This short book from John Piper contains three biographical messages based on the lives of Augustine, Luther and Calvin. Rather than attempt to tell their whole life stories, Piper focuses in on one of the main passions of each man.

He begins, however, with a chapter discussing their “flaws”. Augustine’s views on baptism and sex, Luther’s foul mouth and anti-semitism, and Calvin’s involvement in the execution of Servitus have caused many to dismiss these three men as having nothing worthwhile to teach us. Piper does not excuse their faults, but simply notes that God can and does use flawed saints.

The chapter on Augustine deals with his belief that it is sovereign joy in God that triumphs over joy in sin. There is also an interesting account of his debate with Pelagius over free will. Augustine believed that we are only free to move towards what we delight in, but we are not free to choose what we delight in.

The chapter on Luther narrows in on his diligent study of the Bible, based on his understanding that the Word of God comes to us in a book. He endured many trials and afflictions, but devoted himself to a phenomenal lifestyle of studying, teaching and writing about the Bible. Piper highlights the importance of learning the biblical languages to enable us to really wrestle with the meaning of the text.

The chapter on Calvin primarily highlights his passion for expository preaching. Everything he taught and wrote was as a systematic exposition of Scripture. He had a zeal for the glory of God to be displayed and this is what motivated his diligence in preaching verse by verse through many books of the Bible.

This book serves as a good introduction to the lives of these three influential men, and left me wanting to read more of their life stories and writings. It also serves as an inspiration and a challenge to keep persevering in studying the Bible, and making sure that the glory of God, and our delight in him are kept at a central place as we seek to understand its message.