An engaging and accessible guide to the Bible's teaching on God's sovereignty
Part of the Questions Christians Ask series.
This is a warm, pastorally hearted guide to the Bible's teaching on God's sovereignty.
When a disaster happens; when personal tragedy strikes; when we are perplexed by world events, Christians can begin to doubt that God is either truly good, or truly in control.
Christopher Ash faces these questions head on, without flinching at any of the difficulties. First he looks at six different ways people have answered this question — both as Christians and from other religions and none. He then reveals the Bible's answer: the revelation of God's character and purposes throughout history.
Introduction: Is God Really in Control?
1. God over all
2. God unseen
3. God over evil
4. God the Father
5. God who wins
6. God who waits
7. God only wise
Conclusion: Facing the future with God in control
| Contributors | Christopher Ash |
|---|---|
| ISBN | 9781910307243 |
| Format | eBook |
| First published | January 2017 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | The Good Book Company |
Christopher Ash’s Where was God when that happened? is a book for all of us who are overwhelmed by global and personal tragedy. Ash understands the heart wrenching reality of the question and he understands how the Bible provides an answer that does not gloss over the pain but addresses it at the deepest possible level. He writes for ordinary people crying out for answers but especially for Christians who don’t know what to say when asked. I was helped to rejoice again in 'the utterly good sovereignty of God'. I intend to give a copy to the many people I know who are struggling with these questions in the face of real suffering, pain and terror in the world.
If there is a God, how could he let (fill in the blank) happen? Whether we trust him or not, all people wonder how God runs the world. Once again, Christopher Ash writes with understanding while teaching us that there is a God, he is in control, intensely involved in every detail, and he is good.
Christopher Ash tackles with great clarity and sensitivity the toughest questions about suffering. Against views which try to derive comfort by denying God's existence or sovereignty, he shows that the only true comfort is in a thoroughly scriptural vision of who God is. This is a book which warms the heart and feeds the mind.
Although weighing in at less than 100 pages, this is not a superficial book. It is theologically deep and precise, biblically rooted, and carefully nuanced, but manages to do all this in an accessible way. Any church member would benefit from it.... continue reading
I’m amazed by how well it deals with different aspects of the vast topic in under 100 pages. Ash doesn’t skirt around the difficult and tricky pastoral issues. He engages evenly with each aspect, never seeming rushed but allowing the reader space to think as well.... continue reading
The Bible teaching in this book is helpful and profound, Christopher’s pastoral insights are tremendous and winsome. For those struggling to comprehend their turmoil and stand firm under it this book is a strengthening hand and a warm theological hug.... continue reading
It was so helpful to find two concise, readable books to give to my friend who is going through very difficult and faith testing times. Just what I needed. Thank you.
This is a very good book. Very Bible-centred and very clear.
Im sorry I can’t see this book the way other reviewers have. I struggle with so much of the theology and biblical analysis on evil and suffering. I’m afraid if you handed this book to parents who have lost their child, or a family member due to the current covid pandemic they would feel broken by what is said here. Maybe it is my lack of Calvinism which makes me struggle with it but I did not enjoy this book at all.
I’m only giving two stars because there were SOME helpful illustrations.
Bought this book for my book group and found it to be most helpful addressing the question of suffering. It's short yet thorough and I've already passed it on to a friend. Having experienced the sudden death of my husband, I was comforted by reading this book reminding me Christ walks with us through our pain.
This is a very good book and keeps to the subject matter throughout. A no nonsense book which covers the topic well yet very easy to read. Non academic or any preconceived ideas. Recommend it.
This is possibly the clearest and most helpful book on suffering I've read. It doesn't shy away from the tough question of God's ultimate control over everything. Plus it's short- great for passing on and also for re-reading. I will definitely be buying this in bulk!
