Hudson Taylor-So Much More

By Mary Vee

Photo Courtesy While this is not
a photo of Hudson Taylor,
it represents the heart of this
strong missionary who truly was
a man of prayer

For three years, this site has included some of the amazing events in J. Hudson Taylor's life. From before his birth to his last breath, this man was bathed in prayer by family, friends, and co workers, he was dedicated to God, and became a servant of God fully dedicated to telling the people of China that there is a God who truly loves them.

There are many more stories. 

Amazing miracles. 

Hearts that were changed and are now in heaven. 

On-going missions in China continue the work of a man called to tell a nation the truth about a loving God.

At the time of Hudson's last breath, over eight hundred missionaries joined more than two thousand native pastors, evangelists in sharing God's love at over a thousand China Inland Mission stations and out stations. 

In Taylor's life, seven and a half million dollars had been given to support missions in inland China. 

As a result, thirty thousand Chinese men, women, and children became Christians through this ministry.

God called Hudson Taylor, a man of determination to get a job done, and sent him to China.

Not everyone is called to go to China. 

God calls all of us to do work. He may have us stay in our hometown and be a witness in the neighborhood our whole lives or go somewhere else.

As this new year starts, consider talking with God. Ask Him what work He wants you to do. The job won't be easy, but with faith, the work can be done.

The result-God's smile and His words said to you-well done, good and faithful servant of mine.


Starting next week, January 5, 2015, we will journey with Amy Carmichael to India.

Research resources: J. Hudson Taylor, An Autobiography by J. Hudson Taylor; It is Not Death to Die, a new biography of Hudson Taylor by Jim Cromarty; Hudson Taylor Founder, China Inland Mission by Vance Christie; J. Hudson Taylor, A Man in Christ, by Roger Steer, and Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret by Dr.and Mrs. Howard Taylor

Hudson Taylor-Well Done Good and Faithful Servant of Mine

By Mary Vee

Year: 1902-1905 

Hudson Taylor: age 70-73

From J. Hudson Taylor's Notes

Photo Courtesy

In the last years, I have had many illnesses. I'm now seventy years old and truly want to carry on with the work God has given me.

Sometimes I just feet so tired. Like Elijah who laid down in the wilderness too exhausted to eat or drink. God posted an angel right by his side, waking him--giving him food and drink, letting him sleep then waking him again to give him food and drink again. God nursed Elijah back to health in the last days of his ministry like he has for me.

My wife, Jennie and I took a trip to Switzerland and settled in a little village called Chevalleyres on the northern edge of Lake Geneva. We took relaxing day trips by rail and steamer to see the beautiful countryside. 

I took along a camera and photographed flowers and stars, studying the tiny details God gave them. 

My eyes have grown tired and won't let me read much, but God has helped me read through His Word for the fortieth time in forty years. Such precious words.

In July of 1903, my sweet Jennie became extremely ill. She whispered to me, "No pain. No pain." I knew she didn't hurt. That helped--a little. But then she said, "Ask Him to take me quickly."

I didn't want to. But, then my sweet Jennie needed to be with Jesus instead of me. I prayed, "Dear Father, free her waiting spirit." Five minutes later she left me and went into the arms of Jesus.

1905 came. In the spring time, my heart ached to go to China and see the wonderful people there. This was my eleventh trip. I visited places that once never had missionaries and now had many workers telling the people of China that God loves them.

On June 3, the mission held a wonderful reception for me. I had so much fun speaking with the missionaries, but in truth, I was also exhausted. I didn't feel well either. When the party ended, I went upstairs to rest.

The rest of these words are written now by me, Howard. I am Hudson's son and a doctor. The nurse tucked my father into bed, making sure he was warm and comfortable. She sat on the chair next to his bed and talked with him about the pictures in the Missionary Review magazine, something Dad had been looking at. 

Dad took a sudden breath and lapsed into unconsciousness. She shouted for me to come. I ran to his room in time to see my father breathe his last breath and go into the arms of his heavenly Master Whom he had faithfully served for more than fifty years.

When I think of all the people my dad has shared the Gospel of Jesus Christ with, I know in my heart God is saying...well done good and faithful servant of mine.

J. Hudson Taylor and Howard Taylor

Missionary to China--Inland China!

So Very Blessed by God

Research resources: J. Hudson Taylor, An Autobiography by J. Hudson Taylor; It is Not Death to Die, a new biography of Hudson Taylor by Jim Cromarty; Hudson Taylor Founder, China Inland Mission by Vance Christie; J. Hudson Taylor, A Man in Christ, by Roger Steer, and Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret by Dr.and Mrs. Howard Taylor

Hudson Taylor-Pray Big Expect Answers

By Mary Vee

Year: 1887 

Hudson Taylor: age 55

From J. Hudson Taylor's Notes

Photo Courtesy

The work of China Inland Mission grew strong all around China. The more we did, the more we realized we needed help to do more.

