Other than my top 25 list of books, most of my book reviews are on a separate page of this blog because readers would be overwhelmed getting updates all the time. And it would turn this blog into a book review venue instead of the wide range of topics that I like to cover.
But sometimes I read a book that strikes me hard. It seems to rise above the rest and deserves special mention. God Is Red: The Secret Story of How Christianity Survived and Flourished in Communist China
The author, a Chinese journalist with a knack for ticking off the Community Party authorities, is not a follower of Jesus. He is a curious man wanting to better understand why the Party leaders view religion as such a threat, and why they have attempted to suppress Christianity. So he approaches the question of Christianity in China from a historical perspective, a cultural understanding, and a political axe to grind. The result is fascinating.
Each chapter highlights a particular person active in the underground Church. Sometimes meeting these people is dangerous, often it requires a long trip to remote areas. But each story is unique and weaves a tale of abuse, pain, perseverance and faith. Liao is not ready to embrace that faith, even by the end of the book, but he is surely comfortable with the concepts of individual freedom and willingness to risk it all for belief.
The people in the stories are what makes the book riveting to the reader. Their experiences are amazing, but how those experiences have shaped personalities and whole communities is the real story here. Liao seems to understand that and lets his own opinions — though obvious — sit on the sideline. I am thankful for his conclusions that are genuine and heartfelt, even if his faith is still being developed.
This book should be on your list if you are interested in the global Church. It’s not a full view of the Chinese Church, and certainly not of the global Church, but it is definitely a perspective that needs to be part of your overall understanding. You won’t agree with it all and some parts will make you uncomfortable. But then that’s true for any authentic story that touches lives with such force.
Two thumbs up from me. I hope you feel the same after reading it. Let me know what you think!
If you want to buy the book, click here
