Gospel-centered Bible studies that provide questions and commentary to accompany a redemptive-historical reading of Scripture:
Hebrews: The Superior Savior
Join Bible scholar and teacher, Sarah Ivill, in an examination of Scripture from Genesis to Revelation to verify the claims given in Hebrews: Christ is greater than all angels, than Satan, and than any Old Testament saint and sacrificial system. He holds a more excellent ministry because He offered the superior Sacrifice to secure for us an unshakeable kingdom, and He now sits at the right hand of God.
"Sarah Ivill's study of Hebrews is magnificent. She takes the reader deep into the text of Scripture, yet she remains always accessible and clearly shows how God's Word addresses the hearts and lives of His people today. I anticipate this work will produce better students of Scripture and more joyful worshippers of our God."
-Stephen G. Myers, professor of Systematic and Historical Theology, Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary; author of God to Us: Covenant Theology in Scripture
Join Bible scholar and teacher, Sarah Ivill, in an examination of Scripture from Genesis to Revelation to verify the claims given in Hebrews: Christ is greater than all angels, than Satan, and than any Old Testament saint and sacrificial system. He holds a more excellent ministry because He offered the superior Sacrifice to secure for us an unshakeable kingdom, and He now sits at the right hand of God.
"Sarah Ivill's study of Hebrews is magnificent. She takes the reader deep into the text of Scripture, yet she remains always accessible and clearly shows how God's Word addresses the hearts and lives of His people today. I anticipate this work will produce better students of Scripture and more joyful worshippers of our God."
-Stephen G. Myers, professor of Systematic and Historical Theology, Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary; author of God to Us: Covenant Theology in Scripture
Proverbs: The Lord Gives Wisdom
The Old Testament book of Proverbs offers nuggets of wisdom designed to help believers live life God’s way. In this twelve-lesson Bible study, Sarah Ivill helps us to see Christ in the Proverbs so that we understand our salvation is by grace alone through faith alone. In this manner, we will learn to walk wisely day by day as we learn more about the Lord of wisdom. Useful for individuals and groups, Proverbs is an excellent tool for women’s Bible studies.
“We live in an age increasingly marked by a lack of wisdom. If ever the book of Proverbs could bless a generation, surely it is the generation of today. Sarah Ivill provides a helpful tool and resource for accessing all that the book of Proverbs has to offer. This study is packed full of helpful commentary, insightful questions, applicatory thoughts, and stirring reflections. Any students of the Scriptures with this book in hand will find themselves greatly rewarded with that wisdom we all need, especially in this day.”
—Jason Helopoulos, senior pastor, University Reformed Church, East Lansing, Michigan
Luke: That You May Have Certainty Concerning the Faith
The New Testament book of Luke gives us an orderly account of the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ so that we might have certainty regarding our faith. In this twelve-lesson Bible study, Sarah Ivill provides vital encouragement from this gospel account, giving us a firm foundation we can cling to as we navigate seasons of doubt in a world full of uncertainty.
“Weaving together the books of Luke and Acts, Luke has invited generations of Christians to a deeper understanding of Christ's fulfillment of Old Testament promises, His earthly work, and the subsequent mission of His church. Combining thorough questions and in-depth commentary, Sarah Ivill will lead you to discover the rich, transformational truth of Christ's love found in the book of Luke.”
— Becky Kiern, teacher and author of Our Light and Life: Identity in the Claims of Christ and Let Earth Receive Her King
“What an excellent resource for individual or group study! Sarah has done a wonderful job digging deep into this beloved gospel to put on full display the heart of our Savior. Through her in-depth questions, the reader will be challenged to think through each passage and see Jesus not only within His historical context but also in light of the great story of redemption. Her attention to detail and the intricacies of Scripture help readers enter into the story themselves. Not only will you walk away with a greater knowledge of the text but you will be equipped with excellent application for your heart. Sarah’s tender insights invite the participant to encounter Jesus Christ not only as the Savior of the world but as the friend of the outcast, hurting, and sinner. He is a Savior for us all. This study will increase your understanding, encourage your heart, and bolster your faith.”
— Abby Ross Hutto, director of spiritual formation at Story Presbyterian Church, Westerville, Ohio, and author of God For Us: Discovering the Heart of the Father through the Life of the Son
“If you give a man a fish, you feed him for a day. If you teach a man to fish, you feed him for a lifetime.”So says the old proverb. The church is too often like the first part of this adage. Meals are offered on Sunday morning, and sometimes a Sunday evening meal is served. And though they may be delicious, we are driven to ask the question, What about the rest of the week? Sarah Ivill’s book sets out to answer that question. Here we find lessons in how to fish for our own food Monday through Saturday. I am currently preaching through Luke’s Gospel, and I wish that this book was already in print so that my congregation could feed (and learn to fish!) throughout the week. Highly recommended!”
