The Changing Role of Foreign Workers in China Paul Lee Do Foreigners Still Have a Place in China Service? Page 1

Fall 2009 Perspectives and analysis for those who serve China Vol. 11 No. 3

in this issue...

The Changing Role of Foreign Workers

The Changing Role of Foreign Workers in China Paul Lee Do foreigners still have a place in China service? Page 1

Looking Backwards and Forwords A CS Interview conducted by Kay Danielson How have foreign workers changed over the years and what skills do they need for today’s China? J. Legge Page 5

Biblical Mandates, God’s The Changing Role of Calling and Overseas Workers in China John Thomas Foreign Workers in China Paul Lee God’s calling and the Scriptures strongly influence ecently, I found myself counseling three foreigners the foreigner worker’s role. Page 7 who, with many tears, told me they had just been told to leave China by a Taiwanese/American pastor What Churches in China who boasted to them that he was “the leader of 1,000 Need Today: The Living Water Rchurches in China.” He told them they could have no fruitful ministry Huo Shui in China because they are white. There are key areas that agencies need to consider for One of the three, a young, white, Western topic at hand. their involvement in China. Page 9 woman, has, in the past 18 months, been used History gives us another example of this by the Holy Spirit to lead 26 Chinese high complicated clash of East and West while God The Unique Role of schoolers to faith in Christ and is establishing has been building the Chinese part of his Foreigners in Present them in a church in a place which previously church—the Three Self Movement of the Day China had no functional body. 1930s. The objectives of the movement were Dwight Nordstrom A Chinese national who heard this story to make the church in China self-governing, and Andy Yi responded: “Why does one foreigner believe self-propagating and self-sustaining. I believe Who are the foreigners that that he has the right to tell other foreigners these objectives in themselves were quite have gone to China in the that God cannot use them in China? Isn’t this healthy, seeking to fulfill God’s desire to ma- past and today? Page 12 God’s business?” Good questions are the right ture the indigenous church. However, there ones and underline the complicated situation were also those in the movement who saw it as and many opinions which revolve around the Continued on page 3 China PERSPECTIVE

ChinaSource serves the What if We’re international faith-based community by identifying critical issues, formulating strategies, convening Out Tomorrow? resources and evaluating results for Brent Fulton, Editor the promotion of responsible and effective service in China. t happened again this week. A sea- they bear repeating in the current context. The purpose of the ChinaSource soned, long-term foreign worker who Invest in People, not Projects. Talk to journal is to provide up-to-date has spent the better part of his life seek- local believers whose lives have been posi- and accurate analysis of the issues Iing to serve the people of China has been tively impacted by foreigners in China, and and opportunities facing Christians involved in China service and to denied a visa to remain in the country. you will learn that the foreigners placed a provide a forum for exchanging Another wake-up call? high premium on friendship. They realized viewpoints and discussing strategies. Decades of relative freedom and unprec- that their calling was first to serve, and that The views expressed herein do edented openness to those from outside this service needed to take place in the con- not necessarily reflect those of ChinaSource or its cooperating China have created a sense of near invinci- text of relationships, not primarily by dis- agencies. bility among many serving in China, par- pensing programs or building structures, as ticularly those who remember the important as these activities may be. ChinaSource (ISSN 1552-9223) is draconian policies of an earlier day when Build Local Capacity. As Huo Shui published quarterly by ChinaSource. foreigners could only live in certain parts of points out in this issue, foreign teachers Copyright © 2009 by ChinaSource. the city and all purchases had to be made have done much in past decades to equip

Editor: Brent Fulton Much energy, effort and resources can go into

Managing Editor: Julia Grosser strategies for staying long-term in China.

