Religion hurts people.
I always remember the response of a seeker in our study
when we were looking at the first miracle and sign of Jesus:
turning water into wine.
I said the point of that miracle was to show how Jesus hates religion.
I saw her sit up straight and quickly write that down.
I learned later how hurt she had been when her son committed suicide and the reaction
by the religious was condemnation instead of mercy.
She decided she was done with church.
Yet decades later she came to a seeker study and encountered
the true Jesus who brought healing to her soul.
It’s only the 2nd chapter of Mark,
but the battle with the religious Pharisees has begun.
And by the time we get to Mark 3,
they are looking for a way to kill Jesus,
for they see He has come to end the idol of religion,
the idol on which their whole way of life is built.
Jesus came not to reform religion but to end it.
(Tim Keller)
He has not come to patch up religion, but to give us something brand new.
Our symbol for the week, therefore, is a new wineskin,
representing the new creation only He can make of us.
Only new creations can hold the new wine of the Spirit.
Though Mark does not describe the first miracle of turning
the water used for ritualistic hand-washing into wine, he explains it.
He has come to bring not religion, but relationship,
the kind of relationship marriage foreshadows.
So His first miracle is at a wedding.
Jesus tells the legalistic Pharisees, who take pride in their display of fasting,
that it is not the time for fasting, for the Bridegroom is present.
He then goes on to say that no one puts new wine into old wineskins, for they will burst.
The scene at San Quentin prison when Johnny Cash sings to the men is so anointed by the Spirit.
They seem to know that moralism and legalism has never helped them.
They seemed to sense they desperately need something different.
They need God to make them new and pour His Spirit into their lives.
They sense what neither the religious nor the irreligious understand.
They need the Physician, the Bridegroom, the Savior.
And so do we.
Watch their hunger for truth as Johnny Cash sings.
Highlight from Last Week
Our passsage last week included Jesus touching the leper, and we also looked at the comparison Scripture makes between leprosy and sin. I was so moved by honest confessions from several of you: confessing lying, pride, and about being recalcitrant about true repentance. I don’t want to re-iterate the very personal things you shared, but I do want to say that being truly repentant is the secret to transformation. Jill shared this great insight about repentance from Rosaria Butterfield’s “The Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert.”
“…I learned something important. I learned the first rule of repentance: that repentance requires greater intimacy with God than with our sins. How much greater? About the size of a mustard seed. Repentance requires that we draw near to Jesus, no matter what. And sometimes we all have to crawl there on our hands and knees. Repentance is an intimate affair. And for many of us, intimacy with anything is a terrifying prospect.”
Trust repentance, with God and with others, is “an intimate affair.”
Sunday:
- What stands out to you from the above and why?
- Jesus came to set both the religious and the irreligious free from their chains. Have you been in either or both of those chains? If possible, give a specific example of how you have been set free.
Monday: He Came For Those Who Know They Are Sick
3. Read Mark 2:13-17
A. Describe what happens in verses 13-15.
B. Do you find anything remarkable about the above? If so, what and why?
C. Describe what happened in verses 16-17. What question did the Pharisees and teachers
of the law raise?
D. How does Jesus answer? What does He mean?
E. How is the above like the first Beatitude? (Matthew 5:3)
F. Do you think it is a stretch or a reasonable corrollary to see support for the value of
going to physicians in Jesus answer?
4. How has God worked in your life through your knowledge that “without Him you can do
nothing?” Can you give an example?
Tuesday: He is the Bridegroom Who Gives New Wine
5. Read Mark 2:18-20
A. How did Jesus answer the question from John’s disciples and the Pharisees concerning
fasting?
B. What things is He telling them about Himself through His answer?
C. Has fasting of some sort been a meaningful discipline in your life? If so, share.
6. Read Mark 2:21-22
A. Describe the two illustrations Jesus gives of an ineffectual approach to life.
B. What point is He making through these illustrations?
Last week I shared on my author Facebook page a discerning comment from Mark Tooley on the difference between traditional and liberal congregations. I believe it really applies here, for I do think the liberal congregations are going the way of religion, not understanding we need a new birth, we need new wine. Tooley made this comment in regard to the impending split in the United Methodist Church:
There are many many many issues of disagreement within the United Methodist church…sexuality is the superficial reason for impending division.
Traditional view: Sees the church as having a chiefly transformative role on the hearts of us as sinners: winning new disciples to Christ, a new birth , a changed heart, a changed mind, and becoming sanctified to live a holy and merciful life
Liberal View: Affirming people where they are, creating an inclusive community, and working for social justice. (MARK TOOLEY FROM 1/14/20 WORLD AND EVERYTHING IN IT PODCAST)
7. Is the above helpful to you in any way?
8. What light does this passage give to the question: “Why was Jesus first miracle turning
water into wine at a wedding?” (as described in John 2) How do you need this new wine to
face today well?
Wednesday: The Sabbath was Made for Man
9. Read Mark 2:23-27
A. Of what do the Pharisees accuse Jesus in verse 24?
B. What illustration does Jesus give from the life of David and what thoughts do you have
on this?
C. What important principle does Jesus give concerning the Sabbath in verse 27?
10. Read Mark 3:1-6
A. Summarize what happened in a sentence.
B. What is the questin Jesus asks in verse 4?
C. How does this question show the true purpose of the Sabbath and also, how
the Pharisees had destroyed that purpose?
11. Read what Keller writes in the opening of Chapter 4 up to “Religion vs The Gospel.”
What stands out to you and why?
Thursday: Religion Versus the Gospel
12. Read the section in Keller “Religion Versus the Gospel” and write anything that stands out
to you and why.
13. Now read the section “The Lord of the Sabbath” and do the same.
14. How have you seen God move in your life recently?
Friday: Come Unto Me
15. Read Mark 3:6. How were the Pharisees holding on desperately to their old wineskins?
16. Why do you think we hold onto our idols? What is needed to release them and find
true rest?
17. How do you see a lack of peace in the Pharisees?
18. Read to the end of the chapter 4 in Keller (I Am and The End of Religion) and share
anything that stands out to you and why.
