Hudson Taylor

Date of Birth: 21 May 1832

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: 3 June 1905

Biography

James Hudson Taylor, commonly known as Hudson Taylor, was a British Protestant Christian missionary to China and the founder of the China Inland Mission (CIM) (now OMF International). Born into a devout Christian family, Taylor committed his life to the service of God at a young age. He ventured to China in 1853, inspired by his deep sense of calling to spread Christianity in the Far East. Over his lifetime, Taylor’s mission work profoundly affected Christian missionary approaches, emphasizing cultural sensitivity and the need for missionaries to immerse themselves in the local culture and language. Despite numerous challenges, including illness, financial struggles, and political instability, Taylor’s unwavering faith and dedication led to the establishment of numerous churches, schools, and clinics throughout China. His legacy continues to inspire modern Christian missions and his writings remain influential in evangelical circles.

5 Interesting Facts about Hudson Taylor

1. Hudson Taylor pioneered the practice of dressing in native Chinese clothing as part of his effort to assimilate into the culture and gain the trust of the local people.

2. By the time of his death, Hudson Taylor’s China Inland Mission had more than 800 missionaries and was responsible for bringing over 18,000 Chinese people to Christianity.

3. He was a strong advocate for the role of women in missionary work, and his organization employed many single women missionaries, which was quite progressive for the time.

4. Taylor endured severe health issues, including multiple bouts of malaria, which he contracted while serving in China.

5. He is often quoted for his belief in faith-based financial support and refused to solicit funds directly, believing that God would provide for their needs.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hudson Taylor

1. “God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply.”

2. “The Great Commission is not an option to be considered; it is a command to be obeyed.”

3. “Christ is either Lord of all, or He is not Lord at all.”

4. “Do not have your concert first and then tune your instrument afterward. Begin the day with the Word of God and prayer, and get first of all into harmony with Him.”

5. “I used to ask God to help me. Then I asked if I might help Him. I ended up asking Him to do His work through me.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Hudson Taylor did not accumulate personal wealth and lived a life of relative poverty dedicated to missionary work. Therefore, he did not achieve a high net worth in monetary terms.

Children

Hudson Taylor and his wife, Maria Jane Taylor (née Dyer), had eight children together, though only four survived to adulthood. Their children continued to be involved in missionary work and upheld their parents’ legacy of service in China.