I am so excited about this week for the same two reasons I’m excited about how God has led me for our summer series beginning next Sunday, the first Sunday in June.
Both this week and in the summer series:
1. I am confident you will learn new things, despite being an advanced group.
2. Tim Keller sermons every week!
(I’m so thankful God has seen fit, as Keller put it, to give him more time, allowing the chemo to work on his 4th stage pancreatic cancer.)
The series we will begin next week, for the summer, is “the hard sayings of Jesus.” They are hard to understand or hard to swallow. Each week will stand alone so if you go away for vacation, you will be fine. We’ve been doing them in The Orchard (my church) and I’ve learned SO MUCH and am eager to do it with this amazing group. Please invite your friends. You will need to buy some of the Keller sermons (2.50 each) but it will be so worth it. He also has many free now from his podcast.
But now, for our final Eastertide week, we’ll look at “Doubting Thomas.” Here is Caravaggio’s depiction. But the Keller sermon will show you there is something unscriptural about this painting. Do you see what it is?
Sunday: God Hunt
- How did you experience the riseness of Christ this week?
- What do you think is inaccurate about the Caravaggio painting?
Monday: Thomas Was Missing
I did not realize before the Keller sermon that Thomas was missing when Jesus appeared to “the eleven” on Resurrection Sunday. It’s confusing because Luke says “eleven,” and we know Judas wasn’t there. Did Luke count wrong? This from Wayne Jackson is very helpful:
“The phrase, “the eleven,” became a semi-technical expression for the apostolic band after the defection and death of Judas, and that as such, mathematical precision was not intended — particularly when evidence is available to demonstrate otherwise. Likewise, The numeral “twelve” was used of the apostles in a sense that merely signifies the apostolic band — even when a literal twelve was not intended. Paul mentions that in one of Christ’s post-resurrection appearances, he appeared to “the twelve” (1 Cor. 15:5). During the forty-day post-resurrection period, however, Judas was dead already, and Matthias had not yet been selected. Obviously, then, the numeral “twelve” was employed figuratively for the body of the apostles in general, rather than of twelve specific individuals.
3. Read Luke 24:36-43
A. What things does Jesus do to show that the resurrection of His body is real and He is not a ghost?
B. Since “doubting Thomas” wasn’t there with his demand to see, why do you think Jesus shows the others? How would this be helpful to the Church?
4. The world wants to make Jesus just a great teacher, even the best. How does this account poke holes in this belief?
5. What do you know about the apostles that help you believe their testimony?
6. As a preview, read John 20:24-29 and give evidence that Thomas was not there on Resurrection Sunday. How much later did Jesus come to him?
Tuesday: My Lord and my God! You Are Real!
Keller is going to reference the following clip from Fisher King. Watch it:
7. What do you guess Keller’s point is going to be after watching this clip?
8. Read John 20:24-29
A. What had the other disciples told Thomas? What else do you think they probably told him besides the fact that they had seen the Lord?
B. What does Thomas say? (v.25) Why, do you think?
C. What does Jesus do? (v. 26-27)
D. Does Thomas touch his wounds according to this passage? (Carravagio’s mistake!)
E. How does Thomas respond? (28)
F. What does Jesus say that is relevant to us?
9. How helpful is it to you that all the apostles were eye witnesses?
Wednesday: Keller Part I.
Click on the following link and listen up to minute 21:35 for Keller’s first point. (You can simply stream this sermon or download it for free.)
Thomas Meets Jesus
10. Keller is going to address two points in this sermon. What are they? And, explain what a “double bind is.”
11. Why did Thomas have to see the resurrected Christ?
12. What else stands out to you from Part I of this sermon?
Thursday: Keller Part II.
Listen to the rest of the sermon from 21:36 to the end for Keller’s second point.
13. Most books about Jesus you will find in, for example, Barnes and Noble or Walmart, will want to say Jesus was just a great teacher, but then the legends began and made Him a God.
A. How do the apostles dispute this? Give examples.
B. Why wouldn’t a great teacher have transformed lives and turned the world upside down?
C. What else stands out to you from the 2nd half of this message?
Friday: Application (Don’t Skip!)
14. Keller explains John 20:24 is present progressive, that is, “they kept telling”. We are to listen to the apostles, for they are the foundation of the Church, built on the Cornerstone of Christ. Give an example of an apostle’s teaching (one or more) that has transformed your life.
15. How patient is Jesus with Thomas? (This is where the Fisher King is relevant.) How patient was Robin Williams in assuring the insecure girl of His love? Share a way Jesus has been patient in assuring you of His love?
16. How do His wounds show He wasn’t just a good teacher? Why does this matter?
17. Thomas didn’t touch his wounds — he dropped his conditions. What point did Keller make about that?
Saturday:
18. What’s your take-a-way and why?
19. Share two big things that impacted you during our Eastertide study.
77 comments
So excited for the summer study!
1. How did you experience the riseness of Christ this week?
Believe it or not, I am currently in THREE Bible studies….I have had the experience of late that the same message is coming through in all of them. My HW from one of them yesterday was directly pointed at me. Crazy. Thank You Jesus for Your Word.
2. What do you think is inaccurate about the Caravaggio painting?
Could it be that he is touching Him? Mary said not to touch, but that was before the ascension, I think?
Bingo, Laura. It never says that Thomas actually touched him — just fell to his knees and said “My Lord and My God!”
This is a smart group and we are learning so much!
Sunday: God Hunt
1. How did you experience the riseness of Christ this week?
I have been struggling with the dailies of life lately and God has spoken to me through His creation. While spending some time with our daughter, I walked her dog, Sam, in the early mornings. Her new neighborhood is lined with trees. And even though her apartment is just approximately a quarter mile from a busy thoroughfare, the early mornings were still quiet and smelled fresh after 2 days of rain. Water drops were still clinging to rose bushes and a variety of trees. Her spare bedroom has glass windows that overlooked a big tree. Watching squirrels scamper about and hearing birds chirping was a balm to my soul. Lord, you know these birds and care for them. How much more would you care for me?
The words from the hymn, For the Beauty of the Earth”, also ministered to me:
For the beauty of each hour,Of the day and of the night,Hill and vale, and tree and flower,Sun and moon, and stars of light.
Lord of all, to Thee we raise,This our hymn of grateful praise.
For each perfect gift of Thine,To our race so freely given,Graces human and divine,Flowers of earth and buds of Heaven.
2. What do you think is inaccurate about the Caravaggio painting?
Scripture does not say that Thomas put his finger on Jesus’ side.
One of my favorite hymns — I sing it a lot.
What precious moments with the Lord and the beauty He created. I love this God Hunt, Bing! Thank you!(Love that hymn too!)
