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God's Hostage: A True Story of Persecution, Imprisonment, and Perseverance
In 1993, Andrew Brunson was asked to travel to Turkey, the largest unevangelized country in the world, to serve as a missionary. Though hesitant because of the daunting and dangerous task that lay ahead, Andrew and his wife, Norine, believed this was God's plan for them.
What followed was a string of threats and attacks, but also successes in starting new churches in a place where many people had never met a Christian. As their work with refugees from Syria, including Kurds, gained attention and suspicion, Andrew and Norine acknowledged the threat but accepted the risk, determining to stay unless God told them to leave.
In 2016, they were arrested. Though the State eventually released Norine, who remained in Turkey, Andrew was imprisoned. Accused of being a spy and being among the plotters of the attempted coup, he became a political pawn whose story soon became known around the world.
God's Hostage is the incredible true story of his imprisonment, his brokenness, and his eventual freedom. Anyone with a heart for missions, especially to the Muslim world, will love this tension-laden and faith-laced book.
What followed was a string of threats and attacks, but also successes in starting new churches in a place where many people had never met a Christian. As their work with refugees from Syria, including Kurds, gained attention and suspicion, Andrew and Norine acknowledged the threat but accepted the risk, determining to stay unless God told them to leave.
In 2016, they were arrested. Though the State eventually released Norine, who remained in Turkey, Andrew was imprisoned. Accused of being a spy and being among the plotters of the attempted coup, he became a political pawn whose story soon became known around the world.
God's Hostage is the incredible true story of his imprisonment, his brokenness, and his eventual freedom. Anyone with a heart for missions, especially to the Muslim world, will love this tension-laden and faith-laced book.
256 pages, Paperback
First published October 15, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
December 20, 2021
This book was very inspiring, but it definitely wasn't easy to read. The first half of the book deals candidly with Andrew's struggles with intense fear, doubt, and anxiety. At times, he felt that he couldn't even live another day. And the roller coaster of emotions he experienced throughout the uncertainty of his imprisonment was heart-wrenching to read. Honestly, the first half of the book was kind of depressing.
But the story doesn't end there. About halfway through his imprisonment, he experienced a massive shift in thought. He decided he was going to cling to God, even if He never freed him from prison. "Whatever you do or do not do, I will follow you," he promised (159).
Even when he was told that he might receive three life sentences for his "crimes," he was still able to trust God because his attitude had changed. He even wrote a song called "Worthy of My All," praising Jesus as worthy of all his suffering.
Every day after that, he sang that song to remind himself of his purpose in prison--to glorify Christ. And several months later, God did rescue him through an amazing turn of events that were clearly orchestrated by Him. But, it was only after Andrew had surrendered his plans to God's timing and plans.
While this book was hard to read, I really appreciate that Andrew was honest about his struggles. He didn't show himself as a victorious Christian. He presented all of his struggles in all their raw ugliness, not trying to minimize his darkest thoughts and fears.
This book is a very encouraging read that both teen and adult Christians would enjoy, reminding us that strength and faith are not found in ourselves, but in Christ alone.
Content: There is no physical abuse, but the book does deal with Andrew's psychological struggles (including anxiety and depression) in quite a bit of detail. He even considers suicide at one point. Because of that, I wouldn't recommend this book for very young or sensitive readers.
But the story doesn't end there. About halfway through his imprisonment, he experienced a massive shift in thought. He decided he was going to cling to God, even if He never freed him from prison. "Whatever you do or do not do, I will follow you," he promised (159).
Even when he was told that he might receive three life sentences for his "crimes," he was still able to trust God because his attitude had changed. He even wrote a song called "Worthy of My All," praising Jesus as worthy of all his suffering.
Every day after that, he sang that song to remind himself of his purpose in prison--to glorify Christ. And several months later, God did rescue him through an amazing turn of events that were clearly orchestrated by Him. But, it was only after Andrew had surrendered his plans to God's timing and plans.
While this book was hard to read, I really appreciate that Andrew was honest about his struggles. He didn't show himself as a victorious Christian. He presented all of his struggles in all their raw ugliness, not trying to minimize his darkest thoughts and fears.
This book is a very encouraging read that both teen and adult Christians would enjoy, reminding us that strength and faith are not found in ourselves, but in Christ alone.
