及敬拜開展這新的篇章。今期《院訊》特別邀請「七十五週年院慶籌備委員會」召集人陳合英姑娘分享她的感受，並介紹院慶的主題和徽號；又邀請了籌備委員會執行委員兼「七十五週年院慶感恩崇拜暨音樂頌讚會」指揮羅潔盈博士，談談這個崇拜的設計點滴。此外，三位參與院慶崇拜事奉的成員亦會分享聖樂如何影響他們的生命。我們誠摯邀請您一同參與明年4月舉行的這場聖樂敬拜盛會。

Next year, the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary (HKBTS) will be celebrating its 75th anniversary. The seminary is currently preparing for the start of this new chapter with church music and worship. In this issue of the Newsletter, we have invited Ms. Michelle Chan, the convener of the 75th Anniversary Celebration Organizing Committee, to share her thoughts and introduce the theme of the anniversary celebration. We have also invited Dr. Kit-ying Law, one of the executive members of the Organizing Committee and the conductor of the 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise, to talk about this upcoming service. In addition, three members of the serving team will share with us the impact of church music on their lives. You are cordially invited to join us in this worship service to be held in April of next year.

From the Hebrew Bible to the New Testament: Reflecting on the True Meaning of Messiah

WONG Tin Sheung

　　Many people understand the Messiah mostly from the perspective of the New Testament. As a result, they often regard the Old Testament passages as typology of Jesus Christ. There are two problems with this approach: first, it ignores the contexts of the Old Testament passages; second, they understand the passages solely from the perspective of the New Testament while ignoring the theological development in the intertestamental period.

　　The purpose of this article is to investigate, with the perspective of the Hebrew Bible as the starting point, the development of different messianic concepts during the Second Temple period, and thereby identify those messianic concepts which were prevalent at the time of the New Testament and were revealed in Jesus Christ. The Messiah as shown by Jesus Christ becomes believers’ basis of hope in any situation.

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葉啟森

道學碩士生

Kai-sum Yip

M.Div. Student

　　聖樂在我的靈命成長和事奉中扮演非常關鍵的角色。對我來說，這不僅是敬拜的工具，更是一個重要途徑讓我與神親近，內心被更新，信仰被堅固。聖樂有神的真理和話語，並聖靈的力量，讓我在聆聽和唱頌時深刻經歷神的同在和教導。

　　首先，聖樂助我的靈命成長，因為它以旋律包裝神的話語，使我容易記住，讓我反復思想真理。很多時候，在我情緒低落、內心掙扎或疑惑的時刻，一首熟悉的詩歌在心中驀然響起，提醒我神的信實和愛。

　　而且，聖樂讓我在默想和禱告時更容易進入神的同在。有時候言語難以表達內心的情感，音樂卻能穿透心靈，幫助我將最真實的情感向神傾訴。敬拜詩歌就像一道橋樑，連結我的心和神的心，使我更深體會祂的愛和呼召。

　　事奉方面，聖樂更是我服侍的重要工具。無論是在敬拜團獻詩、領唱，或是帶領弟兄姊妹唱詩，我都發現聖樂能夠凝聚眾人的心，將焦點轉向神。這不只是一種藝術的表達，更是一種屬靈的服侍。當我在事奉中以心靈和誠實敬拜神，就深深感受神的同在，也看見祂藉著音樂觸摸人的生命，醫治破碎的心靈。

　　預備聖樂培靈會的過程中，我學會了更多交託、依靠神，與弟兄姊妹合作，並且操練自己對神的順服和敏銳。這些都不只是技巧的提升，更是屬靈生命的操練。透過音樂事奉，我看見弟兄姊妹被感動、被造就，這使我更加渴望成為神合用的器皿。

　　所以，聖樂不是信仰生活中的「陪襯」，而是一個湧流不息的靈命泉源。它使我在敬拜中被聖靈充滿，在困難中得著安慰，在服侍中經歷神蹟。聖樂，是神賜給教會和信徒的珍寶，是我們成長路上不可或缺的祝福。

　　Church music has played a significant role in my spiritual growth and ministry. For me, it is not only a tool for worship but also a vital way to become closer to God, to be renewed in my heart, and to be strengthened in my faith. Church music conveys God’s truth and word, and the power of the Holy Spirit. As I listen to and sing hymns, I profoundly experience God’s presence and teaching.

　　First of all, church music helps me grow spiritually because it presents God’s word melodically, making it easy for me to memorize and ponder the truth over and over again. Oftentimes, in moments of depression, inner struggle, or doubt, a familiar hymn would suddenly ring out in my heart, reminding me of God’s faithfulness and love.

