This Tuesday Tim Keller’s Memorial Service will be livestreamed at 2:30 Eastern Time and then shown on You-tube. For more information: https://timothykeller.com/service
When I was ten, my parents took me to the Sistine Chapel and I looked up at Michelangelo’s depiction of The Final Judgment.
It put the fear of the Lord in me, though I did not yet understand the very good news of the Gospel. Jesus promises in this week’s passage:
I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned. (John 5:24)
Many say: “I can’t believe in a God who’d send people to hell.” How would you respond?
The best rebuttal I’ve heard to that is a word picture of a man drowning and a rescuer throwing him a life buoy. But the drowning man refuses it. Is the rescuer responsible for sending him to his death?
What a lifeline our God has sent us in Jesus!
He has not only rescued us from hell but from so much more. I’d love for you to watch this video of a new songwriter I’ve come to love, for he puts psalms to music, but in a much more melodic way than I have usually heard. I’m working on memorizing this one!
Also — heads up. I’m planning in early September to do Paige Benton Brown’s 6 week study on Jonah, but in a simpler way here. Instead of lots of questions, I’ll divide her lecture into 15-minute segments for your reactions. It will cut down on your homework but still give you the blessing of learning from Paige. Then I plan, Lord willing and guiding, to return to Keller in October. If you want to do Paige with a friend or a small group, this blog might help your discussion.
Sermon Link: https://gospelinlife.com/downloads/the-great-divide-5145/
Sermon Transcript: The_Great_Divide_Transcript (1)
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
2. How have you experienced God’s mercy in this last week?
Monday: The Text
I found three “apparent” contradictions in this text — we know all are just apparent, for God’s Word does not contradict itself, but there is simply something that we don’t understand. So this is a more challenging passage, but I know you are up to it. Let’s dig in together. We’ll look at two today and a third later.
3. Read John 5:24-35
A. What is the promise of verse 24?
B. Was there a moment or time you became confident you were rescued from condemnation? If so, share.
C. What time is coming according to verse 25?
D. In verse 25 we are told those who hear will live. In verse 27 it says all in their graves will hear his voice. What thoughts do you have on this apparent contradiction? (The Greek for the word “hear,” if that is how your translation puts it, will help.)
E. According to verses 26-27, who has given the Son both the power and the authority over life? According to verse 30, who has given Him the wisdom to judge rightly? How does all this show equality with God?
F. Another easier apparent contradiction is in verses 28-29. We are told we are not saved by works, so how do you explain this apparent contradiction?
Tuesday: Introduction
Listen up to when Keller says he didn’t have the guts to call this sermon the doctrine of judgment. About 9 minute mark.
4. Keller opens with a New York Times critique on the movie Field of Dreams when the writer said “There is a need to believe in justice beyond the grave” because life is incredibly unfair. Do you have that need to want justice for those who have been horrible to others? Do you think most people do?
5. But then Keller says, we want justice, but not a Judge, for we ourselves cringe at the thought of being judged. Do you agree or not and why?
6. How would refute the common thought that we will evolve into better and better people? How does the Christian view differ?
7. What did he mean when he said our Judge is not only the dispenser of judgment but the absorber of judgment?
Wednesday: The Doctrine of Judgment
Listen up to when he says there are a lot of people who get upset about Jesus throwing people into the Lake of Fire. About 14 minutes in.
Verse 30 says our future judgment will be just. We are very good at denial about our sin. Keller quotes Lewis here:
Some day… an absolutely correct verdict—if you like, a perfect critique—will be passed on what each of us is.
We have all encountered judgments or verdicts on ourselves in this life. Every now and then we discover what our fellow creatures really think of us. I don’t of course mean what they tell us to our faces: that we usually have to discount. I am thinking of what we sometimes overhear by accident or of the opinions about us which our neighbours or employees or subordinates unknowingly reveal in their actions: and of the terrible, or lovely, judgments artlessly betrayed by children or even animals. Such discoveries can be the bitterest or sweetest experiences we have. But of course both the bitter and the sweet are limited by our doubt as to the wisdom of those who judge. We always hope that those who so clearly think us cowards or bullies are ignorant and malicious; we always fear that those who trust us or admire us are misled by partiality. I suppose the experience of the final judgment (which may break in upon us at any moment) will be like these little experiences, but magnified to the Nth.
