Chinese believers find joy through God’s Word

China (MNN) — Relationships are central to the human existence. They are important to every facet of life, whether that’s business, overall well-being, or most importantly, sharing Christ.

Bibles for China understands the importance of relationships. In fact, they are a key part of its ministry. BFC is partnering with the local Chinese church to bring Jesus to the most rural parts of the country. Workers and volunteers are invited to indigenous rural churches to celebrate and encourage spiritual growth.

“We want to make sure that we maintain and keep all of the policies of the Chinese Christian community,” says BFC President Wendell Rovenstine. “We don’t go over there, do this work, and tell them how to do it. We’re just there as partners with them.

“This last trip I went on, I went by myself to do 6,000 Bibles. I asked [Chinese believers] to hand out the Bibles, and I would observe them, which is really the way that we want to do that. And you can’t imagine the joy on their faces as the people were giving their congregation God’s Word.”

But not every need is able to be met. Some villages have as many as 300,000 believers without access to God’s Word. But despite this lack, BFC is touching hearts through love and discipleship.

“In some respects, you almost go in feeling defeated that you didn’t meet their need,” Rovenstine says. “But beyond that, there has become a spirit of unity, a spirit of spiritual camaraderie that exists. It’s very difficult to say, ‘Well we’re just doing Bibles, and goodbye.’ I’m finding that as we go back and furnish God’s Word, they are trusting us more, and we are observing a greater touch in China with them.”

BFC workers may have the most personal interaction with Chinese believers, but they aren’t the only ones making an impact. Other countries are advancing its ministry through their generosity.

“We have over 27 countries that are providing funds for people to receive Bibles,” Rovenstine says. “Our only mission is to get Bibles into their hands…. Through the interpreter, [Chinese believers] are telling the people that Bibles for China is a ministry that is represented by a large number of people that are our partners, and that there are over 27 countries that are providing them funds.

“With enthusiasm and excitement, the people…really rejoice in the fact that so many around the world are involved with Bibles for China.”

Bibles are available in China, yet hard to find. The only Scripture most rural Chinese have is bits and pieces they’ve scrawled down over the years. For many, receiving a copy of God’s Word is life-changing.

“I was so touched by one girl. Through the translator, she showed me the Scripture that was kind of her life verse and had the translator share that Scripture with me through her,” Rovenstine says. “The Bible really just penetrated her life in a wonderful way.”

Whether through outside support or direct involvement, there are multiple ways you can help BFC bring Christ to China’s spiritually deprived. Pray that God would guide BFC workers to best reach the rural Chinese people. Pray also that enough Bibles would be available for every hungry soul.

You can provide a Bible yourself for $5. Or, consider traveling with BFC to encourage Chinese believers. Click here to get started.