Having Child Like Wonder In God (Clip)
John Piper emphasizes that maintaining a childlike wonder toward God's creation reflects the original joy and awe intended for humanity before the fall.
This sermon explores the concept of losing wonder and excitement in life due to the fallen nature of humanity, drawing parallels between the weariness of adults towards repetitive experiences and the childlike wonder that God intended for us to maintain. It reflects on how children's continuous awe and desire for repetition signify a lack of cynicism and a connection to the original wonder of creation.
Sermon Outline
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I
- The natural human tendency to grow tired of wonders
- Contrast between adults and children’s response to new experiences
- Chesterton’s observation on children’s persistent wonder
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II
- The original state of Adam and Eve’s wonder before the fall
- How the fall caused spiritual weariness and loss of awe
- The remnant of original wonder still present in children
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III
- Encouragement to cultivate a childlike awe toward God’s works
- Recognizing God’s daily faithfulness as a source of wonder
- Practical ways to renew our spiritual perspective
Key Quotes
“One of the chief marks of the fall is that we get tired of everything.” — John Piper
“Little children keep saying, do it again, daddy, do it again, daddy.” — John Piper
“Can you believe the sun came up? And there would be this incredible sense of wonder.” — John Piper
Application Points
- Approach each day’s blessings with fresh gratitude as a child would.
- Resist spiritual cynicism by intentionally focusing on God’s ongoing works.
- Cultivate a habit of praising God for the everyday miracles around you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does John Piper emphasize childlike wonder?
Because children naturally exhibit a pure and persistent awe that reflects the original joy intended for humanity before the fall.
What does the fall have to do with losing wonder?
The fall introduced spiritual weariness and cynicism, causing people to grow tired of God’s daily works.
How can adults regain a childlike sense of wonder?
By intentionally recognizing and appreciating God’s daily faithfulness and creation with fresh eyes.
Is this sermon based on a specific Bible passage?
The sermon alludes to the original creation and fall but does not cite specific verses in this portion.