It’s the beginning of Holy Week. How wonderful that it “just happened” that this week’s lesson is “The Ransom.”
What was Jesus main purpose for coming?
Is that linked to why He so often told those He healed to tell no one?
Again and again you see Jesus healing, not because it was His mission,
but because He was “moved with compassion” and couldn’t help it.
That seems to be what was happening in Mark 1 when Jesus healed the leper.
Not everyone loves “The Chosen,” and I agree that is impossible for anyone to portray Jesus,
but I think this comes closer than most. (Feel free to disagree — I love the way this group challenges, speaking the truth in love!)
Watch this scene to see both Jesus’ compassion but also His direction for the leper not to tell anyone.
Jesus came, primarily, not to heal our earthly sicknesses, but “to give His life as a ransom for many.”
The Old Testament foreshadows the idea of ransom, of paying for the freedom of another, with the story of Boaz & Ruth, and again, with the story of Hosea & Gomer.
Both of these women were helpless until a ransom was paid.
And we are helpless to save ourselves, for our God is so holy, and our sin is so great.
Our symbol this week is the scene from The Last of the Mohicans, when “Cora” is going to be burned on the fire to appease the wrath of the tribe, and the Indian played by Daniel Day Lewis says:
“Take me!”
And they do. A ransom sets her free.
There are those who think they can save themselves by doing more good things than bad, and winning on the holy scale of justice.
But we can never do enough good things to obliterate our enormous debt.
Only the ransom of one without sin can make us clean.
And if we have put our trust in the enormous price Jesus paid, it is finished.
Highlight from Last Week
Last night The Gospel Coaltion had a wonderful program of prayer that is just what we need in this time of Covid 19. I encourage you to watch it this week and pray with them — they put the prayers in sub-titles to help. And listen to the wonderful challenge at the end. Would love to hear your responses to this all week long.
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/video/prayer-covid-19/
Also, our own Chris shared this new song with us, a song that helps her with her grief over losing her teenage son, Daniel. This is our hope, This is what we must think about when times are hard like this.
Palm Sunday 2020.
- What stands out to you from the above and why?
- What reasons can you think of for Jesus telling those He healed not to tell anyone?
- A possible corrollary to this is that good things can get in the way of our primary calling. Has God shown you where He has gifted you and called you? If so, how would you reflect on this corrollary?
Monday: I Must Be Killed
Jesus keeps telling them that He must be killed in Jerusalem, but that He will rise again. They do not understand. One commentary said that because He had been speaking in parables, they think this too must be a parable. I liken it to when Steve was diagnosed with fourth stage cancer. The first oncologist said, “Steve, I can’t heal you.” But neither one of us believed that, thinking not only that God could, but also, that she was wrong. Steve was actually chipper when we left, talking about the power of God and the great inroads medicine was finding into cancer.
We traveled to Omaha for a second opinion and that oncologist asked how old our children were, for he should get his affairs in order. Plainly, she said, “You are dying.” Numb, we went back to the hotel, still pushing back at her words. Restless, I decided to go to Target and find some small gifts to take back for the girls. In the middle of an aisle I broke down sobbing. A man asked if he could help me and I said, “My husband is dying.” I then fled, leaving my cart and that kind man, to run and hide in the car. The truth that I so didn’t want to receive was seeping in.
3. Review Mark 8:27-33
A. To whom is Jesus speaking here, and what is the setting?
B. What does He tell them in verse 31?
C. What is Peter’s response?
4. Review Mark 9:30-32
A. What do you learn in verse 30, and what thoughts do you have about why
Jesus wanted privacy?
B. What does Jesus tell them in verse 31.
C. Why do you think the disciples were afraid to ask Him about it?
5. Read Mark 10:32-34
A. Again, to whom is He speaking?
B. What details does He add that He had not told them before?
6. Read Mark 10:41-45
A. To whom is he speaking and what is the setting?
B. Why does He tell them He came?
Tuesday: Cosmic Evil Needs A Cosmic Price
Lewis portrayed the great evil through the White Witch and all evil helpers. She could cast an evil spell, bringing bondage, a magic she had known from the dawn of time. That evil has permeated our world from the dawn of time, bringing unto suffering.
7. Read Chapter 12, (“Ransom”) up to A Willing Sacrifice and share your notes or
reflections.
8. What chains has Christ broken for you? Specifically thank Him here.
Wednesday: A Deeper Magic Before The Dawn of Time
Prepare your heart with this:
“…Though the Witch knew the Deep Magic, there is a magic deeper still which she did not know,” Aslan explains to the children.
9. Read “A Willing Sacrifice” in Chapter 12 and share your notes and reflections.
10. Give specific praise here for what Christ endured for you, a traitor.
Thursday: Death to Ambition
I’ve been waiting on the Lord prayerfully and hopefully wanting a writing project. I’ve been reading Andrew Peterson’s book on writing, “Adorning the Dark.” He humbly shares that he began writing because of “a yearning to be seen and known and valued.” He said that God used the ignoble motive to get him going, but in time he realize that the best art comes from a yearning to glorify the Lord.
11. Think about your motives to excel in something. Was there a selfish motive in
the beginning that He is transforming? Explain.
12. Has there been a recent book, movie, and/or song that deeply moved you
because it so glorified the Lord? What was it?
13. Read Mark 10:35-45
A. What stands out to you from the dialogue between James and John with
Jesus in verses 35-39? Explain.
B. What does Jesus tell them in verses 40-45? What does He mean?
14. Read Jeremiah 29:7.
A. What does God tell His people to do for the people who destroyed their city,
murdered their families, and carried them into exile?
B. How would this be hard yet glorify the Lord?
C. Is there an application to your life?
Friday: A Humble Sacrifice
15. Read the last section in this chapter and share your notes and reflections.
Saturday: Reflections
16. What is your take-a-way this week? How might you incorporate it into a
prayer?
139 comments
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
That Jesus was healing, not because it was His mission but because He was moved with compassion and couldn’t help it. So good.
I think perhaps It is important for all of us but even for those of us who were abandoned or abused by our parents, husbands or family members to be reminded and meditate on His compassionate, faithful love. That He seeks us out, rescues, and pours out His compassionate love on us daily.
Sometimes I think He grows tired of me coming to Him pleading and well, whining about some hearts I want Him to change and my own heart in areas that so need His chisel. it seems to be taking sooo long to me..even though I know his timing is so much better than mine. He is patient and at work but most important He is THE safest, wisest, faithful person, my safe person to hide in.
I am so thankful I have Him, that I am His..that everything that pains me including my own heart, that He will never give up on me rather the opposite He is with me faithfully loving, comforting and helping me walk with Him and grow to become more like Him. “I don’t deserve it, still He gives His love away.”
2. What reasons can you think of for Jesus telling those He healed not to tell anyone?
– Because it wasn’t the right timing. The thought, “Don’t awaken love before it’s time”, just came to mind.
-It wasn’t the right timing because Jesus wasn’t ready to be arrested yet-movement toward his death and resurrection wasn’t at hand yet for that was the reason He came.
-The Disciples weren’t ready yet.
3. A possible corollary to this is that good things can get in the way of our primary calling. Has God shown you where He has gifted you and called you? If so, how would you reflect on this corollary?
Right now He has called me to minister to my family maybe with wisdom? I am thinking more and more that He has given me this gift. He has given me an administrative gift as well-so at home with my family’s needs and in planning our lives, and at work as an administrative assistant to the Director of Employee Health. God has placed me behind the scenes to assist my Director in helping our hospital keep 15,000 doctors, nurses and staff as safe as possible against COVID-19, Flu, and other diseases. I am learning a lot through this pandemic and especially why new hire “fit testing” for N95 respirators (masks) is so important.
Rebecca — your last paragraph shows me how important it is for us all to be praying for you!
And I love you saw a tie-in with Song of Songs “Don’t awaken”
What an assignment you have! Yes, the gift of wisdom.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I must be in a video mode today because both “The Chosen” clip and the song Chris shared stood out to me. I liked the clip of The Chosen for all the “wrong” reasons at first: 1) non-North American accents and multi-ethnic actors; 2) captured my attention because I wondered if that’s how leprosy really looks (and got a little grossed out); 3) the humor with the green tunic. SO, I watched it a second time and I noticed that the leper said “that’s what I expected” — or something like that, because he expected Jesus to heal him. That made me realize how often I just say the words or have sort of a worldly hope but really don’t expect answers. In other words, –yuck– I think some of my prayers are just venting rather than expecting. I’m also curious why Jesus told him not to tell anyone but to show the priests, do the religious things. Also, the video clip reminded me that I downloaded the app onto my phone when I first saw it advertised on YouTube. But I couldn’t get it to work at that time. Will try it again now because I’d like to watch more –from the person who does challenge a lot of stuff;)
I liked the music video Chris shared last week because it is comforting. And I liked the farm harvest images. I’ll listen to that a few more times, too.
Loved hearing your comments on The Chosen, Renee.
What Rene wrote helped me! “I think some of my prayers are just venting rather than expecting.” and relating that to what the leper said. I do need to repent of my so often unexpectant heart. Though I come with expectations that He will work in my heart, that He is my fortress and that He will heal the broken places in my heart, I find it hard to wait on His timing for others. Renee, I am so glad you are on the blog and that you posted this for I do need to repent and trust Him for the cold hearts in my family right now-especially my husband. I have felt so alone in my faith here at home for a long time, but God has blessed me abundantly with my sweet Sisters in Him.
2. What reasons can you think of for Jesus telling those He healed not to tell anyone?
I think there could be multiple reasons. In this situation, at the same time Jesus told him not to tell anyone, Jesus told him to go to the priests. That’s some good psychology there (haha). When they are curious, they will be more likely to want to know/understand. The thing is, there were a bunch of observers — and the woman in the background was either scared or running off to tell people. If this guy’s friends also were lepers, maybe Jesus didn’t want him telling his friends just so that they could get healed/have a transactional relationship with Jesus without really believing. My answer is that I’m going to look at the Bible or wait to see what Dee and Tim Keller say about it. I’m interested, but don’t want to stress my brain too much.
