Ask Pastor John

Resting in the saving work of Jesus is key to confidence in faith. Doubts trouble many, but there are biblical means to grow assurance. Pursuing assurance earnestly is vital for true belief. Abiding in Christ nurtures confidence and endurance. Combining theology with prayer enhances understanding of hope. Faithfulness in service and battling sin strengthen faith. Suffering can lead to growth in character and hope. Finally, trusting in God’s promise to keep you brings lasting assurance.

In this insightful discussion, John Piper, a Reformed pastor and theologian, explores the fundamental question of how one can truly know they are a Christian. He emphasizes that peace of mind comes from two key signs: a spirited battle against sin and a heartfelt cry of 'Abba Father.' Piper highlights that being led by the Spirit is crucial for recognizing our identity as God's children. He also reflects on the importance of treasuring Christ, particularly in challenging circumstances, making this conversation both profound and deeply encouraging.

The discussion dives into how pastors make wise preaching decisions, considering the mind of Christ. Various aspects of God's will are clarified, including sovereign, moral, and discerned applications. John emphasizes spiritual discernment over mere scriptural commands, tackling decision anxiety. Personal influences like prayer also play a role in sermon selection. He shares how Romans 8 inspired a special prison sermon and highlights key themes like assurance and Christ's provision. The power of prayer throughout the preparation process is also underscored.

Finding a local church can be daunting, but there are key steps to make it easier. Start with earnest prayer for guidance and refresh your understanding of a healthy church. Personal recommendations from trusted locals can offer valuable insights. Utilize the internet wisely, focusing on church substance over style. Assess leadership quality, congregation character, and teaching depth. Ensure the church fosters service and community joy, all while committing the process to prayer.

The discussion dives into the intersection of God's judgment and compassion. Pastor John explores how Lamentations and Jeremiah present seemingly contradictory views of God's heart. He emphasizes that both texts reflect the complex emotions of God—grief intertwined with justice. Examples from Scripture highlight how God experiences joy in repentance while also maintaining rightful anger at sin. Ultimately, divine afflictions are portrayed as deeply felt and rooted in love and justice, revealing the multifaceted nature of God's character.

The discussion dives into the tension between scripture about God's inability to be tempted and Jesus' experiences. The hosts clarify the Greek terms for testing and temptation, showing Jesus faced real external temptations but remained sinless. They explore how James' definitions protect the idea of God testing without enticing to sin. Emphasizing that Jesus felt temptation intensely without yielding, the conversation highlights the profound nature of his sinlessness and experiences.

The conversation highlights sexual purity as an expression of love. It celebrates the beauty of longing for a God-centered marriage while cautioning against unhealthy desires that can lead to lust. Emphasis is placed on prioritizing Christ over marriage and using waiting years to develop character. Listeners are encouraged to stay active to combat temptation and to avoid triggers that threaten purity. Overall, it's about channeling desires positively and preparing for a faithful, Christ-like relationship.

Explore the fascinating interplay of sorrow and joy, revealing how deep joy can coexist with sorrow. John Piper shares his evolving thoughts on unhappiness, including important exegetical corrections. He highlights the significance of suffering and its unexpected compatibility with joy. The podcast features a powerful testimony of finding happiness amidst pain, illustrating the pursuit of profound joy rooted in Christ and God's sovereignty. Delve into a conversation that challenges conventional emotional experiences and offers fresh perspectives on faith.

Discover how to find joy in daily work while keeping it in perspective. The discussion highlights work as a divine gift, encouraging gratitude and enjoyment. Caution is advised in interpreting Ecclesiastes, balancing earthly life with a higher purpose. A New Testament lens reveals the importance of generosity and good deeds. Pastor John also shares practical steps to assess your motives, realign work with gospel values, and celebrate the fulfillment that work can bring.

The discussion dives into the nature of human evil and its consequences. A thought experiment contrasts mass murder without God to emphasize the gravity of sin. The Bible's take on sin highlights dishonoring God rather than just harming others. Drawing on Jeremiah, the talk explores the horror of forsaking God for trivial pursuits. Ultimately, it underscores the deep need for a Savior, positioning Jesus as the answer to humanity's profound trespass against the divine.