A Buddhist Boy Faces Death
In the heart of Seoul, South Korea, the life of David Yonggi Cho stands as a powerful testament to the transformative power of faith and prayer. Born into a Buddhist family on February 14, 1936, Cho faced significant challenges early in life. His family's business collapse forced him to pursue a technical education, but a more pressing crisis unfolded when he was diagnosed with terminal tuberculosis at the age of 17.
The Girl Who Brought Hope
During this time of despair, a young Christian girl visited him regularly, sharing the message of Jesus Christ. Cho was deeply moved by her compassion and the hope she offered. This led him to embrace Christianity, and he experienced what he described as a miraculous healing. As Cho recounted, "When I was a young man lying on a bed of sickness... I discovered the secret of life: the prayer of faith in the name of Jesus... heaven opened, and I felt the healing touch of Christ flow through me."
Building the World's Largest Church
Feeling called to ministry, Cho became an interpreter for American evangelist Ken Tize before enrolling in the Full Gospel Bible College in Seoul, graduating in 1958. That same year, on May 18, Cho and his future mother-in-law, Choi Ja-shil, began what would become the Yoido Full Gospel Church in Choi's living room, starting with just five members. Their early ministry was marked by a commitment to reaching out to the community, offering both spiritual guidance and practical assistance. As the church grew, it moved to larger venues, eventually becoming the world's largest congregation. By 1993, it was recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records with 700,000 members, a number that continued to rise.
A Global Legacy of Faith
Cho's teachings emphasized the "Fivefold Gospel" and "Triple Blessing," focusing on spiritual renewal, the Holy Spirit, divine healing, and holistic prosperity. His innovative use of cell groups fostered community and discipleship, and his influence extended beyond Korea, impacting churches worldwide. Despite facing legal challenges in the 2010s, including a conviction related to financial misconduct, Cho remained a respected figure. He expressed learning through these struggles, acknowledging the importance of humility and stewardship. Yonggi Cho's legacy is one of unwavering faith and dedication to service, with his life's work continuing to inspire believers globally. His story is a vivid illustration of Jesus' power to heal, save, and transform lives.
