10 Best Books by John Piper (Christian Faith Reads)

John Piper is a well-known pastor, author, and theologian who has written extensively on Christian faith and the Bible. Over the years, he has authored numerous books that have inspired and challenged readers around the world. If you’re new to John Piper’s writing, or just looking for some of his best work, then this article is for you. Here are the best books by John Piper you should read, along with brief explanations of their content and significance.

10 Best Books by John Piper (Christian Faith Reads)

Understanding John Piper’s Theology and Writing Style

Before diving into the books themselves, it’s worth taking a moment to understand John Piper’s overall theology and writing style. Piper is one of the most influential Christian writers and preachers of our time, and his work has had a profound impact on countless believers around the world.

The influence of Christian Hedonism

Piper first introduced the idea of Christian Hedonism in his book Desiring God, which we’ll explore in more depth later. Essentially, the idea is that we were created to find joy in God, and that this joy is both our duty and our delight. By seeking our own happiness in God, we not only serve Him better, but also experience greater fulfillment ourselves.

Christian Hedonism is a radical departure from the legalistic and joyless Christianity that many of us have experienced. It’s a call to embrace the goodness and beauty of God, and to find our ultimate satisfaction in Him. This concept is a common thread throughout Piper’s writing, and informs his view of many theological topics.

The centrality of the glory of God

Another key aspect of Piper’s theology is his emphasis on the glory of God. He believes that everything in creation exists ultimately to showcase God’s greatness and goodness, and that our job as humans is to join in this mission by obeying Him and reflecting His character.

This understanding of God’s glory plays a major role in several of Piper’s books, especially The Pleasures of God. In this book, Piper argues that God’s glory is not something that we add to Him, but rather something that we discover and delight in. He shows how the beauty and goodness of God are on full display in the world around us, and invites us to join in the celebration of His glory.

The importance of Scripture in Piper’s works

Finally, it’s worth noting that Scripture is central to Piper’s writing. He firmly believes in the authority and sufficiency of the Bible, and uses it extensively in his books to support his arguments and ideas.

Many of his books are structured around deep dives into specific passages or themes from Scripture, which he then applies to various aspects of the Christian life. This approach is rooted in Piper’s belief that the Bible is not just a collection of moral teachings or historical accounts, but rather the very words of God Himself.

Overall, John Piper’s theology and writing style are marked by a deep reverence for God and a passionate desire to see His glory known and celebrated. Whether you’re a seasoned Christian or just beginning to explore the faith, his books are sure to challenge and inspire you in your walk with God.

Top 5 Must-Read Books by John Piper

John Piper is a widely respected theologian and author who has written numerous books on Christian living, theology, and missions. His works are known for their deep insights, passionate writing style, and emphasis on the glory of God. If you’re looking to dive into Piper’s writing, here are five books that are essential reading:

Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist

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Desiring God is perhaps John Piper’s most famous book. In it, he lays out the concept of Christian Hedonism and explores its implications for believers. He argues that our pursuit of happiness in God is not only allowed, but required by Scripture, and shows how this mindset can transform our approach to prayer, worship, and even suffering. This book has had a profound impact on countless Christians, and continues to be a classic of modern Christian literature.

Piper’s emphasis on finding joy in God is refreshing and inspiring. He challenges readers to view their relationship with God as one of delight and passion, rather than duty or obligation. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of what it means to follow Jesus.

The Pleasures of God: Meditations on God’s Delight in Being God

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Piper’s emphasis on the glory of God comes through strongly in The Pleasures of God. Here, he explores the depths of God’s character and nature, showing how His perfect love, justice, and sovereignty are all manifestations of His essential goodness. By examining various passages from Scripture, Piper helps us to see God’s glory more clearly and to appreciate the joy that comes from knowing Him.

This book is a wonderful reminder that God is not distant or indifferent, but rather deeply invested in our lives and well-being. It will challenge you to see God’s hand at work in every aspect of your life, and to find joy in His goodness and faithfulness.

Don’t Waste Your Life

Don't Waste Your Life

In Don’t Waste Your Life, Piper issues a passionate call to live for something greater than our own comfort or pleasure. He urges readers to embrace a radical, God-centered approach to life, in which everything we do is infused with purpose and meaning. This book is challenging and convicting, but also deeply inspiring, as Piper shares powerful stories of people who have lived out this kind of radical obedience and found great joy in doing so.

If you’re feeling stuck or aimless in your life, this book will give you a fresh perspective and a renewed sense of purpose. It will challenge you to think deeply about what really matters in life, and to live with a sense of urgency and intentionality.

Let the Nations Be Glad!: The Supremacy of God in Missions

Let the Nations be Glad: The Supremacy Of God In Missions

Missions is an area of great passion for John Piper, and that passion shines through in Let the Nations Be Glad! Here, he shows how the central message of the Bible is God’s desire for His glory to be proclaimed throughout the world, and how this goal should drive our own involvement in global missions. Piper argues that missions is not simply a side project of Christian faith, but rather an essential aspect of following Jesus. This book will challenge you to re-think your own involvement in missions, and to see it as a crucial part of God’s plan for the world.