How did you experience the riseness of Christ this week? It’s mostly been through this blog. Everyone’s comments and interactions make me thankful that God has lead me to this group of loving supportive people.
What do you think is inaccurate about the Caravaggio painting? That Thomas never actually put his hand in Jesus’ side. He bowed down and said, “My Lord and my God.”
1. How did you experience the riseness of Christ this week?
As I was packing for our move yesterday, I was listening to Lauren Daigle and one of my favorite songs of hers ‘Tremble’ came on and oh these lyrics:
I will tremble at no other name, My heart’s surrendered to no other reign, I will bow at no other throne And rest my heart at no other home, Let these hands lift no other crown, Let these knees fall on no other ground, Draw these eyes from the gold that won’t shine, You turn this life from water to wine
And I tremble, I tremble, Lord In your presenceIn your presence, oh yeah
You take my breath with every starry night, Show Your power in downtown city light, You are taller than the highest of the hills, And stronger than the walls we try to build, You blind me with the beauty of Your face, And draw me close with Your divine embrace, Speak to me with healing in Your word..
….You invented all of time and space, Called the morning and midnight into place, Made the mountains and tamed the wildest seas, And still You set Your holy eyes on me.
THEN THIS: I will always live in wonder of The fact that I awaken jealous love
Here is the song: https://youtu.be/pI2sYS3ov0w
2. What do you think is inaccurate about the Caravaggio painting?
I had NO idea he didn’t really touch Jesus so I looked it up and my, he didn’t!
Rebecca, Thank you for this beautiful song ‘Tremble’! Powerful words! I so see the riseness of Christ in this!
Patti, me too! I’ll always be in wonder of His jealous love. When I chase an Idol His fierce, Jealous love makes me not want the Idol but want Him!
Excited about your move, about your husband — hopeful for you, Rebecca.
I missed that you were moving Rebecca. Where to?
So so excited for the Summer study! Praying for your book with Linda Strom, Dee. Praying for the Lord to help you organize the information and for His blessing and inspiration each step of the way. And I thank God you for you and for this study, as well as the upcoming “Hard sayings of Jesus”! I love the sharing and the study~ learning so much.
1. How did you experience the riseness of Christ this week?
God is so good and I see His riseness in so much this week!1. The news about Tim Keller is so wonderful! Praise God that the treatments are working and the Lord is allowing him more time for his ministry. Keller’s ministry has had such an impact in my life, so thankful for him and for his lovely wife. 2. I got cellulitis in my wrist (thought I just strained it~ which was crazy, since I had it in the same place 10 years ago) and if I had not been Strongly prompted by my daughter to go to the dr., I would have become very sick. It has been bad and I can’t type much, but it is finally starting to improve. So thankful for a very wise specialist, who ordered antibiotics immediately. 3.Reading this Blog always shows me how very loving and caring our Heavenly Father is in each of our lives!
2. What do you think is inaccurate about the Caravaggio painting?
Though Thomas said he would insist on touching Jesus, in order to believe, his eyes were opened immediately when he saw The Risen Lord !”My Lord and my God!” were his words when he saw Jesus! What a turn around!
Thankful for your daughter urging you to go in!
Praying for your medical issue Patti. 🙏🙏🙏
Thank you dear friends! Yes, thankful for my daughter! It is much better!! I can almost type! 🙂
Sunday: God Hunt
How did you experience the risenness of Christ this week.
Yesterday morning in the Women’s Sunday School class at our church the leader asked the group to share ways they had seen God at work in their lives during the last week. It delighted my heart to hear a God Hunt taking place with those women. It took a little time for them to get started but it resulted in some beautiful and tearful sharing that was a blessing to all who happened to be there. I experienced the risenness of Christ in the lives of those women whom I know their stories in life and they have had some very hard things but are finding Christ to be very real to them.
What do you think is inaccurate about the Caravaggio painting?
At first I wasn’t sure what would be unbiblical about it. As I look at that particular painting I always have thought it has a bit of a comical look to it on the part of Thomas and the two other characters. But looking at the accounts in scripture I can see why the artist showed Thomas as touching him because Jesus offered for the disciples to touch him and see that he really was flesh. But when Thomas really saw Jesus he didn’t need to touch him.
Exciting about your church, Bev!
Love hearing about the women’s God hunts. Precious times at your church.
Sunday: God Hunt
1. How did you experience the riseness of Christ this week? While shopping in a store I suddenly felt very light-headed and my lower right leg felt numb and weak. My son was with me and we prayed for the “spell” to pass. Eventhough I was concerned, I had an amazing sense of peace that can only come from God. I will be going for an MRI of my right knee soon, there may be changes in a benign bone tumor I have had for a few years.
2. What do you think is inaccurate about the Caravaggio painting? According to John 20:27- 28 Jesus told Thomas to put his finger in His hands and reach his hand into His side, but scripture doesn’t say Thomas actually did it. Vs 20:29 ” Because you have seen me you have believed, blessed are those who have not seen me, yet believed.” So in seeing, Thomas believed. This painting is an artists impression of what took place, not necessarily what scripture says.
Right. And learning about Caravaggio tells me he certainly was a gifted artist but not a believer, had a wild lifestyle but was paid well by the Catholic church.
Sounds about right!
Glad for His peace, now pray for His wisdom and healing!
Thank-you for the prayers!
Praying for your MRI results, Lydia.
Thank-you for your prayers!
Praying for your MRI, Lydia. Praying for good diagnosis and treatment.
Monday: Thomas Was Missing
3. Read Luke 24:36-43
A. What things does Jesus do to show that the resurrection of His body is real and He is not a ghost?
—He pointed out to them that he was actual flesh and bones and told them to see his hands and feet to touch him and see it really was him. Then he asked for something eat and ate a piece of fish.
B. Since “doubting Thomas” wasn’t there with his demand to see, why do you think Jesus shows the others?
—Hmmm? Not sure but it would seem it was Thomas’s choice not to be there for some unknown reason at that point. The others needed to see Jesus even if Thomas wasn’t ready to gather with them.
I think we have to be careful not to characterize Thomas as just being stubborn. Possibly his doubts and fears had completely overtaken him and immobilized him some what after the trauma of the Crucifixion.
How would this be helpful to the Church?
—I think it shows the faithfulness of Jesus to show up even when we don’t expect Him too and in spite of our doubts and fears He comes along side of us to reveal himself and assure us. Left to ourselves we often become immobile and ineffective.
4. The world wants to make Jesus just a great teacher, even the best. How does this account poke holes in this belief?
—Everything about this account is supernatural. His appearing behind locked doors and the fact he was still flesh and bones in a glorified state. He was evidence that he had died and had risen back to life. Only God could do that. And we know it is about him dying for our sin. His was a sacrificial death with a purpose. He didn’t just come as a good teacher to try and show us how to be better people. He gave his very own life and flesh to atone for our sin and give us a new and renewed spiritual life.