3. A possible corollary to this is that good things can get in the way of our primary calling. Has God shown you where He has gifted you and called you? If so, how would you reflect on this corollary? I have been reflecting on this during the past few weeks, and regarding the current situation in the world, I go back and forth between knowing and not feeling sure (i.e., wondering the extent to which I should be “out there” because of health status — but wanting to be face to face with people now more when I’m often content to be a hermit). I am doing some things in areas where God has blessed me, thinking of others — but also seeing this as a time of preparation, of Him drawing me closer to Himself. He prompted me to come back to this study now, right???
Love being put in the same category as Keller. You always make me smile.
What stands out to you from the above and why?
Hello, everyone! Amidst all the things that are going on in our nation and the world and my own personal life, I found myself being drawn back here. And am thankful once again.
I have not seen “The Chosen” but grateful for the clip. We had a leper colony in the Philippines and remembered talking about it in nursing school. I have read Dr. Paul Brand’s book as well and was amazed at his compassionate care for lepers by using his knowledge to make discoveries to mitigate the disease’s consequences. But I know that the true healer is Jesus.
I love this- “Jesus came, primarily, not to heal our earthly sicknesses, but “to give His life as a ransom for many.”
Jesus knew His purpose in coming and aren’t we the blessed recipients of that! He is the ransom for my sins. The word “primary” is staying with me. What is my primary purpose? And along the way, as I pursue it, what are the secondaries that God gifted me along the way?
I am thankful for the song that Chris shared. I look forward to that day.
What reasons can you think of for Jesus telling those He healed not to tell anyone?
It wasn’t His time yet. And He does not want people to seek Him alone for physical healing? It is not all about Himself. He knew His time will always come perfectly.
A possible corrollary to this is that good things can get in the way of our primary calling. Has God shown you where He has gifted you and called you? If so, how would you reflect on this corollary?
I struggle with this question as I have 2 things foremost in my mind-my calling as a teacher and as a ministry partner with my husband. I know that my gifting is in the area of help and mercy. Along the way, God has allowed me to grow in the area of encouragement. And sometimes, I can get carried away with the details, that I start feeling overwhelmed. I need time to process this again.
Bing — welcome back! I remember your experience with the leper colony in the Philippines!
Bing, I just came back last week! Glad you’re here, too.
What stands out to you from the above and why?
Lots of tears this morning for me, We Will Feast always undoes me. I appreciate so much its tone- of hope, real hope for a promised future and yet acknowledging that this life is sometimes so very hard. We always sing this at CCEF conferences and I always weep.
I had never heard of the Chosen, I loved it so much. It made me think of heaven when Jesus has removed all the stuff that keeps us from him from our hearts, the leprous man’s amazement at his physical healing, the removal of his shame and separation from people, I long for the day that my shame and separation from God if done away with and I am really free…”For the promised morning, oh how long?
Oh God of Jacob, be my strength”
What reasons can you think of for Jesus telling those He healed not to tell anyone?
A possible corrollary to this is that good things can get in the way of our primary calling. Has God shown you where He has gifted you and called you? If so, how would you reflect on this corrollary?
This is new to ponder, that the main thing isn’t the physical or the circumstances. That my earthly blessing sometimes throws a shadow over what he has made me for that will last into eternity.
As to the gifting and calling…sigh, I had felt perhaps he had gifted me to be a help to others. Our church circumstances have muddied this for me. I have been sad and feeling both displaced and a lack of desire to plug back in.
Awww Chris. So thankful for you being here.
You can get The Chosen free on the chosen app. It’s on netflix or anything like that, but on the app. There are episodes on youtube. I like it – -but not everyone does.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? Dee! I absolutely LOVED the clip from The Chosen. I usually chafe deeply when movie makers add words to Scripture for it usually seems like they are added with an interpretive intent. But I know the words in the Bible are not the only words said in Jesus’ time. The words added here seemed natural and consistent with the story, and the main actor really seemed to capture both Jesus’ confidence as part of the powerful Trinity but also His full manhood, one of us. Most actors are over the top somber trying to capture God’s holiness and it always comes across forced or fake to me… this clip resonated with me, deeply. I cannot wait to watch more.
2. What reasons can you think of for Jesus telling those He healed not to tell anyone? He did not come to be a celebrity. And while these healings were evidence of the power available to a Him as part of the Trinity they were not THE sign for the generation, the sign of the Gospel. These miracles were maybe much more for the individuals. He didn’t want to be a sensation He wanted to draw His children close to Him and love them.
3. A possible corollary to this is that good things can get in the way of our primary calling. Has God shown you where He has gifted you and called you? If so, how would you reflect on this corollary? This question takes me aback as just last night I was pondering how terrible I am at being a mother and a wife… I am just too selfish. But obviously I am called to be a wife and mother because here I am. This is a calling to laying self down and seeking Him. My calling as a nurse is where I feel He has gifted me. I think I am good at it, definitely not the best, but He has definitely given me a heart that really just wants to help people in crisis get better. I am pondering my calling during this COVID crisis. I have been genuinely considering going to NY and volunteering with Samaritan’s Purse field hospital, I have the skills needed for ICU and for dealing with death… I feel like I need a sign or something to tell me if I really should do this…. I want to but there are so many variables… I digress. One final thought: a calling (that I am not good at but know for certain I am called to) that has become plain during this time when my kids are back home is praying purposefully and consistently for them…not just crying out when they misbehave or fight or at bedtime but purposefully, consistently lifting them up before the throne and asking God Himself to touch their lives even if it means through my own ‘suffering.’
Love your testimony at the end, Jill, about how this time has deepened your prayer life for your kids!
Palm Sunday 2020.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? – to think that I can do things on my own and be cleansed from all my sin. Today especially, I think of what Jesus did for me. He is my ransom. Our sermon today from church was on Isolation and how Jesus was isolated on the cross from his Father, his family. And just like what is mentioned above, He is our ransom, He went to the cross as our ransom to pay for our sins, so we wouldn’t be isolated from Him. I also really loved the song that Chris posted. I didn’t have a chance to listen last week, but listened today. What a great message, so many reminders of just what we will have in the end. There is so much hope in this song. It definitely is a song to go to in our time of need. Thank you Chris, for sharing it with us. I look forward to listening to the fast and pray video from The Gospel Coalition. While I’m working from home this week, I am going to listen and praise along with them.
2. What reasons can you think of for Jesus telling those He healed not to tell anyone? – I think it was all in the plan, the path that God had Jesus on. If they all went and told what Jesus did for them, I wonder if the other miracles would have not been able to be performed as they were supposed to. Too many priests and officials would have been hunting Jesus down before his time had come and gotten in the way of what he had been brought to Earth to do.
3. A possible corollary to this is that good things can get in the way of our primary calling. Has God shown you where He has gifted you and called you? If so, how would you reflect on this corollary? – I really feel the tug to help single moms, those struggling to make it out of the deep hole that they may be in. But, I think my hold up is that I need, or maybe want to be sure I will have the money I need to make ends meet. Instead of trusting in God to fill those needs, I’m relying on my job, to supply the money needed to make those ends meet. I always say once I’m retired I can do that, but I’m living on what may happen in the future instead of just relying on Jesus to guide me on that path. Lord help me to trust you, to find where you want me to be at this time of my life. I want to be a good steward of everything you have blessed us with. Help me to not be afraid to step out, and help me to hear your voice on when I should do that. Help my husband to be in agreement with that timing. I don’t want to be out of step, I want to be walking right beside you. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen.
Single moms would sure be blessed by you, Julie! So much to carry!
Sunday
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I enjoyed The Chosen clip. I am usually guarded when I watch these movies, but I also realize that God can use them. What stood out to me was when the leper walked up to them and the disciples tried to keep Jesus back, saying the man was contagious and to cover your mouth as it wasn’t safe to breathe the air. It brought to mind what we’re going through today, staying 6 feet away from people, wearing masks and social distancing. But that didn’t stop Jesus from approaching the man and without any PPE on! It reminded me that He is the great Physician, He is Sovereign and this pandemic didn’t take Him by surprise.
2. What reasons can you think of for Jesus telling those He healed not to tell anyone?
He knew the hearts of people. He needed time with His disciples and time to rest.
3. A possible corollary to this is that good things can get in the way of our primary calling. Has God shown you where He has gifted you and called you? If so, how would you reflect on this corollary?
This is a hard question right now. Being stuck at home, no grandkids…whom I consider is where God has been calling me. It seems a “bad” thing has gotten in the way. But to look past all that God has shown me a group of women in our church that I pray for and send a text each Monday with encouragement from Gods Word and a challenge question. Will continue to reflect on this question…struggling with it.
That’s a great corollary to today, Sharon.
I doubt very much these are wasted days for you, but I will pray for Him to guide you. We’ve enjoyed using Zoom for Bible study.
Sharon, I love your comparison of Jesus and the leper with today/Covid-19. I go back and forth about if I “should” be “out there” more. I do know people who play games with grandkids over Zoom (and I suggested some of those games!). Specific games will depend on ages of children. Feel free to contact me if you want to explore this more. I do see a lot of possibilities for online interaction with children, at least if they are over 2 yo!!
What games, Renee? My youngest is 4 and up…
Dee, I’ll email you because I don’t think I can get a whole bunch of links in a post here. Basically, for preschoolers, I’d suggest adaptations of games for older kids. For older kids/adults, games that work the best might be those where you each have your own “supplies” (bingo cards, dice, pictionary, etc.). Yahtzee and some bingo-type games, as designed, probably are not appropriate for most preschoolers — but can be adapted, both for inside and outside. (Think yard dice for outside). I have found some adaptations for preschoolers online.
If you have a family game night, you could use games in which parents/siblings could help children.I also looked at online games because I know there are some for older children/adults.