One of the missionaries said, "We need one hundred missionaries to come in 1887." And so it became our goal, our deepest prayer that God would send one hundred missionaries with this short notice.

God knew the work. The need didn't just pop in that missionary's mind, God put the thought in his heart. Now we need to do what is expected of us.

A missionary in Shanghai heard about China Inland Mission's plan to train and send one hundred missionaries in less than one year. He said, "I am delighted to hear that you are praying for large reinforcements. You will not get a hundred, of course, not within one year. But you will get many more than if you did not ask for them."

Oh, his comment did not ring true. Didn't he have the faith needed to know God can do ANYTHING? I answered him "We have the joy beforehand. But I feel sure that you will share in our joy in welcoming the last of the hundred to China."

The man smirked. Still not believing such a huge request from God would happen. 

On January 6, 1887 the harsh winds of winter pounded Shanghai. I boarded a boat, excited to return to England and let others know about our need for one hundred missionaries. We need not only men and women but also the finances to support these new missionaries.

I arrived at the docks of London in February. Right away I spoke to audiences telling them of the work in China. I continued a busy schedule in March and April, speaking to audiences, attending meetings, there seemed to be an endless amount of work to do--and, although exhausted, I accepted the task God gave me. God sent me to America, Canada, and other countries to share the need for missionaries and the money to pay their support.

During the year, an amazing number of men and women volunteered to become missionaries in China. 600! Yes, 600! Well, I knew many sincere people signed up not really understanding the hardships they would face. We looked through all the applications and interviewed many of the men and women. 

When we finished praying, reading every application, interviewing, explaining, and training the year was about to end and 102 new missionaries set sail for China. Praise God for His answer to our prayer.

Later, I heard the most amusing news. That Shanghai missionary who said this couldn't happen--stood at the docks and greeted the missionaries, especially the last three. 

God put the prayer in our hearts, gave us the energy to do the work, and answered a big request. He will answer your prayers, too. 

J. Hudson Taylor

Missionary to China--Inland China!

So Very Blessed by God

Research resources: J. Hudson Taylor, An Autobiography by J. Hudson Taylor; It is Not Death to Die, a new biography of Hudson Taylor by Jim Cromarty; Hudson Taylor Founder, China Inland Mission by Vance Christie; J. Hudson Taylor, A Man in Christ, by Roger Steer, and Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret by Dr.and Mrs. Howard Taylor

Hudson Taylor-Opium in China

By Mary Vee

Year: 1887 

Hudson Taylor: age 55

From J. Hudson Taylor's Notes

Photo Courtesy

Many people in China had grown use to taking a drug called opium. This terrible drug hurt the people. The more men and women used the drug, the more they wanted the drug. They could not stop on their own.

Opium caused the users to have problems making good choices. Sometimes the people who used it ran out of money to buy more. These men and women sold anything they had to buy opium, even family members.

Pastor Hsi, one of the Chinese missionaries, wanted to help these people. He bought buildings in different cities and set up a place where men and women could come to stop taking the opium drug. While there, the men and women heard about God and received food and drink, a nice place to sleep and someone to talk to.

Pastor Hsi and his wife prayed often for the people in Linfen. So many men and women in Linfen needed a place to help them stop taking the opium drug but Pastor Hsi didn't have money to help them. One day, Mrs. Hsi went to her room and brought down a box. She set it on the table in front of her husband. "I think God has answered our prayers about Linfen."

Pastor Hsi opened the box and found all of her jewelry that made up her dowery. "Are you sure you want to give these away?" 

"Oh, yes."

They sold the jewelry and used the money to buy a building and to pay nurses to take care of the opium users. Refuges from the city and nearby villages came. While there, they heard about the God who loves them and learned to live without the drug.

Sometime later I asked Mrs. Hsi if she missed having her special jewelry. She said, "Miss them? I have Jesus. He is all I need."

Pastor and Mrs. Hsi spent their lives helping the people of China to stop taking the opium drug. After seeing his strong desire to help teach the people of China about the God who loves them, I put Pastor Hsi in charge of helping the churches in the area. 

I am so thankful to a loving God who helps His people.

J. Hudson Taylor

Missionary to China--Inland China!

So Very Blessed by God

Research resources: J. Hudson Taylor, An Autobiography by J. Hudson Taylor; It is Not Death to Die, a new biography of Hudson Taylor by Jim Cromarty; Hudson Taylor Founder, China Inland Mission by Vance Christie; J. Hudson Taylor, A Man in Christ, by Roger Steer, and Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret by Dr.and Mrs. Howard Taylor

Hudson Taylor-One Hundred Came

By Mary Vee

Year: 1887 

Hudson Taylor: age 55

From J. Hudson Taylor's Notes

Photo Courtesy

God has done so much for us here at China Inland Mission. I am confident that when a need for the mission comes to my attention, God expects me to ask for His help and to expect Him to provide.

