A new year. A fresh start.
An exciting new journey through Mark that will take us
through winter, Lent, and all the way up to summer.
My favorite Keller commentary and my favorite commentary on Mark is:
(This was originally titled King’s Cross — you may already have that.)
Purchase it anywhere, and if you need to order online, you can get the introduction and first chapter for free at the link below while you wait for your book to arrive. (Scroll to the bottom of this link to downloads and you will see Before (Introduction) and the 1st chapter.)
https://timothykeller.com/books/jesus-the-king
That way you can start right away!
We’ll be going slowly together, walking (not running) together,
loving together, seeing more together.
Each week there will be a representive symbol to probe.
This week it is the dance of the Trinity, with which Mark begins, hearkening back to Genesis.
This first week we will cover Mark 1:1-13, beginning officially in Mark on New Year’s Day,
but covering Keller’s introduction Monday and Tuesday.
Each weekday you will read an assigned passage and answer a few simple questions.
You may also share thanksgiving for a way you saw God in your life in the last day.
Oldtimers know we spy God in may ways:
In creation,
in answers to prayer,
in the kindness of others,
in unusual timing or circumstances,
in His Word “quickening us,”
or in many other ways —
for our Triune God “dances with us,”
interacts with us,
and as we share with one another,
we also dance with Him and with one another,
and our joy becomes full and our hearts become tender.
We will also practice using the passage of the day as a springboard for prayer.
You may have a question for God after reading the passage, or a praise, confession, or petition. It may feel awkward at first, but it will get easier, and you will learn from the prayers of others.
Sunday:
- What stands out to you from the above and why?
- How did you spy God, or how did God “dance” with you in the last 24 hours? (See intro)
Monday/Tuesday: Introducing Mark
3. Read Keller’s introduction, called “BEFORE” and list a few things that stood out to you. Also, if you like, write them in your Bible at the top of the first page of Mark. (You may want to also draw the symbol or mark outstanding things in your Bible’s margins as you continue this study.)
4. How did you spy God, or how did God “dance” with you in the last 24-48 hours?
Wednesday: New Year’s Day — We begin with Mark 1:1-4
5. Read the passage and note repetition of any words or ideas. Next, write down the main thought of the passage.
Read what Keller has to say about this up to “The Dance of Reality?”
6. What stands out to you and do you have any comment on this?
7. Is there anything you would like to say to God about this passage? A question? A praise? A
petition? A confession?
8. Read the passage and describe John the Baptist’s purpose and ways he contrasts himself with Jesus.
9. What stands out to you and do you have any comments on this?
10. Read Ezekiel 36:25 and explain what two things happen to us when we receive Jesus
and thus the Spirit of God.
11. How have you experienced cleansing or power from the Spirit recently? Give thanks. or
tell Him anything else based on this passage.
Thursday: Mark 1:9-11
12. Read the passage and describe how you see the dance of the Trinity.
13. Read what Keller has to say under “The Dance of Reality” and write down a few things
that stand out to you and why.
14. Because we are made in the image of a relational God, we are relational. How have you
either been blessed or been a blessing to others in the last 24 hours?
15. A key to strengthening your prayer life is to pray something you saw in the passage you just studied. For example, for this one, you might pray several ways:
- Thank You that because You are a Trinity, You have always been love!
- Help me to enter into the dance with You today, help me follow Your lead — particularly in the situation with ______________________.
You try it:
Friday: Mark 1:12-13
15. Describe what happens in this passage.
16. Read what Keller has to say about this under “Dancing into the Battle” and share what
stands out to you and why.
17. Where are you facing a battle with the enemy right now and how can you pray, based
on what you are learning? (Often there is a lie to overcome with truth.)
Saturday: Question & Reflection
18. Ask one question of the group that came to your mind as a result of the study.
19. Make one observation about our symbol for the week.
20. How did God meet you through His Word this week?
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11. How have you experienced cleansing or power from the Spirit recently? Give thanks, or tell Him anything else based on this passage.
Lord, even though I sin every day, You have sprinkled me, and I am clean. You have washed my filth away. You gave me your Spirit to gently convict me when I need to turn from sin back to You.
12. Read the passage and describe how you see the dance of the Trinity.
Jesus came from Nazareth and John baptized him in the river. This was an important event in the life of Jesus. When our child has an important event, we parents will show up and be there to love and support them. This is what I see here. Jesus heard the voice of His Father telling Him how much He was loved, and He saw the Spirit in the form of a dove. His “family” was there.
13. Read what Keller has to say under “The Dance of Reality” and write down a few things that stand out to you and why.
It was interesting that the fluttering or dove-like appearance of the Spirit was very rare, and the rabbis also used this to translate how the Spirit was present at Creation. Father, Son, and Spirit were present at the creation of the world and are present at Jesus’ baptism which marked another of God’s projects: the redemption of the world.
The three persons of God continually envelop each other in love, exalt, defer, and commune with each other. God’s interior life overflows with regard for others. Keller’s explanation of how our motives for loving and serving can be, in fact, selfish and self-serving was very convicting to me. We may say yes and serve only because we are fearful and cowardly and can’t say no. We need others to like us and approve of us, and so serving them is a way to glorify ourselves. I have a dear friend who has made this comment, saying that when she does this or that to help someone, it makes her feel so good on the inside. Is that always wrong? To get that good feeling for ourselves? Maybe the true test is, do we continue to help even when it doesn’t feel good?
14. Because we are made in the image of a relational God, we are relational. How have you either been blessed or been a blessing to others in the last 24 hours?
I told you all about my neighbor’s sweet five year old granddaughter going around our neighborhood, delivering hot chocolate. It made me think of a children’s story I used to read to my kids about a woman who found a way to make the world a more beautiful place. I ordered the book, wrapped it along with a thank you note, and delivered it next door for her, yesterday. I hope she will be blessed by the story. My daughter and husband have shown me patience and understanding. I always have a hard time when my son, who was home for six days, went back to his home in TX. I love having him home, and feel a lot of sadness when he leaves.
Thursday: Mark 1:9-11
12. Read the passage and describe how you see the dance of the Trinity.
13. Read what Keller has to say under “The Dance of Reality” and write down a few things
that stand out to you and why.
