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Men of Faith
Hudson Taylor
Previously titled To China With Love, this book is now reissued and recounts the thrilling story of the beginnings of the China Inland Mission.
160 pages, Paperback
First published November 30, 1922
About the author
James Hudson Taylor
70 books68 followersJames Hudson Taylor was a British Protestant Christian missionary to China, and founder of the China Inland Mission (CIM) (now OMF International). Taylor spent 51 years in China. The society that he began was responsible for bringing over 800 missionaries to the country who began 125 schools and directly resulted in 18,000 Christian conversions, as well as the establishment of more than 300 stations of work with more than 500 local helpers in all eighteen provinces.
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. Under his leadership, the CIM was singularly non-denominational in practice and accepted members from all Protestant groups, including individuals from the working class and single women as well as multinational recruits. Primarily because of the CIM's campaign against the Opium trade, Taylor has been referred to as one of the most significant Europeans to visit China in the 19th Century. Historian Ruth Tucker summarises the theme of his life:
No other missionary in the nineteen centuries since the Apostle Paul has had a wider vision and has carried out a more systematised plan of evangelising a broad geographical area than Hudson Taylor.
Taylor was able to preach in several varieties of Chinese, including Mandarin, Chaozhou, and the Wu dialects of Shanghai and Ningbo. The last of these he knew well enough to help prepare a colloquial edition of the New Testament written in it
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. Under his leadership, the CIM was singularly non-denominational in practice and accepted members from all Protestant groups, including individuals from the working class and single women as well as multinational recruits. Primarily because of the CIM's campaign against the Opium trade, Taylor has been referred to as one of the most significant Europeans to visit China in the 19th Century. Historian Ruth Tucker summarises the theme of his life:
No other missionary in the nineteen centuries since the Apostle Paul has had a wider vision and has carried out a more systematised plan of evangelising a broad geographical area than Hudson Taylor.
Taylor was able to preach in several varieties of Chinese, including Mandarin, Chaozhou, and the Wu dialects of Shanghai and Ningbo. The last of these he knew well enough to help prepare a colloquial edition of the New Testament written in it
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
August 4, 2011
The power of prayer cannot be diminished by distance; it is not limited by age, infirmity, or daily duty; political changes and restrictions cannot alter its effectiveness; for the word still stands, "If ye shall ask anything in my name I will do it." The power of prayer in the life of an obedient Christian can only be undermined by neglect."Thus is the ending of an amazing little autobiography of Hudson Taylor. So many times while reading this book, I could only sit and shake my head, wondering why I do not have the faith that this man had. I have seen other reviewers states that this is a must read book for any Christian, and I agree. This is one of those book that all new converts should be handed as part of their conversion material.
A strong and healthy prayer life - one based on strong faith in a powerful God - is severely lacking in the Church today, and it is truly sad. This book has so many stories of situations that Taylor was in that were amazingly answered with prayer. So many little things that he prayed for that were accomplished right on time of need - way too many things for someone to chalk up to coincidence.
To me it seemed that the teaching of God's Word was unmistakably clear: "Own no man anything." To borrow money implied, to my mind, a contradiction of Scripture - a confession that God had withheld some good thing, and a determination to get for ourselves what He had not given.... If the Word taught me anything, it taught me to have no connection with debt. I could not think that God was poor, that He was short on resources, or unwilling to supply any want whatever work was really His. It seemed to me that if there were any lack of funds to carry on work, then to that degree, in that special development, or at that time, it could not be the work of God." (Pg. 121-122)This one section struck me very hard, and made me really begin to look at my life, to differentiate between wants and needs, and to see what I had that I did not need and could do without.
Overall a life changing, attitude altering book.
September 19, 2022
a well written memoir with lots of excellent detail ... HOWEVER ... the arrogance of this British missionary presuming to bring "the word" to Chinese heathens just turns my stomach ... the taken for granted sense of superiority is appalling ... imagine this Brit, whose country had violently invaded and cruelly subjugated many other nations, including China, believing that his views of God, or anything else, are automatically better than those held by residents of a 4000 year old country whose people invented paper and printing and gunpowder long before there was even a dream of Britain or a British Empire ... and the Chinese do not forget such insults
... totally unrelated, it turns out that Taylor's great-granddaughter was my high school English teacher and a marvelous woman who accomplished much and whose name I just happened to see today in Taylor's bio ... sometimes it is indeed a small world
... totally unrelated, it turns out that Taylor's great-granddaughter was my high school English teacher and a marvelous woman who accomplished much and whose name I just happened to see today in Taylor's bio ... sometimes it is indeed a small world
February 22, 2017
Very convicting story of a man who wasn't afraid to truly live by faith more than one hundred and fifty years ago. If you want to read something that is more than Christian fluff for the complacent, then read this book!
April 5, 2020
Not the easiest read. However, wow! What a man of faith! Love the power of prayer!
September 17, 2022
This book has been deeply challenging for me. It has been a part of our (Hannah and my) family reading for the past couple months and I have been so excited by some of the things I've learned that I find myself constantly sharing.
More importantly, I finished this book in tears. I am glad to say that Christ has convicted me of several things through reading this book and I'm anxious to repent...
Here are the quotes that I highlighted (we read on Kindle). I will paste them below for anyone who wants to get a taste of some of the more impactful things for us:
"The power of prayer cannot be diminished by distance; it is not limited by age, infirmity, or daily duty; political changes and restrictions cannot alter its effectivenes; for the word still stands, "If ye shall ask anything in my name I will do it." The power of prayer in the life of an obedient Christian can only be undermined by neglect.