I had finished a long journey to each mission in China. I didn't care that it was the rainy season, our missionaries needed to be able to share their needs. There  really was no other way to communicated than to visit each location. China is a really big country!

After listening to the missionaries, their needs and wishes, my assistant and I realized the greatest need was more workers. We have asked God before and He has always supplied. This time, though, the number 100 came to mind. I told the local Chinese Christians we wanted to ask God to send one hundred missionaries in one year to help with the work. Even the secretary who wrote the letter to our English office for me smiled. They didn't think God could or would do it. 

One elderly missionary said, "Oh you can ask all right. God will bless you for your faith and send quite a few new missionaries, but 100? I don't think so."

"Well, then," I smiled at him. "I will expect you to greet the one hundredth missionary when he steps off of the boat in Shanghai before a year ends." 

I completed my work in China and prepared to return to England to help with the main office. Every day my associates prayed and even sang with me:

"Oh, send the hundred workers, Lord,
Those of Thy heart and mind and choice,
To tell Thy love both far and wide--
So shall we praise Thee and rejoice:
And above the rest this note shall swell,
My Jesus had done all things well."

I arrived back in England in February of 1887 with my heart set on doing my part. I spoke at churches and conferences throughout the British Isles. I wrote articles, interviewed people, wrote letters, working very long days to discover and prepare the ones God called to be missionaries in China.

During 1887, six hundred men and women had applied to be missionaries to China. The committee and I prayed over each application. We knew that among the six hundred people who asked, one hundred of God's chosen missionaries could be found. 

We read each application, called each person in and spoke with them, and spent hours praying, asking God to show us who He wanted to go to China. When we finished the work, one hundred and two missionaries left for China and arrived before the one year's time ended. 

The elderly missionary kept watch and count. When the one hundredth missionary stepped off the boat in Shanghai, he stood at the boatyard and greeted him.

I am convinced that God put the number one hundred in our hearts to show us what wondrous things He could do. As a result of the new one hundred workers, we are able to tell more men and women in China about the God who loves them very much.

J. Hudson Taylor

Missionary to China--Inland China!

So Very Blessed by God

Research resources: J. Hudson Taylor, An Autobiography by J. Hudson Taylor; It is Not Death to Die, a new biography of Hudson Taylor by Jim Cromarty; Hudson Taylor Founder, China Inland Mission by Vance Christie; J. Hudson Taylor, A Man in Christ, by Roger Steer, and Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret by Dr.and Mrs. Howard Taylor

Hudson Taylor-What is A Real Christian?

By Mary Vee

Year: 1885 

Hudson Taylor: age 53

From J. Hudson Taylor's Notes
Cambridge Seven Part 5

Photo Courtesy

I had so much fun the day the Cambridge Seven landed here in Shanghai. As usual when in China, I put on the typical clothes that any Chinaman would wear, and had my head shaved with only a long braid hanging down my back.

I didn't have the same skin color or slanted eyes, but otherwise, I could be mistaken for a true Chinaman. 

I went to the shipyard, and spoke only Chinese to the men. Then kept a straight face when the new missionaries looked at me strangely. They didn't recognize me!

I laughed then said in perfect English, "Welcome Cambridge Seven!" I showed them to the place where they would sleep until they had their assignments. The poor men also had to find their land legs. (When a person sails on a ship their legs get used to moving up and down with the water. After they step out on land their mind still thinks they are on water so their body moves up and down and side to side like it did on the boat. It takes a day or so for this to stop. This is called finding your land legs).

We had a big welcoming party for the seven new missionaries to help them meet local Chinese Christians and other missionaries. The newspapers wrote big articles about the new visitors.

Men and women in Shanghai loved these men already! They were invited to speak at meetings in which large numbers of people came. 

One night, the port chaplain came to the meeting. The young missionaries told the audience about the gospel of God. How He sent His son to die for all the bad things people have done. How God loves everyone. How we cannot go to heaven by doing good deeds. As long as we have done anything bad, which we all have, we couldn't go to heaven. Only Jesus, God's perfect Son, could pay for our sins. Only by believing that Jesus loves us and died to pay the punishment for all the bad things we did could we got o heaven. The chaplain listened.

When the young missionaries finished speaking, the chaplain cried. The missionaries asked, "If you died in the night, would you go to heaven?" In his heart, he knew the answer to be no. He had worked so hard to do all the right things, to learn all the right things to say, but had never believed in Jesus as the one who saved him.

He finally understood what it meant to be a real Christian. One who believed in Jesus. News of the chaplain's decision to believe in Jesus traveled fast all over Shanghai. Men and women who once thought they were Christians began to ask questions. Were they really Christians? The seven new missionaries and other missionaries, help to answer questions.

What a great time we had helping people to understand what God wants. All we need to do is believe Jesus, God's Son, died to pay for our sins. Believing in Jesus is the only way to heaven.

