God's Double Agent: The True Story of a Chinese Christian's Fight for Freedom

by Bob Fu, Nancy French

Tens of millions of Christians live in China today, many of them leading double lives or in hiding from a government that relentlessly persecutes them. Bob Fu, whom the Wall Street Journal called "The pastor of China's underground railroad," is fighting to protect his fellow believers from persecution, imprisonment, and even death. God's Double Agent is his fascinating and riveting story.Bob Fu is indeed God's double agent. By day Fu worked as a full-time lecturer in a communist school; by night he pastored a house church and led an underground Bible school. This can't-put-it-down book chronicles Fu's conversion to Christianity, his arrest and imprisonment for starting an illegal house church, his harrowing escape, and his subsequent rise to prominence in the United States as an advocate for his brethren. God's Double Agent will inspire readers even as it challenges them to boldly proclaim and live out their faith in a world that is at times indifferent, and at other times murderously hostile, to those who spread the gospel.

Genres: Christian, Biography, Nonfiction, China, Memoir, Autobiography, Religion

336 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2013

About the author

Bob Fu was born in 1968 in the village of Shizuian in the Shandong province, China. He and his wife, Heidi, fled China in 1997 after being released from prison; in the 1980s he was a student leader who participated in the Tiananmen Square protests. He is a pastor who also runs China Aid, an organization fighting for religious freedom for all.

Reviews

[Abby Burrus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recommend it for any Christians who want to know more about our brothers and sisters who face so much everyday for their faith. Although I would recommend being over 16 years of age, as while any descriptions of torture / abuse are kept at a minimum, there is no sugar coating.
Since this book has been published quite awhile ago, I wonder how much, if anything, has changed. Somehow, I don't think it has that much.

[Ed · Rating 5 out of 5]

This gives a thorough examination of the underground churches on mainland China. It shows the atheism of Communism and its war on its own people and their freedoms. Most people do not know that persecution that is taking place in China. Its demand for abortions and the laws that limit the number of children that a family can have, which is only one. A woman cannot become pregnant unless she possess a yellow permit allowing her to become pregnant. If she becomes pregnant without the permit, it is immediate abortion, no matter how late in her pregnancy she is. I believe many people ought to read this book and China's persecution of their own people.

[Christian Fiction Addiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have ever questioned whether God is real and at work in the world around you, then do yourself a favour and pick up a copy of "God's Double Agent". Bob Fu's account of his childhood and his path to becoming a follower of Jesus in the midst of communist China is absolutely riveting, and will leave you pondering your own dedication to God. It would be impossible to walk away from this book and not weigh the cost of following Christ, when you learn of the plight of millions of Chinese Christians who spend time in jail and who are brutally persecuted for their faith, and who still praise the name of Jesus! The book is very well-written, and reads more like a fiction book than an autobiography in that the chapters are full of action and drama, romance and suspense. But the best part of this book is that it is a true account, such that instead of just wishing that the characters are real, like in fiction novels, readers can know that these men and women are real. Through the pages of this story, readers will grow to genuinely care about Bob Fu and his wife Heidi, and see that they are not pretending to be perfect, but struggle with the same things you and I do. Bob and Heidi demonstrate the power of relying on God to set the course of your future, and submitting to His will for your life. Yet they also remind us that we are in s spiritual war, and we must also play a role in fighting for the freedom of men and women and children to be free from persecution. "God's Double Agent" will not only stir your faith, but call you to take action as well. It is a book that everyone should read!


I highly recommend this book and award it 5 out of 5 stars.


Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Baker Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

[Adam Collings · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a powerful book. It reads like a thriller. My eyes have been opened more to the very real and still current struggle for religious and political freedom in China. I find myself newly grateful that I live in a free country like Australia.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Christian biography and this one is a keeper. This summer I have enjoyed this one along with Message from an Unknown Chinese Mother, by Xinran, and have gained a better understanding of Chinese culture in the most pleasant way possible - biography. Here we follow the journey of a young boy and his family during Mao Zedong's Great Leap Forward, watch as he continues to college and is a natural leader but finds himself labeled a counter revolutionary during Tienaman Square Massacre. After imprisonment is allowed to finish school but finds himself rejected by all except the one who becomes his wife. During this time of deep despondency the seed of the gospel is planted and bears fruit. From here we watch all the wonderful things that God can do through a surrendered life. Bob Fu loves China and is still deeply involved in ministering to her people and is the founder of ChinaAid.org.

I love how the Word of God reaches into lives and changes them forever! My greatest joy comes from knowing people , in life or through books who not only bow the knee, repent and are saved but go on, full of the a Spirit to walk an exciting life sharing the gospel and seeing other lives rescued and changed.

[Yibbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

2018
This book is absolutely perfect for times such as these. The author grew up suffering in extreme poverty and chose to seek riches and political power no matter the cost. He longs to set right the societal wrongs he sees around him and becomes a leader of a protest in his school. That eventually leads him to Tiananmen Square. In the aftermath of the tragic massacre, Bob’s life falls apart. Everything he had worked for was jeopardized, and those he thought were his friends deserted him. Then God reaches down and shows Him true revolution. That is where this book gets even timelier as he learns God’s solution to injustice and governmental abuses. He certainly never stops advocating for the suffering oppressed, but he starts to see a more vital eternal change that must happen in every human heart before hatred and greed can disappear.
Then we get to see a tiny glimpse of God’s working in China through the house church movement. It is beautiful and heartbreaking. The souls saved despite fearsome persecution make this part of the book eternally hopeful.
The book ends by showing up what is possible when Christians in America stand up for our brethren suffering for our Savior. Because of the author’s understanding of both sides of suffering, he can explain what that means to them.
Parts of this book describe the most intrusive family planning regulations. He tries to be as delicate as possible, but between that and the tortures described, I would only recommend it for an older teen to adult audience. For that audience, I can’t recommend it highly enough.

2016
The joy of the Lord shines on every page, even giving up all for the Lord who was with him through every trial. Trust Jesus for forgiveness of your sins and he will be with you as well. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved." John 3:16-17

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the honor of visiting with Mr. Fu when I went to Midland to visit a friend there. The prayer meeting in his home became a moment I will cherish forever as I knew I was with someone who was extra special. He has seen and experienced and fought for more than I've ever known to pray for.
His story was riveting. I could NOT put this book down. I loved the record of his days at Liaocheng Teacher's College. It was heart wrenching to hear of the sacrifices made by so many, especially his family, for him to follow and share Christ. The prison accounts were chilling; his conversion story compelling. I walked away challenged to evaluate my response to the gospel and to renew my urgency in prayer for the Chinese church.

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had a friend who recently read this book and recommended it to me. I'm certainly glad he did. Bob Fu records his personal history that is easy to read but impossible to dismiss. If I said it once, I said it at least ten times. "It's really daunting what we in the Western world take for granted. Sure we read about and think we know about persecution. But reality is we can't appreciate the significance unless we've lived it." Bob Fu lived it. And attempts to rescue others from the same persecution.
Fu leads a ministry entitled ChinaAid and constantly uses opportunities to educate those in America (and the West) regarding religious persecution in China. His personal story is not only hair-raising but a testimony to God's faithfulness. Fu provides evidence for God's providence and encouraged me to consider my own faith. I am reminded of a passage from Luke. "Do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have nothing more than they can do. But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast into hell" (12:4-5).
If there was a modern-day "Hall of Faith," Fu would be included.

[Lessie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. It opened my eyes to the situation in China. I had no idea the government is that oppressive. I mean...I knew...but still had no idea. Probably still don't. I think the letter to American readers at the end is particularly insightful and helpful.

[ValeReads Kyriosity · Rating 3 out of 5]

Grateful for God's delivery of Bob Fu from the CCP and, more importantly, from his sin. And grateful for how God has used him to continue to work for justice for those who are still oppressed in China.

Narrator was OK.

[Gophergirl58 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every committed Christian should read Bob Fu's book, God's Double Agent, especially to have a better understanding of how persecuted China's Christians are! After becoming friends with a young Chinese couple who own and operate an Asian restaurant in our small and rural town, I become somewhat interested in the Chinese culture. I just happened to review another Goodread's list of read books and noted Bob Fu's book and checked it out of our State's online library. It is one of the best books I have read this year. May the Lord bless the work of Bob Fu and those who comprise ChinaAid.

[Jenny Hartfelder · Rating 4 out of 5]

A compelling Christian biography from within the heart of China... Sharing a perspective of faithfulness and survival almost inconceivable to my modern American mind.

It kinda felt like we lost the thread of Bob's story towards the last third though, as it began detailing various other people undergoing persecution for whom they sought legal help and asylum. I had a hard time following all the connections.

#2022intentionalreading

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an eye-opener to the oppression and torture of the church in China. The cover-ups, the constant bribes, the brutality, the deaths leave Hitler looking like a boy scout. (sort of) The human rights atrocities of China should compel all of us to act. It is a dangerous regime and is moving into our own country.

[Valerie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't really know what to say except wow! Bob Fu writes about what it was like growing up in communist China and all its horrors. From its laws against spreading the gospel to its one child policy and the repercussions for breaking these laws. I can't recommend this book more. It's definitely one of my top 3 books I've read this year!

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me nostalgic for China, especially since I lived Beijing and knew several of the places he mentioned. It was published while I lived there, so that probably explains why I’m eight years late to finally discovering Bob Fu and his story. I look forward to sharing this book with my former colleagues!

[George Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I cried at its end. “God’s Double Agent” is not necessarily an excellent piece of literature or beautifully written, but it is an amazing true story about an incredible soldier in the army of the Lord.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent autobiography by Bob Fu, describing the the underground church in China and their struggle against suppression and persecution. Very inspiring!!!

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though I grew up hearing stories like these, I still struggle to understand that such abuses are happening right now. Lord, have mercy.

[Tim Genry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Amazing story! I wasn’t sure how much I was going to enjoy this book at first but by the end it received one of my few 5 ⭐️ ratings!

[Charlotte Murch · Rating 5 out of 5]

100% recommend this book to anyone. It is full of miraculous stories one after the other and will leave you speechless!

[Callie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Very interesting story and very disturbing human rights violations.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone should read this book - full stop!

[James · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is by far the best book I have read this year! And that is saying a lot as I've read many good books this year.

What captivated me the most about this book was the way that Bob Fu seems to balance God's sovereignty with human responsibility. Too many books like this attribute everything that happened to either one of those extremes (it does not matter what one's religious, or non-religious background). As I read this account, I felt that some of the things that happened in Fu's life could have been easily avoided if he was just a bit more careful by digging a little deeper or was a bit less impulsive. However, the book became more authentic for me because of the fact that Fu did not try to hide the mistakes that he made by acting out of his youthful zeal, or act without thinking deeply about the situation from all angles.

Another thing that I appreciated about this book was the way that Fu brings out the stories of those who helped him along the way. The selfless sacrifices of Christian missionaries, business people, teachers, politicians (yes, even the politicians), and others have contributed to this great story. It goes to show that no person is an island, and that we really need others to lean on.

Finally, the Epilogue: A Letter to American Readers, is something that should not be skipped. And if you are a Christian, please pay close attention to Fu's letter to you - it is both heart warming and challenging, and it should be heeded.

(Book has been provided courtesy of Graf-Martin Communications and BakerBooks in exchange for an honest review.)

[Kelli · Rating 4 out of 5]

It never ceases to amaze me how unaware we are in the USA of the struggles people face in other nations, and practicing religious freedom is something we tend to take for granted. I often hear conflicting reports about what's happening to Christians in other nations, and it was heart-wrenching to read this firsthand report from a man who suffered so greatly and wrongfully at the hands of not only anti-Christian zealots, but high-ranking government officials. Don't believe the propaganda from people who want to water down the truth about what's happening in China.

This book is a must read for anyone interested in social justice and human rights, as well as those who are committed to praying for the persecuted church worldwide.

[Ron · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent and eye-opening book.

We hear stories of abuse under communist China, but this is a first-hand account.

Bob Fu, raised under communist rule, trained and taught in their schools. He converted to Christianity, he started teaching underground Bible studies, eventually being arrested and imprisoned for his Christian beliefs.

He and his wife escape to the West, where they work to help others in similar situations.

Highly recommended.

Literally one of the best autobiographies I've read in years.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

great book! read very smoothly, as if is a fiction story and not a biography! actually, since i only just opened the book on my Kindle and never looked at the cover, I actually did think it was fiction for the whole beginning of the book until certain obvious clues gave it away. Has greatly increased my interest in China's government, and has opened my eyes to some problems there I didn't know existed.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating read about the amazing faith of a Chinese believer and the incredible persecution he endured and obstacles he had to overcome todo what he believed. god was calling him to do. You'll get great insights into the Chinese house church movement and to how China tries to suppress Christianity. I had a hard time putting it down.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read. If you're a Christian (and even if you're not), don't miss this one! It is inspiring to discover a real-live person who has dedicated his entire life to such an important cause. Bob Fu is a true disciple of Christ. And if you've ever wondered if God is still a God of miracles, Fu's experiences will give you something to ponder.

[Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Worth reading to learn about the lack of freedom Chinese Christians face. I thought China was much more forward and lenient than this book suggests. I just thought this book got clogged up with too many names and dates. At times it read more like a text book.

[Maria Horrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful and tremendously inspiring. Unsettling insight into what it is like being a Christ Follower in China...