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China's Reforming Churches: Mission, Polity, and Ministry in the Next Christendom
This is a critical moment in the life of China's reforming churches and the Presbyterian and Reformed mission to China. This book provides both a historical look at Presbyterianism in China and an assessment of the current state of affairs, orienting readers to church development needs and the basic outlines of Reformed Christianity in China today. While laying out the challenges and opportunities facing the church, the authors argue that assisting this reformation in China should be a central objective of the Presbyterian and Reformed mission to China in this generation.
- GenresChurch HistoryNonfiction
336 pages, Paperback
First published May 19, 2014
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July 7, 2014
As a relatively sheltered westerner with no missionary experience, I can safely say that my knowledge of Christianity in foreign contexts is extremely limited. Although I have read books and watched DVD’s on missions that have improved my understanding of global Christianity, there are still historical-cultural realities that are beyond my grasp. My perspective on Chinese Christianity, as this book informed me, has been quite skewed and I’ve been guilty of constructing a naive caricature of the Church in China.
"China's Reforming Churches" is an encouraging, and eye-opening read that has helped me to better understand and appreciate global Christianity. What this book offers is an orientation to the history of Christianity in the south Pacific, the presence of Presbyterian and Reformed churches in China today, and the shape of things to come with regard to Reformed/Presbyterianism in the far east.
In this book, you’ll find fascinating stories of missionary bravery as well as major mistakes that have occurred in the history of missions in China. You’ll learn about the sociopolitical issues throughout China’s history and how the gospel mission has been advanced and hindered. You’ll read of the great similarities between the Church in the west and east—the rise of postmodernism and the challenges of materialism in a post-industrial world.
Perhaps the most compelling section of the book is Part 3, in which the authors take a look at the challenges and opportunities for Presbyterianism in China. Here, readers will read of the multitude of social issues that pose difficulties for gospel ministry and the dichotomous relationship between the state-registered TSPM (Three-Self Patriotic Movement) churches and unregistered house churches. The section closes with an essay in which David VanDrunen offers a two-kingdoms approach to ministry in China (which is sure to cause a bit of a stir), and Guy Prentiss Waters offers an argument for global Presbyterian polity from Acts 15.
The book concludes by looking at the opportunity for Christian publishing in China, a report on Chinese theological education, and the indigenization (the use of Chinese language) and contextualization of the Reformed faith in the Chinese culture. The appendix includes Robert Morrison’s (the first Protestant missionary to arrive on Chinese soil) 19th century catechism that is based upon the Westminster Shorter Catechism of 1647.
Regardless of one’s views of soteriology or ecclesiology, this book should prove to be an encouragement for those interested in the gospel mission in China—which should be all who name Christ as their Savior. Baugus’ “China’s Reforming Churches” provides a captivating look into the past, present, and future of the gospel mission in China, which helps Christians understand the global impact of the gospel so they can minister effectively to those they come into contact with.
I received a free copy of the book for reviewing purposes. I was in no way coerced or encouraged to write a favorable review.
"China's Reforming Churches" is an encouraging, and eye-opening read that has helped me to better understand and appreciate global Christianity. What this book offers is an orientation to the history of Christianity in the south Pacific, the presence of Presbyterian and Reformed churches in China today, and the shape of things to come with regard to Reformed/Presbyterianism in the far east.
In this book, you’ll find fascinating stories of missionary bravery as well as major mistakes that have occurred in the history of missions in China. You’ll learn about the sociopolitical issues throughout China’s history and how the gospel mission has been advanced and hindered. You’ll read of the great similarities between the Church in the west and east—the rise of postmodernism and the challenges of materialism in a post-industrial world.
Perhaps the most compelling section of the book is Part 3, in which the authors take a look at the challenges and opportunities for Presbyterianism in China. Here, readers will read of the multitude of social issues that pose difficulties for gospel ministry and the dichotomous relationship between the state-registered TSPM (Three-Self Patriotic Movement) churches and unregistered house churches. The section closes with an essay in which David VanDrunen offers a two-kingdoms approach to ministry in China (which is sure to cause a bit of a stir), and Guy Prentiss Waters offers an argument for global Presbyterian polity from Acts 15.
The book concludes by looking at the opportunity for Christian publishing in China, a report on Chinese theological education, and the indigenization (the use of Chinese language) and contextualization of the Reformed faith in the Chinese culture. The appendix includes Robert Morrison’s (the first Protestant missionary to arrive on Chinese soil) 19th century catechism that is based upon the Westminster Shorter Catechism of 1647.
Regardless of one’s views of soteriology or ecclesiology, this book should prove to be an encouragement for those interested in the gospel mission in China—which should be all who name Christ as their Savior. Baugus’ “China’s Reforming Churches” provides a captivating look into the past, present, and future of the gospel mission in China, which helps Christians understand the global impact of the gospel so they can minister effectively to those they come into contact with.
I received a free copy of the book for reviewing purposes. I was in no way coerced or encouraged to write a favorable review.
July 23, 2023
This was a great book. Chinese culture, business, and maybe Christianity will largely shape the world in the next century. It must be thought on and prayed about.
The book gave a nuanced, robust, and eye opening diagnosis of the Chinese Church’s history and future challenges.
The chapter on the two kingdoms view being the only way for the Chinese church to move forward was a bit reductionistic. The authors claimed to not want to impose western ideas on China’s churches (which they remained largely faithful to with the exception of this chapter). Therefore, I think a better approach would have been to lay out how the neo-cal/kuyper approach could be a resource as well, ultimately leaving it up to the indigenous church. It would have better suited the nature of the book and the reformed faith.
The book gave a nuanced, robust, and eye opening diagnosis of the Chinese Church’s history and future challenges.
The chapter on the two kingdoms view being the only way for the Chinese church to move forward was a bit reductionistic. The authors claimed to not want to impose western ideas on China’s churches (which they remained largely faithful to with the exception of this chapter). Therefore, I think a better approach would have been to lay out how the neo-cal/kuyper approach could be a resource as well, ultimately leaving it up to the indigenous church. It would have better suited the nature of the book and the reformed faith.
July 3, 2014
It is no secret that Christianity in China is growing. In a country that has been historically hostile to religious diversity, Christianity has been growing and making a mark on the whole of Chinese life. One of the factors that accounts for this growth is the infusion of Protestant missionaries from various denominational affiliations. What might come as a surprise to many is the growing and well documented influence of conservative Reformed missionary influence in various ways throughout China.
Through the efforts of a number of Reformed leaders who are involved in the spread of Reformed polity and theology in China, Bruce P. Baugus, professor at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi, has edited China’s Reforming Churches: Mission, Polity, and Ministry in the Next Christendom. The contributors to this book include pastors, theologians and Chinese-Americans who believe that Reformed polity and theology possess what is necessary to sustain the future growth of the church in China.