Content: There is no physical abuse, but the book does deal with Andrew's psychological struggles (including anxiety and depression) in quite a bit of detail. He even considers suicide at one point. Because of that, I wouldn't recommend this book for very young or sensitive readers.
October 25, 2019
I’m really conflicted about this book. I found the first two-thirds or so depressing. But it was also very interesting and in parts encouraging. I was vaguely aware of Pastor Brunson’s story as it was played out in the news, and this book did a very good job of filling in the details. It was impressive learning about a missionary that had spent so many years in a Muslim country. His love for the Lord and the lost is beautiful and challenging. Mostly though, it details his deep inner struggles often without letting us in on his victories.
Ultimately I think the problem lies in the editing of the book. It focuses so much on his fear and loneliness that for the majority of the book it excludes all else. It certainly was easy to empathize with him, but I started to wonder what the point of the book was. It’s not till the very end that we learn about his constant daily surrender to the Lord, and only in a sort of flashback do we get a glimpse of how close he grew to the Lord in prison.
Then it appears that he and I have some significant doctrinal differences. He appears to believe in direct personal revelation. Several times he pins his hopes on a ‘revelation’ about his release, and when those don’t come true his faith is called into question. The following struggles make up most of the book. Then at the very end after he is released he tries to explain why they didn’t come to pass.
In the end, his decision to yield to the Lord, no matter what the cost, is truly inspiring. The way the story was told though made it a book that I didn’t enjoy reading.
I received this as a free ARC through NetGalley and Baker Books. No favorable review was required. It was my pleasure to provide my honest opinions.
Ultimately I think the problem lies in the editing of the book. It focuses so much on his fear and loneliness that for the majority of the book it excludes all else. It certainly was easy to empathize with him, but I started to wonder what the point of the book was. It’s not till the very end that we learn about his constant daily surrender to the Lord, and only in a sort of flashback do we get a glimpse of how close he grew to the Lord in prison.
Then it appears that he and I have some significant doctrinal differences. He appears to believe in direct personal revelation. Several times he pins his hopes on a ‘revelation’ about his release, and when those don’t come true his faith is called into question. The following struggles make up most of the book. Then at the very end after he is released he tries to explain why they didn’t come to pass.
In the end, his decision to yield to the Lord, no matter what the cost, is truly inspiring. The way the story was told though made it a book that I didn’t enjoy reading.
I received this as a free ARC through NetGalley and Baker Books. No favorable review was required. It was my pleasure to provide my honest opinions.
October 12, 2019
"God's Hostage" by Andrew Brunson is a true story. Andrew and His wife Norine were asked by their mission organization to go to Turkey as missionaries in 1993. They set up a church and also helped many refugees from Syria. They often encountered people who had never heard about Jesus. Many people there did not know how to become a Christian. Many people in Turkey are Muslim and the Muslim religion is very strong there. Their work in Turkey always put them at risk. In 2016 Norine and Andrew were arrested. Norine was released after about 2 weeks. Andrew was held for a longer sentence. He encountered many trials while in prison. He was accused of many false charges ;such as, being a spy, of starting a coup, and any other possible charge . This book is really inspiring . How did Andrew survive being in prison? I commend Andrew for sharing his story in this book. I know it was not easy to relive the difficulties of his imprisonment. It is good for people to be aware of how unfair it is to imprison and charge someone like Andrew with unfair charges. I appreciate netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read and review this book. I am not obligated to give a positive review. I highly recommend this book. It is very riveting. I will be posting my review on facebook, Goodreads, my blog, CBD.com, and also share it with our church staff.
November 6, 2024
I loved how brutally honest Pastor Brunson was about his struggles in prison.
October 19, 2019
This book really encouraged me in my faith. It was inspiring because Pastor Brunson was so transparent. There was an honesty about his weakness that helped me know that in my weakness Christ is strong. It caused me to reflect on my time in Liberia which I found his encouragement that God is able to take my weaknesses and use them for His glory.
September 24, 2025
no me gustó que no apareciera Obama
September 23, 2025
yo soy job!
December 27, 2019
A fascinating modern missionary story—very encouraging read!
Looking back on my years of homeschooling, it feels like I grew up on missionary stories. We always had one or two each school year (and sometimes a lot more!), alongside the ones Mom read aloud to the family now and then of a quiet evening. This year, I was privileged to read two books co-written by Craig Borlase; this one, and Defying Jihad. Both were impactful, stories I doubt I’ll forget for quite a while.