J. Hudson Taylor

Missionary to China--Inland China!

So Very Blessed by God

Research resources: J. Hudson Taylor, An Autobiography by J. Hudson Taylor; It is Not Death to Die, a new biography of Hudson Taylor by Jim Cromarty; Hudson Taylor Founder, China Inland Mission by Vance Christie; J. Hudson Taylor, A Man in Christ, by Roger Steer, and Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret by Dr.and Mrs. Howard Taylor

Hudson Taylor-Thousands Watched the Cambridge Seven Leave

By Mary Vee

Year: 1885 

Hudson Taylor: age 53

From J. Hudson Taylor's Notes
Cambridge Seven Part 4

Cambridge University Photo Courtesy

We often need to remember that our parents love us and will do what they feel is necessary to take care of us.

C.T. Studd's mother had great hopes for her son to become a wealthy young man and to carry on the family name in a way that would make everyone proud.

She didn't expect her son to sell everything he had and sign up to become a missionary to China. 

She'd tried to her best to give him a comfortable journey. She even sent ahead wonderful items to make his new room cozy and comfortable. 

I felt sorry for her. She only wanted to take care of her son. After he left home, she wrote another letter to Jennie. "I'm sorry to bother you. I really must know what else could be sent for C.T. You see, he has barely taken any clothing. I don't know how he will survive. Please answer my letter as soon as you possibly can."

Mrs. Studd loved her son very much and realized she couldn't change his desire to go to China. After he and his friends went to meet their ship, she wrote Jennie again, asking for her to come to teach the family how to set up prayer meetings.

Mrs. Studd wasn't the only one who truly loved the Cambridge Seven. The night before their ship sailed, 3,5000 people gathered for a farewell meeting. There were no special seats for the wealthy. No reserved boxes. They all came and listened to the speaker, Stanley Smith, and were touched by the words:

"We do not go to that far field to teach this or that doctrine. We go to tell of a living, present, and reigning Christ who loves them. For years we have lived in England, enjoying what we had in Jesus when there were millions of people who had never heard of Him. We cannot tell you that a vision or dream sends us to China, but we can say the needs of those who don't know Jesus prevent us from staying in England...."

The huge gathering that night became headline news throughout every English speaking country in the world. Because of these seven men, many heard about the needs of millions who have not heard of God's love.

On February 5, the seven men set sail, traveling second class which has been described as good only for servants and dogs. Together, they planned to take the good news of God's love to the people of China.

Do you remember this whole story started with Dwight L Moody speaking at a conference of thousands of mocking students at Cambridge University? One brave man spoke. Seven brave men went.

J. Hudson Taylor

Missionary to China--Inland China!

So Very Blessed by God

Research resources: J. Hudson Taylor, An Autobiography by J. Hudson Taylor; It is Not Death to Die, a new biography of Hudson Taylor by Jim Cromarty; Hudson Taylor Founder, China Inland Mission by Vance Christie; J. Hudson Taylor, A Man in Christ, by Roger Steer, and Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret by Dr.and Mrs. Howard Taylor

Hudson Taylor-Poor C.T. Studd

By Mary Vee

Year: 1885 

Hudson Taylor: age 53

From J. Hudson Taylor's Notes
Cambridge Seven Part 3

Cambridge University Photo Courtesy

C.T. Studd was one of the 'Cambridge Seven'. Young men who willingly gave up any future fame, a life of ease, and wealth, all to serve Jesus in China.

Studd may have known he should go to China from the first second the idea came into him mind, but his family.... Well, that was a different story.

Studd grew up in a huge house. His family had lots of money and gave him the finest clothes, took him to all the big events, cooked the best foods, and made sure their son had all the best.

His mother planned for Studd to marry a girl from a wealthy family, settle down, and start his own family. 

When she received word from her son that he planned to go to China, she didn't think this was the best idea. He could get sick. Who knows what poverty he might have to see? Why he might get dirty or not have what he needs. No. This wouldn't do at all. 

She also couldn't understand why C.T. sold all the things he had once loved and gave the money to China Inland Mission. Unheard of!

As part of C.T.'s preparation for China, he and the other six men training to go as missionaries had to spend time in the poorest parts of England. He saw what people really didn't have. He and his friends were saddened about the runned down buildings, little food, dirty faces. He never knew about them.

He wrote a letter to his mother, telling her he felt ashamed for the way he lived. "I have so many suits and all kinds of clothes, while many people right here in England are starving and are freezing in the cold. I want everything sold. Everything.

His mother didn't want to follow the instructions, but did anyway. She thought, "At least the money would all go to Hudson Taylor." But C.T. said to give the money to the mission for all the missionaries to use.

His mother wrote a letter to the mission. "I am thankful my son has had advice from an older man. At least Hudson Taylor is sure to keep my son dressed appropriately. The way he is acting, who knows what rags he might go about in when he goes to China. This would be terrible."