Reading this section just made me more aware of the other-person-oriented God we have. The metaphor of dance is fascinating-the Trinity keeping in step with one another, ” voluntarily enveloping and encircling the other” without conditions. That our relationship with a Triune God is “dynamic, pulsating activity” warms my heart. I am beginning to see how that is life-giving to me and makes me look forward to my days with Him.
14. Because we are made in the image of a relational God, we are relational. How have you either been blessed or been a blessing to others in the last 24 hours?
I bemoan at times how the unfettered use of cell phones seems to take over the lives of so many especially our young people. But it sure can be put to good use and be a blessing such as relating to others in a fast, efficient way. So I use it to send texts to friends and students to bring words of encouragement such as New Year greetings via REMIND app to my students; group texts to the women of our church.
15. A key to strengthening your prayer life is to pray something you saw in the passage you just studied. For example, for this one, you might pray several ways:
Thank you, Lord, that I can enter the dance with you as I go through my day. Let me be other-centered and not think others should orbit around me! Purify my motives and let it be to bring glory to your name. As I work with my husband addressing and prioritizing ministry opportunities among our church members-let us enter the dance with you. Today in planning a presentation on vision board with Liz, help us enter the dance with you. Let your love, power, peace, and joy be evident today in my walk with you.
8. Read the passage and describe John the Baptist’s purpose and ways he contrasts himself with Jesus. John’s purpose was to alert Israel of the presence of their true Savior. He was to be the confirmation of Christ. Jesus would fulfill prophecy but John’s fulfillment of prophecy just prior to Jesus’s work adds even more proof that this is it! It can’t be coincidence when two things happen in succession. John contrasts himself with Jesus: Jesus is mighty, John is unworthy, lowly. Jesus will baptize with the Holy Spirit, John Baptist’s with mere water. This intrigues me, obviously this is symbolic of lasting baptism and temporary symbol but I think it also speaks of who Christ is in relationship to the Trinity. Throughout the Old Testament God would put the Spirit of God on prophets and kings but it was not something controlled by man. John could use everyday water as a Holy symbol but Christ had the relationship to use the divine Holy Spirit.
9. What stands out to you and do you have any comments on this? See above and also I wonder if his leather belt had cultural significance… an echo of animal sacrifice? A flag of poverty?
10. Read Ezekiel 36:25 and explain what two things happen to us when we receive Jesus and thus the Spirit of God. Is this supposed to be 36:26? Verse 25 says we will be made clean and purified from our idols. Verse 26 says we will receive His Spirit and receive a heart of flesh after God has removed our heart of stone.
11. How have you experienced cleansing or power from the Spirit recently? Give thanks or tell Him anything else based on this passage. Lord, you HAVE cleansed me and given power. Please forgive me for letting my feelings be my truth. I feel so unworthy and a failure but that doesn’t change that you HAVE cleansed me and given me power, your power, to glorify your name. John became great because he embraced his humble status as a servant announcer of your greatness, let me, too, find joy in accepting my humble status as a servant announcer of your great name. Let it be.
12.Read the passage and describe how you see the dance of the Trinity.
Like in creation we see it again in baptism.
13. Read what Keller has to say under “The Dance of Reality” and write down a few things
that stand out to you and why.
Pointing us back to creation – project of the Trinity as is this baptism. And You’re glorifying something when you find it beautiful for what it is in itself.
I’m ponder ing how much of my motivation in serving is because of Him, His beauty vs. what I get out of it. It’s a ponder worthy thought.
14. Because we are made in the image of a relational God, we are relational. How have you
either been blessed or been a blessing to others in the last 24 hours?
So I’m in incredible pain but I blessed by helping with Christmas put away & clean up. And I have been blessed by God’s care of me in that. I’m battling fear but He keeps reminding me of His goodness & as I lay in bed I have a beautiful view of green, trees, squirrels & birds playing who don’t worry. Neither should I.
I have pondered why some believers, like you, live with constant pain and trust, and others turn away. What keeps you pressing in?
Not that I haven’t struggled with it & battling hard for truth but I don’t know how to explain it except He holds me. He won’t let me go. Even when I don’t feel him or see him he still holds me & I just know. When I came to Him at age 12 He spoke in a dream, dramatic because I was about to die but he caught me with a big white hand and said, never will I leave you, never will I forsake you. I have never forgotten that. I didn’t even know it was scripture then. But it’s like he was helping me grasp that my life would be hard. And honestly I want to make it count. I want to being him glory and I feel that urgency. I always have & haven’t waivered with seeing him as beautiful since I did your study falling in live with Jesus in my 20s. My life was changed more in knowing that I am loved and seriously there is no fear in love. My biggest struggle now is feeling I am cursed but I believe he took that curse so maybe it’s just a sharing in his suffering so resurection is all the more sweeter. But I’m not going to focus on those things too great for me. I’ve trained myself to be like the weaned child with it’s mother (ps 131) and I teach people to fight for that most daily in counseling. The battle is all in your mind & heart but also the Holy Spirit enabling that belief. It’s a divine mystery for sure.
Dear sister in Christ, can I say you pouring out your heart and your dream was just beautiful and YOU ARE NOT cursed, that is a lie from the enemy. Every time the enemy attacks my mind, that is our battlefield a lot of times, our minds, I start quoting scripture. The enemy can not thwart the Word of God. God’s Word has power and it stops the enemy and his lies. God always reminds me of Philippians 4:4-8
” Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Something I have learned and have to remind myself if the enemy can steal our peace, he is doing more harm than we realize. It robs us of our Joy in the Lord which is our strength. I feel the Gospels alone just pour out love and show us God has us. Thank you for sharing , it touched my heart.
12. Read the passage and describe how you see the dance of the Trinity. I think this is the only place in the Bible that the Trinity is pictured together? (Though we know that the Trinity was all together at creation…God, Jesus [as described by John 1], and the Spirit hovering.) God’s voice and commission as it were, the Spirit as a dove, and Christ in human flesh.
13. Read what Keller has to say under “The Dance of Reality” and write down a few things that stand out to you and why. I love this: “Just as the original creation of the world was a project of the triune God, Mark says, so the redemption of the world, the rescue and renewal of all things that is beginning now with the arrival of the King, is also a project of the triune God.”
There are a lot of thoughts that surface on relationships and friendships reading through this section, as well, but I think I will process those privately…..
Service: Years ago my husband and I realized that we got married for the wrong reason. We married each other because we thought the other would make us happy..this is common, I think, and a great example of Keller’s thoughts on service. When we love someone enough that we want to bless them or help them for them, not for us, then I think we are beginning to experience love. In my nursing profession I have found this a bit tricky. I have been called to service as a nurse, I have been created to serve God’s people and I find great joy and fulfillment in helping (both staff and patients). However my religion can creep in and muddy the waters…. to prove my worth, to make myself desirable as a person, to be “the best.” This doesn’t negate my joy in obedience but can become a stumbling block if I don’t bring Jesus with me and serve Him. Loved Keller’s thoughts on perfect relationship and service in the triune God.
14. Because we are made in the image of a relational God, we are relational. How have you either been blessed or been a blessing to others in the last 24 hours? Playing games with my little family…building memories and relationships.
Good insight on marriage!
Jill–this is so good what you gleaned from Keller “When we love someone enough that we want to bless them or help them for them, not for us, then I think we are beginning to experience love.”
5. Read the passage and note repetition of any words or ideas. Next, write down the main thought of the passage.
Prepare, send, desert,calling and preaching. I feel with these words it’s a calling to us all who were lost,( in the desert being a metaphor), calling out to our hearts, God reaching out to us, wooing us back to Him through his greatest example of love to come, the sacrifice of His Son. I am beginning to see the Gospel more about love now, like so many times in the Bible, I get caught up thinking this is my guide, I need to do this or that according to the Word, that I miss God’s most important message to us, unconditoinal LOVE.
Read what Keller has to say about this up to “The Dance of Reality?”
“If this world was made by a triune God, relationships of love are what life is really all about.”
6. What stands out to you and do you have any comment on this?
I had another aha moment reading Keller’s take on the dance of reality. So many times I have been taught and preached at we are here to worship God, God made us to worship him, we are his greatest creation….than the light bulb moment “So why would God create us? HE MUST HAVE CREATED US NOT TO GET JOY BUT TO GIVE IT.” The dance was made just for us, if we step into the dance with God. God made us to love on us. Being a parent this really resonated with me, we love our children, and we can attest its one of the best things in or about life, I can only imagine how deep God’s love is for us. When some of us have less than ideal childhoods, I can see where this becomes skewed.
7. Is there anything you would like to say to God about this passage? A question? A praise? A
petition? A confession?
I see now why I am doing this bible study, somewhere I forgot about God’s love, to truly enjoy the dance with God, I easily get caught up trying to ‘do’ instead of just ‘being’ present with God in my walk. I have been praying for God to restore that.So many times I could just take a walk and see God in nature or just the peaceful walk itself. I have been praying to God asking Him where did that go? Where did He go? I began to doubt a lot at times too. Going through a hard times with our oldest daughter for over a year now, she is 24, she is doing wonderful for herself, dating a wonderful Christian guy, but her and I’s relationship somewhere became strained? So many tears shed from her words, and through the tears and anger at God, I began to doubt Him and his love. I just have to trust God and begin to see God’s love through it all. I have no true peace without God’s love, this I do know and I desperately need His love.
So good, Staci. Reminds me of Luther’s “works righteousness is the default mode of the human heart.’
15. Describe what happens in this passage.
After Jesus was baptized, the Holy Spirit drove Him out into the wilderness with wild animals for 40 days, where He was tempted by Satan. The angels ministered to Him there.
16. Read what Keller has to say about this under “Dancing into the Battle” and share what stands out to you and why.
Even though ultimate reality is a dance, we will experience reality as a battle. This strikes me, that our true reality is spiritual warfare.
This really stood out–temptation isn’t impersonal, there is an actual enemy doing the tempting. We have a personal God and a personal enemy. Somehow it makes me want to fight more, knowing the battle is both real and personal…also encourages me that God fights the battles personal to me.
We all have Satan’s lie in our hearts, because we are afraid of trusting God. It hits me that every idol is rooted in not trusting God.
I loved this–sometimes, in the deepest part of the battle, when we are tempted, hurt, weak, we will hear Him say ‘you are my beloved…”
From Lizzy (and Keller 🙂 )
We all have Satan’s lie in our hearts, because we are afraid of trusting God. It hits me that every idol is rooted in not trusting God.
I loved this–sometimes, in the deepest part of the battle, when we are tempted, hurt, weak, we will hear Him say ‘you are my beloved…”
8. Read the passage and describe John the Baptist’s purpose and ways he contrasts himself with Jesus.
9. What stands out to you and do you have any comments on this?
I thought it interesting in verse 6 on what John wore and what he ate, showing humility like Christ.Then we see in verse 7 John explaining one greater than he, Jesus, will come and one more powerful that John didnt feel worthy to even untie Jesus sandals. Those two verse show great humility. Furthermore the most significant difference is John could baptize by water, but John could not give the Holy Spirit, only Jesus could do that, it goes back to Keller’s statement on the triune, 3 separate but all equally one person.
10. Read Ezekiel 36:25 and explain what two things happen to us when we receive Jesus
and thus the Spirit of God.
We become clean from our impurities and idols.
11. How have you experienced cleansing or power from the Spirit recently? Give thanks. or
tell Him anything else based on this passage.
God is bringing me back to Him, my first love, away from idols that dont fulfill. I am feeling more free and whole in Him. I recently had a dream showing me clinging onto idols and God saying to me, let go, trust Me and see what I can do. My ‘idol’ was this huge guy, odd, I know, but I kept clinging to him and he was kind of gross in my dream. I couldn’t see his face, but I knew the dream was God showing me to let go of the idol. The guy was huge and gross, that is what I recall.I also had a river near me, like clean water, I can’t recall all the details, I should have written it down, but when I woke up, it was like God was saying ‘Staci, you are clinging to idols, that are gross and taint your life.” Where Jesus should dwell in me was this grossness…I just remember thinking that man is gross(he was big, smelly and just gross), and God was showing me this was in my life. I shared the dream with my husband as well. I know what the idol is and I have been praying for God to help me. I think through this dream God showed me it’s not that I dont want to let go, I have a hard time believing and trusting God in that I wont let go…like this idol has become a security thing, but it’s really “gross” in my life.
