Key Takeaways
1. Muslim women are finding hope and freedom in Jesus
"Jesus showed me the truth. He is the Truth. Are you desperate enough for Jesus to move in your loved ones' lives that you're willing to pray, fast, and get on your face before God each day?"
Breaking free from oppression. Many Muslim women feel trapped in a system that devalues and oppresses them. The stories in this book reveal how encounters with Jesus are liberating women from spiritual and cultural bondage. They are discovering their worth and dignity as beloved daughters of God.
Finding their voice. As these women embrace their new identity in Christ, they are empowered to stand up against abuse and injustice. Many are risking everything to share their faith with others, becoming powerful agents of change in their families and communities.
Hope for the future. Jesus offers these women a hope and purpose they never knew before. Despite difficult circumstances, they now face the future with confidence, knowing they are loved and seen by God.
2. Dreams and visions of Jesus are transforming lives in the Middle East
"He came to you, Amina. He sees you. Even when you didn't believe He would, Jesus honored your prayer. You prayed one time, and Jesus did all of this for you."
Supernatural encounters. Numerous stories recount Muslims having vivid dreams and visions of Jesus, often in response to sincere prayers or cries for help. These supernatural experiences are breaking through cultural and religious barriers, revealing Jesus in powerful ways.
Personal and relatable. In these encounters, Jesus speaks directly to the heart issues and deep longings of each individual. He addresses them by name, communicates His love, and often quotes Scripture or reveals Biblical truths they've never heard before.
Catalyst for conversion. For many, these dreams and visions are the first step in a journey to faith in Christ. They create an openness and hunger to learn more, often leading people to seek out Christians or secretly access Bibles to understand what they've experienced.
3. Forgiveness and love can overcome even the deepest wounds
"I was probably in worse shape emotionally, physically, and spiritually than Mohammad because of the hatred embedded so deeply in my heart. When I did forgive Mohammad, it broke the stronghold of revenge that held me captive."
Power of forgiveness. The book recounts stories of women who have suffered horrific abuse and oppression, yet find the strength to forgive through Christ's love. This act of forgiveness becomes a catalyst for their own healing and freedom.
Transforming relationships. As former Muslims embrace Christ's command to love enemies, it radically changes their interactions with family and community. Their unconditional love and forgiveness often softens the hearts of their persecutors, opening doors for reconciliation and further gospel witness.
Breaking cycles of violence. By choosing forgiveness over revenge, these new believers are breaking generational cycles of hatred and violence. Their example offers a powerful alternative in conflict-ridden societies.
4. Underground churches are growing despite persecution
"Together, sent by Jesus, they headed back to their mission—extreme, daring, dangerous. Why? Because each of them knows that every soul matters."
Creative gatherings. Believers are finding innovative ways to meet in secret, using code words, disguises, and technology to avoid detection. These underground churches provide crucial support, discipleship, and community for isolated believers.
Rapid multiplication. Despite intense persecution, the underground church is growing rapidly in many Muslim-majority countries. New believers are quickly discipled to share their faith, leading to organic multiplication of house churches and small groups.
Counting the cost. Members of these underground churches fully understand the risks they face, including potential imprisonment, torture, or death. Yet they consider following Christ worth any cost, finding joy and purpose in their secret fellowship.
5. Jesus is empowering women in patriarchal societies
"I realized hate held me captive and permeated every fiber of my being. Until I laid it at the feet of Jesus, I was its prisoner."
Rediscovering worth. In societies where women are often treated as property or second-class citizens, encounters with Jesus are helping women recognize their intrinsic value and dignity as image-bearers of God.
Finding their voice. Many of these new believers are becoming bold witnesses for Christ, sharing their faith with family and friends despite the risks. They are taking on leadership roles in underground churches and discipling others.
Transforming families. As wives and mothers come to faith, it often leads to dramatic changes in family dynamics. Their Christ-like love and perseverance frequently soften the hearts of husbands and children, leading to entire families coming to faith.
6. Former Muslims are risking everything to follow Christ
"I expect to die for Jesus. In the West, you probably won't have to die for Jesus. But . . . will you live for Him?"
Counting the cost. New believers from Muslim backgrounds fully understand the risks they face, including rejection by family, loss of employment, imprisonment, and even death. Yet they consider knowing Christ worth any sacrifice.
Creative witness. Despite severe restrictions, these believers are finding innovative ways to share their faith. They use social media, develop secret codes, and leverage cultural practices to spread the gospel discreetly.
Joy in suffering. Many testimonies recount how these believers experience supernatural joy and peace even in the midst of intense persecution. Their steadfast faith often becomes a powerful witness to those around them.
