## ReMastered: JESUS in China, FULL 4 Movies
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During the Boxer Rebellion in China, 236 Western missionaries were killed among 23,000 Chinese Christians. In the following 50 years, more Western missionaries came to China, establishing 19 universities, over 6,000 elementary and secondary schools, and more than 900 hospitals. The number of Chinese Christians rose to 700,000, but the Communist Party saw this as a result of cultural imperialism. They expelled all Western missionaries and forced Chinese missionaries to renounce their faith, imposing secular education.
Over the next 50 years, the number of Christians in China grew to nearly 70 million, a hundredfold increase. Three prominent missionary leaders from the Boxer Rebellion era, Ling Ding Wong Jun, and Shandong, became influential figures in the Chinese church. Despite intense persecution, including the imprisonment and torture of many Christians, the Christian faith continued to spread rapidly across China and Southeast Asia.
The government launched the Three-Self Patriotic Movement, pressuring Christians to join the government-controlled Three-Self Church and renounce their independent faith. Those who refused were imprisoned, like Madame Yang Shuifei, who spent 20 years in prison for rejecting the Three-Self Movement. The government's goal was to bring Christians under complete Communist Party control, but the Christian church in China continued to grow and thrive, with its roots firmly established despite the waves of persecution.
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During the harsh winter of the Cultural Revolution in China, the writer endured severe persecution and imprisonment for her Christian faith. Held in a labor camp with the ground frozen and the wheat struggling to take root, she faced extreme cold and hunger, yet miraculously remained healthy throughout her 21-year sentence in Heilongjiang province near the Soviet border.
Despite the harsh conditions and the death of many around her, she clung to her faith, praying every night when the other prisoners were asleep. When given the opportunity, she attempted to take her own life, but was saved by the intervention of the guards. In her despair, she cried out to God, questioning why she could not rely on Him to the end. But the Lord comforted her, assuring her that His grace was sufficient.
As the writer survived, thousands of other Christians suffered in prisons across China. In the late 1950s, the government launched a campaign to unify the churches, closing down all but a handful nationwide. When the Cultural Revolution began in 1966, the systematic destruction of the Chinese Christian church escalated, with churches demolished, Bibles burned, and believers publicly denounced and persecuted. Yet the faith of many continued to endure, even in the face of such intense opposition.
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During the Cultural Revolution in China, a devout Christian woman was imprisoned for 21 years in a labor camp near the Soviet border. Despite the harsh conditions, she clung to her faith, praying nightly when the other prisoners slept. At one point, in her despair, she attempted suicide but was saved by the guards. As she questioned God's purpose, He comforted her and assured her of His sufficient grace.
Thousands of other Christians suffered persecution across China during this time, as the government sought to unify and destroy the church. Believers were imprisoned, churches demolished, and Bibles burned. Yet the faith of many endured, even in the face of intense opposition.
After Mao's death in 1976, the national deification movement finally came to an end. In the void, believers began to reappear in cities and rural areas, forming house churches. The number of these self-governing congregations soon exceeded the officially sanctioned Three-Self churches.
Despite the hardships, the Christian faith in China experienced a miraculous resurgence during and after the Cultural Revolution. One former Red Guard, now a house church leader, reflected on how his own mother had suffered for her faith, yet prayed and fasted for his salvation. This profound act of love caused him to reconsider his past actions and eventually embrace the faith he had once opposed.
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During the Cultural Revolution, a Chinese Christian woman risked her life to protect a damaged Bible. She hid it in her home, despite the authorities confiscating Bibles and persecuting believers. Years later, her story revealed the profound sacrifices made by Chinese Christians to preserve their sacred texts. Even with churches closed and gatherings banned, elderly women continued praying and crying out to God for the future of the Chinese church. Remnants of Bibles, reduced to just a few chapters, were guarded and shared among believers who made dangerous journeys to make copies. Though the Communists sought to eradicate Christianity, the faith of the Chinese Christians endured, passing the Scriptures from hand to hand, even as the pages grew worn from tears. Their unwavering commitment to preserving God's word in the face of intense opposition stands as a testament to the resilience of the Chinese church during those turbulent times.
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During the height of the Cultural Revolution, printing Bibles in China was heavily restricted by the authorities. However, a Western organization secretly facilitated the mass production of Gospels until 1985. Today, the general distribution of Bibles is no longer permitted, and those wishing to obtain a copy must purchase one from one of the three approved "Christian Bookstores" in the country. Despite these challenges, the Bible has still found its way into the homes of millions of Chinese families, becoming a source of spiritual sustenance in a time of great adversity for the Chinese church. In the late 1970s, as the government began releasing Christian prisoners, one man's joyful return home was met with the harsh realities his family had endured in his absence. His wife had struggled to raise their children alone, facing poverty and the stigma of his imprisonment. Yet, through their faith and reliance on God's providence, this family persevered, finding ways to support one another and maintain hope, even in the darkest of times.
