In 1991, his crimes shook our country to the core. Such gross abuse and vicious murders were so horrific that even today, 16 years later, we still cannot comprehend. If anyone was deserving of divine judgment, it was him; but in April of 1994, he made a humble request that would change his life and the lives of those around him. Jeffery Dahmer asked to be baptized.
Dark Journey, Deep Grace by Roy Ratcliff and Lindy Adams is the story of two men: the serial killer who found faith and the pastor who baptized him into it. Ratcliff had no idea what he was getting himself into when he decided to baptize and disciple Dahmer. Before long, he found himself being bludgeoned by the media and judged by other Christians for his acceptance of a criminal as horrible as Jeffery Dahmer. However, through his ministry came spiritual growth for many who never otherwise would have found Christ.
Dark Journey is a masterful mix of true crime and Christian theology that readers of both genres will appreciate. Throughout his narration of the events that he and Dahmer shared, Ratcliff challenges readers, calling them to question their own levels of belief in an impartial God, unearned salvation, and the true meaning of seventy times seven (Matthew 18:21-22).
Readers should be warned that Ratcliffs book is very graphic. Chapters 3 and 4 describe, in detail, Dahmers crimes and how he hid them. Though these descriptions of depravity serve strongly to drive home a point of Gods mercy, this book is recommended for very mature audiences. High school students should read this book only with the guidance of a parent or other responsible adult.
Dark Journey, Deep Grace is a story some will embrace and others will find hard to accept. Through its revelation, however, readers will be changed, from the way they think to the way they live. The church has been waiting for a book to start a revolution. This just may be that book. Bethany DuVal, Christian Book Previews.com
