A recent Reuters news
article* spoke of the Chinese government's current efforts to crack down on the
growth of Christianity in their country.
The article begins by highlighting the struggle faced by Chinese parents
who are believers in such a climate of repression. “When authorities in China’s southeastern
city of Wenzhou outlawed Sunday School earlier this year, Christian parents
determined their children must still learn about Jesus and the Bible. Churches
in Wenzhou started teaching children in private homes or at other venues. Some
billed Sunday School classes as daycare, not education, or moved them to
Saturdays, more than a dozen local Christians told Reuters.”
The writers go on to cite one specific example. “In her house, “faith comes first, grades
come second,” said one parent surnamed Chen, asking not to use her full name
due to the sensitivity of the matter.”
She went on to speak of how the children of believers “must” attend
Bible classes because there is no other venue that will provide the guidance
necessary to counteract the draw of the vices in the world around them.
A couple things came
to mind as I read the article. First, I
am humbled by the example of these believers as they courageously practice
their faith in the face of such persecution.
These Christians are defying the government to be together for times of
spiritual education. Secondly, I am
discouraged when I reflect on the flabbiness of much of what is called “faith”
in our own country. Some (many?)
Christians can’t be bothered to attend a Bible class of any kind, even when
there is nothing standing in their way.
In our own congregation, several opportunities are provided for
spiritual education. Yet, only part of
our group takes advantage of them. This
puzzles me.
Maybe we need more
persecution. Perhaps, then, Bible class
would be viewed as more than an elective.
But, then again, maybe it would just provide another reason to skip it.
God loves you!
Mike
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