Too often instead of being in the world but not of it,
we are of the world but not in it.
Yet unless you are living counter-culturally,
you are not His disciple,
and if you are not His disciple,
you may not be a Christian at all.
That’s what Jesus taught His disciples when He took them aside to teach them with His “Sermon on the Mount.” This message is not how you become a Christian, but what a true Christian looks like. And a true Christian is counter-cultural.
He swims against the world’s tides.
Every statement in “The Sermon on the Mount” is counter-cultural. We saw that when we studied the Beatitudes, and now, in Sept and Oct, we will begin to go deeper into what Augustine called the “Golden Mean,” and we will continue to see how counter-cultural the true Christian life is.
We will be challenged, but if we hunger and thirst for His righteousness, we will be satisfied. That’s His promise!
The most contented people I know are those passionate for the Lord.
Let me tell you how I experienced this a few weeks ago, during the week of a milestone birthday.
Two close friends, Twila and Debbie, had planned a birthday party for me of believing friends. I wanted to have a significant time of earnest prayer for our hearts and our ministries in our community. But that is not what happened, for as Solomon says, “In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9)
The day before my birthday I was seated on the pickleball sidelines with a woman I’ll call Piper, waiting for our turn to play. I have felt my heart drawn to Piper, sensing her loneliness, and had prayed for an opening to talk to her about the Lord. Just then, I felt a nudge from the Spirit. Talk to her about Me.”
I resisted, even though I had been praying for this! It is so uncomfortably cross-cultural to bring up Jesus! Yet I also know, from the Sermon on the Mount, “If salt has lost its saltiness — what good is it?” It’s not enough to be loving, I needed to be bold.
I wanted to be bold, like salt, but I just didn’t know how to begin. I had this silent dialogue with the Lord.
I don’t know how to begin, Lord.
Tell her about your Bible study starting in a few weeks.
But that’s so direct!
She is lonely. Tell her how you have gotten closer to some women here at pickleball through Bible study.
(I always wonder when people tell me the Lord tells them something — for He doesn’t talk out loud, it is more a stream of consciousness. But when it is different from the easy way I’m prone to swim, I suspect the voice of my Lord.)
So with a deep breath, I dove in and started swimming against the tide:
“Piper — I’ve gotten closer to some of the women here through being in a Bible study with them.”
Loudly she exclaimed: “BIBLE STUDY! I’VE NEVER STUDIED THE BIBLE!”
The next words came naturally: “The Bible has changed my life.”
“Really? How?”
And we were off and running! I told her how it had rescued my marriage, my mothering, my life! I even invited her to study.
“I have a friend who has been talking to me about this. And my son would love it if I did that — he’s really into the Bible.”
Wow, I thought. You ARE wooing her, surrounding her.
“We’d love to have you come!”
“But I just gave away my only Bible.”
“Well, that’s easily remedied. I have lots of Bibles!”
She was quiet. Then out of the blue she asked, “What are you doing tomorrow?”
I paused, a bit confused. Piper didn’t fit into my birthday plan — but…of course, I needed to change my direction if God was leading.
“Well, it happens to be my birthday, and Twila here has planned a party.”
“Can I come?”
I laughed — I couldn’t help it. “Of course! I’d love to have you come!” Then I made her a map to my house on the back of a receipt.
And so we had a very different kind of party than I had planned — but it was absolutely wonderful. Piper came late so we had a chance to pray and then we warmly welcomed her.
When we started talking about Bible study, Marty, who also plays pickleball and came to her first study last year, said: “Oh Piper, you have to come to study. I know how you feel. When Dee asked me last year I thought, No, no, no. But it is wonderful. It will change your life!”
“I do have Thursdays free – oh – –why did I say that!“
We roared with laughter.
Then she said, “I just gave away my Bible. I opened it up first because I had never opened it since I’d been given it as a wedding gift forty years ago. The first page was dedicated to me and my ex. So I ripped that page out and gave it to the Catholic church.”
We roared with laughter again.
And last week we had our first Bible study and Piper came! It was wild but fun. I pretended to be a man on the street and asked the group to give me some wrong answers to the question, “Who is a Christian?”
Piper said, “Well, Trump certainly isn’t!” Then she went on and on and the group was great — just smiling and listening and not letting us go down that detour, despite, I suspect, opinions on both sides. And when we talked about why we’d come to the study and someone mentioned how hungering and thirsting after God can lead to satisfaction and an end of emptiness, Piper said, “I like that.” (Please say a quick prayer for her!)
Oh it is so much fun to step onto the raft that is flowing with God’s current. Such an adventure! The cross-cultural Christian life is the most exciting life possible!
The cross-cultural life is a life where you move with the current of God instead of the current of the world. And it is exciting. It is a blessed, yes indeed, happy life. Charles Spurgeon said “The symbol and sign of a true Christian’s life is joy!” The Sermon on the Mount says the same — for “blessed” in the beatitudes could be translated “happy!”
This week we are going to do an overview of The Sermon on the Mount by getting a road map of it. You will hear one of my absolute favorite Tim Keller sermons. In fact, we will listen to it on Tuesday and Wednesday and then reflect on it the rest of the week. This was a sermon for disciples — the setting is that Jesus went up on the mountain to get away from the crowd and His disciples came to Him — and He began to teach them. This is a sermon for you — not telling you how to become a Christian, but telling you what a true Christian looks like.
I’ll often be referring to John Stott’s commentary: The Message of The Sermon on the Mount, and some of you may want to get it. (Completely optional!) By the way, if you don’t know about “Hoopla,” an ap for renting library books (e-books and audio books) it is great. You can get the commentary below through Hoopla and keep it for a month. You are allowed 5 books per month.
I so hope you will join us for this series on being a true Christian, a disciple, a cross-cultural Christian. It will last until early November, will be moderate in homework, and can absolutely change your life. There is no charge for being here, though occasionally you may be asked to buy a 2.50 sermon. I do have costs for running this blog, but through many of you, the Lord has been so gracious to provide. I am so thankful to you for it is a ministry to those who cannot afford to buy Bible studies, including women overseas and women who have gotten out of prison and are trying to stay strong through abiding in Him.
If it is your first time here, simply follow these easy “getting started” directions. https://deebrestin.com/getting-started/
Sunday:
- What stands out to you from the above and why?
- If this is your first time here, or you haven’t been here recently, tell us a little bit about yourself. If you have been here this summer, tell us what two things most occupy your mind and life.
Monday: The Beatitudes (Quick Review)
3. We studied the Beatitudes this summer, and since they are a preface to the rest of the sermon, read them again now (Matthew 5:1-11).
A. If you studied them with us this summer or have in the past, take one Beatitude and share what it means and how it is impacting your life.
B. Is there one that really puzzles you? If so, share what it is and ask questions. (This is a great group with which to do that!)