— Jeffrey A. Stivason, pastor of Grace Reformed Presbyterian Church, Gibsonia, Pennsylvania, and professor of New Testament studies, Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Pittsburgh
“Many Bible Studies are quick to rush to application, thereby lacking a keen focus on what exactly was the author’s intent. Other studies have thoughtful explanation and yet do not provide space to apply God’s word in this time and place. This study on Luke is not only comprehensive but down to earth. It is very rare to find such a balance. An added blessing is the tenor of community as you read through the study. You want to do it with someone, which is a blessing highlighting that God has created us with community in mind. Luke being my favorite gospel has only been reaffirmed as I have come away with greater trust and conviction that Christ is worth my life. Thank you, Sarah, for this gift.”
— Eric Russ, pastor of evangelism and mobilization, Christ Covenant Church, Matthews, North Carolina
Isaiah: The Holy One of Israel
Words swirl around us and opinions are expressed with little thought and less humility. Can you imagine posting, “Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a [woman] of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts!” (Isa. 6:5)? Studying the book of Isaiah is a great place to start to learn humility. Isaiah uses “holy” to describe God more than all the other Old Testament books combined and then reveals a way that God can make us holy - because Christ’s humility leads to our holiness.
“In this remarkable study of the book of Isaiah, Sarah Ivill repeatedly leads us to the cross through Isaiah’s thundering call to repentance. Sarah helps us see the agelessness of this ancient book when she encourages us to consider our own sin, how repentance leads to the freedom of forgiveness, our identity in the context of today’s culture, the comfort of God’s covenant promises, leaving a legacy, and the grace gifts available to each of us. If you’re looking for a meat-and-potatoes Bible study designed to deepen your understanding of the character and love of God, this is it."
— Sharon W. Betters, director of resource development, MARKINC Ministries
“Millennia ago, God gave the prophet Isaiah a supernatural word that soars, convicts, reassures, and enlivens. The same God has given Sarah Ivill a passion for gazing on the Christ-centered character of that word and seeing its relevance for the Christian life. These twin realities combine in this book of eleven lessons covering all of Isaiah’s sixty-six chapters. With perceptive study questions, poignant summaries, and piercing application, Ivill helps readers and small groups hear and heed Isaiah’s testimony of judgment for sin, hope in exile, grace in suffering, and the new creation dawned in Christ.”
— Carlton and Linley Wynne, Westminster Presbyterian Church, Atlanta, Georgia
Words swirl around us and opinions are expressed with little thought and less humility. Can you imagine posting, “Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a [woman] of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts!” (Isa. 6:5)? Studying the book of Isaiah is a great place to start to learn humility. Isaiah uses “holy” to describe God more than all the other Old Testament books combined and then reveals a way that God can make us holy - because Christ’s humility leads to our holiness.
“In this remarkable study of the book of Isaiah, Sarah Ivill repeatedly leads us to the cross through Isaiah’s thundering call to repentance. Sarah helps us see the agelessness of this ancient book when she encourages us to consider our own sin, how repentance leads to the freedom of forgiveness, our identity in the context of today’s culture, the comfort of God’s covenant promises, leaving a legacy, and the grace gifts available to each of us. If you’re looking for a meat-and-potatoes Bible study designed to deepen your understanding of the character and love of God, this is it."
— Sharon W. Betters, director of resource development, MARKINC Ministries
“Millennia ago, God gave the prophet Isaiah a supernatural word that soars, convicts, reassures, and enlivens. The same God has given Sarah Ivill a passion for gazing on the Christ-centered character of that word and seeing its relevance for the Christian life. These twin realities combine in this book of eleven lessons covering all of Isaiah’s sixty-six chapters. With perceptive study questions, poignant summaries, and piercing application, Ivill helps readers and small groups hear and heed Isaiah’s testimony of judgment for sin, hope in exile, grace in suffering, and the new creation dawned in Christ.”
— Carlton and Linley Wynne, Westminster Presbyterian Church, Atlanta, Georgia
Romans: The Gospel of God for Obedience to the Faith
The New Testament book of Romans declares the gospel according to Paul, tracing the good news of what Jesus has done within the framework of salvation history, creation, the fall, redemption, and consummation. In this twelve-lesson Bible study, Sarah Ivill provides students of Scripture with an in-depth look at this profound epistle that explains the gospel of God and encourages them to strive for obedience to the faith.
