Pastor John Piper has recommended commentaries on specific books of the Bible, but he has also encouraged people to use a…

Pastor John Piper has recommended commentaries on specific books of the Bible, but he has also encouraged people to use a…

Pastor John Piper, renowned pastor, author, and founder of desiringGod.org, has long been an advocate for deep, personal study of the Bible. In addition to recommending trusted commentaries on specific books of Scripture, Piper has consistently encouraged believers to take an active, personal approach to their Bible reading—one that fosters a close and intimate relationship with God through the Word.

While Piper has emphasized the importance of using reputable commentaries to gain insight into Scripture, he has also urged Christians not to rely solely on external sources. He believes that personal Bible study, guided by prayer and the Holy Spirit, is essential for spiritual growth and understanding. “Commentaries can be helpful, but nothing replaces the personal engagement with the Word of God,” Piper shared in a recent interview. “As you read, pray that the Holy Spirit would illuminate the Scriptures and reveal God’s truth to your heart.”

In his recommendations, Piper has pointed to several commentaries that he has found particularly helpful in his own study of the Bible. For instance, when discussing the Book of Romans, Piper highly recommends the Romans: The Righteousness of God commentary by John Murray. This work, deeply theological and rich in understanding, explores the key themes of righteousness, justification, and sanctification within Paul’s letter to the Romans. Piper has often noted that Murray’s work on Romans has been invaluable for understanding the foundations of Christian faith.

For the Psalms, Piper encourages readers to explore The Treasury of David by Charles Spurgeon, one of the most beloved and well-respected commentaries on the Psalms. Spurgeon’s pastoral insights and reflections on the psalms’ emotional depth have been a source of inspiration for Piper, who often turns to Spurgeon’s work for personal meditation and sermon preparation.

Additionally, Piper has recommended The Gospel According to John by D.A. Carson, particularly for those seeking to delve into the deep theological truths of John’s Gospel. Carson’s detailed analysis helps readers understand the intricate layers of Christ’s identity and mission as presented by the beloved disciple.

However, Pastor Piper continually stresses that commentaries should not replace one’s own reading and meditative study of Scripture. “The best way to learn and grow in the Word is to engage it directly,” he said. “Read the Bible with an open heart and mind, and allow it to shape your thoughts, convictions, and actions.”

Pastor Piper’s approach blends scholarly resources with personal devotion. He encourages his congregation and others to balance commentaries with a deep, prayerful engagement with Scripture, trusting that God will guide their understanding through both tools and His Spirit. “Let the Word of God dwell richly in you,” Piper concluded, urging Christians to prioritize personal reflection on the Bible while also benefiting from the wisdom of faithful scholars.