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Destined #1
Andrew Murray: Destined to Serve
For those who love Historical Fiction about Christian heroes of the faith
Historically accurate, and based upon Andrew Murray's letters and early biographies
A boyish and fun-loving Andrew Murray arrives back in South Africa after being ordained at the Hague on his twentieth birthday. He soon discovers that his preaching lacks the power displayed by his heroes of the faith. He therefore decides to embark on a quest to become a powerful preacher filled with the Holy Spirit.
But not long after his appointment as pastor to the Dutch emigrants beyond the borders of the Cape, he finds that he is being shunted off course by a frenetic round of preaching tours that sap his energy and leave him little time to spend with God. He also finds himself having to cope with an overly demanding church council, as well as walk a tightrope between the Boer farmers and the British Settler community who are bent on land speculation to the detriment of neighbouring tribes.
Feeling overwhelmed by the task, and knowing that he was pressed into taking it, he starts to doubt his calling. It does not take him long to realize that he has to either man-up or bow out.
WALK with Andrew Murray as he negotiates his first year of ministry to the Voortrekkers in the Orange River Sovereignty and the Transvaal between the years 1849 and 1850.
PLACE yourself with him in the wilds of Africa teaming with game, lions and African wolves.
THROW into this mix the British, who at the Battle of Boomplaats in 1848 have just taken over the land between the Orange and Vaal Rivers.
IMMERSE yourself in a world where the Boer is forever ready to rebel against their British overlords, and where Paramount Chief Moshesh of the Basuto is constantly threatening war against the British and neighbouring tribes.
OBSERVE how Andrew Murray at twenty-one is able to straddle the divide between Boer and Brit and grow into his role as lone pastor, eager to serve his far-flung congregation of over 20 000 souls.
Scroll up and grab a copy today316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2014
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101 people want to read
About the author
Olea Nel
11 books9 followers Olea Nel was born in Cape Town, South Africa. After completing her training as a teacher in Andrew Murray's heartland of Wellington, she relocated to Australia to further her studies.
Besides attaining a Ph.D. in Linguistics, she also has qualifications in Information Studies and Theology. She has taught at several tertiary institutions in Australia.
As an active Christian and a pastor’s wife, she is often called upon to speak at women’s groups.
Having recently retired from her secular position as a senior librarian at the National Library of Australia, she is now able to pursue her passion for research, especially within the fields of church history and biography. Her aim is to serve God by sharing her findings with other Christians. She is presently writing the first novel in a trilogy on the life of Andrew Murray.
Besides attaining a Ph.D. in Linguistics, she also has qualifications in Information Studies and Theology. She has taught at several tertiary institutions in Australia.
As an active Christian and a pastor’s wife, she is often called upon to speak at women’s groups.
Having recently retired from her secular position as a senior librarian at the National Library of Australia, she is now able to pursue her passion for research, especially within the fields of church history and biography. Her aim is to serve God by sharing her findings with other Christians. She is presently writing the first novel in a trilogy on the life of Andrew Murray.
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
November 6, 2014
Who is Andrew Murray, you may be wondering? Many Christians know him as a prolific author of over 240 Christ-centered books which have become classic reading material for those who love God the world over. You may find that many pastors' libraries have several of his volumes in their collection. Most of these works were written in the latter half of the 19th century.
The author of this book, Olea Nel, was also born in South Africa. She studied to be a teacher and then relocated in Australia to further her studies. She eventually became a senior librarian at the National Library of Australia. She has always had a passion for research, especially in the area of church history and biography. She is eager to share this research with other Christians. With that end in mind, she is writing a novelization of Andrew Murray's life. Since his life was filled with important historical events, her project has become a trilogy of books.
Andrew Murray: Destined to Serve is the first book in the series. Ms. Nel writes it in the first person, giving a personal voice to Murray's memories of his return to South Africa after being away so many years. This volume covers his first year back, at the age of 20, and all the adventures he had, especially once he became 21 and was inducted as pastor of a local church. While some of the minute details are fictionalized, he was a prolific letter writer from the beginning, so there are many resources from which to gain insight into his feelings, impressions, adventures, speculations, and spiritual state. The context around his activities includes some history of the Dutch settlements in the Cape area, conflicts with local tribes, the expansion north into grasslands where pioneers settled in colonies for English speaking and Dutch speaking people, the Boer wars, the eventual switch from the Dutch government to the English government of the colonies, which implies the politics of the day and the role of the church in keeping the peace. Above all is the intense desire of the church groups to reach out to the neighboring tribes and settlers on the frontier with the gospel of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
I love the novel approach to a biography of one whom I consider a hero of the faith. Since it is written in the first person, I could see the events unfold through this young man's eyes, gaining insight into his impressions and feelings at the time. The author weaves in the background and events together skillfully. I learned quite a bit about the Dutch colonization that way. Her writing definitely filled in some of the gaps in my deplorable knowledge of South African history. It enabled me to see a bigger picture than just the life of one man.