My wish was, not that those present should be relieved by making such contribution as might there and then be convenient, under the influence of a present emotion; but that each one should go home burdened with the deep need of China, and ask of God what He would have them to do. If, after thought and prayer, they were satisfied that a pecuniary contribution was what He wanted of them, it could be given to any missionary society having agents in China; or it might be posted to our London office, but that perhaps in many cases what God wanted was not money contribution, but personal consecration to His service abroad;
I added that I thought the tendency of a collection was to leave the impression that the all-important thing was money, whereas no amount of money could convert a single soul; that what was needed was that men and women filled with the Holy Ghost should give themselves to the work: for the support of such there would never be a lack of funds.
We are convinced that if there were less solicitation for money and more dependence upon the power of the Holy Ghost and upon the deepening of spiritual life, the experience of Moses would be a common one in every branch of Christian work.
In the study of that divine Word I learned that, to obtain successful laborers, not elaborate appeals for help, but, first earnest prayer to God to thrust forth laborers, and second, the deepening of the spiritual life of the Church, so that men should be unable to stay at home, were what was needed. I saw that the apostolic plan was not to raise ways and means, but to go and do the work,
The use of means ought not to lessen our faith in God; and our faith in God ought not to hinder our using whatever means He has given us for the accomplishment of His own purposes.
I believe we are all in danger of accumulating-it may be from thoughtlessness, or from pressure of occupation-things which would be useful to others, while not needed by ourselves, and the retention of which entails loss of blessing.
It seemed to me probable that I should need to do as the Twelve and the Seventy had done in Judea-go without purse or scrip, relying on Him who had called me to supply all my need. Kindly placing his hand upon my shoulder, the minister replied, "Ah, my boy, as you grow older you will get wiser than that. Such an idea would do very well in the days when Christ Himself was on earth, but not now." I have grown older since then, but not wiser. I am more than ever convinced that if we were to take the directions of our Master and the assurances Ile gave to His first disciples more fully as our guide, we should find teem to be just as suited to our times as to those in which they were originally given.
HAVING NOW THE TWOFOLD OBJECT in view of accustoming myself to endure hardness, and of economizing in order to be able more largly to assist those among whom I spent a good deal of time laboring in the Gospel, I soon found that I could live upon very much less than I had previously thought possible. Butter, milk, and other such luxuries I soon ceased to use; and I found that by living mainly on oatmeal and rice, with occasional variations, a very small sum was sufficient for my needs. In this way I had more than two-thirds of my income available for other purposes; and my experience was that the less I spent on myself and the more I gave away, the fuller of happiness and blessing did my soul become. Unspeakable joy all the day long, and every day, was my happy experience. God, even my God, was a living, bright reality; and all I had to do was joyful service."
More importantly, I finished this book in tears. I am glad to say that Christ has convicted me of several things through reading this book and I'm anxious to repent...
Here are the quotes that I highlighted (we read on Kindle). I will paste them below for anyone who wants to get a taste of some of the more impactful things for us:
"The power of prayer cannot be diminished by distance; it is not limited by age, infirmity, or daily duty; political changes and restrictions cannot alter its effectivenes; for the word still stands, "If ye shall ask anything in my name I will do it." The power of prayer in the life of an obedient Christian can only be undermined by neglect.
My wish was, not that those present should be relieved by making such contribution as might there and then be convenient, under the influence of a present emotion; but that each one should go home burdened with the deep need of China, and ask of God what He would have them to do. If, after thought and prayer, they were satisfied that a pecuniary contribution was what He wanted of them, it could be given to any missionary society having agents in China; or it might be posted to our London office, but that perhaps in many cases what God wanted was not money contribution, but personal consecration to His service abroad;
I added that I thought the tendency of a collection was to leave the impression that the all-important thing was money, whereas no amount of money could convert a single soul; that what was needed was that men and women filled with the Holy Ghost should give themselves to the work: for the support of such there would never be a lack of funds.
We are convinced that if there were less solicitation for money and more dependence upon the power of the Holy Ghost and upon the deepening of spiritual life, the experience of Moses would be a common one in every branch of Christian work.
In the study of that divine Word I learned that, to obtain successful laborers, not elaborate appeals for help, but, first earnest prayer to God to thrust forth laborers, and second, the deepening of the spiritual life of the Church, so that men should be unable to stay at home, were what was needed. I saw that the apostolic plan was not to raise ways and means, but to go and do the work,
The use of means ought not to lessen our faith in God; and our faith in God ought not to hinder our using whatever means He has given us for the accomplishment of His own purposes.
I believe we are all in danger of accumulating-it may be from thoughtlessness, or from pressure of occupation-things which would be useful to others, while not needed by ourselves, and the retention of which entails loss of blessing.
It seemed to me probable that I should need to do as the Twelve and the Seventy had done in Judea-go without purse or scrip, relying on Him who had called me to supply all my need. Kindly placing his hand upon my shoulder, the minister replied, "Ah, my boy, as you grow older you will get wiser than that. Such an idea would do very well in the days when Christ Himself was on earth, but not now." I have grown older since then, but not wiser. I am more than ever convinced that if we were to take the directions of our Master and the assurances Ile gave to His first disciples more fully as our guide, we should find teem to be just as suited to our times as to those in which they were originally given.
