This sermon is a favorite for me, for I love how Keller goes through the Bible and shows it is all about Jesus. I laughed out loud when he said: “Throw away your red letter Bible, because all the words are the words of Jesus!”
On a personal note, I want you to know how much I love this mature group and how you take His words to heart and endeavor to live them. Your testimonies so encourage me.
1. Share a God Hunt. Answer to prayer, unexpected circumstances, Word becoming radioactive, sense of His presence.
2. What stands out to you from the above and why?
Monday: The Text
3. Read John 5:31-47
A. What stands out to you upon first reading and why?
B. Jewish law requires two or three testimonies. How does this explain verse 31?
C. What is the first testimony Jesus mentions — yet he says it is not valid. Why? Then why does he mention it? (33-35)
D. What are the 2nd and 3rd testimonies that are not human that He gives (36-37)
E. What do they do right according to verse 39 and what do they fail to do according to verse 40-44?
F. Who is their accuser and why? (45-47)
Tuesday: Introduction
Listen up to about 6:30 when Keller says: There are three things Jesus believed about Scripture.
3. What stood out to you from the introduction?
4. Why do some people think the Bible is a human book?
5. When I read through the Bible sometimes I put a ? in the margin with a “Help me, understand, Lord!” For example, in Leviticus 12, a woman remains unclean much longer if she gives birth to a girl baby rather than a boy. God knows that troubles me, yet I also know from Scripture that men and women are equal in the sight of God, so I will trust what I don’t now understand. Can you give an example of something you don’t particularly like in the Bible either because you don’t want to do it or because you don’t understand it? Yet — what is your response?
6. Jesus gives 3 testimonies, and the first two are in the New Testament and the third in the Old. Explain.
Wednesday: Throw Out Your Red Letter Bible!
Listen to about 18:22 when Keller says: The second and the third.
6. What stood out to you from this part and why?
7. Jesus and Scripture
A. Give an example of Jesus quoting Scripture to Satan.
B. Give an example of Jesus bleeding Scripture.
8. The word literally actually means “according to the literature.” How is that different from what you might have thought in the past? Then explain how you would interpret prose at face value, but if you interpreted poetry that way, you would be interpreting it incorrectly. Give an example.
9. Keller says, “Can you be a Christian and not follow it all? No!” Do you agree or disagree? Why?
10. What was his point with the Star Trek “I Mudd” episode?
11. Keller said the word “exhort” in Hebrews 12:5 translated another way is “argue.” His point?
12. How has the Lord argued with you about something?
Thursday: Believing Moses
Listen up to 23:20 when Keller says, “I can keep this up…” 🙂
13. Find the examples that refer to the teachings of Moses and explain why they do:
A. John 1:29
B. John 1:50-51
C. John 2 (How did both the water into wine and the clearing of the temple hearken back to the ceremonial laws of Moses that foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice?)
D. John 3:14
Friday: The Pharisees’ Problem
Listen to the end.
14. What did the Pharisees do right? Wrong?
15. What was Keller’s point about Mark Twain’s heavy Bible dream?
16. Three kinds of testimonies:
A. Personal — John the Baptist. Who is a person in your life who shone the light of Christ to you and how did he or she do it?
B. Empirical: Jesus Life. What was Keller’s point about the mountain hike story?
C. Scriptures: What did Keller have to say about this?
Sunday:
1. Share a God Hunt. Answer to prayer, unexpected circumstances, Word becoming radioactive, sense of His presence.
—Last Wednesday my husband and I had an unexpected interruption to our schedule by someone who came to our home and completely derailed our afternoon and stayed far longer than he should have. For several hours too long. My husband was angry and blamed me and then I was hurt and angry at him. The incident just served to raise an old struggle between us that never seemed to get resolved. I spent the night in another room pleading with God reading and praying. After his own time in the Word and praying my husband came to me in the morning and we sat down together to seek a resolution. It was not an easy conversation to have but in the end for the first time I felt forgiveness was asked for and received on both our parts in dealing with our differences. My husband and I are both fairly strong personalities but very different in our needs and perceptions. I think that the differences are true of most couples.
One of the hard things is sharing this and putting it out there because we are seen as a couple who have a very good and strong marriage which is an example to others. And the reality is that because of Jesus we do. In today’s world we are definitely the exception by still being married after 56 years. But I am reminded again that we have an enemy who comes to seek and kill and to divide and destroy anyone who represents the Savior. And I have been reminded and strengthened by the reality that in spite of our fleshly, weak and sinful ways that we have a Heavenly Father who loves us perfectly, unconditionally and is ready to heal and help us in our times of dissension and need. So I have great gratitude to God today for his good work in our lives in spite of us. As I have gone back and reread the prayer I wrote in my time of hurting and the prayer I wrote the next day in response to God and his gracious answer I am deeply encouraged in my Fathers’s love for me.
2. What stands out to you from the above and why?
—“Throw away your red letter Bible, because all the words are the words of Jesus!” That is such a good perspective and reminder of Who Jesus really is.
Thank you for sharing this, Bev. So thankful that we have Jesus. This is a beautiful resolution to one of those very difficult differences. It is a reminder of the importance of having Him be the center for each spouse. I once heard the wife of a college president say: Our marriage is strong because we are both totally in love with the same person: Jesus.
Bev, I agree with Patti, thanks for sharing. How you chose to plead to God reading and praying rather than not, was so wise and spoke volumes to me about your relationship with Him!
Bev — thanks for sharing so vulnerably. Your picture of a hard marriage because of very different and strong personalities yet still a strong one because of Jesus is quite a testimony!
Bev, thank you for sharing your story. My husband and I are in our 34th year of marriage. I appreciate knowing that we will continue to have times like you had; it means we are growing in both our marriage and our walk with God. I will do better to handle it as you did instead of the way I have in the past.
Mary B here, Coming from silence, Bev, just to say that there is value in modeling for people how to disagree and work through conflict within marriage. Many don’t know how and since they never see it, they think the only answer to conflict is divorce. Anyone who has been married for decades has learned to go through the “tunnel of chaos” and emerge in a positive manner. Cheers to the two of you for doing the work!!
1. Share a God Hunt. Answer to prayer, unexpected circumstances, Word becoming radioactive, sense of His presence. Today when I walked into church a woman was holding a tiny 3 day old infant. That always makes me smile. Baby is a foster child. I thank God the mom chose to carry the child to birth. Because she’s decided she can’t care for the child, she will give her son a chance to be raised by a family that are able to care and nurture him. Prayers said for all of them.
2. What stands out to you from the above and why? Throw away your red letter Bible. I look forward to reminders of the presence of Christ in OT.
Judy, my husband’s nephew, and his wife have adopted 2 boys from the same biological mother. My daughter is fostering a 14-year-old girl though the latter is not living with her. It is kind of a special system in Kansas City, MO. I am thankful to God for watching over these children and giving our family opportunities to share the love of Christ.
When I saw the baby and heard that he was being fostered, I thought of the prayers that are said for women with unplanned pregnancy to continue with the pregnancy. I was allowed to see fruit from those prayers. God bless the women who make those difficult decisions and their future choices.
1. Share a God Hunt. Answer to prayer, unexpected circumstances, Word becoming radioactive, sense of His presence.
We celebrated the birthday of a long time friend and enjoyed seeing many of his family and friends we had not seen for many years. We heard wonderful testimonies of many things God has done for each one of us. It was truly a blessing in so many ways. I thought of this old song:
Surely the presence of the Lord is in the place,
I can feel His mighty power and His grace.I can hear the brush of angel’s wingsI see glory on each face;Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place.
I also was unable to finish the questions for last week and just finished reading the last lesson this morning. I was so blessed by all that each of you wrote. I love Bev and Bing’s comments on question 15 ~ such wonderful thoughts. And I so agree with Bing: “I am so grateful for the ministry of Tim Keller and Dee Brestin. God is good to bless our group here through their special ministries of the Word.” Amen!! Thank you, Dee. 2. What stands out to you from the above and why?
The entire Bible is the inspired Word of God and Jesus is everywhere in it.
Patti, How delightful to hear your God hunt and the blessing you experienced. How refreshing to celebrate with God’s people and to be reminded of the goodness of God our Father and enjoy His presence.
Sunday:
1. Share a God Hunt. Answer to prayer, unexpected circumstances, Word becoming radioactive, sense of His presence. Through circumstances this week I was reminded of Numbers 23:19, “God is not a man, so He does not lie. He is not human, so He does not change His mind. Has He ever spoken and failed to act? Has He ever promised and not carried it through?” It’s not about how I feel but rather who He is…trustworthy, faithful and loving.
2. What stands out to you from the above and why? I agree with your personal note…so encouraged by the personal testimonies here.
Love this, Sharon! Through circumstances this week I was reminded of Numbers 23:19, “God is not a man, so He does not lie. He is not human, so He does not change His mind. Has He ever spoken and failed to act? Has He ever promised and not carried it through?” It’s not about how I feel but rather who He is…trustworthy, faithful, and loving.
Sunday:
1. Share a God Hunt. Answer to prayer, unexpected circumstances, Word becoming radioactive, sense of His presence.
Oh, I could share a few! But for space’s sake, I will share just one. (Smile.)
I have been talking to God about my commitments for this school year. I have been concerned about the time I need to spend on continuing the program I helped start last year at a small private institute. My assistant teacher had some changes come up in her pursuit of advanced practice and told me a few weeks ago that she would need to cut back on the hours she promised to give. And I said to God, “What now, Lord?)
A week ago, while at the library, I saw another friend who has been a stay-at-home mom since I have known her. She nonchalantly inquired about my teaching job and told me she is looking for something part-time to ease back into the nursing profession and would I need any help teaching? I have forgotten she is also an RN! And oh, boy! How do you think I replied?!? Now, Lord willing, I have 2 assistants, both Christians, and both passionate about training others. Between the three of us, the teaching load will not be too much. Oh, Lord! how gracious you are!
I do need your prayers. I have been teaching this class for so many years by myself before I retired. Having to work with 2 other teachers will be an adjustment. I do believe God has endowed these 2 women with gifts and skills complementary to mine. I am very grateful to God.
2. What stands out to you from the above and why?
“Throw away your red letter Bible, because all the words are the words of Jesus!”
HIStory, that is what the Bible all about. From Genesis to Revelation, it is all about Him. And shouldn’t we be glad?
Oh, Bing! This stirs my heart with joy! How Jesus works out all the details! Thank you, Jesus! The Jesus who surprises! (Love that book, Dee!)
I love your HIStory comment! It is all about Jesus! Amen! Yes, we should be glad!
1. Share a God Hunt. Answer to prayer, unexpected circumstances, Word becoming radioactive, sense of His presence.
I am visiting a long time friend of mine and was a little anxious about the travel. I prayed that all would go well on my way last Thursday, because I had heard of all the recent issues with planes and flying. It was a flawless day and I attribute that to God. I even ended up being able to check my bag (for free!) through to my final destination, even though I had planned to just carry it on board with me. Thank You Jesus!
2. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I love the quote from Keller about throwing away your red letter Bible! So funny.
Huge God Hunt for me. Our church steering committee has a very strong man who is so hard for me and thinks so differently than the rest of us. I dreaded our meeting and the proposals he was making, including stopping listening to Keller sermons. A lot of prayer.
Afterward another woman and I looked at each other in amazement. It was like a different man was in his seat who backed down on everything and now likes Keller.
Only God.
(I will remove this soon — but wanted to report my amazement at God’s answer.)
3. Read John 5:31-47 A. What stands out to you upon first reading and why?
I think it’s interesting that Jesus points out if they don’t believe what Moses wrote, how would they believe Him. He is questioning their belief.
B. Jewish law requires two or three testimonies. How does this explain verse 31?
He could not just say, I am who I am, without having others agree. He would need several people to confirm His actions.
C. What is the first testimony Jesus mentions — yet he says it is not valid. Why? Then why does he mention it? (33-35)
He speaks of John the Baptist and his testimony. I’m not sure why it isn’t considered valid though 🤷🏻♀️. Maybe because the testimony is just from a man? He says it is being recognized for the sake of us being saved.
D. What are the 2nd and 3rd testimonies that are not human that He gives (36-37)
He, Himself and the Father are the second and third testimonies.
E. What do they do right according to verse 39 and what do they fail to do according to verse 40-44?
They search the scriptures for eternal life and they fail to go to Him, who gives eternal life.
F. Who is their accuser and why? (45-47)
Moses is the accuser. They have “set their hope” in him.
Laura,
Thinking through a little more from question C and on your question about John the Baptist’s testimony not being valid I too wondered about that. I trust Keller will enlighten us in his teaching. But I “think” perhaps it has to do with the fact that the religious teachers had gone to and questioned John the Baptist about who he was and why he was teaching and baptizing. They were fascinated by him but in the end they rejected him and his teaching because of his testimony for Jesus and didn’t accept his testimony as valid.
Monday: The Text
3. Read John 5:31-47
A. What stands out to you upon first reading and why?
—“You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me! Yet you refuse to come to me to receive this life.”
John 5:39-40 NLT
It is sad to me that it is possible to immerse oneself in the very Words of God looking for eternal life and miss the fact that in reality eternal life comes to us through a Person. The Person of Jesus Christ and those very Scriptures from beginning to end point us to Jesus Christ. In spite of the clear truth of God’s Words man will reject Jesus.
B. Jewish law requires two or three testimonies. How does this explain verse 31?
—If Jesus alone made his claims as to Who he was but that was not sufficient according to the Jewish law.
C. What is the first testimony Jesus mentions — yet he says it is not valid. Why?
—He mentions testimony of John the Baptist but says it is not the testimony of man that is needed.
Then why does he mention it? (33-35)
—He
is affirming John as a messenger of the truth about Jesus.
D. What are the 2nd and 3rd testimonies that are not human that He gives (36-37)
—The miraculous works that God gave Jesus to do and he was doing them were a testimony in themselves. And God affirmed who Jesus was when at his baptism by John he spoke and said “This is my beloved son in whom I am well pleased. “
E. What do they do right according to verse 39 and what do they fail to do according to verse 40-44?
—They we’re searching the scriptures which was the right place to look because they bear witness of Jesus but they thought their great study would save them and were blind to the Person of Jesus as God’s Son. They refused to come to Jesus and receive Him even in the face of all the evidence that He came in his Father’s name.
They instead listened to the words of men and gave men’s voices glory over God’s Word.
F. Who is their accuser and why? (45-47)
—Moses would be their accuser for not believing what he had written because Moses wrote and taught who Jesus was as the coming Christ.
