In Keller’s sermons, he’ll often humbly say: “I’ve preached on this before but I didn’t see this until recently…” I loved that about him for I have much more trust in a humble man than in a proud one. He was always about exalting Christ and not himself.
We do see more as we mature and need to admit that we see something we missed before — even if it was the whole point of the passage! One of my favorite quotes from Keller is: “When you look back at your younger self ten years ago, you think: What a fool I was! But NOW you think you have it all together!”
In truth, Paul tells us, in this life, we see through “a glass darkly” and that dark glass will not be removed until we see Him face to face. Therefore, we must walk humbly with our Lord and with one another.
Keller opens this sermon by explaining his epiphany of seeing that John put these two events together: turning water into wine and overturning the money tables. To quote him: “Over the years, I’ve studied these things many times, and it’s only in the last couple of weeks that I realized that John has put these two things together… “
Indeed, seeing them together brings so much light to both events!
1. How have you experienced His presence this week through His Word, His Spirit, His people, or His creation?
2. What stood out to you from the opening? Could you identify? Explain.
Monday: The Context
3. What do you learn from John 20:30-31 about:
A. The signs of Jesus?
B. What was John’s purpose in writing His particular gospel? How might that have affected which particular events he chose to include?
4. Read John 2:1-12
A. Keller says Jesus often answers people with non-sequiturs. How do you see this in John 2:3-4?
B. Yet though His answer would have been confusing to most, it was not to Mary for she knew things about Jesus the others did not yet know for certain. What did she know about Him and how did she know it? (Draw from Luke 1-2 if you need to.)
C. Are you able to explain how this miracle showed the purpose for Jesus coming to earth?
5. Challenge Question. Give a few examples (perhaps with help from Exodus or Leviticus) of God giving a command with the only explanation as being: “I AM the Lord your God.”
Tuesday: The Text
6. Read John 2: 13-17
A. What time is mentioned in verse 13? Why might John have included this?
B. How is this a different side of Jesus than we saw at the wedding banquet? Find several things.
C. For what purpose were the animals and doves being sold? What did God want His people to understand when they sacrificed an animal?
D. What prophecy did the disciples remember and why might this add light?
7. Read John 2:18-25
A. What did the Jews immediately demand?
B. Why might Jesus’ answer have seemed like a non-sequitur?
C. What were the two responses people had to the miracles of Jesus?
D. Why did Jesus not entrust Himself to man? Why should we take this to heart?
Wednesday: Part 1 of the Sermon
8. Listen for about the first 13 minutes when he begins to give the example of Job.
A. What stands out to you after listening and why?
B. What does Keller say are the two most important words linking these two events? (Verse 12)
C. How do both events show the authority of Jesus?
D. What did you learn about the word for “cords.” Significance?
E. When God has overturned your tables, have you backed away from Him or pressed in? Why?
Thursday: Part 2 of the Sermon
9. Listen up to minute 26 — just before he gets into the Lord of the Rings.
A. What stood out to you from the above and why?
B. How did God answer Job when he asked why his tables were overturned? Point?
C. What was Keller’s point with the fiance calling off the wedding after her intended lost his money?
D. Why did Keller believe Jesus was so upset with what was happening in the Temple?
E. In the same way, when we approach worship mechanically instead of reflectively, how does that hurt our God?
Friday: Final 3rd of Sermon
10. Finish the sermon
A. What stood out to you and why?
B. How was the main character in Lord of the Rings a Christ figure?
C. Why is it important to let Jesus contradict you? Why should you obey even when you don’t understand or disagree?
D. Is there an area we could pray for you to better obey?
E. Just as Jesus had many things to do, there was one thing always on His mind. What was it? How does Keller suggest we apply this to our own walk?
1. How have you experienced His presence this week through His Word, His Spirit, His people, or His Creation?
I really loved last week’s sermon, and also the talk by Mike Reeves I listened to on Richard Sibbes. Listening to both gave me a much needed reset of my mind and heart to focus not so much on “doctrine”, but just the enjoyment of the beauty and lavishness of God’s goodness and character. Sometimes I need an “intellectual break”, and an appeal to the senses and emotions does a lot for me! This morning in church at our adult forum, we discussed the poetry of George Herbert, who was an Anglican priest, and who worked out his own faith, with its joys and struggles, through his poetry. Much of it is way over my head, but there were a few lines that resonated with me.
2. What stood out to you from the opening? Could you identify? Explain.
It is a moment for pause to think about our younger selves. Interestingly, this summer, a few of our church members are giving short talks with the theme: what would you say to your younger self? At first glance, I can think of what I’d say, what with my much more mature self today, to the younger me. But then I think, I still have a long way to go in maturity and wisdom. I agree with Keller in that even thinking that NOW I have it altogether isn’t really true, either! I am interested in learning what these two events in John have in common, because I don’t know the answer to that one!
I love all the people you mentioned, Susan, including George Herbert. Have you heard his song “Sometimes A Light Surprises?” A favorite of mine.
Thank you all for praying for my 3 talks here where I live. I think they went well, and sensed the Lord, though disappointed that many of the unbelieving pickleball players did not come back — could tell from their faces what I was saying was hard. I have been invited to a cocktail party they are having (invited before they heard me) and will go, and need prayer for that!!!
I will be praying for the hearts of all that heard you, whether they came back or not. Jesus may be speaking to them. I will also be praying for you as you go to the cocktail party. I think it is a good thing to do. Let us all know when it is….I will start praying now! Praying for a lovely surprise from Jesus!
You are so dear, Patti. Thursday from 4 to 9 but no way I can stay that long!
Patti Lynch
June 18, 2023
Yipes…that is a long time. I will pray. That would be out of my comfort zone…
Susan
June 19, 2023
Though that must’ve been hard to see uncomfortable expressions on their faces and that they didn’t come back, you must have said the right things. Jesus made people uncomfortable, too. Perhaps more will come up in conversation at the cocktail party. I will be praying about that. Who knows….maybe one or two will want to speak with you one-on-one.
1. How have you experienced His presence this week through His Word, His Spirit, His people, or His creation? This study has really given me a deeper sense of the Majesty and Glory of God. His mercies are new every morning, in my life. I have prayed that whatever He asks of me, that I will accept it and glorify Him through it. Some days I feel overwhelmed I don’t know how to do the day. Yet, somedays I get such a “kiss from the King”, I am in tears of appreciation! one kiss: I found a little bird nest that fell out of the tree after the little birds abandoned it. When I had been brushing my dogs a few weeks earlier, I saw the birds picking up some of the thick white tufts of sheltie fur. The nest that I found was lined with the fur from my dogs. I thought how wonderful God is that the birds He created, used the mown grass, sprigs of flower stems, broken twigs and sheltie fur for this beautiful nest they created for their babies until they could fly. Matthew 6:26 2. What stood out to you from the opening? Could you identify? Explain. I loved the opening and your words about Tim Keller being so humble and exalting Christ always, and never himself. I also love that he said he is always seeing new things in the scriptures. I agree that I have much more trust in a humble man than a proud one. I constantly feel that I see each scripture in a new way by being part of this study. Each one of you contribute ways of seeing and reading the scriptures, that I had never seen or thought of before. It makes each study so rich. I really love The Parable of the Wine, as it was like peeling back layers of an onion, and seeing something that you had no idea was there. It changed my perspective on so many parts of the story….gave it so much depth and made me very emotional and appreciative. I keep seeing in my mind that clip from The Chosen and Jesus’s reflection in the water turning to wine in the stone jars.
Patti, just love the sweet nest you found with your dogs fur. I watched a video of birds plucking fur out of a deer who was sitting so still in letting them do it…God’s creatures are so amazing!
Sunday
1. How have you experienced His presence this week through His Word, His Spirit, His people, or His creation?
This past week was VBS at our church and the theme was Keepers of the Kingdom/Armor of God from Answers in Genesis, Ken Ham. It was one of the best I have been a part of as I learned from the portion I taught and what others taught as well. I definitely experienced His Word, Spirit, His people and creation and the icing on the cake was 5 kids prayed the prayer of salvation…2 being my grandsons! 2. What stood out to you from the opening? Could you identify? Explain.
In Keller’s sermons, he’ll often humbly say: “I’ve preached on this before but I didn’t see this until recently…”
I love this…such a humble person. I experienced this last week in VBS and continue to here in Dee’s blog! I pray I continue to have a teachable spirit and a pliable heart.
What a blessing at VBS with 5 kids praying the prayer of salvation, Sharon! And your grandsons being 2 of them. God is so good! I agree with your prayer to have a teachable spirit and a pliable heart. Amen
1. How have you experienced His presence this week through His Word, His Spirit, His people, or His creation? A year ago #2 son and husband had quite a rift between them. Son just left after being here for almost 2 hours. Son is also back in church and getting involved at his church. That is all God And I thank Him and praise Him.
2. What stood out to you from the opening? Could you identify? Explain. Your pointing out that Tim Keller would humbly admit to new understanding of scripture. I’m thankful for Bible teachers who are willing to do that just as Dee had second printing of her book changed after new Insight. It also makes me see not to be firm that I understand a passage when there is still more to understand the many layers of Bible passages. I decided this week my word also should have been emptied this year.
What do you learn from John 20:30-31 about:
A. The signs of Jesus? There were many other signs in presence of disciples not recorded in John s book
B. What was John’s purpose in writing His particular gospel? How might that have affected which particular events he chose to include? That we may believe Jesus is the Messiah. He would have chosen miracles supporting Jesus true identity as Savior
4. Read John 2:1-12
A. Keller says Jesus often answers people with non-sequiturs. How do you see this in John 2:3-4? I looked up definition of non sequitur again and still don’t understand meaning. Jesus responded to Mary’s statement. She was talking about the immediate need at the wedding Jesus was responding from the long view of the cost He would pay as the Bridegroom for His bride
B. Yet though His answer would have been confusing to most, it was not to Mary for she knew things about Jesus the others did not yet know for certain. What did she know about Him and how did she know it? (Draw from Luke 1-2 if you need to.) she knew He was the Son of the God, that He would sit on David s throne, that shepherds, had been told He was the Messiah. He was filled with wisdom, God s grace was on Him. That He never sinned.
C. Are you able to explain how this miracle showed the purpose for Jesus coming to earth? Jesus took water poured into ceremonial washing jars and turned it into wine. The old way of doing things was gone. Jesus at this moment of joy realized the cost of giving us the New Covenant and did it anyway. New wine wouldn’t be poured into old wine skins. He came to pay the price for us to have an intimate relationship with the Father to have joy and life in abundance.
5. Challenge Question. Give a few examples (perhaps with help from Exodus or Leviticus) of God giving a command with the only explanation as being: “I AM the Lord your God.” God told Moses IAM THAT I AM and to tell the Israelites that I AM has sent him. Ex 3:14
1. How have you experienced His presence this week through His Word, His Spirit, His people, or His creation?
Wow, this past week has been a wild ride for me. I’m trying to finish school and grading and grading and grading to course complete students. I mentioned before that a colleague had surgery and the team has taken on her work as well as our own. I also have a colleague who retired, and is really my only “friend” at school. So, Friday was emotional, as it was her last day. My husband has taken on much of the home responsibility these past two weeks, and I am grateful for that.
Yesterday, we went to church. I worried that I would not be able to complete all I needed to for work before today (Monday), as it is my last day for the year. I even thought about not attending…I casually asked Grace what she learned in children’s church. I didn’t think she would say much, however oh, how I was wrong! She recanted the entire story of the prodigal son to a tee! Details and all! I was blown away 😉. I’m glad we didn’t skip church and I’m so glad we have an excellent program for the kids at our church. Thank You Lord Jesus! 2. What stood out to you from the opening? Could you identify? Explain.
I never would have thought the two stories had a link, so I am intrigued to see how this plays out.
3. What do you learn from John 20:30-31 about:
A. The signs of Jesus?
Jesus did many signs in the presence of his disciples which were not recorded. John chose certain signs to record so that people may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing, they may have life in Him.
B. What was John’s purpose in writing his particular gospel? How might that have affected which particular events he chose to include?
John’s purpose was to write down certain signs/miracles of Jesus that particularly point to His divinity as the Son of God and the Messiah, so that others might come to put their faith in Him. John chose particular events that would emphasize the fact that Jesus wasn’t a mere man, another religious leader, but very God and the One who possesses eternal life and can give that life to others.
4. Read John 2:1-12
A. Keller says Jesus often answers people with non-sequiturs. How do you see this in John 2:3-4?
Jesus’ mother says to him that they have no more wine. Jesus answers somewhat brusquely, saying what do I have to do with you? My hour has not yet come. Mary asks about wine, and Jesus’ answer is about his “hour”, or his death.
B. Yet though his answer would have been confusing to most, it was not to Mary, for she knew things about Jesus the others did not yet know for certain. What did she know about Him and how did she know it? (Draw from Luke 1-2 if you need to)
The angel Gabriel, a direct messenger from God, came to Mary and told her, an as yet unmarried woman, that she would miraculously conceive a child with the help of the Holy Spirit. This child she was to name Jesus, and He would be the very Son of God, the One who would reign over the house of Jacob forever – in this, God was fulfilling His promise to King David that one of his descendants would sit on the throne forever. After Jesus was born, some shepherds came to see Him, and they told Mary and Joseph about how angels had appeared to them and said to them that a Savior had been born to them. Mary stored all these things in her heart. When they had Jesus circumcised, Simeon gave Mary a rather cryptic message, telling her that her child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and that a sword would also pierce her heart. She also remembered how Jesus stayed behind in the Temple at the age of 12, and how everyone was amazed at his knowledge, and he said to his parents that he had to be in his Father’s house. So the shepherds, also the Magi, Simeon, Anna, and even her cousin Elizabeth’s greeting when Mary visited her all confirmed what Gabriel had told her about her child.
C. Are you able to explain how this miracle showed the purpose for Jesus coming to earth?
From Keller’s sermon last week, I would say that Jesus did not come to perpetuate all the religious rules, observances, and rituals, such as the ritual of ceremonial washing for purification. That would’ve made him just another religious teacher, telling people what they must do to get God to accept them. The problem was that all of these observances could not make a person right with God. Jesus used ceremonial jars for washing to make wine out of water. He was showing a new way by this miracle. In The Chosen, Thomas is absolutely stunned when he realizes what Jesus has done, and wants to follow Him. Jesus wanted people to put their faith in Him, not in their own rule keeping and rituals, because He was the One who would reconcile people to God through His blood. Keller emphasized the joy in this. Our attempting to keep the rules does not give us joy. Resting in what Jesus has done for us does give us joy; it is His joy and He gives it to us.
3. What do you learn from John 20:30-31 about: A. The signs of Jesus?
They were miraculous and there were many more that weren’t recorded. The ones written were recorded so that we would continue to believe and have power in His Name.
B. What was John’s purpose in writing His particular gospel? How might that have affected which particular events he chose to include?
As I said above, for us to continue in our beliefs.
I would think he would have selected the most important ones to record.
4. Read John 2:1-12 A. Keller says Jesus often answers people with non-sequiturs. How do you see this in John 2:3-4?
He answers (in the ESV) with a question, basically, what does it have to do with me? In the NLT, is says something like, that’s not our problem. I’m not following that it’s a “non-sequitur,” although that term is still new to me. It does seem to be an answer to the statement Mary makes though, not something that is out of place.
The next part might be the non-sequitur, I suppose? He says it isn’t His time yet. What does His time have to do with running out of wine?
B. Yet though His answer would have been confusing to most, it was not to Mary for she knew things about Jesus the others did not yet know for certain. What did she know about Him and how did she know it? (Draw from Luke 1-2 if you need to.)
Mary knew He would have to sacrifice for His people. She knew He was One God sent to save His people. She knew He would not be “hers” forever.
C. Are you able to explain how this miracle showed the purpose for Jesus coming to earth?
Yes, He used the ceremonial washing vases (old, rigid, laws) to turn the water into wine (re-newed, fine and spiritual). He came to get rid of the old laws and to have people understand that love is the most important thing. Love God and love people.
His time had not come, in that He had to begin the clock at some point. He doesn’t seem sure that this is the time when it should begin though (to me). It’s almost like He is trying to reconcile this idea in His discussion with Mary.
I think, Laura, but could be wrong, that Keller called it a non-sequitur because to other people answering her request with “My time has not yet come” would make no sense, but it did to her. As Keller said, she had already been a part of so many miracles — and she simply trusted him. Did she know he had come to die? Perhaps. I don’t know that for sure.
Monday 3. What do you learn from John 20:30-31 about:
A. The signs of Jesus?
That He preformed many other miraculous signs in addition to the ones recorded in the book of John. B. What was John’s purpose in writing His particular gospel?
That we may continue to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and by believing in Him we will have life by the power of His name. How might that have affected which particular events he chose to include?
I wonder if the events John chose to record helped him in his belief or faith and through them found power in the name of Jesus.
4. Read John 2:1-12 A. Keller says Jesus often answers people with non-sequiturs. How do you see this in John 2:3-4?
Jesus’s response to His mother didn’t logically follow what she was talking about. B. Yet though His answer would have been confusing to most, it was not to Mary for she knew things about Jesus the others did not yet know for certain. What did she know about Him and how did she know it? (Draw from Luke 1-2 if you need to.)
She was told by Gabriel she would give birth to a son, and would name Him Jesus. He will be great and called the Son of the Most High. He will be given the throne of David. Reign over Israel forever; His kingdom will never end. Even though she was virgin she was told the Holy Spirit would overshadow her so the baby to be born would be holy. Elizabeth told Mary that God had blessed her above all woman after the baby inside of her leaped with joy and asked why she was so honored that the mother of my Lord should visit her. She knew through what the shepherds said when Jesus was born, the prophecy of Anna and His response to Mary when He went missing…she stored all these things in her heart. C. Are you able to explain how this miracle showed the purpose for Jesus coming to earth?
