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God's Smuggler
As a boy he dreamed of being a spy undercover behind enemy lines. As a man he found himself undercover for God. Brother Andrew was his name and for decades his life story, recounted in God's Smuggler, has awed and inspired millions. The bestseller tells of the young Dutch factory worker's incredible efforts to transport Bibles across closed borders-and the miraculous ways in which God provided for him every step of the way. Revell and Chosen now reintroduce this powerful story with two new releases: a 35th anniversary edition and The Narrow Road, an expanded youth edition. Both contain a new foreword and afterword. The youth edition also features information about ministry to the persecuted church today, including country profiles, quotes from Christians in underground churches, "what if" scenarios based on real-life threats they face, and stories from others who have participated in Brother Andrew's Bible-smuggling work. Brother Andrew's story remains as inspiring today as it was thirty-five years ago, and with these new releases it will motivate a whole new generation to risk everything to follow God's call.
256 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1964
About the author
Brother Andrew
61 books241 followersAndrew van der Bijl (born 11 May 1928 in Sint Pancras, Netherlands), known in English-speaking countries as Brother Andrew, is a Christian missionary famous for his exploits smuggling Bibles to communist countries in the height of the Cold War, a feat that has earned him the nickname "God's smuggler". Brother Andrew studied at the WEC Missionary Training College in Glasgow, Scotland. Brother Andrew was born in Sint Pancras, the Netherlands, and was the fourth of seven children to a poor, near deaf blacksmith.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,477 reviews
May 9, 2017
Wow. Wow. Wow. This book, ya'll. I just can't even tell you how faith-strengthening, inspiring, adventuresome, and just down-right fun and encouraging this was! Simply amazing! Very highly recommended! Every Christian needs to read this! And even if your not into non-fiction, this is still a great book! At times I had to remind myself that is *was* non-fiction. Go find a copy of this!
August 2, 2011
In my early days of walking with Christ, it seemed every Christian was recommending this book. Thirty years later, I've finally read it. All I can say is: What took me so long?
There have been several books throughout my journey with the Lord that have impacted me so profoundly that I now view the reading of them as milestones in my life. This book may now top the list.
In "God's Smuggler," Brother Andrew tells his own story of smuggling Bibles to Christians behind the Iron Curtain. When he first started this ministry, he just went alone and carried Bibles and literature with him. He began to see just how limited religious freedom was in many of the Communist countries, and his burden grew to get as many Bibles to as many people as possible. In some cases, he found churches with no Bibles in their possessions. Just bringing one single Bible to such a fellowship would bring tears of gratitude and appreciation. It is indeed moving to read of these people who thirsted for Word of God and were not allowed to have it.
Brother Andrew's work was dangerous. It would sometimes take a couple of hours to get across a border as guards emptied trunks, removed hub caps, opened hoods, etc. in search of anything that they were supposed to confiscate, Bibles included. Andrew was often aware of state officials keeping an eye on him wherever he went in some of these countries. But he pressed on, believing the work was worth the risk, and seeing God do some pretty amazing things along the way.
This is a book about serving God faithfully and trusting God implicitly. Brother Andrew now considers this book to be a curse because it has caused many people to elevate him to superstar status. He regrets that that has happened and believes he was only doing what any Christian should do. If you read this book, you may find yourself wanting to do just that.
There have been several books throughout my journey with the Lord that have impacted me so profoundly that I now view the reading of them as milestones in my life. This book may now top the list.
In "God's Smuggler," Brother Andrew tells his own story of smuggling Bibles to Christians behind the Iron Curtain. When he first started this ministry, he just went alone and carried Bibles and literature with him. He began to see just how limited religious freedom was in many of the Communist countries, and his burden grew to get as many Bibles to as many people as possible. In some cases, he found churches with no Bibles in their possessions. Just bringing one single Bible to such a fellowship would bring tears of gratitude and appreciation. It is indeed moving to read of these people who thirsted for Word of God and were not allowed to have it.
Brother Andrew's work was dangerous. It would sometimes take a couple of hours to get across a border as guards emptied trunks, removed hub caps, opened hoods, etc. in search of anything that they were supposed to confiscate, Bibles included. Andrew was often aware of state officials keeping an eye on him wherever he went in some of these countries. But he pressed on, believing the work was worth the risk, and seeing God do some pretty amazing things along the way.
This is a book about serving God faithfully and trusting God implicitly. Brother Andrew now considers this book to be a curse because it has caused many people to elevate him to superstar status. He regrets that that has happened and believes he was only doing what any Christian should do. If you read this book, you may find yourself wanting to do just that.
February 16, 2013
Written in 1967 I've heard about this book for a long time and always "meant to get around to it". Well based on a recommendation here that reminded me of it I finally got it (after 46 years) and it was well worth the read.
