The Wired Word for 822026 - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

The Wired Word for 8/2/2026 ![rw-book-cover](https://d34adp677peecb.cloudfront.net/static/images/article3.5c705a01b476.png) 🔗 **Source:** [The Wired Word for 8/2/2026]() > [!note]+ Document Notes > --- > tags: [religious-freedom, china, political-theology, servant-leadership, christian-nationalism, adult-education] > author: The Wired Word > source: The Wired Word (Communication Resources) > reference: https://www.thewiredword.com/ > date created: 2026-07-30 09:51 > --- > > [!info] Generated analysis — not the author's words. Sections below are machine-written > > from the captured source. Only text inside `> [!quote]` blocks is verbatim from the author. > > Do not quote or attribute any other line to the named author. > # 🏷️ Title: The Wired Word for 8/2/2026 — What the State of Religious Freedom in China May Teach Us > ## 🧭 Table of Contents > - [📝 Summary](#-summary) > - [📖 Main Content](#-main-content) > - [🗒️ Notes](#️-notes) > - [📚 References](#-references) > - [🗣️ Paraphrase](#️-paraphrase) > - [📰 Newsletter](#-newsletter) > - [✅ Action Items](#-action-items) > - [🧪 Hypotheses](#-hypotheses) > - [📊 Methodology](#-methodology) > - [❓ Questions](#-questions) > - [🔮 Future Research](#-future-research) > - [💡 Implications](#-implications) > - [🧠 Learning Styles Assessment](#-learning-styles-assessment) > - [📊 Accessibility Assessment](#-accessibility-assessment) > - [🌍 DEIB Assessment](#-deib-assessment) > - [✅ Logical Validity](#-logical-validity) > - [🛡️ DARVO Analysis](#-darvo-analysis) > - [🎯 Conclusion](#-conclusion) > ### 🔗 References > - The Telegraph — "Christians Are Disappearing for Worshiping a God Other Than Xi" > - U.S. Department of State — 2023 Report on International Religious Freedom: China (incl. Hong Kong, Macau, Tibet, Xinjiang) > - United States Commission on International Religious Freedom — 2026 Annual Report > - Premier Christian News — "Chinese Christian Lawyer Released After Nine Days in ICE Detention" > - ChinaAid — advocacy organisation cited repeatedly for case details > - International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 — the statute behind the "Country of Particular Concern" designation > - Scripture cited: Proverbs 29:2, 16; Proverbs 28:15-16; Psalm 94:20-23; Matthew 5:10-12; 1 Peter 4:12-19; 1 Peter 5:1-4; Acts 12:1-24; Daniel 4:19-37; Isaiah 42:8; Matthew 20:17-28; John 13:14-15; Philippians 1:6; Romans 8:35-39 > - United Church of Christ Statement of Faith, adapted by Robert V. Moss > ## 📝 Summary > - **What happened.** A weekly adult Sunday school curriculum from The Wired Word. It summarises reporting on religious repression in the People's Republic of China, then pairs it with four scripture blocks — on righteous versus wicked rulers, on persecution as blessing, on rulers who claim divinity, and on servant leadership — followed by discussion questions, further-discussion prompts, a song, and a closing prayer. > - **Why it matters.** The lesson's stated aim is not primarily geopolitical. It is preparatory and formational: how to respond when officials claim god-like sovereignty, how to support the persecuted, how to prepare spiritually for possible persecution, and — the question that gives the lesson its spine — how followers of Jesus should exercise power when they hold it. > - **Key stakeholders.** Adult class members and their facilitators; the TWW writing team, several of whom are quoted by name; religious minorities in China, who are the subject rather than the audience; US congregations invited to see themselves in the material. > - **Risks and tradeoffs.** The news sourcing is entirely Western and largely advocacy- or government-derived, with no Chinese scholarly or community voices. The persecution-preparedness framing invites a US congregation to identify with the persecuted, which is a category leap the material does not examine — except in one contributor's comment, which does examine it, pointedly. The Acts 12 reassurance ("an angel of the Lord struck him down") is deployed pastorally without engaging the obvious theodicy problem. > - **Bottom line.** Better than its genre. The lesson is organised around a genuinely apt theological question — what happens when a ruler takes God's place — and it lands on servant leadership rather than grievance. One contributor turns the critique inward onto US Christian nationalism, which is the most intellectually honest thing in it. > ## 📖 Main Content > - **The reported situation is real and well-documented, though the sourcing is narrow.** The lesson describes: recognition of only five religions; mandatory registration for legal worship; political indoctrination sessions and CCP loyalty pledges for clergy; sinicization of buildings and iconography; portraits of Xi above pulpits; censorship of sermons and sacred texts; state appointment and removal of clergy; denial of housing, employment, and welfare to minorities; surveillance, detention, forced labour, and deaths in custody; and a constitutional guarantee of "freedom of religious belief" paired with no legal recourse against the state and an undefined category of "normal religious activities." > - **The undefined-category mechanism is the sharpest observation in the news section**, though the lesson does not name it as such. A constitution guaranteeing belief while permitting only undefined "normal religious activities," combined with elastic categories like "extremism" and "religious fanaticism," produces a system where the rule is whatever the enforcer says it is. The registration requirement then converts participation into a legible, revocable licence. > - **The organising theological frame is ruler-as-deity.** Bob Fu's "It's the emperor playing God" sets it, and the scripture selections answer it: Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 4, humbled until he acknowledges "that Heaven is sovereign"; Herod in Acts 12, acclaimed as "the voice of a god and not of a mortal" and struck down; Isaiah 42:8, "I will not yield my glory to another." This is a coherent and traditional reading, and it is the correct biblical material for the question asked. > - **The persecution block is handled with more care than the genre usually manages.** On Matthew 5:10-12 the lesson explicitly notes Jesus "didn't say they necessarily *feel* blessed," that "persecution on his account is hard! Full stop," and distinguishes it from ordinary suffering and from consequences justly incurred. That refusal to spiritualise away real harm is a genuine pastoral strength. > - **The fourth movement is where the lesson turns, and it is the most important one.** Matthew 20:25-28 — "the rulers of the gentiles lord it over them… it will not be so among you" — reframes the whole subject from *what is done to us* to *what we do with power*. The commentary reinforces it with 1 Peter 5 ("do not lord it over those in your charge") and John 13 (footwashing). A lesson that could have ended in grievance ends in a constraint on the reader's own authority. > - **The inward turn is supplied by a named contributor rather than by the lesson body.** Mary Sells observes that the US does not see comparable blatant persecution of Christians, that Americans are "legendary in mistreatment of others such as Muslims and Jews," that much of this is systemic, and that Christian nationalism "defines a fairly narrow lane" limiting women, immigrants, and library books, resembling "authoritarian desire for control rather than actual embrace of Jesus' teachings." This is the lesson applying its own diagnostic to its own audience. > - **A small comparative gesture.