Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven people,
but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven.
Matthew 12:31
As a young Christian, I feared I might have committed the unforgivable sin. But my dear pastor, our own Sharon’s father-in-law, said:
“Dee if you are worried about it you don’t need to be worried about it.”
In the same way, at the close of his marvelous sermon, Keller says essentially the same:
“If you are anxious about it, celebrate your anxiety.”
When we discussed this hard saying at my church, one woman said she’d always thought the unforgivable sin was suicide. How important it is that we understand this hard saying and be able to articulate it to others.
When the gospel penny dropped for Luther, he also understood that the stand the Catholic church then took against suicide (that it was damning, so the person could not be buried in the churchyard) was wrong. Watch the following and listen to Luther’s words to the congregation. (The captions should appear.) I’m eager for your thoughts.
I think all of Keller’s sermon is excellent, but the best is his last point, so please don’t miss it. For this reason, I’m spending 3 days on his last point. He makes the point that repeatedly in Scripture, and in the context of this “hard saying” that it is religious people who are in the most danger of the unforgivable sin. You’ll find out why. I really want everyone to see this — so please be sure to do Wed through Fri. even if you can’t do anything else.
Here is the link to the sermon — you can either stream it or download it. I recommend downloading as it is easier to stop and start. You’ll need to listen carefully and take notes.
https://gospelinlife.com/downloads/the-sin-against-the-holy-spirit-5191/
Part I. The Problem of Forgiveness (From the beginning up to 16:38)
Part II. The Power of Repentance (From 16:38 to 31:30)
Part III. The Danger of Goodness (From 31:30 to the end)
God Hunt Sunday
1.How have you seen God at work in your life this week?
2. What stood out to you from Luther’s words to his congregation? Agree or disagree?
Monday: The Problem of Forgiveness
3. Read Matthew 12:31-32. What is the promise and what is the warning? At this early juncture, what do you think this means?
4. Listen to the sermon up to 16:38 and answer
A. Anything spoken or done against Jesus can be forgiven! How is that evidenced in Scripture?
B. How is Jesus different from earthly Kings when it comes to taking offense? (Think of Esther and Xerxes)
C. Keller explains the nuanced truth of verse 30, for the reverse is spoken in Mark 9 when he says, “Whoever is not against me is with me.” What does Keller say Jesus means?
D. He gives the example of someone being attacked, his attacker is caught, but in the hospital he tells the police, “Never mind — I forgive him.” But the police say, “But it’s bigger than that — we can’t let someone who does this go free.” Keller says that is true cosmically as well. What does that mean and therefore what must be done?
E. What else stood out to you from this Part and why?
Tuesday: The Power of Repentance
5. Listen to Part 2 of the sermon from 16:38 to 31:30 and answer:
A. Keller said any external sin can be forgiven, but the internal sin of refusing the Holy Spirit when He wants to lead you to repentance cannot be forgiven. Do you agree or not and why?
B. What are some of the huge sins of saints in Scripture that God forgave? What did they have in common?
C. Keller says that our power of denial is so strong that we must have the Holy Spirit to lead us to repentance. Agree or disagree?
D. True repentance is a gift, for it isn’t natural, but supernatural. What did Keller say could make a difference when you are arguing in a marriage? Have you experienced this from your spouse? Have you done this?
E. What else stood out to you and why?
Wednesday: The Danger of Goodness
6. Listen to the rest of the sermon and answer
A. “What is the danger for religious people and why?”
B. What else stood out and why?
7. During our discussion on this in church, one man said he thought there was some justification for saying suicide was unforgivable. Many of us responded with shock. Then he clarified that as a counselor he didn’t feel he should assure his suicidal clients that they would be forgiven for taking their life. I have pondered that — I’m not a counselor, but it seems in my thinking that understanding grace is vital, especially for the severely depressed. Thoughts?
Thursday: The Pattern in Scripture of Gospel vs Religion
8. What were some of the examples of “pairs” in Scripture that God uses to contrast the proud religious person who will not respond to the Holy Spirit and the humble repentant person who does respond to the Holy Spirit?
9. When you look at the context of this hard saying in Matthew 12:22-29 you see religious people refusing to repent to the Holy Spirit’s truth — that Jesus is God. What do they say instead? And how does Jesus show the irrationality of their argument?
10. How do you see in Matthew 7:22-23 (and really all over the Sermon on the Mount) that there are those who are trusting in their good works but have never repented and are not forgiven?
10. Keller contrasts the two sons of the father from the parable in Luke 15.
A. How do you see the younger son responding to the conviction of the Holy Spirit and repenting in Luke 15: 18-19?
B. How do you see the older son refusing to repent and the father entreating him?
Friday: How This Sheds Light On Other Hard Scriptures!
For me, this was the most illuminating part, for I have always struggled with both of the following passages, but now I see what is happening. I’d like you to share your thoughts before you look at mine at the bottom if you can control yourself! 🙂 You may disagree with me, for indeed, these are hard passages. (I’m going to put my interpretation at the very end of Saturday.
11. How do you interpret Hebrews 6:4-6?
12. How do you interpret 1 John 5:16-17?
Saturday:
13. What is your take-a-way and why?
I think Hebrews 6:4-6 is talking about the religious person who is in church and has tasted the goodness of God, but has never seen the need to truly repent, but has hardened his heart against the Spirit’s conviction. He leaves the fellowship because “it didn’t work for him” but he never really knew Him for he never really repented and received forgiveness.
There are so many different interpretations of 1 John 5, and the one that previously made the most sense was wanting someone saved apart from Christ — it did no good to pray for that. I realize that was on the right track, but seeing how this is a resistance to the Holy Spirit in leading you to repentance and faith makes more sense. And now I think, but I could be wrong, that the “unto death” means they resist unto death. For after death, it is too late to pray for them, even though many do pray for the dead. Would love your thoughts!
154 comments
God Hunt Sunday
1. How have you seen God at work in your life this week?
A window from our home overlooks a garden that Richard started for me. I do not have the green thumbs of both my mother and my mother-in-law. Although I have had some help from Google (yeah), I had reservations about how the garden will turn out, especially since I started most of the produce from seeds last month!
This morning after over an inch of rain and periodic pop-ups since planting, I looked out and marveled at the God-tended garden despite my novice status. In a couple of months, I hope we will be able to share some of the fruit of our labor. Thank you, Lord, for the beauty of your creation! You are the Master Gardener and Artist!
Because little becomes much as you place it in the Master’s hands. (a line from the song, Just ordinary people)
Bing, reminds me of Mark 4:26-29, “ And he said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground. He sleeps and rises night and day, and the seed sprouts and grows; he knows not how. The earth produces by itself, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. But when the grain is ripe, at once he puts in the sickle because harvest has come.” =)
Jill, thanks for sharing this passage. I have added it to my notes. What a beautiful way of seeing the Scripture come alive in our dailies.
Oh, Bing! That sounds wonderful and beautiful! Hard to start a garden from seed, but you and the Master Gardener are working together! He is so good! Love this song line too: Because little becomes much as you place it in the Master’s hands.
I loved the sweet conversations between you and Ruth, that you posted last week too.
Patti, you are such an encourager. Yes, he is good. And His timing of the rains is so sweet.
Bing–I LOVE this sweet picture you give of your garden. I love how your husband planted it for you and how God has shown you Himself in it, beautiful.
Thanks, Lizzy. I always have wanted to garden but never had the time and patience to do it. And my mother-in-law was an expert gardener! We have been recipients of her labor of love for so many years. And she was also a whiz in the kitchen but never boasted of her talents. She was such a humble servant. She was always willing to share her little nuggets of wisdom on how to make food taste good.
Bing,
Love your reflections on your garden. I have four garden boxes that feel like miracles as i look out on them in the early mornings.
I want to try garden boxes later, Nila. God’s creation is so beautiful!
We’ve planted a small garden this year as well Bing. It is exciting to see things growing and flowering to just pop and become the fruits of our labor.
Yes, indeed, Julie. I am learning such as to avoid planting too close and thinning down when they are still little.
Love, love, love your God hunt Bing! I am also not skilled in the gardening area. I usually have read plants around my house! Hahaha! Thank You Jesus for Giving Bing an assist!
Hahaha, Laura! I will have to see next month if my plants bear fruit. This is the year for me to learn something new. And hopefully, not to repeat my mistakes. Oh, there we go for a spiritual lesson. Don’t repeat the same mistakes once God shows us the right way.
Bing, how lovely that your husband planted a garden for you! My church has a community garden, where anyone who wants to can have a small plot to grow vegetables; there’s also a section where food is grown for the weekly community meal, which is open to all in our local community. Also, two large rows are for perennials, used by the flower guild.
Ooohhhh…I love the concept of a community garden and a community meal, Susan. That sounds wonderful.
1. How have you seen God at work in your life this week? I have been feeling a persistent small push toward greater obedience which, of course, is a push towards greater *trust.* I am grateful that my God doesn’t give up on me but has patience to continually work and push and convict and love… He IS working in my life, He is an active part of my life on the daily.
2. What stood out to you from Luther’s word to his congregation? Agree or disagree? Luther insisted that we not see only God’s anger but instead see (primarily?) His love and forgiveness. There are many pastors that would disagree asserting that people must hear God’s wrath in order to be “driven to the Gospel.” Which, it IS important to know of hell and God’s anger against sin but Romans says his kindness leads us to repentance. We ALL have a fear of hell deep in us, we know our shame if we stand still long enough to pay attention. I agree with Luther.Also – Luther’s words about Satan’s accusations vividly brought back to mind, “Take it to my husband.” ❤️
A side note: I am leading my little group through Mark and we just finished studying this a few weeks ago in Mark 3 so I am anxious to learn more about it.
I love that quote — from Mike Reeves? Take it to my husband
God Hunt Sunday
1.How have you seen God at work in your life this week?
This last week was full of busy for me. Having 5 grand children (ages 5 to 16) in the house goes from fixing rather light meals for two people to making sure active kids are well fed. It goes from a pretty quiet household to quite a bit of activity. There are some extra physical needs that have to be addressed throughout the day for our 8 year old granddaughter with spina bifida but those become part of the routine. Praising God no one got sick or had any kinds of major issues to deal with. I greatly appreciate God’s loving care for us. It is a privilege to minister to my son and his wife in this way. God blessed their time alone in the mountains with refreshment and enjoyment of his Creation.