How beautiful that you could see this in a dream and have clarity about the meaning and be able to share it with your husband. I love this.
Yes, oddly I was grossed out by my idol, but the dream itself gave me peace. It’s a process of letting go of my control idol…
Thursday: Mark 1:9-11
12. Read the passage and describe how you see the dance of the Trinity. – I picture them all coming together as one, like when you do a group hug, everyone gets in on it. I go back to the drawing at the top of the page with the Dance of the Trinity and when I first saw it, I saw a heart shape locket done in filigree. There are no hands in the drawing, they are all just blending together as one goes in to the other.
13. Read what Keller has to say under “The Dance of Reality” and write down a few things that stand out to you and why. – I like how he brings us back to creation and shows us how all 3, God, Jesus and the Holy Spirt are together as one from the beginning and then ties it up in Mark when he again shows that they are all together again. “Just as the original creation of the world was a project of the triune God, Mark says, so the redemption of the world, the rescue and renewal of all things that is the beginning now with the arrival of the King, is also a project of the triune God.” I also like in Tim Keller’s book when he talks about self-centeredness and how it makes everything else a means to an end and at the very end of this section where he wrote “Instead of self-centeredness, the Father, the Son, and the Spirit are characterized in their very essence by mutually self-giving love. No person in the Trinity insists that the others revolved around him; rather each of them voluntarily circles and orbits around the others.” I see this in the drawing too now, that there is no one in the middle. They are all just dancing as one whole, none of them are in the middle of that drawing because they see themselves on the same level.
14. Because we are made in the image of a relational God, we are relational. How have you either been blessed or been a blessing to others in the last 24 hours? – Yesterday my cousin called and said that he, his wife and his sister, (my other cousin) wanted to come by for a visit. In the past they have said before we need to get together more often, and like we all try and do that, time gets away from us. Well this time they did come and what a great time we had. My Mom is 92 years young, still functions on her own in every way, and oh the memories we talked about. How her and my dad met and how her brothers met their wives and some of the old traditions we did as kids growing up. It was so much fun to remember those times. And it all started off with my cousin’s wife praying when she got up that morning and felt that God was telling her that they needed to come over and give my mom a hug from her brother Mario, (my cousins dad, who passed away 5 years ago and yesterday January 1 is his birthday). It was such a sweet time and definitely was a dance with the Lord.
15. A key to strengthening your prayer life is to pray something you saw in the passage you just studied. – Thank you Lord for helping me see just what self-centeredness means. They way it was described helps me to examine my own heart and motives. I don’t want to be helping someone for a means to an end. I want to do it unconditionally like you, the Trinity help me. Help me to be a part of you dance Lord, I want to dance around the circle on the outside with you. Help me to continue to have my heart open wide to allow all you have to teach me be able to flow in. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen.
15. A key to strengthening your prayer life is to pray something you saw in the passage you just studied.
Thank You for revealing the truth about who You are when Jesus was baptized. Jesus came up out of the water, was enveloped in the love of His Father, and empowered by the Spirit. Please help me to understand how I am also enveloped in Your love and empowered by Your Spirit, and help me to show the kind of love that’s not self-centered to others.
How do I see the dance of the Trinity?
This is a delightful symbol to me which is reminding me of a time of worship that took place many years ago. At that time, my understanding of the Trinity was minimal. I had a love for God, but was a babe in my walk. I went to a church that was in the Village of New York City, where the assistant pastor was a musician/writer. He often led us in song, The Lord of the Dance! I loved the song but didn’t really understand what it portrayed. I see the dance now as a special relationship of the Father, Son and Spirit all working in synchrony to work out their purpose as comforter/teacher/director of our lives.I still am groping for the full meaning and yet know it is more than I could understand or verbalize.
Keller says that they glorify each other in the dance. In the passage when Jesus was baptized immediately he saw the heavens open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove.This image of a fluttering dove is like a part of the dance of joy at Jesus’ physical sign to us of dying to self and rising to glory,and the Father speaks of his “beloved Son , with you I am well pleased.”
How have I been blessed? Yesterday we were invited to join 2 couples for dinner. The host went through a life-threatening illness during the past year, and has made it to a new year, doing so much better than expected. God has blessed him and his wife and the friendship of the other couple has been one of prayer and encouragement. My husband has also been blessed by the friendship of these 2 men. Our lives are so fragile, but to see God give a second chance is blessing me.
Heavenly Father, you touched my life with your healing power to my friend’s husband. We have all been blessed by your Presence in our lives. I pray for your blessing to continue to reach others in our community. May hearts continue to be softened and may your love be a source of joy for families. Forgive us as we have selfishly sought the pleasure of our idols. Humble our hearts and teach us your ways. thank you, Father, for your love and mercy. I pray in Jesus’ name and in the power of the Holy Spirit.
I found a special youtube version of the Lord of the Dance by the Heath mount school choir. These children sang heartily and joyfully!
I can’t seem to put the link in for Shirley’s wonderful you-tube video — but please you to you-tube and watch Lord of the Dance Heath Mount
Goosebumps!
Dee, I found the Youtube! Gave me goosebumps-God stepping into history to dance with us! Our Laura has posted her dance to this tune and she helped me when I taught it to our kids at church. This is such a great version. Thank you, Shirley, for finding it.
Shirley, this is such a sweet story of your former pastor. I too, have danced Lord of the Dance (you can see it on our private Facebook page). It’s more meaningful to me after having been here to learn about the dance of the Trinity!
The song is so fitting Lord of the dance, I know Steven Curtis Chapmans version. I found the video you suggested, beautiful!
I somehow missed Wednesday? I see what happened….there were two Wednesday’s! I missed the second one hahaha!
8. Read the passage and describe John the Baptist’s purpose and ways he contrasts himself with Jesus.
His purpose was to baptize the people of Judea; to prepare the people for what was to come.
He contrasts himself with Christ by saying that he is just a mere man…he says that the One who is coming is far better than him. He suggests that he (John) is like a slave compared to the One who comes. He says he baptized with water, but the One to come will baptize with the Holy Spirit.
9. What stands out to you and do you have any comments on this?
I wonder if the people understood what the Holy Spirit was? It’s such an esoteric thing to grasp.
