Reflecting on Eight Years of Impactful Teaching

As we conclude the eighth year of the Ask Pastor John podcast, it's remarkable to reflect on the journey and impact this platform has had. From its inception on John Piper's birthday in 2013, we've released 1,600 episodes, amassing 1.7 million words of content. This is equivalent to reading the entire "Lord of the Rings" series three times, plus "The Hobbit" three times. The podcast has been played 180 million times, averaging over 112,000 plays per episode. This demonstrates the enduring value and reach of our efforts to provide on-demand pastoral answers to life's pressing questions.

The growth of our YouTube presence is particularly encouraging. In 2019, our episodes garnered nearly 7 million plays on YouTube, and this number doubled to 13.2 million in 2020. This platform continues to expand, and we eagerly anticipate what God has in store for us in 2021.

Reflecting on 2020, a year marked by pandemic, political tension, and natural disasters, I find myself anchored in the profound truths of Ephesians. This biblical reality offers a perspective that transcends the chaos of the world, reminding us of our election, redemption, and the sealing of the Holy Spirit. As I ponder the ignorance surrounding these truths, I am compelled to be part of a movement that fills the world with teaching, much like Paul did in Ephesus.

Our mission at Desiring God is to glorify God by teaching His truth, worth, and beauty, all based on the Bible. We invite you to join us in this mission, whether through financial support or prayer. As we prepare to launch into our ninth year, we are committed to continuing this work, trusting in God's promise that His counsel will stand and His purposes will be accomplished.

Key Takeaways

• 1. The Ask Pastor John podcast has become a significant resource for many, with 1,600 episodes and 180 million plays, demonstrating the enduring need for accessible pastoral guidance. This vast archive serves as a testament to the power of consistent teaching and the hunger for biblical truth. [02:05]
• 2. The growth of our YouTube channel highlights the increasing demand for visual and auditory learning. With plays doubling from 2019 to 2020, this platform is a vital tool for reaching a broader audience with the gospel message. [02:55]
• 3. In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, the truths of Ephesians offer a grounding perspective. These realities remind us of our identity in Christ and the eternal purposes of God, providing hope and stability amidst turmoil. [04:05]
• 4. The call for a tidal wave of teaching is urgent. As Paul did in Ephesus, we must commit to educating others about the foundational truths of Christianity, equipping them to navigate a world of ignorance and misinformation. [06:22]
• 5. Our mission at Desiring God is to glorify God by teaching His truth, worth, and beauty. This mission is sustained by the partnership of those who support us financially and through prayer, enabling us to continue this vital work. [07:22]

Youtube Chapters

• [00:00] - Welcome
• [00:10] - Reflecting on Eight Years
• [00:42] - Podcast Milestones
• [01:09] - The Impact of Words
• [01:46] - Listener Engagement
• [02:27] - Growth on YouTube
• [03:16] - Pastor John's Reflections
• [03:49] - Living in Ephesians
• [04:33] - The Call for Teaching
• [05:13] - Ignorance and the Need for Teachers
• [06:10] - Paul's Example in Ephesus
• [06:55] - The Mission of Desiring God
• [08:01] - Invitation to Partner
• [09:02] - Looking Ahead to Year Nine
• [09:46] - Closing Remarks

1. Ephesians 1:3-14
2. Hebrews 5:12
3. Isaiah 46:9-10

1. How many episodes of the Ask Pastor John podcast have been released, and what is the average number of plays per episode? [01:46]
2. What significant growth did the podcast experience on YouTube between 2019 and 2020? [02:55]
3. According to the sermon, what are some of the profound truths found in the book of Ephesians that offer a grounding perspective amidst chaos? [04:05]
4. What was Paul's approach to teaching in Ephesus, and how long did he continue this effort? [06:22]

1. In Ephesians 1:3-14, Paul speaks of election, redemption, and the sealing of the Holy Spirit. How do these concepts provide hope and stability in times of uncertainty? [04:05]
2. Hebrews 5:12 suggests that by a certain time, believers ought to be teachers. What might this imply about the maturity and responsibility of Christians in sharing their faith? [05:13]
3. Isaiah 46:9-10 speaks of God's sovereignty and His purposes being accomplished. How does this assurance impact our understanding of current world events and personal challenges? [08:16]
4. The sermon mentions a "tidal wave of teaching" as an urgent need. What might this look like in today's context, and why is it considered urgent? [06:55]

1. Reflect on the growth of the Ask Pastor John podcast and its impact. How can you contribute to spreading biblical teaching in your community or online? [02:05]
2. Considering the truths of Ephesians, how can you remind yourself of your identity in Christ during times of personal or global turmoil? [04:05]
3. Hebrews 5:12 challenges believers to become teachers. What steps can you take to deepen your understanding of the Bible so you can share it with others effectively? [05:13]
4. The sermon calls for a movement of teaching to combat ignorance. Identify one area of biblical knowledge you feel less confident in and plan a way to study and understand it better. [06:55]
5. How can you support the mission of Desiring God or similar ministries, whether through prayer, financial support, or volunteering? [07:48]
6. Reflect on Isaiah 46:9-10 and God's promise that His counsel will stand. How can this assurance change the way you approach your personal goals and challenges? [08:16]
7. The sermon highlights the importance of teaching God's truth, worth, and beauty. How can you incorporate these aspects into your daily conversations and interactions with others? [07:22]