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The Influence of Denominations on Church Organizational Structure in China

The issues of theological stance and church governance that impact the decision of whether or not to be a part of a denomination are discussed.

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Denominationalism—A Double-edged Sword

The author alerts us to the dangers that denominationalism can bring, especially with a new generation of educated, urban Christians who desire to pursue godliness.

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Of Returns and Runways

The author shares the experiences of his family and God’s provisions after leaving China and returning to the United States.

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The Church’s Role with Returnees from China

Suggestions are given for practical ways in which churches can help ease the transition of cross-cultural workers returning from China to their home country.

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Debriefing before the Final Goodbye

The author provides debriefing questions that can assist in evaluating life in China and aid in healthy transitions.

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Fragmented and Complacent

The Chinese Church that Lacks Historical Consciousness

The Chinese church’s lack of historical consciousness is longstanding. While the secular world has increased its understanding of history in many areas, the church has lagged behind. Only recently has research into church history begun. As it becomes known, the church needs to recognize that history has practical applications and must learn how to apply these. When this does not happen, there are negative effects, and the author discusses some of these.

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Traditional Chinese Views of History and Contemporary Chinese Christianity

Following a brief review of the ways Chinese have viewed their history over the centuries, the author turns to the consideration of how today’s PRC citizens view their history. All Chinese views of history have included “history” that is promoted nationally and directly serves the interests of the state. This approved narrative means that for most Chinese there is a nation-wide, generally agreed upon social narrative that may well be the only one he or she knows. The author then offers four items for the foreigner to remember when considering Chinese history or Chinese Christian history.

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Three Changes in Urban Churches

The author sees two major categories of urban churches in China that are experiencing transformation and goes on to discuss three main areas where he sees this transformation taking place. Viewing these changes as positive, he also believes they are growing stronger.

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Urban Public Space and New Media Ministry

After defining “new media” and what it encompasses, An looks at the various ways the church in China views it, what it means for the church, and how it can affect the church. He then gives some thoughts on how the church should deal with it—not only the challenges it brings, but how it can be used positively.

Supporting Article

The Expectations of the Chinese Church

China’s churches desire partnerships with overseas entities. However, as the church has become increasingly urban, the nature of those partnerships must change in response to the changes occurring in society and thus, in the church. Overseas organizations must understand these changes and consider carefully how they can best partner with the church in China.