10. Read Ezekiel 36:25 and explain what two things happen to us when we receive Jesus and thus the Spirit of God.
When we are baptized, we are washed clean and idols are removed.
11. How have you experienced cleansing or power from the Spirit recently? Give thanks or tell Him anything else based on this passage.
Thank You Lord for giving me the strength to face my fear by believing that You are bigger than anything human and will get me through. Thank You for lifting me up when I am down. Thank You for providing the right timing of events. Help me to keep in mind the correct message I need to convey to my husband, with love. I am sorry I have let You and him down. In Your Holy name I pray. Amen.
12. Read the passage and describe how you see the dance of the Trinity.
Jesus the Son, the Dove is the Holy Spirit, and the voice of God.
13. Read what Keller has to say under “The Dance of Reality” and write down a few things
that stand out to you and why.
I am blown away that the meaning in creation of the spirit hovering over the waters is the spirit”fluttering” (like a Dove).
The Trinity encourages one another-glorifies and loves one another. God’s interior life therefore overflows with regard for others.
Glorifying another is finding that person beautiful in and of herself. Therefore you will not say to someone else, I will serve if I get benefit from it. You will serve unconditionally out of love and appreciation for who they are. Like the Trinity.
Since God created the universe then ultimate reality is a dance. The whole reality of the dance is to be played out in each of us.
Self centeredness is where a person expects for everything to revolve around them. They may fall in love but as long as there is no compromise of my individual interests or whatever meets my needs. Self centeredness makes everything a means to an end.
If this world was made by a Triune God then relationships of love are what this world is truly about.
14. Because we are made in the image of a relational God, we are relational. How have you
either been blessed or been a blessing to others in the last 24 hours?
God has surrounded me with godly women who are near and dear to my heart and each one has been a blessing in the last 24 hours.
A small picture of the trinity happened the other night when a dear sister called me from rehab. I normally can’t talk on the phone due to how loud my house can get, but picked up for her for who is recovering from a near fatal accident involving her whole family. She was struggling with some aspects of it. I think she is having some PTSD, (it was a wreck involving 2 semis and 2 other cars-truly horrific.). We prayed lifting one another up and encouraging each other.
Rebecca, that is beautiful about the time you got to share with your friend on the phone. What a blessing to be surrounded by Godly women.
I’m so glad you spoke with your friend. I was wondering how the family was faring.
Friday: Mark 1:12-13
15. Describe what happens in this passage.
The Spirit sent Jesus out into the desert for 40 days. Satan came and tempted him and Jesus was with the wild animals.
16. Read what Keller has to say about this under “Dancing into the Battle” and share what stands out to you and why.
Reality is a battle. Jesus has a spectacular relationship with God but had to contend with a threat of his own. Wilderness is a battleground; there are evil personal supernatural beings. Satan is tempting us away from the dance. Satan says to us that self-giving love will not work. Just like he did with Jesus, Satan wants us to step out of orbit around the Father, the Spirit and (others) to protect ourselves. Two trees the tree of the knowledge of good and evil and the tree of the cross.When I am in the heat of the battle hear the word of the Father: “This is my beloved child-you are my beloved child, whom I love; with you, I am well pleased.”
That Satan is real and he engages me in a battle every day to step away from the dance with the Trinity. Love is my guiding force-love for the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit and for others. I need to hear the words of my Father when the battle gets intense instead of listening to the lies of the enemy.
17. Where are you facing a battle with the enemy right now and how can you pray, based on what you are learning? (Often there is a lie to overcome with truth.)
Lord, who are the wild animals in my life? World system, fear of the future, (Satan is like a roaring lion-he is only roaring and I need to remember he has already lost the battle at Calvary). I pray that I will stay in step with you, God, in the dance amidst the battlefield. Like your Son, may I be confident in your provisions to carry me through the wilderness when I am beset with doubts and fears. Help me lean in and hear your words of love and affirmation. You already have overcome. Help me live a victorious life.
Saturday: Question & Reflection
18. Ask one question of the group that came to your mind as a result of the study.
I wonder how John felt being the forerunner only of somebody greater than himself? Are we willing to just be a forerunner? What kind of message am I proclaiming? Am I proclaiming the Good News of Jesus? How?
19. Make one observation about our symbol for the week.
The 3 different colors represent the uniqueness of each part of the Trinity although they all look exactly the same. They are in movement and in sync with one another. The fact that they form a circle means fluidity in their moves, they can see “eye to eye”. The overall shape is a heart which conveys love. The Trinity is love. When I look at the symbol, they convey a three in one person image-whatever angle you would look at the symbol it would still be the same i.e. if we take the green-that is the “head”, and the red and blue dots are the “eyes” and the bottom part of the symbol becomes the “mouth”.
20. How did God meet you through His Word this week?
Jesus is not just a historical figure who came and left this earth. He was the fulfillment of all prophecies and He is the Good News. He came to history so He can change my history. I thought it was helpful to see that God’s words of love to Jesus preceded His temptation. I would like to think that these very words carried Him through His life and suffering and death on the cross. When I go through suffering, help me, Lord to remember your words, “ this is my [daughter] whom I loved; and with you, I am well pleased.”
12. Read the passage and describe how you see the dance of the Trinity.
I like how Keller paralleled the beginning of creation with Jesus in the Gospel. Creation and redemption, the rescue and renewal of all things upon the arrival of Jesus, the King. Jesus was there in the beginning and He is there to redeem us. He is, was and has always been…
13. Read what Keller has to say under “The Dance of Reality” and write down a few things
that stand out to you and why.
Jesus was always the plan for redemption, even when creation was being formed. As Keller states John 17:4-5 “I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do. And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory that I had with you before the world began”
14. Because we are made in the image of a relational God, we are relational. How have you
either been blessed or been a blessing to others in the last 24 hours?
I find in a world where social media promotes “look at me, my life is perfect”, people can lose focus on the importance of relationships and or social media gives a false truth. It’s all surface. I am trying to reach out more either in person, phone calls or text, not to just assume by viewing ones profile that everything is good. I recently reached out to a friend who’s husband is deployed, and she is going to a dental assistance school. I assumed she was fine and busy, I assumed wrong. I am glad I reached out to her and in that I felt God saying…yes…this is good. I am just as guilty getting caught up in the busyness of life, I dont reach out, I just view social media, send a quick hi or like on their page and move on. In short, my friend and I had lunch together this past week, much needed fellowship and real time together. It was a blessing to us both.
