Book Review: The Bible or the Axe
Dec 29th, 2005 by cadmus
In “The Bible or the Axe” William Levi relates his story of persecution, exile and ultimate triumph in war-torn Sudan. He begins the book with a brief history of Sudan to prepare the reader for a better understanding of that country in the latter half of the 20th century. Even though it is only a summary of several centuries, I found this interesting and informative because I knew practically nothing about Sudan.
Mr. Levi begins his life story during his early childhood when his family must move to Uganda for safety. He goes on to relate how he grew up in a faithful Christian household and the lessons he learned there about the Bible and how to live a productive life. Throughout the book Mr. Levi’s emphasis on education is repeated often. He and his family know that the only way to grow up and help his family and his country is with a good education. This was definitely not as easy for him and his countrymen as it is for us in the United States. Life was never easy for Mr. Levi growing up because of the ongoing conflict with the Arab Muslim government in the north and it’s Jihad against Africans and Christians in the south.
As a teenager Mr. Levi realized that his only possibility of completing his education was to get to the United States. As he tries to escape his country and Africa, he is tortured and has his life threatened many times. William Levi is able to reach the United States after journey of several years and completes his education up through college.
Throughout the book it is amazing to read of the evidence of God acting in Mr. Levi’s life. Many times God answered prayers and provided for him when all seemed lost. It’s incredible how God used Mr. Levi no matter where he was to preach and witness for Jesus. Even today William Levi leads Operation Nehemiah in serving and rebuilding Sudan. I was also inspired when I learned the origin of the book title. It was not what I expected.
I recommend this book to anyone, but especially to those that are unaware of the struggles and persecution in Africa. It will definitely strengthen your faith and place a burden on your heart for those whose very existence is threatened on a daily basis.
This book was provided by WinePress Publishing through Mind and Media. I do not receive any consideration for this review other than the book.
