BOOKS

Celebrating the 110^th birth anniversary of evangelist John Sung

John Sung’s life for Christ

JOHN SUNG (1901–1944) or Song Shang Chieh was a valiant and powerful Chinese evangelist who brought a strong revival to the Church in China and many parts of Asia in the first half of the 20^th century. A scientist-turned-preacher, his public ministry lasted “a mere 12 years” but his impact and influence can still be keenly felt all over the world today.

In conjunction with his 110^th birth anniversary on Sept 27 this year, local company Armour Publishing has released two new books on him – The Life and Ministry of John Sung and The Diary of John Sung – and re-launched A Biography of John Sung.

The Life and Ministry of John Sung by Dr Lim Ka-Tong is a thorough biographical study of the man. Based on archival and library research as well as personal interviews, the book uncovers significant aspects in Sung’s formative years, including his childhood in China and early adult years in America.

Bishop Dr Robert Solomon has described The Life and Ministry of John Sung as an “an inspiring and insightful book” that “shows how Sung was a man for and of his time, and how God works in souls and societies”.

For readers who are interested in Sung’s original works, The Diary of John Sung: Extracts from His Journals and Notes would be the book to read. It is a new, more dynamic and accurate translation of Sung’s Chinese diaries, which were originally published as The Journal Once Lost. Various Chinese names and phrases are rendered more effectively, and the overall bulk of the book has been reduced for a more enjoyable read. The valuable information and rare old photographs featured in this book will bring us back to the days of a man who dedicated his entire life to God.

Armour Publishing has also re-issued the popular A Biography of John Sung with a new cover. Written shortly after Sung’s passing, this landmark publication is, in British evangelist John Stott’s words, “an honest biography of an extraordinary man” that shows Sung for who he is, complete with idiosyncrasies and weaknesses.

The Life and Ministry of John Sung ($25), The Diary of John Sung ($28) and A Biography of John Sung ($16) are available at all good bookstores.