Programs

1）Theological Thinking Perspective
Introduction:

Christian faith, including the development of our spirituality, understanding and character, is rooted in Christ’s salvation and theology. Christians among Chinese intellectuals usually have higher academic training; however, they often neglect or are even against “theology”. More importantly, contemporary Chinese Christian intellectuals are called to assume the responsibility to inherit theology traditions of thousands of years, and make it as resources for Chinese churches. Meanwhile, just like the parable of sowing seeds, even though the seeds (Christian’s faith) do not have any problems, the soil (theology and concept of salvation) can be problematic and result in fruitlessness.

In the session, we would like to discuss the following topics: what are the common issues and challenges, and where lays their theological root? Which are the primary theological traditions? How to carry the traditions into practice and to build up a balanced faith that roots in the Bible? What is the relationship between personal spiritual growth and the social responsibilities? etc.

2) Spiritual Discipline Perspective
Introduction:

Spiritual discipline and life growth are frequently discussed in Chinese churches. However, if we examine the actual arrangement of church activities and personal practices, we seldom see a pattern of spiritual exercise that is intentional, specific, goal-oriented and regular. Therefore, there exists a direct relationship between the lack of spiritual exercise and the bottleneck of the growth of churches and Christians.

In the session, we would like to discuss the following topics: 1) what are the key factors of faith growth? 2) If spiritual discipline plays a vital part in faith growth, what are its content, model and principle? 3) Are there any existing experiences and examples for spiritual disciplines among Chinese intellectuals?

3) Practical Application Perspective
Introduction：

Christians need to live out their faith in daily life. There are many practical applications in their family and social responsibilities, as well as in political, cultural and social interactions. Indeed the practical applications would exist in many areas, and are rather complex as well. We plan to focus on the relationship between faith and work, and how to encourage professionals to participate in ministries, especially para-church ministries.

4) Church Development Perspective
Introduction:

A Christian’s spiritually, understanding and character are intimately associated with the church environment, and it is the same for Christians among Chinese intellectuals. Like the parable of sowing seeds, even
of the seeds (Christian’s faith) do not have any problems, the soil (church environment) can be problematic and result in fruitlessness.

In the session, we would like to discuss the following topics: 1) identify the common problems and challenges; 2) diagnose how church environment contributes to these challenges; 3) find out solutions.

In the session, we would like to discuss the following topics: 1) what are the key elements of understanding the relationship between faith and work? 2) How to connect these elements? 3) How to make corrections, going through breakthrough and achieving maturity in practice? 4) How to participate in ministries efficiently and effectively?

5) Mainland China Church Perspective
Introduction:

God has called Christians in China to grow. The particular social and church environments in China are presenting special opportunity and challenge to the relatively young Christians in China. In the session, we would like to discuss the following topics: 1) What are the characteristics and lessons we have learned of mainland Chinese Christians among intellectuals during the past 10 years? 2) In the future 3-5 years, what are the key issues in building up churches and Christians? 3) How do churches in mainland China and overseas collaborate to build up each other?