Subject
Missions -- China Books
Best books
Arthur Judson Brown
New Forces in Old China: An Inevitable Awakening
"New Forces in Old China: An Inevitable Awakening" by Arthur Judson Brown is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the significant changes underway in China as it becomes influenced by Western trade, politics, and religion, highlighting how these forces are awakening a nation steeped in conservatism and tradition. The author aims to illustrate the monumental transformations occurring in China and their implications for both the country and the wider world. At the start of the book, Brown outlines his intentions for the work, stemming from his experiences and observations during his travels in Asia. He expresses a keen interest in China's vastness and complexity, emphasizing the rich historical context of the region. The opening chapters provide a sweeping overview of China's ancient civilization, its historical ties to various great powers, and the evolving dynamics brought on by foreign influence. Brown sets the stage for a detailed examination of the immense population, economic conditions, and societal changes that characterize China on the cusp of modernity. Through this exploration, he seeks to prompt readers to consider not only the challenges facing China but also the opportunities for transformation that lie ahead.
Rosalind Goforth
Chinese Diamonds for the King of Kings
"Chinese Diamonds for the King of Kings" by Rosalind Goforth is a religious narrative written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the author's experiences as a missionary in China, sharing stories of conversion and transformation among individuals and communities confronted by Christianity. The content likely focuses on the human experiences and miraculous changes associated with faith, particularly as they relate to the relationships between missionaries and the Chinese people. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to the setting of a quiet Chinese village where the elderly Mrs. Dwan struggles against the oppressive heat. The opening sketch reveals her interactions with a distraught father wheeling his sick child to a foreign hospital, igniting her apprehensions and prejudices against the missionaries she has heard so much about. The sketch serves to highlight the dramatic cultural clashes, misconceptions, and eventual conversions that the narrative will explore, as shown through the characters’ journeys toward understanding faith and redemption in their lives. The author aims to invite readers into these poignant stories, illustrating the power of faith amid trials and societal challenges.
William Gascoyne-Cecil
Changing China
"Changing China" by the Rev. Lord William Gascoyne-Cecil, assisted by Lady Florence Cecil, is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work explores the dramatic transformations occurring in China during a pivotal time of political and social upheaval. The authors, motivated by their missionary experiences, aim to highlight the need for Western education and the influence of Christianity on the evolving Chinese society. At the start of the book, the authors share their motivation for writing following significant experiences in China, including their involvement with the China Emergency Committee and a tour of the country. They illustrate a dramatic shift from China’s historical conservatism to a burgeoning spirit of progress marked by Western influences and national movements. They emphasize the dual forces that awakened this change: the rising demand for education inspired by China’s recent humiliations, and the role of Christianity in shaping modern Chinese thought. Through engaging anecdotes and observations, they set the stage for a deeper exploration of how these transformations might impact both China and the wider world.
Mabel Williamson
Have We No Rights? A frank discussion of the "rights" of missionaries
"Have We No Rights?" by Mabel Williamson is a reflective discourse written in the mid-20th century. This text delves into the complexities surrounding the concept of rights as experienced by missionaries, particularly in their interactions with different cultures and the sacrifices they make in the name of their vocation. The book examines issues such as personal autonomy, living standards, and the emotional toll of relinquishing one's rights to fulfill a spiritual calling. The opening of the book introduces a contemplative discussion about rights through the voices of Williamson's characters, particularly a mother reflecting on the changing nature of ownership over one's children as they grow. This is juxtaposed with the experiences of missionaries who grapple with what it means to give up personal freedoms in the service of their faith. Williamson recounts a poignant conversation among missionaries in China, highlighting the distinction between enduring hardship and sacrificing one's rights. These initial chapters set the stage for a deeper exploration of the sacrifices required from missionaries, framing the narrative in a personal and relatable way as it invites the reader to consider their own understanding of rights in various contexts.
James Hudson Taylor
A Retrospect
"A Retrospect" by James Hudson Taylor is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book chronicles the personal experiences and reflections of Hudson Taylor, a prominent Christian missionary, as he recounts his early life, conversion, and the establishment of the China Inland Mission. The text serves to highlight the significance of prayer, faith, and reliance on divine providence in missionary work, making it an inspiring read for those interested in missionary history or spiritual biographies. The opening of the book sets the stage by detailing Taylor's upbringing, his struggles with faith, and the pivotal moments that led him to dedicate his life to serving as a missionary in China. He shares vivid anecdotes demonstrating the power of prayer and the influence of his parents’ faith in shaping his own spiritual journey. Taylor reflects on the challenges he faced, including illness and financial hardship, but emphasizes the role of divine intervention in overcoming these obstacles. The narrative invites readers to understand the intensive spiritualPreparation for service and the profound impact of faith on his mission work.
