Released in the UK October 2018
Released in the US December 2018
Large trade paperback | 176 Pages
9781527102347 • £11.99 $17.99
BISAC – REL006060
Ruth & Esther
There is a Redeemer and Sudden Reversals
David Strain
The Providence of God in Both Books
Bible Exposition for Lay People
Questions for Personal or Group Bible Study
Ruth and Esther, the only two biblical books that centre on the lives of women, display the hand of a God who works in the lives of individuals to bring about his plan for the salvation of many. Ruth is an outsider who finds a home among the people of God and whose descendants include not only King David, but David’s greater son, Christ the King of Kings. Esther’s story plays out in the palace precincts of a despotic king. While God’s name is famously never mentioned, we see his handiwork in each twist and turn of the narrative. He uses improbable means and improbable individuals to save His people, and we see that God is on His throne.
David Strain
David Strain is Senior Minister of First Presbyterian Church, Jackson, Mississippi. He is Chairman of the Board of Christian Witness to Israel, and Convener of the Twin Lakes Fellowship.
Related Titles
9781781915806 |
9781527100077 |
9781845501945 |
Christian Focus
Strain shows how both books, seen in the light of the big Bible picture, are meant to draw us to a greater knowledge of a covenant keeping God as He works his own perfect plan into history, turning the chaotic into His own “eucatastrophe” to accomplish His perfect gospel objective in Christ Jesus.
Iver Martin
Principal, Edinburgh Theological Seminary, Edinburgh, Scotland
David Strain ministers God’s word with theological depth, biblical breadth, Christological focus, devotional warmth, and literary skill. With a deft hand he leads us from the distant world of ancient Israel to the world we inhabit today. These studies of Ruth and Esther will prove illuminating and edifying for individuals, study groups, and teachers/preachers.
Terry L. Johnson
Senior Pastor, Independent Presbyterian Church, Savannah, Georgia
Ruth and Esther are two of the most charming stories in the Bible. Yet these carefully crafted accounts of two faithful women point beyond human factors to the invisible hand of the good and sovereign God. David Strain’s engaging exposition calls people in bitter circumstances to believe that, somehow, God is using all things to save His people and establish the kingdom of His Son.
Joel R. Beeke
Chancellor, Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, Grand Rapids, Michigan
Dr. Strain’s Ruth and Esther models careful exegesis, clear doctrinal thinking, and pointed practical application, all the while never failing to show how these two Old Testament books point to Christ. Whether you are teaching or preaching these books or simply want to know God’s Word better, Ruth and Esther has earned a place on your shelf.
Guy Prentiss Waters
James M. Baird, Jr. Professor of New Testament, Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson, Mississippi