3. Read John 5:31-47 A. What stands out to you upon first reading and why? The many witnesses to validate that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of God, were ignored and rejected by the Jews and the Jewish leaders. They were so busy and focused on following their laws that they could not see the Savior, who walked among them. It has always been true that many are so self focused that they cannot believe what is before their own eyes. B. Jewish law requires two or three testimonies. How does this explain verse 31? If only Jesus testifies for Himself, it does not fulfill the Jewish law requirements. C. What is the first testimony Jesus mentions — yet he says it is not valid. Why? Then why does he mention it? (33-35) I think that Jesus mentions the testimony of John the Baptist because John was sent by God, as the forerunner of Jesus. This was ordained by God, yet the Jews rejected the testimony of John the Baptist. He was pointing to the Lamb of God, but few acknowledged or understood his role. He was kind of a bridge between the old and new testament prophets. D. What are the 2nd and 3rd testimonies that are not human that He gives (36-37) The testimony of the works, which the Father in Heaven had given Jesus to do and the witness of God the Father Himself. E. What do they do right according to verse 39 and what do they fail to do according to verse 40-44? The Jewish leaders search and study the Scriptures, (Old Testament) in great detail, yet they do not perceive that Jesus is the Son of God, the true Christ who was foretold. F. Who is their accuser and why? (45-47) Their accuser is Moses. Moses penned the scriptures that the Jewish leaders study and follow, as the lawgiver from God. Yet, they do not believe. If they did believe that these words were truly inspired by God, they would believe that Jesus is who He says He is.
A. What stands out to you upon first reading and why? You study the scriptures diligently…these are the very Scriptures that testify about me. It’s sad that they studied diligently and missed the One they were expecting.
B. Jewish law requires two or three testimonies. How does this explain verse 31? Jesus was telling them that it’s not just His declaration of whomHe was but they also had John the Baptist and the miracles He had done,
C. What is the first testimony Jesus mentions — yet he says it is not valid. Why? Then why does he mention it? (33-35) John the Baptist. Jesus said He didn’t accept human testimony. Jesus said for a time they’d enjoyed John s light.
D. What are the 2nd and 3rd testimonies that are not human that He gives (36-37) The works He was doing were the Father’s works. Some were miracles. The Father Himself through thenScripture they were studying.
E. What do they do right according to verse 39 and what do they fail to do according to verse 40-44? Diligently study the Scriptures. They accept another person s testimony about who he is but fail to accept Jesus testimony that He was from the Father, They refuse to seekmthe glory that comes from God, but accept glory that comes from one another.
F. Who is their accuser and why? (45-47) Moses They are searching the Old Testament and the Scriptures Moses partially wrote and don’t see Jesus in front of them to whom scripture pointed.
Monday: The Text
3. Read John 5:31-47
A. What stands out to you upon first reading and why? They searched the Scriptures because they thought they give eternal life…they didn’t realize that the Scriptures pointed to Jesus. It would be interesting to know what in the Scriptures they thought would give them eternal life? Who did they think Abraham, Moses and all the prophets were talking about? Of course we have an advantage in having the whole story.
B. Jewish law requires two or three testimonies. How does this explain verse 31? Why they wouldn’t accept His testimony if He were to testify on His own behalf…it wouldn’t be valid.
C. What is the first testimony Jesus mentions — yet he says it is not valid. Why? Then why does he mention it? (33-35) The first testimony He mentions is His own…”If I were to testify on My own behalf, My testimony would not be valid.” He mentions it because they had to send investigators to listen to John the Baptist to see if his testimony was true about Jesus. But of course Jesus has no need of human witnesses, but He said these things so they might be saved. They were excited for awhile about John’s message as he was like a burning and shining lamp.
D. What are the 2nd and 3rd testimonies that are not human that He gives (36-37) John was the 2nd testimony, the third testimony was the works that the Father gave Him to accomplish and they bore witness that the Father sent Him.
E. What do they do right according to verse 39 and what do they fail to do according to verse 40-44? They searched the Scriptures thinking that within them they would find eternal life. They refused to come to Jesus that they may have life, they did not have the love of God within them, did not receive Him and they didn’t seek the glory that comes from the only God.
F. Who is their accuser and why? (45-47) Moses is their accuser…if they would believe him and his writings, they would believe Jesus as he wrote of Jesus.
Love this, Sharon! It would be interesting to know what in the Scriptures they thought would give them eternal life? Who did they think Abraham, Moses and all the prophets were talking about? Of course we have an advantage in having the whole story.
1. Share a God Hunt. Answer to prayer, unexpected circumstances, Word becoming radioactive, sense of His presence. We were trying to organize a day to fix the roof on my parent’s cabin which had a large hole from a fallen limb. This past weekend worked out for enough people to make it light work. It’s not easy finding a weekend in the summer in which most people don’t have prior plans. The weather was perfect and everything worked out beautifully. I had been praying that things would run smoothly since it was a torrential downpour when my husband, son and I were there 2 weeks earlier to remove the limb and secure the roof with a tarp. It was a small answer to prayer, but one that I was thankful for. 2. What stands out to you from the above and why? Everyone’s testimonies inspire me as well.
Tuesday: Introduction
Listen up to about 6:30 when Keller says: There are three things Jesus believed about Scripture.
3. What stood out to you from the introduction?
—That God’s (the Father’s) testimony is found in the Scriptures. The Bible, God’s Word, is the authority for telling us Who Jesus is.
4. Why do some people think the Bible is a human book?
—Generally I would say because they haven’t read or studied it sufficiently to have a true context for what it is about and many are just simply follow the thinking of someone else who has told them that. But also they come from a humanistic perspective of life and The Bible is an inspired and living book that speaks Gods truth and can only be understood by the power of the Holy Spirit. It takes God’s Spirit to enlighten the reader.
5. When I read through the Bible sometimes I put a ? in the margin with a “Help me, understand, Lord!” For example, in Leviticus 12, a woman remains unclean much longer if she gives birth to a girl baby rather than a boy. God knows that troubles me, yet I also know from Scripture that men and women are equal in the sight of God, so I will trust what I don’t now understand. Can you give an example of something you don’t particularly like in the Bible either because you don’t want to do it or because you don’t understand it? Yet — what is your response?
—Hmmm? Hard question.
As I think about the Bible as a whole I would say there is nothing in the New Testament that troubles me. I love reading the gospels over and over as well as the epistles. And frankly I love The Revelation as well. Most of the old testament makes sense to me as it outlines God’s plan through the ages for the redemption of mankind. The only book that I find frankly tiresome to read is Leviticus. And in particular I struggle with the blemished and the handicapped in some places being excluded. Dee it’s kind of like your dislike of the boy babies and girl babies difference. Because of my grand daughter being lame from her spina bifida I would never want her to feel less than in her worth to God and to us. But like you I don’t understand some of what is in the Law there but I choose to trust there was some underlying purpose in the mind of God at that time. I am grateful to be on this side of the Cross because I fully believe that in today’s time we are free from the Law and it’s many rules and ordinances. The Cross has the power to overcome the brokenness of sin on this world and in people’s lives and that God will take my granddaughter’s handicap and somehow glorify Himself. Because of Jesus we live in a time with the wonderful hope of Heaven when she will be perfect and whole. And so will the rest of us.
6. Jesus gives 3 testimonies, and the first two are in the New Testament and the third in the Old. Explain.
— Keller says the first was John the Baptist who was a respected prophet, the second was the works of Jesus and third it was through the Scriptures that the Father had spoke and foretold about his Son the Messiah. It was the Old Testament because the New Testament had not been written yet.
Love this, Bev: The Cross has the power to overcome the brokenness of sin on this world and in people’s lives and that God will take my granddaughter’s handicap and somehow glorify Himself. Because of Jesus we live in a time with the wonderful hope of Heaven when she will be perfect and whole. And so will the rest of us. And we all have handicaps, many just cannot be seen. May God bless your precious granddaughter and help her to know how perfect she truly is.
I think it is interesting that he makes the point that God is one of the “testimonies.” I’m not sure if he says this, but what I got out of it was that God references Jesus in the Old Testament repeatedly.
4. Why do some people think the Bible is a human book?
It was written by humans. Contradictions occur. It can’t possibly be followed in today’s world (people think this). My mother asked me (when I questioned her about the authenticity of the Bible), if I thought God would make sure to translate it via Himself or not. That pretty much shut me down!
5. When I read through the Bible sometimes I put a ? in the margin with a “Help me, understand, Lord!” For example, in Leviticus 12, a woman remains unclean much longer if she gives birth to a girl baby rather than a boy. God knows that troubles me, yet I also know from Scripture that men and women are equal in the sight of God, so I will trust what I don’t now understand. Can you give an example of something you don’t particularly like in the Bible either because you don’t want to do it or because you don’t understand it? Yet — what is your response?
I wonder where the woman came from that married Cain, in the beginning, to begin the human race. I suppose if God formed Adam and Eve, He could form another being to marry him. It’s just weird to me that she just shows up when he leaves Adam and Eve.
6. Jesus gives 3 testimonies, and the first two are in the New Testament and the third in the Old. Explain.
One is John the Baptist, a respected prophet, one is Himself, and all the deeds He accomplished, and the miracles, and the last is God Himself (see above).
This is so good, Laura!!! “My mother asked me (when I questioned her about the authenticity of the Bible), if I thought God would make sure to translate it via Himself or not. That pretty much shut me down.”
3. What stood out to you from the introduction?
There are three things Jesus believes about the Scriptures: The Complete Authority, Unity, and Vitality/Power of the Bible. 4. Why do some people think the Bible is a human book? Because the words are written by men, yet these people do not trust that it is the Inspired Word of God. The more I study the Bible, the more I trust Him and see that God inspired it, even though I may not understand every verse. I have found that some of those verses start to make sense years later ~ the Holy Spirit speaks to our hearts ~ there is no such thing as spending too much time in the Word~ I always learn something new or have a new insight when I study God’s Word. 5. When I read through the Bible sometimes I put a ? in the margin with a “Help me, understand, Lord!” For example, in Leviticus 12, a woman remains unclean much longer if she gives birth to a girl baby rather than a boy. God knows that troubles me, yet I also know from Scripture that men and women are equal in the sight of God, so I will trust what I don’t now understand. Can you give an example of something you don’t particularly like in the Bible either because you don’t want to do it or because you don’t understand it? Yet — what is your response?
There are many things in the Bible, especially in the Old Testament, that I do not fully understand. I always am reminded of 1 Corinthians 13:12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known. NASB I am learning a lot this year from the “my word for the year”, Trust. Though I may not understand it all today, I do know that it is Trustworthy, because He is worthy of our Trust. 6. Jesus gives 3 testimonies, and the first two are in the New Testament and the third in the Old. Explain.
1.) John the Baptist, respected prophet; foretold of the Christ 2.) Jesus says to look at His deeds the works that the Father gave Him to do (His miracles) 3.) The Father through the inspired scriptures (now we call it the Old Testament) testifies.
Patti,
These are such good thoughts: 😊1 Corinthians 13:12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known. NASB I am learning a lot this year from the “my word for the year”, Trust. Though I may not understand it all today, I do know that it is Trustworthy, because He is worthy of our Trust.
3. What stood out to you from the introduction? He wanted to explain Jesus view of the Bible.
4. Why do some people think the Bible is a human book? They know it written by man but fail to understand it was inspired by Holy Spirit. They feel there are contradictions They can’t trust it and like to think it’s filtered
5. When I read through the Bible sometimes I put a ? in the margin with a “Help me, understand, Lord!” For example, in Leviticus 12, a woman remains unclean much longer if she gives birth to a girl baby rather than a boy. God knows that troubles me, yet I also know from Scripture that men and women are equal in the sight of God, so I will trust what I don’t now understand. Can you give an example of something you don’t particularly like in the Bible either because you don’t want to do it or because you don’t understand it? Yet — what is your response? I know there are many places but off top of my head I think of Luke 16 the parable of shrewd manager. Vs 8-9 confuse me particularly vs 9 I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings. My response is huh, to cheat my boss doesn’t seem to fit with other parts of Bible.
6. Jesus gives 3 testimonies, and the first two are in the New Testament and the third in the Old. Explain. John the Baptist made it clear he was not the Christ but referred back to Isaiah 40:3 the voice of one calling in the desert. Jesus was performing miracles and some of the scriptures the teachers were studying pointed to the first coming of Christ.
That always puzzled me too, Judy — but I think I get it. It is not that He is commending cheating but contrasting using worldly wealth for evil and worldly wealth for good — supporting missionaries, practicing hospitality to unbelievers — and those believers will welcome us into heaven. But it is a very puzzling passage.
You are right, Dee. Silly me, the reason this passage probably came to mind is because I think it was in last week s lesson and we had a question about meaning, Thanks,
Tuesday: Introduction
3. What stood out to you from the introduction? It helped me understand verse 31 when he explains what He is actually saying… “Now, on the surface, it looks like what He’s saying is you don’t have to believe what I’m saying. It’s not true. But what He actually is saying is this, in the the context of Jewish jurisprudence, if a claim was made, you had to have two or three corroborating witnesses. So what He’s saying is, ‘Okay, I understand that my testimony wouldn’t be valid if I’m the only one, my claims right here, if that’s the only testimony you had. But He says, I got 3 more.” I was confused by question 3C on Monday because I don’t think He was saying that John’s testimony was not valid but that His testimony wouldn’t be valid if He was the only one saying it according to Jewish law.
4. Why do some people think the Bible is a human book? Because it’s a book written by human beings. They don’t understand that “all Scripture is inspired by God.” 2 Timothy 3:16.
5. When I read through the Bible sometimes I put a ? in the margin with a “Help me, understand, Lord!” For example, in Leviticus 12, a woman remains unclean much longer if she gives birth to a girl baby rather than a boy. God knows that troubles me, yet I also know from Scripture that men and women are equal in the sight of God, so I will trust what I don’t now understand. Can you give an example of something you don’t particularly like in the Bible either because you don’t want to do it or because you don’t understand it? Yet — what is your response? I don’t understand the Trinity…there are many ways I’ve heard it explained, but it’s beyond my comprehension so I take it in faith to be true.
6. Jesus gives 3 testimonies, and the first two are in the New Testament and the third in the Old. Explain. John the Baptist and His own works which are both in the NT. The 3rd witness is the Scriptures which the Father testifies through.
I could be wrong, Sharon, and am indeed swayed by Keller, but when you compare man’s testimony to God’s, you know one could be fallible, because man is, but God’s is never fallible. Yet still, as you say, perhaps it has to do with needing 2 or 3 witnesses.
Yes, the Trinity is hard. As Paige said, “I went to seminary and still don’t understand it.”
Sharon, I think the Trinity is so difficult to our human minds to grasp. It is like the word “Eternity”. I have a difficult time imagining that too. When the Lord returns, He will clarify so much. It is even hard to grasp the greatness of God~ we cannot look upon Him.
Wednesday: Throw Out Your Red Letter Bible!
Listen to about 18:22 when Keller says: The second and the third.
6. What stood out to you from this part and why?
—The fact that Jesus’s view of the Bible is revealed in how throughout his life he was always thinking and speaking Scripture. And that Scripture was the very operating principle of his life. It shows me the importance of having Scripture permeating my own life affecting all I do and say.
7. Jesus and Scripture
A. Give an example of Jesus quoting Scripture to Satan.
—“But Jesus told him, “No! The Scriptures say, ‘People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’ ”. Matthew 4:4
B. Give an example of Jesus bleeding Scripture.
—When Jesus went in and cleansed the Temple. “He said to them, “The Scriptures declare, ‘My Temple will be called a house of prayer,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves!” Matthew 21:13 NLT
8. The word literally actually means “according to the literature.” How is that different from what you might have thought in the past? Then explain how you would interpret prose at face value, but if you interpreted poetry that way, you would be interpreting it incorrectly. Give an example.
