China (MNN) – Despite challenges facing Christian practice in China, Bibles for China continues to explore new ministry opportunities, supplying Bibles to Chinese seekers and believers.
Sinicization, the assimilation of religion with Chinese culture, came to Chinese Christianity this year, forcing and regulating the encouragement of communism as a Christian value.
Despite setbacks, Bibles for China is finding ways to expand its ministry and communicate the gospel while maintaining an openness and legality with the Chinese government.
Kurt Rovenstine with Bibles for China says that of the 15 projects they had planned for the year, they are all still in play, just moving slower than in the past.
“The door has not been closed,” says Rovenstine. “It’s just a lot more boxes to check, and maybe a few more steps to take to get the work done.”
The need for Bibles in China is still strong. Many people would like Bibles and struggle to get access to them, which is the goal the ministry seeks to fulfill.
Rovenstine says, “We work legally and openly through the registered church to supply Bibles to areas where they would not easily be obtained otherwise.”
Bibles for China has had a more hands-off approach the last few years after COVID, but still has nationals acting on behalf of the organization in China.
Because of the challenges that have developed, the organization wondered if there was another way to reach Chinese seekers and believers.
The ministry that’s beginning to develop is working to help those in the Chinese diaspora who may be leaving for a variety of reasons, whether it’s religious, economic, or educational, and trying to reach those people with the gospel.
Their work has been to try to find places where Christians are already reaching out to these Chinese communities and help supply them with Bibles for their outreach, particularly Children’s Bibles and a bilingual New Testament Bible targeted for Chinese seafarers.
Rovenstine says, “The church in China is still vibrant and active, and they are doing their best to live in the world in which God has placed them.”
Pray for Christians in China and their struggles and that the church would continue to thrive in China. Pray for ministries that God would grant wisdom and open and close the doors for decision making.
Header Image coutesy of Bibles for China