8. What stood out to you from this section and why?
9. Share a time when you deceived yourself about sin in your life and the Lord, somehow or other, then helped you see the truth.
10. Honestly, some aspects of future judgment for believers seem like a contradiction to me, but again, I know it is apparent. I know we are completely forgiven through grace, but also that there will be an examination of our works. (1 Corinthians 3:10-15) and our impure works will cause loss. Keller quotes the Scripture that “every mouth will be stopped.” God’s judgment will be just and it seems there will be a judgment of our gold and hay works. Perhaps that has to do with levels in heaven or rewards, I really don’t know, but would love your wise thoughts.
11. How did Keller explain verse 29?
12. How would you answer his questions: Are your ideas clearer? Is your heart softer? Is your laugh deeper? Are your concerns broader?
Thursday: Separation
Listen up to when he says “And one last thing, the doctrine of judgment will free you from judging yourself.” 27 minute mark
13. What stood out to you from this section and why?
14. What did you learn about what it means to be separated from God, which is the judgment for unbelievers.
15. How does Christianity diverge from other religions when it comes to justice?
16. What do you think about his comment that “Right now counts forever?”
17. He refers to Luke 16:9. What does it say — what do you think it means — and what does Keller say it means?
14. Why does he say the doctrine of judgment will free you from bitterness?
Friday: The Only Way Out
Listen up to the end.
13. What stood out to you from this section and why?
14. How can letting Jesus be in control of your life be the end of boredom?
Saturday:
15. What’s your take-a-way and why?
L
72 comments
Dee, I don’t see a link to Keller’s sermon for this week?!
I don’t either….love the Psalm 107 put to music!
Sharon and Patti — thanks for catching that early on! It’s there now. So sorry.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? I like the story of throwing a drowning man a life buoy and his refusing it as a response to God sending people to hell. I think it’s a gentler response than telling people He doesn’t send them because it’s their choice. Really really like the Wendell Kimbrough video and song. It s joyful, engaging and reminds me of when the saints come marching in.
2. How have you experienced God’s mercy in this last week? God’s mercies are new every morning. I’m able to get out of bed, I don’t remember saying anything to anyone that was offensive so whether that is 100% true or it’s His mercy I’m glad either way. My husband was able to leave house a few times this week. I got to be with some of the grands two mornings, walked with friends, prayed with friends, and saw some gorgeous morning skies. Great is His faithfulness.
It sounds like a wonderful week for you, Judy!!
This made me smile at your honest heart, Judy:
I don’t remember saying anything to anyone that was offensive so whether that is 100% true or it’s His mercy I’m glad either way.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
Jesus is our lifeline! What a great way to view Him. It comforts me.
2. How have you experienced God’s mercy in this last week?
I’m not sure 🤷🏻♀️. I felt like I had made strides with my challenge from last week and then I didn’t feel any sort of blessing because of it. I thought if I was successful, that I would be given a “pat on the back” of sorts to help me through the next time I felt the urge to sin. I’m sort of disappointed, to be honest.
We have really struggled as a family, at times, this summer. It’s hard being together so much. We were late for church and decided to attend our “second” church. It was a blessing. The pastor is talking about family values this summer and he did an excellent job giving us true focus. Maybe this is the mercy? To know we are not alone against the secular world?
Love the jazzy Psalm 107 video!!!!
Love you love this song!
3. Read John 5:24-35
A. What is the promise of verse 24?
We, who listen to Jesus’ message and believe in God will have eternal life; no condemnation. We have already passed from death into life.