I feel like Brunson’s story is somewhat unique, because you don’t often read about missionaries who are sent to prison—that’s just not a thing that happens, right? But, as we’ve seen in the past with Corrie Ten Boom, or Martin and Gracia Burnham, it does happen now and then. Of course, we hear stories like Brother Yun or Richard Wurmbrand, but those things happen in places remote and unconnected from us…right?
Well, as Andrew Brunson found out, it sometimes does happen to us. And he discovered it could be quite challenging! His faith was severely tested in prison, yet through that struggle, he learned he could rely on God—even when he couldn’t feel the Lord’s presence.
This book was a great encouragement to me. I hope that if I’m ever in a position like this, I’ll be able to stand strong in my faith and know that no matter what, God is still there working.
If you’d like a bit of background for the current Turkish/Syria conflict, I think this would be a very helpful story. It’s also faith-building because even though Brunson was pushed to the depths of depression, and even considered suicide at several points, God came through for him and helped him. Though it could have been told as a story of despair, it isn’t—the hope shines through, even in the darkest places. I loved that. And I’d love to have a copy of my own on the shelf one day!
I requested a free review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.
Looking back on my years of homeschooling, it feels like I grew up on missionary stories. We always had one or two each school year (and sometimes a lot more!), alongside the ones Mom read aloud to the family now and then of a quiet evening. This year, I was privileged to read two books co-written by Craig Borlase; this one, and Defying Jihad. Both were impactful, stories I doubt I’ll forget for quite a while.
I feel like Brunson’s story is somewhat unique, because you don’t often read about missionaries who are sent to prison—that’s just not a thing that happens, right? But, as we’ve seen in the past with Corrie Ten Boom, or Martin and Gracia Burnham, it does happen now and then. Of course, we hear stories like Brother Yun or Richard Wurmbrand, but those things happen in places remote and unconnected from us…right?
Well, as Andrew Brunson found out, it sometimes does happen to us. And he discovered it could be quite challenging! His faith was severely tested in prison, yet through that struggle, he learned he could rely on God—even when he couldn’t feel the Lord’s presence.
This book was a great encouragement to me. I hope that if I’m ever in a position like this, I’ll be able to stand strong in my faith and know that no matter what, God is still there working.
If you’d like a bit of background for the current Turkish/Syria conflict, I think this would be a very helpful story. It’s also faith-building because even though Brunson was pushed to the depths of depression, and even considered suicide at several points, God came through for him and helped him. Though it could have been told as a story of despair, it isn’t—the hope shines through, even in the darkest places. I loved that. And I’d love to have a copy of my own on the shelf one day!
I requested a free review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.
November 15, 2021
When I saw this book while working at the library, I immediately had interest to read it. I was curious to read after a current persecuted Christian’s experience. I became a bit impatient with the author’s seeming lack of courage and faith while going through his persecution, I desired to see more lifting up of Christ. By the end of the book, I am convinced this is a book ALL modern Christians need to read and learn from. Praise God for Andrew Brunson willingly showing his weakness in order to glorify God’s strength!
January 20, 2024
I was interested in this book after seeing Brunson share his story during a Voice of the Martyrs livestream event a few years ago. While his experience is one that I believe is worthy of notoriety and certainly a book, this account fell flat. I wanted more about the climate of Turkey and the circumstances faced by missionaries, including the history of Christianity in the country. Most of all, I wanted to see Jesus featured prominently, with Brunson's faith on full display. It felt as though anxiety and fear were at the forefront from this account, a feeling that I don't recall from his verbal testimony. It also felt at times that the faith was placed in the US government, mainly the Trump Administration, over God. I do not believe this was actually the case, but parts read that way.
This would be a two star book, but the portion of Brunsons's testimony in court and the epilogue were execllent.
I've read a number of accounts of those who endured Christian persecution and am always left feeling inspired by their true faith- and more-so by the faithfulness of the God we serve. This one, unfortunately, could do with a revision to better capture Brunson's story.
Format: Physical book, owned but unhauling
Rating: 3 stars
Book 10 of 2024
This would be a two star book, but the portion of Brunsons's testimony in court and the epilogue were execllent.
I've read a number of accounts of those who endured Christian persecution and am always left feeling inspired by their true faith- and more-so by the faithfulness of the God we serve. This one, unfortunately, could do with a revision to better capture Brunson's story.
