Aaron Lee at SOLA Network has written a wonderful book review of Changing Normal. The content here is taken from a condensed version of the review found at Threadsthesolanetwork:
How can Chinese Christians make reconciliation a reality? In Changing Normal, Jolene Kinser helps Chinese Christians overcome cultural barriers to pursuing peace in relationships.
Common Conflicts
Kinser, a white American, opens by sharing her personal journey—one that began when she joined her college’s international student team. Over the course of 15 years working in China, 17 years speaking Mandarin, and more than 20 years as a member of a Chinese church in the United States, Kinser’s deep love for the Chinese people has grown through meaningful relationships.
Through her studies and personal experiences, Kinser identifies specific relational conflicts common in Chinese culture. These include the avoidance of direct confrontation, the inability to address issues after an explosive conflict, surface-level harmony that masks deeper issues, intergenerational tensions, and relationships marked by resignation or emotional distance.
Biblical Peacemaking
This book has inspired me to actively contribute to building a community where sin, grievances, and complaints are not ignored. I want to be a Chinese Christian who chooses to forgive, overlooks offenses, and speaks words that build others up.
The Chinese cultural context brings unique challenges to biblical peacemaking. I recommend this book as it is a beauty worth pursuing – for the glory of God and the good of his church.
Read the full book review by Aaron Lee at SOLA Network!
