In a sweeping move, the Chinese government has enacted new regulations that officially outlaw nearly all forms of online religious activity. The rules, announced this week, prohibit livestream preaching, online prayer meetings, Bible classes, and even the sharing of sermons through video platforms—unless such content comes directly from state-approved religious organizations.
The regulations also ban online religious education for minors, fundraising for churches via digital platforms, and the use of artificial intelligence in religious teaching or preaching. These measures are designed to keep religious expression tightly under government control and prevent what authorities see as unauthorized expansion of faith communities, particularly Christianity, which has been growing rapidly across the nation.
For Christians worldwide, the crackdown is a sobering reminder of the challenges facing the underground church in China. Believers continue to gather in secret, despite risks of surveillance, harassment, and imprisonment. Christian leaders stress the importance of standing in prayer with those enduring persecution.
🙏 Pray for the underground church in China to be strengthened.
🙏 Pray for boldness and protection for believers sharing the gospel despite restrictions.
🙏 Pray that the light of Christ shines brighter than ever in the midst of darkness.
As Scripture reminds us: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). And though governments may try to silence the gospel, believers hold fast to the truth of 2 Timothy 2:9—“God’s Word cannot be chained.”