B. Was there a moment or time you became confident you were rescued from condemnation? If so, share.
Hmmmm….this may be seen as a “cop out,” but since I have always known I was His (since the day my dad died and God spoke to me), I feel like I always knew in my heart I was His and He wouldn’t harm me. Just like an earthly father wouldn’t intentionally harm their child (for the most part, I know there are fathers who fail), I believe He takes care of me. I fail Him often, but I know He loves me.
C. What time is coming according to verse 25?
The dead will hear the voice of Jesus and those who listen will be saved.
D. In verse 25 we are told those who hear will live. In verse 27 it says all in their graves will hear his voice. What thoughts do you have on this apparent contradiction? (The Greek for the word “hear,” if that is how your translation puts it, will help.)
I’m thinking verse 25 refers to people alive who are spiritually dead, and verse 28 is referring to those who are actually dead. Here’s the NLT:
““And I assure you that the time is coming, indeed it’s here now, when the dead will hear my voice—the voice of the Son of God. And those who listen will live. Don’t be so surprised! Indeed, the time is coming when all the dead in their graves will hear the voice of God’s Son,”
John 5:25, 28 NLT
I see it as anyone who believes and listens will be saved, whether you are living in earth or dead in the ground.
But also, would the actual dead have souls in heaven because when they died their soul is with Jesus right then? So if their souls are already in heaven weren’t they already judged? But then that doesn’t make sense in Revelation. Oh yeah! Aren’t they under the altar waiting judgement??? Oh my goodness. So much to remember.
E. According to verses 26-27, who has given the Son both the power and the authority over life? According to verse 30, who has given Him the wisdom to judge rightly? How does all this show equality with God?
God The Father gives Him authority and power. He gives Jesus the wisdom to judge rightly. They are one and the same.
F. Another easier apparent contradiction is in verses 28-29. We are told we are not saved by works, so how do you explain this apparent contradiction?
Here it says those who have done good will have eternal life and those who have done evil will be judged. I think it’s how you interpret the words “done good.” What does that mean? I suppose to get around the good works thing, you could say that doing good is you believing in God and trying to do the best job you can to please Him. That might include doing things for others, right?
I think the NLT paraphrase caught the apparent contradiction by using the word listen instead of hear again. Hearing is different than listening — so
everyone may hear but only those who listen will live to have life with God.
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
The best rebuttal you have given here to somebody who may say, “I can’t believe in a God who’d send people to hell.” This just shows that we have been given free will and a choice. Jesus is for the taking but He will not push himself on us. We still need to respond to His rescue. He does not send us to hell. We have chosen to go there ourselves.
2. How have you experienced God’s mercy in this last week?
Our daughter had a combination of tendinitis and bursitis on her right arm and was in terrible pain last week. I felt like I had a lot of things to do but I decided to go with my husband to her place in KC to help her out. I was nursing a lower back issue but trusted God to help me be mindful of body mechanics (smile) so I won’t hurt myself any further. After several loads of laundry, vacuuming, loading her dishwasher, and preparing food ahead for her, I was pooped! Lol We went home late and after a quick shower, I went to bed. The next morning, I woke up with some sore muscles but felt restored by sleep. Only his mercy got me through that long day! Our daughter sent us a very sweet text the next day thanking us and saying that she felt much loved! Aww!
What a sweet and wonderful way to experience God’s mercy! Love that you were restored and your daughter appreciates you both so much!
You certainly are showing her the love of Christ, Bing!
Monday: The Text
I found three “apparent” contradictions in this text — we know all are just apparent, for God’s Word does not contradict itself, but there is simply something that we don’t understand. So this is a more challenging passage, but I know you are up to it. Let’s dig in together. We’ll look at two today and a third later.
3. Read John 5:24-35
A. What is the promise of verse 24?
Whoever hears my word and believes in Him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.