China’s Reforming Churches provides a sketch of the history of the conservative Reformed missionary influence in China since the late 1800’s, an assessment of the present state of Christianity in China in general and the Reformed church specifically, and charts a vision for the future of Reformed missionary work in China. Additionally, this book provides theological justification for why the contributors believe that Reformed polity and theology are what Chinese churches needs in order to be grounded in the gospel so as to create a sustainable future for Christianity to grow in China.
Overview
The book is divided into four sections. The first section outlines the history of Reformed churches in China. The history of Protestant missions to China begins with Robert Morrison in 1807 who was also a member of the Presbyterian church (29). Since that time there has been a steady flow of Reformed theological influence through missionary presence in China. Not long after Morrison came John L. Nevius who is perhaps the most famous and influential Presbyterian missionary to China. He is credited with introducing the idea of planting churches that are self-supporting, self-governing and self-propagating (41). This is a development that still carries today among missionaries across denominational lines. What many readers, who are unfamiliar with Reformed missionary influence in China, will find interesting is the who’s-who of Reformed theologians who were actively involved in mission work in China directly or who played a major role in training Chinese nationals for missionary work. John L. Nevius and Walter M. Lowrie both studied under Charles Hodge (38, 45), J. Gresham Machen helped found the Independent Board of Foreign Missions from which Richard B. Gaffin would later be sent to do work in Qindgao(54) and Geerhardus Vos was the president of Yingkou Bible Institute in Yingkou, Liaoning (55).
Section two provides an assessment of the state of Presbyterianism in China today. Chapter four provides a fascinating look at the four narratives that outside observers tend to view the Chinese church.
1. Persecuted Church – This view sees Christianity in China as always under persecution from political forces of China. However, this view has not been able to unshackle itself from China’s past dealings with religious diversity. Brent Fulton says that “it is not illegal to be a Christian in China,” and that “most Christians in China do not face daily persecution” (100).
2. Needy Church – This view sees Christianity in China “as lacking Bibles, trained leaders, facilities, and finances” (100). What is more realistic is that as long as Christians both in and outside China have an unhealthy dependence on Western Christianity for the sustainability of the Chinese church then it’s needy perception will become a reality.
3. Christian China – This view thinks that since China has more Christians than any other country that it will bring about cultural transformation such that China will become publicly Christian. This is not true since there is not a direct linear relationship to Christian growth and cultural change (101).
4. Missionary Church – This view sees “China as potentially the greatest missionary-sending country in history” (102). Of the four narratives this might be the most exaggerated as there are not near as many Chinese missionaries going out of China and most of them that do leave do not stay for long.
As the contemporary Chinese Christian scene is laid out in the book, American Christians will be surprised to see that the situation is much like it is in the states: Christian leaders and laypeople are continually encouraging other Christians towards and warning them of the same things that dominate the Western church discussion. Brent Fulton notes that, despite the striking similarities, what separates the Chinese and American churches is that China “has experienced in thirty years what in most other nations has taken place over a century or more” (115).
Section three addresses the social and religious challenges in China for the growth of Christianity (Presbyterianism specifically) and what opportunities lie ahead as a result. While examining the social conditions, G. Wright Doyle notes that the fast paced change in China’s society is creating new problems for the Chinese but also providing new inroads for the spread of the gospel. For instance, China has always been known for having a strong committed family structure but this is changing. Husbands are taking jobs farther and farther away from home and the men are finding mistresses away from home. This, coupled China’s one-child policy, is wrecking havoc on Chinese families (160-61). Also, though more and more money is coming into China, the gap between the poor and wealthy is increasing causing discontent among the people (164-65). In addressing the opportunities these and other challenges bring to Christianity in China, David VanDrunen charts our a vision for the interplay between Reformed ecclesiology and Christians engagement in society as drawn from his book Living in God’s Two Kingdoms: A Biblical Vision for Christianity and Culture.
The final section deals with appropriating the Reformed tradition in China through legal publishing, theological education and the indigenization and contextualization. For publishing, it will come as a surprise to many Westerners that within the last ten years it has become legal to publish limited types of Christian literature in mainland China (245). Phil Remmers lays out the highly controlled and expensive process (upwards of $20,000) it takes to have a book published in China. Remmers notes the pros and cons of unregistered underground Christian publishers and has some surprising thoughtful comments on the potential drawbacks of free digital literature available to Chinese Christians as made possible through ministries like Desiring God (264-66). As far as theological education goes, China has a cultural history of valuing education that can benefit Christian education. What is challenging are the restrictions on seminaries that are not so with churches. There are other issues such as funding for the schools, limited resources and good faculty. There is much room for growth among Reformed seminaries and the future looks bright.
Conclusion
China’s Reforming Churches is a fascinating look at the past, present and future of Reformed missionary influence in China. The contributors show a familiarity with Christianity in China in general and the Reformed tradition specifically, and are knowledgeable about the current Chinese social factors and movements that Christians face. Those unfamiliar with the current state of Christianity in China will find a lot of helpful information and will be surprised by many things like the real issue concerning Christian persecution and the rise of Christian publication.
Though the title does not immediately give it away, this book is written from a decidedly Reformed perspective. All theological and practical (ecclesiological) evaluations and suggestions stem from this perspective. While this does not effect cultural and societal observation (at least in my mind) it does limit the scope for how to move forward in regards to theology and polity. I think there is definitely some overlap that would occur no matter what denominational stream the book was written in. What would be noticeably different is the suggested structure of polity. This limited scope of the book is in no way a fault of the book nor does it detract from its value for those committed to other denominations. This books will serve as a great benefit to any Christian interested in the current state of missions in China and will provide invaluable information for those invested in Chinese missions from both sides.
I received this book for free from Reformation Heritage Books through Cross Focused Reviews for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Through the efforts of a number of Reformed leaders who are involved in the spread of Reformed polity and theology in China, Bruce P. Baugus, professor at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi, has edited China’s Reforming Churches: Mission, Polity, and Ministry in the Next Christendom. The contributors to this book include pastors, theologians and Chinese-Americans who believe that Reformed polity and theology possess what is necessary to sustain the future growth of the church in China.
China’s Reforming Churches provides a sketch of the history of the conservative Reformed missionary influence in China since the late 1800’s, an assessment of the present state of Christianity in China in general and the Reformed church specifically, and charts a vision for the future of Reformed missionary work in China. Additionally, this book provides theological justification for why the contributors believe that Reformed polity and theology are what Chinese churches needs in order to be grounded in the gospel so as to create a sustainable future for Christianity to grow in China.
