They Were Christians: The Inspiring Faith of Men & Women who Changed the World

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Title:  They Were Christians
Author: Cristóbal Krusen 
Publisher:  Baker Books
Release Date:  May 3, 2016
Genre: Non-Fiction Biography
"I dare you to read this book and not be inspired to make your mark on the world."--Josh McDowell, author and speaker

What do Abraham Lincoln, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, Louis Pasteur, Frederick Douglass, Florence Nightingale, and John D. Rockefeller Sr. have in common? They all changed the world--and they were all Christians. With passion and precision, Cristóbal Krusen brings to light the little-known stories of faith behind twelve influential people of history.

They Were Christians reveals the faith-filled motivations of these important world figures who made some of the most outstanding political, scientific, and humanitarian contributions in history. Discover the true stories behind

· the founding of the Red Cross
· the family crisis that drove America's favorite president to his knees
· the supernatural call that led a beautiful English socialite to save thousands of soldiers
· and more

The fascinating profiles of these faithful history makers will encourage, entertain, and inspire you to deepen your faith, pursue excellence in your vocation, and serve others.


Did you know they were Christians? Dag Hammarskjold, Frederick Douglass, Florence Nightingale, Frank Pais, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, Jean-Henri Dunant, Abraham Lincoln, Joseph Lister, Louis Pasteur, Chiune Sugihara, Charles Dickens and John D. Rockefeller Sr., 12 individuals that shaped, defined or remembered by many for their achievements, yet how many did you know were Christians?
“The twelve individuals I have gotten to know through writing this book have become personal friends. They are highly regarded today for their contributions to science and medicine, literature and philanthropy, government and diplomacy. Unfortunately, people seldom—if ever—remember them for the rich storehouses of faith that gave their lives meaning and purpose in the first place. It is time to change that. It is time to let the record show that They were Christians” (12)
The author, Cristóbal Krusen presented to us snippet bios of each of these individuals, and focus not what made them famous, but their faith journey and how it shaped their decisions and lives, leading to their "claim to fame".  What's interesting is the intermix of biographical content with the author's own personal experiences, giving us a direction and theme of the forthcoming story.  And great stories they were. I'm particularly fascinated with Dag Hammarskjold's story. I knew who he was, but to what extent, I know not. Yet, his short chapter led to a certain intrigued and humility of his quiet thoughtfulness and faith. I'm adding his personal notes and meditations, Markings (published posthumously) to my to read pile.

Insightful and informative, They Were Christians spoke not of an individual's achievements, but the relationship between man and God, in faith and in conversation, seeking God's guidance and provisional blessings.  Definitely a must read for anyone.



NOTE:  I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, Baker Books for an honest review.  All opinions expressed are my own. For my review policy, please see my Disclosure page.


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Cristóbal Krusen is a screenwriter, film director, and author who has lived in Mexico, Australia, and Belize, and has traveled to more than sixty countries. In 1988, he founded Messenger Films, a nonprofit film production company. He studied English literature at Harvard University and also studied film and television at NYU and the Art Center College of Design. He most recently collaborated with Josh McDowell in the writing of Josh's memoir, Undaunted, which received a starred review from Publishers Weekly. He currently lives in St. Paul, Minnesota.

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CONVERSATION

4 comments:

  1. UnknownMay 23, 2016 at 10:07:00 AM EDT

    This looks like an excellent book.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Rebecca ManeyFebruary 14, 2017 at 9:22:00 PM EST

    This is one I want to think about for our church library as well as my book club. We are reading "7 Women and the Secret of Their Greatness" next month, somewhat similar. Have you read that one? Eric Metaxas is the author.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. justcommonlyFebruary 14, 2017 at 9:53:00 PM EST

      Hi Rebecca. No, I have not. I'll need to look into that. Thanks!

      Delete

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