“As a faithful guide through the treasure trove of Romans, Sarah skillfully navigates principles critical to understanding the wonders of grace and salvation. This versatile study will challenge the seasoned student and encourage the novice while providing deeper understanding of the continuity of God’s plan of redemption between the Old and New Testaments. This book is the resource that you are sure to reference again and again!”
--Vanessa K. Hawkins (MDiv, Covenant Theological Seminary), Director of Women’s Ministry, First Presbyterian Church Augusta, Georgia; Diversity Advisor, Presbyterian Church of America Women’s Ministry
“The book of Romans is a mountain of gospel riches it would take a lifetime to scale, and this study is an excellent companion for the journey. Writing to women (or groups of women!) who want to study the Bible thoroughly, seriously, and on its own terms, Ivill leads readers through the sections of Romans in twelve parts. She lays out helpful background and context, and then she calls us to reflect on the text with pointed questions. As you work your way through the study, you will find that Ivill is an experienced guide--setting a direction, marking the trail, and pointing out, again and again, the marvelous gospel vistas before us. In fact, we may be so caught up in the glorious experience of our Christ-ward trek through Romans that we forget she is there at all, which, I suspect, is exactly the way she wants it to be.”
--Megan Hill, Editor, The Gospel Coalition
“In a day of shallow, therapeutic, ‘you go girl’ approaches to women’s ministry, Sarah Ivill’s in-depth study of Romans is a welcome and timely gift to the church. In this outstanding, Christ-centered study, not only does Ivill faithfully explain and apply the text itself, she skillfully sets Paul’s letter in the wider context of redemptive history. Consequently, Ivill provides the necessary exegetical and interpretive tools for understanding all of Scripture. Are you hunting for a resource for your next women’s Bible study or searching for something to study on your own? Look no further! Ivill on Romans is as good as it gets.”
--Rev. Dr. Jon D. Payne, Senior Pastor, Christ Church (PCA), Charleston, SC; Executive Coordinator, Gospel Reformation Network; Trustee, Banner of Truth Trust
“First a confession. I love the book of Romans! Secondly, a word of appreciation to Sarah Ivill who has thoughtfully provided an exceptional commentary on this exceptional epistle while making it both accessible and usable for every day Christians. Unlike most commentaries, this one will become a page turner as you begin to read this glorious exposition of the Gospel and the Gospel life.”
--Harry L. Reeder, III, Pastor/Teacher, Briarwood Presbyterian Church, Birmingham, Alabama
“I have observed Sarah Ivill’s love for the church as she teaches and serves the women of Christ Covenant Church. Surpassing her love for the church is her love for God’s Word, which she demonstrates in this careful study of Romans. Her probing and well-organized study of Paul’s great letter has the potential to build up and bless many women and their churches.”
--D. Blair Smith, Assistant Professor of Systematic Theology ~ Reformed Theological Seminary, Charlotte
The New Testament book of Romans declares the gospel according to Paul, tracing the good news of what Jesus has done within the framework of salvation history, creation, the fall, redemption, and consummation. In this twelve-lesson Bible study, Sarah Ivill provides students of Scripture with an in-depth look at this profound epistle that explains the gospel of God and encourages them to strive for obedience to the faith.
“As a faithful guide through the treasure trove of Romans, Sarah skillfully navigates principles critical to understanding the wonders of grace and salvation. This versatile study will challenge the seasoned student and encourage the novice while providing deeper understanding of the continuity of God’s plan of redemption between the Old and New Testaments. This book is the resource that you are sure to reference again and again!”
--Vanessa K. Hawkins (MDiv, Covenant Theological Seminary), Director of Women’s Ministry, First Presbyterian Church Augusta, Georgia; Diversity Advisor, Presbyterian Church of America Women’s Ministry
“The book of Romans is a mountain of gospel riches it would take a lifetime to scale, and this study is an excellent companion for the journey. Writing to women (or groups of women!) who want to study the Bible thoroughly, seriously, and on its own terms, Ivill leads readers through the sections of Romans in twelve parts. She lays out helpful background and context, and then she calls us to reflect on the text with pointed questions. As you work your way through the study, you will find that Ivill is an experienced guide--setting a direction, marking the trail, and pointing out, again and again, the marvelous gospel vistas before us. In fact, we may be so caught up in the glorious experience of our Christ-ward trek through Romans that we forget she is there at all, which, I suspect, is exactly the way she wants it to be.”
