Posts
Tuesday
There are two big challenges for churches in China, one is that the vast majority have no children's ministry since the children of believers do not attend church, and the second is the lack of Sunday school trained teachers. We pray that churches will realize the terrible consequences of the falling away and drifting from their faith of the second generation as well as the spiritual state of their children and be willing to invest in teachers for the Sunday schools.
Wednesday
In China, a new generation of young, Western-trained psychoanalysts is concerned that early childhood separation from parents or primary caregivers, considered normal there for generations, has caused profound, hidden trauma in millions of Chinese. Separation from parents in early childhood creates hidden emotional dangers. We pray for Christian parents that they will focus on not only the health and academic areas of life but will teach their children to know God and love Him throughout their lives.
Thursday
Many believe that early separation from parents (a documented psychological phenomenon) has led to emotional problems in adults who fail to form healthy relationships. Feeling abandoned as children, they struggle with worthlessness and depression. We pray for many Chinese believers who struggle with the idea of “Heavenly Father”, unable to accept God’s unconditional love. May the Lord draw them close so they would comprehend how great God’s love and acceptance is.
Friday
The pastors of house churches in China need to focus on ministering to the believers rather than arguing about whether to register with the government or not. If churches are unable to gain the trust of either believers or the officials overseeing them, registration with the government is a moot point. We pray specifically for churches embroiled in the debate about whether to register with the government or not. May the Lord grant them unity and spare them from division. May He add many who have come to know Jesus and cause them to grow.
Saturday
Strictly speaking the churches under the CCC/TSPM are not true churches but a movement rather than a denomination. The churches under the China Christian Council system retain their own financial independence. Many believers are highly emotional and resist the idea of their church registering with the government. We pray for wisdom and vision from above for church leaders as they try to move their churches past the bottleneck of being an “underground” church.
Sunday
Churches in China are supposed to register with local and county government but in many areas where there is no CCC/TSPM, an officially registered church is an open church but not necessarily a "government church" which causes them to have a great deal of autonomy. We pray for wisdom for churches that are debating about whether to register with the government or not. May they never lose their vision to share the gospel in their communities and may their ministries continue to grow.
Monday
Official administration of churches is usually done locally because the registration is with either the local or county government, while in some cities it is done at the city level. This shows how churches are monitored differently depending on the location. We pray for the management and operation of each church in China. Many are run by a selected few people or even a single individual which severely hampers participation and ownership by others in the church. May the Lord help these churches to grow and bring glory to Himself.
星期二
許多中國教會的第二代事工有兩個挑戰，一是教會沒有任何兒童事工，信徒的未成年子女沒有適合的聚會。另一挑戰是缺乏主日學老師和相關的師資訓練。求主幫助教會能看見第二代信仰流失的可悲景况和嚴重影響，使教會領袖能積極推展第二代靈命建造的大工程，也肯投放更多資源來培育和造就青少年及兒童事工的師資。
星期三
新一代受過西方教育的中國心理分析專家擔心：幼年與父母或主要撫養親屬長期分開的做法，給數百萬新生代中國人的心理和人格造成了深刻而隱藏的創傷。然而代代人都誤認為這樣做是正常的。過早與父母分離帶給中國孩子心靈上的隱性創傷是很難彌補的重大損害。求主在信徒家長心中動工，當稱職的父母，不是只求子女健康、有好學業成績，而是要教導他們認識神、愛主，一生行在祂的光中。
星期四
專家認為，孩童早年與家人長期分離的經驗，往往會造成成年後情感調適的障礙，他們可能無法建立健康的家庭關係。覺得幼時曾遭至親拋棄的他們，會深深地覺得自己沒有價值，並常感到沮喪和無助。不少中國弟兄姊妹覺得「天父」太遙遠和抽象，無法相信神真會賜予他們「無條件的愛」。我們特別為他們祈求，求主吸引他們，讓他們真實經歷神如何隨時、隨地、永遠不變的接納、疼愛他們。
星期五
未來家庭教會領導們的目標仍應放在專注牧養好教會信徒上。至於是否登記的問題並不是首要焦點。如果已經登記的教會得不到信徒及相關部門的信任，登記不登記其實意義不大。我們要為那些仍在「爭論」是否要登記的教會禱告，求神保守他們願意竭力追求合一的心志，不因此而造成分裂。也求主將得救的人數加添給他們，興旺他們的事工。
星期六
嚴格來說「三自」和「兩會」也不是真正的教會體制，所以它不當被稱作「三自教會」，僅能算是一種思想運動。並且中國基督教兩會體系的現狀，也因各地教會財務獨立等原因，都較為獨立。許多信徒激烈地反對教會登記或對此持保留態度。求主賜教會領袖智慧和異象，使教會的發展也能在困難的環境或體制下突破瓶頸及限制。
星期日
中國教會按法律應向當地的區和縣政府登記。有的地方，沒有兩會或三自組織，該教會就不一定算「三自教會」。教會是否要登記，的確在信徒當中有許多爭議。求主賜下智慧，無論是登記或是不登記，能持守在社會中廣傳福音的異象。
星期一
中國行政部門管理教會模式是「屬地管理」，各地的情況都不太相同，有些是市級管轄，有些是縣來管，是鬆是緊，主要要看當地政府的態度。我們為各個教會的管理和運作方式禱告，許多教會的決定是由少數、甚至一個人來做，嚴重影響其他會友的認同和參與，求主特別保守、引領他們的事工推展。更幫助神兒女心中以基督為元首，事事榮耀主。
Tuesday, March 29, 2016
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Prayer Request 3/22 - 3/28
Tuesday
Hong Kong's vibrant Christian community has long been a magnet for mainland Chinese visitors. Tens of thousands of people cross the border each year for Sunday school, seminars and megachurch gatherings in this former British colony. Hong Kong enjoys greater freedoms, including religious liberties, than the mainland. We praise God for the vibrant churches, their dedication to mission effort, not only to China, but to the whole world.