　　Moreover, church music makes it easier for me to enter into God’s presence during meditation and prayer. Sometimes it is hard to express my innermost feelings with words, but music can penetrate my heart and help me pour out my true feelings to God. Worship songs are like a bridge between my heart and God’s, enabling me to realize His love and calling more deeply.

　　For ministry, church music is an important instrument in my service. Whether I am leading singing in the worship team or leading the brothers and sisters to sing praises, I find that church music can unite the hearts of the congregation and shift their focus to God. It is not just an artistic expression but a spiritual service. When I worship God in spirit and truth in my service, I deeply feel God’s presence and see Him touching people’s lives and healing broken hearts through music.

　　In preparation for the previous Spiritual Revival Concert, I learned to trust and rely on God more, to work with brothers and sisters, to practice my obedience, and to be sensitive to God. This is not just personal growth but the practice of spiritual discipline. In the music ministry, I regularly see brothers and sisters being touched and edified; it makes me eager to become a vessel fit for God.

　　Church music, therefore, is not an “accompaniment” to our Christian life, but an ever-flowing source of spiritual life. It enables me to be filled with the Holy Spirit in worship, to find comfort in difficulties, and to experience miracles in service. Church music is a treasure that God has given to the Church and believers, and it is an indispensable blessing to us on our way to growth.

柯兆添

Timmy Or

　　回望自己靈命成長的道路，聖樂一直扮演重要的角色。在此，筆者希望借用英國浸信會學者費迪斯（Paul Fiddes）對浸信會做神學的方式的觀察，檢視上帝如何藉聖樂造就我的靈命。費迪斯指出，在具體信仰群體的涵義上，浸信會做神學的方式有三種：經驗、認信、故事。^*

　　在經驗層面，筆者回望自己在母會成長的日子，傳統詩歌──包括《頌主新歌》、《世紀頌讚》等詩集的詩歌──所帶來那種傾向史詩式（epic）的音樂經驗，形塑了我對教會音樂的印象，也培養我欣賞音樂敬拜如何以樂載道。在我現時事奉的教會，現代流行詩歌──不論是海外或本土的──所帶來那種傾向抒情式（lyric）的音樂經驗，則開闊了我對教會音樂的想像，也讓我認識不同弟兄姊妹的信仰表述。

　　至於認信層面，筆者相信傳統和現代風格的教會音樂所盛載的，同樣是基督信仰的內容，對我們的屬靈成長也有幫助。因此，要在傳統和現代的音樂風格之間只選其一，是一個偽命題。事實上，不論是哪一種風格的教會音樂，筆者都從中經歷到被教化（edification）的過程。我們從詩歌認識到自己所信仰的三一上帝是一個怎樣的神；而且，我們藉著詩歌以歌聲宣認、認信自己的信仰──正如聖經所說的，藉此彼此教導，互相勸戒，歌頌上帝（參西三16）。

　　最後在故事的層面，上帝藉聖樂建立筆者的屬靈生命：聖樂不只讓我在情感上投入敬拜，在信仰知識上得以長進，而且某程度上，聖樂更與筆者個人的屬靈成長經歷聯繫起來，成為我生命故事的一部分。相信不少弟兄姊妹也有這樣的體驗，在經歷上帝帶領的過程中，有一首詩歌成了我們的幫助、提醒和鼓勵。自此這詩歌對個人來說，就不僅是一首普通的詩歌，每次再聽見，也叫人回想起自己在上帝面前的經歷。聖樂和自己的生命故事，從此交織在一起。

　　願教會的聖樂繼續蒙上帝使用，並藉著我們的經驗、認信和故事建立我們的屬靈生命，榮歸三一上帝！

____________________________________________

^* Paul Fiddes, Tracks and Traces: Baptist Identity in Church and Theology (Carlisle: Paternoster, 2003), 4-12.

　　Reflecting on my spiritual journey, I realize that church music has always played a significant role. Here, I would like to draw upon the insights of British Baptist scholar Paul Fiddes on the Baptist way of doing theology to examine how God has molded my spiritual life through church music. Fiddes points out that in the context of faith communities, there are three ways of doing theology among Baptists: experience, confession, and stories.

　　In terms of experience, as I look back at my days of growing up in my mother church, traditional hymns, including those in such hymn books as New Songs of Praise and Century Praise, have created for us epic-like musical experiences, which have shaped my understanding of church music and cultivated in me an appreciation of how music in worship can be used as a vehicle for the Word. In the church which I now serve, modern popular hymns, whether foreign or local, have brought us a lyrical musical experience that has broadened my imagination of what church music can be and allowed me to recognize diverse expressions of faith amongst my fellow Christians.