First off this is a Christian read, know that going in. While it has value as a read about the Cold War era it is told from the point of view of a Christian missionary (and those involved with him.
Now for you who have a knee-jerk bad reaction to the word missionary I can only say that said reaction isn't a balanced one and is based on the worst examples of those who call themselves Christian. I can only suggest that you treat this and all accounts with an open mind. I won't try to tell the story here that's in the book, but maybe give it a shot?
I will say that the events recounted here caused me to reevaluate my own life, my own Christianity, my own faith and my attitude toward faith. I've known for some time that the phrase "my faith" is a misnomer in that we need "the faith of Christ" not "our own" faith. Brother Andrew (Andrew van der Bijl) lived that out. He did it (with God's help) in a simple low key way. From his home in the Netherlands he traveled to and through the Iron Curtain countries and later across the world witnessing and speaking of Christ.
As I said, this is frankly a Christian book. I think others may enjoy it for the history but it will always carry its Christianity front and center. I have been greatly inspired by the read and recommend it wholeheartedly.
First off this is a Christian read, know that going in. While it has value as a read about the Cold War era it is told from the point of view of a Christian missionary (and those involved with him.
Now for you who have a knee-jerk bad reaction to the word missionary I can only say that said reaction isn't a balanced one and is based on the worst examples of those who call themselves Christian. I can only suggest that you treat this and all accounts with an open mind. I won't try to tell the story here that's in the book, but maybe give it a shot?
I will say that the events recounted here caused me to reevaluate my own life, my own Christianity, my own faith and my attitude toward faith. I've known for some time that the phrase "my faith" is a misnomer in that we need "the faith of Christ" not "our own" faith. Brother Andrew (Andrew van der Bijl) lived that out. He did it (with God's help) in a simple low key way. From his home in the Netherlands he traveled to and through the Iron Curtain countries and later across the world witnessing and speaking of Christ.
As I said, this is frankly a Christian book. I think others may enjoy it for the history but it will always carry its Christianity front and center. I have been greatly inspired by the read and recommend it wholeheartedly.
April 12, 2019
An amazing true story that goes to show what complete faith in God can do! I was amazed at how many times God supplied al of the needs! A great reminder that “all things work together for good for those who love God.”
Age rec: 13+
Happy reading!
Age rec: 13+
Happy reading!
September 30, 2020
I haven't read this book in years. I remember my Dad read it aloud to us when we were young and that I've read other biographies of this man who follows God with his whole heart.
This and stories like it cause me to pray more for the church at large and make sure that I am living my life surrendered to God and whatever He calls me to do.
This and stories like it cause me to pray more for the church at large and make sure that I am living my life surrendered to God and whatever He calls me to do.
April 24, 2016
This is a classic missionary biography. I just re-read it. I had forgotten that Brother Andrew includes his own personal testimony in the earlier chapters of the book. It's really a great story from angry, drunk, suicidal and anti-God to Christian. God placed people in Andrew's life at key points and I'm sure these people were faithfully praying for him.
The Bible smuggling part of the book is incredible and a reminder that God was and is at work to bring His Word to the unreached. Many times Bro Andrew and his team prayed as they crossed various borders carrying much needed Bibles illegally into "closed" countries in Eastern Europe and later to China. The guards nearly always searched the vehicles but found nothing! Although later Bro Andrew discovered that various secret police were fully aware of his activities and chose to allow it to continue...
Some charismatic leanings but not a big focus in the book and doesn't detract from the content. Recommended for those who need to be inspired in their Christian walk/evangelistic efforts.
The Bible smuggling part of the book is incredible and a reminder that God was and is at work to bring His Word to the unreached. Many times Bro Andrew and his team prayed as they crossed various borders carrying much needed Bibles illegally into "closed" countries in Eastern Europe and later to China. The guards nearly always searched the vehicles but found nothing! Although later Bro Andrew discovered that various secret police were fully aware of his activities and chose to allow it to continue...
Some charismatic leanings but not a big focus in the book and doesn't detract from the content. Recommended for those who need to be inspired in their Christian walk/evangelistic efforts.
October 5, 2022
I wish I could rate this higher than five stars! Brother Andrew went to be with the Lord last week, so I knew I finally had to read his story. From the introduction, I was struck by the humility and humbleness of Brother Andrew, especially given all that he has accomplished for Christ. His journey from a non-believer to a powerful force spreading the gospel was beautiful to read, as was seeing how God worked in his life to further His purpose. I've been fascinated with learning more about life behind the Iron Curtain and the totalitarian regimes that arose during and after the fall of the USSR and gained knowledge from this account, but ultimately the focus is always on God. I loved Brother Andrew's insistence that he was not "anti-" anything, but rather for Jesus in all. What a beautiful sentiment and how we should all be striving to live our lives!