Format: Physical book, owned but unhauling
Rating: 3 stars
Book 10 of 2024
June 20, 2021
I love how honest Andrew was in telling his story! I think most Christians would like to think they would act a certain way if they were persecuted. I appreciate his realness and vulnerability in the mist of his trial.
December 2, 2021
Keep reading this book until you reach the second half. The entire book is written with transparency. The first half can be somewhat discouraging at times, but the second half is incredible. In the second half of the book, Brunson learns to cling to the heart of Christ for sustainment in his trial.
October 6, 2025
se nota que cuando alguien no es escritor no puede escribir (cata que decis) (soy cami)
September 16, 2025
it is so bad, i wanna give you a zero, but that’s not possible, so i give you… a one.
December 2, 2019
This was a very exhausting read
In his new book, “God’s Hostage: A True Story of Persecution, Imprisonment, and Perseverance,” Andrew Brunson (with Craig Borlase) tells the story of his two-plus-year imprisonment after serving 23 years with his wife, Norine, in Turkey. While they both were arrested, she was later released, while he remained in prison, falsely accused of being a spy.
Published by Baker Books, the 256-page book is written in seven parts and describes the experiences Brunson suffered. However, the book gets very bogged down with his laments about his sufferings, which is completely understandable, given his indescribable situation.
Yet, that’s where Brunson’s book lost me while reading it. The text was very exhausting and heavy. Again, while I can truly appreciate his very descriptive account, as well as the extremely difficult situation he was in, the text gets lost in translation.
For example, most of the book is weighed down by the circumstances of his imprisonment, while he waits until the end of the book to tell of the miracle of his release without telling the reader how God worked in him and through him during his horrific ordeal.
Moreover, the book was also a hard read because it didn’t flow naturally, given that it is divided into seven parts. What could have been an inspiring story became a difficult one to convey. What this book really needed was a more thorough editing to succinctly clarify the story.
Overall, this book could have been a better read if it would have gotten to the point, purpose and mission a lot sooner, rather than to just tell a story of imprisonment. Again, I would have liked to have read more about how the Lord worked in him and through him in prison. Although I really appreciate his heart in telling his story, this was not a pleasant read.
I gave Brunson’s book a 2 out of 5 stars.
Full disclosure: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, I received an advanced copy of this book through the Baker Books Bloggers Program. My opinions are my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review.
© 2019 by Doug S., M.A.
In his new book, “God’s Hostage: A True Story of Persecution, Imprisonment, and Perseverance,” Andrew Brunson (with Craig Borlase) tells the story of his two-plus-year imprisonment after serving 23 years with his wife, Norine, in Turkey. While they both were arrested, she was later released, while he remained in prison, falsely accused of being a spy.
Published by Baker Books, the 256-page book is written in seven parts and describes the experiences Brunson suffered. However, the book gets very bogged down with his laments about his sufferings, which is completely understandable, given his indescribable situation.
Yet, that’s where Brunson’s book lost me while reading it. The text was very exhausting and heavy. Again, while I can truly appreciate his very descriptive account, as well as the extremely difficult situation he was in, the text gets lost in translation.
For example, most of the book is weighed down by the circumstances of his imprisonment, while he waits until the end of the book to tell of the miracle of his release without telling the reader how God worked in him and through him during his horrific ordeal.
Moreover, the book was also a hard read because it didn’t flow naturally, given that it is divided into seven parts. What could have been an inspiring story became a difficult one to convey. What this book really needed was a more thorough editing to succinctly clarify the story.
Overall, this book could have been a better read if it would have gotten to the point, purpose and mission a lot sooner, rather than to just tell a story of imprisonment. Again, I would have liked to have read more about how the Lord worked in him and through him in prison. Although I really appreciate his heart in telling his story, this was not a pleasant read.
I gave Brunson’s book a 2 out of 5 stars.
Full disclosure: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, I received an advanced copy of this book through the Baker Books Bloggers Program. My opinions are my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review.
© 2019 by Doug S., M.A.
January 24, 2022
I have read missionary stories since I was a child and loved them...I loved to read all about what God did in their lives...and have found them very God honoring.
This is the first missionary story I didn't like.
I felt like this was a story about a man...not God...and while I felt like yes, he was trying to be honest about how he felt during his very difficult experience...in wasn't really until the last few pages of the book(the epilogue) did he talk about what God taught him through his ordeal.
Very disappointed.
This is the first missionary story I didn't like.
