Family can endure what partnership cannot: A consideration of historical, cultural, and newly arising barriers to missions in China

Abstract

Relationships between American mission organizations and Chinese house church pastors are currently facing increasing difficulty and strain. To date, the dominant metaphor for how these two members of Christ’s body have related has been partnership. Rising contextual and cultural pressures render partnership inadequate to withstand what familial bonds are more suited to endure. This article first considers the overall historical and cultural context of the relationship between western missionaries and unregistered Chinese churches. Following this is an explanation of two recurring factors which place ongoing strain on their relationship: rising nationalism and government persecution of Christians. Next, new factors which compound existing relational stressors are explored: shifting economic policies and theological brain drain. Finally, initial recommendations are put forth as to how these two groups might move forward living together as family.