** Mark Rouleau notes the Buddha did not consider himself a deity and instructed followers not to make images of him. Brief, but it widens the frame beyond a Christian-versus-state binary in a lesson that otherwise stays inside it. > - **The deflationary note.** Frank Ramirez: "I wouldn't want to mess with Xi, but he's going to die like everyone else sooner or later." Mortality as the limit on every claim to divinity — theologically apt and rhetorically restrained. > - **Contested and uncertain.** ChinaAid is an advocacy organisation and is the lesson's most-used source for specific cases; its accounts are plausible and corroborated in general outline by USCIRF and State Department reporting, but the lesson treats advocacy sourcing and government reporting as equivalently authoritative. No Chinese Christian, Uyghur, or Tibetan voice speaks directly. Population figures are hedged as widely varying and then used any Dear Class Members, Our lesson this week uses news regarding the policies of the Chinese government regarding religious freedom to discuss what our faith teaches us about how to respond when government officials claim god-like sovereignty and use legal maneuvers to persecute and harm people deemed insufficiently loyal to those in power, and how Christians should exercise authority when they are in positions of leadership. ![](https://www.thewiredword.com/_img/tww_logo_email.jpg) **What the State of Religious Freedom in China May Teach Us** ***The Wired Word*** **for the Week of August 2, 2026** **In the News** Multiple sources on the state of religious freedom in the People's Republic of China (PRC) allege that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) continues to harass, monitor, and control the beliefs and practices of religious groups within its borders, to force them to prioritize loyalty and conformity to its political ideology and remove any perceived threats to President Xi Jinping's power. There are reports of the modification and destruction of houses of worship, religious schools, camps, cemeteries, symbols, traditions and icons to "sinicize" them (integrating Chinese culture and style in buildings and decor). Bob Fu, the founder of ChinaAid, a charity for victims of persecution in the country, said: "It's the emperor playing God. [Xi] wants to be exclusive; he doesn't want to have anything treated or worshipped more superior than him." Clergy and laity belonging to ethnic and religious minorities have been denied housing, employment, business opportunities and social welfare benefits; deprived of voting and free speech rights, and face travel restrictions. Authorities may cut off water and electricity and raid the homes of people who host private prayer meetings and Bible studies and severely penalize property owners who rent space to unregistered religious groups. They are surveilled, interrogated, detained, arrested, disappeared, falsely accused, tortured, imprisoned, placed in "reeducation" residential boarding schools and forced labor camps, denied adequate food, water, sleep and medical care, and have died in custody. Detainees who refuse to renounce their faith may be denied communication with relatives and legal representation and access to sacred texts, sacraments and spiritual care. Estimates of the number of the approximately 1.5 billion people in China who are affiliated with a religion vary widely. Various reports indicate that atheists, agnostics or persons who are religiously unaffiliated make up the greatest percentage of the population, with lesser numbers identifying as adherents of folk and ethnic religions, Falun Gong, Buddhism, Protestant Christianity, Roman Catholicism, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, Confucianism, Sikhism and Taoism. The Pew Research Center and other observers say the numbers of practitioners of many religious groups are hard to track and often underreported. The government recognizes only five religions: Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Protestantism, and Catholicism. These groups must register with the state in order to conduct legal worship services. All clergy must attend political indoctrination sessions and pledge allegiance to the CCP and socialism "to maintain national unity, religious harmony, and social stability ... and resist infiltration by foreign forces using religion." These regulations are ostensibly meant to curb "extremism, terrorism, national separatism, and religious fanaticism." People who attend unregistered churches are seen as unpatriotic traitors and religious extremists, a risk to national security and unity. The constitution of the PRC stipulates that citizens "enjoy freedom of religious belief," and allows people to engage in "normal religious activities" which are undefined. But if people believe their religious freedom rights have been violated, they are not allowed to pursue legal action against the government. No individual or organization is allowed to teach or promote their beliefs, or advertise their services without a government permit. People younger than 18 are prohibited from participating in most religious activities or receiving religious education. State-sanctioned houses of worship are required to sing patriotic songs and hang Xi Jinping's portrait above the pulpit. Government authorities assume the right to censor sermons, curriculum, online content and sacred texts; appoint and remove clergy; categorize unauthorized religious bodies as illegal cults or criminal operations; and limit or prohibit religious practices they find objectionable. ChinaAid reported that authorities in one province require individuals to provide detailed personal information on applications before they are allowed to attend worship services. The intimidation tactic led many individuals to stop practicing their religion in public. Since 1999, China has been designated as a "Country of Particular Concern" under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 due to its major violations of religious freedom. More on this story can be found at these links: [Christians Are Disappearing for Worshiping a God Other Than Xi.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIKH0aP8wGEF4ljhXMWd-2BfL0QgOcww-2BByIN26h3Tvhe1xJC06qJv12-2BnKqpwXP-2FbDh496Daaexv-2BYhTDDG8ekTr3Y1KoO-2FfKtqJu43RYm2QbGwBK2uWvRtVEGtPRKOkoCA-3D-3DqVcm_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOpkG-2BFihC-2FxJKA-2BZ9XeSUYXuF2ssDTmOPViYhwGUHQNmrt90qH4RjUfN6hLrIgB3gVoFIJXkThwZLh4w0mVE-2Bbs9oCyczVo4Hyb8a3uD36cZox4qpUBNrz4dEbsv2vtW6Y7KyGGXBLEiC94vtJXuO94hbxihtvHzJBtAMTfdVJW0vrscHf-2BScIGd-2F-2BIOO9uSoG2yxMKhN7IdLniOevJFfOs-3D) [*The Telegraph*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIKH0aP8wGEF4ljhXMWd-2BfL0QgOcww-2BByIN26h3Tvhe1xJC06qJv12-2BnKqpwXP-2FbDh496Daaexv-2BYhTDDG8ekTr3Y1KoO-2FfKtqJu43RYm2QbGwBK2uWvRtVEGtPRKOkoCA-3D-3DdvmK_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOtWixnEgwfyn4OYiFUhckDGSVhJDfN9fgERzgUCbjyZEKu79jfHlUZ5LurX-2F0OuB-2FQC1W7WGQf8QieJLZqDrLONHcb7zQnDQkrfJyYcEAMd4FvyqVReonPsCxb32HRH66ib1RSWLYnUQV3pa0AWrDV9QbfpmJT-2BJUh6cFj8WTbyvU2r13rKN8R82sXfP4aH6ExeLMzQltzzkk4h3pI2D9f8-3D) [2023 Report on International Religious Freedom: China (Includes Hong Kong, Macau, Tibet, and