I really don’t want to go the direction of Facebook games, but I guess that’s a possibility with older grandchildren. And I know there are other interactive online games for older children (I haven’t looked at them). So far, the online games that I’ve found for preschoolers are 1) annoying!! 2) not meant to be played with people in different locations. Will keep you posted if I find some that I can stomach (and that work– some are OLD and don’t work work anymore).
A couple other ideas: Yesterday, my (adult) niece went for a LONG walk with a friend and “face-timed” (probably could also use zoom or facebook messaging video). I suspect your 4 yo grandchildren would love going for a walk, maybe even a distance scavenger hunt, around your place and theirs. Also could read books. If you both don’t have the same book, I’d consider scanning pages into a ppt presentation so you could share screen AND they could see you/you see them at the same time.
One comment about Zoom: be very careful (use passwords, waiting rooms and/or other security precautions). Zoom-bombing has happened to people I know, and it can be traumatic for kids… I heard they are targeting Christian groups and schools, but I know it’s also happening to businesses.
Thank you Renee. The games on Zoom sound like a great option. I know on sunny days my grandson is outside most of the day but this would be nice for those rainy days.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
That it was not Jesus’ mission to come to heal (primarily), though He did a lot of healing. Isn’t it in John’s gospel that it’s written that the signs and wonders (that would include healings) were so that people might believe? I liked the clip from The Chosen; I have not seen it. I like films that portray Jesus as a “normal” person, not walking around with His hands clasped and looking serious all the time. I like how the script interjects some humor when the actor says “green is your color”.
2. What reasons can you think of for Jesus telling those He healed not to tell anyone?
One might be that it became increasingly hard for Him to go anywhere without being mobbed by a crowd as news of Him spread, like in Mark when Peter finds Jesus trying to be alone to pray and tells Him that everyone is looking for Him. Also, Jesus lived out what He taught His disciples about doing things in secret, as for the Father in heaven, and not to be seen by men. He was not into promoting Himself, wanting the adoration and approval of others for the miracles He did.
3. A possible corollary to this is that good things can get in the way of our primary calling. Has God shown you where He has gifted you and called you? If so, how would you reflect on this corollary?
I am trying to understand the corollary in Jesus’ life….so the good things that He was doing, the healings and miracles, might possibly have gotten in the way of His primary calling, which was to die for our sins. If that part of His life had gotten too big, people might have missed the real reason why He came? I’m not sure how to relate this to my own life, though. I believe God called me to be a wife and mom, which I have done and am still doing, though two of my children are grown and on their own now. I also feel I am gifted to be a nurse because I am a caregiver and want to help others and my job is a good fit for my thorough and detail-oriented personality. I guess my primary calling though is to know and love God? So would that mean if I focus all of myself on my family or on my job, then I’ve got things out of order?
You always are a good ponderer, Susan. Jesus said his calling was to preach the good news, which did include that He would die and rise again. As Keller said, “He didn’t come to set up a hospital.”
It’s good to see our primary calling is to know and love God, for that infuses all of the other roles God has given us. Perhaps I would apply this to how I can get caught up in the tyranny of the urgent instead of asking what matters most. Surely Covid 19 has slowed many of us, though not you, down to reflect on that.
Thank you Susan, for your answer to why Jesus didn’t heal everyone.
3. Review Mark 8:27-33
A. To whom is Jesus speaking here, and what is the setting?
The Disciples, and they passed through Galilee to get to a quiet setting with no crowds.
B. What does He tell them in verse 31?
That He must suffer many things and be rejected by men. That He must be killed and rise 3 days later.
C. What is Peter’s response?
He rebuked Jesus.
4. Review Mark 9:30-32
A. What do you learn in verse 30, and what thoughts do you have about why Jesus wanted privacy?
Because as soon as people heard He was near or in town they would flock to Him and it was time for Him to prepare the Disciples for what was ahead – what was going to happen to Him. This was huge and He didn’t want any distractions.
B. What does Jesus tell them in verse 31.
The Gospel..that he would be killed and rise on the 3rd day.
C. Why do you think the disciples were afraid to ask Him about it?
Great question. hmmmm, I don’t know but my guess is that maybe they were afraid Jesus would rebuke them like He did Peter?
Rebecca — I think it is good you shared here that the person with whom you are struggling is your husband so we can really call out together for you for wisdom, strength, and for God to work.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I liked the video with Jesus healing the leper. I thought the actors did a good job; especially the disciples.
I will pray for those who believe it is all about the works you do that gets you to heaven, who are missing the heart of it all (my sister). At least she listened to a Palm Sunday service and was touched…she hasn’t done anything with respect to God since she was a teen as far as I know. She is 62. It’s just that the last time she was in a church learning about God it was Catholic based so that is her perspective. It’s all she knows.
2. What reasons can you think of for Jesus telling those He healed not to tell anyone?
I have no idea why he did that. I would think that I want everyone to know since he was trying to find anyone to listen to his word so it’s confusing to me. All I can think is that He didn’t want to rush the order of events so He would have more time to preach and gather the masses?
3. A possible corollary to this is that good things can get in the way of our primary calling. Has God shown you where He has gifted you and called you? If so, how would you reflect on this corollary?
I guess my “gift” is dance, especially since I learned of the way I could dance for Him. What joy it brings! I haven’t quite figured out why, if that is my gift why I have struggled my entire life with eating, drinking, and maintaining somewhat of a body type that could continue to dance. I guess the corollary would be that I have always been fortunate to have work in other fields (geology and teaching) that distracts me from dance? Because I have been blessed that way, I don’t have the time to dance and choreograph that I would like.
You bless many with your dance!
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I have watched the first episode of The Chosen and now this brief one of the healing of the leper. It is close enough to what I picture Jesus to have been like that it makes me catch my breath. Perhaps we will buy the series. I really like it. I know that no one can truly accurately portray Jesus but they seem to be carefully making an effort. I think I will make the effort to focus on the life, death and resurrection of Jesus this Passion week. I have the DVD,”The Passion” that I should watch. I generally find it hard to watch the trial and crucifixion of Jesus but this is a important week to ponder these things.
Diane — the first four episodes are free on the Bible app The Chosen. I am able to watch it on TV through mirroring, or attaching my laptop to the tv, but you can also watch it on a smaller screen like an ipod or even iphone.
I’m going to start watching. I downloaded the app.
Me too 🙂
I’ll be interested in your opinions. I really like it but some I respect do not. The first episode, when the 4 main characters are introduced, is a little slow, but I thought, still, very good.
3. Review Mark 8:27-33
A. To whom is Jesus speaking here and what is the setting? He is speaking to His disciples. They are walking toward Caesarea.
B. What does He tell them in verse 31? He tells them that the Son of Man must suffer, be rejected, and be killed but then be raised again.
C. What is Peter’s response? Peter rebukes Jesus.
4. Review Mark 9:30-32
A. What do you learn in verse 30 and what thoughts do you have about why Jesus wanted privacy? Jesus did not want anyone to know that they were passing through Galilee. I think he was teaching things that the disciples needed to understand and Jesus didn’t want to be interrupted. He may not have had time for ministering to a huge crowd.
B. What does Jesus tell them in verse 31? That the Son of Man will be delivered to and killed by men but after he is killed he will rise in 3 days.
C. Why do you think the disciples were afraid to ask Him about it? I am not sure, it may be some of what you said, Dee, about not really letting that which you do not want to be true to be true. It may also have conflicted with their desires for a military savior. It may simply have been a sense of foreboding surrounding the events that were inevitable.
5. Read Mark 10:32-34
A. Again, to whom is He speaking? He is speaking to the 12.
B. What details does He add that He had not told them before? That it will happen in Jerusalem. He will be handed over to the chief priests and the scribes who will condemn him to death and then hand him over to Gentiles. They will mock him, spit on him, and flog him.
6. Read Mark 10:41-45
A. To whom is He speaking and what is the setting? I think He is speaking to the 12 again. They are still on their way to Jerusalem.
B. Why does He tell them He came? He came not to be served but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many.
Monday
3. Review Mark 8:27-33
A. To whom is Jesus speaking here, and what is the setting?
He is speaking to the disciples while walking from Galilee up to the villages near Caesara Philippi.
B. What does He tell them in verse 31?
He tells them that He is going to suffer many terrible things, be rejected by the elders, leading priests and teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but three days later would rise from the dead.
C. What is Peter’s response?
He took Jesus aside and reprimanded Him for saying such things.
4. Review Mark 9:30-32
A. What do you learn in verse 30, and what thoughts do you have about whyJesus wanted privacy?
Jesus didn’t want anyone to know He was traveling through Galilee. I think verse 31 gives us the answer…He wanted to spend more time with His disciples – teaching them.
B. What does Jesus tell them in verse 31.
He’s going to be betrayed into the hands of His enemies , be killed, but three days later raised from the dead.
C. Why do you think the disciples were afraid to ask Him about it?
Maybe because of how Peter was responded to. Or they were in denial, not wanting to believe it. Or they just didn’t understand and were trying to process it.
5. Read Mark 10:32-34
A. Again, to whom is He speaking?
The twelve disciples
B. What details does He add that He had not told them before?
That the leading priests and teachers of religious law would sentence Him to die and hand Him over to the Romans. He would be mocked, spit on and flogged with a whip.
6. Read Mark 10:41-45
A. To whom is he speaking and what is the setting?
The disciples. They were on their way to Jerusalem and Jesus took them aside.
B. Why does He tell them He came?
He came not to be served, but to serve others, and to give His life a ransom for many.
3. Review Mark 8:27-33
A. To whom is Jesus speaking here, and what is the setting?
He is speaking to his disciples as they were traveling to Caesarea Philippi.
B. What does He tell them in verse 31?That he must suffer, be rejected and killed and that he will rise.
C. What is Peter’s response?To rebuke- or reprimand Jesus
4. Review Mark 9:30-32
A. What do you learn in verse 30, and what thoughts do you have about why Jesus wanted privacy?He didn’t want anyone to know that he was passing through, perhaps because he needed to teach and prepare the disciples directly?