HAVING NOW THE TWOFOLD OBJECT in view of accustoming myself to endure hardness, and of economizing in order to be able more largly to assist those among whom I spent a good deal of time laboring in the Gospel, I soon found that I could live upon very much less than I had previously thought possible. Butter, milk, and other such luxuries I soon ceased to use; and I found that by living mainly on oatmeal and rice, with occasional variations, a very small sum was sufficient for my needs. In this way I had more than two-thirds of my income available for other purposes; and my experience was that the less I spent on myself and the more I gave away, the fuller of happiness and blessing did my soul become. Unspeakable joy all the day long, and every day, was my happy experience. God, even my God, was a living, bright reality; and all I had to do was joyful service."
February 4, 2022
The power of prayer and faith are so evidently written down by this man’s experiences. We have a God who hears and who acts and who is faithful beyond measure. We have a God who is sovereign and in control and works things for the good of those who love Him, even when it seems our circumstances would say otherwise. This book is a firsthand witness that prayer matters more than we could ever imagine and often we neglect our ability to have access to an all mighty God. If you need encouraged in your prayer life and more belief in God’s faithfulness, this is an exceptional read.
January 14, 2022
Great book to remind you that your problems in pursuing faith aren’t as large as you thought. Thankful that this biography was written.
April 12, 2011
Hudson Taylor's short autobiography should be required reading for Everyone who desires to serve God either through overseas missions, or in their own hometown. You will be inspired as you read of Taylor's humble heart and gracious service.
This is an excellent little book, easily read, but very powerful in the demonstration of how God provides for His children!!
One of Taylor's mottos was, "God's work, done God's way, will never lack God's supply." Our Father, God proved this time and again as HE is Forever Faithful and it was something Taylor witnessed and the Chine Inland Mission {CIM}.
The book ends with the following Powerful words....
"The Power of Prayer cannot be diminished by distance;
it is not limited by age, infirmity, or daily duty;
political changes and restrictions cannot alter its effectiveness;
for the word still stands,
"If ye shall ask anything in my name I will do it.. says the Lord."
The power of prayer in the life of an obedient Christian can only be undermined by neglect.
Over 1 of the entrances to the China Inland Mission in London stands the text so dear to Hudson Taylor,
"Have Faith in God."
On the other side of it:
"Hitherto hath the Lord helped us,"
and
"The Lord will Provide."
This is an excellent little book, easily read, but very powerful in the demonstration of how God provides for His children!!
One of Taylor's mottos was, "God's work, done God's way, will never lack God's supply." Our Father, God proved this time and again as HE is Forever Faithful and it was something Taylor witnessed and the Chine Inland Mission {CIM}.
The book ends with the following Powerful words....
"The Power of Prayer cannot be diminished by distance;
it is not limited by age, infirmity, or daily duty;
political changes and restrictions cannot alter its effectiveness;
for the word still stands,
"If ye shall ask anything in my name I will do it.. says the Lord."
The power of prayer in the life of an obedient Christian can only be undermined by neglect.
Over 1 of the entrances to the China Inland Mission in London stands the text so dear to Hudson Taylor,
"Have Faith in God."
On the other side of it:
"Hitherto hath the Lord helped us,"
and
"The Lord will Provide."
February 26, 2011
He was an amazing man, with an amazing faith in God's provision. The author tried to convey his struggles, but, perhaps due to the writing style, I left the book feeling like this man was a "spiritual giant." Someone who God used specially because he was special. Like I am not able to be used that way.
However, I also was reminded of some important truths.
-My devotional life, my personal connection to God, is incredibly important. If I don't guard it fiercely, it will be snatched away.
-Pray. Pray, pray, pray.
-You depend on many things... money, comfortable life... Pray. Pray, pray, pray.
However, I also was reminded of some important truths.
-My devotional life, my personal connection to God, is incredibly important. If I don't guard it fiercely, it will be snatched away.
-Pray. Pray, pray, pray.
-You depend on many things... money, comfortable life... Pray. Pray, pray, pray.
April 20, 2024
J. Hudson Taylor gave his all time and time again for Christ. He went to China, a foreign land, and worked tirelessly to deliver the message of Jesus and salvation to the Chinese people.
Taylor was once skeptical. So, he “said that if I pretended to believe the Bible I would at any rate attempt to live by it, putting it fairly to the test, and if it failed to prove true and reliable, I would throw it overboard altogether” (10). He became saved. “I have put God’s Word to the test. Certainly it has never failed me. I have never had reason to regret the confidence I have placed in its promises, or to deplore following the guidance I have found in its directions” (10).
When asked by a minister how he planned to go to China, he replied, “that I did not at all know; that it seemed to me probable that I should need to do as the Twelve and the Seventy had done in Judea—go without purse or script, relying on Him who had called me to supply all my need” (16). To which the minister replied, “‘Ah, my boy, as you grow older you will get wiser than that” (16). Hudson shared, “I have grown older since then, but not wiser. I am more than ever convinced that if we were to take directions of our Master and the assurances He gave to His first disciples more fully as our guide, we should find them to be just as suited to our times as to those in which they were originally given” (16).
Taylor went through his possessions and gave items like books and clothing to those who may benefit by their receipt. “It has been very helpful to me from time to time through life…to act again in a similar way; and I have never gone through my house, from basement to attic, with this object in view, without receiving a great accession of spiritual joy and blessing. I believe we are all in danger of accumulating—it may be from thoughtlessness, or from pressure of occupation—things which would be useful to others, while not needed by ourselves, and the retention of which entails loss of blessing” (20).
“The less I spent on myself and the more I gave away, the fuller of happiness and blessing did my soul become. Unspeakable joy all the day long, and every day, was my happy experience. God…was a living, bright reality; and all I had to do was joyful service” (21).