Layout & Design: Dona Diehl with Foreign Exchange Certificates. Chinese church leaders. Yet, going forward, Yet it happens often enough—a foreign- the emphasis needs to be on investing in er with years of China experience suddenly those who will equip their peers. SUBSCRIPTIONS finds that the welcome mat has been with- Be Catalytic. Aim to build relationships Subscription rates: drawn—reminding even the most well- that result in local people and resources USA: $29/yr., $54/2 yrs., $79/3 yrs. meaning, law-abiding foreign Christian coming together to accomplish more than International: $39/yr, $74/2 yrs. worker that his or her status is by no means you as a foreigner will be able to do alone. Email: [email protected] guaranteed. Those whom you connect will thank you, Order online at: The point of raising this issue here is not and, should you need to leave prematurely, www.chsource.org/Journal.htm to send a chill through organizations that the work will go on in your absence. have significant numbers of workers in Much energy, effort and resources can go ChinaSource may be requested from: China. Rather, it is to ask, as several of the into strategies for staying long-term in Chi- authors in this issue of ChinaSource also na. However, such strategies can easily end ChinaSource, P.O. Box 4343 ask, “What is our role?” Long-term service up defining one’s purpose for being there, Fullerton, CA 92834 is, for a good many, a reality; yet it is by no and, when they become an end in them- means a given. How should we serve in selves, can be self-defeating. A more pre- Phone: 714.974.2400 E-mail: [email protected] such a way that, even if we were out tomor- scient approach would be to begin with the row, our positive contribution would con- end in mind; acknowledge that one is not ChinaSource reserves the right tinue? Or, to put it another way, how to going to be in country forever and define an to transition the international leave behind the sweet aroma of Christ and exit strategy that will result in lasting fruit. version to an electronic format to not the odor of a mess that others will have improve service and offset postage Brent Fulton rate increases. All rights reserved. to clean up in our absence? , Ph.D., is the president of No part of this publication may be While several of the following points have ChinaSource and the editor of the China- reproduced or transmitted without been made in previous issues of this journal, Source journal. z prior written permission of the publisher. ChinaSource / Fall 2009 The Changing Role of Foreign Workers in China es habits, thinking and practices which Christlike transformation. We must pas- continued from page 1 to some degree subvert the biblical mod- sionately set aside our own and Chinese more of an anti-Western campaign and el of personal spirituality and church cultural sins and replace these with in the process threw out all affiliation practice. We have all been trained by our Christian culture. Our usefulness to with the body of Christ outside of Chi- past, within our culture, to tend toward God’s purposes in China is directly de- na. Others rightfully saw it as a move to certain emphases which are clearly anti- pendent on our willingness to embrace separate the Christlike influences on the Christian. For example, among other such a transformation. Our being trans- church from the unbiblical. The under- things, American Christians are trained formed is directly dependent on whether lying reality in all of this is complex. to emphasize personal comfort, strong or not we are presenting ourselves, by There is no simple answer. independence from the body of Christ, the mercies of God, as living and holy Do foreigners still have a place in Chi- spiritual pride and an intellectual (rather sacrifices, to God’s purpose (which is… na service? An easy answer flows from than relational) approach to God. These, worship. Romans 12:1-2). The life of Je- simply recognizing that both historically when transported to China, are severe- sus, instead of our personality and cul- and today, God has, and is, clearly using ly destructive to God’s desires for the ture, is revealed as we worship in spirit people from throughout his body to ac- church here. We can write correspond- and in truth. complish his purposes here. Anyone who ing lists for the Koreans, Taiwanese, Chi- Fortunately, our Father’s vision and tells you otherwise does not know much nese and others. The specific approach mission for fruitful ministry in China do about what God is doing spiritually in to cultural subversion of true Christian- not change over the years. Each year’s China. The person the Spirit uses for his ity is different, but still destructive, no objectives, however, and the daily activi- work is defined not by race or nationali- matter the source. ties to which we are called, are quite dif- ty. Rather, good and faithful servants are Western and overseas Chinese influ- ferent year after year if we are responding set apart by their daily embracing of a set ence on the growth of the Chinese to the guidance of the Spirit. Therefore, of core values which define and establish church is both essential and damaging. the church’s vision must always be Jesus them (whether Chinese nationals or foreigners) as someone through whom God is willing and able to reveal Jesus to the WE MUST PASSIONATELY SET ASIDE Chinese people. Here is my list of essential working our own and Chinese cultural sins practices for someone to be used by God and replace these wtih Christian culture. to fulfill his purposes: Mark 11:22-24, 12:30-31; John 4:23-24; 2 Corinthians 4:5-11; James 1:26-27, 4:6-10; Matthew Both groups are impacting the work in himself (Hebrews 12:1-3) and the true 28:19-20. Every China worker (expatriate many positive ways. Many from both worship of him (John 4:23-24, Romans or national) who embraces these as life- groups are still clinging to their belief 12:1), or we will be distracted, like Mar- guiding precepts will be used by the Holy that Christianity is an intellectual, rather tha (Luke 10:39-42) with task-orientation Spirit to reveal Jesus to the Chinese peo- than a relational based religion and that (evangelism, church-planting, creating ple. There are many Chinese nationals, we are called to obedience for the sake of seminaries, discipling, serving the poor) overseas born Chinese (OBCs) and West- obedience rather than for worship of and rather than lovingly worshiping Jesus ern expats who seek to live this way. God love for God which spring naturally himself. The tasks are necessary, of course, is zealously working through all of them. from living daily in his presence. We in God’s scheme, but are merely the fruit Unfortunately, there are also many from must be aggressive to keep the gods of of his life overflowing from ours when all three groups who are not being so ef- the Western and OBC church cultures our hearts are occupied with loving him fective. However, God is merciful and from becoming the gods of the Chinese personally rather than with attempting to gracious, so it is surprising how much church. Government suppression, I be- do something for him. good is often done through expatriate lieve,IN is MEMORY... God’s instrument for keeping a The church’s mission must be to reveal and national folly and immaturity. I be- full-fledged Western or OBC model Jesus in all his glory to the Chinese peo- lieve God sees the whole body of Christ from pushing aside the possibility of a ple by the power of the Spirit, from the when deciding who to spend fulfilling his biblical model. temple of Jesus’ body. Our goals and ac- purposes in China and is pleased to em- Chinese culture has enough anti- tivities (which too many of us are fo- power all who are truly laboring here for Christian tendencies without our contri- cused on as the foundation) must flow Jesus’ sake and by his precepts. butions. God is hoping to keep “ours” out as the fruit of our relationship with Every culture, and more specifically, from multiplying “theirs.” Our mission, Christ and be focused on the “equipping every Christian culture (American, Ko- no matter our specific baggage, must be of the saints for the work of service, to rean, Taiwanese, Chinese, etc.), embrac- to establish, in the church in China, the building up of the body of Christ;

Fall 2009 / ChinaSource until we all attain to the unity of the be spent by God to establish and build has become established, the nation- faith, and of the knowledge (epignosis— the Kingdom there. One team went out als lead and do the vast majority of this experiential knowledge—not merely to a site where there was one weak pastor work. Developing effective, godly lead- gnosis, or intellectual knowledge) of the overseeing 30 meeting points. He could ers is the new task. Son of God, to a mature man, to the see Jesus’ love and life in the pair and There are still, however, in Yunnan, a measure of the stature which belongs to quickly welcomed their help. They went majority of places where Christ is un- the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12-14). out often, discipling the leader, teaching, known and his body is absent or just The following story is a great example training, ministering, exhorting, and beginning. In either case, the primary of how the Holy Spirit empowers hum- most of all, modeling a life of worshipful approach to responding to any area has ble leaders who seriously embrace the sacrifice and love. changed. This essential task is now best generational propagation of true worship The previously weak pastor began accomplished through the building up and effective discipling. One white worshiping and learning more and was of national leaders who have become Westerner was, for several years, disci- led to disciple eight of his best leaders to God’s primary vessels in the direct work pled and prayed for daily by one old, re- disciple the other leaders of the thirty of expansion. Therefore, the need of ef- tired, American missionary. The meeting points. Within two years, 23 of fective leadership for churches and min- discipling emphasis was on true worship the 30 chose to leave the work on their istries has greatly increased and must and discipling others. The younger farms to their family and to work full become the new focus. We have moved worker brought many to Christ, estab- time as itinerant pastors, establishing two generations forward in our obedi- lished them in churches and then began churches in villages around their villag- ence to 2 Timothy 2:2. Paul, at this discipling and praying for eight of the es which before had none. A visiting writing, was no longer working day by day with Timothy; rather, he was writing letters to equip Timothy to equip MANY GEOGRAPHIC AREAS other faithful men who would then equip more faithful men. Our daily ac- where two decades ago there tivities must, as did Paul’s, respond to were no Christians now have many. the changing need. In my opinion, the new focus must be on establishing effective, godly lead- national pastors he had placed in charge pastor from a neighboring province saw ership within the national church. It is of the churches. He taught them what what the Spirit was doing and asked the time for “foreigners” (most mainland he had been taught. Over time, listening group to come and help the church in Christians include the Taiwanese, Sin- to the constant emphasis, the national his area do something similar. They joy- gaporeans, Hong-Kong, and other pastors realized that the future of the fully went out to help. Overseas Born Chinese in this category) church in their area was dependent on This story is really not that unusual. who believe they are the best people to whether or not they could learn to “wor- The spontaneous expansion of the be the leaders of Chinese churches and ship in spirit and in truth.” If they could, church (Roland Allen) wherever hearts ministries to use a more biblical model. all the necessary fruit would be estab- are sacrificially presenting themselves In the long run, the Chinese church lished through them and God would to God can be counted on. Howev- will be far better led, far more fruitful have his way. Whether it was wisdom, er, observe the role of the foreign work- and far more acceptable to the govern- gifts or fruit of the spirit, knowledge of er as the story above changes with time. ment when nationals are the leaders. For the Word, courage, faith, comfort or Early on, he is evangelist/discipler/ now, we foreigners are, in many settings, whatever else they lacked, as long as they church planter. This quickly chang- being used by God as his vessels to grow were presenting themselves to God as es into discipler/leader developer. If that leadership. We need to be taking living and holy sacrifices (Romans 12:1), we are responding to the needs of the this task seriously and willing to give up this worship would bring the Spirit’s em- changing situation, our daily activities our personal positions of leadership. Paul powerment of effective ministry. The (but not our vision or mission) neces- regularly established locals who had just Spirit began growing their character, un- sarily change. Many geographic areas recently heard the name of Jesus for the derstanding, skills and relationship with where two decades ago there were no first time as the leaders of their churches. God, empowering their lives and minis- Christians now have many. Other plac- There were problems, but I strongly sus- tries more and more. es where Christians were present, the pect the Holy Spirit was the author of During a prayer session one day, they church has matured and grown signifi- this approach. Often, after just a few were moved by the Spirit to divide into cantly. Where evangelism, training and months, Paul had relatively little input four teams of two, prayerfully assign discipling of immature believers was the into most of the churches that were es- each team specific surrounding areas and task before, today, wherever the church Continued on page 15