My time alone in extra study and prayer was minimal while the kids were here but at the end of the week when they were gone I was tired. I got up early hoping to catch up some on the blog but just felt kind of dry. It was a hard week last week in Nebraska. There were at least 4 major wind and hail storms in different communities close to us with another one hitting another town last night. Being in a rural farming community economically a number of people are being hit hard when their irrigation pivots are destroyed and crops that were planted for a second time after an early frost get pounded back into the ground. Lots of serious damage to vehicles, buildings and many broken windows. There has just been a heaviness to life recently. Faith has stood out to me as a very practical kind of thing in the midst of it all. Do I still trust God and his goodness and for his provision in it all. Feelings will betray me if I give into them. Prior to all the weather related issues a about a month ago we had a horrendous murder take place in our little town. I haven’t written about this before because it was such a heavy thing I just wasn’t ready to bring it up. I won’t even relate the details because they are beyond what can be imagined but a 46 yr old woman was brutally murdered by her ex-husband. She had grown up here and was well known and liked by many. She was the daughter of one of my husband’s coworkers and we have known the family well for years. Her mother is a sweet Christian. The man who killed her and then killed himself grew up in a neighboring town and has many relatives and a large extended family. Together they had 2 adult sons and a daughter who had just graduated from high school. Tragically drugs and alcohol had ruined his life, their marriage and ended with him in an unbelievably evil state of mind. His own mother lamented how could I have raised such a monster. So all that to say it has been a heavy time. It begs the question from many what is God doing and where is he in all of this?
I realize again I have had to keep my focus on Jesus and to be reminded he is close to the broken hearted. He is a God of comfort and the one constant in a world gone crazy. But I find I have experienced a tiredness from it all.
2. What stood out to you from Luther’s words to his congregation? Agree or disagree?
Luther comments:
And to see God in faith is to look upon his friendly heart. So when the devil throws your sins in your face and declares that you deserve death and hell tell him this. I admit I deserve death and hell, what of it! For I know One who suffered and made satisfaction on my behalf. His name is Jesus Christ Son of God where he is I shall be there also.
The Hope Luther brought to those people by identifying the friendly heart of God and the reality of what Jesus did encourages my soul. He gives the Gospel (good news ) in a nutshell.
Wow Bev, you have had a rough go. I will keep you and your community in my prayers.
Bev, prayers for you and your community. Both situations are heart-wrenching.
Anne told me about that terrible murder. Sounded so Satanic. I’m so sorry.
What a time of heartbreak in both situations. It seems that the enemy is working overtime on steroids. It is hard to focus in the middle of such darkness. My heart aches for all in both of these devastating situations. I will be praying for you and your community, Bev.
Oh Bev, I’m so sorry for all the heaviness you are facing. What sad times for all of you but glad you can find peace in the arms of Jesus.
Bev, I’m sorry for all that your community has been through, and that such evil touched a family that you have known so well. You certainly share in their heartbreak as well. There is a heaviness in our world, and it’s hard not to feel the weight of it. Sometimes, I feel it when I leave work, after hearing the life stories of some of my patients who have had much physical suffering, and more.
2. What stood out to you from Luther’s words to his congregation? Agree or disagree?
If we truly believe that Christ is our Savior, we have a God of love and to see God in faith is to look upon his friendly heart. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. I John 4:10
So when the Devil throws your sins on your face and declares that you deserve death and hell, tell him this: I admit deserve death and hell but what of it? For I know One who suffered and made satisfaction in my behalf. His name is Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Where He is there; I shall be also.”
Such powerful words from Luther! I agree wholeheartedly that I am a sinner who deserves death and hell. But Jesus suffered and took the cup of God’s wrath on my behalf. Hell is no longer my destiny; I have a place in Heaven for eternity. Jesus has come to take away my sins (John 1:29) and the sins of the world and to be the propitiation for our sins I john 2:2. Remembering Paige B’s study on Romans again. Romans 8:1 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus…
In Christ alone by the Gettys: Till on that cross as Jesus died, The wrath of God was satisfied, For every sin was laid on Him Here in the death of Christ I live.
1.How have you seen God at work in your life this week?
Long story short, my husband acquired tickets to game 4 of the NBA finals. I am not much for sports, but he was insisting that I go with him. I was lamenting this to my Bible study group on Thursday night and the ladies began to encourage me. One younger lady pointed me to two players who apparently are Christians! Then I was interested 😉. Jayson Tatum (Celtics) and Steff Curry (Warriors) are the ones to whom I refer. I was pleasantly surprised that the Celtics huddled for a prayer prior to the game also! The game was so much fun because it was a tight one. Since I really didn’t care who was the winner I enjoyed the game. I noticed how basketball is sort of it’s own “dance.” I could appreciate that for sure.
2. What stood out to you from Luther’s words to his congregation? Agree or disagree?
I admit that I deserve death and hell, but for Jesus. yes I agree with him on this. Thank You Jesus! You have given me an alternative to the judgement I deserve.
Laura –
Great story of why we need the body of Christ!
Yes!!!
Oh my Laura, Your story about going to the NBA game 4 final made me smile. I married into a sports playing, sports minded family. You would be the envy of many of the boys in my family getting to go to one of those games. Steph Curry is my 12 yr old grandson’s favorite player. He even wears one of those wristbands with Curry’s name on it. Living where we do we have no convenient access to major games so even the very idea of attending one like that is exciting in our family. It would be a “really big deal”. Glad you enjoyed your experience and my first thought was it was good you went with your hubby and that he wanted you to go with him. It speaks well he wanted you along for the experience and just didn’t find another guy to go with. 😊
Look what I found on Spotify today! Please share with your grandson 😉
https://open.spotify.com/episode/048OAD9HlRelkBmlSRXO6m?si=LoqGG5w8TKapYkqT7GQYYw
if you don’t have Spotify, you can find it anywhere with podcasts.
Oh, Laura! This is pure joy to hear! What a fun time and how wonderful that your husband wanted you to go with him! I love the ways Jesus has surprises for us when we least expect it!
Love this, Laura! You spur me on to go with my husband sometime soon to one of his piano tuning jobs! It will be hard for me to hear/listen to him “plinging” away on each key but the fun would be for the ride and supporting him just as you did your husband! Yeah!
Laura-there’s so much here I love, but especially that your husband wanted you with him and that you went and God blessed it. You have such a sweet marriage!
3. Read Matthew 12:31-32. What is the promise and what is the warning? At this early juncture, what do you think this means?
Every sin and blasphemy can be forgiven except that against the Spirit. Anyone who speaks against the Son of Man can be forgiven, however anyone who speaks against the Spirit will not be forgiven.
Not sure I get this because I thought the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit were three in One? Speaking against one meant attacking all? Why would you be forgiven is you spoke against Jesus, but not forgiven if you spoke against the Holy Spirit? I can see if it weee in biblical times that Jesus could “defend” Himself (in person), but the Holy Spirit was left by Jesus after He ascended. The Holy Spirit represents Jesus and God here on earth, so dissing it would mean dissing Jesus and God….
I think the sermon will clarify. The Trinity is so mysterious — 3 in 1. Individuals and yet not. We know even crucifying Jesus could have been forgiven, for Jesus asked God to forgive them. But if you resist the conviction the Holy Spirit alone can give, and resist Him through your death, you cannot be forgiven.
3. Read Matthew 12:31-32. What is the promise and what is the warning? At this early juncture, what do you think this means? Any sin will be forgiven except blasphemy of the Holy Spirit.
4. Listen to the sermon up to 16:38 and answer
A. Anything spoken or done against Jesus can be forgiven! How is that evidenced in Scripture? It certainly is in the passage we are studying in Matthew but it’s also here:
Romans 8:1 – There is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus
John 19:30 – Jesus said “it is finished” on the cross.
1 John 1:7 – The blood of Jesus purifies us from “all” sin
2. What stood out to you from Luther’s words to his congregation? Agree or disagree?
I agree with Luther’s quote. I won’t repost since Bev posted it. My granddaughter had a dear friend (in middle school), who was beautiful and had the singing voice of an angel. The other girls shunned her, teased her in cruel ways, and would not befriend her because they were jealous. This precious girl became so depressed and sad over this that she took her own life. She was in the 8th grade. There are so many stories like this. God is not tame, but He is good. God knows the back stories and God knows the heart.
Oh, Patti! How sad and the students being cruel is grievous to me. Jealousy is one of the enemy’s tactics. He came to kill, steal, and destroy.
Patti–my eyes instantly filled reading this. So heart-wrenching. And the power of our sin to hurt others–awful.
Such a sad story, Patti.
3. Read Matthew 12:31-32. What is the promise and what is the warning? At this early juncture, what do you think this means?
The promise: Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven.
The warning: anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come.
I kind of vaguely remember a few talks about this with other Christians. And I believe, at this point, Jesus is referring to the refusal to believe what the Holy Spirit says about Him as Savior which would be considered blasphemy. Since the Spirit guides us into all truth (that Jesus is our Savior and that the gospel is true), then this is blasphemy against the Spirit that cannot be forgiven.
Monday
3. Read Matthew 12:31-32. What is the promise and what is the warning? At this early juncture, what do you think this means?
Promise: Every sin and blasphemy, those who speak against the Son of Man can be forgiven.
Warning: Those who blaspheme or speak against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.
The Holy Spirit is part of the Trinity that convicts and if one is convicted of sin, hears the gospel and rejects it…he will not be forgiven.
God Hunt Sunday
1.How have you seen God at work in your life this week? – I’m thinking back through last week, and sadly I’m having a hard time finding my God hunt. I know he is always with me, but nothing is jumping out as a definite ‘that was God’.
2. What stood out to you from Luther’s words to his congregation? Agree or disagree? – It’s really sad how so many take what others say as truth instead of really searching themselves to see or feel what God is telling them. Some of these people were just going along with what had been sad in the past that they really didn’t understand the true character of God. I loved it when he told them to agree with Satan so our sins are out in the open and can no longer be used against us any longer. I’ve heard that before from many people. Kind of like take that Satan, God already knows, and I’ve already repented.
Monday: The Problem of Forgiveness
3. Read Matthew 12:31-32. What is the promise and what is the warning? At this early juncture, what do you think this means? – The promise is that sin and blasphemy will be forgiven unless it is a sin or blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. These sins will never be forgiven. I think we are being warned to watch what we say or do. We can’t just go around thinking we can live an ungodly life and all will be well with us. That is not why Jesus died on the cross for us. He took our sins so we can live an eternal life with the Lord, but that life has to be without sin.
God Hunt Sunday
1.How have you seen God at work in your life this week? Through my 2 grandsons, I moved all the way across the country last year to help my daughter with her two boys. I felt the affirmation of the Holy Spirit before the move, but have just recently seen and heard through their words how happy it has made them to come to Grammy’s house every day and get to learn about God, nature and love! My son helps alot with them too, teaching them to ride bikes, fish and go on nature hikes. PTL!