B. Was there a moment or time you became confident you were rescued from condemnation? If so, share.
When we were doing Romans 8 with Paige, she dwelt on the first verse, “Therefore there is NOW no condemnation for those who are in Christ…” And she led us back to Romans 7 because of the word, “therefore”. I think the word, “NOW” was radioactive for me. When the enemy condemns, I can pray this verse. When the spirit convicts, I can claim this verse and go to I John 1:9 and accept the cleansing and forgiveness from the Lord at that moment (NOW).
C. What time is coming according to verse 25?
A time is coming and has now come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear will live.
D. In verse 25 we are told those who hear will live. In verse 27 it says all in their graves will hear his voice. What thoughts do you have on this apparent contradiction? (The Greek for the word “hear,” if that is how your translation puts it, will help.)
Listen to, give ear to, hear, and understand are the words I discovered for the Greek word of “hear”. I would take this to mean that those who listen and heed it will live. And the dead hearing His voice could refer to the spiritually dead now but listens would live, and the ones who were dead at that time but spiritually alive (saved) have heard His voice already before their physical deaths. They have heard it already.
E. According to verses 26-27, who has given the Son both the power and the authority over life? According to verse 30, who has given Him the wisdom to judge rightly? How does all this show equality with God?
The Father has given the Son both the power and authority over life. The Father already has both and has given them to His son therefore they are equal.
F. Another easier apparent contradiction is in verses 28-29. We are told we are not saved by works, so how do you explain this apparent contradiction?
Good works are the fruit of being saved not the way to it. Because we have listened to His voice, we have been positioned to do good works as an outflow.
Ephesians 2:8-10 “ For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
—Without a doubt it’s the music video by Wendell Kimbrough. What a delight to see and listen to. Thanks Dee for sharing it. I will certainly look for and listen to more of him.
2. How have you experienced God’s mercy in this last week?
—This past weekend we were gone Friday through Sunday for the annual scholarship fundraiser sporting clays shoot I mentioned here on the blog last week. And 14 year old Micah was with us for the whole time. He was still his annoying in your face personality but God really did prepare me with a softer heart toward him because of the challenges given on this blog last week that made me much more mindful of my own heart’s attitude and what the Lord’s heart is toward Micah. I struggled a little toward the end of the weekend being a bit tired of him but Terry and I both recognize his need for attention and our need to kindly set boundaries for him. I need to verify it with Micah’s dad but it seems he definitely has some measure of ADHD and we know he is a bit of a slow learner in school. By that I am reminded that I can get too talkative at times and I have been slow to learn from God my Father. And He practices grace and mercy often in my life and is patient to repeat his instruction in my life faithfully through his Word.
I did have a really good time with my 24 year old granddaughter and our 18 year old grandson who came and were with us as well. The grandson Asher who is oldest of 5 shared a room with Micah and has a very gracious heart and attitude. He helped temper some of Micah’s ways by his presence. I saw God’s mercy applied through him.
Bev, your story about Micha resonated with me. My patience has been tried yesterday as I did a Big Group Children’s Church lesson with 9 rambunctious 2-9 year-olds with a group activity. But they had so much fun (I had, too in a weird way!) and I was thankful for the 2 high school girls who were there helping me!
Oh, Bev! What a blessing that Asher has such a precious heart toward Micah. So thankful that the Lord prepared your heart for this young man, who is seeing Jesus with the kindness and love of your family.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? Jesus is our lifeline! I am so grateful for that!! Some do not know how to seek Him or they may feel that He will change their lifestyle. Jesus offers love and life, yet no one can force someone to desire that or accept His love. Love the Wendell Kimbrough Psalm 107 put to music.
2. How have you experienced God’s mercy in this last week? I have experienced His mercy in so many ways. We have been waiting quite a few weeks to have air conditioning put in our home. I have been praying all summer that we would be able to get it installed before a big heat wave. For the past few years we have had these very hot summers. Thanking God that we had it installed last week, just before this heatwave that has come to our area for the week! Praising His Name!