ChinaSource / Fall 2009 Looking Backwards and Forwards A ChinaSource Interview conducted by Kay Danielson

CH came to China in the 1980s as a student, serving with an organization focused on campus work. China was in the early stages of “opening up” at that time, so there was little time (or knowledge to tap) for orientation and training. He still lives in China and, although is now involved in business ventures, continues to Kadvise his organization on urban work.

I recently caught up with KCH via ties between China’s major cities and CS: What are the key skills/con- Skype to get some of his thoughts and its smaller, provincial cities, workers cepts needed for today’s workers com- reflections on how things have today have many immediate connec- ing to China? changed for foreign workers in the tion points with students and young KCH: People coming today need to past 25 years. professionals in Beijing, Shanghai and be (and generally are) much more pro- Guangzhou. ficient in basic serving skills that can CS: How have incoming workers be utilized within the “tracks” (in our changed over the past 25 years, in CS: What were the requisite case, sharing one’s faith and helping terms of attitude, level of commit- skills/concepts needed for workers 25 new believers to grow) that have long ment and effectiveness? years ago? since been laid down. Because of the KCH: Because China is more KCH: In the early 1980s we needed growth and scope of the house church known to the world now, there is more adventurers and pioneers. Everything in China, there is a growing need for of a general awareness of what China was new and unknown. China had those who can interact with the leader- is like. There isn’t that wide-eyed “I been closed and there had been no for- ship in theological training, mentor- have no idea what I’m getting into” at- eign workers here since the early ing, church mission and role in society. titude of the early days when China 1950s. The state of the church was This requires someone with consider- was far less known to the world. largely unknown and no one had been ably more life experience than a 22 Almost all people coming long term involved in campus ministry since be- year old just out of college. (defined as three years or more) now fore the revolution. In organizational leadership we need have been here at least once on a We needed pioneering spirits and planners and strategists who look at short-term trip. As such, long-term experimenters to go out and try new the next 10 to 20 years and beyond. commitment by and large requires a things in an environment about which The 1980s were our “startup” phase. short-term experience first. we were largely ignorant. The work We are now more mature and settled Generally, workers are now much was slow and was all about trial and er- and need to not only consolidate gains more effective (although this is not ror. It was very much like the old but understand how to move forward. necessarily because they are better method of knowing when pasta is I believe this is true not just for an or- trained). The gap in terms of world- done cooking—you throw a few noo- ganization like ours, but for the whole view, knowledge of the world, knowl- dles against the kitchen wall, and if of serving in the name of Christ and edge of spiritual things in China in they stick, they are done. We threw a building up the church in China. 2009 is much smaller than it was in lot of noodles against the wall in those 1982. At that time you simply could days hoping that a few would stick. It CS: How have the changes in the not have a conversation about a per- was a messy way of serving, but ex- church impacted the skills/concepts sonal loving God—it made no sense ploring generally is messy. needed for incoming workers? whatsoever to a young person living in Today, organizations don’t need KCH: In the 1980s the church had China at that time. They had no grid many pioneers. I know it is a gross a more inward and fundamentalist to process that concept. Now they do, generalization, but there isn’t that view of faith. Prior to this, the inward and so it is easier to get into conversa- much more pioneering on a large scale focus was simply a matter of preserva- tions. to do. Certainly there are still un- tion, particularly during the Cultural In addition, since the similarities reached people groups and areas of the Revolution. The gospel was viewed pri- between major cities of China and ma- country, but they are relatively small marily as having individual relevance. jor world cities like New York, London compared to the whole. We are now in a time where churches or Sydney are greater than the similari- (and faith in general) are looking to

Fall 2009 / ChinaSource engage society around them with their levels and types of service in China. I the country celebrates 80 years, can faith. There is a growing desire to look have long believed that it isn’t the pass- you speculate as to what the local 30 to 50 years out and ask, “What do port you hold that makes one more or church might look like? we want China to look like spiritually less effective, but skills, adaptability KCH: It’s only speculation, of in 2050?” We’ve seen what happened and a commitment to life-long learn- course. With the continued growth of in the West when the church pulled ing that determines this. In general, I both the church and the economy, the back and circled the wagons during would say that foreigners have a partic- church in China will join the US and the past 150 years. Growing parts of ularly important role to play in the fol- South Korea in contributing massively the Chinese church (and even relative- lowing areas: to missions. It will be globally con- ly young university students) don’t 1. Preparation for Chinese going nected and primarily urban. As these want to go down that road. Much of overseas for cross-cultural outreach. twin processes play out, the global cit- the community of those serving in The foreigners have already done this ies of New York, London, Tokyo, China wrestles with that because it is themselves and have much to offer. Mumbai, Buenos Aires, Shanghai and so long term and so difficult to mea- 2. Systems. We have had to wrestle Beijing will have more and more in sure. It requires a much longer com- with this and figure out ways to keep common with each other. Thus a per- mitment and staying power than we’re things going (and growing), raise funds, son’s nationality will likely be of less used to. In other words, we need those sustain efforts over time and, in general, concern (and barrier) in the future. It who have that commitment and stay- build an organizational framework. is likely that a Shanghainese will be ing power. 3. Mentors. We need older sea- more effective in sharing with a New soned people to be involved in this Yorker than someone from Houston CS: How has the role of the for- kind of work. There are many young would be. In many ways, this is a eign worker changed in the past 25 Chinese leaders who need models of game-changer. Finally, it is likely that years? organizational leadership, of parenting, there will be a great many more Chi- KCH: The focus then was much and figuring out how faith and work nese short-term missions trip to the more on sharing one’s faith personally go together. West than from the West to China. and experimenting. Because of the dis- 4. Helping to figure out the return- The church in the West is not exactly trust among people following the Cul- ee issue. More and more Chinese schol- doing a great job of drawing its own tural Revolution, in some ways it was ars are returning to China from the societies into a vibrant faith. easier for foreigners to talk to people. West. There are a few success stories We were often deemed as “safe” to here and there, but this issue has largely CS: Finally, consider this: a confide in. Foreigners can still easily been ignored. Those returning are gen- young person (mid to late twenties) share their faith, but increasingly Chi- erally not equipped to re-enter China as comes to you and says, “I want to nese are more effective. In looking at Christians, and the local church is not serve in China for the next twenty stats that separate foreign workers well equipped to receive them. years. What advice do you have for from Chinese workers we have noticed me?” How would you respond? (for a long time) that, while foreigners CS: What specific lessons do you KCH: Do an internship at Tim have more opportunities to share their think we have for the Chinese church Keller’s church in Manhattan for six to faith, Chinese have a higher response as it positions itself to be involved twelve months to get a feel for the ur- rate from those with whom they share. globally? ban element of life in China. Get an Language and cultural differences ob- KCH: I think we’ve gotten the sys- M.B.A. Accumulate a variety of expe- viously play a big part in this. tems thing pretty well figured out, so riences—university student; young Beyond this, foreigners in the early that’s one. I also think we’ve experi- professional; working with the local days were generally the theological mented well. There must be a culture of church. It’s important also to plan for trainers. The house church had little, if trial and error in a very positive sense. language study. I’m not saying that all any theological training, and they re- They will be going to cultures they of these have to be accomplished prior lied on foreigners to provide that. know nothing about and they’ll have to to coming to China; rather, they are all Now, there are many well-trained and experiment, but that isn’t a strong suit a part of what a person needs to be experienced Chinese pastors and theo- of this culture. In fact I tend to see it as considering as he/she plans for a life of logians to do this. a significant blind spot. This is not to ministry in China today. say we haven’t been guilty of gross arro- CS: What is the main role of the gance ourselves; we have. But there has foreign worker today? also been that positive view of explora- Kay Danielson has lived and worked in KCH: I believe that foreigners now tion and experimentation. China for 18 years and currently works z have key roles to play throughout all CS: Twenty years from now, as in the field of cross-cultural training.

