“This Mandarin-language Study Bible is like a spiritual weapon prepared by God for ministry,” said Wen Li, a lay preacher in northern China whose ministry is supported by the British and Foreign Bible Society (BFBS).

 

“This Bible has enabled me to understand biblical truths more deeply and has helped me to convey God’s Word more accurately. My relationship with God and my conviction in ministry have been tremendously strengthened through this Study Edition of the Bible. I am so grateful,” he continued enthusiastically.

 

Who is Wen Li?

Li is 38 years old and serves as a volunteer teacher at his church out of love for God, not to further his career. Lay preachers in China receive no pay and often have no formal training, yet their presence is sorely needed by congregations that do not have an ordained minister.

 

The Bible Society’s supporting partners have made a significant impact on Li by providing him with a Mandarin Study Edition Bible. He now uses this resource frequently; he uses it for preaching, for his personal study, and during family worship.

 

Thanks to the support provided through fundraising for China throughout this spring, as well as regular donations from various parties, it is hoped that 10,000 copies of the Mandarin Study Bible will be distributed throughout China within the next year. Li received the Study Bible during a church training programme, which is rarely held in his region.

 

Many of these church workers live in poverty, making ends meet on a meagre income, and travelling long distances to spread the Good News. They are in desperate need of all the support we can give.

 

Li’s detailed study notes on the Bible provide deeper insight and greater clarity. Many of Li’s congregation members have remarked that his sermons are now easier to understand and more relevant to apply in daily life, making God’s Word feel far more meaningful to them.

 

How does the Mandarin Study Edition of the Bible assist in his ministry?

For example, when leading a small group on the theme of loving one’s neighbour, Li can share insights into the historical background and provide practical examples.

 

One group member recounted a conflict she had experienced with her neighbour, which left her unsure of what to do. Following that Bible discussion, he felt encouraged to take steps towards reconciliation. Not only was the issue between them resolved, but the two of them have now also started attending church activities together. Seeing how the Chinese Study Bible (Chinese Study Bible) could have such a practical impact, Li felt greatly encouraged.

 

Whilst serving the son of her daughter’s calligraphy teacher—who had a congenital condition from birth—Li drew upon the Bible’s teachings regarding God’s unique plan for every individual. The young man had experienced repeated setbacks in his job search after graduating, to the point where he began to doubt his own worth. Li shared her experience of how she, too, had once felt lost after recovering from an illness early in her career, but later found strength through her faith in Christ.

 

Sharing on such a personal level brings about real change. Li explained that the young man managed to regain his self-confidence and eventually found a suitable job. Later, the young man revealed that he had learnt to believe that good things can still happen, regardless of the difficulties faced. Realising that he could bring real comfort to others’ lives made Li appreciate the privilege of serving even more.

 

There are many more positive impacts resulting from your support

This Mandarin Study Edition of the Bible has deepened Li’s own faith. She recounts how the study notes on Matthew 6:33 — “but seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” — have helped her to prioritise her faith and not be so weighed down by worldly worries.

 

“When facing various pressures in life, whether at work or in relationships, these notes remind me to seek solutions from a God-centred perspective, and to draw strength and guidance from Him,” she said.

 

“I am truly grateful to all of you, the ministry partners of the Bible Society! Your generosity has provided us with invaluable resources to study God’s Word and strengthen our faith. Whilst serving, I often speak of your kindness, and I strive to share that same love by caring for and helping those in need around me. I express my gratitude by passing on the chain of blessings that you have begun,” said Li, deeply moved.

 

Translated from: biblesociety.org.uk