Based on a review of over 160 years of modern church history in China, the author takes an optimistic view of the current situation and firmly believes that God is preparing present-day China to embrace another great revival of Christianity—hereafter referred to as "China’s Next Revival."
Chambon’s reflections begin with an important question: How do Chinese Christians navigate their faith within a context shaped by deep ancestral traditions, material symbolism, and political restrictions?
To work effectively in today’s China necessitates letting go of the buffer of foreign privilege... and humbly embracing a still deeper engagement with Chinese society.
Beyond the story of suffering lies the sacred narrative of how the church continues to be the church.
They patiently persevered as "people of the soil," knowing trees take a long time to grow and bear fruit.
The Sinicization of Christianity is not merely a passing campaign, but a long-term issue that will continue to shape the church in China.
Some seek shelter in what feels more stable. I understand that. But we are called to covenantal faithfulness, rooted in grace, perseverance, and the cross.
It might seem like a small thing but that is a refreshing contrast to the hostile rhetoric, and uninformed animosity that students see and hear all too often these days.
Metaphors have the power to expand our imaginations or limit our thinking. May the lived experience of China’s Christians, both inside and outside China, inspire new images of what is possible in Christ’s kingdom.
I pray for more women and men from around the world, to view China—not through the lenses of journalists, internet celebrities or politicians, but as God sees it.
Francis assured China’s Catholics that he prayed for them daily, and made decisions, even those felt as painful by China’s faithful, after "much time [spent in] reflection and prayer, seeking the true good of the Church in China."
I sincerely urge the leaders of the Chinese church to set aside theological nationalism and limitations, embrace the Lausanne spirit with the universal church to humbly walk with the Lord.