Continued Demand for Bibles in China Amid Government Restrictions
Despite claims from the Chinese government regarding reduced demand, organizations like Bibles for China report persistent requests for Bibles. While access has improved in some areas, challenges remain, particularly in rural regions. There is a call for prayer and support for the Church in China, emphasizing unity among congregations and outreach to non-believers.
In China, ministries encounter significant hurdles related to funding, opportunity, and access to Bibles. Kurt Rovenstine from Bibles for China recently assessed the situation on the ground and discovered that despite the Chinese government’s claims, the demand for Bible distribution remains robust. “Every year, we have requests and projects that are no smaller than the year before, and this year is no exception. So we’re excited about as much opportunity as we’ve ever had,” he stated.
Rovenstine noted that while certain areas have improved access to Bibles, needs persist in more challenging regions. He explained that, “The need in certain places does not exist because of the ease of access to those certain provinces and locations. At the provincial level, at the government level, we’ve been able to work there. But there are a lot of places that are a little more difficult.”
BFC is focusing on harder-to-reach areas, leveraging the network of registered churches to facilitate Bible access. He highlighted that, “If you have access to a registered church, there’s a good chance you can get a Bible in many of the provinces. But not every province takes advantage of that opportunity. They don’t have large supplies because they can’t afford them or they choose not to get them.”
Rovenstine explained that rural communities often face unique obstacles; sometimes individuals live too far from central churches that have Bible supplies. He observed, “Someone just lives way too far away from the place where they need to go – a central church in a larger city – that would have a supply of Bibles.”
He expressed a positive outlook on the church’s condition in China, despite government restrictions on evangelism. Rovenstine urged for prayers to help BFC find opportunities for Bible distribution, emphasizing, “Please pray for the situation in China and for the believers there.” He encouraged prayers that Chinese followers of Christ remain obedient to His calling in both registered and underground churches and that unity among congregations is maintained.
Also, he called for prayers that non-believers may be drawn to the essence of the church in China, referencing the idea of being attracted to “the pleasing aroma of Christ’s church in China.”
In summary, the need for Bibles in China continues due to ongoing requests and unique regional challenges. Rovenstine’s observations highlight both the obstacles faced and the potential opportunities for Scripture distribution through registered churches. Continued prayer and support for believers in China are essential in navigating the complexities of ministry in the face of governmental restrictions.
Original Source: www.mnnonline.org
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