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The Supremacy of God in Preaching
According to Warren Wiersbe, The Supremacy of God in Preaching "calls us back to a biblical standard for preaching, a standard exemplified by many of the pulpit giants of the past, especially Jonathan Edwards and Charles Spurgeon." This newly revised and expanded edition is an essential guide for preachers who want to stir the embers of revival. Piper has added valuable new material reflecting on his thirty-three years of preaching at Bethlehem Baptist Church, offering a glimpse of what a lifetime of putting God first has done for the faith of the hundreds of thousands who have heard him preach over the years.
168 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1990
146 people are currently reading
1633 people want to read
About the author
John Piper
609 books4,581 followersJohn Piper is founder and teacher of desiringGod.org and chancellor of Bethlehem College & Seminary. For 33 years, he served as senior pastor at Bethlehem Baptist Church, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
He grew up in Greenville, South Carolina, and studied at Wheaton College, Fuller Theological Seminary (B.D.), and the University of Munich (D.theol.). For six years, he taught Biblical Studies at Bethel College in St. Paul, Minnesota, and in 1980 accepted the call to serve as pastor at Bethlehem.
John is the author of more than 50 books and more than 30 years of his preaching and teaching is available free at desiringGod.org. John and his wife, Noel, have four sons, one daughter, and twelve grandchildren.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
He grew up in Greenville, South Carolina, and studied at Wheaton College, Fuller Theological Seminary (B.D.), and the University of Munich (D.theol.). For six years, he taught Biblical Studies at Bethel College in St. Paul, Minnesota, and in 1980 accepted the call to serve as pastor at Bethlehem.
John is the author of more than 50 books and more than 30 years of his preaching and teaching is available free at desiringGod.org. John and his wife, Noel, have four sons, one daughter, and twelve grandchildren.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
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August 11, 2023
I first read The Supremacy of God in Preaching by John Piper in the early nineties. I remember the deep impact it made on my life, ministry, and most of all - my preaching. Since that initial read, I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve read this excellent book. Crossway Books has since picked up the publishing rights and commissioned John Piper to add additional material in a revised and expanded edition.
Part 1: Why God Should Be Supreme in Preaching
Dr. Piper argues, “The goal of preaching is the glory of God reflected in the glad submission of the human heart.” This theme of God’s glory matches the theme of the Bible and Redemptive history and should motivate every man who enters the pulpit with a Bible in hand.
The author demonstrates how God’s righteousness and the pride of man are obstacles to fulfilling the glorious goal of preaching. Therefore, the ground of preaching is the cross of Christ. Piper argues, “Without the cross, the righteousness of God would demonstrate itself only in the condemnation of sinners, and the goal of preaching would abort - God would not be glorified in the gladness of his sinful creatures. His righteousness would simply be vindicated in their destruction … The cross witnesses to the infinite worth of God and the infinite outrage of sin.”
Good preaching is dependent on the Holy Spirit. The Spirit illuminates the Bible and enables preachers to proclaim the truth of God’s Word in great power.
Finally, preaching must include gravity and gladness. Piper explains, “Gladness and gravity should be woven together in the life and preaching of a pastor in such a way as to sober the careless soul and sweeten the burden of the saints.”
Part 2: How to Make God Supreme in Preaching: Guidance From the Ministry of Jonathan Edwards
Part two shows readers how Jonathan Edwards influenced the preaching ministry of John Piper. The high points of Edwards’s life and theology are presented. But the real treasure lies in the principles that Piper presents that summarize how Edwards made God supreme in his life and his preaching. Piper offers ten characteristics of the Puritan divine’s preaching that is worth repeating here:
Stir up holy affections
Enlighten the mind
Saturate with Scripture
Employ analogies and images
Use threat and warning
Plead for a response
Probe the workings of the heart
Yield to the Holy Spirit in prayer
Be broken and tenderhearted
Be intense
Part 3: After Thirty-Three Years: God Still Supreme in Preaching and Ministry
The final section includes new material that is worth the price of the book. Dr. Piper speaks from the heart as he reaffirms all that he has taught in the book. Additionally, he presents thirty reasons why it is a great thing to be a pastor. Each of these is worth reading again and again.