If you’ve ever wondered what your role is in God’s plan for the world, this book is a great place to start. It will challenge you to see the world through God’s eyes, and to join Him in His mission to bring salvation and hope to all nations.

Future Grace: The Purifying Power of the Promises of God

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In Future Grace, Piper explores the idea that God’s promises to us are not just for the future, but can actually transform our present circumstances. He shows how the hope of eternal life can give us strength and endurance in the face of suffering, and how the promise of forgiveness can free us from the weight of guilt. Through well-chosen stories and passages from Scripture, Piper encourages readers to trust in God’s promises and to live with a deep sense of hope and confidence.

This book is a powerful reminder that God’s grace is not just a one-time event, but an ongoing source of strength and comfort in our lives. It will challenge you to trust in God’s goodness and faithfulness, even in the midst of difficult circumstances, and to live with a sense of peace and joy that can only come from Him.

5 More Essential Books by John Piper

If you’ve read through the previous five books and are hungry for more, fear not – John Piper has written plenty of other great works. Here are five more that are definitely worth your time.

When I Don’t Desire God: How to Fight for Joy

When I Don't Desire God: How to Fight For Joy

Despite our best intentions, there are times when we simply don’t feel like following God or pursuing joy in Him. In When I Don’t Desire God, Piper addresses this common struggle and offers practical advice for how to fight for joy even in the midst of spiritual dryness or difficulties. He shows how disciplines like prayer, Scripture reading, and community can help us to rekindle our desire for God and find joy in Him once more.

God Is the Gospel: Meditations on God’s Love as the Gift of Himself

An Introduction to God Is the Gospel: Meditations on God's Love as the Gift of Himself (John Piper Small Group Series)

At its core, the Gospel is not just a message of forgiveness or salvation, but a revelation of the greatness and goodness of God Himself. In God Is the Gospel, Piper explores this idea in depth, showing how the love of God is the ultimate gift we can receive. He argues that only when we see God as the greatest treasure of all will we truly be able to grasp the fullness of the Gospel message. This book is a powerful reminder of the centrality of God Himself in our Christian faith.

This Momentary Marriage: A Parable of Permanence

This Momentary Marriage: A Parable of Permanence

Marriage is a topic that John Piper has written extensively about, and This Momentary Marriage is perhaps his most significant work on the subject. In it, he argues that marriage is not just a legal contract or social convention, but a reflection of the covenantal love between Christ and His Church. He shows how a proper understanding of marriage can strengthen our relationship with God and with our spouse, and offers practical advice for how to pursue a God-honoring marriage even in the midst of difficulties.

A Peculiar Glory: How the Christian Scriptures Reveal Their Complete Truthfulness

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The Bible is often the subject of much debate and controversy, with some people questioning its historical accuracy or reliability. In A Peculiar Glory, Piper takes on these objections head-on and shows how the Scriptures themselves provide ample evidence of their own truthfulness. Through a combination of historical analysis, linguistic study, and personal testimony, Piper argues that the Bible is not just another book, but a living and powerful witness to the reality of God Himself.

The Justification of God: An Exegetical and Theological Study of Romans 9:1-23

The Justification of God: An Exegetical and Theological Study of Romans 9:1-23

Finally, for those who are looking for a more in-depth study of a specific biblical passage, The Justification of God is a must-read. In it, Piper closely examines Romans 9:1-23, a famously challenging and controversial passage that deals with issues of predestination and election. Piper argues that the passage is ultimately aimed at demonstrating the glory and justice of God, and uses careful exegesis and theological reflection to show how this seemingly difficult text fits into the broader narrative of Scripture.

Conclusion

John Piper is a prolific and deeply thoughtful writer, whose works have inspired and challenged millions around the world. Whether exploring the depths of God’s character, calling us to radical obedience, or showing us how to find joy in the most difficult circumstances, his books are a powerful witness to the transformative power of the Gospel. If you’re new to his writing, or just looking for some of his best works, these ten books are an excellent place to start.

FAQs

What church does John Piper belong to?

Piper, a theologian, is a pastor at the Bethlehem Baptist Church in Minnesota and has been preaching there since 1980. He was thirty-four when he began his career in the Church.

What is John Piper’s most recent novel?

Piper’s most recent novel, All that Jesus Commanded, was released in 2023 and follows the publication of both What is Saving Faith: Reflections on Receiving Christ, and 27 Servants of Sovereign Joy: Faithful, Flawed, and Fruitful, in 2022.

How many books has John Piper authored?

Releasing his first book in 1980, titled Love Your Enemies, Piper has since authored over seventy books. 

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Eddison Monroe
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