On Friday evening, The Master’s University (TMU) commemorated its 98th annual commencement ceremony, graduating a record-setting class of over 400 students.

In addition to honoring the graduating class, the ceremony recognized the outstanding achievements of TMU’s athletic programs. 

Graduates beam with excitement as they file in, marking the start of TMU’s 98th Annual Commencement ceremony. Courtesy image

Special acknowledgement was given to the men’s volleyball team for their undefeated season culminating in an NAIA Championship, and to the women’s cross country team, which also claimed a national championship title.

Chairman of the Board of Directors, Brad Armstrong, took a moment to honor Chancellor John McArthur, who served as the university’s longest-standing president. Beginning in 1985, when the institution was still known as L.A. Baptist College, McArthur led the school until 2019, at which point he transitioned into his current role as chancellor, marking 40 years of committed service. 

In recognition of his legacy, the university announced the establishment of the John McArthur Pastoral Scholarship, a joint university and seminary award for men who exhibit academic excellence and spiritual maturity.

Patricia McArthur, wife of the chancellor, was also honored during the ceremony. It was announced that the Patricia McArthur Christian Service Scholarship will be awarded to women who demonstrate exemplary Christian character and active service within the church.

Delivering the commencement address, Dr. Kurt Hild spoke passionately on the theme of enduring faith and the ongoing struggle for control over the mind. 

His message underscored the spiritual battle believers face, reminding graduates of the necessity of recalling timeless truths even when they are already known.

 “As the Lord chooses to tarry and sustain us, I will, by God’s grace, continue to hold that principle before you and remind you of that truth,” said Dr. Hild. “Because the battle in this life is for who will control our minds, will the Lord Jesus Christ?”

Dr. Hild’s message continued with a call for steadfastness, especially in the face of deception and spiritual distortion. He warned against being misled by those with harmful intentions and urged graduates to remain anchored in prior spiritual instruction.

In discussing the integration of faith into academic life, Dr. Hild emphasized the significance of pursuing excellence while upholding Christian principles. He illustrated how disciplines such as math, science and even geography reveal the intricate beauty and order of God’s creation.

The address explored the convergence of theology and practical life, describing how engineering, biology, and other disciplines reflect divine design. 

Dr. Hild challenged graduates to apply biblical thinking across diverse arenas – churches, businesses, education, and beyond – highlighting the immersive spiritual culture they had experienced on campus.

The importance of moral clarity and resistance to temptation was another central theme. Drawing from Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre, Dr. Hild emphasized the grace required to make righteous choices in moments of trial.

 “As you begin your life, churches, businesses, education, medicine, marriage or wherever the Lord takes you from here. You will not again experience the intensity of thinking Biblically in which this campus culture has sought to immerse you,” he said. “Our heart’s desire is to see you make good choices, to think with wisdom, which is to think morally about your choices.”

Dr. Hild also spoke about solitude and self-respect, recounting a scenario in which a persuasive attempt to redirect someone’s life was met with a firm refusal grounded in principle and self-care.

He reflected on the power of divine law, especially in moments of temptation, asserting that the value of moral principles becomes clearest when they are most difficult to follow. This internal struggle, marked by spiritual resistance and a reliance on scripture, was presented as an essential part of the Christian journey.

The renewal of the mind emerged as a final theme in Dr. Hild’s exhortation. 

He called on graduates to think deeply and rightly, referencing Jesus as the author and perfecter of faith.

 “As the 17th-century metaphysical poet Thomas Hearne declared, to think well is to serve God in the interior court,” said Dr. Hild. “So here is the exhortation: do not be negligent to be absorbed in your church. You need continual teaching in God’s word, and you need the encouragement and fellowship with others who seek to live godly lives.”

He concluded with a reflection on the timeless nature of God’s word, emphasizing the importance of correction, prayer, and the pursuit of truth as the foundation for continued spiritual growth.

In closing, Dr. Hild expressed gratitude for the journey shared, including mention of a snowy weekend filled with sacrifice and reflection. He reminded graduates of the values they carry forward, rooted in faith and guided by biblical truth.

Following the heartfelt advice, The Master’s Chorale gathered together to sing The Majesty and Glory of Your Name, followed by TMU President Dr. Abner Chou giving a few words before the handing of diplomas to TMU’s graduating class of 2025.

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