Overview
The book is divided into four sections. The first section outlines the history of Reformed churches in China. The history of Protestant missions to China begins with Robert Morrison in 1807 who was also a member of the Presbyterian church (29). Since that time there has been a steady flow of Reformed theological influence through missionary presence in China. Not long after Morrison came John L. Nevius who is perhaps the most famous and influential Presbyterian missionary to China. He is credited with introducing the idea of planting churches that are self-supporting, self-governing and self-propagating (41). This is a development that still carries today among missionaries across denominational lines. What many readers, who are unfamiliar with Reformed missionary influence in China, will find interesting is the who’s-who of Reformed theologians who were actively involved in mission work in China directly or who played a major role in training Chinese nationals for missionary work. John L. Nevius and Walter M. Lowrie both studied under Charles Hodge (38, 45), J. Gresham Machen helped found the Independent Board of Foreign Missions from which Richard B. Gaffin would later be sent to do work in Qindgao(54) and Geerhardus Vos was the president of Yingkou Bible Institute in Yingkou, Liaoning (55).
Section two provides an assessment of the state of Presbyterianism in China today. Chapter four provides a fascinating look at the four narratives that outside observers tend to view the Chinese church.
1. Persecuted Church – This view sees Christianity in China as always under persecution from political forces of China. However, this view has not been able to unshackle itself from China’s past dealings with religious diversity. Brent Fulton says that “it is not illegal to be a Christian in China,” and that “most Christians in China do not face daily persecution” (100).
2. Needy Church – This view sees Christianity in China “as lacking Bibles, trained leaders, facilities, and finances” (100). What is more realistic is that as long as Christians both in and outside China have an unhealthy dependence on Western Christianity for the sustainability of the Chinese church then it’s needy perception will become a reality.
3. Christian China – This view thinks that since China has more Christians than any other country that it will bring about cultural transformation such that China will become publicly Christian. This is not true since there is not a direct linear relationship to Christian growth and cultural change (101).
4. Missionary Church – This view sees “China as potentially the greatest missionary-sending country in history” (102). Of the four narratives this might be the most exaggerated as there are not near as many Chinese missionaries going out of China and most of them that do leave do not stay for long.
As the contemporary Chinese Christian scene is laid out in the book, American Christians will be surprised to see that the situation is much like it is in the states: Christian leaders and laypeople are continually encouraging other Christians towards and warning them of the same things that dominate the Western church discussion. Brent Fulton notes that, despite the striking similarities, what separates the Chinese and American churches is that China “has experienced in thirty years what in most other nations has taken place over a century or more” (115).
Section three addresses the social and religious challenges in China for the growth of Christianity (Presbyterianism specifically) and what opportunities lie ahead as a result. While examining the social conditions, G. Wright Doyle notes that the fast paced change in China’s society is creating new problems for the Chinese but also providing new inroads for the spread of the gospel. For instance, China has always been known for having a strong committed family structure but this is changing. Husbands are taking jobs farther and farther away from home and the men are finding mistresses away from home. This, coupled China’s one-child policy, is wrecking havoc on Chinese families (160-61). Also, though more and more money is coming into China, the gap between the poor and wealthy is increasing causing discontent among the people (164-65). In addressing the opportunities these and other challenges bring to Christianity in China, David VanDrunen charts our a vision for the interplay between Reformed ecclesiology and Christians engagement in society as drawn from his book Living in God’s Two Kingdoms: A Biblical Vision for Christianity and Culture.
The final section deals with appropriating the Reformed tradition in China through legal publishing, theological education and the indigenization and contextualization. For publishing, it will come as a surprise to many Westerners that within the last ten years it has become legal to publish limited types of Christian literature in mainland China (245). Phil Remmers lays out the highly controlled and expensive process (upwards of $20,000) it takes to have a book published in China. Remmers notes the pros and cons of unregistered underground Christian publishers and has some surprising thoughtful comments on the potential drawbacks of free digital literature available to Chinese Christians as made possible through ministries like Desiring God (264-66). As far as theological education goes, China has a cultural history of valuing education that can benefit Christian education. What is challenging are the restrictions on seminaries that are not so with churches. There are other issues such as funding for the schools, limited resources and good faculty. There is much room for growth among Reformed seminaries and the future looks bright.
Conclusion
China’s Reforming Churches is a fascinating look at the past, present and future of Reformed missionary influence in China. The contributors show a familiarity with Christianity in China in general and the Reformed tradition specifically, and are knowledgeable about the current Chinese social factors and movements that Christians face. Those unfamiliar with the current state of Christianity in China will find a lot of helpful information and will be surprised by many things like the real issue concerning Christian persecution and the rise of Christian publication.
Though the title does not immediately give it away, this book is written from a decidedly Reformed perspective. All theological and practical (ecclesiological) evaluations and suggestions stem from this perspective. While this does not effect cultural and societal observation (at least in my mind) it does limit the scope for how to move forward in regards to theology and polity. I think there is definitely some overlap that would occur no matter what denominational stream the book was written in. What would be noticeably different is the suggested structure of polity. This limited scope of the book is in no way a fault of the book nor does it detract from its value for those committed to other denominations. This books will serve as a great benefit to any Christian interested in the current state of missions in China and will provide invaluable information for those invested in Chinese missions from both sides.
I received this book for free from Reformation Heritage Books through Cross Focused Reviews for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
July 7, 2014
"But some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers, "Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved." And after Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and debate with them, Paul and Barnabas and some of the others were appointed to go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and the elders about this question ... The apostles and the elders were gathered together to consider this matter... And after there had been much debate, Peter stood up ... And all the assembly fell silent, and they listened to Barnabas and Paul as they related what signs and wonders God had done through them among the Gentiles... After they finished speaking, James replied, "Brothers, listen to me ... Then it seemed good to the apostles and the elders, with the whole church, to choose men from among them and send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas." excerpts from Acts 15: 1-22
The above verses from the pivotal chapter of the book of Acts demonstrate how Spirit-led presbyterian type polity worked in the early church through means of a synodical gathering involving debate, discussion, and deliberation of certain core, pressing issues as the young church continued to spread. This meeting was crucial since the focus of the church had begun to pivot away from Jerusalem / Jews shifting toward Gentiles and major issues were at stake. Elders of the churches and the apostles were sent to this conclave to combat incipient heretical challenges to the health of the church, in the process confirming basic soteriological (salvation) and ecclesial (church order) principles that would help ensure that the church's mission of edification and evangelization would be strengthened, clarified, enhanced, unified, and carried forward by Spirit empowered co-laborers in the most advantageous way possible. The authors of this book believe this type of structure (a plurality of elders in local and regional areas) continues to be biblically normative for the church in all ages, being essential for its optimal health and growth (as do I) and as a particularly pressing need (along with quality Reformed literature and biblical / theological training) for the Chinese Christian church, one of the great mission fields / kingdom projects of the 21st century (as is the rapidly growing church in Africa and Latin America). The need as always is for establishing well-ordered churches under the discipline of God's Word, cared for by a plurality of well-trained elders in each congregation and region.
