The Continuing Relevance of Theological Education

Why spend 2-3 years pursuing formal theological education when there’s so much information out in cyberspace? This question is particularly pertinent for our younger generation. In a few seconds, they can get ready answers to their theological questions from Google and ChatGPT. Why study in seminary?

Godly wisdom that Google and Artificial Intelligence (AI) cannot replicate
Search engines like Google can gather information but do not discriminate between good and inferior sources. Even AI, the rave of digital technology today, have limitations. While AI can offer new tools for theological education and augment learning and research, it cannot replace the inherently human activities of critical thinking, personalised theological reflection, and ethical discernment. Godly wisdom (cf. James 1:5) can only be derived from the learned experience of a Christ-centred disciple, guided by the Holy Spirit and grounded on the ageless truths of the Holy Scriptures.

Community learning that algorithms cannot reproduce
Although digital groups like to think of themselves as communities, on-site communities have certain advantages in learning together, in my opinion. The close proximity, warm conversations of people at the same location, and the presence of mature and wise faculty mentors make for more effective learning. Faculty in seminaries typically role-model pastoral and ministry priorities. It is often their stories of faith and personal care for students that are fondly remembered after graduation rather than what they teach.

Character formation that cannot be downloaded from digital devices
We often hear that we study the Bible not merely for information but for transformation. Change doesn’t happen in isolation but in communities journeying together. It is usually in the heat of class discussions while rushing out papers or working on projects together that our true nature, strengths and weaknesses surface. That’s when Scriptural convictions intersect with the realities of life and character, and genuine acceptance, love and forgiveness are tested. Indeed, Proverbs 27:17 teaches us that “iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another;” this often occurs in the laboratory of life in the seminary classroom.

On a personal note, I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve God in this season of my life in BTS. It really started with a simple reply I gave a friend and key Baptist leader when asked about serving in BTS: “I’m always committed to theological education…” This commitment led me through 35 years of preparation and involvement in theological education, both in seminaries and local churches. I’ve had the joy of seeing theological education transform my understanding of God and his Word, as well as the lives of students and interns over the years. 

Why BTS? Here are three areas that make me resonate strongly with BTS:

• Missiological emphasis – “Cultivating missional pastors and equipping lay ministers to strategically engage Asia’s harvest” is a bold, needful and clear vision statement; 
• Developing leaders for the local church – There is much potential to help equip existing and emerging leaders in local churches with the Advanced Institute of Ministry (AIM);
• The family-like environment of BTS among faculty, staff and students, the strong alumni support and the ongoing involvement of the Baptist community.

New beginnings are almost always built on what others have faithfully built over the years. That’s how I see my appointment coming into BTS. A special word of thanks to Deacon Peter Tang, who ‘held the fort’ ably and cheerfully and has made my transition into BTS a seamless one. I was also heartened by the dedication of the President Search Committee (PSC), which has done its due diligence with thoroughness, wisdom, and much prayer. Together with the wider BTS Board, the PSC members have certainly made me feel welcome to the Baptist family. 

Humbled and grateful, I ask for your prayers and support as I begin my appointment as the President of BTS. To God be the glory!

Serving together with you,

Ho Chiao Ek, PhD
President