Some New Heroes

One of the great things about preaching every week is certainly that I study and understand God's word more clearly. But beyond that, every now and then I become acquainted with new heroes. This week I had just such a privilege.

Let me introduce three people for whom I have gained greater respect:

ADONIRAM JUDSON -- He was the first missionary from North America. Here is how he asked his wife's father for permission to marry her: I have now to ask, whether you can consent to part with your daughter early next spring, to see her no more in this world; whether you can consent to her departure, and her subjection to the hardships and sufferings of missionary life; whether you can consent to her exposure to the dangers of the ocean, to the fatal influence of the southern climate of India; to every kind of want and distress; to degradation, insult, persecution, and perhaps a violent death. Can you consent to all this, for the sake of him who left his heavenly home, and died for her and for you; for the sake of perishing, immortal souls; for the sake of Zion, and the glory of God? Can you consent to all this, in hope of soon meeting your daughter in the world of glory, with the crown of righteousness, brightened with theacclamations of praise which shall redound to her Savior from heathens saved, through her means, from eternal woe and despair?

I think I was too tame when I had the same conversation with Leroy!

J. CAMPBELL WHITE -- He was the first secretary of the Laymen's Missionary Movement in 1909. He wrote: Most men are not satisfied with the permanent output of their lives. Nothing can wholly satisfy the life of Christ within his followers except the adoption of Christ’s purpose toward the world he came to redeem. Fame, pleasure and riches are but husks and ashes in contrast with the boundless and abiding joy of working with God for the fulfillment of his eternal plans. The men who are putting everything into Christ’s undertaking are getting out of life its sweetest and most priceless rewards.

You can read more about The Laymen's Missionary Movement in Perspectives on the World Christian Movement.

C.T. STUDD -- He was a cricket player turned missionary to China, India, and Africa. Here is a small sample of his view on life:

Some wish to live within the sound Of Church or Chapel Bell.I want to run a rescue shop within a yard of Hell.

If Jesus Christ be God and died for me, then no sacrifice can be too great for me to make for Him.

If God who sits in the heavens can laugh, His children on earth should be loyal enough to do exactly as their Father does.