HIs mother wrote a second letter. This time to Hudson's wife, Jennie. "Dear Jeannie, Please be sure to watch C.T. Talk to him and let him know the importance of taking with him everything that is necessary to be comfortable in China. He seems to want to take very few things, hardly enough to last. And what will he do for cleanliness in the hot weather? He is young and needs proper advice."

Poor C.T. His mother even sent a trunk to China before C.T. left filled with all the items to properly prepare a room for him. Things like curtains, silverware, napkins, and all sorts of other items she felt were necessary. 

Yes, Poor C.T. He loved his mother, but he needed to be a true missionary to China. One who does not have more than the love of God. The rest he needs to depend on God to supply.

Come back next time to see what happens with our Cambridge Seven. 

J. Hudson Taylor

Missionary to China--Inland China!

So Very Blessed by God

Research resources: J. Hudson Taylor, An Autobiography by J. Hudson Taylor; It is Not Death to Die, a new biography of Hudson Taylor by Jim Cromarty; Hudson Taylor Founder, China Inland Mission by Vance Christie; J. Hudson Taylor, A Man in Christ, by Roger Steer, and Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret by Dr.and Mrs. Howard Taylor

Hudson Taylor-God Called the Major-General's Son

By Mary Vee

Year: 1884 

Hudson Taylor: age 52

From J. Hudson Taylor's Notes
The Cambridge Seven Part 2

Cambridge University Photo Courtesy

Major-General Hoste had served with the Royal Artillery. He retired to his home in Brighton. As a godly man, he hoped--with all his heart that all of his children would one day love God as he had.

Over the years all but one of his children, Dixon, chose to love God. 

The major learned one day, that Dwight L. Moody was coming to speak in his home town. He and all of his family, except Dixon, were excited to go.

Dixon's older brother, William, had come home during a school break. William attended Cambridge and had heard Mr. Moody speak at a conference. He went to his brother's bedroom and, like any good big brother, convinced Dixon with a few playful jabs to come along.

Dixon may have gone with the family, but he didn't want to listen. He stood in the back and tried not to pay attention. His family went several nights, praying that Dixon would understand how much God loved him. 

One night, while standing in the back of the Brighten hall, Dixon heard the words in Mr. Moody's message. His heart felt heavy and he understood that all the bad things he did kept him from going to heaven. He bowed his knee and prayed. Giving his life to Jesus. And thankful for the gift from Jesus. The gift to go to heaven. 

"I knew right then," Dixon said, "I wanted to be a part of this work that Moody talked about. I wanted to be a missionary to China and tell them about the God who loves them."

Dixon wrote me right away. He told me about the meeting and his decision to accept God's gift of love. He also said he wanted to go to China and help. I offered to meet with him. His love for God showed on his face. I told him, "This is wonderful news that you are telling me. My advice, though, is to wait. Study God's word and know Him better. When you have done this, come back to see me."

Dixon had changed all right. He gave up smoking and spent time at the mission office helping. One day he went to Benjamin Broomhall's house. Benjamin was in charge of the mission office in England. While at his house, Dixon saw Benjamin's daughter, Gertrude playing the piano. "I'm going to marry her one day," he said to himself."

That September, Gertrude left with seventy other missionaries for China. 

Dixon thought about her every day she was gone. He studied God's word and followed the training program. He couldn't wait to be a missionary in China, not just to be with Gertrude, but much more--he wanted to serve God.

J. Hudson Taylor

Missionary to China--Inland China!

So Very Blessed by God

Research resources: J. Hudson Taylor, An Autobiography by J. Hudson Taylor; It is Not Death to Die, a new biography of Hudson Taylor by Jim Cromarty; Hudson Taylor Founder, China Inland Mission by Vance Christie; J. Hudson Taylor, A Man in Christ, by Roger Steer, and Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret by Dr.and Mrs. Howard Taylor

Hudson Taylor-The Cambridge Seven

By Mary Vee

Year: 1884 

Hudson Taylor: age 52

From J. Hudson Taylor's Notes
Cambridge Seven Part 1

Cambridge University Photo Courtesy

There are times when God wants us to let Him drop wonderful gifts in our laps. Much like the finances that He provided from people we never asked or had even met!

There are other times when God wants us to do our part. We had asked Him for seventy new missionaries to go to China to help with the work.

I met with Mr. Dwight L. Moody had become quite famous as an evangelist. He wanted to help us find the men and women who would be called by God to be missionaries to China.

Moody and a his friend, Sankey received an invitation to speak at Cambridge University for a week of meetings. They arrived on a Sunday and felt maybe they should leave. They didn't dress like proper cultured Englishmen, nor did they act like one. 

The turn out for first meeting surprised the men. One thousand, seven hundred students showed up. The men stepped onto the platform and prepared to speak. The students mocked them and made fun of them.

