Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist : Book Review

"Desiring God" by John Piper is an extraordinary book that challenges readers to reconsider their understanding of what it truly means to desire God. Through his insightful and thought-provoking arguments, Piper contends that the ultimate purpose of human existence is to find joy in God above all else, and that this pursuit should be the driving force behind every aspect of our lives.

The book is divided into chapters that explore various aspects of the Christian faith, such as joy, love, and worship, and how they all tie into our desire for God. Piper utilizes a strong theological foundation, drawing upon scripture and sharing personal anecdotes, to support his claims. With his eloquent and engaging writing style, he effectively provides readers with a fresh perspective on their relationship with God.

One of the central messages conveyed in "Desiring God" is the idea that genuine joy and satisfaction can only be found in God, and not in the fleeting pleasures of the world. Piper emphasizes the significance of seeking God above all else, even in the midst of suffering and hardship. He encourages readers to align their desires with God's, resulting in a more purposeful and fulfilling life.

Furthermore, Piper introduces the concept of "Christian hedonism," challenging the misconception that pleasure and happiness are inherently sinful. He argues that when our pleasure is rooted in God and honors His glory, it not only pleases God but also brings us true fulfillment. This perspective prompts readers to reevaluate their preconceived notions about pleasure and happiness.

Overall, "Desiring God" is a profound and inspiring book that will undoubtedly leave readers with a renewed desire to seek God above all else. Piper's passionate and persuasive writing style, coupled with his deep knowledge of scripture, makes this book a must-read for Christians seeking a deeper understanding of their faith and a greater sense of purpose in their lives. It offers a refreshing perspective on the pursuit of God and challenges readers to reassess their priorities and desires.

What are readers saying?

John Piper's book "Desiring God" has elicited a varied response from readers, with some praising its thought-provoking ideas while others criticizing its theological perspective. The book delves into the concept of Christian hedonism and the pursuit of joy in God. Many readers appreciate Piper's compelling arguments, finding his emphasis on finding joy in God rather than worldly pleasures to be challenging and inspiring. They commend the book's theological depth and its ability to foster a deeper relationship with God. Piper's passionate and engaging writing style is also praised for making complex ideas accessible.

However, some readers disagree with Piper's theological stance. They feel that his emphasis on personal pleasure and enjoyment in God's presence contradicts traditional Christian teachings. They argue that the pursuit of happiness should not be the ultimate goal of faith, but rather the pursuit of holiness and obedience. Critics also believe that Piper's arguments lack nuance and fail to acknowledge the complexities of life.

The book has also faced criticism for being repetitive, as similar ideas are reiterated throughout its pages. Some readers believe that a more concise and focused approach would have been beneficial. Others note that "Desiring God" may be challenging for those new to Christian theology, as it assumes a certain level of prior knowledge and delves into complex topics.

Despite the mixed reception, "Desiring God" continues to have a significant impact on readers. Many credit the book with deepening their understanding of faith and bringing them closer to God. It remains a polarizing but valuable resource for those interested in exploring the concept of Christian hedonism and the pursuit of joy in God.