Last week we heard a Tim Keller sermon about Matthew 5:11-12. He talked about how living counter-culturally will naturally lead to persecution. For example, if you are a Christian waiter who reports all his tips due to wanting to be pure in heart, you may get flack from the other waiters. Or if you share your faith, being merciful to those who are without life and without hope, you may be ridiculed. (Keller said to be sure persecution is due to righteousness and not obnoxiousness!)
C. Can you share a time when living cross-culturally for Jesus led to some kind of persecution?
Tuesday-Wednesday: Free Keller Sermon
4. Listen to this sermon over the next two days and share your notes and comments.
Thursday-Friday: Reflecting on The Road Map
5. The Sermon on the Mount is a depiction of two ways of life: the “religious” person and the “gospel-living person.” One of the most shocking comments Jesus made is in Matthew 5:20. This sets up the difference between The Pharisees and the teachers of the law (the religious people of that day) and true Christians. Meditate on Matthew 5:20.
A. What does Jesus tell them? Do you think they were shocked? If so, why?
B. What did the Pharisees think would get them into heaven? What will get us into heaven? (See 1 John 5:11-12)
C. Why is this truth counter-cultural to what most people believe?
6. Jesus continually addressed not just the fruit of sin, but the seed of the fruit that would lead to sin. What was it in each of the following passages?
A. What is the seed that can lead to murder according to Matthew 5:21-22?
B. What is the seed that can lead to adultery according to Matthew 5:27-28?
C. Challenge question: Why does Jesus tell us not to make oaths? (Matt. 5:33-37)
7. Which of the above is particularly convicting or helpful to you in rooting out the seed of sin and why?
8. In the following, describe first the way of the religious person, and then the way of the gospel-oriented disciple. Ponder why this is.
A. Matthew 6:1-4
B. Matthew 6:5-8
C. Matthew 6:16-18
D. Matthew 6:25-34
9. Which of the above is the most helpful or convicting to you and why?
Saturday:
10. What is your take-a-way this week and why?
I
95 comments
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I love the story of “Piper!” You were SO brave Dee. I can see there might be a little work to be done on her though, and you are the BEST at helping us through our challenges. Thank you Dee for being here, in this blog, every week. See you in a few weeks! I can’t wait!
2. If this is your first time here, or you haven’t been here recently, tell us a little bit about yourself. If you have been here this summer, tell us what two things most occupy your mind and life.
oh boy! You opened a can of worms here….
My life is occupied by my two toddler grandchildren who we are raising. Here is a picture of them this summer as we spent the time playground hopping! My husband is working out of our home now (never done in 30 years) and I was trying to keep them away so he could get work done.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/hh9ao9d880gmhpe/Photo%20Aug%2031%2C%203%2038%2038%20PM.png?dl=0
The other occupation of my mind is how to get over my eating/dance/body and be truly free. I know I need to trust God, however it is a constant, nagging hyjacking of my thoughts. It is present ALL the time. It makes me tired, depressed, and sad that I can’t get over it. I need Him to show me the way.
I’m glad you can’t wait.
Your grandchildren are sooooo precious. Good thing — right? They are a lot of work!
Laura! They are adorable!
I, too, so look forward to Sundays (and the other days too but especially sundays) with Dee and the blog sisters.
Praying for you and freedom this morning, sister.
Laura, I tried to see your pictures. Twice got just a flash, and then a blank screen. But what I did see showed happy, healthy, growing children. You are doing a great job!!
Sorry Mary…I will post on the fb page.
Oh my gosh Laura, your grandkids are so cute. I will be praying for you and for God to help you through these times.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? Dee’s internal dialog with the Spirit. How comforting to know it is normal for even wise Christians to dialogue and reason internally on the way to obedience…. thank you for sharing that. And God turned what was anticipated to be forced and awkward into an ‘easy’ conversation…. the hardest step is always the first?
2. Two things that most occupy my mind and life: we just moved back to Montana after being away for 17 years. I accepted a job thinking we would live close to it but God led us instead to the small town my husband’s parents live in 35miles away from said job. So now I feel I need to quit (and did give two weeks notice which wracks me with guilt after only being there 4 months)….I don’t know what to do with my career, my heart yearns to be a pediatric nurse (and that is what I have done for years) but there are no acute pediatric care units in the area. I have two-three other job offers but don’t know where God would have me. And feeling a sense of guilty obligation to continue in current job part time even tho I don’t think I am supposed to?! I am overwhelmed….
My family is another…my two boys in 5th and 6th grade needing a church home in this new chapter that will teach and live the Gospel … not religion or sensationalism but the Gospel! And they need parents who do the same! Gospel Love. Lord, help us, humble us.
Thanks, Jill. And oh how I pray for God to lead you clearly in job and in church!
Jill, when I feel that way…overwhelmed and not knowing what to do, I wait. It’s the hardest thing to do but it is what we are supposed to do (I think). Continue the course….He will speak if we wait.
Prayers for you Jill that you feel the Lord leading you and guiding you to where he wants you to be.
Thank you for sharing the story about piper. I know she’ll be extremely blessed by having you in her life and amazed at how the Lord changes her life!!
Thank you Lorianne — and welcome!
I started on the study today, and for 2, started by saying I am getting told from more than one source that I am spending too much time on the computer. This isn’t social media. It is this blog, learning Spanish, and Bible memorization. And when I’m not on the computer, I’m similarly overcommitted. I won’t list it all, but it is obvious to even me that I can’t keep up with everything I want to do. So as much as it pains me, I need to not be studying with you all. I will not be able to stop cold turkey! So don’t be surprised if I comment on a post now and then!
We will miss you, Mary — but we understand! You are welcome any time.
Oh Mary!! Definitely understand but I will really miss you and your words of wisdom!.
Oh WOW, so hard to try and do what we feel we need to do, but than have it be too much on our plates. Praying!
What stands out to you from the above and why?
Really this time, just too much to type! I am very excited about this new study and growing deeper together here. I LOVE the story of Piper! Just made me smile, and laugh! What a precious example of how He works. Love her boldness to invite herself to your party—the attraction the Spirit gave her, and that she was free on Thursdays!
Also loved this “but if we hunger and thirst for His righteousness, we will be satisfied. That’s His promise! The most contented people I know are those passionate for the Lord.”
As I think about what has been occupying my mind, a lot lately has been trying to find the new rhythm now that school has started, juggling work and home and kids in all different schools. But most recently I have felt a hunger to dive deeper still into knowing God’s love for me and loving others as He loves me.
I’m excited you are excited about the study!
Piper is going to be interesting for certain! Pray for her heart!
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
So I have already told several people about the Piper story this morning and about The Orchard church. I laughed when she shared about giving her Bible away. I am sure Piper felt loved with The Orchard’s embrace. 2. 2 things that have been occupying my mind and life? 1. I have been really thinking about The Beatitudes a lot and it puts me in awe that the Beatitudes are who we are if we are in Him, and I have never seen the things in the Sermon on the Mount that I am seeing now. 2. Life: Busy with family and praying about a church home that is closer.
You so encourage me, Rebecca. I too am learning new things from The Sermon on the Mount — what a great adventure together!
