On June 1st, 1972, the Lord's servant Watchman Nee was translated into Glory. Behind him lay more than twenty years in captivity—either in prison or prison camp. His eventual release, in 1972, did not end his suffering; it only changed its nature. But only a few weeks elapsed before the Master signalled the comnpletion of our brother's service and sufferings below, and called him into his immediate Presence.
Two other men of God, Wang Ming-dao and David Yang, have been called to suffer in similar ways. That all of them became the focal point of the sustained attacks by Satan was undoubtedly because of their influential ministry. Of the three, only Watchman Nee had ever travelled outside China, but their influence extends throughout the world.
That these men have so markedly "endured the cross" give s to their writings an added significance and authority. Of the messages reproduced here those of David Yang and of Wang Ming-dao have been translated from the Chinese. Those of Watchman Nee are quoted from writings already translated into English.
They will demonstrate clearly and challengingly the way in which God had prepared their hearts beforehand to meet the fiery trials which awaited them.
(From the tranlastor's preface by Arthur Reynolds)