Another reason I appreciate the first person approach in this novel is how it allowed me as the reader to get to know Andrew's large family, the friends he made on his journeys, and experience the demands placed on him by the many different church leaders whose intentions were good but manipulative all the same. When he turned 21, he received his first pastorate, but instead of remaining in the church to preach and mature through the experience, he was pulled in many directions, including a trip into what would be the African equivalent of the American prairies. He essentially had to minister to a congregation of about 20,000 widely dispersed people. Traveling from one "church place" to another by horse-drawn wagon or ox cart took time and sapped his energy. He also encountered a few dangers along the way such as predatory prides of lions and wolves. The book is not dull by any means!
More than just being a series of events, this book focuses on Andrew Murray's spiritual journey. The author gives us a glimpse into his mind by allowing him to be open and transparent about the temptations he faced, his failures, and lack of maturity to meet a crisis with wisdom. His first year shouldering so much responsibility was a severe taskmaster. The book allows us to experience his frustrations and feelings first hand. Much of what he learned at the age of 21 is still relevant for young adults today. What he gleaned from his early years is the basic foundation for many of the books and devotional readings he penned years later, once he had time to reflect back on this milestone year. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to the second and third books in this series.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the Story Cartel on behalf of the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
The author of this book, Olea Nel, was also born in South Africa. She studied to be a teacher and then relocated in Australia to further her studies. She eventually became a senior librarian at the National Library of Australia. She has always had a passion for research, especially in the area of church history and biography. She is eager to share this research with other Christians. With that end in mind, she is writing a novelization of Andrew Murray's life. Since his life was filled with important historical events, her project has become a trilogy of books.
Andrew Murray: Destined to Serve is the first book in the series. Ms. Nel writes it in the first person, giving a personal voice to Murray's memories of his return to South Africa after being away so many years. This volume covers his first year back, at the age of 20, and all the adventures he had, especially once he became 21 and was inducted as pastor of a local church. While some of the minute details are fictionalized, he was a prolific letter writer from the beginning, so there are many resources from which to gain insight into his feelings, impressions, adventures, speculations, and spiritual state. The context around his activities includes some history of the Dutch settlements in the Cape area, conflicts with local tribes, the expansion north into grasslands where pioneers settled in colonies for English speaking and Dutch speaking people, the Boer wars, the eventual switch from the Dutch government to the English government of the colonies, which implies the politics of the day and the role of the church in keeping the peace. Above all is the intense desire of the church groups to reach out to the neighboring tribes and settlers on the frontier with the gospel of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
I love the novel approach to a biography of one whom I consider a hero of the faith. Since it is written in the first person, I could see the events unfold through this young man's eyes, gaining insight into his impressions and feelings at the time. The author weaves in the background and events together skillfully. I learned quite a bit about the Dutch colonization that way. Her writing definitely filled in some of the gaps in my deplorable knowledge of South African history. It enabled me to see a bigger picture than just the life of one man.
Another reason I appreciate the first person approach in this novel is how it allowed me as the reader to get to know Andrew's large family, the friends he made on his journeys, and experience the demands placed on him by the many different church leaders whose intentions were good but manipulative all the same. When he turned 21, he received his first pastorate, but instead of remaining in the church to preach and mature through the experience, he was pulled in many directions, including a trip into what would be the African equivalent of the American prairies. He essentially had to minister to a congregation of about 20,000 widely dispersed people. Traveling from one "church place" to another by horse-drawn wagon or ox cart took time and sapped his energy. He also encountered a few dangers along the way such as predatory prides of lions and wolves. The book is not dull by any means!
More than just being a series of events, this book focuses on Andrew Murray's spiritual journey. The author gives us a glimpse into his mind by allowing him to be open and transparent about the temptations he faced, his failures, and lack of maturity to meet a crisis with wisdom. His first year shouldering so much responsibility was a severe taskmaster. The book allows us to experience his frustrations and feelings first hand. Much of what he learned at the age of 21 is still relevant for young adults today. What he gleaned from his early years is the basic foundation for many of the books and devotional readings he penned years later, once he had time to reflect back on this milestone year. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to the second and third books in this series.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the Story Cartel on behalf of the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
January 12, 2015
The One – A review of the book ‘Andrew Murray: Destined to serve’
“As natural and easy as it has been to be proud, it must become natural for us to be humble” -Andrew Murray
Author Olea Nel’s biographical novel ‘Andrew Murray: Destined to serve’ is based upon a year in the life of Andrew Murray, spent in South Africa as a pastor. Andrew Murray is known the world over as a pastor and as a prolific Christian author having authored more than 240 books in his lifetime. This book is a fictionalized version of a biography as narrated by Andrew Murray himself. After being ordained he is sent from his hometown in Scotland to be a pastor in South Africa. This novel lets the reader peek into the inner thoughts and mind of a 20 year old pastor trying to come to terms with the various changes in the new environment. We get to see a young Andrew Murray showcase his skills and temperament in leading a 20,000 strong congregation and eventually becoming the man the world knows today.