　　In respect of confession, I believe that both traditional and modern styles of church music possess the same content of the Christian faith, which is equally beneficial to our spiritual growth. Therefore, it is a false proposition that one must choose between traditional and modern musical styles. In fact, regardless of the style, I have been equally edified by different styles of church music. We learn from hymns about the Triune God in whom we believe, and we profess and confess our faith through our singing—teaching and admonishing one another through hymns singing to God, just as the Bible says (cf. Col 3:16).

　　Finally, in terms of stories, God builds up my spiritual life through church music. Not only does church music help me worship passionately and grow in my knowledge of my faith but also, to a certain extent, it is connected with my personal spiritual growth and has become a part of my life story. I believe that many brothers and sisters have also experienced a time when a hymn has helped them by acting as a reminder or an encouragement to us in God’s providence. Afterward, that hymn becomes more than just an ordinary hymn; every time we hear it, it will remind us of our own experiences before God. Church music and our life stories are beautifully intertwined in this way.

　　May the church’s music remain in God’s use to build our spiritual lives through our experiences, confessions, and stories. Glory be to the Triune God!

李天慧

校友會詩班員

Grace Lee

HKBTS Alumni Choir member

天慧與母親

　　當自己或身邊的人處於死蔭幽谷，當人說的話已無法帶來慰藉，聖詩卻可以成為一個途徑，讓我們的心思意念轉向神，幫助我們向神表達內心最深切的渴望，藉此向神禱告。

　　九年前，母親患病，身體極度虛弱，無法接受進一步的治療。當時母親在醫院床上要求播放〈祢真偉大〉這首詩歌。我們一起讚美天父，深受身體痛苦煎熬的母親立時感受到神的同在，心裏滿有盼望。過了幾天，神接了媽媽回天家。我在悲傷之中，神透過福音歌手Laura Story 的詩歌“Blessings”不斷給我安慰。以下是一些特別觸動我心的歌詞（附中文意譯）：

Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things.
但祢只會把最好的給我們，因為祢非常愛我們。

And when darkness seems to win,
we know the pain reminds this heart
that this is not, this is not our home.
當黑暗似乎佔上風，
這些傷痛提醒我們，
這個世界不是我們的家。

And what if trials of this life,
the rain, the storms, the hardest nights,
are Your mercies in disguise?
或許這一生的磨煉，
那些狂風、暴雨、無眠之夜，
原來背後藏著祢的恩典和憐憫。

這些歌詞帶給我對永恆的見解，提醒我主仍然在掌管，我必須選擇繼續相信祂，因為祂愛我和我的家人。祂不會給我們無用的東西。

　　我相信其他人也有類似的經歷。神藉著詩歌賜下幫助、平安和安慰。我曾經唱詩歌給一位患有腦退化的主內弟兄聽，儘管他的腦部功能正在衰退，但那次所唱的詩歌確能喚醒那位似乎在「消失中」的弟兄。我體驗到詩歌的力量。感謝主賜下詩歌，讓我們可以藉此與祂連結：在真理中，以我們的心靈、情感，讚美敬拜祂。

Grace and her mother

　　In times when we are in the darkest valley and human words can no longer comfort us, hymns can be a means of turning our hearts and minds to God, helping us to express our deepest longing to Him and to pray to Him.

　　Nine years ago, my mother became seriously ill and was too weak to continue treatment. While resting in her hospital bed, she asked us to play the hymn “How Great Thou Art.” As we worshipped our Heavenly Father together, my mother—despite her intense physical pain—immediately sensed God’s presence. Her heart was filled with hope. Just a few days later, God called her home to heaven. During my time of grief, I continually experienced God’s comfort through Laura Story’s hymn “Blessings.” Here are some lines from the hymn that deeply moved me:

Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things.
And when darkness seems to win,
we know the pain reminds this heart
that this is not, this is not our home.
And what if trials of this life,
the rain, the storms, the hardest nights,
are Your mercies in disguise?

These lyrics gave me insight into eternity and reminded me that the Lord is in control and I must choose to trust Him because He loves me and my family. God never gives us challenges for which He has not already prepared us.

　　I am sure many others have had such experiences. God offers us help, peace, and comfort through hymns. I once sang a hymn to a brother in Christ who was suffering from dementia. Even though his brain was failing, the hymn I sang at that time did awaken that seemingly “disappearing” brother. I have experienced the power of hymns many times. I thank the Lord for blessing us with hymns that draw us near to Him and enable us to worship Him genuinely from the depth of our hearts and souls.