Jesus knew His purpose in coming was to die on the cross for our sins and in doing so provided the blood/wine for the ultimate wedding as the Bridegroom to His bride, us/the church at His second coming. 5. Challenge Question. Give a few examples (perhaps with help from Exodus or Leviticus) of God giving a command with the only explanation as being: “I AM the Lord your God.”
Leviticus 11:44…telling the people to sanctify themselves and not define themselves with any manner of creeping thing because I Am the Lord your God.
Leviticus 19:3…every man fear his mother and father and keep My sabbaths because I Am the Lord your God.
3. What do you learn from John 20:30-31 about: A. The signs of Jesus? There were many signs that Jesus performed when He was with His disciples that are not mentioned in the Gospel of John. B. What was John’s purpose in writing His particular gospel? How might that have affected which particular events he chose to include? John’s purpose in writing this gospel is to show that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, so that many would believe and have life in His Name. John probably showed the miracles that would speak to hearts and bring those who read of these miracles to believe in Jesus. 4. Read John 2:1-12 A. Keller says Jesus often answers people with non-sequiturs. How do you see this in John 2:3-4? Jesus is not responding to Mary’s comment directly. He is speaking of His future ministry and His death on the cross. B. Yet though His answer would have been confusing to most, it was not to Mary for she knew things about Jesus the others did not yet know for certain. What did she know about Him and how did she know it? (Draw from Luke 1-2 if you need to.) Mary knew what Jesus had come to do and she did not question His response, as she understood His meaning. Mary had been told by the angel, Gabriel, that she would conceive and bear a son, who will be called Jesus and He will be the Son of the Most High. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever. C. Are you able to explain how this miracle showed the purpose for Jesus coming to earth? The jars of ceremonial water represent the Old Covenant. Jesus changed that. He became the new covenant, the perfect sacrifice for our sins, for the cleansing ceremony had become no more than a ritual. The rules were out, the new Ruler is in. The gift of the Bridegroom to His bride replaces the old ways. The water then becomes wine representing the blood of Jesus that He would shed on the cross. He is the Bridegroom and He took on all of our sin; He was the pure and innocent Lamb of God. Even His Father in heaven had to look away, because He carried our sin on Him and took our punishment for us. When we give our lives over to Him, we are His bride for eternity. 5. Challenge Question. Give a few examples (perhaps with help from Exodus or Leviticus) of God giving a command with the only explanation as being: “I AM the Lord your God.” Exodus 3:6: ” I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob. “Exodus 3:14 ” I AM WHO I AM ….Thus you shall say to the sons of Israel, ‘I Am has sent me to you.’ ” Exodus 20:2 ” I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.” Leviticus 11:45: “For I am the Lord who brought you up from the land of Egypt to be your God; thus you shall be holy, for I am holy.” Joel 2:27 Thus you will know that I am in the midst of Israel, And that I am the Lord your God, And there is no other.”
Sunday: The Presence
1. How have you experienced His presence this week through His Word, His Spirit, His people, or His creation?
—As I look back over my week I realize God’s Word was rich in my life through the daily devotional readings I currently use and the daily Bible study of this blog and attending the Women’s Tuesday morning Bible study at my church and the especially good bible teaching being preached on the book of Acts by our pastor. His Spirit has been faithful to encourage and guide through each of those mediums. And I have been blessed with some great interaction with several godly people in my life. And this week I have intentionally spent some time outside and barefoot in our back yard. We have the pleasure of having beautiful bluegrass that is watered by sprinklers but God has graciously sent us some rain so this is an especially pretty time of year.
It was a good week of just walking daily with the Lord and experiencing simple joys.
2. What stood out to you from the opening? Could you identify? Explain.
—“In truth, Paul tells us, in this life, we see through “a glass darkly” and that dark glass will not be removed until we see Him face to face. Therefore, we must walk humbly with our Lord and with one another.” The italics are mine.
This Scripture makes me think of
Micah 6:8 “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
Even though many of the things in this life feel so clouded by troubles and circumstances as I learn to walk humbly before God and trust his Omniscience I find security and encouragement.
Such a good reminder, Bev: Even though many of the things in this life feel so clouded by troubles and circumstances as I learn to walk humbly before God and trust his Omniscience I find security and encouragement.
A. What time is mentioned in verse 13? Why might John have included this? Almost time for Jewish Passover It would indicate a lot of people were in Jerusalem and why there would be a lot of money changers
B. How is this a different side of Jesus than we saw at the wedding banquet? Find several things. Business was being done compared to a wedding celebration. Jesus reaction was anger and brought stress vs Jesus reaction was surrender and brought joy. He made whips vs wine. Scattered money vs no money is mentioned. He brought correction about His Father s house vs He opened door to the future wedding feast.
C. For what purpose were the animals and doves being sold? What did God want His people to understand when they sacrificed an animal? Animal sacrifices. That it was to be payment for their sin. Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sin.
D. What prophecy did the disciples remember and why might this add light? Zeal for Your house will consume me. It was another confirmation that Jesus was the Messiah.
7. Read John 2:18-25
A. What did the Jews immediately demand? They wanted a sign to prove His authority.
B. Why might Jesus’ answer have seemed like a non-sequitur? The Jews were looking for a new right now sign. Jesus response was speaking of the future when He would die and 3 days later be resurrected.
C. What were the two responses people had to the miracles of Jesus? They believed in Him or they rejected Him
D. Why did Jesus not entrust Himself to man? Why should we take this to heart? Because man is fickle. I can buy something one week and wonder next week what I was thinking. Our faith and trust needs to be firmly in Jesus Christ. We can listen to others and consider what they say but the Ultimate Truth is in Christ and we must search the Bible and seek His wisdom not man’s wisdom.
Sunday: The Presence
1. How have you experienced His presence this week through His Word, His Spirit, His people, or His creation?
This week, I have been thinking of my friends, Deb, Donna, and a few others battling with cancer. A former colleague is fighting a hard personal crisis and a former student lost her husband of less than a year. Enough sorrow to bring my spirit down. But God came and brought comfort and encouragement. through His:
Word- “My times are in your hands”. Psalm 31:15
Spirit- Inner peace that passes all understanding. And the renewing of my mind to think things that are “true, noble, pure, right, excellent. admirable” Philippians 4:8
People – meeting with 2 friends at a McDonald’s and having a drink and free-flowing conversations with no agenda but just to be together and laugh.
Creation little garden has started producing. I talk to my plants and tell them they are beautiful and have looked at my plants more closely and have seen and tasted (snow peas in a stir fry) the magnificent creation of God!
2. What stood out to you from the opening? Could you identify? Explain.
I agree with many here who are blessed with TK humility. He had a voracious appetite for digging deeper into truth and the Lord had graciously endowed him with the capacity to share it with others in an understandable way.
Dee, thank you so much! These lessons are such a treat to my soul and spirit!
Love the verses that brought you comfort and encouragement…keeping you in my prayers😊
We are enjoying our garden’s produce too…zucchini, yellow squash and cucumbers. Yes, His creation is magnificent!
5. Challenge Question. Give a few examples (perhaps with help from Exodus or Leviticus) of God giving a command with the only explanation as being: “I AM the Lord your God.”
“If you obey my decrees and my regulations, you will find life through them. I am the Lord.”
Leviticus 18:5 NLT
“I will bring you into the land I swore to give to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. I will give it to you as your very own possession. I am the Lord!’””
Exodus 6:8 NLT
6. Read John 2: 13-17 A. What time is mentioned in verse 13? Why might John have included this?
It was the Jewish Passover. Well, that was a Holy time for the Jewish people. They traveled to Jerusalem to celebrate, so many people would be there at that time.
B. How is this a different side of Jesus than we saw at the wedding banquet? Find several things.
Jesus is angry! He is never angry. Instead of water to wine in celebration, He makes a whip! He destroys the tables and chases the livestock. He is disgusted with the behavior. C. For what purpose were the animals and doves being sold? What did God want His people to understand when they sacrificed an animal?
They were being sold to sacrifice to God. There was commitment made to God when a sacrifice was made. It was a promise of sorts. It honored Him and His protection of the Israelites in Egypt.
D. What prophecy did the disciples remember and why might this add light?
They remembered from Psalms:
“Passion for your house has consumed me, and the insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.”
Psalms 69:9 NLT
The scripture predicts that the person speaking (Jesus) will defend the House of the Lord (the temple) with zest.
Monday: The Context
3. What do you learn from John 20:30-31 about:
A. The signs of Jesus?
—He performed many miracles in the presence of his disciples that are not recorded.
B. What was John’s purpose in writing His particular gospel?
—To show us Jesus was the Son of God and God the Son. He represented God to us in all He did and how he lived while on earth on the flesh.
How might that have affected which particular events he chose to include?
—Jesus showed the heart and mind of God in all he did. In John 14:9 He says “He who has seen Me has seen the Father”
4. Read John 2:1-12
A. Keller says Jesus often answers people with non-sequiturs. How do you see this in John 2:3-4?
—He dismissed the question about the wine and informed Mary that his hour had not yet come.
B. Yet though His answer would have been confusing to most, it was not to Mary for she knew things about Jesus the others did not yet know for certain. What did she know about Him and how did she know it? (Draw from Luke 1-2 if you need to.)
—Mary knew Jesus was destined to be the Messiah and that God’s hand was clearly on him through her own experience of his miraculous conception and the events surrounding his birth. Also there were many affirmations early on of him and what had been prophesied about him by Simeon and Anna.
After 3 days of searching and then finding Jesus in the temple talking with and astonishing the teachers there Luke 2:51-52 includes a comment about Mary. “Then he went down with them and came to Nazareth and was obedient to them. His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and with people.”
C. Are you able to explain how this miracle showed the purpose for Jesus coming to earth?
—The water jars for ritual cleansing represented religion and man’s attempts and need for cleansing from sin but Jesus came and brought new wine which represented his blood which would once for all cleanse sin for anyone accepting and believing in Him. The wine also represented the joy that would be for Jesus after he accomplished his mission of being the perfect sacrifice for sin.
7. Read John 2:18-25 A. What did the Jews immediately demand?
They demanded a miraculous sign to prove He was sent from God.
B. Why might Jesus’ answer have seemed like a non-sequitur?
I guess because they were probably thinking of something smaller, like making a dove disappear (?) or making Himself hover, yet Jesus takes on the humongous temple instead.
C. What were the two responses people had to the miracles of Jesus?
Are you speaking generally here? Shock and amazement I suppose?
D. Why did Jesus not entrust Himself to man? Why should we take this to heart?
Because man is not trustworthy. We think of ourselves first, not others. He looked to God for His help. He modeled for us. We should do the same.
Monday: The Context
3. What do you learn from John 20:30-31 about:
A. The signs of Jesus?
There are many other signs that Jesus performed but were not included in John’s writing.
B. What was John’s purpose in writing His particular gospel? How might that have affected which particular events he chose to include?
…that you may believe[b] that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
That these events are enough to meet his purpose.
4. Read John 2:1-12
A. Keller says Jesus often answers people with non-sequiturs. How do you see this in John 2:3-4?
Mary told Jesus about a social faux pas in their time. No more wine at the wedding. Jesus responded about His hour had not yet come.
B. Yet though His answer would have been confusing to most, it was not to Mary for she knew things about Jesus the others did not yet know for certain. What did she know about Him and how did she know it? (Draw from Luke 1-2 if you need to.)
The message from the angel Gabriel that she would conceive is the Son of God. Her visit to Elizabeth and Elizabeth addressing her as the mother of her Lord. Did Mary hear Zechairah’s song? The message of the shepherds about what was said of Jesus by the angels. She pondered all these things in her heart. The meeting with Simeon and Anna at the temple. His conversations with the teachers at the temple.
I wonder if Mary had flashbacks of Jesus’ 33 years as she looks at her son being crucified on the cross. Did she finally fully understand who Jesus is? Did most of her past ponderings come to clarity?
C. Are you able to explain how this miracle showed the purpose for Jesus coming to earth?
The miracle gave a glimpse of the way Jesus, with His coming to earth, would usher a new way of relating to God. No more of the old way of ceremonial washing to enter God’s presence. His blood, (not the blood of animals) will wash away, once and for all who receive Him, all our sins.
5. Challenge Question. Give a few examples (perhaps with help from Exodus or Leviticus) of God giving a command with the only explanation as being: “I AM the Lord your God.”
“I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. “You shall have no other gods before[a] me. Exodus 20:2-3
I believe this is the most important command that I need to heed. No other God, lover, or idol. The God I serve is also the Lord of my life.
“For I am the Lord, I do not change; Therefore you are not consumed, O sons of Jacob… Return to Me, and I will return to you,” Says the Lord of hosts. Malachi 3:6, 7b
This promise is always for my taking. When I return to God, He will always be there to welcome me back.
“I wonder if Mary had flashbacks of Jesus’ 33 years as she looks at her son being crucified on the cross. Did she finally fully understand who Jesus is? Did most of her past ponderings come to clarity?”
Bing — Mary knew much more than the disciples — so those are good questions. Perhaps she thought of Simeon’s prophecy that a sword would pierce her soul.
Tuesday 6. Read John 2: 13-17 A. What time is mentioned in verse 13?
The Passover of the Jews was at hand. Why might John have included this?
To give a timeline. Was this Jesus’s first of 4 Passovers after His first miracle?
The reason for going to Jerusalem and the temple.
B. How is this a different side of Jesus than we saw at the wedding banquet? Find several things.
He’s disgusted with the defilement of the temple. Instead of making water turn to wine He’s making a whip of cords. He’s driving people, sheep and oxen out of the temple, pouring out the coins of the money changers and turning over tables rather than celebrating.
C. For what purpose were the animals and doves being sold?
Sacrifices
What did God want His people to understand when they sacrificed an animal?
That they were being cleansed of their sins. D. What prophecy did the disciples remember and why might this add light?
“Then his disciples remembered this prophecy from the Scriptures: “Passion for God’s house will consume me.””
It added light as to why He responded the way He did!
Sharon — I’m just curious because you are so grounded. Did you understand that Jesus grief was over their not understanding the holiness of sacrifice? I know I thought it was that they were disregarding the holiness of the Temple but had really connected it to the sacrifice — and then to what would be His ultimate sacrifice.
Tuesday
7. Read John 2:18-25
A. What did the Jews immediately demand?
A miraculous sign to prove that God gave Him authority to do what He did. B. Why might Jesus’ answer have seemed like a non-sequitur?
His reply of “destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up,” didn’t logically follow their demand.
C. What were the two responses people had to the miracles of Jesus?
What was He doing and many began to trust Him
D. Why did Jesus not entrust Himself to man?
Because He knows what’s in each person’s heart.
Why should we take this to heart?
This reminded me of the idol of approval in my life…God’s approval is completely trustworthy, He wants what’s best for me and so it should be of upmost importance not seeking the approval of man which can be superficial and fickle.
As I read the above I have to scratch my head and wonder…why is man’s approval so important to me…still working the stronghold of this idol!
So true of me too, Sharon! I am still working on my idols too! As I read the above I have to scratch my head and wonder…why is man’s approval so important to me…still working the stronghold of this idol!
Sharon and Patti, I am glad to be here today. I have been squirming over a few happenings in my life lately and I have been restless and couldn’t put a finger on it. I think the enemy is trying to distract my attention from finding out the truth. And that is as you have said, ” As I read the above I have to scratch my head and wonder…why is man’s approval so important to me…still working the stronghold of this idol!” Reading your comments here felt like a smack on my forehead, duh! The sin underneath the sin. My idol of approval is still very much singing its siren call. Thanks for sharing! I feel God opening my eyes to reveal this to me and therefore can repent of it and seek God’s help for me to turn to Him and no one or nothing else.
Wow Sharon like Patti and Bing this really resonates with me too. “This reminded me of the idol of approval in my life…God’s approval is completely trustworthy, He wants what’s best for me ….why is man’s approval so important to me…still working the stronghold of this idol!”
Really appreciate your thoughts
6. Read John 2: 13-17 A. What time is mentioned in verse 13? Why might John have included this? This took place during the time of Passover. All the Jewish men were required to celebrate in Jerusalem, so there would be many coming to the Temple. B. How is this a different side of Jesus than we saw at the wedding banquet? Find several things. Jesus was angry. He was making His presence known. He was showing His authority, not acting quietly. C. For what purpose were the animals and doves being sold? What did God want His people to understand when they sacrificed an animal? The animals were being sold as sacrifices and they were in the Temple. They were desecrating the Temple by making it a place of business. D. What prophecy did the disciples remember and why might this add light? “Zeal for your house will consume me.” Jesus was concerned for the purity of the worship and the temple. The merchants were “using” this circumstance to “gouge” the people for the sacrificial animals they were selling. 7. Read John 2:18-25 A. What did the Jews immediately demand? They demanded a sign for Jesus to show His authority for driving them out. B. Why might Jesus’ answer have seemed like a non-sequitur? When Jesus answer them with “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up”, it did not seem a logical answer to their question. C. What were the two responses people had to the miracles of Jesus? Many believed in His name and the signs and miracles He was doing. The enemies of Jesus plotted His death. D. Why did Jesus not entrust Himself to man? Why should we take this to heart? Man likes the entertainment aspect of Jesus. Man likes the one who is popular and can do something for him. Though many believed His miracles, they may have moved on and forgotten soon enough. Jesus understood the fragility of mankind and He knew who He was, the Son of God. Those who trusted in Christ and were His true disciples, wanted to know Him as a Savior not an entertainer. We, as Christians, may be treated like we are a bit daft to know and want Jesus as our Savior, but we trust in Him as Father God and that is a big difference. It does not matter in our eternity, whether others can see Him clearly, but it matters a great deal in their eternity.