9. Keller says, “Can you be a Christian and not follow it all? No!” Do you agree or disagree? Why?
—Well I’m not going to disagree with Keller 😁 But I do very much agree with him in saying No and I agree for the very reason he gave.
He said “How could you possibly say you can follow Jesus and then reject one of the main operating principles of his life? One of the main things he lived and died for? That is the height of disingenuousness. Without a belief in the full authority of the Bible, you aren’t following Jesus”
10. What was his point with the Star Trek “I Mudd” episode?
—If we make the Bible say only what we want it to say or only hear what we want to hear from it we are shutting down the voice of God to speak to us at a real personal level. We basically eliminate having a personal relationship with God. And we desperately need that to live and function well.
11. Keller said the word “exhort” in Hebrews 12:5 translated another way is “argue.” His point?
—God’s Word argues against false thinking on our part and brings truth to our ears that affects our hearts and lives as it speaks to and exhorts us.
12. How has the Lord argued with you about something?
—The biggest would have been several years ago when He did for me just what Keller gives as an example here.
“You know that place where it says, “If God condemned you…” Pardon me, “If your hearts condemn you, God is greater than your heart.” Your heart says you’re nothing. God, God comes in from the Scripture and says, “No, I love you.” See, we want God to contradict us there. But if you don’t want God to contradict you over here, where it tells you something you don’t want to believe, how are you going to let God contradict you over here when he tells you, I love you in spite of what your heart says. If you want a real God, if you want a real Jesus, you’ve got to have an authoritative Scripture.”
—I personally had doubted God’s love for me but through the Holy Spirit’s voice in my heart and mind and verified by the scriptures he showed me clearly that he loved me unconditionally and perfectly.
6. What stood out to you from this part and why? I really like when Keller pointed out that every time Satan assaulted Jesus in the wilderness, Jesus replied with “Grapho- ty” ~it is written. Jesus turns to scripture. 7. Jesus and Scripture A. Give an example of Jesus quoting Scripture to Satan. Matthew 4: 1-11 has several good examples. This is one I really like: Matthew 4:8-11:Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him, ” All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me. ” Then Jesus said to him, ” Away with you, Satan! For it is written, “You shall worship the Lord you God and Him only you shall serve.” Then the devil left Him, and behold, angels came and ministered to Him. B. Give an example of Jesus bleeding Scripture. When Jesus was on the cross in Matthew 27:46, Jesus quotes Psalm 22:1 “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” 8. The word literally actually means “according to the literature.” How is that different from what you might have thought in the past? Then explain how you would interpret prose at face value, but if you interpreted poetry that way, you would be interpreting it incorrectly. Give an example. I am not sure how to answer this question…..I think Song of Solomon is a very good example of Biblical wisdom, in the form of a song. The word pictures in Song of Solomon and many of the Psalms includes metaphors and words to reflect on. 9. Keller says, “Can you be a Christian and not follow it all? No!” Do you agree or disagree? Why? I agree. I think the key is that if you are following the Real Jesus, you must follow it all. Yet, we need to continue to pray for God’s wisdom and continue to read and study His Word with others. Listening to wise counsel and praying for discernment as we study, will help us to continue to grow. We will always have questions; we will not always understand. If someone is too sure of knowing exactly how to interpret it all, I am not sure that is a good source. 10. What was his point with the Star Trek “I Mudd” episode? Without someone to contradict me and hold me accountable, I will shrivel up and die. The Bible is God’s Word and I need Him in my life daily to disagree with me when I am heading the wrong way, in my life or in a relationship. I need to trust Him. I want to be accountable to Him and to have Him argue with my wrongness. He helps me to see a clear reflection of who I am and of what my heart believes. The can be painful things I don’t like to hear from Him, yet they are the things that bring me closer to Him.
Patti, your responses to all of these were so good! I thought your answer to 8 was spot on!
And this…The Bible is God’s Word and I need Him in my life daily to disagree with me when I am heading the wrong way, in my life or in a relationship. I need to trust Him. I want to be accountable to Him and to have Him argue with my wrongness. He helps me to see a clear reflection of who I am and of what my heart believes. The can be painful things I don’t like to hear from Him, yet they are the things that bring me closer to Him. My response, a resounding YES (with a fist pump)!
7. Jesus and Scripture
A. Give an example of Jesus quoting Scripture to Satan. Like 4:12 you shall not put the Lord your God to the test.
B. Give an example of Jesus bleeding Scripture. Matt 27:46 My God , my God why have you forsaken me.
8. The word literally actually means “according to the literature.” How is that different from what you might have thought in the past? Then explain how you would interpret prose at face value, but if you interpreted poetry that way, you would be interpreting it incorrectly. Give an example. Keller used scripture from Psalm 7 about God wrestling with leviathan. (I’m kind of naive I thought He could do that) The cow jumped over the moon from nursery rhyme.
9. Keller says, “Can you be a Christian and not follow it all? No!” Do you agree or disagree? Why? I think I have to accept Scripture as my authority. I see it as my security. To decide not to follow it, what if it is decided we start throwing parts out like Jesus is the way the truth and the life.
10. What was his point with the Star Trek “I Mudd” episode? That Mudd needed to capture people to have legitimate feedback on his life and stretch him otherwise it was just androids agreeing This blog does this.
11. Keller said the word “exhort” in Hebrews 12:5 translated another way is “argue.” His point? His point I think that if we decide we are worthless or unloved God s word comes in and says I have loved you with an everlasting love and you are mine. So the scripture is arguing with lies Satan tries to tell us.
12. How has the Lord argued with you about something?I can’t think of anything He has convinced me He is real, He cares, He provides, He is merciful, He won’t forsake me, He is for me and not against me.
Monday: The Text
3. Read John 5:31-47
A. What stands out to you upon first reading and why?
I read the verses before this passage and really couldn’t get why ( they are hard-hearted ) the Jews did not want to believe what Jesus was saying about himself. They, who were steeped in the study of the prophecies of the Bible, couldn’t believe the fulfillment of the prophecies in the person of Jesus who stood before them.
Jesus was very blunt with them as He knew what was in their hearts. He challenged them and instead of having their hearts and minds opened to the truth, they felt threatened in their positions. I believe they have an inkling of the truth in Jesus’ words but their hearts were hardened.
B. Jewish law requires two or three testimonies. How does this explain verse 31?
Jesus is telling the Jewish leaders that His testimony is not just of Himself. He is pointing to them that He came to fulfill the law and that He is not in any way contradicting what the Scriptures say about Him.
C. What is the first testimony Jesus mentions — yet he says it is not valid. Why? Then why does he mention it? (33-35)
He is testifying of Himself. He says it is not valid because He wants to point out what the OT says about 3 witnesses. He mentions it as a hyperbole (?) meaning that He Himself is Triune so there are really 3 witnesses. He knew the heart of these Jewish leaders. They want to discredit Him although the evidence points to Jesus saying the truth. I am not sure I am expressing myself here very well.
D. What are the 2nd and 3rd testimonies that are not human that He gives (36-37)
The works of Jesus and the Scriptures.
E. What do they do right according to verse 39 and what do they fail to do according to verse 40-44?
They study the Scriptures but do not believe that they testify about Jesus and fail to come to Jesus to have life.
F. Who is their accuser and why? (45-47)
Moses became their accuser because Moses talked and pointed to Jesus but the Jewish leaders did not want to believe in Him.
Thursday: Believing Moses
Listen up to 23:20 when Keller says, “I can keep this up…” 🙂
13. Find the examples that refer to the teachings of Moses and explain why they do:
A. John 1:29
—The Lamb of God / The Passover Lamb represented Jesus. The lamb’s death and blood was a covering that caused the Angel of death to pass over. So Jesus death and blood is a covering for our sin and gives us life.
B. John 1:50-51
—The stairway between heaven and earth. / The stairway brings heaven and earth together so that we have access to fellowship with God. Jesus is the stairway between Heaven and earth, between God and man. It is by Jesus we are united back to God our Father.
C. John 2 (How did both the water into wine and the clearing of the temple hearken back to the ceremonial laws of Moses that foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice?)
—Because the ceremonial law said you have to be clean to come into the presence of God and the jars represented that. But it was Jesus who changed the water to wine representing doing away with the old requirements and bringing in the new covenant with God.
Jesus cleared the temple and was saying Keller’s quote (“I’m the temple. I’m the place where God and humanity are going to meet again over the atoning sacrifice.”)
D. John 3:14
—The bronze snake lifted up in the wilderness. As the bronze snake was lifted up and if the people bitten by the snakes would look up at the snake on the pole they would be healed and live so Jesus was lifted up on the Cross and if sin sick people will look up to him for salvation He will heal them and save them.
7. Jesus and Scripture A. Give an example of Jesus quoting Scripture to Satan.
He tells Satan that, “It is written,,,” and then He quotes some scripture. For example, in the desert He tells him that it is written that man should not live in bread alone, rather they live in the Word of God.
B. Give an example of Jesus bleeding Scripture.
When He cries, “My God, My God! Why have You forsaken Me?
8. The word literally actually means “according to the literature.” How is that different from what you might have thought in the past? Then explain how you would interpret prose at face value, but if you interpreted poetry that way, you would be interpreting it incorrectly. Give an example.
There are different genres. You can believe it when a character says they saw something with their own eyes. If it’s poetry, there is some leeway for some sort of translating (song of Solomon), then there could be some misunderstanding.
9. Keller says, “Can you be a Christian and not follow it all? No!” Do you agree or disagree? Why?
I agree. I believe it is all His breathed Word. God has written all of it. I can’t pick and choose the parts I want and throw away the rest.
10. What was his point with the Star Trek “I Mudd” episode?
The man was miserable because he didn’t have any valuable relationships. He needed someone to argue points with; he was alone.
Wednesday: Throw Out Your Red Letter Bible!
Listen to about 18:22 when Keller says: The second and the third.
6. What stood out to you from this part and why? All of it stood out to me. I know this sounds like a cop-out but I can’t just pick one thing…all of it was so good!
7. Jesus and Scripture
A. Give an example of Jesus quoting Scripture to Satan. The first thing that always comes to my mind was when Jesus was being tempted in the wilderness. Every time Satan tried to tempt Jesus, His rebuttal was Scripture. I thought of the study 2 weeks ago and the challenge you gave us in counteracting the temptations in our lives…replace Satan’s lies with truth and God’s Word is truth.
B. Give an example of Jesus bleeding Scripture. In Luke 23, on His way to Calvary, He meets some women who are weeping and He says, “Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for Me, weep for yourselves…days are coming which they’ll say blessed are the barren, wombs that never bore and breasts which never nursed,” and then in verse 30 He quotes from Isaiah 2:19, “They will begin to say to the mountains, fall on us, and to the hills, cover us.”
8. The word literally actually means “according to the literature.” How is that different from what you might have thought in the past? Then explain how you would interpret prose at face value, but if you interpreted poetry that way, you would be interpreting it incorrectly. Give an example. It’s not something I have heard before so don’t have any thoughts on it from the past. But it does make perfect sense as you must read each Scripture in light of who the author is, the type of literature is being written and the context. There are many different ways that God is described in Psalms…Shield, Rock, and Fortress are ones that if I interpret them at face value seem silly/weird, but in a poetic sense they describe God’s character as Protector, Faithful and Strong. I hope that makes sense.
Makes perfect sense, Sharon. My sister was taught in the Unitarian church that the Bible taught the earth was flat because its poetry says His eyes go to the end of the earth! Or the Jehovah’s Witnesses taking the 144,000 of Revelation to mean that is the full number who will be saved rather than understanding apocalyptic literature.
Such great examples in your answer to 8. Sharon. Makes good sense to me! Love your examples too, Dee. So interesting what people create by taking God’s words out of context. Such good reasons to continue to study His Word always.
Wednesday: Throw Out Your Red Letter Bible!
9. Keller says, “Can you be a Christian and not follow it all? No!” Do you agree or disagree? Why? I do agree as we can’t pick and choose what to follow or not follow.
10. What was his point with the Star Trek “I Mudd” episode? Harry Mudd was surrounded by robots who always agreed with him except for his wife robot who continually scolded him so he would just turn her off. He thought the world would be great if everyone around him just agreed and didn’t talk back, but in having human contact with Captain Kirk and his crew he realized how miserable he was and had no personal relationships, he was dying. All the Bible is God’s Word and in order to have a relationship with Him, we must follow all of it. I will never forget being in a Bible Study and a person commented on the passage with, “I bet God is sorry that He put that in the Bible!” I moved away for fear of a lightning strike!!!
11. Keller said the word “exhort” in Hebrews 12:5 translated another way is “argue.” His point? I found this interesting…the word “exhort” is translated “argue.” God’s Word is refining me and I must accept/obey it all if I’m to become more like Him. Again, I can’t just say God is love without also saying He’s a God of wrath too.
12. How has the Lord argued with you about something? I have questioned where He’s at in certain circumstances…feeling forsaken and alone and the truth of His Word comes flooding in from Isaiah 41:10, “Fear not (but God), for I am with you (you are?); Be not dismayed, for I am your God (I do remember how You have always been there for me). I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand (yes, Lord, I know you will).”
Sharon, Isaiah 41:13 is my favorite Bible verse! I repeated it to myself everyday for 6 weeks as I had radiation treatments for breast cancer 10 years ago. I used to insert my name after, “Fear not,” (Laura) 🙂
For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand;it is I who say to you, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.”
Isaiah 41:13
Biblegateway.com
13. Find the examples that refer to the teachings of Moses and explain why they do:
A. John 1:29 The Lamb of God OT had Passover lamb recognizing when Israelites fled Egypt and the curse of death passed over the blood of the lamb that was on Israelites doorposts.
B. John 1:50-51 heaven will open and you will see angels descending and descending on the Son of Man. As he fled from Esau Jacob had a dream about the ladder that encouraged him Dream represents the passageway to heaven and Jesus is the Way.
C. John 2 (How did both the water into wine and the clearing of the temple hearken back to the ceremonial laws of Moses that foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice?) there were ceremonial jars of cleansing to go into God’s Presence. Jesus at the wedding filled the jars with wine because it s His blood that does the cleansing. Jesus cleared the temple because He has become our place of worship.
