Christianity in China, back in the past, was often considered a mysterious practice for those living in the rural areas. However, since people are now becoming more connected and informed through the internet and the practice of religious freedom is reintroduced, the Chinese people are now informed with the nature of Christianity. CCD interviewed Chinese Christians and asked them why they felt Christianity is for them.
"Becoming a Christian is a response to God's love" - Brother Guo
"I came into contact with the gospel and several biblical teachings a long time ago. Before, I did not know that I was already listening to the gospel, but I found out that I agreed with the words and the thought it presented was sensible and something I agree with."
Brother Guo converted to Christianity four years ago and he adds "When I read the Bible, it says that 'love your neighbor as you love yourself', 'do not let the sun go down upon your wrath' and remain 'gentle, in self-control, and good'. As I read these words, I find them very beautiful."
"During college, the one who evangelized me inspired me to study the Bible systematically. I saw God's deep love towards man and believe that Jesus Christ is the hope of human beings through the stories in the Bible, so I accepted the gospel at that moment."
He also confessed "God's love touched me, so by becoming a Christian, it is a response to His love."
"God lets me know where I came from and what sins I have done." - Sister Yang
A Christian for six years, Sister Yang shared her reasons for becoming a Christian.
"First of all, I heard God's love. It is absolute and unconditional. Moreover, He looked for me, cleansed me into a new creation when I was not aware of this. I was moved by His love, so I was willing to become a Christian."
She added that she believed that God's word is the truth, a lamp at her feet and a light for the path that would let her know who she is, where she came and how she could live her life.
What's more, she discovered that she was a sinner and there is darkness residing inside her. Removing this darkness cannot be done on her own and she needed God to forgive her sins in order for her to be saved.
She also found the world of the loving God and the stories of people within the Bible are perfectly beautiful.
She says that she often sees people caring for the vulnerable. Christians and Catholics alike visit the lepers and patients with HIV/AIDS. These believers also make huge efforts to respect these groups with the help of God's love. She wishes to become a Christian who imitates Jesus, love her neighbors and renew her life not just for herself but also for others.
"There will be joy and light when you know salvation and the cross" - Sister Wang
Sister Yang has been serving the church for years and when asked about why she chose to serve full-time in the church, she stressed that she saw the mutual tolerance and friendship between believers as well as wanted to offer herself as a reply to God's love.
"Everyone in the church is not a saint. On a contrary, they are sinners. I know this fact after a long time. I can still continue to forgive and tolerate in love although I'm hurt by other believers a lot of times when they stray from their path."
She adds "You will feel more joyful and light when you really know the meaning of salvation and the meaning of the cross while being a Christian. Christ will be your strong shield in doing anything and help you discern what's correct and what is wrong."
"I was moved by God's selfless tolerance and love" - Brother Li Chao
After a decade as a Christian, Brother Li said "God completely accepted my shortcomings and ugliness, who cleansed all my sins with His blood and led me out of my sins with patience and meticulousness. He loves me forever. This fully selfless tolerance and love touched me and I never see this in other men. With this, I wanted to become a Christian and follow Him."
"The Bible gives me the answer to life and teaches me truth" - Preacher Li
Similar to Sister Yang's story, Preacher Li shared that the Bible answers the questions of life and provides the truth as the standard of life. It helps man reflect his sins and gives him the way for God to forgive his sins.
He also said that he knows that love comes from God, saying that "Since converting, I have accepted the love from God. I feel at peace and steadfast because the love is stable and without end. God loves us on His side eternally."
