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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叶启森

道学硕士生

Kai-sum Yip

M.Div. Student

圣乐在我的灵命成长和事奉中扮演非常关键的角色。对我来说，这不仅是敬拜的工具，更是一个重要途径让我与神亲近，内心被更新，信仰被坚固。圣乐有神的真理和话语，并圣灵的力量，让我在聆听和唱颂时深刻经历神的同在和教导。

首先，圣乐助我的灵命成长，因为它以旋律包装神的话语，使我容易记住，让我反复思想真理。很多时候，在我情绪低落、内心挣扎或疑惑的时刻，一首熟悉的诗歌在心中蓦然响起，提醒我神的信实和爱。

而且，圣乐让我在默想和祷告时更容易进入神的同在。有时候言语难以表达内心的情感，音乐却能穿透心灵，帮助我将最真实的情感向神倾诉。敬拜诗歌就像一道桥梁，连结我的心和神的心，使我更深体会祂的爱和呼召。

事奉方面，圣乐更是我服侍的重要工具。无论是在敬拜团献诗、领唱，或是带领弟兄姊妹唱诗，我都发现圣乐能够凝聚众人的心，将焦点转向神。这不只是一种艺术的表达，更是一种属灵的服侍。当我在事奉中以心灵和诚实敬拜神，就深深感受神的同在，也看见祂借着音乐触摸人的生命，医治破碎的心灵。

预备圣乐培灵会的过程中，我学会了更多交托、依靠神，与弟兄姊妹合作，并且操练自己对神的顺服和敏锐。这些都不只是技巧的提升，更是属灵生命的操练。透过音乐事奉，我看见弟兄姊妹被感动、被造就，这使我更加渴望成为神合用的器皿。

所以，圣乐不是信仰生活中的「陪衬」，而是一个涌流不息的灵命泉源。它使我在敬拜中被圣灵充满，在困难中得着安慰，在服侍中经历神迹。圣乐，是神赐给教会和信徒的珍宝，是我们成长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

回望自己灵命成长的道路，圣乐一直扮演重要的角色。在此，笔者希望借用英国浸信会学者费迪斯（Paul Fiddes）对浸信会做神学的方式的观察，检视上帝如何借圣乐造就我的灵命。费迪斯指出，在具体信仰群体的涵义上，浸信会做神学的方式有三种：经验、认信、故事。^*

在经验层面，笔者回望自己在母会成长的日子，传统诗歌──包括《颂主新歌》、《世纪颂赞》等诗集的诗歌──所带来那种倾向史诗式（epic）的音乐经验，形塑了我对教会音乐的印象，也培养我欣赏音乐敬拜如何以乐载道。在我现时事奉的教会，现代流行诗歌──不论是海外或本土的──所带来那种倾向抒情式（lyric）的音乐经验，则开阔了我对教会音乐的想像，也让我认识不同弟兄姊妹的信仰表述。

至于认信层面，笔者相信传统和现代风格的教会音乐所盛载的，同样是基督信仰的内容，对我们的属灵成长也有帮助。因此，要在传统和现代的音乐风格之间只选其一，是一个伪命题。事实上，不论是哪一种风格的教会音乐，笔者都从中经历到被教化（edification）的过程。我们从诗歌认识到自己所信仰的三一上帝是一个怎样的神；而且，我们借着诗歌以歌声宣认、认信自己的信仰──正如圣经所说的，借此彼此教导，互相劝戒，歌颂上帝（参西三16）。

最后在故事的层面，上帝借圣乐建立笔者的属灵生命：圣乐不只让我在情感上投入敬拜，在信仰知识上得以长进，而且某程度上，圣乐更与笔者个人的属灵成长经历联系起来，成为我生命故事的一部分。相信不少弟兄姊妹也有这样的体验，在经历上帝带领的过程中，有一首诗歌成了我们的帮助、提醒和鼓励。自此这诗歌对个人来说，就不仅是一首普通的诗歌，每次再听见，也叫人回想起自己在上帝面前的经历。圣乐和自己的生命故事，从此交织在一起。