8. Listen for about the first 13 minutes when he begins to give the example of Job. A. What stands out to you after listening and why? I loved that Keller brought out that sometimes Jesus answers our prayers and puts everything together; other times He turns over your table, throws everything on the ground and messes it up. He does not tell you why, but He has the authority of Who He is and He has a purpose in what He does and the Glory of what He brings. We don’t always understand it, even in our lifetime. B. What does Keller say are the two most important words linking these two events? (Verse 12) His Authority C. How do both events show the authority of Jesus? He demonstrated the authority of who He is; The purpose of What He does and The Glory of what He brings. D. What did you learn about the word for “cords.” Significance? The word for cords is “rushes”. He made a whip of soft grasses, swishy reeds; nothing that would harm anyone, almost a miracle. People sensed His authority and instinctively left the temple. Loved these thoughts from Keller. E. When God has overturned your tables, have you backed away from Him or pressed in? Why? This has given me so much to think about! Wow! I have pressed in to Him! I have been devastated and questioned why, but I am realizing that pressing in helps me follow Him and His will. He does not need to give me a reason! Of course He doesn’t! He is my Lord, Father, King and Bridegroom. He knows the best path for me, in order to give Him the ultimate glory.
8. Listen for about the first 13 minutes when he begins to give the example of Job.
A. What stands out to you after listening and why? Whip was made of rushes would never hurt anyone. It was His presence that was the authority. Some way the people understood that this man they knew little about had the authority to clear God s temple. I think I forget at times to focus that God and Jesus have all the authority. Come what may, they have the ultimate authority.
B. What does Keller say are the two most important words linking these two events? (Verse 12) After this Surface look at 2 events they are different but they are showing the same thing Jesus authority
C. How do both events show the authority of Jesus? The power and authority to change things He changed water to wine. He drove all out of the temple courts. He had the authority to bring the New covenant doing away with the old ways.
D. What did you learn about the word for “cords.” Significance? The Greek word for cords is rushes The cords would not have hurt anyone. So the effect of the cords were so much greater than the wimpy cords themselves.
E. When God has overturned your tables, have you backed away from Him or pressed in? Why? I cried, pled for understanding and help but eventually pressed in
I have had thoughts about Jesus as a pacifist — because of Sermon on the Mount calling for non-resistance and episodes like this. Reading a book about pacifists hiding 5,000 Jewish children in a village in France during W W II.
Tuesday: The Text
6. Read John 2: 13-17
A. What time is mentioned in verse 13? Why might John have included this?
Time for the Jewish Passover. Perhaps to show that Jesus is obedient to the requirements of the law?
B. How is this a different side of Jesus than we saw at the wedding banquet? Find several things.
He made a whip out of cords. He drove all merchants from the temple courts and both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables; he told those who sold doves to get out of the temple and told them to stop making His father’s house into a market.
Jesus turned the water into wine without being noticed except for the servants who followed Mary’s and Jesus’ instructions. At the temple, He was like in-your-face action!
C. For what purpose were the animals and doves being sold? What did God want His people to understand when they sacrificed an animal?
The animals were used for profit and gain. Animal sacrifice was a holy ceremony as part of their fathers’ traditions.
D. What prophecy did the disciples remember and why might this add light?
“Zeal for your house will consume me.” Jesus is showing the people the truth about the Jewish Passover and not to be watered down by their own agenda.
7. Read John 2:18-25
A. What did the Jews immediately demand?
For Jesus to show a miraculous sign to confirm His authority.
B. Why might Jesus’ answer have seemed like a non-sequitur?
The teachers of the law asked for something related to the temple they could see but He answered referring to the temple (His body) which they couldn’t grasp.
C. What were the two responses people had to the miracles of Jesus?
People either believed in Him or scoffed at Him.
D. Why did Jesus not entrust Himself to man? Why should we take this to heart?
He knew what was in people’s hearts. We can be tempted to use Jesus for our gain.
Tuesday: The Text
6. Read John 2: 13-17
A. What time is mentioned in verse 13? Why might John have included this?
—The time of the Jewish Festival called Passover celebrating the exodus of the Jews from Egypt. It was about redemption from the bondage of being slaves to the Egyptians. As we saw in the meaning of Jesus turning the water in the stone jars to wine we see Jesus in going into the temple and cleansing it of the business people using it for their own gain and taking advantage of the people in their religious practices. He wanted people to be able to come freely and worship God.
B. How is this a different side of Jesus than we saw at the wedding banquet? Find several things.
—At the wedding He quietly performed the miracle and brought joy to many. In cleansing the Temple of sinful practice he had a zeal for the worship of God and made a strong exhibition of clearing everyone out by chasing out people and animals with a whip He made. Then throwing over money tables.
C. For what purpose were the animals and doves being sold?
—For people to buy and use as sacrifices.
What did God want His people to understand when they sacrificed an animal?
—That it represented the cleansing for their sin so they could be in relationship with God. It was the shed blood that He required for cleansing from sin. It wasn’t just a religious ritual for the sake of paying God off. It had to do with the heart of man in relationship with God.
D. What prophecy did the disciples remember and why might this add light?
—That it said in Psalm 69:9
“because zeal for your house has consumed me,……”
—Why this might add light is lost on me. Add light to what? It did speak to the fact the disciples knew the scriptures well and especially the Psalms. They were astute in the connection to Jesus and his actions.
7. Read John 2:18-25
A. What did the Jews immediately demand?
—They wanted to see a miracle. It would seem to me they wanted him to do something to “prove” himself as having any authority to drive out the money changers and the sellers of animals to be sacrificed.
B. Why might Jesus’ answer have seemed like a non-sequitur?
—His answer made no sense to them because they were thinking the Temple building when He was referring to his own body.
C. What were the two responses people had to the miracles of Jesus?
—It says many believed in his name when they saw the miracles. It would seem others were enthralled with the sensational side of what was happening.
D. Why did Jesus not entrust Himself to man? Why should we take this to heart?
—Jesus knew and still knows what is in the heart of people. He knows the flesh and its weaknesses and the deceits of hearts. People can appear to be something on the outside that they really aren’t on the inside. We need to be wise about people as well and be careful what we say to whom. Not every is trustworthy.
I have a close friend who is troubled by some actions she has heard about regarding a friend she had when they were new believers about 35 years ago. They spent a lot of time together in prayer and fellowship. This is what my friend said in an email to me this morning.
“I wonder, could she have walked away from Jesus? There is a captivating “high” that comes from worship. People are drawn to it like moths to a flame. I look back and wonder if she was just caught up in it.” I thought it was an insightful statement. Only Jesus knows the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Bev, what you shared about your friend (and her friend from 35 years ago) resonated with me. I am an emotional person (cried through Eva Cassidy’s Over the Rainbow rendition) and can get caught up in a high. The truth of His Word, the Bible, has often brought me to level ground. I know my feelings can lead me to the wrong actions. His truth though, as inspired by the Spirit. and a willing heart on my part, can correct me from going in the wrong direction.
Bev and Bing~ you both make such an important point that our “feelings” and “emotions” can grab us~ and sometimes charismatic leaders can draw worshipping people to them. If we don’t have The Truth of His Word in our hearts, the guidance of the Holy Spirit and an abiding personal relationship with Him, we may stray away from the Lord. We need to be watchful, discerning and pray about who we listen to and what we read.
Wednesday
8. Listen for about the first 13 minutes when he begins to give the example of Job.
A. What stands out to you after listening and why? The fact that in these two stories Jesus is doing the same thing but in different ways…1)they both show us the authority of who He is, 2)the purpose of what He does and 3)the glory of what He brings.
B. What does Keller say are the two most important words linking these two events? (Verse 12) ”After this.”
C. How do both events show the authority of Jesus? In the first event He shows His authority with the response to His mothers request, “it is not my hour.” As Keller says His authority is more muted here because He does what is expected. In the second event His authority is much more obvious. It’s seen in His look, His being and His presence…not the whip. People knew instinctively that when He showed up He had the right to do what He did.
D. What did you learn about the word for “cords.” Significance? “Cords” was a word for reeds, the same thing baskets were made of. It was the wimpiest of whips and couldn’t hurt anyone…the whip isn’t what made people run.
E. When God has overturned your tables, have you backed away from Him or pressed in? Why?My first reaction is to back away but then I remember His faithfulness, His sovereignty and His love and that’s when I press into Him. “Because you are my helper, I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings. I cling to you; your strong right hand holds me securely.” Psalms 63:7-8 NLT
B. What does Keller say are the two most important words linking these two events? (Verse 12)
I’m not sure I’m following what the 2 “words” are; Keller says the two events are the wedding and the temple. He says John is linking them and talks about a chronology discussion at a later time. Verse 12 mentions that “…after this…”He and His mother, brothers, and disciples went to Capernaum. I’m guessing those are the words?
C. How do both events show the authority of Jesus?
They show that Jesus is in control. He is someone who is definitely different than others.
D. What did you learn about the word for “cords.” Significance?
The word “cords” actually means rushes. It is a weak whip, it won’t actually hurt anyone. It was used to make things like baskets or papyrus. I think it was a representation of what He would actually do for them, which is correct behavior in love. He was gentle, not dictatorial. He would help to make them into who they were meant to be, instead of who they thought they should become in life.
E. When God has overturned your tables, have you backed away from Him or pressed in? Why?
Probably both. When teens in our house misbehaved (badly), I first tried to control (myself), then gave up (ran to Him). When my dad was on his deathbed, ran to Him; allowed Him in. Having my babies, included Him first. When I was 16-25, I did not think of Him much. I lived a superficial life with no real meaning. Things happened in that life and I just kept living in this world. I now know what true life is because of Him.
When I didn’t include Him it’s because I thought I could handle it. I eventually got to a point where I knew I was failing and needed help. He was the one I knew I needed.
A former colleague, battling cancer, just passed this morning. She was genuinely a funny person and kept us all laughing about our profession. I don’t think she was very spiritual however, but I’m not sure. It’s making me think about our lives and why they might be important. As I was considering her yesterday, the thought came to my mind that she is lying in her bed, nearly done, and has no concern that the weather has been rain ALL YEAR so far. How the temperature for the first day of summer is COLD. All my musings and whining would be of no concern to someone who is ready to die. It kind of puts in in proportion, doesn’t it? I hope she was a believer. I hope she is with Jesus now. If it is my job only, to tell others of Jesus, have I done that job? I think I have in my profession, but if I’m honest, not always. There was a time I was more concerned about myself for sure. I think I have through my dancing. But not always. There was a time I danced for just me, and how I felt. This weekend I am helping with our VBS program by teaching k-5 dance, using Christian songs about God being our compass. Please pray that the kids will walk away remembering that He is our guide in all things.
I will say that I think my husband and I have helped teach our grandkids about God since they were born.
Oh, Laura. How we all get so centered on things that are unimportant details… I so relate to this. While we are busy, your friend waits for her life her to be over. I pray that she knew Jesus. I will pray for the VBS kids to take the message of Who Jesus is, to heart.
Thank you and Sharon….I totally missed “After this”….
Thank you Patti, for praying. I learned from another friend that the deceased did hang around others who were more spiritual. I will attend the funeral and know more then.
Thursday
9. Listen up to minute 26 — just before he gets into the Lord of the Rings.
A. What stood out to you from the above and why? God wants us to obey Him simply because of who He is. Just as Job must have bowed down and said, “You know what? If I could totally understand Him, He wouldn’t be worth totally obeying.” This was my realization when we lost our son.
B. How did God answer Job when he asked why his tables were overturned? Point? ”Surely the lightning consults with you before it decides where to strike, the way it does with Me.” He is saying to Job, “Because I am God, I have the right to do this and you don’t.”
C. What was Keller’s point with the fiance calling off the wedding after her intended lost his money? We can love God for what He gives us rather than for who He is…we just use Him.
D. Why did Keller believe Jesus was so upset with what was happening in the Temple? The people didn’t see the meaning for the sacrifice. Because of all the hoopla going on in the temple they were distracted, no prayer was taking place and the motive became doing it out of duty rather than reflecting on the real meaning.
E. In the same way, when we approach worship mechanically instead of reflectively, how does that hurt our God? We make it all about us rather than the person of Jesus Christ and what He did for us. When I approach worship mechanically, I become critical, my focus is either on me or others rather than Him and I know that must grieve Him as I have put other gods before Him…(I)dol worship.
Sharon your point in answer to E. is so good. “When I approach worship mechanically, I become critical, my focus is either on me or others rather than Him and I know that must grieve Him as I have put other gods before Him…(I)dol worship.“
9. Listen up to minute 26 — just before he gets into the Lord of the Rings. A. What stood out to you from the above and why? It is so important for us to be obedient to Him, because of Who He is. Love this from Keller about what Job might have thought: If God is so infinite and great, that I can be mad at Him for failing to rectify the world, He must be so infinite and that He has good reason to be doing what He is doing that is beyond my comprehension. B. How did God answer Job when he asked why his tables were overturned? Point? “I would like you to obey me because of Who I Am and who you are.” Do we love and obey God for Who He is or for what He brings to us. If you are obeying Him if you know the reason, then you are not obeying Him at all. If you are obeying Him only for what He gives you, then you are using Him. C. What was Keller’s point with the fiance calling off the wedding after her intended lost his money? Do we love God for Who He is or what He brings to us? It is a blow to God’s divinity, if we do not love Him for Who He Is. It is like we are saying it is not Him that we love, but what He can do for us….He loves us, but we do not want to honor His rules and directives for our lives. We want Him to do it our way. D. Why did Keller believe Jesus was so upset with what was happening in the Temple? The holiness and importance of the sacrifice was lost, as the temple had the sense of being an “emporium”….bartering, buying and selling….it took the Holiness of worship away. Instead of a time of humility, reflective prayer, joy and worship of God, it became a meaningless ritual, focusing on getting in, doing your duty and getting out…..this animal represented a way to be spared… (It was like running into a church, tossing your money in the collection plate and running out to play golf…a meaningless gesture) They had no idea what it all meant, the need for a Savior and the substitution for their sins. They squeezed out communion with God; real reflection of the meaning of the substitutionary sacrifice.
Was Jesus imagining those who were at the foot of the cross gambling for His garments, as He sacrificed His life, in the worst way possible for our sins? E. In the same way, when we approach worship mechanically instead of reflectively, how does that hurt our God? God feels “trampled upon”. If we approach God, for the habit of doing it and for the “ritual” of worship, instead of a deep and abiding relationship with God our Father, Creator of the Universe, with Jesus, the Son of God, we do not truly know Him as our Savior, our God. It is extremely important to realize that the biggest reason He asks us to obey Him, is just that : OBEY HIM, He is God.
The most important thing to realize is: I don’t know why He is doing this, but I know He has the right to do it. He is God.
Wednesday: Part 1 of the Sermon
8. Listen for about the first 13 minutes when he begins to give the example of Job.
A. What stands out to you after listening and why?
—Honestly the whole section. It is just so rich with teaching and insight. I don’t dare to start listing anything. You wouldn’t have time to read it. 😀
B. What does Keller say are the two most important words linking these two events? (Verse 12)
—after this. Those words put the 2 events of the wedding at Cana and the cleansing of the temple together.
C. How do both events show the authority of Jesus?
—This past week I read where the root word of authority is author so in relationship to Jesus He is the author of all things and therefore has authority over all things.
For me knowing He changed water into wine demonstrated that He was and is God the Creator and scripture verifies that. But in the context of him doing his first miracle at the wedding and responding to his mother as he did He was making it known he had come to change the old way of ritual cleansing for sin. This is the beautiful way that Bing said it
“The miracle gave a glimpse of the way Jesus, with His coming to earth, would usher a new way of relating to God. No more of the old way of ceremonial washing to enter God’s presence. His blood, (not the blood of animals) will wash away, once and for all who receive Him, all our sins.” I loved that.
Then with the Temple event I really liked the perspective that Keller brought to the authority of Jesus. In essence He said that it was the very presence of Jesus that demonstrated his authority and that people instinctively knew when He showed up that He had the right to do it. Keller said it was a manifestation of his glory. I would agree and say that both events were that. Both were statements about Who he was and why he had come and he came with authority.
D. What did you learn about the word for “cords.” Significance?
—This was a good reminder (which I had totally forgotten 🥴)
That the cords made from reeds and was simply a tool in his hand to get people and actually probably the animals in particular moving. I grew up here in central Nebraska and have seen and experienced how waving of arms or having something in your hands will shoo animals be it cattle, sheep, or chickens out of the way or in the direction you want. I do think this is one of the times when we see the humanity of Jesus at work in the practical yet as God the Son he could have removed everyone by the word of his mouth. Just like in the Garden of Gethsemane He could have called 10,000 angels. But Jesus revealed himself cleansing the temple enough that they “knew” he had authority.
E. When God has overturned your tables, have you backed away from Him or pressed in? Why?
—At my age there have been several times my life was turned upside down. My tendency is to run to Jesus not because I am super spiritual in any way but because I am needy in my personality. I am not naturally a good or quick decision maker and I don’t often launch out on my own. When any minor crises happens while others move quickly to resolve the problem I tend to stand in place and cry “Help!” But thankfully over the years as I have experienced the love and faithfulness of God I press into Him. I learned I need Him most of all.
What a beautiful testimony Bev and so encouraging…“At my age there have been several times my life was turned upside down. But thankfully over the years as I have experienced the love and faithfulness of God I press into Him. I learned I need Him most of all.”
Thursday: Part 2 of the Sermon
9. Listen up to minute 26 — just before he gets into the Lord of the Rings.
A. What stood out to you from the above and why?
—It was his story about Job and the mentality of demanding to know “why”. Keller’s comment “It is critical for us to obey God just because of Who he is before He tells us reasons, of course, He has reasons, but it is so absolutely critical to us spiritually to obey God because of Who he is.”
It is pretty much totally lost on mankind to worship and adore God just simply because of Who he really is. The ladies Bible study I’m part of at my church this summer is studying prayer and the last lesson was on Adoration. The challenge was to begin practicing prayer that only adores and praises God and asks nothing. To not make any petitions to him. We first looked at some of God’s attributes in preparation to pray prayers of adoration. How we see and worship Him first affects what we ask of Him.
