p. 7 | In the Far East

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jun 11, 1908

In the Far East

EVERY visitor to the Orient recognizes the rapid and marvelous changes which are taking place, and is impressed with the thought that there must be a significance in this transformation after many centuries of lethargy. The following extracts from a recent article show how the situation is interpreted by one observer:—

The present time presents opportunities for the evangelization of the Orient which are in every way extraordinary. This is especially true in China and Korea. No more revolutionary action was ever taken by any nation than that which China took several years ago when she absolutely abolished an educational system two thousand years old, and substituted in its place a system patterned after our own. The full significance of this move, and its relation to the propagation of Christianity, can only be understood when one realizes that up to the time of this change, the literati, or educated leaders of the Chinese, were, with but very few exceptions, beyond the reach of the missionaries. Now they are the most accessible class in many respects because of their great anxiety to learn everything that is Western. . . .

In Korea a condition exists which is unparalleled in the annals of missions. The prophecy of the hymn which speaks of the coming of “a nation in a day” is literally being fulfilled in the Hermit Kingdom. The wonderful revivals, the unprecedented activity of Korean converts in evangelizing their own people, the eagerness to learn and teach,—all signify a condition which warrants all the help from us in the way of workers and equipment which the missionaries deem wise. . . .

In both China and Korea the opportunities for medical missions are especially obvious, not only for the influence upon the patients treated, but even more for the training up of the modern medical fraternity of these nations.

To believers in the nearness of the coming of the Lord, there is a meaning in these facts which is not apprehended by others. The whole world is being opened for the last proclamation of the gospel. Surely the messengers and the means for their support must be forthcoming, in order to carry the third angel's message to the far East. This responsibility is upon us, and must be accepted.