Christian Beacons
Watchman Nee was born Ni Shu-tsu in Swatow, China, November 4, 1903. He was strong in spirit, but weak in body, often suffering from various ills. He almost died from tuberculosis.
After committing his life to Christ, he changed his name to Ni To-sheng--that is, Watchman Nee. During the 1920's Nee was based in Foochow and preached the gospel to surrounding villages. He started many house churches and conducted meetings both in homes and larger assembly halls. He also trained local leaders to carry on the work. He was a key figure in the spreading of authentic, Spirit-directed Christianity in China. His theology had a very original, yet always scriptural, perspective.
During the 1930's, now based in Shanghai, Nee travelled widely, focusing on Church planting. He also wrote extensively, producing such classics as The Spiritual Man, and The Normal Christian Life. His energy, loving spirit, and enthusiasm for the Lord's work was both admirable and commendable.
In 1949 Mao took power and China became a communist country. Openly practicing Christianity became more and more difficult. In January of 1956 Nee was brought up on false charges and sentenced to 20 years in prison. He was released in 1972, but died a few days later. Thankfully in our time his writings have been translated into English, for there is much that we can learn from this remarkable Christian leader and teacher.
Watchman Nee
Sufferer for China
by Bob Laurent
series Heroes of the Faith
For challenge and encouragement in your Christian life, read the life stories of the Heroes of the Faith. The novelized biographies of this series are inspiring and easy-to-read, ideal for Christians of any age or background. In Watchman Nee, you’ll get to know the twentieth-century Chinese spiritual leader who spent almost a third of his life imprisoned by the Communists for his service to Jesus Christ. Appropriate for readers from junior high through adult, helpful for believers of any background, these biographies encourage greater Christian commitment through the example of heroes like Watchman Nee.
Christians who were outstanding in their walk with the Lord. They considered the bible as God's Word, and the pursuit of truth as paramount. Many suffered for their faith at the hands of evil governments and corrupt churches. They provide good examples for those who wish to be genuine disciples of Jesus. This list is by no means exhaustive and will be augmented as time allows.