5. What do you know about the apostles that help you believe their testimony?
—They were changed completely and lived the rest of their lives spreading the Gospel to others. They were willing to die for the truth about Jesus.
6. As a preview, read John 20:24-29 and give evidence that Thomas was not there on Resurrection Sunday. How much later did Jesus come to him?
—Verse 24 tells us Thomas was not with them when Jesus appeared to them on the first day of the week. Then verse 26 says it was eight days later when Thomas was with the other disciples behind locked doors that Jesus appeared to them.
I know I heard a Keller sermon that really praised Thomas — but not sure which one or why — so not a lot of help. 🙂
3. Read Luke 24:36-43
A. What things does Jesus do to show that the resurrection of His body is real and He is not a ghost? He invites them to take a close look and even touch Him. Then he asks for something to eat and eats in front of them.
B. Since “doubting Thomas” wasn’t there with his demand to see, why do you think Jesus shows the others? How would this be helpful to the Church?
Jesus sees that they are frightened, thinking He is a ghost. I believe He wants to reassure them of His promises and to trust what they see.
4. The world wants to make Jesus just a great teacher, even the best. How does this account poke holes in this belief?
The eye witnesses of His resurrection are evidence enough to poke holes in the world’s theory.
5. What do you know about the apostles that help you believe their testimony?
Each of the apostles were tortured and killed (except John, who endured suffering) for their testimony of Jesus Resurrection and the Gospel message. Why would they endure such suffering for just another teacher or prophet? Their lives are evidence of the truth of the Gospel.
6. As a preview, read John 20:24-29 and give evidence that Thomas was not there on Resurrection Sunday. How much later did Jesus come to him?
vs 24 states that Thomas, called Didymus, was gone when Jesus came. 1 week later Jesus returned and Thomas saw Him.
3. Read Luke 24:36-43
A. What things does Jesus do to show that the resurrection of His body is real and He is not a ghost?
He tells them to touch Him. They wouldn’t be able to touch a ghost. He asks for something to eat.
B. Since “doubting Thomas” wasn’t there with his demand to see, why do you think Jesus shows the others? How would this be helpful to the Church?
Since the church was not yet “born,” maybe He wanted to make sure the disciples were on board to spread the Word so that when He ascended, and the Holy Spirit descended, they would already have the roots planted.
4. The world wants to make Jesus just a great teacher, even the best. How does this account poke holes in this belief?
A great teacher would not be able to accomplish the things the disciples (and others) saw Jesus do.
5. What do you know about the apostles that help you believe their testimony?
They were simple people. They were flawed.
6. As a preview, read John 20:24-29 and give evidence that Thomas was not there on Resurrection Sunday. How much later did Jesus come to him?
It (NLT) says he was not there. They tell him that they have seen the Lord. Jesus came 8 days after
Really good answers, Laura.
7. What do you guess Keller’s point is going to be after watching this clip?
She had dreamed of having this moment, and now it is a real one!
8. Read John 20:24-29
A. What had the other disciples told Thomas? What else do you think they probably told him besides the fact that they had seen the Lord?
They told him they had seen the Lord. Probably that He was real.
B. What does Thomas say? (v.25) Why, do you think?
That he wouldn’t believe unless he could feel Him himself.
C. What does Jesus do? (v. 26-27)
He appears, says, “Peace be with you,” and tells Thomas to put his finger in the wounds.
D. Does Thomas touch his wounds according to this passage? (Carravagio’s mistake!)
No! He only says, “My Lord and my God!”
E. How does Thomas respond? (28)
see above
F. What does Jesus say that is relevant to us?
He believes because he sees Him. He blesses us who believe without seeing.
I like your answer to Keller’s point on the movie clip!
Tuesday: My Lord and my God! You Are Real!
7. What do you guess Keller’s point is going to be after watching this clip?
—The girl saw that he was real and that he really knew her and understood her. As Jesus was with Thomas.
8. Read John 20:24-29
A. What had the other disciples told Thomas?
—The others told him they had seen Jesus.
What else do you think they probably told him besides the fact that they had seen the Lord?
—I’m sure they related to him Jesus showed them his hands and his feet and that he was flesh and bone as well as the fact he ate a piece of fish.
B. What does Thomas say? (v.25)
—“Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never believe.””
Why, do you think?
—perhaps because he was being a stubborn Jew like Paul refers to in 1 Corinthians. “For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom,”
I am being sarcastic here. 😏
Actually I wonder at Thomas and his mindset as opposed to the other disciples. We aren’t told why Thomas wasn’t with the group on the Lord’s Day the week before when Jesus appeared to the group. Some people have to process alone and others process by talking with people. I suspect he was struggling deeply over the crucifixion and was convinced it was all over because of Jesus’s death. It seems to me in his comment he is saying Jesus is dead. I saw him nailed to that cross and I saw his side stabbed to assure his death. So I will have to see to believe for myself.
C. What does Jesus do? (v. 26-27)
—This is the beauty of what Jesus was doing after his resurrection in his coming to Mary Magdalene, Peter, James and the two on the road to Emmaus then the whole group of disciples. He was meeting them and convincing them and assuring them he truly did rise from the dead. And now with Thomas he addresses him personally in response to his unbelief that Jesus could actually be alive in the flesh.
D. Does Thomas touch his wounds according to this passage? (Carravagio’s mistake!)
—No, At that point he didn’t need to. Seeing Jesus was proof enough.
E. How does Thomas respond? (28)
—With worship in the reality of Jesus as his Lord and God.
F. What does Jesus say that is relevant to us?
—We are among the blessed who have believed in Jesus as our risen Savior in spite of the fact our eyes have yet to see him in the flesh.
9. How helpful is it to you that all the apostles were eye witnesses?
—It is very important to the unity and credibility of their witness. They shared the same experiences of actually have seen Jesus and interacting with him after his resurrection.
7. What do you guess Keller’s point is going to be after watching this clip? After the clip and the title of today’s lesson my guess would be the dawning the disciples, or Thomas in particular. had that the risen Jesus was truly alive, real, and loved them.
8. Read John 20:24-29
A. What had the other disciples told Thomas? That Jesus was alive and that they had seen him. What else do you think they probably told him besides the fact that they had seen the Lord? That Jesus breathed on them and they received the Holy Spirit.
B. What does Thomas say? (v.25) “Unless I see in His hands the imprint of the nails, and put my finger into the place of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.” Why, do you think? Some people cannot believe just based on the testimony of others, they have to experience it for themselves. None of us can believe until our eyes are opened by Christ himself. I think the different scenarios in which people came to believe in the risen Lord just shows us that God works in many ways, each individually tailored for us.
