Watch the video above and talk about it with a group or mentor. Learn more.
Self-denial teaches us the pursuit of true satisfaction in God. Learn more from Pastor John Piper here.
Key Points:
- We must take up our crosses and follow Jesus not because we are liable to have too much joy in God, but because we do not take enough joy in God. Too much of our self-worth and joys and desires are found in “treasures on earth,” where “moth and rust” will ultimately see them brought to nothing.
- We will never outgrow the need of dying to ourselves. The Christian life is a “long race” of faith (1 Corinthians 9:24-27) and being made more and more like Jesus is a lifelong process that will not be complete until we stand before God.
- Our joy is ultimately located in heaven, where “moth and rust” cannot destroy it (Matthew 6:19-21). We must live like this is true.
- It is easy to become distracted by the things of this world and to gradually inch toward finding our joy in temporary things. Even good things can become idols to us if we are not vigilant. We should not fear loving people too much, caring too much about our communities, or enjoying life’s simple pleasures. But all of these things must always be secondary or tertiary to a robust, lifelong relationship with God that defines our joy.
Quote This:
Mark 8:34 Then, calling the crowd to join his disciples, [Jesus] said, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me.”
Talk About It
- What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- What “pleasures of the world” are keeping you from finding your ultimate joy and meaning in God?
- What does it look like in your life to “die to yourself” daily? In what ways are you still working to “take up your cross”?
- How can you help others take up their crosses?
- John Piper has famously said of his doctrine of Christian Hedonism: “God is most glorified when we are most satisfied in him.” What does this mean? Do you think it’s true? Explain.
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