19. Read Mark 3:7-18 and share anything that stands out to you.
Saturday: Reflections and Applications
20. What quickened you this week? How would the Lord have you apply it?
21. Is there a lie you need to overcome in order to apply it? If so, what?
203 comments
9. The Pharisees accuse Jesus of doing something unlawful on the Sabbath. Jesus tells the story of David who went into the high priest’s house and ate the bread of the Presence, which was unlawful. In verse 23, Jesus said that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.
10. Mark 3 Jesus went into the synagogue on the Sabbath where a man with a withered hand was, asking him, “come here.” He asked the Pharisees if it was lawful to do good or to do harm on the Sabbath, to save life or to kill. But they were silent. Then he healed the man, and the Pharisees took counsel against him, making plans on how they could destroy him.
Keller says the Sabbath is for restoring the diminished, and replenishing the drained. That’s why Jesus was angry with the Pharisees who are only concerned about the laws being observed. that is religion! They are judgmental and self-obsessed instead of caring for the man with the withered hand.
9. Read Mark 2:23-27
A. Of what do the Pharisees accuse Jesus in verse 24?
Eating grain with his disciples on a Sabbath day.
B. What illustration does Jesus give from the life of David and what thoughts do you have on this?
David ate the consecrated bread along with his soldiers because they were hungry and that was the only sustenance they can get. I Samuel 21:1-5 intimates that it is with the priest’s permission that they ate of the consecrated bread.
I think the Pharisees were quick to see the letter of the law rather than the spirit of the law here. I could think of health care workers working on Sundays (Sabbath). Would a modern-day Pharisee see it as breaking the law? I have known of nurses who will not work on Sundays and that is an on the table discussion with a prospective employer. When I started working as a nurse here in the US, working on a Sunday bothered me but God has given me freedom later on as I think of Romans 12:1, 2 and Galatians 5:13 “For you were called to freedom, brothers. But do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”
C. What important principle does Jesus give concerning the Sabbath in verse 27?
He is Lord of the Sabbath. He created everything. There is nothing new under the sun that man can attribute to himself. In Him, we have and move our being.
10. Read Mark 3:1-6
A. Summarize what happened in a sentence.
Jesus healed a man with a shriveled hand on a Sabbath at a synagogue while the Pharisees were looking for a way to accuse Him.
B. What is the question Jesus asks in verse 4?
Which is lawful to do good or evil? To save life or to kill?
C. How does this question show the true purpose of the Sabbath and also, how the Pharisees had destroyed that purpose?
Sabbath transcends man-made laws when the good of others is at stake. The purpose of true Sabbath is freedom from the law, true rest, no more working for acceptance from God but knowing I am already accepted. The Pharisees destroyed it by having stubborn hearts and letting pride of religion reign in their hearts
I’m far behind this week 😩
8. What light does this passage give to the question: “Why was Jesus first miracle turning water into wine at a wedding?” (as described in John 2) How do you need this new wine to face today well?
After reading a few responses I suppose the answer is that the water was used in purification rites and Jesus chose those casks to change into”the finest wine, saved for last.” He was trying to convey to the people that they too could be change from dirty to fine by Him.
I need the new wine to wash me clean to be able to fave then”ugly”’of the day with an outlook as He had.
9. Read Mark 2:23-27
A. Of what do the Pharisees accuse Jesus in verse 24?
They accused Him of breaking the law by working on the Sabbath
B. What illustration does Jesus give from the life of David and what thoughts do you have on this?
He talks about David’s storming the temple to eat the Holy bread. I’m not familiar with this story…I need to read it because I don’t have the context. It sounds bad, like he shouldn’t have done that, but if God told him to them he had to do it.
C. What important principle does Jesus give concerning the Sabbath in verse 27?
He says the Sabbath was meant to serve the needs of the people, not the other way around.
10. Read Mark 3:1-6
A. Summarize what happened in a sentence.
Jesus heals a man with a deformed hand on the Sabbath while the Pharisees watch, and He tells them that the Sabbath is a time to do good to others. He says it’s not a day for evil.
B. What is the question Jesus asks in verse 4?
“Then he turned to his critics and asked, “Does the law permit good deeds on the Sabbath, or is it a day for doing evil? Is this a day to save life or to destroy it?” But they wouldn’t answer him.”
Mark 3:4 NLT
https://www.bible.com/116/mrk.3.4.nlt
C. How does this question show the true purpose of the Sabbath and also, how the Pharisees had destroyed that purpose?
I always thought the true purpose of the law is to rest on the Sabbath. I don’t understand how they “destroyed that purpose.” Confused.
They added so many laws to the Sabbath that it became a burden. Man became a slave to obeying all those laws. I’d love for some sisters to give examples for our always wonderful question-asking Laura!
11. Read what Keller writes in the opening of Chapter 3 up to “Religion vs The Gospel.” What stands out to you and why?
I guess what stands out is that the leaders have missed the point of the Sabbath according to Jesus. Although the Sabbath was for rest (healing, rejuvenating), healing the man with the shriveled hand did just that. But, I can see where they are coming from their standpoint…He was performing the healing so He was at work, even in a good way. I’m not very convinced by His argument I guess? He did it so another could rest on that day. I just don’t know.
Laura, the Sabbath was given to us as a gift. One day a week to rest from our labor. It wasn’t meant to come with a list of what you could and could not do in order to fulfill the “rest” part, even things like how many steps you were allowed to take.
Jesus was in the temple that day keeping the Sabbath holy, but just as anyone of us would help a neighbor on a Sunday get his car unstuck or give them a ride to the hospital if they needed it, in the eyes of the Pharisees you would be working and not resting, Jesus helped a person who had a genuine need and could not help himself. Jesus’ point was that doing good on the Sabbath was more important than legalism.
Keller also said that since God rested on the seventh day and God doesn’t get tired, that the rest must be something more than just sitting down and relaxing. It is being finished with your work and satisfied in what you have done during the week. It is also resting in God and His work (what He has done for us).
12. Read the section in Keller “Religion Versus the Gospel” and write anything that stands out to you and why.
This stood out:
“I think God is saying, ‘I want you to meet the needs of other people with all of the joy, all of the eagerness, all of the urgency, all of the ingenuity, creativity, and industry with which you meet your own needs. That’s the standard. That’s how I want you to live your life.’”