Summary and Evaluation
The Supremacy of God in Preaching is not a typical preaching book. It does not unpack homiletical principles or preaching mechanics. Rather, it sets forth the case for biblical preaching and urges (and even begs) preachers to remember that the goal of preaching is “the glory of God in the glad submission of his creation.”
The Supremacy of God in Preaching is a landmark book. This book should be included in every homiletics course. This book should be in every pastor's library. And this book should be read on a regular basis by every pastor. It sets pastors straight by calling them to stand and deliver. It motivates them to put the glory of God on display and cast aside triviality and duplicity. May John Piper’s plea be heard and heeded by the next generation of preachers. The sheep will reap the benefit of such a ministry.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
Part 1: Why God Should Be Supreme in Preaching
Dr. Piper argues, “The goal of preaching is the glory of God reflected in the glad submission of the human heart.” This theme of God’s glory matches the theme of the Bible and Redemptive history and should motivate every man who enters the pulpit with a Bible in hand.
The author demonstrates how God’s righteousness and the pride of man are obstacles to fulfilling the glorious goal of preaching. Therefore, the ground of preaching is the cross of Christ. Piper argues, “Without the cross, the righteousness of God would demonstrate itself only in the condemnation of sinners, and the goal of preaching would abort - God would not be glorified in the gladness of his sinful creatures. His righteousness would simply be vindicated in their destruction … The cross witnesses to the infinite worth of God and the infinite outrage of sin.”
Good preaching is dependent on the Holy Spirit. The Spirit illuminates the Bible and enables preachers to proclaim the truth of God’s Word in great power.
Finally, preaching must include gravity and gladness. Piper explains, “Gladness and gravity should be woven together in the life and preaching of a pastor in such a way as to sober the careless soul and sweeten the burden of the saints.”
Part 2: How to Make God Supreme in Preaching: Guidance From the Ministry of Jonathan Edwards
Part two shows readers how Jonathan Edwards influenced the preaching ministry of John Piper. The high points of Edwards’s life and theology are presented. But the real treasure lies in the principles that Piper presents that summarize how Edwards made God supreme in his life and his preaching. Piper offers ten characteristics of the Puritan divine’s preaching that is worth repeating here:
Stir up holy affections
Enlighten the mind
Saturate with Scripture
Employ analogies and images
Use threat and warning
Plead for a response
Probe the workings of the heart
Yield to the Holy Spirit in prayer
Be broken and tenderhearted
Be intense
Part 3: After Thirty-Three Years: God Still Supreme in Preaching and Ministry
The final section includes new material that is worth the price of the book. Dr. Piper speaks from the heart as he reaffirms all that he has taught in the book. Additionally, he presents thirty reasons why it is a great thing to be a pastor. Each of these is worth reading again and again.
Summary and Evaluation
The Supremacy of God in Preaching is not a typical preaching book. It does not unpack homiletical principles or preaching mechanics. Rather, it sets forth the case for biblical preaching and urges (and even begs) preachers to remember that the goal of preaching is “the glory of God in the glad submission of his creation.”
The Supremacy of God in Preaching is a landmark book. This book should be included in every homiletics course. This book should be in every pastor's library. And this book should be read on a regular basis by every pastor. It sets pastors straight by calling them to stand and deliver. It motivates them to put the glory of God on display and cast aside triviality and duplicity. May John Piper’s plea be heard and heeded by the next generation of preachers. The sheep will reap the benefit of such a ministry.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
March 3, 2024
Though I think Piper’s espresso-intensity could sometimes benefit from a little milk, I would rather drink a shot of espresso than a warm glass of 2%. This little book is a shot of espresso - not necessarily one that is pulled by a barista from a stainless steel machine, but more like a moka pot bubbling up on your kitchen stove.
There is one simple sermon that Piper continually preaches, and Lord willing it is the one sermon I want to preach again and again: ‘Behold Your God!’ Though it might not show up on a survey of felt needs, this is what our people most deeply want too.
So many - even in reformed Baptist camps who might point to Piper as an influence - have lost the essential priority to show the supremacy of God in preaching through the Word of God. His revulsion at trivial preaching and desperation for the glory of God is a bone-deep relief.