羅潔盈

實踐神學科助理教授（崇拜與聖樂）
七十五週年院慶籌備委員會．執行委員

Kit-ying Law

Assistant Professor (Worship and Church Music)
75th Anniversary Celebration Organizing Committee Executive Member
75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise Conductor

天國敬拜的地上預演

七十五週年院慶感恩崇拜暨音樂頌讚會之籌備感想

Earthly Rehearsal for Heavenly Worship

Thoughts on the Preparations for the 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise

祈願與想像

　　明年便是香港浸信會神學院七十五週年院慶。感恩，有機會參與院慶的籌備工作，並且在明年4月舉行的七十五週年院慶感恩崇拜暨音樂頌讚會擔任指揮。

　　七十五週年院慶感恩崇拜暨音樂頌讚會，以「立於基督‧迎向未來」為主題。祈願上主繼續保守並帶領我們，藉著本院的神學教育服侍眾教會，培育屬神的工人，使他們在堅定的信仰根基上牧養群羊，勇敢面對未來種種挑戰。在此，筆者除了想漫談一下有關這場感恩崇拜的一些構思、編排、音樂形式、歌詞等等，也誠願大家一同領受上主的啟示，一同更新，建立我們對這場感恩崇拜的共同想像──這是我向主的禱告。

主基督　房角石

　　首先，回想一下我們（包括來自不同堂會的傳道人）是如何在同一根基上被基督建造，再共同想像未來如何繼續靠復活主的能力，在這多變的世代，傳講這永恆不變的福音。誠然，基督是我們的信仰基礎，是我們的房角石。所以我們計劃在恩感崇拜上獻唱〈主基督，房角石〉。早在一年前，學院詩班便開始練習這首由基督徒作曲家陳偉光博士創作的四部無伴奏合唱（a cappella）的聖樂作品。詩歌引導我們宣認基督是我們的房角石，在祂以外，別無拯救：

主基督─房角石！主基督─房角石！
匠人所棄的石頭（房角的石頭），
已成了房角的頭塊石頭！
除祂以外，別無拯救；
因為在天下人間，沒有賜下別的名，我們可靠著得救！

其中「主基督」這句先由女聲以活躍有力的切分音唱出，男聲應唱「房角石」則用平均的節拍，加上明顯而堅決的重音（marcato）呼應。這與聖經以弗所書二章20節的經文相互配合，表達耶穌基督自己成為這個穩固根基的重要性。音樂隨後擴展為四部合唱，強調「匠人所棄的石頭，卻成了房角的頭塊石頭」（參詩一一八22；徒四11）──和聲以懸疑音（suspension）及延遲解決（resolve）的撞音，展現當下的文化處境與基督對話時的張力。

　　崇拜是公開宣認（public proclamation）基督信仰的場景。祈求在七十五週年院慶感恩慶崇拜之時，主再次召聚我們在一起，共同聆聽主道，並且表達我們的感恩、祈求和頌讚，公開展示我們的信仰。歷代聖樂前輩藉著追求卓越，在崇拜中運用音樂與崇拜藝術（worship and the arts），表達出經世（economic）與內蘊（immanent）的三一上主的真、善、美。美學（aesthetics）本身反映天父創造時的美好，但也需要被救贖。基督的真理使我們成為聖潔、君尊的祭司，讓我們在聖靈的引導下努力活出美善，建立屬於上主的愛的群體，見證主的臨在和恩惠。

光照與更新

　　其次，檢視我們所信的真理根基。學院於1951年創校，明年將屆七十五週年了，有甚麼需要提醒？有甚麼忘記了？有甚麼需要被光照和更新？耶穌在最後晚餐上擘餅、拿杯時，囑咐門徒要如此行，「為的是記念我」（參路二十二19；林前十一24-25）。「記念」的希臘原文anamnesis，意思就是「免得忘記」。

　　有時轉變可以帶給我們新穎的眼光，讓我們有新的發現和提醒。我們將會獻唱的另一首詩歌〈承擔未竟的使命〉，便是一個例子。這詩歌是把會眾詩〈教會根基歌〉填上新的歌詞，又重新編曲；這不單是風格上的轉變，更是從新的角度詮釋我們該如何繼續成為屬於基督的教會。

　　當日本院詩班與聯合詩班合唱的〈哈利，哈利，哈利〉和〈主基督，房角石〉將會互相呼應，一同以歌聲和信心宣認這「匠人所棄的石頭」正是我們唯一的依靠。在此石頭上的建築，即使被拆毀，或者經歷黑夜，也必定能夠靠復活的基督──那清晨的日光──重新看見光明，成為活石，被建造成為父神藉著聖靈居住的所在，獲得終極的拯救和希望。

