Thursday, March 1, 2007

Free Book Download: God Is the Gospel

One of the things we appreciate most about Desiring God, which features resources from pastor/author/theologian John Piper, is their commitment to offering countless resources for free or at low cost.  For example, they offer audio downloads of all of Piper’s sermons for the last couple of decades, in addition to an increasing library of free video (streaming and downloads).  What an awesome resource for those seeking for resources that will help to increase their passion for the glory of God!

One of the more amazing resources available is downloadable PDF (e-books) of entire books written by Piper.  While I personally prefer to have a physical copy of book-length readings, this is an ideal way to introduce oneself to folks who are less familiar with Piper’s writings.

They’ve now made available a downloadable PDF version one of Piper’s more recent books titled God Is the Gospel.  Having read most of John Piper’s books, I can honestly say this is one of his best.  Its main point: to recognize God as the centerpiece of the gospel.  Not a “heaven with streets made of gold.”  Not mere “health and wealth” (for this life or the one to come).  Not simply “peace with God” (which can make the peace the centerpiece rather than God Himself).  This book argues convincingly and fills the soul with a desire to experience more of God Himself and not merely his gifts as the heart of the gospel message.  A year and half ago, I began reading and am still not done with this book (too many books, too little time).  But I’ve enjoyed every bit of time that I have put into it, even just the introduction (examples here and here)!
If you prefer an audio presentation of the main thesis of the book, you can listen to a sermon Piper recently preached at the Resolved conference.