Wednesday
In recent months, Chinese officials have barred mainland residents from attending some religious conferences in Hong Kong, increased oversight of mainland programs run by Hong Kong pastors, and issued warnings to outspoken leaders, causing some to reconsider their work in the mainland. We pray for the situation of increased restriction and monitoring of churches in Hong Kong. May the Lord give favor and protections to those who are involved.
Thursday
Christianity is China's fastest-growing religion, with at least 67 million followers, many of whom worship in independent,house churches or unofficial churches, often with the acquiescence of the government. We pray for churches in China, especially in the time when the government seems to be tightening control at home and restricting interaction with churches abroad. The Lord protect all who are under increased scrutiny by the officials. May the Lord protect all who are under increased scrutiny by the officials.
Friday
The Chinese Communist Party has long associated Christianity with subversive Western values, and over the past year , officials have accelerated efforts to demolish churches, shutter Christian schools, and remove crosses. We pray for comfort and strengthening of spirit for all the churches who experience demolition and closure. May the Lord give them wisdom and patience as they express their feeling of frustration and disappointment.
Saturday
Chinese leaders have historically shown much lenience toward Hong Kong, which is now home to about 850,000 Christians, 1,500 churches, a Christian newspaper and a Baptist university. The Hong Kong Christian community is indeed unique and much blessed by the Lord. We pray that they will continue to be an example of love, unity and sending missionaries for all Chinese believers.
Sunday
About 60 percent of Hong Kong's churches have ministries inside China such as theological training, but spreading the gospel in the mainland can be difficult. Hong Kong residents are often treated as foreigners, and they are not permitted to establish churches, hand out pamphlets, proselytize or preach.
Monday
China promised to give Hong Kong freedom. The term used to describe it was "one country, two systems". We do not know how long Beijing will keep her promise of giving Hong Kong special treatment. We pray for the future of churches there and their contribution and influence to all Cantonese-speaking churches worldwide.
星期二
香港相比內地享有更多自由，其中包括宗教自由。這個充滿活力的城巿，一直吸引著許多遊客到訪。每年跨境來港參加聖經講座、專題研討會或教會大型聚會的信徒亦是絡繹於途。我們要為香港教會在宣教事工上積極參與感恩，也禱告他們除了有推進中國事工的負擔外，也有關注普世族群福音需要的異象。
星期三
近來當局禁止弟兄姊妹前往香港參加一些宗教會議的例子越來越多，並且加強對香港牧者在開展的某種程度的管理，令信徒必須重新考慮中國事工的方向。求主賜智慧給香港教會領袖，在面對官方更多限制和監管的時候，能作出明智的安排，也願主保守一切聖工並為未來開路。
星期四
基督教是中國增長最快的宗教，迄今至少有6700萬信徒，其中很多人是在政府的默許下，參加獨立的家庭教會或非官方教會。但中國政府近來似乎加強了對教會的監控並限制教會與境外相關團體的互動，我們要為中國教會禱告，求主保守信徒們的平安，更幫助他們在艱難中仍舊恒久依靠主。
星期五
長期以來共產黨一直把基督教和顛覆性的西方價值觀聯繫在一起。過去一年浙江官員更加大力度拆除教堂、關閉基督教學校和拆卸十字架。我們為堂址被拆遷及關閉的教會禱告，求主安慰、堅固會眾們的信心。在他們感到灰心沮喪時，求主親自臨在，賜下智慧與忍耐，以喜樂的靈恒切仰望主。
星期六
香港現有85萬基督徒、1500座教堂、一份基督教報紙、多所神學院和一所浸信會大學。從歷史角度來看，中國領導人對香港的確比內地顯出更大的寬容。香港的教會和信徒確實是獨特的、蒙神祝福的一群。求主繼續使用他們，在愛神、愛人、合一及宣教的熱忱上，成為中國信徒美好的榜樣。
星期日
大約60%的香港教會在內地都有事工，如神學培訓。不過在中國傳福音卻非常困難，因為香港居民往往被當作 "外國人" ，不允許建教堂、發放福音小冊子、分享信仰和傳教。我們為香港教會多年來忠心支援內地教會感恩。願神記念他們為主的擺上，也祝福他們所撒下的福音種子得到百倍的收成。
星期一
中國政府承諾香港人五十年不變，繼續享有自由；「一國兩制」是用來形容中國與香港之間關係的一個短語。不過北京是否會繼續承諾給香港特別待遇是個未知數。我們為香港教會的未來，以及他們的貢獻和在全球粵語教會的影響力來禱告。
Hong Kong's vibrant Christian community has long been a magnet for mainland Chinese visitors. Tens of thousands of people cross the border each year for Sunday school, seminars and megachurch gatherings in this former British colony. Hong Kong enjoys greater freedoms, including religious liberties, than the mainland. We praise God for the vibrant churches, their dedication to mission effort, not only to China, but to the whole world.
Wednesday
In recent months, Chinese officials have barred mainland residents from attending some religious conferences in Hong Kong, increased oversight of mainland programs run by Hong Kong pastors, and issued warnings to outspoken leaders, causing some to reconsider their work in the mainland. We pray for the situation of increased restriction and monitoring of churches in Hong Kong. May the Lord give favor and protections to those who are involved.
Thursday
Christianity is China's fastest-growing religion, with at least 67 million followers, many of whom worship in independent,house churches or unofficial churches, often with the acquiescence of the government. We pray for churches in China, especially in the time when the government seems to be tightening control at home and restricting interaction with churches abroad. The Lord protect all who are under increased scrutiny by the officials. May the Lord protect all who are under increased scrutiny by the officials.