天國敬拜的地上預演

　　七十五週年院慶的紀念活動，的確需要很大的能量去籌備。願我們都被召聚，對「浸神」及所服侍的教會有共同的想像。這不只是一個活動而已，每次聯合詩班的練習或獻唱也可以想像為「天國敬拜在地上的預演」。讓我們運用神所賜的恩賜，藉著以聖經為中心的敬拜，一起重述並表達對祂的讚美和感謝，並且繼續參與祂的更新和創造工作。我們所相信的三一上主，是既超越又內住的神。我們需要匯聚彼此的恩賜和想像力，才能看見那「日光之上」的進路，才能成為活祭，一起帶著從上而來的平安進入世界（go in peace），去敬愛並事奉主！願祂得著最大的榮耀！Soli Deo gloria!

Be Thou Our Vision

　　Next year will be the 75th anniversary of the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary. I am grateful to have the opportunity to participate in organizing the celebration and conducting the 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise to be held in April of next year.

　　The 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise will be held with the theme of “Stand Firm in Christ, Advance Toward the Future.” We pray that the Lord will continue to keep us and lead us to serve churches through our theological education and to nurture servants of God, so that they can tend the flock on a firm foundation of faith and bravely face the challenges of the future. Here, I would like to talk about the ideas, arrangements, music, and lyrics of this Thanksgiving Service. I sincerely hope that we shall all receive the Lord’s revelation, are renewed together, and are united through this Thanksgiving Service. This is my prayer to the Lord.

Lord Jesus, the Cornerstone ^*

　　Firstly, let us recall how we, including ministers from different congregations, have been built up by Jesus Christ on the same foundation, and together we can imagine how we will continue to preach the everlasting Gospel by the power of the risen Lord in this ever-changing time and age. Truly, Jesus Christ is the foundation of our faith, our cornerstone. Therefore, we will be singing “Lord Jesus, the Capstone” at the Thanksgiving Service. A year ago, the HKBTS Choir began practicing this four-part a cappella music piece written by Christian composer Dr. Victor Wai-kwong Chan. The hymn leads us to confess that Jesus Christ is our cornerstone and that apart from Him, there is no salvation (English translation of the quoted Chinese lyrics as follows):

Lord Jesus, the cornerstone! Lord Jesus, the cornerstone!
The stone that the builders rejected (the cornerstone)
Has become the cornerstone.
There is salvation in no one else,
For there is no other name under heaven given among people by which we must be saved.

The phrase “Lord Jesus” is first sung by female voices in an energetic syncopation, while the male voices sing “the cornerstone” in an even meter with a distinct and firm marcato. This is in harmony with the Bible passage in Ephesians 2:20, which expresses the importance of Jesus Christ as the solid foundation. The music then expands into a four-part chorus emphasizing “the stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone” (cf. Ps 118:22; Acts 4:11). The harmonies, with their suspensions and delayed resolution of dissonance, demonstrate the tension within dialogues surrounding contemporary cultural contexts and Christ.

　　Worship is a public proclamation of the Christian faith. We pray that the Lord will gather us together in our 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service to hear the Word of God and to express our thanksgiving, prayers, and praises while we make public professions of our faith. Through the pursuit of excellence, the predecessors of church music have used music as well as worship and visual and literary arts to express the truth, goodness, and beauty of the economic and immanent Trinity in worship. Aesthetics itself reflects the beauty of God the Father’s creation, but it still needs to be redeemed. The truth of Christ makes us a holy, royal priesthood, so that the Holy Spirit may guide us in our efforts to live out the good, to build up a community of love that belongs to the Lord, and to witness to His presence and favor.

Enlightenment and Renewal

　　Secondly, let us examine the foundation of the truth we believe in. The seminary was founded in 1951, and it will celebrate its 75th anniversary next year. Is there anything we need to be reminded of? Is there anything that we have forgotten? What do we need to be enlightened and renewed? When Jesus broke the bread and took the cup at the Last Supper, He commanded His disciples to do this “in remembrance of me” (cf. Lk 22:19; I Cor 11:24-25). The Greek word for “remembrance” is anamnesis, which means “reminder.”

　　Sometimes changes can bring us new insights, discoveries, and reminders. An example of this is the other hymn we will be singing, “Facing a Task Unfinished.” It is a new arrangement of the congregational hymn, “The Church’s One Foundation,” with new lyrics. It is not only a change in style but also gives us a new perspective on how we keep on being the church of Christ.