Patti, glad you had air conditioning installed! I remembered Ruth telling me about how the heat there can at times be stifling. Whenever I visited, though, it was during the cooler months. Thinking of you often and Ronny and your family.
So good to hear you have air conditioning now. We have to have it here in central Nebraska for heat in summer and to keep out the pollen. My family battles allergies. August into early September can be a rough time for both.
A. What is the promise of verse 24? If we hear God’s word and believe Him who sent Jesus we have eternal life and won’t be judged but have passed from death to life
B. Was there a moment or time you became confident you were rescued from condemnation? If so, share I think it came slowly, no great revelation. I walked down in a church to receive Jesus as Savior in my 20 s but nothing happened and then I kind of was inactive in church attendance and no Bible reading. Gradually when a evangelist came to a church I was regularly attended I knew I was saved from my sin.w
C. What time is coming according to verse 25? The dead will hear the voice of Jesus and those who hear will live.
D. In verse 25 we are told those who hear will live. In verse 28 it says all in their graves will hear his voice. What thoughts do you have on this apparent contradiction? (The Greek for the word “hear,” if that is how your translation puts it, will help.) One meaning of hearing was to so understand and perceive what is being said. So those in the grave responding were those who understood what Jesus had said not those who were unaffected by his testimony?
E. According to verses 26-27, who has given the Son both the power and the authority over life? According to verse 30, who has given Him the wisdom to judge rightly? How does all this show equality with God? The Father. He has the authority to execute judgement just as the Father does. Also as the Father has life in Himself so does Jesus.
F. Another easier apparent contradiction is in verses 28-29. We are told we are not saved by works, so how do you explain this apparent contradiction? I listened to part of the sermon already and heard refer to verse it’s for those who believe. Off the subject. I’ve been listening to Idol Lies and realized today I have made an idol of TV watching this summer. I’ve had opportunity to watch grands 2-3 days a week and with the other things that go in in life I now realize I looked forward to watching TV to kind of zone out. Thus I was using Tv as kind of a refuge. Now working on replacing that habit with writing out scripture.
Will pray for you in that, Judy. There are more edifying shows than there were once, but still, there’s nothing better than getting absorbed in a good and edifying book! Thanks for sharing.
Monday: The Text
3. Read John 5:24-35
A. What is the promise of verse 24?
—It is the promise of eternal life to those who hear God’s Word believe what he says about his Son.
B. Was there a moment or time you became confident you were rescued from condemnation? If so, share.
—Yes it was when an older cousin of mine that I was close to who was gloriously saved from a lifestyle of sin. She was sharing the scriptures with me that give assurance of salvation to those who believe. The Holy Spirit used these scriptures from 1 John 5 to clarify in my heart that I was truly saved.
“And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.”
1 John 5:11-12 ESV
C. What time is coming according to verse 25?
—A time when the dead ( the unsaved) will hear the voice of Jesus and will be raised from the dead spiritually and live. It means they will be saved from their deadness in sin and will be given new life. It is a spiritual resurrection when they hear the word and believe. Eternal life begins at salvation.
D. In verse 25 we are told those who hear will live. In verse 28 it says all in their graves will hear his voice. What thoughts do you have on this apparent contradiction? (The Greek for the word “hear,” if that is how your translation puts it, will help.)
—This speaks to a future resurrection of believers who will be raised to life. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 and 1 Corinthians 15:51-57 tell of that resurrection.
E. According to verses 26-27, who has given the Son both the power and the authority over life?
—God the Father has given the Son power for life and authority to judge mankind.
According to verse 30, who has given Him the wisdom to judge rightly? How does all this show equality with God?
—Jesus is saying here he is in complete unity with hearing God his Father and doing God’s will.
F. Another easier apparent contradiction is in verses 28-29. We are told we are not saved by works, so how do you explain this apparent contradiction?
—It may sound like a works issue that sends people to either resurrection of life or judgement by what the have done. But actually those who are believers are known by their works. Because they know Jesus there is spiritual fruit that has been in their lives. So with the unsaved their works are evil or sinful because apart from Christ they can do nothing that is spiritually productive for God and they will be raised to face judgement.
In both cases the works are evidence of the persons standing with God.
Hadn’t heard your story about that wise older cousin. So good.
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I really liked the song, but was distracted by where he was singing it…that’s my background coming through. 🤦🏻♀️
2. How have you experienced God’s mercy in this last week?
Struggling with things going on in our church and I keep hearing His still small voice saying, “just give it to Me.” He’s helping me realize that right now, that’s all I can do and it’s causing me to sort through what feelings are valid and what are self serving…so hard.
Interesting, Sharon. I thought he chose the background purposely to go with the song.
I thought he chose the setting because it kind of demonstrated a contemporary version of the kinds of ordinary place that Jesus would go to. It kind of reminded me of Luke 5:32 “I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.”
3. Read John 5:24-35
A. What is the promise of verse 24? Whoever hears the words of Christ and believes them will have eternal life and will not face judgement.
B. Was there a moment or time you became confident you were rescued from condemnation? If so, share. I think when it finally sunk in that absolutely nothing depended on me to stay in God’s favor. I didn’t seek Him, He sought me.
C. What time is coming according to verse 25? When the dead will hear the voice of God.
D. In verse 25 we are told those who hear will live. In verse 27 it says all in their graves will hear his voice. What thoughts do you have on this apparent contradiction? (The Greek for the word “hear,” if that is how your translation puts it, will help.) I take it to mean that in verse 25 we are spiritually dead until we hear and believe. In verse 27 it is talking about judgement day when everyone will have to give an account.
E. According to verses 26-27, who has given the Son both the power and the authority over life? The Father According to verse 30, who has given Him the wisdom to judge rightly? The Father How does all this show equality with God? Because only God has the authority to judge and if Jesus is given the authority over judgement and life, it shows he’s equal to God.
F. Another easier apparent contradiction is in verses 28-29. We are told we are not saved by works, so how do you explain this apparent contradiction? The only “good” you can do that leads to eternal life is believe that Jesus paid the penalty for your sins and only through him can you be saved, anything other than that falls under the category of”evil”.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? The response to someone saying that they can’t believe in a God who would send people to hell. My response would be that I can’t believe in a God who would allow anyone no matter how evil they are and how they gladly spent their lives harming, torturing or killing others without remorse would be allowed into eternal paradise. God offers a way to escape hell and it’s each person’s choice whether to take it or not.
2. How have you experienced God’s mercy in this last week? This week when I’ve been feeling down and beating myself up for not being a more faithful Christian, I would see a scripture post on FB or hear a Tim Keller sermon on my way to work that specifically addressed what I was dealing with and it showed me that God knows and cares. His mercy endures forever.
Dawn, I’m not sure how to measure a faithful Christian really because I think that is a heart matter. And it would seem to me someone who takes hold of scriptures and listens to Tim Keller sermons on the way to work has the heart of a faithful Christian. Don’t let the enemy make you feel less than and beat yourself up for it. 💕
I often feel you are hard on yourself, Dawn. I think of the scripture when our heart condemns us, God is greater than our hearts!
I have those days too ( the source is the enemy) and I think listening to a Tim Keller sermon and, as Dee mentioned, reading scripture, helps me re-focus on God’s love for me, in spite of the times I feel like I fail Him. He is faithful to redeem our thoughts and our hearts. I agree with Bev, you have a heart for Jesus. 🙂
Tuesday: Introduction
4. Keller opens with a New York Times critique on the movie Field of Dreamswhen the writer said “There is a need to believe in justice beyond the grave” because life is incredibly unfair. Do you have that need to want justice for those who have been horrible to others? Do you think most people do?
—oh yes with out a doubt in answer to both questions. I immediately have a strong sense of wanting those who do horrible things to be given hard sentences for what they have done and for them to be done away with. I think it is true of most people in the face of evil actions that they have a strong sense of righteousness against such things.