7. Prayer and faith are powerful forces for change in difficult circumstances
"Every time you cry out to Him, He's listening. Every. Single. Time."
Persistent prayer. The stories emphasize the power of persistent, faith-filled prayer. Many recount miraculous answers to prayer, from physical healings to supernatural provision and protection.
Faith that moves mountains. Believers are seeing God work in seemingly impossible situations as they step out in faith. Whether praying boldly at the Kaaba in Mecca or sharing Christ with hostile family members, their faith is unlocking God's power.
Prayer movements. The book highlights how coordinated prayer efforts are making a significant impact. From prayer walks around mosques to global intercession during Ramadan, these prayer initiatives are seeing breakthrough in the spiritual realm.
8. The gospel is spreading through personal testimonies and relationships
"I want my dear brothers and sisters in Christ to know how much I love them and thank them for praying for me. And I have a message for them."
Power of personal stories. The testimonies of transformed lives are proving to be one of the most effective tools for evangelism in Muslim contexts. As new believers share how Christ has changed them, it creates curiosity and openness in others.
Relational evangelism. Many stories highlight how the gospel spreads through existing relationships - family members, friends, and colleagues. As new believers live out their faith, it creates natural opportunities for witness.
Overcoming barriers. Personal relationships are helping overcome deep-seated prejudices against Christianity. As Muslims encounter genuine love and transformation in Christian friends, it challenges their preconceptions and opens hearts to the gospel.
9. Jesus is bringing healing and restoration to broken families
"Jesus can breathe life back into a marriage. Look at what He did with Dina and Mohammad in Lebanon. I'm praying for a miracle like that!"
Reconciling relationships. The book recounts numerous stories of how faith in Christ leads to healing in broken marriages and families. Former abusers become loving husbands, and estranged family members are reconciled.
Breaking generational cycles. As individuals encounter Christ's love and forgiveness, it often breaks cycles of abuse, addiction, and dysfunction that have plagued families for generations.
New family dynamics. Conversion to Christianity introduces new values and practices into family life. Many stories highlight how this leads to more loving, respectful, and harmonious relationships within the home.
10. God is working in unexpected ways in the most restricted places
"Jesus is setting women free, honoring and elevating them—and they are thriving! And why wouldn't they be? Jesus has arrived."
Miracles in unlikely places. The book recounts supernatural encounters and conversions happening in some of the most restricted and hostile environments for Christianity, including Mecca, Gaza, and areas controlled by extremist groups.
Unexpected allies. Stories reveal how God is using unlikely individuals - including former persecutors, government officials, and even extremist leaders - to protect believers and advance the gospel.
Creative access. Believers are finding innovative ways to access restricted areas and share the gospel. From leveraging business and humanitarian work to using social media and technology, God is opening new doors for witness in closed countries.
Last updated:
FAQ
What's "Women Who Risk: Secret Agents for Jesus in the Muslim World" about?
- Focus on Muslim Women: The book shares the stories of Muslim women who have risked everything to follow Jesus, highlighting their courage and faith.
- Authors' Perspective: Written by Tom and JoAnn Doyle, it explores the incredible work of God in the hearts and lives of these women.
- Danger and Transformation: It details the dangers these women face, including potential death, and their transformation through faith.
- Spiritual Gatekeepers: The book emphasizes the role of women as spiritual gatekeepers in their families and communities.
Why should I read "Women Who Risk"?
- Inspiring Stories: The book offers inspiring and heart-wrenching stories of faith and courage that can deepen your understanding of the power of belief.
- Cultural Insight: It provides a unique insight into the lives of Muslim women and the challenges they face in the Middle East.
- Faith and Risk: The book challenges readers to consider the cost of discipleship and the power of faith in the face of adversity.
- Global Perspective: It broadens the reader's perspective on global Christianity and the spread of the gospel in difficult regions.
What are the key takeaways of "Women Who Risk"?
- Faith Over Fear: The stories emphasize choosing faith over fear, even in life-threatening situations.
- Power of Prayer: The book highlights the importance of prayer and expecting miracles as part of the Christian faith.
- Role of Women: It underscores the significant role women play as spiritual leaders and influencers in their families.
- Courage and Sacrifice: The narratives showcase the courage and sacrifice required to follow Jesus in hostile environments.
How do Tom and JoAnn Doyle portray the challenges faced by Muslim women in the book?
- Cultural and Religious Barriers: The authors detail the cultural and religious barriers that Muslim women face when converting to Christianity.
- Personal Stories: Through personal stories, they illustrate the physical and emotional abuse these women endure.
- Risk of Persecution: The book highlights the constant risk of persecution and even death for those who leave Islam.
- Empowerment Through Faith: Despite these challenges, the authors show how faith empowers these women to overcome adversity.
What are some of the best quotes from "Women Who Risk" and what do they mean?
- "Their steadfast faith when facing death...": This quote highlights the unwavering faith of the women, serving as a testament to their courage and dedication.
- "Jesus is pouring His special grace on Muslim women...": It signifies the transformative power of Jesus' love and grace in the lives of oppressed women.
- "The greatest weapon we have against the dark spirit of Islam is love.": This emphasizes the book's message that love is the most powerful tool in overcoming hatred and oppression.
- "Jesus is setting women free, honoring and elevating them...": It reflects the book's theme of liberation and empowerment through faith in Jesus.
How does "Women Who Risk" address the concept of spiritual gatekeepers?
- Women's Influence: The book describes women as the spiritual gatekeepers of their families, responsible for passing on faith and values.
- Natural Authority: It highlights the natural authority women have in spiritual matters, despite cultural restrictions.
- Impact on Families: The stories show how women’s faith can lead to the conversion of entire families.
- Role in Islam: The book contrasts the role of women in Islam with their newfound freedom and influence in Christianity.
What methods or advice do Tom and JoAnn Doyle offer for reaching out to Muslims?
- Building Relationships: The authors emphasize the importance of building genuine relationships with Muslims.
- Prayer and Miracles: They advocate for praying for miracles and expecting God to move in powerful ways.
- Compassion Over Condemnation: The book advises showing compassion rather than condemnation to Muslims.
- Sharing the Gospel: It encourages sharing the gospel boldly, trusting in the power of Jesus to transform lives.
How does "Women Who Risk" depict the role of dreams and visions in conversion?
- Divine Encounters: The book describes how many Muslim women experience dreams and visions of Jesus, leading to their conversion.
- Personal Testimonies: It includes personal testimonies of women who have had these supernatural encounters.
- Catalyst for Change: These dreams and visions often serve as a catalyst for change, prompting women to seek out more about Jesus.
- Cultural Relevance: The authors highlight the cultural relevance of dreams in the Muslim world, making them a powerful tool for God.
What is the significance of the title "Women Who Risk"?
- Risking Everything: The title reflects the immense risks these women take in following Jesus, including the risk of death.
- Courage and Faith: It underscores the courage and faith required to defy cultural and religious norms.
- Empowerment: The title also signifies the empowerment these women find through their faith.
- Secret Agents: It hints at the clandestine nature of their faith journeys, as they often have to practice their beliefs in secret.
How do the authors use personal stories to convey their message in "Women Who Risk"?
- Emotional Impact: Personal stories create an emotional impact, making the challenges and triumphs of these women relatable.
- Authenticity: The use of real-life stories adds authenticity and credibility to the book’s message.
- Illustrating Faith: These stories illustrate the transformative power of faith in Jesus.
- Inspiration: They serve as a source of inspiration, encouraging readers to live out their faith boldly.
What role does prayer play in the lives of the women featured in "Women Who Risk"?
- Central to Faith: Prayer is depicted as central to the faith and daily lives of these women.
- Source of Strength: It is shown as a source of strength and comfort in times of persecution and danger.
- Expecting Miracles: The women pray with the expectation of miracles, trusting in God’s power.
- Connection with God: Prayer is portrayed as a vital connection with God, sustaining them through trials.
How does "Women Who Risk" challenge Western Christians in their faith?
- Call to Action: The book challenges Western Christians to take action in reaching out to Muslims.
- Faith and Boldness: It encourages readers to live out their faith with boldness and courage.
- Prayer and Expectation: The authors urge Christians to pray with expectation and to believe in the power of God to perform miracles.
- Compassion and Understanding: It calls for compassion and understanding towards Muslims, breaking down stereotypes and prejudices.
Review Summary
Women Who Risk is a highly praised book featuring inspiring stories of Muslim women who converted to Christianity. Readers found the accounts of miracles, dreams, and bold faith deeply moving and encouraging. Many were challenged by the women's courage in dangerous circumstances. The book provides insight into God's work in Muslim communities and sparked increased prayer for persecuted believers. While a few critics found the writing style sensationalized, most readers considered it a powerful, eye-opening read that strengthened their own faith.
Similar Books
Download PDF
Download EPUB
.epub digital book format is ideal for reading ebooks on phones, tablets, and e-readers.