B. How did God answer Job when he asked why his tables were overturned? Point?
—I’m not going to give you any reason. I’m just going to show you Who I am.
Keller said “And so , I think, Job must have bowed down and said, “You know what? If I could totally understand Him, He wouldn’t be worth obeying,”.
I think a big part of why God is of no value in the lives of many is because they have made Him a small god because they have made Him like man in their minds. He is actually incomprehensible to the human mind in the sense that we can figure Him out and what his ways are. He is to be adored and obeyed.
C. What was Keller’s point with the fiance calling off the wedding after her intended lost his money?
—It’s the way we treat God when we want to have the reasons behind what he does so we can know and then it becomes about our goals rather than accepting what he brings into our lives. It’s a blow to his divinity.
D. Why did Keller believe Jesus was so upset with what was happening in the Temple?
—Keller points out Jesus feels the blow to his divinity and in a sense to his humanity. He is a person and God has feelings. To use God for our own ends and demand answers from him flys in the face of him as our Creator and Redeemer. It’s extremely important to learn to love Him for Who he is.
E. In the same way, when we approach worship mechanically instead of reflectively, how does that hurt our God?
—As Keller said it squeezes out real communion with God and the real meaning of worship.
The lack of awe of Who God is destroys a meaningful interaction in worshipping Him. He wants us to know Him in all his glory and beauty and know how deeply he loves us. He’s angry and jealous for that love relationship.
Wednesday: Part 1 of the Sermon
8. Listen for about the first 13 minutes when he begins to give the example of Job.
A. What stands out to you after listening and why?
Party maker vs party pooper; private vs. public; adding vs subtracting. He was requested, asked in; he intrudes, he intervenes; Laughter vs weeping gnashing of teeth, Comforts vs. disturbs. They are the same-showing us who He is, what He does, and what He brings. It is the same Jesus.
B. What does Keller say are the two most important words linking these two events? (Verse 12)
After this… I guess when you say after this, I need to look at the verses before. Since it says that the wedding in Cana was the first miraculous sign Jesus did, the “after this” phrase also refers to a sign.
C. How do both events show the authority of Jesus?
His authority in the words “my time has not come” He is in control although it was muted. In the temple, His authority was more pronounced, “…my Father’s house…” He came knowing what the temple is all about. People could feel His authority-no one has even thrown them out of the temple. They have to know where His authority came from.
D. What did you learn about the word for “cords.” Significance?
It came from the word, “rush” which is a reed. It is a wimpy cord, not to mean anybody harm. I really did not think of the cord being this way. How long did it take Jesus to make one, I wonder.
E. When God has overturned your tables, have you backed away from Him or pressed in? Why?
Sometimes He overturns our tables because He has the right to do it. When Jesus asked the disciples, “Are you going to leave, too?” Peter answered, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.” John 6:67-68,70
There is much temptation to back away from God when He overturns our tables, but who else can we go to? Thank God, we are chosen and the Father has enabled us to come to Him. (v.65)
Thursday: Part 2 of the Sermon
9. Listen up to minute 26 — just before he gets into the Lord of the Rings.
A. What stood out to you from the above and why?
It is as critical for us to obey God just because of who He is before He tells us reasons. If I could totally understand Him, He wouldn’t be worth totally obeying.
Although I really appreciate students who challenge me intellectually, I also appreciate the ones who just follow what I tell them to do because they trust me. No ifs, and buts-just a quiet “obedience” because they know I want the best for them. Of course, I am not God and make mistakes.
In like manner, if I know that God is who He says He is, (good, just, sovereign, all-knowing, etc) why do I hesitate? I believe it is my pride keeping me from obeying him.
B. How did God answer Job when he asked why his tables were overturned? Point?
I have the right because I am God.
C. What was Keller’s point with the fiance calling off the wedding after her intended lost his money?
She was just there for the money; she didn’t really love him for himself. We can do the same thing with god. We just want him for the things He can give us; we‘ll take Him if He does not mess up our plans or goals or what we want to do. We are using God.
D. Why did Keller believe Jesus was so upset with what was happening in the Temple?
It was not about the exchanging of money and product. It was about people not understanding the purpose of the sacrificial animal. They were doing it mechanically-they are not praying, engaging, or reflecting on what the meaning of the Passover is. They don’t feel a need for a Savior. (Oh, how sad it must have made Jesus aside from the anger that was inside of Him.) How the enemy loves to twist our minds about true worship!
E. In the same way, when we approach worship mechanically instead of reflectively, how does that hurt our God?
When we approach worship mechanically, we are in danger of legalism and works-oriented righteousness which negates/devalues the sacrifice Jesus did on the cross. Rather, God wants us to worship Him for who He is and for what He has done in love. Reflective worship (is this a good phrase to use?) takes time, effort, and engagement of our senses that could lead to a keener awareness of and gratitude for His great love for us.
I like “reflective worship,” Bing. I’m reading a book Keller mentioned in the sermon we are doing next week. The book is called “Thoughts on Religious Experience.” Archibald Alexander says there are two kind of religious experience — one reaches the mind, the other penetrates the heart and affects the life. We want the latter, though the first is necessary to get to the second.
I love the emphasis you put on this, Bing. Reflective worship (is this a good phrase to use?) takes time, effort, and engagement of our senses that could lead to a keener awareness of and gratitude for His great love for us.
“if I know that God is who He says He is, (good, just, sovereign, all-knowing, etc) why do I hesitate? I believe it is my pride keeping me from obeying him.”
Bing this comment stood out to me and challenged me. I had to ask “Why do I hesitate to obey. Just having answered the question about obeying in Friday’s lesson and asking myself “How can I better obey?” I confess that pride probably does enter in and my need is to humble myself to better obey.
9. Listen up to minute 26 — just before he gets into the Lord of the Rings.
A. What stood out to you from the above and why? When Jesus sees the wine and goes kind of crazy because it reminds Him of His death. Now He sees the animals to be sacrificed. I’d never thought to tie these 2 events together. He always had us and the cost to redeem us on His mind,
B. How did God answer Job when he asked why his tables were overturned? Point? Because I am God and I have the right to do this and you don’t. God is God and I am not There are times I just need to accept His larger plan
C. What was Keller’s point with the fiance calling off the wedding after her intended lost his money? The fiancée wanted the things the man could give her and not the man himself.
D. Why did Keller believe Jesus was so upset with what was happening in the Temple? The people were missing the point of the sacrifice..it wasn’t to be an afterthought or duty. It was to be an act of obedience and worship.
E. In the same way, when we approach worship mechanically instead of reflectively, how does that hurt our God? We are missing the point. We have th honor and privilege worshipping an Almighty God. That privilege was paid for by the death of His Son.
Love this Judy and what a great reminder…
“We have the honor and privilege worshipping an Almighty God. That privilege was paid for by the death of His Son.”
9. Listen up to minute 26 — just before he gets into the Lord of the Rings. A. What stood out to you from the above and why?
wow…the connection! He is the sacrifice. He is thinking about Himself being the sacrifice and how the people are trashing the sacrifices and desecrating the temple. Just as He thought of the wine and His death, here He thinks of the real reason He is on Earth. To be the sacrifice for all.
Friday
10. Finish the sermon
A. What stood out to you and why? What I feel in my heart is hard to put in words. As I read the rest of the sermon two songs kept coming to my mind. An old song from my childhood, I Have Decided To Follow Jesus, the last verse which says, “The world behind me, the cross before me.” To put behind me the business, the selfishness, the appearances, the strongholds and desires of this world and focus on the meaning of what Christ did for me…the ultimate sacrifice. The other song is, The Heart of Worship, and these words kept coming to mind, “I’m coming back to the heart of worship and it’s all about You, it’s all about You, Jesus. I’m sorry, Lord, for the thing I’ve made it when it’s all about You. It’s all about You, Jesus.” I desire to experience the glory of God and feel His presence in my life…making worship a lifestyle.
10. Finish the sermon A. What stood out to you and why? Christ always has His death at the forefront of His mind. He is always thinking about us. He is the sacrifice. His death tears down the curtain that separates us from the Glory of God, His Presence and Fellowship. B. How was the main character in Lord of the Rings a Christ figure? The hero had to go into the heart of the Realm of the evil lord and throw his ring of power into the evil mountain of fire and destroy it. He knows he has to go toward that doom and he feels it all the time. C. Why is it important to let Jesus contradict you? Why should you obey even when you don’t understand or disagree? Because Jesus sees the whole picture of my life in the light of eternity. I only see a snapshot. D. Is there an area we could pray for you to better obey? In letting go of things that are out of my control…and my idols. I so need to focus on Him in every part of my day. E. Just as Jesus had many things to do, there was one thing always on His mind. What was it? How does Keller suggest we apply this to our own walk? Jesus was always thinking about His death. I need to think about Him dying for me; to see the beauty, value and glory of His death. I need to be humble and forgiving in all areas of my life.
I agree. It saddens my heart, yet He did it for us. It is so humbling. These two lessons are such a reminder of why we should never take “lightly” what He has done for us. This lesson prompted me to read Isaiah 52:13 -53:12. Thank you, Lord, for this great sacrifice that one so unworthy as me, may live in your presence for eternity.
eA. What stood out to you and why? Jesus said I am the ultimate sacrifice, therefore I’m the ultimate temple. I’d never thought of that before So when I read the Bible and see Jesus say those words I hope to remember that.
B. How was the main character in Lord of the Rings a Christ figure? To go into the realm of the lord of evil and take his power ring, throw it into the mountain of fire and destroy it.
C. Why is it important to let Jesus contradict you? Why should you obey even when you don’t understand or disagree? Because Jesus is supreme and to be Lord of my life. Because my faith and trust should be in Jesus for who He is and not for what He can give me.
D. Is there an area we could pray for you to better obey? The fruit of patience is evident in my life.
E. Just as Jesus had many things to do, there was one thing always on His mind. What was it? How does Keller suggest we apply this to our own walk? He was here to die for us. The one thing that was always on Jesus mind should be on my mind that He died for me. Based on that sacrifice for me I should take that sacrificial living onto my being and walk in humility
From Judy: The one thing that was always on Jesus mind should be on my mind that He died for me. Based on that sacrifice for me I should take that sacrificial living onto my being and walk in humility
Friday: Final 3rd of Sermon
10. Finish the sermon
A. What stood out to you and why?
—The end of the sermon stands out because it culminates the bringing together of the two stories of Jesus as the Lord of the Wine and as Lord of the Whips.
“Let him be who he is. He is the Lord of Wine and the Lord of the Whips. He’s the Lord of Wine because he’s the Lord of the Whips. He has to be. How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation?
These are both Jesus. He overturns your table and he fills your table for the same reason, because he loves you. Because he loves you.”
B. How was the main character in Lord of the Rings a Christ figure?
—“the little hero is a remarkable Christ figure because he has a burden. And the burden is that he has to go right into the heart of the realm of the evil Lord and take his ring of power and throw it into the mountain of fire and destroy it. But in order to go toward that evil and go toward that terrible doom, he feels it in front of him all the time. He felt his doom beating upon him. It became a wheel of fire. When he even closed his eyes, he saw it, the ring, the doom. Now, this is Jesus. Jesus is always thinking about his death, and he’s always thinking about us, and he’s always got it on his heart.”
C. Why is it important to let Jesus contradict you? Why should you obey even when you don’t understand or disagree?
—Because Jesus is the only way back to God to have a relationship with Him and to experience his glory. And when we ask Jesus into our life to live with and dwell with us it gives him ownership of the house and He has the right to be Lord.
Keller said “Do you want a real God? Or you just want a projection of your own heart?
—As I noted in answer to the first question above “Let him be who he is. He is the Lord of Wine and the Lord of the Whips….,These are both Jesus. He overturns your table and he fills your table for the same reason, because he loves you.”
D. Is there an area we could pray for you to better obey?
—Good question. Perhaps it is in the area of forgiveness that Keller suggested. I fully understand the need to forgive based on what Christ instructs me to do and I have recognized that at times I have specifically said I will choose to forgive apart from my feelings. Because it would be so easy to hold a grudge. But I have learned there is a great freedom that comes when I choose not to ruminate on what happened. Keller said “….if you’re having trouble forgiving somebody, it’s only because of what Jesus is saying here is you’re not thinking about what my sacrifice means. Because if you think about him dying for you, it’ll humble you down until forgiveness is no problem. “
I have found when it comes to forgiveness when I think about the offense against me if I mentally put it under the Cross and recognize that Jesus’s death and sacrifice on the Cross does away with all my sin and is sufficient for the sins of others whether they confess it or not. That is not my responsibility but it’s important for me to recognize the power in the shed blood of Jesus. My forgiveness is not conditional on them but on what Jesus did.
E. Just as Jesus had many things to do, there was one thing always on His mind. What was it?
—The one thing was the fact that He died for me.
How does Keller suggest we apply this to our own walk?
—We have to stop being mechanical about it reflect on the meaning of His sacrifice and make it a living thing for ourselves.
Just like what I just described in answer to the last question. To always consider the Cross.
Bev, This is so true!! —Because Jesus is the only way back to God to have a relationship with Him and to experience his glory. And when we ask Jesus into our life to live with and dwell with us it gives him ownership of the house and He has the right to be Lord. Love this reminder too: Keller said “Do you want a real God? Or you just want a projection of your own heart?
—I go back to where I began on Sunday of this week. In answer to the question of what stood out to me from the opening.
Dee wrote:
“In truth, Paul tells us, in this life, we see through “a glass darkly” and that dark glass will not be removed until we see Him face to face. Therefore, we must walk humbly with our Lord and with one another.”
I wrote:
“This Scripture makes me think of Micah 6:8 “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
Even though many of the things in this life feel so clouded by troubles and circumstances as I learn to walk humbly before God and trust his Omniscience I find security and encouragement.”
In his sermon Keller he made the statement:
“Because if you think about him dying for you, it’ll humble you down until forgiveness is no problem. “
So Humility of heart and mind are what stands out to me in light of Jesus dying for me and being the sacrifice for my sin so that I can have a relationship with God my Father as I humble myself and really realize what His sacrifice means. It becomes a key to accepting the wine or the whips. The key to the table being filled or overturned and my saying “Yes, You are God, You are the owner of my life and like Job I no longer can demand answers but I will obey You just because of Who You are.
9. B. How did God answer Job when he asked why his tables were overturned? Point?
He sort of snapped at him, reminding him who was boss. Because Job should understand that if God says it is so, then it is. Job should love and trust God because He is God. Otherwise he is using Him.
C. What was Keller’s point with the fiance calling off the wedding after her intended lost his money?
That the fiancée didn’t really love him, only his money.
D. Why did Keller believe Jesus was so upset with what was happening in the Temple?
Because the people were defiling the temple. He represented the temple therefore they were defiling Him. The sacrifices reminded of what He would do; be sacrificed.
E. In the same way, when we approach worship mechanically instead of reflectively, how does that hurt our God?
Saturday
11. What is your take-a-way and why? This week was such an eye opener for me in seeing how these two events go together and a deeper meaning to the temple event. It’s important to remember not to get so caught up in regulations that I miss the relationship! I would appreciate prayer in being obedient in showing more grace and having a less critical spirit. 😊🙏
11. What is your take-a-way and why? There is so much that I need to hang on to and remember here. Jesus is the Sacrifice and Jesus is the Final Temple. Jesus is the only way back into the Garden of Eden. It can be easy to get wrapped up in rules and regulations and miss the Relationship. (I liked this comment by Keller: an important point to remember is that He did not die and make this sacrifice to run programs.) He became the sacrifice so that I may experience His Presence and Power. I am also seeing Mark 15:38 in a clearer way. The minute Jesus died, the veil was torn and gave us access to Him, the Shekinah Glory of God and we are Partakers of His Glory through Christ…I so desire to have that explosive Life giving force flow through me. I want to be totally His and have Him in control to fill my tables or turn my table upside down. Lord, help me to be obedient only to You and to trust You with my all.
11. What is your take-a-way and why? The tying of miracle of wine and temple cleansing together. The same Jesus miracle giver and yet supreme authority to cleanse my life of the “marketplace” stuff that shouldn’t be in the place the Holy Spirit dwells. It is wonderful to revel in His presence and worship Him, but I also need to open my mind to correction and cleansing He wants to make.
Friday: Final 3rd of Sermon
10. Finish the sermon
A. What stood out to you and why?
Jesus was also as much the Jealous Lover here as He was the Lord of the whips. He longed for a relationship with people. Instead, people were locked into following regulations without any thought of what the animal sacrifices were supposed to point toward “’ they may be ever seeing but never perceiving, and ever hearing but never understanding; otherwise, they might turn and be forgiven!” Mark 4:12 I feel like many times I am like these people. Lord, may I always turn to you and be forgiven.
B. How was the main character in Lord of the Rings a Christ figure?
He had a burden. “And the burden is that he has to go right into the heart of the realm of the evil Lord and take his ring of power and throw it into the mountain of fire and destroy it. But in order to go toward that evil and go toward that terrible doom, he feels it in front of him all the time.”
C. Why is it important to let Jesus contradict you? Why should you obey even when you don’t understand or disagree?
If Jesus does not contradict us, He is only our errand boy or our secretary.
He is God and I am not. He knows everything and I don’t. His character has been proven again and again. He never changes-He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
D. Is there an area we could pray for you to better obey?
For pride to not get in the way and to not be critical of others who have different ways of doing things. The last part of the Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi
Lord, seek that I may seek rather to comfort than be comforted, to understand, than to be understood; to love, than to be loved, for it is by self-forgetting that one finds it is by forgiving that one is forgiven, It is by dying that one awakens to eternal life.
E. Just as Jesus had many things to do, there was one thing always on His mind. What was it? How does Keller suggest we apply this to our own walk?
