ISHMAEL Ebook Tooltip Ebooks kunnen worden gelezen op uw computer en op daarvoor geschikte e-readers. In the Presence of his Brethren

Review Comments on the Book

“The book, Ishmael in the Presence of His Brethren, is a biblical explanation for the ‘ubiquitous’ nature of Ishmaelites and the purpose for which God allows it.

The years of experience coupled with on-the-job expertise of the author and the accurate insight into the Scriptures with which the book is written makes it a must for every believer who is serious about sharing Christ’s love with the Muslims anywhere in the world.”

Dotun Adeboye, Training Director, Christian Missionary Foundation (CMF).

“John Idoko has done a neat job of unmasking Ishmael in a simple and easy to read prose. He has offered the reader a depth of insight and inspiration that is both educative and instructive. Though primarily written for those seeking to reach the sons of Abraham’s other first son, Ishmael in the Presence of His Brethren will be a welcome tool for those of that clan who need to know or want to find out the truth about their pedigree. It is very enjoyable to read and helpful for ministry to the Muslims.”

Timothy Olonade, President, El-Rehoboth Global Leadership Foundation; Int’l Lead Facilitator, M2414Initiative, Jos, Nigeria.

“Today there is a lot of fear among Christians concerning the advance of Islam, especially when violent terrorists claim to be motivated by the God of Islam. Are these terrorists betraying a peaceful Islam? Or does Islam have a DNA that includes “genes” of violence”? The author of Ishmael in the Presence of His Brethren excavates answers to these questions, going all the way back to the two “firstborn” sons of Abraham in the Bible. Then the author clearly answers another question. Is God behind the influx of Muslims into Christian countries and communities? If so, what is God’s strategy for His church? That strategy is what this book explains so well—the only way to a lasting “peaceful coexistence” in this world and the next, the Peace given through Christ Jesus, not as the world gives.”

Ruth Veltkamp, missionary teacher, USA.

“Ishmael in the Presence of His Brethren aptly captures God’s passion and burden for the lost sheep of the house of Abraham—“the house of Ishmael”, “the house of Islam.” This book gives deep insight into why we must not neglect or shirk our responsibility to lovingly reach out to Muslims “in our presence” (our neighborhood), but rather see this as a task for the Church (the spiritual Israel) in every part of the world. For it is in their obtaining peace with God that we will have our peace!

This book is an urgent wake-up call to the Church particularly in the face of the recent global migration of Muslims and the fear of terrorism that comes with that migration. We must begin to engage this last frontier we have neglected to our detriment for many generations with seriousness and a deep sense of responsibility.”

Dr. Chukwuemeka Allen Okorafo, Tasmania, Australia.

“This is an excellent and inspired work.

The points are well made and I particularly like the use of the four lepers’ story to wrap up the whole matter.

I have no doubt that this book will be an eye-opener to all who will read it as it has done for me. I’m educated and equipped to reach out the hand of peace to the Ishmaelites around me.”

Dr. Olorunda Rotimi, Bridge Community Church, Leeds, UK.

“John has written a most wonderful, concise, and a highly readable book. His writing is a good synthesis of scriptures and his own thoughts.

The book is apposite for this time. As I read into the book, I actually found myself first, enjoying the book, then getting angry by the realities embedded in the facts of what the Ishmaelites had done and are still doing. I realized, however, that John is not calling us through this book to become like the mystical ostriches that bury their head in the sand and accept the inevitable. Neither is he calling us to Christian militancy. Instead the book sounds a clarion call to higher reality--the Kingdom of God in the hearts of men. My relationships with a Yemeni young man and an Iraqi lady, both converts from the Ishmaelite tribe to Christ, have confirmed that.

This book I suspect would be useful beyond the borders of Nigeria. May this book provide answers to questions which many in the West do not even know exist.

As one who has loved and still loves the Ishmaelites, John has earned a right to be heard, having put into practice the demands he has made on us in this book. Read Ishmael in the Presence of His Brethren with an open mind. Choose to live out the way prescribed by the author—the more difficult but excellent way, the way that does not fail.

Dami Adeliyi, Wilmore Kentucky, USA.

“Information is good. Acting on the information is better. Working on the information to bring out a proper and desirable result is the best. That is why I call this book ‘Excellent!’

Ishmael in the Presence of His Brethren informs us about the plight of Ishmael and puts us on our toes working to bring true peace to Ishmael.

As you start reading, you will not want to drop the book till you are done with it.”

Anene Odigwe, Missionary, Nigeria.

“For a long time I have felt lonely and helpless, assuming I was the only one thinking and praying like the author. It pains to see veiled or open hostility shown by some believers against Ishmael’s descendants, usually in response to their violent aggression towards followers of Christ, and particularly to Israel and the Jews. Some prayers demand God to ensure Ishmael’s immediate conversion, or better still, their sudden complete destruction. Not many people wish to even share heaven with them if they should repent today. Their atrocities and attitudes are usually put forward to justify such wishes.

But consider what would happen if we all rose up, in line with the author’s plea, to wage peace on Ishmael’s descendants—praying for, evangelizing, discipling and equipping them to live for Jesus, and to reach out to their own! If only we can love and serve them. The pain could still be in the heart, which God can heal, but the gain would be impossible to measure. After all, as has been lavishly pointed out, we share same origins in Abraham. Heaven is open and big enough for them. Jesus promised that other sheep not yet in the fold would also come in so He would have one flock and one Shepherd.

The Church has usually grown fastest and strongest amidst persecution. Could this be another wakeup call by God to make the final thrust and reach all corners of the earth?

Thank you, brother, for this wonderful book gift to the Church. You are living far ahead of your years.”

Gideon M. Chimmin, National Director, Fellowship of Christian Students, Jos, Nigeria.

“I met John the first time in 2005 when my wife and I joined his church planting team in an Ishmaelite community. I was struck by his passion, his commitment and his love for Ishmael’s descendants. I saw him working tirelessly everyday to share the gospel with individuals, families and religious clerics using every opportunity like medical work and hospitality; naming, wedding, and burial ceremonies, on one-on-one evangelism.

Therefore, I am not surprised to see John writing a book about his people and how to reach them with the Good News. I read this book in one day and I reread it again because I enjoyed it. For Christians and church leaders who are looking for ways to evangelize Ishmael’s descendants, this book will give you a clear understanding of Ishmael and his descendants, ways to love them and practical ways to share the gospel with them.”

Dr. C.S. Yoro, Apostle and Teacher, North Africa.

“HIS LIGHT SHINES IN THEIR DARKNESS.

One of the greatest challenges facing the growth of God’s kingdom in our generation is the growing contention between Ishmael and his brethren. Understanding the underlying issues in this conflict is key to fighting a good fight of faith to establish God’s kingdom even in enemy territories.

In this book, our brother John, who loves the Ishmaelites and longs for them to find peace with the Savior and their brethren, brings light to hidden issues around this battle. If you share with John, God’s love and passion for the Ishmaelites, this book is a good resource to hold and read. ‘For everything hidden is meant to be revealed, and everything concealed is meant to be brought to light.’ Mark 4:22, Berean Bible”

Sam KPUTU, International Director, CAPRO Missions.