ChinaSource / Fall 2009 Peter Lucinsky Biblical Mandates, God’s Calling and Overseas Workers in China John Thomas

s the role of foreign workers in China changing? Yes and no. The biblical mandates remain unchanged: go into all the world; make disciples of all nations; love your neighbor; build my church. These scriptural imperatives also remain unfinished. Is the role of the foreign Iworker changing? It depends on where the worker is and who he or she relates to. If the foreign worker is in an area and gifted by God. Independent of con- my church. These imperatives flow where there is little awareness of the text, the outside worker must remain from the character of God. From Gene- gospel, then proclamation is still a pri- faithful to God’s call. When God directs sis to Revelation, God’s heart for all mary task. If a church has begun to an individual to do something, the wise peoples of the world is evident. grow, then a mentoring role is very ap- course of action is to heed his voice. • Abraham (Gen. 22:18): “and propriate. As a group of churches fur- Our Father does know best. through your offspring all nations on ther develops, the outside worker may In all situations, the foreign worker earth will be blessed.” need to shift from mentor to partner. If needs to maintain and deepen a learner- • Israel (Psa. 67:1-2): “May God be a particular group is growing rapidly servant heart. gracious to us and bless us—that your and has stable, reproducing leadership, ways may be known on earth, your sal- then it may be time for the foreign The Mandates vation among all nations. worker to move on to another field. The foreign worker is motivated and • The Church (Matt 28:18-20; Luke Sometimes all of these situations can bound to the outreach mandates of 24:47; Mark 16:15; John 20:21; Acts coexist in close geographic proximity— scripture. We are familiar with many of 1:8.): The Great Commission is given especially in urban areas. them. Even as China changes, the com- five times, each time with a different The role of the foreign worker also mands, noted earlier, remain constant: wording to be certain we do not miss depends on who the foreign worker is. go into all the world; make disciples of the point. Each foreign worker is uniquely called all nations; love your neighbor; build • The End Times (Rev 7:9): “there

Fall 2009 / ChinaSource J. Legge before me was a great multitude that no These macro perspectives inform one could count, from every nation, long-term strategy and provide con- tribe, people and language.” text for the specifics of what to do. These imperatives and their expres- But ultimately, the service the for- sions are as relevant today in China as eign worker provides and how it is they were 100 years ago or 2000 years carried out is best determined by ago when first given to the church. The the people he or she is relating to. scriptural imperatives still remain unfinished. Situational Awareness The Ever Changing Is the role of the foreign worker China Mosaic changing? It depends on where the China is not a static monolith. Peo- worker is and who he or she relates ple may disagree on whether or not to. Foreign workers consciously or there is “One China” politically, but unconsciously make choices about there is not a single uniform China cul- who they are trying to reach and turally, economically or spiritually. The serve. For some it is a strategic deci- picture you see depends on what part of sion based on research and analysis. China is not a static monolith. this ever shifting, multilayered mosaic For others, it is part of a mystical you view and how far you are from the revelation from God. Yet others may clothing and shelter. Beyond a brief surface. be directed by relationships with locals identification of themselves as Chris- From a distance, many trends or colleagues. Sometimes, living condi- tians or an occasional prayer, they did emerge. These are not equally applica- tions and opportunities are decisive. nothing overtly spiritual. Days and ble across all of China but they are pat- With many foreign workers, it is a com- weeks later, they returned to many of terns relevant to numerous settings. bination of several of these factors. the same areas and were able to do a • Increasing gap between the rich However the foreign worker chooses great deal of direct sharing of the gospel and poor those he would serve, it is good to and started many churches. If the foreign worker is in an area where there is little awareness of the gos- One trend of note is the increasing pel, then proclamation is still a primary tolerance of authorities toward spiritu- task. Foreign worker Y brings people to faith in factory after factory. Everywhere ality of local Chinese. Many Christian leaders he goes, he is passionate about telling are finding ways that believers can be more visible. other of Christ, training all believers to win others and to share their faith, obey- ing the Word, training still others. • Rising personal income (especially maintain a current situational awareness If a church has begun to grow, then a in urban areas) of those individuals and their context. mentoring role is very appropriate. For- • Global economic crisis still work- For this, excellent language and cultural eign worker N meets regularly with a ing its way through China skills are essential. One or more trusted local leader to pray and discuss local • Migration from the countryside to local partners who are not influenced church situations. Together they look at urban areas by the potential for personal gain can the scriptures and decide next steps • Changing family dynamics (conse- provide invaluable insights. with specific individuals. quences of the one child policy; families One example of how those being As a group of churches further devel- separated by economic migration) served shape the ministry can be seen in ops, the outside worker may need to • Changing values regarding sexuali- the example of a team of local workers shift from mentor to partner. The same ty, marriage and divorce that traveled to Sichuan not long after foreign worker N, partners with local • Growing public discussion about the recent earthquakes. They found leader D, to choose appropriate tracts. values for individuals and society person after person, village after village, Together they find ways to produce and • Impact of internet and other media devastated, hungry and overwhelmed. distribute large quantities of these • Increasing openness of people to Without any formal disaster response printed materials. spirituality training, they discerned that the most If a particular group is growing rap- • Increasing tolerance of authorities Jesus thing to do was to take care of idly and has stable, reproducing leader- toward spirituality their practical needs for water, food, Continued on page 11