--Megan Hill, Editor, The Gospel Coalition
“In a day of shallow, therapeutic, ‘you go girl’ approaches to women’s ministry, Sarah Ivill’s in-depth study of Romans is a welcome and timely gift to the church. In this outstanding, Christ-centered study, not only does Ivill faithfully explain and apply the text itself, she skillfully sets Paul’s letter in the wider context of redemptive history. Consequently, Ivill provides the necessary exegetical and interpretive tools for understanding all of Scripture. Are you hunting for a resource for your next women’s Bible study or searching for something to study on your own? Look no further! Ivill on Romans is as good as it gets.”
--Rev. Dr. Jon D. Payne, Senior Pastor, Christ Church (PCA), Charleston, SC; Executive Coordinator, Gospel Reformation Network; Trustee, Banner of Truth Trust
“First a confession. I love the book of Romans! Secondly, a word of appreciation to Sarah Ivill who has thoughtfully provided an exceptional commentary on this exceptional epistle while making it both accessible and usable for every day Christians. Unlike most commentaries, this one will become a page turner as you begin to read this glorious exposition of the Gospel and the Gospel life.”
--Harry L. Reeder, III, Pastor/Teacher, Briarwood Presbyterian Church, Birmingham, Alabama
“I have observed Sarah Ivill’s love for the church as she teaches and serves the women of Christ Covenant Church. Surpassing her love for the church is her love for God’s Word, which she demonstrates in this careful study of Romans. Her probing and well-organized study of Paul’s great letter has the potential to build up and bless many women and their churches.”
--D. Blair Smith, Assistant Professor of Systematic Theology ~ Reformed Theological Seminary, Charlotte
Ezra and Nehemiah: The Good Hand of Our God Is upon Us
The Old Testament books of Ezra and Nehemiah offer a timeless message of hope to Christians, reminding us that Jesus came to set us free from our own Babylonian captivity by becoming the true temple, living Word, and the One who is preparing a city where the walls are perfectly pure and secure. In this eleven-lesson Bible study, Sarah Ivill provides students of Scripture with an in-depth look at these two small books filled with great truths that will encourage them to trust that the good hand of God is on us.
Each lesson includes the following features:
-An introduction that provides a big picture of the lesson, showing how it applies to your mind, heart, and hands.
-A personal study section of questions that helps you dig deeply into God's Word.
-A section that puts it all together, which aims to answer any lingering questions you may have after your personal study.
-A section of questions for helping students study the Word of God in community.
Useful for either individual or group studies, 1 Peter, 2 Peter, and Jude includes suggestions for Bible study leaders, an overview of the history of redemption and revelation, and an overview of what it means to study Christ in all of Scripture.
“In this enriching study of Ezra/Nehemiah, Sarah Ivill provides the shovel and shows you where to dig. But even better than that, this study of these Old Testament books shows you how to study God’s Holy Word. With an eye to the whole scope of biblical revelation in its Christ-centeredness, Ivill takes you on a deep dive into the texts of these Old Testament books and points you to essential biblical cross-references. Surfacing from this deep dive, you will hold in hand precious treasures for God-honoring worship and Spirit-empowered application. Deep yet accessible, instructive and reverent, rigorous and rewarding, this study of God’s Word will delight you in the Christ of Scripture—the one Savior, Shepherd and covenant King.”
David and Minda Garner, Vice President of Advancement and Associate Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, and his wife
“Many times, we read the Old Testament disconnected from the work of Christ. In her new Bible study, Ezra and Nehemiah: The Good Hand of Our God Is on Us Sarah Ivill helps us understand these books in their historical context, but also faithfully points us to the larger story—the one all the other stories point to—the redemptive work of Christ on our behalf. This guide will help you study Ezra and Nehemiah with new insight and application for how you think, what you love, and how you live."
Melissa Kruger, Director of Content for Women at TGC and author of In All Things: A Nine-Week Study Guide on Unshakeable Joy
"Sarah Ivill has created a study that leads the student to discover the riches of the books of Ezra and Nehemiah and put them within the context of the redemptive-historical big story of the Bible. It will be of great benefit for the individual as well as group Bible studies."
Mary Beth McGreevy, Adjunct Professor of Communication, Covenant Theological Seminary
“ ‘God providentially ensures that the faith is passed from generation to generation.’ With this sentence, Sarah Ivill introduces an important, though sometimes overlooked doctrine that is in urgent need of recovery. God is faithful and kind in his covenantal purposes, which Sarah eloquently captures in these pages. In such a time as ours, God’s foundational plans are a source of comfort and a perpetual reminder that He is sovereign over all, and works all things according to His own council. Sarah’s work on Ezra and Nehemiah will challenge and encourage you. It is peppered with practical implications that will stretch your faith and better prepare you to pass your faith on to the next generation. This winsome and robust study is a welcome addition to any library, including my own. I only wish it had come along sooner!”
