MINISTRY / The Word is not chained -- not even at Christmas
Christmas in China is even more subdued this year.
Restrictions on Christianity
Since March 1, China has clamped down on the communication of religious thought on its internet. This includes broadcasting worship services and Bible studies, as well as sharing personal expressions of faith. China also increased its efforts to dismantle unregistered churches. China allows churches that are under the control of its government; all other churches are illegal.
In addition, China's government prohibits public schools and colleges from mentioning Christmas or Christianity in their classrooms. Christmas is not a legal holiday in China. Stores are discouraged from using Christmas as a marketing device for increasing December sales. There are no public displays of Christmas trees or Christmas lights.
"In years past, I sent my many friends in China online Christmas cards," says our executive director. "I'm frustrated that I can't do that anymore. Yet, God's Word cannot be bound. In spite of China's barriers, the good news of God's grace continues to reach souls."
The Word is not bound
Chinese Christians are remarkably ingenious in living out their faith.
They have developed ways of skirting those laws that are meant to destroy their relationship with Jesus.
Worship services will still celebrate the Savior's birth -- though not as openly.
Trusted unbelieving friends will still be invited to Christmas services -- though they will be more carefully vetted.
Christians will still exchange Christmas greetings -- though not as frequently.
Like First Century Christians under the Roman empire, Chinese believers will thank God for the "good news that will cause great joy for all the people" because "a Savior has been born…; he is the Messiah, the Lord" Luke 2:10,11).
At 316NOW, part of our celebration of Jesus' birth includes thanking God that the Spirit has used our ministry to create Chinese "shepherds" who "spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child" (Luke 2:17).
God’s Word cannot be chained (2 Timothy 2:9b). Join us in that celebration.