In a recent presentation by Daryl Ireland on early twentieth-century Chinese Christian posters, a wealth of insights emerged that illuminate the intersection of faith and culture in China. These visual artifacts are far more than historical curiosities; they are potent expressions of how Christianity was communicated to the masses during a turbulent period in Chinese history. For too long, historians have prioritized written records, often overlooking the rich narratives that visual media can provide. These posters reveal a dynamic and multifaceted public space where Christianity played an active and enduring role, even amidst the fierce competition between Nationalists and Communists. They offer a rare glimpse into how Christian messages were portrayed and understood in the public sphere of early twentieth-century China.
Emphasis on moral reform, especially when linked to the nationalistic goal of saving the nation, can inadvertently overshadow the transformative power of the gospel itself.
Out of Ireland’s presentation arise cautionary lessons embedded in these historical lessons that resonate deeply with contemporary challenges. One of the most striking observations was that the vast majority of Protestant posters from this era, regardless of doctrinal leanings—whether fundamentalist or modernist—tended to emphasize moral instruction over miraculous events or deep theological concepts. The popular message of Christianity appeared to have been absorbed into a broader, more entrenched narrative of moral edification, one deeply rooted in Confucian values.This emphasis on moral reform, especially when linked to the nationalistic goal of saving the nation, can inadvertently overshadow the transformative power of the gospel itself. As the Apostle Paul might remind us, the gospel is not merely a set of moral guidelines, but a radical message of grace that transforms human actions by transcending human efforts.
Moreover, there is a notable tendency in popular Chinese theology to be cross-centric rather than Christ-centric. While the cross is undoubtedly central to the Christian faith, it is not the entirety of the gospel. The cross represents a pivotal moment in redemptive history, but the story of Christ encompasses much more—particularly the cosmic Christ, who participates not only in the redemption of the world but also in its creation and ultimate consummation. Focusing too narrowly on the cross risks reducing the gospel to a one-time decision for personal salvation, prioritizing individual justification over the daily process of sanctification. This narrow focus can also lead to a truncated understanding of the Christian life, neglecting the calling to publicly witness to Christ’s ongoing reign in every realm of human society, and potentially diminishing the role of God’s sovereignty and the future hope of glory.
These reflections on historical Chinese Christian posters have profound implications for all Christians and especially contemporary Chinese Christians, who face the challenge of witnessing to the gospel in a rapidly changing cultural landscape. In many ways, the pressures they face are not unlike those of their predecessors, though the context has evolved. Today, the greatest challenge may not be overt persecution, but the subtle and pervasive influence of conforming to the culturally normalized approaches.In China, where loyalty to the party-state is deeply ingrained and often presented as a divine mandate, Christians must carefully navigate the tension between cultural expectations of power and the upside-down kingdom presented by the gospel.
This task requires a deep engagement with the surrounding culture—not simply to oppose it, but to understand how the gospel can speak into it. Chinese Christians are called to articulate a vision of the gospel that addresses specific cultural issues, such as the concepts of loyalty and authority. By doing so, they can present the gospel not as an alien imposition, but as a transformative force that both challenges and fulfills the deepest longings of their culture. The goal is not ideological transcendence for its own sake, but rather a faithful witness that demonstrates the supremacy of God through love—a love distinct from the self-sacrifice or moral integrity praised by the state. This is a lesson for Christians in all nations to interrogate their cultures and nation states similarly.
In the Chinese context, the call to public witness is more relevant than ever. To faithfully share the gospel in a way that resonates with contemporary Chinese society, Christians must move beyond simplistic messages and engage with the complexities of their cultural moment. This requires a holistic understanding of the gospel that encompasses both the cross and the fullness of Christ’s life and mission. It also demands a commitment to living out the gospel in the public square, bearing witness not just through words but through a life that reflects the transformative power of God’s grace.
The gospel is not merely a tool for moral reform or national salvation, but a healing message that addresses culture while transcending its boundaries, offering true hope to every generation.
As all Christians navigate the challenges of their cultural and political environment, the lessons from Chinese history can serve as both a warning and an inspiration. The gospel is not merely a tool for moral reform or national salvation, but a healing message that addresses culture while transcending its boundaries, offering true hope to every generation. The challenge is to proclaim this message faithfully and boldly, engaging with the culture without being conformed to it, and always pointing to the supremacy of Christ in all things.
Originally published by China Source. Republished with permission.
Jesse Zexi Sun holds a PhD in World Christianity from Duke University and currently serves as an Assistant Professor of History of Christianity at Belmont University. His research primarily focuses on the history of Chinese Christianity and its relationship with nationalism.
ChinaSource is a trusted partner and platform for educating the global church on critical issues facing the church and ministries in China, and for connecting Christians inside and outside China to advance the kingdom of God globally. ChinaSource's vision is to see the church in China and the global church learning and growing together, engaging in ministry that powerfully advances the kingdom of God.
The views expressed in this or any other opinion article do not necessarily reflect the views of Christian Daily International.
