Dale G. Vought's history of protestant missions in Spain lies as a comprehensive history of the last three hundred years in a land that would often have nothing to do with the biblical gospel. In a thoroughly researched manner, though in an unfortunately poorly published book, the author seeks to show that the flame of the gospel illumines a Protestant history that can be traced to the early 19th century.

For more than a century and half, Protestantism stood in Spain as the illegitimate son to the royal prince, the Catholic Church. Persecution, defamation, and eradication stood as familiar sights of the small band of witnesses. Churches of various denominations held close ties in light of such opposition. At times the winds of change gave hope; at others, the future appeared bleak. Steadily, the rays of hope broadened across the horizon.

It was not until after the second world war, during the Franco regime, that opportunities for mission work began to steadily increase. Yet, in comparison to the religious freedom granted throughout the world, the situation in Spain looked difficult at best. With a government managed by the Catholic church, the worldwide ideals of freedom somehow were stifled again and again in the Iberian peninsula. With promise after promise broken by the governement in regard to religious liberties, the evangelical church floundered for several decades.

It was not until the end of Franco's reign and the commencement of a democratic government that the work of missions was able to spring forth. Scores of missionaries entered the country. Yet, due to the continued hostility toward Protestantism in everyday life and the lack of numerical success, scores of missionaries left after only a handful of years. In addition, Vought spends a great deal of time outlining the unfortunate relationship between the foreign missionaries and the national church that has caused much heartache and early depature of new arrivals. The percentage of evangelicals in Spain pales in comparison to other Spanish-speaking countries.

Vought finishes his expansive history of the protestant church in Spain with a challenge for others to continue the story. Though the present situation does not boast great human success, the work in Spain has progressed monumentally since the early 19th century. Churches may gather in freedom, believers may share their faith openly, and the gospel can be given without fear of reproach. It is a land of opportunities and the Lord has yet to do much in this often forgotten peninsula. "The flickering flame still burns...May it ever burn!"