15. A key to strengthening your prayer life is to pray something you saw in the passage you just studied. For example, for this one, you might pray several ways:
“A self centered life is a stationary life”. One of Kellers statements. Father forgive me when I think its all about me, help me to trust you, to see beyond self, help me to love like you and to see beyond self. Let me be a blessing to others and show your love and kindness. Remind me of the joy you bring and spread that to others. When I focus on you, how awesome you are, everything else falls to the side, you are all that matters, when I put you first and focus on you, my problems dont seem so huge. I began to have peace and joy that you give and it spreads to others. I pray your love can flow out of me others, that your love can and will reach others who so desperately need you. I am remind of the song You are a good, good Father, that’s who you are, that’s who you are…you are perfect in all of your ways!
15-Describe what happens in this passage.
I love that it’s like a do over. The better Adam has come to make things right! I’m reading Genesis 1-3 too with a church reading plan so it brought a great perspective.
16. Read what Keller has to say about this under “Dancing into the Battle” and share what
stands out to you and why.
Now Jesus is being tempted as Adam was but Jesus will overcome for us, for love of the bride.
17. Where are you facing a battle with the enemy right now and how can you pray, based
on what you are learning? (Often there is a lie to overcome with truth.)
Raising my son. I think I am looking for something out of my hard work, like a reward, etc. Yet if I just obey the Lord & trust He is enough, He will be my all as I look to Him.
15. Describe what happens in this passage. The Spirit drove him out into the wilderness for 40 days. He was tempted by Satan, he was with wild animals, and he was ministered to by angels.
16. Read what Keller has to say about this under “Dancing into the Battle” and share what stands out to you and why. Our response to God’s commands is “why?” How sobering to realize that in many (if not all) situations I filter my choice for obedience through my orbit… do I have time for that, would they appreciate that, do I have mental space for that today, I just want _____! Is that really (really?) God’s voice telling me? I think that if I knew His voice I wouldn’t balk and ask why each time but Adam knew His voice and questioned the orbit of the command. But Christ KNEW His voice, was His voice (IS His voice) and He didn’t waver…struggle, yes, waver, no. He responded in battle with God’s words. God as the center was absolute concrete Truth and that is where Christ planted His feet. It was who He was/is. Why am I here, really? Do I still operate on the hidden lie that this life is all about me? Trying to get as much as I can out of it while getting hit as little as possible like some absurd video game? What does my heart truly believe about my numbered days? Our behaviors and feelings are manifestations of our deepest beliefs.
Keller asserts that 1. We were created so God could give joy. And 2. We were created to orbit around God. Therefore the way to joy is to orbit around God. BUT if we orbit around God to get joy we suddenly shift to orbiting around ourselves. So the only way to truly orbit around God (and therefore get joy) is to SEE God for His beauty and allow that to change our desires to want to serve Him and give HIM joy. To be a humble servant as Christ was a humble servant. And at that point we aren’t concerned so much about getting but instead giving which is an echo of the Trinity.
17. Where are you facing a battle with the enemy right now and how can you pray, based on what you are learning? (Often there is a lie to overcome with truth.) I think my battle is with the lie of self-worth. We have been in our new town for 8 months and still have no friends, church, or ‘community.’ I know it takes a long time. I am just lonely which didn’t bother me too much because I love serving as a nurse in 3 different jobs but I broke my elbow 3 weeks ago and haven’t been able to work or serve so I feel worthless. The lie: I have to be contributing to people’s well being/happiness to be worth anything. Truth: God has purpose in my story. How I can pray: I can pray for the staff I have been getting to know, that they would see Jesus. I can pray that I would be open to whatever it is God has for me in this unexpected (to me) hiatus. I can pray for a church and a way to serve selflessly instead of just wanting to make a friend. I will pray that I know Him better, His love better so my heart orbits around that which is beautiful (Him) and not around what is easy or ‘natural.’
Praying for your healing and a friend but also God’s perspective on serving and peace. Love your honesty and heart to serve.
15. Describe what happens in this passage.
Jesus goes into the wilderness, the devil tempts Him, and angels take care of Him.
16. Read what Keller has to say about this under “Dancing into the Battle” and share what stands out to you and why.
Several things stand out:
People were being thrown to the wild animals and so was Jesus. Yikes!
We are tempted by evil at all times. Ugh.
If we are God centered (not self-centered) we will be okay.
The Garden of Eden is the opposite of the Garden of Gethsemane. Wow! Never thought of that.
The tree in the Garden of Eden was analogous to the tree on which Jesus hung. Gulp…tempted and ate the fruit/listened to evil; tempted and did what God wanted (death). He wants us to obey, even if it hurts. He knows what is best for us.
17. Where are you facing a battle with the enemy right now and how can you pray, based on what you are learning? (Often there is a lie to overcome with truth.)
There are several battles I am fighting right now. In each case there is a common theme. It’s that I’m not good enough. I need to remember that I am a daughter of the King, who loves me no matter what, will be with me through thick and thin, and is for me not against me. It is difficult though. The world is in my face and I forget. I’m so human. I will pray for confidence in each situation.
Laura, you are one of the most confident people I have met in this bible study, I remember well. You are so knowledgeable about God, his word and I will be praying along with you. You are a daughter of the King. Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you, will complete and perfect it until the day of Jesus Christ. Phil. 1:6. God gave me that scripture when I was first saved at 21, I had so many insecurities and lack of confidence, I still do and this is my favorite verse. Hugs to you Laura.
Oh Staci thanks so much! Tears….I will memorize this verse to say in times that I am feeling weak. It will help me keep positive.
(((hugs)))
15. Describe what happens in this passage.
Jesus is thrown into the wilderness, the battle ground, where Satan throws temptation at Him.
16. Read what Keller has to say about this under “Dancing into the Battle” and share what
stands out to you and why.
We are in the battleground, Satan will throw temptation at us, to draw us away from the dance with God. Satan did it in the Garden of Eden and Mark parallels it with Jesus in the wilderness. God is saying it should be enough to trust His Word, obey his commands out of love and respect for God, in our dance with Him.
