ince East Gates inception, one of our main objectives has been to provide effective training programs for brothers and sisters in China. In the past 15 years, we have helped many pastors and church leaders by providing Bibles, Christian literature, reference books and adequate facilities to meet their incredible church growth both spiritually and numerically. We thank God for what He has done through us so far but we sense the call to do much more.
It is well known that quality Christian training is in great demand in the Church of China. Looking at the present rapid economic growth as well as political and social reforms effecting every strata of Chinese society, we are convinced that the Church in China needs not only biblical knowledge and information but most importantly, practical theology or the wisdom in knowing how to live out their faith in their daily lives.
During a recent trip to China, we met a church leader. When we asked him what kind of theology the Church in China needed most. He answered, “Theology in practice; a theology that people can use, not only theories.”
Another pastor in China shared with us, “Believers need to see what their preachers preach put into action and not only hear their words. The kind of training the Church really needs is how to teach Christian workers how to live out their faith in their lives.”
Therefore, an effective training program will not only teach a preacher how to preach but how to practice what he/she preaches. We will not only teach theology but how to do theology. As we’ve all heard before, people in the pews aren’t as interested as hearing a sermon as they are in seeing one.
Therefore, our primary mission in equipping our Chinese brothers and sisters is so they can become Jesus’ disciples rather than mere theologians; to be servant leaders in Christ rather than just church administrators. This involves getting to know our students well enough so we can help them think biblically, learn constructively and work harmoniously. This way, together, we grow in Christ Jesus spiritually, intellectually, physically, socially and emotionally.
The Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20 is Jesus’ last command but it should be our first concern. It is here where Jesus told His disciples, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (NIV)
We see here very clearly that teaching or training is for obeying our Lord. Effective, spirit-filled Christian teaching is not merely a mental activity or intellectual exercise but leads to consistent obedience in following God’s will. As a result, we are Christians not only on Sunday mornings, but 24-7 and 365 days per year. Although we are in the world, the world should not be in us. We must always remember that we are to be the “light” and “salt” of the earth.
In order to know Christ and make Him known in the land of China, we must move forward in training and discipling Christians so their roots sink deep bringing much fruit upward. By God’s grace, mercy and help, we can work together so that all our lights will shine brighter and our saltiness will bring more flavor to a nation with great spiritual potential. Please pray for and with us towards these endeavors.