Brian Peterson, Pastor of Teaching and Discipleship, Christ Covenant Church in Matthews, NC
“Ezra and Nehemiah tell the story of God’s people returning home to Jerusalem from exile. They find the temple destroyed, the city wall in ruins, and hostile neighbors. In the midst of great challenges, God once again calls his people to covenant faithfulness. With an approach aimed at your head, heart, and hands, Sarah Ivill provides thoughtful observations, moving commentary, and practical application as she walks you through these closing acts of the Old Testament. Sarah masterfully keeps her reader attuned to the historical details in the text without losing sight of the role the text plays in redemptive history. Most importantly, Sarah demonstrates over and over again the covenant faithfulness of the triune God.”
Leigh Swanson, V. P. Community Relations, Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando
The Old Testament books of Ezra and Nehemiah offer a timeless message of hope to Christians, reminding us that Jesus came to set us free from our own Babylonian captivity by becoming the true temple, living Word, and the One who is preparing a city where the walls are perfectly pure and secure. In this eleven-lesson Bible study, Sarah Ivill provides students of Scripture with an in-depth look at these two small books filled with great truths that will encourage them to trust that the good hand of God is on us.
Each lesson includes the following features:
-An introduction that provides a big picture of the lesson, showing how it applies to your mind, heart, and hands.
-A personal study section of questions that helps you dig deeply into God's Word.
-A section that puts it all together, which aims to answer any lingering questions you may have after your personal study.
-A section of questions for helping students study the Word of God in community.
Useful for either individual or group studies, 1 Peter, 2 Peter, and Jude includes suggestions for Bible study leaders, an overview of the history of redemption and revelation, and an overview of what it means to study Christ in all of Scripture.
“In this enriching study of Ezra/Nehemiah, Sarah Ivill provides the shovel and shows you where to dig. But even better than that, this study of these Old Testament books shows you how to study God’s Holy Word. With an eye to the whole scope of biblical revelation in its Christ-centeredness, Ivill takes you on a deep dive into the texts of these Old Testament books and points you to essential biblical cross-references. Surfacing from this deep dive, you will hold in hand precious treasures for God-honoring worship and Spirit-empowered application. Deep yet accessible, instructive and reverent, rigorous and rewarding, this study of God’s Word will delight you in the Christ of Scripture—the one Savior, Shepherd and covenant King.”
David and Minda Garner, Vice President of Advancement and Associate Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, and his wife
“Many times, we read the Old Testament disconnected from the work of Christ. In her new Bible study, Ezra and Nehemiah: The Good Hand of Our God Is on Us Sarah Ivill helps us understand these books in their historical context, but also faithfully points us to the larger story—the one all the other stories point to—the redemptive work of Christ on our behalf. This guide will help you study Ezra and Nehemiah with new insight and application for how you think, what you love, and how you live."
Melissa Kruger, Director of Content for Women at TGC and author of In All Things: A Nine-Week Study Guide on Unshakeable Joy
"Sarah Ivill has created a study that leads the student to discover the riches of the books of Ezra and Nehemiah and put them within the context of the redemptive-historical big story of the Bible. It will be of great benefit for the individual as well as group Bible studies."
Mary Beth McGreevy, Adjunct Professor of Communication, Covenant Theological Seminary
“ ‘God providentially ensures that the faith is passed from generation to generation.’ With this sentence, Sarah Ivill introduces an important, though sometimes overlooked doctrine that is in urgent need of recovery. God is faithful and kind in his covenantal purposes, which Sarah eloquently captures in these pages. In such a time as ours, God’s foundational plans are a source of comfort and a perpetual reminder that He is sovereign over all, and works all things according to His own council. Sarah’s work on Ezra and Nehemiah will challenge and encourage you. It is peppered with practical implications that will stretch your faith and better prepare you to pass your faith on to the next generation. This winsome and robust study is a welcome addition to any library, including my own. I only wish it had come along sooner!”
Brian Peterson, Pastor of Teaching and Discipleship, Christ Covenant Church in Matthews, NC
“Ezra and Nehemiah tell the story of God’s people returning home to Jerusalem from exile. They find the temple destroyed, the city wall in ruins, and hostile neighbors. In the midst of great challenges, God once again calls his people to covenant faithfulness. With an approach aimed at your head, heart, and hands, Sarah Ivill provides thoughtful observations, moving commentary, and practical application as she walks you through these closing acts of the Old Testament. Sarah masterfully keeps her reader attuned to the historical details in the text without losing sight of the role the text plays in redemptive history. Most importantly, Sarah demonstrates over and over again the covenant faithfulness of the triune God.”
