THE GAUNTLET OF FAITH
Robert Morrison: Missionary to China
The true test of character is the ability to persevere under pressure. Some might even claim that character is molded through the trials of life. Does an individual have the ability to stick to their moral compass and press through to their divine calling? This is the question that avails itself to people every day. Setbacks, failures, lack of judgment, and outright unethical decisions can derail an individual’s life and the legacy they leave. The true measurement of an individual’s life can be found in their dedication and commitment to their God-ordained purpose. This will encompass of life of dependency on God and a faithful desire to live out His principles and follow His commandments.
Robert Morrison endured the challenges of faith with unwavering determination. His steadfast commitment to his mission was fueled by a deep sense of God’s presence and calling in his life. Morrison truly exemplified his trust in God by walking “The Gauntlet of Faith.” For twenty-seven years, Morrison dedicated himself to serving in China, only returning to England once during that time. His primary focus was on distributing literature among the merchant class and laying the groundwork for discipleship in the most populous nation on earth.
Approaching his monumental task with faith in God and reliance on the Holy Spirit, Morrison faced skepticism and discouragement from many. Despite the obstacles, he maintained his resolve, believing that God would work through him to impact the Chinese people spiritually.
Morrison’s journey to bring the Gospel to China was fraught with challenges. From the moment he arrived in Macao in 1807, he encountered loneliness and health issues. His goal was to establish a missionary base in Canton, but he faced resistance due to Chinese laws restricting foreign influence and religious practices. Undeterred, Morrison persevered and became the first Protestant missionary in China.
Denied entry into Canton, Morrison was forced to live outside the city walls among merchants and vendors. Despite the dangers he faced, he continued his mission with unwavering faith. Through his relentless efforts, Morrison laid the foundation for future missionary work in China, leaving a lasting impact on the nation’s spiritual landscape. Robert Morrison lived in seclusion to avoid arrest, facing financial losses due to dishonest merchants. Despite the stress and physical ailments caused by his circumstances, he persevered with extreme resolve. Morrison dedicated himself to compiling a Chinese dictionary and translating the Bible into Mandarin, all while actively praying for God’s guidance in his mission to make disciples for Christ.
Born in Buller’s Green, Morpeth, Northumberland, England, Morrison’s humble upbringing and basic education led him to work as a shoemaker apprentice with his father. After a profound encounter with God following his mother’s death, Morrison joined the Presbyterian Church and developed a strong theological foundation. He then pursued missionary work, enrolling in the Hoxton Academy and the Missionary Academy in Gosport, Hampshire. Morrison’s commitment to his calling led him to study astronomy, medicine, and the Chinese language in London, preparing him to reach the millions of Chinese who had not yet heard the Gospel. In 1809, Morrison married Mary Morton in Macao, marking the beginning of God’s favor in his life. Appointed as a translator, Morrison’s dedication to his mission and his unwavering faith in God propelled him forward in his quest to spread the message of Jesus Christ to the Chinese people.
Robert Morrison held a prestigious position with the East India Company, which allowed him to legally reside in China. Despite facing challenges, Morrison achieved success during his time there. He encountered difficulties with the Chinese government due to their reluctance to engage with foreigners, but he remained dedicated to his mission. Financially supported by the EIC, Morrison took on various responsibilities to fulfill his duties, all while remaining focused on his goals of spreading Christianity and completing his literary works. His commitment to his work came at a cost, as he endured sleepless nights and neglected his family in pursuit of his goals. Despite facing opposition from Chinese officials, Morrison persevered and completed a Chinese translation of the New Testament. His dedication and perseverance ultimately led to further success in his mission work.
Robert Morrison passed away on August 1, 1834, leaving behind a lasting impact on the missionary community. While some may question the impact of his early years, during which he only converted one individual to Christianity, Morrison’s legacy is evident in his twenty-seven years of ministry in China. He authored a three-volume Chinese dictionary, a grammar guide, a Bible translation, and numerous articles in missionary journals, all aimed at advancing the gospel in China. Additionally, he played a key role in establishing the Anglo-Chinese College in Malacca and facilitating the work of many missionaries in China. Robert Morrison’s contributions to missionary work in China continue to be felt to this day.
Rich Binning is a researcher, investigator, and freelance writer based in Southeast Asia. He supports missionaries in spreading the message of Jesus Christ and works towards ending child trafficking and sexual exploitation. Rich is well-educated in Biblical Studies, Historical Studies, and Political Science, which equips him to comprehend the intricacies of cross-cultural missions and anti-trafficking efforts. He applies his research and investigative skills to offer effective solutions to complex issues.
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