On 15th September, the National Religious Affairs Administration in China released new measures restricting how Christian content and evangelism can be shared online.
These rules directly affect pastors, churches, and ministries that use the internet for preaching, teaching, and training. According to the religious freedom organisation Bitter Winter, only “registered and specifically licensed religious entities” are permitted to conduct religious activity online.
The main points of the new rules are:
- Platform restrictions: Religious leaders may only use official websites or apps run by licensed organisations. Personal accounts, livestreams, WeChat groups, or informal forums are strictly forbidden.
- Prohibition on minors: Online evangelism directed at children and adolescents, including virtual youth camps or training are not permitted.
- No monetisation: Fundraising, selling religious products, or digital marketing of any kind, even content created with artificial intelligence is prohibited.
- Political control: Clergy are required to support socialist ideals and the Communist Party, and are banned from criticising the government or cooperating with foreign religious entities.
- Severe penalties: Breaching these rules may lead to sanctions, including the loss of credentials, suspension of online accounts, or even criminal investigations.
The Word of God reminds us: “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come.” (2 Timothy 3:1)
It has never been easy to be a follower of the Lord Jesus. Throughout history, authorities and systems have sought to silence the Word of God. What we see today is a continuation of that struggle and a reminder that the times Paul spoke of are drawing closer.
In the early church, believers endured hardship, persecution, and even death for their faith. Yet many chose to persevere, confident that the Lord’s promises were greater than the threats they faced.
The Lord Jesus promises to grant eternal salvation to all who persevere in following and obeying His Word. We must remain in faith, hold firm, even in the face of injustice, slander, deception, and threats. For it is written that with the Lord Jesus we are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37).
Fortunately, in England there is still freedom to seek and share your faith in the Lord Jesus. We invite you to attend a meeting this Sunday to strengthen your faith and relationship with God. Click here to find a Universal Church near you.
Event: Sunday of Empowerment
Day and time: Every Sunday at 7am (also at 10am)
Location: The Universal • 25 Brazil Street, Castries
Sources:
https://bitterwinter.org/holy-firewalls-chinas-new-rules-for-online-clergy-conduct
