"Articulate and challenging, Ryken brings fresh insight to familiar problems from less familiar passages of scripture. With power and practicality he helps us understand why these temptations are so great but why Christ is greater still." -James MacDonald, Pastor, Harvest Bible Chapel, Rolling Meadows, Illinois; author, Vertical Church "With the skill of a theologian and the heart of a pastor, Ryken takes you from the demise of one king to the victory of the King of kings. Read and you'll find more than the story of Solomon; you'll find the gospel in beautiful and powerful relief." -Paul David Tripp, president, Paul Tripp Ministries; author, What Did You Expect? "Vintage Ryken: full of truth, wisdom, and insight. This book tells the story of Solomon, his rise and fall, and expertly traces the themes of his strange tragedy in the light of the hope of the gospel. There is a range of compelling and motivating illustrations drawn from classical and contemporary sources, as well as literary insights about how the story of Solomon fits into the Bible. Ryken leaves open the question as to whether Solomon in the end came back to God, although implies he may well have done so, through the lens of the end of Ecclesiastes. The section where Ryken describes, in pastoral and effective detail, the possible temptations that may come with power and success and how to avoid them are particularly helpful. All in all a great read, an insightful meditation on Solomon, and a case for maintaining godliness in the midst of the pressure of success well made." -Josh Moody, Senior Pastor, College Church, Wheaton, Illinois; author, Journey to Joy: The Psalms of Ascent "Ryken has produced another excellent pastoral asset to assist believers in their spiritual growth while also equipping leaders for an effective, gospel-centered discipleship ministry. The display of the majesty of Christ, 'One greater than Solomon,' is the pinnacle blessing from this biblically faithful, biographical treatment of the life of Solomon. As Phil traverses Solomon's life, examining his divine gift of wisdom, startling passions, and significant achievements, he simultaneously exposes the great sins of Solomon and the greater grace of God in Christ. This astounding exposition also allows the reader to benefit from informative insights as to the subtle snares and entangling schemes of Satan in the idolatrous use of money, power, and sex. Although a page-turner, it warrants intentional pauses for thoughtful meditation and reflection, allowing us to make life applications that fulfill the biblical admonition to 'not be ignorant of Satan's devices' yet focus upon the sufficiency of the great King, Christ Jesus, our Lord." -Harry L. Reeder III, Senior Pastor, Briarwood Presbyterian Church, Birmingham, Alabama
Philip Graham Ryken (DPhil, University of Oxford) is the eighth president of Wheaton College. Formerly, he served as senior minister of Philadelphia's historic Tenth Presbyterian Church. He has written or edited more than 40 books, including the popular title Loving the Way Jesus Loves, and has lectured and preached at universities and seminaries worldwide.
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