China: The Reluctant Exodus

Description

The five years that followed World War II were the most significant in the history of modern missions. They saw the door close on nearly one-quarter of the world’s population as China, the world’s largest mission field, came under communist domination. Now the largest mission in the world, the China Inland Mission, realized that open Christian witness in China had become impossible. But did the decision come too late? This book tells the inspiring story of their exodus from China.

ISBN 9780875085418

About the author

Frank L. Houghton

Frank (1894–1972) served for many years with the China Inland Mission (now OMF International). He worked as an editorial secretary, was later consecrated Bishop of East Szechwan in 1937 and then served as general director of the mission from 1940 to 1951. His leadership proved to strengthen the CIM staff when, in 1934, missionaries John and Betty Stam were captured and martyred. Although a dangerous time for foreigners in China, Houghton toured the country to visit missionary outposts. As he traveled, the powerful words of Second Corinthians 8:9, “Though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor,” brought him comfort, and he was inspired to write the beautiful Christmas hymn, Thou Who Wast Rich beyond All Splendour, for which he is remembered.