How did the early missionaries in China survive and spread the gospel of Jesus Christ in the Chinese mainland environment of "idols, superstitions, and opposition"?

While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols. So he reasoned in the synagogue with both Jews and God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there. (Acts 17:16-17 NIV)

早期来华的宣教士如何在“偶像，迷信，反对”的中国大陆环境下，生存与传播耶稣基督的福音？

保罗在雅典等候他们的时候，看见满城都是偶像，就心里着急；于是在会堂里与犹太人和虔敬的人，并每日在市上所遇见的人，辩论。 (使徒行传 17:16-17 和合本)