Last year, disciples from six different U.S. churches met for the first time in China. Here is our first report from them:

We came hoping to share—together with our Chinese brothers and sisters—in the tremendous task of bringing the gospel of Jesus to over one billion people who now live in this great country.

Soon after we arrived, we met a sophomore in one of the top local universities who just this past week was baptized into Christ. It was an indescribable joy to hear him answer the “two questions” we ask before baptism, repeated in both English and Chinese.

We have found an open door here and need more workers. Just before the semester ended and the long Chinese New Year break began, over 25 friends were studying the Bible. Each of us are in several Bible studies every week, sometimes even several in one day. When the students return and the next semester begins, our biggest challenge will be meeting the needs of all who want to learn more about the Bible.

So far, every single friend we have studied with has started the studies without any faith in God. But still, there is a great curiosity in the Bible. Students know that its influence in the world is without parallel, and they want to know why. When I suggested to one student that I help him learn about the Bible, he replied, “Really? Would you be willing to teach me about it?”

We have watched students go from asking, “You don't really believe this, do you?” to “Could this really be true?” to “Now that I believe this, what does it mean for me?” In moments like this, we are so thankful for the opportunity to be here and see God build genuine faith in the students' hearts.

Most of us do not speak Chinese, so we're glad that many students can speak English. At the same time, we wondered at first if some would simply be interested in studying the Bible just to practice English. We were surprised but also relieved when some of them directly told us, after a few studies, that although they liked some things in the Bible, but did not really want to live by it! This has allowed us to focus our efforts on those who are regularly reading the Bible and other spiritual books, while still maintaining an honest and open friendship with those not yet ready to believe.

We meet almost daily and share stories that often remind us of things that happened in the New Testament. We often are able to encourage one another by text messages throughout the day as we about playing sports, having meals and just making friends with the students here. One brother sent me this message recently:

D. has agreed to begin studying the Bible! Even more exciting is that he decided to go and buy his own Bible without my asking. He said, “Maybe you can teach me so that I can believe too...” China is so incredible. I am so grateful for this opportunity from God.

Of course, life here has its challenges: it was hot when we got here but lately we're shivering in the cold. Several of us have lost weight from all the walking and bicycling around campus—none of us owns a car or even a motorbike. We all miss home sometimes, especially around the holidays. But these are minor compared to the cross. And in every difficulty, God has provided for us! We were even able to secure a turkey for Thanksgiving!

Ready for a challenge? We very much need the help of mission-minded singles (or married couples without children) with at least a college degree, who could come for one year and help us share the gospel here. Or, for campus, come as a full-time Chinese student! Tuition and living expenses are low, and you'll have an experience of a lifetime while sharing your faith. Send an e-mail to disciples4china@gmail.com if you're wanting to know what it would be like to live in China as a follower of Jesus!

For more information, click here to read the original article First Mission Team to China for Global Disciples and clidk below to see the video.