In the latest episode of "Heroes of the Faith," a Free Grace Press podcast, the spotlight is on William Carey, often hailed as the father of modern missions. The episode delves into Carey's remarkable journey from a humble beginning in Northamptonshire, England, where he was born into a poor weaver's family in 1761, to becoming a pivotal figure in the global missionary movement. His early passion for geography and languages, self-taught from a young age, set the stage for his later life's work.

The narrative explores Carey's transition from a cobbler to a missionary, driven by his burgeoning interest in missions after reading about early American missionaries and reflecting anew on the Great Commission. Despite initial resistance from his religious community, who believed spreading the gospel abroad was unnecessary, Carey persisted. He penned a significant treatise, "An Enquiry into the Obligations of Christians to Use Means for the Conversion of the Heathens," which argued vigorously for proactive missionary work and became a foundational text in missionary advocacy.

Carey's eventual move to India, fraught with financial and logistical challenges, marks a critical phase of his mission. In India, despite the East India Company's opposition to missionaries, he managed to establish a significant presence in Serampore with colleagues John Marshman and William Ward. Together, they engaged in translation of the Bible into multiple Indian languages, educational initiatives, and social reforms, including the fight against the practice of Sati.

The episode paints a vivid picture of Carey's indefatigable spirit, highlighting his profound impact on both the spiritual and social fabric of India and his legacy in global missions. It concludes with reflections on his contributions to language and education, his theological perspectives, and his enduring influence, symbolized by institutions like William Carey University. Carey's life story is presented as an exemplar of dedication and perseverance in the faith, making him a true hero of the faith.