ChinaSource / Fall 2009 istock photo © james steidl VIEW from the Wall

What Churches in China Need Today: The Living Water Huo Shui

ver the past thirty years, will see the most growth. In fact, atten- overseas sending organiza- dance at rural churches has been very tions have earnestly stud- low. Most young and middle-aged ied the lessons gleaned adults have jobs in the cities; only the Othrough the experiences of modern day elderly, disabled and children stay in workers in China. These organizations the villages. The evangelistic emphasis many house churches face. The vast have subsequently modified their meth- has definitely shifted to the cities. How- majority of church leaders are not semi- ods and, in turn, have seen better re- ever, the discussion around cities should nary-trained. This lack of qualified sults. At the same time, however, China not be confined to mega-cities such as leaders is a reflection of how quickly has been constantly changing. The en- Beijing, Shanghai or Shenzhen. There churches in China have grown; it is also vironment and conditions for service are far more small and mid-sized cities indicative of the practical attitude Chi- today are vastly different than those in with populations between 100,000 and nese churches have toward formal theo- the past. The pace of this shift is often 500,000 which attract more of the vast, logical training. It is not that the not understood by Christians overseas. rural, labor force. The majority of these theological training is unavailable but Therefore, sharing the gospel in China smaller cities are often overlooked by that most training is geared toward today requires both eyes to be open— overseas agencies. In fact, these cities, meeting the needs of the moment. To- one eye toward lessons learned from the including some larger ones in central day, it is more urgent to raise the theo- past and one eye on the churches’ needs and western China, have almost no logical qualification of existing church in the present. workers from overseas. These smaller leaders than to strategically train the cities of China are the weak links that next generation of pastors. Small and Mid-Sized require fortification. Inadequate resources limit current Cities: Focus of Future training to a condensed format: a few Church Growth Theological Education: speakers address a quickly assembled After thirty years of open reform, the Short-Term Seminars to group from the area. Students have lit- Chinese economy has expanded rapidly. Systematic Training tle time to digest what they have One indicator of this expansion is the Because of its social makeup, the learned before heading back to their rate of urbanization. Government re- Chinese church had been in survival hectic ministries. This utilitarian style ports show that in the year 2008 fifty- mode for a long time. Church leaders of “catch-up” effort is a kind of last re- nine percent of the Chinese population were unlikely to have any formal theo- sort given the bigger political climate resided in towns and cities. This per- logical instruction or even any type of and similar to the earlier “learn now centage will continue to grow to seven- schooling. This lack of training was and apply now” approach during the ty or seventy-five percent within the very common in rural churches. Cultural Revolution. This patchwork next ten years. With this urban popula- In urban churches today, leaders, as method is unworkable in the hope of tion increase, the urban church should well as members, are much more likely developing a new generation of excel- grow as well. to have received higher education in- lent Christian leaders. In early 2009, Chinese house cluding some who have returned to For now, within the entire country, churches held their fourth urban con- China after studying abroad. This high- the Chinese government has generally ference. House church leaders from all er level of literacy and culture among suspended all active offensive action parts of the country convened to dis- church members demands leaders with against house churches. Other than a cuss church growth. Participants ac- comprehensive and systematic theologi- few specific locations and individual in- knowledged that the focus of Chinese cal training. As a result, having preach- cidents, the two sides are at a truce— house churches has shifted from rural ers with inferior qualifications, or house churches are still not recognized villages to cities, and urban churches having no preacher at all, is a challenge by the government but are not restrict-

Fall 2009 / ChinaSource ed by it either. This changeover is actu- nized both domestically and interna- seas Christians can help churches in ally a tremendous opportunity for tionally. Pooling resources together to China recognize the importance of strategic growth in the house churches. invest in seminaries in China should their internal systems, the significance Rather than focusing on increasing at- be the goal of every Christian organi- of democracy, transparency and open- tendance, they should put their efforts zation overseas. Otherwise, if and ness, and the principles and diversity into raising the quality of their leaders. when the Chinese government relaxes for governing a body of believers. Also, If every local house church were led by further its policies and legitimizes Christians from overseas should be a formally trained pastor or minister, house churches, churches throughout cautioned against over-emphasis on the entire house church movement the nation will find themselves in a any specific denomination or its tradi- would have a very different outlook. quandary of not having adequate pas- tions lest churches in China again fol- Overseas agencies should no longer tors, in both quantity and quality. low blindly one set of sectarianism. conduct brief training sessions in China Now is the time to invest in the future. but should instead invest in solid, long- Mission: Power for term theological education in order to Church Administration: Church Development develop gifted leaders who are sought Standardized Structure For a Christian, the foremost mis- after in every urban church. Short-term and Contents sion is to evangelize. A church without seminars and retreats are useful for In the past, external pressure forced missions is dead. However, when the church members who should in turn house churches in China to be cloaked authorities loosen their grasp on make sure the right pastors can receive in secrecy. A church’s leader, for securi- churches many churches become too either two or four-year advanced de- ty reasons, often made decisions uni- comfortable. Some white-collar grees in theology. It is difficult to gauge laterally. Under more normal churches in the cities become like the exact number of seminaries needed circumstances, particularly in cities, country clubs or social gathering plac- throughout China, but each province this authoritarian style of leadership es for their members. Rather than should have at least three and a mini- cannot bring about healthy church spreading the gospel, they spend their mum of 100 nation-wide. Every pro- growth. Many house churches, espe- time talking about themselves and vincial city with a population over cially the larger ones in the cities, have their family problems. China can nev- 500,000 should have a campus, totaling begun to put internal structures, er be changed by overseas workers 1,000 campuses in the entire country, guidelines and by-laws in place. This is alone without active sharing of the similar to the military school campuses not only a sign of maturity for the gospel by Chinese believers. Overseas set up by both the Communist Party house churches but a necessity to en- workers should aim to advance the and Kuomintang during the Sino-Japa- sure growth. Nevertheless, the social competence of witnessing among Chi- nese War. environment in China is very complex nese churches. Once a church enthusi- The process can be divided into two and varies widely from city to city. As astically participates in outreach, it will main stages. First, identify a select far as internal church administration, be transformed from the inside out, group of church ministers and leaders in terms of both the essentials and the and as it tries to equip others, it will in each province with a certain level of discretionary, there are no set patterns discover its own weaknesses. To help education and ministry experience and to follow. In addition, church denomi- each church in China to begin its own then send them to North America, Ko- nations do not exist in China. It is still missions work and to regard missions rea, the Philippines or Singapore for not clear what administrative model as an imperative, responsibility should two years of training. After receiving should be adopted by a particular be the goal of each and every Christian diplomas, they would become the church or if a standardized system for worker to China. teaching staff in future seminaries in all house churches is even needed. Another caution is to note that China. Second, local churches should Most churches are experimenting with sharing the gospel is about glorifying register education and training centers different approaches according to the God, not putting on a show for others in their own cities and recruit students leader’s understanding. to see. Often times when a person con- to learn from the formally trained fac- Many factors impact the way a siders missions, returning to Jerusalem ulties. Students should be selected by church is governed, including social or traveling through foreign lands local churches and should commit to geographic location (city verses coun- come to mind. They have big ambi- full-time study for at least fifty percent tryside), physical geographic location tions and big plans in faraway places of the duration of the training. If it is (coastal versus inland), and member but overlook the people around them. possible to form a coalition accredita- demographics. Other unique issues This is the deception of human vanity. tion board with members from semi- such as real estate ownership can also Where is the mission field? Right naries inside and outside China, the potentially affect church dynamics and where we are! Chinese churches have graduates would receive degrees recog- relationships within the body. Over- tasted God’s goodness and are now

