

Guarding the Word, Growing the Church
Aug 13, 2025
John Piper, a renowned pastor and theologian known for highlighting God's centrality in life, discusses the critical role of Scripture in the church’s health and mission. He examines the rapid growth of the Protestant church in Cuba, emphasizing the rise of house churches amidst resistance. Piper celebrates the resilience of Christianity in challenging environments, while also navigating historical tensions within the early church. His insights remind listeners of the importance of maintaining focus on the mission, even amid conflicts.
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Centrality Of The Word Is The Primary Threat
- The central threat to the church is anything that jeopardizes the centrality of the Word of God.
- Protecting the Word is presented as the decisive factor for the church's health and mission.
Luke Intends Celebration Of Church Growth
- Luke repeatedly emphasizes numerical growth in Acts as evidence of Jesus' reign and the Spirit's power.
- Piper urges celebrating such growth instead of idealizing or dismissing it out of cautious skepticism.
Movements Gather Mixed Believers
- Movements driven by the Spirit often include mixed elements—true converts and untransformed enthusiasts.
- Piper argues Acts shows God gathers 'all kinds of fish' and later separates good from bad.