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The chapter describes the resilience of Chinese Christians during times of persecution. It recounts the experiences of pastors like Samuel Lamb and Alan Wong, who faced imprisonment and hardship but remained steadfast in their faith. Despite government restrictions and crackdowns, house churches continued to grow, with some congregations expanding from hundreds to thousands of members. The text highlights how increased persecution often led to greater blessings for the church. It also mentions the practice of secret Bible printing and distribution until 1985. The narrative emphasizes the unwavering commitment of these Christian leaders to their beliefs, even in the face of repeated arrests and confiscation of property. The chapter concludes by drawing parallels between the current growth of Christianity in China and the early church as described in the Book of Acts.
### Chapter
The chapter describes the growth and challenges of the house church movement in China during times of intense persecution. It recounts how a small group of believers, including the narrator's family, secretly gathered for worship, their numbers growing from just a few to over 30 participants. They faced constant fear of arrest, having to quickly disperse after services to avoid detection by the authorities. The chapter highlights the resilience and commitment of these Chinese Christians, who risked imprisonment to continue their religious practices. It also describes how they adapted, meeting in remote locations like cornfields and cemeteries to avoid detection. The narrative emphasizes the profound spiritual transformation experienced by many, finding true meaning, peace, and joy in their newfound faith, despite the tremendous hardships. The chapter ultimately conveys the unwavering devotion of the Chinese church, which continued to grow and thrive even in the face of severe government oppression.
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This chapter describes a young woman's decision to dedicate her life to Christian missionary work in China, despite her father's alternative suggestions for her future. She joined other young women in spreading the Gospel across multiple provinces, often traveling by bicycle. They preached in villages, performed healings, and established house churches, experiencing both miracles and hardships. The missionaries used various methods to spread their message, including public gatherings, attending local events, and performing religious plays. They went door-to-door, sharing their faith on public transportation and in the streets. The period of 1980-1981 is described as a golden age for the house church movement in China, with rapid growth and widespread evangelism. However, this era came to an end when the government re-established the Three-Self Church in 1981, bringing challenges to their missionary efforts.
### Chapter
The chapter describes the increasing persecution faced by house churches in China in the early 1980s. As the government re-established the official Three-Self Church, the house churches became illegal and their members were prohibited from evangelizing. In 1983, the government cracked down on Christian "agitators", arresting a group that included the narrator. They were accused of being part of a "gang of agitators", although the narrator insists they had only proclaimed "Christ is Lord." The narrator was sentenced to 15 years in prison, despite not having committed any wrongdoing during the Cultural Revolution.
The chapter highlights the widespread imprisonment of devoted Christians in China, with some having been jailed over 10 times. The narrator's own church had 14 members in prison and 21 on the government's wanted list. During the arrest, the narrator describes feeling fearful but ultimately at peace, even singing hymns with other detainees in the police car. The chapter recounts the physical and emotional hardships endured by the imprisoned Christians, including broken bones and the anguish of being separated from loved ones. However, the narrator also expresses gratitude for God's sustaining presence and the faithfulness of fellow believers who continued to visit and encourage those in jail. Ultimately, the narrator was released after serving three years, reuniting with family and the church community.
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The chapter describes a joyous wedding celebration following the narrator's release from prison. Despite the hardships endured, the couple's love deepened during their three-year separation. The ceremony is filled with tears of gratitude and joy, reflecting on God's faithfulness during imprisonment. The narrative then shifts to the broader context of Chinese missionaries, highlighting their ongoing struggles against government opposition and societal misunderstanding. Finally, it recounts the tragic childhood of an orphan who, on the brink of suicide, encounters a group of Christians singing. This chance meeting leads to the orphan being taken in and introduced to Christianity, offering hope in the midst of despair.
### Chapter
The chapter describes the narrator's journey of faith and the challenges faced by Chinese missionaries. After being released from prison, the narrator joyfully celebrated their wedding, with tears of gratitude to God who had sustained them during the hardship. The narrative then shifts to the broader context, highlighting the ongoing struggles of Chinese Christians against government opposition and societal misunderstanding. It recounts the story of an orphan who, on the brink of suicide, encountered a group of Christians and found hope in Christianity. The chapter also delves into the personal accounts of various missionaries who have endured imprisonment, torture, and deprivation for their faith. Despite the immense suffering, they have remained steadfast, finding solace in God's presence and the strength to continue their mission. The chapter underscores the resilience of the Chinese church, which has found creative ways to survive, such as conducting secret gatherings and preaching, in the face of intense government crackdown.
