What is the normal Christian church life intended to be?
During conferences held in Shanghai and Hankow, Watchman Nee spoke to his fellow workers on the principles in the New Testament concerning the practical arrangement of the churches, the ministry and the work. He declared, "It is our desire to accept and proclaim the whole Word of God… We seek to follow the leading of God's Spirit, but at the same time we seek to pay attention to the examples shown us in His Word. The leading of the Spirit is precious. But if there is no example in the Word, then it is easy to substitute our fallible thoughts and unfounded feelings for the Spirit's leading, drifting into error without realizing it."
While speaking, Nee honestly examined his own work before the Lord in the light of these principles, provided adjustment and encouragement to his co-workers, and confirmed through personal testimony that the practice of the normal Christian church life revealed in the New Testament can be recovered. Contained within the pages of The Normal Christian Church Life is no mere theory or teaching, but something which Nee actually tested out. It is not to be missed!
"This book is not intended for anyone and everyone. It is for those who bear responsibility in the Lord's service. But more than this, it is for such as honestly and truly mean business with God, for those whose hearts are open and have no padlocked mind or prejudices. The book may test one's sincerity and honesty to no small degree; but genuine hunger and desire to know the Lord's full thought will sustain a careful reading to the end. I fully realize the many imperfections of this book (this is not a gesture but a confession); but despite them all, I believe the Lord has shown something which is of importance to the whole Body of Christ."
Watchman Nee, The Normal Christian Church Life