Wow! What a great word! I do believe it is important to not be of the world. I have two teens. It’s a constant battle. The world is attractive but God is love and peace. I have been searching for a good Bible study. I am married. A lawyer. And a mom. I still have my parents and a grandmother. How does one help them all?
Welcome Kim — we are so glad to have you. Yes, so hard to raise children in this rotting world, yet greater is He! So glad to have you here — we help one another.
Welcome Kim! You have a full plate. I hope you will be encouraged and refreshed here!
Welcome Kim! I understand your concerns to help. I have my 91, almost 92 year old Mom living with us. Thank the Lord she is pretty much self sufficient still and can take care of herself. I will be praying for you and the load you are carrying.
Welcome Kim! Wow, teens..Me too! 🙂 I can SO relate to that battle -our teens and the world’s influence. Trust me, you will love Dee’s studies. I started oh back in 2010 or so and wow, talk about growing closer to Him.
Welcome! Here is where I find my sanity. Glad you are joining in. Dee is an amazing woman and the ladies here are the best!
Sunday:
What stands out to you from the above and why? – I loved the story about Piper. I can see myself being drawn to people that the Lord has led me to, but then still feel inadequate to talk to them about HIM. Some of the Ladies in our Life Group were just talking about this today, how we want to do what the Lord is telling us to do, but then we still hold back or think we know better how to run our lives. We were saying how hesitant we are to “remove our foot from between the door” and just let him open the door and step in. I look forward to digging deeper in this study.
If this is your first time here, or you haven’t been here recently, tell us a little bit about yourself. If you have been here this summer, tell us what two things most occupy your mind and life. – I have been missing the past couple of months trying to get my new work schedule and my life synced. So for those of you who do know me I have missed seeing all of you on here, and for those of you who do not know me, I’m married to a great guy and a mother of 5 boys, 2 of my own and 3 stepsons. My husband and I have 7 grandchildren ranging in ages of 21 – 4, with the only two girls being the bookends and the boys are in the middle. We are facilitators of a Life Group from our church and love getting together with them twice a month. I love following Dee and the ladies on this blog and learning from all who participate here. I’m looking forward to learning more about this and to see where Dee is led.
Fun to hear about your life, even though you have been a regular! I don’t know that I realized (or remembered) you had 5 sons!
3. We studied the Beatitudes this summer, and since they are a preface to the rest of the sermon, read them again now (Matthew 5:1-11).
A. If you studied them with us this summer or have in the past, take one Beatitude and share what it means and how it is impacting your life.
“”Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”
Matthew 5:4 ESV
https://www.bible.com/59/mat.5.4.esv
I guess this this the one I am feeling close to this morning…I mourn over my sinful nature; why do I do the things I do? I repeat sin daily, ugh! Why can’t I just behave? Today is my fasting/praying day. I usually just focus on my daughter, but I may add my own prayer in for myself as well.
B. Is there one that really puzzles you? If so, share what it is and ask questions. (This is a great group with which to do that!)
I think we did a great job picking them apart this summer so I understand much better now.
C. Can you share a time when living cross-culturally for Jesus led to some kind of persecution?
Two incidents come to mind this morning…I have a colleague with whom I am close to and we occasionally go out together. She used to introduce me as her “Christian” friend, sort of mocking me. I decided I didn’t like it and told her so. She stopped doing it 😉
The second incident is less specific. I think I have less friends because I am Christian. I think people tend to stay away, or not get close because they are “threatened” by the idea of being my friend.
3. We studied the Beatitudes this summer, and since they are a preface to the rest of the sermon, read them again now (Matthew 5:1-11).
A. If you studied them with us this summer or have in the past, take one Beatitude and share what it means and how it is impacting your life.
It is hard to pick one because they all go together. So I am going to cheat and pick two that impacted me: 🙂 Blessed are the pure in heart & Blessed are the Meek, reminds me of this verse, Hebrews 12: 10, 11: Our fathers disciplined us for a short time as they thought best, but God disciplines us for our good, so that we may share in His holiness. No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields a peaceful harvest of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.🙂 I think Used to the hand falls into that. I have stubborn sins that keep popping their head up and so only if I am willing to confess and let Him peel off my layers can I be free. Cleaning can be very painful so i need to be willing. The more I get used to the hand the more I can become single minded and grow in holiness. Eustace backed away trying to pull his skin off himself but only Aslan could truly clean him. I found this quote: “Then the lion said — but I don’t know if it spoke — You will have to let me undress you. I was afraid of his claws, I can tell you, but I was pretty nearly desperate now. So I just lay flat down on my back to let him do it.”
3. We studied the Beatitudes this summer, and since they are a preface to the rest of the sermon, read them again now (Matthew 5:1-11).
A. If you studied them with us this summer or have in the past, take one Beatitude and share what it means and how it is impacting your life.
It is hard to pick one so I am going to cheat and pick 3. 🙂 Blessed are the pure in heart, Blessed are those who thirst for hunger and righteousness, and blessed are the meek. 🙂 Blessed are the meek stands out because it meaning used to the hand totally surprised and thrilled me! I have these stubborn sins and so getting used to the hand is part of the process of letting Him peel my layers off and free me from the grip of my idols. The more and more I let God break me the holier He will make me and OH have we got a long way to go-many scales to peel off. I want to be holier because I want to sense His presence more for that is truly my happy place even though my flesh cries out that my idols are more satisfying-UGH. So Hebrews 12:10,11 came to mind but I had to look it up. “For they disciplined us for a short time as seemed best to them, but He disciplines us for our good, so that we may share His holiness. All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.”
Oops..Dee The first post didn’t take at first so I did it over..so I might have two of the same posts. You can not approve the first one if it needs approval.
It’s all good. I don’t know why they had me approve one — it is often a mystery to me. Love your thoughts, Rebecca.
Dee-actually whenever this happens, it is my fault-not the blog’s. the first post I copied and pasted the verse and it had a link that I didn’t want in it, so I went in and edited it out..it was a lot of erasing..then I clicked save and I think in doing that it went into moderation. So all is well.
3. We studied the Beatitudes this summer, and since they are a preface to the rest of the sermon, read them again now (Matthew 5:1-11).
A. If you studied them with us this summer or have in the past, take one Beatitude and share what it means and how it is impacting your life.
I shared last week, I am drawn to “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God”. I long to have a truly undivided heart, and I am so thankful that we will one day be like Him, and yet even now we can have tastes of this purity because He washes us clean. “One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.” (psalm 27:4) And also I am so thankful for the 4th Beatitude, the growing desire He gives me to hunger and thirst after righteousness. I love the new understanding I have of “meekness”, and also the merciful-having compassion on those who hurt me, showing forgiveness as I have been forgiven, to be generous with mercy, as He is.
B. Is there one that really puzzles you? If so, share what it is and ask questions. (This is a great group with which to do that!)
I think a few puzzled me before we went through the study and Colin Smith’s book. I have such a new perspective on them now. But The last one is probably most uncomfortable for me because I have never faced the kind of persecution as believers who fear for their lives because of their Christian faith. Yet what a comfort to know their reward is great in Heaven.
