A young woman wearing a mask and backpack bends forward to speak with an older man sitting on a bench, also masked and reading a booklet. They are outdoors near a brick wall.

Courage and Faith Amid Growing Pressure in China

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Recent headlines from China have brought heightened attention to the challenges faced by Christians and churches. Reports have emerged of increased restrictions, arrests of pastors and believers, and stories that strike close to home — including one pastor whose daughter serves on the staff of a U.S. senator. These headlines remind us that the line The League walks in China is both narrow and essential.

Recently, a leader from China’s government-sanctioned 3-Self Church was arrested for the alleged “illegal sale” of church hymnbooks — that is, supplying hymnals beyond his immediate church community. While 3-Self Church leaders are authorized to print and distribute religious materials for their congregations’ internal use, this leader now faces trial for making hymnals accessible to a wider audience.

This is a real-life “Daniel” — someone God has placed within a difficult system, striving to tend the flock and spread the Good News. His story illustrates the everyday courage required to follow Christ in a place where the rules are always tightening. As for The League, we do not sell God’s Word — we spread it, relying on today’s real-life Daniels to boldly share light where it’s needed most.

The increased scrutiny is real. But our commitment endures, and we are continually seeking wise, peaceful ways to serve and encourage the church inside China. We continue to pray, asking for protection, wisdom, and open doors.

As Paul reminds us, “We do not lose heart…” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18).

Snippets from the Inside — Hope in Hardship

Conversations with believers in China always leave us inspired. Despite the turbulence, their faith remains resilient, even as openness to faith faces new challenges like economic uncertainty and family stress.

Recently, a League Partner shared:

“The history of the Chinese church has been full of turbulence, rising and falling… We firmly believe these fluctuations are part of God’s sovereign purpose — each phase serving the church’s ultimate benefit and growth.”

What a powerful perspective. As old sources of stability weaken, many in China are becoming open to new hope. This is where The Pocket Testament League’s one-to-one sharing thrives. In a society where God’s Word is increasingly rare, personal invitations to meet Jesus through the living Gospel make a profound difference.

Another League Partner reflected:

“We are currently facing a difficult time of increasing restrictions and persecution… However, I believe that after this ‘winter’ passes, spring will surely come — revival will follow. Man’s extremity is God’s opportunity — God continually prepares hearts through circumstances.”

This is the “long view” we learn from our Chinese friends. They do not expect a quick fix, but trust that God is at work, even in hardship.

The Invitation Continues

Last year, Chinese members of The League invited 150,000 people to meet Jesus through personal Gospel sharing, an extraordinary witness of quiet faith and courage. This year, believers are asking for help to print and distribute another 150,000 Gospels.

We invite you to join us in prayer and support:

  • For approval of 150,000 Gospels to print and share

  • For safety and strength for all who spread the Word in challenging conditions

  • For encouragement for pastors, believers, and all who serve — that they would remain unshaken by surveillance and persecution

Thank you for standing with The League and with the church in China. Your prayers make a difference.