Deep Dive into Desiring God by John Piper - Suffering: The Sacrifice of Christian Hedonism

In "Suffering: The Sacrifice of Christian Hedonism," John Piper presents the radical argument that the authentic Christian life is defined by chosen suffering, embraced through the hope of the resurrection. Piper contrasts the Apostle Paul’s view with the notion that virtue is its own reward; for Paul, a life of sacrifice without the promise of eternal joy in Christ would be pitiable. Therefore, the Christian motive is one of "Christian Hedonism"—the pursuit of supreme satisfaction in God, which empowers believers to endure pain for His glory.

Piper clarifies that suffering is not merely a misfortune but a divine calling intended to wean believers from self-reliance and magnify Christ’s all-sufficient grace. Central to this theology is Paul’s assertion in Colossians 1:24 regarding "filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions." Piper explains that this does not imply any deficiency in Jesus’s atoning work. Instead, the afflictions of Christ are "lacking" only in their personal presentation to the world. Through their own suffering, Christians extend Christ's sufferings, making His love visible and tangible to those who do not yet know Him.

This theology is supported by historical and contemporary examples, from Polycarp to Richard Wurmbrand, demonstrating that "the blood of the martyrs is seed." Whether through persecution or the hardships of ministry, suffering acts as a powerful instrument for evangelism—termed "propagation" rather than "propitiation." Ultimately, this sacrificial path is not joyless; it is sustained by the Holy Spirit and the assurance of a great reward, proving that God is most glorified in believers when they are most satisfied in Him, even amidst their deepest pain.

Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologian

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