My Time in a Chinese Holding Cell

Biblical Christian Worldview

The terror of a God moment.
I experienced China firsthand when I attempted to smuggle a large load of Bibles into the country.

I take the “Great Commission” (Matthew 28:19–20) very seriously. I have always had a heart for missions, for speaking, singing, and reaching out to other cultures where Jesus is not well-known amongst the people.

From Russia to Turkey to the high mountains of Guatemala and beyond, each trip has deepened my love for other peoples and other cultures as I watch the power of God work. Perhaps the greatest work has been done in me. But the “God moments” I experience never cease to amaze me.

While in China, I witnessed and experienced the power of God more poignantly than on any other trip. It was both awesome and terrifying. But ultimately, it was simply amazing. And I don’t use that word lightly.

Prior to departure, I was given training on how to act, what to wear, where to meet up with home church leaders, and what to do if I was caught going through customs. I felt confident knowing I was in God’s hands and had spent much time in prayer.

I was well aware of the potential dangers of my actions. China does not allow people to bring in Bibles in bulk. Bible availability in China is a complicated issue. It is not illegal to own one. But Bibles cannot be sold in “regular” stores. Nor can they be sold online. Enforcement is strict. All books sold in China must have an ISBN (International Standard Book Number). And the Bible has never had an ISBN.

Bibles can only be sold legally in bookstores of government approved churches. Most government approved churches are located in large cities. China controls the printing of Bibles through the only printing company authorized to print Bibles, Amity Printing. And the supplies are limited.

There are also government “approved meeting sites” that are affiliated with the approved churches located outside the city. However, they, too are highly monitored with limited supplies. In addition, many are reluctant to visit these “approved church sites” due to a fear of surveillance.

Underground Christian home fellowships began to pop up years ago. Pastors and members of these home churches have been arrested and imprisoned for “inciting subversion” over the years. This is still going on today. Yet, Christianity seems to be flourishing.