Years ago, the author had a startling realization. Theologians and pastors have long taught on the glory of God and its central importance in the Bible. However, because he was living in East Asia, it also dawned on the author that this sort of talk about God’s glory, praising Him, and magnifying His name was simply another way of talking about honor and shame.
Chinese believers respond to biblical stewardship.
“I am finally baptized. I have peace believing in Jesus.”
A worker among ethnic minorities, Ella provides a brief summary of some advantages, challenges, and theological considerations she has experienced.
The guest editor interviews a pastor from eastern China on the topic of contextualization.
Roland defines animism, recognizes the anxieties of animistic peoples, and considers three areas of importance when applying the gospel to them.
The author looks at how Chinese youth today deal with filial piety and marriage as they feel both the tug of traditional cultural and the pull of other perceived “goods” in the larger complex, cultural environment of today’s China.
Dr. Sun proposes that the theological concept of “union with Christ” has elements that intersect with Chinese culture and can aid in presenting the gospel.
For centuries, both Christianity and Confucianism have each sought to reconcile two families of ideas within their belief systems. The author suggests that these two ideologies may have a great deal in common.
From the guest editor's desk
Suggestions for further reading about contextualization and the Chinese church.
If you are serving in China, or making plans to do so, this is definitely something you will want to read.