Ura Miller’s wife was seriously ill. At her bedside, Ura had time to begin writing the Bible stories CAM had requested. He did not know what all God would do with the 101 stories he drafted. Neither did we.
In January 1993, CAM held a meeting to discuss details about printing the Bible story book. Some of the first steps included putting an editorial team together to manage the process and to find an artist to illustrate the stories.
Our first 101 Favorite Stories from the Bible book was printed in June 1995. By December of that year, we added Romanian, Spanish, and German, followed by Haitian Creole in 1996, and Croatian in 1997.
God does amazing things. By September 2002, over one million 101 Favorite Stories from the Bible were in print, followed by many more millions of books, some with 101 stories and some with 25. Now, the books are printed in approximately 90 languages.*
In recent years, the Bible story books have become quite popular in various parts of Africa. Our contacts in that region specifically requested that we add the story of the Gadarene demoniac to show God’s power over evil spirits. This story is now being included in many newer printings, bringing the story count to 102.
Bible story book distribution in South Sudan
God is using Bible story books to present the hope of Christ to South Sudanese people. When we give new Bibles or Bible story books to a village or tribe, it is common to see hordes of people gathered around as one of the community’s literate members reads. While not all can read the words, most people connect with the beautiful illustrations that go with the stories of hope and redemption. Some teachers and local pastors say they have prayed for years to get the stories of Jesus into the hands of the community.
Salma immediately began to read when she received a Bible story book. She said, “This is the most important thing I have ever received from my school. I never thought I would have my own Bible stories.”
Students in South Sudan say:
- “The story about Noah is my favorite. It teaches me to trust God even when things are difficult.”
- “I like the story of Jesus and the children because it shows He loves us.”
*Number includes books with 101 stories, 25 stories, etc.
If you would like to help provide Bible Story Books, please click Donate to give a gift.
