Ideas

Editorial reflection and analysis on issues shaping Chinese Christianity.

Latest

Responding to Tragedy

The world is full of tragedy, some arising from human causes, others from natural causes. Both result in suffering. Following the air disaster in China last month, a Chinese believer reflects on how Christians should respond to the tragedies that impact them and others.

Churches Seeking to Stay Online

New regulations governing online religious content came into effect on March 1 of this year. If strictly enforced, the regulations could severely restrict the use of online tools for ministry and outreach by Christians in China. Here's a brief update on how churches are responding.

Towards Authentic Contextualization

That this non-Western contextualizing will leave many of our Western theologies and “brands” diminished or transformed could encourage us to repent for the scandal of our divisions…and to redouble our efforts to fulfill one of the final earthly prayers of Jesus that “we all be one.”

Recovering Missions for Our Churches

Church leaders first need to learn to see missions as organic to their fellowship’s identity in this world…. Cross-cultural workers need to recognize and embrace their role as messengers to their home churches…committing more time and energy to communicating well with their supporters back home.

Chinese Christians Pray following the China Eastern Airlines Crash

In response to last week’s tragic loss of life, Christians in China are praying. One noted, “. . . believers, they pray for peace in Ukraine, for the domestic epidemic, and now they are praying for the plane crash. These are painful things, just like the recent weather, shrouded in gloom.”

National People’s Congress 2022

The annual gathering of the National People’s Political Consultative Conference and the National People’s Congress concluded in Beijing last week. Here are articles and resources about that key event.

When a Loved One Is Drawn into a Cult

Heretical cults are active in China. How should friends and family members respond when they suspect a loved one is being drawn into a cult?

Islam with Chinese Characteristics

Starting with the Old School (Gedimu), this series introduces the main schools of Hui religious thought and practice, Hui diet, dress, customs, and festivals. Ideas for Christians seeking to better know and love their Hui neighbors in the name of Jesus are also included.

What comes next for transformational development in China

China Ministry and Transformational Development (2)

As expatriates move from founders and leaders to colleagues, and now consultants, foreign contributions are increasingly in the nature of support and encouragement from behind the scenes, providing practical help in a few key areas as requested.