Be ashamed to use the vulgar arts of a recruiting sergeant. Do not speak only of the uniform, the pay, and the glory; speak also of the enemies, the battle, the armor, the watching, the marching, and the drill. Do not present only one side of Christianity. Do not keep back “the cross” of self-denial that must be carried, when you speak of the cross on which Christ died for our redemption. Explain fully what Christianity entails. Entreat men to repent and come to Christ; but bid them at the same time to “count the cost.”
J.C. Ryle

Fred Sheldon Donnelson

Fred Sheldon Donnelson

Fred Sheldon Donnelson
1897-1974
Fred Sheldon Donnelson was a native of the state of Iowa, born in a small town called Missouri Valley. It was at a revival meeting conducted by the famous Billy Sunday that, at the age of 12, he gave his heart to the Lord Jesus. After graduating from high school he served two years in the Coast Artillery Division of the Army during World War I. Later he graduated from the Northern Baptist Seminary and Wheaton College, receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1928 from Wheaton College.

Sixteen years as a missionary to China unfolded as years of success and sacrifice. Thousands of lives were touched by his ministry in both times of peace and war. As a prisoner of war with his family for nearly two years during World War II, he displayed a characteristic which demonstrated that he never expected of others a price any greater than he himself was willing to pay.

During the 18 years in which he served as director of missions of the Baptist Bible Fellowship and professor of missions in the Baptist Bible College, he became affectionately and respectfully known as “Mr. Missions.”