2. What stood out to you from Luther’s words to his congregation? Agree or disagree? At the end when he addresses the congregation, “when satan accuses you and throws your sins in your face, tell him I know the One who died for all of my sins, His Name is Jesus Christ, He paid the price to set me free. Where He is, there I will be also!” I agree!
So glad you were affirmed in your unselfish choice!
Dee, just wanted to let you know that I am very ill and will not be commenting for a few days.
Lydia–I just saw this and am praying, Lord please comfort Lydia and bring healing to her body. Please give doctors wisdom in how to help her and please restore her health. In Your Name we ask
Monday: The Problem of Forgiveness
3. Read Matthew 12:31-32. What is the promise and what is the warning? At this early juncture, what do you think this means? “Every sin and every blasphemy will be forgiven men” is the good news.
“the blasphemy against the Spirit, will not be forgiven” this is the warning. The Holy Spirits job is conviction that should lead us to repentance. But if we choose to ignore the promptings of the Holy Spirit how can He do the work of forgiveness in us? How can God forgive us for what we refuse to confess and repent from?
4. Listen to the sermon up to 16:38 and answer
A. Anything spoken or done against Jesus can be forgiven! How is that evidenced in Scripture? Jesus own words on the cross are evidence, “Father forgive them…”
B. How is Jesus differentfrom earthly Kings when it comes to taking offense? (Think of Esther and Xerxes) Jesus does not take offense, even when His own Disciples let Him down. He understands their weakness and forgives them. (ie;in the Garden of Gethsemane)
C. Keller explains the nuanced truth of verse 30, for the reverse is spoken in Mark 9 when he says, “Whoever is not against me is with me.” What does Keller say Jesus means? I dont remember what Keller says, but Jesus is stating that if you are not against Him, you are with Him. This seems very clear to me.
D. He gives the example of someone being attacked, his attacker is caught, but in the hospital he tells the police, “Never mind — I forgive him.” But the police say, “But it’s bigger than that — we can’t let someone who does this go free.” Keller says that is true cosmically as well. What does that mean and therefore what must be done? God is just. He cannot go against His nature. We must repent if we expect to be forgiven. If we don’t confess our sins and repent, how can He pardon us?
E. What else stood out to you from this Part and why? When I watch something on TV or associate with unbelievers at a party and something in that experience grieves the Holy Spirit and He whispers “repent” to me and I ignore it…it is a sin that I am accountable for until I repent. We live in a fallen world and therefore must be ever vigilent to resist satan and his wily schemes. He loves us so, and does not want anything to come between us.
Monday: The Problem of Forgiveness
3. Read Matthew 12:31-32. What is the promise and what is the warning?
—The promise is that every sin and blasphemy can be forgiven. And even speaking against Christ can be forgiven.
—The warning is that speaking against and not acknowledging the Holy Spirit will not allow you to be forgiven.
At this early juncture, what do you think this means?
—That forgiveness is unlimited to the person who confesses their sin to God and repents from it. But ignoring and pushing aside the Holy Spirit cannot be forgiven because we have to humble ourselves to the work of the Holy Spirit to be forgiven of our sin and saved by the blood of Jesus.
4. Listen to the sermon up to 16:38 and answer
A. Anything spoken or done against Jesus can be forgiven! How is that evidenced in Scripture?
—The Apostle Paul is a strong example in his trying to stamp out Christianity.
Peter and his denials of Jesus is another.
B. How is Jesus different from earthly Kings when it comes to taking offense? (Think of Esther and Xerxes)
—Esther risked her life going into see Xerxes. Earthly Kings could and would have you killed if you even came into their presence uninvited let alone speaking anything against them. But Jesus doesn’t demand anything from us even though He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He offers us grace beyond measure. The very salvation of our souls if we just come to Him in faith and believe what He has done for us.
C. Keller explains the nuanced truth of verse 30, for the reverse is spoken in Mark 9 when he says, “Whoever is not against me is with me.
What does Keller say Jesus means?
—Ancient teachers used contradictory sayings to get you to think. What Jesus was saying was there is no neutrality with Me. You are either for me or against me.
D. He gives the example of someone being attacked, his attacker is caught, but in the hospital he tells the police, “Never mind — I forgive him.” But the police say, “But it’s bigger than that — we can’t let someone who does this go free.” Keller says that is true cosmically as well. What does that mean and therefore what must be done?
—Keller said that Jesus is saying I have no ill will against you but there is something about the moral structure of the universe I have created, there is something about justice, about righteousness that just can’t be written off. Justice has to be served for sin.
—Other comments by Keller.
Forgiveness is the greatest difficulty in the Universe. The greatest problem in the Universe.
People think forgiveness is easy and have no idea what really went on at the Cross.
E. What else stood out to you from this Part and why?
—Keller said that real forgiveness is a miracle. He said it comes as a surprise because it really shouldn’t be happening. You know when it really happens it is a miracle.
I know this is true in my own life. When I truly understood forgiveness I had a new found freedom of heart from Jesus. Because of the Cross.
It goes back to what Luther said. Satan can no longer throw my sin in my face. He can no longer beat me up with my sin because Jesus bought my forgiveness on the Cross.
Also I have experienced being able to forgive someone for their sin against me. That is definitely a miracle because I don’t naturally have enough grace in my heart to do that.
Monday: The Problem of Forgiveness
4. Listen to the sermon up to 16:38 and answer – Scripture cannot be bitten right through they are more like hard candy that takes time to get through all the layers. 3 things that can be seen here, 1. problem of forgiveness 2. the power of repentance, 3. danger of goodness.
A. Anything spoken or done against Jesus can be forgiven! How is that evidenced in Scripture? – an important paradox that God is so willing to forgive, but we put ourselves outside of His desire to forgive us. Son of Man is a title of supreme royalty. Jesus is not like human kings, he is so willing to forgive even when we are killing him.
B. How is Jesus different from earthly Kings when it comes to taking offense? (Think of Esther and Xerxes) – He forgives sins, touches those who are unclean, cares for all the children. People were mocking him on the cross but he still said to forgive them.
C. Keller explains the nuanced truth of verse 30, for the reverse is spoken in Mark 9 when he says, “Whoever is not against me is with me.” What does Keller say Jesus means? – ancient teachers would say contradicting things so we would stop and think. There is no neutral ground, we either are for him or we are not. We can’t pit his holiness against his love. There is so much more to Jesus.
D. He gives the example of someone being attacked, his attacker is caught, but in the hospital he tells the police, “Never mind — I forgive him.” But the police say, “But it’s bigger than that — we can’t let someone who does this go free.” Keller says that is true cosmically as well. What does that mean and therefore what must be done? – How we feel is not the whole point. Judgement needs to be done it can’t just be written off. We would not have a society if judgement was not given where needed.
E. What else stood out to you from this Part and why? – Forgiveness is God’s job is what Voltare thinks is what should happen but it is not. Martin Lloyd Jones – Forgiveness is a problem even for God, it’s the biggest problem in the world. A lot of people see Jesus dying and believed it, but still worried and are still anxious and others see it and are amazed and see things differently and the anxiety is gone. People don’t see the truth of the cross because they think forgiveness is easy. Forgiveness comes as a surprise and is better for everyone, but when it comes we know it is a miracle when it comes, especially when it shouldn’t be given on the surface. Jesus doesn’t get offended when people speak against him, as Christians we should never be offended.
Good notes, Julie.
This is such an important point! Thank you, Julie.
Forgiveness comes as a surprise and is better for everyone, but when it comes we know it is a miracle when it comes, especially when it shouldn’t be given on the surface. Jesus doesn’t get offended when people speak against him, as Christians we should never be offended.
1. How have you seen God at work in your life this week?
I have seen God move in conversations with my teen son and our desire to parent with the Gospel, not trying to control his behavior but coming alongside him to help him navigate relationships wisely. We didn’t really get to this place with my oldest, so it is new, but such a blessing with a child who genuinely wants to walk in wisdom and truth…and who ends our conversation with asking me to play him in a game of pool 🙂 Also saw God in the sweetness of my husband buying me a magnolia tree for the ones I missed from our old house. And lastly, Dee knows I have such a string default of self-blame and condemnation, but I was struggling with something good God did, that I had asked for in prayers for the last 4 years, but then when He did it, I felt guity for having asked…ugh! Some dear sisters spoke truth to me and I was able to receive what God gave as a gift without the weight of having asked for it (sorry if my vagueness makes this hard to follow).
2. What stood out to you from Luther’s words to his congregation? Agree or disagree?
Love this scene and fully agree. “If we truly believe that Christ is our Savior, we have a God of love and to see God in faith is to look upon his friendly heart…so when the devil says you deserve death and hell, tell him this-i admit that i deserve death and hell, what of it? for I know one who suffered and made satisfaction in my behalf, His name is Jesus Christ, Son of God, and where He is there I shall be also.”
3. Read Matthew 12:31-32. What is the promise and what is the warning? At this early juncture, what do you think this means?
Promise: There is forgiveness of sin against Jesus and others
Warning: There is not forgiveness for the sin of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit
So happy for you in all of this, Lizzy!
Dear Lizzy, it is so good to hear about your precious time with you son. He has such a loving heart for you. Love that your husband bought you a magnolia tree….precious and thoughtful. You have such a sensitive heart, Lizzy. You have so many gifts and God loves you so. I am thankful that you were able to accept God’s gift. I love that His love for us is so huge and so far beyond our understanding.
I love magnolia trees! Thanks for sharing the sweet story about your son and this gift from your husband.
4. Listen to the sermon up to 16:38 and answer
A. Anything spoken or done against Jesus can be forgiven! How is that evidenced in Scripture?
It says so!
“Anyone who speaks against the Son of Man can be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven, either in this world or in the world to come.”
Matthew 12:32 NLT
B. How is Jesus different from earthly Kings when it comes to taking offense? (Think of Esther and Xerxes)
He invites us to Him. Esther was not allowed to see Xerxes unless he called for her.
C. Keller explains the nuanced truth of verse 30, for the reverse is spoken in Mark 9 when he says, “Whoever is not against me is with me.” What does Keller say Jesus means?
Ancient teachers were trying to get people to think. Seemingly paradoxical. They were trying to give people a balanced truth. He’s saying you are either for Him or against Him. There is no neutrality. You must not think that He doesn’t want you to do the right thing. You can’t just pit the love against the holiness. You may not be automatically forgiven.
D. He gives the example of someone being attacked, his attacker is caught, but in the hospital he tells the police, “Never mind — I forgive him.” But the police say, “But it’s bigger than that — we can’t let someone who does this go free.” Keller says that is true cosmically as well. What does that mean and therefore what must be done?
There must be justice. How you feel is not all that is considered. We can forgive, but the person who hurts another must be held accountable. Forgiveness is not easy. It is a problem for us and for God. Forgiveness always comes as a surprise. It’s wise to forgive. Keller says it’s a miracle.