Jesus is always thinking about his death, and he’s always thinking about us, and he’s always got it on his heart.
Misty Edwards’s lyrics to “Always on my mind”
Though I’m poor and needy, the Lord thinks upon me Though His name is Holy, I’m always on His mind – I’m always on His mind Though I’m weak and lowly, the Lord thinks about me Though He’s high and lofty, I’m always on His mind – I’m always on His mind For I’m in love with God And God’s in love with me.
We need to always reflect on the meaning of Jesus’ sacrifice and keep it in the forefront of our minds. Then we can forgive, we can ask for forgiveness and be forgiven, no self-loathing as He died for you. You are always prepared to either be brought down or lifted up if you really understand the meaning of Jesus’ sacrifice.
109 comments
1. How have you experienced His presence this week through His Word, His Spirit, His people, or His Creation?
I really loved last week’s sermon, and also the talk by Mike Reeves I listened to on Richard Sibbes. Listening to both gave me a much needed reset of my mind and heart to focus not so much on “doctrine”, but just the enjoyment of the beauty and lavishness of God’s goodness and character. Sometimes I need an “intellectual break”, and an appeal to the senses and emotions does a lot for me! This morning in church at our adult forum, we discussed the poetry of George Herbert, who was an Anglican priest, and who worked out his own faith, with its joys and struggles, through his poetry. Much of it is way over my head, but there were a few lines that resonated with me.
2. What stood out to you from the opening? Could you identify? Explain.
It is a moment for pause to think about our younger selves. Interestingly, this summer, a few of our church members are giving short talks with the theme: what would you say to your younger self? At first glance, I can think of what I’d say, what with my much more mature self today, to the younger me. But then I think, I still have a long way to go in maturity and wisdom. I agree with Keller in that even thinking that NOW I have it altogether isn’t really true, either! I am interested in learning what these two events in John have in common, because I don’t know the answer to that one!
I love all the people you mentioned, Susan, including George Herbert. Have you heard his song “Sometimes A Light Surprises?” A favorite of mine.
Thank you all for praying for my 3 talks here where I live. I think they went well, and sensed the Lord, though disappointed that many of the unbelieving pickleball players did not come back — could tell from their faces what I was saying was hard. I have been invited to a cocktail party they are having (invited before they heard me) and will go, and need prayer for that!!!
I will be praying for the hearts of all that heard you, whether they came back or not. Jesus may be speaking to them. I will also be praying for you as you go to the cocktail party. I think it is a good thing to do. Let us all know when it is….I will start praying now! Praying for a lovely surprise from Jesus!
You are so dear, Patti. Thursday from 4 to 9 but no way I can stay that long!
Yipes…that is a long time. I will pray. That would be out of my comfort zone…
Though that must’ve been hard to see uncomfortable expressions on their faces and that they didn’t come back, you must have said the right things. Jesus made people uncomfortable, too. Perhaps more will come up in conversation at the cocktail party. I will be praying about that. Who knows….maybe one or two will want to speak with you one-on-one.
Thanks so much Susan and Patti!
1. How have you experienced His presence this week through His Word, His Spirit, His people, or His creation? This study has really given me a deeper sense of the Majesty and Glory of God. His mercies are new every morning, in my life. I have prayed that whatever He asks of me, that I will accept it and glorify Him through it. Some days I feel overwhelmed I don’t know how to do the day. Yet, somedays I get such a “kiss from the King”, I am in tears of appreciation! one kiss: I found a little bird nest that fell out of the tree after the little birds abandoned it. When I had been brushing my dogs a few weeks earlier, I saw the birds picking up some of the thick white tufts of sheltie fur. The nest that I found was lined with the fur from my dogs. I thought how wonderful God is that the birds He created, used the mown grass, sprigs of flower stems, broken twigs and sheltie fur for this beautiful nest they created for their babies until they could fly. Matthew 6:26
2. What stood out to you from the opening? Could you identify? Explain. I loved the opening and your words about Tim Keller being so humble and exalting Christ always, and never himself. I also love that he said he is always seeing new things in the scriptures. I agree that I have much more trust in a humble man than a proud one. I constantly feel that I see each scripture in a new way by being part of this study. Each one of you contribute ways of seeing and reading the scriptures, that I had never seen or thought of before. It makes each study so rich. I really love The Parable of the Wine, as it was like peeling back layers of an onion, and seeing something that you had no idea was there. It changed my perspective on so many parts of the story….gave it so much depth and made me very emotional and appreciative. I keep seeing in my mind that clip from The Chosen and Jesus’s reflection in the water turning to wine in the stone jars.
Love the bird nests made of sheltie hair!
Patti, just love the sweet nest you found with your dogs fur. I watched a video of birds plucking fur out of a deer who was sitting so still in letting them do it…God’s creatures are so amazing!
Sunday
1. How have you experienced His presence this week through His Word, His Spirit, His people, or His creation?
This past week was VBS at our church and the theme was Keepers of the Kingdom/Armor of God from Answers in Genesis, Ken Ham. It was one of the best I have been a part of as I learned from the portion I taught and what others taught as well. I definitely experienced His Word, Spirit, His people and creation and the icing on the cake was 5 kids prayed the prayer of salvation…2 being my grandsons!
2. What stood out to you from the opening? Could you identify? Explain.
In Keller’s sermons, he’ll often humbly say: “I’ve preached on this before but I didn’t see this until recently…”
I love this…such a humble person. I experienced this last week in VBS and continue to here in Dee’s blog! I pray I continue to have a teachable spirit and a pliable heart.
What a blessing at VBS with 5 kids praying the prayer of salvation, Sharon! And your grandsons being 2 of them. God is so good! I agree with your prayer to have a teachable spirit and a pliable heart. Amen
How exciting about VBS — and two grandsons! What a terrific week!
1. How have you experienced His presence this week through His Word, His Spirit, His people, or His creation? A year ago #2 son and husband had quite a rift between them. Son just left after being here for almost 2 hours. Son is also back in church and getting involved at his church. That is all God And I thank Him and praise Him.
2. What stood out to you from the opening? Could you identify? Explain. Your pointing out that Tim Keller would humbly admit to new understanding of scripture. I’m thankful for Bible teachers who are willing to do that just as Dee had second printing of her book changed after new Insight. It also makes me see not to be firm that I understand a passage when there is still more to understand the many layers of Bible passages. I decided this week my word also should have been emptied this year.
What a wonderful Praise, Judy. So thankful that your son is back at church and came to visit. That is huge.
Praising God that your son is back in church and for his visit 😊
Wonderful about #2 son!
What do you learn from John 20:30-31 about:
A. The signs of Jesus? There were many other signs in presence of disciples not recorded in John s book
B. What was John’s purpose in writing His particular gospel? How might that have affected which particular events he chose to include? That we may believe Jesus is the Messiah. He would have chosen miracles supporting Jesus true identity as Savior
4. Read John 2:1-12
A. Keller says Jesus often answers people with non-sequiturs. How do you see this in John 2:3-4? I looked up definition of non sequitur again and still don’t understand meaning. Jesus responded to Mary’s statement. She was talking about the immediate need at the wedding Jesus was responding from the long view of the cost He would pay as the Bridegroom for His bride
B. Yet though His answer would have been confusing to most, it was not to Mary for she knew things about Jesus the others did not yet know for certain. What did she know about Him and how did she know it? (Draw from Luke 1-2 if you need to.) she knew He was the Son of the God, that He would sit on David s throne, that shepherds, had been told He was the Messiah. He was filled with wisdom, God s grace was on Him. That He never sinned.
C. Are you able to explain how this miracle showed the purpose for Jesus coming to earth? Jesus took water poured into ceremonial washing jars and turned it into wine. The old way of doing things was gone. Jesus at this moment of joy realized the cost of giving us the New Covenant and did it anyway. New wine wouldn’t be poured into old wine skins. He came to pay the price for us to have an intimate relationship with the Father to have joy and life in abundance.
5. Challenge Question. Give a few examples (perhaps with help from Exodus or Leviticus) of God giving a command with the only explanation as being: “I AM the Lord your God.” God told Moses IAM THAT I AM and to tell the Israelites that I AM has sent him. Ex 3:14
1. How have you experienced His presence this week through His Word, His Spirit, His people, or His creation?
Wow, this past week has been a wild ride for me. I’m trying to finish school and grading and grading and grading to course complete students. I mentioned before that a colleague had surgery and the team has taken on her work as well as our own. I also have a colleague who retired, and is really my only “friend” at school. So, Friday was emotional, as it was her last day. My husband has taken on much of the home responsibility these past two weeks, and I am grateful for that.
Yesterday, we went to church. I worried that I would not be able to complete all I needed to for work before today (Monday), as it is my last day for the year. I even thought about not attending…I casually asked Grace what she learned in children’s church. I didn’t think she would say much, however oh, how I was wrong! She recanted the entire story of the prodigal son to a tee! Details and all! I was blown away 😉. I’m glad we didn’t skip church and I’m so glad we have an excellent program for the kids at our church. Thank You Lord Jesus!
2. What stood out to you from the opening? Could you identify? Explain.
I never would have thought the two stories had a link, so I am intrigued to see how this plays out.
Great story of obedience yielding fruit!
3. What do you learn from John 20:30-31 about:
A. The signs of Jesus?
Jesus did many signs in the presence of his disciples which were not recorded. John chose certain signs to record so that people may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing, they may have life in Him.
B. What was John’s purpose in writing his particular gospel? How might that have affected which particular events he chose to include?
John’s purpose was to write down certain signs/miracles of Jesus that particularly point to His divinity as the Son of God and the Messiah, so that others might come to put their faith in Him. John chose particular events that would emphasize the fact that Jesus wasn’t a mere man, another religious leader, but very God and the One who possesses eternal life and can give that life to others.
4. Read John 2:1-12
A. Keller says Jesus often answers people with non-sequiturs. How do you see this in John 2:3-4?
Jesus’ mother says to him that they have no more wine. Jesus answers somewhat brusquely, saying what do I have to do with you? My hour has not yet come. Mary asks about wine, and Jesus’ answer is about his “hour”, or his death.
B. Yet though his answer would have been confusing to most, it was not to Mary, for she knew things about Jesus the others did not yet know for certain. What did she know about Him and how did she know it? (Draw from Luke 1-2 if you need to)
The angel Gabriel, a direct messenger from God, came to Mary and told her, an as yet unmarried woman, that she would miraculously conceive a child with the help of the Holy Spirit. This child she was to name Jesus, and He would be the very Son of God, the One who would reign over the house of Jacob forever – in this, God was fulfilling His promise to King David that one of his descendants would sit on the throne forever. After Jesus was born, some shepherds came to see Him, and they told Mary and Joseph about how angels had appeared to them and said to them that a Savior had been born to them. Mary stored all these things in her heart. When they had Jesus circumcised, Simeon gave Mary a rather cryptic message, telling her that her child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and that a sword would also pierce her heart. She also remembered how Jesus stayed behind in the Temple at the age of 12, and how everyone was amazed at his knowledge, and he said to his parents that he had to be in his Father’s house. So the shepherds, also the Magi, Simeon, Anna, and even her cousin Elizabeth’s greeting when Mary visited her all confirmed what Gabriel had told her about her child.
C. Are you able to explain how this miracle showed the purpose for Jesus coming to earth?
From Keller’s sermon last week, I would say that Jesus did not come to perpetuate all the religious rules, observances, and rituals, such as the ritual of ceremonial washing for purification. That would’ve made him just another religious teacher, telling people what they must do to get God to accept them. The problem was that all of these observances could not make a person right with God. Jesus used ceremonial jars for washing to make wine out of water. He was showing a new way by this miracle. In The Chosen, Thomas is absolutely stunned when he realizes what Jesus has done, and wants to follow Him. Jesus wanted people to put their faith in Him, not in their own rule keeping and rituals, because He was the One who would reconcile people to God through His blood. Keller emphasized the joy in this. Our attempting to keep the rules does not give us joy. Resting in what Jesus has done for us does give us joy; it is His joy and He gives it to us.
3. What do you learn from John 20:30-31 about:
A. The signs of Jesus?
They were miraculous and there were many more that weren’t recorded. The ones written were recorded so that we would continue to believe and have power in His Name.
B. What was John’s purpose in writing His particular gospel? How might that have affected which particular events he chose to include?
As I said above, for us to continue in our beliefs.
I would think he would have selected the most important ones to record.
4. Read John 2:1-12
A. Keller says Jesus often answers people with non-sequiturs. How do you see this in John 2:3-4?
He answers (in the ESV) with a question, basically, what does it have to do with me? In the NLT, is says something like, that’s not our problem. I’m not following that it’s a “non-sequitur,” although that term is still new to me. It does seem to be an answer to the statement Mary makes though, not something that is out of place.
The next part might be the non-sequitur, I suppose? He says it isn’t His time yet. What does His time have to do with running out of wine?
B. Yet though His answer would have been confusing to most, it was not to Mary for she knew things about Jesus the others did not yet know for certain. What did she know about Him and how did she know it? (Draw from Luke 1-2 if you need to.)
Mary knew He would have to sacrifice for His people. She knew He was One God sent to save His people. She knew He would not be “hers” forever.
C. Are you able to explain how this miracle showed the purpose for Jesus coming to earth?
Yes, He used the ceremonial washing vases (old, rigid, laws) to turn the water into wine (re-newed, fine and spiritual). He came to get rid of the old laws and to have people understand that love is the most important thing. Love God and love people.
His time had not come, in that He had to begin the clock at some point. He doesn’t seem sure that this is the time when it should begin though (to me). It’s almost like He is trying to reconcile this idea in His discussion with Mary.
I think, Laura, but could be wrong, that Keller called it a non-sequitur because to other people answering her request with “My time has not yet come” would make no sense, but it did to her. As Keller said, she had already been a part of so many miracles — and she simply trusted him. Did she know he had come to die? Perhaps. I don’t know that for sure.
Monday
3. What do you learn from John 20:30-31 about:
A. The signs of Jesus?
That He preformed many other miraculous signs in addition to the ones recorded in the book of John.
B. What was John’s purpose in writing His particular gospel?
That we may continue to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and by believing in Him we will have life by the power of His name.
How might that have affected which particular events he chose to include?
I wonder if the events John chose to record helped him in his belief or faith and through them found power in the name of Jesus.
4. Read John 2:1-12
A. Keller says Jesus often answers people with non-sequiturs. How do you see this in John 2:3-4?
Jesus’s response to His mother didn’t logically follow what she was talking about.
B. Yet though His answer would have been confusing to most, it was not to Mary for she knew things about Jesus the others did not yet know for certain. What did she know about Him and how did she know it? (Draw from Luke 1-2 if you need to.)
She was told by Gabriel she would give birth to a son, and would name Him Jesus. He will be great and called the Son of the Most High. He will be given the throne of David. Reign over Israel forever; His kingdom will never end. Even though she was virgin she was told the Holy Spirit would overshadow her so the baby to be born would be holy. Elizabeth told Mary that God had blessed her above all woman after the baby inside of her leaped with joy and asked why she was so honored that the mother of my Lord should visit her. She knew through what the shepherds said when Jesus was born, the prophecy of Anna and His response to Mary when He went missing…she stored all these things in her heart.
C. Are you able to explain how this miracle showed the purpose for Jesus coming to earth?
Jesus knew His purpose in coming was to die on the cross for our sins and in doing so provided the blood/wine for the ultimate wedding as the Bridegroom to His bride, us/the church at His second coming.
5. Challenge Question. Give a few examples (perhaps with help from Exodus or Leviticus) of God giving a command with the only explanation as being: “I AM the Lord your God.”
Leviticus 11:44…telling the people to sanctify themselves and not define themselves with any manner of creeping thing because I Am the Lord your God.
Leviticus 19:3…every man fear his mother and father and keep My sabbaths because I Am the Lord your God.
The creeping thing verse is interesting as you do wonder why — but that reason is enough!
3. What do you learn from John 20:30-31 about:
A. The signs of Jesus? There were many signs that Jesus performed when He was with His disciples that are not mentioned in the Gospel of John.
B. What was John’s purpose in writing His particular gospel? How might that have affected which particular events he chose to include? John’s purpose in writing this gospel is to show that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, so that many would believe and have life in His Name. John probably showed the miracles that would speak to hearts and bring those who read of these miracles to believe in Jesus.
4. Read John 2:1-12
A. Keller says Jesus often answers people with non-sequiturs. How do you see this in John 2:3-4? Jesus is not responding to Mary’s comment directly. He is speaking of His future ministry and His death on the cross.
B. Yet though His answer would have been confusing to most, it was not to Mary for she knew things about Jesus the others did not yet know for certain. What did she know about Him and how did she know it? (Draw from Luke 1-2 if you need to.) Mary knew what Jesus had come to do and she did not question His response, as she understood His meaning. Mary had been told by the angel, Gabriel, that she would conceive and bear a son, who will be called Jesus and He will be the Son of the Most High. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever.
C. Are you able to explain how this miracle showed the purpose for Jesus coming to earth? The jars of ceremonial water represent the Old Covenant. Jesus changed that. He became the new covenant, the perfect sacrifice for our sins, for the cleansing ceremony had become no more than a ritual. The rules were out, the new Ruler is in. The gift of the Bridegroom to His bride replaces the old ways. The water then becomes wine representing the blood of Jesus that He would shed on the cross. He is the Bridegroom and He took on all of our sin; He was the pure and innocent Lamb of God. Even His Father in heaven had to look away, because He carried our sin on Him and took our punishment for us. When we give our lives over to Him, we are His bride for eternity.
5. Challenge Question. Give a few examples (perhaps with help from Exodus or Leviticus) of God giving a command with the only explanation as being: “I AM the Lord your God.” Exodus 3:6: ” I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob. “Exodus 3:14 ” I AM WHO I AM ….Thus you shall say to the sons of Israel, ‘I Am has sent me to you.’ ” Exodus 20:2 ” I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.” Leviticus 11:45: “For I am the Lord who brought you up from the land of Egypt to be your God; thus you shall be holy, for I am holy.” Joel 2:27 Thus you will know that I am in the midst of Israel, And that I am the Lord your God, And there is no other.”