China's Reforming Churches was an interesting, informative, helpful introduction of the history, current status, and possible ways forward for solid, biblical Christianity in a nation that possesses remarkable kingdom potential. It is divided into 4 sections of 13 chapters by 11 authors and is extensively documented in footnotes.
A few interesting facts about China:
"More people go to church on Sunday in China than in the whole of Europe" although the quality of leadership is often not of the highest quality. China now has the world's 2nd largest economy, perhaps soon to eclipse the USA. It has 20% of the earth's population and Mandarin Chinese has the most speakers of any language in the world. Its main social network, Weibo, has 450 million users. It is a nation in the throes of massive social, political, moral, and spiritual changes after having come through the hellishly brutal, repressive years of Mao communism and the Cultural Revolution, now becoming much more open but still quite controlled and unfree.
In the first (history) section, the authors quickly sketch the last 200 years of Reformed mission efforts (USA, Great Britain, Korea), wars, and political issues including the Sino-Japanese wars, Chinese Civil War, ~ four decades of subjugation by Japan, the 1949 takeover by Mao and the communist party and the slow easing of repression since the deposition of the Gang of Four. In section two, Chinese pastors tell of their experiences, the church's needs, current moral, political situations and context, etc., providing helpful insight by people with great familiarity of the culture and changing conditions.
In the third section (current conditions), the authors highlight some of the issues in the moral, ethical, and social environment - increasing divorce rates, sexual immorality, dishonesty, lying, corruption, fear, weakening of family, suicide among rural women, bribery, mental and physical ailments, low levels of happiness, etc.
The chapter on Reformed Two Kingdom theology in this section was helpful in clarifying for me what is currently, oddly a somewhat contentious issue. This chapter shows how the Noahic covenant of common grace vs. the Abrahamic covenant of Christ's redemptive kingdom can teach Christians how live in both kingdoms simultaneously, wisely, and well. Supreme allegiance of course is due to Christ and His kingdom alone over which the state is not entitled to any legitimate exercise of authority. At the same time, certain legitimate duties are properly due the state by the church and individual Christians but the church does not have any direct authorization to attempt to redeem the state / culture directly through organized action. Such social change is indeed often desirable but is a natural byproduct of the vocations and actions of individual Christians working in unison with others where possible.
Regarding Reformed literature, there is a huge pressing need for quality translations of classic and current works. The main problems encountered are government restrictions and financial issues due to tenuous markets, piracy, underground presses, free internet resources, the costs of quality translation and editing, ISBN costs, and governmental price controls. The result is a huge Reformed publishing vacuum in a country with 95% adult literacy. For $1 million a publisher could publish 50-60 quality Reformed titles with excellent translation / editing. As a side note, one researcher believes that throughout the world there are ~ 69 thousand new coverts daily, most in Africa, Asia, Latin America, with a need of 7 thousand new pastors daily. For comprehensive biblical / theological training the needs are stability, simplicity, and continuity for students that typically are highly motivated and diligent, although foreign involvement is treated suspiciously (as in most other areas of Chinese life).
In all this was a very informative book about China's recent history, current status, and the way forward for Christian churches in that country. I especially enjoyed the chapters on Two Kingdoms and Acts 15, very insightful and helpful. A well recommended book, provided gratis in exchange for a review.
The above verses from the pivotal chapter of the book of Acts demonstrate how Spirit-led presbyterian type polity worked in the early church through means of a synodical gathering involving debate, discussion, and deliberation of certain core, pressing issues as the young church continued to spread. This meeting was crucial since the focus of the church had begun to pivot away from Jerusalem / Jews shifting toward Gentiles and major issues were at stake. Elders of the churches and the apostles were sent to this conclave to combat incipient heretical challenges to the health of the church, in the process confirming basic soteriological (salvation) and ecclesial (church order) principles that would help ensure that the church's mission of edification and evangelization would be strengthened, clarified, enhanced, unified, and carried forward by Spirit empowered co-laborers in the most advantageous way possible. The authors of this book believe this type of structure (a plurality of elders in local and regional areas) continues to be biblically normative for the church in all ages, being essential for its optimal health and growth (as do I) and as a particularly pressing need (along with quality Reformed literature and biblical / theological training) for the Chinese Christian church, one of the great mission fields / kingdom projects of the 21st century (as is the rapidly growing church in Africa and Latin America). The need as always is for establishing well-ordered churches under the discipline of God's Word, cared for by a plurality of well-trained elders in each congregation and region.
China's Reforming Churches was an interesting, informative, helpful introduction of the history, current status, and possible ways forward for solid, biblical Christianity in a nation that possesses remarkable kingdom potential. It is divided into 4 sections of 13 chapters by 11 authors and is extensively documented in footnotes.
A few interesting facts about China:
"More people go to church on Sunday in China than in the whole of Europe" although the quality of leadership is often not of the highest quality. China now has the world's 2nd largest economy, perhaps soon to eclipse the USA. It has 20% of the earth's population and Mandarin Chinese has the most speakers of any language in the world. Its main social network, Weibo, has 450 million users. It is a nation in the throes of massive social, political, moral, and spiritual changes after having come through the hellishly brutal, repressive years of Mao communism and the Cultural Revolution, now becoming much more open but still quite controlled and unfree.
In the first (history) section, the authors quickly sketch the last 200 years of Reformed mission efforts (USA, Great Britain, Korea), wars, and political issues including the Sino-Japanese wars, Chinese Civil War, ~ four decades of subjugation by Japan, the 1949 takeover by Mao and the communist party and the slow easing of repression since the deposition of the Gang of Four. In section two, Chinese pastors tell of their experiences, the church's needs, current moral, political situations and context, etc., providing helpful insight by people with great familiarity of the culture and changing conditions.
In the third section (current conditions), the authors highlight some of the issues in the moral, ethical, and social environment - increasing divorce rates, sexual immorality, dishonesty, lying, corruption, fear, weakening of family, suicide among rural women, bribery, mental and physical ailments, low levels of happiness, etc.
The chapter on Reformed Two Kingdom theology in this section was helpful in clarifying for me what is currently, oddly a somewhat contentious issue. This chapter shows how the Noahic covenant of common grace vs. the Abrahamic covenant of Christ's redemptive kingdom can teach Christians how live in both kingdoms simultaneously, wisely, and well. Supreme allegiance of course is due to Christ and His kingdom alone over which the state is not entitled to any legitimate exercise of authority. At the same time, certain legitimate duties are properly due the state by the church and individual Christians but the church does not have any direct authorization to attempt to redeem the state / culture directly through organized action. Such social change is indeed often desirable but is a natural byproduct of the vocations and actions of individual Christians working in unison with others where possible.
