Freedom of Religion with Chinese characteristics

"Giving away Bibles for free is a crime in China, according to a verdict recently handed down in the case of a House Church leader. Pastor Wang Zaiqing, a prominent Chinese House Church leader in Anhui Province was sentenced on Oct. 9 to two years in prison on the charge of 'Illegal Business Practices,' and fined 100,000 Yuan ($12,500.00). In addition, all the books in his home, and the funds used to print them, were confiscated. Pastor Wang was crippled at the age of 5. He became a Christian in 1993, and later became very well-known House Church for preaching and starting House Churches in several provinces around Anhui Province."

Wang Zaiqing's story brings up interesting ethical dilemmas, especially for a Christian. Should one always obey the commands of the government? China does allow for freedom of religion, but it is limited in that one may only publicly exercise this right in a government sanctioned houses of worship. Privately, one may carry on his/her religious beliefs inside the home. So the question arises, why does Wang see the need to disobey Chinese government officials? Why not just worship God in one of the government sanctioned churches? I know that most (if not all) of the leaders in the Chinese church are really followers of Christ. I met one while living in China. She was educated at a seminary in America, and her faith was real. So why not follow the rules?

On the other hand, the Chinese government does restrict religious practices. One cannot worship freely. You cannot start your own church without a permit. Most sanctioned churches only allow the use of a piano, but most do not allow the use of other musical instruments. Churches sing songs from a sanctioned hymn book, so pastors or music directors cannot introduce new songs each week. Some churches appear to be limited in the number of songs they can sing. Is this truly freedom of religion? No, it is not. Perhaps the Chinese government believes it is, but at best you can only call it Freedom of Religion "with Chinese characteristics".

When should people follow the laws of their government? The Bible commands us to respect political leaders. However, is there ever a time when civil disobedience is justified? Yes, just look at Bonhoeffer and others in the German resistance movement during the time of the Holocaust and the Hitler regime in Germany. I think most would agree that was an appropriate time. And obviously, Chairman Mao Zedong believed civil disobedience was appropriate in the 1940's. George Washington believed in it during the 1770's. And, it appears, Pastor Wang believes today is also an appropriate time. What do you think?