愿教会的圣乐继续蒙上帝使用，并借着我们的经验、认信和故事建立我们的属灵生命，荣归三一上帝！

____________________________________________

^* 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

校友会诗班员

Grace Lee

HKBTS Alumni Choir member

天慧与母亲

当自己或身边的人处于死荫幽谷，当人说的话已无法带来慰藉，圣诗却可以成为一个途径，让我们的心思意念转向神，帮助我们向神表达内心最深切的渴望，借此向神祷告。

九年前，母亲患病，身体极度虚弱，无法接受进一步的治疗。当时母亲在医院床上要求播放〈祢真伟大〉这首诗歌。我们一起赞美天父，深受身体痛苦煎熬的母亲立时感受到神的同在，心里满有盼望。过了几天，神接了妈妈回天家。我在悲伤之中，神透过福音歌手Laura Story 的诗歌“Blessings”不断给我安慰。以下是一些特别触动我心的歌词（附中文意译）：

Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things.
但祢只会把最好的给我们，因为祢非常爱我们。

And when darkness seems to win,
we know the pain reminds this heart
that this is not, this is not our home.
当黑暗似乎占上风，
这些伤痛提醒我们，
这个世界不是我们的家。

And what if trials of this life,
the rain, the storms, the hardest nights,
are Your mercies in disguise?
或许这一生的磨炼，
那些狂风、暴雨、无眠之夜，
原来背后藏着祢的恩典和怜悯。

这些歌词带给我对永恒的见解，提醒我主仍然在掌管，我必须选择继续相信祂，因为祂爱我和我的家人。祂不会给我们无用的东西。

我相信其他人也有类似的经历。神借着诗歌赐下帮助、平安和安慰。我曾经唱诗歌给一位患有脑退化的主内弟兄听，尽管他的脑部功能正在衰退，但那次所唱的诗歌确能唤醒那位似乎在「消失中」的弟兄。我体验到诗歌的力量。感谢主赐下诗歌，让我们可以借此与祂连结：在真理中，以我们的心灵、情感，赞美敬拜祂。

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.

罗洁盈

实践神学科助理教授（崇拜与圣乐）
七十五周年院庆筹备委员会．执行委员

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

天国敬拜的地上预演

七十五周年院庆感恩崇拜暨音乐颂赞会之筹备感想

Earthly Rehearsal for Heavenly Worship

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

祈愿与想像

明年便是香港浸信会神学院七十五周年院庆。感恩，有机会参与院庆的筹备工作，并且在明年4月举行的七十五周年院庆感恩崇拜暨音乐颂赞会担任指挥。

七十五周年院庆感恩崇拜暨音乐颂赞会，以「立于基督‧迎向未来」为主题。祈愿上主继续保守并带领我们，借着本院的神学教育服侍众教会，培育属神的工人，使他们在坚定的信仰根基上牧养群羊，勇敢面对未来种种挑战。在此，笔者除了想漫谈一下有关这场感恩崇拜的一些构思、编排、音乐形式、歌词等等，也诚愿大家一同领受上主的启示，一同更新，建立我们对这场感恩崇拜的共同想像──这是我向主的祷告。

主基督房角石

　　首先，回想一下我们（包括来自不同堂会的传道人）是如何在同一根基上被基督建造，再共同想像未来如何继续靠复活主的能力，在这多变的世代，传讲这永恒不变的福音。诚然，基督是我们的信仰基础，是我们的房角石。所以我们计划在恩感崇拜上献唱〈主基督，房角石〉。早在一年前，学院诗班便开始练习这首由基督徒作曲家陈伟光博士创作的四部无伴奏合唱（a cappella）的圣乐作品。诗歌引导我们宣认基督是我们的房角石，在祂以外，别无拯救：

主基督─房角石！主基督─房角石！
匠人所弃的石头（房角的石头），
已成了房角的头块石头！
除祂以外，别无拯救；
因为在天下人间，没有赐下别的名，我们可靠着得救！

其中「主基督」这句先由女声以活跃有力的切分音唱出，男声应唱「房角石」则用平均的节拍，加上明显而坚决的重音（marcato）呼应。这与圣经以弗所书二章20节的经文相互配合，表达耶稣基督自己成为这个稳固根基的重要性。音乐随后扩展为四部合唱，强调「匠人所弃的石头，却成了房角的头块石头」（参诗一一八22；徒四11）──和声以悬疑音（suspension）及延迟解决（resolve）的撞音，展现当下的文化处境与基督对话时的张力。