John Gerardus Fagg
Forty Years in South China: The Life of Rev. John Van Nest Talmage, D.D.
"Forty Years in South China: The Life of Rev. John Van Nest Talmage, D.D." by Rev. John Gerardus Fagg is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book chronicles the life and missionary work of John Van Nest Talmage, who dedicated more than four decades of his life to evangelizing and serving the people of South China, particularly in the region of Amoy. It is a tribute to his extraordinary commitment, contributions, and the challenges he faced in a foreign land, reflecting his deep faith and resolve to spread Christianity in a culturally rich but spiritually needy area. The opening of the memoir sets the stage by providing context into Talmage’s background, as well as insight into the author’s relationship with him. It features an emotionally charged introduction by Rev. T. De Witt Talmage that captures the reverence and admiration for John Talmage's life work and the impact he made on both his community in China and on the mission field as a whole. The text hints at the hardships and moral dilemmas faced by missionaries in China, including cultural differences and the practices of ancestral worship and infanticide encountered there. It also expresses a strong sense of purpose and faith in the ultimate success of their mission efforts, setting the tone for the detailed exploration of Talmage’s experiences that follows.
John Van Nest Talmage
History and Ecclesiastical Relations of the Churches of the Presbyterial Order at Amoy, China
"History and Ecclesiastical Relations of the Churches of the Presbyterial Order" by Rev. J.V.N. Talmage is a historical account published in the mid-19th century. The work focuses on the Protestant missionary efforts and the development of churches in Amoy, China, particularly under the guidance of the Reformed Dutch Church. It discusses the ecclesiastical organization and the relationships among various Presbyterian denominations in the context of missionary activities. At the start of the work, Talmage outlines his motivations for writing, emphasizing the importance of ecclesiastical organization in mission fields and addressing misconceptions about the missionary methods in Amoy. He reflects on the arrival of the first Protestant missionaries in 1842 and chronicles the collaborative efforts of different missions, particularly those belonging to the American Reformed Dutch Church and the English Presbyterian Church. Talmage expresses concerns over how the organization of these churches is perceived at home and discusses the need for an accurate representation of their efforts to promote unity and proper governance aligned with Presbyterian polity, stressing the significance of adapting ecclesiastical principles to the unique challenges faced in a diverse and evolving mission field.
Anna Magdalena Johannsen
Everlasting Pearl: One of China's Women
"Everlasting Pearl: One of China's Women" by Anna Magdalena Johannsen is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The narrative captures the life of Ch'ang-Chu, affectionately known as Everlasting Pearl, detailing her journey from a traditional upbringing in a Chinese farming family to her transformation through Christian faith. The book provides a profound insight into the challenges she faced, including societal expectations, personal suffering, and eventual conversion, which shapes her destiny. The opening of the story begins with Everlasting Pearl’s birth and infancy in Central China, quickly drawing readers into the cultural norms surrounding family life and the significance placed on male heirs. The narrative unfolds her childhood experiences, including the painful tradition of footbinding and her loving relationship with her family. As she grows, the expectation to conform to societal norms grows heavier, yet her innate kindness and resilience shine through. The preface sets the stage for her eventual conversion to Christianity and the struggles that accompany such a life-altering decision, hinting at the spiritual journey that will unfold as she navigates the complexities of faith amidst a backdrop of traditional Chinese customs.
Wilhelmiina Arpiainen
Muistelmia Kiinasta
"Muistelmia Kiinasta" by Wilhelmiina Arpiainen is a collection of memoirs written in the early 20th century. The book recounts the author's experiences as a missionary in China, detailing her observations and interactions with the local culture, people, and challenges encountered during her service. The narrative explores themes of adaptation, faith, and the contrast between Western and Chinese customs. The opening of "Muistelmia Kiinasta" introduces the author's first days in China. Filled with a sense of awe and trepidation, she describes her arrival at the Chinese coast and the unique feelings of being in an unfamiliar land. As she navigates her initial experiences, she reflects on the emotional weight of missionary work, from the encouraging words of her mission leader to the practical challenges of fitting into Chinese society, such as donning traditional clothing. The author captures the bewildering beauty of her surroundings and the warmth of her new community while grappling with her purpose and the cultural transformations she faces.
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