Bodie Thoene - Face to Face with Jesus: A Former Muslims Extraordinary Journey to Heaven and Encounter with the God of Love

2014 by Samaa Habib and Bodie Thoene

Published by Chosen Books

11400 Hampshire Avenue South

Bloomington, Minnesota 55438

www . chosenbooks .com

Chosen Books is a division of

Baker Publishing Group, Grand Rapids, Michigan

www . bakerpublishinggroup . com

Ebook edition created 2014

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any meansfor example, electronic, photocopy, recordingwithout the prior written permission of the publisher. The only exception is brief quotations in printed reviews.

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data is on file at the Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

ISBN 978-1-4412-6365-0

The song The Battle Hymn of the Republic mentioned in chapter 1 by Julia Ward Howe, 1861.

The song All Heaven Declares mentioned in chapter 8 by Tricia and Noel Richards, copyright 1987 Thankyou Music (PRS).

The song Worthy Is the Lamb mentioned in chapter 8 by Darlene Zschech, copyright 2000 Darlene Zschech/Hillsong Publishing.

The song God Will Make a Way mentioned in chapter 25 by Don Moen, copyright 1990 Integritys Hosanna! Music.

Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are from the New American Standard Bible, copyright 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.

Scripture quotations identified ESV are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version (ESV), copyright 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. ESV Text Edition: 2007

Scripture quotations identified NIV are from the Holy Bible, New International Version. NIV. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com

Scripture quotations identified NKJV are from the New King James Version. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations identified KJV are from the King James Version of the Bible.

What follows is a true story. However, locations in the story and some details have been disguised, and the names of the author, her family and friends have been changed, in order to protect the security of those involved.

Cover design by Gearbox/Dan Pitts

Face to Face with Jesus is a story I will never forget. Ever. It is the unique and inspiring journey of a young Muslim woman coming to know Christ. This book will change your life. Get ready.

Bill Johnson, senior leader, Bethel Church, Redding, CA; author, When Heaven Invades Earth ; co-author, The Essential Guide to Healing and Healing Unplugged

This is one of the most powerful testimonies to the reality and faithfulness of Jesus that I have ever read. You cannot come away from reading this book without being awed. As persecution of Christians by radical Muslims sweeps across the earth, Samaa Habibs testimony is a story that must be heard.

Joel Richardson, New York Times bestselling author, teacher

Hard-hitting reality and deep intimacy with MessiahSamaas amazing story takes you into the thick of Islams heartland. Watch how a traditional Muslim girl encounters a Middle Eastern Jesus, lives boldly for Him, suffers martyrdom and resuscitation and shines the light of God on her beloved people. This is a modern book of Acts that will help you fall more deeply in love with Yeshua.

Avner Boskey, Final Frontier Ministries

This riveting story is a must-read for anyone who wants insights into the complexities of the Muslim world. It is a story filled with faith, hope and the power of the supernatural intervention of God. This book is destined to be a classic.

Mark Anderson, president, call2all

In the midst of great opposition and unending persecution, Samaa takes us on a journey of heart-lifting hope. The depth of her prayer life and her resolute commitment to depend on Jesus will awaken you to know and share His matchless loveeven in the toughest of circumstances.

Paul Eshleman, vice president of coverage, Campus Crusade for Christ International

You will thrill at this true story of suffering and redemption, and like me, you will be riveted by Samaas journey from a Muslim upbringing to a bold stand for Christ. For Muslims and Christians everywhere, this book will ignite your heart and strengthen your faith.

Bob Sorge, author, speaker; www.bobsorge.com

You need to read this book. In all my years of ministry and being around countless people impacted by Gods encountering them, this one takes me closer to the incredible reality of the goodness of Jesus, every time.

Eric Johnson, senior pastor, Bethel Redding; author, Momentum : What God Starts Never Ends

Having traveled extensively across the Middle East for years, I can boldly testify that Samaas story is a divine illustration of the widespread revelation of Jesus striking those lands in this hour! Let her testimony of this unstoppable Gospel shred every fear, break down every wall and remove all doubt in your life!

Sean Feucht, author, recording artist, international speaker; founder, Burn 24-7

Samaas story deeply impacted my heart and my life. Her testimony is so alive with the power of the Gospel, so interwoven with the revelation and love of Jesussuch a fragrant life. Ive never read a book like this before. You must read it!

David Brymer, worship director, Pasadena International House of Prayer

Samaas story draws you in to her dramatic yet touching journey, giving you new eyes to see a world we rarely see. Intimate and bold, Face to Face with Jesus unveils Gods concern and faithfulness to all who love and trust Him.

Chris DuPr, president, Heart of David Publishing

Samaa is intensely passionate about the One who snatched her from death and darkness. Her story will ignite wholehearted faith and inject hope and courage to many. As the days of fire increase, His resurrection power and authority will become more manifest. The Bride of Christ will be made ready for His soon return. Maranatha!

David Demian, director, Watchmen for the Nations

This book has the potential to change your life. I know the author, and this testimonyher lifeis one of the most amazing things I have ever witnessed. It proves the fact of Gods love and zeal to see millions of Muslims come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Samaa Habib is a picture of what I believe God is beginning to do and will only increase in the days ahead. Get ready, because your life is about to be rocked!

Corey Russell, director, Forerunner Program, International House of Prayer University

Samaas testimony and heavenly encounter have stirred in me a renewed passion for Jesus and a burning conviction to bodly share His Gospel and love to all men. So compelling and encouraging to read!

Laura Hackett, singer/songwriter; worship leader, International House of Prayer

Face to Face with Jesus is a captivating story of faith, courage and love and is a great treasure to Muslims and Christians alike. Muslims will hear the story of the Saviors unfailing, tender love, and Christians will be provoked to join Him in His mission to make it known.

Allen Hood, associate director, International House of Prayer; president, International House of Prayer University

Face to Face with Jesus not only is a testimony of courage beyond imagination but gives us a picture of everyday realities for the persecuted church. Every believer needs to read it with eyes wide open to the suffering of those who live amidst warring factions. Samaa Habib and Bodie Thoene have done us a huge favor in writing this book.