The Museum of the Bible opened its latest “Personal Stories” exhibit themed “Watchman Nee” on March 6 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Watchman Nee’s martyrdom.
According to the Museum of the Bible, the exhibit will run until February 2023. “It explores the life and legacy of Watchman Nee, including first-hand video accounts from his cellmate, photos, and personal letters.”
“This exhibit includes a biographical presentation of the incredible life of Watchman Nee — including never before seen artifacts — and shares the story of how he used the Bible to impact people around the world,” said Dr. Jeffrey Kloha, chief curatorial officer for Museum of the Bible.
The year 2022 marks the 50th anniversary of Watchman Nee’s martyrdom. Nee, who was imprisoned for the last twenty years of his life and died on May 30, 1972, founded the “Local Church” movement in China, the first native Christian movement in the country. This gathering remains the largest indigenous Christian church movement in China, with an estimated two million people tracing their beliefs back to Watchman Nee.
On July 30, 2009, Watchman Nee was recognized by the United States Congress for his contributions to Christianity in China. Nee was also honored by Christianity Today magazine as one of the 100 most influential Christians of the twentieth century. Today, an estimated 3,000 churches outside of China following his teachings.
The museum store provides visitors to the exhibit complimentary copies of Watchman Nee’s classic book The Normal Christian Life. Chinese-speaking visitors will receive a free copy of the Chinese “Recovery Version” of the Bible.