### Chapter
The chapter describes the resilience and faith of Chinese Christians in the face of persecution by the government. Despite being imprisoned, tortured, and deprived, they remain steadfast in their beliefs, finding solace in God's love and the strength to continue their mission. The narrative highlights the growing number of house churches and the government's struggle to understand the true nature of Christianity, often mistakenly labeling Christians as anti-revolutionary. However, the Christians express their desire to bless their country and pray for their leaders, wishing them the love of God. The chapter also recounts the story of an orphan who found hope in Christianity, and the personal accounts of missionaries who have endured immense suffering but have remained devoted to their faith. The chapter emphasizes the belief that the cross, a symbol of torture and humiliation, has become a symbol of peace and blessing through the sacrifice of Jesus. Similarly, the Chinese church is being built upon the suffering and sacrifices of its believers, with imprisonment becoming a center for strengthening their faith. The narrative underscores the resilience and determination of the Chinese Christians, who continue to spread the gospel despite the ongoing crackdown by the authorities.
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The chapter depicts the growth and resilience of house churches in China. Despite persecution, underground Christian communities have spread across the country, from rural villages to major cities. Many ordinary farmers have become leaders of these house churches, with some overseeing thousands of believers. The movement has expanded to universities, ethnic minority areas, and even model communities established by the government. Converts include farmers, students, urban professionals, and government officials. The chapter highlights the dedication of missionaries who risk their lives to spread the gospel, often moving from place to place to avoid arrest. It also emphasizes the power of the gospel itself in driving this rapid growth, with believers expressing their willingness to endure hardships and dedicate their lives to sharing God's love with others.
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The chapter describes the profound transformation of a former gang member and casino owner who found redemption in Jesus Christ. After losing all his wealth to addiction, he was encouraged by his mother to turn to Jesus. He initially responded with skepticism, but his mother's fervent prayers moved him to accept Christ. That night, he experienced a profound spiritual renewal and the next morning awoke with a newfound strength and purpose. From that day on, he abandoned his gambling and drug habits, and instead dedicated his life to serving God and his family. The chapter highlights the power of the gospel to change even the most hardened of hearts, as this former criminal became a devoted follower of Jesus, finding joy and purpose in his newfound faith.
### Chapter
The chapter describes the profound transformation of a former gang member and casino owner who found redemption in Jesus Christ. After losing all his wealth to addiction, he was encouraged by his mother to turn to Jesus. He initially responded with skepticism, but his mother's fervent prayers moved him to accept Christ. That night, he experienced a profound spiritual renewal and the next morning awoke with a newfound strength and purpose. From that day on, he abandoned his gambling and drug habits, and instead dedicated his life to serving God and his family. The chapter highlights the power of the gospel to change even the most hardened of hearts, as this former criminal became a devoted follower of Jesus, finding joy and purpose in his newfound faith. He describes how his relationship with his wife also transformed, as they learned to communicate openly, trust each other, and grow closer to God together. The chapter emphasizes the miraculous and life-changing impact that accepting Jesus can have, even for those who have lived the most wayward of lives.
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The chapter describes the transformative power of Jesus Christ's death on the cross, which continues to impact lives throughout history, including in 21st century China. It recounts personal stories of individuals whose lives and relationships were dramatically changed after accepting Christ. These include a couple whose marriage was saved from the brink of divorce, and a former street child who became a preacher. The chapter highlights the work of a home church in Chengdu that runs an orphanage, taking in and transforming the lives of abandoned and troubled children through God's love. It also mentions the selfless dedication of unpaid sisters who run these orphanages in secret due to their illegal status. The text emphasizes the importance of love in Chinese society, suggesting that widespread belief in God could lead to positive societal changes. It concludes by discussing how some Chinese intellectuals are beginning to explore Christian love in their own way, and contrasts the emotional responses of Americans and Chinese to tragic events, suggesting that belief in God allows for greater empathy and compassion.
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The chapter discusses the impact of Christianity in China, focusing on personal stories of transformation. It highlights how faith has changed the lives of artists, intellectuals, and ordinary people, providing them with a moral foundation and teaching them to love and serve others. The text emphasizes the importance of incorporating God's love into art and society, suggesting that belief in God can lead to positive societal changes. It recounts several conversion stories, including those of artists and former gamblers, who found peace and purpose through Christianity. The chapter also touches on the challenges faced by Christians in China, including potential persecution, but emphasizes the strength and comfort found in faith. It concludes by describing how embracing Christianity has given many Chinese people a new perspective on life, helping them overcome personal struggles and find meaning in their experiences.