Sunday: The Presence
1. How have you experienced His presence this week through His Word, His Spirit, His people, or His creation?
—As I look back over my week I realize God’s Word was rich in my life through the daily devotional readings I currently use and the daily Bible study of this blog and attending the Women’s Tuesday morning Bible study at my church and the especially good bible teaching being preached on the book of Acts by our pastor. His Spirit has been faithful to encourage and guide through each of those mediums. And I have been blessed with some great interaction with several godly people in my life. And this week I have intentionally spent some time outside and barefoot in our back yard. We have the pleasure of having beautiful bluegrass that is watered by sprinklers but God has graciously sent us some rain so this is an especially pretty time of year.
It was a good week of just walking daily with the Lord and experiencing simple joys.
2. What stood out to you from the opening? Could you identify? Explain.
—“In truth, Paul tells us, in this life, we see through “a glass darkly” and that dark glass will not be removed until we see Him face to face. Therefore, we must walk humbly with our Lord and with one another.” The italics are mine.
This Scripture makes me think of
Micah 6:8 “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
Even though many of the things in this life feel so clouded by troubles and circumstances as I learn to walk humbly before God and trust his Omniscience I find security and encouragement.
You are in a lot of good teaching!
Such a good reminder, Bev: Even though many of the things in this life feel so clouded by troubles and circumstances as I learn to walk humbly before God and trust his Omniscience I find security and encouragement.
A. What time is mentioned in verse 13? Why might John have included this? Almost time for Jewish Passover It would indicate a lot of people were in Jerusalem and why there would be a lot of money changers
B. How is this a different side of Jesus than we saw at the wedding banquet? Find several things. Business was being done compared to a wedding celebration. Jesus reaction was anger and brought stress vs Jesus reaction was surrender and brought joy. He made whips vs wine. Scattered money vs no money is mentioned. He brought correction about His Father s house vs He opened door to the future wedding feast.
C. For what purpose were the animals and doves being sold? What did God want His people to understand when they sacrificed an animal? Animal sacrifices. That it was to be payment for their sin. Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sin.
D. What prophecy did the disciples remember and why might this add light? Zeal for Your house will consume me. It was another confirmation that Jesus was the Messiah.
7. Read John 2:18-25
A. What did the Jews immediately demand? They wanted a sign to prove His authority.
B. Why might Jesus’ answer have seemed like a non-sequitur? The Jews were looking for a new right now sign. Jesus response was speaking of the future when He would die and 3 days later be resurrected.
C. What were the two responses people had to the miracles of Jesus? They believed in Him or they rejected Him
D. Why did Jesus not entrust Himself to man? Why should we take this to heart? Because man is fickle. I can buy something one week and wonder next week what I was thinking. Our faith and trust needs to be firmly in Jesus Christ. We can listen to others and consider what they say but the Ultimate Truth is in Christ and we must search the Bible and seek His wisdom not man’s wisdom.
Judy — I love that you applied the last question to yourself — our tendency is to apply it to others! And so true about shopping!
Sunday: The Presence
1. How have you experienced His presence this week through His Word, His Spirit, His people, or His creation?
This week, I have been thinking of my friends, Deb, Donna, and a few others battling with cancer. A former colleague is fighting a hard personal crisis and a former student lost her husband of less than a year. Enough sorrow to bring my spirit down. But God came and brought comfort and encouragement. through His:
Word- “My times are in your hands”. Psalm 31:15
Spirit- Inner peace that passes all understanding. And the renewing of my mind to think things that are “true, noble, pure, right, excellent. admirable” Philippians 4:8
People – meeting with 2 friends at a McDonald’s and having a drink and free-flowing conversations with no agenda but just to be together and laugh.
Creation little garden has started producing. I talk to my plants and tell them they are beautiful and have looked at my plants more closely and have seen and tasted (snow peas in a stir fry) the magnificent creation of God!
2. What stood out to you from the opening? Could you identify? Explain.
I agree with many here who are blessed with TK humility. He had a voracious appetite for digging deeper into truth and the Lord had graciously endowed him with the capacity to share it with others in an understandable way.
Dee, thank you so much! These lessons are such a treat to my soul and spirit!
Love the verses that brought you comfort and encouragement…keeping you in my prayers😊
We are enjoying our garden’s produce too…zucchini, yellow squash and cucumbers. Yes, His creation is magnificent!
5. Challenge Question. Give a few examples (perhaps with help from Exodus or Leviticus) of God giving a command with the only explanation as being: “I AM the Lord your God.”
“If you obey my decrees and my regulations, you will find life through them. I am the Lord.”
Leviticus 18:5 NLT
“I will bring you into the land I swore to give to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. I will give it to you as your very own possession. I am the Lord!’””
Exodus 6:8 NLT
6. Read John 2: 13-17
A. What time is mentioned in verse 13? Why might John have included this?
It was the Jewish Passover. Well, that was a Holy time for the Jewish people. They traveled to Jerusalem to celebrate, so many people would be there at that time.
B. How is this a different side of Jesus than we saw at the wedding banquet? Find several things.
Jesus is angry! He is never angry. Instead of water to wine in celebration, He makes a whip! He destroys the tables and chases the livestock. He is disgusted with the behavior.
C. For what purpose were the animals and doves being sold? What did God want His people to understand when they sacrificed an animal?
They were being sold to sacrifice to God. There was commitment made to God when a sacrifice was made. It was a promise of sorts. It honored Him and His protection of the Israelites in Egypt.
D. What prophecy did the disciples remember and why might this add light?
They remembered from Psalms:
“Passion for your house has consumed me, and the insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.”
Psalms 69:9 NLT
The scripture predicts that the person speaking (Jesus) will defend the House of the Lord (the temple) with zest.
Monday: The Context
3. What do you learn from John 20:30-31 about:
A. The signs of Jesus?
—He performed many miracles in the presence of his disciples that are not recorded.
B. What was John’s purpose in writing His particular gospel?
—To show us Jesus was the Son of God and God the Son. He represented God to us in all He did and how he lived while on earth on the flesh.
How might that have affected which particular events he chose to include?
—Jesus showed the heart and mind of God in all he did. In John 14:9 He says “He who has seen Me has seen the Father”
4. Read John 2:1-12
A. Keller says Jesus often answers people with non-sequiturs. How do you see this in John 2:3-4?
—He dismissed the question about the wine and informed Mary that his hour had not yet come.
B. Yet though His answer would have been confusing to most, it was not to Mary for she knew things about Jesus the others did not yet know for certain. What did she know about Him and how did she know it? (Draw from Luke 1-2 if you need to.)
—Mary knew Jesus was destined to be the Messiah and that God’s hand was clearly on him through her own experience of his miraculous conception and the events surrounding his birth. Also there were many affirmations early on of him and what had been prophesied about him by Simeon and Anna.
After 3 days of searching and then finding Jesus in the temple talking with and astonishing the teachers there Luke 2:51-52 includes a comment about Mary. “Then he went down with them and came to Nazareth and was obedient to them. His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and with people.”
C. Are you able to explain how this miracle showed the purpose for Jesus coming to earth?
—The water jars for ritual cleansing represented religion and man’s attempts and need for cleansing from sin but Jesus came and brought new wine which represented his blood which would once for all cleanse sin for anyone accepting and believing in Him. The wine also represented the joy that would be for Jesus after he accomplished his mission of being the perfect sacrifice for sin.
7. Read John 2:18-25
A. What did the Jews immediately demand?
They demanded a miraculous sign to prove He was sent from God.
B. Why might Jesus’ answer have seemed like a non-sequitur?
I guess because they were probably thinking of something smaller, like making a dove disappear (?) or making Himself hover, yet Jesus takes on the humongous temple instead.
C. What were the two responses people had to the miracles of Jesus?
Are you speaking generally here? Shock and amazement I suppose?
D. Why did Jesus not entrust Himself to man? Why should we take this to heart?
Because man is not trustworthy. We think of ourselves first, not others. He looked to God for His help. He modeled for us. We should do the same.
Monday: The Context
3. What do you learn from John 20:30-31 about:
A. The signs of Jesus?
There are many other signs that Jesus performed but were not included in John’s writing.
B. What was John’s purpose in writing His particular gospel? How might that have affected which particular events he chose to include?
…that you may believe[b] that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
That these events are enough to meet his purpose.
4. Read John 2:1-12
A. Keller says Jesus often answers people with non-sequiturs. How do you see this in John 2:3-4?
Mary told Jesus about a social faux pas in their time. No more wine at the wedding. Jesus responded about His hour had not yet come.
B. Yet though His answer would have been confusing to most, it was not to Mary for she knew things about Jesus the others did not yet know for certain. What did she know about Him and how did she know it? (Draw from Luke 1-2 if you need to.)
The message from the angel Gabriel that she would conceive is the Son of God. Her visit to Elizabeth and Elizabeth addressing her as the mother of her Lord. Did Mary hear Zechairah’s song? The message of the shepherds about what was said of Jesus by the angels. She pondered all these things in her heart. The meeting with Simeon and Anna at the temple. His conversations with the teachers at the temple.
I wonder if Mary had flashbacks of Jesus’ 33 years as she looks at her son being crucified on the cross. Did she finally fully understand who Jesus is? Did most of her past ponderings come to clarity?
C. Are you able to explain how this miracle showed the purpose for Jesus coming to earth?
The miracle gave a glimpse of the way Jesus, with His coming to earth, would usher a new way of relating to God. No more of the old way of ceremonial washing to enter God’s presence. His blood, (not the blood of animals) will wash away, once and for all who receive Him, all our sins.
5. Challenge Question. Give a few examples (perhaps with help from Exodus or Leviticus) of God giving a command with the only explanation as being: “I AM the Lord your God.”
“I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.
“You shall have no other gods before[a] me. Exodus 20:2-3
I believe this is the most important command that I need to heed. No other God, lover, or idol. The God I serve is also the Lord of my life.
“For I am the Lord, I do not change; Therefore you are not consumed, O sons of Jacob… Return to Me, and I will return to you,” Says the Lord of hosts. Malachi 3:6, 7b
This promise is always for my taking. When I return to God, He will always be there to welcome me back.
Interesting Bing:
“I wonder if Mary had flashbacks of Jesus’ 33 years as she looks at her son being crucified on the cross. Did she finally fully understand who Jesus is? Did most of her past ponderings come to clarity?”
Bing — Mary knew much more than the disciples — so those are good questions. Perhaps she thought of Simeon’s prophecy that a sword would pierce her soul.
Tuesday
6. Read John 2: 13-17
A. What time is mentioned in verse 13?
The Passover of the Jews was at hand.
Why might John have included this?
To give a timeline. Was this Jesus’s first of 4 Passovers after His first miracle?
The reason for going to Jerusalem and the temple.
B. How is this a different side of Jesus than we saw at the wedding banquet? Find several things.
He’s disgusted with the defilement of the temple. Instead of making water turn to wine He’s making a whip of cords. He’s driving people, sheep and oxen out of the temple, pouring out the coins of the money changers and turning over tables rather than celebrating.
C. For what purpose were the animals and doves being sold?
Sacrifices
What did God want His people to understand when they sacrificed an animal?
That they were being cleansed of their sins.
D. What prophecy did the disciples remember and why might this add light?
“Then his disciples remembered this prophecy from the Scriptures: “Passion for God’s house will consume me.””
It added light as to why He responded the way He did!
Sharon — I’m just curious because you are so grounded. Did you understand that Jesus grief was over their not understanding the holiness of sacrifice? I know I thought it was that they were disregarding the holiness of the Temple but had really connected it to the sacrifice — and then to what would be His ultimate sacrifice.
Thanks for explaining that Dee…went right over my head!!
Thank you for this clarification, Dee. It is a hard passage to sort out.
8. Listen for about the first 13 minutes when he begins to give the example of Job.
A. What stands out to you after listening and why?
The opposites stand out:
Party maker – party pooper
Quiet – loud
Adding to life – taking away
Requested – barges in
Joy – weeping
Comforts – disturbs
and now we will find out his the two events are the same….
Tuesday
7. Read John 2:18-25
A. What did the Jews immediately demand?
A miraculous sign to prove that God gave Him authority to do what He did.
B. Why might Jesus’ answer have seemed like a non-sequitur?
His reply of “destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up,” didn’t logically follow their demand.
C. What were the two responses people had to the miracles of Jesus?
What was He doing and many began to trust Him
D. Why did Jesus not entrust Himself to man?
Because He knows what’s in each person’s heart.
Why should we take this to heart?
This reminded me of the idol of approval in my life…God’s approval is completely trustworthy, He wants what’s best for me and so it should be of upmost importance not seeking the approval of man which can be superficial and fickle.
As I read the above I have to scratch my head and wonder…why is man’s approval so important to me…still working the stronghold of this idol!
So true of me too, Sharon! I am still working on my idols too! As I read the above I have to scratch my head and wonder…why is man’s approval so important to me…still working the stronghold of this idol!
Sharon and Patti, I am glad to be here today. I have been squirming over a few happenings in my life lately and I have been restless and couldn’t put a finger on it. I think the enemy is trying to distract my attention from finding out the truth. And that is as you have said, ” As I read the above I have to scratch my head and wonder…why is man’s approval so important to me…still working the stronghold of this idol!” Reading your comments here felt like a smack on my forehead, duh! The sin underneath the sin. My idol of approval is still very much singing its siren call. Thanks for sharing! I feel God opening my eyes to reveal this to me and therefore can repent of it and seek God’s help for me to turn to Him and no one or nothing else.
Wow Sharon like Patti and Bing this really resonates with me too. “This reminded me of the idol of approval in my life…God’s approval is completely trustworthy, He wants what’s best for me ….why is man’s approval so important to me…still working the stronghold of this idol!”
Really appreciate your thoughts
6. Read John 2: 13-17
A. What time is mentioned in verse 13? Why might John have included this? This took place during the time of Passover. All the Jewish men were required to celebrate in Jerusalem, so there would be many coming to the Temple.
B. How is this a different side of Jesus than we saw at the wedding banquet? Find several things. Jesus was angry. He was making His presence known. He was showing His authority, not acting quietly.
C. For what purpose were the animals and doves being sold? What did God want His people to understand when they sacrificed an animal? The animals were being sold as sacrifices and they were in the Temple. They were desecrating the Temple by making it a place of business.
D. What prophecy did the disciples remember and why might this add light? “Zeal for your house will consume me.” Jesus was concerned for the purity of the worship and the temple. The merchants were “using” this circumstance to “gouge” the people for the sacrificial animals they were selling.
7. Read John 2:18-25
A. What did the Jews immediately demand? They demanded a sign for Jesus to show His authority for driving them out.
B. Why might Jesus’ answer have seemed like a non-sequitur? When Jesus answer them with “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up”, it did not seem a logical answer to their question.
C. What were the two responses people had to the miracles of Jesus? Many believed in His name and the signs and miracles He was doing. The enemies of Jesus plotted His death.
D. Why did Jesus not entrust Himself to man? Why should we take this to heart? Man likes the entertainment aspect of Jesus. Man likes the one who is popular and can do something for him. Though many believed His miracles, they may have moved on and forgotten soon enough. Jesus understood the fragility of mankind and He knew who He was, the Son of God. Those who trusted in Christ and were His true disciples, wanted to know Him as a Savior not an entertainer. We, as Christians, may be treated like we are a bit daft to know and want Jesus as our Savior, but we trust in Him as Father God and that is a big difference. It does not matter in our eternity, whether others can see Him clearly, but it matters a great deal in their eternity.
Patti — I’m sure, in the Pacific Northwest as in Door County people see us as “a bit daft!”
🙂
8. Listen for about the first 13 minutes when he begins to give the example of Job.
A. What stands out to you after listening and why? I loved that Keller brought out that sometimes Jesus answers our prayers and puts everything together; other times He turns over your table, throws everything on the ground and messes it up. He does not tell you why, but He has the authority of Who He is and He has a purpose in what He does and the Glory of what He brings. We don’t always understand it, even in our lifetime.
B. What does Keller say are the two most important words linking these two events? (Verse 12) His Authority
C. How do both events show the authority of Jesus? He demonstrated the authority of who He is; The purpose of What He does and The Glory of what He brings.
D. What did you learn about the word for “cords.” Significance? The word for cords is “rushes”. He made a whip of soft grasses, swishy reeds; nothing that would harm anyone, almost a miracle. People sensed His authority and instinctively left the temple. Loved these thoughts from Keller.
E. When God has overturned your tables, have you backed away from Him or pressed in? Why? This has given me so much to think about! Wow! I have pressed in to Him! I have been devastated and questioned why, but I am realizing that pressing in helps me follow Him and His will. He does not need to give me a reason! Of course He doesn’t! He is my Lord, Father, King and Bridegroom. He knows the best path for me, in order to give Him the ultimate glory.
8. Listen for about the first 13 minutes when he begins to give the example of Job.
A. What stands out to you after listening and why? Whip was made of rushes would never hurt anyone. It was His presence that was the authority. Some way the people understood that this man they knew little about had the authority to clear God s temple. I think I forget at times to focus that God and Jesus have all the authority. Come what may, they have the ultimate authority.
B. What does Keller say are the two most important words linking these two events? (Verse 12) After this Surface look at 2 events they are different but they are showing the same thing Jesus authority
C. How do both events show the authority of Jesus? The power and authority to change things He changed water to wine. He drove all out of the temple courts. He had the authority to bring the New covenant doing away with the old ways.
D. What did you learn about the word for “cords.” Significance? The Greek word for cords is rushes The cords would not have hurt anyone. So the effect of the cords were so much greater than the wimpy cords themselves.
