A prominent Christian pastor and author, known for his reformed theology and influential writings on Christianity, particularly in the Calvinist tradition.
John Piper, a renowned American Baptist theologian, pastor, and chancellor of Bethlehem College and Seminary, is best known for his unwavering commitment to spreading the gospel and inspiring millions to live a life of purpose and devotion to God. Through his prolific writings, sermons, and online presence, Piper has become a household name in the Christian community, leaving an indelible mark on modern Christianity.
Born on January 11, 1946, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to Bill and Ruth Piper, John's life was deeply rooted in faith from an early age. His father, a traveling evangelist, instilled in him the importance of sharing the gospel, a lesson that would shape his future endeavors. Growing up in Greenville, South Carolina, Piper was raised in a family that valued education and spirituality, which ultimately led him to attend Wheaton College, where he majored in literature and minored in philosophy.
Piper's dedication to spreading the word of God led him to teach biblical studies at Bethel University for six years (1974-1980) before answering the call to serve as pastor for preaching and vision of Bethlehem Baptist Church (Converge) in Minneapolis for an impressive 33 years (1980-2013). His passion for teaching and preaching led to the establishment of Desiring God, a ministry that has become synonymous with Piper's name, and has spawned numerous award-winning books, including Spectacular Sins, What Jesus Demands from the World, Pierced by the Word, and God's Passion for His Glory.
Piper's literary contributions have been instrumental in shaping Christian thought and inspiring countless believers. His seminal work, Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist (1986), has been widely acclaimed and has sold millions of copies worldwide. Other notable works include Dont Waste Your Life and The Passion of Jesus Christ, both of which have become modern classics in Christian literature. His podcast, Ask Pastor John, has garnered an impressive following, with over 2,000 episodes tackling a wide range of topics and questions from listeners around the world.
In 1968, Piper married Nol Henry, and together they have four sons, a daughter, and twelve grandchildren. His family has been a constant source of support and inspiration throughout his life, fueling his passion for ministry and service.
Piper's impact on modern Christianity extends far beyond the confines of his ministry. His teachings, writings, and online presence have inspired countless individuals, influencing a new generation of Christian leaders, pastors, and theologians. His emphasis on biblical authority, personal holiness, and missions has reshaped the Christian landscape, encouraging believers to live lives of purpose and service.
John Piper's unwavering commitment to God and his unrelenting passion for spreading the gospel have earned him a place among the pantheon of influential Christian leaders. His life's work serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith, inspiring future generations to continue the legacy of devotion, service, and love for God and humanity.
Through his remarkable life, John Piper has demonstrated that a life of devotion, service, and love for God can have a profound impact on the world. As a testament to his enduring legacy, Piper's work will continue to inspire and shape Christian thought for generations to come.
66 Years Old
A renowned basketball coach who led the Cleveland Cavaliers to the NBA Finals and is credited with popularizing the " Princeton offense" strategy. He's also known for his successful stint as the head coach of the Russian national team.
