MINSTRY//An answer to prayer

Our Savior promised, “When they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you” (Matthew 10:19-20).

Promises when persecuted

A student and friend of 316NOW began an independent church two years ago. Since that time, his church has faced unrelenting persecutions – from the leaders of the registered Christian churches. In addition, it has attracted the scrutiny of the local Religious Bureau.

The Religious Bureau did not arrest this pastor, but they “asked” him to disband his church. What kind of prayers for the right words to speak would you have prayed in that situation?  

Promises about the right words

This pastor found the right words. And he found out that Jesus’ promise to persecuted disciples 2,000 years ago still applies today. When he spoke, the Spirit gave him exactly the words his church needed to stay open.

“It’s easy to shut down a church,” he told them. “But what about these disbanded believers? They might fall prey to the heretical groups that operate here.”

Promises kept

The officials paused. Then they changed their minds. “Well, continue gathering people into your church,” they told him. “But you must carefully look after your church members.”

“I am pleased to that,” our brother promised them. Then he thanked Jesus for faithfully keeping his promises. 

What you can do: Most Christians in China do not belong to a registered church. Ask God to bring the pastors of those churches to a clear understanding of the gospel, so they stand strong in times of persecution and shepherd their people in line with God’s grace.