Yaodu District Church in Linfen City, Shanxi Province, organizes a two-year training class to equip volunteer church ministers.
The church saw its 100-person capacity classroom filled around 8 o'clock last Saturday. Students come from Linfen city and its six pastoral districts, as well as over a dozen members from neighboring Hongdong County who travel more than 50 kilometers.
This two-year training class started in this spring, offering courses every Saturday to volunteer ministers and believers eager to be equipped. Courses have opened are Introduction to the Old Testament and Systematic Theology. Upon completing two years of study, participants will receive a graduation certificate.
Introduction to the Old Testament is taught by Rev. Geng Fuqin. Addressing the spiritual needs of the attendees, she offers a comprehensive overview of each book of the Bible through in-depth yet accessible explanations, covering historical context, geographical setting, outlines, character traits, and writing styles.
Minister Wang Shuai teaches Systematic Theology. He covers topics including Biblical Theology, General and Special Revelation, Revelation and God, and God's work. He explains theological concepts in contemporary language with scriptural references and sometimes animation videos.
This training class is a continuation of a previously suspended initiative due to venue issues. Also, many volunteer ministers find it difficult to prepare sermons due to the lack of study during the pandemic.
Students describe the training as "a rich spiritual feast" which is of great help. After each session, students actively finish their homework, and every study group holds discussions, reflecting on their learnings and sharing personal insights.
Some volunteer ministers, once hesitant to stand in the pulpit, now share the word of God with confidence from the Holy Spirit.
(The author reported in Linfen, Shanxi. Originally published by the Gospel Times, the article has been edited under permission.)
- Edited and Translated by Poppy Chan