Sanky sang a few hymns. Sadly, at the end of each verse someone from the crowd shouted 'Encore', which usually is a compliment but not this time. The student said it with a sarcastic voice. Mr. Sanky kept singing what he planned and ignored the rude behavior.

When he finished, Mr. Moody came to the platform to speak. Several students from the crowd interrupted him with mean words, but he kept talking as if he couldn't hear them. At the end of his message Mr. Moody invited anyone who wanted to stay for a time of pray to come forward. Four hundred students stayed to pray while the others left.

God had blessed this meeting way more than Mr. Moody realized. Among the four hundred students who stayed to pray were seven men who God would use to do great things.

While many students came to cause problems at this meeting, God used the meeting for His good. Next week I will tell you about some of the men. You may have heard of them.

J. Hudson Taylor

Missionary to China--Inland China!

So Very Blessed by God

Research resources: J. Hudson Taylor, An Autobiography by J. Hudson Taylor; It is Not Death to Die, a new biography of Hudson Taylor by Jim Cromarty; Hudson Taylor Founder, China Inland Mission by Vance Christie; J. Hudson Taylor, A Man in Christ, by Roger Steer, and Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret by Dr.and Mrs. Howard Taylor

Hudson Taylor-God Gave More than We Asked

By Mary Vee

Year: April 1883 

Hudson Taylor: age 51

From J. Hudson Taylor's Notes

Photo Courtesy

I arrived back in England a short time ago and was happy to see my wife Jennie again. She had returned to England quite a while before I did to take care of family problems. I missed her very much.

After settling in, I went over to our China Inland Mission office to see how things were going. The poor man I'd left in charge had grown exhausted. Piles of paperwork laid all over the office. Phone called to be made. It would take several people to get all the work done.

The Lord had given us this missionary work, now we needed more people to get the job done. Before I left China I had prayed with each missionary in every province, asking God to send more workers. We chose to ask for seventy new missionaries. The same number as what Jesus sent out.

From the looks of the office, we will need more workers here too. The office staff joined me in asking God for more people. 

While we worked on cleaning up the office in England, France and China went to war. The people of England listened to us ask for more workers, but they felt missionaries should not go to China, they could, after all get killed. 

But the strangest thing happened. Suddenly, many godly men and women signed up to become missionaries. They learned their training in a short time and requested to go to China right away. Even with the war going on! 

Another strange thing happened. The people of England became excited to hear about the missionaries and their adventures in China. They began to give money to support the work. In no time at all, the mission had paid all the debts. 

Men like Spurgeon, Moody, C.T. Studd, and George Mullerhad joined our efforts to encourage missionaries to go tell the people of China about the God who loves them.

I had come back to England exhausted and sick. This news, though, has been the best medicine God could have given me!

J. Hudson Taylor

Missionary to China--Inland China!

So Very Blessed by God

Research resources: J. Hudson Taylor, An Autobiography by J. Hudson Taylor; It is Not Death to Die, a new biography of Hudson Taylor by Jim Cromarty; Hudson Taylor Founder, China Inland Mission by Vance Christie; J. Hudson Taylor, A Man in Christ, by Roger Steer, and Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret by Dr.and Mrs. Howard Taylor

Hudson Taylor-God Will Always Give What We Need

By Mary Vee

Year: April 1882-1883 

Hudson Taylor: age 51

From J. Hudson Taylor's Notes

Photo Courtesy

I understand men and women in England don't think of the ministry here in China on a regular basis. We all think of the place we're in are most.

As a result there are times when we here in China receive many funds to support the work and times we receive very little.

This may seem odd to you, but during the time I lived, we didn't have cell phones or computers. The only way to get mail that carried news or money was by ship. And a ship took three months to get from England to China.

So when we had barely enough money to buy food, and prayed for help, we were asking God for something that had to happen months ago. The great thing about our God, is He can handle dealing with things ahead. He knew we would be in need right now. He knew we would pray and ask for help. And He knew that months ago. So He would have put in someone's heart to send money before we even asked!

God doesn't always answer our prayers the way we imagine. He likes to make us laugh and surprise us with special gifts. 

One day a missionary friend, Mr. Parrott and I were walking in a field. We talked and prayed to God about the need for more missionaries and funds to keep the work here in China going. As we walked, Mr. Parrott's foot hit something in the grass. He bent down and picked up a bag of coins.

"See! See what I found!!" He tossed the bag from one hand to the other. "If we have come to the hills to ask God for help, He is able to give us all the money we need."

I really needed that encouragement. In truth, I've been so tired lately. My sweet wife, Jennie, went back to England to take care of some things. I never fully recovered from dysentery. I am lonely. I'm not the young man here in China I once was. And although I understand the importance of being here, I think others need to take over. I'd like to go home.***

I am ready to go back to England.

J. Hudson Taylor

Missionary to China--Inland China!