　　On that day, the hymns “Halle, Halle, Halle” and “Lord Jesus, the Capstone” will be sung by the HKBTS Choir and the joint choir will echo each other; together we will declare in praise and in faith that this “stone that the builders have rejected” is our only dependence. Even if the building on this stone is torn down or endures the darkness of night, it will surely see the light again through the risen Christ, the morning light, and become a living stone to be built into a place where God the Father dwells through the Holy Spirit, enjoying the ultimate salvation and hope.

Earthly Rehearsal for Heavenly Worship

　　It does take a lot of energy to prepare for our 75th anniversary celebration. May we all be summoned to share a common vision for HKBTS and the churches we serve. This is not just an event; in fact, every practice or performance of the joint choir can be imagined as “earthly rehearsal for heavenly worship.” Let us use our God-given gifts to offer our praise and thanksgiving to Him together through Bible-centred worship, and to participate in His ongoing work of renewal and creation. We believe in the Triune God, who is both transcendent and indwelling. We have to bring together each other’s spiritual gifts and imaginations in order to see the way “above the sun,” to become living sacrifices, to go into the world together in peace from above, and to love and serve the Lord! Let Him be glorified to the fullest! Soli Deo gloria!

____________________________________________

^* Or capstone; also in the following paragraph.

陳合英

聖經研究科講師、教牧持續教育中心課程主任、學生事務主任
七十五週年院慶籌備委員會．召集人

Michelle Chan

Lecturer (Biblical Studies)
Director of Pastoral Continuing Education Program
Director of Student Affairs
75th Anniversary Celebration Organizing Committee Convener

荊棘路上　堅守使命

　　回想2010年底返回母校香港浸信會神學院事奉，轉眼間已過了十五個年頭。當時等待著我處理的頭等大任務，就是籌辦六十週年鑽禧院慶活動。隨著時間推移，我還經歷了六十五週年及七十週年院慶，現在又迎來明年七十五週年這個值得感恩慶賀的院慶年！

　　2011年是六十週年鑽禧院慶年，也是「浸神」第六任院長曹偉彤教授就職將滿兩年的日子。當時學院從艱難中再次靠主站穩，逐步開展「信望愛工程」。時任《時代論壇》社長李錦洪先生揮筆，為學院敲定了院慶的主題──「展翅騰揚信望愛」，意指「浸神」在基督的信、望、愛中，乘著聖靈的風，展翅騰揚。籌辦院慶活動的過程中，最令我難忘的其中一幕，是眾浸信教會肢體組成的聯合詩班，獻唱梅廣文博士為祝賀「浸神」而專誠創作的新曲〈感恩的禱告〉。那時學院的境況，猶如歌詞的描述，大意是：我們這群走在朝聖路上的浸信會人，曾經歷神從陰間把我們救拔出來，因此我們要尊崇祂！我們又曾經在深坑中呼求神，得蒙神的恩惠，將我們的哀哭變為舞蹈，我們要為此稱謝頌讚祂！

　　2016年，「浸神」懷著喜樂的心踏進六十五週年院慶年。此前，承蒙眾浸信教會的支持和信任，學院得以於2013年在香港成功註冊為法人團體，在神的引領下踏上新里程，也承擔新的責任。「尊主為大．跨界傳承」是當年院慶的主題，也是我們的心志：無論在安穩抑或艱難的年代，我們的心都願意尊主為大，為神的家培育忠心服侍的僕人領袖；並且我們的師生要傳承浸信會傳統，跨越時間、空間、種種差異的界限，繼續跟隨主，踏上當跑之路。

　　疫情肆虐期間，「浸神」於2021年度過了七十週年白金禧院慶年。當時，社會動盪，疫情一波接一波爆發，經濟不斷下滑，人際關係撕裂；在如此陰霾下，學院以「恩澤七十載．傳承信望愛」為院慶主題，向呼召我們的主忠心宣告：無論順逆，總不忘記神在過去歲月對學院的恩情和帶領；我們依舊專心仰賴主，致力建立一群以「信望愛」為標記的門徒群體。

　　這十五年來，有幸見證母校走過的路，儘管荊棘滿途，仍然堅守使命，為神國培育一批又一批的工人。當得知獲選上擔任七十五週年院慶籌備委員會的召集人，我懷著既戰兢又興奮的心情接受這項任務。戰兢，是因為想到自己的職務原本已不輕省，再額外承擔這項工作，惟恐力有不逮；但一想到自己竟然可有分參與籌辦慶賀母校蒙主恩七十五載的活動，便馬上抖擻精神，毅然接過這個榮耀的棒子。