Friday
The Chinese Communist Party has long associated Christianity with subversive Western values, and over the past year , officials have accelerated efforts to demolish churches, shutter Christian schools, and remove crosses. We pray for comfort and strengthening of spirit for all the churches who experience demolition and closure. May the Lord give them wisdom and patience as they express their feeling of frustration and disappointment.
Saturday
Chinese leaders have historically shown much lenience toward Hong Kong, which is now home to about 850,000 Christians, 1,500 churches, a Christian newspaper and a Baptist university. The Hong Kong Christian community is indeed unique and much blessed by the Lord. We pray that they will continue to be an example of love, unity and sending missionaries for all Chinese believers.
Sunday
About 60 percent of Hong Kong's churches have ministries inside China such as theological training, but spreading the gospel in the mainland can be difficult. Hong Kong residents are often treated as foreigners, and they are not permitted to establish churches, hand out pamphlets, proselytize or preach.
Monday
China promised to give Hong Kong freedom. The term used to describe it was "one country, two systems". We do not know how long Beijing will keep her promise of giving Hong Kong special treatment. We pray for the future of churches there and their contribution and influence to all Cantonese-speaking churches worldwide.
星期二
香港相比內地享有更多自由，其中包括宗教自由。這個充滿活力的城巿，一直吸引著許多遊客到訪。每年跨境來港參加聖經講座、專題研討會或教會大型聚會的信徒亦是絡繹於途。我們要為香港教會在宣教事工上積極參與感恩，也禱告他們除了有推進中國事工的負擔外，也有關注普世族群福音需要的異象。
星期三
近來當局禁止弟兄姊妹前往香港參加一些宗教會議的例子越來越多，並且加強對香港牧者在開展的某種程度的管理，令信徒必須重新考慮中國事工的方向。求主賜智慧給香港教會領袖，在面對官方更多限制和監管的時候，能作出明智的安排，也願主保守一切聖工並為未來開路。
星期四
基督教是中國增長最快的宗教，迄今至少有6700萬信徒，其中很多人是在政府的默許下，參加獨立的家庭教會或非官方教會。但中國政府近來似乎加強了對教會的監控並限制教會與境外相關團體的互動，我們要為中國教會禱告，求主保守信徒們的平安，更幫助他們在艱難中仍舊恒久依靠主。
星期五
長期以來共產黨一直把基督教和顛覆性的西方價值觀聯繫在一起。過去一年浙江官員更加大力度拆除教堂、關閉基督教學校和拆卸十字架。我們為堂址被拆遷及關閉的教會禱告，求主安慰、堅固會眾們的信心。在他們感到灰心沮喪時，求主親自臨在，賜下智慧與忍耐，以喜樂的靈恒切仰望主。
星期六
香港現有85萬基督徒、1500座教堂、一份基督教報紙、多所神學院和一所浸信會大學。從歷史角度來看，中國領導人對香港的確比內地顯出更大的寬容。香港的教會和信徒確實是獨特的、蒙神祝福的一群。求主繼續使用他們，在愛神、愛人、合一及宣教的熱忱上，成為中國信徒美好的榜樣。
星期日
大約60%的香港教會在內地都有事工，如神學培訓。不過在中國傳福音卻非常困難，因為香港居民往往被當作 "外國人" ，不允許建教堂、發放福音小冊子、分享信仰和傳教。我們為香港教會多年來忠心支援內地教會感恩。願神記念他們為主的擺上，也祝福他們所撒下的福音種子得到百倍的收成。
星期一
中國政府承諾香港人五十年不變，繼續享有自由；「一國兩制」是用來形容中國與香港之間關係的一個短語。不過北京是否會繼續承諾給香港特別待遇是個未知數。我們為香港教會的未來，以及他們的貢獻和在全球粵語教會的影響力來禱告。
Tuesday, March 15, 2016
Prayer Request 3/15 - 3/21
Tuesday
Wenzhou is fondly known as "China's Jerusalem" but a recent spate of demolition of churches or the crosses on them has turned this region into a land of sorrow and tears where many offer sympathy and others call for reflection. Churches in Wenzhou are at a definite crossroads. We know God works all things for good for those who love Him so we pray for comfort for those who have lost their churches or face persecution. We trust God will deliver the churches there and make them even stronger through these trials.
Wednesday
For illegally-built churches, both sides admit the illegality so officials offer this as the justification for forcible demolition. Church leaders however, point out the illegality of the building hoping for sympathy and understanding. They complain the heavy-handed treatment of the government. In the past some have fondly referred to the churches in Wenzhou as "the future of churches in China" which was probably not the correct observation. May the Lord protect His churches in China granting them purity, passion for His Word, humility, and unity.
Thursday
Many of the believers in Wenzhou are business people who naturally exude a competitive spirit and in the past they actually tried to outdo each other as they constructed church buildings. These outlandish buildings with majestic facades are the root of the current problem. We pray that the churches in Wenzhou will not despair but instead will be an example to all believers in China in their love for the Lord and His people as they show their generosity by giving to help others.
Friday
Even pastors from Wenzhou freely admit that churches there compete in how big and fancy their buildings are. Perhaps the lack of equal effort and quality in ministry, the tendency of going through the backdoor and evading the law are their weakness. Some wonder if the rash to build huge churches in China is God's work or that of man but God reminds us that everything we do in His name is indeed for His glory only.
Saturday
It is regrettable that officials in China have resorted to forcible demolition of church buildings. However, these incidences should not result in only tears and demonstrations. Believers in China are at a crossroads so they need much reflection. Just a few years ago people in the churches were debating about whether to register with the government so they could openly build larger facilities or not. We pray for wisdom and direction from God for all the churches so they will have a vision of expansion and growth.
