We shared recently about being contacted by one of our missionaries on the field to let us know that their pastor, Pastor Franklin, back in China had been arrested. You can click here to read the full article and letter we received.
We have since received a further letter explaining the situation for Christians in China as a whole, particularly Zion Church, which is partly led by Pastor Franklin.
This second letter describes “a new wave of religious persecution emerging across China.”
The reasons being given by the Chinese authorities for the arrests of pastors across China range from “superstitious activities” to “fraud” with sentences as heavy as 15 years.
In the last few years, Zion Church has been subject to government persecution, with many believers “harassed, threatened, interrogated, and even briefly detained by police.” The letter tells us that this year, the persecution of the Zion Church network across China has significantly intensified with more than 150 members arrested.
The letter finishes by giving us a spiritual and eternal perspective:
Why are so many Christians in China who love God and their neighbor. and who abide by divine law and human laws, being treated unfairly like criminals? Jesus has already given us the answer: “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.” (John 15:18). However, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:10).
Below is the full letter:
