the middle kingdom

As Covid-19 continues to spread globally schools are asking hard questions about remaining open or moving to online learning.  Months ago, the schools in China grappled with that question.  Today's episode explores the journey of one international school in hopes that it can help prepare administrators, teachers, parents, students, and friends for the possible future they might find themselves in.  Join us in the conversation as Jenni Johnson, an international school principal, shares tips she has learned over the past few months.    Platforms: https://www.edmodo.com/ https://teach.classdojo.com https://zoom.com https://www.loom.com  

On today's episode, Jenni and TJ are joined by Randy Eplin as they discuss leading a team through a crisis.  As Churchill once said, "A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty."  Leaders are defined by their actions in difficult times.  Join us in the conversation as we look at what it takes to lead well in the midst of difficulty. 

On today's episode Jenni and TJ are joined in the studio with Dr. Savu as they discuss necessary precautions to take during this time of increased fear.  Dr. Savu gives some very practical advice along with some words of wisdom which will be sure to comfort the worried soul.  Join us in the conversation! Resources: BJU Support Line: +86 139 1172 7074 Brainpop Activity Calendar Behavioral Health 在传染病爆发式如何与孩子交流 My Epidemic Story    

On today's show Jenni and TJ take some time to discuss grief and loss.  Over the next several months, after the masks are taken off and life returns to "normal," each person who has been affected by the virus will come to grips with what they have lost.  Lost friends who decided not to return.  Lost opportunities.  Lost jobs.  Loss of finances or property or possession.  Join us in the conversation as we discuss proper ways to grieve and how to help those who are experiencing loss.

On this episode the Johnson family discusses what life has been like the past few weeks with the outbreak in China.  Wonder what life in the educational world is like in China right now?  Been praying for churches in China and desire to know more about how church is currently happening?  How has all this affected teens?  All this and more will be discussed on today's podcast.   taskforce@bicf.org Elearning City Church Online 3 Things to Remember When You're Feeling Anxious

Join us today as we chat with short term visitors to Beijing.  In this episode we discuss the differences and challenges of traveling to a different culture and tips for those who might find themselves traveling from Beijing to a rural city abroad. 

The instructions Jesus left with the apostles was to go and make disciples.  That was His big plan for changing the world.  But I wonder if many Christians today are effectively doing just that. I wonder if we even know what it means to make disciples?  Join us in the conversation as we discuss organic discipleship.

Our current culture has a lot to say about sexuality and identity, yet so does the Bible.  Although the Bible is not primarily about sexuality it does address it.  Although the Bible is not a book on gender identity it certainly gives us God's perspective on the matter.  Join us in the conversation as we discuss this "Big Topic."  Resources: Is God Anti-Gay? What Does the Bible Really Teach About Homosexuality? Gay Girl, Good God God and the Transgender Debate The Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert Mark Dever Sermon Series Glossary of Gender Terms (Download) Understanding Gender Dysphoria

There is much discussion on how to hear from God. There is even more discussion on how God's will plays out in our life. Does he give us choices? If we make a poor choice does it set us down a path of destruction and ultimately change the good future God had hoped for us? This is no small matter when you take into account that the multiplicity of choice often delays forward movement in life and renders us inactive. Join us in the conversation as we discuss how to discern God's will for our lives. Resources: Just Do Something Decision Making and the Will of God God's Will Found: God's Will

Suffering is something that no one is immune to. As much as we would like to avoid it, and try as we might, it comes to us all. But why? Is it because of my sin? Is it because of bad karma? Is it because I lack faith? And does suffering prove the nonexistence of God? After all, if God is all good then how can he allow suffering in this world? Join us in the conversation as we take on this big question.   Suffering: Gospel Hope God's Grace in Your Suffering Walking with God through Pain and Suffering Why Suffering Suffering is Never for Nothing

There are certain things about Christianity that is...well...hard to accept. There are things that we would rather not think about and certainly not discuss. And if we're truly honest, many of us have at one point sympathized with Thomas Jefferson for taking a pair of scissors to his Bible. Hell is one such topic that many might feel embarrassed about. In fact, it's such a sensitive topic that many today have rejected it altogether. But what does the Bible actually say about hell? Join us in the conversation as we discuss the big question of hell. Resources: Crucial Questions About Hell Hell Under Fire What is Hell Erasing Hell Hell on Trial Francis Turretin on Hell