Xinjiang).](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJ8wH1N07QKGeGXmV98nuqKp0avtqgo-2FgbBXNAsklATL0GtsQIowXsVGW1ivoQ78lLV3G9nJhxaxB1uAgyYEb3bOuziWRLpoB7ACpuLZxd-2BjtVGg_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOjnuQHqmQuKAsb2nFINkv-2F56ytJw2n1P4T7Lky2aE7Qb05p3hKtil3WHN8amzY7geIpz3DpOFv2A38BKmNtgg-2BbOS2vlztc9c1pJ4zHCwCaNAq69gTs3uvTOBPEpg8jvfHhReN71bTrdICo29-2B2HR7v4bBp92PzdSsVe69iBB7iowDjT0A2u9T3CJE2K-2FDiz6XbbxkT2T-2FXZHtEJOFxFSWQ-3D) [*U.S. Department of State*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJ8wH1N07QKGeGXmV98nuqKp0avtqgo-2FgbBXNAsklATL0GtsQIowXsVGW1ivoQ78lLV3G9nJhxaxB1uAgyYEb3bOuziWRLpoB7ACpuLZxd-2BjiBhc_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOlriAigp6Vov0dpy4Jlpwi1S6Acm9TrE0f4fu10ZvPl9jMpICdIyg0MGSn2PuUdQ22CUFdO-2Ff78pZvf-2FWhe8LY44wTn5W-2Buz7gjwcQQb3HDlm-2F7miQUKZ7b3GhJ76bH8URxWRN5f-2BJn1yLZLPJ8amb9bMJOz6AS-2BJrXfSywsJ-2F3HXlqrZggr0RIdsjXmcP5sTLPZBL1xWUU-2BB72eDtEcJ-2F4-3D) [2026 Annual Report of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNCRJ7dBkw9GF1Wn9PGpkVYcHXRnNhjqsN9tUbKgRbtPKAF95WBT-2B4E8JRQE9ZYtAfpLdUGTnO6tNVp8rU-2FsP40GyhdCnzTJmBIBn3pNPWnL374B_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOilfzS6Ht707zKzRdCq0upy-2BCMWvUHIBX0VL1IE2Sz00rjfbeFCvNORu5DJUGmlvQSyaZO3Tp6igOwuH3xtsl6Pihnf9rY-2BL6j-2BBC0xFRcZXnsfaX9-2BKMuAxjI9b9SdvOy9sRywI6j5fd89frWsIRHBzTgU9hGZuPQ8LTQegp2YeYMIfm8mc2VXWKYrl-2F9xDAFcGD7-2BmIz246jehJElM9Ic-3D) [*United States Commission on International Religious Freedom*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNCRJ7dBkw9GF1Wn9PGpkVYcHXRnNhjqsN9tUbKgRbtPKAF95WBT-2B4E8JRQE9ZYtAfpLdUGTnO6tNVp8rU-2FsP40GyhdCnzTJmBIBn3pNPWnL3Nwi_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOvdgdYGdeq4bbBCfnap2-2FB8pvRvgPSVnU7yHGAQsV3-2B1Ia-2FeXaMU45dfjiPIT5qW8oeKq-2BgtmHBZf0vfAbNtWhIIQsWjQvwTgQkOEU6TZ57V2zwLE5a-2F1j40DUvb9yGa9sIuFdw1JG4DbCpb0YNm3MKeoZ9QXiU-2BuCOmUznCJBrrWPc-2B0ERHuVXRYUj5QJ1O9yxRpqN8LYJbCsE3f6CB11Q-3D) [Chinese](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMiiFoN0TCt-2B30VqZGbQGfG8S1CpB4WMHrcgR8j5s8tEJ8yF_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOspGZyGQF-2FbvYKV6hAO6wbFIeiHn-2BEH-2BOrgavvjlda-2FRLeSmKBrjjuKm4gv-2BSdSPbDHSyd-2FYeysoo0aCocHPhSovIqguTS3BoChFFYYdm58hZi-2FBnBZk8L5EYg-2BgElHs9v0TS6JORWv1P2GmpNyvmDkd3a3Y2DUYgltlY14Z6Zj7-2FObQ73wqx8YFVP6aL5js1UUD732cXFeK8O6nGj-2FmN1A-3D) [Christian Lawyer Released After Nine Days in ICE Detention.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMiiFoN0TCt-2B30VqZGbQGfG8S1CpB4WMHrcgR8j5s8tEofHS_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOgxpEiBfyLRH-2Fl7oeMlMJhaq8h4OgnSovGC4HceIkYE-2B5ClcwODMEHptu0YowZwEuuoxSyu5lkIUf16cHsvVME6mLyFRK2HY3gntxTBM1iunaS4n5ayrwnZ45XES-2F9KFOy5wgV6Prqpl-2BxgayXuMY8WxUj7JnD0T8P0ce2I9h-2F4EJMXsrx1ykyCw870jgCJiNNbRwk-2BycFd5ZrluQUjZa6M-3D) [*Premier Christian News*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMiiFoN0TCt-2B30VqZGbQGfG8S1CpB4WMHrcgR8j5s8tEUgpp_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOmYCGOL-2BTSFqv-2FWogKf-2BNG-2BTpl-2FTKRrVDvcA555llyns6Fcs2-2BGwRIHTIzvzuyW6U-2FkLee3rDILpJt3-2F4-2BYr13sgToLVPncCrj6dabfFse0VYQfnrJQRye-2BnxAE-2BuOTRf64gn2m4TvP5qI62RFD0K9iACJ37re1ihbM3M-2B-2BTMqHrZCc-2FzzJE-2FDY9vexVptxfg2ohh4cQbmPnsMLCqk4ebzo-3D) **Applying the News Story** Use this lesson to consider how we should react when authorities abuse their power to hurt innocent people, how we can support people who are persecuted for their faith, how we should prepare ourselves spiritually for the possibility that we may experience persecution at some point, and how we should exercise authority if we are given a position in leadership. **The Big Questions** 1. How should we prepare ourselves, our families and our congregation, for the possibility that we might face persecution in the future? 2. What biblical texts help you to face the future, whatever it may hold, with hope and courage? 3. What recourse do we have, should authorities begin to abuse their power and use law and extrajudicial policies that harm rather than help people? 4. When followers of Jesus have the opportunity to fill positions of authority, what principles should guide them in how they exercise the power placed in their hands? 5. How should we respond when we see others persecuted for their religious beliefs and practices? What difference, if any, should it make if their beliefs and practices are not the same as our own? **Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope**Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: **Proverbs 29:2, 16***When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan. … When the wicked are in authority, transgression increases, but the righteous will look upon their downfall.* (For context, read selected verses from [Proverbs 28:15-16](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxtUL-2BBngs4gHqgEeaCN1ihQudkBVwhHvaFjgJQgVzHKdWpDnq58kj0jA-2BUNMIwGdJ_vcC_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOgTb-2FZlUoRa0XYaXliUmc5Lf4UnzPShJ8VIMYVOn-2F7OPczqD15uZ6rsO0vX-2B2JNrQze2SCeqkIe7MvhdynfFkl2OdoEF7oZ8ei-2BCr5vKWJcfnVCc05L8nxClPtGSk3PTD-2FjUwc90Hm-2Bms-2F4VTbsMszcI8zPm8DHDKewqyVEXlJ5bxgAA27zuxLXcN9HAPGViodbTMXKT-2F4ZmK59Gbvry-2Buk-3D) and [Proverbs 29:4, 7, 14](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxtUL-2BBngs4gHqgEeaCN1ihd-2FefaR5viox9E8Ld0ziBnbS-2FNeI0TJqKlyFPP5S1HrLtY8c5ZgM46vcEHwEjRQU7g-3D-3DIp_c_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOq869TS49-2BuoMC8plRCQlwEbQWqCtilZnvjU1njAr4Ot-2BPRaQ2abUSgDyTjZHKJETk-2BjGopVp5pZMPW74QU-2Blb5xEzeHO4ZSkuOyjIj5ooazbtghltziBf-2BgG8xO7-2Bq4G9LVQZ9VJ-2B6C5zWoEU0p2m7EvsvKSbBFoTXhYqMtP-2F9UnUbAPggIgn6M6b8DTU-2B8QMrc9ScYsPi6rAtMTecIpCg-3D).) Wisdom literature in the Bible often contrasts two paths: the righteous way and the way of the wicked. Here we see the difference between righteous and wicked rulers: The first brings joy to the people, the latter brings grief. When the wicked are in authority, the writer says, "transgression [or law-breaking, or crossing of boundaries or guardrails] increases." It's not merely a matter of getting an answer wrong on a written test, though. This kind of transgression destroys a covenantal relationship that harms real people in real time. The psalmist speaks about "a corrupt throne ... that brings on misery by its decrees" and the wicked who "band together against the righteous and condemn the innocent to death." But the psalmist doesn't despair. He takes refuge in God his fortress and rock, trusting that the Lord "will repay them for their sins and destroy them for their wickedness" ([Psalm 94:20-23 NIV](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxspY8nlyUhAxVWALjS5-2FFB-2Ffq3mfMlUFA4uYDlVT8kdkq8oW2TjwDIkjjYExhivz11CD7_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOmyLDaCPq9vC0uJw8TdVtSZGwwklgZTJg-2BSHiizd8yq9RKb0L-2BBPc8EI0LncNIDesbK6m8d6LYNGepiO8nZdXSYd2S4ru3riFBEGgx3aBAMOaOMXZsFtdtaT0I2I36q-2F66muvHXHsp-2Bb-2F-2BLJ90nbilxRE1ZGtqc5jQUKiGeHQ9-2FFaJgUdj1P-2B208apPGr-2FjTnIFkUJ-2Bg-2Bf4tPP5nUBOQLck-3D)). > **Questions:** When have you seen people in power use laws to make others miserable? What hope do these texts provide people who have been hurt by those in authority who abuse their power? **Matthew 5:10-12***[Jesus said,] "Blessed are those who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you."