History of Christianity in Asia - Part Three

Devotional Introduction

• Reference to the story of Daniel in the Bible.
• Daniel interprets Nebuchadnezzar's nightmare; Nebuchadnezzar praises God after being restored.
• The importance of humility and recognizing God's sovereignty.
• Mention of a woman who made a difference as a Christian in the Mongol Empire.

Recap of Previous Lectures

• Christianity's expansion in Asia through Thomas, Egypt, and Persia.
• Ambivalent relations between Muslim rulers and Christians.
• Examination of the Pax Mongolica, likened to the Pax Romana, promoting temporary peace and religious tolerance.

Pax Mongolica

• Genghis Khan and Tamerlane, known as fierce warriors, but their rule allowed for the expansion of Christianity.
• Temporary peace and unity in Asia similar to the Pax Romana.

Christianity Among the Mongols

• Conversion of the Kerait tribe to Christianity led by a tribal chief who had a vision.
• Influence of Christian tribes on Mongol leaders, including Genghis Khan.
• Nestorian Christianity's role in shaping Mongol laws promoting monotheism.

Expansion Under Genghis Khan

• Genghis Khan laid groundwork for religious tolerance.
• Mongol Empire divided among his sons, continued expansion of Christianity.

Roman Catholic Missions

• Franciscans and Dominicans ventured to Mongolia.
• Marco Polo's travels increased interest in the East.
• Kublai Khan's openness to Christianity and request for missionaries.

Christianity in Persia and China

• Hulagu and Kublai, descendants of a Christian princess, protected Christians.
• Decline of Christian influence due to conversions to Islam and rise of new rulers.

Decline and Challenges

• Rise of Islam and internal weaknesses contributed to the decline of Christianity in Asia.
• Tamerlane's reign marked by destruction and reduced Christian influence.

Contemporary Reflections

• Moffett's historiography examines both the rise and fall of Christianity in Asia.
• Critique of historical sources and the limitations of understanding past events.

Concluding Thoughts

• Moffett's work ends with hope for the revival and growth of Christianity in Asia.
• Quotation from Adoniram Judson: "The future is as bright as the promises of God."
• Encouragement to live with hope and share good words with others.