崇拜是公开宣认（public proclamation）基督信仰的场景。祈求在七十五周年院庆感恩庆崇拜之时，主再次召聚我们在一起，共同聆听主道，并且表达我们的感恩、祈求和颂赞，公开展示我们的信仰。历代圣乐前辈借着追求卓越，在崇拜中运用音乐与崇拜艺术（worship and the arts），表达出经世（economic）与内蕴（immanent）的三一上主的真、善、美。美学（aesthetics）本身反映天父创造时的美好，但也需要被救赎。基督的真理使我们成为圣洁、君尊的祭司，让我们在圣灵的引导下努力活出美善，建立属于上主的爱的群体，见证主的临在和恩惠。

光照与更新

　　其次，检视我们所信的真理根基。学院于1951年创校，明年将届七十五周年了，有什么需要提醒？有什么忘记了？有什么需要被光照和更新？耶稣在最后晚餐上擘饼、拿杯时，嘱咐门徒要如此行，「为的是记念我」（参路二十二19；林前十一24-25）。 「记念」的希腊原文anamnesis，意思就是「免得忘记」。

有时转变可以带给我们新颖的眼光，让我们有新的发现和提醒。我们将会献唱的另一首诗歌〈承担未竟的使命〉，便是一个例子。这诗歌是把会众诗〈教会根基歌〉填上新的歌词，又重新编曲；这不单是风格上的转变，更是从新的角度诠释我们该如何继续成为属于基督的教会。

当日本院诗班与联合诗班合唱的〈哈利，哈利，哈利〉和〈主基督，房角石〉将会互相呼应，一同以歌声和信心宣认这「匠人所弃的石头」正是我们唯一的依靠。在此石头上的建筑，即使被拆毁，或者经历黑夜，也必定能够靠复活的基督──那清晨的日光──重新看见光明，成为活石，被建造成为父神借着圣灵居住的所在，获得终极的拯救和希望。

天国敬拜的地上预演

七十五周年院庆的纪念活动，的确需要很大的能量去筹备。愿我们都被召聚，对「浸神」及所服侍的教会有共同的想像。这不只是一个活动而已，每次联合诗班的练习或献唱也可以想像为「天国敬拜在地上的预演」。让我们运用神所赐的恩赐，借着以圣经为中心的敬拜，一起重述并表达对祂的赞美和感谢，并且继续参与祂的更新和创造工作。我们所相信的三一上主，是既超越又内住的神。我们需要汇聚彼此的恩赐和想像力，才能看见那「日光之上」的进路，才能成为活祭，一起带着从上而来的平安进入世界（go in peace），去敬爱并事奉主！愿祂得着最大的荣耀！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.

陈合英

圣经研究科讲师、教牧持续教育中心课程主任、学生事务主任
七十五周年院庆筹备委员会．召集人

Michelle Chan

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

荆棘路上坚守使命

回想2010年底返回母校香港浸信会神学院事奉，转眼间已过了十五个年头。当时等待着我处理的头等大任务，就是筹办六十周年钻禧院庆活动。随着时间推移，我还经历了六十五周年及七十周年院庆，现在又迎来明年七十五周年这个值得感恩庆贺的院庆年！

2011年是六十周年钻禧院庆年，也是「浸神」第六任院长曹伟彤教授就职将满两年的日子。当时学院从艰难中再次靠主站稳，逐步开展「信望爱工程」。时任《时代论坛》社长李锦洪先生挥笔，为学院敲定了院庆的主题──「展翅腾扬信望爱」，意指「浸神」在基督的信、望、爱中，乘着圣灵的风，展翅腾扬。筹办院庆活动的过程中，最令我难忘的其中一幕，是众浸信教会肢体组成的联合诗班，献唱梅广文博士为祝贺「浸神」而专诚创作的新曲〈感恩的祷告〉。那时学院的境况，犹如歌词的描述，大意是：我们这群走在朝圣路上的浸信会人，曾经历神从阴间把我们救拔出来，因此我们要尊崇祂！我们又曾经在深坑中呼求神，得蒙神的恩惠，将我们的哀哭变为舞蹈，我们要为此称谢颂赞祂！