* (For context, read [Matthew 5:1-12](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxEE9arX6m0yHZZAbtNhYaDT10oz-2B8TCAp2HAnicFzoOV2lzi-2FDCkDFIY0-2F07vyZwhnxto_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOliN7ePwszjCi1mfFYyUmJSrLtj4aFK-2F5tRCpaGJqkRTP87H1-2BmsKYcsbZTSfUQEnVaibQ0mtx9fVAYxyjNsKdfdEGpjCoh4Jn9geibQr5McIKEIjTT5UINdurE-2B4rfNwJRPkfdLrg7lMOSidBNQXhjlr2EK0UpuIWB1lOSpEgB5p0omcJTvJNrenrZ8Iij19FX0lPv2se7JQhIwx5Y-2BO-2FY-3D).) The Beatitudes, as these have come to be known, flip the script of human wisdom upside down. How can people who are reviled, falsely accused and persecuted for the sake of righteousness possibly be blessed? Yet that is what Jesus claims: that those who are persecuted on his account *are* blessed. Notice he didn't say they necessarily *feel* blessed! Persecution on his account is hard! Full stop. And yet. This is not your garden variety pain and suffering that is the lot of every human being, the price of living in an imperfect world in which everyone ultimately dies. Nor is it the pain one suffers as a criminal. Peter calls persecution a "test" and a "sharing" in "Christ's sufferings." "If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed," Peter writes, because God's Spirit is resting on you. That is why you can rejoice and give glory to God as you entrust your lives "to a faithful Creator, while continuing to do good." ([1 Peter 4:12-16, 19](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxwmfmBgpnTbzq00OVUGKe4IRnmlBsPUVoNo8GGvyUrQrzIU-2ByH0jU4DgOLSywiwqKcn56gAEzvEGM1FM9fEr5Tw-3D-3DgUdY_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOly366fjUTfOqTjR465sf0wovk4N-2FndmJhjIBXlkg9sJy7LdjBFyejcyUtzl7JoulC2jbf8IEbO-2Fd-2BN6yr-2BVCoF9OPVVjj8PCAzgXbncTxYHtKjkJIeLX3JHH5R7D3b-2F-2Fsm6WhkBSDP-2BZCcbFLdyjGEHF4bhUTZmhAKzsPZEYPaoAX2rhMpBZ50Rr-2BtSlostPOVRdmm5vGMJu9ZuKsVAopk-3D)). > **Questions:** If persecution is a test, what is being tested? And how can we "pass" the test? In what sense is it a blessing to be persecuted "for the sake of righteousness"? Where is the joy of being in the same category as the prophets who have been persecuted before us? Why is it a blessing to share in the sufferings of Christ? What is the role of trust in times of persecution? **Acts 12:21-24***On an appointed day Herod put on his royal robes, took his seat on the platform, and delivered a public address to [the people of Tyre and Sidon]. The people kept shouting, "The voice of a god and not of a mortal!" And immediately, because he had not given the glory to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died. But the word of God continued to advance and gain adherents.* (For context, read [Acts 12:1-3, 17-24](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxKbdTOoi9zMVovJQINirCSAPZF4M5Wg-2F6K9B1NL7Q-2FxBqzyGvKWymOSF75zRg2KzpiSFY_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOoSbInlY2LVxUCAmBDfHeTQn8XIvUpDIavRPz-2B4PRq7vEZ1hpkqVN7pPMSL6PUow6FRui-2FSmpMBzx3dgx94KU4GHc8URT5vTyc98n-2BwQl2sk-2FHjEUA-2B3GCqNDRr-2BkeXfcCz-2FY5n8ONpu7wvlGL6lcod-2BaPRLf2-2BXWIuQntovcfY0bgM9hMwMeA7j99ooWEYivkqVHnrGfqMM24VjU1rGgFQ-3D).) TWW Team Member Frank Ramirez noted that in [Daniel 4:19-37](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxx-2BpwTH5anYAKKJJ07sUdSvKsia-2FJd-2BshM3KbvU4MdmlwGGP5c07N7WBHVlMduzh2g9AX_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOh1LXjZ3gk2gGJx8-2FvcvXZy-2BuSF9SyLoMjcQvJ-2FzLoh7KlHkVdAB5JcMzfAnQlr31GrN5cX7YhunstKJLbyFtGfaZ1MCp3XEaHwo8JvrYYfX9S-2FhiSWXO2BJVovNvu2H6sXcFinUybU8bDVVELij-2FWEyqgviwJhGcYY2eiBmlu9ELlaWYHhYvW-2BB31J145y-2BjSlg7mTCdyrQevWcloYQtzE-3D), King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon has a dream depicting himself as a glorious tree, which is destroyed by a holy watcher, for exalting itself. The dream warns him that if he considers himself a god, he will be animal-like for seven years, until he learns "that the Most High has sovereignty over the kingdom of mortals" and "that Heaven is sovereign." While boasting of his "mighty power" and "glorious majesty," the sentence was fulfilled against Nebuchadnezzar. Only when he gave God the honor and praise he was due, was his kingdom restored to him. In Acts 12, we have another example of a cruel ruler who traumatizes the fledgling community of faith in Christ. "King Herod laid violent hands upon some who belonged to the church," killed James, the brother of John, and arrested Peter (vv. 1-3). But God rescued Peter and brought him out of prison in the middle of the night, to Herod's great consternation. He ordered the execution of the security detail who had been responsible for guarding Peter, and then turned his anger on the people of Tyre and Sidon, who attempted to mollify and flatter the king, listening to his speech and pronouncing him divine. Herod's exultation was short-lived, however. God says, "I am the LORD; that is my name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols." (Isaiah 42:8) TWW team member Mark Rouleau observed: "Even the Buddha did not consider himself a deity. In fact I have been told by guide scholars at one of the main Theravadas temples in Bangkok that he instructed his followers not to make images of him." Ramirez reflected, "I wouldn't want to mess with Xi, but he's going to die like everyone else sooner or later." > **Questions:** What warning are we to take from the texts in Daniel and Acts? What message of hope do we find there? **Matthew 20:25-28** *But Jesus called them to him and said, "You know that the rulers of the gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones are tyrants over them. It will not be so among you, but whoever wishes to be great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be your slave, just as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and to give his life a ransom for many."* (For context, read [Matthew 20:17-28](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxEE9arX6m0yHZZAbtNhYaDc7vVdn5USUdTtWqvTw2W6mbiNrT6cu5mwK69YmdIY-2FIDytt_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOiaJXOo7JzepX1oN3843x7TPTDBfWV6Rbg54CZxSq10zyUPADTqOqoi4TmXcWT7-2BI1tlgkCmi3hpx1OLEOmn0Z3IGnvv6yltqlXh0SDj6KkioQ7YeUdnhbIUcrV-2B6PRHiK9tIcr8sozOFjSVCEuaiD4gvqZkx-2FzVRz71jFyzKbIBgjfV0P8ECsAlpAoJW5v0iMCAQQg2cNakypJKoQdhnQo-3D).) Right after Jesus told his disciples about his imminent crucifixion and resurrection, the mother of two of Jesus' disciples came with them to request that they be given the highest positions in Jesus' kingdom, to be seated on his right and left hands. They seem to have skipped over the part about suffering and went straight to the after-party celebration. But Jesus countered that they were not to exercise authority as tyrannical rulers, but rather as servants willing to give their lives to save others. Peter finally got the message, after his own humiliating failure, later writing to church elders, "Do not lord it over those in your charge, but be examples to the flock" ([1 Peter 5:1-4](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxwmfmBgpnTbzq00OVUGKe4FodtJRIxhMsZbNDLeZoDWTF-2BiPo7HViFhbt1Mj0yb7whYi__-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOj4UZEghjfyu40BltQHFB8j0Y9wzg9POPjyXAYCu5RPXmggTWDQ0eDPSEuFA4wclTppoROwUN89vYZCdI0UKuYMZZVYbag-2FNGlQRmkLO-2Ft-2BSj6jzJHZiryPCU6lAn5f-2FSgpeXF15RKQh-2BUOf9k3dhgvRe9Sf53YYoGJ4soT8y5jLI6wxVwlDKvrq0CiNSu0-2BE5U19ZximFGoQntWrhf6PTk-3D)). Jesus spoke about being an example after he washed the feet of his disciples, saying, "So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you" (John 13:14-15). > **Questions:** What does "lording it over" people look like? What kind of example are followers of Jesus to set? What needs to change before we are willing to serve, rather than to expect to be served? **For Further Discussion** 1. Reflect on this portion of the United Church of Christ Statement of Faith, adapted by Robert V. Moss: "God calls us into the church to accept the cost and joy of discipleship, to be servants in the service of the whole human family, to proclaim the gospel to all the world and resist the powers of evil, to share in Christ's baptism and eat at his table, to join him in his passion and victory. "God promises to all who trust in the gospel forgiveness of sins and fullness of grace, courage in the struggle for justice and peace, the presence of the Holy Spirit in trial and rejoicing, and eternal life in that kingdom which has no end." 2. Discuss this, from TWW team member Mary Sells: "China has a long history in its communist era of suppressing religion. We don't seem to experience so much blatant persecution of Christians in our own country, although the divides by religious affiliation can seem oppressive to some, and yet we are legendary in mistreatment of others such as Muslims and Jews. I think much of this is systemic, baked into lifelong learnings from our families, friends, policies and politicians. The current Christian Nationalism movement, as I understand it, defines a fairly narrow lane to interpret what it says is appropriate worship and practice, that casts limits on women, immigrants, even books in schools and libraries, etc., that seem like authoritarian desire for control rather than actual embrace of Jesus' teachings." 