I felt like this was a story about a man...not God...and while I felt like yes, he was trying to be honest about how he felt during his very difficult experience...in wasn't really until the last few pages of the book(the epilogue) did he talk about what God taught him through his ordeal.
Very disappointed.
February 19, 2020
“Being locked up behind a big, metal door in a foreign country, hearing the keys turn and the bolts slam for the first time, is sobering—you can’t be sure about anything anymore. Now everything happens to you—it is a sudden loss of control and plunge into uncertainty.”
The Brunsons arrived to Istanbul, Turkey in 1993, determined to share the message of Jesus Christ. They settled in Izmir. With his wife Noreen, they ministered to refugees who had fled from Assad’s Syria and ISIS in Iran, as well as lead a church. When confronted with the statistics, that 1 out of 16,000 Turks is a Christian, I find it incredible he was able to avoid persecution until 2015. In that year, during those tumultuous pre-election jousts between Clinton and Trump for POTUS, the wild charges against him went into play. President Erdogan of Turkey had a coup in July, and it caused him to impose a state of emergency where tens of thousands were arrested under nebulous charges. For example, even if you downloaded an app that was popular among terrorist groups for meet-ups, you were slapped with a prison sentence.
The Brunsons returned from a resting getaway near the Aegean Sea to messages from the police station informing them their presence was needed. Their initial fear was that they were to be deported. But that quickly spiraled into a greater concern. Former disgruntled church members accused him of associating with Kurdish terrorist groups.
Andrew Brunson gives a searingly honest account of his time in prison. He goes over his devastation when his wife is released. Happiness and relief for her, agony of being fully alone. Not knowing who his cellmates might be, and fearing being walled up with members of ISIS. Begging the prison psychiatrist for Xanax for his anxiety attacks, being drugged with valium. Losing 50 pounds. Scratching prayer lists, fragments of verses from memory, encouraging notes onto Styrofoam plates because he was denied pen and paper. Rejoicing when his wife was able to successfully give him a thin book 40 pages long called Prayers to Strengthen Your Inner Man by Mike Bickle.
“Instantly I realized this book was more precious than gold to me. It was life. Finally I had some verses from the Bible that I could read, some prayers that I could say when my own words and thoughts were too fogged up with fear. I now had something that I could build my day around, and I started spending hours and hours each afternoon and evening pacing from the door to the window and back, reciting the verses and letting the book inspire my prayers.”
The day after Christmas, he speaks about testing a clothesline to see if the rope would be strong enough to hang himself on. He was so scared of losing his faith and going insane that he was ready to do the act that would make him united with Christ in an instant.
His gratitude for those around the world who prayed for him bolstered him. His wife on her visits kept him updated on all the letters and concerns for his well-being as expressed by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Senator Graham. Even Trump’s tweets concerning Brunson--that the USA would impose unprecedented sanctions on Turkey --were evidence of God accomplishing his eventual release…
“I was Erdogan’s hostage, but only until God accomplished what he intended to through my imprisonment.”
The Brunsons arrived to Istanbul, Turkey in 1993, determined to share the message of Jesus Christ. They settled in Izmir. With his wife Noreen, they ministered to refugees who had fled from Assad’s Syria and ISIS in Iran, as well as lead a church. When confronted with the statistics, that 1 out of 16,000 Turks is a Christian, I find it incredible he was able to avoid persecution until 2015. In that year, during those tumultuous pre-election jousts between Clinton and Trump for POTUS, the wild charges against him went into play. President Erdogan of Turkey had a coup in July, and it caused him to impose a state of emergency where tens of thousands were arrested under nebulous charges. For example, even if you downloaded an app that was popular among terrorist groups for meet-ups, you were slapped with a prison sentence.
The Brunsons returned from a resting getaway near the Aegean Sea to messages from the police station informing them their presence was needed. Their initial fear was that they were to be deported. But that quickly spiraled into a greater concern. Former disgruntled church members accused him of associating with Kurdish terrorist groups.
Andrew Brunson gives a searingly honest account of his time in prison. He goes over his devastation when his wife is released. Happiness and relief for her, agony of being fully alone. Not knowing who his cellmates might be, and fearing being walled up with members of ISIS. Begging the prison psychiatrist for Xanax for his anxiety attacks, being drugged with valium. Losing 50 pounds. Scratching prayer lists, fragments of verses from memory, encouraging notes onto Styrofoam plates because he was denied pen and paper. Rejoicing when his wife was able to successfully give him a thin book 40 pages long called Prayers to Strengthen Your Inner Man by Mike Bickle.