April 12, 2019
A beautiful story of one man's perseverance and faith in the Lord. Highly reccomend this book! It was so incredible to see how God worked in Brother Andrew's life, and how He always provided for him and his family. I always enjoy reading an autobiography because you can always connect with the writer more than you can when reading a biography. I would reccomend it for ages 12+ because Brother Andrew, although unharmed, does get in many dangerous situations.
5 stars because it deserves no less. :)
5 stars because it deserves no less. :)
October 10, 2022
Convicting and encouraging.
July 28, 2013
My mom gave me this book in college back in 1995, and for some reason, I waited until last week to read it. Finishing it today, I am dumbfounded that I waited so long to read it. I had apparently started reading it back in 2008, judging from a bookmark left in it, but for some reason, never got more than a few pages into it. This time, I couldn't put it down. I was reading it while brushing my teeth, while eating my cereal, while waiting at stop lights. From Brother Andrew's childhood in Nazi-occupied Holland, to his desperate rebellion against God while in the Dutch army, to his return to the Lord, and his amazing adventures smuggling Bibles into Communist countries in the 50's and 60's, it was a phenomenal testimony. So many of us have such a shallow view of God that Brother Andrew just blows out of the water. Time and time again, he saw God care for him physically, financially, legally, and spiritually. We officially know that God can interact in the activities of humans, but we expect Him at best to do so in vague "spiritual" ways. And yet, Brother Andrew saw God provide in the practical, day-to-day activities of his life as he trusted God to provide financially, to blind border guards searching his little VW bug for contraband, and to guide him and his unknown contacts to each other at just the right moment in countries he'd never visited where secret police were everywhere. Brother Andrew challenges each of us to live out our faith in Christ and witness how much He can do through us. It's a beautifully challenging book.
February 6, 2016
Wow! This is an amazing book! There are really no words to describe it other than Brother Andrew simply living in obedience to God. But how encouraging and faith-building it is to follow years of his ministry! Some people think of doing grand things for Christ, but often, Brother Andrew was just THERE...giving hope to the persecuted Christians that there is someone else in the body praying for them. Reading this book will raise your awareness of persecuted Christians and the struggles they face. It is not graphic at all (not even close to "Tortured for Christ"), but shows the seriousness and struggles of believers in closed countries.
A quote that really stood out to me;
"You can't use strong-arm tactics against the Church without strengthening it. It's always been that way. Under persecution a man looks to his faith to see if it's worth fighting for, and this is a scrutiny Christianity can always withstand. The real danger comes with an indirect attack, where a person is lured away from the Church before he has a chance to become strong."
A quote that really stood out to me;
"You can't use strong-arm tactics against the Church without strengthening it. It's always been that way. Under persecution a man looks to his faith to see if it's worth fighting for, and this is a scrutiny Christianity can always withstand. The real danger comes with an indirect attack, where a person is lured away from the Church before he has a chance to become strong."
October 24, 2019
An amazing story of faith that is ridiculously encouraging and convicting. To see God move again and again in situations that would be impossible for man alone, and to see every need met in such a miraculous way is c r a z y cool.
I think my expectations of God are often too limited, His place in my heart too small, and the amount I'm willing to trust Him with too safe. Oh to have faith even as small as a mustard seed!
"Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
Oh, for grace to trust Him more!"
I think my expectations of God are often too limited, His place in my heart too small, and the amount I'm willing to trust Him with too safe. Oh to have faith even as small as a mustard seed!
"Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
Oh, for grace to trust Him more!"
February 3, 2017
Just. . . every Christian needs to read this.
December 19, 2017
So very good. My dd and I loved listening to this and were challenged in many unexpected ways. This book will help you love your Bible more and pray -for specifics- more and more frequently.
May 24, 2022
It is unlikely that I would have chosen this book for myself, but I am so thankful that my counselor recommended it for me to read. The Lord used this book in 3 ways in my life: 1) He reminded me of what a treasure His Word is and it should be honored as such in my life; 2) He showed me the power of prayer— more importantly, the power of God through prayer; 3) He reminded me that the cause of Christ is worth my full participation, whatever the cost. These are 3 lessons that I desperately needed in my life, and I’ll leave it to you to read Brother Andrew’s book to find out how the Lord used his words to teach me.