Jesus saying that those who did not see with their own eyes yet still believed give hope for those of us living thousands of years later.
C. What does Jesus do? (v. 26-27) He appeared when Thomas was present and spoke directly to Thomas’ earlier statement.
D. Does Thomas touch his wounds according to this passage? (Carravagio’s mistake!) No.
E. How does Thomas respond? (28) He bows and says “My Lord, and my God.”
F. What does Jesus say that is relevant to us? As I answered in question B, we are of a generation who did not see Jesus firsthand in his resurrected body here on Earth, but we still believe and are blessed because of it.
9. How helpful is it to you that all the apostles were eye witnesses? I’m glad to see that Jesus didn’t leave anyone out and made a special point of including Thomas. I’m sure that it made a difference to them in their future ministries to be able to testify that they saw him with their own eyes. I can only imagine what the discussions would be today if the absence of Jesus’ body from the tomb was the only event that we had to point to his resurrection.
Tuesday: My Lord and my God! You are Real!
Keller’s point on this movie clip- How Parry (?) R.W. knows so much about the woman that he loves so much.
The other disciples told Thomas-We have seen the Lord! They most likely told Thomas about His hands and His side and about receiving the Holy Spirit.
Thomas says- Unless I see in His hands the imprint of the nails, and put my finger into the place of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe. I think it was so hard for Thomas to believe, to have the faith we talk about ourselves having. We have each other to share faith with and its strengthens us.
After eight days Jesus came inside where the disciples were- He says Peace be with you and then He says to Thomas to touch My hands; and reach here your hand and put it into My side; and do not be unbelieving, but believing.
Thomas answers- My Lord and my God!
What Jesus says that is relevant to us- Blessed are they who did not see, and yet believe.
How is it helpful that all the apostles were eye witnesses- For Jesus to show Himself to them, to walk and spend time with them, show them His hands and side was such a gift to us. To help us understand the Gospel, to give us real faith and trust. And it helps us to know that they were just has surprised and doubtful as we would of been had we been there to witness this.
I like your point about how he knew so much about the woman he loved, Kathy. Jesus knows us so well. This morning I lost some book money given to me in an envelope by a woman from Washington Island. I told the Lord, “Lord, you know me, you know how distracted I can get and how I think — what would I have done with it.”
Stuck it in in a nearby drawer.
I knew we hadn’t left the room — it was in the silverware drawer.
Something I would do too! I was working on a recipe, I had it laying in my utensils drawer so the wind from the open window wouldn’t blow it away. Half way through got distracted from something else- shut the utilities drawer without thinking-came back and couldn’t find my recipe! Looked all the kitchen thinking the wind blew it somewhere! A good few minutes later I processed look in the drawer! Oh how He knows us❤️
Monday: Thomas Was Missing
This clarified my previous confusion about I Corinthians 15:5. I knew the Bible has no errors so I believe it in faith. Insight such as the one above is like another stamp to the infallibility of God’s Word which was written by 40 human authors but inspired by the Spirit. 2 Timothy 3:16
3. Read Luke 24:36-43
A. What things does Jesus do to show that the resurrection of His body is real and He is not a ghost?
He asked for something to eat-broiled fish and ate them in their presence.
B. Since “doubting Thomas” wasn’t there with his demand to see, why do you think Jesus shows the others? How would this be helpful to the Church?
That Jesus knows our thoughts even when we do not verbalize them? That they were as doubting as Thomas and He wanted them to see for themselves.
1. The world wants to make Jesus just a great teacher, even the best. How does this account poke holes in this belief?
Of all the teachers that many talks about, Jesus is the only One who died and rose from the grave. I think Tim Keller was the one who quoted this: Buddha said, Strive unceasingly. Jesus said, “It is finished.” Buddha emphasized work; Jesus finished the “work” for us.
4. What do you know about the apostles that help you believe their testimony?
They walked with Jesus for 3 years. They were all changed from the inside out. They changed from being insecure, and cowardly men to courageous men of faith who except for John, died for their faith.
5. As a preview, read John 20:24-29 and give evidence that Thomas was not there on Resurrection Sunday. How much later did Jesus come to him?
Jesus came to Thomas 8 days later.
7. What do you guess Keller’s point is going to be after watching this clip? An intimate love.
8. Read John 20:24-29
A. What had the other disciples told Thomas? What else do you think they probably told him besides the fact that they had seen the Lord? “We have seen the Lord!” They probably told him how Jesus looked and what He said to them. And how thrilled and awestruck they were to witness their Risen Savior.
B. What does Thomas say? (v.25) Why, do you think?” Unless I see the nail marks in His hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe it.” He wanted proof of Jesus resurrection, there were most likely many rumors circulating about Jesus and His disappearance from the guarded tomb.
C. What does Jesus do? (v. 26-27) Jesus tells Thomas to touch Him on His hands and in His side.
D. Does Thomas touch his wounds according to this passage? (Carravagio’s mistake!) No, Thomas just looks at Him and believes.
E. How does Thomas respond? (28)“My Lord and my God!”
F. What does Jesus say that is relevant to us? “blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed. ” That’s us!
9. How helpful is it to you that all the apostles were eye witnesses? Very helpful to have such accurate documentation of the eye witness accounts.
Love this: an intimate love
Wednesday: Keller Part I.
10. Keller is going to address two points in this sermon. What are they? And, explain what a “double bind is.”
—First question: was that John had numerous accounts and stories to share about Jesus but only chose 21 days from the life of Jesus for the account he wrote.
The Thomas encounter is the climax
Why?
—Second question:
Why did Jesus use a double bind on Thomas. Jesus rebuked Thomas with his words for his unbelief but then gave him everything he asked for as evidence of his resurrection.
Double bind is when you say one thing with your words but your behavior says something else.
11. Why did Thomas have to see the resurrected Christ?
—Because he was an apostle and being one of the 12 apostles he would need to have a clear and personal witness to the truth of Jesus’s resurrection as they went out fulfilling Jesus’s commission to share the gospel and make disciples.
12. What else stands out to you from Part I of this sermon?
In sharing about the early converts who heard and embraced the gospel it wasn’t the teaching of Christ that convinced them or changed their lives. It was the actions of Jesus and in particular the Resurrection. Keller said “The Resurrection changes everything philosophy doesn’t change anything. “ he contrasts the modern mind with it’s affluence and how it wants just an intellectual loving Jesus as opposed to those early believers who were living broken and desperate lives who were given hope and healing by the reality that Jesus rose from the dead in power and lived to change their lives and gave them true hope.
