Undeceived: From Amish Tradition to Christ's Redemption

by Eli Yoder, Brian Paules (editor)

Follow the Journey from Tradition to Truth in "Undeceived" by Eli Yoder

At eighteen, Eli Yoder made the life-altering decision to leave the oppressive and often abusive confines of his Old-Order Amish community. Venturing into the unfamiliar "English" world, he sought freedom from condemnation and ultimately discovered the life-giving truths of the Bible and liberation from the deceptions of human traditions.

"Undeceived" is more than an exposé of Amish life; it is one man's heartfelt and intimate search for faith, authenticity, and redemption. While critical of the heretical and harsh practices of his Amish roots, Eli's deep respect and love for the Amish people and lifestyle shine through as he pursues a reality that goes beyond the traditions of his upbringing.

For anyone feeling bound by the customs and beliefs of their past or trapped by their life situation, Eli's testimony of tragedy and triumph is a powerful reminder that true freedom does not come through religious practices, institutions, or human ordinance, but through the simple grace and truth of Jesus Christ.

Walk alongside Eli as he unveils the liberation he found through an honest investigation of the Bible, encouraging readers to seek truth over tradition and live undeceived.

About the
Born and raised in Ohio, Eli Yoder left his Hardin County Old Order Amish community at the age of 18. Frustrated by the oppressive traditions of his Amish upbringing, Eli's departure from the ultra-conservative community was triggered when he faced condemnation of his soul for riding a bicycle. Eli left his Amish roots to ultimately embrace the reality and truth he discovered by reading the Bible and discovering salvation through Jesus Christ.

Eli is a prominent YouTube and Social media personality where he features a variety of content ranging from Bible teaching to personal stories about his life within and outside the Amish community. Known for his straightforward and heartfelt storytelling, Eli often records his videos from his truck, earning him the nickname "the preaching truck driver". He frequently supports former Amish individuals, helping them transition into mainstream society by providing resources and guidance.

Eli's message is not just about leaving a way of life, but also about finding a new path free of deception and using his experiences to educate and inspire others. His dedication to shedding light on the complexities and challenges of the Amish lifestyle has made him an influential voice in discussions about religious oppression and personal autonomy.

Genres: Nonfiction

280 pages, Paperback

Published December 10, 2024

Reviews

[Janel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quite an educational read with a peek into Old Order Amish life. I grew up in the same county of Ohio as Eli, and my Dad still delivers and sells hay to this Amish community, including one of Eli’s brothers. The way these Amish cling to their church rules and the vote of members for forgiveness to grant them a spot in Heaven is so disheartening. God worked in wondrous ways to bring Eli out of that darkness.

[Todd Bryant · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let me start with this. Brother Eli has come a long, long way from his Amish past. I could relate to much more than one might think, having grown in up a rather oppressive form of Christianity where we looked down on other professing Christians. We viewed others' salvation with much skepticism. We believed that if "lesser Christians" made it to Heaven, they'd rank well below us. We alone would dwell with Jesus by His side. Because of this, I still have baggage when I read God's Word. I try not to, but it's hard. I think for Brother Eli, his Amish baggage has caused the pendulum to swing from the stoicism of the Amish form of church to wading out into the Charismatic waters. There are a number of "Charismatic-lite" statements in this book. But nothing overt about tongues-speaking or healing services. But none of that is why I picked this book up. And it does not stop me from recommending it. There's too much other good here.

I want to make this clear, though. The true Gospel of grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone is presented accurately throughout this book. In fact, having grown up Amish, he understands what a rules-based religion looks like more than most. And while I (and most others) did not grow up in such an extreme form of legalism, many of us were influenced by it more than we have recognized. This book really resonated with me even though my upbringing was not Amish. Despite the fact that the doctrines of grace were preached regularly during my formative years, there was much to confuse those truths in the other (legal) preaching.

So...having gotten that out of the way, this book is well worth the time. It's a super easy read. I think younger teens can read it with no issue at all. The insight into the Amish world was really eye-opening. But more than that, coming to see that salvation by works that is the Amish religion will really help one guard against it in their own lives. The Amish actually have more in common with a lot of "churches" than you might think. Those churches simply do not push as far as the Amish do.

Another thing this book exposes is how an extreme form of legalistic religion often pushes children extremely far from God. Though many preachers may be well-intentioned by preaching an extra-biblical form of man-made tradition, we all need to see just how that affects the attitude of the youth. It is the truth that sets us free - not the church's man-made rules. That truth shines through clearly here.

One last thing. I am hopeful that Brother Eli will grow more and more and come to see God's absolute sovereignty over his life even before Eli was born. I hope he grasps God's sovereign grace in his life. He studies the Bible daily, so I am hopeful. If he comes to understand those truths, he will find even more confidence to share his testimony.

[Kathy Landis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well done faithful servant

This book has such a powerful message. Eli does an awesome job of telling his life story in a manner that is clear, respectful, encouraging and a blessing to anyone who reads this powerful work. May many hearts and minds be opened and no longer deceived through his book.

[Jen Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book and recommend to others. I follow Eli on social media and even since his book things have changed with his relationship with his Mom.

[Jessica Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shocking and truly awesome!!!

I loved the book. I am a Christian driver for the Amish in Berne Indiana and I knew how oppressive the religion is and often found it hard to discuss Jesus. Eli gives a first hand perspective from inside the Amish church. The oppression is truly shoc
king. What an awesome testimony that Eli shares of being delivered from the ball and chain of religion by the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ! He was radically saved and I found it hard to put the book down. I finished it in four evenings. Eli if u see my comment I encourage u to continue writing because your book is probably one of the best I've ever wred. God bless you my brother!!! Keep fighting the good fight!!! If I don't meet u in this life ill see u in paradise!!!

[Sandra Billingsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A true look at the Amish Ways

I loved reading about Eli's life. I learned so much about the Old Order Amish. I had no idea what they truly believed. So many of us assume they are born again Christians based on their outward lifestyle appearance. I loved hearing about how Eli stood up for what he believed and how he still loves them regardless. I hope all of Eli's family come to the realization that living under rules is not the way to Jesus, and that one day they will understand the saving grace of Jesus and become free from their bondage.

[Melanie Trattner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating read on Amish life and what that actually entails. I knew very little about the Amish. It was difficult to read about Eli’s experience as a kid. Even his experiences after leaving the Amish were tough but obviously God had plans for Eli. There are typos and many repetitions in the writing. But it’s a quick read and very eye opening tale of what it means to grow up in the old world Amish.

[Joe Keefhaver · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been following Eli Yoder on social media for some time, but reading this book really helped me understand the unique challenges he has faced in life and "where he is coming from" with regard to the Christian faith. I had previously been unsure as to whether I could accept some of his teachings, but now believe he has a fully orthodox Christian message. A very good read.

[Ken · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Take on Amish Life and Christ's Deliverance

I appreciated Eli's insight into Amish life and what it's like to move into "English" living. I also appreciate Eli's exposition of the difference between Amish religiosity and Christ's salvation.

[Tracy McCoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a blessing

This book really opened my eyes to how the Amish live. It also reminded me that there are so many who don't know Jesus. What a Blessing to hear Eli's testimony and to hear how he has overcome his struggles.

[James Schwartz]

Homophobic and or self-loathing homophobic ex Amish guy spreads Fox News politics on monetized socials. Now available in paperback.

[Abbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed

This was an interesting look at his Amish beginnings. I thought the Amish separating from the World was a good thing. Probably still is, but as Eli shows that it profits nothing without Jesus. I like how this book showed how he came to true faith.