10 ChinaSource / Fall 2009 ready to share with their own people. Biblical Mandates, God’s Calling and Over- bus stop or in the classroom. Foreign seas Workers in China, continued from page 8 Overseas Christians should make sure worker K, with strong serving gifts, believers and churches inside China ship, then it may be time for the foreign tends to be pulled to the practical needs understand this. worker to move on to another field. of others. Independent of context, the The same foreign worker N and local outside worker must remain faithful to Social Services: A Light on a partner S see each other only a few God’s call. The Apostle Paul exhorts all Lamp Stand before All People times each year. Over a meal, S shares believers to utilize their respective gifts Traditionally, Western churches are what God has been doing in his minis- (Romans 12:6-8). a source of social services and charity try. Together they rejoice and praise In all situations, the foreign worker work. This is one aspect the churches God for his unstoppable work. needs to maintain and deepen a learner- in China are lacking. Of course, the Sometimes all of these situations can servant heart. To neglect this habit is to recognition of Christianity and the le- coexist in close geographic proximity— fall victim to the psychological warfare gitimacy of house churches have especially in urban areas. One trend of schemes of the evil one. It is all too easy played a big role in the church’s social note is the increasing tolerance of au- to falsely presume the outsider is the ex- standing. As countless volunteers from thorities toward spirituality of local pert and inherently more mature. The house churches joined the relief effort Chinese. Many Christian leaders are often insidious and subconscious as- after the 2008 Sichuan earthquake, lo- finding ways that believers can be more sumption is that the Chinese church cal government and residents began to visible. In more than a few instances, must look like my church, my tradi- notice and applaud Christians’ social churches are seen as social organizations tion, when it grows up. The truth is services. However, opportunities of that contribute to society—and so they that the outsider and local have much this nature are rare and unique. With- should be. While the authorities find it to contribute to one another. out long-term and deliberate planning, difficult to officially acknowledge that churches and social services do not Christianity is the foundation of this Conclusions readily merge. Most churches are busy benefit, they know a good thing when Is China changing? Absolutely. Is the with their own affairs, worrying about they see it. However, this implicit affir- role of the foreign worker changing? Yes whether exposing their identities is mation does not apply to foreign work- and no. No, in the sense that people agreeable with the authorities. ers. High initiative with a low profile still need Jesus. The local church re- Will too much charity work impact remains a key to their long-term impact. mains a key expression of God’s pres- the church negatively? Very few even In general, trends highlight needs. ence on earth. Multiplying obedient consider service part of church survival Needs are opportunities where the for- disciples and growing leaders are focal or growth. Social work is just not part eign worker can serve. However, they points of the Great Commission. Yes, in of what a church is about. The reality is must always be filtered through biblical that individuals, churches and whole that there are too many social ills in principles. Service does not equate to groups of churches change and the for- China today. The government does not giving money. It is a dangerous assump- eign worker needs to be responsive to and cannot do anything for those who tion for the foreign worker to think that their needs. Neighborhoods, villages are subsisting on the margins of society. outside money is a great assistance to and cities are in flux. Old opportunities Therefore, local officials are willing and local needs. In most situations outside may end; new and significant ones are happy to see volunteers provide for the funds given directly to locals are a pri- ever emerging. needy. As long as a church is recognized mary corrupting factor and distort, if The foreign worker needs to remain in the community, it should proactively not destroy, long-term healthy growth true to his calling and gifts but respon- provide social services, concretely dem- of the church. sive to the context and people he serves. onstrating Christ’s love to its neighbors, He needs to vigilantly cultivate a learner- being a light on a lamp stand for God. The Worker servant heart. Together with local broth- Overseas churches have rich experience In addition to the local context and ers and sisters, these kinds of foreign in the area of social service and thus the needs of specific people, another workers will help meet the spiritual and have much to offer. What is more, if major factor affecting the role of the practical needs of people all across Chi- churches in China can shine in their so- foreign worker is who he or she is. na. Many more will come to faith. Local cial service work, it could one day very Each foreign worker is uniquely leaders will continuously be raised up. well lead to full acceptance by the gov- called and gifted by God. If the work- Churches will grow and multiply. In all ernment. er’s dominant spiritual gift is evange- these things, God will be glorified. lism, like a moth to a light, that worker Huo Shui is a former government politi- will be drawn to those who have yet to John Thomas has been a foreign worker cal analyst who writes from outside Chi- believe. Foreign worker C leads a Chi- in China for more than ten years. z na. Translation is by Alice Loh. z nese to a decision in her home, at the

Fall 2009 / ChinaSource 11 Photo courtesy Asia Tree Preservation (www.asiatreepresvervation.com) PEOPLES of China

The Unique Role of Foreigners in Present Day China Dwight Nordstrom and Andy Yi

n 1972, Nixon was the first from the domestic United States President to visit RMB. The FEC the People’s Republic of China. could only be used Six years later in 1978, Deng in certain locations, IXiaoping committed China to adopting which had significantly higher prices as the English language has virtually be- Open Door policies that promoted for- than the rest of the China market. It is come a prerequisite to higher education eign trade and economic investment. evident that over time, as China has and a requirement for business success. These historic events initiated a process progressed so has the role of foreigners. It was recently stated in an American which allowed for not only progress in Today, we can see that there is a sig- Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) trade, economic cooperation, and inter- nificant expansion of the role of non- China meeting that China will eventu- dependence, but also opened the doors nationals as well as their geographic ally become the world’s largest English for foreigners to enter China. Over 30 reach. Just within the realm of educa- speaking country. Many Chinese years later, China now has a population tion we can see that it is no longer the schools begin English classes when chil- of foreigners that exceeds 400,000. As case that students are simply coming dren are three and four years old. Chi-

With the broad range of opportunities for education and work, non-national Christians have a vast array of ways they can make a difference in China. No matter what their gifts, there are opportunities to reflect Christ to the Chinese people.

China has emerged as a major econom- over to China to study the Chinese lan- nese parents want their children to ic and political player globally, it is im- guage. In this day and age it is common learn English, and they want them to portant to reassess the unique role of to see students being attracted to a be taught by native English speakers. foreigners in present day China and much wider array of subjects, ranging Parents recognize the value English will how it has changed over time. from traditional degrees in chemical en- have for their children, and nowadays During the 80s and early 90s the gineering, electronics, economics or there is a considerable population that vast majority of non-national popula- business administration, to more alter- has the ability to pay the price for first- tion was limited to roles in government native studies such as Chinese medi- rate education in China or even taking (embassy staff), business, education cine, culture or martial arts. In the their child abroad for quality English (students and teachers) and tourists. 2006-2007 school year, there were more education. Historically this population of non-na- than 11,000 Americans studying in Twenty years ago foreigner teachers tionals was concentrated and restricted China. Just over ten years earlier, there were only permitted to teach at state to larger cities. Government restrictions were less than 1,400. owned universities, but today they are limited residence in other cities and Just as foreign students are learning a teaching all levels of both private and travel restrictions even restricted trips to much broader range of subjects, the op- public institutions. Some have even many areas of the country. As recently portunities to train and educate have started university and private training as 1995, non-nationals were required to expanded and broadened for foreign schools, which give greater freedoms in use foreign exchange certificates (FEC), teachers coming into China. English student interactions. Private preschools a completely separate currency system teachers are in higher demand than ever are paying teachers more than universi-

12 ChinaSource / Fall 2009 ty teacher’s salaries, and there are many in some of the larger multinational cor- ers that are considering coming to Chi- positions that are looking to be filled. porations, China has continually devel- na, it is important to understand what In the business world, foreigners are oped its living standards and loosened roles and behaviors are appropriate and providing training in management for restrictions so that there is much less of what to avoid. As with any country, it is many Chinese individuals that previ- a justification for providing any sort of important for foreigners to approach ously did not have leadership opportu- premium compensation. In fact, many China with a humble and respectful at- nities available to them. Gone are the foreigners are choosing to go to China titude. It is ill advised to come to China days when foreigners held all executive directly out of school and on their own with an attitude of superiority. In colo- and high level positions in multination- initiative instead of being sent over by nial history, foreigners were regarded as al companies. Foreigners are now verti- companies. This new subgroup of rich as well as arrogant in their treatment cally integrated in all levels of business. young inexperienced foreigners can be of Chinese. Foreigners and Chinese lo- There are now foreigners in China described as “half-pats.” With the low cals can mutually benefit each other by ranging from owning their own busi- costs of living in China, it can be ex- sharing each other’s cultures and ideas. ness, to mid-level managers, all the way pected that many foreigners will be paid The progress China has experienced down to unpaid interns who are simply even less than their counterparts back also has had an impact on the role of interested in learning how business home. This, however, should not defer foreign Christians in China. Today, the works in China. Though there is still any foreigners from coming to China; Chinese government estimates 21 mil- considerable government interference, there has actually been significant prog- lion registered Catholics and Protes- foreigners are learning the processes and ress that has made it considerably easier tants which is a fifty percent increase regulations to start up their own busi- for foreigners to reside in China. In from less than ten years ago. These sta- nesses with increasing efficiency. Fur- fact, not only are there more foreigners tistics do not even account for the un- thermore, many of the previously today than back in the 80s and 90s, but registered churches. According to foreign dominated high-level positions they are staying for a much longer peri- estimates from the World Christian Da- are now occupied by nationals. This od of time. Back then, it was rare for tabase there are 70 million Christians change is largely due to the fact that people to stay longer than five years; now in China which accounts for five many Chinese are now proficient in nowadays there is a significant popula- percent of the population. With the English. Armed with foreign education tion of foreigners that have been in broad range of opportunities for educa- and a global outlook, many Chinese are China ten years or more. tion and work, non-national Christians returning to China to become very in- Today with advancements such as have a vast array of ways they can make fluential in policy, business, education, the internet, cheap phone calls, high a difference in China. No matter what and cultural change. There is now a speed trains, higher education and over- their gifts, there are opportunities to re- much higher integration of different all openness to foreigners, non-nation- flect Christ to the Chinese people. nationalities in the workforce. National als can live comfortably in any of the Through relationships foreigners have background has become irrelevant; hir- 500 cities in China. Many foreign fami- cultivated with Chinese nationals in the ing is based solely on merit. lies consider China to be their home; workplace, at the university, and phil- The compensation gap between for- this previously was not the case. Words anthropic organizations, the average eigners and nationals has decreased over such as “bicultural” or “third culture” Chinese now has a much deeper under- time. For foreigners, those working in are used to describe foreign children standing of Christianity. Salt and light China will often receive a lower com- born in China. Often these children can truly permeate each area of Chinese pensation than those working back in grow up with no ties or life with their society. their home countries. Years ago, high home country. An increasing number of level and experienced foreigners, known non-nationals are now seeking the “al- Andy Yi, B.S., M.S., is a commissioned as “expats,” were sent by their firms to most unattainable” permanent resident officer in the United States Marine Corps China and expected a higher compensa- status, allowing them to forego the has- and served four years of active duty in- tion than their counterparts back home. sle of constantly updating visas and cluding in Iraq and the Horn of Africa. This was due to the perception that em- maintain a permanent status. Although Currently he is interning as a Project ployees were entitled to a hardship pre- it is still uncommon for foreigners to Manager at Pacific Resource Internation- mium and making a sacrifice to be in retire in China, this will change with al in Beijing. Dwight Nordstrom, B.A., an “underdeveloped” country. It was more retirement communities geared M.B.A., is chairman of Pacific Resource also common for foreigners to assume toward non-nationals. Traditionally, re- International, a USA manufacturing that they would only be in China for a tirement communities go against Chi- company with over ten operations in Chi- one to three year stint, with a position nese culture as children are expected to na in which it has equity and/or manage- waiting for them back home upon com- care for parents in their old age. ment. He has been doing business in pletion. Though this may still hold true With increasing numbers of foreign- China for 28 years. z

