Introduction
Imagine growing up in one of the strictest Islamic environments, being raised to honor and defend your faith at all costs—only to encounter the very person you were warned against: Jesus Christ. This is the real-life story of Joseph Fadelle, an Iraqi man who left Islam and risked everything to follow Jesus. His journey is one of truth, sacrifice, and unshakable faith.
A Devout Muslim in Iraq
Joseph Fadelle was born in 1964 into a prominent Shiite Muslim family in Iraq. His birth name was Muhammad al-Moussawi, and from a young age, he was trained in Islamic traditions, Qur’anic teachings, and loyalty to the faith. His life seemed set—until everything changed during his mandatory military service in Saddam Hussein’s army.
The Unexpected Encounter
While in the army in 1987, Joseph was assigned to share a room with a Christian soldier named Massoud. Initially, Joseph wanted nothing to do with him. In his mind, Christians were deceived and beneath Muslims. But over time, Joseph became intrigued by Massoud’s kindness and quiet strength. One day, he asked him why Christians believe Jesus is the Son of God.
That one question turned into many. Massoud patiently shared from the Bible, and eventually gave Joseph a copy to read. Joseph began comparing the Qur’an and the Bible, expecting to find errors in Christianity—but instead, he found light.
A Powerful Dream
In the midst of his spiritual searching, Joseph had a vivid dream. He saw a man in dazzling white clothes standing before him, calling him by name and saying, “You are on the wrong path.” He believed it was Jesus. That dream confirmed what he had been reading in the Bible. His heart burned with conviction.
After years of inner wrestling, Joseph made a bold decision: to give his life to Jesus Christ. He was secretly baptized and took the name Joseph.
The Cost of Discipleship
Joseph knew his decision would come at a price—but he could not have imagined how high it would be. When his family discovered his conversion, they were furious. In the Muslim world, converting from Islam to Christianity is seen as betrayal. His uncles and cousins plotted to kill him to “restore the family’s honor.”
He was imprisoned, tortured, and beaten—first by his family, then by Iraqi authorities. Miraculously, he survived. His wife, who had also come to believe in Jesus, stood by him. Together, they fled Iraq and sought asylum in Jordan, and eventually in France.
Living in Hiding, Standing in Faith
Even in Europe, the threats followed him. Joseph and his family live under constant protection, because extremist groups have put a price on his head. But he is not afraid. In his book, The Price to Pay, Joseph writes with deep conviction and gratitude for the new life he’s found in Christ.
“I lost everything—my name, my country, my family. But I gained Jesus. And with Him, I gained everything.”
Why This Story Matters
Joseph Fadelle’s story is a modern example of what Jesus meant when He said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me” (Matthew 16:24). His journey reminds us that following Jesus isn’t always easy—but it’s always worth it.
While not everyone will face persecution for their faith, many still struggle with the fear of rejection, ridicule, or isolation. Joseph’s story gives us courage. It shows us that truth has power, and when Jesus calls someone to Himself, no barrier is too strong.
Closing Thoughts
Maybe you’ve been praying for a Muslim friend. Maybe you’re wondering if anyone truly leaves Islam for Jesus. Let Joseph Fadelle’s story encourage you. God is still revealing Himself in dreams, through the Word, and in unlikely places—even in the heart of a devout Muslim in Iraq.
May we never underestimate the power of the gospel. And may we be bold to share the hope we’ve found in Christ, knowing that someone’s eternal story could be just beginning.
Further Reading:
- The Price to Pay by Joseph Fadelle (Ignatius Press, 2012)
- Joseph Fadelle – Wikipedia
- The Price to Pay – Book Summary
Adapted from mainly Wikipedia.
Other sites were also used for research.
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