Still, like much of Piper’s writing, I have to admit that I often find myself in strong agreement immediately, and then grow somewhat exhausted from the circling around of the same idea (I could have used 80% less Edwards, to be honest). I’ve heard it said that Piper has only really written two books in his life: Desiring God and Bloodlines. Though it’s too strong of a critique and not totally fair, this book is undoubtedly (and also I would imagine unashamedly) in the Desiring God category. That is not a fault per se, but once you’ve got it, you’ve kind of got it.
For that reason, I am grateful to have read this book. Are there better preaching books? I think so. But, in a pastor’s annual diet of preaching books, this small books deserves a place on the table - even if it needs a little cream, it’s still a drink worth drinking.
There is one simple sermon that Piper continually preaches, and Lord willing it is the one sermon I want to preach again and again: ‘Behold Your God!’ Though it might not show up on a survey of felt needs, this is what our people most deeply want too.
So many - even in reformed Baptist camps who might point to Piper as an influence - have lost the essential priority to show the supremacy of God in preaching through the Word of God. His revulsion at trivial preaching and desperation for the glory of God is a bone-deep relief.
Still, like much of Piper’s writing, I have to admit that I often find myself in strong agreement immediately, and then grow somewhat exhausted from the circling around of the same idea (I could have used 80% less Edwards, to be honest). I’ve heard it said that Piper has only really written two books in his life: Desiring God and Bloodlines. Though it’s too strong of a critique and not totally fair, this book is undoubtedly (and also I would imagine unashamedly) in the Desiring God category. That is not a fault per se, but once you’ve got it, you’ve kind of got it.
For that reason, I am grateful to have read this book. Are there better preaching books? I think so. But, in a pastor’s annual diet of preaching books, this small books deserves a place on the table - even if it needs a little cream, it’s still a drink worth drinking.
May 16, 2025
Been a while since I have dipped back into Piper's writing. Didn't realize how much I missed his approach to the Scriptures and the way he communicates.
This seems like a book that should enter some sort of regular rotation for me. Such an encouragement and conviction-rebuilder. Was especially helped by the chapter with "33 reasons it is great to be a pastor." Humbling to consider, but thrilling to comprehend that preaching is the opportunity to draw hearts together to the throne of the supreme God of the universe through His Word.
This seems like a book that should enter some sort of regular rotation for me. Such an encouragement and conviction-rebuilder. Was especially helped by the chapter with "33 reasons it is great to be a pastor." Humbling to consider, but thrilling to comprehend that preaching is the opportunity to draw hearts together to the throne of the supreme God of the universe through His Word.
May 14, 2023
A powerful exhortation to, and explanation of, biblical preaching. I like his “Trinitarian” theme, i.e. for the glory of God, by the cross of Christ, and through the power of the Holy Spirit… John Piper writes clearly, and has a poetic way of description/illustration.
January 25, 2021
Livro excelente sobre pregação. Um grande encorajamento e ao mesmo tempo que nós alerta para evitar erros, nos aponta um caminho excelente seguir, dando o exemplo da vida de Jonathan Edwards.
June 29, 2021
This is one of my favorite Piper books. In some ways, this is him at his best. I first read this book almost a decade ago. It was interesting to see how Piper's thoughts have shaped my own thoughts on preaching over the years.
The triune God is the center of the scriptures, and when we preach, he is the person we are called to proclaim. This is because he is glorious and, this is what our people need. This book is the outworking of Piper's Christian hedonism in regards to preaching.
I'd encourage anyone to read it if they are involved in the task of preaching. My one hesitation is that Piper leans on Jonathan Edwards, and I don't know what to do with a man like Edwards.
The triune God is the center of the scriptures, and when we preach, he is the person we are called to proclaim. This is because he is glorious and, this is what our people need. This book is the outworking of Piper's Christian hedonism in regards to preaching.
I'd encourage anyone to read it if they are involved in the task of preaching. My one hesitation is that Piper leans on Jonathan Edwards, and I don't know what to do with a man like Edwards.
July 27, 2012
For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness and in fear and much trembling, and my speech and my message were not in plausible words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God. 1 Corinthians 2:2-5
You know something? I don’t have to preach like anybody else I have ever heard.
I get to make much of God when I proclaim His Word. I get to lift Christ on high and know nothing except him crucified. I get to be totally and utterly dependent on the power of the Holy Spirit.