D. John 3:14. When the Israelites deserved the punishment of snakes,Moses was told to make a Bronze snake and put it on a pile and those who looked at it lived. I deserve punishment for my sin and I look to Jesus who died for my sins on the cross and I’m saved from my just punishment
11. Keller said the word “exhort” in Hebrews 12:5 translated another way is “argue.” His point? I think his point is that we need to want a God, who has corrects and instructs us, not a God, who is indulgent and says okay to all our desires. I always think of our Father as a parent, who wants be to be the best person I can be and I want to be open to His correction. I read and re-read Hebrews 12:5-6. I especially love this: For those whom the Lord loves He disciplines, And He scourges every son whom He receives. One footnote I read, said corrective and instructive training. Like a parent training a child. 12. How has the Lord argued with you about something? Oh, yes! Often…I once wanted a job I had applied for and thought it would be so perfect. I came in second and was so disappointed, as I had been looking for a long time. I ended up taking a job at The Design Center, that was a job I really was not thrilled about. It was not a good fit for me and I was there for 18 months. My mom kept encouraging me, saying God has a plan in this and she was right! This job led me to the job that was a perfect fit and it came out of nowhere. It started me off in a business, that became my business for 25 years and I loved it. God always knows Best. (I credit my mom for being amazing at knowing what’s best too!) 🙂 13. Find the examples that refer to the teachings of Moses and explain why they do: A. John 1:29 Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world. Jesus became the Passover lamb. Moses wrote about the Passover lamb in Genesis 22:8 and Exodus 12. In Genesis the lamb (ram) was provided by God as a substitutionary burnt offering in place of Isaac. In Exodus, Moses was told by God, to take an unblemished male lamb to use for the Passover sacrifice. B. John 1:50-51 These verses refer to Jesus as the angels of God ascend and descend on the Son of Man. As in Jacob’s dream: God will open a passage way between heaven and earth~ the way to get the presence of God in our lives; a way to reunite with God. Jesus is that passageway. to be continued……….
11. Keller said the word “exhort” in Hebrews 12:5 translated another way is “argue.” His point?
The NLT translates this as the “encouragement.”
I think his point is to say that you can’t accept one part of the Bible without accepting another, less desirable part of the Bible. I found this part of the sermon confusing, to be honest. 12. How has the Lord argued with you about something?
Oh yes, I’m sure I have been in this position before, I just can’t recall a specific incident. Probably with what to do with my children’s bad behavior.
13. Find the examples that refer to the teachings of Moses and explain why they do: A. John 1:29
This verse is about the Passover lamb, where God passed over the houses that were covered in the blood from the slain lamb. Jesus is the lamb. B. John 1:50-51
Jacob has a dream about a stairway where heaven and earth meet and angels pass between the two. This is about a way for us to partake in heaven. Jesus is the Way.
C. John 2 (How did both the water into wine and the clearing of the temple hearken back to the ceremonial laws of Moses that foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice?)
The water represented the old way, in the vases, ceremonial. The wine was the new way, and the best.
The clearing the temple was Jesus, angry that the temple was being used as a place of commerce instead of its rightful use, as a place of worship. The people were being forced to buy their lambs and doves and such from the leaders for the sacrifice. Jesus was intimating that they would not need to do this again, because He would be that offering.
Keller talks about when the Pharisees question Him and He says to tear the temple down and He will build it back up in 3 days. He is referring to Himself and His death and resurrection.
D. John 3:14
Moses lifting the snake references Jesus being lifted to heaven.
Thursday: Believing Moses
Listen up to 23:20 when Keller says, “I can keep this up…” 🙂
13. Find the examples that refer to the teachings of Moses and explain why they do:
A. John 1:29 “The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” The Israelites put the blood of a lamb over their doorposts so the angel of death would pass over and spare their firstborn. They were brought out of Egypt and ever year they celebrated Passover by slaying a lamb. Jesus was the ultimate Lamb who was crucified during Passover…as Keller said, “John the Baptist got it.”
B. John 1:50-51
“Jesus answered and said to him, “Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these.” And He said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, hereafter you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.”” This is pointing to the dream Jacob had of seeing angels descend and ascend on a stairway between heaven and earth and Nathaniel realizes that this is a prediction of God opening a passageway between heaven and earth, because the angels represent the presence of God. There’s going to be a way for us to reunite with God and Jesus is that way.
C. John 2 (How did both the water into wine and the clearing of the temple hearken back to the ceremonial laws of Moses that foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice?) They had to be ceremonially clean to come into the presence of God (the jars had water in them for ceremonial cleaning and the clearing of the temple was because they were making it about money rather than the sacrifice) according to the Mosaic Law. The blood (turning water into wine and Jesus being the sacrifice)of Christ purifies us and enables us to enter the presence of God.
D. John 3:14 “And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up,” Jesus is talking to Nicodemus and is saying just as the Israelites looked to the serpent on the pole to be saved I too will be lifted up…look to Me and you will be saved.
14. What did the Pharisees do right? Wrong? They got it right by knowing and obeying scripture and that eternal life was in the scripture, but they missed that eternal life was through Jesus Christ.
15. What was Keller’s point about Mark Twain’s heavy Bible dream? Twain rejected Christianity. The Bible will destroy you if you don’t see it’s about Jesus. If you fail to see it’s about Jesus you can live a life of guilt because of not living up to what it says or you can become like a Pharisee wanting praise from others and their knowledge and obedience would save them. They miss that it is their obedience should come from loved for God who has saved them by grace.
16. Three kinds of testimonies:
A. Personal — John the Baptist. Who is a person in your life who shone the light of Christ to you and how did he or she do it? A great aunt. She lived her faith kind, gentle, and thinking best of others.
B. Empirical: Jesus Life. What was Keller’s point about the mountain hike story? The point is that you can get caught up in the details and specifics of the Bible and miss the overall point that it’s about God loved us so much He sent Jesus to atone for our sin.
C. Scriptures: What did Keller have to say about this? The Bible isn’t an end but it is the means to to the end of finding Jesus. Don’t get caught up in the details and miss that it points to Jesus. Then the Bible becomes that gives life. Jesus is the Lord of the Word.
Tuesday: Introduction
Listen up to about 6:30 when Keller says: There are three things Jesus believed about Scripture.
1. What stood out to you from the introduction?
“… of the three witnesses, every one of them Jesus gives us here is in the Scripture.” Being immersed in the Scripture is a good thing.
4. Why do some people think the Bible is a human book?
Because it was written by humans only.
5. When I read through the Bible sometimes I put a ? in the margin with a “Help me, understand, Lord!” For example, in Leviticus 12, a woman remains unclean much longer if she gives birth to a girl baby rather than a boy. God knows that troubles me, yet I also know from Scripture that men and women are equal in the sight of God, so I will trust what I don’t now understand. Can you give an example of something you don’t particularly like in the Bible either because you don’t want to do it or because you don’t understand it? Yet — what is your response?
Men have multiple wives in the OT. All the killings that happened in the OT as the Israelites were on their way to the Promised Land. It has helped me look into the practices of the day. Oftentimes times I go to Psalm 131
6. Jesus gives 3 testimonies, and the first two are in the New Testament and the third in the Old. Explain.
Jesus wants His listeners to know that both OT and NT point to Him. He is the fulfillment of everything that has been written and spoken about. All Scriptures are inspired!
Amen, Bing!!Jesus wants His listeners to know that both OT and NT point to Him. He is the fulfillment of everything that has been written and spoken about. All Scriptures are inspired!
Wednesday: Throw Out Your Red Letter Bible!
Listen to about 18:22 when Keller says: The second and the third.
6. What stood out to you from this part and why?
7. Jesus and Scripture
A. Give an example of Jesus quoting Scripture to Satan.
When Satan tempted Jesus in the wilderness.
B. Give an example of Jesus bleeding Scripture.
When He was hanging on the cross dying for me. “My God, my God, why has thou forsaken me?”
8. The word literally actually means “according to the literature.” How is that different from what you might have thought in the past? Then explain how you would interpret prose at face value, but if you interpreted poetry that way, you would be interpreting it incorrectly. Give an example.
The prose is a telling of what happened in a situation, the facts only like Luke addressing Theophilus, and poetry can be a metaphor. I often laugh whenever I read a section of the Song of Songs and the maiden’s body is likened to things like “your neck is like an ivory tower”… Or Keller saying “God wrestling with the sea monster”.
9. Keller says, “Can you be a Christian and not follow it all? No!” Do you agree or disagree? Why?
I agree. All of Scripture is inspired and they do not contradict each other. You cannot follow Jesus and reject one of his main operating principles, and that is the Scripture.
10. What was his point with the Star Trek “I Mudd” episode?
We want others not just to always agree with us but to argue with us. Mudd felt alone.
11. Keller said the word “exhort” in Hebrews 12:5 translated another way is “argue.” His point?
We have a God whose words. the Scripture, can be argued upon and sorted through for truth to be found.
12. How has the Lord argued with you about something?
The Lord argues with me over my insecurities and emphasizes who I am in Him.
Thursday: Believing Moses
Listen up to 23:20 when Keller says, “I can keep this up…” 🙂
13. Find the examples that refer to the teachings of Moses and explain why they do:
A. John 1:29 The Passover Lamb that Moses referred to is Jesus.
B. John 1:50-51 Jacob’s dream of the angels ascending and descending pointing to Jesus as the way to the Father
C. John 2 (How did both the water into wine and the clearing of the temple hearken back to the ceremonial laws of Moses that foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice?)
Mosaic law required the washing of self to come into the presence of God. Jesus’ blood is the new way to come into the presence of God. The clearing of the temples has to do with Jesus being the temple.
D. John 3:14 Moses made a bronze serpent and lifted it up so people bitten by the snake could look at it and be physically healed. Jesus was lifted so that we can be spiritually healed.
Friday: The Pharisees’ Problem
Listen to the end.
14. What did the Pharisees do right? Wrong?
Right-studied the Scriptures. Wrong-they thought it would give them life. Jesus is the One who can give life. “Yet it’s possible to believe that and yet to miss the main message, which is you’re not saved by obeying the Bible, but you’re saved by the one to whom everything in the Bible points and what he has done.”
15. What was Keller’s point about Mark Twain’s heavy Bible dream?
If you see the Bible as just a book, it will destroy you. You cannot fulfill what you perceive are the requirements of the book on your own. You will try and try and it is just like Twain’s dream. It will suffocate you. We are saved only by grace!
16. Three kinds of testimonies:
A. Personal — John the Baptist. Who is a person in your life who shone the light of Christ to you and how did he or she do it?
Charles Miller was a missionary in the Philippines who shone the light of Christ to me through his compassion, love for the Word, generosity, and humility.
B. Empirical: Jesus Life. What was Keller’s point about the mountain hike story?
When I go up there, the view is astounding. It restores my soul. That’s what I wanted you to see. I didn’t want you to miss the forest for the trees. I didn’t want you to miss the view for the soil samples.” It’s really quite important that you learn how to look at who Jesus is because that will give you life.
C. Scriptures: What did Keller have to say about this?
Look to who the Scriptures are pointing to and that is Jesus.
Saturday:
17. What is your take-a-way and why?
The way to find Jesus is to read the Scriptures. He is the Lord of the Word. He is the Word.
Tim Keller’s prayer and let it be so with me, Lord.
Our Father, we ask that you would help us to see why in the Word of the Lord, we find the Lord of the Word. It’s because of the Lord of the Word that we can believe in the Word of the Lord. We ask that you would enable us now as a church to be people who know how to not only not only give a good answer when people criticize the authority of the Word, but to show that the Bible to us is not just a body of truth that we defend, but really it’s our food, it’s our drink, and it’s our way of knowing you. Lord, we pray that you would help us to love you through your Word, and we pray that you would make your Word alive in our lives. We don’t want to be like the people Jesus was talking about, that your word doesn’t dwell on us. We want your word to dwell on us richly. And we pray that you would help us in that regard. Now, through your Holy Spirit, for we ask it through Jesus, in his name we pray, Amen.
C. John 2 (How did both the water into wine and the clearing of the temple hearken back to the ceremonial laws of Moses that foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice?) The Wine represents the blood of Jesus, sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, allowing us to come into the presence of God, the atoning sacrifice. Jesus is the temple. He says “I am the temple; I a m the place where God and humanity are going to meet again. ” D. John 3:14 As Moses lifted the bronze snake in the wilderness, so the people will be saved; so Jesus was lifted up on the Cross, as a sacrifice for our sins.
Friday: The Pharisees’ Problem Listen to the end. 14. What did the Pharisees do right? Wrong? The Pharisees studied the scriptures and attempted to follow the laws, yet they did not get the true message of the Bible~ the message that only through Grace, through belief in Jesus could they get eternal life. They missed the Gift. 15. What was Keller’s point about Mark Twain’s heavy Bible dream? Mark Twain rejected God’s Word and saw it as a burden that was crushing him. He was focusing on the rules and not the Grace of Christ’s gift. 16. Three kinds of testimonies: A. Personal — John the Baptist. Who is a person in your life who shone the light of Christ to you and how did he or she do it? My mom got sweeter as she aged. She demonstrated so much love and grace that all of my children and grandchildren remember that aspect of her more than anything else. All of her words and actions pointed to Him. Such a beautiful legacy she left, more than any earthly treasure is the treasure of a soul, who showed others who Jesus was by her words and her life. B. Empirical: Jesus Life. What was Keller’s point about the mountain hike story? Look at the life of Jesus. Look at the view that is astounding. Don’t miss the forest for the trees. Look at the grace and the glory, don’t pick apart minutia and details that take away from the whole point of the hike. Life is like a hike, look toward the sun (Son) to light your path; don’t stumble on the rocks by staying in the shadow (darkness of self serving). Draw life from Jesus and the life He led. C. Scriptures: What did Keller have to say about this? All of the scriptures testify of Jesus. Obey Him out of great love not out of duty. Rest on Jesus Christ the Lord of the Word, to understand and live by them.
They studied the scriptures diligently. They knew the laws and followed them. They memorized scriptures. BUT, they didn’t know Jesus. They missed the point that THEY could do nothing and be saved, but for Christ.
15. What was Keller’s point about Mark Twain’s heavy Bible dream?
That the Bible is an intimidating book if you don’t understand it’s story. It can weigh you down with all the rules and regulations. You will either be destroyed because of the guilt you feel about not living up to it, or you will be a Pharisee, knowing all the rules and being obedient to them.
16. Three kinds of testimonies: A. Personal — John the Baptist. Who is a person in your life who shone the light of Christ to you and how did he or she do it?
My mother showed me the light of Christ through her devotion to her faith. I would see her completing Bible studies, teaching Sunday school and reading books about the Bible. She prayed. She was one of the most patient and kind people that I have ever known.
B. Empirical: Jesus Life. What was Keller’s point about the mountain hike story?
If you get to the top and just give a report about the “findings,” you have missed the point of the beauty. Don’t miss the forest through the trees.
C. Scriptures: What did Keller have to say about this?
The Bible is the Word of God, but the “Lord of the Word” is in each of the Words of God. I LOVE this!
Friday: The Pharisees’ Problem
Listen to the end.
14. What did the Pharisees do right? Wrong? They were right in studying the Scriptures, but wrong by thinking the Scriptures could give them eternal life because they didn’t believe in the One who could give them eternal life. As Keller said, “Eternal life is in the Scripture and yet the message of the Scripture is that through Jesus Christ you get eternal life.”
15. What was Keller’s point about Mark Twain’s heavy Bible dream? In rejecting Christianity he didn’t see that the Bible was about Jesus but rather about keeping rules which weighed him down and became a burden.
16. Three kinds of testimonies:
A. Personal — John the Baptist. Who is a person in your life who shone the light of Christ to you and how did he or she do it? A good friend in Oregon who came along side me when I was a young mother. She mentored me in the Word and was a great encourager and showed me the love of Christ by how she lived.