“If we are faithful to God in little things, we shall gain experiences and strength that will be helpful to us in the more serious trials of life” (27).
“Opportunities for service are to be found in every sphere” (47).
“God encouraged me…to bring every variety of need to Him in prayer, and to expect that He would honor the name of the Lord Jesus, and give the help which each emergency required” (58).
“God does not permit persecution to arise without sufficient reason” (89).
“They who trust Him wholly
Find Him wholly true” (123).
“The power of prayer cannot be diminished by distance; it is not limited by age, infirmity, or daily duty; political changes and restrictions cannot alter its effectiveness; for the word still stands, ‘If ye shall ask anything in my name I will do it.’ The power of prayer in the life of an obedient Christian can only be undermined by neglect” (159).
I loved the first part of this autobiography where Hudson is desiring to go to China. Once he arrived in China, it was a bit tedious and not as enjoyable a read. However, this was certainly a remarkable man, and I have no doubt he is in Heaven today.
Taylor was once skeptical. So, he “said that if I pretended to believe the Bible I would at any rate attempt to live by it, putting it fairly to the test, and if it failed to prove true and reliable, I would throw it overboard altogether” (10). He became saved. “I have put God’s Word to the test. Certainly it has never failed me. I have never had reason to regret the confidence I have placed in its promises, or to deplore following the guidance I have found in its directions” (10).
When asked by a minister how he planned to go to China, he replied, “that I did not at all know; that it seemed to me probable that I should need to do as the Twelve and the Seventy had done in Judea—go without purse or script, relying on Him who had called me to supply all my need” (16). To which the minister replied, “‘Ah, my boy, as you grow older you will get wiser than that” (16). Hudson shared, “I have grown older since then, but not wiser. I am more than ever convinced that if we were to take directions of our Master and the assurances He gave to His first disciples more fully as our guide, we should find them to be just as suited to our times as to those in which they were originally given” (16).
Taylor went through his possessions and gave items like books and clothing to those who may benefit by their receipt. “It has been very helpful to me from time to time through life…to act again in a similar way; and I have never gone through my house, from basement to attic, with this object in view, without receiving a great accession of spiritual joy and blessing. I believe we are all in danger of accumulating—it may be from thoughtlessness, or from pressure of occupation—things which would be useful to others, while not needed by ourselves, and the retention of which entails loss of blessing” (20).
“The less I spent on myself and the more I gave away, the fuller of happiness and blessing did my soul become. Unspeakable joy all the day long, and every day, was my happy experience. God…was a living, bright reality; and all I had to do was joyful service” (21).
“If we are faithful to God in little things, we shall gain experiences and strength that will be helpful to us in the more serious trials of life” (27).
“Opportunities for service are to be found in every sphere” (47).
“God encouraged me…to bring every variety of need to Him in prayer, and to expect that He would honor the name of the Lord Jesus, and give the help which each emergency required” (58).
“God does not permit persecution to arise without sufficient reason” (89).
“They who trust Him wholly
Find Him wholly true” (123).
“The power of prayer cannot be diminished by distance; it is not limited by age, infirmity, or daily duty; political changes and restrictions cannot alter its effectiveness; for the word still stands, ‘If ye shall ask anything in my name I will do it.’ The power of prayer in the life of an obedient Christian can only be undermined by neglect” (159).
I loved the first part of this autobiography where Hudson is desiring to go to China. Once he arrived in China, it was a bit tedious and not as enjoyable a read. However, this was certainly a remarkable man, and I have no doubt he is in Heaven today.
December 28, 2018
This was the perfect book at the perfect time. I am so thankful that Hudson Taylor took time to write about the things God did in his life so that I could be encouraged all these years later.
One of the quotes that most moved me was this: “I little dreamed that the real truth of the matter simply was that I could trust in God plus one-and-sixpence, but was not yet prepared to trust Him only, without any money at all in my pocket.” This sentence came to my memory on a very hard day, one of loss after many such days of loss. And as I mourned and felt life was “too hard,” I thought of what Hudson Taylor had written and realized that I was getting my own opportunity to “trust Him only.” And that was a great comfort in a trying time.
One of the quotes that most moved me was this: “I little dreamed that the real truth of the matter simply was that I could trust in God plus one-and-sixpence, but was not yet prepared to trust Him only, without any money at all in my pocket.” This sentence came to my memory on a very hard day, one of loss after many such days of loss. And as I mourned and felt life was “too hard,” I thought of what Hudson Taylor had written and realized that I was getting my own opportunity to “trust Him only.” And that was a great comfort in a trying time.
December 6, 2019
What a GREAT book! I was far more affected by the content than I had anticipated. I'd recommend it, and here's why:
1. It's accessible. It's cheap to buy and it's easy to read. Though the events of the book take place well before World War I, I never felt like I was missing context. Hudson's language was clear and poignant, and the story itself is relatively short. I anticipated reading it in a week but only spent 3 nights.
2. It's RICH. I was moved to tears in more than one place. What a brilliant reflection of God! I bought this book based on quotes in other reviews; here is a great one.
"It is always helpful to us to fix our attention on the God-ward aspect of Christian work; to realize that the work of God does not mean so much man's work for God as God's own work through man."
3. It's different. I haven't read books on a Chinese missionary before, and I enjoyed that this was new. I'm the kind of person that likes to get in a reading rut, but it turns out, it's pretty fun to read different types of books.
