Is Christianity forbidden in China? This question has stirred an ongoing debate across the globe and stirred debates at various levels. China is known for its communist/ socialistic and atheist views, however, one cannot deny that Christianity has a prominent presence in the country.
Over the past two decades, due to the internet and globalisation, people have become more aware of the issues that Christians face in China. Everywhere from the government, people, scholars and clerics, everyone is trying to find an answer to this question.
The recent statistics show that approximately 5 million Chinese citizens are Christians. The data suggests that there is definitely a presence of Christians in the country. Experts suggest that the practice is older than many people think and the religion has been around in China since the seventh century, A.D. According to experts, the religion has been around in the country for over a thousand years and therefore, must find some sort of acceptance within the Chinese politico-socio system.
The Chinese government has often tried to reduce the influence of Christianity and its activities. In some instances, the government has even come up with restrictions to restrict the practice of Christianity. However, it has been noted that despite such restrictions the number of Chinese Christians has grown significantly over the past two decades. It has to be noted that the Chinese government has shown leniency in certain aspects. For instance, there are some universities and colleges that give permission to Christian students to practice the religion.
At present, religious practices are banned in China and all sorts of religious activities are criminalised. Additionally, the traditional Christian activities are also restricted. While restrictions vary with locale or location, some places are more lenient. For instance, the regulations in Shenzhen and Quanzhou, areas known for their preference of religious freedom, are considered more lenient than other areas of China.
At a deeper level, it is essential to understand the acceptance of Christianity in China. While it has been an issue of debate, experts suggest that it is not forbidden in China but rather there exists an underlying pattern of acceptance, tolerance and opposition to the religion in China. It has been noted that the senior officials of the country are more tolerant and favourable towards Christianity. The regulations implemented by the government also show that it does not completely oppose the presence of Christianity within the country.
Christian Churches in China
Christianity exists in many forms in China. Catholic churches and also a vast array of Protestant and non-denominational churches exist in the country. While some of these churches have been established over decades, some are relatively new. Many of the Protestant churches have grown in strength due to the influx of overseas Chinese professionals to the country.
The Chinese government has also tolerated several Christian activities. It has officially allowed the practice of certain aspects of Christianity, such as church activities and preaching, but these activities are monitored and must not stray into socially and politically charged topics. This is because the Chinese government considers such activities to be a threat to the state and its unity. Nevertheless, it still permits such activities.
At present, hundreds of legal and registered churches exist in the country, but it is important to note that these are intended for the Chinese people alone. While some foreign workers are allowed to attend a church, missionaries and evangelism are not welcomed. Additionally, all attempts to establish foreign churches or Christian groups are not allowed.
While there is a presence of Christianity in China, it is still a small faction compared to other religions. Furthermore, the future of Christianity in China is uncertain; experts believe that the regulations and restrictions imposed by the Chinese government will remain for a long time and the question of whether Christianity is forbidden in the country will remain ambiguous.
Christianity and the Chinese diaspora
It is also essential to note that Christianity has a significant presence in the Chinese diaspora. Many Chinese migrants have embraced Christianity and regularly attend church services in their home countries. This has resulted in an increase in the number of Chinese Christians in the United States and Europe.
Interestingly, this has resulted in a greater acceptance of Christianity among the Chinese diaspora, who regard the religion as part of their cultural heritage. This has resulted in a more positive attitude towards Christianity within the Chinese diaspora.
Furthermore, several Chinese immigrants to the US and Europe have embraced Christianity and are now some of the most passionate Christians in the world. This has resulted in an influx of churches and pastors that cater to the Chinese Christian population in the US and Europe.
Interestingly, this has also impacted the number of Christians in China. It is believed that there is a large number of underground Christian churches in China who are being led by the Chinese diaspora. As a result, the number of Chinese Christians has grown significantly in the past two decades.
Christian Colleges, Universities and seminaries
Christian colleges, universities and seminaries have long been established in China. Many of these institutions have been around since the seventh century, A.D. and are said to have been founded by the first Chinese Christian rulers in the country.
Today, such institutions have proliferated and most of these colleges and universities have grown in influence and reputation over the years. Many of them are accredited by both the Chinese and Western governments and are considered some of the best educational institutions in China.
Furthermore, many of these institutions have their own Christian societies and even offer western Christian-based degrees. Additionally, many of the institutions are linked to famous western universities, such as Harvard and Oxford. As a result, many Chinese students have gained access to a world-class Christian education at these institutions.
At present, many of these institutions are used to train students for ministry and are known to be providing a rich theological education to Chinese Christians. Additionally, many of these institutions provide a platform for exchange programs and international collaboration between Chinese and western Christians.
In addition, these institutions are also actively involved in evangelism. For example, the Sino-Christian University in Beijing is actively involved in evangelistic activities and is known to be one of the most influential Christian institutions in the world.
Christian persecution in China
It cannot be denied that religious persecution remains to be an issue in China. For example, it is believed that over one million Uyghur Muslims have been forcibly detained and persecuted in what has been called the ‘re-education camps’ in Xinjiang, western China.
Though the Chinese government has denied these allegations and labelled these as ‘boarding schools’, reports have suggested that such camps do exist and have been used as a means to control religious practice. Additionally, it is believed that Chinese officials have gone to extreme efforts to control religious practice, such as demolishing churches, confiscating religious items and disrupting religious activities.
Recently, Chinese authorities have been targeting the Christian community and it is believed that many Christians have been arrested and persecuted. Though there is a lack of concrete evidence, reports suggest that churches have been shut down and pastors have been arrested for preaching and proselytising Christianity. It is also believed that many of these arrests were made without any legal proceedings and without any due process.
Furthermore, it is believed that International Christian organisations who wish to provide aid and assistance to Chinese Christians are also facing difficulties. In many instances, such organisations have been denied permission to operate in the country or restricted from providing aid.
Overall, it is clear that Christianity is still a controversial subject in China. Though it has a considerable presence in the country, its practice remains to be restricted and monitored by the Chinese government. Whether it is forbidden or not, it is still an ongoing question and debate.
