The Early Years: FEBC in Shanghai
Right after the Second World War, God gave three American men (Robert Bowman, John Broger, and William Roberts) the vision to bring the gospel to Asia through radio. In December of 1945, Far East Broadcasting Company (FEBC International) was incorporated, and three months later John Broger set off for Shanghai, China, with very little money but a grand vision. China was still recovering from the devastation of war, and it was clear to Broger that only the gospel of Jesus Christ could bring true peace. He was warmly welcomed by James H Taylor II, who was running the ministry his grandfather had started, China Inland Mission.
Enthusiastic Chinese pastors such as Charles Chi joined the project, and a program recording studio was set up at Grace Baptist Church. However, six months of negotiating with the local authorities for a radio license proved unfruitful, as the Nationalist government was more occupied with the surging communists in the area. At best, Broger could get approval for several 500W stations, which lacked the transmitter power output to fulfill the broadcasting vision. Broger also travelled to other parts of China, such as Nanjing, Hangzhou and Macao, encountering similar responses as authorities were concerned that the radio stations could fall into the hands of the enemy. Finally, some early broadcasts were released on a local station in Nanjing in February of 1947, and later that year in Shanghai at the Shanghai Railway Station, but its reach was limited.
Meanwhile, Broger travelled to Manila in the Philippines to explore setting up a shortwave radio station, recognizing its incredible signal range. Here, God’s foresight was clearly displayed in wisdom and power. Broger experienced God’s favour, and within two years the first shortwave broadcast reached all of China; in June of 1948! In May of the following year, the Communist forces took control of Shanghai after fighting the Nationalists in what is known as the “Shanghai Campaign.” Had FEBC invested in purchasing more radio licenses, buildings and equipment, all would have been confiscated and used for propaganda. It signalled the end of all foreign missionary activity for decades to come; only through shortwave radio could the Chinese be reached with the gospel.
HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT FEBCANADA
Every gift you give to FEBCanada’s China Ministry supports our team in Canada to produce Christ-centered radio programs that proclaim the hope of Jesus. Your support also helps cover vital airtime costs, sending these life-transforming messages into some of the world’s most spiritually unreached places. Together, we are fulfilling the Great Commission—until all have heard!
MINISTRY IN CHINA
PRAYER ITEMS
Give thanks to the Lord for placing a bold, Spirit-led vision in the hearts of Robert Bowman, John Broger, and William Roberts—to reach the lost in Asia with the Gospel of Jesus Christ through radio. Pray that this same boldness would ignite hearts today.
Praise God for opening the doors in the Philippines when the way was closed in China. Thank Him for His perfect timing and provision, which allowed the Gospel to continue going forth—reaching those in spiritual darkness with the light of Christ.
Ask the Lord to anoint every broadcast going into China and beyond. Pray for the Holy Spirit to prepare hearts, break down barriers, and draw many to repentance and salvation through the name of Jesus Christ.
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