The Abundant Life of a Seminary Student

Tin-chi with his wife and two daughters

　　Having been a part-time student for four years and a full-time student for two years, I spent six fulfilling years at the seminary in total. During the social event in 2019-20 and the pandemic, which lasted more than three years, the seminary, like the rest of society, faced numerous challenges and difficulties. However, similar to the tumultuous history of churches as a faith community, the seminary, despite experiencing hardships, has faithfully witnessed the countless blessings of God.

Building One Another in Love

　　One of the reasons I chose to study at the Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary (HKBTS) is that the teachers there are full of love for the students. They are not only academically knowledgeable and of impeccable character, but also willing to spend time with students despite their busy schedules. They have breakfast, discuss assignments, play ball games, take walks with them, and even invite them into their homes. This bond of friendship embodies what Samuel Wells calls “being with,” as the basic state of human existence that allows people to be themselves and simply interact with one another. This also embodies Andrew Root’s idea that relationships are an end in itself. During the pandemic, I witnessed how students and teachers in the dormitories spent their lives together. Constrained by quarantine measures and restricted by social distancing guidelines, they were still able to listen to and encourage one another. Even though graduation was approaching, I could still frequently keep in touch with a few teachers. What a blessing it has been!

　　During my study at the seminary in these six years, I had the opportunity to get to know students from various academic years. Some have already earned their degrees, while others are still pursuing their studies. God calls on individuals with diverse backgrounds to be His workers, and the learning atmosphere at HKBTS promotes growth and maturity. The training of a worker who pleases God and has no need to be ashamed involves the disciplining of both one’s body and mind, as Paul stated in 2 Timothy 2:15, which serves as the seminary motto. I am extremely pleased to have had the chance to get to know many seminary classmates. There are those who are knowledgeable, gifted in serving, joyful in spirit, and others who are particularly concerned about the challenges of our time. None of them is “all-powerful,” and everyone has different needs, but we complement one another and are willing to build this community together.

Finding God in Nature

　　Another unforgettable aspect of HKBTS was its environment. Despite the rapid development of the district in recent years, with many construction projects taking place around the campus, the tranquility and intellectual ambiance of the seminary library remained undisturbed. Additionally, the beautiful seaside area near the campus provided me with a peaceful space where I could pray and feel near to God, engaging in sincere wrestling with Him or humbly seeking His guidance, often accompanied by tears and words of gratitude. Although transportation to the seminary is now more convenient, every time I return, it feels like embarking on a spiritual retreat, and I am filled with anticipation. Especially during the 10-minute or so walk from Wu Kai Sha Station to the campus, I often encounter cows, migratory birds, and even snakes. On one occasion, I saw a huge ant nest hanging from a tree. All of these encounters remind me that I must learn about not only the God described in books and by scholars but also the One who is the Creator of everything I observe in nature.

God Appoints a Time for Everything

　　The six years I spent as a seminary student were also a journey for me to heal my wounds. I believe that no one can live a wholesome life in today’s world without some visible or hidden scars, big or small. God allowed me to have two years of full-time study, to leave the church I was serving and my mother church, and to serve as an intern at two other churches that love God and people. My internship equipped me to embark on the path that God had prepared for me. All I can say is that everything has been amazing. During my graduation sermon, I referred to the words of “the Preacher” in Ecclesiastes 3: “He has made everything beautiful in its time” (3:11a ESV). I profoundly understand that the phrase “a time,” mentioned repeatedly in the verses, refers to moments when the Lord’s beautiful intentions are revealed, whether they pertain to sorrow, death, loss, or hatred. Ultimately, it teaches us to be humble and fear God, and to enjoy the fruits of labor in the present.

　　Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to my classmates who graduated with me this year. Their companionship over these past two years is like the companionship the disciples enjoyed with Christ on the road to Emmaus. Of course, I must also extend my heartfelt appreciation to the three remarkable ladies in my family—my wife and two precious daughters. They have been the driving force and constant inspiration in my service to God and in the writing of my dissertation.

　　After six years of studying at the seminary, I can say that I have made modest progress in my theological knowledge. However, the most important thing is that, through my years of study at the seminary, God has confirmed the calling He made on me six years ago: The Lord set His love on us and chose us (Dt 7:7).