3. According to ChinaAid, Guangzhou Bible Reform Church member Gao Heng served one year and 10 months in prison for "provoking trouble and picking quarrels" after he was convicted for the crime of holding up a sign reading "pray for the country" in a metro station in 2021. In an effort to persuade Chen Wensheng to stop evangelizing, authorities have arrested the street evangelist seven times since 2021. A Uyghur Muslim woman was sentenced to 17 years in prison for teaching her children and a neighbor Qur'anic prayers. A Christian woman received a 15-year sentence simply for belonging to an unauthorized church. Would you risk arrest and imprisonment for the sake of your faith? Why or why not? **Responding to the News** Listen to or sing along with the chorus, [He Who Began a Good Work in You](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPPXTV2R-2Bm0Kz58iOCQYIq18XZx8Q9-2FDbsAGdbzLfeV5NvbESdU-2Fqte4I8MaFbmP-2BPQ-3D-3DZB8G_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOnHlKPAJgS2b-2F5Kvjd7fkZoJLnaYLKzdZIBTyPNLAIXlWz-2FyMEECf6yo3IX7drDpJa8ryXMzTc69xu51LwEAPHAwFGuatE2V2U1yjTmfRhpYhUuok-2B-2BKYZyvGM9vjWxjiqhinG3PxARVpMQliECe90XbIj-2BcWSeWjlr8jQAj8zFk6SU9DVFGanZjQB-2BKA0EoWLdAoQlGttLGr3FqyRdi56I-3D), which is based on [Philippians 1:6](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxzNGX396sVFOaUcnbldjl-2BPpuJNSwCQrpiCfp-2FNT3AYbO1dc4wdsAXsH1JLCoDPBbgmwf_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOgJzaFtICfU49Orv6IM5-2FHVtxIL0MjGzaErqUUVOAwDDW-2FPDen2w4G55-2B2nTPLwByJElU8IHZYQf46hq4m3qjz74NzeAGNLU55NubNTwzIJwlUhQnCBOPHbz19VsdvNnxIGQZfzrfxOvlBMptdJGLht-2BeOmJu7pvizo1e7x80-2BVr57AloYgWZQCaGJN4oGbcTAi5i3MSFbmVcdFz6uy0G9E-3D), as you pray for hope and faith to trust God to sustain you in times of distress. **Prayer** suggested by [Romans 8:35-39](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxShxcpNB-2FkdjnrumusYgJUELxRTvPHolGhJ8O-2B8eDYTVfEkoIW8c-2FxH2Mz1ND2uN0AW0l_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOgyZsPo7nXZgVMJ-2B29EqMkcAGrutH3-2BL5Ed-2BFv1K-2F9zPX2WzH3B1gtNTn1VZiGHlXQNLKFs6KhCHrzLy1fxQVvez2f8h4Gpq-2BaXq-2BR5xge6kRTZocQz8vjPMdZx5oZsf7n34h9-2BCmoTwuXKlhCMpFY9ltRlM1113hPtERe-2B3Q3auPgtMDxAG6gw7Mq-2FMzStrBJT5luuyXbxcwiBr5t81Y9Q-3D) Faithful God, your Word tells us that nothing can separate us from the love of Christ, not affliction, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, peril, sword, slaughter, death, life, angels, rulers, things present, things to come, powers, height, depth, nor anything else in all creation! In *all* these things, we are *more* than victorious through him who loved us. We pray for courage and grace for all those who are suffering for the name of Christ in China and around the world. May your will be done on Earth as it is in heaven. Amen! **Copyright 2026 Communication Resources** [Unsubscribe From This List](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user_id=14323725&data=qDuUYLaQWd_hN6FSzFaGUuPUb7UXwfn_-LrJci9LztBoMDAwdTAwMN1N-Nx3wPzXTHiRQqTiNhk9MQrdFzHvK3nYi-Vl8HXrv2pUc06sMFBX62MIJZPc2rNl0wdfYnJ31I5FmQv4igBmy2Or-jZBYU--VDzXYgs9CMCOGkH6DmUB7PeOOlIrvm1AeMjJlrScpiwfF0SJq8SYOJtL66oUI9sJA-CTM9VMefyCWJiE980dqYNReSQ2DbkqVBQc9pgXWS-XpMu3rMhPx9w89pB65TinkZ8P0ThdQRqkN4kGUH8J324oHm5mOG4I4JAzjre2Q8xqA_avUxVkM45G8o3qScsxV24fX2G2ol6c9fJP2KeYI7RQS1Dd8rzuKEgahWLqmGqWSxW9EliS7vHHe1X0soDfLGT0E5x-JnpUXQyfLFAzSmfTPFzumLZvJGrdAIBlNG-rHP1a2Vre1BQo8fw9QWH6r6NqkCfIDjws3UGY5oJmsqSX797lS_fUloWe0-Rnfn8Cb1BNTgjvphcbdbhuso8aY1LJ25F9ljXkV5tD2Sfvlja2h0zqhJ-f5KEXVtze5zGu1ndalvgxcVHf5-AXNB-mMRIrLiKiRWaffTa7fG9z_uQfvDb0tWW5huKAm1Iy2HRdlaopbiY=) <div>Dear Class Members, Our lesson this week uses news regarding the policies of the Chinese government regarding religious freedom to discuss what our faith teaches us about how to respond when government officials claim god-like sovereignty and use legal maneuvers to persecute and harm people deemed insufficiently loyal to those in power, and how Christians should exercise authority when they are in positions of leadership. <img alt="" src="https://www.thewiredword.com/\_img/tww\_logo\_email.jpg"/> What the State of Religious Freedom in China May Teach Us The Wired Word for the Week of August 2, 2026 In the News Multiple sources on the state of religious freedom in the People's Republic of China (PRC) allege that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) continues to harass, monitor, and control the beliefs and practices of religious groups within its borders, to force them to prioritize loyalty and conformity to its political ideology and remove any perceived threats to President Xi Jinping's power. There are reports of the modification and destruction of houses of worship, religious schools, camps, cemeteries, symbols, traditions and icons to "sinicize" them (integrating Chinese culture and style in buildings and decor). Bob Fu, the founder of ChinaAid, a charity for victims of persecution in the country, said: "It's the emperor playing God. [Xi] wants to be exclusive; he doesn't want to have anything treated or worshipped more superior than him." Clergy and laity belonging to ethnic and religious minorities have been denied housing, employment, business opportunities and social welfare benefits; deprived of voting and free speech rights, and face travel restrictions. Authorities may cut off water and electricity and raid the homes of people who host private prayer meetings and Bible studies and severely penalize property owners who rent space to unregistered religious groups. They are surveilled, interrogated, detained, arrested, disappeared, falsely accused, tortured, imprisoned, placed in "reeducation" residential boarding schools and forced labor camps, denied adequate food, water, sleep and medical care, and have died in custody. Detainees who refuse to renounce their faith may be denied communication with relatives and legal representation and access to sacred texts, sacraments and spiritual care. Estimates of the number of the approximately 1.5 billion people in China who are affiliated with a religion vary widely. Various reports indicate that atheists, agnostics or persons who are religiously unaffiliated make up the greatest percentage of the population, with lesser numbers identifying as adherents of folk and ethnic religions, Falun Gong, Buddhism, Protestant Christianity, Roman Catholicism, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, Confucianism, Sikhism and Taoism. The Pew Research Center and other observers say the numbers of