Wow…although I know this to be true, I get off track sometimes and forget. Right now I am consumed in preparing for our oldest sons wedding in June. I am the step mother. Need I say anything more? I did raise him (he lived with us and I mothered him); he is mine. However his mom is a 6’2” bombshell from Finland! I’m 5’2” and holding 😩. Ahhh…..human-ness. Ugh. I have prepared for this day for 31 years I’m so sad to say…inside my heart, that is. I have prepped myself for ”he who does the most work gets the least recognition.” Again, human. Luckily, my future DIL is an amazing woman whom I admire. I don’t think she will forget me or treat me poorly. Thank You Lord for Rita! I have always been kind to his mom, but she isn’t always that way to me. So I am NOT thinking of Anne (the mom). It is hard 😩. I will pray 🙏🙏🙏
And,
“But in the life of Christians the law of God—though still binding on them—functions in a completely different way. It shows you the life of love you want to live before the God who has done so much for you. God’s law takes you out of yourself; it shows you how to serve God and others instead of being absorbed with yourself.”
When we are in tune with Him, we want Him to be satisfied with our actions. We want Him to be pleased. #LOVE
Laura, I did not know that your oldest son’s biological mother is a 6’2″ bombshell from Finland! Wow…yes, Scandinavian women can be very beautiful! Maybe it would be helpful for you to give thanks, if only in your own heart, for her bringing your son into the world, carrying him and giving birth to him, so that you had the opportunity to raise him and love him.
Good outlook Susan! So human of me to be jealous of her.
This is certainly an interesting wrinkle in your story, Laura. 🙂
I remember how I felt when we had a Swedish student live with us for a year. She was gorgeous, well-endowed, and the boys flocked to her. If she broke up with one he sometimes took up with me to be near to her! 🙂
Hahaha!
Dee, when I first read this I thought that you were married and was hosting a Swedish student until I got to the past where her ex boyfriends took up with you!
I never knew that any of your children weren’t biologically yours; I think that says a lot about you and how you view your kids.
Isn’t funny how we think we’ve mentally prepared for something and when the time draws near, we aren’t as prepared as we thought?
I have no words of wisdom, but having a daughter in law that you love and loves you is a great blessing.
9. Read Mark 2:23-27
A. Of what do the Pharisees accuse Jesus in verse 24? They accuse Jesus of allowing his disciples to do what is unlawful. Specifically not keeping the Sabbath. (This reminds me of mommy judging… did you know you are letting your kids be bad!?) The comment is about the disciples but the passive aggressive judgement is directed toward Jesus.
B. What illustration does Jesus give from the life of David and what thoughts do you have on this? When David entered the house of God and ate the bread of the Presence. The priest gave it to him after asking if he had kept himself from women. This event does not seem to have occurred on the Sabbath however it was a “breaking of the rules.” I have always read this as Jesus pointing out that the Pharisees were hypocrites: an unlawful event is forgiven/overlooked in David’s life (a figure revered in Jews) and his companions but is now a big issue in Jesus life to nitpick and be appalled at.
C. What important principle does Jesus give concerning the Sabbath in verse 27? The Sabbath was made for man not man made for the Sabbath. We as humans need the Sabbath, it was given to remind us of God’s work completed and the perfect rest to come. The Sabbath does not need us and our rules in order for it to stay Holy, it is Holy and good regardless of what we do.
10. Read Mark 3:1-6
A. Summarize what happened in a sentence. Jesus heals a man on the Sabbath in front of the Pharisees to prove a point.
B. What is the question Jesus asks in verse 4? “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save life or to kill?”
C. How does this question show the true purpose of the Sabbath and also, how the Pharisees had destroyed that purpose? The Sabbath was to do good. It was given as a gift to keep our minds on what is supposed to be central. We are so focused on survival and what needs to be done that we do not revisit that divine rest to celebrate the Creator. “To do” good or ‘to do” harm are both actions, both work. The Pharisees had destroyed the purpose of the Sabbath by making it a burden and full of rules that were inhibitory to rest. It strikes me as they watch and plot that they surely didn’t have this much interest in the average Jew breaking laws, did they? They were jealous because I think they suspected He was the Messiah but He didn’t align with them…therefore if he wasn’t going to be on their team they would destroy Him and wait for a Messiah that would see their hard works and admire their discipline.
11. Read what Keller writes in the opening of Chapter 4 up to “Religion vs The Gospel.” What stands out to you and why? The Pharisees are so intent on following their rules they miss God’s heart. They are no different than the rest of the world.
. How have you seen God move in your life recently?
Today’s lesson. Years ago I had studied what the Sabbath meant, and I “knew” I needed a day if rest. I so missed the mark. I was like the girl and the neighbors, I was checking all the boxes. I thank God for freeing me from religion. It’s not easy everyday, but it’s not a chore at all. Thank you Father for Your leading and direction.
Wonderful, Jennifer!
Thursday
12. Read the section in Keller “Religion Versus the Gospel” write anything that stands out to you and why.
What stands out to me because I can totally relate is the religion of legalism…”there’s a code of conduct, and if you follow it God will look upon you with favor.” I know exactly how that teenage girl felt, I needed guidelines and rules to show me how to live. “I was not awash in the love and acceptance of God through Jesus Christ.”
13. Now read the section the “Lord of the Sabbath” and do the same.
Jesus is the Sabbath. The meaning of Sabbath is deep rest, a deep peace. I can find no rest in making it all about me and that’s what religion does, it’s like being on a treadmill…getting tired and going nowhere. Keller says, “if I rely on Jesus’s finished work, I know that God is satisfied with me. I can be satisfied with life.” This is a truth that my brother and sister never grasped and that’s why one is an atheist and the other is Buddhist today. They looked for another kind of religion they thought would satisfy and take them as far away from Christianity as they could get…so sad!
14. Have you seen God move in your life recently?
God brought to mind a verse from Proverbs during our Bible Study last night. “When there are many words transgression is unavoidable but he who restrains his lips is wise.” Proverbs 10:19 I just need to keep my mouth shut in certain conversations.
13. Now read the section “The Lord of the Sabbath” and do the same.
So much gold here!