E. What else stood out to you from this Part and why?
The more we say “all truth is relative” we get more offended. Christians should never get offended. Jesus was not . We should have thick skin.
Matthew 12:31-32
I thought this verse was so good!
I have often heard alot of christians say that Jesus is offering us a free gift. Just belive in Him and He will forgive yours sins and off to heaven you will go.
How many times have I sinned and thought well Jesus will take care of that. Did I have the Holy Spirit dwelling in me or did I assume that because I’m a declared christian my sins are taken away without much thought. Having the Holy Spirit convict you is also a gift, it lets you know that repenting is a very serious matter. It lets you know you are with Jesus and you can repent because He is with you.
Love this from Kathy:
Having the Holy Spirit convict you is also a gift, it lets you know that repenting is a very serious matter. It lets you know you are with Jesus and you can repent because He is with you.
4. Listen to the sermon up to 16:38 and answer
A. Anything spoken or done against Jesus can be forgiven! How is that evidenced in Scripture?
On the Cross-Jesus is beaten and mocked and still says “Father, forgive them”.
B. How is Jesus different from earthly Kings when it comes to taking offense? (Think of Esther and Xerxes)
Royal persons guarded their dignity-you were not allowed to go to the King unless he called for you, or you would be killed. You could never live if you spoke a word against him, only praise for the king.
Jesus is different. He says you can speak against him and be forgiven. His claims are beyond what any human king has ever claimed. He forgives sin, He will judge the heaven and earth –yet, He is humble, touching the outcasts, never offended.
C. Keller explains the nuanced truth of verse 30, for the reverse is spoken in Mark 9 when he says, “Whoever is not against me is with me.” What does Keller say Jesus means?
Jesus is saying ‘There is no neutrality with Me, you are either for Me or against Me.’ You must not pit His holiness against His love.
D. He gives the example of someone being attacked, his attacker is caught, but in the hospital, he tells the police, “Never mind — I forgive him.” But the police say, “But it’s bigger than that — we can’t let someone who does this go free.” Keller says that is true cosmically as well. What does that mean and therefore what must be done?
How you feel is not the whole point-they have to be prosecuted. Society has to have order. This is also true cosmically-justice and righteousness cannot be written off. Forgiveness is the greatest problem in the universe.
E. What else stood out to you from this Part and why?
God has an infinite desire to forgive, but it is possible to put ourselves outside His power to forgive us. Many see Jesus and say I have always believed that, but they are still troubled, and anxious–others hear it and everything is transformed, nothing offends them anymore. The difference is that some people think forgiveness is easy, they have a superficial understanding of the Cross. Forgiveness is always an outrage, a surprise, unrational.
Lizzy — I love this but also would love you to clarify something:
Many see Jesus and say I have always believed that, but they are still troubled, and anxious–others hear it and everything is transformed, nothing offends them anymore.
Explain “nothing offends them anymore” for me please.
Dee–Did I miss something here? I re-listened and Keller says “nothing bothers them anymore” and later says Christians should be “thick-skinned” and not easily offended. I understood it to mean that when the truth of the Cross sets in, we see how Jesus was accused, beaten, mocked–and was not offended. He did not retaliate or say ‘you have no right to treat me this way’…yet that is so quickly my default if I am mis-treated. The more I look at Him and all He suffered, how can I look at my own suffering and think I have a right to be offended? It’s a hard concept, easier to say than live. But of course tell me if I’m off here!
I’m sure you heard Keller right — I think I just can’t imagine never being offended! I didn’t think that would happen til I saw Him face to face. Do you think he means that they can process an offense and come out on the unbothered side — or that they truly aren’t offended?
Or, having read Julie and Sharon’s responses, might he be saying we don’t need to be offended when people disparage Christ, knowing He needs no defense. Still scratching my head on this one! Reveals my depravity.
Dee, I think Keller meant that, literally, Christians should not be offended. Maggie Rowe, a Christian speaker, says QTIP (which she puts in her pocket to remind her): “Quit Taking It Personally!”
Lizzy, I’m just catching up on comments here, and I’ll gingerly weigh-in here. I heard Keller say that Jesus never got offended when people spoke against him, so Christians should never be offended. (Keller had also been talking about an op-ed piece written about how everybody is always getting offended. In this internet age, the more we say, “All truth is relative”, yet people are always getting offended at being spoken against personally, or having their faith being spoken against, or their “group” being spoken against, and they threaten to “shut you down”, because “your speech offends me.”) Keller did say that Christians should say, “There is absolute truth, but, He can take care of Himself.” Because Jesus never said, “How dare you speak against me?”, Christians should be incredibly thick-skinned.
So I get the point Keller is making, and take it to mean to not take everything personally, when someone says something about me or about my faith. Yet, I had trouble with his statement about nothing should ever bother you. There are hurtful things done to us that should bother us….and I see it as different from being “offended”, or “how dare you?” Right now, I know a woman who has a niece with an alcoholic husband, and she is verbally and emotionally abused by him, and is repeatedly told by her pastor to “pray harder, submit, etc…” I believe that God intensely cares about her niece and that such advice is wrong. There was just something about the way Keller cavalierly said that nothing should ever bother us that made me think, but we do have feelings and emotions, and we’re not stoics, and we can’t just put on a fake smile and pretend that nothing hurts or bothers us when it does. And being thick-skinned and silent may, in fact, continue to enable another person to sin against us.
Monday
4. Listen to the sermon up to 16:38 and answer
A. Anything spoken or done against Jesus can be forgiven! How is that evidenced in Scripture?
In Matthew 12:32, “Anyone who speaks against the Son of Man can be forgiven…”
B. How is Jesus different from earthly Kings when it comes to taking offense? (Think of Esther and Xerxes)
A king like Xerxes, to approach him he had to call you into his presence and if you approached him, wanting to see him you had to wait till he put up his scepter. And a word could never be spoken against him. Jesus, being the Son of Man which is a figure of divine royalty, all could approach Him, children on his knee, touching lepers and the outcast. When he was on the cross He was mocked, speared and He said, “Forgive them.”
C. Keller explains the nuanced truth of verse 30, for the reverse is spoken in Mark 9 when he says, “Whoever is not against me is with me.” What does Keller say Jesus means?
There is no neutrality with Jesus, you’re either for Him or against Him. We cannot pit His holiness against His love.
D. He gives the example of someone being attacked, his attacker is caught, but in the hospital he tells the police, “Never mind — I forgive him.” But the police say, “But it’s bigger than that — we can’t let someone who does this go free.” Keller says that is true cosmically as well. What does that mean and therefore what must be done?
There must be justice and they must be prosecuted for we can’t have a society with people like that. There is a moral structure of the universe and it can’t be written off. Forgiveness is difficult and a problem because it isn’t as easy as just to say I forgive and there is no change in the person being forgiven.
E. What else stood out to you from this Part and why?
The fact that we as Christian’s need to be more thick skinned and not so easily offended when people speak against Christ. He can take are of Himself, He is absolute truth and was not offended when people spoke against Him. I remember my father saying, you don’t need to defend Christ as He is the way, the truth and the life and needs no defending.
Sharon, this is good – “The fact that we as Christian’s need to be more thick skinned and not so easily offended when people speak against Christ. He can take are of Himself, He is absolute truth and was not offended when people spoke against Him. I remember my father saying, you don’t need to defend Christ as He is the way, the truth and the life and needs no defending.” Sure gives a new perspective on how to answer those hard questions now.
4. A. Anything spoken or done against Jesus can be forgiven! How is that evidenced in scripture? The best example is at the cross. Jesus asked God to forgive the men responsible for the physical act of killing him. Another example is Paul. He persecuted the believers but when Jesus appears to him Jesus asks, “Why do you persecute me?” and then Paul was forgiven. All sin is against God and the Bible promises forgiveness.
B. How is Jesus different from earthly kings when it comes to taking offense? Earthly kings seek to exalt themselves and so when something hints at or threatens to lower their status, they become offended, needing to maintain their appearance of “great.” Christ does not have to work at being exalted as He is the king of kings and is secure in who he is. He takes no offense because nothing can threaten to take away his greatness. He is humble.
C. Keller explained the nuanced truth of verse 30, for the reverse is spoken in Mark 9 when he says, “Whoever is not against me is with me.” What does Keller say Jesus means? That there is no neutrality with Jesus and just because someone isn’t against you doesn’t mean they are for you.
D. What does that mean and therefore what must be done? It means that justice must be upheld. “Don’t pit God’s holiness against His love.” Meaning one part of his character cannot negate another part of his character.He must be just AND loving. As Paul Tripp says “Divine power plus divine compassion equals everything you need.” Sin must be paid for.
5. Listen to Part 2 of the sermon from 16:38 to 31:30 and answer:
A. Keller said any external sin can be forgiven, but the internal sin of refusing the Holy Spirit when He wants to lead you to repentance cannot be forgiven. Do you agree or not and why?m
I agree with Keller and it makes SO much sense now! External vs internal! Yes! It’s perspective and context.
Amen, Laura! This sermon is an eye opener and heart opener for me!
Laura, I thought the same thing. I finally understand the difference for this scripture and external and internal sins. OH MY GOSH!!!
That external versus internal was so helpful.
4. Listen to the sermon up to 16:38 and answer
A. Anything spoken or done against Jesus can be forgiven! How is that evidenced in Scripture?
Micah 7:18-19 Who is God…He does not retain his anger forever, because He delights in steadfast love, He will again have compassion on us, he will tread our iniquities underfoot. He will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.
When Jesus was at the cross and people mocked, spat at Him, and hurled insults at Him yet He asked the Father not to count it against them and to forgive them for they do not know what they are doing Luke 23:33-34
For I will be merciful towards their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more. Hebrews 8:12
B. How is Jesus different from earthly Kings when it comes to taking offense? (Think of Esther and Xerxes)
Earthly kings, by their status, have certain honors including their summons for one to be able to be in their presence. No one can speak against them. Doing these things would result in death. Not so with Jesus. We have access to Him and He is never offended by us. We should not take offense either when we feel hurt by other people.
C. Keller explains the nuanced truth of verse 30, for the reverse is spoken in Mark 9 when he says, “Whoever is not against me is with me.” What does Keller say Jesus means?
There is no neutrality with Jesus. Either you are for me or against me. Jesus is saying, “You must not pit my holiness against my love.” But do not be quick to think that because they are not in your party, that they are against me…Even though I have an absolute and infinite love for you, you cannot just do and act like it does not matter and that you will unconditionally and automatically be forgiven. It matters and it is not automatic forgiveness!
He quoted Voltaire, who when he was dying and was asked what if there is a God?
Voltaire replied, He’ll forgive me; that is His job. He thought forgiveness is automatic. It is not.
