Contending for Our All

Defending Truth and Treasuring Christ in the Lives of Athanasius, John Owen, and J. Gresham Machen

By: John Piper

Narrated by: Bob Souer

Length: 4 hrs and 7 mins

Publisher's summary

Athanasius. Owen. Machen. 

When Augustine handed over the leadership of his church in AD 426, his successor was so overwhelmed by a sense of inadequacy that he declared, "The swan is silent", fearing the spiritual giant's voice would be lost in time. But for 1,600 years Augustine has not been silent - and neither have the men who faithfully trumpeted the cause of Christ after him. Their lives have inspired every generation of believers and should compel us to a greater passion for God. 

In his fourth book in the Swans Are Not Silent series, John Piper explores the lives of Athanasius, John Owen, and J. Gresham Machen - a bishop, a pastor, and the founder of a seminary. 

Each of these men stood for the truth of the gospel in the face of intense opposition - all out of a deep love for Jesus and a desire for people to know him in his fullness. They took no joy in controversy for argument's sake, and they were willing to suffer for the sake of guarding the sanctity of the gospel. Threats of harm, years of exile, the death of loved ones, opposition from friends and authorities, sickness and pain - none of these setbacks could keep these three from maintaining their efforts to further the gospel or quench their zeal for Jesus himself. 

In each of their lives, personal holiness was emphasized publicly and privately despite suffering. They were true soldiers for the sake of the cross, and each man offers life lessons for Christians today. We pray that their perseverance, courage, and resolve will arouse such Christ-honoring passions in you.

©2019 John Piper (P)2019 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Am important read for Christians!

Piper with his usual powerful eloquence turns to great saints of the faith to elucidate the importance of contending for our faith!

Good Book, information to think on

This is a good book of 3 men most of us probably haven't studied. Very interesting as they all were in some way involved in Christian development yet "in the world" also. The first two, in politics and religion. I enjoyed the short book. Gave me a lot to think about.

John Piper

Just read the book! I’ll read it again. Anything for, about Jesus is worth a read!!

I found the concept of this book a little hard to understand

Again, I am thrilled will this series.

However, I struggled a little bit with understanding this book. I had restart this book several times in order to grasp the concept.

Again, I enjoy hearing about of the heroes of faith and I must admit that I’d never heard of these men. But I am grateful for these men that were able to bring us a deeper understanding of who our God is.

Thank you to both author and narrator.

Contending for our all

Contending without being contentious is a noble goal and the example of these 3 saints helps us see its possibility. Not that they were perfect but their zeal for faithfulness is warmly told by John Piper who brings both their excellencies and shortcomings to life and showing that faith in Jesus Christ brings challenges that develop character and opportunity to faithful service. Very well worth the listen.

A thoroughly enthralling listen

If you enjoy church History and all its connections and meaning you will enjoy and be uplifted by the detail and message here
Providentially it is fascinating how these saints stood for God and his purposes. I particularly was delighted to hear about Athanasius a true giant on my estimation.