As Christians our faith rests on Scripture. Everything we hold to be true about God, man, life now and life to come is because of what is written in this book. But are the 66 books we call “The Bible” a reliable resource? How do we know that it is God's Word given to us as the Holy Spirit inspired men to write it? How do we know that the books we currently have in our Bible are the only books that should be included or that some of those books that are in the Bible should really be omitted? It's an important topic, so join us today as we discuss the reliability of the Bible.   Extra Resources: Canon Fodder The Canon of Scripture – F.F. Bruce The New Testament Documents: Are They Reliable? - F.F. Bruce & N.T. Wright Canon Revisited – Michael Kruger Truth in a Culture of Doubt - Andreas J. Köstenberger

If Christianity is true and there is really only one God and mediator between God and man, the Lord Jesus Christ, then why are there so many different religions?  Join us in the conversation as we discuss the major religions of the world and why it's not arrogant to say that Christianity is the one true way to God.   Resources: The Camel Muslim Evangelism Neighboring Faiths Why so Many Gods?  

When it comes to faith there are many big questions to discuss.  Before we begin those discussion we need to lay some ground rules.  Why discuss these topics?  What are the correct ways and wrong ways to have dialogue?  Join us in the discussion as we discuss the importance of dialoguing well. 

God is on the move.  He is working in the city through His people.  We believe that our stories matter because our stories are testimony of the power and love of God.  This week Arrier joins us in the studio to share how God is speaking to His children and guiding them to people who need the gospel.  Join us in the conversation. 

It's that time of year when people are gearing up for a summer trip which brings us to the questions, are these sort of trips really worth it?  They cost a lot of money.  There are a lot of inconveniences from the sender and the receiver that will incur.  Are they effective or simply glorified vacations?  Join us as we discuss the details of short-term trips.

Even a short trip to China is met with the same struggles and surprises that we encounter as we settle in for the long haul. Three visitors to Beijing share about their reactions to the city and its culture and leave listeners with a refreshed love for China.

The story of Passover is central to the Christian message. All throughout the Old Testament this shadow of the gospel is repeated until Christ is ushered onto the scene with these words, “Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” What is the connection between Christ and this ancient celebration? What are some meaningful truths from this event that will inspire worship in our hearts today? Join us as we discuss this ancient and modern tradition, Passover.   Resources: What Every Christian Needs to Know About Passover: What It Means and Why It Matters The Messianic Passover Seder Preparation Guide Christ in the Passover Passover in the Time of Jesus

Today we conclude our series in 1 Corinthians by taking a look at chapter 15. It is the pinnacle of the book, everything that has been written is building up to this moment, the resurrection of Jesus. Christianity hinges upon the resurrection. Join us as we discuss the historicity, purpose, and power of the resurrection. Not only is it important to know what we believe, but it is vital that we know why we believe it and furthermore, how to defend our beliefs to an unbelieving world. Below is a list of some of the world's top apologists we recommend you read or listen to. Resources: William Lane Craig Tim Keller Norm Geisler John Lennox CS Lewis Josh McDowell Lee Strobel James White Ravi Zacharias

Today we are in 1 Corinthians 16.  Yes, we know we skipped chapter 15.  Join us next week for that chapter, which is really the point of the entire book...the Resurrection changes everything.  This week we look at that topic that many feel uncomfortable about, giving.  If God owns everything and doesn't need our time, talents, and treasures, then why give?  If I decide to give, how much should I give? How often should I give?  To whom should I give?  It's estimated that the average U.S. household credit card debt is $6,9291 in revolving balances.  I don't know about you but I am shocked by this fact.  The discussion of giving goes deeper than how much you're dropping in the offering plate...it begins with how we are stewarding the resources given us by the Lord.  How we spend our money is a good indicator of what our idols are.  Jesus Himself said: “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Luke 12:34) Join us in the conversation...as always, feel free to share your thoughts on the topic! Resources: Resources: Eternal Perspective Ministry, Randy Alcorn Managing God's Money, Randy Alcorn Money, Possessions and Eternity, Randy Alcorn The Treasure Principle, Randy Alcorn Generosity: Responding to God's Radical Grace in Community, study kit from Redeemer Presbyterian Church

Today we are in 1 Corinthians 12-14. Few topics are as controversial as Spiritual Gifts. The moment we receive Christ as King we are endowed with gifts that are meant to enable us to edify the church. What are those gifts and how should they function in a church? Resources: Spiritual Gifts: What They Are and Why They Matter, Thomas Schreiner Showing the Spirit: A Theological Exposition of 1 Corinthians 12–14, DA Carson DA Carson Audio on 1 Corinthians 12-14, DA Carson “Modern Spiritual Gifts as Analogous to Apostolic Gifts: Affirming Extraordinary Works of the Spirit.”, Vern Poythress Supernatural Power for Everyday People, Jared Wilson

Today we turn our attention to 1 Corinthians 8-11 and the important topic of Christian Liberty.  How does the law relate to the Christian today? What are things we should avoid? How can we as Christians abuse our freedom?  In what ways are we to give up our freedoms for the sake of the gospel and our brothers and sisters in Christ? Resources: How to Serve Christians Who Are Needlessly Restrictive, John MacArthur Concerning Christian Liberty, Martin Luther Pastor, Defend Christian Liberty, Caleb Greggsen 4 Principles for the Exercise of Christian Liberty, Sinclair Ferguson

Today we look at 1 Corinthians 7 as we discuss the topics, Marriage and Singleness.  What is a Biblical understanding of marriage and divorce?  How should we think of singleness?  How can both the married and the single honor Christ in life God has assigned them? Resources: Not Yet Married:The Pursuit of Joy in Singleness and Dating, Marshall Segal The Mingling of Souls: God's Design for Love, Marriage, Sex, and Redemption, Matt Chandler The Meaning of Marriage, Tim Keller 9 Ways to Pastor Those Longing for Marriage, Matt Smethurst

This week we host a live recording of The Embassy as they discuss their recent series through the Gospel of John. Join us in the conversation as we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of going through a book of the Bible expositorily .  The Embassy is the Young Adults Ministry at BICF City Church.  You can join them every Thursday at 7:15pm at the 21st Century Hotel (2nd Floor) in Room 800 and 900 for a night of praise and worship, an applicable message, prayer and fellowship. Additionally they have started a daytime service on Tuesdays 10:00 am at the 21st Century Hotel (2nd Floor) in Room 200.   For more information about The Embassy click here.     

We begin our series on 1 Corinthians.  Today we look at the first four chapters.  How should congregants view leaders in the church? How should leaders view their role? How does a misunderstanding of church leadership lead to dysfunction in the church? Additional Resources: Emotionally Healthy Church, Peter Scazzero with Warren Bird Next: Pastoral Succession That Works, William Vanderbloemen and Warren Bird The Cross and Christian Ministry: Leadership Lessons from 1 Corinthians, D. A.  Carson Spurgeon on Leadership, Larry Michael You Don't Need a Title to Be a Leader, Mark Sanborn The Marks of a Spiritual Leader, John Piper

Today we chat with Dr. Zeb Balentine about his book, "The Singing Teacher."  In this episode we discuss the power of song and how congregational worship not only helps shape our understanding of who God is but also prepares us for death.  If you like what you hear be sure to pick up Dr. Balentine's book, "The Singing Teacher: How the Worship Leader Shapes the Theology of the Church."  Also be sure to hear more from Dr. Balentine at his website. 

Today we finish our discussion on Faith and Work as we discuss how to be intentional with our faith.  The phrase, "Preach the gospel, if necessary use word,"  has been falsely attributed to St. Francis.  Here's the problem, "Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God."  In our respective workplaces our gospel action must be accompanied with gospel words for true conversion to take place.  Join us in the conversation today as we discuss how the gospel can be and should be shared with our coworkers, bosses, and clients.  Pray with us that God would send out laborers into the harvest field work places around the world. 

Today we continue our discussion on Faith and Work as we discuss how to balance work and leisure.  In an age when technology not only makes it possible to bring work home, but also brings an expectation to be "on call" every hour of the day how do we learn how to say no to work and yes to rest?  Wendell Berry once said, “Sabbath observance invites us to stop. It invites us to rest. It asks us to notice that while we rest, the world continues without our help. It invites us to delight in the world's beauty and abundance.” Join us in the conversation as we corporately learn how to humble our opinions of ourselves and our work that we might, in faith, Sabbath well.

Today we continue our discussion on Faith and Work as we discuss how to work with integrity. So many individuals and companies fall to the lure of compromising their integrity.  As Christians we are called to work wholeheartedly, knowing that Christ Himself sees through our actions and into the motivations that brought about those actions.  The way of integrity begins when we seek to please Him above all other earthly masters.  Join us in the conversation and find out more on our website.

Today we continue our discussion on Faith and Work as we discuss the difficult topic of failure.  Everyone fails, but as Christians there is hope in our failure for Christ's grace toward us is greater than our greatest failure.  If you are going through a season of failure we pray this episode brings healing for today and hope for tomorrow.  Join us in the conversation and find out more on our website. 

Today we continue our discussion on Faith and Work as we discuss how work itself can be a litmus test on what we truly value.  What are the idols that lurk in your heart seeking opportunity to turn the good gift of work into an ultimate gift?  Join us in the conversation and find out more on our website.

Today we continue our series on Jesus in the Workplace with a conversation on transformation in the workplace. What does it mean to make change at work? How do we go about doing that? Join us in the conversation and find out more on our website.

What is work? Does God care about it? Should we? Join us as we launch a new series on faith in the workplace and start the discussion with a theology of work. For more on today's episode and other resources check out our website at themiddlekingdom.org.

This week's episode features a special bonus conversation on the topic of faith and entrepreneurship, with answers to questions like, how can I greater integrate my faith into my work, venture, or creative endeavors? What makes a Christian entrepreneur stand out in the broader entrepreneurial community? What can the Christian church at large learn from entrepreneurs? This episode highlights three successful entrepreneurs and leaders based in Beijing who are living out their faith through their business ventures. You can find notes from today's show on our website at themiddlekingdom.org. 

What do you think of when you hear the word "power?" After last week's discussion on the problem of the church, this week we dive into a conversation about the power of the church. We talk about how the church is equipped to function and go out into the world. For more information and notes from today's show, check out themiddlekingdom.org.

This week we bring in two guest pastors to continue our series on the church and talk about some of the common problems of the church - both local and global-and the hope for the future. Check out notes from this week's episode on the Middle Kingdom website.

This week we discuss another a component of the church: its people. With a discussion ranging from church membership to women in leadership to the church, join us in this week's conversation. For today's verses and notes, visit themiddlekingdom.org.

Join the citizens of the Middle Kingdom as we discuss the purpose and mission of the church. Check out our website for notes from today's show and other resources.

Bringing together the different hosts of the Middle Kingdom, we're excited to introduce our new series: The Church. Today's episode addresses some common misconceptions and seeks to set a baseline definition of "the church" for this new series. You can find notes from today's show on our website at themiddlekingdom.org. 

It's that time of the year in Beijing, again. With the season of coming and going being in full force, the Middle Kingdom sits down with Jeff and Tracy after repatriating. Join us for a discussion on the ups and the downs of that process and for some insight on how you can make transitions smoother. You can find notes from today's show on our website at themiddlekingdom.org. 

Join the citizens of the Middle Kingdom as we wrap up our series, Unveiled, and discuss what the Old Testament has to say about Jesus and some of the common mistakes that often arise in these discussions. To find verses, notes, and small group discussion's from today's show, visit themiddlekingdom.org.

Join the citizens of the Middle Kingdom as we continue our series, Unveiled, and dig into what the Old Testament has to say about Jesus as the key to understanding the fullness of the New Testament. To find verses, notes, and small group discussion's from today's show, visit themiddlekingdom.org.    

Join the citizens of the Middle Kingdom as we continue our series, Unveiled, and dig into what the Old Testament has to say about Jesus as man. To find verses, notes, and small group discussion's from today's show, visit themiddlekingdom.org.