C. Can you share a time when living cross-culturally for Jesus led to some kind of persecution?
Sorry to re-tell this, I really am at peace with it, though it is sad for my children. We have faced mild persecution from our families, and especially my sisters for a counter-culture decision. We had hoped it would be a short-lived reaction, but our decision to adopt an orphan with major medical needs while in our mid 40’s has not been well-received or supported by our families at all, and the consequence has felt like “mild” persecution. Me, my husband and children have been completely cut out of my sisters’ lives and nothing we have done to make peace has helped. Only one person on wither side of our family has even met our child, most have completely ignored he exists. I can finally say that yes, this is some type of persecution, or at least very unfair “shunning” that we can’t explain or understand, and all in response to our decision to adopt in such a away. Another example, while not persecution, we have been judged by my husband’s family for me not having a “career” or full time job while raising our kids, which was also a counter-culture decision we made because we felt God had called us to.
Lizzy — I think you are kind to call it mild persecution, for when one’s own familiar friend rejects you it is so painful. Yet you are wise to see the brokenness in your family and give them grace because of it. I so proud of you for doing all you can to be at peace, and then, to lay it down. Who knows what God will do?
I realize in my own heart how I have yuk with my sister who does not know the Lord. She is hard to be with and baits me, and I go for the bait, anger welling up. I, like you, need to remember her brokenness and give her grace. I also need to go back to the first rung of the Beatitudes and remember how poor in spirit I am, how I can not love her apart from the power of God!
Lizzy, I must have missed this in the adoption story. I am so sorry you are being “shunned” as you call it. My goodness, it’s not like they are raising him and dealing with the struggles. Ugh. We treat our family members in a way we would never treat others. I have often wondered why that is. Is it because we know they will always love us? I’m not speaking of you, rather your family members treating you poorly. I have a new view when I pray for your family. Thank you for the insight.
Oh Lizzy, WOW I’m so sorry that they don’t have the heart to see the good you are doing. I will be praying for their eyes to be open to the way of the Lord and for their hearts to be melted and accept the decision that you and your husband and family made.
Lizzy, I so admire how God has given you such resilience, and a very strong testimony of His love. You are my faith hero, seriously. You have had to grieve not having your family’s support in this, but let me tell you, those God has put around you to fill in those love gaps are SO inspired and encouraged in Jesus by you and your husband’s faith. How you rely on God every day with this sweet boy and how God led you to adopt and care for him and how faithfully you are living that out. This is an example of Christ’s love-real sacrificial, joyful love. Take courage, He is SO delighted and your reward is great my dear!!
Sunday
1. What stands out to you to above and why?
I enjoyed reading about the conversation you had with the Holy Spirit in regards to Piper, but your obedience and the outcome was very encouraging.
2. If this is your first time here, or you haven’t been here recently, tell us a little bit about yourself. If you’ve been here this summer, tell us what two things most occupy your mind and life.
The first thing that has occupied my mind and life is my two grandsons. Their Mom has gone back to work and her mother and I share in taking care of them. I really enjoy it but having a baby all day isn’t as easy as in my younger days. The other thing that has occupied my mind and life is health issues…not always easy, but need to trust them with the Lord.
I so identify with grandmother feelings: delight and exhaustion!
4. Listen to this sermon over the next two days and share your notes and comments.
This is one of my very favorite Keller sermons. Christianity is different than religion. Jesus says that you have two ways, two trees, two houses, two ways of life. On the surface they look very much the same. But one of the ways is poison.
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus Christ does not contrast two ways—one obviously good and the other obviously bad… both ways look good in that both groups of people obey God’s law. Both groups of people follow the ten commandments, give to the poor, go to church, and study the Bible. Yet one is poison.
This is so eye opening for me, and scary. We can do so much “good” and yet all for the wrong reasons—in the name of religion rather than Christianity.
Gospel goodness is brighter than religious righteousness because it’s deeper. It’s deeper because it’s sweeter. It’s sweeter because it’s higher. So gospel goodness surpasses because it’s brighter and deeper and sweeter and higher.
Christianity is attracted to and attractive to people with whom you don’t agree, people who don’t live the way you do, people who don’t believe what you believe.
This is an area where I have seen Him change me, and I am so thankful, but hunger for more change in me. It’s been so good to be in a church that is more diverse, stretching me in a good way.
Christians, by the nature of their Christianity, when they see things falling apart, get in there…somebody emotionally falling apart, you go in, like salt. When you see a neighborhood socially or economically falling…Christians are attracted in.
Christians are not just attracted but are attractive to people who disagree with them, who live a very different life, and who don’t believe what they believe….the job of salt is not to make you think how great the salt is, but how great the thing is with which it’s involved.
I love the corn story and the point about how we are to be salt—and point to Christ, not ourselves, so that what they see and remember is not us, but Jesus.
Christians make you feel better. But religious people always make you feel condemned. A Christian is somebody who always sees his own sin as a plank and the sins of other people as specks.
If you have gospel goodness in you, you never act or feel superior to anybody else, especially those who are different from you.
Religious people look around and say, “What’s wrong with these people?”
Gospel goodness is deeper. Religious goodness is selfish goodness; it wants leverage.
Gospel goodness has a center of sweetness—it’s the truth that I, His child, are of incredible value to Him, that there’s nothing He would not do in order to hold onto me and keep me. He’s my Father, not my boss.
Gospel goodness has a higher view of the law of God than any other kind of goodness.
Instead of looking for power and success and approval, you live a life of sacrifice. The inside-out kingdom says that what really matters is who I am to Jesus and who I am in my heart, and not whether I look right. The wealth I need, the reputation I need is all wrapped up in Him. That makes Christians radically free. We’re not self-conscious. We’re not scared about our bank account.
Great notes, Lizzy..I am going to listen on my way to work this morning.
3. We studied the Beatitudes this summer, and since they are a preface to the rest of the sermon, read them again now (Matthew 5:1-11).
A. If you studied them with us this summer or have in the past, take one Beatitude and share what it means and how it is impacting your life. – I was in and out this summer, but really need to go back and see everything that you taught on the Beatitudes. I really feel the world we live in, and my family has so much anger built up that I want to really live out “blesses are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God”. I need work on finding peace within my self in order to be able to give peace to others and to help them find peace in their hearts.
B. Is there one that really puzzles you? If so, share what it is and ask questions. (This is a great group with which to do that!) – Ok, I one I don’t understand is “blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God”. I guess my question is, if they are poor in spirit, do they really have a relationship with Jesus and know what the kingdom of God is? I feel that our if we do have a relationship our spirit would be one with is or at least working on getting it there.
Last week we heard a Tim Keller sermon about Matthew 5:11-12. He talked about how living counter-culturally will naturally lead to persecution. For example, if you are a Christian waiter who reports all his tips due to wanting to be pure in heart, you may get flack from the other waiters. Or if you share your faith, being merciful to those who are without life and without hope, you may be ridiculed. (Keller said to be sure persecution is due to righteousness and not obnoxiousness!)