So Very Blessed by God

Research resources: J. Hudson Taylor, An Autobiography by J. Hudson Taylor; It is Not Death to Die, a new biography of Hudson Taylor by Jim Cromarty; Hudson Taylor Founder, China Inland Mission by Vance Christie; J. Hudson Taylor, A Man in Christ, by Roger Steer, and Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret by Dr.and Mrs. Howard Taylor


***Author's note: This story reminded me of the the prophet Elijah who gave his life working and doing God's will. When he grew older he became tired. He was afraid of Jezebel and ran away to hide. There, God sent an angel to give him food and drink. Elijah rested. I think Hudson Taylor is going through the same thing, don't you?

Hudson Taylor-The Blind Man Who Walked Fifty Miles To Get Help

By Mary Vee

Year: April 1882-1883 

Hudson Taylor: age 51

From J. Hudson Taylor's Notes

Photo Courtesy

In the mountain villages, the Chinese people do not have access to medicine or doctors. The few missionary doctors who come to China experience so many blessings they fill journals with the stories. But these doctors simply couldn't do all the work. Those that are here pray-how they pray all day for medical students to come.

Some of their friends from medical school wrote back saying going to China was a crazy idea. They felt they should be missionaries in their homeland first.

Dr. Schofield and other missionaries in China continued to pray for God to send help. Here are a few wonderful reasons why:

One day a poor man heard of the miraculous work done by the doctor in the village fifty miles away. The fifty-five year old, practically blind man begged for help to find his way along the road until at last he arrived at the hospital.

Dr. Shoefield smiled. He knew how to help this man. Using chloroform to make the man sleep during surgery, Dr. Shoefield removed cataracts from both eyes. The recovery took a while, but when the bandages were removed, the man could hardly speak. His lips widened into a smile and he said, "I can see." He walked the fifty miles back home, without any help.

During the time the man had medical care, Dr. Shoefield and the nurses told him about Jesus. He also went to the streets where the people gathered and told them about Jesus. As each day went by the people grew to trust him and listened to his words about a loving God who truly cared about them.

There was also a Chinese woman who lost her job because she became blind. She didn't know what to do and was so unhappy she jumped into the river hoping to drown. When that didn't work, she jumped into a well. A friend brought the woman to Dr. Shoefield.  He was able to operate on her eyes and restore her sight. After her eyes healed, the woman told him she could see. She was so happy, not only that she could see, but also to learn about the God who loved her. She wanted to stay and work for Dr. Shoefield. He hired her to sew, do some housework, and most important, help with the female patients.

Dr. Shoefield became sick with typhoid fever. He had been a missionary for three years. He became very sick. Before he died he said, "These three years in China have been by far the happiest of my life."

Twenty years later our mission had fourteen doctors working in seven hospitals and clinics.
Thank you, Jesus, for sending help.

J. Hudson Taylor

Missionary to China--Inland China!

So Very Blessed by God

Research resources: J. Hudson Taylor, An Autobiography by J. Hudson Taylor; It is Not Death to Die, a new biography of Hudson Taylor by Jim Cromarty; Hudson Taylor Founder, China Inland Mission by Vance Christie; J. Hudson Taylor, A Man in Christ, by Roger Steer, and Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret by Dr.and Mrs. Howard Taylor

Hudson Taylor-How One Smile Changed a City

By Mary Vee

Year: April 1882 

Hudson Taylor: age 50

From J. Hudson Taylor's Notes

Photo Courtesy

Fanny Clarke and her husband George had been missionaries in Dali, China for two years. They lived the farthest away of any of our missionaries. God certainly has given them a heart to work so far away from people they knew.

Some of the women had welcomed Fanny and listened to stories she told from the Bible. But, they didn't seem to understand how this God she spoke of could love them.

The women in the town constantly faced trouble. Many had been sold by their fathers to become slaves. 

Fanny tried to keep her husband and herself healthy to be able to continue their work. She taught the cook how to clean and prepare foods safely. Diseases like dysentery and typhoid seemed common in these small cities so far from a doctor.

The greatest need in China, right now, is for missionary doctors. 

We asked God to send willing women to go to the western areas of China and share the good news of God's love for them, and He has. These brave women have gone into the mountains and villages - to places where no other woman with white skin has gone. 

In the Chinese culture, male missionaries could not speak with the native women. The Chinese men in these rural areas had the power to prevent their wives and daughters from listening. So, we prayed for women missionaries to come to China and go with the men deep in the western areas of China.

God has blessed. Now the greatest need is for medical help. If the wife of a missionary gives birth to a baby and gets sick right away, or has problems with the birth, there may not be a doctor close enough to help her. Some missionaries lived more than a six day journey from the nearest doctor.

When Fanny gave birth to her little son in August, she became very sick. For six weeks she didn't get any better. She couldn't eat and was always thirsty. 

George tried everything he could to help her get well but nothing worked. Fanny kept getting sicker. In October, two months later, she and George both knew she would not live much longer. 

