A Sweet & Bitter Providence

Sex, Race, and the Sovereignty of God

By: John Piper

Narrated by: Grover Gardner

Sex. Race. Scripture. Sovereignty. The book of Ruth entails them all. So listeners shouldn't be fooled by its age, says Pastor John Piper. Though its events happened over 3,000 years ago, the story holds astounding relevance for Christians in the 21st century.

The sovereignty of God, the sexual nature of humanity, and the gospel of God's mercy for the undeserving - these massive realities never change. And since God is still sovereign, and we are male or female, and Jesus is alive and powerful, A Sweet & Bitter Providence bears a message for listeners from all walks of life. But be warned, Piper tells his audience: This ancient love affair between Boaz and Ruth could be dangerous, inspiring all of us to great risks in the cause of love.

©2010 John Piper (P)2009 christianaudio.com

A Beautiful Exposition of a True Love Story

The book of Ruth is one of the shortest in the Bible; yet, also one of the most significant. In his inimitable style, John Piper keeps pulling surprises, beauty, examples of God's plan from before creation, and debunks "scriptural" attempts at dividing people by race, colour and even culture. In listening to this book, I was struck with wonder yet again at the "colourful" human genealogy of our Lord Jesus Christ. This is a short book, well read, and leaves much food for thought, prayer, and thankfulness. Very highly recommended.

Soli Deo Gloria.

Excellent book that magnifies God and Christ!!Brilliant narrator as well. This book will leave you in amazement and wonder of God's grace and providence in the lives of His people.

So Encouraging!

John Piper points you to see in the book of Ruth Gods loving kindness and his sovereignty working in a 1,000 ways that we cannot see. What an encouragement to press on to follow the Lord, trust his kindness and good purposes, and walk in obedience to him even through hardship.

When God rains pain in your life don't doubt His love.

There was nothing that I disliked. It was a great read. I do not regret reading it.

Sovereignty at work

John Piper did a great job of laying out the story of Ruth and Naomi and showing the work of God’s sovereignty from the beginning to the end.