This makes me realize when I am tempted to go my own way, do things my way, it pulls me away from God and our dance. I can become vulnerable to the enemies attacks in doing so, I lose true peace and joy that only God can give in those two things is where we find our strength too. For the Joy of the Lord is our strength. I have noticed this in my own walk with God, if the enemy can get me off track, away from God, I lose peace and the Joy that comes from listening and following God. I also miss out on our dance and time together when I am tempted or pulled away.
17. Where are you facing a battle with the enemy right now and how can you pray, based
on what you are learning? (Often there is a lie to overcome with truth.)
To completely surrender my struggle, not hold onto control and trying to figure each and every day out, how are we going to do this or that….focus on today and trust and believe God and what His word says. Even if I have a bad day or a good day, God is still good, God is still in control and God still loves me, even when I fail Him or mess up.
Golden from Staci:
God still loves me, even when I fail Him or mess up.
Thursday
12. Read the passage and describe how you see the dance of the Trinity.
The three coming together for the ceremony of the baptism of Jesus. I like the visual of the dove descending upon Jesus. It made me think of the doves in my backyard. They always arrive in pairs and are so graceful in their landing but you can hear the power in their wings when they take off.
13. Read what Keller has to say under “The Dance of Reality” and write down a few things that stand out to you and why.
”The Trinity is simply different manifestations of one God. There is one God in 3 persons who know and love one another.” I’m not sure I would use the word “simply” but how Keller describes the dance as “the Father, the Son and the Spirit centered on the other, adoring and serving them” really describes this passage. ‘’There is no self-centeredness in the Trinity…but self-giving love”. And that love has always been.
14. Because we are made in the image of God, we are relational. How have you either been blessed or been a blessing in the last 24 hours?
My son and daughter, selflessly and willingly helping us repair our deck that was damaged in hurricane Florence.
15. A key to strengthening your prayer life is to pray something you saw in the passage you just studied.
I give thanks to the Father, the Son and the Spirit and just as each are centered on the other, may I love and serve others out of selflessness, not out of need or because it benefits me. Help me to love others with Your love.
Friday: Mark 1:12-13
15. Describe what happens in this passage. – Jesus was immediately sent out to the desert for 40 days by the Spirit to be tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals and the angels attended to him.
16. Read what Keller has to say about this under “Dancing into the Battle” and share what stands out to you and why. – A couple of things stood out to me in this section. First where Mark says Jesus was with the wild animals, I thought this has to mean something to be pointing it out and then in the book, Keller talks about how at the time Mark wrote the Gospel of Mark, people were being thrown to the wild animals. This was a WOW for me to see how powerful Jesus really was to be able to be among the wild animals and not be harmed. The other thing that made me laugh was when Keller talks about God telling Jesus to obey him just because he says so. I told my kids this all the time “because I said so” but they didn’t listen like Jesus did to God. I finally have confirmation that I was right in saying ‘because I said so’. After all these years, it finally came to light.
17. Where are you facing a battle with the enemy right now and how can you pray, based on what you are learning? (Often there is a lie to overcome with truth.) – Right now I feel I’m struggling in my marriage. I’m struggling to get back to a good attitude toward my husband. I can sense it coming, but then the enemy gets right back in my head and I feel justified again with my bad attitude. I need to stand strong and be surrounded by the Trinity and get back to have the Trinity as my center. I will stand on a 3 stranded cord is not easily broken, and if I join the Three Strands, we will become 4 and be unstoppable.
Friday
15. Describe what happens in this passage.
The Holy Spirit forces (never noticed this before) Jesus into the wilderness for 40 days. Where Satan will tempt Him with evil, He’ll be with wild animals (how scary) and angels will minister to Him constantly (what peace).
16. Read what Keller has to say about this under “Dancing into the Battle” and share what stands out to you and why.
”Why did God create me? Not to get joy but to give it.” I sometimes think that Christians feel guilty if they find joy in being in Christ, I must be somber, I must beat myself up, but if our life is centered around Him, serving Him, being in His will, that’s where we find joy – “that’s being in the dance.”
Oops!! After reading all your wonderful replies I noticed I responded to the wrong section!! What stood to me is the comparison between this passage and the temptation in the garden…”experiencing a spectacular relationship with God and then having to contend with a threat of his own.” “Being tempted away from the dance by Satan!!” This is so true in my life and this is where I need to obey Him out of love and I trust Him…not always easy!!
15. Describe what happens in this passage.
The Holy Spirit sent him into the wilderness where He was surrounded by wild animals and tempted by satan for 40 days and the angels were ministering to Him.
16. Read what Keller has to say about this under “Dancing into the Battle” and share what stands out to you and why.
That satan whispers in the deepest of our battles that this idea of self giving love, making ourselves vulnerable orbiting around other people won’t work. satan never stops testing us. Mark brings this out because it is a reality. The forces of evil are tremendously intelligent and complex.
17. Where are you facing a battle with the enemy right now and how can you pray, based on what you are learning? (Often there is a lie to overcome with truth.)
Yes I am. the lie is tricky..that making myself vulnerable, being self-giving and loving to this person won’t work. I am guarding my heart (looking for change in this person) yet being vulnerable and self-giving. Kinda tricky-very hard, but I have asked God to strengthen me and help me truly see this person. I am asking for help to be as wise as a serpent yet gentle as a Dove. So far He is helping me sift through the daily lies while clinging to Him. He is faithful and I get to experience more of Him and believe me nothing and no person in this world will satisfy, only Jesus can. I am so happy I am His. 🙂
praying for your Rebecca, and i needed this reminder this morning, a perfect response to what I just poured out in my journal “nothing and no person in this world will satisfy, only Jesus can.”
18. Ask one question of the group that came to your mind as a result of the study.
How will Jesus “show” Himself when He comes back to Earth?
19. Make one observation about our symbol for the week.
It’s colorful!
20. How did God meet you through His Word this week?
Definitely need to repent of sins of mine, as John the Baptist encouraged those to do before the coming of the Messiah.