B. What does Jesus tell them in verse 31.
He says again that he is going to be killed and that he will rise after 3 days.
C. Why do you think the disciples were afraid to ask Him about it?
Perhaps because of how he responded to Peter and maybe because of their misplaced hopes of his making everything work out nicely for them quickly. I think they hoped for deliverance from their oppressors now, their vision was on the temporal, not the eternal. It is hard for us to relinquish the hope that we had for the hope that is hard to comprehend and seems a long way off.
To his disciples
B. What details does He add that He had not told them before?That he will be mocked, spit on and flogged
6. Read Mark 10:41-45
A. To whom is he speaking and what is the setting?
To his disciples as again as they are traveling. It is always remarkable that James and John followed up Jesus’s statement about his death with self-interested requests. Jesus doesn’t squash them. It gives me hope, that my own dull self-interest doesn’t squash his grace and care for me.
B. Why does He tell them He came?
Not to be served, but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many
C. Why do you think the disciples were afraid to ask Him about it?
As I thought more about this, and why they couldn’t get what they were being told, as I thought about why I couldn’t with my mom’s diagnosis, maybe part of why they couldn’t take it in and why they were afraid to talk about it was that they loved Jesus and couldn’t allow themselves to imagine his death.
I can so relate to what you shared Dee regarding Steve’s diagnosis.
My mom also died of colon cancer. the surgeon came to see my mom and me the evening before her surgery. He told us that he would not be able to cure her. We didn’t, we could not, take in what he said. Sometime after her surgery, she said if she had known that the surgery wouldn’t have cured her she wouldn’t have had it. She had to have a colostomy bag, which she had always regarded as one of the worst things that could happen to a person. I remembered then what the surgeon had said, realizing that he did tell us, but we couldn’t take it in.
In Tim Keller’s sermon called Sin as Self Deceit, he says we have an ‘almost infinite ability of the human heart to hide the truth from itself when that truth is too unpleasant or uncomfortable.’It isn’t hard for me to understand why the disciples could not hear what Jesus was saying, I can relate.
Of course you can relate! It helps me that you can.
Keller’s statement about self-deceit (we have an ‘almost infinite ability of the human heart to hide the truth from itself when that truth is too unpleasant or uncomfortable”) seems to applicable to some who refuse to change their lifestyle in spite of the pandemic. They simply will not believe that this thing is serious.
You may have hit on the truth here, Diane. I think there is a universal tendency to deny death — so we can pray the truth will break through.
I see what you are saying Diane, but I also will not allow myself to listen to the news. All they do is panic people. I go online and get information from valid sources, not the main stream media; they are a joke these days…not journalists at all anymore. I think that I don’t need to see how many deaths are occurring everyday, and how people are pitting some against others. I have to keep my head up so I can keep my own little world functioning here at home. Yes, our family is following most rules, however I refuse to be panicked. I pray nearly all day long for the world; I feel I am doing my part. If it is my time then so be it. God loves me and I love Him. I will pass not alone, because I have Him. Thank You Lord for being my Lord and Savior!
3. Review Mark 8:27-33
A. To whom is Jesus speaking here, and what is the setting?
To His disciples as they were on their way to villages surrounding Caesarea Philippi.
B. What does He tell them in verse 31?
He will suffer and be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and teachers of the law and must be killed and be raised in three days.
C. What is Peter’s response?
Peter set Jesus aside and rebuked him.
4. Review Mark 9:30-32
A. What do you learn in verse 30, and what thoughts do you have about why Jesus wanted privacy?
Jesus did not want people to know where they were at because He was teaching the disciples.
B. What does Jesus tell them in verse 31.
He will be delivered into the hands of men and they will kill Him and He will rise in three days.
D. Why do you think the disciples were afraid to ask Him about it?
In case what He was saying is true? Fear of the future without Jesus? Imagining how difficult it would be to see Jesus dying? If I were there, I would be confused, in denial, and afraid.
5. Read Mark 10:32-34
A. Again, to whom is He speaking?
To His disciples.
B. What details does He add that He had not told them before?
He will be mocked, spit on, and flogged.
6. Read Mark 10:41-45
A. To whom is he speaking and what is the setting?
To the 12 disciples.
B. Why does He tell them He came?
He came to serve and that He may give His life as a ransom for many.
Dee and all, a question based on v. 45 Can this verse support election? Or that there will be others who will not receive Him as the ransom for their sins? Just wondering because of the word “many” instead of “all” or mankind. I feel kind of awkward asking this question but I know this has always been a safe place to ask questions!
You have raised a point with your question and I had not pondered that. I am assuming that he knew there would be those who would not accept the gift he offers, even though he desires all to be saved. Wondering about others thoughts on this?
Bing and Shirley — I think that verse is an evidence for election, but I do filter things through the Reformed view which seems so strong in Romans 9, 10, and 11. Did you ever listen to Keller’s sermons called Love Before The World?
Thank you, all. I will re-read Romans 9-11 and will look for Keller’s sermon Love before the world, Dee.
Bing, what do you mean by the word “election?” I’m confused.
Laura, I think ‘election’ is referring to how Jesus chooses us in a sense. Who has been set apart from birth to follow Jesus. We had one of our Pastors come to our Life Group to talk more about it. It is still confusing to me on that I was picked out of my sisters to have a relationship with Him and they weren’t. Or maybe they are choosing not to. (two of my sisters stayed catholic, and one no longer believes there is a God)
Laura, yes to what Julie said below on what I meant by “election”. It is still a mystery to me that He chose me of which I am very grateful.
But don’t you think ultimately He chose all?
3. Review Mark 8:27-33
A. To whom is Jesus speaking here, and what is the setting? – He is speaking to his disciples as they went on to the villages around Caesarea Philippi.
B. What does He tell them in verse 31? – He tells them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by many and must be killed, and after 3 days he would rise again.
C. What is Peter’s response? – Peter took him aside and rebuked him for saying something like that.
4. Review Mark 9:30-32
A. What do you learn in verse 30, and what thoughts do you have about why Jesus wanted privacy? – They were passing through Galilee. I wonder if he wanted privacy since he was preparing himself and the disciples for the death he was about to endure.
B. What does Jesus tell them in verse 31. – That the Son of Man was going to be betrayed and given over into the hands of man. They will kill him but after 3 days he would rise again.
C. Why do you think the disciples were afraid to ask Him about it? – I think they may have thought if they didn’t ask him about what he was saying then it would just go away and not be true. They could try and forget about it.
5. Read Mark 10:32-34
A. Again, to whom is He speaking? – he was speaking to the disciples, but it also mentioned that others were following and afraid.
B. What details does He add that He had not told them before? – This time he describe what they would do to him. They would mock him, spit on him, flog him and then kill him.
6. Read Mark 10:41-45
A. To whom is he speaking and what is the setting? – At first it looks like he was talking to James and John, the sons of Zebedee but later the other 10 disciples came upon them as well.
B. Why does He tell them He came? – He tells them that he came to not be served, but to serve and be the ransom for many by giving up his life.
Yes. I actually have tried but without success. I don’t have a good smart phone and they won’t download to my laptop. My husband has a tablet that it probably will work on. I am thinking that I might like to buy the DVDs to see the whole season. What are some of the objections or concerns you have heard, Dee, with the program?
Overall I really like it, Diane and I think God is using it. Being Reformed, I’m a bit hesitant to have Jesus portrayed as I know its impossible to get Him right, but I don’t go as far as J. I. Packer who wouldn’t even have picture books with Jesus for children. They imagine the “back” stories of Nicodemus, Mary Magdalene, Peter, and Matthew — and I think it is very interesting to ponder the back stories, though we do not know them. They go into Peter’s marriage for example, and how hard it must have been for him to leave his family — the scene of Him healing Peter’s mother-in-law is wonderful. When they get into the Scripture, they stick to it very closely. It’s interesting to watch some of the you-tube testimonies from Dallas Jenkins and the actors — how he felt led to do this. I gave the DVD to the prisons in Texas. I might have done the water into wine a bit differently — he conferred with biblical scholars and also an esteemed Messianic Jew, Catholic, and Evangelical — and I think on the water into wine there was too much emphasis on Mary, and I don’t think that was the point of the first miracle, as you probably know I think as you have been with me so long! But it makes you think and I think it brings glory to God.
Thanks, Dee, for your review. This is helpful. I think, when showing it to children (or others unfamiliar with Scripture) we would need to be careful to explain the Bible does not give the “back” stories of some of the characters. Fiction and truth are being combined and that is a bit dangerous. I will ponder this more and talk to hubby about it.
This might work for you, Diane – cut and paste into your browser:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=craeyJdrCsE&t=50s
What stands out for me? “Only the ransom of one without sin can make us clean.” Just thinking of this significant principle is humbling to me.
It reminds me of my guilt and how I can not clean up my own messes…and I love the song, too, which is new to me. We will feast in the House of Zion is beautiful. We will sing with our hearts restored…
2. Reasons for Jesus telling those He healed not to tell anyone: Well, I think that would only serve to attract those who wanted something from him, for physical healing. His purpose was to show people their spiritual need and how coming to him would fill their spiritual emptiness. Crowds of people were exhausting for him and it drew the attention of the religious leaders who would condemn him. There was a time for God’s plan to be revealed.
3. As I think about the question of my gifting I think it lies in the area of compassion, prayer and encouragement. I am usually able to connect with people who are in need of a listening ear and a word of encouragement. Yet I would assume that my primary calling is to share the gospel. I feel that I need to do better with this. I probably should ask more questions to point people to their spiritual emptiness and I shy away from it too often.
Asking questions is so vital in evangelism — it’s what Jesus did! And it forces us to really listen and to see how Satan is blinding them. Thanks for that reminder, Shirley.