C. Can you share a time when living cross-culturally for Jesus led to some kind of persecution? – I surround myself with a lot of Christian people, and though they hold me accountable they don’t persecute me. When I became a Christian I remember my family making comments to me when I failed or didn’t measure up to what they thought I should be. I was married to a non-Christian the first time and he would make comments when I took the kids to church and when I was talking to my sister about how my then husband was acting and was mad that I kept the bible on the table, she made the comment if I was a claiming to be a Christian why would I keep the bible out if he didn’t like it. I know this is nothing like what some people are facing, but verbal abuse I feel is like a persecution when you believe what you are doing is right and they don’t agree.
Julie — here is Colin Smith on “poor in Spirit”
“Realizing you don’t have what it takes to move forward in the Christian life. It is the first ring for you must realize your need for forgiveness, peace, power — apart from Him we can do nothing.”
Does that help?
Thank you Dee. Did I see somewhere that Colin Smith has a book on the Beatitudes? I’m enjoying his Heaven So Near-So Far book. I bought one for each of the people in our Life Group after hearing him talk about it on Moody.
Wow Dee, listening to the first 15 minutes of Keller’s sermon has totally depressed me this morning. Thought I was a Christian, but see that I am still stuck in religiosity. I am an awful person I guess? His description of NYC is totally me. I would never want to live there….Not sure I can change either. Ugh.
Laura — I am just seeing this. This may be the turning point for you to move from religion to the gospel. The first Beatitude is being poor in spirit — realizing our huge need for forgiveness and that there is absolutely nothing we can do to earn it — Christ did it all out of His great love for you. Could you also go to google images and look for the chart that shows the difference between religion and the gospel — look at the colored one. I will e-mail it to you as well. WE MUST CONTINUE THIS CONVERSATION!
I ageee with Dee! ❤
I’m going to give thought to what you and others are saying….here is some more of why I am feeling like this.
Our youngest son just graduated with a degree in International politics and Spanish/German languages. He is a pretty amazing young man. I am proud of him. As other young grads, he has a ga-zillion dollars worth of debt. When it came time to look for a job, he chose something we were (kind of) disappointed in because it was not a way to begin to pay off said debt. It was admirable but not what we considered a good idea. What did he take? A job paying $500/mo helping people in the inner city of Pittsburgh. I appreciate his wanting to help those in need, especially in Pittsburgh because my mom was from there, but, all the debt….he is far from Christ these days. He also has spoken of joining the Peace Corp. Another admirable idea, but….
This struck a cord in me (as did Keller’s sermon so far) that maybe I am a fake? Maybe I profess my belief (as the Pharisees did), but my heart is not really “in it?” I’m not willing to get in the mud like my son, or Jesus? But then I am open to allowing my former student, who is 26 or so (who called me last night and asked if she could stay at our house for a few weeks) come live with us? She is a very different person from us; former Marine, professed lesbian, tatted all up. We have kept in touch and she has defended me at the worst of times with my daughter. I am not fake when I am caring for her. I want her to be safe and comfortable.
I’ve even had thoughts of those “missionaries” who roam the streets in the US with pamphlets and signs about knowing God. I could never do that. I’ve probably even thought, “Don’t they have real jobs?” Wow, that’s just awful. Or, students who I teach who are foreign… “are they legal?” Not cool if I am a Christian.
I am thinking my head needs to hit my heart (isn’t that what Keller says?). The penny hasn’t dropped yet? I’m a little ways there, but still have work to do? I believe my mom is the only person I have ever known who would do her job for free; just because she loved and cared about people.
I remember the chart and will reflect on it again. Good reminder.
Laura, not all of us are called to “get in the mud” by going and joining the Peace Corps, or being an overseas missionary, or passing out gospel tracts on street corners. I recently heard this on a podcast: that we know and sense there are so many, many “problems” in our world, and we feel overwhelmed at how we can help. So practice the “three feet rule”: You CAN do something about what is three feet around you, as in the person right in front of you. I see you “in the mud” as you are raising your daughter’s two children – a huge commitment and sacrifice, and how you strive to be such a good and conscientious teacher to your students, and I’m sure there are many more examples from your personal life that I know nothing about.
Hey sweet Laura! I remember reading in a C.S. Lewis book..I can’t remember which one it was..but he asked his wife right before she died, “Are you sure?” No one knows our hearts, only God. I would ask Him to help you be sure, or just nail it down with Him and tell him you that you feel as if you are stuck in religiosity and to help show you if you are, and that you want to surrender all of yourself to Him. If you mean it He knows and will make you His..You will know!
Laura-this is Rebecca..the one who made that last reply..I did so from my phone and it didn’t recognize me. I have a feeling if you and I lived closer we would hang out a lot. I love you sweet friend. 🙂
hahaha…Love you too sister!
Laura, it’s a powerful, convicting sermon! I think if you are feeling convicted, and a desire to be different, that’s a sign of the Spirit in you–and He promises to change us if we let Him 🙂 praying friend
Laura I thought the same thing, though I’ve listened twice now and want to listen again. I need to definitely check my attitude toward others and how I look at things that are different.
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
Charles Spurgeon said “The symbol and sign of a true Christian’s life is joy!”
I seemed to have less joy lately and the Lord is peeling layers of my heart to reveal why. I do not like the process at all but His truths are running counter-cultural to my own definition of personal culture. I am thankful that He is not done with me and He will never leave me nor forsake me.
Though I may not be here regularly, I have committed to come and follow silently because I know the Lord is in this place and I want to continue to experience Him in was never before.
2. If this is your first time here, or you haven’t been here recently, tell us a little bit about yourself. If you have been here this summer, tell us what two things most occupy your mind and life.
My family and our church
Dee, I do not know what to think of it ( there is no coincidence) but when you named the lady, Piper you were using as an example, I had a sudden jolt in my heart. A good jolt. The student who is giving me the most trouble right now is named Piper! And then you said, pray for Piper. Hah! That is what I will be doing now.
INTERESTING BING. I chose the pseudonym Piper cause it sounds like spunk!
That is a kiss from the King Bing! No one is named Piper…well only a very few.
3. A. …take one beatitude and share what it means and how it is impacting your life. I’ve been listening to The Message on my way to work (45minute drive) and the Beatitudes were interesting… what has struck me from the Beatitudes is eternal perspective. When our eyes and heart train on Christ and His glory in gifting us salvation we suddenly have all we truly need. BUT we cannot seek Him to GET, manipulate for our selfish desires but instead realize that resting in Him is the only way to complete our hearts and souls as He created them. (Not sure I said that very well…)
B. Is there one that really puzzles you? If so, sure what it is and ask questions. (This is a great group with which to do that!) I don’t understand ‘be glad when we are persecuted as the prophets before you were’. The reason the prophets were persecuted was because the people were not understanding God‘s love and calling, so the people persecuted what they did not understand because they were far from God, this is sad. I know I should rejoice because the persecution means we are in God’s family as the prophets were but I can’t help but wonder about those who persecute because they don’t understand God’s love and Gospel.