Regarding Reformed literature, there is a huge pressing need for quality translations of classic and current works. The main problems encountered are government restrictions and financial issues due to tenuous markets, piracy, underground presses, free internet resources, the costs of quality translation and editing, ISBN costs, and governmental price controls. The result is a huge Reformed publishing vacuum in a country with 95% adult literacy. For $1 million a publisher could publish 50-60 quality Reformed titles with excellent translation / editing. As a side note, one researcher believes that throughout the world there are ~ 69 thousand new coverts daily, most in Africa, Asia, Latin America, with a need of 7 thousand new pastors daily. For comprehensive biblical / theological training the needs are stability, simplicity, and continuity for students that typically are highly motivated and diligent, although foreign involvement is treated suspiciously (as in most other areas of Chinese life).
In all this was a very informative book about China's recent history, current status, and the way forward for Christian churches in that country. I especially enjoyed the chapters on Two Kingdoms and Acts 15, very insightful and helpful. A well recommended book, provided gratis in exchange for a review.
August 19, 2021
Definitely gives a good glimpse into reformed churches in China. Some chapters seemingly contradict one another, and it's interesting the Chinese elders see a potential Christianized nation, whereas one of the American writers promotes a 2 Kingdom view. Nonetheless, a definite read for anyone looking to better understand the catholicity of our faith and how this is played out in other nations.
February 9, 2017
One of the greatest occurrences in the world today, and this is not one iota of hyperbole, is the fruit of the Gospel being harvested amongst our brothers and sisters in China. Millions(!!) are coming to faith in a land that until relatively recent history was actively opposed to any Christian influence. This has created a wonderful problem of how the Church of China should go about organizing their local bodies and how the Church global can be of assistance to them. This led to a conference addressing the issue hosted by RTS-Jackson and this wonderful book, China’s Reforming Churches, as a result.
China’s Reforming Churches sets out to survey Presbyterianism in China. It is broken into four sections: The History of Presbyterianism in China, Presbyterianism in China Today, Challenges and Opportunities for Presbyterianism in China, and Appropriating a Tradition. Each section has 3 or 4 chapters covering a wide variety of topics related to the explosion of Christian growth in China and the necessity of a proper, ordered, Scriptural government of these young churches.
This work is broad and exhaustive. China’s Reforming Churches covers large portions of Chinese culture, history (in general and much in regards to the history of Christianity in/missions to China), and the current state of the nation and the Church in China. I cannot begin to list what new information I gained from this work because, in large part due to my lack of any in-depth knowledge of China, missions to China, or Presbyterianism, it was essentially the entire book. There were a few things I walked away with that made the time spent reading well worth it.
First, my understanding of the state of Christianity in China was a bit of a caricature. I was under the impression that, for the most part, the Church in China was still heavily persecuted. I believed that, as a whole, they must meet “underground” and that they were deprived of the Bible in their language and any types of Christian resources. While I did not think it was a situation like Iran, I thought it was pretty close. This understanding is quite a bit off base. China’s Reforming Churches does a great job diving into the specifics and nuances of the issue but, basically, this type of persecution is not the case in China currently. While there remain reasons that many churches are “underground” and the Church there does not enjoy the freedom to which we in the West are accustomed, there is a significant Christian presence in China that meets and worships and has Bibles and Christian literature available. While they do not have the abundance of resources we have, and Reformed publishing was addressed in a great chapter, it is not the lockdown Communist caricature that I have always had in my mind.
Going along with that, impressed greatly on my heart was the need for Christian publishing and theological education in China. The saying that in China the 2-year old Christian teaches the 1-year old Christian is often pretty accurate. Many young believers are thrown into leadership positions due to the rapid rate of conversion and the lack of church structure often present in China. The need for solid theological education is great as is the need for solid, Reformed, Biblical literature, books, and studies. There is much in China as far as prosperity teaching but there still remains relatively little in regards to solidly Reformed literature. Theological training, while having a relatively lengthy history in China, is needed desperately.
I also finished the book feeling the desperate need for Biblical Presbyterianism to take root in these Chinese churches. Compelling arguments were made for the possibility of Churches already seeking this type of polity, the likelihood of the government seeing it in a positive light, and, most importantly, the case from Scripture for the necessity and requirement of a Presbyterian form to govern the church.
More than anything though, I read China’s Reforming Churches and walked away rejoicing in what God is doing around the world. It is quite difficult to read an account like this, of so many coming to faith and seeking the Lord diligently, and walk away not encouraged and not praising God for being so faithful to his promises. Bruce Baugus and the good folks at Reformation Heritage Books put together a great group of essays covering a wide variety of topics. These essays worked together perfectly to leave the reader excited, encouraged, and challenged to be a part of the mighty works God is doing. This book is a blessing!
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher through Cross Focused Reviews.
China’s Reforming Churches sets out to survey Presbyterianism in China. It is broken into four sections: The History of Presbyterianism in China, Presbyterianism in China Today, Challenges and Opportunities for Presbyterianism in China, and Appropriating a Tradition. Each section has 3 or 4 chapters covering a wide variety of topics related to the explosion of Christian growth in China and the necessity of a proper, ordered, Scriptural government of these young churches.
This work is broad and exhaustive. China’s Reforming Churches covers large portions of Chinese culture, history (in general and much in regards to the history of Christianity in/missions to China), and the current state of the nation and the Church in China. I cannot begin to list what new information I gained from this work because, in large part due to my lack of any in-depth knowledge of China, missions to China, or Presbyterianism, it was essentially the entire book. There were a few things I walked away with that made the time spent reading well worth it.
First, my understanding of the state of Christianity in China was a bit of a caricature. I was under the impression that, for the most part, the Church in China was still heavily persecuted. I believed that, as a whole, they must meet “underground” and that they were deprived of the Bible in their language and any types of Christian resources. While I did not think it was a situation like Iran, I thought it was pretty close. This understanding is quite a bit off base. China’s Reforming Churches does a great job diving into the specifics and nuances of the issue but, basically, this type of persecution is not the case in China currently. While there remain reasons that many churches are “underground” and the Church there does not enjoy the freedom to which we in the West are accustomed, there is a significant Christian presence in China that meets and worships and has Bibles and Christian literature available. While they do not have the abundance of resources we have, and Reformed publishing was addressed in a great chapter, it is not the lockdown Communist caricature that I have always had in my mind.