“Instantly I realized this book was more precious than gold to me. It was life. Finally I had some verses from the Bible that I could read, some prayers that I could say when my own words and thoughts were too fogged up with fear. I now had something that I could build my day around, and I started spending hours and hours each afternoon and evening pacing from the door to the window and back, reciting the verses and letting the book inspire my prayers.”
The day after Christmas, he speaks about testing a clothesline to see if the rope would be strong enough to hang himself on. He was so scared of losing his faith and going insane that he was ready to do the act that would make him united with Christ in an instant.
His gratitude for those around the world who prayed for him bolstered him. His wife on her visits kept him updated on all the letters and concerns for his well-being as expressed by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Senator Graham. Even Trump’s tweets concerning Brunson--that the USA would impose unprecedented sanctions on Turkey --were evidence of God accomplishing his eventual release…
“I was Erdogan’s hostage, but only until God accomplished what he intended to through my imprisonment.”
November 12, 2019
The harrowing story of a long-time Christian pastor/missionary in Turkey who suddenly found himself incarcerated in a series of Turkish prisons and put on trial for alleged terrorist activities and involvement in a failed coup attempt. -- When Brunson and his wife Norine were summoned to the police station not far from their home, they assumed they were about to receive word that their application to remain in Turkey permanently had been acted upon. Instead, they found themselves placed under administrative arrest. Norine was soon released, but Andrew remained in custody for some two years, his status eventually changed to a more serious judicial arrest. -- Brunson pulls no punches in his memoir, detailing his struggles with his faith, his interactions with guards and fellow inmates (some sympathetic, some hostile), and the various legal maneuvers undertaken on his behalf. Eventually, pressure from the Trump Administration resulted in Brunson's conviction, but release for time served -- a face-saving action on the part of the Turkish authorities, but one without any basis in fact. -- I found the book a remarkable and inspirational testimony to the unswerving faith of the Brunsons, their family, and the community of faith around the world.
September 21, 2020
Such mixed thoughts on this book. I followed Andrew Brunson’s story closely and we prayed for him regularly at my church. I’ve seen him and his wife Norine speak since their return and it was super powerful. I sent the link to a number of friends to listen to. That’s why I was so surprised/disappointed at how flat this book was. I’ve read memoirs of far less compelling stories that were far better reads. If I didn’t have some investment in the story I’m not sure I would have been able to finish the book. I know this book deal was made quite shortly after his return and I feel like it was a bit of a rush project and perhaps there wasn’t enough time for Brunson to sort through everything - and for Craig Borlase to write compelling copy. The book itself seemed to read in monotone. I’d really encourage anyone whose interested in learning more about Brunson’s story to Google him and find one of the visits he and Norine did to churches. You may then want to learn more details in the book - but I’ll think you’ll get more out of their 1-hour presentation than this book offered.
June 22, 2021
This book was so encouraging, even though it was also sad and discouraging at times. I really wanted to read it because his biggest trial in prison (unlike most other books of this kind) was a feeling that God was distant and not caring about him. This is how he worked through his spiritual and emotional struggles. It showed how God was faithful to him all along, even when he was struggling with a basic belief that God even cared about him.
Favorite quote (a friend wrote this to Andrew):
“Just breathe. Keep your eyes on God. That’s all—no other expectations. Just breathe and you will come through.”
Favorite quote (a friend wrote this to Andrew):
“Just breathe. Keep your eyes on God. That’s all—no other expectations. Just breathe and you will come through.”
July 5, 2021
This is the fastest I have read a book in a very long time. I started it on Saturday and finished it on Sunday afternoon. Even though I knew that Andrew Brunson ended up being released and allowed to come home to the U.S., I felt a lot of tension reading the account of his imprisonment and the struggles he endured to keep his faith alive and even flourishing.
I really appreciate that he shared the excruciating aspect of his journey, and didn't just make this a kind of Christian fairy tale. I think it will go further to encourage others because he was so honest and didn't try to make himself out to be a superhero of the faith.
Highly recommended.
I really appreciate that he shared the excruciating aspect of his journey, and didn't just make this a kind of Christian fairy tale. I think it will go further to encourage others because he was so honest and didn't try to make himself out to be a superhero of the faith.