Leigh Swanson, V. P. Community Relations, Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando
1 Peter, 2 Peter and Jude: Steadfast in the Faith
The New Testament books of 1 and 2 Peter and Jude offer a timeless message of hope to Christians living in a post-truth culture that seeks salvation in false, futile saviors and rejects Jesus Christ as the way, the truth, and the life. In this ten-lesson Bible study, Sarah Ivill provides students of Scripture with an in-depth look at these three small epistles filled with great truths that will encourage them to remain steadfast in the faith in a world hostile to believers.
Each lesson includes the following features:
• An introduction that provides a big picture of the lesson, showing how it applies to your mind, heart, and hands.
• A personal study section of questions that helps you dig deeply into God’s Word.
• A section that puts it all together, which aims to answer any lingering questions you may have after your personal study.
• A section of questions for helping students study the Word of God in community.
Useful for either individual or group studies, 1 Peter, 2 Peter, and Jude includes suggestions for Bible study leaders, an overview of the history of redemption and revelation, and an overview of what it means to study Christ in all of Scripture.
"I am happy to commend these fine studies. Sarah is a sure guide—handling the text carefully, applying the Word wisely, and writing with an eye toward the edification of women in the church. The commentary and questions are marked by exegetical faithfulness and theological integrity. The church will benefit from Sarah's excellent work (and even more so, from God's holy Word!)."
Kevin DeYoung, senior pastor, University Reformed Church in East Lansing, Michigan
"In the shifting cultural landscape where truth is needed more than ever, Sarah Ivill’s 1 Peter, 2 Peter, and Jude: Steadfast in the Faith is solid ground intended to equip the believer to stand firm. Sarah challenges us, as elect exiles, to find hope as we root our identities firmly in Christ and eagerly await the promise of His return. This study is filled with theologically rich content and gospel-penetrating questions designed to prepare us to give an answer for the hope that lies within us.”
Karen Hodge, women’s ministry coordinator for the PCA (Presbyterian Church in America) and author of Transformed: Life-Taker to Life-Giver
"Sarah Ivill has the mind of a scholar and the heart of a shepherdess. In this study of the letters of Peter and Jude, Sarah challenges readers to know more deeply the hope to which believers have been called. Sarah is bold yet gentle as she presents the truth of the text in a way that addresses the learner's head, heart, and hands. This study explores how the grace of God enables believers to stand firm in obedience, even when the circumstances of life are hard. In all situations, Jesus is 'our home, our hope, our holiness.'"
Stephen Estock, coordinator, PCA Discipleship Ministries
"Calling Christian women to ‘return to being women of one Book above all others,’ Sarah Ivill provides a rich, faithful, Christ-centered study of 1 Peter, 2 Peter, and Jude for those who want to be saturated in the Word of God. Sarah is a careful student of the Bible and a faithful member of her local church, and these qualities show in her labors to be accurate in the handling of God’s Word and helpful to women who want to be grounded in the truth of Scripture. I am thankful for her heart and her labors, and I warmly commend her work to you.”
Ligon Duncan, chancellor and CEO, and John E. Richards Professor of Systematic and Historical Theology, Reformed Theological Seminary
The New Testament books of 1 and 2 Peter and Jude offer a timeless message of hope to Christians living in a post-truth culture that seeks salvation in false, futile saviors and rejects Jesus Christ as the way, the truth, and the life. In this ten-lesson Bible study, Sarah Ivill provides students of Scripture with an in-depth look at these three small epistles filled with great truths that will encourage them to remain steadfast in the faith in a world hostile to believers.
Each lesson includes the following features:
• An introduction that provides a big picture of the lesson, showing how it applies to your mind, heart, and hands.
• A personal study section of questions that helps you dig deeply into God’s Word.
• A section that puts it all together, which aims to answer any lingering questions you may have after your personal study.
• A section of questions for helping students study the Word of God in community.
Useful for either individual or group studies, 1 Peter, 2 Peter, and Jude includes suggestions for Bible study leaders, an overview of the history of redemption and revelation, and an overview of what it means to study Christ in all of Scripture.
"I am happy to commend these fine studies. Sarah is a sure guide—handling the text carefully, applying the Word wisely, and writing with an eye toward the edification of women in the church. The commentary and questions are marked by exegetical faithfulness and theological integrity. The church will benefit from Sarah's excellent work (and even more so, from God's holy Word!)."