C. Can you share a time when living cross-culturally for Jesus led to some kind of persecution? I don’t know about “persecution” but definitely awkward, difficult situations, and judgement. The biggest one I run into is being honest in my jobs… people are always surprised (or miffed) when I am honest or try to resolve situations fully. Most have an attitude of “won’t effect me so why should I care?” I have to lean on doing right for God and His people rather than bowing to approval idols.
Another thought: I am someone who is misunderstood a lot… my brain just works very differently than most (this goes back to Meyers-Briggs personality science)…I have lost many friends because of this (I used to think it was just because I was unlikeable and I struggled with that for years and years)… add Christianity to this natural difference and it might be easy to say I am persecuted… and use it as an excuse… my point it I must clearly understand the situation and not try to scapegoat my Christian beliefs in order to keep annoying habits or stubborn sinful reactions. Don’t know if that makes sense but it is a part of my thought process …
Jill, I too am often misunderstood and then have the challenge of keeping up with Jesus. We are alike in this.
Good insight, Jill.
This comment is actually from my sister Sally — it refers to our study on the Beatitudes and discussion about happiness. She had a little trouble figuring out how to post so I’m doing it for her!
Dee
The pursuit of happiness! Good to search the history of this concept, which goes back to Greek philosophers and was adopted by Enlightenment thinkers. Nevertheless, I appreciate your bringing out the Biblical aspects. As I have been studying freemasonry since graduate school and it’s role in the Enlightenment and on our founders, I really think there is a mixture. I recently have been using a calendar which uses quotes from famous people in history, including our founders. This calendar tells just a snippet of their Christian faith, which often was strong. It is puzzling to me, however, why would they become members of Freemasonry? Many Christians still feel it is just fine to join this ungodly group, which opposes everything Christians believe. Probably it is just ignorance. This is my website if you would like to take a look. As my primary research was about Mexico, it is bilingual. http://www.crossandcompass.com
I’m proud of my younger sister, for her love for the Word and for all of you, leading you into new truths and helping us all become more Biblically literate!
5. Meditate on Matthew 5:20.
A. What does Jesus tell them? Do you think they were shocked? If so, why?
I suddenly love this verse. “…unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.”
The only way our righteousness can surpass that of the scribes and Pharisees is to take on the perfect righteousness of Christ, the great exchange of our sinfulness for His righteousness.
B. What did the Pharisees think would get them into heaven? What will get us into heaven? (See 1 John 5:11-12)
The Pharisees thought their “good behavior” , their rule following and works, would get them in to Heaven.
Only those who have the Son, who know Jesus as their Savior, will get into Heaven.
C. Why is this truth counter-cultural to what most people believe?
The world tells us that good behavior gets you good things; that personal success gets you reward. I think people also want to believe that somehow everyone goes to Heaven and mistakenly call that love.
6. Jesus continually addressed not just the fruit of sin, but the seed of the fruit that would lead to sin. What was it in each of the following passages?
A. What is the seed that can lead to murder according to Matthew 5:21-22?
Anger and insults—power/control
B. What is the seed that can lead to adultery according to Matthew 5:27-28?
Looking at another with “lustful intent”—wanting what is not yours to have, coveting another. I think there is more here. Lustfulness makes me think of a desire to use a person, seeing them as an object to satisfy you, an idol.
c. Challenge question: Why does Jesus tell us not to make oaths? (Matt. 5:33-37)
At the time (and now) oaths were frequently made and not enforced or kept, and many thought if they swore against something other than God, it didn’t matter if they kept it. Jesus tells us it doesn’t matter what the oath is taken by because all is under God’s authority. Better to not to take an oath at all, but to live honestly, speaking in truth–yes be yes and no be no. Be trustworthy so there is no need of an oath to try to strengthen your words.
7. Which of the above is particularly convicting or helpful to you in rooting out the seed of sin and why?
Matthew 5:21-22, it sobers me to think of the destructive power of anger and how quickly anger grows. Reminds me of James 1:14-15 “But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.”
I like that too Lizzy. And that is true, of course.
Interesting how John Stott also makes the differentiation of outward obedience with the heart. What do you think of that?
Dee-yes! This morning I listened to Sinclair Ferguson on the Sermon on the Mount and it made me think more on this, exactly what you are saying-we of course have Christ’s righteousness, but our pursuit of righteousness is deeper than outward conformity, because the Gospel transforms our heart–and because we are already counted righteous, we are motivated to obey, out of love. He also said: “It is not that we strive for the kingdom of God; once we enter into the kingdom, the power of the kingdom is released in our lives. We then become salt and light and discover what has been alien to us: we love and fulfill God’s law…the kingdom of God has broken in and given us new affections that empower us in new ways”
Great quote. Will be using it when we get to the section after salt and light. So good.
Monday
3. We studied the Beatitudes this summer, and since they are a preface to the rest of the sermon, read them again now (Matthew 5:3-11).
A. If you studied them with us this summer or have in the past, take one Beatitude and share what it means and how it is impacting your life.
”Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me.” This Beatitude has really convicted me as I live in such a insulated world for the most part. I don’t work outside of the home and all of my friends are Christians. Whether that is right or wrong it has really made me think about what I say or act around some of my family who are not Christians. I think it’s easier to not be contradictory so I don’t cause waves, but does that mean I’m ashamed of Christ? Do I dare to be a Daniel?
B. Is there one that really puzzles you? If so, share what it is and ask questions.
I guess the one that puzzles me is “Blessed are the peacemakers…”. I think of what Christ said in Luke 12:51-53 and wonder is it always possible?
C. Can you share a time when living cross-culturally for Jesus led to some kind of persecution?
Many years ago I went to an ATM and it kicked out an extra $20.00! It was a Friday afternoon after the bank had closed so I was unable to return it right away. When I went to work Monday and told people what had happened and that I was going to the bank to return it they couldn’t believe it, calling me goody two shoes. When I went to the teller at the bank to return it she said, “wow, I would of kept it”. My response was, it wasn’t mine to keep and she just shook her head!
Good point on how Christ says He will bring division. Perhaps that is why Paul says “In so far as it is possible, be at peace with all men.”
Ahh…that makes perfect sense!!
4. The sermon was amazing. I tried to post my notes but they were way too wordy.
What stood out to me was this: (Jesus was every Beatitude & the Sermon on the mount. He gave all that up on the cross so we could be that.)
1. How you know you are a Christian. That you delight in having God tell you what to do in His Word-that you desire to have your heart changed.
2. That we are salt and we get into meat to preserve it such as desiring to go to the broken hearted and a neighborhood that is broken to help. The religious doesn’t like doing that.
3. The Religious’ works are all about him and not about others. The Christian’s works are all about others.
4 The Christian sees the plank in his eye and the speck in others’ the religious sees the speck in his eye and the plan in others.