Highly recommended.
August 9, 2021
A raw breakdown of Andrew Brunson's false imprisonment. Brunson's reactions are real. He cries, he questions, asks God for forgiveness. His situations as described by him were not physical as with so many Christians. He talks throughout the book about his feelings, his love for God, and how he's treated. This is easy to read, and internally I appreciated that my time was well spent reading God's Hostage. And, I did so in one sitting.
I would recommend reading the Epilogue first. This is nonfiction, therefore there are no spoilers. The epilogue adds a spin.
#GodsHostage
#NorineBrunson
#BakerBooks
#ClassAct
I would recommend reading the Epilogue first. This is nonfiction, therefore there are no spoilers. The epilogue adds a spin.
#GodsHostage
#NorineBrunson
#BakerBooks
#ClassAct
April 1, 2022
It's hard to rate this book anything lower than 5 stars. The transparency & vulnerability of Brunson's story struck me, given most stories of persecution I've heard or read have been filled with joy to suffer for their faith. Brunson on the other hand felt like I would likely be-doubting, struggling, begging, unsure. I respect Brunson for his perseverance despite his lack of feelings, and his holding onto faith in spite of his circumstances. May God bless him with comfort as he returns back to some sense of normalcy.
November 4, 2019
I especially enjoyed this book because I had met Andrew and his family several times over the years when they were with the missionary agency, World Witness. Our sons once played together, and we enjoyed having them in our home for a meal. Our church and Sunday School class prayed for him every Sunday, and we received email updates and reminders to pray during the week as well. It was interesting to now read his account of the events as I recalled the reports we had heard from Norine
and news stories we had seen on TV. I appreciated his honesty of his emotional and spiritual struggles he endured during his imprisonment. Thank you, Andrew, for sharing your story! I know God will continue to use you as you tell of His faithfulness to you.
and news stories we had seen on TV. I appreciated his honesty of his emotional and spiritual struggles he endured during his imprisonment. Thank you, Andrew, for sharing your story! I know God will continue to use you as you tell of His faithfulness to you.
February 23, 2025
Andrew shares his story of being falsely accused and his time in prison in Turkey. I appreciated the realness of Andrew as he writes, that he was wrestling with why God was allowing things to happen but that he also always came back to the Lord and his faithfulness. An incredibly encouraging, challenging and moving story that I encourage everyone to read!
January 1, 2021
Excellent and bare boned!
Pastor Brunson openly expressed his struggles with his faith during his time of imprisonment. What an inspiring testimony that reveals with authenticity the terrors of isolation, abandonment and separation from family. Truly, a must read!
Pastor Brunson openly expressed his struggles with his faith during his time of imprisonment. What an inspiring testimony that reveals with authenticity the terrors of isolation, abandonment and separation from family. Truly, a must read!
November 26, 2020
An amazing story of suffering for Christ. Andrew Brunson’s faith faltered but did not fail. It is encouraging because we are all human and have our struggles but if we hold on to God we will ultimately be triumphant!
January 8, 2021
Great book! I remember praying for Pastor Brunson daily. Can only imagine the struggles he was going through.
March 24, 2020
A rather inspiring story of modern Christian persecution! I didn't anticipate becoming so pulled into this story, but I found myself looking forward to reading "the next chapter" every night until I finished. In some ways, it was unexpected - not so much a testimony of strength as it was weakness - and yet somehow all the more powerful. This book will give you something to think about and wrestle with for a long time to come. Highly recommended.
September 25, 2019
Picked up a pre-release copy on sale at an event where Brunson was speaking. It recounts the ins and outs of his arrest, the ever-changing list of unsupported charges against him, his trials, and the escalation of his case as a political tug-of-war.
It also describes the amazing outpouring of prayer and support from surprising quarters.
Primarily, though, it's Andrew's story of his spiritual and psychological struggle while in prison. He felt abandoned by God and fought a tremendous battle against anxiety and despair, exacerbated by the expectation that he should be strong in his faith rather than broken, as was the case. He was able to get books during much of this time and read the writings of other Christians describing their prison experiences, including Richard Wurmbrand (Romania), Brother Yun (China), and Dan Bauman (Iran). Some of that was helpful, though towards the end he notes that he decided if he ever told his own story, he'd be sure to make it a story about his weakness, so that anyone who struggled as much as he did would not they were not alone. That conviction shapes this book. It's very moving.
