Ordinary Men, Extraordinary God: Remembering the Five
This year marks the 69th anniversary of the courageous sacrifice of Jim Elliot, Nate Saint, Ed McCully, Pete Fleming, and Roger Youderian, whose unwavering obedience to Christ’s call continues to inspire believers to live boldly for the Gospel.
A Call to Live Fully for Christ
January 8th, 1956, stands as a powerful testimony of what it means to give everything for the sake of the Gospel.
On this day, Jim Elliot, Nate Saint, Ed McCully, Pete Fleming, and Roger Youderian, five young missionaries, laid down their lives while reaching out to the Waodani people (then known as the Auca) of Ecuador.
Their story is not just one of sacrifice but of unwavering obedience to Christ’s call to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20).
These men knew the risks.
They knew the Waodani had a history of violence toward outsiders.
Yet, they pressed on, compelled by the love of Christ and the belief that
no life was too far gone to be transformed by the Gospel.
Their martyrdom shocked the world but also ignited a global missionary movement, inspiring countless believers to go to the ends of the earth with the good news of Jesus Christ.
Jim Elliot famously said,
“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.”
This statement wasn’t just a lofty idea for him—it was the creed by which he lived and died.
The lives of these five men challenge us to consider our own devotion to Christ and His mission.
Are we willing to live—and if necessary, die—for the sake of the Gospel?
While God may not call all of us to martyrdom, He does call all of us to surrender.
Our lives, our comforts, our plans—all are to be placed at His feet, available for His use.
Living on Mission
The story of the five men should spur us to action, not just reflection. The Waodani people, through the grace of God and the continued ministry of the missionaries’ families, were eventually transformed by the Gospel.
This reminds us that no sacrifice made in obedience to Christ is ever in vain.
Here are a few ways we can honor their legacy:
- Pray for Missionaries
Commit to regularly praying for those serving in dangerous and unreached areas. Pray for their safety, boldness, and fruitfulness. - Support Missions
Partner financially and practically with missions organizations that take the Gospel to unreached people groups. - Go Where God Sends You
Ask God where He is calling you to serve—whether across the globe or across the street. Your mission field could be your workplace, neighborhood, or even an unreached people group overseas. - Share the Gospel Boldly
Take every opportunity to proclaim the good news of Jesus, trusting God to use your faithfulness to draw others to Himself.
A Life Worth Living
The lives of Jim, Nate, Ed, Pete, and Roger remind us that
the call to follow Christ is costly—but it is also worth it.
As we remember their sacrifice, let us resolve to live with the same passion and commitment. Whether our mission field is near or far, let us give our lives fully to the One Who gave His all for us.
May their story inspire us not just to remember but to act.
This year, let us continue to carry the Gospel forward, whatever the cost, for the glory of God and the salvation of the lost.
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” — John 15:13