Challenging God to Reveal Himself
Richard Wurmbrand was born in Bucharest, Romania, in 1909 into a Jewish family. Initially an atheist and Marxist, he challenged the existence of God, saying, 'God, I know surely that You do not exist. But if perchance You exist, which I contest, it is not my duty to believe in You; it is Your duty to reveal Yourself to me.' His life took a dramatic turn in 1938 when a German carpenter, Christian Wolfkes, gave him a Bible. As Richard delved into the New Testament, Christ became as tangible to him as someone he knew personally. Despite initially resisting the call to faith, Richard recounted Jesus's words to him: 'Come my way. Do not fear the Cross. You will find it the greatest of joys.' This encounter led Richard and his wife, Sabina, to embrace Christianity, with Richard eventually becoming a Lutheran minister.
Defying the Communist Regime
After World War II, as Communism gripped Romania, Richard boldly preached to Russian troops and resisted the regime's attempts to suppress Christianity. His defiance led to his arrest on February 29, 1948, by secret police.
Fourteen Years of Torture
Over the next 14 years, Richard endured unspeakable torture, including beatings, burning, and solitary confinement. Yet, he found strength in his faith, saying, 'Why should I be afraid of the torturers? They don't beat me. They beat my body. My 'me,' my real being, is Christ.' Despite the isolation and psychological torment, Richard ministered to fellow prisoners, offering hope where there seemed none.
Voice of the Martyrs
In 1965, Christians in Norway arranged Richard's release, paying a ransom of $10,000. His testimony before the U.S. Senate in 1966, where he showed his scars, highlighted the plight of the persecuted church. The Wurmbrands founded 'Voice of the Martyrs' in 1967, advocating for persecuted Christians worldwide. Richard's writings, such as 'Tortured for Christ,' continue to inspire many. His legacy is a testament to unwavering faith, as he often said, 'A faith that can be destroyed by suffering is not faith.' Richard passed away in 2001, leaving behind a legacy of courage, faith, and love for Jesus.
