I’m not here to write about the song “Jesus Freak” by Christian band DC Talk or even the Jesus Freak movement of the late 1960’s and early 1970’s. I’m here to talk about the book put out by DC Talk and The Voice of the Martyrs entitled, Jesus Freaks: Stories of Those Who Stood for Jesus: The Ultimate Jesus Freaks. This book is so much more than just a creatively antique-looking book with its grungy cover and torn parchment-like pages. Inside this book lie the stories of many faithful who put their faith in Jesus, even as it meant their lives were taken. It’s the stories of those who, because of their often misunderstood refusal to reject their Lord and Savior, lost their lives, leaving them called by some, “Jesus Freaks”.
Here is an excerpt from the __Jesus Freaks__ book before the stories begin:
“It is said that there are more Christian martyrs today than there were in 100 AD—in the days of the Roman Empire. According to a study done at Regent University, there were close to 156,000 Christians martyred around the world in 1998 An estimated 164,000 will be martyred in 1999.”
I found this book to be very easy to follow. Each story is fairly short and well written. I expected I would be left feeling a bit depressed after reading, but the opposite happened. These stories opened my eyes, helping me understand that we’re here on earth for a season. God is not afraid of us dying. Over and over I read stories that took place two thousand years ago up until recent days, of people being touched by the Spirit of God before their departure into His arms. I’ve read how the power of God was so present, in some cases it caused the very murderers to repent and turn their lives to God. Many died rejoicing in the Lord until their spirits were received—even while being burned at the stake! For some reason, any fear I had of death prior to reading this book was gone afterward. I suppose it was because these stories encouraged me that the Lord is near to those who love Him.
The book is more than just a compilation of stories involving martyrdom. Inside also contains scripture, brief summaries of persecutions happening in countries today, how to pray for those countries and those that are being held captive because of their faith. The book also shares how you can help to advocate for those in prison for their belief in Christianity. I will go as far as to say this book has had a definite impact on my life. I strongly encourage you to check it out!
“Remember the Lord’s people who are in jail and be concerned for them. Don’t forget those who are suffering, but imagine that you are there with them.” (Hebrews 13:3 CEV)
Please check the following blogs within this series (Please note: Some blogs won’t be available for viewing until they’ve been formally released):
Trials and Faith: Why is This Happening?
Trial and Faith: Trials by Fire
Trials and Faith: The First Christian Martyr
Trials and Faith: Resisting Temptation to Sin