立於基督　迎向未來

　　院慶籌委會的首項工作，是要訂定七十五週年院慶的主題及徽號。經過一輪熱烈的商議，我們最終決定以「立於基督‧迎向未來」為院慶主題。討論的過程中，我們腦海浮現了曹院長提出的「浸神」的神學教育理念：培育一群「以耶穌基督的心為心」的僕人領袖，也就是建立一個門徒群體，他們認識耶穌基督的心腸和思想，效法祂的行動，充滿實踐的智慧。迎接七十五週年之際，我們不忘初心，堅定地宣告：「浸神」屹立在基督這穩固、可靠、永恆的磐石上，並且仰賴聖靈的恩領，滿懷信心、愛心和盼望，展翅翱翔，迎向神為我們預備的未來。

　　主題既定，徽號設計的工作就隨之展開。設計的主要元素分別為「七十五週年」（數目字「75」）和「浸神」的院徽。院徽中的十字架，象徵耶穌基督乃學院永恆不變的根基；數目字「7」和「5」上方的橫線加入翅膀的設計，而斜線則一直伸延至院徽，象徵「浸神」乘著聖靈的風，無畏無懼地向著未來飛翔。

齊來敬拜　頌讚真神

　　接著，籌委會將會承擔籌辦院慶各項活動的工作。院慶活動將以「七十五週年院慶感恩崇拜暨音樂頌讚會」揭開序幕，因為沒有任何事情，較之向三一真神獻上感恩的祭，更為重要。「浸神」是所有浸信會教會的神學院，因此，學院盼望招聚眾浸信教會的主內肢體，組成大型聯合詩班，與我們同心謳歌頌讚神的權能和榮耀。

　　這是一個值得眾浸信會肢體懷著謙卑、感恩的心靈投入參與的可喜之事。深願眾浸信會人支持「浸神」的神學教育事工，踴躍參與學院七十五週年院慶的各項活動，以行動見證神在我們當中。

Upholding the Mission Despite the Thorny Path

　　It has been fifteen years since I returned to my alma mater, the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary (HKBTS), and began serving as a full-time staff member at the end of 2010. At that time, my first and foremost task was to organize the 60th Diamond Jubilee Celebration. As time went by, I also witnessed the 65th and 70th anniversaries. Now we are approaching the 75th anniversary next year. It will certainly be a year of thanksgiving and celebration!

　　The year 2011 marked HKBTS’s 60th Diamond Jubilee, and it was also the second year since the sixth President, Professor Joshua Cho, took up his post. At that time, the seminary reestablished itself in the grace of the Lord amid difficulties and launched the “Faith, Hope, and Love Project.” Mr. Kam-hung Lee, the then Publisher of the Christian Times, proposed the theme of the seminary’s anniversary celebration: “Soaring High in God’s Faith, Hope, and Love.” It signified that HKBTS rode on the wind of the Holy Spirit and spread its wings to soar in the faith, hope, and love of Christ. One of my most memorable moments in organizing the celebration was when a joint choir formed by members of the Baptist churches sang “A Prayer of Thanksgiving,” a new song written by Dr. Cainan Mui in celebration of the seminary. At that time, the situation of the seminary was just like the lyrics of the song: As we Baptists on a pilgrimage have been delivered by God from Sheol, we must exalt Him! As we have cried out to God from the depths of the pit, and in His grace, God turned our weeping into dancing, we must give thanks and praise to Him!

　　In 2016, HKBTS celebrated its 65th anniversary with joy. Thanks to the support and trust of the Baptist churches, the seminary was successfully registered as a corporate body in Hong Kong in 2013, embarking on a new stage and assuming new responsibilities under God’s guidance. The theme of that anniversary celebration was “Magnifying God the Almighty, Preaching the Gospel across Boundaries.” It was also our heart’s desire: whether in times of peace or hardship, our hearts would magnify the Lord and cultivate faithful servant-leaders for churches; and our teachers and students would carry on the Baptist tradition, transcending the barriers of time, space, and differences, to follow the Lord and run the race set for us.

　　In 2021, HKBTS celebrated its 70th Platinum Jubilee during the pandemic period. In the midst of social unrest, pandemic outbreaks, economic downturns and severed relationships, the seminary celebrated its 70th anniversary on the theme “Endowed in Grace for 70 Years; Forward with Faith, Hope, and Love,” proclaiming faithfully to the Lord who called us that we would never forget God’s grace and guidance to the seminary in the past regardless of the ups and downs; and that we would continue to rely on the Lord and strive to build up a disciple community with “faith, hope, and love” as our beacon.

