China's Next Generation: New Church, New China, New World

Abstract

Dramatic changes have taken place in China’s recent history. Since opening up to the outside world in 1979, China has been transformed from an isolated land populated primarily by peasant families to a veritable powerhouse of economic activity.Its rate and scope of urbanization are unprecedented in human history—from less than a quarter of China’s people living in cities in 1980 to more than half today. At its “coming out party”—the 2008 Olympic Games—China wowed the world with spectacle even as it reminded the global community of China’s longstanding place in world history. China’s economic might is being felt the world over as Chinese companies invest far and wide in an effort to secure the energy and material resources needed to fuel China’s continued development.Less noticed, but of greater eternal significance, is China’s spiritual change. The church in China has exploded in what is arguably the fastest growing church movement in history. Purged in the fires of persecution and steeped in a deep dependence on God, the church has expanded in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. In the absence oftrained pastors, Bibles, church buildings, and many of the other trappings associated with organized church activity, the Body of Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, stood firm during China’s darkest days then boldly advanced as China began its process of reform and opening.