Fall 2009 / ChinaSource 13 book REVIEW sections of less interest—a very attractive option indeed considering the length of time one could easily devote towards learning further about China: Ancient Culture, even one aspect of this great country and Modern Society its people. China: Ancient China: Ancient Culture, Modern ter Xiaoming Yu and Culture, Modern Soci- Society by Peter Xiaoming Yu and G. G. Wright Doyle ety is divided into Wright Doyle. AEG Publishing Group, have written China: four parts with the au- forthcoming in October, 2009, 244 Ancient Culture, thors’ contributions pages; ISBN: 978-1-60860-635-1. Modern Society to as- alternating between sist those who ac- various sections, draw- Reviewed by Tricia Bølle tively participate in ing off of each author’s China service. respective familiarity n the 16th and 17th centuries, China: Ancient with China from a na- Jesuit missionaries realized the Culture, Modern So- tive’s standpoint versus efficacy of seeking a genuine un- ciety is not meant to that of a Westerner’s. derstanding and appreciation of be an in-depth academ- This dual perspective of- Ithe peoples and cultures of the far ic text on Chinese history, culture or fers from one author the benefit of hav- reaches of the earth where they contemporary social issues. Rather, it ing a factually accurate account of sought to bring God’s Word. The mis- acts as a general primer for those who are China nuanced with small details that sionaries spent years living among the relatively unfamiliar with China as well would matter more to someone with a people they preached to, educating as those who have spent some time there native Chinese education. From the sec- themselves how to more effectively but want to gain a stronger general ond author, this style of writing is able teach the gospel in a manner that might knowledge of Greater China. What this to simultaneously cater to the curiosi- be better understood. They accom- book lacks in depth and academic analy- ties of those who are relatively unfamil-

Yu gives the reader more than just the standard textbook account of China’s vast history; rather, he portrays his country’s history in a way that hopefully lends greater understanding to the foreigner trying to grasp the immensity of China’s contemporary society and the people and events that formed it. plished this through their interactions sis, it achieves in breadth and concision. iar with, but seeking to learn more with the people and by preaching in a Because of the book’s brevity—covering about, China’s story. context culturally familiar to those who major highlights of Chinese history, lit- A clear example of this would be Pe- received it. This was done not only for erature, art, religion, society and con- ter Xiaoming Yu’s description of early proselytization purposes, but also to temporary social issues—it can be easily Chinese history and the influence that show respect for the foreign people and read in a few short sittings, making it important historical figures had on the culture that they worked among. This possible to gain a basic understanding of development of modern Chinese soci- kind of social immersion and education China with little initial effort. Rather ety, written with the admiration of one in a foreign culture is no less important than lengthen the text with extensive de- who was raised revering his rich heri- to Christian service today as it was five tail on each of the wide variety of topics, tage. While China’s history is quite hundred years ago. In fact, it has be- the authors encourage the reader to seek broad, Yu is able to touch upon the ma- come a well understood aspect of missi- further education through a list of sug- jor events and personalities with an inti- ology that is encouraged in all those gested works by noted scholars in the mate knowledge that few foreigners not who seek to fulfill the Great Commis- field. By this reasoning, one can pursue a raised within Chinese society would be sion in their lives both at home and topic of interest without being slowed capable of. In doing so, Yu gives the abroad. It is with this in mind that Pe- down by having to plow through other reader more than just the standard text-

14 ChinaSource / Fall 2009 book account of China’s vast history; with Christianity in general, much of The Changing Role of Foreign Workers in China rather, he portrays his country’s history what is written focuses on those aspects continued from page 4 in a way that hopefully lends greater of the Christian faith that are character- tablished by God through his labors. He understanding to the foreigner trying to istic to China, both currently and his- did not form them into loyal members grasp the immensity of China’s contem- torically. To expound further on the of some organization he established but porary society and the people and small section written about Christiani- rather fed and nurtured them as inde- events that formed it. He caps the his- ty, Doyle manages to capture in just a pendently functioning entities whose al- tory section accordingly with a bit of few clear examples the vast disparity of legiance was to God alone and whose insight about the work ahead of China’s religious freedom that is seen within membership was only in the body of political leaders: “To lead a country Chinese society, such that no one situa- Christ. with a history of more than 6,000 years tion can be said to be true of the whole Para-church ministry objectives, on is an art that needs creativity, to guide a of China. This reality exists not only for the other hand, are lagging behind in be- 1.3 billion population requires wisdom Christianity, but for all religions within ing accepted by the indigenous church as that desires humility, and to handle China where government regulations their mandate from God. Discipling the China’s domestic and international can be very oppressive in some regions nations and caring for the needs of the challenges is an act that requires vision.” and quite open in others. poor and disenfranchised are just in the To complement his coauthor, in his Yu and Doyle finish off their book last couple of years (the Sichuan earth- introduction to the book, G. Wright with a look at China’s contemporary so- quake did much to advance this vision) Doyle begins by offering a somewhat ciety and the issues that are immediate- becoming a significant part of the reg- stereotyped Western account of how ly relevant, especially to those who will ular practice of a minority of churches. Chinese are often viewed by those who be spending substantial time interacting Until foreign workers effectively disci- have had limited firsthand knowledge with Chinese on the mainland. From ed- ple and mentor leaders who embrace of China. This approach helps its read- ucation to the Olympics, the authors this responsibility and are equipped to respond, we are left with the task ourselves. We must take this leader-mentor- Hopefully, for many this book will be a ing and discipling far more seriously. good starting point towards further research To be a leader in the Chinese culture and context is, in many ways, quite dif- and understanding of China. ferent than the biblical model. Similarly to the Western world, inherent cultural ers not only come to terms with misper- touch upon just enough issues to provide perspectives often clash with founda- ceptions about China that they may motivation to learn more about those is- tional Christian principals. Volumes have themselves, but also allows them sues that catch the reader’s interest. have been written recently on this reali- to better understand, through Chinese In short, China: Ancient Culture, ty. I watch with great expectancy as the eyes, many of the important issues that Modern Society will serve well those Holy Spirit sets apart unto the Lord, help shape modern Chinese society. who are looking for a concise and di- teaches and matures over the next de- Doyle by no means continues in this verse overview of China spanning its cade tens of thousands of spiritually stereotyped view of the introduction history, culture, people and contempo- gifted and truly worshiping national and instead spends the remainder of the rary socio-political situation. Hopeful- leaders in China. These will be both a text he is responsible for dispelling such ly, for many this book will be a good blessing to this nation as well as a foun- misconstrued or, as is often the case starting point towards further research dation upon which the church will be with China, over-generalized ideas with and understanding of China that will both broadened and deepened. The relevant information that will appeal to aid them, like their Jesuit predecessors, masses will see Jesus revealed in greater his foreign audience. His brief overview in their endeavors to advance God’s and greater ways. The flock will have of China’s belief systems, for example, Kingdom to the ends of the earth. shepherds who depend upon and sub- spends considerable effort covering mit to the Great Shepherd himself. The those belief systems—Confucianism, Tricia Bølle, M.A. in East Asian Stud- foreigners will then be moved elsewhere Daoism and so on—and their founders ies, spent several years researching cross- by the Lover of Souls, and the resource which may seem more foreign to some- strait relations and contemporary social of hundreds of millions of Chinese, one not as familiar with Chinese soci- issues in China. Currently, she is based passionate for the glory of Jesus, will ety. Even though only a limited section in California with frequent travel to impact both this nation as well as the is devoted to the ever-growing Chris- Asia for her non-profit organization, entire world with their faith. tian faith within China, as most readers DEI in Asia, which does a variety of ser- will already have a strong familiarity vice work in China. z Paul Lee is a long-time worker in China. z

Fall 2009 / ChinaSource 15 RESOURCE corner

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