What a joy it is to preach the passage at hand. What a relief it is that I don’t have to mention the verse once in the sermon, then go on my own diatribe and spit out my own opinions. What heart-filled gladness that I can see the magnificence of God exalted and in falling so short, I would my very best to explain to others what I am seeing.
But oh, how naïve of me: to be called to preach but only preached just a few sermons. Every single little opportunity savored, gracious and humbled to get that one shot to preach the gospel of God—well, that is maybe your one and only shot. You may not be asked back. You might be barred from preaching there ever again. You might not make it back to preach again next Sunday.
But you get another try at it. God’s grace abounds and you get one more chance to love, serve, and feed His flock. You get to swallow your pride and open your heart and mind and let His Spirit work through you.
So, what are you going to do with that one shot?
I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: preach the word; 2 Timothy 4:1-2a
You know something? I don’t have to preach like anybody else I have ever heard.
I get to make much of God when I proclaim His Word. I get to lift Christ on high and know nothing except him crucified. I get to be totally and utterly dependent on the power of the Holy Spirit.
What a joy it is to preach the passage at hand. What a relief it is that I don’t have to mention the verse once in the sermon, then go on my own diatribe and spit out my own opinions. What heart-filled gladness that I can see the magnificence of God exalted and in falling so short, I would my very best to explain to others what I am seeing.
But oh, how naïve of me: to be called to preach but only preached just a few sermons. Every single little opportunity savored, gracious and humbled to get that one shot to preach the gospel of God—well, that is maybe your one and only shot. You may not be asked back. You might be barred from preaching there ever again. You might not make it back to preach again next Sunday.
But you get another try at it. God’s grace abounds and you get one more chance to love, serve, and feed His flock. You get to swallow your pride and open your heart and mind and let His Spirit work through you.
So, what are you going to do with that one shot?
I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: preach the word; 2 Timothy 4:1-2a
January 7, 2015
John Piper writes in one of the last pages of this book, "Our emotional rejection of hell and our facile view of conversion and the abundant false security we purvey have created an atmosphere in which great biblical intensity of preaching is almost impossible." This book is a wake up call to preachers within the pulpit. It is a plea from one pastor to another to get back to a biblical view of preaching which aims to bring glory to God through the cross of Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit of God. This is a short book but it is saturated with God exalting teaching on preaching. I encourage any student of the Word to read this book.
September 3, 2025
But for a recommendation on X, I would not have been compelled to pick this up. I am glad I did. I appreciate the whole emphasis of this book on the Supremacy of God, not just in the pulpit but in life in general. His closing chapter - 30 Reasons Why it is a Great Thing to Be a Pastor - reflects his heart and sentiment after over thirty years in ministry.
I was given a question for an upcoming interview, one of which had to do with the impact Puritan authors had made on me. I thought about this book and the Puritan's and the answer is simple - THEIR VIEW OF GOD. This was evident in the way they lived, preached, their views on piety and holiness, and their reverence. Their awe of God was a fire that couldn't be quenched. I appreciated Piper's hold on God's supremacy and how it inspired him. Let's get back to this way of thinking and living.
Part 1 was helpful on why God should be supreme
The Goal of Preaching - The Glory of God
The Ground of Preaching - The Cross of Christ
The Gift of Preaching - The Power of the Holy Spirit
The Gravity and Gladness of Preaching
Good reminders when we are not only preaching but when preparing sermons as well.
Part 2 was helpful because of his use of Edward's material, particularly the ten aspects of preaching. He goes over the theology of Edwards as well, including Edwards' view on God's sovereignty. I like how chapter 6 began - "What Jonathan Edwards preached and how he preached were owing to his vision of God." This is it; this is the key to preaching and the Christian life - How we view God will frame the way we preach and live for him.
His section on Category Creation was very timely, given the research I am doing on antimonies (tensions/paradoxes) in the Bible.
Time to go. Yes, I would recommend the book. It was a short and easy read.
I was given a question for an upcoming interview, one of which had to do with the impact Puritan authors had made on me. I thought about this book and the Puritan's and the answer is simple - THEIR VIEW OF GOD. This was evident in the way they lived, preached, their views on piety and holiness, and their reverence. Their awe of God was a fire that couldn't be quenched. I appreciated Piper's hold on God's supremacy and how it inspired him. Let's get back to this way of thinking and living.