Although he was essentially a political hostage, it's worth noting that Brunson was more prisoner than hostage -- his life was not in danger except by his own hand, as he had trouble controlling thoughts of suicide. Eventually they gave him Valium and then Xanax, which helped. Several times the prison or political officials made special efforts to protect his life, as the case became politicized and conspiracy theories spread.
During much of his imprisonment Brunson was able to see his wife weekly and write and receive letters, which was a huge help; his wife in particular was a lifeline, speaking truth and encouragement to him when he was in despair. Their letters and journals were probably crucial in recreating the events in the book.
Prison conditions were often difficult but he was not tortured or housed with violent criminals, though sharing tight quarters with 17 Muslims trying to pray their way out of prison was not easy. Brunson knew the danger of being deported, and had once been the victim of an assassination attempt, but he was completely unprepared for imprisonment. He thought God had chosen "the wrong man," believing someone else would have endured the situation better than he did.
By the end, though, he has realized that God could have gotten him out, but lengthened his imprisonment (hardening hearts like he did with Pharaoh in the OT?) when he showed himself willing to submit to situations that would bring God glory. He also came to believe that the amount of prayer poured out for him might open the way for the growth of God's kingdom in Turkey ("the world's largest unreached country") and make it a gateway for reaching the Middle East. So he felt that his experience did increase God's glory.
When it became clear that evidence, testimony, and logic would have no bearing on how the judge was hearing his case -- he was acting on orders from higher up -- Brunson decided to use his platform to share his faith, which seems to have empowered him to keep going.
This book paints a very dark picture of Turkish president Erdogan and the justice system of Turkey. Nearly all Brunson's cell mates were imprisoned on what he believed to be false charges, such as having the wrong app on their phone, having business or financial ties to an organization that had fallen out of favor, or simply turned in by someone who wanted to increase their own status or save themselves from a similar fate.
It also describes the amazing outpouring of prayer and support from surprising quarters.
Primarily, though, it's Andrew's story of his spiritual and psychological struggle while in prison. He felt abandoned by God and fought a tremendous battle against anxiety and despair, exacerbated by the expectation that he should be strong in his faith rather than broken, as was the case. He was able to get books during much of this time and read the writings of other Christians describing their prison experiences, including Richard Wurmbrand (Romania), Brother Yun (China), and Dan Bauman (Iran). Some of that was helpful, though towards the end he notes that he decided if he ever told his own story, he'd be sure to make it a story about his weakness, so that anyone who struggled as much as he did would not they were not alone. That conviction shapes this book. It's very moving.
Although he was essentially a political hostage, it's worth noting that Brunson was more prisoner than hostage -- his life was not in danger except by his own hand, as he had trouble controlling thoughts of suicide. Eventually they gave him Valium and then Xanax, which helped. Several times the prison or political officials made special efforts to protect his life, as the case became politicized and conspiracy theories spread.
During much of his imprisonment Brunson was able to see his wife weekly and write and receive letters, which was a huge help; his wife in particular was a lifeline, speaking truth and encouragement to him when he was in despair. Their letters and journals were probably crucial in recreating the events in the book.
Prison conditions were often difficult but he was not tortured or housed with violent criminals, though sharing tight quarters with 17 Muslims trying to pray their way out of prison was not easy. Brunson knew the danger of being deported, and had once been the victim of an assassination attempt, but he was completely unprepared for imprisonment. He thought God had chosen "the wrong man," believing someone else would have endured the situation better than he did.
By the end, though, he has realized that God could have gotten him out, but lengthened his imprisonment (hardening hearts like he did with Pharaoh in the OT?) when he showed himself willing to submit to situations that would bring God glory. He also came to believe that the amount of prayer poured out for him might open the way for the growth of God's kingdom in Turkey ("the world's largest unreached country") and make it a gateway for reaching the Middle East. So he felt that his experience did increase God's glory.
When it became clear that evidence, testimony, and logic would have no bearing on how the judge was hearing his case -- he was acting on orders from higher up -- Brunson decided to use his platform to share his faith, which seems to have empowered him to keep going.
This book paints a very dark picture of Turkish president Erdogan and the justice system of Turkey. Nearly all Brunson's cell mates were imprisoned on what he believed to be false charges, such as having the wrong app on their phone, having business or financial ties to an organization that had fallen out of favor, or simply turned in by someone who wanted to increase their own status or save themselves from a similar fate.
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