Desiring God

John Piper Explores the Ultimate Source and Object of Pleasure, Satisfaction, and Lasting Joy

“God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in him.” This simple but powerful statement has been a cornerstone of John Piper’s ministry for nearly 40 years. Laying out the principles behind this “Christian Hedonism” Desiring God has proved to be a source of rich theological insight for countless readers through the years, guiding them to the fullness of joy found in Christ.

In this foundational work, John Piper addresses profound questions about the purpose of life and the human pursuit of pleasure. Drawing wisdom from Scripture and insights from church history, Piper challenges the belief that believers must sacrifice joy in order to please God. Instead, finding delight in God does not diminish his glory; rather, it magnifies it and fulfills the deepest desires of our souls.

Explains Christian Hedonism: Human life should be a pursuit of godly pleasure Written by John Piper: Desiring God, first published in 1986, became a cornerstone of Piper’s teaching and ministry Wise Theological Insights: Delves into Piper’s famous statement that “God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in him”

1. Opening Credits
2. Preface: Revised for the 2025 Edition
3. Introduction: How I Became a Christian Hedonist
4. Chapter 1: The Happiness of God: Foundation for Christian Hedonism
5. Chapter 2: Conversion: The Creation of a Christian Hedonist
6. Chapter 3: Worship: The Feast of Christian Hedonism
7. Chapter 4: Love: The Labor of Christian Hedonism
8. Chapter 5: Scripture: Kindling for Christian Hedonism
9. Chapter 6: Prayer: The Power of Christian Hedonism
10. Chapter 7: Money: The Currency of Christian Hedonism
11. Chapter 8: Marriage: A Matrix for Christian Hedonism
12. Chapter 9: Missions: The Battle Cry of Christian Hedonism
13. Chapter 10: Suffering: The Sacrifice of Christian Hedonism
14. Epilogue: Why I Have Written This Book: Seven Reasons
15. Appendix: Why Call It Christian Hedonism?
16. Closing Credits