Ask Pastor John

Can Delight in God Become Self-Serving?

7 snips
Sep 25, 2025
The podcast explores the tension in Isaiah 58 between public worship and private injustice. Pastor John differentiates between hypocritical pleasure in God and authentic joy that leads to mercy. He discusses the importance of context in understanding apparent biblical contradictions. The conversation highlights the need for genuine delight in the Sabbath, moving beyond self-indulgence. Ultimately, true joy in God should encompass the well-being of others, emphasizing a communal aspect of Christian happiness.
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INSIGHT

Apparent Contradictions Guard Truths

  • Apparent contradictions in Scripture often protect against careless misuse of biblical truths.
  • John Piper warns that a truth can be true yet be taken in a wrong direction without context.
INSIGHT

Outward Worship Can Mask Injustice

  • Isaiah 58 exposes worshipers who outwardly delight in God but act unjustly toward others.
  • Piper shows their singing and worship masked private pleasure while they oppressed workers.
ADVICE

Honor Sabbath To Find True Delight

  • Stop turning God's Sabbath into a day of private self-indulgence and honor it as He designed.
  • Piper says true Sabbath honor leads to delighting in the Lord and spiritual elevation.
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