What is the difference between Christian Hedonism and Utilitarianism?
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One definition of utilitarianism from ethical philosophy: a family of normative ethical theories that prescribe actions that maximize happiness and well-being for all affected individuals. Another definition: Utilitarianism is a theory of morality that advocates actions that foster happiness or pleasure and oppose actions that cause unhappiness or harm.
John Piper, who coined the term “Christian hedonism”, said “God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in him.” I found an article on his view, part of which says this:
Piper’s summary of Christian hedonism, “God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in him,” properly understood, is biblical, and Christian hedonism, as taught by John Piper, has much to commend it. Still, there are cautions, starting with the fact that Christian hedonism is not a biblical term, a fact that Piper readily acknowledges. The Bible emphasizes faith as what pleases and glorifies God, not finding delight or satisfaction in Him (Hebrew 11:6). “Finding satisfaction” cannot take the place of “exercising faith.”
Paul’s prayer, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him” (Romans 15:13), teaches that “joy and peace” come from faith (“trust”) in the Lord. Again, faith is the basis of our relationship with God and the blessings He gives; the “satisfaction” (the filling with joy and peace) is the result of faith.
Christian hedonism’s mantra, “God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him,” must somehow be reconciled with passages such as Galatians 2:20: “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” The theme of faith is present here again, along with death to self, but there’s not much about seeking personal satisfaction in God. As with any teaching, interpretation, or philosophical system, we should carefully compare what John Piper says with the Word of God itself. https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-hedonism.html
Is there any difference between Christian Hedonism and Utilitarianism? Yes. Utilitarianism appears to be a philosophical concept about morality and trying to avoid harming or hurting others.
Piper’s view of Christian hedonism appears to be God-centred, as opposed to self-centred. It is focused on a real, living relationship with our creator.
Christianity is all about sacrificial love as exemplified by Christ Jesus, the Son of God, who laid down his life so that we might have eternal life.
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