Sunday
The tension between churches and officials in Zhejiang Province is tenuous to say the least and the forecast of the religious climate in China is cloudy at best. Under these circumstances, house churches that meet in smaller groups seem like a safer and more stable option for Christians. During the great persecution of the Cultural Revolution, Christians met in homes. We pray that believers who are facing persecution will remain faithful and be ready for the new revival God will send.
Monday
In the face of the forced demolition of churches in Wenzhou along with the uncertainty of religious liberty in China, some ask if they should focus on getting people saved or turning their energy to evangelizing and making good disciples of believers. We pray that each persecution and setback the churches in China faces will be the refining fire to purify them and mold them to be more like Jesus.
星期二
素有中國「耶路撒冷」之稱的溫州市教堂及十字架強拆風波震動全球，巨型教堂一夜倒塌令很多人哀哭，同情與反思的輿論不絕於耳。站在十字路口的溫州教會乃至整個中國教會未來的走向如何，目前仍不明朗。我們深信萬事互相效力，為叫愛神的人得益處。神必會使溫州教會經過烈火更加堅強，我們尤要為其中的信徒們禱告，無論景況如何，都仍堅守主道。
星期三
一些大型教堂部份建築確實涉及違章興建，這是雙方都承認的事實，也是政府強拆的藉口。然而，中國教會方面指「違建」背後有隱情，應被理解和同情，政府處理違章教堂的手法亦過於粗暴。過去，不少人誇稱溫州乃是中國教會的未來。求主保守眾教會，即主自己的身體，賜下清潔的靈，更渴慕神的話語，更多學習謙卑，竭力保守合一的心。
星期四
溫州有很多基督徒是私營企業家，教會在過去有明顯的比較競爭意識，在建造教堂時出現攀比風氣，想把自己的教堂建得最大，造成樹大招風的隱患。求主安慰溫州教會不灰心，當外在的建築被拆除了，能看重修建内心的靈宮；更是在愛神、愛人上大有長進，樂意幫助眾教會，顯出他們在肢體之間的互助與慷慨，成為其他教會的榜樣。
星期五
溫州傳道人自己也承認當地確實存在建堂攀比之風，但福音工作是否亦獲得同等力度的投入，不禁讓人質疑。教會曾利用關係，沒按照法律行事也成了弱點之一。不少人會質問蓋宏偉教堂的動機是為了榮耀神，還是滲有私心？求主提醒我們在做任何神的聖工時，都能手潔心清，不依靠人的聰明，而是單一遵照神的原則，把榮耀完全歸給神。
星期六
近期中國政府強拆教堂的粗暴行為令人遺憾，也深深傷害了基督徒的感情。但是拆教堂的悲劇不能僅停留於眼淚與抗爭，信徒猶如站在十字路口，應該有更多的反思。幾年前，許多教會亦曾熱烈討論是否要註冊，公開大型的聚會。我們來為那些有計劃擴展，加添聚會人數的教會禱告，求主賜給他們從神來的智慧與明確指引。
星期日
現今浙江政教關係緊張，宗教信仰環境未來走向仍難把握。雖然家庭教會模式並非絕對百分百塑造安全、穩定的環境，但無疑可以將外在壓力降至最低。文革大逼迫中，家庭聚會幫助信徒保守了信仰；如今面對新的試煉，求主保守信徒依然持守信心，能準備好再次迎來新的復興。
星期一
有人提問，面對複雜、變幻莫測的未來局勢，信徒究竟要把精力放在爭取權益，還是廣傳福音和造就信徒靈命上？求神使用每一次的逼迫，每一件的難處，都成為神煉淨信徒的烈火，潔淨中國教會，把基督活化在信徒心裡，行事為人更有耶稣聖潔完全的樣式。
Wenzhou is fondly known as "China's Jerusalem" but a recent spate of demolition of churches or the crosses on them has turned this region into a land of sorrow and tears where many offer sympathy and others call for reflection. Churches in Wenzhou are at a definite crossroads. We know God works all things for good for those who love Him so we pray for comfort for those who have lost their churches or face persecution. We trust God will deliver the churches there and make them even stronger through these trials.
Wednesday
For illegally-built churches, both sides admit the illegality so officials offer this as the justification for forcible demolition. Church leaders however, point out the illegality of the building hoping for sympathy and understanding. They complain the heavy-handed treatment of the government. In the past some have fondly referred to the churches in Wenzhou as "the future of churches in China" which was probably not the correct observation. May the Lord protect His churches in China granting them purity, passion for His Word, humility, and unity.
Thursday
Many of the believers in Wenzhou are business people who naturally exude a competitive spirit and in the past they actually tried to outdo each other as they constructed church buildings. These outlandish buildings with majestic facades are the root of the current problem. We pray that the churches in Wenzhou will not despair but instead will be an example to all believers in China in their love for the Lord and His people as they show their generosity by giving to help others.
Friday
Even pastors from Wenzhou freely admit that churches there compete in how big and fancy their buildings are. Perhaps the lack of equal effort and quality in ministry, the tendency of going through the backdoor and evading the law are their weakness. Some wonder if the rash to build huge churches in China is God's work or that of man but God reminds us that everything we do in His name is indeed for His glory only.
Saturday
It is regrettable that officials in China have resorted to forcible demolition of church buildings. However, these incidences should not result in only tears and demonstrations. Believers in China are at a crossroads so they need much reflection. Just a few years ago people in the churches were debating about whether to register with the government so they could openly build larger facilities or not. We pray for wisdom and direction from God for all the churches so they will have a vision of expansion and growth.