Kevin DeYoung, senior pastor, University Reformed Church in East Lansing, Michigan
"In the shifting cultural landscape where truth is needed more than ever, Sarah Ivill’s 1 Peter, 2 Peter, and Jude: Steadfast in the Faith is solid ground intended to equip the believer to stand firm. Sarah challenges us, as elect exiles, to find hope as we root our identities firmly in Christ and eagerly await the promise of His return. This study is filled with theologically rich content and gospel-penetrating questions designed to prepare us to give an answer for the hope that lies within us.”
Karen Hodge, women’s ministry coordinator for the PCA (Presbyterian Church in America) and author of Transformed: Life-Taker to Life-Giver
"Sarah Ivill has the mind of a scholar and the heart of a shepherdess. In this study of the letters of Peter and Jude, Sarah challenges readers to know more deeply the hope to which believers have been called. Sarah is bold yet gentle as she presents the truth of the text in a way that addresses the learner's head, heart, and hands. This study explores how the grace of God enables believers to stand firm in obedience, even when the circumstances of life are hard. In all situations, Jesus is 'our home, our hope, our holiness.'"
Stephen Estock, coordinator, PCA Discipleship Ministries
"Calling Christian women to ‘return to being women of one Book above all others,’ Sarah Ivill provides a rich, faithful, Christ-centered study of 1 Peter, 2 Peter, and Jude for those who want to be saturated in the Word of God. Sarah is a careful student of the Bible and a faithful member of her local church, and these qualities show in her labors to be accurate in the handling of God’s Word and helpful to women who want to be grounded in the truth of Scripture. I am thankful for her heart and her labors, and I warmly commend her work to you.”
Ligon Duncan, chancellor and CEO, and John E. Richards Professor of Systematic and Historical Theology, Reformed Theological Seminary
Judges & Ruth: There Is a Redeemer
“With careful scholarship and sound exegesis, Sarah Ivill takes readers into the difficult realities of the book of Judges and the beautiful redemption of the book of Ruth so that they come away with a deeper understanding of, and a greater longing for, our great Judge and Redeemer, Jesus Christ.”
Nancy Guthrie, Author of Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament Bible study series
"If you are looking for a study that highlights the attributes of triumphant heroes of the faith for us to imitate, this is not it! But if you want to be overwhelmed by God's faithful grace in the dark times of the Judges and the difficult personal circumstances of Naomi and Ruth, you will find much to treasure in this book."
Iain M. Duguid, Author, Esther & Ruth (Reformed Expository Commentary) and Is Jesus in the Old Testament?
"Sarah Ivill connects Ruth to Judges, allowing each book to enrich the other, and connects both of those books to the broad scope of redemptive history. She links individual texts to an abundance of scriptural passages and to systematic theology, always pointing to Christ. And she pairs Ancient Near Eastern backgrounds with plenty of contemporary application. A helpful resource for anyone studying Judges or Ruth or leading a study on them."
Elizabeth Groves, Lecturer in Old Testament, Westminster Theological Seminary
Revelation: Let the One Who Is Thirsty Come
“I commend this book for bridging the gap between a commentary and a fill-in-the-blank exercise for women. The study of Revelation has become less challenging and more edifying with Ivill’s book. It is an annotated Bible study, providing Old Testament background, salient commentary, and personal exhortations and examples from a covenantal perspective. Questions for each Bible chapter enhance and encourage group discussion that is focused on Scripture interpreting Scripture.”
Diane M. Poythress, Founder of Women’s Weekend Seminary, Wife, mother, author, Bible study leader, teacher, and speaker
"This is the first study guide to the book of Revelation that I can see using in our women's Bible studies...An inviting, effective tool to gain an understanding of this often-daunting book of the Bible."
Kari Stainback, Director of Women's Ministries, Park Cities Presbyterian Church, Dallas
"Rich, rich, rich. Sarah's book on Revelation digs deep into the Word of God. She brings the whole of Scripture to bear in her expositions so that you truly see the unity of Revelation with the rest of the Bible."
Donna Dobbs, Director of Christian Education, First Presbyterian Church, Jackson, Mississippi
"Revelation can be an intimidating book to read. Its many complexities and pitfalls require careful navigation. But Sarah Ivill proves to be a steady guide, steering the reader through these difficult waters. In this study, she reminds us that the book of Revelation is not just some puzzle to solve or some code to crack. Rather, it is a wonderful and glorious vision of the persona and work of Jesus Christ. Thus, she helps us to see that Revelation is a book not just about the future, but also very much about the present."
