What’s the meaning of life? From Plato to TikTok, everyone’s been asking. In this episode of the Gospel Gumbo Podcast, we explore the first—and most famous—question of the Westminster Shorter Catechism:

👉 “What is the chief end of man?”

👉 “Man’s chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever.”

This episode blends historical insight, biblical theology, C.S. Lewis's Weight of Glory, and vivid storytelling to show how glorifying and enjoying God are not two separate aims—but one glorious calling.

In This Episode:

·      The turbulent 1600s background of the Westminster Assembly

·      What it means to have one end with two expressions: glorify and enjoy

·      Why glory in Scripture is about weight—what matters most in your life

·      The danger of counterfeit joys and why self-centered pleasure always disappoints

·      How true joy glorifies God (with help from Lewis, Hebrews, Psalms, and parables)

·      The myth of self-denial for its own sake—and the beauty of sacrifice for joy

·      Why Christians need deeper desires, not weaker ones

Key Themes:

·      Christian hedonism and how joy magnifies God’s worth

·      Misunderstood sacrifice: how even Jesus endured the cross for joy

·      Mud pies vs. a holiday at sea: trading shallow pleasures for infinite joy

·      Redirecting your heart’s longings toward the One who satisfies

·      The chief end of man as the North Star of a meaningful life

Scripture References:

·      Psalm 16:11 – “In Your presence is fullness of joy…”

·      Hebrews 12:2 – “For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross…”

·      Matthew 13:44 – The man who sells everything for the treasure in the field

Famous Quotes:

“We are far too easily pleased.” – C.S. Lewis, The Weight of Glory

Perfect For Listeners Who:

·      Want to understand their purpose through a biblical lens

·      Are curious about historic catechisms and why they still matter

·      Struggle to connect joy and faith

·      Need encouragement to pursue God with their full heart

Subscribe, rate, and share the Gospel Gumbo Podcast if this episode helped re-center your heart on what truly matters.

Thanks for listening.

Contact me here: gospelgumbopodcast@gmail.com for corrections, suggestions, encouragements, questions.