Called from Islam to Christ: Why Muslims Become Christians by Hazem Farraj is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of spiritual transformation in one of the most challenging and sensitive religious contexts. In this compelling book, Farraja former Muslim who became a follower of Jesus Christshares both his own testimony and the stories of other Muslims who have encountered Christ and embraced Christianity, often at great personal cost.
Farraj begins by recounting his personal journey: growing up in a devout Muslim family, deeply rooted in the rituals and teachings of Islam, and wrestling with spiritual questions that ultimately led him to the Bible and a life-changing encounter with Jesus. His story is one of deep struggle, betrayal by those closest to him, and an unwavering search for truth. This vulnerability and authenticity sets the tone for the entire book.
The heart of Called from Islam to Christ lies in its exploration of why Muslims leave Islam to follow Jesus, despite the tremendous social, emotional, and sometimes physical risks. Farraj identifies key reasons behind these conversions, including personal visions or dreams of Christ, dissatisfaction with legalism, the pursuit of forgiveness and grace, and the compelling love and character of Jesus. These accounts are shared with humility and without sensationalism, giving readers a rare window into the internal and external pressures faced by Muslim-background believers.
The book also delves into the theological contrasts that become crucial turning points for manysuch as the Christian understanding of God as a relational Father, the assurance of salvation through grace rather than works, and the uniqueness of Jesus death and resurrection. Farraj explains how these truths, once grasped, often shatter long-held assumptions and lead to a radical reorientation of identity and purpose.
What makes this book especially valuable is its balance of personal narrative, theological reflection, and cultural insight. Farraj writes with compassion for Muslims and encourages Christians to approach conversations with gentleness, love, and informed understanding. He calls for the global Church to support, pray for, and learn from those who risk everything to follow Christ from within Islamic contexts.
Called from Islam to Christ is a moving and insightful read for anyone interested in missions, interfaith dialogue, or the transformative power of the gospel in the Muslim world. It challenges readers to see conversion not as a statistic, but as a deeply human journey of truth and grace.