Part 1 was helpful on why God should be supreme
The Goal of Preaching - The Glory of God
The Ground of Preaching - The Cross of Christ
The Gift of Preaching - The Power of the Holy Spirit
The Gravity and Gladness of Preaching
Good reminders when we are not only preaching but when preparing sermons as well.
Part 2 was helpful because of his use of Edward's material, particularly the ten aspects of preaching. He goes over the theology of Edwards as well, including Edwards' view on God's sovereignty. I like how chapter 6 began - "What Jonathan Edwards preached and how he preached were owing to his vision of God." This is it; this is the key to preaching and the Christian life - How we view God will frame the way we preach and live for him.
His section on Category Creation was very timely, given the research I am doing on antimonies (tensions/paradoxes) in the Bible.
Time to go. Yes, I would recommend the book. It was a short and easy read.
March 23, 2025
This book was so encouraging. I have probably listened to Piper more than any other pastor. It's pretty amazing how young he was in his ministry when he wrote this. But you can still see that he preaches with the same convictions and commitments. It is also really amazing how much Jonathan Edwards has influenced him in his ministry. It's encouraging me to focus on one person from church history and use them as a conversation partner in some way. A must-read for anyone who preaches consistently, in my opinion.
March 26, 2025
Honestly one of the best books I have ever read. I do not think I have stood back in awe of our God more than I have reading this book, especially with how short it is. This is a great encouragement to not only aspiring pastors but also global workers and laymen seeking to make Christ known in their neighborhoods and among the nations.
April 11, 2022
This book is absolutely phenomenal. Short, easy to read, and immensely helpful. The main premise of the book is the suggestion that “people today are starving for God, and very few of them know it”. The book then aims to unpack the kind of preaching that awakes peoples affections of God, and satisfies them with God. Piper spends a considerable amount of the book describing the life and ministry of Jonathan Edwards, with the intention of discovering what made him such a God glorifying, people satisfying preacher.
This is an absolute must read for young pastors and aspiring preachers!
This is an absolute must read for young pastors and aspiring preachers!
December 22, 2021
Just excellent. This book motivates the preacher to quit the gimmicks and to use his time in the pulpit to magnify our great God. The preacher must help his congregation to see and to savor this marvelous God! I especially appreciated the preface and Part 1 (the first 4 chapters). I ought to revisit them regularly.
August 14, 2025
What a wonderful tonic for those of us called to preach. I first read this book 25 years ago. This revised edition adds further proof that Piper was correct when he wrote the initial book. I am renewed in my commitment to God-honouring preaching. So help me God.
September 10, 2025
2011 review (revised edition): Piper says the greatness and glory of God must shape preaching. The infinite weight of God's glory and the eternal implications of our response to God's glory give great weight to the task of preaching. I actually agree with the endorsement on the back cover that suggests preachers should read this book periodically. It's not a details book, it's not a long book -- it's a book to ignite passionate, serious preaching. There are enough practical suggestions for immediate application (especially in the final chapter), but it's certainly not a how-to book.
Read again 2025 with another pastor(revised & expanded edition). Again appreciated Piper's raw desire to preach with earnestness and passion. I noticed his determination to be explicitly biblical and textual in his preaching more than I have before - "quote the text"! The final chapter in the new edition, "Thirty Reasons Why Is It a Great Thing To Be a Pastor", is life giving stuff for pastors!
Read again 2025 with another pastor(revised & expanded edition). Again appreciated Piper's raw desire to preach with earnestness and passion. I noticed his determination to be explicitly biblical and textual in his preaching more than I have before - "quote the text"! The final chapter in the new edition, "Thirty Reasons Why Is It a Great Thing To Be a Pastor", is life giving stuff for pastors!
March 22, 2023
3.5 stars.
The book is filled with wisdom from Jonathan Edwards' life and preaching. Piper has spent practically his entire adult life engulfed in Edwards' writings. It was recommended to him early on to find someone that he could look up to and go deep in thought with, and Edwards was his choice. He is thankful for the advice, doesn't regret his choice, and offers that same advice to the generations to come.
I appreciated Piper's mention of Paul's fear toward the beginning of the book. "I came to you in weakness with great fear and trembling" (1 Cor. 2:3).
