Podcast Summary: Extreme Devotion – Day 199: Extreme "Slave"
Podcast Information:
- Title: Extreme Devotion
- Host/Author: The Voice of The Martyrs
- Episode: Day 199: Extreme "Slave"
- Release Date: July 18, 2025
Introduction
In the Day 199: Extreme "Slave" episode of Extreme Devotion, The Voice of The Martyrs delves into the compelling story of Leonard Dober, an 18th-century Christian martyr whose unwavering commitment to his faith led him to adopt the life of a slave. This episode explores Dober's radical approach to ministry, the profound challenges he faced, and the lasting impact of his extraordinary devotion.
Leonard Dober's Call and Vision
Leonard Dober's journey began with a profound sense of divine purpose. As the episode narrates, Dober was deeply inspired by 2 Corinthians 5:13, reflecting on the passage:
"If it seems we are crazy, it is to bring glory to God. And if we are in our right minds, it is for your benefit." (00:15)
This verse encapsulated Dober's mission: to serve God, even if it meant embracing what the world would deem as madness. He contemplated whether Jesus Himself had overemphasized the suffering of the cross but found solace and purpose in Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane:
"Not my will, but yours." (00:30)
Determined to align his life with God's will, Dober envisioned a ministry that would reach enslaved individuals in the Virgin Islands. His radical plan involved selling himself into slavery to minister directly to slaves, sharing the love of Jesus through lived example rather than traditional preaching.
Challenges and Persecution from Fellow Christians
Dober's unconventional approach did not garner immediate support. Instead, he faced significant resistance and ridicule from his own Christian community. The podcast highlights that:
"It wasn't the slave masters who were Dober's harshest persecutors, but rather fellow Christians. They questioned his call to minister to slaves and ridiculed him as a fool for his plan." (01:00)
Undeterred by criticism, Dober remained steadfast in his mission, believing that serving alongside slaves was the most effective way to embody and communicate Christ's love.
Ministry and Achievements
Upon arriving in the Virgin Islands in the late 1730s, Dober initially took a position as a servant in the governor's house. However, he quickly realized that this role distanced him from the very people he aimed to minister to. Responding to this challenge, he made a pivotal decision:
"He left and moved from the governor's house to a mud hut where he could work one on one with slaves." (01:30)
This grassroots approach proved extraordinarily effective. Over the course of three years, Leonard Dober's ministry resulted in more than 13,000 new converts, a testament to his deep commitment and innovative strategy.
Legacy and Lessons
Dober's actions have led many to label him as a "Jesus freak," a term reflecting his radical and unconventional faith. The podcast emphasizes:
"Dober was an 18th century Jesus freak, a free man who chose to live as a slave in order to win others to Jesus. He was willing to do whatever it took to squeeze the last ounce of devotion from his heart in service to Christ." (02:00)
His life serves as an enduring example of extreme devotion, encouraging modern believers to heed similar calls to radical faithfulness, even in the face of misunderstanding or opposition. The episode challenges listeners by posing:
"Have you been written off because of your freakish refusal to go along with the majority rule? If God has called you to do something radical for him in your family, church or community, you must obey. Let others call you crazy, but may Jesus find you committed." (02:30)
Conclusion
Leonard Dober's story, as presented in this episode, underscores the lengths to which one might go in the pursuit of genuine faith and service. His willingness to endure the hardships of slavery for the sake of evangelism highlights a profound commitment that transcends societal norms and personal safety. For contemporary Christians, Dober's legacy serves as both inspiration and a call to evaluate the depth of their own devotion.
Note: For additional resources such as prayer requests, ebooks, audiobooks, videos, and feature films related to persecuted Christians, listeners are encouraged to download the VOM app from their preferred app store.