June 25th marked the 150th anniversary of Hudson Taylor’s call to take the gospel to China and the founding of the China Inland Mission (today’s OMF), an event that not only precipitated a wave of missionary activity to China, but also upended the traditional ways in which missionary work had been conducted.
If you haven’t done so already, this would be a good time to brush up your Hudson Taylor reading. Here are some excellent places to start:
Hudson Taylor’s Spiritual Secret, by Dr. and Mrs. Howard Taylor and George Verwer
A spiritual biography of the "father of modern missions," Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret poses the question: What empowered Hudson Taylor's ministry in China? The answer: a fierce faith that believed God truly would fulfill the promises in His Word.
Hudson Taylor: Deep in the Heart of China, by Janet Benge
Today, Hudson Taylor's story continues to challenge and inspire believers young and old to carry the anchoring gospel message, regardless of personal trial or hardships, to those who are adrift and without hope.
J. Hudson Taylor: An Auto-biography, by J. Hudson Taylor
Taylor was known for his sensitivity to Chinese culture and zeal for evangelism. He adopted wearing native Chinese clothing even though this was rare among missionaries of that time.
Hudson Taylor: In Early Years – the Growth of the Soul, by Howard Taylor
The classic two-volume story (hardback) of Hudson Taylor and the founding of the CIM (now OMF). This longer, more detailed account includes many of Taylor's personal writings that express his vision, faith and frustrations.
J. Hudson Taylor: A Man in Christ, by Roger Steer
The exciting story tells of J. Hudson Taylor, one of the great nineteenth-century missionaries. It is a true account of God's grace and what he can do with a life consecrated to Him.
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