Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Book Review: Tortured for Christ

praying-hands.jpg image by chanmunwai_photo
"Hear my prayer, O God; Give ear to the words of my mouth."
"Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution." 2 Timothy 3:12

A little over one year ago we received the book "Tortured for Christ".  I've read it twice and have been much affected by the godly example of the late Pastor Richard Wurmbrand.  Pastor Wurmbrand endured a total of 14 years in Romanian Communist prisons for his faith and love in Jesus Christ.  He was eventually able to leave his country and settle in America where he soon printed this book.  Inside you will find his amazing testimony from Communist turned Christian, his steadfast love for Jesus Christ, and his undying commitment to preaching the gospel to all who would hear.  Challenging and convicting, he shares not only his own story but also the story of other brave Christians who stood up and continue to stand for Christ, no matter the cost.  He also encourages Christians in the West to be aware of the sufferings of their fellow believers in other countries.  Gently he sends a much needed rebuke to the spiritually sleeping saints of America.  "Wake up!" he says, "Be aware of the trials and tribulations of your fellow believers, and see what you can do to help them!"  Another message he sends is that of love.  Story after story he shares, showing the amazing power of the love that can only be manifest if you have a living relationship with Jesus Christ.  Oftentimes the persecutors were won by the love of the persecuted.  Beaten and near death, they continued to pray for the salvation of their guards, executioners, and commanders.  The Lord often answered these prayers and lives were changed...all because one person was willing to "take up his cross and follow Him."
This book encourages, rebukes, and teaches.  If you can, read it, see what the Lord wants to do with you through it.         
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah    

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