Articles & News

Faith Under Pressure: The challenges of being Christian in China

By James Rosa, THRU the BIBLE Ministry Director, Asia/Latin America

In China, Christians face a unique set of challenges that can be both visible and hidden. The pressure to conform to state ideals and societal expectations can be overwhelming, yet many believers are finding ways to remain steadfast in their faith. Let’s explore the experiences of these Christians and the remarkable resilience they demonstrate.

State-Level Challenges

One of the most significant hurdles comes from the Chinese government, which maintains strict control over religious practices. State-approved churches must adhere to government regulations, often limiting their teachings and activities. For many Christians, worshiping in house churches—gatherings outside state oversight—can be risky. These meetings are frequently raided, and participants, including pastors, can face fines or even imprisonment. The constant fear of being watched or arrested for simply coming together to worship is a harsh reality for many believers.

Adding to this, the government has launched a campaign to “Sinicize” Christianity, aiming to reshape the faith to align with Chinese values and Communist Party ideals. Bibles are being rewritten to echo government messages, and churches are pressured to display allegiance to the state above all else. In this challenging environment, remaining faithful requires immense courage.

Yet, amidst these trials, Chinese Christians find strength in the words of Peter: “But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. ‘And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled’” (1 Peter 3:14). The threat of persecution is real, but so is God’s promise of blessing for those who endure.

Personal-Level Opposition

Beyond governmental control, many believers encounter opposition from those closest to them—family, friends, and neighbors. Christianity is often seen as a foreign religion, perceived as disconnected from traditional Chinese values. When someone chooses to follow Christ, their family may feel betrayed or perceive it as a rejection of ancestral beliefs. This is especially poignant in rural areas, where community bonds are tight and deviation from tradition can lead to social isolation.

Cultural values, such as honoring ancestors, are deeply rooted in Chinese society. In this context, Christianity’s call to worship God alone can clash with familial expectations, leading to painful conflicts. For many, this personal persecution can be even more distressing than state oppression.

The Apostle Paul reminds us that such struggles aren’t unique to Christians in China: “Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12). For those who genuinely follow Jesus, persecution is a certainty. Yet Paul also reassures us that our earthly trials are temporary: “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory” (2 Corinthians 4:17). This promise helps believers in China—and everywhere else—stay focused on the greater reward.

Faithfulness Amid Persecution

Despite these challenges, the church in China is not only surviving; it’s thriving. Many Christians find creative ways to worship, often meeting in secret. Their faith is unshakeable, and their perseverance serves as a powerful testimony of what it truly means to follow Christ, no matter the cost.

Chinese believers cling to the assurance that God is with them during even the darkest times. Persecution, whether from the state or from loved ones, cannot diminish the joy of knowing Christ and the hope of eternal life. Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:10-12 resonate deeply: “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

For Christians in China, this isn’t just a verse; it’s a lived reality every day. Their stories inspire us all to reflect on our faith and encourage us to stand firm, no matter the challenges we face.

Knowing this, it’s a particular honor and privilege that God is using THRU the BIBLE every day to accomplish His saving work in China. Remember these unique challenges as you pray for our listeners and partners. 

Did you know?

• Mandarin was one of our first international languages—started in 1977. 
• Cantonese followed in 1988.
• THRU the BIBLE reaches the world in Cantonese and Mandarin by:
• Radio
• Internet
• Social media
• Apps (find them at TTB.Bible)