Spring 2013

Editorials

More than a Label

From "Back to Jerusalem" to "Indigenous Mission Movement from China"

Editor's Note: This editorial originally appeared in "China's Indigenous Mission Movement" (CS Quarterly, 2013 Spring).

Book Reviews

Following the Servant Role of Jesus

Cross-Cultural Servanthood: Serving the World in Christlike Humility by Duane Elmer. IVP Books, 2006, 212 pages. ISBN-10: 0830833781; ISBN-13: 978-0830833788; paperback, $12.68 or Kindle edition $9.99 at Amazon.com.

Reviewed by Mary Ann Cate

Peoples of China

Current Needs for Missional China

The role of the church in China as it increasingly becomes a missionary-sending church is explored based on past experiences and lessons learned. The article considers the importance of developing a missionary strategy, providing adequate cross-cultural training that goes beyond the classroom and developing a comprehensive field coordination infrastructure. It also takes a brief look at the church in today's China.

View From the Wall

Warm-hearted; Cool-headed

The author describes, from his observations and experiences, several often overlooked areas in China's early involvement in international missions. These include visa issues, language learning and missionary supervision and care. Prototypes for ministry are also suggested. The writer hopes that the self-reflection and sharing with fellow workers will result in intercessory prayer from members of Christ's Body and in their enlightenment.

Lead Article

The Indigenous Mission Movement from China [1]

A Current Assessment

The traditional definitions of missionary are not adequate for missionaries being sent from China; a new definition is needed due to the unique circumstances involved with those sent from this nation. Following this discussion, the author provides an overview of the current situation surrounding missionaries being sent from China.

Supporting Article

The Indigenous Mission Movement from China [2]

A Historical Review

For more than a century, there have been many indigenous mission movements from China, from Chinese, as well as from Central-coastal China that have experimented with mission endeavors. This article looks briefly at the most important of these undertakings by individuals and by groups.

Supporting Article

Beyond the Books

The Heart of Prefield Mission Training

Some things cannot be learned from books; they must result from the gospel that has been deeply formed in the heart of the individual. The author tells us of a life-changing experience from his past and then identifies the differences between God's servants who trust in "functional saviors" and those who are deeply at rest in what Christ has done for them.