Sunday
The tension between churches and officials in Zhejiang Province is tenuous to say the least and the forecast of the religious climate in China is cloudy at best. Under these circumstances, house churches that meet in smaller groups seem like a safer and more stable option for Christians. During the great persecution of the Cultural Revolution, Christians met in homes. We pray that believers who are facing persecution will remain faithful and be ready for the new revival God will send.
Monday
In the face of the forced demolition of churches in Wenzhou along with the uncertainty of religious liberty in China, some ask if they should focus on getting people saved or turning their energy to evangelizing and making good disciples of believers. We pray that each persecution and setback the churches in China faces will be the refining fire to purify them and mold them to be more like Jesus.
星期二
素有中國「耶路撒冷」之稱的溫州市教堂及十字架強拆風波震動全球，巨型教堂一夜倒塌令很多人哀哭，同情與反思的輿論不絕於耳。站在十字路口的溫州教會乃至整個中國教會未來的走向如何，目前仍不明朗。我們深信萬事互相效力，為叫愛神的人得益處。神必會使溫州教會經過烈火更加堅強，我們尤要為其中的信徒們禱告，無論景況如何，都仍堅守主道。
星期三
一些大型教堂部份建築確實涉及違章興建，這是雙方都承認的事實，也是政府強拆的藉口。然而，中國教會方面指「違建」背後有隱情，應被理解和同情，政府處理違章教堂的手法亦過於粗暴。過去，不少人誇稱溫州乃是中國教會的未來。求主保守眾教會，即主自己的身體，賜下清潔的靈，更渴慕神的話語，更多學習謙卑，竭力保守合一的心。
星期四
溫州有很多基督徒是私營企業家，教會在過去有明顯的比較競爭意識，在建造教堂時出現攀比風氣，想把自己的教堂建得最大，造成樹大招風的隱患。求主安慰溫州教會不灰心，當外在的建築被拆除了，能看重修建内心的靈宮；更是在愛神、愛人上大有長進，樂意幫助眾教會，顯出他們在肢體之間的互助與慷慨，成為其他教會的榜樣。
星期五
溫州傳道人自己也承認當地確實存在建堂攀比之風，但福音工作是否亦獲得同等力度的投入，不禁讓人質疑。教會曾利用關係，沒按照法律行事也成了弱點之一。不少人會質問蓋宏偉教堂的動機是為了榮耀神，還是滲有私心？求主提醒我們在做任何神的聖工時，都能手潔心清，不依靠人的聰明，而是單一遵照神的原則，把榮耀完全歸給神。
星期六
近期中國政府強拆教堂的粗暴行為令人遺憾，也深深傷害了基督徒的感情。但是拆教堂的悲劇不能僅停留於眼淚與抗爭，信徒猶如站在十字路口，應該有更多的反思。幾年前，許多教會亦曾熱烈討論是否要註冊，公開大型的聚會。我們來為那些有計劃擴展，加添聚會人數的教會禱告，求主賜給他們從神來的智慧與明確指引。
星期日
現今浙江政教關係緊張，宗教信仰環境未來走向仍難把握。雖然家庭教會模式並非絕對百分百塑造安全、穩定的環境，但無疑可以將外在壓力降至最低。文革大逼迫中，家庭聚會幫助信徒保守了信仰；如今面對新的試煉，求主保守信徒依然持守信心，能準備好再次迎來新的復興。
星期一
有人提問，面對複雜、變幻莫測的未來局勢，信徒究竟要把精力放在爭取權益，還是廣傳福音和造就信徒靈命上？求神使用每一次的逼迫，每一件的難處，都成為神煉淨信徒的烈火，潔淨中國教會，把基督活化在信徒心裡，行事為人更有耶稣聖潔完全的樣式。
Tuesday, March 08, 2016
Prayer Request 3/8 - 3/14
Tuesday
It is truly heart-wrenching to watch the footage of the destruction of majestic church buildings in Zhejiang China but the history of churches in China has taught us that God has allowed persecution to happen and turned it into revival. May the Lord comfort believers who are facing persecution, help them know that God is in control, and that this trying time can be a good time for self-reflection as well as an opportunity for new ministry.
Wednesday
Since the 1980's there have been many churches re-opened or rebuilt in China which has given the false impression that the buildings themselves represented the expansion of ministry and that they are the sole testimony to the public. We pray this wave of forced demolition will give all believers a new perspective of what the real church is--not buildings but people. May this difficult time help the churches in China to head in a new direction.
Thursday
Hundreds of churches in Zhejiang have recently had their crosses forcibly removed which helps us realize that the true essence of the church is the spiritual bodies they build in response to the Great Commission and that the church buildings are only a tool toward that end. The Church exists even without a building and the building should not be the primary place that defines Christianity. May the Lord comfort those who have lost their church buildings and help each of us to reflect on the rush to rebuild churches all over China.
Friday
During the past twenty years a new church building was completed about every two days in China. Believers gave very generously to build buildings but very little to train pastors or other church workers. We pray that churches and believers will focus on the training and equipping of their pastors to be better leaders of the flock.
Saturday
In Eastern China tens of millions of dollars are spent annually on new church buildings. If the same amount of money could be channeled into theological training, equipping, and improving the salaries of leaders, there would be pastors who are trained much better than they are now. May the Lord help us to see that He wants more shepherds to care for His flock and more workers for the harvest rather than our spending a lot of money on big church buildings.
Sunday
In China it is common to find many churches with small and dilapidated buildings with no shepherd within a half hour drive from a huge new church. We pray for all of the small churches there. May the Lord give each of the believers a vision to be a bright light for Him in their neighborhood and not compare themselves to bigger churches.
Monday
The demolition of church buildings and crosses in China highlights the strain and tension between Christianity and the Communist government which many once thought to be relaxed or even improved but which is actually ever-present. We pray that believers will stay clear-minded as they face the conundrum of finding a Biblical solution of how to worship and grow ministries with the imposed restraints. May they realize they should not feel they have failed because our Lord resides in our hearts, not in the buildings where we meet.
