2 Questions for John Piper

- by Mo (Montclair)

I have asked these questions of several people who say they are "reformed" christians and thus far they've been unable to answer them. It is really curious to me why the questions seem so difficult for them. These are highly educated (theology degrees) people.

I believe John Piper is the intellectual leader of the "reformed theology" movement in America -- which is strong and growing by the way; most recently converting the leaders of the Southern Baptist Convention (the largest protestant denomination in America).

I visited Piper's website Desiring God and found nothing directly answering these questions. I also have sent a contact form to John Piper through his website to see if he will come right here and answer these questions. We'll see. If anyone has personal contacts with John Piper, please send this link to him. Here are the questions:

1. What thought, word or deed is required for salvation?
2. Can God bring a person to Him who never heard of Jesus?

These seem to be very basic questions. So why the inability to answer them?

Comments for 2 Questions for John Piper:

A Response to 2 Questions for John Piper - by Michael O'Connor

Hello Mo,

I am curious about the logic of your conclusion, that John Piper (according to you, representative of Reform theologians) is not capable of answering your questions.

Just because he didn't answer you or that you didn't find an answer on a web site doesn't mean that he can not or has not ever addressed these questions.

You seem to have a preexisting bias that you find confirmed by what to you is silence. He has written very extensively and has also preached extensively. Have you searched for these answers in his writings or in his sermons? As you can imagine, we both can assume that he does not have the time to personally answer you.

Your two questions, however, are good questions. The first question is dealt with in Romans 10. The second question is dealt with in John 14 and Romans 1.

Blesssings,
- Michael O'Connor

I've Tried - by Mo

Hi Michael, thanks for the reply. I've discussed these issues with "reformed" theology types before. They struggle mightily with these questions.

But, it seems that perhaps you are familiar with their position on these issues (and others) -- so, please, have at it. Give me an answer and we'll discuss further.

Thanks.