This book that’s the first in a series revolves around an important point that often gets neglected in life, that great men are not born and instead it’s their attitude and approach to work that makes them great. Which I personally thought was a great message and one that everyone should try and imbibe in their lives. Sainthood and being great isn’t limited to a few individuals, everyone has it in them to do good for others and for themselves. And just like Andrew Murray overcame the numerous hurdles that came his way, if we also work hard and keep faith in a power greater than us, then we too can become an inspiration like him.
Proof of Olea Nel’s hard work and extensive research can be found in the vastly informative glossary provided at the end of the book which also contains lots of photographs and maps too. Her narration of this fictionalized novel on one of the most influential figures in history has been done in an extremely approachable manner and believers and non believers, Christians and non Christian readers should find it an interesting read. The book also provides a rare insight into colonised South Africa and the unique political and cultural situation present in the mid 18th century. The end of the book promises an even more interesting and fascinating adventure with him in the next book.
“As natural and easy as it has been to be proud, it must become natural for us to be humble” -Andrew Murray
Author Olea Nel’s biographical novel ‘Andrew Murray: Destined to serve’ is based upon a year in the life of Andrew Murray, spent in South Africa as a pastor. Andrew Murray is known the world over as a pastor and as a prolific Christian author having authored more than 240 books in his lifetime. This book is a fictionalized version of a biography as narrated by Andrew Murray himself. After being ordained he is sent from his hometown in Scotland to be a pastor in South Africa. This novel lets the reader peek into the inner thoughts and mind of a 20 year old pastor trying to come to terms with the various changes in the new environment. We get to see a young Andrew Murray showcase his skills and temperament in leading a 20,000 strong congregation and eventually becoming the man the world knows today.
This book that’s the first in a series revolves around an important point that often gets neglected in life, that great men are not born and instead it’s their attitude and approach to work that makes them great. Which I personally thought was a great message and one that everyone should try and imbibe in their lives. Sainthood and being great isn’t limited to a few individuals, everyone has it in them to do good for others and for themselves. And just like Andrew Murray overcame the numerous hurdles that came his way, if we also work hard and keep faith in a power greater than us, then we too can become an inspiration like him.
Proof of Olea Nel’s hard work and extensive research can be found in the vastly informative glossary provided at the end of the book which also contains lots of photographs and maps too. Her narration of this fictionalized novel on one of the most influential figures in history has been done in an extremely approachable manner and believers and non believers, Christians and non Christian readers should find it an interesting read. The book also provides a rare insight into colonised South Africa and the unique political and cultural situation present in the mid 18th century. The end of the book promises an even more interesting and fascinating adventure with him in the next book.
May 15, 2020
Setting: South Africa
Time Period: 1849 - 1850
Over the last few years, I’ve accumulated a lot of ebooks from Amazon Kindle by Andrew Murry. After reading several of them, I wanted to read about the man who wrote such challenging and inspiring works. This biographical novel by Olea Nel is the first in a series that goes over different parts of Murry’s life. Since this is the first book, this segment went over Murry’s first two years in ministry in South Africa as a 21 year old, newly appointed pastor. I loved how the author described life in the South African colonies and explained how the denominational traditions and travel demands in the churches led Murry to seek a closer walk with Christ and not man made rules or expectations.
Another thing I really enjoyed was that the author didn’t just focus on Murry’s preaching career, but the relationship with his family as well. The first couple of chapters especially highlight what his relationship with his brothers, sisters and parents were, which I found endearing. From what I read in the authors note, all of it is true too. The author knew Andrew Murry personally and was selected to write about his life.
Conclusion: I really enjoyed this biography! It reads like a novel and is an interesting part of church history. It would have been nice to read about his whole life in one book, but I loved the detail so much in this volume I’m interested in getting the next book too. Now, when I read Andrew Murry’s books, I love them even more because I know a little more about the man who wrote them. I highly recommend this book by Olea Nel!
Time Period: 1849 - 1850
Over the last few years, I’ve accumulated a lot of ebooks from Amazon Kindle by Andrew Murry. After reading several of them, I wanted to read about the man who wrote such challenging and inspiring works. This biographical novel by Olea Nel is the first in a series that goes over different parts of Murry’s life. Since this is the first book, this segment went over Murry’s first two years in ministry in South Africa as a 21 year old, newly appointed pastor. I loved how the author described life in the South African colonies and explained how the denominational traditions and travel demands in the churches led Murry to seek a closer walk with Christ and not man made rules or expectations.