B. Empirical: Jesus Life. What was Keller’s point about the mountain hike story? The importance of seeing the big picture and not get so caught up with the details.
C. Scriptures: What did Keller have to say about this? As Keller said, “If you look at the Scriptures as pointing to the Lord, then it becomes something that gives life.”
99 comments
I love this sermon too.
Hey Beth — good to see you! See now
Hello, Beth! I have not listened to this sermon before today. I love it too!
It is good to see you, Beth. Just now listening and it is good!
Sunday:
1. Share a God Hunt. Answer to prayer, unexpected circumstances, Word becoming radioactive, sense of His presence.
—Last Wednesday my husband and I had an unexpected interruption to our schedule by someone who came to our home and completely derailed our afternoon and stayed far longer than he should have. For several hours too long. My husband was angry and blamed me and then I was hurt and angry at him. The incident just served to raise an old struggle between us that never seemed to get resolved. I spent the night in another room pleading with God reading and praying. After his own time in the Word and praying my husband came to me in the morning and we sat down together to seek a resolution. It was not an easy conversation to have but in the end for the first time I felt forgiveness was asked for and received on both our parts in dealing with our differences. My husband and I are both fairly strong personalities but very different in our needs and perceptions. I think that the differences are true of most couples.
One of the hard things is sharing this and putting it out there because we are seen as a couple who have a very good and strong marriage which is an example to others. And the reality is that because of Jesus we do. In today’s world we are definitely the exception by still being married after 56 years. But I am reminded again that we have an enemy who comes to seek and kill and to divide and destroy anyone who represents the Savior. And I have been reminded and strengthened by the reality that in spite of our fleshly, weak and sinful ways that we have a Heavenly Father who loves us perfectly, unconditionally and is ready to heal and help us in our times of dissension and need. So I have great gratitude to God today for his good work in our lives in spite of us. As I have gone back and reread the prayer I wrote in my time of hurting and the prayer I wrote the next day in response to God and his gracious answer I am deeply encouraged in my Fathers’s love for me.
2. What stands out to you from the above and why?
—“Throw away your red letter Bible, because all the words are the words of Jesus!” That is such a good perspective and reminder of Who Jesus really is.
Thank you for sharing this, Bev. So thankful that we have Jesus. This is a beautiful resolution to one of those very difficult differences. It is a reminder of the importance of having Him be the center for each spouse. I once heard the wife of a college president say: Our marriage is strong because we are both totally in love with the same person: Jesus.
Bev, I agree with Patti, thanks for sharing. How you chose to plead to God reading and praying rather than not, was so wise and spoke volumes to me about your relationship with Him!
Bev, thanks for sharing. I have been in a similar situation with my husband before. So grateful for your example.
Bev — thanks for sharing so vulnerably. Your picture of a hard marriage because of very different and strong personalities yet still a strong one because of Jesus is quite a testimony!
Bev, thank you for sharing your story. My husband and I are in our 34th year of marriage. I appreciate knowing that we will continue to have times like you had; it means we are growing in both our marriage and our walk with God. I will do better to handle it as you did instead of the way I have in the past.
Mary B here, Coming from silence, Bev, just to say that there is value in modeling for people how to disagree and work through conflict within marriage. Many don’t know how and since they never see it, they think the only answer to conflict is divorce. Anyone who has been married for decades has learned to go through the “tunnel of chaos” and emerge in a positive manner. Cheers to the two of you for doing the work!!
1. Share a God Hunt. Answer to prayer, unexpected circumstances, Word becoming radioactive, sense of His presence. Today when I walked into church a woman was holding a tiny 3 day old infant. That always makes me smile. Baby is a foster child. I thank God the mom chose to carry the child to birth. Because she’s decided she can’t care for the child, she will give her son a chance to be raised by a family that are able to care and nurture him. Prayers said for all of them.
2. What stands out to you from the above and why? Throw away your red letter Bible. I look forward to reminders of the presence of Christ in OT.
Judy, so glad the mother made the choice she did for that sweet boy.
Judy, my husband’s nephew, and his wife have adopted 2 boys from the same biological mother. My daughter is fostering a 14-year-old girl though the latter is not living with her. It is kind of a special system in Kansas City, MO. I am thankful to God for watching over these children and giving our family opportunities to share the love of Christ.
Judy — that is such a sweet God sighting.
Thank You Jesus. ♥️
Such a sweet answer to prayer. May God bless the birth mother, the foster parents and this precious little boy.
When I saw the baby and heard that he was being fostered, I thought of the prayers that are said for women with unplanned pregnancy to continue with the pregnancy. I was allowed to see fruit from those prayers. God bless the women who make those difficult decisions and their future choices.
1. Share a God Hunt. Answer to prayer, unexpected circumstances, Word becoming radioactive, sense of His presence.
We celebrated the birthday of a long time friend and enjoyed seeing many of his family and friends we had not seen for many years. We heard wonderful testimonies of many things God has done for each one of us. It was truly a blessing in so many ways. I thought of this old song:
Surely the presence of the Lord is in the place,
I can feel His mighty power and His grace.I can hear the brush of angel’s wingsI see glory on each face;Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place.
I also was unable to finish the questions for last week and just finished reading the last lesson this morning. I was so blessed by all that each of you wrote. I love Bev and Bing’s comments on question 15 ~ such wonderful thoughts. And I so agree with Bing: “I am so grateful for the ministry of Tim Keller and Dee Brestin. God is good to bless our group here through their special ministries of the Word.” Amen!! Thank you, Dee.
2. What stands out to you from the above and why?
The entire Bible is the inspired Word of God and Jesus is everywhere in it.
Patti, so glad you had a blessed time with friends and thanks for sharing that song…such beautiful words.
Patti, what a beautiful way of celebrating a friend! “Surely…” is one of my favorite worship songs. It was one of the songs sang at our wedding.
Patti, How delightful to hear your God hunt and the blessing you experienced. How refreshing to celebrate with God’s people and to be reminded of the goodness of God our Father and enjoy His presence.
Sunday:
1. Share a God Hunt. Answer to prayer, unexpected circumstances, Word becoming radioactive, sense of His presence.
Through circumstances this week I was reminded of Numbers 23:19, “God is not a man, so He does not lie. He is not human, so He does not change His mind. Has He ever spoken and failed to act? Has He ever promised and not carried it through?” It’s not about how I feel but rather who He is…trustworthy, faithful and loving.
2. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I agree with your personal note…so encouraged by the personal testimonies here.
Love this, Sharon!
Through circumstances this week I was reminded of Numbers 23:19, “God is not a man, so He does not lie. He is not human, so He does not change His mind. Has He ever spoken and failed to act? Has He ever promised and not carried it through?” It’s not about how I feel but rather who He is…trustworthy, faithful, and loving.
Amen to Bing’s comment, Sharon.
Thanks Sharon,
Such a good scripture and reminder from you. 💕
Amen to Bing and Dee, dear Sharon. Thank you for this scripture today. I, too, am so encouraged by the personal testimonies here.
Sunday:
1. Share a God Hunt. Answer to prayer, unexpected circumstances, Word becoming radioactive, sense of His presence.
Oh, I could share a few! But for space’s sake, I will share just one. (Smile.)
I have been talking to God about my commitments for this school year. I have been concerned about the time I need to spend on continuing the program I helped start last year at a small private institute. My assistant teacher had some changes come up in her pursuit of advanced practice and told me a few weeks ago that she would need to cut back on the hours she promised to give. And I said to God, “What now, Lord?)
A week ago, while at the library, I saw another friend who has been a stay-at-home mom since I have known her. She nonchalantly inquired about my teaching job and told me she is looking for something part-time to ease back into the nursing profession and would I need any help teaching? I have forgotten she is also an RN! And oh, boy! How do you think I replied?!? Now, Lord willing, I have 2 assistants, both Christians, and both passionate about training others. Between the three of us, the teaching load will not be too much. Oh, Lord! how gracious you are!
I do need your prayers. I have been teaching this class for so many years by myself before I retired. Having to work with 2 other teachers will be an adjustment. I do believe God has endowed these 2 women with gifts and skills complementary to mine. I am very grateful to God.
2. What stands out to you from the above and why?
“Throw away your red letter Bible, because all the words are the words of Jesus!”
HIStory, that is what the Bible all about. From Genesis to Revelation, it is all about Him. And shouldn’t we be glad?
Oh Bing, I did a happy dance when I read your God Hunt…what a wonderful answer to prayer!! I know y’all will work well together for His glory.
What a great answer to prayer, Bing!
Bing, How delightful to hear how God is leading you in your teaching endeavor. He just simply continues to amaze us. 💕
Oh, Bing! This stirs my heart with joy! How Jesus works out all the details! Thank you, Jesus! The Jesus who surprises! (Love that book, Dee!)
I love your HIStory comment! It is all about Jesus! Amen! Yes, we should be glad!
1. Share a God Hunt. Answer to prayer, unexpected circumstances, Word becoming radioactive, sense of His presence.
I am visiting a long time friend of mine and was a little anxious about the travel. I prayed that all would go well on my way last Thursday, because I had heard of all the recent issues with planes and flying. It was a flawless day and I attribute that to God. I even ended up being able to check my bag (for free!) through to my final destination, even though I had planned to just carry it on board with me. Thank You Jesus!
2. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I love the quote from Keller about throwing away your red letter Bible! So funny.
Laura, I understand your anxiety and am so glad it was uneventful and got your baggage checked in for free, an added bonus…yes, thank You Jesus!
What a lovely answer to prayer, Laura. Thank you, Jesus.
Huge God Hunt for me. Our church steering committee has a very strong man who is so hard for me and thinks so differently than the rest of us. I dreaded our meeting and the proposals he was making, including stopping listening to Keller sermons. A lot of prayer.
Afterward another woman and I looked at each other in amazement. It was like a different man was in his seat who backed down on everything and now likes Keller.
Only God.
(I will remove this soon — but wanted to report my amazement at God’s answer.)
Oh Yes. Only God!!
Amen! Only God! Thank you Father God for changing the heart of this man. I have chills reading this.
3. Read John 5:31-47
A. What stands out to you upon first reading and why?
I think it’s interesting that Jesus points out if they don’t believe what Moses wrote, how would they believe Him. He is questioning their belief.
B. Jewish law requires two or three testimonies. How does this explain verse 31?
He could not just say, I am who I am, without having others agree. He would need several people to confirm His actions.
C. What is the first testimony Jesus mentions — yet he says it is not valid. Why? Then why does he mention it? (33-35)
He speaks of John the Baptist and his testimony. I’m not sure why it isn’t considered valid though 🤷🏻♀️. Maybe because the testimony is just from a man? He says it is being recognized for the sake of us being saved.
D. What are the 2nd and 3rd testimonies that are not human that He gives (36-37)
He, Himself and the Father are the second and third testimonies.
E. What do they do right according to verse 39 and what do they fail to do according to verse 40-44?
They search the scriptures for eternal life and they fail to go to Him, who gives eternal life.
F. Who is their accuser and why? (45-47)
Moses is the accuser. They have “set their hope” in him.
Laura,
Thinking through a little more from question C and on your question about John the Baptist’s testimony not being valid I too wondered about that. I trust Keller will enlighten us in his teaching. But I “think” perhaps it has to do with the fact that the religious teachers had gone to and questioned John the Baptist about who he was and why he was teaching and baptizing. They were fascinated by him but in the end they rejected him and his teaching because of his testimony for Jesus and didn’t accept his testimony as valid.
Interesting thought Bev. think you will find Keller interesting.
Monday: The Text
3. Read John 5:31-47
A. What stands out to you upon first reading and why?
—“You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me! Yet you refuse to come to me to receive this life.”
John 5:39-40 NLT
It is sad to me that it is possible to immerse oneself in the very Words of God looking for eternal life and miss the fact that in reality eternal life comes to us through a Person. The Person of Jesus Christ and those very Scriptures from beginning to end point us to Jesus Christ. In spite of the clear truth of God’s Words man will reject Jesus.
B. Jewish law requires two or three testimonies. How does this explain verse 31?
—If Jesus alone made his claims as to Who he was but that was not sufficient according to the Jewish law.
C. What is the first testimony Jesus mentions — yet he says it is not valid. Why?
—He mentions testimony of John the Baptist but says it is not the testimony of man that is needed.
Then why does he mention it? (33-35)
—He
is affirming John as a messenger of the truth about Jesus.
D. What are the 2nd and 3rd testimonies that are not human that He gives (36-37)
—The miraculous works that God gave Jesus to do and he was doing them were a testimony in themselves. And God affirmed who Jesus was when at his baptism by John he spoke and said “This is my beloved son in whom I am well pleased. “
E. What do they do right according to verse 39 and what do they fail to do according to verse 40-44?
—They we’re searching the scriptures which was the right place to look because they bear witness of Jesus but they thought their great study would save them and were blind to the Person of Jesus as God’s Son. They refused to come to Jesus and receive Him even in the face of all the evidence that He came in his Father’s name.
They instead listened to the words of men and gave men’s voices glory over God’s Word.
F. Who is their accuser and why? (45-47)
—Moses would be their accuser for not believing what he had written because Moses wrote and taught who Jesus was as the coming Christ.
3. Read John 5:31-47
A. What stands out to you upon first reading and why? The many witnesses to validate that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of God, were ignored and rejected by the Jews and the Jewish leaders. They were so busy and focused on following their laws that they could not see the Savior, who walked among them. It has always been true that many are so self focused that they cannot believe what is before their own eyes.
B. Jewish law requires two or three testimonies. How does this explain verse 31? If only Jesus testifies for Himself, it does not fulfill the Jewish law requirements.
C. What is the first testimony Jesus mentions — yet he says it is not valid. Why? Then why does he mention it? (33-35) I think that Jesus mentions the testimony of John the Baptist because John was sent by God, as the forerunner of Jesus. This was ordained by God, yet the Jews rejected the testimony of John the Baptist. He was pointing to the Lamb of God, but few acknowledged or understood his role. He was kind of a bridge between the old and new testament prophets.
D. What are the 2nd and 3rd testimonies that are not human that He gives (36-37) The testimony of the works, which the Father in Heaven had given Jesus to do and the witness of God the Father Himself.
E. What do they do right according to verse 39 and what do they fail to do according to verse 40-44? The Jewish leaders search and study the Scriptures, (Old Testament) in great detail, yet they do not perceive that Jesus is the Son of God, the true Christ who was foretold.
F. Who is their accuser and why? (45-47) Their accuser is Moses. Moses penned the scriptures that the Jewish leaders study and follow, as the lawgiver from God. Yet, they do not believe. If they did believe that these words were truly inspired by God, they would believe that Jesus is who He says He is.
A. What stands out to you upon first reading and why? You study the scriptures diligently…these are the very Scriptures that testify about me. It’s sad that they studied diligently and missed the One they were expecting.
B. Jewish law requires two or three testimonies. How does this explain verse 31? Jesus was telling them that it’s not just His declaration of whomHe was but they also had John the Baptist and the miracles He had done,
C. What is the first testimony Jesus mentions — yet he says it is not valid. Why? Then why does he mention it? (33-35) John the Baptist. Jesus said He didn’t accept human testimony. Jesus said for a time they’d enjoyed John s light.
D. What are the 2nd and 3rd testimonies that are not human that He gives (36-37) The works He was doing were the Father’s works. Some were miracles. The Father Himself through thenScripture they were studying.
E. What do they do right according to verse 39 and what do they fail to do according to verse 40-44? Diligently study the Scriptures. They accept another person s testimony about who he is but fail to accept Jesus testimony that He was from the Father, They refuse to seekmthe glory that comes from God, but accept glory that comes from one another.
F. Who is their accuser and why? (45-47) Moses They are searching the Old Testament and the Scriptures Moses partially wrote and don’t see Jesus in front of them to whom scripture pointed.
Monday: The Text
3. Read John 5:31-47
A. What stands out to you upon first reading and why?
They searched the Scriptures because they thought they give eternal life…they didn’t realize that the Scriptures pointed to Jesus. It would be interesting to know what in the Scriptures they thought would give them eternal life? Who did they think Abraham, Moses and all the prophets were talking about? Of course we have an advantage in having the whole story.
B. Jewish law requires two or three testimonies. How does this explain verse 31?
Why they wouldn’t accept His testimony if He were to testify on His own behalf…it wouldn’t be valid.
C. What is the first testimony Jesus mentions — yet he says it is not valid. Why? Then why does he mention it? (33-35)
The first testimony He mentions is His own…”If I were to testify on My own behalf, My testimony would not be valid.” He mentions it because they had to send investigators to listen to John the Baptist to see if his testimony was true about Jesus. But of course Jesus has no need of human witnesses, but He said these things so they might be saved. They were excited for awhile about John’s message as he was like a burning and shining lamp.
D. What are the 2nd and 3rd testimonies that are not human that He gives (36-37)
John was the 2nd testimony, the third testimony was the works that the Father gave Him to accomplish and they bore witness that the Father sent Him.
E. What do they do right according to verse 39 and what do they fail to do according to verse 40-44?
They searched the Scriptures thinking that within them they would find eternal life. They refused to come to Jesus that they may have life, they did not have the love of God within them, did not receive Him and they didn’t seek the glory that comes from the only God.
F. Who is their accuser and why? (45-47)
Moses is their accuser…if they would believe him and his writings, they would believe Jesus as he wrote of Jesus.
Love this, Sharon! It would be interesting to know what in the Scriptures they thought would give them eternal life? Who did they think Abraham, Moses and all the prophets were talking about? Of course we have an advantage in having the whole story.
1. Share a God Hunt. Answer to prayer, unexpected circumstances, Word becoming radioactive, sense of His presence. We were trying to organize a day to fix the roof on my parent’s cabin which had a large hole from a fallen limb. This past weekend worked out for enough people to make it light work. It’s not easy finding a weekend in the summer in which most people don’t have prior plans. The weather was perfect and everything worked out beautifully. I had been praying that things would run smoothly since it was a torrential downpour when my husband, son and I were there 2 weeks earlier to remove the limb and secure the roof with a tarp. It was a small answer to prayer, but one that I was thankful for.
2. What stands out to you from the above and why? Everyone’s testimonies inspire me as well.
I love that you were able to get the roof fixed in good weather, Dawn. I think that is a big answer to prayer! 🙂
Don’t you just live when things work so well together? I’m happy for you!
Tuesday: Introduction
Listen up to about 6:30 when Keller says: There are three things Jesus believed about Scripture.
3. What stood out to you from the introduction?
—That God’s (the Father’s) testimony is found in the Scriptures. The Bible, God’s Word, is the authority for telling us Who Jesus is.
4. Why do some people think the Bible is a human book?
—Generally I would say because they haven’t read or studied it sufficiently to have a true context for what it is about and many are just simply follow the thinking of someone else who has told them that. But also they come from a humanistic perspective of life and The Bible is an inspired and living book that speaks Gods truth and can only be understood by the power of the Holy Spirit. It takes God’s Spirit to enlighten the reader.
5. When I read through the Bible sometimes I put a ? in the margin with a “Help me, understand, Lord!” For example, in Leviticus 12, a woman remains unclean much longer if she gives birth to a girl baby rather than a boy. God knows that troubles me, yet I also know from Scripture that men and women are equal in the sight of God, so I will trust what I don’t now understand. Can you give an example of something you don’t particularly like in the Bible either because you don’t want to do it or because you don’t understand it? Yet — what is your response?
—Hmmm? Hard question.
As I think about the Bible as a whole I would say there is nothing in the New Testament that troubles me. I love reading the gospels over and over as well as the epistles. And frankly I love The Revelation as well. Most of the old testament makes sense to me as it outlines God’s plan through the ages for the redemption of mankind. The only book that I find frankly tiresome to read is Leviticus. And in particular I struggle with the blemished and the handicapped in some places being excluded. Dee it’s kind of like your dislike of the boy babies and girl babies difference. Because of my grand daughter being lame from her spina bifida I would never want her to feel less than in her worth to God and to us. But like you I don’t understand some of what is in the Law there but I choose to trust there was some underlying purpose in the mind of God at that time. I am grateful to be on this side of the Cross because I fully believe that in today’s time we are free from the Law and it’s many rules and ordinances. The Cross has the power to overcome the brokenness of sin on this world and in people’s lives and that God will take my granddaughter’s handicap and somehow glorify Himself. Because of Jesus we live in a time with the wonderful hope of Heaven when she will be perfect and whole. And so will the rest of us.
6. Jesus gives 3 testimonies, and the first two are in the New Testament and the third in the Old. Explain.
— Keller says the first was John the Baptist who was a respected prophet, the second was the works of Jesus and third it was through the Scriptures that the Father had spoke and foretold about his Son the Messiah. It was the Old Testament because the New Testament had not been written yet.
Love this, Bev: The Cross has the power to overcome the brokenness of sin on this world and in people’s lives and that God will take my granddaughter’s handicap and somehow glorify Himself. Because of Jesus we live in a time with the wonderful hope of Heaven when she will be perfect and whole. And so will the rest of us. And we all have handicaps, many just cannot be seen. May God bless your precious granddaughter and help her to know how perfect she truly is.
3. What stood out to you from the introduction?
I think it is interesting that he makes the point that God is one of the “testimonies.” I’m not sure if he says this, but what I got out of it was that God references Jesus in the Old Testament repeatedly.
4. Why do some people think the Bible is a human book?
It was written by humans. Contradictions occur. It can’t possibly be followed in today’s world (people think this). My mother asked me (when I questioned her about the authenticity of the Bible), if I thought God would make sure to translate it via Himself or not. That pretty much shut me down!
5. When I read through the Bible sometimes I put a ? in the margin with a “Help me, understand, Lord!” For example, in Leviticus 12, a woman remains unclean much longer if she gives birth to a girl baby rather than a boy. God knows that troubles me, yet I also know from Scripture that men and women are equal in the sight of God, so I will trust what I don’t now understand. Can you give an example of something you don’t particularly like in the Bible either because you don’t want to do it or because you don’t understand it? Yet — what is your response?
I wonder where the woman came from that married Cain, in the beginning, to begin the human race. I suppose if God formed Adam and Eve, He could form another being to marry him. It’s just weird to me that she just shows up when he leaves Adam and Eve.
6. Jesus gives 3 testimonies, and the first two are in the New Testament and the third in the Old. Explain.
One is John the Baptist, a respected prophet, one is Himself, and all the deeds He accomplished, and the miracles, and the last is God Himself (see above).
This is so good, Laura!!! “My mother asked me (when I questioned her about the authenticity of the Bible), if I thought God would make sure to translate it via Himself or not. That pretty much shut me down.”
🙂
3. What stood out to you from the introduction?
There are three things Jesus believes about the Scriptures: The Complete Authority, Unity, and Vitality/Power of the Bible.
4. Why do some people think the Bible is a human book? Because the words are written by men, yet these people do not trust that it is the Inspired Word of God. The more I study the Bible, the more I trust Him and see that God inspired it, even though I may not understand every verse. I have found that some of those verses start to make sense years later ~ the Holy Spirit speaks to our hearts ~ there is no such thing as spending too much time in the Word~ I always learn something new or have a new insight when I study God’s Word.
5. When I read through the Bible sometimes I put a ? in the margin with a “Help me, understand, Lord!” For example, in Leviticus 12, a woman remains unclean much longer if she gives birth to a girl baby rather than a boy. God knows that troubles me, yet I also know from Scripture that men and women are equal in the sight of God, so I will trust what I don’t now understand. Can you give an example of something you don’t particularly like in the Bible either because you don’t want to do it or because you don’t understand it? Yet — what is your response?
There are many things in the Bible, especially in the Old Testament, that I do not fully understand. I always am reminded of 1 Corinthians 13:12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known. NASB I am learning a lot this year from the “my word for the year”, Trust. Though I may not understand it all today, I do know that it is Trustworthy, because He is worthy of our Trust.
6. Jesus gives 3 testimonies, and the first two are in the New Testament and the third in the Old. Explain.
1.) John the Baptist, respected prophet; foretold of the Christ 2.) Jesus says to look at His deeds the works that the Father gave Him to do (His miracles) 3.) The Father through the inspired scriptures (now we call it the Old Testament) testifies.
Patti,
These are such good thoughts: 😊1 Corinthians 13:12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known. NASB I am learning a lot this year from the “my word for the year”, Trust. Though I may not understand it all today, I do know that it is Trustworthy, because He is worthy of our Trust.
3. What stood out to you from the introduction? He wanted to explain Jesus view of the Bible.
4. Why do some people think the Bible is a human book? They know it written by man but fail to understand it was inspired by Holy Spirit. They feel there are contradictions They can’t trust it and like to think it’s filtered
5. When I read through the Bible sometimes I put a ? in the margin with a “Help me, understand, Lord!” For example, in Leviticus 12, a woman remains unclean much longer if she gives birth to a girl baby rather than a boy. God knows that troubles me, yet I also know from Scripture that men and women are equal in the sight of God, so I will trust what I don’t now understand. Can you give an example of something you don’t particularly like in the Bible either because you don’t want to do it or because you don’t understand it? Yet — what is your response? I know there are many places but off top of my head I think of Luke 16 the parable of shrewd manager. Vs 8-9 confuse me particularly vs 9 I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings. My response is huh, to cheat my boss doesn’t seem to fit with other parts of Bible.
6. Jesus gives 3 testimonies, and the first two are in the New Testament and the third in the Old. Explain. John the Baptist made it clear he was not the Christ but referred back to Isaiah 40:3 the voice of one calling in the desert. Jesus was performing miracles and some of the scriptures the teachers were studying pointed to the first coming of Christ.
That always puzzled me too, Judy — but I think I get it. It is not that He is commending cheating but contrasting using worldly wealth for evil and worldly wealth for good — supporting missionaries, practicing hospitality to unbelievers — and those believers will welcome us into heaven. But it is a very puzzling passage.
You are right, Dee. Silly me, the reason this passage probably came to mind is because I think it was in last week s lesson and we had a question about meaning, Thanks,
Not silly you — it’s a bit of a braintwister!
Tuesday: Introduction
3. What stood out to you from the introduction?
It helped me understand verse 31 when he explains what He is actually saying… “Now, on the surface, it looks like what He’s saying is you don’t have to believe what I’m saying. It’s not true. But what He actually is saying is this, in the the context of Jewish jurisprudence, if a claim was made, you had to have two or three corroborating witnesses. So what He’s saying is, ‘Okay, I understand that my testimony wouldn’t be valid if I’m the only one, my claims right here, if that’s the only testimony you had. But He says, I got 3 more.”
I was confused by question 3C on Monday because I don’t think He was saying that John’s testimony was not valid but that His testimony wouldn’t be valid if He was the only one saying it according to Jewish law.
4. Why do some people think the Bible is a human book?
Because it’s a book written by human beings. They don’t understand that “all Scripture is inspired by God.” 2 Timothy 3:16.
5. When I read through the Bible sometimes I put a ? in the margin with a “Help me, understand, Lord!” For example, in Leviticus 12, a woman remains unclean much longer if she gives birth to a girl baby rather than a boy. God knows that troubles me, yet I also know from Scripture that men and women are equal in the sight of God, so I will trust what I don’t now understand. Can you give an example of something you don’t particularly like in the Bible either because you don’t want to do it or because you don’t understand it? Yet — what is your response?
I don’t understand the Trinity…there are many ways I’ve heard it explained, but it’s beyond my comprehension so I take it in faith to be true.
6. Jesus gives 3 testimonies, and the first two are in the New Testament and the third in the Old. Explain.
John the Baptist and His own works which are both in the NT.
The 3rd witness is the Scriptures which the Father testifies through.
I could be wrong, Sharon, and am indeed swayed by Keller, but when you compare man’s testimony to God’s, you know one could be fallible, because man is, but God’s is never fallible. Yet still, as you say, perhaps it has to do with needing 2 or 3 witnesses.
Yes, the Trinity is hard. As Paige said, “I went to seminary and still don’t understand it.”
Sharon, I think the Trinity is so difficult to our human minds to grasp. It is like the word “Eternity”. I have a difficult time imagining that too. When the Lord returns, He will clarify so much. It is even hard to grasp the greatness of God~ we cannot look upon Him.
Wednesday: Throw Out Your Red Letter Bible!
Listen to about 18:22 when Keller says: The second and the third.
6. What stood out to you from this part and why?
—The fact that Jesus’s view of the Bible is revealed in how throughout his life he was always thinking and speaking Scripture. And that Scripture was the very operating principle of his life. It shows me the importance of having Scripture permeating my own life affecting all I do and say.
7. Jesus and Scripture
A. Give an example of Jesus quoting Scripture to Satan.
—“But Jesus told him, “No! The Scriptures say, ‘People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’ ”. Matthew 4:4
B. Give an example of Jesus bleeding Scripture.
—When Jesus went in and cleansed the Temple. “He said to them, “The Scriptures declare, ‘My Temple will be called a house of prayer,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves!” Matthew 21:13 NLT
8. The word literally actually means “according to the literature.” How is that different from what you might have thought in the past? Then explain how you would interpret prose at face value, but if you interpreted poetry that way, you would be interpreting it incorrectly. Give an example.
9. Keller says, “Can you be a Christian and not follow it all? No!” Do you agree or disagree? Why?
—Well I’m not going to disagree with Keller 😁 But I do very much agree with him in saying No and I agree for the very reason he gave.
He said “How could you possibly say you can follow Jesus and then reject one of the main operating principles of his life? One of the main things he lived and died for? That is the height of disingenuousness. Without a belief in the full authority of the Bible, you aren’t following Jesus”
10. What was his point with the Star Trek “I Mudd” episode?
—If we make the Bible say only what we want it to say or only hear what we want to hear from it we are shutting down the voice of God to speak to us at a real personal level. We basically eliminate having a personal relationship with God. And we desperately need that to live and function well.