1. It's accessible. It's cheap to buy and it's easy to read. Though the events of the book take place well before World War I, I never felt like I was missing context. Hudson's language was clear and poignant, and the story itself is relatively short. I anticipated reading it in a week but only spent 3 nights.
2. It's RICH. I was moved to tears in more than one place. What a brilliant reflection of God! I bought this book based on quotes in other reviews; here is a great one.
"It is always helpful to us to fix our attention on the God-ward aspect of Christian work; to realize that the work of God does not mean so much man's work for God as God's own work through man."
3. It's different. I haven't read books on a Chinese missionary before, and I enjoyed that this was new. I'm the kind of person that likes to get in a reading rut, but it turns out, it's pretty fun to read different types of books.
March 5, 2020
Hudson Taylor’s Faith is extraordinary. I want to depend on God as much or more than Taylor did. I purpose to live the surrendered life for Jesus Christ so He may use me for His kingdom work.
June 20, 2022
Humbling. The faithfulness of God is consistently displayed to those who rely on him.
March 20, 2021
Very quotable but not the greatest read
July 17, 2014
I don't agree with all of Hudson Taylor's theology. But that caveat aside, what an encouraging book! Taylor has lots of cool stories and the way God worked in his life was truly amazing. Worth reading.
Here are a few of my favorite quotes:
On Sunday, June 25th, 1865, unable to bear the sight of a congregation of a thousand or more Christian people rejoicing in their own security, while millions were perishing for lack of knowledge, I wandered out on the sands alone, in great spiritual agony; (p.95)
In the study of that Divine Word I learned that, to obtain successful labourers, not elaborate appeals for help, but, first, earnest prayer to God to thrust forth labourers, and, second, the deepening of the spiritual life of the church, so that men should be unable to stay at home, were what was needed. I saw that the Apostolic plan was not to raise ways and means, but to go and do the work, trusting in His sure Word who has said, "Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you." (p.93)
It led me to look carefully through my little library to see if there were any books there that were not needed or likely to be of further service, and to examine my small wardrobe, to be quite sure that it contained nothing that I should be sorry to give an account of should the Master come at once. The result was that the library was considerably diminished, to the benefit of some poor neighbours, and to the far greater benefit of my own and that I found I had articles of clothing also which might be put to better advantage in other directions. It has been very helpful to me from time to time through life, as occasion has served, to act again in a similar way; and I have never gone through my house, from basement to attic, with this object in view, without receiving a great accession of spiritual joy and blessing. I believe we are all in danger of accumulating—it may be from thoughtlessness, or from pressure of occupation—things which would be useful to others, while not needed by ourselves, and the retention of which entails loss of blessing. If the whole resources of the Church of God were well utilised, how much more might be accomplished! (p.13)
Perhaps if there were more of that intense distress for souls that leads to tears, we should more frequently see the results we desire. Sometimes it may be that while we are complaining of the hardness of the hearts of those we are seeking to benefit, the hardness of our own hearts, and our own feeble apprehension of the solemn reality of eternal things, may be the true cause of our want of success. p.32
Ever since, I have seen clearly the mistake I made—a mistake that is very common in these days, when erroneous teaching on faith-healing does much harm, misleading some as to the purposes of God, shaking the faith of others, and distressing the minds of many. The use of means ought not to lessen our faith in God; and our faith in God ought not to hinder our using whatever means He has given us for the accomplishment of His own purposes.
But to me it would appear as presumptuous and wrong to neglect the use of those measures which He Himself has put within our reach, as to neglect to take daily food, and suppose that life and health might be maintained by prayer alone.
He is wholly true whether we trust or not. "If we believe not, He abideth faithful; He cannot deny Himself." But oh, how we dishonour our Lord whenever we fail to trust Him, and what peace, blessing, and triumph we lose in thus sinning against the Faithful One! May we never again presume in anything to doubt Him!
To me it seemed a great calamity that failure of health compelled my relinquishing work for God in China, just when it was more fruitful than ever before; and to leave the little band of Christians in Ningpo, needing much care and teaching, was a great sorrow. Nor was the sorrow lessened when, on reaching England, medical testimony assured me that return to China, at least for years to come, was impossible. Little did I then realise that the long separation from China was a necessary step towards the formation of a work which God would bless as He has blessed the China Inland Mission.
Here are a few of my favorite quotes:
On Sunday, June 25th, 1865, unable to bear the sight of a congregation of a thousand or more Christian people rejoicing in their own security, while millions were perishing for lack of knowledge, I wandered out on the sands alone, in great spiritual agony; (p.95)
In the study of that Divine Word I learned that, to obtain successful labourers, not elaborate appeals for help, but, first, earnest prayer to God to thrust forth labourers, and, second, the deepening of the spiritual life of the church, so that men should be unable to stay at home, were what was needed. I saw that the Apostolic plan was not to raise ways and means, but to go and do the work, trusting in His sure Word who has said, "Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you." (p.93)
It led me to look carefully through my little library to see if there were any books there that were not needed or likely to be of further service, and to examine my small wardrobe, to be quite sure that it contained nothing that I should be sorry to give an account of should the Master come at once. The result was that the library was considerably diminished, to the benefit of some poor neighbours, and to the far greater benefit of my own and that I found I had articles of clothing also which might be put to better advantage in other directions. It has been very helpful to me from time to time through life, as occasion has served, to act again in a similar way; and I have never gone through my house, from basement to attic, with this object in view, without receiving a great accession of spiritual joy and blessing. I believe we are all in danger of accumulating—it may be from thoughtlessness, or from pressure of occupation—things which would be useful to others, while not needed by ourselves, and the retention of which entails loss of blessing. If the whole resources of the Church of God were well utilised, how much more might be accomplished! (p.13)
Perhaps if there were more of that intense distress for souls that leads to tears, we should more frequently see the results we desire. Sometimes it may be that while we are complaining of the hardness of the hearts of those we are seeking to benefit, the hardness of our own hearts, and our own feeble apprehension of the solemn reality of eternal things, may be the true cause of our want of success. p.32
Ever since, I have seen clearly the mistake I made—a mistake that is very common in these days, when erroneous teaching on faith-healing does much harm, misleading some as to the purposes of God, shaking the faith of others, and distressing the minds of many. The use of means ought not to lessen our faith in God; and our faith in God ought not to hinder our using whatever means He has given us for the accomplishment of His own purposes.
