Martyr of the Catacombs

By: Open Vision Media

Narrated by: J. L. Wallace

Length: 3 hrs and 46 mins

Publisher's summary

True Christians have been persecuted throughout the Church Age, and in some parts of the world continue in great trials. But the Savior is always there providing comfort and strength. No marvel, for Christ warned his followers that this would happen. Here, in Martyr of the Catacombs, we get a glimpse of the heinous persecutions in Ancient Rome and look inside the lives of those Christians whose very lives depended upon the place of refuge beneath the city of Rome. Apprehending Truth presents this Christian classic as a reminder that some remain in harm’s way, and a sober warning to the complacent church of the 21st century, persecution of the real Church is an ever increasing possibility.

"These are they which came out of great tribulation And have washed their robes And made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore are they before the throne of God And serve him day and night in his temple; And He that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. They shall hunger no more; neither thirst any more; Neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat; For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, And shall lead them unto living fountains of waters, And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes."

©2014 Apprehending Truth Publishers (P)2014 Open Vision Media

Good Story and Performance Worth the Listen

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes, with the caveat that this a decidedly Christian story. If you are a Christian or are interested in Christian history you will surely enjoy this novella. The veracity of this fictional story and the Roman persecutions is well documented in history. Nevertheless, even a non-Christian can come away with a good experience from this audiobook, if he is open-minded and willing to learn something of experience in the early Christian Church.

Who was your favorite character and why?

I believe that Lucullus would have to be my favorite character. He is deeply committed to his friendship with Marcellus, yet remains stalwart, and determined in his resolve which makes his actions so much more believable. Lucullus is “real” and his difficulties understanding the Christians and their ways is so plausible even from a contemporary perspective.

What does J. L. Wallace bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Passion of the characters. The narrator does a nice job of pulling the listener into the drama. Much unfolds here and the distinctiveness of the characters helps to bring this story to life. J.L. Wallace does a very good job of keeping the characters “real” in their place and circumstances without “over acting” them. I think this distinction in characterization does complement the story rather than detract from it.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

If you let yourself, you can get involved with the characters. There were some parts that pulled on the ‘ole heart strings. Give yourself to the characters and the story. It’s easy to do with this one and the narration helps that along.

Any additional comments?

There is a drawback to this particular audio production. It has the sound of an older recording, in that there are pops and clicks throughout that could, for some, detract from the narration. It didn't particularly bother me or ruin the experience, but they are there and some may squawk at that. All in all it is no worse than listening to an old audiobook on cassette. Remember those?But, don’t let that keep you from downloading and listening to this production of Martyr of the Catacombs. In the end, I think you will be glad you did. Overall an enjoyable experience.