For my second reflection, it will be about the days we visited Trinity Theological College (TTC) and Singapore Bible College (SBC). As with the other venues that are part of this STEP programme, these two places certainly play a vital part in the Presbyterian ministry in Singapore.
Personally, I have often been tasked to pray for people studying in both places as part of our church’s list of prayer concerns and considerations. In my mind, I had the impression that studying at these colleges was simple and less stressful than that of other courses of study. After all, how hard can studying the word of God be, right? The Bible can supposedly be read and understood even by common people like you and me, without the need of a theological degree.
However, I must retract my words after the past couple of days. In other secular courses of study, such as the one I’m currently pursuing, the emphasis is based purely on grades, and slightly on skills. However, theological study incorporates an entire spectrum, where even behavioural and social skills are evaluated. While it makes sense on hindsight that pastor should be well-versed to provide counselling and is expected to be patient and kind and possess a list of other attributes in order to preach, I have never expected those to be taken into examination consideration.
After learning about the stringent requirements the colleges have in educating and ensuring the people who are qualified to spread God’s word (at least on paper), it makes me feel reassured knowing that God has provided institutions to equip people for doing His work. Also, that the people that graduate from them are graded not based on academic aptitude, but people who possess the right attitude and qualities. While it may seem that institutions may bring about certain pitfalls, as mentioned by Dr. Clive Chin of SBC, the ability for the college to recognise these potential dangers and take steps to avoid them is another one of God’s ways of showing how He is guiding the church and ensuring that they remain centred upon Him.
Benedict Cheong
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