D. He gives the example of someone being attacked, his attacker is caught, but in the hospital, he tells the police, “Never mind — I forgive him.” But the police say, “But it’s bigger than that — we can’t let someone who does this go free.” Keller says that is true cosmically as well. What does that mean and therefore what must be done?
It is as if God is saying, “there is something about the moral structure of the world that I created, about justice and righteousness that just can’t be written off. ” He gave the example of creation in Genesis 1 and how He said, let there be light and there was light. But it took centuries to bring about His plan for redemption but that which He pronounced in Genesis 3. So God cannot just say, “let there be forgiveness” and it will be just as automatic.
E. What else stood out to you from this Part and why?
Understanding forgiveness and the story of Jesus should elicit a change in us. We should not remain anxious, and troubled and stay the same.
Christians should be thick-skinned and not be easily offended.
Jesus is the only One who truly surprises us (thanks, Dee, for the book, The Jesus Who Surprises). His love is unfathomable; He’ll go to any length and depth to rescue us. He completed what the justice of God required. And He enables us to do God’s will until He comes again!
Tuesday: The Power of Repentance
5. Listen to Part 2 of the sermon from 16:38 to 31:30 and answer:
A. Keller said any external sin can be forgiven, but the internal sin of refusing the Holy Spirit when He wants to lead you to repentance cannot be forgiven. Do you agree or not and why?
—I would agree because the point he is making about external and internal sin makes sense to me. The issue isn’t that there is a sin so horrendous it shuts you off from God it cannot be forgiven. But any sin that is confessed and repented from is forgivable. The only way sin cannot be forgiven is when there is resistance to the Holy Spirit’s conviction. Rejection of the Holy Spirit’s speaking into a life and His promptings as Keller said in the 1st part of the sermon causes a person to put themselves outside of forgiveness. Sin then becomes unforgivable because because the person has shut their self out from the only way and only place they can be forgiven.
The points I took from part 2 were:
•If you resist the power of the HS to convict and convince you of sin then no sin is forgiven.
•There is a remedy for everything if you repent and a remedy for nothing if you don’t.
•With repentance anything can be healed with out repentance nothing can be healed.
B. What are some of the huge sins of saints in Scripture that God forgave?
-David / murder & adultery
-Paul / murder & persecution of Christians
-Peter / denying Christ
What did they have in common?
—They were forgiven because they repented and let God cleanse and heal them of their sin.
C. Keller says that our power of denial is so strong that we must have the Holy Spirit to lead us to repentance. Agree or disagree?
—Yes, again I agree because it is in the natural, fleshly heart of man to always go his own way and do his own thing. It takes a power far greater than ourselves to deal with our sin nature. This isn’t about sins meaning the acts themselves. It is about our inborn, inherited sin from Adam and Eve come down through the flesh that has to be reconciled and dealt with. The whole work of the Holy Spirit is to bring us to the realization of our need of a Savior who is Jesus who shed his blood to atone for our sin and offer us forgiveness. Jesus provided the way but it is very serious business to stiff arm the Holy Spirit when he has come into the world to convict the world of sin and show us the way to Jesus.
D. True repentance is a gift, for it isn’t natural, but supernatural. What did Keller say could make a difference when you are arguing in a marriage?
—Take ownership of your own part in the argument and take responsibility for it. By repenting of your own fault it can diffuse the argument.
Interestingly we had a guest preacher at our church Sunday. He was talking about the ways we respond to conflict in our lives and
one of his points was we need to consider what percentage of the conflict is our fault and then to own my part of it. He asked “Am I willing to attempt real reconciliation or do I just want to win the argument”. And his personal examples were from his own marriage. So I have gotten double dose of this teaching 🥴
Have you experienced this from your spouse? Have you done this?
—I will at this point just take both of these questions for consideration. 😊
E. What else stood out to you and why?
—Keller said no one is objective about God. He relates comments from an atheist philosopher and author named Thomas Nagel. One of the comments he made that stood out was “If the Bible is true you have lost control of your life.”
And that is a very true statement. But actually for good in the case of the believer.
Bev, I thought the same thing on your last comment, where some think if they believe in God and His Word, they no longer have control of their life. It definitely is good for me if I don’t have control. Jesus knows so much better what I need.
5. A. Keller said, “any external sin can be forgiven, but the internal sin of refusing the Holy Spirit when He wants to lead you to repentance cannot be forgiven.” Do you agree or not and why? Yes, I agree. I think (as Keller talked about) that the Bible is very clear on forgiveness through God’s grace. This is why this text is intriguing (and haunting) to so many – because it is the one “exception.” The only way we do not receive forgiveness is because we do not ask, we do not ask because we are not humble to see our true state of heart. We tend to see the forgiveness part of repentance as a relief and kind of gloss over the “because my iniquities are great” part. We have relief but not true gratefulness because we only want to be free from consequences and not truly know and be reconciled.
B. What are some of the huge saints in Scripture that God forgave? What did they have in common? Abraham lied and didn’t believe God’s messengers, Moses got angry, Jacob lied and cheated, David murdered and committed adultery, Solomon lusted, something sketchy happened with Noah after he drank wine that I’ve never really understood… they all forgot who God is and reacted without trust but they were all forgiven when they repented. C. Keller says that our power of denial is so strong that we must have the Holy Spirit to lead us to repentance. Agree or disagree? Definitely agree. I am so short sighted that I cannot even recognize that my desires are bad. I once heard a sermon by Mike Reeves where he asked (paraphrase) “Why do we like bacon more that lettuce even though lettuce is better for us?!” That sermon was a turning point in my theology. I *can’t*…I just can’t…until He comes and lifts my eyes, softens my heart, speaks to me…
Tuesday: The Power of Repentance
5. Listen to Part 2 of the sermon from 16:38 to 31:30 and answer: The power of repentance. Vs 31 Every sin is forgiven but then he appears to take it away. He wants us to think.
A. Keller said any external sin can be forgiven, but the internal sin of refusing the Holy Spirit when He wants to lead you to repentance cannot be forgiven. Do you agree or not and why? – It’s not controversial. Every external action there is no sin, no particular action, nothing we do that would be off limits of God saving us. No matter how deep our sins are, God can get them out and forgive us. Nothing can put us outside of God’s forgiveness when we look at it externally. David knew that his sins were great, and that God would still be there with him. Internally if we resist the work of the Holy Spirit to lead us to repentance no sin is forgivable. The Holy Spirit is the one showing us that Jesus is the Messiah. The Holy Spirit’s job is to show us where we are wrong. We need to confess when we do something wrong, or we will never be able to undo our sin or self-justification. Anything can be healed through humble, clean confession. There is a remedy for ever sin if we repent. The fear of religion makes us uneasy and some hope there is no God. No one is objective and if they are they may think they have lost control of their life.
B. What are some of the huge sins of saints in Scripture that God forgave? What did they have in common? – Murder, cheating on spouse, speaking against the Son of Man
C. Keller says that our power of denial is so strong that we must have the Holy Spirit to lead us to repentance. Agree or disagree? If we feel the Holy Spirit’s help, we can’t turn him away. We need to accept him at that time, he may not be there later. He is constantly sending us instant messages or texts.
D. True repentance is a gift, for it isn’t natural, but supernatural. What did Keller say could make a difference when you are arguing in a marriage? Have you experienced this from your spouse? Have you done this? – take the 10% that we have contributed and without anger and blame shifting really take responsibility, it’s the power of repentance and nothing can be solved without it.
E. What else stood out to you and why? – I listened to the whole sermon again and I heard this time in the first part that the difference between Jesus and the kings is that we can come face to face with Jesus and talk to him whereas the kings would not allow you to look at time. I missed this comment the first time and when I heard this it reminded me of when I was growing up catholic, I never felt I could approach our priest, that he was ‘off limits’ to me. And in this section, I finally understand the difference between the external sins and the internal sins. Oh my gosh, why have I never gotten that before. The internal is all heart related and acceptance of the Holy Spirit in my heart and the external sins are all on the outside and can hurt myself and others, but the internal hurt the Father.
Love you listened twice! Hard candy!
Oh, Julie! Amen to this! This was my eye opener/heart opener too!! We need to listen to the Holy Spirit!
And in this section, I finally understand the difference between the external sins and the internal sins. Oh my gosh, why have I never gotten that before. The internal is all heart related and acceptance of the Holy Spirit in my heart and the external sins are all on the outside and can hurt myself and others, but the internal hurt the Father.!
5. Listen to Part 2 of the sermon from 16:38 to 31:30 and answer:
A. Keller said any external sin can be forgiven, but the internal sin of refusing the Holy Spirit when He wants to lead you to repentance cannot be forgiven. Do you agree or not and why?
I agree. The Holy Spirit in us is the only way we will ever repent, or I believe, even have the conviction of sin. If we refuse the Holy Spirit, we cannot be forgiven because we would never ask for forgiveness with Him convicting us and leading us there.
Tuesday: The Power of Repentance
A) Agree, Matthew 12:31-32 is pretty clear and Keller explains it well
B) Abraham, Adam, David,Eve, Moses, Peter, Paul, Rahab, Samson, Solomon, Tamar, Noah
C) Agree
D) Repentance humbles yourself and when the Holy Spirit calls it may help you to repent a little easier and you might actually feel better
Good list, Kathy — and just getting started!
Tuesday
5. Listen to Part 2 of the sermon from 16:38 to 31:30 and answer:
A. Keller said any external sin can be forgiven, but the internal sin of refusing the Holy Spirit when He wants to lead you to repentance cannot be forgiven. Do you agree or not and why?
Yes, I agree. We must listen to the Holy Spirit and respond.
B. What are some of the huge sins of saints in Scripture that God forgave? What did they have in common?
David and Peter…they realized that no matter how great their sin was they were not outside of God’s grace and forgiveness…they made things right through their repentant hearts.
C. Keller says that our power of denial is so strong that we must have the Holy Spirit to lead us to repentance. Agree or disagree?
Agree
D. True repentance is a gift, for it isn’t natural, but supernatural. What did Keller say could make a difference when you are arguing in a marriage? Have you experienced this from your spouse? Have you done this?
When you think that your spouse is 90% wrong and you’re 10% wrong, take that 10%, bring it out without blame shifting or denial and apologize for it. That will usually pour cold water on the argument and your spouse will do the same. I experience this all the time with my husband and I try to do the same. Just last week I was trying to tell a story to a group of people and my husband interrupted saying, you’ve got to start it from the beginning, so I turned to him and said, then you tell it. He knew I was upset with him for doing that. The minute we got alone he immediately said, I was wrong for interrupting you and am so sorry…took the sail right out of my anger and I accepted his apology.
