The way of the cross is the way of suffering. Christians are called to die, not kill, in order to show the world how they are loved by Christ.
John PiperWhat could be a greater privilege than to listen to the voice of God, and be granted by God himself the ears to hear?
John PiperOur main work is, by the spirit of God, with the Word of God, to portray the glories of God as more beautiful and more satisfying than anything.
John PiperIsn't it ironic that today people say, 'If you know the love of God, you don't have to worry when you go on in sin.' But the apostle John said, 'If you know the love of God, you won't be able to go on in sin.'
John PiperTherefore bread was created for the glory of Christ. Hunger and thirst were created for the glory of Christ. And fasting was created for the glory of Christ. Which means that bread magnifies Christ in two ways: by being eaten with gratitude for his goodness, and by being forfeited out of hunger for God himself. When we eat, we taste the emblem of our heavenly foodโthe Bread of Life. And when we fast we say, โI love the Reality above the emblem.โ In the heart of the saint both eating and fasting are worship. Both magnify Christ.
John Piper