### Chapter
The chapter recounts personal experiences of Chinese individuals finding spiritual fulfillment through Christianity. It describes how people from various backgrounds, including intellectuals and workers, turned to faith to address their existential questions and emotional struggles. The text highlights the transformative power of Christian beliefs, with many reporting a newfound sense of peace, purpose, and happiness after converting. It also touches on the rapid growth of Christianity in China, particularly in urban areas like Beijing, despite limited religious infrastructure. The chapter emphasizes the contrast between the materialistic ideology prevalent in China and the spiritual thirst many Chinese people experience, suggesting that Christianity offers a meaningful alternative to those seeking deeper answers to life's questions.
### Chapter
The chapter recounts the personal journey of a Chinese individual's conversion to Christianity and the subsequent changes in their life. It describes how the person struggled with existential questions and found spiritual fulfillment in Christian beliefs, which provided a sense of peace and purpose. The text highlights the contrast between the person's previous materialistic mindset and the newfound religious convictions, leading to a willingness to make sacrifices, such as resigning from the Communist Party, in order to fully embrace their faith. The chapter also touches on the perception that accepting Christianity may be seen as a rejection of one's Chinese identity, and how the individual navigates this cultural dynamic. The narrative emphasizes the transformative power of Christianity in the lives of some Chinese people, despite the challenges and societal pressures they may face.
### Chapter
The chapter describes the transformative impact of Christianity on Chinese individuals and communities. It highlights how Christian converts experience positive changes in their personal lives, work ethic, and relationships. The text recounts stories of Christians in labor camps earning trust and respect from officials, and how businesses run by Christians prioritize ethical practices and spiritual growth. It emphasizes the importance of prayer, Bible study, and worship in these Christian communities, and how their faith influences their approach to challenges and social responsibility. The chapter also touches on the growth of house churches in China, the use of hymns to express faith and experiences, and the spread of Christianity in both rural villages and urban areas, portraying it as a source of joy and unity for believers.
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The chapter describes the remarkable musical talents of rural Chinese Christians, who are able to sing dozens of hymns without musical training or the ability to read music. These hymns, known as the "Canaan Songs", have been compiled and are widely sung not only in house churches but also in Three-Self churches across China and around the world. The chapter highlights the view that these songs are a great blessing from God to the Chinese church, conveying profound messages of God's grace, strength, and guidance, even though they were written by a young, uneducated farm girl named Xiao Shilan. The chapter recounts how Xiao Shilan, who grew up in a poor farming family, was inspired by the Holy Spirit to compose these hymns, which have deeply touched and inspired believers. It also describes the awe and disbelief expressed by professional musicians and music scholars when they learned of the humble origins of these beautiful, theologically rich compositions.
### Chapter
The chapter describes the remarkable hymns known as the "Canaan Songs" that have been composed and widely sung by rural Chinese Christians without any formal musical training. These hymns, written by a young, uneducated farm girl named Xiao Shilan, are said to convey profound messages of God's grace, strength, and guidance, and have deeply touched and inspired believers across China and around the world. The chapter recounts how Xiao Shilan, despite her humble background, was inspired by the Holy Spirit to compose these beautiful, theologically rich songs. It also highlights the awe and disbelief expressed by professional musicians when they learned of the origins of these hymns. The chapter further describes the spiritual impact these songs have had on believers, often providing strength and comfort during times of adversity and persecution, as evidenced by the testimonies of those who have experienced the power of these "Canaan Songs" firsthand.
### Chapter
The chapter describes the moving testimonies of Chinese Christians who have faced persecution and hardship, yet find strength and comfort through their faith in Christ. It recounts how one individual, initially quick-tempered, was able to overcome his anger and adversity by relying on the support and encouragement of fellow believers, who had endured even greater suffering in prison. The chapter highlights the misunderstandings and criticism these Christians often face from those who do not understand their commitment to spreading the gospel, even at the cost of leaving their families behind. However, the chapter emphasizes the unwavering faith of these believers, who find solace in the assurance that Jesus is always with them, no matter the circumstances. It also touches on the profound impact of the "Canaan Songs," inspiring hymns composed by an uneducated farm girl, which have become a source of spiritual strength for millions of Chinese Christians. The chapter concludes by describing the widespread acceptance and celebration of Christian music and worship in China, as exemplified by the televised Spring Festival gala and the enthusiastic reception of a Christian family's performance.
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