2016年，「浸神」怀着喜乐的心踏进六十五周年院庆年。此前，承蒙众浸信教会的支持和信任，学院得以于2013年在香港成功注册为法人团体，在神的引领下踏上新里程，也承担新的责任。「尊主为大．跨界传承」是当年院庆的主题，也是我们的心志：无论在安稳抑或艰难的年代，我们的心都愿意尊主为大，为神的家培育忠心服侍的仆人领袖；并且我们的师生要传承浸信会传统，跨越时间、空间、种种差异的界限，继续跟随主，踏上当跑之路。

疫情肆虐期间，「浸神」于2021年度过了七十周年白金禧院庆年。当时，社会动荡，疫情一波接一波爆发，经济不断下滑，人际关系撕裂；在如此阴霾下，学院以「恩泽七十载．传承信望爱」为院庆主题，向呼召我们的主忠心宣告：无论顺逆，总不忘记神在过去岁月对学院的恩情和带领；我们依旧专心仰赖主，致力建立一群以「信望爱」为标记的门徒群体。

这十五年来，有幸见证母校走过的路，尽管荆棘满途，仍然坚守使命，为神国培育一批又一批的工人。当得知获选上担任七十五周年院庆筹备委员会的召集人，我怀着既战兢又兴奋的心情接受这项任务。战兢，是因为想到自己的职务原本已不轻省，再额外承担这项工作，惟恐力有不逮；但一想到自己竟然可有分参与筹办庆贺母校蒙主恩七十五载的活动，便马上抖擞精神，毅然接过这个荣耀的棒子。

立于基督迎向未来

院庆筹委会的首项工作，是要订定七十五周年院庆的主题及徽号。经过一轮热烈的商议，我们最终决定以「立于基督‧迎向未来」为院庆主题。讨论的过程中，我们脑海浮现了曹院长提出的「浸神」的神学教育理念：培育一群「以耶稣基督的心为心」的仆人领袖，也就是建立一个门徒群体，他们认识耶稣基督的心肠和思想，效法祂的行动，充满实践的智慧。迎接七十五周年之际，我们不忘初心，坚定地宣告：「浸神」屹立在基督这稳固、可靠、永恒的磐石上，并且仰赖圣灵的恩领，满怀信心、爱心和盼望，展翅翱翔，迎向神为我们预备的未来。

主题既定，徽号设计的工作就随之展开。设计的主要元素分别为「七十五周年」（数目字「75」）和「浸神」的院徽。院徽中的十字架，象征耶稣基督乃学院永恒不变的根基；数目字「7」和「5」上方的横线加入翅膀的设计，而斜线则一直伸延至院徽，象征「浸神」乘着圣灵的风，无畏无惧地向着未来飞翔。

齐来敬拜颂赞真神

接着，筹委会将会承担筹办院庆各项活动的工作。院庆活动将以「七十五周年院庆感恩崇拜暨音乐颂赞会」揭开序幕，因为没有任何事情，较之向三一真神献上感恩的祭，更为重要。 「浸神」是所有浸信会教会的神学院，因此，学院盼望招聚众浸信教会的主内肢体，组成大型联合诗班，与我们同心讴歌颂赞神的权能和荣耀。

这是一个值得众浸信会肢体怀着谦卑、感恩的心灵投入参与的可喜之事。深愿众浸信会人支持「浸神」的神学教育事工，踊跃参与学院七十五周年院庆的各项活动，以行动见证神在我们当中。

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，香港浸信会神学院将踏入七十五周年。学院正积极筹划以圣乐及敬拜开展这新的篇章。今期《院讯》特别邀请「七十五周年院庆筹备委员会」召集人陈合英姑娘分享她的感受，并介绍院庆的主题和徽号；又邀请了筹备委员会执行委员兼「七十五周年院庆感恩崇拜暨音乐颂赞会」指挥罗洁盈博士，谈谈这个崇拜的设计点滴。此外，三位参与院庆崇拜事奉的成员亦会分享圣乐如何影响他们的生命。我们诚挚邀请您一同参与明年4月举行的这场圣乐敬拜盛会。

