As we have ministered in China over the years people often ask us, “Why are Christians persecuted in China?” There are several things to say, not the least is the fact that Satan is a real enemy, and God has promised Christians that they will face persecution and death while they are in this world.
“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also.” (John 15:18-20)
In China people have the freedom to believe in God if they choose, as long as they keep it to themselves, and confine their activities within the four walls of a government-sanctioned “Three Self Church.” The government always proclaims people have freedom to believe in any religion, and in a sense that is true.
However, there is a tremendous level of persecution for Christian DISCIPLESHIP! Millions of people have been so deeply changed by the power of Jesus that there is no way they can remain silent and keep their faith to themselves. When Chinese believers refuse to sit in the church pews and keep their faith to themselves, they immediately become “law-breakers” and persecution begins. Millions of house church Christians in China face daily harassment, fines, beatings, imprisonment and death.
Leaders are especially targeted. Every day millions of men and women wake up and decide they want to be a “disciples” of Jesus, and to obey His commands regardless of the risks involved or the hardships they will face. Because so many make this “choice” to be Jesus’ disciples, China has been experiencing a tremendous revival for the last 30 years.
With such an attitude it is no wonder the Church in China has grown despite half a century of strong opposition and brutal suppression from the government. Thankfully, we have met many church leaders who understand God’s principles and who care nothing about fame. They desire to be hidden in Christ, so that He will get all the glory from their lives.
In China, where persecution is strong, staying hidden from the public eye is not only desirable, but a necessity for many church leaders, and ourselves, if we want to remain out of prison.
China - in His image 