Persecution and “the normal Christian life”

It happened again. Word started to leak out and soon it was everywhere. Yet another group of Christian leaders in China had been arrested and imprisoned. Last weekend, 20–30 pastors and leaders from a house church network were thrown in jail. The official charge from the Chinese government was “illegal dissemination of religious information via the internet.” Usually, Christians in China are imprisoned for “inciting subversion of state power.” Ultimately, though, they are behind bars for one simple reason. . . their faith in Christ Jesus.

Whether it’s China, North Africa, the Middle East, Malaysia, or many other countries, the “normal Christian life” is often marked by persecution. This isn’t only historical; this is the current reality.

In China, persecution comes mainly from the Communist government. In the Middle East, it is often at the hands of zealous Muslims. In recent months, violent and widespread persecution has broken out in the Congo and Nigeria. In many places, it even comes from within the community; sometimes from one’s own family and friends.

Exact numbers are hard to determine, but most Bible-believing Christians alive today live in places where they face real and constant danger simply for being followers of Christ. Two well-known Chinese pastors currently imprisoned for their faith are Pastor Wang Yi, jailed since December 9, 2018, and Pastor Jin Mingri (Ezra), who was arrested along with the others this past weekend.

So how can we engage and help our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world? I believe these three actions are a good starting point:

1. Pray: Many ministries provide guidance on how to pray for persecuted Christians. Groups like Help the Persecuted, the China Partnership, and the Luke Alliance regularly share stories and prayer needs.
2. Learn from: I wrote this article (CLICK HERE) a few months ago that explores this topic in more detail.
3. Serve/Give: Excellent organizations are doing faithful work to support persecuted believers. If you’d like help finding trusted groups or individuals, our One Bridge partners can help connect you.

In light of this reality of the persecution which is rampant RIGHT NOW for Christians all over the globe, Hebrews 13:3 seems particularly prescient.

Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.