practitioners of many religious groups are hard to track and often underreported. The government recognizes only five religions: Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Protestantism, and Catholicism. These groups must register with the state in order to conduct legal worship services. All clergy must attend political indoctrination sessions and pledge allegiance to the CCP and socialism "to maintain national unity, religious harmony, and social stability ... and resist infiltration by foreign forces using religion." These regulations are ostensibly meant to curb "extremism, terrorism, national separatism, and religious fanaticism." People who attend unregistered churches are seen as unpatriotic traitors and religious extremists, a risk to national security and unity. The constitution of the PRC stipulates that citizens "enjoy freedom of religious belief," and allows people to engage in "normal religious activities" which are undefined. But if people believe their religious freedom rights have been violated, they are not allowed to pursue legal action against the government. No individual or organization is allowed to teach or promote their beliefs, or advertise their services without a government permit. People younger than 18 are prohibited from participating in most religious activities or receiving religious education. State-sanctioned houses of worship are required to sing patriotic songs and hang Xi Jinping's portrait above the pulpit. Government authorities assume the right to censor sermons, curriculum, online content and sacred texts; appoint and remove clergy; categorize unauthorized religious bodies as illegal cults or criminal operations; and limit or prohibit religious practices they find objectionable. ChinaAid reported that authorities in one province require individuals to provide detailed personal information on applications before they are allowed to attend worship services. The intimidation tactic led many individuals to stop practicing their religion in public. Since 1999, China has been designated as a "Country of Particular Concern" under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 due to its major violations of religious freedom. More on this story can be found at these links: <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIKH0aP8wGEF4ljhXMWd-2BfL0QgOcww-2BByIN26h3Tvhe1xJC06qJv12-2BnKqpwXP-2FbDh496Daaexv-2BYhTDDG8ekTr3Y1KoO-2FfKtqJu43RYm2QbGwBK2uWvRtVEGtPRKOkoCA-3D-3DqVcm\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOpkG-2BFihC-2FxJKA-2BZ9XeSUYXuF2ssDTmOPViYhwGUHQNmrt90qH4RjUfN6hLrIgB3gVoFIJXkThwZLh4w0mVE-2Bbs9oCyczVo4Hyb8a3uD36cZox4qpUBNrz4dEbsv2vtW6Y7KyGGXBLEiC94vtJXuO94hbxihtvHzJBtAMTfdVJW0vrscHf-2BScIGd-2F-2BIOO9uSoG2yxMKhN7IdLniOevJFfOs-3D">Christians Are Disappearing for Worshiping a God Other Than Xi. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIKH0aP8wGEF4ljhXMWd-2BfL0QgOcww-2BByIN26h3Tvhe1xJC06qJv12-2BnKqpwXP-2FbDh496Daaexv-2BYhTDDG8ekTr3Y1KoO-2FfKtqJu43RYm2QbGwBK2uWvRtVEGtPRKOkoCA-3D-3DdvmK\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOtWixnEgwfyn4OYiFUhckDGSVhJDfN9fgERzgUCbjyZEKu79jfHlUZ5LurX-2F0OuB-2FQC1W7WGQf8QieJLZqDrLONHcb7zQnDQkrfJyYcEAMd4FvyqVReonPsCxb32HRH66ib1RSWLYnUQV3pa0AWrDV9QbfpmJT-2BJUh6cFj8WTbyvU2r13rKN8R82sXfP4aH6ExeLMzQltzzkk4h3pI2D9f8-3D">The Telegraph</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJ8wH1N07QKGeGXmV98nuqKp0avtqgo-2FgbBXNAsklATL0GtsQIowXsVGW1ivoQ78lLV3G9nJhxaxB1uAgyYEb3bOuziWRLpoB7ACpuLZxd-2BjtVGg\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOjnuQHqmQuKAsb2nFINkv-2F56ytJw2n1P4T7Lky2aE7Qb05p3hKtil3WHN8amzY7geIpz3DpOFv2A38BKmNtgg-2BbOS2vlztc9c1pJ4zHCwCaNAq69gTs3uvTOBPEpg8jvfHhReN71bTrdICo29-2B2HR7v4bBp92PzdSsVe69iBB7iowDjT0A2u9T3CJE2K-2FDiz6XbbxkT2T-2FXZHtEJOFxFSWQ-3D">2023 Report on International Religious Freedom: China (Includes Hong Kong, Macau, Tibet, and Xinjiang). </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJ8wH1N07QKGeGXmV98nuqKp0avtqgo-2FgbBXNAsklATL0GtsQIowXsVGW1ivoQ78lLV3G9nJhxaxB1uAgyYEb3bOuziWRLpoB7ACpuLZxd-2BjiBhc\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOlriAigp6Vov0dpy4Jlpwi1S6Acm9TrE0f4fu10ZvPl9jMpICdIyg0MGSn2PuUdQ22CUFdO-2Ff78pZvf-2FWhe8LY44wTn5W-2Buz7gjwcQQb3HDlm-2F7miQUKZ7b3GhJ76bH8URxWRN5f-2BJn1yLZLPJ8amb9bMJOz6AS-2BJrXfSywsJ-2F3HXlqrZggr0RIdsjXmcP5sTLPZBL1xWUU-2BB72eDtEcJ-2F4-3D">U.S. Department of State</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNCRJ7dBkw9GF1Wn9PGpkVYcHXRnNhjqsN9tUbKgRbtPKAF95WBT-2B4E8JRQE9ZYtAfpLdUGTnO6tNVp8rU-2FsP40GyhdCnzTJmBIBn3pNPWnL374B\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOilfzS6Ht707zKzRdCq0upy-2BCMWvUHIBX0VL1IE2Sz00rjfbeFCvNORu5DJUGmlvQSyaZO3Tp6igOwuH3xtsl6Pihnf9rY-2BL6j-2BBC0xFRcZXnsfaX9-2BKMuAxjI9b9SdvOy9sRywI6j5fd89frWsIRHBzTgU9hGZuPQ8LTQegp2YeYMIfm8mc2VXWKYrl-2F9xDAFcGD7-2BmIz246jehJElM9Ic-3D">2026 Annual Report of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNCRJ7dBkw9GF1Wn9PGpkVYcHXRnNhjqsN9tUbKgRbtPKAF95WBT-2B4E8JRQE9ZYtAfpLdUGTnO6tNVp8rU-2FsP40GyhdCnzTJmBIBn3pNPWnL3Nwi\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOvdgdYGdeq4bbBCfnap2-2FB8pvRvgPSVnU7yHGAQsV3-2B1Ia-2FeXaMU45dfjiPIT5qW8oeKq-2BgtmHBZf0vfAbNtWhIIQsWjQvwTgQkOEU6TZ57V2zwLE5a-2F1j40DUvb9yGa9sIuFdw1JG4DbCpb0YNm3MKeoZ9QXiU-2BuCOmUznCJBrrWPc-2B0ERHuVXRYUj5QJ1O9yxRpqN8LYJbCsE3f6CB11Q-3D">United States Commission on International Religious Freedom</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMiiFoN0TCt-2B30VqZGbQGfG8S1CpB4WMHrcgR8j5s8tEJ8yF\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOspGZyGQF-2FbvYKV6hAO6wbFIeiHn-2BEH-2BOrgavvjlda-2FRLeSmKBrjjuKm4gv-2BSdSPbDHSyd-2FYeysoo0aCocHPhSovIqguTS3BoChFFYYdm58hZi-2FBnBZk8L5EYg-2BgElHs9v0TS6JORWv1P2GmpNyvmDkd3a3Y2DUYgltlY14Z6Zj7-2FObQ73wqx8YFVP6aL5js1UUD732cXFeK8O6nGj-2FmN1A-3D">Chinese</a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMiiFoN0TCt-2B30VqZGbQGfG8S1CpB4WMHrcgR8j5s8tEofHS\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOgxpEiBfyLRH-2Fl7oeMlMJhaq8h4OgnSovGC4HceIkYE-2B5ClcwODMEHptu0YowZwEuuoxSyu5lkIUf16cHsvVME6mLyFRK2HY3gntxTBM1iunaS4n5ayrwnZ45XES-2F9KFOy5wgV6Prqpl-2BxgayXuMY8WxUj7JnD0T8P0ce2I9h-2F4EJMXsrx1ykyCw870jgCJiNNbRwk-2BycFd5ZrluQUjZa6M-3D"> Christian Lawyer Released After Nine Days in ICE Detention. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMiiFoN0TCt-2B30VqZGbQGfG8S1CpB4WMHrcgR8j5s8tEUgpp\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOmYCGOL-2BTSFqv-2FWogKf-2BNG-2BTpl-2FTKRrVDvcA555llyns6Fcs2-2BGwRIHTIzvzuyW6U-2FkLee3rDILpJt3-2F4-2BYr13sgToLVPncCrj6dabfFse0VYQfnrJQRye-2BnxAE-2BuOTRf64gn2m4TvP5qI62RFD0K9iACJ37re1ihbM3M-2B-2BTMqHrZCc-2FzzJE-2FDY9vexVptxfg2ohh4cQbmPnsMLCqk4ebzo-3D">Premier Christian News</a> Applying the News Story Use this lesson to consider how we should react when authorities abuse their power to hurt innocent people, how we can support people who are persecuted for their faith, how we should prepare ourselves spiritually for the possibility that we may experience persecution at some point, and how we should exercise authority if we are given a position in leadership. The Big Questions 1. How should we prepare ourselves, our families and our congregation, for the possibility that we might face persecution in the future? 2. What biblical texts help you to face the future, whatever it may hold, with hope and courage? 3. What recourse do we have, should authorities begin to abuse their power and use law and extrajudicial policies that harm rather than help people? 4. When followers of Jesus have the opportunity to fill positions of authority, what principles should guide them in how they exercise the power placed in their hands? 