Nee was born in 1903 in Fuzhou, south-east China. His grandfather had been one of the first pastors in China and his mother dedicated him to God before his birth. Despite this, and an education in a school run by a missionary society, Nee grew up without a personal faith. However, at the age of 17 he accepted Jesus in a powerful conversion experience. Totally dedicating his life to God, he immediately started witnessing to those around him.