Shirley, this is so hugely important in our day: “I am usually able to connect with people who are in need of a listening ear and a word of encouragement.” I think due to our technology and ‘screens’, true listening, making eye contact, is becoming more rare. And people are in need of someone to listen to them. I believe that when you invest in someone by doing that, it earns you the privilege with them to then share your faith.
3. Jesus is speaking to his disciples, Mark 8:27-33, while they are walking to Caesarea Philippi. He is telling them that he must suffer, be rejected and killed. Then Peter began to rebuke him.
4. In Mark 9:30-32 Jesus is teaching his disciples that he was going to be delivered into the hands of men who would kill him and he would rise on the 3rd day. The disciples were afraid to ask him probably because it was so painful and confusing to them. They also knew how he had responded to Peter’s statement!
5. Mark 10: 32-34 Jesus is again teaching his disciples, revealing more details, as they were on the Jerusalem road. Now he explains he would be taken by the chief priests and scribes who would condemn him and deliver him to the Gentiles who would mock him, spit on him, flog him and kill him. And after 3 days he would rise.
6. Mark 10:41-45 Jesus is talking again to his disciples after James and John made their request to sit on his right and on his left, “in your glory.” But Jesus tells them he came to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.
Review Mark 8:27-33
A. To whom is Jesus speaking here, and what is the setting?
Jesus is speaking to the disciples. They are on the road walking from Galilee to Caesarea Philippi.
B. What does He tell them in verse 31?
He says He will suffer great things. He will be put to death, but rise again 3 days later; the Resurrection story.
C. What is Peter’s response?
He tells Jesus to not speak that way.
4. Review Mark 9:30-32
A. What do you learn in verse 30, and what thoughts do you have about why Jesus wanted privacy?
Jesus traveled with the disciples through Galilee but He didn’t want anyone to know He was there.
B. What does Jesus tell them in verse 31.
He tells them the Resurrection story again.
C. Why do you think the disciples were afraid to ask Him about it?
I guess that they didn’t want to believe it? And by speaking of it, it meant it was true. It gave it authenticity. It’s easier to pretend it isn’t true.
5. Read Mark 10:32-34
A. Again, to whom is He speaking?
Again he speaking to the disciples.
B. What details does He add that He had not told them before?
he describes how he will be beaten in this passage. He says he will be flogged, mocked, spit on.
6. Read Mark 10:41-45
A. To whom is he speaking and what is the setting?
He is speaking to all the other disciples except James and John.
B. Why does He tell them He came?
He says he came to be a servant. he says that if they follow him they should serve others as well. He says he was sent to the be the ransom for us.
7. Read Chapter 12, (“Ransom”) up to A Willing Sacrifice and share your notes or reflections.
Jesus tells them that not only will he die but that he will choose to die. He had every right to expect to be honored and served but he chose not to exercise that privilege. Instead he gave his life as a sacrifice, a ransom, to pay for (in the place of) many (us). We were being held as prisoners by a cosmic evil and Jesus pays the ransom so that we could be freed. The cost was huge, but Jesus paid the price.
8. What chains has Christ broken for you? Specifically thank Him here.
I was lost, but now I’m found by Him. I was sick, but now I’m being healed. I was in darkness, but now His light has shone. Praise you, Jesus! I am safe in your arms. Thank you for rescuing me, Lord.
The healing has begun. The light is dawning, though my eyes are still dim. Like the disciples, my expectations of you are wrong. I want you to serve me, rather than my choosing to serve you. Heal me of my blindness, Lord. Like the disciples, there is so much I still do not really understand. You have set me free, Lord. Help me to walk in that freedom!
What a beautiful prayer, Diane.
Dee, thank you so much for sharing the link to the Gospel Coalition prayer program. I have listened about half way through and it has so ministered to me. To pray in agreement with other believers is so powerful! I love how they start out with music and go into different areas in praying for our nation and the world and then more music…so up lifting. Looking forward to more tomorrow.
Thanks, Sharon — I agree! Also showed me new ways to pray that I had not thought of — for those who are already anxious souls, how frightened they must be. For our leaders to have wise counselors and the humility to really listen. And more!
I listened to the praying and worshipping too and to remember everyone in prayer was amazing. There was no one that was not prayed for. I stood in agreement with all of them.
Tuesday
7. Read Chapter 12, (“Ransom”) up to A Willing Sacrifice and share your notes or reflections.
Keller states that there is no doubt what Jesus came to do…He came to die. He makes that quite clear in repeatedly telling the disciples so. But He also makes it clear to them why He needs to in Mark 10:45…”He didn’t come to be served, but to die, to give His life.” This stood out to me, ”in doing so it sets Him apart from the founder of every other major religion. Their purpose was to live and be an example; Jesus’s purpose was to die and be a sacrifice.” In speaking to my sister yesterday, who is Buddhist. she was sharing how many uplifting programs are coming on over the internet to be of encouragement to them during this time. I wanted so to scream, “Buddha was just a man! How did he ever show his love for you?” But I held back and shared how we’re being encouraged through our church’s services on line. The hard thing with my sister, she knows the truth. I continue to pray.
8. What chains has Christ broken for you? Specifically thank Him here.
My bondage to the idol of approval. All the links haven’t been completely broken as it rears its ugly head from time to time, but I am aware and know that the only approval I need comes from Jesus – a breakthrough for me. It was a deep bondage…many years in the making, but I can feel the freedom in knowing He loves me and wants the best for me. I thank You Lord for showing me this bondage, this sin in my life so that I can have life in You, freedom, and have it abundantly! Please continue to do a work in me so that my life will bring you honor and glory. Amen
3. Review Mark 8:27-33 A. To whom is Jesus speaking here, and what is the setting?
Jesus is with his disciples, on the way to Caesarea Phillipi.
B. What does He tell them in verse 31?
He was teaching them that He must suffer a brutal death.
C. What is Peter’s response?
Peter took him aside and began to rebuke Him.
4. Review Mark 9:30-32 A. What do you learn in verse 30, and what thoughts do you have about why Jesus wanted privacy?
Jesus did not want anyone to know where they were because He wanted to be able to teach the disciples about what was to come. He knew it would be hard for them to understand, and emotional.
B. What does Jesus tell them in verse 31.
Jesus will be killed, and after 3 days He will rise.
C. Why do you think the disciples were afraid to ask Him about it?
They may have sensed the weightiness and did not want to hear the hard truth.The more they knew, the more real it would become.
5. Read Mark 10:32-34 A. Again, to whom is He speaking?
The disciples.
B. What details does He add that He had not told them before?
He will be mocked, spit upon, and flogged. His death will be in Jerusalem. He will be condemned to death by the Jews and abused and killed by the Gentiles.
6. Read Mark 10:41-45 A. To whom is he speaking and what is the setting?
He is speaking to the disciples who are arguing about sitting beside Him in the Kingdom.
B. Why does He tell them He came?
Jesus came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.
7. Read Chapter 12, (“Ransom”) up to A Willing Sacrifice and share your notes or reflections.
Jesus’ death was central to His identity and purpose. He came not to be served, but to give His life as a substitutionary sacrifice. Jesus came (always existed) to pay a cosmic payment for a cosmic evil—paying the ransom we could never pay, through His death on the cross.
8. What chains has Christ broken for you? Specifically thank Him here.
Thank You my Lord Jesus Christ for breaking the chains requiring me to earn my salvation, the responsibility of perfection. Thank You for destroying the chains of wanting approval from man. Thank You for freeing me of needing to prove myself worthy, and needing others to be happy with me. Lead me Lord to live out this freedom with generous love and lavish grace for others, with a humble, serving heart.
Lizzy — the way you write out answers that I’m quite sure you already know is a great model — for repetition penetrates the truth more deeply into our souls.
Tuesday: Cosmic Evil Needs A Cosmic Price
Lewis portrayed the great evil through the White Witch and all evil helpers. She could cast an evil spell, bringing bondage, a magic she had known from the dawn of time. That evil has permeated our world from the dawn of time, bringing unto suffering.
7. Read Chapter 12, (“Ransom”) up to A Willing Sacrifice and share your notes or reflections. – I just am amazed every time I see Jesus say, or tell us something 3 times. Like it is for each day from his death to his rising. I loved the part where Tim Keller explained that Jesus was set apart from other the founders of other religions because he came not to be served, but to die and be a sacrifice, where the other religious founders were here to live and be an example. This was interesting to me how the difference is so huge.
8. What chains has Christ broken for you? Specifically thank Him here. – The chains that are starting to be broken, and I say starting to because I have a long way to go before I can say all my chains are gone, are that of fear and control. I feel a lot lighter when things come up against me, where I don’t feel like I’m living my life in fear. The control over my life, I’m still a little hesitant to tell the Lord you have control because of what He may tell me he wants me to do. Those things may be out of my comfort zone. Lord, I thank you that you are removing my chains, even if at a slow pace because of my hesitancy. I don’t want to feel like I’m free falling with no net below me, so please help me feel your presence, your arms around me and your hands holding tight. Help me to let go of the chains so I can grab on to both of your hands. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen.
Julie–love this ” I don’t want to feel like I’m free falling with no net below me, so please help me feel your presence, your arms around me and your hands holding tight.”
So key to our faith! Tim Keller explained that Jesus was set apart from other the founders of other religions because he came not to be served, but to die and be a sacrifice, where the other religious founders were here to live and be an example.
The Ransom,chapter 12 Keller tells us that Jesus predicted his death 3 times in these 3 chapters because it was central to both his identity and his purpose on earth. He said the Son of Man came into the world(showing that he had existed before he was born.) And his purpose was to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many. Ransom translates from a Greek word that meant “to buy the freedom of a slave or a prisoner.” The slavery he is dealing with is of a cosmic kind- that is, cosmic evil- it required a cosmic payment. He pays the ransom we couldn’t possibly pay and it will procure your freedom.
