Ask Pastor John

Peace for Second-Guessers

How do we know when we’ve worked hard enough? Pastor John offers six ways to fight anxiety and rest in the grace of Christ.

Was Piper Unprepared?

In 1980, Bethlehem Baptist Church hired 34-year-old John Piper as lead pastor. Pastor John reflects on the life experience and biblical worldview that prepared him for mi

Happiness Myths to Avoid

Modern psychology defines happiness as “self-fulfillment.” But without God, our souls will always long for greater satisfaction and joy.

When God Is Against Me

Can God act as a Christian’s enemy through suffering? Pastor John explains how God’s painful providences do not conflict with his enduring love for his children.

Can My Pain Kill My Sins?

Does suffering kill the sin within us? Pastor John argues from 1 Peter 4:1 that believers die to sin with Christ so we can live to his righteousness.

Trapped in a Meaningless Life

Loss can lead to despair over God’s plan for our lives. When we can’t perceive meaning in life, Pastor John counsels us to find comfort in God’s glorious purpose in Chris

Do Good People Get Hurt?

Does the Bible promise that believers will not be harmed for doing good? Pastor John explains the context of 1 Peter 3:13 and God’s sovereign wisdom in suffering.

The Marriage Miracle That Takes Time

Loving our spouses for better or worse includes loving them through their spiritual apathy. Pastor John gives ten encouragements for the weary.

When You’re Not Sorry

When someone confronts you wrongly, should you apologize? Pastor John encourages humility and reconciliation without giving in to emotional manipulation.

The Gospel Before Jesus Died

Did Jesus preach the gospel before his death and resurrection? Pastor John calls us to a deeper understanding of God as Creator and King, and Jesus as Lord and Savior.

The Perils of a Quick Fix

How can we witness to those who just want a quick fix? Pastor John presses home the shocking reality of eternity and the astounding love of Jesus.

When I’m Too Weak to Be Productive

Can a disabled mother model the Proverbs 31 woman? Pastor John describes the gift of a heart that hopes in God’s steadfast love.

Six Traits of a Forgettable Sermon

Rigorous exposition isn’t at odds with engaging preaching. Pastor John encourages pastors to work for creativity when technical, abstract sermons feel easier.

Do We Need to Go to Church Every Week?

Gathering with other Christians is a crucial way to encourage and be encouraged in Christ. But do we really need to gather every week?

The Joy That Sustained Jesus

Jesus endured unspeakable agony at the cross. Pastor John marvels at the force of his love sustained by expectant joy.

The Barrier to Doctrinal Maturity

Is the Bible accessible only to readers with a high IQ? Pastor John reframes biblical maturity as a moral issue centered on our obedience, not our intellect.

Daily Vigilance for Lifelong Productivity

Daily productivity requires often elusive focus and grit. Pastor John offers ten charges to live each day to the glory of God.

Why Did Jesus Call Her a Dog?

Did Jesus demean the Canaanite woman he called a dog? Pastor John explains how Jesus’s test revealed her great faith — and her adoption as one of God’s own.

When Walking Away Feels Good

Why should we follow Jesus when life seems easier without him? Pastor John responds to a man questioning the cost of daily obedience.

How a Crushed Faith Comes Home

Deep suffering can drive us away from true hope and comfort. But our Father waits to gather us back to himself.