Asia

[Book review] Telling the truth in China - a book review of Sparks

[Book review] Telling the truth in China - a book review of Sparks

Anyone familiar with Pulitzer prize-winning journalist Ian Johnson’s previous writing on China has likely already picked up a copy of his most recent book, Sparks. Johnson’s ability to combine his intimate familiarity with life in China today with heartfelt interviews from people throughout Chinese society makes his writing insightful and often deeply moving. His latest book is no exception, and should be read by all who care about the people of China.

Opinion

  • When freedom of religion is not

    A devastating wave is crashing over South Asia, wreaking havoc on those who choose to follow a faith other than the majority. It is a wave of anti-Christian sentiment. So-called “Freedom of Religion” and “Anti-Blasphemy” laws fuel it, generating a powerful undercurrent of distrust and disdain toward Christians.

  • In the aftermath of Nepal's natural disaster

    The recent flood from the Himalayas through Nepal to India, shared via social media, stunned the world. Relief organizations mobilized to capitalize on the catastrophe and the Nepali government collected a great deal of financial aid to assist but relief action was slow. Whereas, NGOs and churches competed for the donor dollar while families grieved.

  • The gospel in the context of Taiwan's ghost month

    For a followers of folk religion in Taiwan, who understand religion as transactional with individual spirits, forgiveness of sins may not immediately sound like an answer to the practical fears that emerge during Taiwan's Ghost Month. Yet the gospel can reframe the human problem without ignoring the fear that brought the person to the conversation. Our deepest problem is not that we have failed to satisfy every unseen power. It is that we are sinners before a holy God.

  • Our mission among the nations is rooted in relationship

    Disciples are made to need one another, and in their interdependence they reveal God's glory. Collaboration with those who follow Christ from other backgrounds is a powerful witness in this regard. By living and ministering well together the lives of those who don't know Jesus will be impacted by a community of spiritually transformed, self-giving people who demonstrate a love that is not of this world.

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