Going along with that, impressed greatly on my heart was the need for Christian publishing and theological education in China. The saying that in China the 2-year old Christian teaches the 1-year old Christian is often pretty accurate. Many young believers are thrown into leadership positions due to the rapid rate of conversion and the lack of church structure often present in China. The need for solid theological education is great as is the need for solid, Reformed, Biblical literature, books, and studies. There is much in China as far as prosperity teaching but there still remains relatively little in regards to solidly Reformed literature. Theological training, while having a relatively lengthy history in China, is needed desperately.
I also finished the book feeling the desperate need for Biblical Presbyterianism to take root in these Chinese churches. Compelling arguments were made for the possibility of Churches already seeking this type of polity, the likelihood of the government seeing it in a positive light, and, most importantly, the case from Scripture for the necessity and requirement of a Presbyterian form to govern the church.
More than anything though, I read China’s Reforming Churches and walked away rejoicing in what God is doing around the world. It is quite difficult to read an account like this, of so many coming to faith and seeking the Lord diligently, and walk away not encouraged and not praising God for being so faithful to his promises. Bruce Baugus and the good folks at Reformation Heritage Books put together a great group of essays covering a wide variety of topics. These essays worked together perfectly to leave the reader excited, encouraged, and challenged to be a part of the mighty works God is doing. This book is a blessing!
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher through Cross Focused Reviews.
July 20, 2014
The importance of missions cannot be understated. As born-again believers, our supreme desire is to glorify God in everything we say, think, and do, and when we realize there are myriads of people in this world who are currently not doing either of those things then that should motivate us to carry forth the Gospel of Jesus Christ into all the world. Now, I don’t want to insinuate that all of us are called to the foreign mission field. However, like Paul Washer says, even if we aren’t called to personally go down into the well (the foreign mission field), then we are most definitely called to hold the rope for those that God is calling down into the well. In order to be a faithful servant of God who is “holding the rope” in such a way that is honoring to God, we need to be as grounded as possible in the Word of God, and as educated as we can be on the various people groups we plan to have a part in reaching. In the book China’s Reforming Churches by Bruce P. Baugus, Christians everywhere are going to reap innumerable benefits from a historically accurate and bible-centered account of evangelical Christianity in the country of China. The world, but most especially the western hemisphere, has been in desperate need of a book just like this one to properly educate us on exactly what is going on in China, and how we can better serve our brothers and sisters in Christ there.
The book is laid out into four easy-to-read parts, with each part usually broken down into 3 (sometimes 4) separate chapters dealing with the overarching theme of that specific part. The four parts are as follows:
(1) The History of Presbyterianism in China
(2) Presbyterianism in China Today
(3) Challenges and Opportunities for Presbyterianism in China
(4) Appropriating a Tradition
Now, as someone who grew up loving history, I was extremely intrigued by Part 1, The History of Presbyterianism in China. I loved learning about the first Catholic and Protestant missionaries, when they first began preaching the Gospel to the Chinese, what was going on (historically speaking) in China at the same time these missionaries were trying to operate, etc. However, even I thought the first part was way more detailed than it needed to be, and would be much more effective if it was about 30-50 pages shorter than it was. Having said that, it still was an outstanding historical account of the rise of Presbyterianism in China, and I am much better off having read it.
The rest of the book is similarly detailed in its description of the Chinese Church as a whole; why Presbyterianism is being strongly promoted by the author as the most Christ-honoring, and biblically grounded, ecclesiastical method out there (though I would disagree with the author on this being a Reformed Baptist myself); what the current struggles are in the church and how they can be combated against with a Presbyterian ecclesiology; what role the Chinese government is playing in either hindering the Gospel, or actually helping it to expand; and what the future of the church in China looks like if they do, or don’t, accept a Presbyterian ecclesiology (and not just a reformed sotierology that picks and chooses what you want to practice and what you don’t want to practice).
After reading China’s Reforming Churches, I think I am actually erring on the side of caution when I say that 85% of western Christians will have their eyes radically open to what our brothers and sisters in Christ are actually experiencing in China. Thanks in large part to mass media’s desire to make things worse than they really are, most western Christians believe that the only way to hear and preach the Gospel is to be a part of an underground church. The next vision that plagues our thoughts is the fact that these Chinese Christians are severely persecuted for their faith (on an almost relentless basis), and that is just not entirely accurate. China’s Reforming Churches is a must-read for any Christian who desires to know more about the Chinese Church and how we can accurately pray for them and serve them. My personal prayer is that God would use this book to burden more believers to either go down the well, or hold the rope faithfully for those that God is calling to go down the well and serve the Chinese people.
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher through Cross Focused Reviews.
The book is laid out into four easy-to-read parts, with each part usually broken down into 3 (sometimes 4) separate chapters dealing with the overarching theme of that specific part. The four parts are as follows:
(1) The History of Presbyterianism in China
(2) Presbyterianism in China Today
(3) Challenges and Opportunities for Presbyterianism in China
(4) Appropriating a Tradition
Now, as someone who grew up loving history, I was extremely intrigued by Part 1, The History of Presbyterianism in China. I loved learning about the first Catholic and Protestant missionaries, when they first began preaching the Gospel to the Chinese, what was going on (historically speaking) in China at the same time these missionaries were trying to operate, etc. However, even I thought the first part was way more detailed than it needed to be, and would be much more effective if it was about 30-50 pages shorter than it was. Having said that, it still was an outstanding historical account of the rise of Presbyterianism in China, and I am much better off having read it.
The rest of the book is similarly detailed in its description of the Chinese Church as a whole; why Presbyterianism is being strongly promoted by the author as the most Christ-honoring, and biblically grounded, ecclesiastical method out there (though I would disagree with the author on this being a Reformed Baptist myself); what the current struggles are in the church and how they can be combated against with a Presbyterian ecclesiology; what role the Chinese government is playing in either hindering the Gospel, or actually helping it to expand; and what the future of the church in China looks like if they do, or don’t, accept a Presbyterian ecclesiology (and not just a reformed sotierology that picks and chooses what you want to practice and what you don’t want to practice).
After reading China’s Reforming Churches, I think I am actually erring on the side of caution when I say that 85% of western Christians will have their eyes radically open to what our brothers and sisters in Christ are actually experiencing in China. Thanks in large part to mass media’s desire to make things worse than they really are, most western Christians believe that the only way to hear and preach the Gospel is to be a part of an underground church. The next vision that plagues our thoughts is the fact that these Chinese Christians are severely persecuted for their faith (on an almost relentless basis), and that is just not entirely accurate. China’s Reforming Churches is a must-read for any Christian who desires to know more about the Chinese Church and how we can accurately pray for them and serve them. My personal prayer is that God would use this book to burden more believers to either go down the well, or hold the rope faithfully for those that God is calling to go down the well and serve the Chinese people.