But to me it would appear as presumptuous and wrong to neglect the use of those measures which He Himself has put within our reach, as to neglect to take daily food, and suppose that life and health might be maintained by prayer alone.
He is wholly true whether we trust or not. "If we believe not, He abideth faithful; He cannot deny Himself." But oh, how we dishonour our Lord whenever we fail to trust Him, and what peace, blessing, and triumph we lose in thus sinning against the Faithful One! May we never again presume in anything to doubt Him!
To me it seemed a great calamity that failure of health compelled my relinquishing work for God in China, just when it was more fruitful than ever before; and to leave the little band of Christians in Ningpo, needing much care and teaching, was a great sorrow. Nor was the sorrow lessened when, on reaching England, medical testimony assured me that return to China, at least for years to come, was impossible. Little did I then realise that the long separation from China was a necessary step towards the formation of a work which God would bless as He has blessed the China Inland Mission.
August 6, 2018
A great book about a great, sacrificial man of God.
February 22, 2019
The Making of a Missionary Heart
I thought this was a wonderful autobiography. I truly learned something about living lifestyle of prayer. Evangelism is expected of all believers whether at home, neighboring states or abroad.
I thought this was a wonderful autobiography. I truly learned something about living lifestyle of prayer. Evangelism is expected of all believers whether at home, neighboring states or abroad.
April 18, 2012
it was a little rough to get through, but i admire hudson taylor like CRAZY -
i recommend 'it is not death to die' by jim cromarty for an easier way to walk through hudson's life .....
i recommend 'it is not death to die' by jim cromarty for an easier way to walk through hudson's life .....
March 22, 2021
This is a fantastic book about an amazing man and an incredible piece of church history. It's both a humbling and inspiring read.
September 7, 2020
Very inspirational book.
Hudson Taylor’s desire to live wholly dependent on God led to some incredible feats of faith.
My two biggest takeaways from this autobiography are:
1. He held a strong conviction that Christians should not go into debt. Taking “owe no many anything” literally, he was convinced that borrowing money implied that God had withheld something good that the individual was determined to get; though it be something that God had not given. God’s work would never lack God’s resources.
This conviction lead him to sever ties to the constantly indebted missionary society that had sent him to China, and rely solely on God for support. Taylor explained how God came through each time, though it was a significant trial of faith.
2. After returning to England and before setting out to China again, Taylor gave presentations about China, during which he explicitly requested NO donations.
Why?
Because he realized that if people felt moved or convicted to donate to a missionary cause, that tended to be all they would do. Instead, Taylor exhorted the audience to ask what would God have them do for China that was of eternal value. Personal consecration? Service abroad? Giving up a son or daughter to God’s service?
No amount of money could convert a soul. Instead, what was needed were individuals filled with the Holy Ghost to give themselves for God’s work. The result was droves of people deciding to dedicate their lives to missionary work (including seven young men from Cambridge university, the Cambridge Seven). Further, people began donating large amount of money. Had he collected a donation, people may have felt compelled to donate a few dollars. But due to his call for personal consecration, people ended up donating entire life savings for the work of God through faith.
An inspiring life and an inspiring read.
Hudson Taylor’s desire to live wholly dependent on God led to some incredible feats of faith.
My two biggest takeaways from this autobiography are:
1. He held a strong conviction that Christians should not go into debt. Taking “owe no many anything” literally, he was convinced that borrowing money implied that God had withheld something good that the individual was determined to get; though it be something that God had not given. God’s work would never lack God’s resources.
This conviction lead him to sever ties to the constantly indebted missionary society that had sent him to China, and rely solely on God for support. Taylor explained how God came through each time, though it was a significant trial of faith.
2. After returning to England and before setting out to China again, Taylor gave presentations about China, during which he explicitly requested NO donations.
Why?
Because he realized that if people felt moved or convicted to donate to a missionary cause, that tended to be all they would do. Instead, Taylor exhorted the audience to ask what would God have them do for China that was of eternal value. Personal consecration? Service abroad? Giving up a son or daughter to God’s service?
No amount of money could convert a soul. Instead, what was needed were individuals filled with the Holy Ghost to give themselves for God’s work. The result was droves of people deciding to dedicate their lives to missionary work (including seven young men from Cambridge university, the Cambridge Seven). Further, people began donating large amount of money. Had he collected a donation, people may have felt compelled to donate a few dollars. But due to his call for personal consecration, people ended up donating entire life savings for the work of God through faith.
An inspiring life and an inspiring read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2020
Cartea prezintă biografia unui misionar în China care s-a făcut pentru toți toate, a învățat tradiția și limba poporului pe care urma să-l evanghelizeze și a adaptat mesajul Evangheliei trăirilor populației băștinașe. Un misionar înflăcărat care a înmulțit activitatea de propovăduire în China, acesta ajungând să numere mii de misionari creștini..