E. What else stood out to you and why?
Through the examples Keller used he came out saying, “we’re only going to be able to see God with the help of the Holy Spirit. If we’re ever going to do an exploration (I’m thinking of His Word) we’re going to have to ask for His help, but even more, if we start to feel His help, don’t turn away.” We need to answer the door right away when He knocks! We must be sensitive to the spiritual dynamics…listen to it!”
Awww — Jim reminds me of my Steve.
I so wish I had met Steve…so many wonderful things told me about him by Jim and his family❤️ I know I’ve said it before but I always heard how contagious his laugh was!
I love the sweet story of your husband’s apology, Sharon. It shows a kind heart and good character.
We were so blessed to know Steve. And he did have such an infectious and joyful laugh. He had a heart of gold. He was an amazing husband to Dee and a fantastic dad to all his children. He was truly one of the finest men of God we have ever ever known.
Thanks, Sharon and Patti!
Wednesday: The Danger of Goodness
6. Listen to the rest of the sermon and answer
A. “What is the danger for religious people and why?”
—They think they hear the Gospel but they don’t. The gospel is shear grace and no works can obtain it. Religious people depend on their works expecting God to reward them.
They miss their need to humble themselves and repent from trying to earn their salvation.
B. What else stood out and why?
—Keller said Jesus came especially for the religious people and he pleads with them to see and understand.
He gave examples of Pairs of people As examples of that.
-Simon the Pharisee & and the sexual outcast Luke 7
-Nicodemus a Pharisee and the political outcast the Samaritan woman John 3&4
-The respectable people and Zaccheus a social outcast. Luke 19
-The elder brother and the younger brother from the story of the prodigal son.
The down and outers came quickly to Jesus realizing their sin and their need and that He accepted and loved them but the religious people felt justified in themselves by their works.
That is a very dangerous place to be.
7. During our discussion on this in church, one man said he thought there was some justification for saying suicide was unforgivable. Many of us responded with shock. Then he clarified that as a counselor he didn’t feel he should assure his suicidal clients that they would be forgiven for taking their life. I have pondered that — I’m not a counselor, but it seems in my thinking that understanding grace is vital, especially for the severely depressed. Thoughts?
—What a hard question. Severe clinical depression is so serious that clear thinking often is impeded. I would suspect everyone in this group has had suicide affect their lives. We’ve had two in the last few years. One was a well liked 18 year old boy from our church. The other was the 46 year old son of some of our very closest friends just last September. Both were believers and had made clear commitments to Christ at some point in their lives. Both had received counseling and one was in counseling. But I seriously doubt assurance of forgiveness would have played into either of their thinking. They were seeking relief from deep distresses in their lives and were overwhelmed with just not being able to go on with life as it was. It seems to me their hope was gone for any kind of help. I just don’t think a person at the brink of suicide is looking for forgiveness. They are needing a reason to live. Many factors had brought them to where the are. But I agree with your comment that there is the need for understanding grace. I will always remember the comment made by our youth leader who spoke at the first young man’s funeral. He said God did not call Kyle home. But He welcomed him there.
I think we have to go back to what we have been looking at in this discussion on what is forgivable by God and what is not. We have learned every sin can be forgiven and that would include taking one’s own life. It is considering oneself good enough and religious enough that a person shuts out the convicting of the Holy Spirit and refuses to repent that is unforgivable.
Bev, Thank you for these comments on the suicide question. I agree that it is so complicated. I mentioned my granddaughter’s friend, but we have known other students and former students who felt just like your friends who took their lives. They were seeking relief from deep distress and needed a reason to live. All three were wonderful young Christian men. All had counseling and lost their battle. I love that the youth leader said that God welcomed Kyle home. God knew the hearts of these young men. It is a huge and heart wrenching problem in our society.
So true about suicide not being the unforgivable sin.
3. Read Matthew 12:31-32. What is the promise and what is the warning? Every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven except those spoken against the holy spirit. At this early juncture, what do you think this means? There is a sin that will keep a person from being forgiven.
4. Listen to the sermon up to 16:38 and answer
A. Anything spoken or done against Jesus can be forgiven! How is that evidenced in Scripture? The ultimate would be when Jesus was on the cross and he asked that those who were killing him would be forgiven because they didn’t know what they were doing.
B. How is Jesus different from earthly Kings when it comes to taking offense? (Think of Esther and Xerxes) We don’t have to wait for an invitation to speak to him. We don’t have to approach him in a certain way for fear of offending him and being punished or killed.
C. Keller explains the nuanced truth of verse 30, for the reverse is spoken in Mark 9 when he says, “Whoever is not against me is with me.” What does Keller say Jesus means? There’s no middle ground. You are either for him or against him.
D. He gives the example of someone being attacked, his attacker is caught, but in the hospital he tells the police, “Never mind — I forgive him.” But the police say, “But it’s bigger than that — we can’t let someone who does this go free.” Keller says that is true cosmically as well. What does that mean and therefore what must be done? A price has to be paid for sin.
E. What else stood out to you from this Part and why?
From Dawn:
The ultimate would be when Jesus was on the cross and he asked that those who were killing him would be forgiven because they didn’t know what they were doing.
5. Listen to Part 2 of the sermon from 16:38 to 31:30 and answer:
A. Keller said any external sin can be forgiven, but the internal sin of refusing the Holy Spirit when He wants to lead you to repentance cannot be forgiven. Do you agree or not and why? I agree. If you are being prompted by the Holy Spirit and you choose to turn away and harden your heart you have sealed your own fate.
B. What are some of the huge sins of saints in Scripture that God forgave? David killing Uriah. Paul persecuting and killing Christians.What did they have in common? They repented.
C. Keller says that our power of denial is so strong that we must have the Holy Spirit to lead us to repentance. Agree or disagree? Agree. We can do nothing good unless God is behind it. The Holy Spirit convicts us of sins that we didn’t even know were sins.
D. True repentance is a gift, for it isn’t natural, but supernatural. What did Keller say could make a difference when you are arguing in a marriage? Even if you think that your spouse is more to blame than you are, take the little bit that you know is your fault repent and ask forgiveness from your spouse. Have you experienced this from your spouse? Not really, he’s more of a wait until things have calmed down and get back to normal, like nothing has happened. Have you done this? Not as much as I should.
Wednesday: The Danger of Goodness
6. Listen to the rest of the sermon and answer – sobering thing of all is we aren’t doing it justice if we think it only points to repentance and forgiveness. Religious people are the ones that blaspheme the Holy Spirit and that is who Jesus is talking about, the religious people, the moral people, those that know the Bible. People will think that their good deeds are all that is needed, but Jesus will not know us for just that. Where there is a religious person and a non-religious person, Jesus calls both in but that faster one or the only one to respond is the irreligious person. NT Wright said The Pharisees are resisting the way Jesus is redefinition of the kingdom. They had their way of understanding the kingdom, thinking the good life they lived would bring Jesus to them and reward them. Jesus came and redefined the Kingdom of God and that the problem is the sin and evil in our hearts. The humble people are in, and the proud people are out.
A. “What is the danger for religious people and why?” – You can easily miss the gospel if you are religious and good. They have trouble understanding because religion is saying they give Jesus a good life and will be rewarded but the gospel is Jesus giving us a good life because of his mercy. They think they hear the gospel, but they don’t, and this is the blaspheme of the Holy Spirit. They come into Christianity and raise up and think they understand the gospel, but they don’t get it. The gospel is that we are saved by love and respect from Jesus. Religion is all outward works and not truly understanding how the people of the gospel live. Christ is only their example and not their Savior
B. What else stood out and why? – We may be living as a Pharisee and think that our good works should give us our rewards. We don’t have a true intimacy with Christ. We haven’t been changed. When we turn away from the gospel, it’s not that we are unforgivable it is because we are not repenting. The world doesn’t know the difference between the gospel and religion because those in church don’t know the difference. We can see the true gospel when we have realized that we have sinned and see just what Jesus has done, we’ve fallen and can see from a distance what we have missed, but those who never grow can’t see what all Jesus has done and what the gospel really means. Jesus comes for all of us and pleads to us to come ‘home’. Our assurance if we are worried we have committed the ultimate sin, we haven’t.
7. During our discussion on this in church, one man said he thought there was some justification for saying suicide was unforgivable. Many of us responded with shock. Then he clarified that as a counselor he didn’t feel he should assure his suicidal clients that they would be forgiven for taking their life. I have pondered that — I’m not a counselor, but it seems in my thinking that understanding grace is vital, especially for the severely depressed. Thoughts? – I am in no way a counselor either but I guess I can see why he doesn’t feel like he should reassure his clients that they would be forgiven if they committed suicide. It seems like by doing that he is telling them it’s ok to do it. It’s a fine line for him as a counselor I think. I would hope he is trying to find the root of their thoughts and turn them way from the darkness and draw them to Jesus in the Bible. By saying that we would be forgiven of any sin we commit feels like we are condoning that sin because of the forgiveness we can receive, if we repent of that sin.
6. Listen to the rest of the sermon and answer
A. “What is the danger for religious people and why?” They think that following the rules and being a “good” person is what will assure them eternal life.
B. What else stood out and why? The point that the prodigal son and the older brother were both equal sinners. Only one of them repented and was forgiven. If we ever think that we are doing what we know to be the right thing therefore God somehow owes us a good life (or at least one better than a scoffer or someone who has committed atrocious sins) we are in danger of not being a true believer.
7. During our discussion on this in church, one man said he thought there was some justification for saying suicide was unforgivable. Many of us responded with shock. Then he clarified that as a counselor he didn’t feel he should assure his suicidal clients that they would be forgiven for taking their life. I have pondered that — I’m not a counselor, but it seems in my thinking that understanding grace is vital, especially for the severely depressed. Thoughts? I had this discussion with my counselor when I was feeling suicidal and she asked me what was keeping me from going through with it. When I answered that it was mostly because I was afraid that it showed a total disregard for God and belief in His purpose for our lives and that maybe it would be the one thing that caused Him to say, “Depart from me, I never knew you.” she explained the reasons why she didn’t believe that it was unforgivable which was because of his mercy and grace. It didn’t cause me to be more willing to go through with it.
If the counselor that you refer to believes that suicide is forgivable, but tell his clients otherwise isn’t that being deceptive or lying?
That was my gut feeling too, Dawn — wondered if saying suicide was unforgivable clouds the beauty of the gospel. Though agree it’s a touch situation.
5. B. What are some of the huge sins of saints in Scripture that God forgave? What did they have in common?
David (again and again)! Paul! Moses!
They humbled themselves. Repented with true hearts. Externally God says there is no sin that can be above My grace. Internally, no sin is forgivable if you resist the Holy Spirit; even the smallest one. You must admit you were wrong.
