The Presence of God: Its Place in the Storyline of Scripture and the Story of Our Lives

“Gods presence is fundamental to Gods story. It is a profound reality. While we have access to this reality in part through our experience of it, the reality is even more than what we experience it is deep theology grounded in what God has said in his Word about himself. Listers work examines this fertile soil of Gods self-revelation, out of which our experiences can flourish with renewed vigor.”

“The much misunderstood notion of the presence of God is central to the Bibles story from beginning to end. Ryan Lister explains how it is both Gods goal for us and the means by which God accomplishes his redemptive mission. This fresh approach to biblical theology is presented as an unfolding drama, with many practical and pastoral implications. In particular, it shows that a sound and scripturally mature analysis of the presence of God can help answer this worlds deep-seated spiritual desires.”

“The whole of the Bible, from soon after the entrance of sin in Genesis 3 to Revelation 22, can be read as the story of God coming nearer. The Presence of God is filled with insight that unpacks the fullness of Scriptures development on this theme, but also shows how precious the concept of Gods presence with his people is for our lives. Lister has been very careful to represent clearly and appropriately the development of this beautiful biblical theme, and he has done this in a way that is highly relevant for Christian identity and Christian living. Do yourself a favorread this book and rejoice that God has chosen to come near.”

“We need more biblical theologies like this one! Ryan Lister has identified a central biblical theme that we easily take for granted. With the unity of Scripture to the fore, he has provided us with a diligently researched study of one of the golden threads that highlight the glories of Christs person and work. This is thematic biblical study at its best.”

“Ryan Lister knows more about the biblical teaching concerning Gods presence in the world than anyone else I know. And there is no theme more important to our relationship with God. Listers book is a great antidote to the temptation to see God only as a concept, doctrine, or formula, or to regard him only as a force in the world outside ourselves. The book shows that God is our friend and Father, and that in him we live and move and have our being.”