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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叶启森

道学硕士生

Kai-sum Yip

M.Div. Student

圣乐在我的灵命成长和事奉中扮演非常关键的角色。对我来说，这不仅是敬拜的工具，更是一个重要途径让我与神亲近，内心被更新，信仰被坚固。圣乐有神的真理和话语，并圣灵的力量，让我在聆听和唱颂时深刻经历神的同在和教导。

首先，圣乐助我的灵命成长，因为它以旋律包装神的话语，使我容易记住，让我反复思想真理。很多时候，在我情绪低落、内心挣扎或疑惑的时刻，一首熟悉的诗歌在心中蓦然响起，提醒我神的信实和爱。

而且，圣乐让我在默想和祷告时更容易进入神的同在。有时候言语难以表达内心的情感，音乐却能穿透心灵，帮助我将最真实的情感向神倾诉。敬拜诗歌就像一道桥梁，连结我的心和神的心，使我更深体会祂的爱和呼召。

事奉方面，圣乐更是我服侍的重要工具。无论是在敬拜团献诗、领唱，或是带领弟兄姊妹唱诗，我都发现圣乐能够凝聚众人的心，将焦点转向神。这不只是一种艺术的表达，更是一种属灵的服侍。当我在事奉中以心灵和诚实敬拜神，就深深感受神的同在，也看见祂借着音乐触摸人的生命，医治破碎的心灵。

预备圣乐培灵会的过程中，我学会了更多交托、依靠神，与弟兄姊妹合作，并且操练自己对神的顺服和敏锐。这些都不只是技巧的提升，更是属灵生命的操练。透过音乐事奉，我看见弟兄姊妹被感动、被造就，这使我更加渴望成为神合用的器皿。

所以，圣乐不是信仰生活中的「陪衬」，而是一个涌流不息的灵命泉源。它使我在敬拜中被圣灵充满，在困难中得着安慰，在服侍中经历神迹。圣乐，是神赐给教会和信徒的珍宝，是我们成长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

回望自己灵命成长的道路，圣乐一直扮演重要的角色。在此，笔者希望借用英国浸信会学者费迪斯（Paul Fiddes）对浸信会做神学的方式的观察，检视上帝如何借圣乐造就我的灵命。费迪斯指出，在具体信仰群体的涵义上，浸信会做神学的方式有三种：经验、认信、故事。^*

在经验层面，笔者回望自己在母会成长的日子，传统诗歌──包括《颂主新歌》、《世纪颂赞》等诗集的诗歌──所带来那种倾向史诗式（epic）的音乐经验，形塑了我对教会音乐的印象，也培养我欣赏音乐敬拜如何以乐载道。在我现时事奉的教会，现代流行诗歌──不论是海外或本土的──所带来那种倾向抒情式（lyric）的音乐经验，则开阔了我对教会音乐的想像，也让我认识不同弟兄姊妹的信仰表述。

至于认信层面，笔者相信传统和现代风格的教会音乐所盛载的，同样是基督信仰的内容，对我们的属灵成长也有帮助。因此，要在传统和现代的音乐风格之间只选其一，是一个伪命题。事实上，不论是哪一种风格的教会音乐，笔者都从中经历到被教化（edification）的过程。我们从诗歌认识到自己所信仰的三一上帝是一个怎样的神；而且，我们借着诗歌以歌声宣认、认信自己的信仰──正如圣经所说的，借此彼此教导，互相劝戒，歌颂上帝（参西三16）。

最后在故事的层面，上帝借圣乐建立笔者的属灵生命：圣乐不只让我在情感上投入敬拜，在信仰知识上得以长进，而且某程度上，圣乐更与笔者个人的属灵成长经历联系起来，成为我生命故事的一部分。相信不少弟兄姊妹也有这样的体验，在经历上帝带领的过程中，有一首诗歌成了我们的帮助、提醒和鼓励。自此这诗歌对个人来说，就不仅是一首普通的诗歌，每次再听见，也叫人回想起自己在上帝面前的经历。圣乐和自己的生命故事，从此交织在一起。