Another thing I really enjoyed was that the author didn’t just focus on Murry’s preaching career, but the relationship with his family as well. The first couple of chapters especially highlight what his relationship with his brothers, sisters and parents were, which I found endearing. From what I read in the authors note, all of it is true too. The author knew Andrew Murry personally and was selected to write about his life.
Conclusion: I really enjoyed this biography! It reads like a novel and is an interesting part of church history. It would have been nice to read about his whole life in one book, but I loved the detail so much in this volume I’m interested in getting the next book too. Now, when I read Andrew Murry’s books, I love them even more because I know a little more about the man who wrote them. I highly recommend this book by Olea Nel!
September 19, 2015
Destined to read
Olea Nel, does an excellent job of bringing the history and life of Andrew Murray to life. This book is a compelling narrative that shares the earliest stage of Murray's career and gives insight from a giant of the faith. I recommend this book to readers who want to learn insights from a man who walked and taught in God's grace, even while he struggled. However it would be helpful to have some knowledge of church history and doctrine to understand some of the context.
As I was reading I realized that the book was concluding having only covered the first year of his ministry. It was not until I read the end notes that I understood that this was the first book in a series of biographies that Olea is producing. I look forward to the next book as a sequel to this compelling story.
Olea Nel, does an excellent job of bringing the history and life of Andrew Murray to life. This book is a compelling narrative that shares the earliest stage of Murray's career and gives insight from a giant of the faith. I recommend this book to readers who want to learn insights from a man who walked and taught in God's grace, even while he struggled. However it would be helpful to have some knowledge of church history and doctrine to understand some of the context.
As I was reading I realized that the book was concluding having only covered the first year of his ministry. It was not until I read the end notes that I understood that this was the first book in a series of biographies that Olea is producing. I look forward to the next book as a sequel to this compelling story.
October 31, 2014
Given To Me For An Honest Review
Olea Nel's book Andrew Murray Destined to Serve: A Biographical Novel is a biography that is a must read. It follows Andrew Murray's life through his ministry in South Africa. He was very young when he became a minister. As you read his biography you will learn things that will really open your eyes to the way things were "back then". There are characters included that are interesting, unique and quirky that all made a contribution to his life and ministry. This book is a very interesting read and a great biography. Once you begin it you won't put it down until you finish it. I enjoyed reading it so much. I know I will be re-reading it again. If you enjoy biographies and history then you will enjoy this book. I recommend it to everyone.
Olea Nel's book Andrew Murray Destined to Serve: A Biographical Novel is a biography that is a must read. It follows Andrew Murray's life through his ministry in South Africa. He was very young when he became a minister. As you read his biography you will learn things that will really open your eyes to the way things were "back then". There are characters included that are interesting, unique and quirky that all made a contribution to his life and ministry. This book is a very interesting read and a great biography. Once you begin it you won't put it down until you finish it. I enjoyed reading it so much. I know I will be re-reading it again. If you enjoy biographies and history then you will enjoy this book. I recommend it to everyone.
November 24, 2016
Over the years, I have absorbed many books by Andrew Murray. I feel that they have deeply enriched my Christian walk, so I was thrilled when I came across this biographical novel of his life.
I am grateful to the author for the time spent researching and writing about Andrew's life. Usually, I prefer to read biographies, but this particular book caught my attention and I am glad it did.
I felt as if I was in the story seeing events as they happened. I highly recommend this to anyone who would like to read about the life of Andrew Murray.
I am grateful to the author for the time spent researching and writing about Andrew's life. Usually, I prefer to read biographies, but this particular book caught my attention and I am glad it did.
I felt as if I was in the story seeing events as they happened. I highly recommend this to anyone who would like to read about the life of Andrew Murray.
September 25, 2016
Andrew Murray: Destined to serve By Olea Nel
This was a good book! The author does a great job taking Andrew Murrays notes and creating a story out of them. Very enjoyable to read and flows well. If you are looking for something that has a good pace and is religious in nature, please give this book a try! I don't think you will be disappointed!
I was also able to read the second book in the series, Andrew Murray: Destined to win which I gave the same review to as they are writn the same way: Well done!!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a good book! The author does a great job taking Andrew Murrays notes and creating a story out of them. Very enjoyable to read and flows well. If you are looking for something that has a good pace and is religious in nature, please give this book a try! I don't think you will be disappointed!
I was also able to read the second book in the series, Andrew Murray: Destined to win which I gave the same review to as they are writn the same way: Well done!!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 17, 2015
I finally gave up on this book. It was pretty boring. I love the teachings of Andrew Murray and thought this would be an interesting read but it failed to draw me in and finally I thought, "Why am I wasting my time struggling through?" So.....delete - off of my Kindle.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews