Forging New Directions for Theological Education in China: The Vision and Mission

Author: Wenjuan Zhao

Keywords: Theological Education, Protestant Chinese House Church, Protestant Three-Self Church, Chinese Context, OCRPL, Shepherds Academy

Abstract

I examine the formation and division of the Chinese Protestant church in mainland China from a historical perspective to illustrate the unbalanced status of theological education unfolding in the Chinese house church and the Three-Self church. I articulate how this prophetic vision and action has forged a new direction, restoring balance to theological education so that on its own terms, the house church could be empowered and strengthened to transform itself, the local community, and the broader society. My hope is that through this reflection, Christians from the Global South—Chinese Christians in particular will come to recognize the significant role of the Oxford Centre for Religion and Public Life.