“When Jesus says, “I am the Lord of the Sabbath,” Jesus means that he is the Sabbath. He is the source of the deep rest we need. He has come to completely change the way we rest.” It is true, when I rest in Him I am truly rested.
“A different reason to rest is to be so satisfied with your work, so utterly satisfied, that you can leave it alone. Only when you can say about your work, “I’m so happy with it, so satisfied—it is finished!” can you walk away. When God finished creating the world, he said, “It is good.” He rested.” I love this! To actually feel satisfied by my work is to be completely rested.
“Harold Abrahams was weary even when he rested, and Eric Liddell was rested even when he was exerting himself.” Again, Eric’s focus was on pleasing God which in turn made him rested always.
“That work is never over unless we rest in the gospel.” The underlying world of pleasing the earthly world is always in the back of your mind. It’s exhausting!
“If you rely on Jesus’s finished work, you know that God is satisfied with you. You can be satisfied with life.” I never thought of Jesus’ death like this.
“You can take all the vacations in the world, but if you don’t have the deep rest of the soul, resting in what Jesus did on the cross, you will not truly rest.“ Again, you always have that jiggling in the back of your mind instead of being completely rested.
14. How have you seen God move in your life recently?
I am hoping He move tomorrow for me, as I have gotten myself into hot water at work. I need Him to squelch my hot headed tendency; to remain calm through the fire. To know He is with me in the flames. Thank You Jesus, for bathing me with You.
Will pray for him to move for you, Laura. I know how easy it is to get into hot water with our hot headed tendencies! I can relate to that.
A. How did Jesus answer the question from John’s disciples and the Pharisees concerning fasting?
That this wasn’t the proper time for it, that an appropriate time was coming.
B. What things is He telling them about Himself through His answer?That he will be taken away, but also that it was okay to enjoy his presence, to be joyful while he was with them.
C. Has fasting of some sort been a meaningful discipline in your life? If so, share.
When you Dee, did the Women of Moderation study on Midday. That was the first time I ever fasted. It was a rich study for me and had much to do with loosening the chains of my idolatry issues with food/comfort. So much of it I still rely on. I remember you likening our overeating to the Israelites gathering too much manna, the thought of how the manna became rotten and full of maggots was such an effective word picture for me, it still is :)Fasting then was a revelation, I realized hunger pains are not fatal! That whole study and the fasting was part of it, helped me begin to see that my sin grieved God and that I could choose differently. I wanted to choose differently. Just before I sat down to attend to this study I ate a cabbage roll (just one!) with some parsnip puree and green beans. It was delicious! I thanked God for how good it was and how abundant and interesting our food supply is…eating with gratitude was a fruit of that study.
What a great testimony, Chris! It is so true that eating in moderation with well prepared food is so much more satisfying than trying to feed out soul by stuffing almost anything in our mouths! It’s a lesson I keep having to remember. I am doing so much better than once, yet I still have my days!
This is enlightening Chris. Thank you for your testimony!
Christina, I love what you said here especially “eating with gratitude”. One of my daughter’s friends started a website on intuitive eating. I find it very insightful to all the dieting that at one time or another I or other people have engaged in. I still am interested in the Mediterranean diet, though, as a nurse. When we get to nutrition in class, my students (mostly females), always perk up. Males, not so much. Hahaha they do not care much about nutrition-maybe they do but just not think it is a cool subject to be interested in. Sorry for the rabbit trail. I am making maple-glazed pumpkin bread right now and it is not low in calories, mind you! I would have to look parsnip puree up!
Is parsnip puree low carb? And were your cabbage rolls homemade? I presume they were. I’m not sure I could eat just one. I don’t suppose you could give me your recipes? You could PM me on Facebook. I love mashed potatoes but try to limit how much I eat. I’ve never tried cabbage rolls. They sound daunting!
chris–something about your words here gripped me “I could choose differently. I wanted to choose differently.” When I struggle with sin it is so helpful to remember that we can choose differently. He has given us that power.
A. Describe the two illustrations Jesus gives of an ineffectual approach to life.
Sewing a patch of new unshrunk cloth on an old garment and pouring new wine into old wineskins.
B. What point is He making through these illustrations?Perhaps that his coming called for a whole new way of doing things and of being in relationship with God?
7. Is the above helpful to you in any way?
It clarifies and makes me shudder because a friend who I meet with from time to time seems to have gone down this path, light on truth, like it almost doesn’t even matter.
8. What light does this passage give to the question: “Why was Jesus first miracle turning water into wine at a wedding?” (as described in John 2) How do you need this new wine to face today well?
I need to trust that Jesus paid it all, I cannot be condemned. I cannot be without hope. I do not have to figure everything and everyone out, by grace I am vitally connected to the One who actually does know everything, the One who makes dead things alive. I have a future and a hope no matter what the day brings.
I do read so much healing between your lines.
A. Of what do the Pharisees accuse Jesus in verse 24?
Breaking the Sabbath by working to harvest the grain
B. What illustration does Jesus give from the life of David and what thoughts do you have on this?
Being no old testament scholar, I always wondered about what David had done. It sounds sort of flippant!
C. What important principle does Jesus give concerning the Sabbath in verse 27?
That the Sabbath was made for man- not man for the sabbath
10. Read Mark 3:1-6
A. Summarize what happened in a sentence.
Jesus heals a man with a withered hand on the sabbath inciting the wrath of his enemies who conspire to take his life.
B. What is the question Jesus asks in verse 4?
“Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?”
C. How does this question show the true purpose of the Sabbath and also, how the Pharisees had destroyed that purpose?
The rules had become more important to them than the intent of the rules, the sabbath was so people would stop and trust God, the religious leaders were trusting in their scrupulous obedience, not in God
11. Keller on Religion versus the Gospel: Wow! I am really impressed with this comparison and starting with the teen’s question about loving her neighbor. How I once looked on the subject, yes, we want to know how, in religion, to be alright with God. that’s the purpose of obeying the law. And yes, we are all susceptible to the anxiety this teen was feeling.
But now the law functions in a different way:”It shows you the life of love you want to live before the God who has done so much for you.”
I want to hear this more in my church. Oh how I yearn for more truth to come through.
