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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
God's Smuggler summary
Brother Andrew
Brief summary
God's Smuggler is the inspiring true story of Brother Andrew, a Dutch missionary who risked his life to smuggle Bibles into communist countries during the Cold War, spreading God's word in the face of danger and opposition.
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Table of Contents
God's Smuggler
Summary of key ideas
A Dangerous Choice
In God's Smuggler, Brother Andrew shares the inspiring genesis of his calling to smuggle Bibles into countries where Christian scripture was banned. During his formative years, Andrew's life was shaped by both the horrors of World War II and the insightful influence of a small, thoughtful gift - his first Bible. The impact of these experiences led him to leave behind his old life and choose a daring one: secretly carrying God's Word into forbidden places.
His mission began with a trip behind the Iron Curtain, where he encountered a deep hunger for the Christian scripture. Despite the hurdles, Andrew decided to help, carrying Bibles and Christian materials in his car. It was a dangerous endeavour, but he firmly believed God would blind the eyes of the guards to the contrabands in his car.
Building the Mission
Andrew’s journeys behind the Iron Curtain were challenging. However, his unwavering faith and countless experiences of divine protection inspired him to establish a mission: Open Doors International. Its focus was to serve persecuted Christians in Communist countries. Andrew facilitated secret prayer meetings, providing moral and material support, and most importantly - smuggling Bibles.
While large-scale Bible smuggling operations were successful, they were risky and complex. And although Andrew feared capture and punishment, he understood the importance of these missions. He saw the impact the Bibles had on people who had risked everything to follow Christ.
Balancing Risk and Reinvention
Throughout God's Smuggler, Brother Andrew recounts the many occasions when his faith was tested. During one of his trips, he was imprisoned before being deported. However, these incidents never discouraged him. He started a Bible College in Communist-controlled Albania and scoured the globe, reaching out to Christians living under persecution in China, Africa and the Middle East.
With increasing risks, changing geopolitical landscapes, and advancements in technology, Andrew adapted his methods. Rather than primarily focusing on logistical smuggling, Andrew reinvented his tactics to prioritize training locals to print and distribute Bibles within their countries. Consequently, he empowered local communities and maintained his mission despite adversities.
Sustained Through Silent Sufferings
As his journey unfolds, Andrew reflects on his internal struggles, doubts, and even his family's sacrifices due to his mission. Despite the glamour of being God's Smuggler, it often meant silent sufferings for him and his loved ones. Yet, his mission garnered worldwide support, often from unexpected quarters, including cynical businessmen and skeptical government officials. Andrew took this as proof of God’s divine provision and approval of his efforts.
In conclusion, God's Smuggler presents Brother Andrew's thrilling life story and demonstrates his strong chronicled faith. From his humble beginnings to becoming a vital connection for persecuted Christians worldwide, Andrew's journey inspires us to explore the impact of faith, courage, and resilient hope in our lives. His story shows that even in times of adversity, faith can lead to purpose, resilience, and an enduring mission.
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What is God's Smuggler about?
God's Smuggler is a captivating memoir by Brother Andrew. It tells the thrilling true story of a Dutch missionary who risked his life to smuggle Bibles into countries behind the Iron Curtain during the Cold War. Filled with suspense and faith, the book offers an inspiring account of one man's dedication to sharing the Gospel in the face of adversity.
Who should read God's Smuggler?
- Readers who are interested in stories of courage and faith
- Those who want to learn more about the history of Christianity in the 20th century
- People who enjoy memoirs and personal narratives
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