

Light + Truth
Desiring God
Classic sermons from John Piper to help you see Christ clearly and treasure him truly. Five days a week, 20 minutes per episode. Hosted by Dan Cruver.
Episodes
Mentioned books

8 snips
Jan 16, 2026 • 24min
The Cross Proves God Is Just
In this engaging discussion, John Piper, an influential Reformed theologian and founder of Desiring God, explores the profound implications of Christ's death on God's justice. Piper addresses tough questions about forgiveness and justice, revealing how the cross allows God to uphold fairness while offering mercy. He shares convicting insights from Romans and Isaiah, illustrating how Jesus' sacrifice secures God's righteousness. This thought-provoking conversation emphasizes the beauty of substitutionary atonement, bringing comfort to believers wrestling with sin.

Jan 15, 2026 • 23min
The Tension That Demands the Cross
John Piper, a Reformed pastor and theologian renowned for his deep biblical insights, tackles the profound tension between God's justice and mercy. He dives into Romans 3:21–26, explaining how sin undermines God's glory and leads to a divine dilemma. Utilizing a musical metaphor, he illustrates how Christ's death resolves this discord in redemptive history. Piper also discusses the prophetic significance of Isaiah 53, emphasizing the Messiah’s suffering and the hope of justification through Him.

Jan 14, 2026 • 20min
The God Who Humbles and Restores
Discover how God's power humbles the proud while exalting the humble in a profound exploration of Job's journey. Delve into the tension between human presumption and divine wisdom. Witness Job's transformative submission, leading to his repentance and restoration. Learn from the experiences of George Mueller and John Bunyan about faith in adversity. Explore the beauty emerging from suffering through the lens of William Cowper's hymns. Finally, grasp the gospel's promise as the ultimate hope in times of trial.

Jan 13, 2026 • 31min
When God Cross-Examines Man
John Piper, a renowned Reformed pastor and theologian, delves into Job 38, where God addresses Job from a whirlwind. He explores profound questions about divine sovereignty, pointing out our ignorance in contrast to God's omniscience. Piper emphasizes God's meticulous oversight of creation, from the depths of the ocean to the cosmos, encouraging humility and awe. He highlights the mystery of life, the creativity found in diverse creatures, and calls for worship in recognizing God's daily acts of governance. A captivating discussion that invites listeners to marvel at divine wisdom.

Jan 12, 2026 • 24min
Every Need Redefined
In a thought-provoking conversation, John Piper, a renowned Reformed pastor and theologian, dives into the complexities of suffering through the lens of the book of Job. He challenges the notion that our deepest need is escape, proposing instead that endurance is essential. Piper redefines 'every need' by contextualizing biblical promises, asserting that true needs glorify God, not necessarily comfort. He emphasizes that suffering can serve to showcase God's worth and cautions against equating hardship with personal guilt.

Jan 9, 2026 • 24min
When the Scalpel Is in the Father’s Hand
In this thought-provoking discussion, John Piper, a renowned Reformed pastor and theologian, tackles the complex nature of suffering in light of Scripture. He challenges the notion that suffering is always punitive, suggesting that it can reveal hidden pride and lead to spiritual growth. Piper likens God to a loving surgeon who uses affliction for our holiness and explores how the righteous can endure hardships. Drawing connections to New Testament teachings, he emphasizes that God’s discipline ultimately delivers us from our trials.

Jan 8, 2026 • 27min
When God Is a Surgeon, Not a Judge
In a thought-provoking discussion, John Piper, a respected Reformed pastor and theologian, dives into the complexities of suffering as outlined in Job 32-37. He underscores Elihu's role as a crucial voice in Job’s narrative. Piper argues that God, like a surgeon, uses pain to heal and rescue the righteous from their pride. He also emphasizes the importance of listening to Elihu’s insights, suggesting that suffering can reveal truths about God’s character and our own misconceptions. This engaging dialogue redefines our understanding of divine intervention.

Jan 7, 2026 • 20min
Holding Fast Through False Judgment
John Piper, a renowned Reformed pastor and theologian, delves deep into the trials of Job, illustrating his journey from despair to faith. He discusses Job's evolving views on death, resurrection hope, and the inherent mystery of God's ways. Piper warns about the misuse of theology and emphasizes that suffering doesn't correlate to righteousness. He passionately encourages listeners to hold fast to God through life's darkest moments, affirming the existence of a hidden wisdom in God's sovereign plan.

Jan 6, 2026 • 25min
When Friends Wound with Their Words
John Piper, a renowned Reformed pastor and theologian, delves into the complexities of suffering through the lens of Job. He critiques how Job’s friends' harsh theology misrepresents God, highlighting the insensitivity in their responses. Piper explores the damaging implications of equating suffering with sin, showcasing failures in pastoral care. As Job’s frustration escalates, Piper emphasizes the need for tenderness in truth, reminding us that rigid theology can cause deep wounds to the hurting.

Jan 5, 2026 • 19min
When God Permits and Governs Our Pain
In this enlightening conversation, John Piper, a respected Reformed pastor and theologian, explores the depths of suffering through the lens of Job's trials. He discusses the balance between God's sovereignty and Satan's permission, and why Job's faithfulness serves as a model for evangelism. Piper contrasts immediate crisis grace with the challenge of enduring prolonged suffering and reflects on the wisdom of Job's friends during his darkest days. His insights offer profound comfort and guidance for anyone grappling with pain.


