Today, when people talk about the meaning of "church", they have broken the old stereotypes, with more emphasis placed on the gathering of believers rather than the simple building of the church. However, the internal barriers within our hearts may pose a more significant hidden obstacle compared to the tangible structures.
Recently, a Christian man surnamed Zhang, who has been involved in public welfare for nearly 20 years, shared his experiences. He observed the necessity for today's church to break down its internal walls and engage society through public welfare and cultural initiatives.
Reflecting on his own transformation, Zhang said, "In the past, I was a person deeply entrenched within the church walls." He recalled that during the church's most prosperous period in China from the 1980s to 1990s, pastors could simply set up a stage anywhere and loudly proclaim, "Believe in Jesus for eternal life, or face damnation." This straightforward word-of-mouth approach naturally drew people to the church, filling it to capacity.
However, such days did not last, and the situation changed significantly afterward. As society became more open, people's eyes seemed to become brighter, and their hearts more discerning. The old methods of preaching are no longer as effective in reaching them as before.
Gradually, Zhang realized that modern people do not pay attention to what is said but care more about what is done. He recalled the beginning of his involvement in public welfare, "We should usher in an era of good deeds for the church. I was eager to establish a public welfare initiative but was unsure if it aligned with the Lord's will. So, I continued to pray." One day, a phrase deeply moved him: "Against such things, there is no law." This response from God affirmed his decision to pursue public welfare.
Zhang stated, "Public welfare knows no borders, just as our charitable acts are unrestricted." Reflecting on his journey, he mentioned that through public welfare, he built trust with others. Gradually, more people became interested and engaged. Over time, those around him also began to understand the beliefs behind his actions.
Looking back over the past twenty years, Zhang expressed, "Now, I feel we must move to the next stage. We need to embrace a cultural mission, such as music ministry, that transcends borders."
He elaborated on the cultural mission metaphorically, saying, "A cultural mission is about 'birthing sheep,' while Church buildings cannot 'birth sheep'; only 'sheep' can birth 'sheep.' Through connections among believers and between churches, the church can truly nurture believers."
He urged, "We must tear down the high walls of the church and reach out to society. Like angels, we should bring peace and the everlasting gospel to those around us."
- Translated by Abigail Wu
