Back to God Ministries International (BTGMI) began broadcasting the gospel by radio into mainland China in 1975.
At first, there was no indication that the message was reaching listeners. But late in 1978, after the death of Communist Party leader Mao Tse-Tung, the wall of silence cracked and letters came pouring out.
Today, with the availability of the Internet, BTGMI's Chinese ministry is touching the lives of literally millions.
Consider this e-mail from a father in China:"I thank God for your ministry to our family throughout the years. I still remember the days when I was very young and my grandmother used to listen to your programs with her little old radio. She had to do it secretly, late at night then. During the day, she would take time to share some of the lessons she learned with my whole family, though at that time I was not really interested. But since I became a believer several years ago, I am so excited to find you on the Internet."
"I want to thank you for your children's program, too," the man added, "because now I can listen to it together with my young daughter, somewhat similar to what my grandmother did many years ago."
"The Chinese ministry has been so blessed to be used in this way," notes Rev. Jimmy Lin, Chinese ministry leader. "Though the format of delivery and the presentation of the content have been continuously evolving, the message remains the same."
One example is the newly released video presentation of the gospel titled From the Cross to the Manger, now available at www.chinese-goodnews.org.
BTGMI's Chinese ministry maintains four websites, including one specifically for children: www.kidswelcome.org. A fifth website is to be launched in March to support the Truth Q&A program and its follow-up process.
"Truth Q & A has been one of our most popular radio programs," reports Lin. "With the tightening financial situation we had to make some strategic moves, including less airtime. Launching this website will help compensate the loss of airtime. It will also reach out to a new audience on the web."
To support the Chinese media outreach, contact info@backtogod.net or phone 1-800-730-3490 (Canada) or 1-800-879-6555 (U.S.).
About the Author
Nancy Vander Meer is a staff writer with Back to God Ministries International in Grand Rapids, Mich.