5. How should we respond when we see others persecuted for their religious beliefs and practices? What difference, if any, should it make if their beliefs and practices are not the same as our own? Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: Proverbs 29:2, 16 When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan. … When the wicked are in authority, transgression increases, but the righteous will look upon their downfall. (For context, read selected verses from <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxtUL-2BBngs4gHqgEeaCN1ihQudkBVwhHvaFjgJQgVzHKdWpDnq58kj0jA-2BUNMIwGdJ\_vcC\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOgTb-2FZlUoRa0XYaXliUmc5Lf4UnzPShJ8VIMYVOn-2F7OPczqD15uZ6rsO0vX-2B2JNrQze2SCeqkIe7MvhdynfFkl2OdoEF7oZ8ei-2BCr5vKWJcfnVCc05L8nxClPtGSk3PTD-2FjUwc90Hm-2Bms-2F4VTbsMszcI8zPm8DHDKewqyVEXlJ5bxgAA27zuxLXcN9HAPGViodbTMXKT-2F4ZmK59Gbvry-2Buk-3D">Proverbs 28:15-16</a> and <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxtUL-2BBngs4gHqgEeaCN1ihd-2FefaR5viox9E8Ld0ziBnbS-2FNeI0TJqKlyFPP5S1HrLtY8c5ZgM46vcEHwEjRQU7g-3D-3DIp\_c\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOq869TS49-2BuoMC8plRCQlwEbQWqCtilZnvjU1njAr4Ot-2BPRaQ2abUSgDyTjZHKJETk-2BjGopVp5pZMPW74QU-2Blb5xEzeHO4ZSkuOyjIj5ooazbtghltziBf-2BgG8xO7-2Bq4G9LVQZ9VJ-2B6C5zWoEU0p2m7EvsvKSbBFoTXhYqMtP-2F9UnUbAPggIgn6M6b8DTU-2B8QMrc9ScYsPi6rAtMTecIpCg-3D">Proverbs 29:4, 7, 14</a>.) Wisdom literature in the Bible often contrasts two paths: the righteous way and the way of the wicked. Here we see the difference between righteous and wicked rulers: The first brings joy to the people, the latter brings grief. When the wicked are in authority, the writer says, "transgression [or law-breaking, or crossing of boundaries or guardrails] increases." It's not merely a matter of getting an answer wrong on a written test, though. This kind of transgression destroys a covenantal relationship that harms real people in real time. The psalmist speaks about "a corrupt throne ... that brings on misery by its decrees" and the wicked who "band together against the righteous and condemn the innocent to death." But the psalmist doesn't despair. He takes refuge in God his fortress and rock, trusting that the Lord "will repay them for their sins and destroy them for their wickedness" (<a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxspY8nlyUhAxVWALjS5-2FFB-2Ffq3mfMlUFA4uYDlVT8kdkq8oW2TjwDIkjjYExhivz11CD7\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOmyLDaCPq9vC0uJw8TdVtSZGwwklgZTJg-2BSHiizd8yq9RKb0L-2BBPc8EI0LncNIDesbK6m8d6LYNGepiO8nZdXSYd2S4ru3riFBEGgx3aBAMOaOMXZsFtdtaT0I2I36q-2F66muvHXHsp-2Bb-2F-2BLJ90nbilxRE1ZGtqc5jQUKiGeHQ9-2FFaJgUdj1P-2B208apPGr-2FjTnIFkUJ-2Bg-2Bf4tPP5nUBOQLck-3D">Psalm 94:20-23 NIV</a>). <blockquote> Questions: When have you seen people in power use laws to make others miserable? What hope do these texts provide people who have been hurt by those in authority who abuse their power? </blockquote> Matthew 5:10-12 [Jesus said,] "Blessed are those who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you." (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxEE9arX6m0yHZZAbtNhYaDT10oz-2B8TCAp2HAnicFzoOV2lzi-2FDCkDFIY0-2F07vyZwhnxto\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOliN7ePwszjCi1mfFYyUmJSrLtj4aFK-2F5tRCpaGJqkRTP87H1-2BmsKYcsbZTSfUQEnVaibQ0mtx9fVAYxyjNsKdfdEGpjCoh4Jn9geibQr5McIKEIjTT5UINdurE-2B4rfNwJRPkfdLrg7lMOSidBNQXhjlr2EK0UpuIWB1lOSpEgB5p0omcJTvJNrenrZ8Iij19FX0lPv2se7JQhIwx5Y-2BO-2FY-3D">Matthew 5:1-12</a>.) The Beatitudes, as these have come to be known, flip the script of human wisdom upside down. How can people who are reviled, falsely accused and persecuted for the sake of righteousness possibly be blessed? Yet that is what Jesus claims: that those who are persecuted on his account are blessed. Notice he didn't say they necessarily feel blessed! Persecution on his account is hard! Full stop. And yet. This is not your garden variety pain and suffering that is the lot of every human being, the price of living in an imperfect world in which everyone ultimately dies. Nor is it the pain one suffers as a criminal. Peter calls persecution a "test" and a "sharing" in "Christ's sufferings." "If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed," Peter writes, because God's Spirit is resting on you. That is why you can rejoice and give glory to God as you entrust your lives "to a faithful Creator, while continuing to do good." (<a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxwmfmBgpnTbzq00OVUGKe4IRnmlBsPUVoNo8GGvyUrQrzIU-2ByH0jU4DgOLSywiwqKcn56gAEzvEGM1FM9fEr5Tw-3D-3DgUdY\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOly366fjUTfOqTjR465sf0wovk4N-2FndmJhjIBXlkg9sJy7LdjBFyejcyUtzl7JoulC2jbf8IEbO-2Fd-2BN6yr-2BVCoF9OPVVjj8PCAzgXbncTxYHtKjkJIeLX3JHH5R7D3b-2F-2Fsm6WhkBSDP-2BZCcbFLdyjGEHF4bhUTZmhAKzsPZEYPaoAX2rhMpBZ50Rr-2BtSlostPOVRdmm5vGMJu9ZuKsVAopk-3D">1 Peter 4:12-16, 19</a>). <blockquote> Questions: If persecution is a test, what is being tested? And how can we "pass" the test? In what sense is it a blessing to be persecuted "for the sake of righteousness"? Where is the joy of being in the same category as the prophets who have been persecuted before us? Why is it a blessing to share in the sufferings of Christ? What is the role of trust in times of persecution? </blockquote> Acts 12:21-24 On an appointed day Herod put on his royal robes, took his seat on the platform, and delivered a public address to [the people of Tyre and Sidon]. The people kept shouting, "The voice of a god and not of a mortal!" And immediately, because he had not given the glory to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died. But the word of God continued to advance and gain adherents. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxKbdTOoi9zMVovJQINirCSAPZF4M5Wg-2F6K9B1NL7Q-2FxBqzyGvKWymOSF75zRg2KzpiSFY\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOoSbInlY2LVxUCAmBDfHeTQn8XIvUpDIavRPz-2B4PRq7vEZ1hpkqVN7pPMSL6PUow6FRui-2FSmpMBzx3dgx94KU4GHc8URT5vTyc98n-2BwQl2sk-2FHjEUA-2B3GCqNDRr-2BkeXfcCz-2FY5n8ONpu7wvlGL6lcod-2BaPRLf2-2BXWIuQntovcfY0bgM9hMwMeA7j99ooWEYivkqVHnrGfqMM24VjU1rGgFQ-3D">Acts 12:1-3, 17-24</a>.) TWW Team Member Frank Ramirez noted that in <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxx-2BpwTH5anYAKKJJ07sUdSvKsia-2FJd-2BshM3KbvU4MdmlwGGP5c07N7WBHVlMduzh2g9AX\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOh1LXjZ3gk2gGJx8-2FvcvXZy-2BuSF9SyLoMjcQvJ-2FzLoh7KlHkVdAB5JcMzfAnQlr31GrN5cX7YhunstKJLbyFtGfaZ1MCp3XEaHwo8JvrYYfX9S-2FhiSWXO2BJVovNvu2H6sXcFinUybU8bDVVELij-2FWEyqgviwJhGcYY2eiBmlu9ELlaWYHhYvW-2BB31J145y-2BjSlg7mTCdyrQevWcloYQtzE-3D">Daniel 4:19-37</a>, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon has a dream depicting himself as a glorious tree, which is destroyed by a holy watcher, for exalting itself. The dream warns him that if he considers himself a god, he will be animal-like for seven years, until he learns "that the Most High has sovereignty over the kingdom of mortals" and "that Heaven is sovereign." While boasting of his "mighty power" and "glorious majesty," the sentence was fulfilled against Nebuchadnezzar. Only when he gave God the honor and praise he was due, was his kingdom restored to him. In Acts 12, we have another example of a cruel ruler who traumatizes the fledgling community of faith in Christ. "King Herod laid violent hands upon some who belonged to the church," killed James, the brother of John, and arrested Peter (vv. 1-3). But God rescued Peter and brought him out of prison in the middle of the night, to Herod's great consternation. He ordered