

Ask Pastor John
Desiring God
John Piper answering tough theological and pastoral questions.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 23, 2023 • 12min
Should We Consult with Dead Ancestors?
Exploring the belief in ancestral consultation, Pastor John explains why pursuing communication with the dead dishonors God. Discussing the biblical evidence and God's prohibition of consulting with the dead, he emphasizes seeking knowledge and guidance from God. The podcast also explores the idea of seeking messages from ancestors and argues that it goes against God's sovereignty and dishonors Him.

Oct 19, 2023 • 11min
Can Pro-Life Advocates Lie to Save Lives?
This podcast explores the ethical debate surrounding the use of lies to persuade parents to keep their babies, emphasizing the importance of honesty. It also discusses the cultural impact of compromising moral means for good ends and the biblical opposition to doing evil for good. The episode references a previous episode on abortion.

4 snips
Oct 16, 2023 • 14min
John Piper on ChatGPT
In this podcast, Pastor John reflects on the impact of artificial intelligence on his legacy and ministry. He discusses the use of AI in generating responses and the existence of artificially produced content. The podcast also explores the relevance of Christian hedonism to AI and emphasizes the importance of spiritual affections. Additionally, it delves into the concept of new creation in Christ and the transformation brought by the Holy Spirit.

Oct 12, 2023 • 11min
Is It Sinful to Be Unhappy?
The podcast explores the question of whether it is sinful to lack joy, offering a simple answer with three crucial qualifications. It delves into the relationship between joy and sorrow in the Christian faith, emphasizing empathy and mourning. Additionally, it discusses finding joy and pleasing God, highlighting the importance of growth despite our shortcomings.

8 snips
Oct 9, 2023 • 12min
Is Joy a Choice or a Feeling?
Exploring the concept of joy as a decision or a consequence of certain actions, the importance of choosing to serve God with an inclined heart, and the nature of joy in God as a God-given, spontaneous experience of His beauty, worth, and greatness.

7 snips
Oct 5, 2023 • 12min
What Old Testament Promises Are for Me?
Understanding and applying Old Testament verses for Christians. Differences between the church and Israel in the Old Testament: lack of punishment authority, diversity, abandoned practices. Contrast in focus between Old and New Testaments, role of sacrifices, indwelling Spirit of Christ.

Oct 2, 2023 • 13min
Evidence for the Cross and Resurrection
Exploring the absence of concrete proof for the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, the reliability of the New Testament, and the struggle some face in believing despite historical evidence.

10 snips
Sep 28, 2023 • 12min
Does God Love Us Simply for His Glory?
Exploring questions about God's love for believers and the purpose of our existence, including being image bearers of God and God's love for unbelievers. Delving into whether we are simply a means to God's self-glorification and if His love for us is solely for our benefit or includes glorifying Him. Discussing the relationship between God's love and His glory and the fallen nature of humans. Arguing that it is atheistic to believe that God's blessings should not be glorified by humans.

Sep 25, 2023 • 11min
If Sin’s Penalty Is Eternal, Why Isn’t Jesus Still Suffering?
Exploring the significance and achievement of Christ's sacrifice, and the worth and sufficiency of Jesus's suffering for sinners

Sep 21, 2023 • 10min
Six Reasons Jesus Left Earth After Easter
Exploring the reasons for Jesus' departure after the resurrection and the wisdom behind his ascension to heaven, highlighting the greatness of God's ways.