E. When God has overturned your tables, have you backed away from Him or pressed in? Why? I cried, pled for understanding and help but eventually pressed in
Love this, Judy: So the effect of the cords were so much greater than the wimpy cords themselves.
I have had thoughts about Jesus as a pacifist — because of Sermon on the Mount calling for non-resistance and episodes like this. Reading a book about pacifists hiding 5,000 Jewish children in a village in France during W W II.
Tuesday: The Text
6. Read John 2: 13-17
A. What time is mentioned in verse 13? Why might John have included this?
Time for the Jewish Passover. Perhaps to show that Jesus is obedient to the requirements of the law?
B. How is this a different side of Jesus than we saw at the wedding banquet? Find several things.
He made a whip out of cords. He drove all merchants from the temple courts and both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables; he told those who sold doves to get out of the temple and told them to stop making His father’s house into a market.
Jesus turned the water into wine without being noticed except for the servants who followed Mary’s and Jesus’ instructions. At the temple, He was like in-your-face action!
C. For what purpose were the animals and doves being sold? What did God want His people to understand when they sacrificed an animal?
The animals were used for profit and gain. Animal sacrifice was a holy ceremony as part of their fathers’ traditions.
D. What prophecy did the disciples remember and why might this add light?
“Zeal for your house will consume me.” Jesus is showing the people the truth about the Jewish Passover and not to be watered down by their own agenda.
7. Read John 2:18-25
A. What did the Jews immediately demand?
For Jesus to show a miraculous sign to confirm His authority.
B. Why might Jesus’ answer have seemed like a non-sequitur?
The teachers of the law asked for something related to the temple they could see but He answered referring to the temple (His body) which they couldn’t grasp.
C. What were the two responses people had to the miracles of Jesus?
People either believed in Him or scoffed at Him.
D. Why did Jesus not entrust Himself to man? Why should we take this to heart?
He knew what was in people’s hearts. We can be tempted to use Jesus for our gain.
Such a good point, Bing. He knew what was in people’s hearts. We can be tempted to use Jesus for our gain.
I liked that succinct comment from Bing as well.
Tuesday: The Text
6. Read John 2: 13-17
A. What time is mentioned in verse 13? Why might John have included this?
—The time of the Jewish Festival called Passover celebrating the exodus of the Jews from Egypt. It was about redemption from the bondage of being slaves to the Egyptians. As we saw in the meaning of Jesus turning the water in the stone jars to wine we see Jesus in going into the temple and cleansing it of the business people using it for their own gain and taking advantage of the people in their religious practices. He wanted people to be able to come freely and worship God.
B. How is this a different side of Jesus than we saw at the wedding banquet? Find several things.
—At the wedding He quietly performed the miracle and brought joy to many. In cleansing the Temple of sinful practice he had a zeal for the worship of God and made a strong exhibition of clearing everyone out by chasing out people and animals with a whip He made. Then throwing over money tables.
C. For what purpose were the animals and doves being sold?
—For people to buy and use as sacrifices.
What did God want His people to understand when they sacrificed an animal?
—That it represented the cleansing for their sin so they could be in relationship with God. It was the shed blood that He required for cleansing from sin. It wasn’t just a religious ritual for the sake of paying God off. It had to do with the heart of man in relationship with God.
D. What prophecy did the disciples remember and why might this add light?
—That it said in Psalm 69:9
“because zeal for your house has consumed me,……”
—Why this might add light is lost on me. Add light to what? It did speak to the fact the disciples knew the scriptures well and especially the Psalms. They were astute in the connection to Jesus and his actions.
7. Read John 2:18-25
A. What did the Jews immediately demand?
—They wanted to see a miracle. It would seem to me they wanted him to do something to “prove” himself as having any authority to drive out the money changers and the sellers of animals to be sacrificed.
B. Why might Jesus’ answer have seemed like a non-sequitur?
—His answer made no sense to them because they were thinking the Temple building when He was referring to his own body.
C. What were the two responses people had to the miracles of Jesus?
—It says many believed in his name when they saw the miracles. It would seem others were enthralled with the sensational side of what was happening.
D. Why did Jesus not entrust Himself to man? Why should we take this to heart?
—Jesus knew and still knows what is in the heart of people. He knows the flesh and its weaknesses and the deceits of hearts. People can appear to be something on the outside that they really aren’t on the inside. We need to be wise about people as well and be careful what we say to whom. Not every is trustworthy.
I have a close friend who is troubled by some actions she has heard about regarding a friend she had when they were new believers about 35 years ago. They spent a lot of time together in prayer and fellowship. This is what my friend said in an email to me this morning.
“I wonder, could she have walked away from Jesus? There is a captivating “high” that comes from worship. People are drawn to it like moths to a flame. I look back and wonder if she was just caught up in it.” I thought it was an insightful statement. Only Jesus knows the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Bev, what you shared about your friend (and her friend from 35 years ago) resonated with me. I am an emotional person (cried through Eva Cassidy’s Over the Rainbow rendition) and can get caught up in a high. The truth of His Word, the Bible, has often brought me to level ground. I know my feelings can lead me to the wrong actions. His truth though, as inspired by the Spirit. and a willing heart on my part, can correct me from going in the wrong direction.
Bev and Bing~ you both make such an important point that our “feelings” and “emotions” can grab us~ and sometimes charismatic leaders can draw worshipping people to them. If we don’t have The Truth of His Word in our hearts, the guidance of the Holy Spirit and an abiding personal relationship with Him, we may stray away from the Lord. We need to be watchful, discerning and pray about who we listen to and what we read.
Wednesday
8. Listen for about the first 13 minutes when he begins to give the example of Job.
A. What stands out to you after listening and why?
The fact that in these two stories Jesus is doing the same thing but in different ways…1)they both show us the authority of who He is, 2)the purpose of what He does and 3)the glory of what He brings.
B. What does Keller say are the two most important words linking these two events? (Verse 12)
”After this.”
C. How do both events show the authority of Jesus?
In the first event He shows His authority with the response to His mothers request, “it is not my hour.” As Keller says His authority is more muted here because He does what is expected.
In the second event His authority is much more obvious. It’s seen in His look, His being and His presence…not the whip. People knew instinctively that when He showed up He had the right to do what He did.
D. What did you learn about the word for “cords.” Significance?
“Cords” was a word for reeds, the same thing baskets were made of. It was the wimpiest of whips and couldn’t hurt anyone…the whip isn’t what made people run.
E. When God has overturned your tables, have you backed away from Him or pressed in? Why?My first reaction is to back away but then I remember His faithfulness, His sovereignty and His love and that’s when I press into Him.
“Because you are my helper, I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings. I cling to you; your strong right hand holds me securely.”
Psalms 63:7-8 NLT
Beautiful psalm, Sharon.
Sharon thank you for sharing the Psalm. I love that.
Amen to Bev and Dee. After I read this, I shared it with a sweet friend, who just lost her mom.
B. What does Keller say are the two most important words linking these two events? (Verse 12)
I’m not sure I’m following what the 2 “words” are; Keller says the two events are the wedding and the temple. He says John is linking them and talks about a chronology discussion at a later time. Verse 12 mentions that “…after this…”He and His mother, brothers, and disciples went to Capernaum. I’m guessing those are the words?
C. How do both events show the authority of Jesus?
They show that Jesus is in control. He is someone who is definitely different than others.
D. What did you learn about the word for “cords.” Significance?
The word “cords” actually means rushes. It is a weak whip, it won’t actually hurt anyone. It was used to make things like baskets or papyrus. I think it was a representation of what He would actually do for them, which is correct behavior in love. He was gentle, not dictatorial. He would help to make them into who they were meant to be, instead of who they thought they should become in life.
E. When God has overturned your tables, have you backed away from Him or pressed in? Why?
Probably both. When teens in our house misbehaved (badly), I first tried to control (myself), then gave up (ran to Him). When my dad was on his deathbed, ran to Him; allowed Him in. Having my babies, included Him first. When I was 16-25, I did not think of Him much. I lived a superficial life with no real meaning. Things happened in that life and I just kept living in this world. I now know what true life is because of Him.
When I didn’t include Him it’s because I thought I could handle it. I eventually got to a point where I knew I was failing and needed help. He was the one I knew I needed.
A former colleague, battling cancer, just passed this morning. She was genuinely a funny person and kept us all laughing about our profession. I don’t think she was very spiritual however, but I’m not sure. It’s making me think about our lives and why they might be important. As I was considering her yesterday, the thought came to my mind that she is lying in her bed, nearly done, and has no concern that the weather has been rain ALL YEAR so far. How the temperature for the first day of summer is COLD. All my musings and whining would be of no concern to someone who is ready to die. It kind of puts in in proportion, doesn’t it? I hope she was a believer. I hope she is with Jesus now. If it is my job only, to tell others of Jesus, have I done that job? I think I have in my profession, but if I’m honest, not always. There was a time I was more concerned about myself for sure. I think I have through my dancing. But not always. There was a time I danced for just me, and how I felt. This weekend I am helping with our VBS program by teaching k-5 dance, using Christian songs about God being our compass. Please pray that the kids will walk away remembering that He is our guide in all things.
I will say that I think my husband and I have helped teach our grandkids about God since they were born.
“After this”
Oh, Laura. How we all get so centered on things that are unimportant details… I so relate to this. While we are busy, your friend waits for her life her to be over. I pray that she knew Jesus. I will pray for the VBS kids to take the message of Who Jesus is, to heart.
Thank you and Sharon….I totally missed “After this”….
Thank you Patti, for praying. I learned from another friend that the deceased did hang around others who were more spiritual. I will attend the funeral and know more then.
Thursday
9. Listen up to minute 26 — just before he gets into the Lord of the Rings.
A. What stood out to you from the above and why?
God wants us to obey Him simply because of who He is. Just as Job must have bowed down and said, “You know what? If I could totally understand Him, He wouldn’t be worth totally obeying.” This was my realization when we lost our son.
B. How did God answer Job when he asked why his tables were overturned? Point?
”Surely the lightning consults with you before it decides where to strike, the way it does with Me.”
He is saying to Job, “Because I am God, I have the right to do this and you don’t.”
C. What was Keller’s point with the fiance calling off the wedding after her intended lost his money?
We can love God for what He gives us rather than for who He is…we just use Him.
D. Why did Keller believe Jesus was so upset with what was happening in the Temple?
The people didn’t see the meaning for the sacrifice. Because of all the hoopla going on in the temple they were distracted, no prayer was taking place and the motive became doing it out of duty rather than reflecting on the real meaning.
E. In the same way, when we approach worship mechanically instead of reflectively, how does that hurt our God?
We make it all about us rather than the person of Jesus Christ and what He did for us. When I approach worship mechanically, I become critical, my focus is either on me or others rather than Him and I know that must grieve Him as I have put other gods before Him…(I)dol worship.
Sharon your point in answer to E. is so good.
“When I approach worship mechanically, I become critical, my focus is either on me or others rather than Him and I know that must grieve Him as I have put other gods before Him…(I)dol worship.“
9. Listen up to minute 26 — just before he gets into the Lord of the Rings.
A. What stood out to you from the above and why? It is so important for us to be obedient to Him, because of Who He is. Love this from Keller about what Job might have thought: If God is so infinite and great, that I can be mad at Him for failing to rectify the world, He must be so infinite and that He has good reason to be doing what He is doing that is beyond my comprehension.
B. How did God answer Job when he asked why his tables were overturned? Point? “I would like you to obey me because of Who I Am and who you are.” Do we love and obey God for Who He is or for what He brings to us. If you are obeying Him if you know the reason, then you are not obeying Him at all. If you are obeying Him only for what He gives you, then you are using Him.
C. What was Keller’s point with the fiance calling off the wedding after her intended lost his money? Do we love God for Who He is or what He brings to us? It is a blow to God’s divinity, if we do not love Him for Who He Is. It is like we are saying it is not Him that we love, but what He can do for us….He loves us, but we do not want to honor His rules and directives for our lives. We want Him to do it our way.
D. Why did Keller believe Jesus was so upset with what was happening in the Temple? The holiness and importance of the sacrifice was lost, as the temple had the sense of being an “emporium”….bartering, buying and selling….it took the Holiness of worship away. Instead of a time of humility, reflective prayer, joy and worship of God, it became a meaningless ritual, focusing on getting in, doing your duty and getting out…..this animal represented a way to be spared… (It was like running into a church, tossing your money in the collection plate and running out to play golf…a meaningless gesture) They had no idea what it all meant, the need for a Savior and the substitution for their sins. They squeezed out communion with God; real reflection of the meaning of the substitutionary sacrifice.
Was Jesus imagining those who were at the foot of the cross gambling for His garments, as He sacrificed His life, in the worst way possible for our sins?
E. In the same way, when we approach worship mechanically instead of reflectively, how does that hurt our God? God feels “trampled upon”. If we approach God, for the habit of doing it and for the “ritual” of worship, instead of a deep and abiding relationship with God our Father, Creator of the Universe, with Jesus, the Son of God, we do not truly know Him as our Savior, our God. It is extremely important to realize that the biggest reason He asks us to obey Him, is just that : OBEY HIM, He is God.
The most important thing to realize is: I don’t know why He is doing this, but I know He has the right to do it. He is God.
Shocking statement: God is trampled upon.
Wednesday: Part 1 of the Sermon
8. Listen for about the first 13 minutes when he begins to give the example of Job.
A. What stands out to you after listening and why?
—Honestly the whole section. It is just so rich with teaching and insight. I don’t dare to start listing anything. You wouldn’t have time to read it. 😀
B. What does Keller say are the two most important words linking these two events? (Verse 12)
—after this. Those words put the 2 events of the wedding at Cana and the cleansing of the temple together.
C. How do both events show the authority of Jesus?
—This past week I read where the root word of authority is author so in relationship to Jesus He is the author of all things and therefore has authority over all things.
For me knowing He changed water into wine demonstrated that He was and is God the Creator and scripture verifies that. But in the context of him doing his first miracle at the wedding and responding to his mother as he did He was making it known he had come to change the old way of ritual cleansing for sin. This is the beautiful way that Bing said it
“The miracle gave a glimpse of the way Jesus, with His coming to earth, would usher a new way of relating to God. No more of the old way of ceremonial washing to enter God’s presence. His blood, (not the blood of animals) will wash away, once and for all who receive Him, all our sins.” I loved that.
Then with the Temple event I really liked the perspective that Keller brought to the authority of Jesus. In essence He said that it was the very presence of Jesus that demonstrated his authority and that people instinctively knew when He showed up that He had the right to do it. Keller said it was a manifestation of his glory. I would agree and say that both events were that. Both were statements about Who he was and why he had come and he came with authority.
D. What did you learn about the word for “cords.” Significance?
—This was a good reminder (which I had totally forgotten 🥴)
That the cords made from reeds and was simply a tool in his hand to get people and actually probably the animals in particular moving. I grew up here in central Nebraska and have seen and experienced how waving of arms or having something in your hands will shoo animals be it cattle, sheep, or chickens out of the way or in the direction you want. I do think this is one of the times when we see the humanity of Jesus at work in the practical yet as God the Son he could have removed everyone by the word of his mouth. Just like in the Garden of Gethsemane He could have called 10,000 angels. But Jesus revealed himself cleansing the temple enough that they “knew” he had authority.
E. When God has overturned your tables, have you backed away from Him or pressed in? Why?
—At my age there have been several times my life was turned upside down. My tendency is to run to Jesus not because I am super spiritual in any way but because I am needy in my personality. I am not naturally a good or quick decision maker and I don’t often launch out on my own. When any minor crises happens while others move quickly to resolve the problem I tend to stand in place and cry “Help!” But thankfully over the years as I have experienced the love and faithfulness of God I press into Him. I learned I need Him most of all.
What a beautiful testimony Bev and so encouraging…“At my age there have been several times my life was turned upside down. But thankfully over the years as I have experienced the love and faithfulness of God I press into Him. I learned I need Him most of all.”
Thursday: Part 2 of the Sermon
9. Listen up to minute 26 — just before he gets into the Lord of the Rings.
A. What stood out to you from the above and why?
—It was his story about Job and the mentality of demanding to know “why”. Keller’s comment “It is critical for us to obey God just because of Who he is before He tells us reasons, of course, He has reasons, but it is so absolutely critical to us spiritually to obey God because of Who he is.”
It is pretty much totally lost on mankind to worship and adore God just simply because of Who he really is. The ladies Bible study I’m part of at my church this summer is studying prayer and the last lesson was on Adoration. The challenge was to begin practicing prayer that only adores and praises God and asks nothing. To not make any petitions to him. We first looked at some of God’s attributes in preparation to pray prayers of adoration. How we see and worship Him first affects what we ask of Him.
B. How did God answer Job when he asked why his tables were overturned? Point?
—I’m not going to give you any reason. I’m just going to show you Who I am.
Keller said “And so , I think, Job must have bowed down and said, “You know what? If I could totally understand Him, He wouldn’t be worth obeying,”.
I think a big part of why God is of no value in the lives of many is because they have made Him a small god because they have made Him like man in their minds. He is actually incomprehensible to the human mind in the sense that we can figure Him out and what his ways are. He is to be adored and obeyed.
C. What was Keller’s point with the fiance calling off the wedding after her intended lost his money?
—It’s the way we treat God when we want to have the reasons behind what he does so we can know and then it becomes about our goals rather than accepting what he brings into our lives. It’s a blow to his divinity.
D. Why did Keller believe Jesus was so upset with what was happening in the Temple?
—Keller points out Jesus feels the blow to his divinity and in a sense to his humanity. He is a person and God has feelings. To use God for our own ends and demand answers from him flys in the face of him as our Creator and Redeemer. It’s extremely important to learn to love Him for Who he is.
E. In the same way, when we approach worship mechanically instead of reflectively, how does that hurt our God?
—As Keller said it squeezes out real communion with God and the real meaning of worship.