“As you can see, this clearly isn’t my story. It is God’s story, and a lot of staff and volunteers have participated. I have always said that if, an uneducated Dutchman —you know I never officially graduated from high school or Bible school— can do these things, then anyone can do them. If, that is, you are led by God and live and work by faith.” -Brother Andrew (p. 267)
“As you can see, this clearly isn’t my story. It is God’s story, and a lot of staff and volunteers have participated. I have always said that if, an uneducated Dutchman —you know I never officially graduated from high school or Bible school— can do these things, then anyone can do them. If, that is, you are led by God and live and work by faith.” -Brother Andrew (p. 267)
September 26, 2020
5 stars & 5/10 hearts. I read this book on the recommendation of a good friend. I was a bit wary at first, because I knew nothing of Brother Andrew and religious/doctrinal books require discretion. But I was quickly swept into the story. His childhood is so interesting and rather exciting (and I relate to having a half-deaf father who always needs you to yell things xD). His redemption story is absolutely AWESOME and I loved it. His salvation wasn’t’t explained very well but based on his life and what he said I think he really was saved. There were a couple things I was a bit skeptical/unsure about, and I don’t know if I agree with absolutely everything. There was also several mentions of drinking, smoking, telling smutty stories, etc (Andy’s time in the army + the girls in the factory where he worked at one time). What I got the most out of this book was the POWER of PRAYER. The greater part of this story is about Andrew’s travels behind the iron curtain smuggling Bibles, preaching, and encouraging the Christians. There were so many amazing people and amazing stories (and a great sense of humour!—so many hilarious scenes). The best thing, though, was seeing just how completely these operations depended on God and all the amazing ways He rescued and cared for His people. It also made me think a lot about things—how the young people were weaned from the church by the government, how where the Christians were indifferent the religion was completely tolerated because it was dying down... lots of though-provokingness about this book. It was such an encouraging, challenging, convicting book, a great blessing, and I highly recommend it.
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “I was up with the first bird song, dressed and out in the garden with two books in my hand. One was an English Bible; the other was a dictionary. It was doubtless an excellent technique, but it did have some disadvantages. My English during that period was filled with thees, thous, and verily. One time I passed on a request for butter by saying, ‘Thus sayeth the neighbour of Andrew, that thou wouldst be pleased to pass the butter.’”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “I was up with the first bird song, dressed and out in the garden with two books in my hand. One was an English Bible; the other was a dictionary. It was doubtless an excellent technique, but it did have some disadvantages. My English during that period was filled with thees, thous, and verily. One time I passed on a request for butter by saying, ‘Thus sayeth the neighbour of Andrew, that thou wouldst be pleased to pass the butter.’”
October 26, 2021
I think this should be required reading for anyone that professes to love God and His Word.
This is the story of an ordinary Dutch man who went undercover for God. He smuggled Bibles into the most closed and dangerous countries of the world, risking his life over and over again. His life of faith and surrender is such a testimony and inspiration. Do we love and see God’s Word as precious as he did? The people receiving these Bibles sure did.
“My heart was racing. Not with the excitement of the crossing, but with the excitement of having caught such a spectacular glimpse of God at work.”
I couldn’t not put this book down. Story after story of his putting Bibles into hands of the Chinese, Germans, Hungarians, Russians, and so many more was so compelling. His prayer life and listening to that still small voice was so convicting.
The end of the book goes on to tell of his other adventure and of opening up Open Doors USA- a mission to those behind the Iron Curtain.
His other books: Light Force: A Stirring Account of the Church Caught in the Middle East Crossfire
Secret Believers: What Happens When Muslims Believe in Christ
This is the story of an ordinary Dutch man who went undercover for God. He smuggled Bibles into the most closed and dangerous countries of the world, risking his life over and over again. His life of faith and surrender is such a testimony and inspiration. Do we love and see God’s Word as precious as he did? The people receiving these Bibles sure did.
“My heart was racing. Not with the excitement of the crossing, but with the excitement of having caught such a spectacular glimpse of God at work.”
I couldn’t not put this book down. Story after story of his putting Bibles into hands of the Chinese, Germans, Hungarians, Russians, and so many more was so compelling. His prayer life and listening to that still small voice was so convicting.
The end of the book goes on to tell of his other adventure and of opening up Open Doors USA- a mission to those behind the Iron Curtain.
His other books: Light Force: A Stirring Account of the Church Caught in the Middle East Crossfire
Secret Believers: What Happens When Muslims Believe in Christ
March 20, 2021
Wow, what an incredible, inspiring story! I had heard of this book for years but didn't know any of the details of Brother Andrew's story. Just wow. You could see God working on just about every page of this book. I loved hearing about the incredible and specific ways that certain needs were met, along with the divine protection that they encountered every step of the way. The messages about the persecuted church and the need of fellowship and letting them know they're not forgotten were so spot on! And some of the talk about the way the Communists tried to outlaw, counterfeit, and demoralize the church was seriously chilling, especially considering some recent trends in the world. The stories of the believers met behind the Iron Curtain brought tears to my eyes on multiple occasions--usually not tears of sadness for their suffering but tears of longing at the sweet, sweet fellowship that we share as believers in any nation. I highly recommend this book!
A note on content--Andrew's early life stands as an amazing testimony to God's redeeming power, but the account doesn't shy away from the seriousness of sin (though it never gets overly detailed). There are mentions of war and atrocities, drinking to excess, cursing, etc. There are also some references to filthy talk and nasty allusions made by some young people at a later date, but again, the focus is on God's redemption. Parents of younger readers may want to look over these scenes before handing it to their children.
