Continuing Partnership Beyond the Golden Age: Stepping Out

As the golden age for missions in China fades, the dynamics of ministry are changing drastically. Foreign workers are being forced to leave, and local churches are facing increasing repression. In this challenging environment, how can the international community continue supporting and walking alongside their beloved Chinese brothers and sisters? A recent trip I took offered deep reflections on a new model of partnership and how God continues to pour out his love and carry out his work in China.

I was invited to serve as an interpreter at a one-week training session outside China. A seasoned worship trainer from the US and a small team of Chinese worship leaders gathered for worship training, a retreat, and a reunion. This was not the formal, large-scale setting one might expect for a training course but rather an intimate gathering where love, discipleship, and genuine fellowship overflowed, and faith was lived out in community.

The relationship between these two groups stretches back over a decade. The worship pastor first traveled to China to train young believers passionate about worship but lacking resources and guidance. Over the course of five visits, their relationship deepened as they journeyed together in worship ministry. He witnessed their growth from single young adults to mature, married individuals and continued to cheer them on as their encourager and supporter. Even after the door to China closed, they maintained regular online meetings—not merely as trainer and trainees but as friends in Christ.

As an interpreter during this training, I was privileged to bridge the communication between these two distinct groups. But beyond words, a deeper connection was evident—one that transcended language and culture. The love of Christ was palpable as they teased and joked, shared life updates, and even taught each other their respective languages. The atmosphere was infectious with joy and warmth, and the bonds of fellowship and discipleship grew stronger in this sacred space.

At the end of the training, there was a deeply moving moment when the Chinese brothers and sisters shared their reflections. One said to the worship trainer:

“Over the years, through persecution and restrictions in China, and amidst the changes in life and relationships, it has felt like our team was drifting apart. But you have been the string that pulls us together, bringing us back with every opportunity we can gather. Having a time like this, united in training and fellowship, rekindles my passion for worship and reminds me that I’m not alone on this journey. I know there are brothers and sisters praying for and supporting me.”

Another sister added: “Let us be the feet of your mission work when you can no longer go to China. Let us carry on the Great Commission.”

As I translated their words, tears filled my eyes. The presence of the Holy Spirit was undeniable, and the partnership—built on love and encouragement across nations and cultures, enduring the test of time—unfolded vividly before me.

This gathering opened my eyes to a new way God is working in and for China. With foreign missionaries no longer welcomed and large gatherings impossible, how can discipleship continue? The answer is to step outside. Such retreats offer weary Chinese brothers and sisters an opportunity to rest and be spiritually refreshed as they face the pressures of surveillance and persecution.

It also highlighted a critical need in worship ministry within Chinese churches. Worship has not historically been as emphasized in Chinese churches as in the West, partly due to cultural tendencies toward pragmatism and emotional reserve. Many Chinese church leaders struggle to navigate the balance between traditional and contemporary worship styles. Adding to these challenges, large gatherings with full bands or choirs are no longer feasible due to the current restrictions.

However, worship is a vital tool for discipleship. Congregations often remember worship songs more vividly than Sunday sermons, demonstrating the transformative power of worship in shaping hearts and lives. As persecution intensifies, worship songs, much like By Gracious Powers by Dietrich Bonhoeffer, can offer profound encouragement and strength. Thus, the question of how to develop worship ministries, nurture the next generation of worship leaders, and unite believers across age groups in corporate worship remains crucial.

This trip also offered a glimpse of a model for ministry in the current Chinese context: walking alongside a small group of Chinese brothers and sisters, equipping them with love, care, resources, and training so they can multiply the work in their own context. This model is not new but takes on fresh expressions as circumstances evolve.

Ultimately, we trust that God always provides a way. Through repression and hardship, he purifies believers’ faith and continues his work. Rather than lamenting the challenges, we must discern his guidance, respond proactively, and remain open to how he speaks to the people of China today.

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