A New Vision in A New Year!
Grateful for the New Year!
We give thanks for 2025, a year which is filled with bountiful grace and mercy of our Lord! The seminary has welcome 42 new on-site students (excluding all online students)—23 in the Chinese department and 19 in the English department. These students are from diverse backgrounds but share a common goal: To equip themselves to respond to God’s calling! We thank God that, our seminary now has over 900 students actively pursuing their respective degree, diploma, or certificate programs with us (excluding all audit students).
Please keep our students in prayer, that they may set their hearts firmly on their journey, growing both academically and spiritually. May they continue to dedicate themselves to the Lord and become vessels for His purpose. The learning process is not just about acquiring knowledge—it is also a journey of faith going through refinement and spiritual transformation. May they hold on to God’s promises with trusting hearts and faithfully fulfill His entrusted missions!
Looking Ahead to 2025
In March, I plan to visit Nepal and India (at the invitation of some Australian Chinese churches) to connect with local pastors and church workers. These pastors serve faithfully despite limited resources and challenging environments, carrying the responsibility of shepherding and evangelism. I deeply pray that this visit will bring encouragement to them and provide insights into their needs, guiding our seminary to support them in discipleship trainings in the future.
This journey further affirms my conviction that discipleship training and theological education are not just our seminary’s mission but also an urgent global need. Whether through structured courses or resource sharing, our seminary remains committed to responding to this divine calling and being a blessing to churches worldwide!
In the new year, our seminary’s academic programs will expand further. Whether through theological courses or discipleship training, we aim to help students deepen their roots in the truth and grow through practical experiences. Please pray for our Chinese and English departments as we prepare to launch specialized Master of Theology (Th.M.) programs in areas such as New Testament, Old Testament, and Theology in the near future. Stay tuned for updates from the seminary!
Updates from the International Department
Since April 2024, the International Department has been offering discipleship training certificate and Christian studies diploma programs in both English and Chinese. This initiative aims to systematically and practically promote discipleship training. We also hope to strengthen collaboration with local churches through in-person classes while enabling distant students to participate online, allowing more believers to benefit from these programs.
Through the “Ten-Course Discipleship Training Program” we encourage brothers and sisters to deepen their theological and biblical knowledge while acquiring practical ministry skills. This training aims to equip them for greater services in the church, such as personal counselling, evangelism, leading small groups or other church ministry, thereby expanding their influences in the body of Christ.
Over the past year, students in both Chinese and English programs have actively engaged in their studies. For the English track, we already have participants from more than 38 countries joining us. Many are now completing the required ten courses, which will qualify them to receive the “Certificate in Discipleship.“ Those who successfully complete the diploma program will have the opportunity to receive their certificate/diploma in person at the seminary’s graduation ceremony. This significant milestone is not only a testament to their hard work but also a witness to their steadfast commitment in responding to God’s calling!
Gratitude and Prayers
In December 2024, I travelled to the United States for fundraising on behalf of the seminary. I am deeply grateful for the love and generosity of many churches, organizations, and brothers and sisters in Christ! Their support has been a tremendous encouragement to our seminary’s ministry and a beautiful testimony of love within the body of Christ.
Our seminary seeks not only academic excellence but also spiritual depth, guiding students into a closer walk with God. We believe that as we faithfully respond to His calling, His name will be glorified, and His kingdom will advance.
Please continue to pray for us:
● July 9-12: The 3rd Annual IDMC (Chinese) Intentional Disciple-Making Training Conference, including the special “Life Game” program for the youth.
● July 13 (4:00 PM): The 47th Anniversary Celebration of our seminary.
● August 12-15: The 3rd Annual IDMC (English): This is our 3rd Annual International Disciple-Making Conference featuring many well-known overseas and local experienced speakers sharing their insights.
May the Lord abundantly bless these ministries for His glory!
And may our God’s grace continue to lead our seminary forward, equipping everyone who studies and serves here to be vessels in His hands, winning more souls for Christ!
Blessings，
Dr. Jason Lim
(MBS‘s Principal）