5. Religion and the world only worries about externals which internally stems from fear and pride. Example: Lying. Religion: Fear that God will get them; pride: that they are better than others. The World: Fear that others will reject them. Pride: I got one on them.
It is amazing how Keller always brings it home to Christ!
Would love prayer, especially for tech, for my speaking in Chicago area Saturday morning. And if any of you are near – -would love to see you. It’s free. Living Grace Church in Cary, Il. from 9:30 to 11:30.
Praying for you Dee and wish I was closer!!
I think I have relatives there…praying for your tech!
I did listen to the sermon and had posted my comments but for some reason they’re not showing up. Highly recommend listening…very convicting and thought-provoking.
Sorry about that!
5. The Sermon on the Mount is a depiction of two ways of life: the “religious” person and the “gospel-living person.” One of the most shocking comments Jesus made is in Matthew 5:20. This sets up the difference between The Pharisees and the teachers of the law (the religious people of that day) and true Christians. Meditate on Matthew 5:20.
A. What does Jesus tell them? Do you think they were shocked? If so, why?
He says that their righteousness should be better than that of the Pharisees. They were shocked because they thought the Pharisees were the model for the behavior that they should reflect.
B. What did the Pharisees think would get them into heaven? What will get us into heaven? (See 1 John 5:11-12)
The Pharisees thought obeying rules would get them into heaven; being a good person on the outside for others to see. It is our heart that God sees.
Only believing and following the way(s) of Jesus will get us into heaven.
C. Why is this truth counter-cultural to what most people believe?
Because we fall back on good works; if I do this or that then I will get to Heaven. It is love that matters.
5. The Sermon on the Mount is a depiction of two ways of life: the “religious” person and the “gospel-living person.” One of the most shocking comments Jesus made is in Matthew 5:20. This sets up the difference between The Pharisees and the teachers of the law (the religious people of that day) and true Christians. Meditate on Matthew 5:20.
A. What does Jesus tell them? Do you think they were shocked? If so, why?
That only those who surpass the righteousness of the pharisees and the teachers of the law will enter the kingdom of heaven. Yes, because they live to strive to enter -even adding onto the law to be more righteous and have just been told that isn’t righteous enough.
B. What did the Pharisees think would get them into heaven? What will get us into heaven? (See 1 John 5:11-12)
If they followed the commandments and the laws. So they think their obedience and animal sacrifices for their sin gets them into heaven. What will get us into heaven? Only if we have Jesus righteousness covering (credited to) us: our sin on Christ, His righteousness on us.
C. Why is this truth counter-cultural to what most people believe?
The world has a skewed view of God when any view of God exists. We must work to gain favor with people and work to be successful which translates to anyone who believes in God that they must work to gain favor with God or believe everyone has favor with God and will get into the Kingdom of Heaven-so a skewed view of God and of His Love.
6. Jesus continually addressed not just the fruit of sin, but the seed of the fruit that would lead to sin. What was it in each of the following passages?
A. What is the seed that can lead to murder according to Matthew 5:21-22? Anger
B. What is the seed that can lead to adultery according to Matthew 5:27-28? Lust
C. Challenge question: Why does Jesus tell us not to make oaths? (Matt. 5:33-37) So I am thinking how this could hurt someone else and simply if we make an oath and say we promise to do it, it isn’t really doing it yet so we can get tempted and things can change, and there is a chance we might not fulfill it-hurting the other person via lying to them. So if we just say yes and no-this means we either certainly are going to do it or we aren’t.
7. Which of the above is particularly convicting or helpful to you in rooting out the seed of sin and why? All three in one way or another. Anger, after being hurt by someone, this can creep in. Lust-for me it is lusting after other believers with “easier” lives and seemingly perfect kids and finances. Oath-I can commit without thinking about my time constraints with my family, and sometimes have to back out.
Good Rebecca — I often think of Ecclesiastes 5:1-2 with oaths.
Dee, Wow I didn’t see that. So good.
8. In the following, describe first the way of the religious person, and then the way of the gospel-oriented disciple. Ponder why this is.
A. Matthew 6:1-4
Religious Way: Making sure you are seen doing good works, giving to the needy, in order to be praised by man.
Gospel Way: Give and care for the needy in secret, only for the Lord to see.
B. Matthew 6:5-8
Religious Way: Pray with lots of big words and to be seen and heard by many.
Gospel Way: Pray in secret, only before the Lord, knowing He knows our hearts, knows our needs.
C. Matthew 6:16-18
Religious Way: Make it very obvious when they are fasting, drawing attention to themselves.
Gospel Way: Fast in secret, keeping your appearance normal so that no one knows you are fasting.
D. Matthew 6:25-34
Religious Way: Worrying about tomorrow, about food, clothing. Concern for outward needs and appearances.
Gospel Way: Trusting the Lord with my needs—financial, physical, spiritual.
9. Which of the above is the most helpful or convicting to you and why?
Each of these contrast a heart that either wants to receive reward now, with no thought of eternity (religious way); or the gospel-minded person, whose longs to please the Lord and trusts in a reward in Heaven, our future hope, sealed for us. I know my sinful flesh and know there have been times I’ve wanted others to know I pray or give…my approval idol lurks. But I probably relate most to Matthew 6:25-34-worrying about tomorrow, worrying about the details or appearances, instead of fully trusting Him to meet all my needs.
Great insight in that each thinking about now and not eternity!
Thursday-Friday
5. Meditate on Matthew 5:0
A. What does Jesus tell them? He warns them- unless your righteousness is better than the righteousness of the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven! Do you think they were shocked? If so, why? Yes, because these were “religious “ leaders with education of the law and surely they were the most righteous.
B. What did the Pharisees think would get them into heaven? Following the law and all the rules they added outwardly. What will get us into heaven? (See 1 John 5:11-12) Believing in the Son of God and what He did for us on the cross. It’s nothing we do.
C. Why is this truth counter-cultural to what most people believe?
I think that most people think that being good or having a religious righteousness (going to church, doing good deeds etc) is what will get them into heaven.
6. Jesus continually addressed not just a fruit of sin, but the seed of the fruit that would lead to sin. What was in each of the following passages?
A. What is the seed that can lead to murder according to Matthew 5:21-22?
Anger, name calling and cursing someone.
B. What is the seed that can lead to adultery according to Matthew 5:27-28?
Looking upon anyone with lust.
C. Challenge question: Why does Jesus tell us not to make oaths? (Matthew 5:33-37)
Anything beyond a simple ‘yes, I will,’ or ‘no, I won’t,’ is from the evil one. James 5:12, “But most of all, my brothers and sisters, never take an oath, by heaven or earth or anything else. Just say a simple yes or no, so that you will not sin and be condemned.” He must of listened to the Sermon on the Mount. 🙂
7. Which of the above is particularly convicting or helpful to you in rooting out the seed of sin and why?
Anger, it can come on so quickly…I learned in the past that I need to respond rather than react. Not always easy.
