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Wurmbrand: Tortured for Christ – The Complete Story
On February 29, 1948, Richard Wurmbrand was arrested by the secret police. His crimes? Leading Christian worship and witnessing—both of which were illegal under the atheistic Communist regime of Romania.
Richard spent fourteen years in prison. He was tortured, beaten, and locked into a solitary confinement cell. Sabina Wurmbrand spent three years in a labor camp,nearly freezing to death as she and other prisoners worked on the Danube Canal. She was repeatedly told her husband had died behind bars.
But Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand had an unshakeable faith in Christ. Neither of them gave up hope, and neither of them would stop talking about Jesus.
Now, for the first time, both sides of this amazing story are told in one book. Wurmbrand tells of Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand, combining stories and research from the following The Pastor’s Wife , In God’s Underground , and Tortured for Christ . Your faith will be inspired as you go deep inside the darkest prison cells to see how the light of Christ continues to shine from the hearts of those totally committed to Him.
Richard spent fourteen years in prison. He was tortured, beaten, and locked into a solitary confinement cell. Sabina Wurmbrand spent three years in a labor camp,nearly freezing to death as she and other prisoners worked on the Danube Canal. She was repeatedly told her husband had died behind bars.
But Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand had an unshakeable faith in Christ. Neither of them gave up hope, and neither of them would stop talking about Jesus.
Now, for the first time, both sides of this amazing story are told in one book. Wurmbrand tells of Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand, combining stories and research from the following The Pastor’s Wife , In God’s Underground , and Tortured for Christ . Your faith will be inspired as you go deep inside the darkest prison cells to see how the light of Christ continues to shine from the hearts of those totally committed to Him.
384 pages, Hardcover
Published March 1, 2018
102 people are currently reading
1011 people want to read
About the author
The Voice of the Martyrs
50 books187 followersThe Voice of the Martyrs is a non-profit, inter-denominational Christian organization dedicated to assisting the persecuted church worldwide. VOM was founded in 1967 by Pastor Richard Wurmbrand, who was imprisoned 14 years in Communist Romania for his faith in Christ. His wife, Sabina, was imprisoned for three years. In the 1960s, Richard, Sabina, and their son, Mihai, were ransomed out of Romania and came to the United States. Through their travels, the Wurmbrands spread the message of the atrocities that Christians face in restricted nations, while establishing a network of offices dedicated to assisting the persecuted church. The Voice of the Martyrs continues in this mission around the world today through the following main purposes:
Our ministry is based on Hebrews 13:3:
"Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body."
Our ministry is based on Hebrews 13:3:
"Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
September 29, 2020
I won this book through GoodReads First Read program.
What a story. This book tells the story of Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand who were both imprisoned and tortured in Romania by the Soviet Union after World War II. What was their crime? For preaching the word of Jesus to others and for refusing to deny Christ.
The book starts out with how they became Christians. They were Jews who lived a wild life style with sex and drinking. They lived for the pleasures of today. Richard then became a Christian which shocked and frustrated his wife Sabina. They were Jews and shouldn't even speak the name of Jesus in Sabina's eyes. Christians hurt and tortured Jews. Richard won her over to Christ with love.
Once World War II was complete and the Nazis were no longer in power all seemed good for the Jews, especially for those who had become Christians. This was not to be with the Soviet Union taking control over Eastern Europe. They imprisoned and tortured so many people in an attempt to brain wash them into becoming Communists. The book goes into detail of the hideous methods used on Richard and Sabina-both mental and physical torture.
I love Christ and I would hope that I would have the faith to go through what the Wurmbrands went through for their faith. The only downside of the book is that the descriptions of the torture the Wurmbrands and others went through never seemed to stop. Page after page of this was described in detail.
I need to pray for those in the world who are being tortured for their faith in Jesus. Sadly I am often too self centered focusing on what is going on in my life when it doesn't even compare to what others are going through. This book will remind you of how lucky and blessed we are in this country.
What a story. This book tells the story of Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand who were both imprisoned and tortured in Romania by the Soviet Union after World War II. What was their crime? For preaching the word of Jesus to others and for refusing to deny Christ.
The book starts out with how they became Christians. They were Jews who lived a wild life style with sex and drinking. They lived for the pleasures of today. Richard then became a Christian which shocked and frustrated his wife Sabina. They were Jews and shouldn't even speak the name of Jesus in Sabina's eyes. Christians hurt and tortured Jews. Richard won her over to Christ with love.
Once World War II was complete and the Nazis were no longer in power all seemed good for the Jews, especially for those who had become Christians. This was not to be with the Soviet Union taking control over Eastern Europe. They imprisoned and tortured so many people in an attempt to brain wash them into becoming Communists. The book goes into detail of the hideous methods used on Richard and Sabina-both mental and physical torture.
I love Christ and I would hope that I would have the faith to go through what the Wurmbrands went through for their faith. The only downside of the book is that the descriptions of the torture the Wurmbrands and others went through never seemed to stop. Page after page of this was described in detail.
I need to pray for those in the world who are being tortured for their faith in Jesus. Sadly I am often too self centered focusing on what is going on in my life when it doesn't even compare to what others are going through. This book will remind you of how lucky and blessed we are in this country.
September 13, 2018
It was good to be re-united with these accounts of the underground church in Romania and the witness until death of Christians in prison.
This is the complete story of Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand. It was a pleasure to read how they became Christians and a joy to see how God blessed their marriage and ministry.
As a teenager I read a couple of Richard Wurmbrand’s books and it was familiar in part in this account but troubling also to see the depth of cruelty a human can bring to bear on another person.
It is also humbling to read how they both endured captivity, isolation, torture and near starvation in a Communist regime that wanted to extinguish Christian faith. Yet both remained full of humility and never lost their faith or a sense of God’s purpose.
In their own ways they ministered for Christ among their fellow prisons. Witnessed to God’s forgiveness through their lack of fear and love for their enemies.
This book is a tough read but it will uplift anyone reading about true saints in Romanian; teaching, preaching and meeting for worship in groups that were forced underground to avoid arrest and imprisonment. That many were denounced and condemned by other Christians, even the priests themselves is an indication of the scope and fear engendered by the communist machine.
Richard was a pastor who accepted his suffering as nothing compared to the Son of God’s own treatment, he learned that his spirit could not be compromised even if his body was broken. When placed in a wing of the hospital with tuberculosis where patients went with no hope of recovery. He saw it has a chance to minister to the sick and dying he would not otherwise have an opportunity to give peace to in their last hours and preach the saving grace of the gospel.
Lives like those of the Wurmbrands are rare but they perhaps give a glimpse of God at work in his church especially when the body of Christ suffers in his name. Those whose lives are barely touched by such terrors and have freedom to worship perhaps should also see our freedom to pray for others.
Compelling, heart-searching and refreshing where other books can’t reach. Mind, body and soul.
This is the complete story of Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand. It was a pleasure to read how they became Christians and a joy to see how God blessed their marriage and ministry.
As a teenager I read a couple of Richard Wurmbrand’s books and it was familiar in part in this account but troubling also to see the depth of cruelty a human can bring to bear on another person.
It is also humbling to read how they both endured captivity, isolation, torture and near starvation in a Communist regime that wanted to extinguish Christian faith. Yet both remained full of humility and never lost their faith or a sense of God’s purpose.
In their own ways they ministered for Christ among their fellow prisons. Witnessed to God’s forgiveness through their lack of fear and love for their enemies.
This book is a tough read but it will uplift anyone reading about true saints in Romanian; teaching, preaching and meeting for worship in groups that were forced underground to avoid arrest and imprisonment. That many were denounced and condemned by other Christians, even the priests themselves is an indication of the scope and fear engendered by the communist machine.
Richard was a pastor who accepted his suffering as nothing compared to the Son of God’s own treatment, he learned that his spirit could not be compromised even if his body was broken. When placed in a wing of the hospital with tuberculosis where patients went with no hope of recovery. He saw it has a chance to minister to the sick and dying he would not otherwise have an opportunity to give peace to in their last hours and preach the saving grace of the gospel.
Lives like those of the Wurmbrands are rare but they perhaps give a glimpse of God at work in his church especially when the body of Christ suffers in his name. Those whose lives are barely touched by such terrors and have freedom to worship perhaps should also see our freedom to pray for others.
Compelling, heart-searching and refreshing where other books can’t reach. Mind, body and soul.
February 15, 2019
Western believers, we need to read books like this. It's so easy to get nearsighted and forget about our brothers and sisters suffering for Christ! Richard Wurmbrand and his family are heroes, and this powerful book did a tremendous job telling their story!
February 5, 2022
Super hard to read but necessary. We cannot forget.
June 16, 2018
STUNNING EVIL OVERCOME BY STUNNING FORGIVENESS
I didn’t know what my bother and sisters have endured since the death of Christ but now I know I part. This book is a must for anyone who is a believer. How much do you love God and how far are you willing to go for it? This book with make you question your commitment. Written well, kept my attention, I definitely have been challenge to love greater.
I didn’t know what my bother and sisters have endured since the death of Christ but now I know I part. This book is a must for anyone who is a believer. How much do you love God and how far are you willing to go for it? This book with make you question your commitment. Written well, kept my attention, I definitely have been challenge to love greater.
October 12, 2024
One of the best Christian biographies I’ve ever read. Highly highly recommended.
August 5, 2018
Based on three previous works, "Wurmbrand" tells the story of Richard Wurmbrand, a Lutheran pastor who had the misfortune to serve in Romania under both the Nazi Germany and Communist regimes. He served two seven-year prison sentences in the Communist days for the crime of proclaiming and living the Gospel. It's also the story of his wife, Sabina, who spent three years in prison for the same crime. Both experienced unspeakable torture during their imprisonment. The book doesn't spare any details, and parts can be painful to read in that regard.
But it inspires, too. Both Richard and Sabina had many opportunities to take the easy way out by denying Jesus. Neither budged, in spite of intense psychological as well as physical duress.
There's nothing fancy about the writing here. A story this powerful speak for itself.
But it inspires, too. Both Richard and Sabina had many opportunities to take the easy way out by denying Jesus. Neither budged, in spite of intense psychological as well as physical duress.
There's nothing fancy about the writing here. A story this powerful speak for itself.
August 13, 2019
The Wurmbrands’ story is compelling and heart wrenching. It deserves 10 stars for what they went through.
The editors of this particular book did not do it justice. Packed with cliche and Hallmark-esque narrative, the mechanics of the book undermine the beauty of its message.
The editors of this particular book did not do it justice. Packed with cliche and Hallmark-esque narrative, the mechanics of the book undermine the beauty of its message.
February 29, 2024
Audible sale (#18 of 20) 10 hours 23 min. Narrated by Michael Beck (B)
The Note to Listeners at the beginning of this audio states "...so listeners can trust the historicity of the book and to be faithful the legacy of the Wurmbrands, we have not created any dialog in this book."
I read Tortured for Christ, Pastor Wurmbrand's original book, shortly after it was published in 1967. It is indeed a testimony of his total faith in the Lord during the 14 years of imprisonment, beatings, and other tortures as the communists tried get him to betray other pastors and members of the underground church. I have heard part of his wife Sabina's story on video. This book is a compilation by The Voice of the Martyrs of the Pastors book, Sabina's own harrowing story, which she tells in The Pastor's Wife. She served three years sentence to a work camp and separation from their son, a child. This is a book whose story should garner an automatic 5 stars
for the couples' commitment to Christ and their loved for those who are communists because they have never heard of God's saving, freeing love. Both the Wurmbrands were protected to glory in 2001.
VOM has had some difficult years and much adverse publicity in the first part of the 21st century. I wanted to find out if the Wurmbrands son Michael was still alive. After I finished listening, I Googled his name and found a letter he had written to VOM. He did not want his parents' name used to support the fleecing of sheep. VOM removed him from their affiliation after they received his letter. I probably wouldn' have gone much further, if it hadn't been for the overt use imagined dialog throughout this complete book. Michael Wurmbrand and his parents did not make money off their books but plowed it back into VOM which they founded. They did not own a house, a car or even bikes. You can do your own research and draw your own conclusions.
Those damning words at the beginning of this Audible book will always niggle at the back of my mind.
If you are familiar with Opendoors founded by Brother Andrew, it seems they may also have been hijacked.since Brother Andrew's death.
The Note to Listeners at the beginning of this audio states "...so listeners can trust the historicity of the book and to be faithful the legacy of the Wurmbrands, we have not created any dialog in this book."
I read Tortured for Christ, Pastor Wurmbrand's original book, shortly after it was published in 1967. It is indeed a testimony of his total faith in the Lord during the 14 years of imprisonment, beatings, and other tortures as the communists tried get him to betray other pastors and members of the underground church. I have heard part of his wife Sabina's story on video. This book is a compilation by The Voice of the Martyrs of the Pastors book, Sabina's own harrowing story, which she tells in The Pastor's Wife. She served three years sentence to a work camp and separation from their son, a child. This is a book whose story should garner an automatic 5 stars
for the couples' commitment to Christ and their loved for those who are communists because they have never heard of God's saving, freeing love. Both the Wurmbrands were protected to glory in 2001.
VOM has had some difficult years and much adverse publicity in the first part of the 21st century. I wanted to find out if the Wurmbrands son Michael was still alive. After I finished listening, I Googled his name and found a letter he had written to VOM. He did not want his parents' name used to support the fleecing of sheep. VOM removed him from their affiliation after they received his letter. I probably wouldn' have gone much further, if it hadn't been for the overt use imagined dialog throughout this complete book. Michael Wurmbrand and his parents did not make money off their books but plowed it back into VOM which they founded. They did not own a house, a car or even bikes. You can do your own research and draw your own conclusions.
Those damning words at the beginning of this Audible book will always niggle at the back of my mind.
If you are familiar with Opendoors founded by Brother Andrew, it seems they may also have been hijacked.since Brother Andrew's death.
February 14, 2023
An important read, especially for American Christians who have never had to suffer such vile persecution. It’s difficult to read but God’s mercy covers ALL of our sins, and the sins of evil persecutors. It’s a reminder to love our enemies, to pray for those who wish to force evil on others, and to lean on God’s promises and share the hope we have.
August 29, 2024
Wow. An incredible testimony of where darkness is strongest, God's love shines brightest.
"Suffering inflicted on us by the will of God does not contradict love. It is one of its methods." -Sabina Wurmbrand
"Suffering inflicted on us by the will of God does not contradict love. It is one of its methods." -Sabina Wurmbrand
May 15, 2022
Almost 20 years ago, I came across a worn-out copy of In God's Underground. It was Richard Wurmbrand's biography focusing heavily on his time as a prisoner of first the Romanian Fascists during WW2 and then following that for many more years under the Communists. That book is the reason I began supporting Voice of the Martyrs, and continue to do so to this day.
Later a shorter edited edition (centered on his time as a prisoner of the Romanian Communists) was published and became one of the most-read persecuted Christian books of all time: Tortured for Christ.
This book is an updated and expanded version of that earlier work, and it also includes Richard's wife Sabina's story as well, which had previously also been published as a separate account. It is difficult reading, but impossible to turn away from once begun.
I have read enough accounts of persecuted Christians, martyrs, and concentration camps to probably list it as a separate Goodreads shelf, but Pastor Wurmbrand's testimony stands out and would suffice for anyone who wishes to read just one to get an idea - and I think every Christian should read at least one witness of this type. Honestly, I wish stories like this would get wider attention, even from non-Christians, in this day when socialism is once again becoming chic; perhaps it wold serve to disabuse some people of their childish fantasies.
Later a shorter edited edition (centered on his time as a prisoner of the Romanian Communists) was published and became one of the most-read persecuted Christian books of all time: Tortured for Christ.
This book is an updated and expanded version of that earlier work, and it also includes Richard's wife Sabina's story as well, which had previously also been published as a separate account. It is difficult reading, but impossible to turn away from once begun.
I have read enough accounts of persecuted Christians, martyrs, and concentration camps to probably list it as a separate Goodreads shelf, but Pastor Wurmbrand's testimony stands out and would suffice for anyone who wishes to read just one to get an idea - and I think every Christian should read at least one witness of this type. Honestly, I wish stories like this would get wider attention, even from non-Christians, in this day when socialism is once again becoming chic; perhaps it wold serve to disabuse some people of their childish fantasies.
May 11, 2020
3 stars [Biography]
(W: 2.75, U: 3, T: 2.25, P: 3.5)
Exact rating: 2.88
#23 in genre, out of 28
Writing: Mediocre (2.5) to Above Average (3). Is insipid compared to the pace and vivacity of the Wurmbrands' memoirs.
Use: Worthy of quoting the quotable parts (3).
Truth: Campy and uninspiring (2.5) to rare (4). Left out some of the Wurmbrands' hardest-hitting truths. Minus 1 full star for condoning their flawed ethical stance about lying.
Plot: Intricate. In a few instances fills some details left out by the memoirs.
Concluding Remark
VOM flubbed this book. Yes, it is a Biography, and the three books it is based upon were Memoirs, so we expect some reduction in the material for the bird's-eye, biographic view. But much of the excellent and stirring material from the other books was left out, and the writing is so drab compared to the heights of what the Wurmbrands actually wrote.
The missed opportunity is so pregnant that I am even considering compiling my own edition for my own personal use, which takes the best of all four books! That's how much this book of great promise was flubbed.
(W: 2.75, U: 3, T: 2.25, P: 3.5)
Exact rating: 2.88
#23 in genre, out of 28
Writing: Mediocre (2.5) to Above Average (3). Is insipid compared to the pace and vivacity of the Wurmbrands' memoirs.
Use: Worthy of quoting the quotable parts (3).
Truth: Campy and uninspiring (2.5) to rare (4). Left out some of the Wurmbrands' hardest-hitting truths. Minus 1 full star for condoning their flawed ethical stance about lying.
Plot: Intricate. In a few instances fills some details left out by the memoirs.
Concluding Remark
VOM flubbed this book. Yes, it is a Biography, and the three books it is based upon were Memoirs, so we expect some reduction in the material for the bird's-eye, biographic view. But much of the excellent and stirring material from the other books was left out, and the writing is so drab compared to the heights of what the Wurmbrands actually wrote.
The missed opportunity is so pregnant that I am even considering compiling my own edition for my own personal use, which takes the best of all four books! That's how much this book of great promise was flubbed.
September 18, 2018
My sweet Mam allowed me the privilege to read this book. I took longer to ingest this narrative because of everything this couple and their son suffered due to their strong faith in Father God and Jesus Christ. Their trials and tribulations far surpassed anything we have ever gone through as American Christians. We have the luxury of meeting in the open in opulent churches and cathedrals. Currently we can admit to any and everyone we are Christians without the fear of soldiers beating down our doors to drag us to prison. We also do not fret about being tortured or starved for our faith. The story of the Wurmbrands gave me a new perspective on what true faith and trust in Jesus really means.
June 1, 2018
Could not put the book down. Very well paced with both Richard's and Sabina's stories woven together. Also what their lives were like before and after they met. Hard to believe some of their torture, but a very encouraging book.
June 21, 2018
Review to follow. This is a breath-taking, heart-rending novel about the lives of Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand, who endured imprisonment and torture in Communist Romania in mid-1900's. Not for the squeamish, but not to be missed!
March 6, 2020
A must read for all Christians and nonbelievers!
March 12, 2019
I just saw that there's a DVD and electronic media movie of this book, and since I've so recently read it, I thought I'd update the review to add the fact. I'm not sure that I could watch such cruelty and brutality, however. But if someone wanted to see the story instead of read it, it's an option. I do hope that the movie-makers remain true to the real people who suffered. Original book review below. - - -
My personal requirement for rating a book a 5 is that I would read it again. Since this is the 2nd time I've read "Tortured for Christ," this book already fits that criterion, but it's not beautiful, descriptive writing. The situations are horrific, ugly, gruesome, painful, and whatever other nasty words one can think of. I thought of the word "perverse" but that might not apply, as it's not quite that descriptive, but it could have been. Still, I'd strongly recommend this book to a Christian.
Most Christians have either read or at least heard of Corrie Ten Boom's "The Hiding Place," about the sufferings Corrie and her family endured in concentration camps for trying to hide and protect the Jews from Nazi Germany. It's a classic.
This book, "Tortured for Christ," sounded similar in some regard - the prisons, the horrific suffering, the brutality. But Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand suffered under the communist regime in Romania. It's the opposite end of the political spectrum - the left, communism, verses the right, and the Nazis. I think, though, that modern America tends to forget the equally heinous crimes committed by the government against the political dissidents and anyone of any religion, who did not recant. I heard somewhere else that Stalin was responsible for more murders than even Hitler, but it's been long enough ago that I'm not sure that comparison was true. It's sufficient to note that both regimes were evil, that both killed so many innocent people, and to be wary of the social conditions that led to both. I think that "Tortured for Christ" should be considered an equal classic to "The Hiding Place," and that some people are turned away from the book by the title and the word "tortured."
Why would I read such a book of disturbing images more than once? I think it's because it fascinates me how some martyrs never do give in to recant their religion, despite the ultimate pressures. And it makes me wonder if I would have the courage and the strength to do the same. I think, if I did, it would have to be God who gives it.
I also read it again, wondering what advice those martyrs might give us, whenever we face our own slight discomforts for Jesus.
I read this the second time around in place of a devotional, in addition to my daily Bible readings. I almost regret it because most of it is too disturbing to rightly be called devotional. BUT ... there are gems, treasures, here that have been found amid the fires of suffering, that probably can not be found in any other way.
I was touched by so many of these stories, but also by one of Richard, speaking alone, into silence from his solitary confinement, not realizing that someone actually heard him.
I thought it was funny that Sabina was spying on those who were spying on the underground church.
I liked the strategy that Richard had for eating the unappetizing prison food. He "rejoiced with those who rejoice" by giving God thanks for what other Christians in various countries were eating that night.
I also liked Richard Wurmbrand's analogy as to why the affluent church in the west should pray for the victimized persecuted church. "If I start to knock a hole in a boat that we are sharing and say, 'Don't interfere; this is my side of the boat,' will you agree? No! The hole in my side will end up drowning us all!"
And I did find myself praying for today's persecuted church, as I read through this book. I'd pray for them the things that Richard and Sabina needed and didn't have, or the things that were blessings to them at the time. I prayed for Christians not just in communist countries like China and North Korea, but also in Islamic countries - anywhere there is hatred for Christ.
Another reviewer read the book and came away challenged to love others more. I can see that.
Favorite quotes:
"You can't accept Jesus without accepting His disciples. He wouldn't leave them to come to you. And you can't accept the disciples without calling even Judas a friend, as Jesus did."
"As the two men spoke, she felt the hollow places in her life fill with truth."
"Even the roughest of neighbors ... could not escape the kindness and friendship of Richard."
"Day by day he worked tirelessly to dismantle his neighbors' prejudice and share his faith."
"Oh, Lord, how can I thank You that I'm among the beaten and mocked ones and, through Your grace, not among those who beat and mock?"
Richard, speaking as a Jew, "It's a frightening story, but I'm not scared for the Jews. God will compensate them for what they've suffered. I'm anguished thinking about what will happen to their murderers when they stand before God's judgment seat."
"So if Sabina, who's a sinner like all of us, can forgive and love like this, imagine how Jesus, who is perfect love, can forgive and love you. If you turn to Him, everything you've done will be forgiven."
"'No,' Richard said, 'you've killed more than a soldier needs to.' He wrapped his arms around his new brother and said, 'Better to allow others to kill you instead. The Bible doesn't forbid that.'"
"God had been stolen from the Russians in exchange for the promise of an earthly paradise that could never be fulfilled by human means alone."
"The church had been seduced by the empty deceptions of Communism."
"But not even all the Communists in Europe combined - Brinzaru included - could rob him of his soul. His soul was held in hands too powerful to pry apart."
"The more Richard suffered, the more love he felt toward the guards. He believed in the all-embracing love of Christ, who desires the salvation of everyone."
"We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." - Ephesians 6:12
To the singing birds: "Good morning, theologians - you wake and sing, but I, old fool, know less than you and worry over everything instead of simply trusting in the heavenly Father's care." - Martin Luther
"Every week death reached into room 4 to snatch another victim, but none of the prisoners died as atheists. Richard had become their provisional pastor, helping even the staunchest of unbelievers make peace with God before their final breath."
"You're young. You hardly knew what you were doing. I forgive you with all my heart, and so would other Christians. There's a place in heaven for you also." - Abbot Iscu to the man who had tortured him, on his deathbed.
"We're allowed to sing and they're allowed to beat us." - Sister Veronica
"But goodness is a rare butterfly that strikes even insensitive eyes. No one can miss it, and some will want to kill it."
"And God doesn't leave unrewarded even a cup of water given to someone in suffering."
"So the clamor of life can deafen us to the quiet voice of conscience. It is when death approaches in the silence of the prison where there are no distractions that men hear the voice when they never have before."
"He [Father Suroianu, a tortured prisoner in Communist Romania] never greeted a prisoner with 'Hello' or 'Good morning' but instead with the Biblical command 'rejoice.'"
"Every day you don't rejoice is a day lost, my son! You will never have that day again." - Father Suroianu to Richard Wurmbrand in prison, tortured and suffering for his faith.
"They tried to pastor the congregation to the best of their abilities, but their teaching was forged in books not in prison." It seemed to me like the Wurmbrands felt sorry for pastors who have not suffered as they had, as they could not feed their flock on the hopes of scripture.
"Martyrs don't make truth. Truth makes martyrs." - Sabina Wurmbrand
"Theories and philosophies could be disputed, but no one could argue with the power of a praying woman."
"The melody of each hymn was sung with immense conviction. The words of each sermon were weighty, for they came from a preacher who might not have the chance to preach again."
"Whether you sin or you don't, whether you lose faith or keep it, I'll still care for you because I know who you are, not what you do."
"God, help me not to rejoice more because I'm free than because You were with me in prison."
"Mother, if you can still believe in a place like this, then so must I." - Mihai Wurmbrand
"You should begin by writing that we should not be filling young men's heads with historical trivialities when tomorrow they may face death for their faith... [Study] how to be ready for sacrifice and martyrdom."
"We too should regard suffering as a charge given to us by God."
"Don't let suffering take you by surprise! Meditate on it often. Adopt the virtues of Christ and His saints in your life."
"If the pleasures of the flesh are all there are, then pain and prison bring an end to a man's aim in living. But if the core of life is truth, that is something no prison cell can change. Prison cannot stop me from loving; iron bars cannot exclude faith. If these ideals make up my life, I can be serene anywhere."
"I give my husband into Your hands. I can't do anything, but You can pass through locked doors. You can put angels around him. You can bring him back!" - Sabina Wurmbrand upon Richard's second incarceration.
"'You have to know that I die loving those who kill me,' they [Christian prisoners] said in their own ways. 'My last request of you is to love them too. Don't have bitterness in your heart because they killed your beloved one. We will see each other again in heaven.'"
"For Richard, solitary confinement deepened his capacity to enjoy the Savior. He became meditative, having mastered the storms and hatred in his heart. No longer did he need to fight anyone. Love became more powerful than violence, for it could subdue the heart of even the most ruthless interrogator."
Western Christians came to interview Richard, after his second release, and said, "But we expected to meet someone int he throes of depression. Instead, we find a happy man. You can't be the person we're looking for , because you're full of joy."
"In prison I saw men with fifty-pound chains at their feet praying for America. But in America you seldom hear in a church a prayer for those in chains in Communist prison."
"There was no room for arrogance in a body that had been stripped, starved, and scarred for Christ. Richard confronted fame in the same way he confronted shame - with humility."
"He wishes to forgive you more than you wish to be forgiven. He wishes to save you more than you wish to be saved."
"We cannot always feel compassion for men, but we must show compassion until we feel it."
My personal requirement for rating a book a 5 is that I would read it again. Since this is the 2nd time I've read "Tortured for Christ," this book already fits that criterion, but it's not beautiful, descriptive writing. The situations are horrific, ugly, gruesome, painful, and whatever other nasty words one can think of. I thought of the word "perverse" but that might not apply, as it's not quite that descriptive, but it could have been. Still, I'd strongly recommend this book to a Christian.
Most Christians have either read or at least heard of Corrie Ten Boom's "The Hiding Place," about the sufferings Corrie and her family endured in concentration camps for trying to hide and protect the Jews from Nazi Germany. It's a classic.
This book, "Tortured for Christ," sounded similar in some regard - the prisons, the horrific suffering, the brutality. But Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand suffered under the communist regime in Romania. It's the opposite end of the political spectrum - the left, communism, verses the right, and the Nazis. I think, though, that modern America tends to forget the equally heinous crimes committed by the government against the political dissidents and anyone of any religion, who did not recant. I heard somewhere else that Stalin was responsible for more murders than even Hitler, but it's been long enough ago that I'm not sure that comparison was true. It's sufficient to note that both regimes were evil, that both killed so many innocent people, and to be wary of the social conditions that led to both. I think that "Tortured for Christ" should be considered an equal classic to "The Hiding Place," and that some people are turned away from the book by the title and the word "tortured."
Why would I read such a book of disturbing images more than once? I think it's because it fascinates me how some martyrs never do give in to recant their religion, despite the ultimate pressures. And it makes me wonder if I would have the courage and the strength to do the same. I think, if I did, it would have to be God who gives it.
I also read it again, wondering what advice those martyrs might give us, whenever we face our own slight discomforts for Jesus.
I read this the second time around in place of a devotional, in addition to my daily Bible readings. I almost regret it because most of it is too disturbing to rightly be called devotional. BUT ... there are gems, treasures, here that have been found amid the fires of suffering, that probably can not be found in any other way.
I was touched by so many of these stories, but also by one of Richard, speaking alone, into silence from his solitary confinement, not realizing that someone actually heard him.
I thought it was funny that Sabina was spying on those who were spying on the underground church.
I liked the strategy that Richard had for eating the unappetizing prison food. He "rejoiced with those who rejoice" by giving God thanks for what other Christians in various countries were eating that night.
I also liked Richard Wurmbrand's analogy as to why the affluent church in the west should pray for the victimized persecuted church. "If I start to knock a hole in a boat that we are sharing and say, 'Don't interfere; this is my side of the boat,' will you agree? No! The hole in my side will end up drowning us all!"
And I did find myself praying for today's persecuted church, as I read through this book. I'd pray for them the things that Richard and Sabina needed and didn't have, or the things that were blessings to them at the time. I prayed for Christians not just in communist countries like China and North Korea, but also in Islamic countries - anywhere there is hatred for Christ.
Another reviewer read the book and came away challenged to love others more. I can see that.
Favorite quotes:
"You can't accept Jesus without accepting His disciples. He wouldn't leave them to come to you. And you can't accept the disciples without calling even Judas a friend, as Jesus did."
"As the two men spoke, she felt the hollow places in her life fill with truth."
"Even the roughest of neighbors ... could not escape the kindness and friendship of Richard."
"Day by day he worked tirelessly to dismantle his neighbors' prejudice and share his faith."
"Oh, Lord, how can I thank You that I'm among the beaten and mocked ones and, through Your grace, not among those who beat and mock?"
Richard, speaking as a Jew, "It's a frightening story, but I'm not scared for the Jews. God will compensate them for what they've suffered. I'm anguished thinking about what will happen to their murderers when they stand before God's judgment seat."
"So if Sabina, who's a sinner like all of us, can forgive and love like this, imagine how Jesus, who is perfect love, can forgive and love you. If you turn to Him, everything you've done will be forgiven."
"'No,' Richard said, 'you've killed more than a soldier needs to.' He wrapped his arms around his new brother and said, 'Better to allow others to kill you instead. The Bible doesn't forbid that.'"
"God had been stolen from the Russians in exchange for the promise of an earthly paradise that could never be fulfilled by human means alone."
"The church had been seduced by the empty deceptions of Communism."
"But not even all the Communists in Europe combined - Brinzaru included - could rob him of his soul. His soul was held in hands too powerful to pry apart."
"The more Richard suffered, the more love he felt toward the guards. He believed in the all-embracing love of Christ, who desires the salvation of everyone."
"We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." - Ephesians 6:12
To the singing birds: "Good morning, theologians - you wake and sing, but I, old fool, know less than you and worry over everything instead of simply trusting in the heavenly Father's care." - Martin Luther
"Every week death reached into room 4 to snatch another victim, but none of the prisoners died as atheists. Richard had become their provisional pastor, helping even the staunchest of unbelievers make peace with God before their final breath."
"You're young. You hardly knew what you were doing. I forgive you with all my heart, and so would other Christians. There's a place in heaven for you also." - Abbot Iscu to the man who had tortured him, on his deathbed.
"We're allowed to sing and they're allowed to beat us." - Sister Veronica
"But goodness is a rare butterfly that strikes even insensitive eyes. No one can miss it, and some will want to kill it."
"And God doesn't leave unrewarded even a cup of water given to someone in suffering."
"So the clamor of life can deafen us to the quiet voice of conscience. It is when death approaches in the silence of the prison where there are no distractions that men hear the voice when they never have before."
"He [Father Suroianu, a tortured prisoner in Communist Romania] never greeted a prisoner with 'Hello' or 'Good morning' but instead with the Biblical command 'rejoice.'"
"Every day you don't rejoice is a day lost, my son! You will never have that day again." - Father Suroianu to Richard Wurmbrand in prison, tortured and suffering for his faith.
"They tried to pastor the congregation to the best of their abilities, but their teaching was forged in books not in prison." It seemed to me like the Wurmbrands felt sorry for pastors who have not suffered as they had, as they could not feed their flock on the hopes of scripture.
"Martyrs don't make truth. Truth makes martyrs." - Sabina Wurmbrand
"Theories and philosophies could be disputed, but no one could argue with the power of a praying woman."
"The melody of each hymn was sung with immense conviction. The words of each sermon were weighty, for they came from a preacher who might not have the chance to preach again."
"Whether you sin or you don't, whether you lose faith or keep it, I'll still care for you because I know who you are, not what you do."
"God, help me not to rejoice more because I'm free than because You were with me in prison."
"Mother, if you can still believe in a place like this, then so must I." - Mihai Wurmbrand
"You should begin by writing that we should not be filling young men's heads with historical trivialities when tomorrow they may face death for their faith... [Study] how to be ready for sacrifice and martyrdom."
"We too should regard suffering as a charge given to us by God."
"Don't let suffering take you by surprise! Meditate on it often. Adopt the virtues of Christ and His saints in your life."
"If the pleasures of the flesh are all there are, then pain and prison bring an end to a man's aim in living. But if the core of life is truth, that is something no prison cell can change. Prison cannot stop me from loving; iron bars cannot exclude faith. If these ideals make up my life, I can be serene anywhere."
"I give my husband into Your hands. I can't do anything, but You can pass through locked doors. You can put angels around him. You can bring him back!" - Sabina Wurmbrand upon Richard's second incarceration.
"'You have to know that I die loving those who kill me,' they [Christian prisoners] said in their own ways. 'My last request of you is to love them too. Don't have bitterness in your heart because they killed your beloved one. We will see each other again in heaven.'"
"For Richard, solitary confinement deepened his capacity to enjoy the Savior. He became meditative, having mastered the storms and hatred in his heart. No longer did he need to fight anyone. Love became more powerful than violence, for it could subdue the heart of even the most ruthless interrogator."
Western Christians came to interview Richard, after his second release, and said, "But we expected to meet someone int he throes of depression. Instead, we find a happy man. You can't be the person we're looking for , because you're full of joy."
"In prison I saw men with fifty-pound chains at their feet praying for America. But in America you seldom hear in a church a prayer for those in chains in Communist prison."
"There was no room for arrogance in a body that had been stripped, starved, and scarred for Christ. Richard confronted fame in the same way he confronted shame - with humility."
"He wishes to forgive you more than you wish to be forgiven. He wishes to save you more than you wish to be saved."
"We cannot always feel compassion for men, but we must show compassion until we feel it."
May 28, 2025
On the one hand, the VOM writing style annoys me (a little overly graphic / doomsday / overdramatized / sensationalized) ...BUT...the story itself is simply amazing. I had no idea Wurmbrand was the one who founded Voice of the Martyrs!!
What a journey for this family — separated, tortured, and nearly killed simply for loving Jesus and teaching others about Him in Communist-controlled Romania.
I was inspired in my own faith and convicted in a myriad of ways as I read about how joyful and faithful both Richard and Sabina were despite unimaginable pain for so many years and how they loved, prayed for, and worked to convert even their worst abusers.
I felt this book was honest about their weaknesses and failures without putting them on a pedestal, while also praising their remarkable steadfast faith as they suffered.
The audiobook narrator was excellent!
Recommend, but only for adults due to the somewhat graphic nature of the story.
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⚠️CW: Moderately graphic violence (mainly prison guards, in similar vein as Auschwitz;) lust / sexual content; physical, emotional, spiritual abuse; torture (moderately graphic;) family separation; persecution; death, including children
What a journey for this family — separated, tortured, and nearly killed simply for loving Jesus and teaching others about Him in Communist-controlled Romania.
I was inspired in my own faith and convicted in a myriad of ways as I read about how joyful and faithful both Richard and Sabina were despite unimaginable pain for so many years and how they loved, prayed for, and worked to convert even their worst abusers.
I felt this book was honest about their weaknesses and failures without putting them on a pedestal, while also praising their remarkable steadfast faith as they suffered.
The audiobook narrator was excellent!
Recommend, but only for adults due to the somewhat graphic nature of the story.
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⚠️CW: Moderately graphic violence (mainly prison guards, in similar vein as Auschwitz;) lust / sexual content; physical, emotional, spiritual abuse; torture (moderately graphic;) family separation; persecution; death, including children
May 14, 2021
This was a tough read, quite graphic in describing the torture the Wurmbrands endured as political prisoners in Romania, all because they were Christians. It made me ponder so many things about my walk with Christ. Surely, if believers all around the world and throughout history can endure such atrocities, I can get through a hard day at work, for cryin' out loud! Gave me much needed perspective. Not to trivialize my own struggles but to realize neither the martyrs nor those living in an easy environment can truly do their life for the Lord without His grace that enables. He provides exactly what we need when we need it when we are humbly submitted to Him. We will never know what we can endure until He brings us into a time of suffering.
October 11, 2025
Wow!! Really intense! I was wrecked for much of this book. Richard and Sabina's heart for those that have done HORRIBLE things to them challenged me. Their love and forgiveness for others... wow! Also their strength in the midst of such intense suffering. I left this book so challenged in my own devotion to Jesus and the way of the cross.
April 24, 2024
The book was very encouraging and convicting, but after reading up on Michael Wurmbrand’s experience with the modern Voice of the Martyrs organization, I would not recommend buying this book or supporting VOM. You’d be better off acquiring Tortured for Christ, which was not published by VOM.
May 27, 2024
Inspirational.
December 18, 2022
Powerful and moving. In the face of such violence we’re taught to love. Everyone needs to hear this story.
September 17, 2020
3.5 / 5
Wurmbrand is a memoir of faith, love, strength of will, and survival.
Both were imprisoned for different lengths of time and both managed to survive horrors (both physical and spiritual) that many others did not (either physically, emotionally, or both). They did this because of the faith they held in their beliefs and in each other.
Throughout the years - in prison and back home - they spread the word and also brought many people to the faith through example. They continued to do so even after they left Romania.
Wurmbrand is a memoir of faith, love, strength of will, and survival.
Both were imprisoned for different lengths of time and both managed to survive horrors (both physical and spiritual) that many others did not (either physically, emotionally, or both). They did this because of the faith they held in their beliefs and in each other.
Throughout the years - in prison and back home - they spread the word and also brought many people to the faith through example. They continued to do so even after they left Romania.
July 2, 2018
Found it difficult to stop reading once starting. Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand were from Jewish backgrounds, spent the first years of marriage as decadent pleasure loving atheists enjoying the night life of 1930's Bucharest. Richard became ill and found solace in Lutheran Christianity, much to Sabina's distress. But Sabina was also converted, Richard became a pastor. Their Christian faith helped them through World War 2, regularly seeking those who were driven underground- and that even included Iron Guard Fascists at the end of the Wars, as well as Jews and various political opponents of the regime.
When Communism was imposed, huge number of churches reconciled themselves to Soviet dogma and Stalin worship. At the Communist regime's 1945 infamous Congress of the Cults, Richard spoke out against the attempt to turn Christianity into an extension of Communism. Richard and Sabina worked for the underground church refusing to co-operate with the regime. Richard spent a total of 14 years in jail, including three years in solitary, Sabina was also jailed for a few years. They both had to endure brutality, torture, rumours that the other spouse was dead, fears for their son left behind. They refused to hate those who were tormenting them.
The accounts of systematic torture, attempts at brainwashing, forced labour, are stomach churning at times. The pro-Soviet regime jailed some of its most own ardent supporters in the process. Communism seemed to want to destroy their opponents but wanted to crush any remnant of faith and dignity they had beforehand. This is really the nightmare world of '1984' come to life. Some of the petty vindictiveness of the regime was also cruel. Sabina's account of whilst a prisoner on forced labour, of how the authorities releasing 10 half starved random prisoners with a loaf of bread each with much aplomb , only to re-arrest them an hour later and send them back to work, is particularly striking.
Eventually the Richard, Sabina and their son were ransomed by Roumania in 1965, desperate for foreign currency. And warned that they would be assassinated if they spoke out. They refused to be silenced and highlighted the plight of persecuted Christians for the rest of their lives.
It is an incredible tale of faith, forgiveness, and survival. Highly recommended.
When Communism was imposed, huge number of churches reconciled themselves to Soviet dogma and Stalin worship. At the Communist regime's 1945 infamous Congress of the Cults, Richard spoke out against the attempt to turn Christianity into an extension of Communism. Richard and Sabina worked for the underground church refusing to co-operate with the regime. Richard spent a total of 14 years in jail, including three years in solitary, Sabina was also jailed for a few years. They both had to endure brutality, torture, rumours that the other spouse was dead, fears for their son left behind. They refused to hate those who were tormenting them.
The accounts of systematic torture, attempts at brainwashing, forced labour, are stomach churning at times. The pro-Soviet regime jailed some of its most own ardent supporters in the process. Communism seemed to want to destroy their opponents but wanted to crush any remnant of faith and dignity they had beforehand. This is really the nightmare world of '1984' come to life. Some of the petty vindictiveness of the regime was also cruel. Sabina's account of whilst a prisoner on forced labour, of how the authorities releasing 10 half starved random prisoners with a loaf of bread each with much aplomb , only to re-arrest them an hour later and send them back to work, is particularly striking.
Eventually the Richard, Sabina and their son were ransomed by Roumania in 1965, desperate for foreign currency. And warned that they would be assassinated if they spoke out. They refused to be silenced and highlighted the plight of persecuted Christians for the rest of their lives.
It is an incredible tale of faith, forgiveness, and survival. Highly recommended.
July 20, 2019
This joins a long-ish list of books about which I have mixed feelings, but overall recommend. It's got a lot of history in it that people who (like me) didn't hear about in our sanitized history lessons in school, but which needs to be known, especially since so many reporters of the day either were ignorant, or were involved in covering things up. And since wannabe God-less utopians, also raised without benefit of knowing the horrors of Communism or forced socialism, are ignoring past horrors as they hope to do a better job of creating a utopia via government force and societal pressure, more people should see where that attitude has led in the past, and will likely lead to again. This book also tells of amazing love and forgiveness practiced by people who are sold out to Christ and have been transformed by faith. It tells of great faithfulness despite horrors that are hard to even read about. (It reminds me in that regard with The Gulag Archipelago.)
I have a few qualms about some of the methods adopted at times by the Romanian underground church or the Wurmbrands, that I don't see in accounts of the early church, or of others imprisoned, tortured, hunted, or killed for their faith, as recorded in sources like the Martyr's Mirror (such as bribery, ransom, infiltrating hostile groups as spies, living a double life). But those methods aren't the dominant methods, and the overall theme is one of radical love, radical forgiveness, amazing heroism, persistence in faith, and unity of believers.
This is not a read for the faint of heart. The torture, the mental abuse, the heartlessness, of people caught up in Communism, are staggeringly bad. And yet. And yet. Love conquers, again and again.
I have a few qualms about some of the methods adopted at times by the Romanian underground church or the Wurmbrands, that I don't see in accounts of the early church, or of others imprisoned, tortured, hunted, or killed for their faith, as recorded in sources like the Martyr's Mirror (such as bribery, ransom, infiltrating hostile groups as spies, living a double life). But those methods aren't the dominant methods, and the overall theme is one of radical love, radical forgiveness, amazing heroism, persistence in faith, and unity of believers.
This is not a read for the faint of heart. The torture, the mental abuse, the heartlessness, of people caught up in Communism, are staggeringly bad. And yet. And yet. Love conquers, again and again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 4, 2019
This book was riveting and suspenseful, yet due to the content, I would have to say it was a very difficult book to read. Not difficult in wording or style, but rather, difficult to digest since it was so very dark and sad. Just knowing that this was not a work of fiction, and that everything I was reading had actually happened to Mr. Wurmbrand, made me shudder with dread! Most people who had survived such terrible oppression would have wanted to curl into a ball and try their best to forget all they had endured. But, Mr. Wurmbrand felt driven to tell his story to help those still under such oppression. What he suffered was beyond horrific, and it broke my heart! I am so very pleased that he was able to survive...and not simply survive, but thrive after his ultimate release from prison. His was a life truly lived to serve others in ways that most people cannot even comprehend. If you are a fan of fact-based historical works that took place behind the Iron Curtain, then this book is for you. But, be sure you have a tissue on hand, and a cast iron stomach as you read several of the passages.
July 27, 2018
THIS BOOK WAS A GOODREADS GIVEAWAY...THANK YOU!
An exceptional book that left my faith inspired and has challenged me to look inward and ask questions of myself...how far would I be willing to go?
Richard Wurmbrand was imprisoned for 14 long years in Romania because of his faith. Through countless beatings and torture sessions, his love for his torturers only grew stronger. Many who inflicted so much pain on Richard and others later placed their faith in Christ. Richard's wife, Sabina, also faced imprisonment and beatings. Her story is just as inspirational as she endured the pain and continued to share her faith.
This book opened my eyes to Christian's today who are facing the same kind of persecution. We just dont get it here in the U.S. We take for granted our religious freedom and are blind to those suffering right now for their beliefs.
Richard and Sabina later founded Voice of Martyrs. I've always been familiar with the ministry name VOM, and now look forward to taking a closer look and supporting their Kingdom work.
An exceptional book that left my faith inspired and has challenged me to look inward and ask questions of myself...how far would I be willing to go?
Richard Wurmbrand was imprisoned for 14 long years in Romania because of his faith. Through countless beatings and torture sessions, his love for his torturers only grew stronger. Many who inflicted so much pain on Richard and others later placed their faith in Christ. Richard's wife, Sabina, also faced imprisonment and beatings. Her story is just as inspirational as she endured the pain and continued to share her faith.
This book opened my eyes to Christian's today who are facing the same kind of persecution. We just dont get it here in the U.S. We take for granted our religious freedom and are blind to those suffering right now for their beliefs.
Richard and Sabina later founded Voice of Martyrs. I've always been familiar with the ministry name VOM, and now look forward to taking a closer look and supporting their Kingdom work.
April 27, 2018
I've been following the Voice of the Martyrs for years now, but I was unaware of their origin as an organization. This book tells the story of the founder of this organization. Richard Wurmbrand and his wife, Sabina, both atheist converts, who were imprisoned for their faith in Communist Romania post-WWII and spent 14 years and 3 years in prison, respectively. Their stories of their time spent in prison is utterly horrific and the torture they had to endure for not renouncing their faith made me nauseated, literally. I'll admit that I get more than a little miffed when US Christians whine about how they're being persecuted here in America. We know nothing of real persecution. It's nothing short of miraculous that both Richard and Sabina survived their ordeals behind the Iron Curtain and lived to tell about it to the apathetic, overly-comfortable West. I really admire this organization, and now, so much more.
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