Life of Henry Martyn, Missionary to India and Persia, 1781 to 1812   By: Sarah J. Rhea

In "Life of Henry Martyn, Missionary to India and Persia, 1781 to 1812," author Sarah J. Rhea delves into the extraordinary life of Henry Martyn, shedding light on his endeavors as a missionary and the profound impact he made in India and Persia.

Rhea's meticulous research and attention to detail make this biography a captivating read. She takes readers on a journey, exploring Martyn's early years, his conversion to Christianity, and his subsequent decision to become a missionary. From his departure to India to his final days in Persia, Rhea paints a vivid picture of Martyn's relentless passion for spreading the gospel.

One of the notable strengths of Rhea's narrative is her ability to bring Martyn's world to life. By skillfully incorporating historical context, she allows readers to understand the challenges and cultural barriers that Martyn faced during his mission. This enriches the reader's understanding of his journey and the significance of his work in the regions he served.

Rhea also offers insights into Martyn's personal struggles and spiritual journey. She portrays him as a man deeply committed to his faith, yet plagued with doubts and moments of despair. This vulnerability adds depth to Martyn's character, making him relatable and human.

The book not only explores Martyn's accomplishments as a missionary but also delves into his scholarly pursuits. Rhea offers glimpses into Martyn's translations of the New Testament into local languages, showcasing his linguistic skills and dedication to making the Bible accessible to all. These scholarly endeavors reveal yet another facet of Martyn's multifaceted personality.

While Rhea's thorough research is commendable, at times, the book can feel overwhelming with an excessive amount of historical and contextual information. Some readers may find themselves skimming over certain sections to get back to the heart of Martyn's story – his missionary work and personal struggles. Despite this drawback, Rhea's attention to detail ultimately contributes to a comprehensive and well-rounded biography.

"Life of Henry Martyn, Missionary to India and Persia, 1781 to 1812" is a remarkable biography that pays tribute to the life and legacy of an extraordinary missionary. Through Rhea's engaging narrative, readers gain a deep appreciation for Martyn's unwavering dedication, his impact on local communities, and his lasting influence on the history of Christian missions. This book is a must-read for those interested in the intersection of faith, history, and the power of one individual's determination to make a difference.

First Page:

I hold in my hand an album adorned with pictures of missionaries, my brethren and sisters, the ambassadors of the King. On one of the first pages is "the tomb of Henry Martyn," given me by Dr. Van Lennep, who had just visited the sacred spot and described it vividly. When I turn the pages of my album and come to this, I pause with reverence and the overflowings of deep and tender emotion, and my mind adds other pictures, both terrestrial and celestial, to the one upon the page. My own missionary life as the companion of him whom Dr. Perkins called "the later Henry Martyn," was spent in Henry Martyn's Persia. They were alike I think in many things, these two Persian evangelists, and also in their deaths. When they passed out of the Tabriz gate, journeying homeward after a course of illness in the fated city, for each it was a quick ascent, a painful translation, to the heavenly city with abundant entrance and the Master's "well done" in heaven; and on earth, a foreign grave taking possession for Christ, as the Nestorians reverently say, with "white stones still speaking out... Continue reading book >>