The demands of the house churches are, in essence, the demands of the gospel. This demand is in direct conflict with the state. Article 35 of China’s constitution guarantees “freedom of religious belief.” In other words, social transformation, political progress, freedom, democracy, the rule of law, human rights – these are all good things in the eyes of Christians. But they are never the true pursuit of the church. Whether it is slavery or democracy, monarchy or rule of law, the Bible teaches that the church must obey the government’s authority. In short, the church of Christ is not at all interested in any political and legal system. However, under any political and legal system the church claims the freedom to worship God and proclaim the gospel.

Hear more from this pastor currently held in a Chinese prison.