Messages by Desiring God (Video)

Is Joy in Jesus a Christian Obligation?

5 snips
Dec 13, 2025
John Piper, Reformed pastor and author known for championing Christian hedonism, explores whether delighting in Christ is a duty. He lays out biblical observations, responds to criticisms, and gives six arguments linking joy to conversion, obedience, self-denial, love, and God’s glory. The conversation closes with an invitation to embrace lasting joy in Jesus.
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INSIGHT

Enjoying God Is A Biblical Duty

  • John Piper argues that enjoying Jesus is not optional but a commanded Christian duty rooted in Scripture.
  • He says pursuing joy in God is the one true path to full and lasting joy and thus a required vocation.
ADVICE

Obey Commands To Delight In The Lord

  • Follow biblical commands like "delight yourself in the Lord" as actual obligations, not mere suggestions.
  • If you struggle to delight, recognize it as something you ought to do and seek the new heart God provides.
ANECDOTE

Panel With Elisabeth Elliott

  • John Piper recounts being challenged by Elisabeth Elliott who urged pursuing obedience over joy.
  • He responded that obedience includes delighting in God, saying both approaches are biblical.
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