Yes, Christ has set me free! My chains have been the chains of selfishness, pride, and all the desires of the flesh…
Father, I am so thankful that you have loved me so much to give the ultimate sacrifice so that I could be set free from my sinful nature and can become your own daughter. thank you for revealing your truth to me and drawing me to you with loving words and promises. I claim the gift of salvation and am so blessed to walk humbly with you. I will cast all my cares on you for you care for me. That means so much. May your name be praised. To God be the glory!
Great prayer of praise, Shirley.
9. Read “A Willing Sacrifice” in Chapter 12 and share your notes and reflections.
Reflections: I have some family who, though brought up with Christian teaching, have become convinced that Christianity is just another example of primitive religions. To them, science explains the meaning of life. This is so sad. They believe a lie. Man cannot fix what is wrong with the world.
I don’t really understand what Keller means when he says that God “re-created” the world on the cross. CS Lewis also says that “when a willing victim who had committed no treachery was killed in a traitor’s stead, the Table would crack and Death itself would start working backward.” It is obvious that Lewis is referring to Jesus’ death; but how has death started working backward? Yes, I now have Life because of Jesus, but creation is still in the captivity of death. Viruses still kill. Creation is being destroyed more and more by man’s carelessness and climate change. No obvious “re-creation” is happening yet.
However, I do accept that there is much here that I do not understand. I’m just wondering if I am missing something. We accept by faith that, at the end of the world, Christ will make all things new. Is that what Keller and Lewis are referring to?
Diane, I shared some of your puzzlement over this chapter. After reading your comments and Laura’s below. I thought of this passage from 2 Corinthians 5
“For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.“For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven: If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked.For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of [by] life.”
The idea that on the cross, the swallowing up of death by life was begun, that it won’t be complete until Jesus returns, but the regeneration of creation and of us has begun…that felt helpful to ponder.
Wonderful response Chris — I was about to go there with Diane and then saw, “Chris did it!”
Chris, the toddlers are raising butterflies. The worms are yucky, the chrysalide is ugly, but the butterfly is beautiful. Reminds me of the abuse, cross, and resurrection.
10. Give specific praise here for what Christ endured for you, a traitor.
Did Jesus in the garden and on the cross think of (know) specifically all the sin that he was dying for? There is a song called “I was in his mind” that seems to indicate that he was thinking of each of us specifically on that day.
He endured the mental torture of carrying all our sins, betrayal, desertion by his followers, physical savage torture, humiliation, verbal abuse, ridicule , thirst, suffocation from hanging on the cross, and heart brokenness. There is probably much more. It is helpful to take the time to list specifically what Jesus suffered, to write it down. It helps make it real. It is important to remember!
Thank you, Lord, that you cared enough for me to choose to go to a cruel death in order to rescue me; me who did not deserve that ransom in any way. Your blood cleanses me and sets me free from the prison of Death. Praise your holy name! Thank you, Jesus.
7. Read Chapter 12, (“Ransom”) up to A Willing Sacrifice and share your notes or reflections.
Jesus came to die. This reminds me of the firefighters/police officers on 9/11 who ran into the World Trade centers to save people. Or, the medical workers who are working in the hospitals today. The mission saves us but at the cost of the hero.
“Jesus Christ came not to be served but to die, to give his life. That sets him apart from the founder of every other major religion. Their purpose was to live and be an example; Jesus’s purpose was to die and be a sacrifice.”
I love this because it is SO amazing. Thank You Lord for giving Your life for me. I am so undeserving.
8. What chains has Christ broken for you? Specifically thank Him here.
Thank You Lord for showing me that the way is not of this world. Thank You for showing me that I really don’t need anything in this life but You. When I am focused on You I am a complete person. I am happy, I am satisfied, I am calm. I don’t need any idols of this world to complete me. Thank You Jesus. Amen.
9. Read “A Willing Sacrifice” in Chapter 12 and share your notes and reflections.
“All real, life-changing love is substitutionary sacrifice.” oh my gosh Keller brought tears to my eyes when he was talking about raising children. I’m in the midst of it again and could feel his imagery. It is very hard and I’ve always wanted to do the right job. I failed somehow the first time around and now I am at it again, exhausting as it is. I don’t want to fail this time. I pray I do it well this time.
The C.S. Lewis quote where it says “…death would start working backwards…” that is a cool way to say that the death would bring life. I like it.
Just wanted to say that I’m still here 😉 I did a bunch of this a couple days ago, got distracted, and then didn’t save it. So, I’ll just jump in rather than go back and redo!
Jesus Paid It All : I listened 3 or 4 times because I am easily distracted these days. The last verse, especially, grabbed my attention:And when, before the throne,I stand in Him complete,“Jesus died my soul to save,”My lips shall still repeat.Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe;Sin had left a crimson stain,He washed it white as snow.
Ok, I’m about to get distracted again and am near the end of Ch 12, so will save and come back later with reflections!
Wednesday
9. Read “A Willing Sacrifice” in Chapter 12 and share your notes and reflections.
God couldn’t just say “your sins are forgiven “ like when He spoke the world into being. There had to be a sacrifice for sins, “the debt had to be paid and God was so incredibly loving that He was willing to die in order to do it Himself.” “He re-created the world on the cross-which was a horrible process,” but it was the only way we could be reconciled to God
2 Corinthians 5;17 “Therefore if any one is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old things passed away; behold new things have come.”
C.S. Lewis’s quote reminds me of Romans 5:17 “For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and His gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this One man, Jesus Christ.”
10. Give specific praise here for what Christ endured for you, a traitor.
Thank You Jesus for being rejected, ridiculed, spit upon, flogged and hung on a cross for my sins.
Jesus paid it all
All to Him I owe
Sin had left a crimson stain
He washed it white as snow.
9. Read “A Willing Sacrifice” in Chapter 12 and share your notes and reflections.
All real, life-changing love is substitutionary sacrifice. The only way Jesus could redeem us was to give His life as a ransom.
I loved the art about God creating with a Word—but He cannot simply say “let there be forgiveness”. The world was re-created on the Cross because on the Cross, the curse was paid, forgiven—and there was a way for us to be in relationship again with God. God created the world and then sin entered in—the Cross destroyed the power of sin over man, and allowed for NEW Creation—we are re-created, we are made new.
A Willing Sacrifice: The question, “If God is a loving God, why doesn’t he just forgive everybody?” Well, it is BECAUSE of God’s love. All life-changing love is substitutionary sacrifice. The examples Keller gives is of a very needy person and what it requires: giving and listening until it becomes exhausting. They desperately need to be loved, but it is a sacrifice because you take a hit yourself. I can identify with that, having a couple of experiences with a needy person.
The other example he gives is parenting and that also takes much time, sacrifice and goes on for a lot of years! You may feel drained or you abandon your independence for a number of years. And when parents don’t do this, their children grow up needy, vulnerable and dependent. Additionally anyone who has made a difference in our lives has given up something and accepted some hardship.
So God has to deal with the ultimate evil-sin. It can’t be overlooked, and it is costly. Sin invokes the wrath of God. The ancients understood justice and debt and necessary punishment. So Jesus could only redeem us by paying the cost and giving his life as a ransom for many.
God created the world in an instant, a beautiful process, he re-created it by the cross and it was a horrible process. Forgiveness costs God. Forgiveness always costs…
Praise God for enduring the cross for me, for my selfish needy ways. He loved me and drew me to him even when I let him down by going my own way, instead of obediently following. “Thru death into life everlasting He passed and we follow Him there, over us sin hath no more dominion, for more than conquerers we are. Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in his wonderful face and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of his glory and grace.”
As much as I don’t like being in the midst of this pandemic, it certainly does make me turn my eyes upon Jesus…
“As much as I don’t like being in the midst of this pandemic, it certainly does make me turn my eyes upon Jesus…”
Amen Shirley!!!
9. Read “A Willing Sacrifice” in Chapter 12 and share your notes and reflections.
All real, life – changing love is substitutionary sacrifice. This quote summarizes a bunch of the sentences that struck me. I realize how much others who have loved me have sacrificed, know that I have sacrificed for some people, and question how much I really have loved others. But I do have a question: In the past, I’ve been annoyed when people told me I was sacrificing too much. In particular, the line “Put your own oxygen mask on first” when used in the context of any kind of care for others BUGS me. I know that I have to be alive to provide some types of care. On the other hand, Jesus gave up EVERYTHING. So, I really don’t understand how or why, in some situations, Christians use that line?????????? I recently told someone that I think there is a fine line between being unafraid and unwise. I have had to pray for wisdom in caring during present times — because I’m not particularly afraid –of death; I know I am in a high risk group and am staying home. But I stay home most of the time anyway 🙂 But I would be willing to risk my life for some people. Why/when is that ok/not ok (and it’s not because I’m depressed!).
The ancients understood the idea of the wrath of God , they understood the idea of justice, the idea of a debt and a necessary punishment, but they had
no idea that God would come and pay it himself . I guess I don’t completely understand justice; I’m not an ancient (yet). I understand that Jesus had to die for there to be justice; but until I started typing this answer, I wasn’t getting why there has to be justice: It’s because of God, his holiness, righteousness, his character. At first, I was thinking that there is so much injustice around me, and I can’t do anything about it — just have to “live with it.” This also reminds me of the big picture why Jesus came to die, had to die. He not only is forgiving and restoring me, which is a LOT, but also He is restoring justice, abolishing death, making what’s wrong with the world, right. He’s making all things new. Life would actually be pretty hopeless if injustice were ongoing on the New Earth, especially for those who have been most marginalized.
10. Give specific praise here for what Christ endured for you, a traitor. I winced when I heard that Navy man call his subordinate a traitor and stupid, and am wincing again now — and I know it’s true of me.
Lord, I know that you are holy, righteous, just — and I betray you daily because in myself, I’m not any of those things. Jesus, you took a BIG hit for me; you sacrificed your life. You were rejected, beaten, died — for me. And then I betray you. THANK YOU for paying with your life to forgive me, to make my life right/new. I mess up the world around me — and then get angry because of injustice. I’m hypocritical. Thank you for loving and forgiving me, for enduring the WORST for me, that you paid my penalty. I praise you, God, for your holiness, your love, and your compassion. In Jesus’ name.
