John Piper

Is a bible scholar, Baptist theologian, pastor, and chancellor of Bethlehem College & Seminary in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Piper founded Desiring God Ministries, with the aim of "spread[ing] a passion for the supremacy of God in all things for the joy of all peoples through Jesus Christ".

What is John Piper known for?

John Stephen Piper, born on January 11, 1946 in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is a renowned American Reformed Baptist theologian, pastor, and author. Piper is highly respected in his theological work, which prominently draws from Evangelicalism, Baptist belief, and New Calvinism. His theological conviction, often dubbed Christian Hedonism, has significantly influenced modern Christian thought.

Piper's early life was spent in Greenville, South Carolina, where he completed his high school education at Wade Hampton High School in 1964. Following high school, Piper furthered his education at Wheaton College, where he developed a profound interest in literature and philosophy.

In his illustrious career, Piper has published numerous influential books. Notable works include 'Love Your Enemies' (1979), 'The Justification of God' (1983), 'Desiring God' (1986), 'The Pleasures of God' (1991), 'Recovering Biblical Manhood and Womanhood' (1991), 'Don't Waste Your Life' (2003), and 'Providence' (2021). Many of his writings, such as 'Spectacular Sins,' 'What Jesus Demands from the World,' 'Pierced by the Word,' and 'God's Passion for His Glory,' have received the ECPA Christian Book Award. Furthermore, his bestsellers include 'Don't Waste Your Life' and 'The Passion of Jesus Christ.'

In addition to writing, Piper served as a biblical studies instructor at Bethel University for six years (1974-1980). He then held the role of pastor for preaching and vision at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota for 33 years (1980-2013). Currently, Piper is the chancellor of Bethlehem College and Seminary in Minneapolis and the founder and senior teacher of desiringGod.org, a ministry named after his influential book, 'Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist' (1986).

Throughout his vocation, John Piper's contribution to theology, philosophy, and literature has undoubtedly left a significant impact on Christian thought.

For further reading about John Piper, you might want to visit Desiring God Ministries or the Bethlehem College & Seminary website.