C. Keller says that our power of denial is so strong that we must have the Holy Spirit to lead us to repentance. Agree or disagree?
Agree. It’s hard to admit you have made a mistake.
D. True repentance is a gift, for it isn’t natural, but supernatural. What did Keller say could make a difference when you are arguing in a marriage? Have you experienced this from your spouse? Have you done this?
If you believe that even a part of the problem is yours (you admit you were wrong and take ownership) is something to try when a disagreement occurs. I have not experienced this from my husband. He is fairly certain that he is right all the time (hahaha). I don’t know if I have done the either 🤷🏻♀️. We don’t argue too much. I know when I need to give in.
E. What else stood out to you and why?
If the Holy Spirit is trying to “get in touch with you,” LISTEN! If you feel it nudging you, make sure you take action.
6. Listen to the rest of the sermon and answer
A. “What is the danger for religious people and why?”
It’s not the good people are in and the bad people are out. It’s the humble people are in and the proud are out. Jesus redefined the law. The Pharisees couldn’t handle it. They didn’t understand it. They thought if we are good then God will send a Savior to get the Romans off our backs. Religion. It’s outside in; if I live a good life then I will be blessed. Jesus brings the inside out; God will bless me and then I will overflow with sweetness to others.
B. What else stood out and why?
Religion creates people who look down on others. The Gospel creates people who love others even with whom we disagree on issues.
So succinct from Laura:
Religion creates people who look down on others. The Gospel creates people who love others even with whom we disagree on issues.
7. Thoughts?
I think that would be a hard topic for a counselor. If you tell them they would be forgiven, would they go ahead with the deed? Like, you are agreeing with them. Also, if you don’t say something then that’s as good as agreeing too. Silence can be attributed to agreement. I always have said that suicide is selfish. The person doesn’t even consider how their loved ones are left in such great pain. Most of us don’t want to hurt others on purpose. Especially our family. Maybe that would make them reconsider? That’s what I would focus on. That Jesus wants us to love others, not hurt them. Yes, grace is important, but I guess I’m in his camp on this one. Touchy.
Here’s one of my new fav songs:
https://youtu.be/cQ8D2Mx7tGg
2. What stood out to you from Luther’s words to his congregation? Agree or disagree?
“To see God in faith is to look upon His friendly heart.” Wow. Luther had just told the people that those who see Him as angry, do not see Him rightly. I see his message addressed to believers; if Jesus is your Savior, then to see Him as being angry with you is wrong. Perhaps the great struggle of Luther’s flock at that time was that they were being taught wrongly by the Church; for example, that a person who took his or her own life was damned and couldn’t be buried in holy ground. When you live with incorrect teaching, or disapproval and continually being belittled, judged, or condemned, then it’s difficult not to transfer those things to how you see God as seeing you. I know what it’s like to live with a person who often finds fault with what I do or have done, with my personality or my way of being in this world, with my “slowness” at getting things done, or when I do something, I didn’t do it right. It’s like being constantly rubbed with sandpaper as it’s wearing. Sometimes, I can start to think that God thinks the same about me; that He’s disappointed in me.
3. Read Matthew 12:31-32. What is the promise and what is the warning? At this early juncture, what do you think this means?
The promise is that every sin and blasphemy can be forgiven. The warning is there is an exception: blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, which can never be forgiven. Jesus even says that anyone who blasphemes against Him can be forgiven. I’m not sure what this means; I know the context of Him saying this was that He had been accused by some Pharisees of getting His power to cast out demons from Satan himself. So they were saying that what was really the work of the Spirit empowering Jesus to do miracles was the work of the devil.
Great Susan. Seeing Jesus as friendly reminded me of Gentle and Lowly.
5. Listen to Part 2 of the sermon from 16:38 to 31:30 and answer:
A. Keller said any external sin can be forgiven, but the internal sin of refusing the Holy Spirit when He wants to lead you to repentance cannot be forgiven. Do you agree or not and why? I agree. It makes sense based on context. Could it be just for those who think they are believers but they aren’t? I’m thinking that sometimes when God wants to do some deep weed pulling, and the Holy Spirit moves us (believers) to repentance, our flesh can kick in and we want to go our own way but eventually when it is known to us we repent.
B. What are some of the huge sins of saints in Scripture that God forgave? What did they have in common? David was an adulterer and a murderer, Paul was a murderer. They committed the worst of the worst of sins, but their hearts were tender toward God for after Paul met Jesus He repented and believed. He couldn’t have done that on his own by any stretch. He was in the mindset of hating Christianity, but the Holy Spirit led Him to repentance. David eventually repented and turned and based on his life there is no way he could have unless the Holy Spirit was upon him. They both were mightily used of God and had hearts for God.
C. Keller says that our power of denial is so strong that we must have the Holy Spirit to lead us to repentance. Agree or disagree? TOTALLY AGREE! We can’t turn without the Holy Spirit’s help. It’s truly impossible. Soooo happy that He has me and His Holy Spirit lives inside.
D.True repentance is a gift, for it isn’t natural, but supernatural. What did Keller say could make a difference when you are arguing in a marriage? Have you experienced this from your spouse? Have you done this? Keller said if we are believers, we should never be offended, for Jesus was and he didn’t become defensive, He forgave. In marriage we will get offended by your spouse. I have and when we started marital counseling there were times we engaged in a back and forth of defending ourself, so I fought back but in our situation it might have merited that, or maybe not. Regardless, I’ve given this to God and I’ve been so free. He’s so amazing. This life on earth will be like one night in a bad hotel when I am face to face with Christ (Dee said that once and it stuck with me). Over time, I’ve let go and given it to God. He’ll square things so I don’t have to worry. We are much better now, though the old man can creep out at times.
E. What else stood out to you and why?
The whole sermon was so eye opening for me! When is a Keller sermon not?!? I loved how he pointed out the difference between true believers and those who think they are Christians but they aren’t, even rising up to leadership in church. he said when we become Christians everything changes and we have this unquenchable fire in us and love Jesus Christ more than anything. We are humble. The person who isn’t a Christian but thinks they are are more casual about it. Yes, I believe but that’s about it. No changes, no fire. Those are the people who are in the most danger of blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. I wondered though when he said if you are truly a Christian you won’t worry about anything, you won’t become anxious, etc. I tend to think, by experience, that you can be a Christian and struggle with depression, anxiety, etc. because of the fall and these can either be real chemistry issues in our brain or could be a deep issue we are holding onto and won’t give to Jesus because we are scared to let go. THAT SAID, I do believe if we truly know Him, we will grow and change, so maybe Keller meant ultimately. The difference is when a Christian is convicted is humility for we will eventually turn but a Tare is too prideful to turn. I think that’s why God hates pride because it keeps those who don’t know Him from Him, and it can be a stumbling block for us who know Him, but again I think eventually God humbles believers and we bend toward Him.
He had to mean ultimately! 🙂
I took notes of the whole sermon but this is one nugget among many that stood out. I just LOVE the way Keller explains things! I’m so glad Jesus didn’t shut us down when He definitely had the right to.
There’s something about forgiveness being a miracle. Everyone is getting so offended. You have spoken against me, I’m going to shut you down. The more we say all truth is relative the more offended we get. There is absolute truth, but He can take care of himself. Christians shouldn’t get offended. They should always be thick skinned.
Also, when Keller said when it comes to forgiveness, we should look like Jesus’ example in His life and on the cross. If we don’t then we need to really ask God to examine our heart. I think he said if that is our life-getting offended easily, holding grudges and not forgiving others, we may not truly know the Lord.
I loved all of these “nuggets” too, Rebecca! it was an incredible sermon!
This is GOLDEN! Also, when Keller said when it comes to forgiveness, we should look like Jesus’ example in His life and on the cross. If we don’t then we need to really ask God to examine our heart. I think he said if that is our life-getting offended easily, holding grudges and not forgiving others, we may not truly know the Lord.
So true Rebecca and Patti.
Wednesday
6. Listen to the rest of the sermon and answer
A. “What is the danger for religious people and why?”
The danger is thinking that “being a good moral” person will save you and missing the message of the gospel! Keller says the thinking is, “I give God a good life and then God rewards me.” The thought the Pharisee’s had was, if we live a good life the Messiah will come and we’ll get these Romans off our back…totally missing why the Messiah came!
B. What else stood out and why?
I really like how he clarified the passage in Hebrew 6:4-6 and correlates it to Matthew 7:22. Being in a denomination where they believe you can lose your salvation, they use Hebrews 6 to prove their point. I have always viewed this passage as Keller does and have had the rebuttal that they need to be careful in not thinking their salvation is based on works. I know Keller puts is much more elegantly than I ever did so I soaked in all that he said.
7. During our discussion on this in church, one man said he thought there was some justification for saying suicide was unforgivable. Many of us responded with shock. Then he clarified that as a counselor he didn’t feel he should assure his suicidal clients that they would be forgiven for taking their life. I have pondered that — I’m not a counselor, but it seems in my thinking that understanding grace is vital, especially for the severely depressed. Thoughts?
I’m not a counselor either, but if I knew someone who was contemplating suicide, I don’t think I would assure them by saying…if you kill yourself God will forgive you. My father, who battled depression, contemplated suicide, but always believed it would be an unforgivable sin, so he didn’t do it. He never received counseling but I think that thought kept him alive, but it also hindered his thinking or understanding of God’s grace, which he later came to understand.
Yes, yes — I believe Hebrews 6 shows the opposite — we can’t turn away once we truly know Him.
Thursday
8. What were some of the examples of “pairs” in Scripture that God uses to contrast the proud religious person who will not respond to the Holy Spirit and the humble repentant person who does respond to the Holy Spirit?
Simon, the Pharisee/The sexual outcast woman
Nicodemus/Samaritan woman
Respectable people/Zacchaeus (social outcast)
In the prodigal son, Older brother/younger brother
Jesus calls them both in, sometimes the only one who responded was the irreligious…on the right.
9. When you look at the context of this hard saying in Matthew 12:22-29 you see religious people refusing to repent to the Holy Spirit’s truth — that Jesus is God. What do they say instead? And how does Jesus show the irrationality of their argument?
In this passage the Pharisee’s heard about Jesus being able to cast out demons and saying “Of course, He gets His power from Satan. Jesus responds with, “If Satan is casting out Satan, he is divided and fighting among himself. His own kingdom will not survive.
10. How do you see in Matthew 7:22-23 (and really all over the Sermon on the Mount) that there are those who are trusting in their good works but have never repented and are not forgiven?
They go to church, know the Bible, may serve in a leadership position, know all the right things to say but yet there is no change. They do all the outward things but the heart, the inward, never changes. I was saddened by a conversation I had with my sons mother-in-law recently. She told me the story of her father being on his death bed, being afraid of dying because he wasn’t as good as he should of been. She then named all the good things he’d done in his life to him and said he didn’t need to worry as he would go to heaven.