When I think of "fear" in the NT, I find myself reciting 2 Timothy 1:7, "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline." I don't often remember that Paul preached the Gospel to the Corinthian church in "fear and trembling". It is comforting to know that we're not alone when we're afraid, but these same trials are being experienced by our brotherhood throughout the world (1 Peter 5:9). Sometimes, all that's needed is a reminder that we're not alone.
Piper indirectly connects this fear with Paul's thorn in the flesh that God doesn't remove (2 Cor. 12:7). That may or may not have been what Paul was talking about in regards to the thorn God was leaving in order to keep him humble, but the application is true nonetheless. As someone who struggles with anxiety over public speaking, I found that to be encouraging. Look to God in the midst of the fear, and if He doesn't alleviate it, take it as a thorn in the flesh for the sake of humility and move forward trusting Him anyway.
Piper's use of Hebrews 13:17: "Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you" reminded me of parenting. It can be tiring to care for a bunch of little ones, and it can be easy to grumble and complain in the midst of chaos. But we must crucify self-centeredness and persevere in gladness of heart because parenting, or overseeing any soul, with grumbling is not profitable for the one being shepherded.
Piper does a good job of emphasizing the importance of joy. Man's chief end is to glorify God, and Piper would argue: BY enjoying Him forever.
The book is filled with wisdom from Jonathan Edwards' life and preaching. Piper has spent practically his entire adult life engulfed in Edwards' writings. It was recommended to him early on to find someone that he could look up to and go deep in thought with, and Edwards was his choice. He is thankful for the advice, doesn't regret his choice, and offers that same advice to the generations to come.
I appreciated Piper's mention of Paul's fear toward the beginning of the book. "I came to you in weakness with great fear and trembling" (1 Cor. 2:3).
When I think of "fear" in the NT, I find myself reciting 2 Timothy 1:7, "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline." I don't often remember that Paul preached the Gospel to the Corinthian church in "fear and trembling". It is comforting to know that we're not alone when we're afraid, but these same trials are being experienced by our brotherhood throughout the world (1 Peter 5:9). Sometimes, all that's needed is a reminder that we're not alone.
Piper indirectly connects this fear with Paul's thorn in the flesh that God doesn't remove (2 Cor. 12:7). That may or may not have been what Paul was talking about in regards to the thorn God was leaving in order to keep him humble, but the application is true nonetheless. As someone who struggles with anxiety over public speaking, I found that to be encouraging. Look to God in the midst of the fear, and if He doesn't alleviate it, take it as a thorn in the flesh for the sake of humility and move forward trusting Him anyway.
Piper's use of Hebrews 13:17: "Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you" reminded me of parenting. It can be tiring to care for a bunch of little ones, and it can be easy to grumble and complain in the midst of chaos. But we must crucify self-centeredness and persevere in gladness of heart because parenting, or overseeing any soul, with grumbling is not profitable for the one being shepherded.
Piper does a good job of emphasizing the importance of joy. Man's chief end is to glorify God, and Piper would argue: BY enjoying Him forever.
July 29, 2024
Want to read a good book on biblical preaching and the glory of God? This is a classic by pastor John Piper. I read this to recharge my soul as a pastor, preacher and trainer of pastor after an exhausting trip where I was teaching a lot of times overseas.
The book consists of three parts. Part One is on "Why God should be Supreme in Preaching" and consists of four chapters with the first on the goal of preaching should be the glory of God and the next chapter on the ground of preaching should be the cross of Christ. Chapter three is on the gift of preaching which is the power of the Holy Spirit and the last chapter for this section is on the gravity and gladness of preaching. Part two covers "How to Make God supreme iin preaching" with lessons from the ministry of Jonathan Edwards. Here there are three chapters with chapter five on how the life of Jonathan Edards keeps God central and the next chapter on the theology of Edwards with focus on the sovereignty of God. Chapter seven then looks at the preaching of Edwards. Part three is Piper's reflection after thirty three years of ministry with how God is still supreme in preaching and ministry. This portion consists of four chapters with chapter eight on further clarification and confirmation and the following chapter on Calvin and the entertaining pastor. Chapter ten is on preaching as concept creation and the final chapter is on thirty reasons why it is a great thing to be a pastor.