Michael J. Kruger, Professor of New Testament, Reformed Theological Seminary, Charlotte
"Sarah Ivill's studies of Scripture are a reflection of the wonderful influences that have shaped her as a scholar and teacher. There is the disciplined textual skill of exegesis and exposition. This flows seamlessly into real-life application. Yet pervading this blend of the scholar-teacher and spiritual counselor is a recognition of the majesty of God and the awe-inspiring privilege of having in one's hands the panorama of the history of redemption accomplished by the triune God of sovereign grace. I highly commend Revelation as a firstfruits of Ivill's careful investigation into Christ's truth and grace."
Peter A. Lillback, President, Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia
"This study is a banquet: it feeds the hungry soul with riches from the Word. Sarah covers every facet of Bible study, from teaching the beginning Bible student how to study to helping the seasoned student plumb the depths of each passage. Sarah is a careful, thoughtful student of the Word who makes the complicated passages and images of Revelation very understandable and accessible. Throughout this study, she encourages students to dig deeper and reach further as they apply the Scriptures to their hearts."
Helen Holbrook, children's director, Grace Presbyterian Church of the North Shore, Winnetka, Illinois
"Sarah Ivill invites women to explore the treasures of the book of Revelation and to mind the spiritual riches of the visions granted to John for the comfort and encouragement of Christ's church. Ivill approaches Revelation from the perspective of Reformed theology and inaugurated (amillennial) eschatology. Among the strengths of Revelation are its sensitivity to the Old Testament background of John's visions and to the symbolic genre of the book, the personal illustrations that open and close each lesson and the insightful study questions that encourage thoughtful engagement with the text."
Dennis E. Johnson, Professor of Practical Theology, Westminster Seminary California
“I commend this book for bridging the gap between a commentary and a fill-in-the-blank exercise for women. The study of Revelation has become less challenging and more edifying with Ivill’s book. It is an annotated Bible study, providing Old Testament background, salient commentary, and personal exhortations and examples from a covenantal perspective. Questions for each Bible chapter enhance and encourage group discussion that is focused on Scripture interpreting Scripture.”
Diane M. Poythress, Founder of Women’s Weekend Seminary, Wife, mother, author, Bible study leader, teacher, and speaker
"This is the first study guide to the book of Revelation that I can see using in our women's Bible studies...An inviting, effective tool to gain an understanding of this often-daunting book of the Bible."
Kari Stainback, Director of Women's Ministries, Park Cities Presbyterian Church, Dallas
"Rich, rich, rich. Sarah's book on Revelation digs deep into the Word of God. She brings the whole of Scripture to bear in her expositions so that you truly see the unity of Revelation with the rest of the Bible."
Donna Dobbs, Director of Christian Education, First Presbyterian Church, Jackson, Mississippi
"Revelation can be an intimidating book to read. Its many complexities and pitfalls require careful navigation. But Sarah Ivill proves to be a steady guide, steering the reader through these difficult waters. In this study, she reminds us that the book of Revelation is not just some puzzle to solve or some code to crack. Rather, it is a wonderful and glorious vision of the persona and work of Jesus Christ. Thus, she helps us to see that Revelation is a book not just about the future, but also very much about the present."
Michael J. Kruger, Professor of New Testament, Reformed Theological Seminary, Charlotte
"Sarah Ivill's studies of Scripture are a reflection of the wonderful influences that have shaped her as a scholar and teacher. There is the disciplined textual skill of exegesis and exposition. This flows seamlessly into real-life application. Yet pervading this blend of the scholar-teacher and spiritual counselor is a recognition of the majesty of God and the awe-inspiring privilege of having in one's hands the panorama of the history of redemption accomplished by the triune God of sovereign grace. I highly commend Revelation as a firstfruits of Ivill's careful investigation into Christ's truth and grace."
Peter A. Lillback, President, Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia
"This study is a banquet: it feeds the hungry soul with riches from the Word. Sarah covers every facet of Bible study, from teaching the beginning Bible student how to study to helping the seasoned student plumb the depths of each passage. Sarah is a careful, thoughtful student of the Word who makes the complicated passages and images of Revelation very understandable and accessible. Throughout this study, she encourages students to dig deeper and reach further as they apply the Scriptures to their hearts."
Helen Holbrook, children's director, Grace Presbyterian Church of the North Shore, Winnetka, Illinois
"Sarah Ivill invites women to explore the treasures of the book of Revelation and to mind the spiritual riches of the visions granted to John for the comfort and encouragement of Christ's church. Ivill approaches Revelation from the perspective of Reformed theology and inaugurated (amillennial) eschatology. Among the strengths of Revelation are its sensitivity to the Old Testament background of John's visions and to the symbolic genre of the book, the personal illustrations that open and close each lesson and the insightful study questions that encourage thoughtful engagement with the text."
Dennis E. Johnson, Professor of Practical Theology, Westminster Seminary California