The Story of God and Us: Finding Our Place and Purpose in God's Plan for the World

by Jonathan Murphy

Pastor and author Jonathan Murphy provides readers with a framework—a master plot—to the story of all history. This deep exploration of Scripture reveals that God is in complete command of this universe and how He guides everyone's past, present, and future.

Good stories make you laugh, cry, fear, dream, hope. They engage our hearts, entertain our minds, and enlighten our souls. God wrote a story—the best story ever!—full of drama, adventure, love, sacrifice, redemption, and has an ending that seems too good to be true. And the greatest thing about God's story is that we are all part of it. His story provides the meaning of life that brings fulfillment of our desires and purpose for our existence.

The Story of God and Us shows not only what God is doing from creation to eternity, but how everything makes sense as you read the Bible from the beginning of Genesis to the end of Revelation. World history is not made up of random people and events but of divine appointment and purpose. In this book, Jonathan Murphy leads readers to understand

the meaning of life is essential to a fulfilling relationship and partnership with God;God accomplishes His plans in a pleasing and connecting way;a multidimensional view of Scripture can engage and delight even the most disinterested and distracted; andseeing the big picture can provide a fresh look at how our story clearly fits into God's. 

As Jonathan retells God's story through a fresh lens, Christians will better understand how much God loves them, how He desires us to live with Him and for Him, and why we should invite others into this amazing story every chance that we get!

Genres: Christian Non Fiction

240 pages, Paperback

Published August 5, 2025

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Story of God and Us is a funny, entertaining, and wise bird’s-eye view of the entire Bible.
Its engaging content is perfect for those who want to understand the meaning of the Bible for us today.
It’s making me chuckle while I gain new insights.

[Rachel Block · Rating 1 out of 5]

I DNFed on page 33.

I couldn’t get past the title of the second chapter bringing “For the Glory of Us.” I tried to be open minded and give it a fair shot but it was too far for me.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Story of God and Us is such a unique and meaningful book on the Bible and God and how we are part of His story.

As a lover of stories, I was completely pulled in by the introduction, with the author’s peek into a fun, fascinating Irish story of mythical giants and a causeway between Ireland and Scotland. What an unexpected and distinctive way to pull in a reader. I expected a more traditional approach, perhaps even a devotional style book (which I love) but I was pleasantly surprised by the conversational tone and easy vibe presented.

I’m impressed by this book and how it gives a fresh view on how we are part of God’s plan and His ultimate story. This book reveals how Creation, Christ, and what is still to come is all woven together and how it reveals our place and purpose. I appreciate the questions closing each chapter, helping me to dig a bit deeper. What a purposeful book!

First Line (Introduction): Ireland captivates you.
Genre: Spiritual Growth
Author: Jonathan Murphy
Page Count: 240

#CoverLoverBookReview received a review copy of this book. Opinions are 100% my own.

[Meeoak · Rating 4 out of 5]

With a relatable voice that is grounded in the Gospel, Pastor Murphy thoughtfully walks us through the story of all stories, the Bible, from the beginning and Creation, to God's people turning away from God, and God's plan for rescue through Jesus Christ. I loved seeing the common themes of humanity's need for a Savior, and God's character and love toward His children. The history references throughout also add rich context and enhanced my understanding of the corresponding scripture.

This is a great resource for anyone wanting to start reading the Bible, or for those who are on their 10th year of reading the Bible. The discussion questions at the end of each chapter are perfect for journaling solo and/or discussion with a small group or bible study.

Thank you to #NetGalley and W Publishing/Thomas Nelson for the opportunity to review an ARC.

All views expressed are my own.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this cover to cover in four hours: two hours on a plane, and two hours on the flight home. Who can read the Bible that fast? This truly is the CliffsNotes version and highly engaging since the author infuses other stories to provide historical context, his personal stories, and even some pop culture like the Wizard of Oz.

You will want to have a pen and paper handy as you read since Dr. Murphy just gives you a summary of what happens in each book of the Bible. Some of them are sure to pique your interest and be added to your "to read" list.

I definitely recommend The Story of God and Us to anyone of any faith! Even if you feel knowledgeable about the Bible, you are sure to learn something new.

[Karina Palacios · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have ever wanted to hear the story of the Bible, this is the book for you! It’s written in a way that is easy to understand and makes you realize how the Bible is not a collection of separate stories- but one big one from beginning to end. Honestly, whether you are new to your faith or grew up a Christian, this book would be insightful to everyone! It’s easy to forget how all of the passages in Scripture play a key part in moving God’s story along, but Jonathan has done an incredible job of showing how each section of Scripture are part of the bigger story and how we fit into that! Highly recommend!
Also if you listen to it with audio version, you’ll get the fun of listening to it in an Irish accent 😅

[ShelbyAnn · Rating 4 out of 5]

**I won The Story of God and Us through a giveaway. Thank you W Publishing Group.**

The Story of God and Us covers Old Testament (which I am not very versed in) and New Testament. Dr. Murphy broke it down into The Beginning, The Middle and The End. I really appreciated his writing style with short sections within the chapters. It helped break it up. I even learned about current pop culture and WW2 facts.

Obviously, there is a lot of information covered. I will be revisiting this book when I need a refresher (especially on Old Testament genealogy for me.)

[Lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful overview of the whole story of Scripture! Highly recommended for anyone new to the Bible or curious about it. I’ll be buying it for several friends and family members!