Juji Nakada (1869–1939)

On September 24, 1939, Japanese evangelist Juji Nakada finished his earthly race. He is remembered as a herald of personal revival, a man of prayer, and a courageous witness whose ministry helped shape modern Japanese Christianity during a turbulent era.

Heart-Holiness and Wholehearted Obedience

Nakada preached “heart-holiness”—not merely outward religion, but a cleansed heart and a life yielded to Christ. His calls were plain: repent, believe, obey, and walk in the Spirit. Many heard in his message an echo of the apostle’s resolve: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7).

Prayerful Courage in a Pressured Age

As Japan moved toward heightened nationalism and war, openhearted Christian proclamation could require uncommon steadiness. Nakada’s heroism was not loud bravado but steadfast fidelity—continuing to pray, preach, and shepherd souls when it would have been easier to soften convictions or retreat into silence.

Partnership with Charles and Lettie Cowman

Nakada welcomed partnership across cultures when it served Japan’s spiritual need. At his invitation, Charles and Lettie Cowman came from the United States to labor in Japan, strengthening evangelism and discipleship. Their cooperation modeled a gospel unity that prized faithfulness over national or cultural pride.

A Bible Institute for Japan’s Harvest

The Cowmans established a Bible Institute to train workers for Japan’s harvest, providing practical preparation in Scripture, doctrine, prayer, and evangelism. This training emphasis matched Nakada’s burden: converted people growing into equipped servants, able to teach others also.

Oriental Missionary Society (One Mission Society)

Nakada’s vision and example also stirred early growth in the Wesleyan-tradition Oriental Missionary Society (now One Mission Society). Through organized mission work, literature, church planting, and trained evangelists, the witness multiplied beyond any single preacher’s lifetime.

Enduring Witness

Nakada’s life still encourages believers to run with perseverance: “Let us run with endurance the race set out for us” (Hebrews 12:1). His legacy points to simple Christian strength—humble prayer, bold gospel zeal, and a wholehearted life that seeks to please Christ above all.