10. Keller contrasts the two sons of the father from the parable in Luke 15.
A. How do you see the younger son responding to the conviction of the Holy Spirit and repenting in Luke 15: 18-19?
The younger son left home, squandered his inheritance. Being hungry he makes the decision to return home and say to his father, “I have sinned against both heaven and you and am no longer worthy to be called your son. Please take me as a hired servant.” Responding to the conviction of the Holy Spirit he returns home and his father receives him with open arms and he repents of his sin. His father had the finest robe put on him, a ring put on his finger and sandals on his feet. He then gave him a big banquet.
B. How do you see the older son refusing to repent and the father entreating him?
The older son, who never left home, did all the right things and as Keller puts it, “the older brother is further away from his fathers heart and can’t see it cause he never left home…because he hadn’t physically left, he didn’t realize he was spiritually gone.” His father pleads with him to come to the banquet but he refuses saying all I did for you, never refusing you anything and you never gave me a feast with my friends.
What a sad deathbed scene!
Thursday: The Pattern in Scripture of Gospel vs Religion
8. What were some of the examples of “pairs” in Scripture that God uses to contrast the proud religious person who will not respond to the Holy Spirit and the humble repentant person who does respond to the Holy Spirit?
—well I see I got ahead of things here yesterday when I posted the info on examples of pairs as what else stood out to me from the sermon. 🥴
So I thought maybe I’d better look ahead and see where the questions were going and pace myself to answer accordingly. Then I see in Friday’s questions the need to not read ahead so as to answer with my own thoughts before reading yours Dee. So I stopped and with that in mind I’ll try to stay on track. 😁Confession here, I am a notorious cursory reader and often miss details I need to see.
9. When you look at the context of this hard saying in Matthew 12:22-29 you see religious people refusing to repent to the Holy Spirit’s truth — that Jesus is God. What do they say instead?
—The claim Jesus is casting out demons by the power of Satan
And how does Jesus show the irrationality of their argument?
—He basically says if Satan is casting out demons who are his own he would be working against himself and his own Kingdom. And if Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then will his kingdom stand?”
10. How do you see in Matthew 7:22-23 (and really all over the Sermon on the Mount) that there are those who are trusting in their good works but have never repented and are not forgiven?
—They talk about and highlight their works and what they did that they rely on to get their approval from God. They try to overcome and replace their sin with works instead of recognizing they have a sin problem that needs to be repented of. That is the path to forgiveness.
10. Keller contrasts the two sons of the father from the parable in Luke 15.
A. How do you see the younger son responding to the conviction of the Holy Spirit and repenting in Luke 15: 18-19?
—“And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’”
The younger son fully recognized he had sinned against God (Heaven) and his father and his attitude was one of humility considering himself to be unworthy.
It is crucial for anyone who comes to Jesus to understand they are completely unworthy because of their sin and what He is offering them.
B. How do you see the older son refusing to repent and the father entreating him?
—He did what all religious people do. They defend themselves by their works. They talk about what they have done. They compare and consider themselves better than the outcasts and the lowly.
The father reminded him of the fact he as the father was always available and all that belonged to the father was available to him. There is nothing the father withholds from his own.
You made me smile, Bev — such a good rule follower. I’ll bet your teachers loved you!
5. Listen to Part 2 of the sermon from 16:38 to 31:30 and answer:
A. Keller said any external sin can be forgiven, but the internal sin of refusing the Holy Spirit when He wants to lead you to repentance cannot be forgiven. Do you agree or not and why?
What else is there left if I am convicted of my sin and I refuse to repent of it?
B. What are some of the huge sins of saints in Scripture that God forgave? What did they have in common?
Paul-persecuted the church
David-killed many and committed adultery
They both acknowledged their sins and repented of them.
C. Keller says that our power of denial is so strong that we must have the Holy Spirit to lead us to repentance. Agree or disagree?
We cannot repent without the help of the Holy Spirit.
D. True repentance is a gift, for it isn’t natural, but supernatural. What did Keller say could make a difference when you are arguing in a marriage? Have you experienced this from your spouse? Have you done this?
It is with gratitude to know that true repentance is a gift. I do have a choice whether to accept it or not. In my marriage, even if I think that I am only 10% wrong, I should repent of that 10% though how little a part I think I play in an argument. My husband is much, much better about acknowledging his part in an argument.
I grew up in a family where we didn’t do friendly “arguments”. So I have learned to stuff my negative emotions under the rug. One time when we had a difference of opinions and I was getting heated up, my husband said, “don’t be afraid of conflict, Bing. Conflict is not wrong-we just need to talk it out and learn and grow from it.” Wow-that was freeing for me!
E. What else stood out to you and why?
I need to stop myself whenever I find myself denying, blame-shifting, or justifying myself. These are signs that I am taking full responsibility for my part and repenting of it.
What a wise husband!
6. Listen to the rest of the sermon and answer.
A. “What is the danger for religious people and why?”
Religious people think that doing good works is enough to enter the kingdom of God. They have resisted Jesus’ definition of the gospel. “If I live a good, moral life, God will reward me.
The Pharisees saw the Romans as the problem and that the Messiah will come to save them from the Romans since they live moral, good lives. Their religion is based on rewards.
B. What else stood out and why?
The audience of Jesus was religious, moral, and good people. I was also struck by what Dick Lucas said, “ Jesus pleads with His critics”, using the example of the story of the prodigal son. The Father pleaded with the older son. Jesus did the same with the Pharisees; we should not be moralistic about moralistic people in our midst. Oh, I have been guilty of this. Forgive me, Lord, and show me how to “plead with my critics”.
7. During our discussion on this in church, one man said he thought there was some justification for saying suicide was unforgivable. Many of us responded with shock. Then he clarified that as a counselor he didn’t feel he should assure his suicidal clients that they would be forgiven for taking their life. I have pondered that — I’m not a counselor, but it seems in my thinking that understanding grace is vital, especially for the severely depressed. Thoughts?
Dee, I agree with you that understanding grace is vital for the topic of suicide. The example of Luther blessed me in this regard. And in terms of what Keller said, this can be an external act? I often think of what my husband/pastor would say when he is asked about the eternal destiny of people. He has been asked numerous times to do funerals some of whom he is not very much acquainted. “ I am not the final judge; we leave that to God.” I thought of one particular funeral where a young man with a history of depression may have overdosed. His father and 2 sisters were so distraught. We still don’t know if he intentionally overdosed or if his death was caused by adverse interactions with some pain meds he was taking.
Such a good observation that suicide is an external act.
8. What were some of the examples of “pairs” in Scripture that God uses to contrast the proud religious person who will not respond to the Holy Spirit and the humble repentant person who does respond to the Holy Spirit?
Simon, the Pharisee vs. the social outcast
Respectable people vs Zacchaeus
Elder brother vs. younger brother (story of the prodigal son)
9. When you look at the context of this hard saying in Matthew 12:22-29 you see religious people refusing to repent to the Holy Spirit’s truth — that Jesus is God. What do they say instead? And how does Jesus show the irrationality of their argument?
Jesus was driving demons through Beelzebub. Jesus asked how Beelzebub can be against himself and in what name do they (the religious people) drive out demons. It does not make sense but their hearts are hardened to the Spirit of truth.
10. How do you see in Matthew 7:22-23 (and really all over the Sermon on the Mount) that there are those who are trusting in their good works but have never repented and are not forgiven?
Those who are trusting in their good works addressed God by lip service only; they really are NOT known by Jesus. Only in accepting their sins and the price that Jesus paid on the cross can they be forgiven.
10. Keller contrasts the two sons of the father from the parable in Luke 15.
A. How do you see the younger son responding to the conviction of the Holy Spirit and repenting in Luke 15: 18-19?
I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you.
He acknowledged His sin against the father and went back to him.
B. How do you see the older son refusing to repent and the father entreating him?
He refused to go in and when the father pleaded with him, the older son just listed the good works that he has done and accused the father of being unjust: yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. (Did he ask for a young goat? His father would have given it to him!)
His father “went out”! Oh, wow-what grace! But I am like the older brother at times-petty, pouting, and proud. Jesus never takes offense; and when the offender comes back in repentance, he is welcomed with open arms and celebration.
Your comment (Did he ask for a young goat? His father would have given it to him!). so good and so true. We have not because we ask not. But grace is abundant even when we don’t feel like it. Thanks for the reminder 💕
9. When you look at the context of this hard saying in Matthew 12:22-29 you see religious people refusing to repent to the Holy Spirit’s truth — that Jesus is God. What do they say instead? They say that he is a follower of the devil casting out demons. And how does Jesus show the irrationality of their argument? You can’t gain power by reducing your forces.
10. How do you see in Matthew 7:22-23 (and really all over the Sermon on the Mount) that there are those who are trusting in their good works but have never repented and are not forgiven? There are those who are going to say, “But didn’t we (insert religious works) in your name?” But Jesus requires us to repent and turn from our sin, and then we will do good works because of what He has done for us.
10. Keller contrasts the two sons of the father from the parable in Luke 15.
A. How do you see the younger son responding to the conviction of the Holy Spirit and repenting in Luke 15: 18-19? He truly humbles himself and repents expecting nothing in return.
B. How do you see the older son refusing to repent and the father entreating him? The older son wants recognition and reward for always “being there”. He doesn’t share in the joy of his brother’s repentance and return. He has a pride issue!
Bev, did you see my post above about Steff Curry and Tauren Wells? 👆
8. What were some of the examples of “pairs” in Scripture that God uses to contrast the proud religious person who will not respond to the Holy Spirit and the humble repentant person who does respond to the Holy Spirit?
Simon the Pharisee and the sexual outcast, Nicodemus and the political outcast (Samaritan woman), the respectable people and Zaccheus, and the older and younger brother (Prodigal Son).
In each case the religious people were resisting what God (Jesus) was saying. The religious we’re doing good things but we’re dirty inside their hearts.
Wednesday – The Danger of Goodness
This part of Tim Keller’s message was hard but penetrating and necessary and helpful. It reminded me of a bookmark that I use to keep in my bible by Nancy Leigh Demoss Wolgemuth that compares proud to broken (unrepenting to repenting).
It is here in downloadable form:
https://www.reviveourhearts.com/articles/brokenness-bookmark-the-heart-god-revives/
This is a small excerpt:
Proud people focus on the failures of others.
Broken people are overwhelmed with a sense of their own spiritual need.
Proud people have a critical, fault-finding spirit; they look at everyone else’s faults with a microscope but their own with a telescope.
Broken people are compassionate; they can forgive much because they know how much they have been forgiven.