Picture a New Zealand teenager, homeless and hungry, who became a global beacon of faith—meet Paul Hattaway! Once a high school dropout labeled a 'waste of oxygen,' Hattaway’s life transformed through a divine calling, leading him to smuggle Bibles into China and author inspiring works that uplift millions. His journey from despair to devotion is a tale of grit and grace.
Through his ministry, Asia Harvest, and books like The Heavenly Man, Hattaway has become a cornerstone of Christian literature, especially for those drawn to stories of resilience and spiritual triumph. Let’s dive into the remarkable life of this missionary-author whose pen and passion have changed countless lives across Asia.
The Making of Paul Hattaway
Born in New Zealand, Paul Hattaway’s early life was far from promising. By 16, he left home, finding himself homeless in Australia, sleeping on a public bathroom roof. A factory worker’s kindness introduced him to faith at 19, sparking a spiritual awakening. In 1988, with just $50 and a backpack, Hattaway arrived in Hong Kong, convinced God called him to serve in China. His first mission? Smuggling Bibles across the border, a daring start to a lifelong commitment.
This leap of faith laid the foundation for Asia Harvest, a ministry he co-founded with his wife, Joy, to support Asian churches. His early struggles shaped his empathy for the marginalized, driving his mission to deliver God’s Word to those in need.
Paul Hattaway’s Unforgettable Stories
Hattaway’s writing blends raw honesty with spiritual insight, chronicling the triumphs and trials of Asian Christians. His bestseller, The Heavenly Man, tells the story of Brother Yun, a Chinese pastor whose perseverance through persecution has inspired over a million readers across nearly 50 languages. The book’s vivid storytelling and themes of faith under fire resonate deeply, earning it global acclaim.
In An Asian Harvest, Hattaway shares his own journey, from Bible courier to ministry leader. The autobiography weaves tales of miracles—like a mysterious donkey rescuer in Nepal—with practical lessons on faith-driven service. His China Chronicles series, including volumes on Shandong and Hainan, meticulously documents the spread of Christianity in China, blending historical rigor with inspiring narratives. Each work reflects Hattaway’s knack for making complex spiritual journeys accessible and uplifting.
His style is direct yet warm, appealing to readers seeking stories of courage and divine intervention. By focusing on real people and places, Hattaway’s books bridge cultural gaps, inviting readers into the heart of Asian Christianity.
Why Paul Hattaway Matters
Hattaway’s impact transcends pages. Through Asia Harvest, he has distributed over 10 million Bibles in China alone, empowering house churches starved of resources. His support for over 1,500 Asian missionaries has planted seeds of faith in unreached communities, from Laos to India. His writings amplify these efforts, inspiring readers to engage with global missions and appreciate the resilience of persecuted believers.
His legacy lies in his humility and obedience to his calling, proving that a broken past can fuel a purposeful future. Hattaway’s work continues to challenge and encourage Christians worldwide to live boldly for their faith.
About Paul Hattaway
- Key Works: The Heavenly Man, An Asian Harvest, China Chronicles, Operation China
- Founded: Asia Harvest, a ministry serving Asian churches
- Impact: Provided over 10 million Bibles to China and supported 1,500+ missionaries
Ready to be inspired? Grab The Heavenly Man or An Asian Harvest and step into Paul Hattaway’s world of faith, courage, and miraculous adventures!