Nick Thompson reviews 'The Hidden Peace: Finding True Security, Strength, and Confidence Through Humility', by Joel Muddamalle (2024)

Discover books from Instant Apostle.

Last year we interviewed Manoj Raithatha, pioneer of Christian publishing house Instant Apostle. Now Prophecy Today readers give their verdict on a selection of Instant Apostle books.

The Judas Trap: Why people mess up (and how to avoid joining them)

Derek Williams (2016)

Ian Farley comments.

This stimulating book takes a look at the infamous apostle, unpacking why he did what he did before asking how we can avoid acting in the same way. Williams takes a generous view of Judas and encourages us to think more carefully about him – which draws the reader in, although deeper theological questions about Judas’ betrayal are not dealt with at length.

Williams does not restrict himself to figures from the Bible, however, but also includes a plethora of modern illustrations that help unpack his points. Some of his comparisons are hard to swallow – nevertheless he does well to remind the reader that every human, no matter how given over to darkness, also has within them the possibility of turning back to the light. God does not give up on anyone.

Each chapter contains a list of suggestions for readers to apply, and the final chapter provides a good and helpful summary of the characteristics of the renewed Christian mind – the kind of people we are called to be. Thought-provoking, at times controversial, and eminently readable.

The Judas Trap (256pp) is available from Amazon for £5.75.

Refugee Stories: Seven personal stories behind the headlines

Dave Smith (2016)

Maureen Trowbridge comments.

These stories of the lives of refugees make disturbing reading – even as one learns of the persecution and traumas they endured before the dangerous journey to safety. Reading this book gives one a deeper understanding of their circumstances and engenders a growing compassion for them, plus an awareness that things often remain difficult for them even after reaching Britain.

The refugee crisis may well cause consternation by being something of a Trojan horse for Islamic extremists. In the face of this, it is good to be reminded of the genuine plight of so many hundreds of thousands fleeing the horrors of war, poverty and persecution.

The author of the book is the founder of the Boaz Trust which works with destitute asylum seekers. This book is both challenging and well worth reading.

Refugee Stories (225pp) is available for £9.98 (new) on Amazon.

Found By Love: A Hindu Priest Encounters Jesus Christ

Rahil Patel (2016)

Derek Bownds comments.

Found By Love tells the true story of Rahil Patel, a young Indian who was drawn deeply into Hinduism as a teenager and pursued the call to become a swami, a priest set aside to minister to the Hindu gods.

Despite being favoured in his new ‘calling’, Rahil grew restless with questions as he came across inconsistencies in Hinduism, religious practice that left him dissatisfied, and always a still small voice inside saying “You’re not supposed to be here. You’re in the wrong place.” Eventually, he abandoned his high-profile position and flew from India to London. One day he wandered into a church, and knew he had finally come home. He had been found by love – and over the next two years he was stripped of the scars of the past, and given new life.

This is the story of one who tried so hard to reach God by his own efforts but discovered that his standing before God depends entirely on Jesus. In place of a human guru, Rahil found the eternal Saviour. Instead of a title and rank and constant searching and doubt, he has been given sonship and truth. In place of rules, he has found grace and a loving community. How can it not be a good read?

“…one of the most enthralling books…once I started to read it I found it so absorbing I could not put it down. I thoroughly recommend it and feel sure you’ll feel the same about it too!” ~ Maureen Trowbridge

Found By Love (230pp) is available for £9.98 (new) on Amazon.