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher through Cross Focused Reviews.
July 5, 2014
China’s Reforming Churches
Mission, Polity, and Ministry in the Next Christendom
Edited by Bruce P. Baugus
336 pages
Published by Reformation Heritage Books
As a high school Bible teacher in Portland Oregon why would I choose to read a book like this? It is a book on China and her growth as a Christian nation, specifically how this growth can be encouraged through a reformed mindset and a Presbyterian style of church governance. Right up my alley right? Wrong. I have no intention of going on mission to China, nor am I a part of a Presbyterian style church and my church is reformed but just barely. So why did I jump at the chance to read this book and why should you read my review?
The answer is that I read it because of the thousands of Chinese students studying abroad here in America, and specifically the larger and larger numbers of students coming to my little school from China. I as many Americans viewed China in the post Tiananmen’s Square Massacre mindset, that China hates democracy, freedom and especially Christianity. I wanted to read this book to see if that were the case and figure out how to better minister to the many students I have from this gigantic country.
The editor Baugus wasted no time in blowing up my stereotypes, as he laid out the size and scope of this book’s challenge in representing China fairly and accurately. I was amazed at the size of China and the diverse landscape it is. Just the numbers alone should let us know that this place is of incredible importance for the future of Christianity.
This book is broken up into four sections: The History of Presbyterianism in China, Presbyterianism in China Today, Challenges and Opportunities for Presbyterianism in China and Appropriating a Tradition. Now don’t let these section titles dissuade you from reading this book, just because Presbyterianism is a focus of this book does not mean you must be one to get something out of this book. Because I am not a Presbyterian and yet I was encouraged and learned greatly from this book. In fact it is not totally clear to me, as an outsider to Presbyterianism, how exactly Presbyterianism actually works. But that is not a part of the scope of this book (but maybe it should have been).
The best way to sum up what I got from this book can be found in a quote from page 99 of the book: “The great task facing the West over the next century will be to make sense of China—not in our terms but in theirs. We have to understand China as it is and as it has been, not project our own history, culture, institutions and values onto it. It will always fail that test. In truth such a mentality tells us more about our own arrogance and lack of curiosity than anything about China.” (Quote from Martin Jacques) This is the strength of this book from my perspective; it literally blew up my preconceived views of China. Instead of it being a communist country that hates all things Christian it is more like a country coming out of a dark (red) past trying to make sense of the pluralism of our world. China will remain a mystery for many but a book like this can help us see the world as they see it and hopefully help them see their need for Christ more clearly. I was encouraged by this book in how I should approach my Chinese students and I was shown how I should pray for my brothers and sisters in China, for both I am incredibly grateful.
4 ½ stars, highly recommended.
Mission, Polity, and Ministry in the Next Christendom
Edited by Bruce P. Baugus
336 pages
Published by Reformation Heritage Books
As a high school Bible teacher in Portland Oregon why would I choose to read a book like this? It is a book on China and her growth as a Christian nation, specifically how this growth can be encouraged through a reformed mindset and a Presbyterian style of church governance. Right up my alley right? Wrong. I have no intention of going on mission to China, nor am I a part of a Presbyterian style church and my church is reformed but just barely. So why did I jump at the chance to read this book and why should you read my review?
The answer is that I read it because of the thousands of Chinese students studying abroad here in America, and specifically the larger and larger numbers of students coming to my little school from China. I as many Americans viewed China in the post Tiananmen’s Square Massacre mindset, that China hates democracy, freedom and especially Christianity. I wanted to read this book to see if that were the case and figure out how to better minister to the many students I have from this gigantic country.
The editor Baugus wasted no time in blowing up my stereotypes, as he laid out the size and scope of this book’s challenge in representing China fairly and accurately. I was amazed at the size of China and the diverse landscape it is. Just the numbers alone should let us know that this place is of incredible importance for the future of Christianity.
This book is broken up into four sections: The History of Presbyterianism in China, Presbyterianism in China Today, Challenges and Opportunities for Presbyterianism in China and Appropriating a Tradition. Now don’t let these section titles dissuade you from reading this book, just because Presbyterianism is a focus of this book does not mean you must be one to get something out of this book. Because I am not a Presbyterian and yet I was encouraged and learned greatly from this book. In fact it is not totally clear to me, as an outsider to Presbyterianism, how exactly Presbyterianism actually works. But that is not a part of the scope of this book (but maybe it should have been).
The best way to sum up what I got from this book can be found in a quote from page 99 of the book: “The great task facing the West over the next century will be to make sense of China—not in our terms but in theirs. We have to understand China as it is and as it has been, not project our own history, culture, institutions and values onto it. It will always fail that test. In truth such a mentality tells us more about our own arrogance and lack of curiosity than anything about China.” (Quote from Martin Jacques) This is the strength of this book from my perspective; it literally blew up my preconceived views of China. Instead of it being a communist country that hates all things Christian it is more like a country coming out of a dark (red) past trying to make sense of the pluralism of our world. China will remain a mystery for many but a book like this can help us see the world as they see it and hopefully help them see their need for Christ more clearly. I was encouraged by this book in how I should approach my Chinese students and I was shown how I should pray for my brothers and sisters in China, for both I am incredibly grateful.
4 ½ stars, highly recommended.
August 13, 2014
So, I don’t think I’ve ever read & review a Non-fiction book on here before...I’ve done a biography about a model and a devotional for Moms but never a non-fiction. Today will be the first!
“China’s Reforming Churches” edited by Bruce P. Baugus
About this book:
“China is now home to more evangelical believers than any other nation, and the church continues to grow and make inroads in every level of Chinese society. Such dramatic growth, against the backdrop of modern China, has produced profound and urgent church development needs. As faithful Chinese ministers strive to meet these needs, an increasing number are discovering the rich biblical and theological resources of the Reformed tradition and Presbyterian polity. This is a critical moment in the life of China s reforming churches and the Presbyterian and Reformed mission to China. This book provides both a historical look at Presbyterianism in China and an assessment of the current state of affairs, orienting readers to church development needs and the basic outlines of Reformed Christianity in China today. While laying out the challenges and opportunities facing the church, the authors argue that assisting this reformation in China should be a central objective of the Presbyterian and Reformed mission to China in this generation.”
My thoughts:
For those who don’t know, I’m learning Mandarin. When this book popped up for review I jumped at it! “China’s Reforming Churches” is in four parts; Here’s my thoughts on each part:
Part 1: The History of Presbyterianism in China.
As I posted on Goodreads for a status update: So. Much. History. A good amount went over my head, only unless I was 100% focused on what I’m reading. It was very interesting to read about all the people witnessing in China.
