The following message is by pastor John Piper. More information from desiring God is available at

W.W.

D. D. D. D.O.R. Well, I mentioned that one of the reasons that I came was that I like your director, Richard

Cunningham, and... Richard Cunningham and there are four reasons for that it's not just

chemistry chemistry. Number one, I love doctrinal vigilance for biblical truth and I see it in Richard. Number two, I love

vital personal faith in Jesus Christ that frees one to do hard things and I see it in your director.

Number three, I love courageous engagement with contemporary culture in the world and I see that in him.

And maybe there are only three, Richard.

There was another one.

Oh, yes.

I love students, and he has given his life now to advancing the cause of Christ

among students and so it was not hard to say yes to this invitation.

And it's a great honor to be here.

And I'm thankful for you.

I read on the fourth page of your program,

that book that you have, about six-tenths of the way down, it says that

meat will be offered in these sessions and that you're supposed to bring your Bibles and

notebooks. And so I will try to do my meaty part. your

and notebooks and so I will try to do my meaty part and I hope that you will do your part in having your

Bible's when the text was announced I was glad to hear a lot of rustling and so we will be looking at the text.

Let me begin with seven reasons why I think looking at Ruth is very, very important. What you may expect when you read this ancient book?

Number one, this is the word of God.

...