　　Over the past fifteen years, I have had the privilege of witnessing the progress my alma mater has made. Despite the thorny path, HKBTS remains steadfast in its mission to nurture workers for the Kingdom of God. When I learned that I had been selected to serve as the convener of the 75th Anniversary Organizing Committee, I accepted the appointment with trepidation and excitement. I trembled because I was afraid that I would not be able to cope with the additional work amid my existing duties, which are already quite demanding. But considering that I could have a part to play in organizing the celebration of my alma mater’s seventy-five years of blessings from the Lord, I immediately perked up and resolutely took this honor.

Stand Firm in Christ, Advance Toward the Future

　　The first task of the Organizing Committee was to determine the theme and logo of the 75th Anniversary Celebration. After a vigorous discussion, we finally decided to adopt the theme of “Stand Firm in Christ, Advance Toward the Future.” During the deliberation, HKBTS’s core theological education concept, which President Cho created, came to mind: to nurture a group of servant-leaders who “have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.” That means building a disciple community that knows the heart and mind of Jesus Christ, imitates His example, and is filled with wisdom in praxis. As we move forward to our 75th anniversary, we will not forget our fundamental aspiration and firmly proclaim that HKBTS stands on the solid, dependable, and eternal rock of Christ, and that we rely on the Holy Spirit’s gracious guidance to spread our wings and soar with faith, hope, and love into the future that God has prepared for us.

　　With the theme set, we began work on the logo design. The main elements of the design are the “75th Anniversary” (the number “75”) and the HKBTS emblem. The cross in the logo symbolizes that Jesus Christ is the unchanging foundation of the seminary. The horizontal lines in the upper part of the numerals “7” and “5” are designed with wings, while the diagonal line extends to HKBTS’s emblem. It symbolizes that HKBTS is riding on the winds of the Holy Spirit and flying toward the future without fear or hesitation.

Come, Worship, and Praise the Lord Together

　　Next, the Organizing Committee will take up the task of organizing various activities for the celebration. The celebration will begin with the 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise because there is nothing more important than offering thanks to the Triune God. HKBTS is a seminary for all Baptist churches; therefore, the seminary is looking forward to gathering members of Baptist churches to form a single united choir to sing with us in praise of God’s power and glory.

　　This is a joyful event that deserves the humble and thankful participation of all Baptists. We hope that all Baptists will support the theological education ministry of HKBTS, participate wholeheartedly in the activities of the 75th anniversary of HKBTS, and witness God’s presence in our midst.

明年，香港浸信會神學院將踏入七十五週年。學院正積極籌劃以聖樂及敬拜開展這新的篇章。今期《院訊》特別邀請「七十五週年院慶籌備委員會」召集人陳合英姑娘分享她的感受，並介紹院慶的主題和徽號；又邀請了籌備委員會執行委員兼「七十五週年院慶感恩崇拜暨音樂頌讚會」指揮羅潔盈博士，談談這個崇拜的設計點滴。此外，三位參與院慶崇拜事奉的成員亦會分享聖樂如何影響他們的生命。我們誠摯邀請您一同參與明年4月舉行的這場聖樂敬拜盛會。

Next year, the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary (HKBTS) will be celebrating its 75th anniversary. The seminary is currently preparing for the start of this new chapter with church music and worship. In this issue of the Newsletter, we have invited Ms. Michelle Chan, the convener of the 75th Anniversary Celebration Organizing Committee, to share her thoughts and introduce the theme of the anniversary celebration. We have also invited Dr. Kit-ying Law, one of the executive members of the Organizing Committee and the conductor of the 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and Concert of Praise, to talk about this upcoming service. In addition, three members of the serving team will share with us the impact of church music on their lives. You are cordially invited to join us in this worship service to be held in April of next year.

From the Hebrew Bible to the New Testament: Reflecting on the True Meaning of Messiah

WONG Tin Sheung

　　Many people understand the Messiah mostly from the perspective of the New Testament. As a result, they often regard the Old Testament passages as typology of Jesus Christ. There are two problems with this approach: first, it ignores the contexts of the Old Testament passages; second, they understand the passages solely from the perspective of the New Testament while ignoring the theological development in the intertestamental period.

　　The purpose of this article is to investigate, with the perspective of the Hebrew Bible as the starting point, the development of different messianic concepts during the Second Temple period, and thereby identify those messianic concepts which were prevalent at the time of the New Testament and were revealed in Jesus Christ. The Messiah as shown by Jesus Christ becomes believers’ basis of hope in any situation.