Biography

Full Name: John Bunyan
Birth Place: Bedford, England
Parents: Thomas Bunyan and Margaret Bentley
Wife: Mary
Born: November 1628
Died: August 31, 1688
Salvation Experience: At 25 years of age
Famous Work: “The Pilgrim’s Progress” — one of the most popular books after the Bible.

Life Story

John Bunyan was born in Bedford, England, into a poor family. His father was a tinker who repaired pots and pans. John grew up as a naughty and careless boy, used to lying and stealing. He didn’t study much but learned to read and write.

In 1644, his mother and sister died, and soon after, his father remarried. Feeling lonely and hurt, John became bitter and turned away from God. Later, he joined the army and served for two years. Once, when another soldier took John’s place in battle, that soldier was killed. John realized that God had saved his life for a purpose.

After leaving the army, he started working as a tinker like his father. He married a poor but godly woman named Mary. They were poor but faithful to attend church. John read many Christian books and began to think deeply about sin, judgment, and salvation.

Through the help of some Christian women and Pastor Gifford, John came to know the truth of the Gospel. He confessed his sins and accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior. His life completely changed. Even in suffering, he trusted God and continued to preach about Christ.

Ministry and Imprisonment

John’s daughter was born blind, and soon after, his wife died. Even then, he never lost faith. During that time, England had a law that only licensed ministers could preach. But John boldly declared, “Woe to me if I do not preach the Gospel!”

He preached to large crowds with great power. Because of his preaching, he was arrested and put in prison. The officials told him he could be free if he promised not to preach again — but John refused. He said, “If you release me today, I will preach again tomorrow.”

He spent 12 years in prison, yet used that time to pray, teach other prisoners, and write. During that period, he wrote “The Pilgrim’s Progress,” one of the greatest Christian books ever written — now translated into more than 100 languages.

Later Years

After his release at age 43, John continued preaching and wrote another great book called “The Holy War.” He became a pastor of the Baptist Church in Bedford and helped many people grow in faith.

He wrote more than 20 books in total. On August 31, 1688, John Bunyan went to be with the Lord, faithful till his last breath.

Famous Quote

“It is better to obey God than men.”

Message from His Life

John Bunyan’s story teaches us:

God can change any sinner into His servant.
Obedience to God is more important than pleasing people.
Even in suffering, God can use us for His glory.

10 Famous Christian Missionaries

1. William Carey (1761–1834)

Known as the “Father of Modern Missions,” William Carey went to India and spent 40 years serving. He translated the Bible into many Indian languages and started schools and printing presses. His work inspired the modern missionary movement.

2. Adoniram Judson (1788–1850)

The first American missionary to Burma, Adoniram Judson translated the Bible into Burmese. He worked for almost 40 years despite hardships and planted strong Baptist churches in the region.

3. Hudson Taylor (1832–1905)

Founder of the China Inland Mission, Hudson Taylor served more than 50 years in China. He adopted Chinese dress and culture to reach people with the Gospel. Over 800 missionaries followed his vision.

4. Amy Carmichael (1867–1951)

An Irish missionary to India, Amy Carmichael rescued children from temple slavery. She founded the Dohnavur Fellowship and wrote many inspiring books on faith and service.

5. David Livingstone (1813–1873)

A Scottish missionary and explorer, David Livingstone traveled deep into Africa. He preached the Gospel, fought against slavery, and opened the way for future missions.

6. Saint Francis Xavier (1506–1552)

One of the first Jesuit missionaries, Saint Francis Xavier preached in India, Southeast Asia, and Japan. His passion for evangelism brought thousands to Christianity in Asia.

7. Eric Liddell (1902–1945)

Olympic gold medalist turned missionary, Eric Liddell served in China. He gave up fame and dedicated his life to teaching, preaching, and caring for the poor until his death in a prison camp.

8. George Müller (1805–1898)

Known for his great faith, George Müller started orphanages in England without asking for money. Through prayer alone, he cared for over 10,000 children in his lifetime.

9. Jim Elliot (1927–1956)

An American missionary to Ecuador, Jim Elliot gave his life while trying to reach the Auca (Waorani) people. His story inspired many to follow Christ and serve as missionaries.

10. Mother Teresa (1910–1997)

Although more known as a humanitarian, Mother Teresa was a missionary of charity. She cared for the poorest in India and became a global symbol of Christian love and service.

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