8. In the following, describe first the way of the religious person, and then the way of the gospel-oriented disciple. Ponder why this is.
A. Matthew 6:1-4
Religious person: Does good deeds or gives to someone in need publicly and to be admired.
Gospel-oriented: Does or gives in private.
B. Matthew 6:5-8
Religious person: Prays in public to be seen and thinks their prayers are answered by merely repeating their words again and again.
Gospel-oriented: Prays in private and doesn’t babble.
C. Matthew 6:16-18
Religious person: They fast, trying to look miserable and disheveled so they’ll be admired for their fasting.
Gospel-oriented: Fasts in private, cleaning themselves up so no one will notice.
D. Matthew 6:25-34
Religious person: Worries, don’t see their value in Him and their thoughts are dominated by what they’ll eat, drink or wear.
Gospel-oriented: Knows their value in Him, that life is worth more than food, the body more than clothing. Have faith that God will take care of them. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, live righteously, knowing He’ll give us everything we need.
9. Which of the above is the most helpful or convicting to you and why
Worry. It’s convicting because I’m not trusting the Lord and I’m not seeing that He values me enough to take care of me.
Wow, I loved his (Tim Keller’s) radical, yet profoundly simple, explanation of the Gospel truth. It makes me look within, and makes me realize more than ever that it’s the heart motives that matter. How rich, how true, how raw is the gospel and what transforming work it does in us.
I definitely desire to hear more from him, and I’m already praying about how to share this message with unbelieving family members.
Thank you Dee!
So glad to have you here, Julie. Yes — we love Keller here! Will pray for wisdom as you share!
8. In the following, describe first the way of the religious person, and then the way of the gospel-oriented disciple. Ponder why this is.
A. Matthew 6:1-4
Religious: Giving to those in need and letting everyone know you did. (Religious duty: They refuse to rest in God’s approval and giving is all about them, not out of a sincere heart to love the other person.)
Gospel oriented: Giving to those in need and not telling everyone. (Trusting in God’s approval so no one needs to know, and it is done out of the overflow of His Holy Spirit living inside.)
B. Matthew 6:5-8
Religious: Praying to be heard by others. ( Spiritual pride. They want to be admired by others as having them think that because they pray so often and so eloquently, that they are closer to God. It is intimidating to those who hear and the religious like that position.)
Gospel Oriented: Praying to be heard only by God. (A humble posture because they are poor in spirit. The opposite of pride.)
C. Matthew 6:16-18
Religious: Fasting and making themselves look miserable so they can be admired by others. (Religious duty. Not really a time of letting go of the things that entangle you to draw you closer to God.)
Gospel Oriented: Fasting and not making it look obvious to others.( Comes from a heart of desiring Him. Willing to give up everything to draw closer to God. When our hearts are in that posture we don’t think about what others see. )
D. Matthew 6:25-34
Religious: Worries about tomorrow, finances, spouse everything and then works hard to fix everything around them instead of trusting God. (Forgetting who gave them everything they are and own and those who are around them. Control Idol-they think they are in control not God.)
Gospel Oriented: Trusts God with finances, spouse and everyone and everything around them. ( Walking in faith that God is in control and He provides.)
9. Which of the above is the most helpful or convicting to you and why?
I am sure I have done all of the Religious ones above and especially so before I came to Dee’s blog way back when. Before Idol Lies and She helped me see my idol of Approval. I haven’t arrived but OH has he done a work in me and freed me to rest in Him more. So the one I think that can so easily get me with the twists and turns of my family life right now is Matthew 6:25-34. Though it can be strong little by little God is freeing me.
Very clear explanations, Rebecca!
I, too, was convicted by this week’s sermon. I have heard it before. The thing that keeps returning to my head is that Religion is easier. Not necessarily because it is easier but because, just like we can overlook the deep dirty crannies in our house when we don’t feel like deep cleaning, we can overlook and even justify our shortcomings when we are trying to manipulate our righteous scale in our favor. This leads to arrogance and comparing others so our bucket of good deeds looks fuller. Religion is easier to instinctively want to be chosen (“pick me!”) thinking only a few will be liked by God so we must be ‘better than’ others. It is a weightier blanket to wrap around our insecure selves… my insecure self. But to shed that tattered garment and trust the warmth of our Savior, to believe He is big enough to love all, save all, releases me from trying to fulfill the bullet points on a list of how to know if I am a Christian. Religion seeks to fulfill it, Gospel is still awing at ‘How Can It Be?!’ (Not saying we shouldn’t allow the Spirit to convict … just babbling some thoughts.)
I do not think we are meant to be perfect. Each of us will be attracted to brokenness but called in only a couple ministries… extra tender spots where we actually serve…I cannot serve in all nor even be aware of all… when I sense my arrogance (the salt trying to be the main course) I repent and consider others’ stories … so easy to flip into religious comparing when I feel insecure… knowing that God loves us each, not loves one or the other. And disconnecting what the world comments about me from what I assume is God’s mental process in judging me and my efforts. This is the truth I must preach to my soul time and time again. What I accomplish is filth and has no weight on my worth. What He accomplishes in/through me is all to His glory and merely fulfills my created purpose. I am salt. I am not the main course. God, forgive me and lead me to joy in obedience.
So well articulated by Jill:
we can overlook and even justify our shortcomings when we are trying to manipulate our righteous scale in our favor.
Jill, appreciate your thoughts here.
Rough, tough week….just getting back to business.
6. Jesus continually addressed not just the fruit of sin, but the seed of the fruit that would lead to sin. What was it in each of the following passages?
A. What is the seed that can lead to murder according to Matthew 5:21-22?
Anger is the seed.
B. What is the seed that can lead to adultery according to Matthew 5:27-28?
Even looking at another woman/man is lustful.
C. Challenge question: Why does Jesus tell us not to make oaths? (Matt. 5:33-37).
We shouldn’t make oaths because we can’t handle it; we will break the vow because we are human.
7. Which of the above is particularly convicting or helpful to you in rooting out the seed of sin and why?
Probably the anger sees us most convicting to me. I have had to teach myself to be more patient and try not to get upset about things I cannot control.
8. In the following, describe first the way of the religious person, and then the way of the gospel-oriented disciple. Ponder why this is.
A. Matthew 6:1-4
The religious person makes sure everyone knows how generous they are being and the gospel oriented person does good deeds in private.
B. Matthew 6:5-8
When religious people pray they make all aware of their prayers. A gospel person prays in private to his Father and his Father hears him.
C. Matthew 6:16-18
Those who are religious look disheveled as they fast so all will take pity on them whereas gospel filled people are those who clean themselves up so no one knows what they are up to; only their Father.
D. Matthew 6:25-34.
Religious people worry about tomorrow; what they will eat, drink and wear, and gospel folks have no worries as to what they will have (food, drink, or anything) because they know God will provide.
9. Which of the above is the most helpful or convicting to you and why?
Probably the one about food and drink. I hyper-focus on my diet.
Well done, Laura. And even with a tough week, you are pressing in.