A Look at Reformed Churches in China Today
Inside the Issue
China’s Reforming Churches, Continued
The author describes the distinctives of Reformed churches as well as some of the difficulties Reformed churches in China have faced in their commitment to Reformed theology. He highlights three observations about life and ministry in China’s reforming churches.
Reformed Churches and Church/State Relationships
China’s Reformed churches have a unified view stating that there is separation between church and state: they are two different domains. Since the application of this principle varies by region, the author summarizes four differing perspectives.
Recent Characteristics of Reformed Churches in China
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Gudao has noted five new trends among Reformed churches. He details each of these and includes his observations.
Thoughts on Culture and Contextualization
The church does not exist in a vacuum. It responds to various cultural factors which raises many questions about the contextualization of the gospel. This article analyzes some key features of the cultural context of Chinese house churches.
An Updated Report on the State of Reformed Theological Education in China
The rapid rate of cultural change in China affects the delivery of theological education. While this makes Reformed theological education more challenging than previously, the Reformed tradition is taking hold and spreading throughout China today.
Theoretical Theology with Practical Application
Originally written in Dutch in the 1600s, this major work of Reformed theology combines theoretical theology with practical application and is presented with warm pastoral affection for the reader. It has been available in Chinese since 2013.
Taking the Long View
Here we have a multi-faceted picture of churches that may identify with one another confessionally, but which differ on questions of where and how to worship, the role of women in the church, and how to relate to government authorities. Far from representing a rigid, cookie-cutter approach to church life, the Reformed tradition as it is currently lived out in China is dynamic and adaptable, reflecting the resourcefulness that has enabled the church to thrive amidst all kinds of adversity.
Rising on a New Tide
From the desk of the guest editor.