Friday: Mark 1: 12-13
15. Describe what happens in this passage.
The Spirit drove (strong word – implies that Jesus had to do it, was compelled) Jesus into the wilderness where he was tempted by Satan for 40 days. There was wild animals. He was ministered to by angels.
16. Read what Keller has to say about this under “Dancing into the Battle” and share what stands out to you and why.
Keller explains how Mark connects the Hebrew Scriptures to Jesus and his life. Just as Adam and Eve were tempted so was Jesus. I have never made the connection of Jesus and His time of tempting to Adam and Eve’s temptation.
17. Where are you facing a battle with the enemy right now and how can you pray, based on what you are learning? (Often there is a lie to overcome with truth.)
It’s easy for me to mask selfishness as self-care. I need to remember that Jesus served and make Him my model. As a person who refuels by being alone, it is so easy for me to withdraw completely and tell myself I have earned it.
Father God – thank You for the blessings in my life and the ways You use me daily to minister to others and glorify You. Help me to know the difference between selfishness and a time for true renewal. Give me a heart to serve.
Such good reflections, Christina!
I am so happy I started the Mark bible study with the group. My eyes have been opened more to how much God fulfills His will through us if we desire to fulfill His word. We are in the same dance that I read about this week. I apologize in advance if I’m hard to understand. U am looking forward to getting to know each person in the group.
JENNIFER! I’M ECSTATIC TO SEE YOU HERE!
Jennifer is a new Christian who was part of the filming of The Jesus Who Surprises in Columbus, Georgia. Let’s give her a huge welcome and keep her coming! She is a delight!
Welcome!!!
oh Jennifer–welcome! So good to have you with us! I so look forward to hearing more from you!
Welcome Jennifer!!! You will be richly blessed…wonderful women her and very encouraging!!
Jennifer what a blessing it is to have you here. I look forward to seeing your input. Welcome!
Welcome, Jennifer, glad you have joined!
Welcome, Jennifer! So glad you are now a part of our study.
Saturday: Question & Reflection
18. Ask one question of the group that came to your mind as a result of the study. – Ladies, my question to you is, what ways do you use to stay in the dance with the Trinity everyday?
19. Make one observation about our symbol for the week. – the first thing I saw was a heart. The Trinity is love and how appropriate to see a heart in this image.
20. How did God meet you through His Word this week? – My youngest son moved out this summer and he was here (by himself) for a nice visit today. He took my Mom out for breakfast, and came back and we had a special visit with just him. It has been an adjustment to have no kids in the house so it was a nice way to have a visit. I just wonder if it is God’s way for me to get used to not being around my kids, since my husband would love to move to Tennessee after he retires.
One little way I stay in the dance is by asking Him, before I meet with Him, to lead me, to kiss me, to help me be present with Him.
Thank you Dee. I will start doing that. They would be ways to prepare my heart and mind for him.
Immediately after Jesus’ baptism and the beautiful scene, Jesus is driven into the wilderness. There he is tempted by Satan. He was with wild animals, and the angels were ministering to him.
This wilderness is a battleground- there is an actual enemy doing the tempting-this is what Keller describes as dancing into battle.
Where are you facing a battle? Well, that is often with myself as I am tempted with bad thoughts about myself. It is also with my spouse, as we have differences of opinion, or hurtful conversations. It sometimes occurs in other relationships when words are misunderstood. Yes, I am aware of the spiritual forces of darkness that are at work, testing me and trying me.
Often there is a lie to overcome with truth. I would say that the lie is, I am not good enough, that I am somehow not succeeding. the truth is that I am loved unconditionally and God has cleansed me and changed me, forgiven me and promised me eternal life. I can face whatever comes by trusting Him.
The symbol of the dance of the Trinity is a reminder that unity is love and joy. the shape of the heart signifies these qualities.
. this is dancing into battle.
20. How did God meet you through His Word this week?
I’ve been following along silently this week due to being sick with pneumonia. As I’ve been studying here and in Hebrews, the Lord has shown me that relationships matter. Both my relationship with Him and my relationship with others. To my Lord first, to whom I owe my salvation and to others second, to whom I could not be reconciled without my faith. I have been in a battle with relationships – both my marriage and family. These battles have been fought with the hope of improving them and glorifying God. It’s so much easier to just let people be than to hold them accountable. There’s also a fine line I’m still seeking to discern, where I speak and where I’m quiet and allow the Holy Spirit to work. I’ve really been challenged in this battle to stay focused on my Lord and not my own agenda. I’ve failed many times by letting my emotions get in the way. I’ve also had victories through much prayer. I love the verse I found in Hebrews 5 that describes Christ as our high priest: “ 2He can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is beset with weakness. “ When we see Christ has to be forced to the wilderness by the Holy Spirit, we see his human nature. He can understand our sufferings and longings like no one else. The Trinity is still a mystery to me, but I like the connection I learned this week between creation and Jesus baptism.
After re-reading Hebrews 5:2, I realized this verse was referring to Levite’s who served as high priest, as Christ was not beset with weakness. However, Christ came as man and we know he understands our sufferings (Hebrews 2: 18Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.) and serves as our perfect high priest who died once for all our sin.
18. Ask one question of the group that came to your mind as a result of the study.
I can’t think of any question at this time.
19. Make one observation about our symbol for the week.
I like what Keller said, how the Trinity works with one another, page 6 of our books Keller said “Trinitarianism holds that there is one God in three persons who know and love one another. God is not more fundamentally one than he is three, he is not more fundamentally three than he is one.” The Father, Son and Holy Spirit all glorify one another. John 17:4-5 Jesus talking ” I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do. And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory that I had with you before the world began.” I just see the true love and essence of God in all this, it’s just beautiful.
20. How did God meet you through His Word this week?
Through this study, there is something about really digging into the Word, God shows up. I love Dee’s studies as the studies really do make you get into the Word and see God come alive in different ways than when I have read the same passages throughout my Christian walk. I love that about God’s word, it never disappoints…
I am happy to be doing this Bible study with you. It is my first time. Sometimes I don’t always understand the directions. So I have not been able to comment yet. I hope to do so.
I think I found the right spot! I will give this a try! I appreciate Dee Brestin’s approach to Bible Studies. I heard you speak, Dee, in Oshkosh severeal years ago at an Exalt Saturday in October! I truly appreciated your seminars.