Part 2: Presbyterianism in China Today.
For some reason, I thought this whole book would be like Part 2…just about China today. So, needless to say this has been my favorite part. (Next to the great map of China in the front! All the major cities and Provinces. So very neat!)
Part 3: Challenges and Opportunities for Presbyterianism China.
This is the part I’m currently in. While I like it, it does talk about things that are not going well in China…which is hard for me to read. :(
Part 4: Appropriating a Tradition.
Haven’t got to this part yet, but it sure sounds interesting!
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
“China’s Reforming Churches” is 336 pages and I’m currently on 177. Since my review is now posted, I’m going to take my time reading it and try to adsorb everything it's talking about. :)
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from Cross Focused Reviews for this review.
“China’s Reforming Churches” edited by Bruce P. Baugus
About this book:
“China is now home to more evangelical believers than any other nation, and the church continues to grow and make inroads in every level of Chinese society. Such dramatic growth, against the backdrop of modern China, has produced profound and urgent church development needs. As faithful Chinese ministers strive to meet these needs, an increasing number are discovering the rich biblical and theological resources of the Reformed tradition and Presbyterian polity. This is a critical moment in the life of China s reforming churches and the Presbyterian and Reformed mission to China. This book provides both a historical look at Presbyterianism in China and an assessment of the current state of affairs, orienting readers to church development needs and the basic outlines of Reformed Christianity in China today. While laying out the challenges and opportunities facing the church, the authors argue that assisting this reformation in China should be a central objective of the Presbyterian and Reformed mission to China in this generation.”
My thoughts:
For those who don’t know, I’m learning Mandarin. When this book popped up for review I jumped at it! “China’s Reforming Churches” is in four parts; Here’s my thoughts on each part:
Part 1: The History of Presbyterianism in China.
As I posted on Goodreads for a status update: So. Much. History. A good amount went over my head, only unless I was 100% focused on what I’m reading. It was very interesting to read about all the people witnessing in China.
Part 2: Presbyterianism in China Today.
For some reason, I thought this whole book would be like Part 2…just about China today. So, needless to say this has been my favorite part. (Next to the great map of China in the front! All the major cities and Provinces. So very neat!)
Part 3: Challenges and Opportunities for Presbyterianism China.
This is the part I’m currently in. While I like it, it does talk about things that are not going well in China…which is hard for me to read. :(
Part 4: Appropriating a Tradition.
Haven’t got to this part yet, but it sure sounds interesting!
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
“China’s Reforming Churches” is 336 pages and I’m currently on 177. Since my review is now posted, I’m going to take my time reading it and try to adsorb everything it's talking about. :)
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from Cross Focused Reviews for this review.
July 16, 2014
History has proven that under persecution the church has grown and China is proving that even now. With relaxed restrictions, the church is seeing growth and with the growth, the culture is changing. A stark contrast to what is happening in the west. In the west the culture is changing the church instead of the church changing the culture. I am convinced that persecution is the only way for the church to change the culture.
China’s Reforming Churches is done in 4 parts systematically with notes included at the end of each chapter. Starting with the history of Christianity in China leading to part 2 with the language, culture, history, institutions and values of China, how can Christianity be presented to the Chinese to make it their own way of life. Part 3 builds on the 2 conflicting Kingdoms and covenants. The Noahic covenant, the common grace that affects all of mankind that does not promise redemption and the Abrahamic covenant is the redemptive covenant thru Christ and his work. Part 4 is the written word and the power of the word in the language of the people.
All 4 parts address the problems, areas of concern, and the commitment involved to bring about the Glory of God thru his written word to the Chinese people. It has made me more aware of the potential fruit and the need to emphasize the relevancy and applicability of biblical doctrines. As I was reading I came to the realization that thru the growth of the Chinese Church, our only hope is for us to see how we have failed here in the west through a superficial, arrogant, and naïve disregard of history, that we are not building on the rock of basic biblical doctrine but we are exposing the church to the same cults and heresies that have plagued God’s people in the past.
For the Christian, this book is twofold. One is an argument for reformed theology to further Christianity and for the Chinese to build their own leaders and two for us to see how we have westernized Christianity that it lacks power to change the culture.
A complimentary review copy was provided to me by Cross Focused Reviews (A Service of Cross Focused Media, LLC). I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own
China’s Reforming Churches is done in 4 parts systematically with notes included at the end of each chapter. Starting with the history of Christianity in China leading to part 2 with the language, culture, history, institutions and values of China, how can Christianity be presented to the Chinese to make it their own way of life. Part 3 builds on the 2 conflicting Kingdoms and covenants. The Noahic covenant, the common grace that affects all of mankind that does not promise redemption and the Abrahamic covenant is the redemptive covenant thru Christ and his work. Part 4 is the written word and the power of the word in the language of the people.
All 4 parts address the problems, areas of concern, and the commitment involved to bring about the Glory of God thru his written word to the Chinese people. It has made me more aware of the potential fruit and the need to emphasize the relevancy and applicability of biblical doctrines. As I was reading I came to the realization that thru the growth of the Chinese Church, our only hope is for us to see how we have failed here in the west through a superficial, arrogant, and naïve disregard of history, that we are not building on the rock of basic biblical doctrine but we are exposing the church to the same cults and heresies that have plagued God’s people in the past.
For the Christian, this book is twofold. One is an argument for reformed theology to further Christianity and for the Chinese to build their own leaders and two for us to see how we have westernized Christianity that it lacks power to change the culture.
A complimentary review copy was provided to me by Cross Focused Reviews (A Service of Cross Focused Media, LLC). I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own
July 15, 2014
This is a really good book. It's divided into various sections which vary in their usefulness and each chapter is written by a different author. The book begins with a history of presbyterian missions to China from the UK, the USA and from Korea, together with a historical perspective of the reformed churches and seminaries. Perhaps more controversial are the chapters on Two Kingdom teaching and on the exegesis of Acts 15. However the book is a cracker and rewards careful readers richly.
June 7, 2015
The book gets four stars in part because so little is comprehensively known about the church in China. The book itself is rather sparse on data on the church in China but rather traces the history of Reformed Christianity in China and identifies certain trends. Additionally, it makes several theological arguments for Presbyterianism, which are not necessarily specific to China. It's a great primer for the Reforming churches in China and dispelled a number of commonly-held myths.
July 6, 2014
This book is a must-read for anyone that identifies with the Reformed tradition and has a heart for China. Full review on my blog.
December 9, 2015
Really in-depth and hard to get through but worth the read if you are interested. Also, I recommend this book for Presbyterians because that is what the book is about- Presbyterian churches in China.
July 13, 2014
You can read my review at http://awonderfulprovidence.blogspot.....
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews