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Imprisoned with ISIS: Faith in the Face of Evil
As a child, Petr Jasek (Peter Yash-eck) watched Soviet tanks roll through the streets of his village in Czechoslovakia, taking the country by force and subjecting it to decades of Communist oppression. Petr grew up in the underground church and benefitted from financial help and Bibles smuggled in to his family. As an adult living in the free Czech Republic, Petr chose to begin serving persecuted Christians—especially in Islamist hotspots in Africa and the Middle East. In 2015, he was arrested in Sudan, convicted as a war criminal, and sentenced to life in prison, where he was forced to share a group cell with ISIS terrorists. The true story of what God did in and through Petr has already inspired tens of thousands around the world. Now, for the first time, Petr tells the whole story.
224 pages, Hardcover
First published June 2, 2020
34 people are currently reading
378 people want to read
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April 2, 2022
"The Lord has granted me the privilege to suffer for the sake of His name, and there is great joy on being counted worthy of that calling."
Petr Jasek shares his experience being imprisoned in Sudan for almost 15 months. Having grown up the son of a pastor in Communist Czechoslovakia, Jasek experienced persecution from a young age, but his early life did not prepare him for what the Lord has planned for him. It was incredible to read how God provided for him every step of the way, from providing a Bible, to allowing him to witness to those who rejoiced at the news of terrorist attacks. Christian persecution is a topic of great interest to me, and with each account I read I am constantly amazed at God's intervention in the lives of those suffering for Him. I'm always reminded of these verses from James: Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. (James 1:2-3)
Petr Jasek shares his experience being imprisoned in Sudan for almost 15 months. Having grown up the son of a pastor in Communist Czechoslovakia, Jasek experienced persecution from a young age, but his early life did not prepare him for what the Lord has planned for him. It was incredible to read how God provided for him every step of the way, from providing a Bible, to allowing him to witness to those who rejoiced at the news of terrorist attacks. Christian persecution is a topic of great interest to me, and with each account I read I am constantly amazed at God's intervention in the lives of those suffering for Him. I'm always reminded of these verses from James: Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. (James 1:2-3)
June 7, 2020
I’ve often wondered about the church in the Eastern block countries. What happened to them after communism fell? Are they still thriving? The answer is a resounding yes! In fact, they are willing to endanger their own lives to encourage other persecuted Christians and to give the lost the Gospel. Petr is a beautiful example of this.
It’s heartbreaking, terrifying, and intensely challenging all at the same time. What would you do if you were thrown into a cell with ISIS fighters who cheered the death of Christians and beat you mercilessly? What if you faced a life sentence in a jail where they routinely forced prisoners into sewers? Would you preach? Would you share? Petr knew what suffering for his faith was like. He grew up under it in a Communist country. Still, he chose to obey God and reach out to help those facing persecution. That is where this story starts with the consequences he faces for that choice. It isn’t just a list of horrors. It is so much more. It’s a beautiful chronicle of God’s love, faithfulness, sustaining power, and victory. Really it a hopeful story.
I really appreciated his insistence on differentiating between the dead rituals of ritualistic church religions and true salvation through Jesus Christ. He leaves no doubt that forgiveness of sins only comes through faith in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Beyond salvation and a Biblical doctrine of suffering I don't know much about his theology. There were mentions of dreams that make me think he might lean toward a Charismatic doctrine.
I wondered why I hadn’t heard of Petr’s story before. Then I found out that it was only just released a few days ago. It is incredibly encouraging. Please, let me encourage you to find a copy and read it as so as you can.
It’s heartbreaking, terrifying, and intensely challenging all at the same time. What would you do if you were thrown into a cell with ISIS fighters who cheered the death of Christians and beat you mercilessly? What if you faced a life sentence in a jail where they routinely forced prisoners into sewers? Would you preach? Would you share? Petr knew what suffering for his faith was like. He grew up under it in a Communist country. Still, he chose to obey God and reach out to help those facing persecution. That is where this story starts with the consequences he faces for that choice. It isn’t just a list of horrors. It is so much more. It’s a beautiful chronicle of God’s love, faithfulness, sustaining power, and victory. Really it a hopeful story.
I really appreciated his insistence on differentiating between the dead rituals of ritualistic church religions and true salvation through Jesus Christ. He leaves no doubt that forgiveness of sins only comes through faith in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Beyond salvation and a Biblical doctrine of suffering I don't know much about his theology. There were mentions of dreams that make me think he might lean toward a Charismatic doctrine.
I wondered why I hadn’t heard of Petr’s story before. Then I found out that it was only just released a few days ago. It is incredibly encouraging. Please, let me encourage you to find a copy and read it as so as you can.
August 31, 2022
A gripping and harrowing first hand account of a Czech preacher who worked for "Voice of the Martyrs". He went to spread God's word in Sudan and when he was ready to go home he was arrested, convicted and jailed for life. This is his story of a 14 months imprisonment with radical ISIS Muslims. They berated him, austresized him, beat him, stole his food, and were about to water board torture him for his faith in God and Jesus the Christ. He details the corruption and hatred of the Sudanese government officials guards and secret police. They falsified evidence in a kangaroo court to sentence him to life in a Sudanese hellhole prison. He witnessed for Christ in spite of the foul treatment and humiliation he received. Thankfully the Czech was able to pay off the govt officials to secure his release. Praise God.
October 4, 2020
I would recommend this book to everyone. Can't imagine going through this....but it was an encouragement for me to read.....just pray I never have to face this....but won't denounce my faith!
March 30, 2023
I’ve read stories of persecuted believers before, but I found this book particularly encouraging when I read it recently. Petr Jasek is candid with his story—his struggles and triumphs the Lord brought him through—and though this was a terrible ordeal for him and his family in many ways, his overall attitude was one of trust and faith that the Lord had a plan through it all. It was encouraging to see him trying to make the best of his situation and allow the Lord to use him in whatever way He saw fit.
Books like this can be difficult to read, because often the circumstances can be somewhat depressing. That didn’t come across in this book. Even though some of the circumstances were incredibly difficult, Petr still focused his attention on Jesus, and that came through over and over. I walked away from this book thankful for the example of faithful endurance I encountered here, and the encouragement that we can trust the Lord, no matter what we face in life.
Books like this can be difficult to read, because often the circumstances can be somewhat depressing. That didn’t come across in this book. Even though some of the circumstances were incredibly difficult, Petr still focused his attention on Jesus, and that came through over and over. I walked away from this book thankful for the example of faithful endurance I encountered here, and the encouragement that we can trust the Lord, no matter what we face in life.
August 11, 2020
This inspirational book is the account of Petr Jasek's imprisonment in the country of Sudan for 14 months. He tells about the time he spent with Isis members who beat him and the opportunities he had to share the Gospel.
October 20, 2020
What this man endured for his faith is inspiring and appalling at the same time. It made me really feel grateful for the freedom I have as an American to worship when and where I want without having to fear repercussion. I can freely talk about God without fear of being thrown in prison. Definitely would recommend this book.
June 14, 2021
"Because lawlessness is increased, the love of most people will grow cold." Matthew 24:12
In our own strength, our hearts will grow cold against the onslaught of wickedness in our world. Petr Jasek faces the evil that freezes hearts in the prisons of Sudan. But instead of his heart becoming cold and bitter, it grows in love for the very people torturing him. He learns from personal experience what it means to pray for rather than curse your enemies. The Lord also provides him with numerous experiences to share the Gospel in multiple prisons during the course of his imprisonment. What is the remedy for a cold heart? Immersing yourself in the Word and prayer. These two things are often taken for granted and pushed aside in preference of action, but truly the most simple things: prayer and deep Bible reading are the greatest tools our Lord gives us to be mighty disciples for Christ. Petr Jasek testifies to the great things the Lord can do with broken vessels through His Word and prayer.
In our own strength, our hearts will grow cold against the onslaught of wickedness in our world. Petr Jasek faces the evil that freezes hearts in the prisons of Sudan. But instead of his heart becoming cold and bitter, it grows in love for the very people torturing him. He learns from personal experience what it means to pray for rather than curse your enemies. The Lord also provides him with numerous experiences to share the Gospel in multiple prisons during the course of his imprisonment. What is the remedy for a cold heart? Immersing yourself in the Word and prayer. These two things are often taken for granted and pushed aside in preference of action, but truly the most simple things: prayer and deep Bible reading are the greatest tools our Lord gives us to be mighty disciples for Christ. Petr Jasek testifies to the great things the Lord can do with broken vessels through His Word and prayer.
April 24, 2022
Such an incredible encouragement and reminder of how mighty our God is,and what true faith really looks like
March 4, 2025
This book was really good. Through all the horrible things this man had faced, he still lives for God and gave all the glory to God. It really reminds you of how many privileges we have today, all thanks to our creator. I highly recommend this book to all, believers and non-believers.
May 3, 2024
This was an amazing book! I would recommend it to anyone, believer in the Lord Jesus or not! I felt like I was friends with Petr by the end of the book. His story of moments with the Lord in prison encouraged me to deepen my prayer life and not take for granted my freedom to read scripture daily. Read this book!
February 16, 2025
Just read it!
June 27, 2024
Five stars for the story and the message. I have personal connections to Petr but was afraid to read this book because hearing about persecution usually makes me feel guilty for my cushy American Christian life. This book had an entirely different effect on me. Petr’s story includes so much suffering and injustice yet his response is joy. Not the fake kind, either. His experience in prison is dripping with Scripture, deep faith, and full trust in God despite all he has to endure. Over and over again, he attributes divine encouragement and intervention to the prayers that believers around the world made on his behalf. I was one of them! The Lord used Petr to show me just how powerful His Word truly is, how precious and worthy HE is, and how we are one body, suffering together.
January 1, 2022
Picture this. For more than a decade, you have led the work of The Voice of the Martyrs in Africa. For several days in December of 2015, you conducted “secret meetings in a bustling, open-air café just opposite the Paradise Hotel” in Sudan where you are staying. When it is time to catch a flight from Khartoum to Prague, you are arrested by Sudanese security. You are then held on entirely bogus and trumped-up charges and subjected to 21 Kangaroo court hearings over a nearly six-month period. Talk about due process! Talk about innocent until proven guilty! The U.S. Constitution does not apply here.
All that sounds like the beginning of a John Grisham courtroom drama. But unfortunately, it is real life. It’s the life Voice of the Martyr global ambassador Petr Jasek endured and lived to talk and write about.
Jasek’s vivid descriptions of the living conditions in the Sudanese penal system would be nightmarish enough, even without the torture methods applied to the prisoners. How many American convicts, as punishment for an infraction, get dipped into an open sewer filled with human feces up to their necks for at least half an hour? How many American prisons feature ninety-five prisoners in one cell with only seventy-five beds? That is life behind bars in Sudan.
The takeaway here? Jasek’s attitude after living through a living Hell. During those 445 days behind locked Sudanese prison doors for no earthly or legal reason, Jasek learned the reason. The author writes, “God had put me there for a reason: to be His light, to spread the Gospel message.” Jasek discovered “God had a purpose for keeping (him) in prison for so long.” Notice how Jasek described his change of heart on page 210: “Four months after my arrest, when God gave me the opportunity to share the Gospel with twelve Eritreans, I had a complete change of mind. Up until that time, all I could think about was going home and being free, but as I began telling those men about the love of Christ and saw them respond in obedience to God, I suddenly realized: What are four months in prison compared to an eternity in Heaven? At that moment, my attitude shifted. I began thinking less about my circumstances and more about the men who needed Christ. God was showing me the importance of seeing life from a taller perspective, from an eternal perspective.”
The author notes he has “experienced personally the privilege of persecution.” Persecution as a privilege? Did he say, “privilege?” What a concept! How is it possible to feel “grateful, (as Jasek does), for the opportunity to share, even a little, in Jesus Christ’s suffering?”
All that sounds like the beginning of a John Grisham courtroom drama. But unfortunately, it is real life. It’s the life Voice of the Martyr global ambassador Petr Jasek endured and lived to talk and write about.
Jasek’s vivid descriptions of the living conditions in the Sudanese penal system would be nightmarish enough, even without the torture methods applied to the prisoners. How many American convicts, as punishment for an infraction, get dipped into an open sewer filled with human feces up to their necks for at least half an hour? How many American prisons feature ninety-five prisoners in one cell with only seventy-five beds? That is life behind bars in Sudan.
The takeaway here? Jasek’s attitude after living through a living Hell. During those 445 days behind locked Sudanese prison doors for no earthly or legal reason, Jasek learned the reason. The author writes, “God had put me there for a reason: to be His light, to spread the Gospel message.” Jasek discovered “God had a purpose for keeping (him) in prison for so long.” Notice how Jasek described his change of heart on page 210: “Four months after my arrest, when God gave me the opportunity to share the Gospel with twelve Eritreans, I had a complete change of mind. Up until that time, all I could think about was going home and being free, but as I began telling those men about the love of Christ and saw them respond in obedience to God, I suddenly realized: What are four months in prison compared to an eternity in Heaven? At that moment, my attitude shifted. I began thinking less about my circumstances and more about the men who needed Christ. God was showing me the importance of seeing life from a taller perspective, from an eternal perspective.”
The author notes he has “experienced personally the privilege of persecution.” Persecution as a privilege? Did he say, “privilege?” What a concept! How is it possible to feel “grateful, (as Jasek does), for the opportunity to share, even a little, in Jesus Christ’s suffering?”
June 23, 2021
Since reading Richard Wurmbrand's In God's UndergroundIn God's Underground almost 20 years ago, I have both supported Voice of the Martyrs and also made it a habit to read accounts of persecuted Christians. I think every Christian should seek a regular diet of such literature, particularly in the West. Jasek's account is one of the best, and the fact that it occurred so recently lends it additional weight. Highly recommend, for anyone really, Christian or not.
December 21, 2022
Imprisoned with ISIS was a tough read. There was some really heartbreaking content covered in it. I also experienced a lot of conviction in my own personal life while I was reading it.
One thing that really stood out to me was the number of references to specific Bible verses per page! That helped drive his point home that this is about Christ, not us.
All in all, I would recommend this to more mature Christians. There was a lot of torture mentioned, and I think that older teens-adults would benefit the most from reading this.
One thing that really stood out to me was the number of references to specific Bible verses per page! That helped drive his point home that this is about Christ, not us.
All in all, I would recommend this to more mature Christians. There was a lot of torture mentioned, and I think that older teens-adults would benefit the most from reading this.
December 24, 2021
When Voice of the Martyrs ambassador Petr Jasek’s 4 day visit turned into a 445 day imprisonment in Sudan, he cried out, “How long will I have to endure this prison before I will see my family again?” God answered, “Go and share the Gospel with them!” “As I shared Christ…with other men who temporarily passed through our crowded cell, I began to understand why God had put me in this prison. It was to share the love of Christ with people I never would have met under any other possible circumstances.”
This was confirmed when a group of Eritreans began interpreting for Petr one afternoon and all twelve of the men accepted Christ as their Savior the day before they were transferred! “He was preparing me to preach the Gospel at Omdurman Prison, at Al-Huda Prison, at Kober, and to show the love of God to my interrogators and lawyers in the court proceedings…This was the purpose of my imprisonment…This was the answer to my prayer. In that moment, my mindset changed…No longer did I worry about my well-being or safety. God had put me there for a reason…to spread the Gospel message…my mission was to be Christ’s light, no matter how dark the cell…It is only in the valley, in the shadows, in the darkness, that we see Christ shining the brightest…The Lord chooses to use weak and broken things–cracked vessels–to transport His life-changing message.”
“A Christian martyr is a ‘live’ actor on the stage of ages over which the Lord Himself is the director, and the spectator in the first row of seats is Satan with his servants…No matter where God’s children find themselves–in a cell or in a sanctuary–each of us can boldly approach the throne of grace to discover a Father who loves us…I knew the Supreme Judge, and He doesn’t wear a black robe…He is the one who has the keys to my cell…Waiting for the Lord is the key to the Christian life…it cures us from suffering from an ‘instant Christianity’--an attitude that I had encountered in my own heart during the first part of my imprisonment…This persecution gospel, I believe, is the true Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
This was confirmed when a group of Eritreans began interpreting for Petr one afternoon and all twelve of the men accepted Christ as their Savior the day before they were transferred! “He was preparing me to preach the Gospel at Omdurman Prison, at Al-Huda Prison, at Kober, and to show the love of God to my interrogators and lawyers in the court proceedings…This was the purpose of my imprisonment…This was the answer to my prayer. In that moment, my mindset changed…No longer did I worry about my well-being or safety. God had put me there for a reason…to spread the Gospel message…my mission was to be Christ’s light, no matter how dark the cell…It is only in the valley, in the shadows, in the darkness, that we see Christ shining the brightest…The Lord chooses to use weak and broken things–cracked vessels–to transport His life-changing message.”
“A Christian martyr is a ‘live’ actor on the stage of ages over which the Lord Himself is the director, and the spectator in the first row of seats is Satan with his servants…No matter where God’s children find themselves–in a cell or in a sanctuary–each of us can boldly approach the throne of grace to discover a Father who loves us…I knew the Supreme Judge, and He doesn’t wear a black robe…He is the one who has the keys to my cell…Waiting for the Lord is the key to the Christian life…it cures us from suffering from an ‘instant Christianity’--an attitude that I had encountered in my own heart during the first part of my imprisonment…This persecution gospel, I believe, is the true Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
February 8, 2022
In “imprisoned With Isis”, Petr Jasek recounts his time of being wrongly imprisoned for over a year in multiple Sudanese prisons. In this he details some of the torturous experiences which he suffered throughout this time, but also presents the communion he experienced with God in this time and his growth in the understanding of his life’s purpose in the hands of Christ. Reading the story of Petr, my heart was regularly warmed and my eyes were wet with tears nearly every few chapters. His recounting of the growth in his spiritual life, even in the depths of greatest darkness, will stir the affection of any Christian to desire a greater communion with God. The speed and diligence with which he studied scripture, and the way in which his prayers seem to have been ever present on his lips, call me to a desire for greater spiritual discipline in my own life. Not only Petr though, but also the discipline of his family and church, remind me that I am not in enough prayer for my persecuted brothers and sisters. This book was nourishment to my soul, encouragement to boldness in the outworking of my faith, and shows Petr worthy of his admiration of men such as Richard Wurmbrand and the Apostle Paul, in whose suffering he found encouragement to endure his own. I would gladly read this book again, and would highly encourage it to those of us Christians who may never have to come to grips with our faith in the face of torture; that in the reading of stories like this, we would take part in the universal suffering of Christ’s one body, and we would be enriched by the word of testimonies like Petr’s
August 1, 2023
There have been pockets of my life where external circumstances are pretty dismal in the eye of the onlooker...yet in those times, some of the most peaceful and joyful moments have been produced. The paradox of suffering is pretty inexplicable. There's an intimacy with Jesus available there that I have rarely experienced when things go my way. In fact, I think I struggle more than ever with my own selfishness when that's the case. I'm just really good at making things about me - upsetting as that is to realize on the daily. How grateful I am for the Gospel. Man, do I need it...
In this book, Peter Jasek simply shares his testimony of time in prison on account of his salvation in Jesus. What was striking for me to see, was how his heart became more entwined with the Lord's the more his circumstances worsened.
Holy Spirit gave Him the grace of seeing beyond himself more and more everyday, focusing on Jesus and others. He chipped away the flimsy distractions and cheap thrills we crave, revealing the beauty of abiding in God's grace and then sharing that. Peter Jasek literally couldn't contain himself by the end of his imprisonment; he was sharing Jesus with people left and right, no matter what threat they may have posed to him upon learning of his faith.
He became a true praying man. He was broken at the feet of Jesus everyday, praising the Lord and interceding for every person he knew.
At points in my life, I have asked for persecution or hardship, whatever it takes, that I could know God more. I can't get enough of the scandal of His grace. However I can bask in that more, and share with other people - wow. Lord, have your way.
I would call those my wiser moments; I wish they weren't so fleeting.
Thank you Mr. Jasek for sharing your testimony.
What an encouraging read 🙂
It was a bit difficult to follow the timeline at points, as Jasek did keep jumping around in the recounting of these months.
In this book, Peter Jasek simply shares his testimony of time in prison on account of his salvation in Jesus. What was striking for me to see, was how his heart became more entwined with the Lord's the more his circumstances worsened.
Holy Spirit gave Him the grace of seeing beyond himself more and more everyday, focusing on Jesus and others. He chipped away the flimsy distractions and cheap thrills we crave, revealing the beauty of abiding in God's grace and then sharing that. Peter Jasek literally couldn't contain himself by the end of his imprisonment; he was sharing Jesus with people left and right, no matter what threat they may have posed to him upon learning of his faith.
He became a true praying man. He was broken at the feet of Jesus everyday, praising the Lord and interceding for every person he knew.
At points in my life, I have asked for persecution or hardship, whatever it takes, that I could know God more. I can't get enough of the scandal of His grace. However I can bask in that more, and share with other people - wow. Lord, have your way.
I would call those my wiser moments; I wish they weren't so fleeting.
Thank you Mr. Jasek for sharing your testimony.
What an encouraging read 🙂
It was a bit difficult to follow the timeline at points, as Jasek did keep jumping around in the recounting of these months.
September 15, 2020
If we were taken hostage, placed in prison for crimes we didn't commit, and forced to share a cell with some of our greatest enemies, how would we react? In Imprisoned with Isis, Petr Jasek answers this question while also showing the guidance of God in his life despite his trials.
In addition to the overall amazing story, one thing I really appreciate about Jasek's account is the authenticity and upfront admission to his struggles and despair. He doesn't pretend that he was completely fine; he doesn't act as though he trusted God immediately. He's open about his worries and hurt and how God worked through them to help not only Petr but those around him.
I think this book is especially important now (in America) because it causes us to examine what we consider to be "persecution" in our lives. It's a spectrum, sure, but sharing a cell with ISIS members who cheer when hearing of the Paris attacks? We can't even imagine. And this book provides a window into how one man was forced not only to imagine it but live it, ultimately providing an example for us all.
In addition to the overall amazing story, one thing I really appreciate about Jasek's account is the authenticity and upfront admission to his struggles and despair. He doesn't pretend that he was completely fine; he doesn't act as though he trusted God immediately. He's open about his worries and hurt and how God worked through them to help not only Petr but those around him.
I think this book is especially important now (in America) because it causes us to examine what we consider to be "persecution" in our lives. It's a spectrum, sure, but sharing a cell with ISIS members who cheer when hearing of the Paris attacks? We can't even imagine. And this book provides a window into how one man was forced not only to imagine it but live it, ultimately providing an example for us all.
March 23, 2021
The high Goodreads score is warranted. I had reservations about reading the book — the over-dramatic cover, the concern that it would be merely promotional material for Voice of the Martyrs - but a friend strongly encouraged me to read it.
On the contrary, it is a thrilling book that is so dramatic that it could be fiction. It was certainly honest and real— I appreciated the author’s honesty. He shares his doubts, moments of weakness and hardships in a transparent manner and avoids sugar-coating what must have been a extremely difficult and life threatening ordeal.
It is also remarkable to read about how God used him during that period - especially as his upbringing in Communist era Czech Republic had prepared him for the interrogation tactics and prison survival.
I usually shy away from Christian persecution books, wanting to avoid the sometimes exploitation and emotional manipulation of such accounts. Thankfully this book is an exception and is quite unforgettable.
On the contrary, it is a thrilling book that is so dramatic that it could be fiction. It was certainly honest and real— I appreciated the author’s honesty. He shares his doubts, moments of weakness and hardships in a transparent manner and avoids sugar-coating what must have been a extremely difficult and life threatening ordeal.
It is also remarkable to read about how God used him during that period - especially as his upbringing in Communist era Czech Republic had prepared him for the interrogation tactics and prison survival.
I usually shy away from Christian persecution books, wanting to avoid the sometimes exploitation and emotional manipulation of such accounts. Thankfully this book is an exception and is quite unforgettable.
March 24, 2021
This was a hard book to read but an inspirational book to read. Hard from the standpoint that Petr Jasek was falsely imprisoned and found guilty of trumped-up charges in Sudan, a third world country under horrible and dangerous circumstances. Inspiration because of the spiritual journey he took, and the way God used his suffering in the lives of others.
I have read other books about Christian’s imprisoned for their faith. And like other stories God allowed Petr’s to be imprisoned so he could be a missionary in the Sudan's prisons. God needed His man in Sudan under conditions Petr never would have chosen if asked. But once over he would have known it was worth it all.
This book has inspired me to more prayer, more study of God’s word, more memorizing, more trust that God is good and everything He does is good. God is in control always. I learned things I hope I never forget about life under a totalitarian government.
It is a terrific book. I highly recommend it.
I have read other books about Christian’s imprisoned for their faith. And like other stories God allowed Petr’s to be imprisoned so he could be a missionary in the Sudan's prisons. God needed His man in Sudan under conditions Petr never would have chosen if asked. But once over he would have known it was worth it all.
This book has inspired me to more prayer, more study of God’s word, more memorizing, more trust that God is good and everything He does is good. God is in control always. I learned things I hope I never forget about life under a totalitarian government.
It is a terrific book. I highly recommend it.
May 8, 2022
A friend loaned me this book, thinking I would be interested, and I was. As someone who's lived in the region and knew wonderful believers from Sudan, I found Jasek's story very touching. Though not surprised at the atrocities or injustice, I was encouraged by the overall message of the book about suffering as Jasek shared the lessons he learned in the process of his imprisonment.
I am so thankful for the way he learned to rely on God, even as the Lord had prepared him for his own personal trial through the example of his father's. I found it a good lesson to know that only when we go through suffering are we able to grow and be used by God. We can't rely on the experiences of others, but must learn ourselves from trials he allows.
A recommended read for all who are not only burdened for the persecuted Christ followers in our world, but who want to better understand how God uses suffering to his glory and for our good.
I am so thankful for the way he learned to rely on God, even as the Lord had prepared him for his own personal trial through the example of his father's. I found it a good lesson to know that only when we go through suffering are we able to grow and be used by God. We can't rely on the experiences of others, but must learn ourselves from trials he allows.
A recommended read for all who are not only burdened for the persecuted Christ followers in our world, but who want to better understand how God uses suffering to his glory and for our good.
March 11, 2022
This book takes you along Petr's harrowing journey after being arrested in Sudan for work with Voice of the Martyrs. It is dominated by disturbing accounts of prisons, exultant declarations of God's faithfulness, and the very human pain felt by the author.
I went back and forth on what to rate this book. I didn't find the writing style to be a standout, and the book undercuts any suspense it could have by telling you upfront how long he was in prison and what happens to others in the book, which makes it harder to connect with his in-the-moment feelings. Also, the title is misleading, as he is only "imprisoned with ISIS" for a few chapters near the beginning.
I find it a valuable read, if not a literary achievement, to encourage Christians to remember their brothers and sisters under persecution, and to be prepared and willing to face their own.
I went back and forth on what to rate this book. I didn't find the writing style to be a standout, and the book undercuts any suspense it could have by telling you upfront how long he was in prison and what happens to others in the book, which makes it harder to connect with his in-the-moment feelings. Also, the title is misleading, as he is only "imprisoned with ISIS" for a few chapters near the beginning.
I find it a valuable read, if not a literary achievement, to encourage Christians to remember their brothers and sisters under persecution, and to be prepared and willing to face their own.
May 4, 2025
Gripping account of being imprisoned in Sudan while on a visit to gather intel on how VOM could medically support persecuted Christian’s in the Islamic state. After in prison for some time, his prison transfers reunited him with the very friends he’d come to the country to visit - 3 national pastors who had also been arrested for attending a Christian conference outside their country 6 months previously - the very place Petr had met them.
The last quarter of the book became somewhat repetitive, as he described what he felt was Gods purpose for his imprisonment- to preach the gospel where he was. Of course, that is a crucial part of his experience and testimony that should be shared. It’s just better while woven into actual events, as part of the account, than as part of a reflective attachment near the end of his release.
The last quarter of the book became somewhat repetitive, as he described what he felt was Gods purpose for his imprisonment- to preach the gospel where he was. Of course, that is a crucial part of his experience and testimony that should be shared. It’s just better while woven into actual events, as part of the account, than as part of a reflective attachment near the end of his release.
August 1, 2022
No matter how many accounts I read of those who are arrested, tortured and even martyred for the faith, it is shocking and beautiful every time. The story of Petr Jasek is one that will make you shake your head, cry and pray. From his growing up days seeing his parents persecuted to his own arrest, the pages keep turning. His faith is evident and felt on every page and in moments I longed to almost be there with him! Praiseful for his faith and how the Lord used him and continues to use him. This is Jesus. Thank you Petr for never giving up, for remaining firm in the faith and giving God the glory all along the way. Your story is needed and appreciated. Praying for you and for others in prison still.
February 5, 2021
A fantastic book filled with pain and suffering, struggles and, above all, Gods faithfulness. Petr describes the things he experienced while imprisoned in Sudan, the ministry opportunities he had, and the events that enabled him to be released and returned to his family in the Czech Republic.
This book greatly solidified my faith in the sense that it reminded me that God can be trusted...He’s always there and will see us through and no matter what happens, we’re in His hands.
This is a fantastic book, and while it’s not the most eloquently written thing I’ve read, the story that shines through Peter’s words is by far one of the most influential I’ve come across.
This book greatly solidified my faith in the sense that it reminded me that God can be trusted...He’s always there and will see us through and no matter what happens, we’re in His hands.
This is a fantastic book, and while it’s not the most eloquently written thing I’ve read, the story that shines through Peter’s words is by far one of the most influential I’ve come across.
September 18, 2020
This is a true story of Petr a man who was imprisoned in Sudan for 14 months after traveling there to offer help to a man that was severely injured for being a Christian. This book, while being very much real about the suffering of Christians in other parts of the world, tells the story of a corrupt government. In this book I realized what I already see in our country. Even though the proof is before your eyes, the liberal media rules the day. But like Petr we must put all of our trust in God if we want to survive the day.
November 28, 2021
This is one of the most powerful books I have ever read. Petr is transparent about his imprisonment, yet completely humble and grateful. Petr, like the Apsotle Paul, shares how we are to rejoice in our persecution as Christians and take every opportunity to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I am so grateful to Petr Jasek for sharing his testimony, for allowing God to use him in unimaginable conditions, and for blessing me with a desire to be grateful in my sufferings! This is an absolute must read, page turner, that will bless you immensely!
December 15, 2021
I got this book as a free gift for my donation to VOM or Voice of the Martyrs and I heard the story, but not all the details! This book tells all the details of Peter Jasek’s imprisonment in Sudan especially the torture from his cell mates being members of ISIS! I like how he says that he is not a martyr, but was privileged to be in his many prisons since it was God’s will and he led a ministry inside! Read it if you want to know the in-depth details of being imprisoned for the cause of Christ by the government!
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