12. The Lord of the Sabbath: “Jesus affirms, even celebrates the need for rest.” Yet he is the source of the deep rest that we need. We need the deep rest of the soul, resting in what Jesus did on the cross. I need to rest on this principle. Still thinking this one through.
14. Have you seen God move in your life? Well, I am getting more acquainted with a dear older Christian woman who I have always admired.
I am picking her up and driving her to our chair yoga class twice a week. She cheers me with her humor and wisdom and perseverance through the struggles of aging and helping her elderly husband. This is a gift that touches me deeply. And it is so needed with the personal struggle I am having in my church these days. Bernice has memories of growing up in Poland during war times- what a life she has lived! With deep faith through it all.
Sounds like a very valuable friendship. Prayers for your church — and discernment for you!
15. Read Mark 3:6. How were the Pharisees holding on desperately to their old wineskins?
They went and “tattled” to the head guy about Jesus healing on the Sabbath.
16. Why do you think we hold onto our idols? What is needed to release them and find true rest?
It is comforting. Letting go is a scary prospect. We must put our faith in Jesus. He is the only one who can give us rest.
17. How do you see a lack of peace in the Pharisees?
They are thriving on the drama of it all. When you are hyped up as they were, you have absolutely no peace in your life.
Interesting observation about Pharisees thriving on the drama of it all.
Could be that I hang around too many teenagers! Ha! I know all about drama…
Matthew 11:28 is probably one of my favorite verses in the Bible. I use it when friends, family, and others are grieving the loss of a close friend, family member, etc. I love the song Aaron Shust sings using it as the focal point.
https://youtu.be/LiGrQaMHjG0
18. Read to the end of the chapter 3 in Keller (I Am and The End of Religion) and share anything that stands out to you and why.
”Jesus refers to himself throughout the Gospels in a unique manner. He says, “I am the bread of life”; “I am the light of the world”; “I am the way, and the truth, and the life”; “I am the true vine”; “I am the Good Shepherd.” The use of the phrase “I Am” is significant because it is the personal name God uses for himself.” This is a very cool link between Jesus and God.
“He was basically claiming that all sins are against him. Since you can only forgive sins against yourself—and sins are offenses against God—he is claiming to be God.” This must have woken up the people who were near and heard Him say it!
“These two groups had been longtime enemies of each other—but now they agree: They have to get rid of Jesus.” Strange bedfellows I would say…
“The moralist says, “The good people are in and the bad people are out—and of course we’re the good ones.” The self-discovery person says, “Oh, no, the progressive, open-minded people are in and the judgmental bigots are out—and of course we’re the open-minded ones.”” I can’t believe that for about 45 years I have said both of these things to myself in one form or another…yuck. I am so thankful for Dee and Nancy Demoss Wolglemuth for teaching me otherwise.
“The gospel says the humble are in and the proud are out. The gospel says the people who know they’re not better, not more open-minded, not more moral than anyone else, are in, and the people who think they’re on the right side of the divide are most in danger.” I pray I am humble and not one of these other choices.
19. Read Mark 3:7-18 and share anything that stands out to you
It seems like He is literally running from a crowd.
It is so creepy that the spirits inside someone would throw themselves on the ground and scream, “You are the Son of God!” AND funny to me that He told them to be quiet! He didn’t want them revealing Him. I picture the scene like a child in church trying to get their parents attention and the parent wanting the child to be quiet!
I wonder why He chose 12 apostles? Was it because of the 12 tribes Judea? Also why are there nicknames and clarification about some of the apostles but not all of them? Is it just because there were two men with the same name? But then you also have the brothers who are given explanation too.
On your last questions, Laura, I think it is evidence this really happened. A fictional novel is not being written — instead it is an account. Some get nicknames, some don’t…
12. Read the section in Keller “Religion Versus The Gospel” and write anything that stands out to you and why>
There was so much in this section. If I find that obedience is a burden, an enslavement, or it’s advice, that’s a clue I’m following the paradigm of religion. If I am living the gospel, obedience is a delight, a gift. Legalistic religion is like a code of conduct, and if I follow the rules then God will look upon me with favor. I must perform, obey, to be accepted. Living out of the gospel means I understand I am already accepted, and therefore, I obey. Keller gives the example of the young girl in his church in Virginia. This is very telling: “Because she was NOT awash in the love and acceptance of God through Jesus, for her the purpose of the law was to assure her that God and other people had to see her, and so treat her, as a good person….she wanted to narrow it (the law) down so that she could feel good about herself when she had complied.” Keller writes that we are ALL susceptible to this anxiety. I hear that. OH. This way of thinking is so self-focused.
Keller goes on to say that the law of God “takes you out of yourself; it shows you how to serve God and others instead of being absorbed with yourself.” I can only get my focus off of myself when I am fully awash in His love and acceptance of me through Jesus.
13. Now read the section “The Lord of the Sabbath” and do the same.
I liked his explanation of what it means in Genesis when it says God rested from His work. Keller says “only when you can say about your work, ‘I’m so happy with it, so satisfied – it is finished!’ can you walk away.” That’s what God was doing.
The example of the difference between Eric Liddel and Harold Abrahams was also very clear: Abrahams was weary even when he rested, and Liddell was rested even when he was exerting himself. Why? Because there’s a work underneath our work that we really need rest from. It’s the work of self-justification; and it is self-justification that often leads us to take refuge in religion.
14. How have you seen God move in your life recently?
I have two things going on in my life right now that I really feel at a loss to handle. Two very different situations, both involve other people as well. I am hoping He will give me a sense of direction. My default mode is avoidance and to not want to face difficult things. Sometimes I wish I didn’t have to be the adult in my own life.
Great litmus test:
If I find that obedience is a burden, an enslavement, or it’s advice, that’s a clue I’m following the paradigm of religion. If I am living the gospel, obedience is a delight, a gift.
Susan, we are obviously dealing with heavy stuff here but this really made me smile because I can identify. “Sometimes I wish I didn’t have to be the adult in my own life.”
Hahaha!