愿教会的圣乐继续蒙上帝使用，并借着我们的经验、认信和故事建立我们的属灵生命，荣归三一上帝！

____________________________________________

^* 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

校友会诗班员

Grace Lee

HKBTS Alumni Choir member

天慧与母亲

当自己或身边的人处于死荫幽谷，当人说的话已无法带来慰藉，圣诗却可以成为一个途径，让我们的心思意念转向神，帮助我们向神表达内心最深切的渴望，借此向神祷告。

九年前，母亲患病，身体极度虚弱，无法接受进一步的治疗。当时母亲在医院床上要求播放〈祢真伟大〉这首诗歌。我们一起赞美天父，深受身体痛苦煎熬的母亲立时感受到神的同在，心里满有盼望。过了几天，神接了妈妈回天家。我在悲伤之中，神透过福音歌手Laura Story 的诗歌“Blessings”不断给我安慰。以下是一些特别触动我心的歌词（附中文意译）：

Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things.
但祢只会把最好的给我们，因为祢非常爱我们。

And when darkness seems to win,
we know the pain reminds this heart
that this is not, this is not our home.
当黑暗似乎占上风，
这些伤痛提醒我们，
这个世界不是我们的家。

And what if trials of this life,
the rain, the storms, the hardest nights,
are Your mercies in disguise?
或许这一生的磨炼，
那些狂风、暴雨、无眠之夜，
原来背后藏着祢的恩典和怜悯。

这些歌词带给我对永恒的见解，提醒我主仍然在掌管，我必须选择继续相信祂，因为祂爱我和我的家人。祂不会给我们无用的东西。

我相信其他人也有类似的经历。神借着诗歌赐下帮助、平安和安慰。我曾经唱诗歌给一位患有脑退化的主内弟兄听，尽管他的脑部功能正在衰退，但那次所唱的诗歌确能唤醒那位似乎在「消失中」的弟兄。我体验到诗歌的力量。感谢主赐下诗歌，让我们可以借此与祂连结：在真理中，以我们的心灵、情感，赞美敬拜祂。

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.

罗洁盈

实践神学科助理教授（崇拜与圣乐）
七十五周年院庆筹备委员会．执行委员

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

天国敬拜的地上预演

七十五周年院庆感恩崇拜暨音乐颂赞会之筹备感想

Earthly Rehearsal for Heavenly Worship

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

祈愿与想像

明年便是香港浸信会神学院七十五周年院庆。感恩，有机会参与院庆的筹备工作，并且在明年4月举行的七十五周年院庆感恩崇拜暨音乐颂赞会担任指挥。

七十五周年院庆感恩崇拜暨音乐颂赞会，以「立于基督‧迎向未来」为主题。祈愿上主继续保守并带领我们，借着本院的神学教育服侍众教会，培育属神的工人，使他们在坚定的信仰根基上牧养群羊，勇敢面对未来种种挑战。在此，笔者除了想漫谈一下有关这场感恩崇拜的一些构思、编排、音乐形式、歌词等等，也诚愿大家一同领受上主的启示，一同更新，建立我们对这场感恩崇拜的共同想像──这是我向主的祷告。

主基督房角石

　　首先，回想一下我们（包括来自不同堂会的传道人）是如何在同一根基上被基督建造，再共同想像未来如何继续靠复活主的能力，在这多变的世代，传讲这永恒不变的福音。诚然，基督是我们的信仰基础，是我们的房角石。所以我们计划在恩感崇拜上献唱〈主基督，房角石〉。早在一年前，学院诗班便开始练习这首由基督徒作曲家陈伟光博士创作的四部无伴奏合唱（a cappella）的圣乐作品。诗歌引导我们宣认基督是我们的房角石，在祂以外，别无拯救：

主基督─房角石！主基督─房角石！
匠人所弃的石头（房角的石头），
已成了房角的头块石头！
除祂以外，别无拯救；
因为在天下人间，没有赐下别的名，我们可靠着得救！

其中「主基督」这句先由女声以活跃有力的切分音唱出，男声应唱「房角石」则用平均的节拍，加上明显而坚决的重音（marcato）呼应。这与圣经以弗所书二章20节的经文相互配合，表达耶稣基督自己成为这个稳固根基的重要性。音乐随后扩展为四部合唱，强调「匠人所弃的石头，却成了房角的头块石头」（参诗一一八22；徒四11）──和声以悬疑音（suspension）及延迟解决（resolve）的撞音，展现当下的文化处境与基督对话时的张力。

