John Piper answering tough theological and pastoral questions.
Episodes
1,000- · 13 minScrolling the Soul Shallow
Entertainment swamps nearly all of life in triviality. So, how can we resist the tide and embrace a wholehearted, soul-satisfying pursuit of God?
- · 13 minThe Flavors of Holy Joy
A well-cooked meal and a newborn baby fill our hearts with different delights. Pastor John explains how God’s gifts offer us a multicolored experience of joy.
- · 14 minHow Evil Works
How does Satan influence the world, and where do we see his work most clearly? Pastor John describes Satan’s power and limits under Christ’s victorious work.
- · 13 minPeace for Second-Guessers
How do we know when we’ve worked hard enough? Pastor John offers six ways to fight anxiety and rest in the grace of Christ.
- · 15 minWas Piper Unprepared?
In 1980, Bethlehem Baptist Church hired 34-year-old John Piper as lead pastor. Pastor John reflects on the life experience and biblical worldview that prepared him for ministry.
- · 14 minHappiness Myths to Avoid
Modern psychology defines happiness as “self-fulfillment.” But without God, our souls will always long for greater satisfaction and joy.
- · 13 minWhen God Is Against Me
Can God act as a Christian’s enemy through suffering? Pastor John explains how God’s painful providences do not conflict with his enduring love for his children.
- · 11 minCan My Pain Kill My Sins?
Does suffering kill the sin within us? Pastor John argues from 1 Peter 4:1 that believers die to sin with Christ so we can live to his righteousness.
- · 16 minTrapped in a Meaningless Life
Loss can lead to despair over God’s plan for our lives. When we can’t perceive meaning in life, Pastor John counsels us to find comfort in God’s glorious purpose in Christ.
- · 13 minDo Good People Get Hurt?
Does the Bible promise that believers will not be harmed for doing good? Pastor John explains the context of 1 Peter 3:13 and God’s sovereign wisdom in suffering.
- · 13 minThe Marriage Miracle That Takes Time
Loving our spouses for better or worse includes loving them through their spiritual apathy. Pastor John gives ten encouragements for the weary.
- · 12 minWhen You’re Not Sorry
When someone confronts you wrongly, should you apologize? Pastor John encourages humility and reconciliation without giving in to emotional manipulation.
- · 14 minThe Gospel Before Jesus Died
Did Jesus preach the gospel before his death and resurrection? Pastor John calls us to a deeper understanding of God as Creator and King, and Jesus as Lord and Savior.
- · 12 minThe Perils of a Quick Fix
How can we witness to those who just want a quick fix? Pastor John presses home the shocking reality of eternity and the astounding love of Jesus.
- · 12 minWhen I’m Too Weak to Be Productive
Can a disabled mother model the Proverbs 31 woman? Pastor John describes the gift of a heart that hopes in God’s steadfast love.
- · 13 minSix Traits of a Forgettable Sermon
Rigorous exposition isn’t at odds with engaging preaching. Pastor John encourages pastors to work for creativity when technical, abstract sermons feel easier.
- · 13 minDo We Need to Go to Church Every Week?
Gathering with other Christians is a crucial way to encourage and be encouraged in Christ. But do we really need to gather every week?
- · 13 minThe Joy That Sustained Jesus
Jesus endured unspeakable agony at the cross. Pastor John marvels at the force of his love sustained by expectant joy.
- · 13 minThe Barrier to Doctrinal Maturity
Is the Bible accessible only to readers with a high IQ? Pastor John reframes biblical maturity as a moral issue centered on our obedience, not our intellect.
- · 13 minDaily Vigilance for Lifelong Productivity
Daily productivity requires often elusive focus and grit. Pastor John offers ten charges to live each day to the glory of God.