David Strain has blessed both pastor and congregant by writing this volume on Ruth and Esther. Here is a commentary that exudes pastoral wisdom and heart-directed application flowing from thorough biblical exegesis and theological precision. As these pages are read, the student of Scripture should expect to witness the Lord's work, not only in the lives of Ruth and Esther, but also in their own.
-- Jason Helopoulos (Senior Pastor, University Reformed Church, East Lansing, Michigan)
Here is solid exposition combined with pastoral wisdom. If you are looking for a faithful and engaging commentary on these Biblical books, then you have found it.
-- Rhett Dodson (Pastor of Grace Presbyterian Church, Hudson, Ohio.)
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)
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 (President, Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, Grand Rapids, Michigan)
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)
One of the positives in our current culture is a rediscovery of the value of story. David Strain unpacks the stories of two young girls whose lives and experiences illustrate the purpose of providence. If you ever wonder why you are where you are in life, Ruth and Esther will give you food for thought.
-- David Meredith (Mission Director, Free Church of Scotland, Inverness)
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)
In Dr Strain's flowing prose, both the text and the theological truths imbedded in the text are explained with pastoral thoughtfulness and a deft appreciation of their place within the biblical canon. These are commentaries that preachers will benefit from and all Christians find hugely instructive.
-- Ian Hamilton (President, Westminster Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Newcastle, UK )