崇拜是公开宣认（public proclamation）基督信仰的场景。祈求在七十五周年院庆感恩庆崇拜之时，主再次召聚我们在一起，共同聆听主道，并且表达我们的感恩、祈求和颂赞，公开展示我们的信仰。历代圣乐前辈借着追求卓越，在崇拜中运用音乐与崇拜艺术（worship and the arts），表达出经世（economic）与内蕴（immanent）的三一上主的真、善、美。美学（aesthetics）本身反映天父创造时的美好，但也需要被救赎。基督的真理使我们成为圣洁、君尊的祭司，让我们在圣灵的引导下努力活出美善，建立属于上主的爱的群体，见证主的临在和恩惠。

光照与更新

　　其次，检视我们所信的真理根基。学院于1951年创校，明年将届七十五周年了，有什么需要提醒？有什么忘记了？有什么需要被光照和更新？耶稣在最后晚餐上擘饼、拿杯时，嘱咐门徒要如此行，「为的是记念我」（参路二十二19；林前十一24-25）。 「记念」的希腊原文anamnesis，意思就是「免得忘记」。

有时转变可以带给我们新颖的眼光，让我们有新的发现和提醒。我们将会献唱的另一首诗歌〈承担未竟的使命〉，便是一个例子。这诗歌是把会众诗〈教会根基歌〉填上新的歌词，又重新编曲；这不单是风格上的转变，更是从新的角度诠释我们该如何继续成为属于基督的教会。

当日本院诗班与联合诗班合唱的〈哈利，哈利，哈利〉和〈主基督，房角石〉将会互相呼应，一同以歌声和信心宣认这「匠人所弃的石头」正是我们唯一的依靠。在此石头上的建筑，即使被拆毁，或者经历黑夜，也必定能够靠复活的基督──那清晨的日光──重新看见光明，成为活石，被建造成为父神借着圣灵居住的所在，获得终极的拯救和希望。

天国敬拜的地上预演

七十五周年院庆的纪念活动，的确需要很大的能量去筹备。愿我们都被召聚，对「浸神」及所服侍的教会有共同的想像。这不只是一个活动而已，每次联合诗班的练习或献唱也可以想像为「天国敬拜在地上的预演」。让我们运用神所赐的恩赐，借着以圣经为中心的敬拜，一起重述并表达对祂的赞美和感谢，并且继续参与祂的更新和创造工作。我们所相信的三一上主，是既超越又内住的神。我们需要汇聚彼此的恩赐和想像力，才能看见那「日光之上」的进路，才能成为活祭，一起带着从上而来的平安进入世界（go in peace），去敬爱并事奉主！愿祂得着最大的荣耀！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.

陈合英

圣经研究科讲师、教牧持续教育中心课程主任、学生事务主任
七十五周年院庆筹备委员会．召集人

Michelle Chan

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

荆棘路上坚守使命

回想2010年底返回母校香港浸信会神学院事奉，转眼间已过了十五个年头。当时等待着我处理的头等大任务，就是筹办六十周年钻禧院庆活动。随着时间推移，我还经历了六十五周年及七十周年院庆，现在又迎来明年七十五周年这个值得感恩庆贺的院庆年！

2011年是六十周年钻禧院庆年，也是「浸神」第六任院长曹伟彤教授就职将满两年的日子。当时学院从艰难中再次靠主站稳，逐步开展「信望爱工程」。时任《时代论坛》社长李锦洪先生挥笔，为学院敲定了院庆的主题──「展翅腾扬信望爱」，意指「浸神」在基督的信、望、爱中，乘着圣灵的风，展翅腾扬。筹办院庆活动的过程中，最令我难忘的其中一幕，是众浸信教会肢体组成的联合诗班，献唱梅广文博士为祝贺「浸神」而专诚创作的新曲〈感恩的祷告〉。那时学院的境况，犹如歌词的描述，大意是：我们这群走在朝圣路上的浸信会人，曾经历神从阴间把我们救拔出来，因此我们要尊崇祂！我们又曾经在深坑中呼求神，得蒙神的恩惠，将我们的哀哭变为舞蹈，我们要为此称谢颂赞祂！

