A Word of Encouragement for My Chinese Brothers and Sisters.
I’m currently listening to Faith in the Wilderness by Hannah Nation and Simon Liu. It’s highly convicting. This book reminds me that there are faithful brothers and sisters throughout the world who hold fast to the teachings of Christ and deeply love His Word, abide in His Spirit, and live in such a way that their lives are not counted as dear as the gospel they preach.
As I’m encouraged through the words of these Chinese pastors and Christians, I want to encourage them to continue to stand fast on the Word of God, sharing it as they go about their day as the Spirit allows. I want to thank these believers for not bowing to the intense pressure of their government, family, friends, or co-workers who have not repented of their sins and placed their faith in Christ.
As an American Christian I cannot relate to the actual or perspective persecution that occurs on a daily basis. I’ve been spit on once, yelled at plenty, mocked, and have had doors slammed in my face a time or two. I’ve never had handcuffs on me for the sake of the gospel. I’ve never been on the inside of a police car or jail cell for the cause of Christ. I’ve never been followed, my family targeted, or my phone tapped (at least I don’t know about this one). Chinese brothers and sisters, thank you for showing us what a faithful gospel witness looks like in the face of persecution.
I listened to the audio version of this book and one brother said he began to share the gospel and meet fairly openly over Zoom during the pandemic. I’m always encouraged as I’m reminded that believers all over the world are sharing the hope the have in Christ with others!
Chinese believers, thank you for your commitment to live a countercultural life; one that exemplifies what it means to be a disciple of our Lord Jesus. If you have an opportunity to read or listen to this book, you’ll be greatly encouraged!
Toby DeHay 