11. Keller said the word “exhort” in Hebrews 12:5 translated another way is “argue.” His point?
—God’s Word argues against false thinking on our part and brings truth to our ears that affects our hearts and lives as it speaks to and exhorts us.
12. How has the Lord argued with you about something?
—The biggest would have been several years ago when He did for me just what Keller gives as an example here.
“You know that place where it says, “If God condemned you…” Pardon me, “If your hearts condemn you, God is greater than your heart.” Your heart says you’re nothing. God, God comes in from the Scripture and says, “No, I love you.” See, we want God to contradict us there. But if you don’t want God to contradict you over here, where it tells you something you don’t want to believe, how are you going to let God contradict you over here when he tells you, I love you in spite of what your heart says. If you want a real God, if you want a real Jesus, you’ve got to have an authoritative Scripture.”
—I personally had doubted God’s love for me but through the Holy Spirit’s voice in my heart and mind and verified by the scriptures he showed me clearly that he loved me unconditionally and perfectly.
6. What stood out to you from this part and why? I really like when Keller pointed out that every time Satan assaulted Jesus in the wilderness, Jesus replied with “Grapho- ty” ~it is written. Jesus turns to scripture.
7. Jesus and Scripture
A. Give an example of Jesus quoting Scripture to Satan. Matthew 4: 1-11 has several good examples. This is one I really like: Matthew 4:8-11:Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him, ” All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me. ” Then Jesus said to him, ” Away with you, Satan! For it is written, “You shall worship the Lord you God and Him only you shall serve.” Then the devil left Him, and behold, angels came and ministered to Him.
B. Give an example of Jesus bleeding Scripture. When Jesus was on the cross in Matthew 27:46, Jesus quotes Psalm 22:1 “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?”
8. The word literally actually means “according to the literature.” How is that different from what you might have thought in the past? Then explain how you would interpret prose at face value, but if you interpreted poetry that way, you would be interpreting it incorrectly. Give an example. I am not sure how to answer this question…..I think Song of Solomon is a very good example of Biblical wisdom, in the form of a song. The word pictures in Song of Solomon and many of the Psalms includes metaphors and words to reflect on.
9. Keller says, “Can you be a Christian and not follow it all? No!” Do you agree or disagree? Why? I agree. I think the key is that if you are following the Real Jesus, you must follow it all. Yet, we need to continue to pray for God’s wisdom and continue to read and study His Word with others. Listening to wise counsel and praying for discernment as we study, will help us to continue to grow. We will always have questions; we will not always understand. If someone is too sure of knowing exactly how to interpret it all, I am not sure that is a good source.
10. What was his point with the Star Trek “I Mudd” episode? Without someone to contradict me and hold me accountable, I will shrivel up and die. The Bible is God’s Word and I need Him in my life daily to disagree with me when I am heading the wrong way, in my life or in a relationship. I need to trust Him. I want to be accountable to Him and to have Him argue with my wrongness. He helps me to see a clear reflection of who I am and of what my heart believes. The can be painful things I don’t like to hear from Him, yet they are the things that bring me closer to Him.
Patti, your responses to all of these were so good! I thought your answer to 8 was spot on!
And this…The Bible is God’s Word and I need Him in my life daily to disagree with me when I am heading the wrong way, in my life or in a relationship. I need to trust Him. I want to be accountable to Him and to have Him argue with my wrongness. He helps me to see a clear reflection of who I am and of what my heart believes. The can be painful things I don’t like to hear from Him, yet they are the things that bring me closer to Him. My response, a resounding YES (with a fist pump)!
🙂
Patti, I so agree with Sharon! I felt the same about your answers. 😊
7. Jesus and Scripture
A. Give an example of Jesus quoting Scripture to Satan. Like 4:12 you shall not put the Lord your God to the test.
B. Give an example of Jesus bleeding Scripture. Matt 27:46 My God , my God why have you forsaken me.
8. The word literally actually means “according to the literature.” How is that different from what you might have thought in the past? Then explain how you would interpret prose at face value, but if you interpreted poetry that way, you would be interpreting it incorrectly. Give an example. Keller used scripture from Psalm 7 about God wrestling with leviathan. (I’m kind of naive I thought He could do that) The cow jumped over the moon from nursery rhyme.
9. Keller says, “Can you be a Christian and not follow it all? No!” Do you agree or disagree? Why? I think I have to accept Scripture as my authority. I see it as my security. To decide not to follow it, what if it is decided we start throwing parts out like Jesus is the way the truth and the life.
10. What was his point with the Star Trek “I Mudd” episode? That Mudd needed to capture people to have legitimate feedback on his life and stretch him otherwise it was just androids agreeing This blog does this.
11. Keller said the word “exhort” in Hebrews 12:5 translated another way is “argue.” His point? His point I think that if we decide we are worthless or unloved God s word comes in and says I have loved you with an everlasting love and you are mine. So the scripture is arguing with lies Satan tries to tell us.
12. How has the Lord argued with you about something?I can’t think of anything He has convinced me He is real, He cares, He provides, He is merciful, He won’t forsake me, He is for me and not against me.
Monday: The Text
3. Read John 5:31-47
A. What stands out to you upon first reading and why?
I read the verses before this passage and really couldn’t get why ( they are hard-hearted ) the Jews did not want to believe what Jesus was saying about himself. They, who were steeped in the study of the prophecies of the Bible, couldn’t believe the fulfillment of the prophecies in the person of Jesus who stood before them.
Jesus was very blunt with them as He knew what was in their hearts. He challenged them and instead of having their hearts and minds opened to the truth, they felt threatened in their positions. I believe they have an inkling of the truth in Jesus’ words but their hearts were hardened.
B. Jewish law requires two or three testimonies. How does this explain verse 31?
Jesus is telling the Jewish leaders that His testimony is not just of Himself. He is pointing to them that He came to fulfill the law and that He is not in any way contradicting what the Scriptures say about Him.
C. What is the first testimony Jesus mentions — yet he says it is not valid. Why? Then why does he mention it? (33-35)
He is testifying of Himself. He says it is not valid because He wants to point out what the OT says about 3 witnesses. He mentions it as a hyperbole (?) meaning that He Himself is Triune so there are really 3 witnesses. He knew the heart of these Jewish leaders. They want to discredit Him although the evidence points to Jesus saying the truth. I am not sure I am expressing myself here very well.
D. What are the 2nd and 3rd testimonies that are not human that He gives (36-37)
The works of Jesus and the Scriptures.
E. What do they do right according to verse 39 and what do they fail to do according to verse 40-44?
They study the Scriptures but do not believe that they testify about Jesus and fail to come to Jesus to have life.
F. Who is their accuser and why? (45-47)
Moses became their accuser because Moses talked and pointed to Jesus but the Jewish leaders did not want to believe in Him.
Thursday: Believing Moses
Listen up to 23:20 when Keller says, “I can keep this up…” 🙂
13. Find the examples that refer to the teachings of Moses and explain why they do:
A. John 1:29
—The Lamb of God / The Passover Lamb represented Jesus. The lamb’s death and blood was a covering that caused the Angel of death to pass over. So Jesus death and blood is a covering for our sin and gives us life.
B. John 1:50-51
—The stairway between heaven and earth. / The stairway brings heaven and earth together so that we have access to fellowship with God. Jesus is the stairway between Heaven and earth, between God and man. It is by Jesus we are united back to God our Father.
C. John 2 (How did both the water into wine and the clearing of the temple hearken back to the ceremonial laws of Moses that foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice?)
—Because the ceremonial law said you have to be clean to come into the presence of God and the jars represented that. But it was Jesus who changed the water to wine representing doing away with the old requirements and bringing in the new covenant with God.
Jesus cleared the temple and was saying Keller’s quote (“I’m the temple. I’m the place where God and humanity are going to meet again over the atoning sacrifice.”)
D. John 3:14
—The bronze snake lifted up in the wilderness. As the bronze snake was lifted up and if the people bitten by the snakes would look up at the snake on the pole they would be healed and live so Jesus was lifted up on the Cross and if sin sick people will look up to him for salvation He will heal them and save them.
7. Jesus and Scripture
A. Give an example of Jesus quoting Scripture to Satan.
He tells Satan that, “It is written,,,” and then He quotes some scripture. For example, in the desert He tells him that it is written that man should not live in bread alone, rather they live in the Word of God.
B. Give an example of Jesus bleeding Scripture.
When He cries, “My God, My God! Why have You forsaken Me?
8. The word literally actually means “according to the literature.” How is that different from what you might have thought in the past? Then explain how you would interpret prose at face value, but if you interpreted poetry that way, you would be interpreting it incorrectly. Give an example.
There are different genres. You can believe it when a character says they saw something with their own eyes. If it’s poetry, there is some leeway for some sort of translating (song of Solomon), then there could be some misunderstanding.
9. Keller says, “Can you be a Christian and not follow it all? No!” Do you agree or disagree? Why?
I agree. I believe it is all His breathed Word. God has written all of it. I can’t pick and choose the parts I want and throw away the rest.
10. What was his point with the Star Trek “I Mudd” episode?
The man was miserable because he didn’t have any valuable relationships. He needed someone to argue points with; he was alone.
Wednesday: Throw Out Your Red Letter Bible!
Listen to about 18:22 when Keller says: The second and the third.
6. What stood out to you from this part and why?
All of it stood out to me. I know this sounds like a cop-out but I can’t just pick one thing…all of it was so good!
7. Jesus and Scripture
A. Give an example of Jesus quoting Scripture to Satan.
The first thing that always comes to my mind was when Jesus was being tempted in the wilderness. Every time Satan tried to tempt Jesus, His rebuttal was Scripture. I thought of the study 2 weeks ago and the challenge you gave us in counteracting the temptations in our lives…replace Satan’s lies with truth and God’s Word is truth.
B. Give an example of Jesus bleeding Scripture.
In Luke 23, on His way to Calvary, He meets some women who are weeping and He says, “Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for Me, weep for yourselves…days are coming which they’ll say blessed are the barren, wombs that never bore and breasts which never nursed,” and then in verse 30 He quotes from Isaiah 2:19, “They will begin to say to the mountains, fall on us, and to the hills, cover us.”
8. The word literally actually means “according to the literature.” How is that different from what you might have thought in the past? Then explain how you would interpret prose at face value, but if you interpreted poetry that way, you would be interpreting it incorrectly. Give an example.
It’s not something I have heard before so don’t have any thoughts on it from the past. But it does make perfect sense as you must read each Scripture in light of who the author is, the type of literature is being written and the context. There are many different ways that God is described in Psalms…Shield, Rock, and Fortress are ones that if I interpret them at face value seem silly/weird, but in a poetic sense they describe God’s character as Protector, Faithful and Strong. I hope that makes sense.
Makes perfect sense, Sharon. My sister was taught in the Unitarian church that the Bible taught the earth was flat because its poetry says His eyes go to the end of the earth! Or the Jehovah’s Witnesses taking the 144,000 of Revelation to mean that is the full number who will be saved rather than understanding apocalyptic literature.
Dee, those are such good examples…thanks for sharing 🙂
Such great examples in your answer to 8. Sharon. Makes good sense to me! Love your examples too, Dee. So interesting what people create by taking God’s words out of context. Such good reasons to continue to study His Word always.
Wednesday: Throw Out Your Red Letter Bible!
9. Keller says, “Can you be a Christian and not follow it all? No!” Do you agree or disagree? Why?
I do agree as we can’t pick and choose what to follow or not follow.
10. What was his point with the Star Trek “I Mudd” episode?
Harry Mudd was surrounded by robots who always agreed with him except for his wife robot who continually scolded him so he would just turn her off. He thought the world would be great if everyone around him just agreed and didn’t talk back, but in having human contact with Captain Kirk and his crew he realized how miserable he was and had no personal relationships, he was dying. All the Bible is God’s Word and in order to have a relationship with Him, we must follow all of it. I will never forget being in a Bible Study and a person commented on the passage with, “I bet God is sorry that He put that in the Bible!” I moved away for fear of a lightning strike!!!
11. Keller said the word “exhort” in Hebrews 12:5 translated another way is “argue.” His point?
I found this interesting…the word “exhort” is translated “argue.” God’s Word is refining me and I must accept/obey it all if I’m to become more like Him. Again, I can’t just say God is love without also saying He’s a God of wrath too.
12. How has the Lord argued with you about something?
I have questioned where He’s at in certain circumstances…feeling forsaken and alone and the truth of His Word comes flooding in from Isaiah 41:10, “Fear not (but God), for I am with you (you are?); Be not dismayed, for I am your God (I do remember how You have always been there for me). I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand (yes, Lord, I know you will).”
Sharon, I love your conversational answers to 12. so good!
Sharon, Isaiah 41:13 is my favorite Bible verse! I repeated it to myself everyday for 6 weeks as I had radiation treatments for breast cancer 10 years ago. I used to insert my name after, “Fear not,” (Laura) 🙂
For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand;it is I who say to you, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.”
Isaiah 41:13
Biblegateway.com
❤️🙂
13. Find the examples that refer to the teachings of Moses and explain why they do:
A. John 1:29 The Lamb of God OT had Passover lamb recognizing when Israelites fled Egypt and the curse of death passed over the blood of the lamb that was on Israelites doorposts.
B. John 1:50-51 heaven will open and you will see angels descending and descending on the Son of Man. As he fled from Esau Jacob had a dream about the ladder that encouraged him Dream represents the passageway to heaven and Jesus is the Way.
C. John 2 (How did both the water into wine and the clearing of the temple hearken back to the ceremonial laws of Moses that foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice?) there were ceremonial jars of cleansing to go into God’s Presence. Jesus at the wedding filled the jars with wine because it s His blood that does the cleansing. Jesus cleared the temple because He has become our place of worship.
D. John 3:14. When the Israelites deserved the punishment of snakes,Moses was told to make a Bronze snake and put it on a pile and those who looked at it lived. I deserve punishment for my sin and I look to Jesus who died for my sins on the cross and I’m saved from my just punishment
11. Keller said the word “exhort” in Hebrews 12:5 translated another way is “argue.” His point? I think his point is that we need to want a God, who has corrects and instructs us, not a God, who is indulgent and says okay to all our desires. I always think of our Father as a parent, who wants be to be the best person I can be and I want to be open to His correction. I read and re-read Hebrews 12:5-6. I especially love this: For those whom the Lord loves He disciplines, And He scourges every son whom He receives. One footnote I read, said corrective and instructive training. Like a parent training a child.
12. How has the Lord argued with you about something? Oh, yes! Often…I once wanted a job I had applied for and thought it would be so perfect. I came in second and was so disappointed, as I had been looking for a long time. I ended up taking a job at The Design Center, that was a job I really was not thrilled about. It was not a good fit for me and I was there for 18 months. My mom kept encouraging me, saying God has a plan in this and she was right! This job led me to the job that was a perfect fit and it came out of nowhere. It started me off in a business, that became my business for 25 years and I loved it. God always knows Best. (I credit my mom for being amazing at knowing what’s best too!) 🙂
13. Find the examples that refer to the teachings of Moses and explain why they do:
A. John 1:29 Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world. Jesus became the Passover lamb. Moses wrote about the Passover lamb in Genesis 22:8 and Exodus 12. In Genesis the lamb (ram) was provided by God as a substitutionary burnt offering in place of Isaac. In Exodus, Moses was told by God, to take an unblemished male lamb to use for the Passover sacrifice.
