He addressed questions on a certain stimulant.
Renowned Bible teacher John Piper recently tackled the topic of whether caffeinated beverages, such as energy drinks, might negatively impact a Christian’s spiritual journey.
In a recent segment of the “Ask Pastor John” podcast, a listener named José raised the issue, describing how caffeinated drinks were viewed as controversial within his youth group. José, who personally enjoys these beverages for their ability to enhance focus and energy during work shifts, sought spiritual guidance on whether their consumption was advisable.
Piper, in response, drew from 1 Corinthians 6:12–13, emphasizing the principle of not being mastered by anything and highlighting the importance of considering whether such drinks serve a beneficial purpose. He delved deeper into the broader issue of using stimulants and medications, questioning whether they merely mask underlying problems or genuinely aid in addressing them.
Offering three overarching guidelines, Piper encouraged individuals to assess whether these drinks are truly helpful, if they dominate or obscure one’s relationship with Christ, and whether their use aligns with principles of love and faith-building.
While Piper acknowledged having energy drinks in his office for moments of extreme necessity, he cautioned against their use as a crutch for deeper issues, such as inadequate sleep habits.
Piper’s perspectives on congregational practices, including the debate over coffee consumption during church services, have also sparked discussion. While some, like Evangelical podcaster Jimmy Humphrey, argue for the acceptance of coffee-sipping in sanctuaries as a reflection of communal fellowship, Piper contends that such practices may detract from the reverence and awe he believes should characterize worship gatherings.
For Piper, the heart of the matter lies not in the act of sipping coffee itself but in cultivating a mindset of reverence and awe, which he feels is sometimes lacking among congregants and leaders. He emphasizes the need for a deep, joyous understanding of these concepts, one that imbues congregational worship with a sense of sacredness and seriousness.
In essence, Piper’s stance reflects a nuanced consideration of how everyday choices, such as consuming caffeinated beverages or participating in certain church practices, can intersect with one’s spiritual life and relationship with God.