星期二
高大輝煌的浙江教堂被夷為平地無疑令信徒痛心疾首，但從中國教會的歷史來看，我們知道逼迫不能消滅基督徒，反而促使教會復興，又或越加興旺。基督徒面對困難挑戰，能謙卑下來深刻地自我反省是必要的。求主安慰面對試煉的信徒們，相信危機之後必有轉機，因為神一直在掌權。
星期三
中國自八十年代開始，不斷有教堂重新開放，或有新蓋的教堂，形成教堂建築富麗堂皇即代表教會事工成功擴展和能公開見證主道的刻板印象和觀念。求主藉著「遭強拆」也給所有信徒一個反思機會：教堂不等同教會，建築物絕不是主的身體，尤其是教會領袖們要在基督裡重新思考教會發展的新方向與策略。
星期四
近年來不少浙江省的教會和十字架被政府強制拆毀。教會的本質是建立屬靈群體，這是大使命中使萬民作主門徒的最重要關鍵，而建築物僅能算作輔助的工具。「教堂沒有了，教會仍在！」教堂建築不應是教會唯一事工或最重要的事工標記。我們求主安慰信徒，也給我們對重新建堂的熱潮有一定的反省。
星期五
中國過去二十年，每一至兩日就有新教堂落成。信徒樂於奉獻建堂固然好，但對於教會人才培育的投資，在比例上仍少得可憐。教會若沒有做好信仰的傳承，是對神託付的極大虧欠。求主提醒信徒和教會領袖們，再次注重培育屬靈的第二代，訓練傳道人，不單單注意信徒的數目，更需重視素質的提昇。
星期六
華東地區蓋教堂動輒數千萬元，若這筆錢用在改進神學教育、投資人才培育和改善同工待遇上，每年接受到正規神學教育畢業的同工或有望倍增；而教會的牧者也會樂於長期忠心地委身而無後顧之憂。求主幫助我們洞察，教會不能忽略訓練工人，這比花費巨額在建築物上更有永恒的價值，也更合乎神的心意。
星期日
中國社會貧富之間的巨差現象，也反映在教會之間的寫照。在華東地花費數千萬建造的大教堂的鄰近半小時車程裡，多的是貧窮、沒有牧人的小教會。我們要為中國的小教會禱告，求主賜信徒們有使命感，不與大教會攀比，每一個肢體只單單忠心按著神的指引，成為社區中一盞明亮的燈台。
星期一
浙江省的教會和十字架被拆，再次顯出基督教和政府之間的張力，不僅從未真正改善，反因彼此岐見越來越根深蒂固。求主幫助弟兄姊妹面臨挑戰時，能冷靜下來，回歸聖經真理。有智慧尋求、思考有效拓殖發展策略，不必為教堂被拆感虧欠，因神原不住人手所造殿宇，而是與信徒在心靈深處相契。
It is truly heart-wrenching to watch the footage of the destruction of majestic church buildings in Zhejiang China but the history of churches in China has taught us that God has allowed persecution to happen and turned it into revival. May the Lord comfort believers who are facing persecution, help them know that God is in control, and that this trying time can be a good time for self-reflection as well as an opportunity for new ministry.
Wednesday
Since the 1980's there have been many churches re-opened or rebuilt in China which has given the false impression that the buildings themselves represented the expansion of ministry and that they are the sole testimony to the public. We pray this wave of forced demolition will give all believers a new perspective of what the real church is--not buildings but people. May this difficult time help the churches in China to head in a new direction.
Thursday
Hundreds of churches in Zhejiang have recently had their crosses forcibly removed which helps us realize that the true essence of the church is the spiritual bodies they build in response to the Great Commission and that the church buildings are only a tool toward that end. The Church exists even without a building and the building should not be the primary place that defines Christianity. May the Lord comfort those who have lost their church buildings and help each of us to reflect on the rush to rebuild churches all over China.
Friday
During the past twenty years a new church building was completed about every two days in China. Believers gave very generously to build buildings but very little to train pastors or other church workers. We pray that churches and believers will focus on the training and equipping of their pastors to be better leaders of the flock.
Saturday
In Eastern China tens of millions of dollars are spent annually on new church buildings. If the same amount of money could be channeled into theological training, equipping, and improving the salaries of leaders, there would be pastors who are trained much better than they are now. May the Lord help us to see that He wants more shepherds to care for His flock and more workers for the harvest rather than our spending a lot of money on big church buildings.
Sunday
In China it is common to find many churches with small and dilapidated buildings with no shepherd within a half hour drive from a huge new church. We pray for all of the small churches there. May the Lord give each of the believers a vision to be a bright light for Him in their neighborhood and not compare themselves to bigger churches.
Monday
The demolition of church buildings and crosses in China highlights the strain and tension between Christianity and the Communist government which many once thought to be relaxed or even improved but which is actually ever-present. We pray that believers will stay clear-minded as they face the conundrum of finding a Biblical solution of how to worship and grow ministries with the imposed restraints. May they realize they should not feel they have failed because our Lord resides in our hearts, not in the buildings where we meet.
