Hudson Taylor's Conversion Through Scripture Reading
Born on May 21, 1832, in Barnsley, Yorkshire, England, Hudson Taylor's early years were marked by doubt despite his Methodist upbringing. At fifteen, influenced by colleagues at a bank, he began questioning his faith, feeling as though he might as well 'take his fill of this world'. However, a turning point came at age 17, in June 1849, when he picked up a Gospel tract. As he read, the phrase 'the finished work of Christ' resonated deeply with him, and he realized that Jesus had already accomplished all that was needed for his salvation. This moment of revelation was accompanied by the fervent prayers of his mother and sister, who had been interceding for his conversion. Hudson later recounted, 'And with this dawned the joyful conviction, as light was flashed into my soul by the Holy Spirit, that there was nothing in the world to be done but to fall down on my knees, and accepting this Savior and His salvation, to praise Him evermore.'
Missionary Calling to China
Following his conversion, Taylor felt a divine calling to China. He prepared diligently, studying Chinese, medicine, and theology, and adopting a simple lifestyle to ready himself for missionary work. He famously declared, 'I do not think I shall die, for unless I am much mistaken I have work to do in China.' In 1853, he set sail for China, immersing himself in its culture and eventually founding the China Inland Mission (CIM) in 1865, dedicated to spreading the Gospel across the nation.
Faith Through Trials and Doubt
Taylor's faith was tested through financial and health challenges, yet he remained steadfast, famously stating, 'God's work done in God's way will never lack God's supply.' A spiritual crisis in 1869 led to a profound realization of his unity with Jesus, inspired by a letter from fellow missionary John McCarthy. This understanding brought him peace and strength, embracing his own weaknesses as opportunities for God to work through him.
Legacy of Faithful Service
Throughout his life, Hudson Taylor's unwavering commitment to Jesus and his mission left an indelible mark on global Christianity, inspiring countless others to trust in God's provision and embrace their calling.
