As the Olympics wind down a series of events have occurred that the news has seriously underplayed. China is an officially atheistic nation where religion is outlawed. Estimates for the population in the underground Christian church range as high as 50 million. And there are speculations of over 1 million Sabbath keepers, some say more. Many also keep the Holy Days.

The key words, of course, are "estimates" and "speculations" since nobody knows whether these figures are accurate. While both may be exaggerations it is clear that even in the 21^st century there are parts of the world where men and women still risk life and possessions to name the name of Jesus Christ.

The invention of the internet has enabled the Christian world to connect with fellow believers around the world, some of whom meet in homes beneath the radar of official scrutiny. While there are Christian Missionaries who go into China to worship with brothers in the faith, the Olympics presented an opportunity for more widespread contact. Members of "Vision Beyond Borders" attempted to take 315 Bibles to believers into China. The Bibles were confiscated at the airport and a 28-hour standoff occurred before the group gave up their attempt.

Seems like a harmless activity unworthy of military intervention. After all, how could 315 Bibles cause problems in a land of 1.3 billion people?

Yet a person may face harassment, arrest and terms in labor camps or prison simply for being a Christian.

A Chinese Christian activist was detained Aug. 10, the opening weekend of the Olympics, on his way to a church service attended by President Bush in Beijing. A rights group said later that the activist, Hua Huiqi, a leader of the unofficial Protestant church in Beijing, had escaped from police and was in hiding.

A Chinese court on Tuesday sentenced a house church minister Cai Zhuohua and his family days before U.S. President George W. Bush arrived for a state visit. Cai, arrested in September last year, was sentenced to three years in prison on charges of "illegal business practices" for printing Bibles.

His 33-year-old wife, Xiao Yunfei, was given a two-year prison sentence and her brother, Xiao Gaowen, an 18-month term.

The Washington Post reported Sunday that Hong Kong businessman Li Guangqiang was indicted last month for supporting "an evil cult" because he smuggled Bibles into China.

What is it about the Bible that worries Chinese officials? It teaches love for fellow man, care for the innocent and defenseless and respect for laws and public officials. So why do the Chinese label it evil?

In a statement a government spokesperson said the "atheistic government prohibits proselytizing and is worried that if the spread of religion goes unchecked, believers might ultimately challenge the Communist Party's authority."

So there you have it. Even the Chinese government fears the power of the Holy Spirit. Gideon's 300, even if it is 300 Bibles, can bring fear to 1.3 billion people.

No wonder Jesus said the "gates of Hell shall not prevail" against us.

Until next time,