星期二
高大輝煌的浙江教堂被夷為平地無疑令信徒痛心疾首，但從中國教會的歷史來看，我們知道逼迫不能消滅基督徒，反而促使教會復興，又或越加興旺。基督徒面對困難挑戰，能謙卑下來深刻地自我反省是必要的。求主安慰面對試煉的信徒們，相信危機之後必有轉機，因為神一直在掌權。
星期三
中國自八十年代開始，不斷有教堂重新開放，或有新蓋的教堂，形成教堂建築富麗堂皇即代表教會事工成功擴展和能公開見證主道的刻板印象和觀念。求主藉著「遭強拆」也給所有信徒一個反思機會：教堂不等同教會，建築物絕不是主的身體，尤其是教會領袖們要在基督裡重新思考教會發展的新方向與策略。
星期四
近年來不少浙江省的教會和十字架被政府強制拆毀。教會的本質是建立屬靈群體，這是大使命中使萬民作主門徒的最重要關鍵，而建築物僅能算作輔助的工具。「教堂沒有了，教會仍在！」教堂建築不應是教會唯一事工或最重要的事工標記。我們求主安慰信徒，也給我們對重新建堂的熱潮有一定的反省。
星期五
中國過去二十年，每一至兩日就有新教堂落成。信徒樂於奉獻建堂固然好，但對於教會人才培育的投資，在比例上仍少得可憐。教會若沒有做好信仰的傳承，是對神託付的極大虧欠。求主提醒信徒和教會領袖們，再次注重培育屬靈的第二代，訓練傳道人，不單單注意信徒的數目，更需重視素質的提昇。
星期六
華東地區蓋教堂動輒數千萬元，若這筆錢用在改進神學教育、投資人才培育和改善同工待遇上，每年接受到正規神學教育畢業的同工或有望倍增；而教會的牧者也會樂於長期忠心地委身而無後顧之憂。求主幫助我們洞察，教會不能忽略訓練工人，這比花費巨額在建築物上更有永恒的價值，也更合乎神的心意。
星期日
中國社會貧富之間的巨差現象，也反映在教會之間的寫照。在華東地花費數千萬建造的大教堂的鄰近半小時車程裡，多的是貧窮、沒有牧人的小教會。我們要為中國的小教會禱告，求主賜信徒們有使命感，不與大教會攀比，每一個肢體只單單忠心按著神的指引，成為社區中一盞明亮的燈台。
星期一
浙江省的教會和十字架被拆，再次顯出基督教和政府之間的張力，不僅從未真正改善，反因彼此岐見越來越根深蒂固。求主幫助弟兄姊妹面臨挑戰時，能冷靜下來，回歸聖經真理。有智慧尋求、思考有效拓殖發展策略，不必為教堂被拆感虧欠，因神原不住人手所造殿宇，而是與信徒在心靈深處相契。
Tuesday, March 01, 2016
Prayer Request 3/1 - 3/7
Tuesday
The population of elderly people in China is rapidly expanding while those of working age is shrinking. This presents a challenge to both government authorities and the ordinary people, including many Christians. Let us pray for all of the issues regarding the rapid aging problem in China. Ask the Lord that He might show the church how she can be most effective in serving this growing group of people both in and outside of her walls.
Wednesday
Cultural expectations and legal requirements put the onus on families in China to care for older family members, but neither the government nor society at large is adequately prepared to support this effort. For churches, the immediate concern, especially in rural areas, is caring for elderly pastors in their later years. Let us pray for the well-being of all of the retiring and retired pastors.
Thursday
Younger urban pastors are faced with caring for parents who, in many cases, still live in the countryside or in smaller cities. Many of their congregants find themselves in a similar situation. With living space limited in the city, it may not be practical or desirable to have older relatives move in with the family. We pray for wisdom and patience for those who encounter difficult issues trying to care for elderly parents.
Friday
The church in China is the only entity that has access to a sizeable pool of potential personnel which includes both professionals whose expertise could be applied specifically to senior care and unskilled workers who can be trained to carry out support roles. We pray for joy and a beautiful live testimony by believers who care for the elderly. May their joyful disposition be a constant blessing to those for whom they provide care.
Saturday
Providing care for the elderly could involve Christians visiting and helping seniors who are living at home but whose families are unable to care for their needs. It could also involve setting up residential facilities for those who are no longer able to live in their own homes. We pray for the urban churches that have senior caring ministries and those that have care centers. May the Lord grant them His love and lead many of these seniors to become believers in Jesus.
Sunday
Some churches and individual Christians in China have already begun to be involved in the ministry of caring for seniors, but there remains a huge and ever-growing need for such help. We pray that God might inspire and envision those Christians with the necessary skills and experience to play their part in serving their local elderly community.
Monday
Churches in China that care for seniors can provide a way for the church to gain legitimacy within the society as the Christian people are seen caring for not only their own needs but those of their community. Let us pray for those believers who are already involved in caring for seniors that the Lord will encourage and strengthen them and provide all they need to continue this vital ministry.
