Christianity in China: A Growing Faith

History of Christianity in China

Christianity arrived in China during the early medieval period, with the first known Christian community established in the 7th century. However, it was not until the early modern era that Christianity became a significant presence in the country, with the arrival of Jesuit missionaries.

Over the past four decades, Christianity has grown faster in China than anywhere else in the world, with an estimated 100 million Christians today. However, this growth has been accompanied by increasing persecution from the Chinese government.

Types of Christianity in China

Roughly nine-in-ten Christians in China are Protestant, with the remaining being Catholic or Orthodox. The largest Protestant denominations are the Three-Self Patriotic Movement (TSPM), the China Christian Council (CCC), and the Chinese Christian Alliance (CCA).

Challenges Facing Christianity in China

Christianity in China faces a number of challenges, including government persecution, cultural resistance, and social discrimination. The Chinese government has long been suspicious of Christianity, viewing it as a foreign influence that could undermine the country's stability. As a result, the government has implemented a number of restrictions on Christian activities, including the prohibition of religious activities in schools and the requirement that all religious groups register with the government.

Cultural resistance to Christianity is also a challenge, as many Chinese people view Christianity as a Western religion that is not compatible with Chinese culture. This resistance is often expressed through social discrimination against Christians, who may be ostracized from their communities or denied opportunities for education and employment.

Future of Christianity in China

Despite the challenges it faces, Christianity is poised for continued growth in China. The Chinese government's persecution of Christianity has only served to strengthen the faith of many Chinese Christians, and the number of conversions is continuing to grow. It is likely that Christianity will continue to play a significant role in the religious landscape of China in the years to come.