A note on content--Andrew's early life stands as an amazing testimony to God's redeeming power, but the account doesn't shy away from the seriousness of sin (though it never gets overly detailed). There are mentions of war and atrocities, drinking to excess, cursing, etc. There are also some references to filthy talk and nasty allusions made by some young people at a later date, but again, the focus is on God's redemption. Parents of younger readers may want to look over these scenes before handing it to their children.
August 7, 2015
Faith. This entire book is a complete exercise in utter faith. I am in
awe.
This is really one of the best books I've ever read, and I think I will now read everything else that he's written. I think every Christian (oh, well non-Christians too, if they would) should read this.
It's also side-splittingly hilarious. Really. And it also takes place partly in Holland. You have no excuse, so go go.
awe.
This is really one of the best books I've ever read, and I think I will now read everything else that he's written. I think every Christian (oh, well non-Christians too, if they would) should read this.
It's also side-splittingly hilarious. Really. And it also takes place partly in Holland. You have no excuse, so go go.
October 30, 2020
I can’t count the number of times my mother read me this book, or I read it myself. The first time though I must have been very young because she had to skip the hardest part about his military service. I’m sure I was first most intrigued by the adventure. After all, it has all the elements of a great spy story: smugglers, illegal border crossings, clandestine meetings, victory. It was all so vividly real to a child.
Then as I got older his faith became so challenging, and his obedience so inspiring. Even now as I reread it, I find myself encouraged to draw closer to the Lord and obey in every detail no matter the cost. It doesn’t encourage just through Brother Andrew's faith though; it encourages by the faith of the believers who gave up jobs, education, homes, security, and countries all for the Gospel.
I can’t recommend it strongly enough. Really, except for that one part of the story my mother censored, this book is acceptable for any age. The risks taken and the price paid for the faith are very delicately shown. Only as I grew up and learned more about the Soviet Union did the full implications of those hints start to gain their full force.
Because this does cover the later years of Brother Andrew’s ministry also, I do have one concern. In the later years of this ministry and mentioned in the latter part of this book, there seemed to be a very broad almost ecumenical definition of Christianity accepted. Now I’m not saying that we shouldn’t minister to anyone in need, and we should certainly give everyone we can the Bible. But it does concern me when there is no clear stand for Biblical salvation by faith alone. It is so important to remember that traditions even in the name of Christ save no one. Those later books seem to many times take for granted the salvation of people in the Catholic or Coptic churches. Not always, but enough to make me wish they presented the Gospel as clearly as this book does.
Then as I got older his faith became so challenging, and his obedience so inspiring. Even now as I reread it, I find myself encouraged to draw closer to the Lord and obey in every detail no matter the cost. It doesn’t encourage just through Brother Andrew's faith though; it encourages by the faith of the believers who gave up jobs, education, homes, security, and countries all for the Gospel.
I can’t recommend it strongly enough. Really, except for that one part of the story my mother censored, this book is acceptable for any age. The risks taken and the price paid for the faith are very delicately shown. Only as I grew up and learned more about the Soviet Union did the full implications of those hints start to gain their full force.
Because this does cover the later years of Brother Andrew’s ministry also, I do have one concern. In the later years of this ministry and mentioned in the latter part of this book, there seemed to be a very broad almost ecumenical definition of Christianity accepted. Now I’m not saying that we shouldn’t minister to anyone in need, and we should certainly give everyone we can the Bible. But it does concern me when there is no clear stand for Biblical salvation by faith alone. It is so important to remember that traditions even in the name of Christ save no one. Those later books seem to many times take for granted the salvation of people in the Catholic or Coptic churches. Not always, but enough to make me wish they presented the Gospel as clearly as this book does.
January 16, 2014
This was by far the BEST non-fiction book I have ever read. It made me reconsider the degree that I believe in miracles. I love God, and always have, but this book showed me how small of a box in which I keep my God. A great read for anyone who is questioning where God is or if he still hears us.
December 20, 2021
There are many good books out there. But there are only a few that really pull you into the story, keep you on the edge of your seat, and leave you breathless and deeply inspired.
God's Smuggler is one of those books. And the most amazing thing is . . . It's a true story.
This is the story of Brother Andrew, the famous Dutch missionary who smuggled Bibles to Christians behind the Iron Curtain during the 1950s and 60s. Yet, it reads like a fiction spy novel.
Summary: The story follows Andrew from his childhood growing up in Holland during World War II, to his years fighting with the Dutch army in Indonesia, to his conversion to Christianity and his early years of ministry.
After Andrew was severely wounded during his time in the army, he began reading the Bible one day and eventually accepted Christ as his Savior. After sensing the Lord calling him to ministry, he went to the WEC Missionary Training College in Glasgow, Scotland. There he learned to rely on God for everything, from food and clothing to lodging and visas.