Susan, thank you- “If I find that obedience is a burden, an enslavement, or it’s advice, that’s a clue I’m following the paradigm of religion. If I am living the gospel, obedience is a delight, a gift. “
11. Read what Keller writes in the opening of Chapter 3 up to “Religion vs The Gospel.”
I think that you meant Chapter 4
Yes, Dawn. That confused me too. Chapter 4 instead of chapter three.
11. Read what Keller writes in the opening of Chapter 4 up to “Religion vs The Gospel.” What stands out to you and why?
The Sabbath is about restoring the diminished and replenishing the drained and repairing the broken. I forget this too easily. It really is meant for resting. It’s a reminder to admit our physical weakness limitations, which point to our Spiritual weakness and dependency on Him.
12. Read the section in Keller “Religion Versus the Gospel” and write anything that stands out to you and why.
Religion teaches we have to earn God’s favor through obedience. The purpose of obeying the Law is to gain assurance and acceptance. For Christians, the Law functions differently–showing us the life of love we want to live before God, showing me how to serve and live without myself as center. The Gospel says I am accepted by Christ’s sacrifice and therefore I obey.
13. Now read the section “The Lord of the Sabbath” and do the same.
The original principle of the Sabbath is to provide rest. It’s easy for me to work in order to try to gain approval or prove myself. There will never be an end until I rest in the Gospel. It is finished. I can rest.
14. How have you seen God move in your life recently?
I spent a week of hour long daily calls to Philip’s specialty drug company trying to get the insurance straight so we would not be paying $15k each month! It’s also my busiest month at work and I was exhausted by the extra stress, but I really hadn’t asked for prayer because it felt so practical or like something I “should” be able to get straightened out. Finally tuesday at staff prayer time, I shared the nightmare I was dealing with. One of our pastors prayed that “even today” I would get someone assigned to help me. A few hours later, a woman named Sarah called to say our case had been escalated and she was making it her goal to get it straightened out. I started to cry. An hour after that, she called back to say Medicaid had covered 100% & we had zero copay! It was such a specifically answered prayer.
Lizzy, tears at #14. Such a kiss….
thanks for rejoicing with me dear jill, it does still make my eyes teary!
Did you say $15,000??? That is absolutely ridiculous Lizzy! Our healthcare and pharmaceutical companies definitely need re-vamping! I’m so glad you were able to straighten it out. Thank You Lorda!
I’m teary too!
Oh, Lizzy, wow! What anguish you must have gone through trying to deal with the drug issues! I am so glad that, once you asked for prayer from others, God was quick to bring relief! I wonder what God was trying to teach you and your husband through this trial? Hugs to you as well. I have a friend who is a bookkeeper at a large church and I know how stressful and busy this time of year is!
You must read Lizzy’s God Hunt:
I spent a week of hour long daily calls to Philip’s specialty drug company trying to get the insurance straight so we would not be paying $15k each month! It’s also my busiest month at work and I was exhausted by the extra stress, but I really hadn’t asked for prayer because it felt so practical or like something I “should” be able to get straightened out. Finally tuesday at staff prayer time, I shared the nightmare I was dealing with. One of our pastors prayed that “even today” I would get someone assigned to help me. A few hours later, a woman named Sarah called to say our case had been escalated and she was making it her goal to get it straightened out. I started to cry. An hour after that, she called back to say Medicaid had covered 100% & we had zero copay! It was such a specifically answered prayer.
Oh, wow, Lizzy! What a kiss from the King! From $15K to zero copay? Who can do something like that except our King? So encouraging as I think of retirement and wondering how to manage without my regular pay? Oh me, of little faith. “God will use your journey to help others on their journey.” Dr. Rev. Bernice A. King Thanks so much for sharing. Rejoicing with you and your family. And how is Philip?
What an answer to prayer, Lizzy! The outrageous costs of medications that people need to stay alive also makes me so mad.
15. Read Mark 3:6. How were the Pharisees holding on desperately to their old wineskins?
They were so threatened by Jesus’ teachings they plotted to kill Him.
16. Why do you think we hold onto our idols? What is needed to release them and find true rest?
Fear. They are comfortable. Sometimes they deliver just enough satisfaction to keep me holding on to them–but then my grip gets too tight on them and like a ball of sand, all that I think they grant me crumbles and pours through my fingers.
17. How do you see a lack of peace in the Pharisees?
There is no rest. They are constantly comparing themselves with the Law’s standards and with each other to see if they measure up. They have to point out the wrongs of others to try to maintain their own standing.
18. Read to the end of the chapter 4 in Keller (I Am and The End of Religion) and share anything that stands out to you and why.
Jesus must be the “still point” of my turning world-the center. “The gospel says the humble are in and the proud are out” Jesus has come to call the ones who know their sickness, know their need.
19. Read Mark 3:7-18 and share anything that stands out to you.
What stands out is His calling of the 12. Even in His Lordship, His Deity, He chooses to have man come alongside, follow, and share His mission, sending them out to share the Gospel. It shows His heart of companionship, His value on relationship, a model of Discipleship.
15. Read Mark 3:6. How were the Pharisees holding desperately to their old wineskins? They wanted to prevent change. This new person who was a natural leader and challenger of their ways was a threat to the security of their self-made status quo. I do not know if any or many challenged the Pharisees and their obvious (to us) injustice and arrogance but Christ was certainly effective at it and upset their fragile foundation.
16. Why do you think we hold onto our idols? What is needed to release them and find true rest? I do not know about all but I know for me it is fear of how far I will fall if I release my grip on what I know. Nothing so awful bad has happened holding to my idol (said with sarcasm) and though I know the Beauty and Rest that comes with setting down the obligation … letting go seems so unsettling. There was a story written by Chuck Black about people acquiring small, adorable, and obedient pets. These pets were a joy and very loyal. With time, however they would grow in size and in their demands to the point that they were clinging to the backs of their “owners” dictating their every move by punishing the owners with bites, growls, and scratches. This is my idol. So attractive, cute, and loyal in the beginning. Giving me exactly what I thought I needed and yet it grew to own me and punish me. It will sometimes take a full on battle to get rid of these idols. Sometimes we just can’t walk away…it follows us and we must battle to stay free.
We need an explosive affection for something new. And the power of Jesus Christ to protect and fight for us.
