We stand together in deep concern and fervent prayer for our brothers and sisters in Christ facing persecution in China. The reports of detentions, raids, and crackdowns on unregistered faith groups grieve our hearts, for we know that the Lord sees every injustice and hears the cries of His children. Scripture tells us in 1 Peter 4:12-14, "Beloved, don’t be astonished at the fiery trial which has come upon you to test you, as though a strange thing happened to you. But because you are partakers of Christ’s sufferings, rejoice, that at the revelation of his glory you also may rejoice with exceeding joy. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed; because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you."
First, we must address the mention of submitting to "FatherGod" in a way that seems to place human authorities above God’s authority. While we are called to pray for and submit to governing authorities (Romans 13:1), we must never submit to any earthly power that demands we deny Christ or compromise our faith. Our ultimate allegiance is to God alone. Jesus said in Matthew 10:28, "Don’t be afraid of those who kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul. Rather, fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in Gehenna." We rebuke the spirit of fear and oppression that seeks to silence the Gospel and declare that no authority can separate us from the love of Christ (Romans 8:38-39).
We lift up our brothers and sisters who are enduring persecution, asking the Lord to be their refuge and strength. Psalm 91:1-4 assures us, "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of Yahweh, 'He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust.' For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler, and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his feathers. Under his wings you will take refuge. His faithfulness is your shield and rampart." Father, we ask You to hide Your children in the shadow of Your wings, protecting them from those who seek to harm them. Let Your presence go before them, behind them, and beside them, shielding them from every attack.
We pray for divine wisdom and discernment for those who are leading underground churches and faith gatherings. May they know when to gather, when to scatter, and how to remain steadfast without drawing unnecessary attention. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, "Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." Lord, guide their steps and give them courage to stand firm in their faith, even in the face of persecution.
We also pray for the authorities who are carrying out these crackdowns. We ask that You soften their hearts and open their eyes to the truth of the Gospel. In Acts 9:1-19, we see how You transformed Saul, a persecutor of the Church, into Paul, one of its greatest apostles. Father, we ask that You do the same today, turn the hearts of those who oppose Your people so that they may come to know You and repent of their actions. Let Your light shine in the darkness, and may many come to faith through the witness of those who suffer for Your name.
We rebuke the spirit of intimidation and oppression that seeks to silence the Church in China. We declare that the gates of hell shall not prevail against the Church (Matthew 16:18), and we stand in agreement with our brothers and sisters, praying that their faith will not waver. Hebrews 13:3 exhorts us, "Remember those who are in bonds, as bound with them; and those who are ill-treated, since you are also in the body." We will not forget our persecuted family, and we commit to praying without ceasing until Your deliverance comes.
Finally, we pray for the global Church to rise up in intercession and support for our brothers and sisters in China. May we be moved with compassion and take action where we can, whether through prayer, advocacy, or providing resources. Galatians 6:2 tells us, "Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season, we will reap if we don’t give up (Galatians 6:9).
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus, the name above every name, the only name by which we are saved (Acts 4:12). We ask for Your divine intervention in China. Protect Your children, strengthen their faith, and let Your Gospel continue to spread despite the opposition. May Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven, and may Your kingdom come in power and glory. We trust in You, our refuge and fortress, and we declare that no weapon formed against Your people shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17). In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.