While I see the reasoning in “Put your own oxygen mask on first,” we are so naturally selfish, I wouldn’t feed that! We are called, as we take up the cross, to live sacrificially. My two bits.
Renee,
Thank you for your transparent thoughts here. I’m asking this same question:
“But I would be willing to risk my life for some people. Why/when is that ok/not ok ?”
“…Though the Witch knew the Deep Magic, there is a magic deeper still which she did not know,” Aslan explains to the children.
9. Read “A Willing Sacrifice” in Chapter 12 and share your notes and reflections. – What an eye opener for me to read in Mark was not just another variation to me, it was much more. I saw that though, throughout the Bible people gave sacrifices to God, but my sacrifice to God is Jesus. He was my blood sacrifice that released my sins. Wow this really hurts. I also need to understand those that are hurting and not ignore or push their needs aside. I need to be the one to help them get filled up even if it means I will be depleted. But to refill my soul in these times, I need to just be in His Word at all times. If Jesus was depleted for me when I was an emotional wreck, the love He shows me daily should be enough for me to be willing to be depleted for others.
10. Give specific praise here for what Christ endured for you, a traitor. – Lord I am so sorry for not recognizing completely what you did for me. Thank you for giving up your Son in order for me to be close to you. To sacrifice your only Son is beyond understanding but your unconditional love would do no less then that. Thank you Lord for loving me enough to want me near you and in turn pushed your Son away. I will never be able to repay you for this ultimate blood sacrifice. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen.
10. Give specific praise here for what Christ endured for you, a traitor.
Oh Jesus, I can’t even imagine what you went through; I have been so sheltered. To think how trivial so much of my life is…how upset I get about silly things, how I don’t help others the way you want me to, and how angry I can be with friends and family members, I’m ashamed. You paid the price for me. Thank You Jesus. I don’t deserve it at all.
7. Read Chapter 12, (“Ransom”) up to A Willing Sacrifice and share your notes or reflections.
Jesus’ death …was absolutely central to both His identity and His purpose on earth. And His purpose was to die and be a sacrifice.
Ransom means “to buy the freedom of a slave or a prisoner.” Jesus paid the ransom that I couldn’t possibly pay.
8. What chains has Christ broken for you? Specifically thank Him here.
The chain of the idol of approval. Lord, this idol still tries to chain me down. Thank you that you are unchaining me whenever it threatens my life. Instead of maneuverings or manipulations of my circumstances, I have been coming to you and asking for freedom moment by moment. Instead of seeking the approval of man, you have given me insight into the ploy of the enemy. You have given me time to pause, reflect, and cry out to you so I can find clarity and honor you with my responses. Thank you that you are always there for me.
9. Read “A Willing Sacrifice” in Chapter 12 and share your notes and reflections.
Sacrifice is at the heart of real love.
The cross is the self-substitution of God.
For nothing good have I Whereby Thy grace to claim; I’ll wash my garments white In the blood of Calv’ry’s Lamb.
Jesus paid it all All to Him I owe Sin had left a crimson stain He washed it white as snow.
10. Give specific praise here for what Christ endured for you, a traitor.
God, you have been merciful to me, a sinner and a traitor. I don’t deserve your love and forgiveness but you still died for me. Thank you for what you have endured for me-not only the intense physical pain but most of all the separation from our Father. I rejoice that the grave could not contain you and you were victorious over death. Because you died, I can live eternally. All the praises belong to you!
Dee, I am moved by your sharing about when your Steve was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. Just how the words of “I can’t heal you” and “You’re dying” couldn’t sink in. The feeling of being numb. I can imagine you in my mind in Target starting to weep. I don’t know…we all ‘know’ that we are going to die, that our loved ones are going to die, and yet…the human spirit has a strong, strong will to LIVE. Maybe even that is something that God put into us? We know death is “natural”, inevitable, yet the will to survive, to live, is strong. I once heard my (Christian) neighbor rather cheerfully remark that it’s just “the cycle of life”. But it wasn’t supposed to be that way. We weren’t originally created to die but to live. I also think of how, when my mom was alive and had Alzheimer’s, that I would reason that she “wasn’t that bad” because she didn’t forget who we were. In some way, though she was 90, I couldn’t believe in some sense that there would be a day when she wouldn’t be here. I think of our Mary, who despite immense suffering, is doing another round of chemo…she still has the will to try to live.
3. Review Mark 8:27-33
A. To whom is Jesus speaking here and what is the setting?
Jesus is speaking to His disciples (does that mean only the twelve, or also include others who were His followers?) They were walking together on the way to the villages around Caesarea Philippi, and Jesus talked as they went along.
B. What does He tell them in verse 31?
Jesus begins to tell them that the Son of Man (Jesus) must suffer many things, be rejected by the religious leaders, and then He must be killed and after three days rise again.
C. What is Peter’s response?
Peter took Jesus aside and rebuked Him. I looked up the definition of rebuke and it means to express sharp disapproval or criticism. This makes me think that Peter knew without a doubt that Jesus was speaking about Himself and could not accept His words. It makes me think that Peter felt angry.
4. Review Mark 9:30-32
A. What do you learn in verse 30, and what thoughts do you have about why Jesus wanted privacy?
This verse says that they were in the area of Galilee and Jesus didn’t want anyone to know where they were; the start of verse 31 says “because He was teaching His disciples.” Had people known He was around, they likely would’ve flocked to Him…the sick, the blind, the lame…wanting Jesus to heal them or others who just wanted to be around Him. My thoughts are that Jesus understood His death was near and He had important things to tell His disciples. He was narrowing His focus here to those closest to Him. Also, perhaps the message about His suffering and death wasn’t for everyone (at this time) because He could’ve gathered a large crowd and told them the same things, but He didn’t. Only these few were entrusted to hear this. Maybe He was planting the seeds for their future commission to go and evangelize the world.
B. What does Jesus tell them in verse 31?
He tells them that the Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of men and they will kill Him, and after three days He will rise.
C. Why do you think the disciples were afraid to ask Him about it?
I am curious as to why the text says in both passages in Mark that Jesus refers to Himself as the Son of Man…why He doesn’t say, “I will be betrayed…I will be killed…” I know He had called Himself by that term before, and I am assuming they knew He meant Himself. Maybe they were afraid because the last time He told them this and Peter spoke up, Jesus kind of chewed him out. I remember learning in nursing school the stages of dying, and the first two are denial and anger. (There are five and yet it is stressed that it’s not linear…the stages don’t always follow an exact order and some people don’t experience or go through all stages) Perhaps fear is behind anger and denial.
5. Read Mark 10:32-34
A. Again, to whom is He speaking?
Here is specifies that He took the Twelve aside and spoke to them.
B. What details does He add that He had not told them before?
Jesus adds here that the chief priests and teachers of the law will condemn Him to death and hand Him over to the Gentiles, who will mock Him, spit on Him, flog Him, and kill Him. He describes the suffering He will endure.
6. Read Mark 10:41-45
A. To whom is He speaking and what is the setting?
Ten of the twelve disciples found out that James and John had asked Jesus to let them sit on His right and left when He enters His glory; they wanted a special place of honor with Him. The others were upset about this, so Jesus called them all together to talk to them.
B. Why does He tell them He came?
Jesus tells them that He came to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many. I’ve been following some of Pope Francis’ statements and homilies recently, and in one, he talked about how God serves us. Of course, we do things for God and say that we are serving Him, but the reality is that He serves us, that He served us. If we want to serve others, Francis said that we must let God serve us. I think part of that means that we admit we aren’t self-sufficient and independent; it takes humility to let yourself be served. I know a couple of people who absolutely hate it when they need the help of others and it even greatly distresses the one. I think this may be partly due to pride, when we see ourselves as somehow indestructible and we can take care of ourselves.
You have all the compassionate giftings to be a wonderful nurse. You blessed me with this.
11. Think about your motives to excel in something. Was there a selfish motive in the beginning that He is transforming? Explain.
For me I wanted to excel as a mom and wife and my goal was to raise children who loved Jesus. I knew that I was merely a seed planter yet when my oldest two turned away, the truth came out..I thought I had much more influence in their hearts than the Holy Spirit. I was a dreaded helicopter mom! You all know the story-it really came out when my oldest told me he didn’t believe. I cried out to God-good-but what I said revealed a lot!
I didn’t respond to my oldest right and went through this horrible grieving time but by God’s grace I asked him for forgiveness for that years later and my son forgave me. Talk about selfish motives. Over the years God has helped me to let go, to trust Him, and to love.
oops..ran out of time to get ready for work. Great questions that cause me to really ponder but I tend to ponder too long. 🙂
Never. Great pondering.
11. Think about your motives to excel in something. Was there a selfish motive in the beginning that He is transforming? Explain.
absolutely! It started when I was about six years old and my father gave me dance lessons for my birthday. At first it was fine and an innocent thing to keep me busy, but as I grew into a teenager I realized that I was fairly talented and then it became my life. I wanted to be the best, and even had aspirations of dancing with the Rockettes at one point (would love to do that even now!!). The downside of all this, and I still have these aspirations as an adult, you have to watch your weight, and you have to practice. I think all the years of dancing ballet have made me so self-conscious about every little part of my body. You constantly stare in a mirror to make sure that you have everything just “so.” I was probably anorexic as a 15-year-old but just didn’t know it at the time. About 20 years ago I learned that some people danced in church. I joined a group and began dancing for God. It was the best thing I ever did, however the old ideas are ingrained in me, sad to say, probably forever. They haunt me. I can’t just dance for God and be well with it. It is sad.