17. How do you see a lack of peace in the Pharisees? They are desperate, even to the point of considering what earlier would have been an abomination. They completely loose sight of God’s heart in an attempt to keep their grasp on what has become central to them.
19. Read Mark 3:7-18 and share anything that stands out to you. Jesus goes to the sea a lot. I wonder if He found peace and solace there…did He go there, as many do this day, for a reminder of the Creator? I know He lived close to the sea so maybe it is not a big deal but it seems like he goes there a lot.
Jesus very much makes himself known to the Pharisees and demonstrates His identity. But in the crowds He instructs the unclean spirits to not make Him known. Is He telling them not to tell anyone? Or just their unclean spirit friends?
Many times Books and movies portray powerful people as gliding through life. People move out of their way. Things go well just because they have the mind power to make things happen but here Jesus has to make an exit plan. He could have made an invisible force field that people just didn’t cross but instead He submits Himself to normal people struggles. He doesn’t solve all His little human problems with His miracles.
So good from Jill!
15. Mark 3:6 Yes, the Pharisees were intent on upholding their “Law”, refusing to see their need to change.
16. Why do we hold on to our idols? It seems to be a safety net for us, a way to attempt a false security for ourselves.
We can only release them by taking a risk and trusting Jesus to meet all of our needs. Once we do we find peace that we were missing.
17. The Pharisees lacked peace and were retaliating toward Jesus who was revealing their wicked ways. Instead of being merciful, they were proud and self-centered.
18.Jesus’ teaching is based on his identity claim. We must believe him and then everything revolves around him. Christianity either says this or it means nothing. If we only partially accept his claim, no one can live in it with integrity.
“Because the Lord of the Sabbath said. It is finished, we can rest from religion forever!” We need the great physician because we are sinners- there is no room for pride.
19. Then Jesus withdrew from the crowds and went to the mountain and took whom he desired and appointed 12 apostles who would also go out to preach and to cast out demons.
Thursday: Religion Versus the Gospel
12. Read the section in Keller “Religion Versus the Gospel” and write anything that stands out to you and why.
Two paradigms, religion vs. the gospel; advice vs.news. He also talked about different variations; nationalistic, spiritualistic, legalistic and all operate under the same principle: I obey or perform and then I am accepted. But in Christ, I am accepted therefore I obey. God’s law takes me out of myself.
The section is liberating again for me-I do not have to perform to be accepted.
13. Now read the section “The Lord of the Sabbath” and do the same.
Sabbath is shalom, deep peace and I can only found that in Jesus. No need to struggle; Jesus has done it all for me. I need to focus on the cross and have a generous attitude daily for what Christ has done for me.
14. How have you seen God move in your life recently?
We have had no school this week except for one day and have spent 20-30 minutes each day following a yoga series by Adriene. 22 days of doing it have helped with my chronic neck and shoulder problems and seems to have increased my physical stamina. During each session, she would often use the word “home” which is the title of the series. I have cried a few times when she asked deep questions of her audience as she leads us through the poses. I am thankful to God for her and I have been praying for her as well-not sure if she knows the Lord. So much good she has brought to so many in terms of overall health. But through it all, I am reminded that God is the giver of all good gifts and that He can use anybody to be a blessing.
Bing, I am so glad that Adrienne’s yoga helped your neck and shoulders. I like Adrienne, though I only use her sessions sporadically. What a good idea to pray for her! What a caring thing to do!
Diane, when I encounter people like Adriene who have done so much good and yet may not know the Lord, I ache so much inside. One of God’s mysteries that I often ponder. I have gone from having a fatalistic attitude towards my physical health to seeing my body as God’s temple worthy of caring while at the same time resting in God’s sovereignty instead of worrying about the future. some days are harder but then they become opportunities to humble myself before God for I know without Him, I cannot do anything.
20. What quickened you this week? How would the Lord have you apply it?
I am struck by how if we really put our faith in God then we do receive His blessing. We need Him to solve our problems. When we do this then we receive our own “little miracle” every time it happens. Wow. That’s actually inspiring as I say it! See my problem below and the little miracle I received from The King.
I had a situation at work this week that came up where I needed to attend a meeting with the principal. I did not know why. I had to pick Grace up from school because she was sick, AGAIN, and I spent about 24 hours preparing, and immersing myself in Him. I read the Bible, listened to a favorite song,
https://youtu.be/f8TkUMJtK5k
and even used Matthew Henry’s Commentary to pick apart the Bible verse of the day (Ephesians 6:1-18 about putting on all the armor of God). I prayed for mercy and grace.
I also prepared for what I thought the meeting might cover, with a statement and evidence to back up my defense. I even had a graph of the data. I’m such a nerd!
I felt confident in Christ going into that meeting; Jesus was with me no matter the outcome. Not anxious, not scared, not worried. He knows my heart. He loves me the way I am.
The meeting ended up being nothing! It was a misunderstanding between parties and amounted to no outcome at all. The principal said she felt confident that things would be resolved, no worries. What a relief! She even sought me out later on the day to give me a hug (?!) As a teacher, these things can be such a distraction to your work; we are already low on time and then to add more to the plate…
21. Is there a lie you need to overcome in order to apply it? If so, what?
Hmmmm…..I suppose that I have to repeat the process many times to see that it works every time. The lie would be that I could take care of even the smallest issue by myself, without Him. Not true. I repeat, I do not know how people cope without Christ.
Laura! I love your #20! I love this ” I felt confident in Christ going into that meeting; Jesus was with me no matter the outcome. Not anxious, not scared, not worried. He knows my heart. He loves me the way I am.”
And how He blessed you with it being something small, and even giving you a hug!! I love how faithful you were to pray and seek Him, and the REST in Him.
Great example for me!
Laura, so glad your situation turned out to be just a misunderstanding…I can’t imagine the added stress it caused. It seems God was teaching you to just lean on Him, a lesson He seems to hit me over the head with many times. Thanks for sharing as I needed this.
You, too, Laura? So thankful for you sharing that here because I have had my share of similar situations with my director. And my stress was all for nothing! Yet, that God prepared our hearts through His Word and His peace is worthy of praise after the fact. He is indeed faithful. I love what Dr. Bernice King (MLK, Jr.’s daughter) in a short devotional said this morning, ” God will use your journey to help others in their journey.” God has continually used you and so many others here to help me with my journey as a Christian.