the execution of the security detail who had been responsible for guarding Peter, and then turned his anger on the people of Tyre and Sidon, who attempted to mollify and flatter the king, listening to his speech and pronouncing him divine. Herod's exultation was short-lived, however. God says, "I am the LORD; that is my name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols." (Isaiah 42:8) TWW team member Mark Rouleau observed: "Even the Buddha did not consider himself a deity. In fact I have been told by guide scholars at one of the main Theravadas temples in Bangkok that he instructed his followers not to make images of him." Ramirez reflected, "I wouldn't want to mess with Xi, but he's going to die like everyone else sooner or later." <blockquote> Questions: What warning are we to take from the texts in Daniel and Acts? What message of hope do we find there? </blockquote> Matthew 20:25-28 But Jesus called them to him and said, "You know that the rulers of the gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones are tyrants over them. It will not be so among you, but whoever wishes to be great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be your slave, just as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and to give his life a ransom for many." (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxEE9arX6m0yHZZAbtNhYaDc7vVdn5USUdTtWqvTw2W6mbiNrT6cu5mwK69YmdIY-2FIDytt\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOiaJXOo7JzepX1oN3843x7TPTDBfWV6Rbg54CZxSq10zyUPADTqOqoi4TmXcWT7-2BI1tlgkCmi3hpx1OLEOmn0Z3IGnvv6yltqlXh0SDj6KkioQ7YeUdnhbIUcrV-2B6PRHiK9tIcr8sozOFjSVCEuaiD4gvqZkx-2FzVRz71jFyzKbIBgjfV0P8ECsAlpAoJW5v0iMCAQQg2cNakypJKoQdhnQo-3D">Matthew 20:17-28</a>.) Right after Jesus told his disciples about his imminent crucifixion and resurrection, the mother of two of Jesus' disciples came with them to request that they be given the highest positions in Jesus' kingdom, to be seated on his right and left hands. They seem to have skipped over the part about suffering and went straight to the after-party celebration. But Jesus countered that they were not to exercise authority as tyrannical rulers, but rather as servants willing to give their lives to save others. Peter finally got the message, after his own humiliating failure, later writing to church elders, "Do not lord it over those in your charge, but be examples to the flock" (<a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxwmfmBgpnTbzq00OVUGKe4FodtJRIxhMsZbNDLeZoDWTF-2BiPo7HViFhbt1Mj0yb7whYi\_\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOj4UZEghjfyu40BltQHFB8j0Y9wzg9POPjyXAYCu5RPXmggTWDQ0eDPSEuFA4wclTppoROwUN89vYZCdI0UKuYMZZVYbag-2FNGlQRmkLO-2Ft-2BSj6jzJHZiryPCU6lAn5f-2FSgpeXF15RKQh-2BUOf9k3dhgvRe9Sf53YYoGJ4soT8y5jLI6wxVwlDKvrq0CiNSu0-2BE5U19ZximFGoQntWrhf6PTk-3D">1 Peter 5:1-4</a>). Jesus spoke about being an example after he washed the feet of his disciples, saying, "So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you" (John 13:14-15). <blockquote> Questions: What does "lording it over" people look like? What kind of example are followers of Jesus to set? What needs to change before we are willing to serve, rather than to expect to be served? </blockquote> For Further Discussion 1. Reflect on this portion of the United Church of Christ Statement of Faith, adapted by Robert V. Moss: "God calls us into the church to accept the cost and joy of discipleship, to be servants in the service of the whole human family, to proclaim the gospel to all the world and resist the powers of evil, to share in Christ's baptism and eat at his table, to join him in his passion and victory. "God promises to all who trust in the gospel forgiveness of sins and fullness of grace, courage in the struggle for justice and peace, the presence of the Holy Spirit in trial and rejoicing, and eternal life in that kingdom which has no end." 2. Discuss this, from TWW team member Mary Sells: "China has a long history in its communist era of suppressing religion. We don't seem to experience so much blatant persecution of Christians in our own country, although the divides by religious affiliation can seem oppressive to some, and yet we are legendary in mistreatment of others such as Muslims and Jews. I think much of this is systemic, baked into lifelong learnings from our families, friends, policies and politicians. The current Christian Nationalism movement, as I understand it, defines a fairly narrow lane to interpret what it says is appropriate worship and practice, that casts limits on women, immigrants, even books in schools and libraries, etc., that seem like authoritarian desire for control rather than actual embrace of Jesus' teachings." 3. According to ChinaAid, Guangzhou Bible Reform Church member Gao Heng served one year and 10 months in prison for "provoking trouble and picking quarrels" after he was convicted for the crime of holding up a sign reading "pray for the country" in a metro station in 2021. In an effort to persuade Chen Wensheng to stop evangelizing, authorities have arrested the street evangelist seven times since 2021. A Uyghur Muslim woman was sentenced to 17 years in prison for teaching her children and a neighbor Qur'anic prayers. A Christian woman received a 15-year sentence simply for belonging to an unauthorized church. Would you risk arrest and imprisonment for the sake of your faith? Why or why not? Responding to the News Listen to or sing along with the chorus, <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPPXTV2R-2Bm0Kz58iOCQYIq18XZx8Q9-2FDbsAGdbzLfeV5NvbESdU-2Fqte4I8MaFbmP-2BPQ-3D-3DZB8G\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOnHlKPAJgS2b-2F5Kvjd7fkZoJLnaYLKzdZIBTyPNLAIXlWz-2FyMEECf6yo3IX7drDpJa8ryXMzTc69xu51LwEAPHAwFGuatE2V2U1yjTmfRhpYhUuok-2B-2BKYZyvGM9vjWxjiqhinG3PxARVpMQliECe90XbIj-2BcWSeWjlr8jQAj8zFk6SU9DVFGanZjQB-2BKA0EoWLdAoQlGttLGr3FqyRdi56I-3D">He Who Began a Good Work in You</a>, which is based on <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxzNGX396sVFOaUcnbldjl-2BPpuJNSwCQrpiCfp-2FNT3AYbO1dc4wdsAXsH1JLCoDPBbgmwf\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOgJzaFtICfU49Orv6IM5-2FHVtxIL0MjGzaErqUUVOAwDDW-2FPDen2w4G55-2B2nTPLwByJElU8IHZYQf46hq4m3qjz74NzeAGNLU55NubNTwzIJwlUhQnCBOPHbz19VsdvNnxIGQZfzrfxOvlBMptdJGLht-2BeOmJu7pvizo1e7x80-2BVr57AloYgWZQCaGJN4oGbcTAi5i3MSFbmVcdFz6uy0G9E-3D">Philippians 1:6</a>, as you pray for hope and faith to trust God to sustain you in times of distress. Prayer suggested by <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxShxcpNB-2FkdjnrumusYgJUELxRTvPHolGhJ8O-2B8eDYTVfEkoIW8c-2FxH2Mz1ND2uN0AW0l\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmSkYNkCvms7dkm4gJnQlq7Yza-2FjzOi-2FK2lYkpdELsqbwlQYYK3jYluQ4g3nGOb-2BYOgyZsPo7nXZgVMJ-2B29EqMkcAGrutH3-2BL5Ed-2BFv1K-2F9zPX2WzH3B1gtNTn1VZiGHlXQNLKFs6KhCHrzLy1fxQVvez2f8h4Gpq-2BaXq-2BR5xge6kRTZocQz8vjPMdZx5oZsf7n34h9-2BCmoTwuXKlhCMpFY9ltRlM1113hPtERe-2B3Q3auPgtMDxAG6gw7Mq-2FMzStrBJT5luuyXbxcwiBr5t81Y9Q-3D">Romans 8:35-39</a> Faithful God, your Word tells us that nothing can separate us from the love of Christ, not affliction, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, peril, sword, slaughter, death, life, angels, rulers, things present, things to come, powers, height, depth, nor anything else in all creation! In all these things, we are more than victorious through him who loved us. We pray for courage and grace for all those who are suffering for the name of Christ in China and around the world. May your will be done on Earth as it is in heaven. Amen! 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