By the way, my young friend Bekah and I are dancing our church’s Good Friday service. Here’s the link if anyone wants to watch.
https://facebook.com/events/s/good-friday-service-7pm-live-s/526548851615918/?ti=icl
12. Has there been a recent book, movie, and/or song that deeply moved you because it so glorified the Lord? What was it? “I Need You” Matt Maher
13. Read Mark 10:35-45
A. What stands out to you from the dialogue between James and John with Jesus in verses 35-39? Explain.
I guess that they equated themselves to Jesus’ position. He straightens them out however by telling them that they won’t drink the cup that He has to drink.
B. What does Jesus tell them in verses 40-45? What does He mean?
He deflects to God by saying that God will choose who gets to sit next to Him. He also says that to be in a high position in God‘s world is to be a servant and serve others.
14. Read Jeremiah 29:7.
A. What does God tell His people to do for the people who destroyed their city, murdered their families, and carried them into exile?
They are to work hard, get married, multiply and take care of the city and its inhabitants.
B. How would this be hard yet glorify the Lord?
Because basically you would be taking care of people who don’t like you. it is what God wants you to do.
C. Is there an application to your life?
oh yeah! Our daughter Sarah and her husband.
Laura,
I really love that Matt Maher song (I Need You) too.
“Where sin runs deep Your grace is more
Where grace is found is where You are”
👍
12. Has there been a recent book, movie, and/or song that deeply moved you because it so glorified the Lord? What was it?
For the last couple of weeks, I have been listening to readings by Andrew Peterson of his children’s book series, The Wingfeather Saga. He is doing nightly readings on his Facebook page (and posted to youtube). I had never heard of this series and stumbled across it because I like his songs and had liked him on Facebook. It is a marvelous series and he is an AMAZING reader with accents and all. He is doing it out of his home because of the pandemic so his singing tour is on hold! It is really a God thing for me and sounds like it is for others as well! Is anyone else following??? He is starting book two tonight. Check it out! And if you don’t catch it live, you can listen to it later on youtube, if you don’t wait too long. Apparently it is for a limited time only! I am still trying to catch up on book one and at “night 12”. Enjoying it immensely!!!!!!!
Diane! I’m so glad you mentioned this! I knew of his kids books but the readings sound so good! My son (and I) will love this! Thank you 😊
Oh thanks so much, Diane. I will check it out!
Diane,
I’ve been listening to Andrew read book one of Wingfeather Series as well! It is so good. He was inspired by C.S. Lewis. (He was on a tour of the British Isles in recent weeks but that had to be cut short. But not before he visited the grave of C.S. Lewis.) I just went to Andrew’s facebook page for details of when he will be starting to read book 2 aloud. If I remember correctly he doesn’t plan to start that until Easter night or possibly Monday, the 13th. Also, each night’s reading is usually only available for 24 hours because of copyright agreements.
Tonight, Good Friday, April 10th, Andrew Peterson is leading worship LIVE at this link: christcommunity.org/live at 6:30 Central Time.
I listened to the Good Friday service with Andrew Peterson leading worship. So worshipful and God honoring!
11. My motives to excel in something: Thinking on this , always was the underlying desire for approval, and hating criticism. This was finally uncovered! Yes God is transforming that into a desire to please Him and allow him to mold me and shape me, like the potter and the clay. From an idol that pulls away to worship of my Savior.
12. The movie that stands out to me is War Room, from the challenge of a failing marriage to the focus that prayer has in coming close to God and seeking his best for marriage and life issues. It may seem like a fairy tale to an unbeliever, but I know the power of prayer!! To God be the glory
7. Read chapter 12 (Ransom) up to A Willing Sacrifice and share your notes and reflections.
Keller helped me see how Jesus unfolds and predicts His impending death as He tells the disciples three times and gives the most detail about it in Mark 10. Keller makes the point that Jesus stands out from every other religious leader because He came not to be served, but to die. His purpose was to die and be a sacrifice. I hadn’t thought about the fact that when Jesus said that He came into the world not to be served, that He is pointing out that He existed before He came to the world and that statement assumes that it was His privilege to be honored and served, though He didn’t exercise that privilege. That ties in with Philippians 2 where it says Jesus laid aside His privileges and took on the form of a servant. The explanation of what His death meant is helpful, too. It was to pay a ransom, our ransom.
Many people live not knowing that they are held captive to sin and death and need to be ransomed.
8. What chains has Christ broken for you? Specifically thank Him here.
Before I knew Jesus, I lived in sin and was unaware of it. Jesus broke the chains of my blindness to sin, my total indifference to Him, and I would say my ‘adulterous heart’. In my sin, both then and now, when I turn from Him, I am like an adulterous woman. I can still forget that He gives me everything I need, and turn to idols. But sin doesn’t have complete power over me now, though I struggle, like Paul describes his struggle in Romans 7…not doing the things I want to do but the things I don’t want to do. But I am not a slave to sin anymore. Thank You Lord Jesus for coming to rescue me, for breaking into my world, my life, and that I now belong to You.
9. Read “A Willing Sacrifice” in chapter 12 and share your notes and reflections.
I had to really ponder what Keller meant when he explained that Jesus didn’t have to die “despite” God’s love (meaning that God loves everyone and forgives everyone, yet Jesus still had to die…that doesn’t make sense) but Jesus had to die “because” of God’s love. And that is because “all life-changing love is substitutionary sacrifice.” He goes on to explain that when you try to love someone who has need, problems, then it will cost you something. In some way, their problems and troubles become yours, too. Keller says that it can be exhausting to be a friend to an emotionally damaged person. In order for them to be filled-up, you must let yourself be drained.
I get the point he’s making here in order to explain this kind of love God has for us, but a little alarm here….if we let another person completely drain us, and it can happen that another person can drain us physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, then we, too, are left unhealthy and with nothing to give. We cannot possibly meet all the needs of another person, nor is it healthy for them, or for us, when we attempt to do that. He points out that if we completely avoid them, they will sink, and I am not saying we should abandon that person, but we must be careful. One Sunday in church in my class, we were talking about that passage in Philippians 2 and how Jesus emptied Himself completely, and my friend spoke up and said yes, but we must remember that we are NOT Jesus and perhaps it is not possible for us to do so to His level. That comment was met with some disapproving gasps, but I think she was on to something.
I could totally relate to Keller’s example of the sacrifices one makes as a parent for your children when they are dependent upon you…yes, and I did that joyfully and willingly most of the time! Those were golden years for me, though of course I could be selfish at times and resentful of things like lack of sleep for me. And this is so true, that “anybody who has ever done anything that made a difference for us – a parent, teacher, mentor, friend or spouse – sacrificed in some way, stepped in and accepted some hardship so that we would not get hit with it ourselves. This brings me to the point of why I struggle to feel loved in my marriage. Several years ago, when I had to have major surgery, my husband said he couldn’t take care of me when I would come home from the hospital, and I would have to “go somewhere”. He wasn’t willing to sacrifice a few days, a week, to help me. When I told my sister Chris, she said you will come to my house and I will help you. She took care of me for a week during my recovery. That was sacrificial love.
Keller also says that everyone, even the ancients, understands the idea of the wrath of God, the idea of a debt and necessary punishment, but who would ever have thought that God would come and pay it Himself? The Cross is the self-substitution of God. God serves us in every way, even to pay our debt Himself. That is staggering.
Susan, I agree that we can’t let other people totally drain us. Looking at Philippians 2:4 it says, “Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.” Paul doesn’t say stop looking out for your own interests but not to “only” look out for your own interests. I like how the Amplified version puts verse 7, “but emptied Himself [without renouncing or diminishing His deity, but only temporarily giving up the outward expression of divine equality and His rightful dignity] How…by assuming the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men [He became completely human but was without sin, being fully God and fully man].” It also goes on to say, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. We are to have the mind/attitude of Christ…servant hood, humility and obedience.
11. Think about your motives to excel in something. Was there a selfish motive in the beginning that He is transforming? Explain.
I thought of two;
1) Physical fitness, my initial, the primary reason for pursuing an exercise program was and still sometimes is vanity, I don’t want to be a blob, in my darkest moments of this motivation I compare myself with girls I went to school with, both positively and negatively. When I am sane, I approach my exercise as something I am grateful to be well enough to do what I do as a way of caring for my body even as an act of worship. Part of letting go of the vanity is a gift of aging, no matter what my weight and level of fitness is, I am older, in this life will never be 25 again 🙂
2) Cooking, I enjoy cooking and feel it is a way God has gifted me with creativity. When I am seeking my own glory I place way too much importance on how my food turns out and how it is received by others. I once had a thought as I was preparing a meal of the Marriage Supper of the Lamb and what a joyous happy time that will be, I hoped that I could be a part of the meal prep and that all my grateful focus would be on glorifying the Lord, not me, the food, the fellowship, the wonder it will all be when my trying to be the center is removed from me…it gives me a thrill to imagine it.
Chris, I just posted about the series “Chocolate” on Netflix and I think you would enjoy it because food and cooking is a huge part of the series as you watch one of the main characters who is a chef do her cooking. She uses her delicious creations to bring joy to others. Even my daughter noticed what a huge part food played in this series; the sacrifice of making a favorite dish for the hospice patients portrayed in the series, the use of food to bring people together.
Thanks Susan, I will look for it🙂
12. Has there been a recent book, movie, and/or song that deeply moved you because it so glorified the Lord? What was it?
I don’t feel like it was particularly glorifying to the Lord but we watched Avengers End Game a few days ago and I thought about Keller’s point about the stories that most move us having someone making a substitutionary sacrifice that all real, life-changing love, is substitutionary sacrifice.
End Game did have that theme and it was moving. It made me ponder.
🙂
B. What does Jesus tell them in verses 40-45?
That in this world people in power treat others as if they are worth less that they are.
What does He mean?
I was thinking that our understanding of greatness has been twisted by living in a fallen world. That we imagine being great as having power over others, they will have to serve us. But that in the really things will be in the kingdom we will all serve God and one another with joy, we won’t be needing to jockey for position to make ourselves feel like we matter.