He said that Christianity is “a baldly supernatural religion.“
In other words not a cerebral and nice and tidy loving messages kind of religion like the modern man wants it to be.
My son in some of his preaching recently has referred to the fact we want a comfortable Jesus. Our concern is more about being comfortable than committing to a Jesus who wants to radically change our lives by having a close relationship with us.
Looking forward to the next half of the sermon.
7. What do you guess Keller’s point is going to be after watching this clip?
It seems to me that Keller’s point will be the intimate way in which our Lord knows us and calls to us. When Jesus came to Thomas and referenced the very words that Thomas had said ~ “unless I see in his hands the imprint of the nails and put my finger into the place of the nails and put my hand into his side, I will not believe….” When Jesus referenced those words Thomas immediately resonated with them and knew that the Lord had heard him even as he was doubting. He felt “seen”. As Dr. Curt Thompson, Christian psychiatrist says: “We are all born looking for someone looking for us. We long to be seen, soothed, safe and secure.” This movie clip is such a beautiful analogy of how the lover of our soul knows us intimately. I often need reminded.
Sometimes I sing this song to remind myself:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXsiWoyjw60
Some of the lyrics:
He knows my name
He knows my every thought
He sees each tear that falls
And hears me when I call
Love that song and that thought!
Beautiful words ~ loved the video of it. Thank you, Nila.
Tuesday: My Lord and my God! You Are Real!
Keller is going to reference the following clip from Fisher King. Watch it:
6. What do you guess Keller’s point is going to be after watching this clip?
Not sure. I am not familiar with this movie. The reality is finally setting in?
8. Read John 20:24-29
A. What had the other disciples told Thomas? What else do you think they probably told him besides the fact that they had seen the Lord?
They had seen the Lord. Perhaps what Jesus said to them when He came to them and the doors were locked. That He showed His hands and side and breathed on them to receive the Holy Spirit. Kind of like, “ Jesus was supposed to have died and have been buried; I have to see Him to believe.”
B. What does Thomas say? (v.25) Why, do you think?
Unless he sees the nail marks on his hands and put his fingers where the nails were and put his hand on Jesus’ side, he will not believe. Thomas was still walking by sight and not by faith.
C. What does Jesus do? (v. 26-27)
He showed up at the house where the disciples and Thomas were.
D. Does Thomas touch his wounds according to this passage? (Carravagio’s mistake!)
No.
E. How does Thomas respond? (28)
My Lord and my God.
F. What does Jesus say that is relevant to us?
Blessed are we who have not seen yet have believed. Jesus is not physically with us anymore but we know that He is with us through the Holy Spirit. Because His Word says so.
9. How helpful is it to you that all the apostles were eyewitnesses?
There is no question about the validity of the story-many witnesses, same story. They all have seen Jesus with their own eyes and many were not in the same place when Jesus showed up.
It helps to have Keller explain it, but I do think it is so hard to believe someone so wonderful would love someone so sinful — not that that was the point Robin Williams was making, but Keller’s point and so resonated with me.
10. Keller is going to address two points in this sermon. What are they? And, explain what a “double bind is.”
Why was this story chosen by John to be the climax of his gospel when there are so many other events he could have used?
Why did John seem to represent Jesus as double binding Thomas?
A double bind is when someone asks something of you that has two positive outcomes for them. Example: You ask your spouse if it would be ok to go out at night, but you will stay home if they don’t like the idea. If the spouse says ok, but brings it up later that you went out, you could say that they had an “out” but didn’t take it. I’m not sure I explained that well….it’s a “damned if you do or damned if you don’t” situation.
11. Why did Thomas have to see the resurrected Christ?
Thomas was not a doubter, he was a believer.
Because he was an apostle. They all had to see Him to be one. They were commissioned. Thomas missed it.
12. What else stands out to you from Part I of this sermon?
I learned that the apostles were the only ones who saw Jesus. That is the difference between an apostle and a disciple. I was wondering about that a few weeks ago.
10. Keller is going to address two points in this sermon. What are they? And, explain what a “double bind is.”
a. John shows the story of Thomas as the climax of the whole gospel.
b. Jesus did a double bind on Thomas. A “double bind” is a phrase to refer to saying one thing with your words, and doing something else with your actions.
11. Why did Thomas have to see the resurrected Christ?
To be considered an apostle, Thomas had to be an eyewitness to the resurrection of Jesus.
12. What else stands out to you from Part I of this sermon?
Jesus rebuked Thomas for not believing what the others have told him about the resurrection. Yet, Jesus showed His nail-scarred hands and His side to Thomas. Jesus wanted Thomas to be one of the apostles. What a gift to Thomas and what a gift to us to hear of the climax of the gospel in Thomas’ declaration: “My Lord and my God!”
Thomas was a great apostle. Thomas was a great believer.
7. What do you guess Keller’s point is going to be after watching this clip?
I love this clip! He has watched this girl from afar and knows everything about her. Her strengths, weaknesses, her flaws and most of all, her heart. He loves her, not because of, but in spite of ! So much like Jesus loves us! He knows us inside and out, He knows our thoughts, our frustrations and every emotion, but most of all He know our heart. Jesus loves us in spite of all our flaws; all He asks is that we come to Him and love Him. He sees us as we are and He loves us as He wants us to be. He knew Thomas and He saw who Thomas would be.
Love your summary, Patti!
Sunday: God Hunt
1. How did you experience the riseness of Christ this week? – Late start but I’m going to try and get through this week’s. Looking forward to our next study. We had our first visitor at our new home since we moved and settled in Tennessee. It was so nice to see my best (well one out of the 3) friend. She came down for the Memorial Day weekend and it was so nice to just sit and talk and catch up. God blessed our time and our conversation.
2. What do you think is inaccurate about the Caravaggio painting? – I’m thinking the hole is in the wrong spot. I thought they pierced his side.
Interesting observation.
Monday: Thomas Was Missing
3. Read Luke 24:36-43
A. What things does Jesus do to show that the resurrection of His body is real and He is not a ghost? – He shows them the holes in his hands and feet and tells them to touch him to see that he has flesh and bones which a ghost does not have.
B. Since “doubting Thomas” wasn’t there with his demand to see, why do you think Jesus shows the others? How would this be helpful to the Church? – Though the church is one body we are all unique and have our own thoughts. To show the ones that were there can start the reaction of telling others and confirming when others may doubt that they saw it too. We don’t all see and hear the same thing at the same time, but it just is a way to reiterate and confirm what was seen at different times.
4. The world wants to make Jesus just a great teacher, even the best. How does this account poke holes in this belief? – What he taught was fulfilled by the scriptures of him dying on the cross and being risen from the grave after 3 days. His teachings went so much further with the resurrected body being seen.
5. What do you know about the apostles that help you believe their testimony? – They’re genuine, they are not perfect by any means and they are just like the rest of us today. The only difference is that they had Jesus with them, they were taught by him and followed him, we have only His Word and their testimonies.
6. As a preview, read John 20:24-29 and give evidence that Thomas was not there on Resurrection Sunday. How much later did Jesus come to him? – It is stated in John that he was not there at the first appearing but a week later Jesus appeared to them again and Thomas was there with them. Jesus speaks directly to Thomas and tells him to put his finger in his side and to reach out his hand and put it in Jesus’ side.
Tuesday: My Lord and my God! You Are Real!
7. What do you guess Keller’s point is going to be after watching this clip? – I’ve never seen this movie may have to look in to watching it. I’m guessing the confirming touch to know if he is real or not. The touch that Thomas had to do to believe it was truly Jesus in the flesh standing before him.
8. Read John 20:24-29
A. What had the other disciples told Thomas? What else do you think they probably told him besides the fact that they had seen the Lord? – They told him that they saw Jesus, I would think they would mention that he was hungry and looking for food and ate with them. And of course, that they saw the holes in his hands and feet and side.
B. What does Thomas say? (v.25) Why, do you think? – Thomas said unless he can put his hand in his side and see the nail marks in his hands and feet he would not believe. I wonder if the other disciples have messed around with him before and he doubted what they said, or it could be just as simple as it is his personality trait. He is one that needs to see things to believe
C. What does Jesus do? (v. 26-27) – He tells Thomas to put his finger there, to see his hands and to reach out his hands and put it into his side.
D. Does Thomas touch his wounds according to this passage? (Carravagio’s mistake!) – It implies that Thomas may have done exactly what Jesus instructed him to do. When I read this verse, I always have a picture in my head of Thomas obeying Jesus and doing just what he is telling him to do.
E. How does Thomas respond? (28) – he replies with ‘My Lord and my God’
F. What does Jesus say that is relevant to us? – He replies back, you have seen me so you believe, but blessed are those who have not seen and believe. This is a great verse for us, because we have not see the risen Jesus at this point so we have to believe with out seeing and we will be blessed because we do.
9. How helpful is it to you that all the apostles were eyewitnesses? – Oh I am so glad they all were eyewitnesses. They were able to see this teaching through to the end. I would have hated to have followed him for 3 years of my life and not get to see the fulfilled promise.
Listen to the rest of the sermon from 21:36 to the end for Keller’s second point.
13. Most books about Jesus you will find in, for example, Barnes and Noble or Walmart, will want to say Jesus was just a great teacher, but then the legends began and made Him a God.
A. How do the apostles dispute this? Give examples. In John 21:24 John says “This is the disciple who testifies to these things and who wrote them down. We know that His testimony is true.” In Acts 2:22 Simon Peter says ” Men of Israel listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through Him as you yourselves know. “
B. Why wouldn’t a great teacher have transformed lives and turned the world upside down? A great teacher would not have miraculous power, as Jesus did. Many great teachers have come and gone and most have been exalted in their own eyes, their focus was never to turn the world upside down, but just to gain noteriety and immortality for themselves.
C. What else stands out to you from the 2nd half of this message? “You must look at His wounds…” By doing this I must acknowledge His humanity and Deity and the great sacrifice He made for me. For God so loved me! Thank-you Jesus!
Thursday: Keller Part II.
13. Most books about Jesus you will find in, for example, Barnes and Noble or Walmart, will want to say Jesus was just a great teacher, but then the legends began and made Him a God.
A. How do the apostles dispute this? Give examples.
—The Apostles witness was to what Jesus did and to the facts of his resurrection and how he revealed Himself as God. They did not go forward giving people teaching on the words of Jesus so they would be inspired and try to change on their own. They went to people with the gospel in the power of the Holy Spirit who changed their lives spiritually setting them free and giving them hope for new life and eternal life.
B. Why wouldn’t a great teacher have transformed lives and turned the world upside down?
—Keller said teaching is about you and how you should live but the gospel is about Him and what He has done.
C. What else stands out to you from the 2nd half of this message?
—He said that the theme of the gospels is that Jesus is King of all. The ultimate power in life and over life.
He also asked a very thought provoking question:
“How do you get to the place where you really believe?”
I have wondered at that question because I have some that I am close to that have heard all the words about Jesus and have grown up in church hearing the words of Jesus but now struggle to believe. I wonder at this point what it will take for them to really believe. I have a grandson in particular who seems to have rejected all he was “taught”growing up. And last night we sat with good friends and heartbroken parents whose son is going to marry his same sex partner in a few weeks. This young man was raised in the church as well. He too has “heard” the words. The dad asked the question “What went wrong? We raised him to know the truth. “
At this point as I have prayed much for these two boys it seems the most I can think of to ask is that God will reveal himself in a way to them so that they know he is real. I can’t begin to speculate on how that might happen but it is what has to happen.
Friday: Application (Don’t Skip!)
14. Keller explains John 20:24 is present progressive, that is, “they kept telling”. We are to listen to the apostles, for they are the foundation of the Church, built on the Cornerstone of Christ. Give an example of an apostle’s teaching (one or more) that has transformed your life.
—I would say the Apostle Paul’s teaching on the love of Christ has been a tremendously powerful influence in assuring me personally. Romans 8 in particular speaks to that everlasting love of God for me. Paige Brown’s exposition on Romans 8 deeply encouraged my heart on what Paul teaches us about God’s love. Jesus has revealed himself to me through such passages of scripture.
15. How patient is Jesus with Thomas?
(This is where the Fisher King is relevant.) How patient was Robin Williams in assuring the insecure girl of His love?
Share a way Jesus has been patient in assuring you of His love?
—I sense that Thomas’s conditions that he set forth about needing to see the nail pierced hands and feet and to touch the wound in Jesus’s side were a request for truth more than unbelief and a rejection of what he was being told by the others. The point is he saw Jesus die violently and he couldn’t yet grasp the reality he might be truly alive. But Jesus patiently addressed Thomas where he was and even rebuking him for his comments not in a condemning way but in a way that brought Thomas to the realization of what was now true. Jesus was real and really alive.
—Robin Williams assured the girl by reiterating the fact that he saw her right where she was with all her insecurities and idiosyncrasies but he was there for her and really loved her anyway.
—When I continue to stumble and fall in my actions and let any doubt attempt to creep in and undermine my sense of His unconditional love for me He faithfully reminds me of himself and his place in my life. It comes through his Word and through prayer when and where I enter into a relational walk with Him.
It’s all about having a personal relationship with Jesus.