2016年，「浸神」怀着喜乐的心踏进六十五周年院庆年。此前，承蒙众浸信教会的支持和信任，学院得以于2013年在香港成功注册为法人团体，在神的引领下踏上新里程，也承担新的责任。「尊主为大．跨界传承」是当年院庆的主题，也是我们的心志：无论在安稳抑或艰难的年代，我们的心都愿意尊主为大，为神的家培育忠心服侍的仆人领袖；并且我们的师生要传承浸信会传统，跨越时间、空间、种种差异的界限，继续跟随主，踏上当跑之路。

疫情肆虐期间，「浸神」于2021年度过了七十周年白金禧院庆年。当时，社会动荡，疫情一波接一波爆发，经济不断下滑，人际关系撕裂；在如此阴霾下，学院以「恩泽七十载．传承信望爱」为院庆主题，向呼召我们的主忠心宣告：无论顺逆，总不忘记神在过去岁月对学院的恩情和带领；我们依旧专心仰赖主，致力建立一群以「信望爱」为标记的门徒群体。

这十五年来，有幸见证母校走过的路，尽管荆棘满途，仍然坚守使命，为神国培育一批又一批的工人。当得知获选上担任七十五周年院庆筹备委员会的召集人，我怀着既战兢又兴奋的心情接受这项任务。战兢，是因为想到自己的职务原本已不轻省，再额外承担这项工作，惟恐力有不逮；但一想到自己竟然可有分参与筹办庆贺母校蒙主恩七十五载的活动，便马上抖擞精神，毅然接过这个荣耀的棒子。

立于基督迎向未来

院庆筹委会的首项工作，是要订定七十五周年院庆的主题及徽号。经过一轮热烈的商议，我们最终决定以「立于基督‧迎向未来」为院庆主题。讨论的过程中，我们脑海浮现了曹院长提出的「浸神」的神学教育理念：培育一群「以耶稣基督的心为心」的仆人领袖，也就是建立一个门徒群体，他们认识耶稣基督的心肠和思想，效法祂的行动，充满实践的智慧。迎接七十五周年之际，我们不忘初心，坚定地宣告：「浸神」屹立在基督这稳固、可靠、永恒的磐石上，并且仰赖圣灵的恩领，满怀信心、爱心和盼望，展翅翱翔，迎向神为我们预备的未来。

主题既定，徽号设计的工作就随之展开。设计的主要元素分别为「七十五周年」（数目字「75」）和「浸神」的院徽。院徽中的十字架，象征耶稣基督乃学院永恒不变的根基；数目字「7」和「5」上方的横线加入翅膀的设计，而斜线则一直伸延至院徽，象征「浸神」乘着圣灵的风，无畏无惧地向着未来飞翔。

齐来敬拜颂赞真神

接着，筹委会将会承担筹办院庆各项活动的工作。院庆活动将以「七十五周年院庆感恩崇拜暨音乐颂赞会」揭开序幕，因为没有任何事情，较之向三一真神献上感恩的祭，更为重要。 「浸神」是所有浸信会教会的神学院，因此，学院盼望招聚众浸信教会的主内肢体，组成大型联合诗班，与我们同心讴歌颂赞神的权能和荣耀。

这是一个值得众浸信会肢体怀着谦卑、感恩的心灵投入参与的可喜之事。深愿众浸信会人支持「浸神」的神学教育事工，踊跃参与学院七十五周年院庆的各项活动，以行动见证神在我们当中。

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，香港浸信会神学院将踏入七十五周年。学院正积极筹划以圣乐及敬拜开展这新的篇章。今期《院讯》特别邀请「七十五周年院庆筹备委员会」召集人陈合英姑娘分享她的感受，并介绍院庆的主题和徽号；又邀请了筹备委员会执行委员兼「七十五周年院庆感恩崇拜暨音乐颂赞会」指挥罗洁盈博士，谈谈这个崇拜的设计点滴。此外，三位参与院庆崇拜事奉的成员亦会分享圣乐如何影响他们的生命。我们诚挚邀请您一同参与明年4月举行的这场圣乐敬拜盛会。

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.