CITATE:
Credința lui de copil în curând s-a risipit și au urmat șase ani de necurmate lupte lăuntrice.
A rugat pe Dumnezeu sa-i dea o lucrare pentru El, o lucrare de jertfire de sine,oricare ar fi ea.
Este atât de bine să depinzi de Dumnezeu pentru toate. Să nu ne gândim niciodată la rezultate, să le lăsăm în mâna Lui.
Rugăciunea modelează viața, nu împrejurările.
Am întradevăr nevoie de rugăciunile voastre. Să lucrezi fără să vezi rezultate, cere multă credință, iar a mea este atât de slabă.
Era unul din popor, trăind, mîncînd și îmbrăcîndu-se ca ei.
Dumnezeu nu cunoaște obstacole. Dacă așteptăm de la El,nu vom fi niciodată dezamăgiți.
Un gînd nou a venit chiar atunci. Mi-a fost ca razele soarelui care risipesc întunericul nopții „Dacă noi ascultăm de Dumnezeu, răspunderea apasă asupra Lui și nu asupra noastră."
Fiți siguri, o lucrare a lui Dumnezeu făcută în felul lui Dumnezeu, nu va duce niciodată lipsă de ajutorul lui Dumnezeu...
A primi pe Domnul Isus, acesta este începutul sfințeniei. A iubi pe Domnul Isus, aceasta este creșterea în sfințenie. A te încrede în Domnul Isus întotdeauna prezent, aceasta este sfințenia deplină.
Dacă Hristos este în noi, păcatul nu poate locui împreună cu El.
Când mă gîndesc la Acela care timp de 33 de ani a rămas departe de cerul Lui...
CITATE:
Credința lui de copil în curând s-a risipit și au urmat șase ani de necurmate lupte lăuntrice.
A rugat pe Dumnezeu sa-i dea o lucrare pentru El, o lucrare de jertfire de sine,oricare ar fi ea.
Este atât de bine să depinzi de Dumnezeu pentru toate. Să nu ne gândim niciodată la rezultate, să le lăsăm în mâna Lui.
Rugăciunea modelează viața, nu împrejurările.
Am întradevăr nevoie de rugăciunile voastre. Să lucrezi fără să vezi rezultate, cere multă credință, iar a mea este atât de slabă.
Era unul din popor, trăind, mîncînd și îmbrăcîndu-se ca ei.
Dumnezeu nu cunoaște obstacole. Dacă așteptăm de la El,nu vom fi niciodată dezamăgiți.
Un gînd nou a venit chiar atunci. Mi-a fost ca razele soarelui care risipesc întunericul nopții „Dacă noi ascultăm de Dumnezeu, răspunderea apasă asupra Lui și nu asupra noastră."
Fiți siguri, o lucrare a lui Dumnezeu făcută în felul lui Dumnezeu, nu va duce niciodată lipsă de ajutorul lui Dumnezeu...
A primi pe Domnul Isus, acesta este începutul sfințeniei. A iubi pe Domnul Isus, aceasta este creșterea în sfințenie. A te încrede în Domnul Isus întotdeauna prezent, aceasta este sfințenia deplină.
Dacă Hristos este în noi, păcatul nu poate locui împreună cu El.
Când mă gîndesc la Acela care timp de 33 de ani a rămas departe de cerul Lui...
July 25, 2023
J. Hudson Taylor: An Autobiography
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
What an amazing life spent in the pursuit of the making known the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ. Hudson Taylor was given over to total surrender to God, from a young age he is trying to live as cheaply as possible so that he can give more money to the church and save for travel to China.
Hudson Taylor seems to have known his calling from a young boy and again his parents are instrumental to his faith. The heart of Hudson Taylor is clearly seen in his loving devotion to God and his dedication in sharing the gospel with people. His willingness to go through hard times and trials in order that the gospel will go forth in power.
One section gripped me and caused me much thought on my thinking, my passion for the lost. He said this.
"On Sunday, June 25th, 1865, unable to bear the sight of a congregation of a thousand or more Christian people rejoicing in their own security, while millions were perishing for lack of knowledge, 1 wandered out on the sands alone, in great spiritual agony; and there the LORD conquered my unbelief, and I surrendered myself to GOD for this service."
Do we as the church care at all for the lost, do we step out of our comfort zone and care enough to share with others the message of salvation? May God have mercy on us and cause us to have the passion and desire to see others saved.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
What an amazing life spent in the pursuit of the making known the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ. Hudson Taylor was given over to total surrender to God, from a young age he is trying to live as cheaply as possible so that he can give more money to the church and save for travel to China.
Hudson Taylor seems to have known his calling from a young boy and again his parents are instrumental to his faith. The heart of Hudson Taylor is clearly seen in his loving devotion to God and his dedication in sharing the gospel with people. His willingness to go through hard times and trials in order that the gospel will go forth in power.
One section gripped me and caused me much thought on my thinking, my passion for the lost. He said this.
"On Sunday, June 25th, 1865, unable to bear the sight of a congregation of a thousand or more Christian people rejoicing in their own security, while millions were perishing for lack of knowledge, 1 wandered out on the sands alone, in great spiritual agony; and there the LORD conquered my unbelief, and I surrendered myself to GOD for this service."
Do we as the church care at all for the lost, do we step out of our comfort zone and care enough to share with others the message of salvation? May God have mercy on us and cause us to have the passion and desire to see others saved.
