Churches in China
An interesting debate is emerging regarding the churches in China.
Luis Palau's Chinese church registration comments correct, or misguided?
I have heard from some missionaries and bible study leaders that some of the registered churches in China are quite effective.
Some leaders such as Luis Palau are encouraging churches to register with the government, so that the persecution is reduced, and they can preach the Gospel more effectively.
The Voice of the Martyrs argue that registering the church puts the communist party in front of Jesus Christ. The party has veto power over who leads worship services, can regulate who can come, and when, and "discourage" certain biblical teachings.
Earlier this month, I Blogged about Christian entanglement with politics in this country. It seems to me that many of the issues are the same, but the stakes are much higher over there.
It is hard to second guess those who are living through persecution for their faith over there, but I think it would be more couragous to preach the gospel to a large crowd, with the government censors listening, then to be persecuted for breaking a law about meeting secretly.
Even if you are unable to preach the entire bible, so long as you are able to open somebody's heart to the Savior, the Holy Spirit, can grow their knowlege and relationship with God.
I think submiting to an unjust government is always a challenge.
What do you guys think?