By Life or by Death: Life and Legacy of John & Betty Stam

One of the most incredible missionary stories of the 20th century.

As a young boy Andrew Montonera stumbled upon a cabinet of books in his grandparents’ house. He was captivated by what he discovered—the library of his distant relatives, John and Betty. By Life or by Death shares the story of these two remarkable people—inspirations of contagious joy and kingdom-focused lives.

John Cornelius Stam and Elisabeth Alden “Betty” Scott met at Moody Bible Institute in fall 1929. A few years later, their paths crossed again—this time in China. The two were united in marriage and in their love for the Chinese people.

Using family scrapbooks and unpublished sources, Montonera takes a fresh look at a famous story—how two missionaries and their baby were kidnapped by Chinese soldiers and ransomed. Montonera recounts the courage and martyrdom of the Stams, as well as the succeeding miraculous tale that captured the world’s attention.

The Stams’ lives were cut short, but their faithfulness continues to impact Christianity in China today. By Life or by Death looks at the legacy of the Stams, including new testimonies of those shaped by their commitment to the gospel.

Shortly before his death, John Stam mailed a letter to the mission authorities. He wrote, May God be glorified whether by life or by death (Philippians 1:20).

Discover how that prayer was answered both in the deaths and lives of John and Betty Stam.