The Justification of God: An Exegetical and Theological Study of Romans 9:1-23

Maybe the hardest book I've every read from a technical standpoint. Many of the arguments are based on the Hebrew and Greek vocabulary and syntax both of which are meant for professional theologians. I have to just read over it as I am not. His arguments are still intelligible but I find myself reading paragraphs several times. Copious footnotes can be a bit distracting as they reference what appears to be primarily German or Dutch theologians and are very technical. I feel that there is a great need for minds like Dr. Piper who will and can honestly provide an exegetical analysis and explanation of difficult doctrines and passages. At times, though, I think he may be a bit TOO difficult. At times I feel like I need a No-Fear Piper edition with side by side text explanations.

In this book, John Piper does a remarkable job of guiding the reader through a detailed exploration of Romans 9:1-23, its context in Romans, in Paul's other writings, and in the Bible as a whole. The book is written very much from an academic perspective, with extended discussions of the nuances of Greek and Hebrew in a number of OT and NT passages (some of which went over my head), but is accessible enough for most thoughtful readers to follow.Two things I found particularly impressive about the book:1. Piper engages a wide variety of "Arminian" interpretations of the passage, many of which immediately fall apart when the reader takes a moment to think about how they would fit into Paul's overall argument, but he (Piper) does so without the rancor and pettiness that so often characterizes those types of discussions.2. Although reformed, "Calvinist" doctrines are often viewed as serious and sometimes depressing philosophical and Biblical arguments, Piper expounds Paul's argument in a way that is markedly uplifting and God-glorifying.All in all, this is perhaps the best book of Biblical exposition of a passage that I have ever read. I would highly recommend it to intelligent readers of any theological leaning.

I read this book as part of a Masters level course I did. This book made the whole course worth it!I don't give a lot of 5 stars but this has been one of the best books I've ever read.Captivated by his thorough exegesis, taking all hard questions head on, this book was over too soon. Through my experience(s) and bible studies I was already pretty strong in the Augustinian-Calvinistic view of grace, salvation, predestination and such themes and this book strengthend it but it a way that made me more humble as I saw the greatness of God and his grace.THe strength of this book is one receives a fresh view of grace that makes you love God more and that is what really good theology does!The hard part of this book is double predestination. It is a hard doctrine and one needs to take time to really think it through.I dont read many books a second time but I have a feeling this one will be read several times.Thank you John Piper

This book is technical and digs in deep to exegetical questions and considerations. It is helpful to have some knowledge of the biblical languages to get the most out of it, but it is not necessarily a must. I found the argumentation very compelling and his writing shows many hours of consideration, thoughtful research, and a desire to accurately show what the passage is teaching. I got so much more out of this book than what I anticipated. I will read again without a doubt.

This book didn't impress me at all. Piper selectively translates the relevant texts, but his conclusions are nothing more than one might get from any modern team of translators (accurate translations). Many who read this book may assume that his conclusions are based upon his supreme handling of the Greek. In addition, including his translation makes him appear smart and intellectual. However, when it comes to making conclusions about the meaning of the text, he consistently operates based on the same set of presuppositions we find in most Calvinist arguments (some non-biblical). I know he wrote this a long time ago, but he seems to use weak Armenian arguments that many non-Calvinists reject today. In this book, I expected to find the best Calvinist argument from Romans 9. I didn't find that to be true. Better arguments have been made by James White and other modern apologists. Furthermore, non-Calvinists have put forth substantial perspectives on Romans 9 which are not dealt with in this book.

I first read this on vacation about 10 years ago (yes, that's how I roll) and must say it is outstanding work. Perhaps my favorite Piper. Great depth and passion in it, and truly, I wasn't expecting to be so drawn in by what on the surface would appear to be quite academic in nature. Other reviewers have already covered pretty much all else there is to say. This is THE book on which I would base my understanding of grace upon (obviously next to scripture itself). I don't always agree with the good Dr. Piper, but here, I vibe with what he's selling. God is great and loves you greatly, and this book will further impress that upon you, in ways that are life changing.

This book should bring one to realize how great Salvation is. It should drive one to their knees in thankfulness and gratitude for a Holy God to allow sinful man to join Him is utterly amazing.Some great follow up books would be Arther Pinks book on the Holy Spirit, Robert KM Wrights book " No place for Sovereignty " and Dr. Whites book "The Potters Freedom"I found these books to be a great help in overcoming my Armenian roots and now find most Armenian arguments so confusing and twisted that I can't hardly read them any more.I find it frustrating now to interact with those of Armenian thought because of their unwillingness to sit down together and study this subject, and now have found it impossible to find a Baptist church that is reformed in its teaching .

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Du bon Piper ! A recommander à tout chrétien débutant ou non ! Livre qui ne peut que susciter la joie et la louange à Dieu !