12. Read the section in Keller “Religion Versus the Gospel” and write anything that stands out to you and why.
Keller explained that he believed “love your neighbour as yourself” means “God is saying ‘I want you to meet the needs of other people with all of the joy, all of the eagerness, all of the urgency, all of the ingenuity, creativity, and industry with which you meet your own needs. That’s the standard. That’s how I want you to live your life.'”
The young woman who Keller counselled said “Christianity is ridiculous. Who lives like that?” She was honest. How honest are we with our response to what Jesus means when He says love your neighbour. Even those of us who have walked with Jesus for a long time and WANT to live like that know it is IMPOSSIBLE. Only humility, obedience and constant submission to Jesus makes that even begin to be possible. I am aware of how far I fall short with even my most humble and charitable actions. This really convicts me. It makes me both feel despair and at the same time makes me want to fall on my knees to beg forgiveness of Jesus.
Love this:
Even those of us who have walked with Jesus for a long time and WANT to live like that know it is IMPOSSIBLE. Only humility, obedience and constant submission to Jesus makes that even begin to be possible.
Diane, this- “I am aware of how far I fall short with even my most humble and charitable actions. ” How we need Jesus!
20. What quickened you this week? How would the Lord have you apply it? I am overtaken again and again by the Gospel vs religion. How quickly I fall into trying to earn the favor and acceptance of my God who ALREADY loves me fully and has named me His child. How hard it is to just. be. loved. The vulnerability and trust involved IS scary. He wants me to apply the Gospel to every moment of my life, to be free to obey without being effected by my idol’s reactions. To be free to love even if it offends. To find wholeness and peace in His arms and not just from absence of hardship or suffering.
21. Is there a lie you need to overcome in order to apply it? If so, what? The lie is NOT that I will get hurt. I WILL get hurt if I submit to the Gospel. Things will go wrong, I will have to painfully die to self. I will incur criticism, heartache, and refinement.
The true lie is: not getting hurt, not having hardship, not experiencing suffering is the ultimate good goal in life. The true lie is: not suffering is a sign that my God loves me and is being nice because I am “good enough.” To overcome this I must be on-my-face submitted to a Savior that cares deeply, whose eternal promise will heal, overcome, and soothe whatever my human heart endures this side of heaven. To overcome this lie I must seek the Light to expulse the fear and affection I have for that lie. Only His love can melt me and bring me to Truth.
Jill — you remind me of this quote from Jim Cymbala:
I discovered an astonishing truth: God is attracted to weakness. He cannot resist those who humbly and honestly admit how desperately they need him.
Jim Cymbala[1]
[1] Facebook Post, July 9, 2015
“The true lie is: not getting hurt, not having hardship, not experiencing suffering is the ultimate good goal in life.”This brought tears for me Jill
Friday: Come Unto Me
15. Read Mark 3:6. How were the Pharisees holding on desperately to their old wineskins?
Plotted with the Herodians to kill Jesus after He healed the man with the shriveled hand. Even with the evidence of healing, the Pharisees only saw their loss of face in front of others. They will not acknowledge their wrong.
16. Why do you think we hold onto our idols? What is needed to release them and find true rest?
They seem to be able to give quick satisfaction and a semblance of control. Repentance is what I need to do, to be released from the god of self-effort. Jesus has finished it all for them and for me.
17. How do you see a lack of peace in the Pharisees?
Their efforts to justify themselves and a resolve to prove Jesus is wrong. Always doing but never being.
18. Read to the end of chapter 3 in Keller (I Am and The End of Religion) and share anything that stands out to you and why.
They (the Pharisees) don’t feel the need for a soul-physician, someone who intervenes and does what they can’t do themselves… Because the Lord of the Sabbath said, “it is finished,” we can rest from religion-forever.
“Forever deep soul rest” is offered to me in the here and now if I will let Jesus be my Rest.
Romans 10:3-4 For being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God’s righteousness. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.
19. Read Mark 3:7-18 and share anything that stands out to you.
v. 11 Even the impure spirits acknowledged that Jesus is the Son of God! Could it be that the Pharisees knew but had different expectations of who the Messiah would be? Have they thought that Jesus should have been more on their side rather than the underdog, downtrodden, and sinners? But how Pharisee-aic have I been so many times! Not wanting to acknowledge that I have been wrong those times?
Jesus called His disciples. Jesus has called me to Himself.
Saturday: Reflections and Applications
20. What quickened you this week? How would the Lord have you apply it?
Same as my answer to #18 They (the Pharisees) don’t feel the need for a soul-physician, someone who intervenes and does what they can’t do themselves… Because the Lord of the Sabbath said, “it is finished,” we can rest from religion-forever.
“Forever deep soul rest” is offered to me in the here and now if I will let Jesus be my Rest.
21. Is there a lie you need to overcome in order to apply it? If so, what?
That I am better than so and so because I do this and that. I so often operate based on religion rather than on the love and the efficacy of the Good News of Jesus Christ.
15. Read Mark 3:6. How were the Pharisees holding on desperately to their old wineskins?
Because Jesus broke their rule of healing on the Sabbath, (which is kind of funny because Jesus didn’t ‘physically’ do anything, He just told the man to stretch out his hand…but here they considered the use of supernatural power to heal ‘work’) the Pharisees become ‘friends’ with the supporters of Herod to plot how to kill Jesus.
16. Why do you think we hold onto our idols? What is needed to release them and find true rest?
I think we come to a threshold in our lives and instead of wanting to do the work of separating ourselves from the things we are really depending on, that are serving us in some way, we walk away and choose to cling to our idols instead. I’m still reading Begin Again by Leeana Tankersley. She writes that we are afraid that if we burn up all of our props and supports, we’re afraid that there won’t be anything left of us. What is needed to release our idols is to transfer our trust from them to God. I also believe we must be secure in His love so that we can look at the things that make us uncomfortable about ourselves and our failures and our sins and know that He still loves us.
17. How do you see a lack of peace in the Pharisees?
They’re always scurrying, watching, condemning, angry, plotting, accusing.