After he graduated from the college in 1955, his first trip behind the Iron Curtain came when he had the opportunity to attend a Communist youth rally in Warsaw, Poland. He wasn't there to learn about Communism though. He was there to find out firsthand what religious freedom was really like there and spread the gospel wherever he went. After this trip, his interest in the Christians behind the Iron Curtain grew into a calling to serve them.
Over the next few decades, Andrew made several trips deep into the heart of Communism. He visited numerous European countries, some of which were Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia, Romania, East Germany, and even Russia. Later on, he even visited Communist China.
Each time he went, he encouraged the Christians that they were not forgotten by their brothers around the world. And once he returned home, he brought news to the Free World of what life was really like behind the Iron Curtain.
Along the way, he started to notice a great need for Bibles. Often, a large congregation had only one or two Bibles to share among them. He began to pack Bibles into his car and luggage, smuggling them over the borders to give to the Christians there.
Each trip brought new adventure and danger. From border guards who completely overlooked the Bibles in his luggage to exchanging dozens of Bibles right under the noses of the Communist police, God was clearly with Andrew every step of the way, protecting him and his precious work.
In 1958, he married his wife Corry and they had five children together. Corry often accompanied him on his trips, especially in the early years. As time went on, Andrew began to grow a small team around him that helped him distribute Bibles and literature more efficiently.
As the Soviet Union began to crumble in the early 1990s, he turned his attention to the Middle East and helping Christians there. Eventually, he founded Open Doors, a mission that supports and spreads awareness about persecuted Christians. Still alive today, Andrew continues to inspire Christians around the world with his amazing story.
My Thoughts: I couldn't put the book down! It kept me hooked from the very first page.
I really appreciated that it was written from Andrew's perspective, which made it more of a story, instead of just a biography. His way of telling the story was conversational and easy to follow--simple, yet full of profound truth. There were so many wonderful quotes throughout the book that were so inspiring and insightful.
I also enjoyed the special features at the end of the book, especially the interview in which Andrew talked about his recent ministry in the Middle East. The number of adventures and close calls he has had is astounding. (You'll have to read the book to find out!) But his fearlessness and unquestioning obedience is certainly inspiring.
This is a book every Christian, especially young people, should read, whether you're interested in missions or not. It will remind you of the deeply transforming power of the gospel and our true mission as ambassadors for the King. It will encourage you that God is indeed working in the everyday, seemingly unimportant things. And it will inspire you to follow hard after Christ no matter what you may face, because in the end, it is worth it.
God's Smuggler is one of those books. And the most amazing thing is . . . It's a true story.
This is the story of Brother Andrew, the famous Dutch missionary who smuggled Bibles to Christians behind the Iron Curtain during the 1950s and 60s. Yet, it reads like a fiction spy novel.
Summary: The story follows Andrew from his childhood growing up in Holland during World War II, to his years fighting with the Dutch army in Indonesia, to his conversion to Christianity and his early years of ministry.
After Andrew was severely wounded during his time in the army, he began reading the Bible one day and eventually accepted Christ as his Savior. After sensing the Lord calling him to ministry, he went to the WEC Missionary Training College in Glasgow, Scotland. There he learned to rely on God for everything, from food and clothing to lodging and visas.
After he graduated from the college in 1955, his first trip behind the Iron Curtain came when he had the opportunity to attend a Communist youth rally in Warsaw, Poland. He wasn't there to learn about Communism though. He was there to find out firsthand what religious freedom was really like there and spread the gospel wherever he went. After this trip, his interest in the Christians behind the Iron Curtain grew into a calling to serve them.
Over the next few decades, Andrew made several trips deep into the heart of Communism. He visited numerous European countries, some of which were Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia, Romania, East Germany, and even Russia. Later on, he even visited Communist China.
Each time he went, he encouraged the Christians that they were not forgotten by their brothers around the world. And once he returned home, he brought news to the Free World of what life was really like behind the Iron Curtain.
Along the way, he started to notice a great need for Bibles. Often, a large congregation had only one or two Bibles to share among them. He began to pack Bibles into his car and luggage, smuggling them over the borders to give to the Christians there.
Each trip brought new adventure and danger. From border guards who completely overlooked the Bibles in his luggage to exchanging dozens of Bibles right under the noses of the Communist police, God was clearly with Andrew every step of the way, protecting him and his precious work.
In 1958, he married his wife Corry and they had five children together. Corry often accompanied him on his trips, especially in the early years. As time went on, Andrew began to grow a small team around him that helped him distribute Bibles and literature more efficiently.
As the Soviet Union began to crumble in the early 1990s, he turned his attention to the Middle East and helping Christians there. Eventually, he founded Open Doors, a mission that supports and spreads awareness about persecuted Christians. Still alive today, Andrew continues to inspire Christians around the world with his amazing story.