The lack of awe of Who God is destroys a meaningful interaction in worshipping Him. He wants us to know Him in all his glory and beauty and know how deeply he loves us. He’s angry and jealous for that love relationship.
Wednesday: Part 1 of the Sermon
8. Listen for about the first 13 minutes when he begins to give the example of Job.
A. What stands out to you after listening and why?
Party maker vs party pooper; private vs. public; adding vs subtracting. He was requested, asked in; he intrudes, he intervenes; Laughter vs weeping gnashing of teeth, Comforts vs. disturbs. They are the same-showing us who He is, what He does, and what He brings. It is the same Jesus.
B. What does Keller say are the two most important words linking these two events? (Verse 12)
After this… I guess when you say after this, I need to look at the verses before. Since it says that the wedding in Cana was the first miraculous sign Jesus did, the “after this” phrase also refers to a sign.
C. How do both events show the authority of Jesus?
His authority in the words “my time has not come” He is in control although it was muted. In the temple, His authority was more pronounced, “…my Father’s house…” He came knowing what the temple is all about. People could feel His authority-no one has even thrown them out of the temple. They have to know where His authority came from.
D. What did you learn about the word for “cords.” Significance?
It came from the word, “rush” which is a reed. It is a wimpy cord, not to mean anybody harm. I really did not think of the cord being this way. How long did it take Jesus to make one, I wonder.
E. When God has overturned your tables, have you backed away from Him or pressed in? Why?
Sometimes He overturns our tables because He has the right to do it. When Jesus asked the disciples, “Are you going to leave, too?” Peter answered, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.” John 6:67-68,70
There is much temptation to back away from God when He overturns our tables, but who else can we go to? Thank God, we are chosen and the Father has enabled us to come to Him. (v.65)
Thursday: Part 2 of the Sermon
9. Listen up to minute 26 — just before he gets into the Lord of the Rings.
A. What stood out to you from the above and why?
It is as critical for us to obey God just because of who He is before He tells us reasons. If I could totally understand Him, He wouldn’t be worth totally obeying.
Although I really appreciate students who challenge me intellectually, I also appreciate the ones who just follow what I tell them to do because they trust me. No ifs, and buts-just a quiet “obedience” because they know I want the best for them. Of course, I am not God and make mistakes.
In like manner, if I know that God is who He says He is, (good, just, sovereign, all-knowing, etc) why do I hesitate? I believe it is my pride keeping me from obeying him.
B. How did God answer Job when he asked why his tables were overturned? Point?
I have the right because I am God.
C. What was Keller’s point with the fiance calling off the wedding after her intended lost his money?
She was just there for the money; she didn’t really love him for himself. We can do the same thing with god. We just want him for the things He can give us; we‘ll take Him if He does not mess up our plans or goals or what we want to do. We are using God.
D. Why did Keller believe Jesus was so upset with what was happening in the Temple?
It was not about the exchanging of money and product. It was about people not understanding the purpose of the sacrificial animal. They were doing it mechanically-they are not praying, engaging, or reflecting on what the meaning of the Passover is. They don’t feel a need for a Savior. (Oh, how sad it must have made Jesus aside from the anger that was inside of Him.) How the enemy loves to twist our minds about true worship!
E. In the same way, when we approach worship mechanically instead of reflectively, how does that hurt our God?
When we approach worship mechanically, we are in danger of legalism and works-oriented righteousness which negates/devalues the sacrifice Jesus did on the cross. Rather, God wants us to worship Him for who He is and for what He has done in love. Reflective worship (is this a good phrase to use?) takes time, effort, and engagement of our senses that could lead to a keener awareness of and gratitude for His great love for us.
I like “reflective worship,” Bing. I’m reading a book Keller mentioned in the sermon we are doing next week. The book is called “Thoughts on Religious Experience.” Archibald Alexander says there are two kind of religious experience — one reaches the mind, the other penetrates the heart and affects the life. We want the latter, though the first is necessary to get to the second.
I love the emphasis you put on this, Bing. Reflective worship (is this a good phrase to use?) takes time, effort, and engagement of our senses that could lead to a keener awareness of and gratitude for His great love for us.
“if I know that God is who He says He is, (good, just, sovereign, all-knowing, etc) why do I hesitate? I believe it is my pride keeping me from obeying him.”
Bing this comment stood out to me and challenged me. I had to ask “Why do I hesitate to obey. Just having answered the question about obeying in Friday’s lesson and asking myself “How can I better obey?” I confess that pride probably does enter in and my need is to humble myself to better obey.
9. Listen up to minute 26 — just before he gets into the Lord of the Rings.
A. What stood out to you from the above and why? When Jesus sees the wine and goes kind of crazy because it reminds Him of His death. Now He sees the animals to be sacrificed. I’d never thought to tie these 2 events together. He always had us and the cost to redeem us on His mind,
B. How did God answer Job when he asked why his tables were overturned? Point? Because I am God and I have the right to do this and you don’t. God is God and I am not There are times I just need to accept His larger plan
C. What was Keller’s point with the fiance calling off the wedding after her intended lost his money? The fiancée wanted the things the man could give her and not the man himself.
D. Why did Keller believe Jesus was so upset with what was happening in the Temple? The people were missing the point of the sacrifice..it wasn’t to be an afterthought or duty. It was to be an act of obedience and worship.
E. In the same way, when we approach worship mechanically instead of reflectively, how does that hurt our God? We are missing the point. We have th honor and privilege worshipping an Almighty God. That privilege was paid for by the death of His Son.
Love this Judy and what a great reminder…
“We have the honor and privilege worshipping an Almighty God. That privilege was paid for by the death of His Son.”
I love this reminder too, Judy : He always had us and the cost to redeem us on His mind,
9. Listen up to minute 26 — just before he gets into the Lord of the Rings.
A. What stood out to you from the above and why?
wow…the connection! He is the sacrifice. He is thinking about Himself being the sacrifice and how the people are trashing the sacrifices and desecrating the temple. Just as He thought of the wine and His death, here He thinks of the real reason He is on Earth. To be the sacrifice for all.
You got it, Laura!
Friday
10. Finish the sermon
A. What stood out to you and why?
What I feel in my heart is hard to put in words. As I read the rest of the sermon two songs kept coming to my mind. An old song from my childhood, I Have Decided To Follow Jesus, the last verse which says, “The world behind me, the cross before me.” To put behind me the business, the selfishness, the appearances, the strongholds and desires of this world and focus on the meaning of what Christ did for me…the ultimate sacrifice. The other song is, The Heart of Worship, and these words kept coming to mind, “I’m coming back to the heart of worship and it’s all about You, it’s all about You, Jesus. I’m sorry, Lord, for the thing I’ve made it when it’s all about You. It’s all about You, Jesus.” I desire to experience the glory of God and feel His presence in my life…making worship a lifestyle.
Oh, Sharon! This: “The world behind me, the cross before me.” YES!
Love both those songs and your heart. Jim chose well in a wife.
10. Finish the sermon
A. What stood out to you and why? Christ always has His death at the forefront of His mind. He is always thinking about us. He is the sacrifice. His death tears down the curtain that separates us from the Glory of God, His Presence and Fellowship.
B. How was the main character in Lord of the Rings a Christ figure? The hero had to go into the heart of the Realm of the evil lord and throw his ring of power into the evil mountain of fire and destroy it. He knows he has to go toward that doom and he feels it all the time.
C. Why is it important to let Jesus contradict you? Why should you obey even when you don’t understand or disagree? Because Jesus sees the whole picture of my life in the light of eternity. I only see a snapshot.
D. Is there an area we could pray for you to better obey? In letting go of things that are out of my control…and my idols. I so need to focus on Him in every part of my day.
E. Just as Jesus had many things to do, there was one thing always on His mind. What was it? How does Keller suggest we apply this to our own walk? Jesus was always thinking about His death. I need to think about Him dying for me; to see the beauty, value and glory of His death. I need to be humble and forgiving in all areas of my life.
I like your answer to C
“Because Jesus sees the whole picture of my life in the light of eternity. I only see a snapshot.“
It is something to realize Jesus was always thinking about his death!
I agree. It saddens my heart, yet He did it for us. It is so humbling. These two lessons are such a reminder of why we should never take “lightly” what He has done for us. This lesson prompted me to read Isaiah 52:13 -53:12. Thank you, Lord, for this great sacrifice that one so unworthy as me, may live in your presence for eternity.
eA. What stood out to you and why? Jesus said I am the ultimate sacrifice, therefore I’m the ultimate temple. I’d never thought of that before So when I read the Bible and see Jesus say those words I hope to remember that.
B. How was the main character in Lord of the Rings a Christ figure? To go into the realm of the lord of evil and take his power ring, throw it into the mountain of fire and destroy it.
C. Why is it important to let Jesus contradict you? Why should you obey even when you don’t understand or disagree? Because Jesus is supreme and to be Lord of my life. Because my faith and trust should be in Jesus for who He is and not for what He can give me.
D. Is there an area we could pray for you to better obey? The fruit of patience is evident in my life.
E. Just as Jesus had many things to do, there was one thing always on His mind. What was it? How does Keller suggest we apply this to our own walk? He was here to die for us. The one thing that was always on Jesus mind should be on my mind that He died for me. Based on that sacrifice for me I should take that sacrificial living onto my being and walk in humility
From Judy: The one thing that was always on Jesus mind should be on my mind that He died for me. Based on that sacrifice for me I should take that sacrificial living onto my being and walk in humility
Amen to Dee’s comment, Judy.
Friday: Final 3rd of Sermon
10. Finish the sermon
A. What stood out to you and why?
—The end of the sermon stands out because it culminates the bringing together of the two stories of Jesus as the Lord of the Wine and as Lord of the Whips.
“Let him be who he is. He is the Lord of Wine and the Lord of the Whips. He’s the Lord of Wine because he’s the Lord of the Whips. He has to be. How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation?
These are both Jesus. He overturns your table and he fills your table for the same reason, because he loves you. Because he loves you.”
B. How was the main character in Lord of the Rings a Christ figure?
—“the little hero is a remarkable Christ figure because he has a burden. And the burden is that he has to go right into the heart of the realm of the evil Lord and take his ring of power and throw it into the mountain of fire and destroy it. But in order to go toward that evil and go toward that terrible doom, he feels it in front of him all the time. He felt his doom beating upon him. It became a wheel of fire. When he even closed his eyes, he saw it, the ring, the doom. Now, this is Jesus. Jesus is always thinking about his death, and he’s always thinking about us, and he’s always got it on his heart.”
C. Why is it important to let Jesus contradict you? Why should you obey even when you don’t understand or disagree?
—Because Jesus is the only way back to God to have a relationship with Him and to experience his glory. And when we ask Jesus into our life to live with and dwell with us it gives him ownership of the house and He has the right to be Lord.
Keller said “Do you want a real God? Or you just want a projection of your own heart?
—As I noted in answer to the first question above “Let him be who he is. He is the Lord of Wine and the Lord of the Whips….,These are both Jesus. He overturns your table and he fills your table for the same reason, because he loves you.”
D. Is there an area we could pray for you to better obey?
—Good question. Perhaps it is in the area of forgiveness that Keller suggested. I fully understand the need to forgive based on what Christ instructs me to do and I have recognized that at times I have specifically said I will choose to forgive apart from my feelings. Because it would be so easy to hold a grudge. But I have learned there is a great freedom that comes when I choose not to ruminate on what happened. Keller said “….if you’re having trouble forgiving somebody, it’s only because of what Jesus is saying here is you’re not thinking about what my sacrifice means. Because if you think about him dying for you, it’ll humble you down until forgiveness is no problem. “
I have found when it comes to forgiveness when I think about the offense against me if I mentally put it under the Cross and recognize that Jesus’s death and sacrifice on the Cross does away with all my sin and is sufficient for the sins of others whether they confess it or not. That is not my responsibility but it’s important for me to recognize the power in the shed blood of Jesus. My forgiveness is not conditional on them but on what Jesus did.
E. Just as Jesus had many things to do, there was one thing always on His mind. What was it?
—The one thing was the fact that He died for me.
How does Keller suggest we apply this to our own walk?
—We have to stop being mechanical about it reflect on the meaning of His sacrifice and make it a living thing for ourselves.
Just like what I just described in answer to the last question. To always consider the Cross.
Bev, This is so true!! —Because Jesus is the only way back to God to have a relationship with Him and to experience his glory. And when we ask Jesus into our life to live with and dwell with us it gives him ownership of the house and He has the right to be Lord. Love this reminder too: Keller said “Do you want a real God? Or you just want a projection of your own heart?
Love this: He overturns your table and he fills your table for the same reason, because he loves you.”
Saturday:
11. What is your take-a-way and why?
—I go back to where I began on Sunday of this week. In answer to the question of what stood out to me from the opening.
Dee wrote:
“In truth, Paul tells us, in this life, we see through “a glass darkly” and that dark glass will not be removed until we see Him face to face. Therefore, we must walk humbly with our Lord and with one another.”
I wrote:
“This Scripture makes me think of Micah 6:8 “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
Even though many of the things in this life feel so clouded by troubles and circumstances as I learn to walk humbly before God and trust his Omniscience I find security and encouragement.”
In his sermon Keller he made the statement:
“Because if you think about him dying for you, it’ll humble you down until forgiveness is no problem. “
So Humility of heart and mind are what stands out to me in light of Jesus dying for me and being the sacrifice for my sin so that I can have a relationship with God my Father as I humble myself and really realize what His sacrifice means. It becomes a key to accepting the wine or the whips. The key to the table being filled or overturned and my saying “Yes, You are God, You are the owner of my life and like Job I no longer can demand answers but I will obey You just because of Who You are.
9.
B. How did God answer Job when he asked why his tables were overturned? Point?
He sort of snapped at him, reminding him who was boss. Because Job should understand that if God says it is so, then it is. Job should love and trust God because He is God. Otherwise he is using Him.
C. What was Keller’s point with the fiance calling off the wedding after her intended lost his money?
That the fiancée didn’t really love him, only his money.
D. Why did Keller believe Jesus was so upset with what was happening in the Temple?
Because the people were defiling the temple. He represented the temple therefore they were defiling Him. The sacrifices reminded of what He would do; be sacrificed.
E. In the same way, when we approach worship mechanically instead of reflectively, how does that hurt our God?
He wants our hearts.
Saturday
11. What is your take-a-way and why?
This week was such an eye opener for me in seeing how these two events go together and a deeper meaning to the temple event. It’s important to remember not to get so caught up in regulations that I miss the relationship!
I would appreciate prayer in being obedient in showing more grace and having a less critical spirit. 😊🙏
I will pray that for both of us!
11. What is your take-a-way and why? There is so much that I need to hang on to and remember here. Jesus is the Sacrifice and Jesus is the Final Temple. Jesus is the only way back into the Garden of Eden. It can be easy to get wrapped up in rules and regulations and miss the Relationship. (I liked this comment by Keller: an important point to remember is that He did not die and make this sacrifice to run programs.) He became the sacrifice so that I may experience His Presence and Power. I am also seeing Mark 15:38 in a clearer way. The minute Jesus died, the veil was torn and gave us access to Him, the Shekinah Glory of God and we are Partakers of His Glory through Christ…I so desire to have that explosive Life giving force flow through me. I want to be totally His and have Him in control to fill my tables or turn my table upside down. Lord, help me to be obedient only to You and to trust You with my all.
Jesus did not make this sacrifice to run programs!
11. What is your take-a-way and why? The tying of miracle of wine and temple cleansing together. The same Jesus miracle giver and yet supreme authority to cleanse my life of the “marketplace” stuff that shouldn’t be in the place the Holy Spirit dwells. It is wonderful to revel in His presence and worship Him, but I also need to open my mind to correction and cleansing He wants to make.
Friday: Final 3rd of Sermon
10. Finish the sermon
A. What stood out to you and why?
Jesus was also as much the Jealous Lover here as He was the Lord of the whips. He longed for a relationship with people. Instead, people were locked into following regulations without any thought of what the animal sacrifices were supposed to point toward “’ they may be ever seeing but never perceiving, and ever hearing but never understanding; otherwise, they might turn and be forgiven!” Mark 4:12 I feel like many times I am like these people. Lord, may I always turn to you and be forgiven.
B. How was the main character in Lord of the Rings a Christ figure?
He had a burden. “And the burden is that he has to go right into the heart of the realm of the evil Lord and take his ring of power and throw it into the mountain of fire and destroy it. But in order to go toward that evil and go toward that terrible doom, he feels it in front of him all the time.”
C. Why is it important to let Jesus contradict you? Why should you obey even when you don’t understand or disagree?
If Jesus does not contradict us, He is only our errand boy or our secretary.
He is God and I am not. He knows everything and I don’t. His character has been proven again and again. He never changes-He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
D. Is there an area we could pray for you to better obey?
For pride to not get in the way and to not be critical of others who have different ways of doing things. The last part of the Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi
Lord, seek that I may seek rather to comfort than be comforted, to understand, than to be understood; to love, than to be loved, for it is by self-forgetting that one finds it is by forgiving that one is forgiven, It is by dying that one awakens to eternal life.
E. Just as Jesus had many things to do, there was one thing always on His mind. What was it? How does Keller suggest we apply this to our own walk?
Jesus is always thinking about his death, and he’s always thinking about us, and he’s always got it on his heart.
Misty Edwards’s lyrics to “Always on my mind”
Though I’m poor and needy, the Lord thinks upon me Though His name is Holy, I’m always on His mind – I’m always on His mind Though I’m weak and lowly, the Lord thinks about me Though He’s high and lofty, I’m always on His mind – I’m always on His mind For I’m in love with God And God’s in love with me.
We need to always reflect on the meaning of Jesus’ sacrifice and keep it in the forefront of our minds. Then we can forgive, we can ask for forgiveness and be forgiven, no self-loathing as He died for you. You are always prepared to either be brought down or lifted up if you really understand the meaning of Jesus’ sacrifice.