Most people know that one of the greatest influences in my Christian life has been the writing, preaching, and teaching of Dr. John Piper through Desiring God Ministries. I read the book Desiring God several years ago and it changed my life — I’ve read it every year since then and have given away at least a dozen copies. I have attended the last two Desiring God National Conferences and was blessed to have the opportunity to visit Bethlehem Baptist Church and meet Dr. Piper both times (read about it here). I’ve read every other book he has written. I’ve listened to at least 1 sermon nearly every day since the Desiring God podcast began. My wife and I are happy members of the Philippian Fellowship and love supporting the ministry. Needless to say, I’m hooked! John Piper is for me what Jonathan Edwards is for him. That’s huge.
When I first began in student ministry, naturally, I wanted to study everything I could about it from the Scriptures, from books, and I wanted to hear what John Piper had to say. I’m glad I did, because he preached a message in 2002 that has shaped me as I’ve thought about how I do student ministry and why my philosophy of ministry is what it is today, specifically as it pertains to my style and focus in preaching and teaching. I’ve been wanting to share it with everyone, but noticed that it wasn’t up on the website. So, I emailed Carol Steinbach, who is always so faithful to help, and she got it up on the internet so I could link to it for everyone to hear. It’s up now, so with every bit of recommendation that I could possibly give, I encourage everyone to listen to this sermon:
Once you listen to it, let me know what you think… Thank God for John Piper. Everyone on my student ministry team is getting a copy of this sermon. I’ve also made it available to listen to on my sidebar (scroll down on the right side).
Filed under: Books, Ecclesiology, Ministry, Pastoral, Personal, Teaching, student ministry
I think the first five minutes is enough to make most youth workers feel like they’ve been kicked in the groin.
Maybe it’s just me.
Thanks for sharing – I have shared this with our Student Pastor.
Nick,
This sermon by Piper is something that all student pastors should hear. We gave you a shout out to you today at Two Institutions. We also linked the podcast. Thanks for getting the word out!
Nick: you’re right man — pretty stiff stuff, but a great reminder all the way though. Thankfully, I got my hands on this before I started in ministry, so it has been a constant on my brain.
Mike: Thanks for the gracious “shout out” and recognition on your blog — I really appreciate the kind words and publicity! Thank God for Desiring God ministries for doing everything they can to make their stuff available for free. What a great offering!