My Thoughts: I couldn't put the book down! It kept me hooked from the very first page.
I really appreciated that it was written from Andrew's perspective, which made it more of a story, instead of just a biography. His way of telling the story was conversational and easy to follow--simple, yet full of profound truth. There were so many wonderful quotes throughout the book that were so inspiring and insightful.
I also enjoyed the special features at the end of the book, especially the interview in which Andrew talked about his recent ministry in the Middle East. The number of adventures and close calls he has had is astounding. (You'll have to read the book to find out!) But his fearlessness and unquestioning obedience is certainly inspiring.
This is a book every Christian, especially young people, should read, whether you're interested in missions or not. It will remind you of the deeply transforming power of the gospel and our true mission as ambassadors for the King. It will encourage you that God is indeed working in the everyday, seemingly unimportant things. And it will inspire you to follow hard after Christ no matter what you may face, because in the end, it is worth it.
January 23, 2021
It was a great story, but there were a few times that it felt like I heard that already, as he had the same adventure in different countries. But it was a great story. It was amazing to see how God used a humble man with humble origins to do great things.
January 13, 2016
Brother Andrew is by his own admission a very ordinary man. Born in a small village in Sint Pancras, the Netherlands, from an early age he was like many children, dreaming about grand adventures. He's the son of the village blacksmith, living in poverty exacerbated by WWII, who joined the armed forces to find those adventures; although that didn't work out, God planted a seed within him, a seed which grew into the Open Doors ministry. Brother Andrew was born, a man who smuggled Bibles behind the Iron Curtain, bringing the gospel and truth to all who would listen. For those of us in the west, especially Christians, it's not uncommon to have multiple Bibles in our home, so discovering there were whole churches who didn't even have one between them was astounding.
God's provision for those who ask and wait is incredible, whether it was for tuition money, knowledge of his mission field, people, supplies... or for the border guards to be blinded to the dozens of Bibles in his car, including those on the seat right next to him! I was continually astounded, awed by God's faithfulness and power, and shamed by my lack.
God's Smuggler is one of those books which, like The Hiding Place and The Small Woman show the awesome power of God as He works through the lives of very ordinary people who simply trust in Him to provide. If, as Brother Andrew says, God can use a man with no education (he didn't even graduate high school), no money and a war wound to do His work in such wonderful ways, how much more could He use the rest of us?
This is a must-read, especially if you're weary of waiting, have doubts, or simply don't quite believe, but every Christian should read this at least once.
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
God's provision for those who ask and wait is incredible, whether it was for tuition money, knowledge of his mission field, people, supplies... or for the border guards to be blinded to the dozens of Bibles in his car, including those on the seat right next to him! I was continually astounded, awed by God's faithfulness and power, and shamed by my lack.
God's Smuggler is one of those books which, like The Hiding Place and The Small Woman show the awesome power of God as He works through the lives of very ordinary people who simply trust in Him to provide. If, as Brother Andrew says, God can use a man with no education (he didn't even graduate high school), no money and a war wound to do His work in such wonderful ways, how much more could He use the rest of us?
This is a must-read, especially if you're weary of waiting, have doubts, or simply don't quite believe, but every Christian should read this at least once.
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2012
I do not often say that something has changed my life, but the nonfiction book God's Smuggler has changed my life. The man called Brother Andrew (name changed for safety) who lived in Holland before and during the Iron Curtain years, impacted Europe with his faithfulness like no other person I'm aware of.
John and Elizabeth Sherrill's dedication to this carefully written and inspiring story touched my own faith-nerve--to live more by faith from day to day. Brother Andrew's openness to sacrifice and prayer were just two topics exemplified in this true thriller of a Bible smuggler's life.
With the people who supported and taught him, as well as with those who opposed him—-Brother Andrew approached each day willing to be led by God regardless of the circumstances. He learned to live in God's arms, and we can learn from him.
"The more devoted a Christian, the more likely he was to stay put." Brother Andrew said this about the people he met behind the Iron Curtain who could have escaped Communism, but chose to stay in their communities because they placed their service for God over their lives of danger for holding prayer and church services. This challenged me in my own life. God is in control. (Romans 8:28)
Brother Andrew's zeal to preach Christ and His Word above all else led him to make a statement that has convicted me about the way I sometimes write and speak to others. He said when we have more to say about certain evils than we have to say about the goodness of Christ, then we are ill equipped for faithful service.
If you have a heart for missions, this is a must-read. I regret not having read this book sooner, but having read it now, I will not ignore its powerful message and example.
David I. Telbat
John and Elizabeth Sherrill's dedication to this carefully written and inspiring story touched my own faith-nerve--to live more by faith from day to day. Brother Andrew's openness to sacrifice and prayer were just two topics exemplified in this true thriller of a Bible smuggler's life.
