MINISTRY / A witness protection program
In the United States, we understand the gravity of a witness protection program. When a person’s life is at risk, the government may give them a new name, a new location, and a new identity. Friends are not informed. Records are sealed. Details are withheld — even from those who care deeply — because exposure could cost someone their life. Silence, in that context, is not deception; it is protection.
This reality provides a helpful parallel for understanding a difficult truth in gospel ministry today: there are times when faithfulness requires discretion. For those of us engaged in ministry connected to Christians in China, this is not theoretical — it is a daily reality.
An unintended exposure
Much of our work now takes place online. Sermons, Bible studies, personal correspondence, and encouragements are shared through digital means. Yet these same channels are closely monitored. Communications are filtered, accounts are flagged, and relationships are mapped. What may appear to us as harmless information — a name, a location, a testimony — can become a thread that authorities pull to unravel a network of believers.
In recent months, we have seen an increase in arrests and detentions of evangelical Christians in China. Often, the charges are not openly religious. Instead, believers are accused of running an illegal business or tax evasion. These claims serve as a pretext, allowing authorities to suppress Christian activity while maintaining an appearance of legal legitimacy. Behind such charges, however, are real people — pastors, teachers, and lay Christians — whose only crime is confessing Christ.
TMI – too much information?
For this reason, we must exercise care in what we say and what we publish. Supporters may rightly desire stories, names, and details. Transparency is a good and honorable goal. Yet love for our brothers and sisters requires us to ask: if I share this information broadly (on social media, in mission advancement communications, or in publications), will I expose them to harm?
Scripture reminds us that the body of Christ is one. So if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it, or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it (1 Corinthians 12:26, EHV). In this case, our restraint becomes an act of compassion. We speak less, so that they may live with more security while they continue to hear and proclaim the gospel.
Like those in witness protection, our partners in China often remain unnamed, or names are changed to protect the innocent, not because they are unimportant, but because they are precious. Their safety matters. Their lives matter. And above all, the Word of God they confess must not be hindered.
We relish your prayers
We who serve with and through 316NOW ask for your understanding — and your prayers. The work continues. The gospel is being proclaimed. But for now, some of the most important names will remain known only to the Lord, who is forever praised: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. (Galatians 1:3-5)