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Big picture Quote by John Piper

“So when I say that everything that exists—including evil—is ordained by an infinitely holy and all-wise God to make the glory of Christ shine more brightly, I mean that, one way or the other, God sees to it that all things serve to glorify his Son. Whether he causes or permits, he does so with…” quote by John Piper
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““So when I say that everything that exists—including evil—is ordained by an infinitely holy and all-wise God to make the glory of Christ shine more brightly, I mean that, one way or the other, God sees to it that all things serve to glorify his Son. Whether he causes or permits, he does so with purpose. For an infinitely wise and all-knowing God, both causing and permitting are purposeful. They are part of the big picture of what God plans to bring to pass.””

John Piper

About This Quote

Source Sermon: “The Glory of Christ” by John Piper, 2015

All events, good or evil, are orchestrated by God to ultimately display Christ’s glory, whether God causes or permits them.

In simple terms: God uses everything to show Christ’s glory.

Key Takeaway

Recognize purpose in all circumstances.

Themes

theology divine sovereignty purpose evil glory

Mood

reflective hopeful serious

Type

theological inspirational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal crisis
  • church teaching
  • ethical decision making
  • counseling
  • apologetics

Key Concepts

Providence theodicy Christocentrism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does this view affect your response to suffering?
  • Can all events truly serve a higher purpose?
A Different Perspective

If suffering seems purposeless, it may challenge belief in a loving God.

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