With the people who supported and taught him, as well as with those who opposed him—-Brother Andrew approached each day willing to be led by God regardless of the circumstances. He learned to live in God's arms, and we can learn from him.
"The more devoted a Christian, the more likely he was to stay put." Brother Andrew said this about the people he met behind the Iron Curtain who could have escaped Communism, but chose to stay in their communities because they placed their service for God over their lives of danger for holding prayer and church services. This challenged me in my own life. God is in control. (Romans 8:28)
Brother Andrew's zeal to preach Christ and His Word above all else led him to make a statement that has convicted me about the way I sometimes write and speak to others. He said when we have more to say about certain evils than we have to say about the goodness of Christ, then we are ill equipped for faithful service.
If you have a heart for missions, this is a must-read. I regret not having read this book sooner, but having read it now, I will not ignore its powerful message and example.
David I. Telbat
May 21, 2013
Written in 1967 I've heard about this book for a long time and always "meant to get around to it". Well based on a recommendation here that reminded me of it I finally got it (after 46 years) and it was well worth the read.
First off this is a Christian read, know that going in. While it has value as a read about the Cold War era it is told from the point of view of a Christian missionary (and those involved with him.
Now for you who have a knee-jerk bad reaction to the word missionary I can only say that said reaction isn't a balanced one and is based on the worst examples of those who call themselves Christian. I can only suggest that you treat this and all accounts with an open mind. I won't try to tell the story here that's in the book, but maybe give it a shot?
I will say that the events recounted here caused me to reevaluate my own life, my own Christianity, my own faith and my attitude toward faith. I've known for some time that the phrase "my faith" is a misnomer in that we need "the faith of Christ" not "our own" faith. Brother Andrew (Andrew van der Bijl) lived that out. He did it (with God's help) in a simple low key way. From his home in the Netherlands he traveled to and through the Iron Curtain countries and later across the world witnessing and speaking of Christ.
As I said, this is frankly a Christian book. I think others may enjoy it for the history but it will always carry its Christianity front and center. I have been greatly inspired by the read and recommend it wholeheartedly.
First off this is a Christian read, know that going in. While it has value as a read about the Cold War era it is told from the point of view of a Christian missionary (and those involved with him.
Now for you who have a knee-jerk bad reaction to the word missionary I can only say that said reaction isn't a balanced one and is based on the worst examples of those who call themselves Christian. I can only suggest that you treat this and all accounts with an open mind. I won't try to tell the story here that's in the book, but maybe give it a shot?
I will say that the events recounted here caused me to reevaluate my own life, my own Christianity, my own faith and my attitude toward faith. I've known for some time that the phrase "my faith" is a misnomer in that we need "the faith of Christ" not "our own" faith. Brother Andrew (Andrew van der Bijl) lived that out. He did it (with God's help) in a simple low key way. From his home in the Netherlands he traveled to and through the Iron Curtain countries and later across the world witnessing and speaking of Christ.
As I said, this is frankly a Christian book. I think others may enjoy it for the history but it will always carry its Christianity front and center. I have been greatly inspired by the read and recommend it wholeheartedly.
February 4, 2013
I have heard about this book for most of my life and, while I didn't doubt the quality of the content, I expected it to be hard to read. After deciding to tackle it, I was pleasantly surprised to find that it was easy to read and extremely engaging. Funny stories throughout the book made me laugh and peoples poignant desire for God's word brought tears to my eyes on several occasions. Written in a style similar to The Hiding Place: 25th Anniversary Edition, I highly recommend this powerful story of a life of service, adventure and faith.
July 27, 2020
Fantastic and so encouraging. Brother Andrew was a little Dutch boy who grew up in Nazi-occupied Holland. In his late teens, he joined the war in the East Indies as a foul-mouthed rebellious drunken jerk, and there finally picked up the little Bible his mother had faithfully packed for him. He converted on the spot and spent the rest of his life smuggling Bibles into Communist and Muslim countries. What staggers me is his FAITH. Brother Andrew simply and without any reservations trusted God for absolutely everything. The last lines summarize the whole book: “I hope that my life demonstrates that there is no more exciting mission than following Jesus wherever He Leads us.” Amen, brother.
April 1, 2019
This was terrific! I haven’t been this inspired since I don’t know when. To witness his, and others absolute confidence in God’s provision, risking their very lives for fellow Christians who are persecuted and oppressed and not truly free to worship, puts my trivial complaints and superficial material wants in perspective. Brother Andrew and his wife, Corrie, are shining examples of trusting and walking with our Lord.
June 25, 2019
One clear message, the copies of Bibles in our hands were hard won by suffering and sacrifice. And it is worthy of it all.
I can’t think about that first chapter, precious in so many ways, without crying, especially for dear dear Bas.
I can’t think about that first chapter, precious in so many ways, without crying, especially for dear dear Bas.
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