Join the citizens of the Middle Kingdom as we continue our series, Unveiled, and dig into what the Old Testament has to say about Jesus as type. To find verses, notes, and small group discussion's from today's show, visit themiddlekingdom.org.

Join the citizens of the Middle Kingdom as we continue our series, Unveiled, and dive into what the Old Testament has to say about Jesus as prophecy. To find verses, notes, and small group discussion questions from today's show, visit themiddlekingdom.org.

Join the citizens of the Middle Kingdom as we continue our series, Unveiled, and look into what the Old Testament has to say about Jesus as prophecy. To find verses, notes, and small group discussions from today's show, visit themiddlekingdom.org.

Join the citizens of the Middle Kingdom as we start a new series called Unveiled: What the Old Testament has to say about Jesus. This episode is the introduction where we clear up common misconceptions on this topic.     Verses from today's show:   Luke 24:25-27, 44-45   John 5:39-47   Acts 26:22-23   Heb. 11:24-26   John 8:56 – 56   I Peter 1:10-11     Links/Resources:   David Murray, Jesus on Every Page: 10 Simple Ways to Seek and Find Christ in the Old Testament   Vern Poythress, The Shadow of Christ in the Law of Moses   Edmund Clowney, The Unfolding Mystery: Discovering Christ in the Old Testament   Jonathan Edwards, A History of the Work of Redemption   Nancy Guthrie, The Promised One (A 10-week Bible Study): Seeing Jesus in Genesis   The Scriptures Testify About Me, Al Mohler, Tim Keller, Alistair Begg, D. A. Carson   Gordan Fee, How to Read the Bible Book by Book and How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth   Max Anders, Understanding the Bible in 30 Days      Small Group Discussion Questions:   How much of your time is spent in the Old Testament?   Are there any Old Testament books you have never read?   What are three practical things you can do or ask each time you read from the Old Testament that will help you to better understand it?   What information did you heart today that was totally new?   What are the things said from this episode that you disagree with? Why? Can you use scripture to defend your position?    Will you commit to read through an Old Testament book this week or month?   Take some time to discuss different ways Jesus is the fulfillment of the Old Testament.   Photo Credit: Zach Mazrim

Join the citizens of the Middle Kingdom as we have a conversation with TJ and Jenni Johnson, co-founders of the Middle Kingdom, on what the Middle Kingdom is.      Verses from today's show:   Romans 7:15-20     Links/Resources:   The Middle Kingdom    The Bible Project on the Kingdom   Graeme Goldsworthy, The Goldsworthy Trilogy    Worship Central, Pray   City Church

Join the citizens of the Middle Kingdom as we explore what the Bible has to say about questions raised by the application of the spiritual disciplines.     Verses from today's show:   Psalms 46:10   Matthew 6:1-15   Matthew 11:28-30   James 5:16     Links/Resources:   Dallas Willard The Spirit of the Disciplines   Richard Foster Celebration of Discipline   David Mathis Habits of Grace

Join the citizens of the Middle Kingdom as we explore what the Bible has to say about the disciplines of engagement.     Verses from today's show:   Galatians 5:13   Colossians 3:23-24    Hebrews 6:10     1 Peter 4   Proverbs 3:27   Hebrews 10:24-25   Acts 2:42   1 Thessalonians 5:11   2 Chronicles 20:21   1 Corinthians 10:29   Proverbs 14:13     Links/Resources:   iherb - fresh produce    Dallas Willard The Spirit of the Disciplines   Richard Foster Celebration of Discipline   David Mathis Habits of Grace

Join the citizens of the Middle Kingdom as we explore what the Bible has to say about the disciplines of abstinence.     Verses from today's show:   Isaiah 58:3-10   Matthew 6:16-18   Matthew 6:21, 25-27   Mark 10:46-52   1 Corinthians 6:13   1 Corinthians 6:18-20   Colossians 3:5   Philippians 4:6-7, 11-13   1 Thessalonians 4:3-5     Links/Resources   This Minimalist Owns Just 150 Items —Could You?   Huang Qingjun