August 27, 2022
I’ve heard many positive things about Hudson Taylor and wanted to read about them for myself. It was beautiful to see the story of his conversion, the wrestling of his faith, and his reasoning for decisions he made out of prayer. His heart for the people of China is evident.
Anyone who is a believer in Jesus Christ will be challenged to audit their choices and if they are being obedient to his voice.
“Go," says He, "go ye into all the world, and preach the Gospel to every creature." Shall we say to Him, "No, it is not convenient"? shall we tell Him that we are busy fishing and cannot go? that we have bought a piece of ground and cannot go? that we have purchased five yoke of oxen, or have married, or are engaged in other and more interesting pursuits, and cannot go? Ere long "we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body." Let us remember, let us pray for, let us labour for the unevangelised Chinese; or we shall sin against our own souls.”
Anyone who is a believer in Jesus Christ will be challenged to audit their choices and if they are being obedient to his voice.
“Go," says He, "go ye into all the world, and preach the Gospel to every creature." Shall we say to Him, "No, it is not convenient"? shall we tell Him that we are busy fishing and cannot go? that we have bought a piece of ground and cannot go? that we have purchased five yoke of oxen, or have married, or are engaged in other and more interesting pursuits, and cannot go? Ere long "we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body." Let us remember, let us pray for, let us labour for the unevangelised Chinese; or we shall sin against our own souls.”
February 16, 2018
Only now do we think of Afrika and Asia as great mission outreach sites and talk about the shifting of the center of Christianity in the world to those locations. Just a hundred and sixty years ago, the countries in Afrika and Asia almost completely consisted of idol worshippers, and Christians were almost non-existent there. As the first missionaries, like Hudson Taylor in China, went to those countries, they faced resistance, life threats, and persecution. In his autobiography, Taylor tells how he overcomes personal and health challenges, trains to be a medical doctor, survives a multi-month trip from Britain to China, travels inland, and spreads the Gospel everywhere in China, despite being in constant danger. Even if one does not want to become a missionary, this written work may help one to approach faith in a completely different way, a way that may challenge and deepen one's faith.
June 3, 2017
This short autobiography of the man who brought Christ to the interior of China was succinct yet powerful. It worked through his early years as a teenager when he received the call from the Lord to the people of China, and spent a good bit of time on the journey that brought him to that land. The second half of the book was focused on the work in China itself, and the many trials he and his fellow laborers underwent in the expansion of the Kingdom--and expansion that changed the trajectory of world history, no doubt. The writing was a bit dated, obviously, but in some way that made it seem more powerful. This man's faith serves as a guidepost on the path of Jesus for the rest of us today. A recommended read for those wanting to increase their faith and find motivation follow Jesus wherever He may lead.
October 27, 2022
Hudson Taylor lived such a life of faith and prayer. I’m convinced that even if he had seen no fruit from his time in China, he would’ve been just as firm in his love for the Lord had he seen thousands of people come to know Christ.
Numerous times throughout this book he referenced times in his life when he relied on solely on the Lord for his next paycheck or next meal. Even with this kind of faith he still claimed that his faith and trust in the Lord failed. Yet what he says after this stuck out to me most during my reading:
“When we fail to trust fully He still remains unchangingly faithful.”
We see this faith the Lord has for His people, with the explosive growth of Christianity in China, largely due to Hudson Taylor’s first efforts back all the way back in 1854.
Numerous times throughout this book he referenced times in his life when he relied on solely on the Lord for his next paycheck or next meal. Even with this kind of faith he still claimed that his faith and trust in the Lord failed. Yet what he says after this stuck out to me most during my reading:
“When we fail to trust fully He still remains unchangingly faithful.”
We see this faith the Lord has for His people, with the explosive growth of Christianity in China, largely due to Hudson Taylor’s first efforts back all the way back in 1854.
July 12, 2021
Ana amazing man. His desire to set aside all financials before he left England to prove to himself that he was willing to submit to God alone was impressive.
It has caused me to think on what my money allows me to do, namely, not needing of God's supplying of my daily bread. I can be thankful to him, but I miss out on seeing his provision with greater prayer on my part and subsequent specific gift being given on His part to bring him glory.
How do I do that without giving away everything I have? I'm not sure that's possible. Should I then give away everything? I don't think so. What is ultimately needed is a thankful spirit and a desire to give more of it away to those in need.
It has caused me to think on what my money allows me to do, namely, not needing of God's supplying of my daily bread. I can be thankful to him, but I miss out on seeing his provision with greater prayer on my part and subsequent specific gift being given on His part to bring him glory.
How do I do that without giving away everything I have? I'm not sure that's possible. Should I then give away everything? I don't think so. What is ultimately needed is a thankful spirit and a desire to give more of it away to those in need.
February 2, 2021
Great book as a true biography of Hudson Taylor. Attention reader — if you are looking for an in depth look at the Inland China Mission then you will be sorely disappointed. This authors intent is to focus on Hudson Taylor the person and his influence. Of course, the author does mention his accomplishes, including his missionary exploits; however, he does not focus on every achievement of his missions. Overall this is a great overview of a man who trusted everything he was and everything he had to God in the midst of an anti-foreign nation for the love of Christ and the love of the gospel!
July 18, 2022
Although not a long book, it was a tad difficult to read as it was written in journal autobiographical form from the mid 1800's rather than a novel type writing. So many details of Mr. Taylor's life were missing (that I wanted to know!), until as I progressed, I realized that is not the point at all. A tremendous man of faith and prayer who moved mountains to spread the gospel in China, his prayers were answered over and over throughout his life as his heart for China never waivered. I am convicted...
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