I really enjoyed this book. I was grateful for Piper’s discussion about the Holy Spirit and preaching and how the power of God involves breaking us. There’s truly a difference between a young man in ministry and someone who have experience of decades walking with God. I was ministered by the book covering the issue of relying on God and studying His Word. His discussion about gladness and gravity and how to practically seek those things were most helpful.
Whether you are a new preacher or a seasoned preacher one should consider reading this book.
The book consists of three parts. Part One is on "Why God should be Supreme in Preaching" and consists of four chapters with the first on the goal of preaching should be the glory of God and the next chapter on the ground of preaching should be the cross of Christ. Chapter three is on the gift of preaching which is the power of the Holy Spirit and the last chapter for this section is on the gravity and gladness of preaching. Part two covers "How to Make God supreme iin preaching" with lessons from the ministry of Jonathan Edwards. Here there are three chapters with chapter five on how the life of Jonathan Edards keeps God central and the next chapter on the theology of Edwards with focus on the sovereignty of God. Chapter seven then looks at the preaching of Edwards. Part three is Piper's reflection after thirty three years of ministry with how God is still supreme in preaching and ministry. This portion consists of four chapters with chapter eight on further clarification and confirmation and the following chapter on Calvin and the entertaining pastor. Chapter ten is on preaching as concept creation and the final chapter is on thirty reasons why it is a great thing to be a pastor.
I really enjoyed this book. I was grateful for Piper’s discussion about the Holy Spirit and preaching and how the power of God involves breaking us. There’s truly a difference between a young man in ministry and someone who have experience of decades walking with God. I was ministered by the book covering the issue of relying on God and studying His Word. His discussion about gladness and gravity and how to practically seek those things were most helpful.
Whether you are a new preacher or a seasoned preacher one should consider reading this book.
September 22, 2017
Easily the best book on preaching I have read. As typical Piper, he doesn't give any specifics about how to organize a sermon, or about what you need to have and not have. Instead, it is theological and the main idea is that God is the focus of all preaching.
But it is much more than that. In part 1, he gives more of the theological ground for preaching with God at the center. All that is said here is robustly gospel and God-centered, and very enlightening and helpful. Then in park 2, he gives 10 practical notes of advice. Each of these is based on Jonathan Edwards (as is much of part 1), but each is very insightful and really stirs one on to deliver more captivating, God-centered sermons.
I could write a lot more here, but I intentionally will not. This is a book I kept on my desk as I prepared my most recent sermon--as I looked through it at my highlighted sections for encouragement and advice as I went--and I'm sure it is one I will continue to look to and reread. It is no wonder it won the Preaching magazine book of the year when it came out. It is a shorter book--at only 110 pages--but a ministry changing book for sure.
But it is much more than that. In part 1, he gives more of the theological ground for preaching with God at the center. All that is said here is robustly gospel and God-centered, and very enlightening and helpful. Then in park 2, he gives 10 practical notes of advice. Each of these is based on Jonathan Edwards (as is much of part 1), but each is very insightful and really stirs one on to deliver more captivating, God-centered sermons.
I could write a lot more here, but I intentionally will not. This is a book I kept on my desk as I prepared my most recent sermon--as I looked through it at my highlighted sections for encouragement and advice as I went--and I'm sure it is one I will continue to look to and reread. It is no wonder it won the Preaching magazine book of the year when it came out. It is a shorter book--at only 110 pages--but a ministry changing book for sure.
August 16, 2021
This is a beautiful and refreshing read that personally led me to revel in the grandeur of God and have my affections for Christ and His Word stirred greatly.
The task and means of proclaiming the Word of Christ through preaching isn’t merely just teaching but more specifically “expository exultation” of the grandeur of God and preeminence of Christ. Proclaiming and displaying the grandeur and holiness of God through His Word and Spirit before the world and calling and exhorting the Lord’s people and unbelieving.
People are starving and in dire need of the grandeur and the holiness of God whether they are aware of it or not. Our souls are longing and thirst for the Lord in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
“Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgment and how inscrutable his ways!” (Rom. 11:33)
The task and means of proclaiming the Word of Christ through preaching isn’t merely just teaching but more specifically “expository exultation” of the grandeur of God and preeminence of Christ. Proclaiming and displaying the grandeur and holiness of God through His Word and Spirit before the world and calling and exhorting the Lord’s people and unbelieving.
