Deep Dive into Desiring God by John Piper - Appendix: Why Call It Christian Hedonism?

John Piper’s philosophy of Christian Hedonism defines the Christian life as a pursuit of full and everlasting pleasure in God. The core thesis asserts that God is most glorified in human beings when they are most satisfied in Him. Consequently, the pursuit of joy is not merely optional but a binding duty; indifference or "lukewarmness" toward God is treated as a severe sin comparable to disobedience.

Piper adopts the controversial term "hedonism" based on standard dictionary definitions describing it as a "living for pleasure" or a "devotion to pleasure." He clarifies that he is not endorsing the technical philosophical theory that all human actions are inherently motivated by pleasure. Instead, he presents a normative claim: everyone should be motivated by the pursuit of superior satisfaction in the Almighty.

The author defends this provocative terminology for several reasons. First, he cites precedents from thinkers like C.S. Lewis and Vernard Eller. Lewis described the enjoyment of God as an "arduous discipline," while Eller, interpreting Kierkegaard, argued that the sole motive of Christian simplicity is the enjoyment of God Himself—likening it to seeing the stars rather than being blinded by the artificial lights of worldly comfort. Second, Piper intends the term to have an "arresting and jolting effect," waking "joyless believers" to the biblical command to delight in the Lord.

Finally, Piper argues that Scripture often redeems worldly or negative language—such as Jesus comparing His return to a thief—to convey spiritual truth. He notes that the Apostle Paul even used the Greek root for hedonism (hēdista) to describe boasting "most gladly" in his weaknesses. The adjective "Christian" ensures this pursuit remains grounded in the Bible, transforming the secular concept of self-indulgence into a God-centered passion.

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