The Heavenly Man

I think the only way I can rightly describe it is as one reviewer did on the back of the book: it really is like reading a modern-day version of the book of Acts. Brother Yun tells freely about his experiences leading the persecuted church in China with humility, and reading this book has deeply challenged me in my own love for Jesus and passion for the unreached. He also applies Bible passages in unconventional ways. Overall, I love the heart behind this story, and it really is one that gives glory to God alone.

I felt uncomfortable when reading this book firstly due to the title. Should anyone really name themselves "The Heavenly Man?" I found the many miracles almost unbelievable and would like to have seen other sources that supported his version of events. I'm just not sure I can accept that these things really happened and as another reviewer has pointed out, several of the stories mirror things that happened in scripture down to the last detail (Yun's escape from prison)

I wouldn't recommend this as it may confuse a non-believer or a not so discerning believer...

A truly amazing testimony, encouraging and eye-opening! This must be around my fifth time reading this book, I’ve lost count. It never fails to have an impact on me!

Brother Yun tells of his experiences as one of the leaders of the Chinese house churches and the great persecution they suffer from the government: from his conversion as a teenager and the beginning of his passion for Scripture and evangelism, to his departure from China with his family to take his ministry to western nations. The entire book is littered with Scripture verses that encouraged, sustained, and directed Yun during his lowest moments. It reads a lot like the biblical book of Acts set in present day – miraculous healings, suffering in prison for the sake of show more Christ, the wildfire spread of the gospel – which just goes to show that God is the same today as He was 2000 years ago when the first-century church was established! He is still actively working miracles and transforming hearts for His kingdom. show less

This is an extremely challenging read. Living in a world where we expect comfort and complain about the mildest trials, it is healthy and encouraging to read the testimony of the Chinese Christians. Brother Yun came to faith through the Holy Spirit's power through vision, an astonishing provision of a bible and through opening his eyes and heart to the truth of His word. This was in rural China - many miles away from great evangelists. Let his personal relationship with Jesus inspire you to know your Lord more and to live in obediance to him. Through obediance we live out God's kingdom on this earth.

'The simple fact that the Chinese church has grown into a force tens of millions strong today is a sign not only of God's existence but his show more matchless power': quote from the preface of the book show less

The Heavenly Man by Brother Yun is . . . wow. If you're interested in the recent history of China and the growth of Christianity there since the '70s, this is the book for you. If you're interested in how Christianity can be revived, this is the book for you. If you want to read current history that mirrors the book of Acts, this is the book for you. If you're a sceptic of Christianity, please read this book; it is the strongest testimony and proof I can imagine for Christianity.

This is a powerful story of a Chinese Christian missionary. Every time I read it I find that my faith is renewed and I am astonished that people have trouble believing in the existence of a loving God. As a story/novel, it is also written very well.

This book is absolutely life-changing! I put off reading it because it sounded a bit incredulous but I am so glad I read it. I have a greater understanding of the persecution our brothers and sisters experience in China and the great miraculous working of God in those areas of need. I cried at their suffering and their deep faith. I cried at our own complacency and lukewarmness. It is a must read for all of us who have forgotten that there are those who need our prayers all around the world - for not everyone is free to follow Christ.