People are starving and in dire need of the grandeur and the holiness of God whether they are aware of it or not. Our souls are longing and thirst for the Lord in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
“Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgment and how inscrutable his ways!” (Rom. 11:33)
July 3, 2024
Having always been deeply impacted by Piper’s preaching, it was an insightful experience to get inside his brain and see what convictions and conscious efforts he had made to make his preaching what it is.
The things i’d come to love about Pipers preaching are exactly the things he highlighted throughout. I’m encouraged by his titanium strong allegiance to God’s infinite glory as the foundation and purpose of preaching.
I found myself a little uncomfortable at the amount of Jonathan Edward’s praise in the book, however i did find Edward’s quotes insightful and well selected to demonstrate Pipers points. In fact, i found myself on amazon buying one of his books as a result.
I wholeheartedly agree with the overarching message of the book and would recommend to anyone who has found themselves in the pulpit or is considering a path that might lead you there.
The things i’d come to love about Pipers preaching are exactly the things he highlighted throughout. I’m encouraged by his titanium strong allegiance to God’s infinite glory as the foundation and purpose of preaching.
I found myself a little uncomfortable at the amount of Jonathan Edward’s praise in the book, however i did find Edward’s quotes insightful and well selected to demonstrate Pipers points. In fact, i found myself on amazon buying one of his books as a result.
I wholeheartedly agree with the overarching message of the book and would recommend to anyone who has found themselves in the pulpit or is considering a path that might lead you there.
August 28, 2017
At college we read the likes of Haddon Robinson, John Stott, and Spurgeon on preaching. Since college I had read Timothy Keller, Mark Dever, and Albert Mohler, amongst others. But I think I have found in this book something unique. Piper spends very little of this work discussing technique and ploughs most of his writing - as he does his life - into God glorifying and soul satisfying theology. Perhaps the greatest indication that this is one of the best books written on preaching is that throughout my reading and subsequent to it I was moved to prayer. Not praying that God would empower me to preach, giving me incisive clarity or powerful conviction, simply approaching God as a servant and delighting in him before the task at hand.
April 12, 2025
"People are starving for the grandeur of God." (Pg. 151) The way people see God for who he is, is to behold him in the Bible. Pastors have the unique privilege to stand in front of God's people week after week, open up God's Word, and declare "Thus says the Lord" and should not take it lightly.
Every preacher should read this book and return to it regularly. Piper masterfully articulates a view of preaching that is committed to God being supreme, shows preachers how to make God supreme in their preaching, and adds personal reflections on preaching after his many years preaching the Bible.
This book is a treasure and will serve many who preach the Word until Christ returns.
Every preacher should read this book and return to it regularly. Piper masterfully articulates a view of preaching that is committed to God being supreme, shows preachers how to make God supreme in their preaching, and adds personal reflections on preaching after his many years preaching the Bible.
This book is a treasure and will serve many who preach the Word until Christ returns.
September 28, 2020
Not like most of Pipers other writings. I’ll be honest, even as amazing as it is, I expected better. maybe it’s because I recently read Expository Exultation” which, btw, a much better and weightier resource. Piper does use his own and Edward’s preaching as a launching off point for the essential elements in preaching. Not a bad volume at all though, but def left me wanting more.
November 21, 2017
Honesty, I think this may be one of John Piper's greatest books. I know many people would disagree and say, "Don't Waste your Life" is Piper's best. However I believe this one reflected Piper's love for the Scriptures and for communicating them well.
February 6, 2021
Lots of great reminders and insights for pastors. One I think pastors should read again every few years. Especially think pastors ought to reread the last chapter where Piper gives 30 reasons it’s great to be a pastor.
October 9, 2021
Piper’s excitement for the glory of God and delight in the word of God are infectious. He has a clear passion for having the word preached rightly and clearly explains to the preacher how to do so. This book is an absolute must read for all would be pastors and teachers.
December 27, 2024
“People are starving for the grandeur of God… If we do not spread a banquet of God’s beauty on Sunday morning, will not the people seek in vain to satisfy their inconsolable longing with the cotton candy pleasures of pastimes and religious hype?”
January 25, 2018
Excellent and concise.
March 20, 2019
Quick read with lots of important reminders, and an interesting walk through lessons from Jonathan Edwards' ministry.
September 10, 2020
An excellent book on keeping the right focus in preaching!
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