My Advice to Students — Andrew Hill Says "Students, Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions!"

One of the highlights of my academic experience at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary was the open and inviting environment they created for their students. I never intended to go to seminary and be a pastor, so when I arrived to my Greek I, Biblical Hermeneutics, and Systematic Theology classes, I had a whole geyser of questions waiting to burst forth. Thankfully because of GRTS's environment, I felt invited to ask them, regardless of how naive or basic they were.

That's the exact kind of environment Old Testament Professor Andrew Hill (author of Survey of the Old Testament) seeks to cultivate for his students at Wheaton College. In our video today, Hill shares some crucial advice for your academic journey, whether you're at the front end or back end of that journey. "I want to encourage this in our students," Hill says, "that they ask questions as part of their learning."

Which is why his advice to you during your academic journey is to not be afraid to ask questions, no matter how naive or basic they might be.

In our video Hill shares an important story from the Jewish tradition that should guide your academic pursuits. Which should also remind you that it's quite alright that you don't have answers yet to your burning questions. It's also quite alright you don't yet have answers to the kinds of question your people are asking.

That's what seminary is for, so don't be afraid—ask away!

-Jeremy Bouma, ThM (@bouma)

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"My Advice to Students" is a weekly video series designed to advise and guide students who are studying for a future of ministry in the Church, whether in the academy or in congregations. In these specially curated videos, leading scholars of biblical studies share their seasoned wisdom to help you navigate this important season of preparation.

Can't see the video? Watch it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FOVDg6i1MoY