B. John 1:50-51 These verses refer to Jesus as the angels of God ascend and descend on the Son of Man. As in Jacob’s dream: God will open a passage way between heaven and earth~ the way to get the presence of God in our lives; a way to reunite with God. Jesus is that passageway. to be continued……….
Good example, Patti!
11. Keller said the word “exhort” in Hebrews 12:5 translated another way is “argue.” His point?
The NLT translates this as the “encouragement.”
I think his point is to say that you can’t accept one part of the Bible without accepting another, less desirable part of the Bible. I found this part of the sermon confusing, to be honest.
12. How has the Lord argued with you about something?
Oh yes, I’m sure I have been in this position before, I just can’t recall a specific incident. Probably with what to do with my children’s bad behavior.
13. Find the examples that refer to the teachings of Moses and explain why they do:
A. John 1:29
This verse is about the Passover lamb, where God passed over the houses that were covered in the blood from the slain lamb. Jesus is the lamb.
B. John 1:50-51
Jacob has a dream about a stairway where heaven and earth meet and angels pass between the two. This is about a way for us to partake in heaven. Jesus is the Way.
C. John 2 (How did both the water into wine and the clearing of the temple hearken back to the ceremonial laws of Moses that foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice?)
The water represented the old way, in the vases, ceremonial. The wine was the new way, and the best.
The clearing the temple was Jesus, angry that the temple was being used as a place of commerce instead of its rightful use, as a place of worship. The people were being forced to buy their lambs and doves and such from the leaders for the sacrifice. Jesus was intimating that they would not need to do this again, because He would be that offering.
Keller talks about when the Pharisees question Him and He says to tear the temple down and He will build it back up in 3 days. He is referring to Himself and His death and resurrection.
D. John 3:14
Moses lifting the snake references Jesus being lifted to heaven.
Good answers, Laura.
Thursday: Believing Moses
Listen up to 23:20 when Keller says, “I can keep this up…” 🙂
13. Find the examples that refer to the teachings of Moses and explain why they do:
A. John 1:29
“The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!”
The Israelites put the blood of a lamb over their doorposts so the angel of death would pass over and spare their firstborn. They were brought out of Egypt and ever year they celebrated Passover by slaying a lamb. Jesus was the ultimate Lamb who was crucified during Passover…as Keller said, “John the Baptist got it.”
B. John 1:50-51
“Jesus answered and said to him, “Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these.” And He said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, hereafter you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.””
This is pointing to the dream Jacob had of seeing angels descend and ascend on a stairway between heaven and earth and Nathaniel realizes that this is a prediction of God opening a passageway between heaven and earth, because the angels represent the presence of God. There’s going to be a way for us to reunite with God and Jesus is that way.
C. John 2 (How did both the water into wine and the clearing of the temple hearken back to the ceremonial laws of Moses that foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice?)
They had to be ceremonially clean to come into the presence of God (the jars had water in them for ceremonial cleaning and the clearing of the temple was because they were making it about money rather than the sacrifice) according to the Mosaic Law. The blood (turning water into wine and Jesus being the sacrifice)of Christ purifies us and enables us to enter the presence of God.
D. John 3:14
“And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up,”
Jesus is talking to Nicodemus and is saying just as the Israelites looked to the serpent on the pole to be saved I too will be lifted up…look to Me and you will be saved.
14. What did the Pharisees do right? Wrong? They got it right by knowing and obeying scripture and that eternal life was in the scripture, but they missed that eternal life was through Jesus Christ.
15. What was Keller’s point about Mark Twain’s heavy Bible dream? Twain rejected Christianity. The Bible will destroy you if you don’t see it’s about Jesus. If you fail to see it’s about Jesus you can live a life of guilt because of not living up to what it says or you can become like a Pharisee wanting praise from others and their knowledge and obedience would save them. They miss that it is their obedience should come from loved for God who has saved them by grace.
16. Three kinds of testimonies:
A. Personal — John the Baptist. Who is a person in your life who shone the light of Christ to you and how did he or she do it? A great aunt. She lived her faith kind, gentle, and thinking best of others.
B. Empirical: Jesus Life. What was Keller’s point about the mountain hike story? The point is that you can get caught up in the details and specifics of the Bible and miss the overall point that it’s about God loved us so much He sent Jesus to atone for our sin.
C. Scriptures: What did Keller have to say about this? The Bible isn’t an end but it is the means to to the end of finding Jesus. Don’t get caught up in the details and miss that it points to Jesus. Then the Bible becomes that gives life. Jesus is the Lord of the Word.
Tuesday: Introduction
Listen up to about 6:30 when Keller says: There are three things Jesus believed about Scripture.
1. What stood out to you from the introduction?
“… of the three witnesses, every one of them Jesus gives us here is in the Scripture.” Being immersed in the Scripture is a good thing.
4. Why do some people think the Bible is a human book?
Because it was written by humans only.
5. When I read through the Bible sometimes I put a ? in the margin with a “Help me, understand, Lord!” For example, in Leviticus 12, a woman remains unclean much longer if she gives birth to a girl baby rather than a boy. God knows that troubles me, yet I also know from Scripture that men and women are equal in the sight of God, so I will trust what I don’t now understand. Can you give an example of something you don’t particularly like in the Bible either because you don’t want to do it or because you don’t understand it? Yet — what is your response?
Men have multiple wives in the OT. All the killings that happened in the OT as the Israelites were on their way to the Promised Land. It has helped me look into the practices of the day. Oftentimes times I go to Psalm 131
6. Jesus gives 3 testimonies, and the first two are in the New Testament and the third in the Old. Explain.
Jesus wants His listeners to know that both OT and NT point to Him. He is the fulfillment of everything that has been written and spoken about. All Scriptures are inspired!
Amen, Bing!!Jesus wants His listeners to know that both OT and NT point to Him. He is the fulfillment of everything that has been written and spoken about. All Scriptures are inspired!
Wednesday: Throw Out Your Red Letter Bible!
Listen to about 18:22 when Keller says: The second and the third.
6. What stood out to you from this part and why?
7. Jesus and Scripture
A. Give an example of Jesus quoting Scripture to Satan.
When Satan tempted Jesus in the wilderness.
B. Give an example of Jesus bleeding Scripture.
When He was hanging on the cross dying for me. “My God, my God, why has thou forsaken me?”
8. The word literally actually means “according to the literature.” How is that different from what you might have thought in the past? Then explain how you would interpret prose at face value, but if you interpreted poetry that way, you would be interpreting it incorrectly. Give an example.
The prose is a telling of what happened in a situation, the facts only like Luke addressing Theophilus, and poetry can be a metaphor. I often laugh whenever I read a section of the Song of Songs and the maiden’s body is likened to things like “your neck is like an ivory tower”… Or Keller saying “God wrestling with the sea monster”.
9. Keller says, “Can you be a Christian and not follow it all? No!” Do you agree or disagree? Why?
I agree. All of Scripture is inspired and they do not contradict each other. You cannot follow Jesus and reject one of his main operating principles, and that is the Scripture.
10. What was his point with the Star Trek “I Mudd” episode?
We want others not just to always agree with us but to argue with us. Mudd felt alone.
11. Keller said the word “exhort” in Hebrews 12:5 translated another way is “argue.” His point?
We have a God whose words. the Scripture, can be argued upon and sorted through for truth to be found.
12. How has the Lord argued with you about something?
The Lord argues with me over my insecurities and emphasizes who I am in Him.
Oh, I love this!! The Lord argues with me over my insecurities and emphasizes who I am in Him.
Thursday: Believing Moses
Listen up to 23:20 when Keller says, “I can keep this up…” 🙂
13. Find the examples that refer to the teachings of Moses and explain why they do:
A. John 1:29 The Passover Lamb that Moses referred to is Jesus.
B. John 1:50-51 Jacob’s dream of the angels ascending and descending pointing to Jesus as the way to the Father
C. John 2 (How did both the water into wine and the clearing of the temple hearken back to the ceremonial laws of Moses that foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice?)
Mosaic law required the washing of self to come into the presence of God. Jesus’ blood is the new way to come into the presence of God. The clearing of the temples has to do with Jesus being the temple.
D. John 3:14 Moses made a bronze serpent and lifted it up so people bitten by the snake could look at it and be physically healed. Jesus was lifted so that we can be spiritually healed.
Friday: The Pharisees’ Problem
Listen to the end.
14. What did the Pharisees do right? Wrong?
Right-studied the Scriptures. Wrong-they thought it would give them life. Jesus is the One who can give life. “Yet it’s possible to believe that and yet to miss the main message, which is you’re not saved by obeying the Bible, but you’re saved by the one to whom everything in the Bible points and what he has done.”
15. What was Keller’s point about Mark Twain’s heavy Bible dream?
If you see the Bible as just a book, it will destroy you. You cannot fulfill what you perceive are the requirements of the book on your own. You will try and try and it is just like Twain’s dream. It will suffocate you. We are saved only by grace!
16. Three kinds of testimonies:
A. Personal — John the Baptist. Who is a person in your life who shone the light of Christ to you and how did he or she do it?
Charles Miller was a missionary in the Philippines who shone the light of Christ to me through his compassion, love for the Word, generosity, and humility.
B. Empirical: Jesus Life. What was Keller’s point about the mountain hike story?
When I go up there, the view is astounding. It restores my soul. That’s what I wanted you to see. I didn’t want you to miss the forest for the trees. I didn’t want you to miss the view for the soil samples.” It’s really quite important that you learn how to look at who Jesus is because that will give you life.
C. Scriptures: What did Keller have to say about this?
Look to who the Scriptures are pointing to and that is Jesus.
Saturday:
17. What is your take-a-way and why?
The way to find Jesus is to read the Scriptures. He is the Lord of the Word. He is the Word.
Tim Keller’s prayer and let it be so with me, Lord.
Our Father, we ask that you would help us to see why in the Word of the Lord, we find the Lord of the Word. It’s because of the Lord of the Word that we can believe in the Word of the Lord. We ask that you would enable us now as a church to be people who know how to not only not only give a good answer when people criticize the authority of the Word, but to show that the Bible to us is not just a body of truth that we defend, but really it’s our food, it’s our drink, and it’s our way of knowing you. Lord, we pray that you would help us to love you through your Word, and we pray that you would make your Word alive in our lives. We don’t want to be like the people Jesus was talking about, that your word doesn’t dwell on us. We want your word to dwell on us richly. And we pray that you would help us in that regard. Now, through your Holy Spirit, for we ask it through Jesus, in his name we pray, Amen.
Amen to your prayer, Bing.
C. John 2 (How did both the water into wine and the clearing of the temple hearken back to the ceremonial laws of Moses that foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice?) The Wine represents the blood of Jesus, sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, allowing us to come into the presence of God, the atoning sacrifice. Jesus is the temple. He says “I am the temple; I a m the place where God and humanity are going to meet again. ”
D. John 3:14 As Moses lifted the bronze snake in the wilderness, so the people will be saved; so Jesus was lifted up on the Cross, as a sacrifice for our sins.
Friday: The Pharisees’ Problem
Listen to the end.
14. What did the Pharisees do right? Wrong? The Pharisees studied the scriptures and attempted to follow the laws, yet they did not get the true message of the Bible~ the message that only through Grace, through belief in Jesus could they get eternal life. They missed the Gift.
15. What was Keller’s point about Mark Twain’s heavy Bible dream? Mark Twain rejected God’s Word and saw it as a burden that was crushing him. He was focusing on the rules and not the Grace of Christ’s gift.
16. Three kinds of testimonies:
A. Personal — John the Baptist. Who is a person in your life who shone the light of Christ to you and how did he or she do it? My mom got sweeter as she aged. She demonstrated so much love and grace that all of my children and grandchildren remember that aspect of her more than anything else. All of her words and actions pointed to Him. Such a beautiful legacy she left, more than any earthly treasure is the treasure of a soul, who showed others who Jesus was by her words and her life.
B. Empirical: Jesus Life. What was Keller’s point about the mountain hike story? Look at the life of Jesus. Look at the view that is astounding. Don’t miss the forest for the trees. Look at the grace and the glory, don’t pick apart minutia and details that take away from the whole point of the hike. Life is like a hike, look toward the sun (Son) to light your path; don’t stumble on the rocks by staying in the shadow (darkness of self serving). Draw life from Jesus and the life He led.
C. Scriptures: What did Keller have to say about this? All of the scriptures testify of Jesus. Obey Him out of great love not out of duty. Rest on Jesus Christ the Lord of the Word, to understand and live by them.
Beautiful answers, Patti. Thank you for your insights and inspiration.
14. What did the Pharisees do right? Wrong?
They studied the scriptures diligently. They knew the laws and followed them. They memorized scriptures. BUT, they didn’t know Jesus. They missed the point that THEY could do nothing and be saved, but for Christ.
15. What was Keller’s point about Mark Twain’s heavy Bible dream?
That the Bible is an intimidating book if you don’t understand it’s story. It can weigh you down with all the rules and regulations. You will either be destroyed because of the guilt you feel about not living up to it, or you will be a Pharisee, knowing all the rules and being obedient to them.
16. Three kinds of testimonies:
A. Personal — John the Baptist. Who is a person in your life who shone the light of Christ to you and how did he or she do it?
My mother showed me the light of Christ through her devotion to her faith. I would see her completing Bible studies, teaching Sunday school and reading books about the Bible. She prayed. She was one of the most patient and kind people that I have ever known.
B. Empirical: Jesus Life. What was Keller’s point about the mountain hike story?
If you get to the top and just give a report about the “findings,” you have missed the point of the beauty. Don’t miss the forest through the trees.
C. Scriptures: What did Keller have to say about this?
The Bible is the Word of God, but the “Lord of the Word” is in each of the Words of God. I LOVE this!
Friday: The Pharisees’ Problem
Listen to the end.
14. What did the Pharisees do right? Wrong?
They were right in studying the Scriptures, but wrong by thinking the Scriptures could give them eternal life because they didn’t believe in the One who could give them eternal life. As Keller said, “Eternal life is in the Scripture and yet the message of the Scripture is that through Jesus Christ you get eternal life.”
15. What was Keller’s point about Mark Twain’s heavy Bible dream?
In rejecting Christianity he didn’t see that the Bible was about Jesus but rather about keeping rules which weighed him down and became a burden.
16. Three kinds of testimonies:
A. Personal — John the Baptist. Who is a person in your life who shone the light of Christ to you and how did he or she do it?
A good friend in Oregon who came along side me when I was a young mother. She mentored me in the Word and was a great encourager and showed me the love of Christ by how she lived.
B. Empirical: Jesus Life. What was Keller’s point about the mountain hike story?
The importance of seeing the big picture and not get so caught up with the details.
C. Scriptures: What did Keller have to say about this?
As Keller said, “If you look at the Scriptures as pointing to the Lord, then it becomes something that gives life.”