16. How do His wounds show He wasn’t just a good teacher? Why does this matter?
—It is all about the Cross. His sacrifice, his actual giving his own body to be wounded and crucified speaks to a Savior who died for our sin. Physically died as a sacrifice for my sin. The price of his wounds goes way beyond the words of a good teacher. As Philippians 2:7-8 says “but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” That goes way beyond being just a good teacher.
17. Thomas didn’t touch his wounds
he dropped his conditions. What point did Keller make about that?
—That was an interesting perspective. Keller said our conditions become our savior and our conditions won’t die for us but rather they will demand that we die for them.
So in dropping his conditions Thomas accepted that Jesus was his Lord and his God and he needed nothing else.
What incredible truth for us to know and realize as well.
Amen! Thank-you for the Keller insight! I had forgotten his perspective on “conditions”. I get so much understanding from reading your answers.
Wednesday: Keller Part I.
Click on the following link and listen up to minute 21:35 for Keller’s first point. (You can simply stream this sermon or download it for free.)
10. Keller is going to address two points in this sermon. What are they? And, explain what a “double bind is.” – The two points are why John, out of all Jesus did thought this meeting with Thomas was more important than the others and 2. Thomas was highlighted as a very important apostle. Double Bind is when you state something that could be two separate questions and can be answered in different ways and one person will not be happy with the result.
11. Why did Thomas have to see the resurrected Christ? – Because as an apostle you had to be among Jesus and had interacted with him from the beginning to the end so you could claim the apostle title and be an eyewitness.
12. What else stands out to you from Part I of this sermon?– I thought it was interesting that as an apostle you had to see the risen Lord but a believer does not and can stand on the testimony of the apostles being eyewitnesses. Also that they got royal treatment and Jesus gave them every proof they needed to believe. Their job was to continue the teaching of not just what Jesus taught, which was instruction to us on how to live, but on what Jesus did, which shows just who Jesus was.
Good observation on how apostles got the royal treatment, getting every proof they needed to believe.
Thursday: Keller Part II.
Listen to the rest of the sermon from 21:36 to the end for Keller’s second point.
13. Most books about Jesus you will find in, for example, Barnes and Noble or Walmart, will want to say Jesus was just a great teacher, but then the legends began and made Him a God.
A. How do the apostles dispute this? Give examples. – Thomas declared that Jesus was more than just a teacher by saying “My Lord and My God”. The apostles told people they saw the risen Lord and continued to tell others just all the miracles Jesus did.
B. Why wouldn’t a great teacher have transformed lives and turned the world upside down? – A great teacher is important to us all, but we tend not to listen if we think their teaching does not apply to us. We think it’s not something we have to do and that it is more for others. This happened with the Israelites when they were being taught to trust what Moses was saying, they just didn’t listen and it did not end well for those who God was leading out of Egypt.
C. What else stands out to you from the 2nd half of this message? – Jesus needs to be the center of our lives to truly know we are a Christian. When we worry and stress shows we don’t have Jesus as our focus. Some people just can’t see the wounds that Jesus endured which hinders them to see what Jesus truly did for us out of unconditional love.
Friday: Application (Don’t Skip!)
14. Keller explains John 20:24 is present progressive, that is, “they kept telling”. We are to listen to the apostles, for they are the foundation of the Church, built on the Cornerstone of Christ. Give an example of an apostle’s teaching (one or more) that has transformed your life. – I’m working daily, sometimes not very well, what the apostle Paul has challenged us as believers to do…’Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” (Eph 4.2) and to have a heart like Jesus, gentle and loving, Paul tells us “Let your gentleness be evident to all.” (Phil 4.5)
15. How patient is Jesus with Thomas? (This is where the Fisher King is relevant.) How patient was Robin Williams in assuring the insecure girl of His love? Share a way Jesus has been patient in assuring you of His love? – Jesus was with Thomas all along, he knew what he was saying what he was thinking and everything he did, but he still was there to guide him and help him to understand he needed to just believe without seeing. To reassure him to not doubt. In the clip Robin Williams took the time needed for the girl to trust him enough to believe him when he told her she was worth it. Thank you Jesus for not giving up on me. He is always showing me glimpses of what my unbelief is doing and just how much peace I can have when I do put my trust in him. His unconditional love is overwhelming and though I fail him daily, he still hears my cries and comes to me in my need. Not always the way I may like, but in the way that He knows is best for me at that time.
16. How do His wounds show He wasn’t just a good teacher? Why does this matter? – A good teacher is one thing, but to take those wounds that brought him to death for his ‘students’ goes above anything most ordinary teachers would do for those who were against him. I know there are some teachers recently who went to their death saving those who were relying on them, and that is sad, but that still does not give us eternal life (I am not minimizing their actions in any way) but Jesus’ wounds were our hope that we would have an eternal life in heaven with the Father in a glorified world and body.
17. Thomas didn’t touch his wounds — he dropped his conditions. What point did Keller make about that? – When we drop our conditions it shows that we don’t have an ultimatum. We believe just to believe because of just who Jesus is and not for what we think he can do for us. We drop them to show that he is our Lord and our God.
Love this, Julie!! : When we drop our conditions it shows that we don’t have an ultimatum. We believe just to believe because of just who Jesus is and not for what we think he can do for us. We drop them to show that he is our Lord and our God.
14. Keller explains John 20:24 is present progressive, that is, “they kept telling”. We are to listen to the apostles, for they are the foundation of the Church, built on the Cornerstone of Christ. Give an example of an apostle’s teaching (one or more) that has transformed your life.
1 Peter 3:4 Let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God.
1 John 1:7 but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us form all sin.
15. How patient is Jesus with Thomas? (This is where the Fisher King is relevant.) How patient was Robin Williams in assuring the insecure girl of His love? Share a way Jesus has been patient in assuring you of His love?
Thomas realized that Jesus had been listening and watching him~ and Jesus knew Thomas’s heart. The insecure girl realized this about the Robin Williams character, as he spoke about the things he observed in her character and kindness. When I am fearful, Jesus shows me that I am totally dependent on Him; everything else can fall apart quickly, but He is true to His Word always.
16. How do His wounds show He wasn’t just a good teacher? Why does this matter?
Jesus’s wounds show that He is the Son of God, the Resurrected Christ, the Promised Messiah. It makes all the difference! Otherwise He would be just a good teacher, but not our Risen Heavenly Father.
17. Thomas didn’t touch his wounds — he dropped his conditions. What point did Keller make about that?
Jesus knew that Thomas had to see Him, as the Resurrected Christ, wounds and all, to be one of the Apostles. The minute Thomas saw Jesus he said “My Lord and My God!” Acknowledgement of the Risen Savior.
Friday: Application (Don’t Skip!)
14. Keller explains John 20:24 is present progressive, that is, “they kept telling”. We are to listen to the apostles, for they are the foundation of the Church, built on the Cornerstone of Christ. Give an example of an apostle’s teaching (one or more) that has transformed your life. I have always been able to relate to Peter more than any of the other Apostles. Maybe because he seemed more human and imperfect. An older woman in my church, when I was a young wife and mother, told me to be a 1 Peter 3: 1-6 wife. My husband was not a believer, we were married 30 years before he was saved (he died 6 months later). I truly believe my marriage would not have lasted if I had not taken 1 Peter 3: 1-6 seriously and applied it ti my life.
15. How patient is Jesus with Thomas? (This is where the Fisher King is relevant.) How patient was Robin Williams in assuring the insecure girl of His love? Share a way Jesus has been patient in assuring you of His love? Jesus was very patient with Thomas, He granted Thomas’ request to touch His wounds to believe.
Robin Williams was so convincingly passionate about assuring the insecure girl of his love for her. He went into great detail describing all that he noticed about her.
All of the times I tried to rush ahead of the Holy Spirit, He still came through and did not punish my unbelieving attitude.
16. How do His wounds show He wasn’t just a good teacher? Why does this matter? He was willing to suffer a horrible death and separation from God to pay the price for my sin. It is the difference between eternal life and eternal death.
17. Thomas didn’t touch his wounds — he dropped his conditions. What point did Keller make about that? When Thomas witnessed the presence of the Risen Jesus, he did not need any further proof.
Quite a testimony of a 1 Peter wife!
I thank the Lord for the witness of older women to the younger ones. Grandma Jo’ was full of wisdom and grace, I give her the credit for sharing God’s truth with me!
13. Most books about Jesus you will find in, for example, Barnes and Noble or Walmart, will want to say Jesus was just a great teacher, but then the legends began and made Him a God.
A. How do the apostles dispute this? Give examples.
He is MY Lord and MY God. This is what they said and believed. He isn’t just a good person or a good teacher. He is LORD.
B. Why wouldn’t a great teacher have transformed lives and turned the world upside down?
We never listen to the teacher! We are up against ourselves. We want Him but at the same time we hate Him.
A wounded God at our service is what blasts through our fears.
C. What else stands out to you from the 2nd half of this message?
We must come to Him without conditions. Not, “if You do this then I will believe,” but, “I come to You for You.”
So good from Laura: A wounded God at our service is what blasts through our fears.
Thanks Dee, but that is directly Keller. I should have quoted him…whoops! I had to listen to the sermon several times to answer the questions. I’m not sure why I had such a hard time following him this time. 🤷🏻♀️
14. Keller explains John 20:24 is present progressive, that is, “they kept telling”. We are to listen to the apostles, for they are the foundation of the Church, built on the Cornerstone of Christ. Give an example of an apostle’s teaching (one or more) that has transformed your life.
“Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
1 Peter 5:7 NLT
I have, long ago, given all my cares and worries to God. It has been a life saver!
15. How patient is Jesus with Thomas? (This is where the Fisher King is relevant.) How patient was Robin Williams in assuring the insecure girl of His love? Share a way Jesus has been patient in assuring you of His love?
He is extremely patient. Robin Williams was also patient, but he was a bit too persistent as well. If she didn’t want him then she didn’t want him 🤷🏻♀️. We all have choices. I suppose just reminding me every so often that He is near and with me reassures me that He loves me.
16. How do His wounds show He wasn’t just a good teacher? Why does this matter?
He gave Himself for us. He didn’t ask us for anything other than to love. Other leaders of religions say to do something for them. Then their followers will receive something. Jesus does something for us.
17. Thomas didn’t touch his wounds — he dropped his conditions. What point did Keller make about that?
Thomas realizes the Jesus has been there all along. He has loved us even with all the junk we have in us. Thomas left his fears; he dropped them and believed. We can’t come to God with a condition. We come to God for Him.
Saturday:
18. What’s your take-a-way and why?
—This week my take-a-away is Keller’s point about Jesus not being “just a great teacher” with ideas on how we should change and live better lives. But it’s the reality and power of what Jesus did that matters and makes the difference. And the power for change to be possible in my life is because of the Cross and the resurrection. Jesus is patient in his coming to me in a personal way so I can have a “real” relationship with him.
19. Share two big things that impacted you during our Eastertide study.
—Being in a study on this side of the Resurrection has been refreshing in so many ways.
First I was really encouraged by the teaching on Mary Magdalene and the roles of women and the place God has given women. Women as much as men are an integral part of Jesus’s life and ministry.
Second I appreciated taking time to study Peter as “The Fragile Stone “
I reread the book again and was blessed by the humanity of Peter but in spite of his failures God met Peter in a real life changing way and chose him to be the first building stone or rock to be put on the cornerstone who was Christ and began building His church from there. And now I am one of those many living stones that have built up the Church (the body of Christ) over these many years.
God made me a woman like Mary Magdalene with a special place as a living stone in his plan for building the church. And He is real to me and it is my privilege to have a personal relationship with him now and for eternity.
Saturday:
18. What’s your take-a-way and why? My take-a-way for this week is, Lord search me and show me my unbelief (like Thomas and his “conditional faith”) help me to see You in all of Your Majesty and truly worship You without demanding proof of Your sacrifice before I believe and trust in You.
19. Share two big things that impacted you during our Eastertide study. The number one thing that impacted me was Jesus treatment of the women, giving them recognician and authority for the times they were living in.
The second thing is how our conditions can become our savior instead of Jesus. How unchecked attitudes of the heart can interfere with our walk with Jesus. Lord forgive me! When I sense I am not feeling His close Presence, I need to invite Him in to do some housekeeping and take out the “trash” that has accumculated in my heart. Draw me nearer Lord.
Saturday:
18. What’s your take-a-way and why?
I can be like Thomas wanting to see first before I believe. But like him as well, may I always acknowledge that He is my Lord and my God when His faithfulness is evident and thank Him for not leaving me in my unbelief.
19. Share two big things that impacted you during our Eastertide study.
a. Jesus elevated the value of women during His time here on earth. He gave them a place in history and so do we. “In Christ’s family, there can be no division into Jew and non-Jew, slave and free, male and female. Among us, you are all equal. That is, we are all in a common relationship with Jesus Christ. Also, since you are Christ’s family, then you are Abraham’s famous “descendant,” heirs according to the covenant promises.” Galatians 3:28 The Message
b. Peter is the first rock, a living stone, built on the sure foundation of Jesus Christ. And so are we.
“You [believers], like living stones, are being built up into a spiritual house for a holy and dedicated priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices [that are] acceptable and pleasing to God through Jesus Christ.” I Peter 2: 5 AMP