He told her what a faithful missionary she had been and how much she had helped him do his work. "Please don't flatter me," she said. "I am the least of all Christians. I feel I have done less than any woman in the Mission."

The little progress they had made may have seemed not important to her, but it was very important to God and to the women in the city. As she lay in her bed, ready to for Jesus to take her in her arms, she smiled and told a group of Chinese women who stood by her bedside, "I am happy. I get to go be with Jesus. He loves me so very much. He loves you, too. God's love is kind and gentle. He will not harm you or sell you into slavery. God will stand by you like a good father and protect you. Please, put your trust in Jesus."

The women told their friends. More women crowded into the small room to hear the words of Fanny and to see the smile on her face. They could not understand why she looked happy. They had never felt this way. 

Tears tumbled down the cheeks of the women standing around Fanny's sick bed. 

Late that night, Fanny turned to the Chinese nurse and said, "Take care of my little son."

Hundreds of women from the city came to see Fanny after she went to be with Jesus. They wanted to see her quiet, peaceful face. Never before had they seen a woman with such calm. Fanny looked like she was in a happy sleep. 

With all the terrible wickedness in the city, the women wondered how Fanny's face could look so content. Those who had heard Fanny's last words told women who hadn't heard her speak. Somehow, this missionary had taken away the pain of death and showed God's loving victory with the peaceful look on her face.

While George's heart hurt from missing Fanny, he saw what her words did for the women in Dali. 

Please pray for him as he continues the missionary work with his son.

J. Hudson Taylor

Missionary to China--Inland China!

So Very Blessed by God

Research resources: J. Hudson Taylor, An Autobiography by J. Hudson Taylor; It is Not Death to Die, a new biography of Hudson Taylor by Jim Cromarty; Hudson Taylor Founder, China Inland Mission by Vance Christie; J. Hudson Taylor, A Man in Christ, by Roger Steer, and Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret by Dr.and Mrs. Howard Taylor

Hudson Taylor-The Bible Stories Made a Difference

By Mary Vee

Year: April 1880 

Hudson Taylor: age 48

From J. Hudson Taylor's Notes

Photo Courtesy

Mary Nicoll wrote me, telling the most amazing news.

Mary's days are long, her schedule busy. In the heat of the Chinese climate Mary sometimes fainted while telling groups of women about Jesus.

The women had come to love her gentle spirit and the Bible stories and wanted to help. Mary wrote me about one special older lady:

"One morning after I finished cleaning up our breakfast and prepared for my busy day, some men came to the door. They bowed and pointed to a chair. 'We have been asked to bring you to our master's house.'

"I recognized the chair and knew it came from a wealthy kind, older woman who lived in the city and had listened to many of the Bible stories.

"I accepted the gift, climbed into the chair, and closed the curtains around me to not be seen, as is the custom for women in China. The men lifted the chair and carried me to the older woman's house.

"I stepped down from the chair and followed the servants into the large home. The woman greeted me right away, 'Hello, Mary. Today you will have a different schedule."

"She didn't give me a chance to say no. In the Chinese culture I would have been impolite, and even insulting the sweet woman if I had said no thank you.

"I was shown to a room where there was a sofa. The woman sent all her servants away and pulled a chair close to me. 'Now, you will lay down and rest. You must have your health, you know.'

"Her tender and sweet voice touched my heart and eased the business away. She brought out her fan and swung it back and forth over my head, taking away the heat. I would never expect a wealthy woman to do this. 

"When I awoke, the woman brought a tray of food she had prepared while I slept. She sat with me and we ate together. What a wonderful conversation we had talking about families and our Savior.

"After the meal, the woman called for her servants to take me back to the mission. I felt so refreshed and rested, ready to do a full days work in the time left.

"This sweet woman gave me this gift more than once. There were even days when she sent a hot breakfast for George and I to eat, incase our cook didn't have time to make one for us.

"Our home came to be a place where people loved to visit, listen to the Bible stories and talk. I loved this job that God gave me. In this whole province of twenty million people, I was the only foreign woman. Praise God they accepted me."


This ended her letter. Being accepted is very important for missionaries. How else will they have a chance to tell people about the God who loves them? God knew Mary Nicoll had the right personality to do this work, so He gave her the desire to go. Now many Chinese women have found not only a female friend they can trust, but Jesus Christ who is their Savior.
I am very thankful God sent Mary Nicoll to be a missionary here in China.

J. Hudson Taylor

Missionary to China--Inland China!

So Very Blessed by God

Research resources: J. Hudson Taylor, An Autobiography by J. Hudson Taylor; It is Not Death to Die, a new biography of Hudson Taylor by Jim Cromarty; Hudson Taylor Founder, China Inland Mission by Vance Christie; J. Hudson Taylor, A Man in Christ, by Roger Steer, and Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret by Dr.and Mrs. Howard Taylor