This week in Christian history: John Sung dies, Evangelical Alliance formed, Diet of Odense

John Sung dies – Aug. 18, 1944

This week marks the anniversary of when John Sung, an influential Chinese missionary and Methodist preacher, died due to complications from anal fistulas, weeks before his 43rd birthday.

Born in Hong Chek Village of Putian, Fujian Province and the son of a Methodist pastor, Sung would grow up to become a traveling evangelist, even preaching in China during the Japanese invasion.

Sung was known for holding lengthy Bible conferences and living ascetically, while also garnering controversy for sometimes being confrontational toward other missionaries.

“Though not without faults, John Sung brought hope and the knowledge of God’s power and love to thousands who were distressed and destitute, and he left a legacy that endures,” wrote G. Wright Doyle of the Biographical Dictionary of Chinese Christianity.

“Today’s unregistered churches preserve several features of his ministry, including adherence to the Bible, fervent prayer, tireless evangelism, faith that God can heal people through prayer, and a longing for the return of Christ. The vitality of these churches cannot be explained without reference to the ministry of John Sung.”