星期二
中國的長者人口正迅速增加，工作年齡人口卻不斷縮減。這對於政府和一般人民來說，都是一個很棘手的形勢，而身在其中的基督徒也能不例外。我們為中國在這個領域中的需要禱告。求主向教會顯明祂的帶領和賜下智慧，明白如何以最有效的方式來服事這些快速成長的長者人口。
星期三
傳統的中國文化和法律的規定都要求家人要負責照顧年長的家庭成員，但是政府和社會都沒有足夠的配套來給予支持。對中國教會而言，當下急切需要關注的問題，就是照顧年長牧者的生活，尤其是農村地區。我們為將退休及已退休的傳道人的身心靈健康祈求。
星期四
城巿裡的年輕牧者要面對的問題之一是要盡孝來照顧父母，通常他們的父母仍然住在鄉下或是鄉鎮裡。許多城巿教會的弟兄姊妹也面對相同處境。城市的生活空間有限，讓年長的親人搬來同住或許不是最理想的做法。求神賜城巿的弟兄姊妹智慧與耐心，以神的愛來克服各樣的難題。
星期五
教會裡有許多從事不同職業的弟兄姊妹，當中有受過良好教育的專業人士，亦有可以接受訓練的肢體，可來擔任支援長者事工的角色。這些資源都可以給長者提供適切的照料和關顧。我們為一直忠心照顧長者的基督徒禱告，求神賜他們喜樂，美好的生命見證，吏因著他們的忠心擺上，活出了基督的愛，就能成為許多人的祝福。
星期六
基督徒可以透過鄰舍層面的長者社區支援服務，探訪和幫助那些缺乏親人照顧的長者，亦可為長者提供一些家居設施，協助他們的起居生活。我們為有長者事工，甚至有養老院的城市教會禱告，求神加給他們愛心，也能引領長者認識福音，得著永恒的盼望。
星期日
目前已有不少個別的基督徒及某些教會已經投入關顧長者的事工，然而這類的關懷仍然存著很大的需求，而且只會越來越大。求主感動那些具備專業技能和經驗的基督徒，賜他們異象，讓他們同心站出來，用服事神的心來事奉本地的長者族群。
星期一
關懷老人需要能讓中國教會在社會中建立正面形象，因為基督徒不單顧自己，也顧及別人，更關心社區的需要。我們為已經投入長者關懷的教會禱告，求主鼓勵、加力他們，供應一切需用，讓他們能夠靠主恩典，繼續發揚光大這項重要的事工。
The population of elderly people in China is rapidly expanding while those of working age is shrinking. This presents a challenge to both government authorities and the ordinary people, including many Christians. Let us pray for all of the issues regarding the rapid aging problem in China. Ask the Lord that He might show the church how she can be most effective in serving this growing group of people both in and outside of her walls.
Wednesday
Cultural expectations and legal requirements put the onus on families in China to care for older family members, but neither the government nor society at large is adequately prepared to support this effort. For churches, the immediate concern, especially in rural areas, is caring for elderly pastors in their later years. Let us pray for the well-being of all of the retiring and retired pastors.
Thursday
Younger urban pastors are faced with caring for parents who, in many cases, still live in the countryside or in smaller cities. Many of their congregants find themselves in a similar situation. With living space limited in the city, it may not be practical or desirable to have older relatives move in with the family. We pray for wisdom and patience for those who encounter difficult issues trying to care for elderly parents.
Friday
The church in China is the only entity that has access to a sizeable pool of potential personnel which includes both professionals whose expertise could be applied specifically to senior care and unskilled workers who can be trained to carry out support roles. We pray for joy and a beautiful live testimony by believers who care for the elderly. May their joyful disposition be a constant blessing to those for whom they provide care.
Saturday
Providing care for the elderly could involve Christians visiting and helping seniors who are living at home but whose families are unable to care for their needs. It could also involve setting up residential facilities for those who are no longer able to live in their own homes. We pray for the urban churches that have senior caring ministries and those that have care centers. May the Lord grant them His love and lead many of these seniors to become believers in Jesus.
Sunday
Some churches and individual Christians in China have already begun to be involved in the ministry of caring for seniors, but there remains a huge and ever-growing need for such help. We pray that God might inspire and envision those Christians with the necessary skills and experience to play their part in serving their local elderly community.
Monday
Churches in China that care for seniors can provide a way for the church to gain legitimacy within the society as the Christian people are seen caring for not only their own needs but those of their community. Let us pray for those believers who are already involved in caring for seniors that the Lord will encourage and strengthen them and provide all they need to continue this vital ministry.
星期二
中國的長者人口正迅速增加，工作年齡人口卻不斷縮減。這對於政府和一般人民來說，都是一個很棘手的形勢，而身在其中的基督徒也能不例外。我們為中國在這個領域中的需要禱告。求主向教會顯明祂的帶領和賜下智慧，明白如何以最有效的方式來服事這些快速成長的長者人口。
星期三
傳統的中國文化和法律的規定都要求家人要負責照顧年長的家庭成員，但是政府和社會都沒有足夠的配套來給予支持。對中國教會而言，當下急切需要關注的問題，就是照顧年長牧者的生活，尤其是農村地區。我們為將退休及已退休的傳道人的身心靈健康祈求。
星期四
城巿裡的年輕牧者要面對的問題之一是要盡孝來照顧父母，通常他們的父母仍然住在鄉下或是鄉鎮裡。許多城巿教會的弟兄姊妹也面對相同處境。城市的生活空間有限，讓年長的親人搬來同住或許不是最理想的做法。求神賜城巿的弟兄姊妹智慧與耐心，以神的愛來克服各樣的難題。
星期五
教會裡有許多從事不同職業的弟兄姊妹，當中有受過良好教育的專業人士，亦有可以接受訓練的肢體，可來擔任支援長者事工的角色。這些資源都可以給長者提供適切的照料和關顧。我們為一直忠心照顧長者的基督徒禱告，求神賜他們喜樂，美好的生命見證，吏因著他們的忠心擺上，活出了基督的愛，就能成為許多人的祝福。
星期六
基督徒可以透過鄰舍層面的長者社區支援服務，探訪和幫助那些缺乏親人照顧的長者，亦可為長者提供一些家居設施，協助他們的起居生活。我們為有長者事工，甚至有養老院的城市教會禱告，求神加給他們愛心，也能引領長者認識福音，得著永恒的盼望。
星期日
目前已有不少個別的基督徒及某些教會已經投入關顧長者的事工，然而這類的關懷仍然存著很大的需求，而且只會越來越大。求主感動那些具備專業技能和經驗的基督徒，賜他們異象，讓他們同心站出來，用服事神的心來事奉本地的長者族群。
星期一
關懷老人需要能讓中國教會在社會中建立正面形象，因為基督徒不單顧自己，也顧及別人，更關心社區的需要。我們為已經投入長者關懷的教會禱告，求主鼓勵、加力他們，供應一切需用，讓他們能夠靠主恩典，繼續發揚光大這項重要的事工。
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