Book Review: Being Elisabeth Elliot

I'm so grateful to Sara Brunsvold for mentioning the two-part biography of Elisabeth Elliot, written by Ellen Vaughn. The Hoopla access to both Becoming Elisabeth Elliot and Being Elisabeth Elliot kept my interest piqued during my daily treadmill time. My only complaint with listening to biographies in audio form is that the reader misses out on the accompanying photos. For the first book, I found a hard copy at a local church library. A friend offered to lend me the hardback of the second book, but I may purchase this set.

In Becoming Elisabeth Elliot, we learn some of her exacting personality. In Being Elisabeth Elliot, the quirks and, even perhaps, failings seem more pronounced. Vaughn clarifies the importance of truth-telling in a biography. Elisabeth was not perfect (only Christ is). Despite an intense dedication to obedience to the Lord, she gave in to loneliness and relational desires. It was appalling to read of the flirtations that went on between Elisabeth and her soon-to-be second husband, while that man's dying wife was still alive. This detracted from her testimony.

Several favorite parts made me want to own this book. I loved the societal explanation of the '60s, Elisabeth's views on Christian ideals, and an outstanding and inspiring testimony drawn from the life of her son-in-law. Even though I was born mid-way through the 60s, the descriptions were so spot-on and well-written. Vaughn's word choices and witty commentary made me smile.

I, too, struggle with a Christianity that adheres to actions determining a person's spiritual depth. Elisabeth felt that truth liberates where dogma imprisons. I cannot remember if this is a quote from Elisabeth's or from Ellen's perspective, but it bears repeating. "We love to establish worldliness as something to be combatted by elimination of activities rather than internal attitudes." How many hold that a true Christian doesn't smoke, drink, or cuss, goes to church on Sundays and Wednesdays, and participates in a variety of ministries? These externals are all well and good, but the internals are far more significant. Elisabeth was always in a fight against graven images, often ones produced by the church.

As for Walt Shepherd's dramatic testimony, I loved it so much I transcribed it from the audio to share with my wayward son. Walt's parents were missionaries. Yet, as he came into himself, he rejected their views and beliefs. He walked a perilous path. There was even a miraculous rescue from a burning car (perhaps by angels). God's hand was clearly on Walt's life. His story was worth taking the time to transcribe from the audiobook (for my keeping). It is in Chapter 31, if you can find a copy of the book and wish to read it for yourself.

All in all, Elisabeth endured more suffering than many of us will ever know. She may not have always made the best choices, but she determined to obey her Lord and Savior. I can align with her views on obedience, on suffering, on women's roles, and on God's daily grace. Her books have been, and will continue to be, a blessing to Christians everywhere. God used her life in mighty ways, despite her failings.