But even on a lesser level I recognize my propensity to want justice even when I have been wronged whether it is by my husband or others. For years I was way too quick to make a defense for myself and want to make my case when I have been hurt by someone. And I feel whether people admit it or not generally speaking when wronged they want their own little piece of flesh. Grace does not come naturally.
5. But then Keller says, we want justice, but not a Judge, for we ourselves cringe at the thought of being judged. Do you agree or not and why?
—Hmmm? I think perhaps we don’t like the idea of being judged because a judge sets a standard in place that we might not be able to measure up to. We wonder if it will be fair and it causes a sense of insecurity about our own standing.
6. How would refute the common thought that we will evolve into better and better people? How does the Christian view differ?
—That seems like an incredibly narcissistic view of people just in light of the horrendous amount of hate, war, injustice and terrible crimes against each other that we are living amongst within this world as it is today. History has proven it to be untrue that man gets any better. The heart is deceitful and wicked as the Bible teaches us and it is lived out in great measure all around us every day. The Christian view recognizes the sinful condition of mankind and that is why we need a Savior. As Keller says the Christian understands from the Bible that at some point in history it is coming to a sudden end.
7. What did he mean when he said our Judge is not only the dispenser of judgment but the absorber of judgment?
—That is the power of the Cross. Jesus took our judgment and punishment on Himself on the Cross so that we don’t have to bear it. Be absorbed our judgment. He was perfect in doing that so He can perfectly dispense judgement as a result.
Bev — so true about grace not coming naturally. That was Philip Yancey’s point in What’s So Amazing About Grace! He said it is not natural but supernatural.
I’ve often felt my gifting of prophecy (forth-telling God’s Word not foretelling..) makes me more judgmental — that’s the negative side. I often see the thing that is wrong first. Being one of the leader’s in my home church has made me realize how much negative criticism pastors get, and makes me kinder. Has your son experienced that?
4. Keller opens with a New York Times critique on the movie Field of Dreams when the writer said “There is a need to believe in justice beyond the grave” because life is incredibly unfair. Do you have that need to want justice for those who have been horrible to others? Do you think most people do?
I usually don’t do much thinking about this, however there are a few cases that do come to mind. People who murder (especially children), including those who believe and participate in abortion. The atrocities being allowed with the whole transgendering of children. It’s terrible! Most of these people must not even believe in God to think they can have such control over life itself. Surely they should be judged differently. Then there are others, people in governments or people who think they can control governments, like George Soros and Bill Gates, who are evil and I definitely can see judgment for their actions.
I think about my own family members judgment though. Scary stuff for even the believers, I should say. Where do their hearts lie? Only God truly knows. I realize that life here on Earth is not ever fair. We all have choices to make. Sometimes those choices are wrong. Hopefully we repent and try to do better.
I do not believe that most people think about their judgment or others.
5. But then Keller says, we want justice, but not a Judge, for we ourselves cringe at the thought of being judged. Do you agree or not and why?
I don’t agree for myself. It’s why I try to stay “in line.” I realize the cost I am up against, and yes I do cringe at the thought of the judgment (as I stated above). I know the truth. We all will be judged. I am more afraid to live as some of my friends are living, waving me off and saying how they wouldn’t be allowed into heaven anyway. How scary to just not even care or try.
6. How would refute the common thought that we will evolve into better and better people? How does the Christian view differ?
There is no evidence that the human race will evolve into better people. In fact, there is evidence that it stays the same. History repeats itself. Especially when it is not learned and then allowed to happen again.
Christians know there will be a judgment. They know it can happen at any time. Jesus will come to make that judgment and we need to be ready.
7. What did he mean when he said our Judge is not only the dispenser of judgment but the absorber of judgment?
He took all the sin of the world on the cross. He was judged for us. He has the right to judge us.
3. Read John 5:24-35
A. What is the promise of verse 24? Those who hear the Word of God and believes in the God who sent Jesus, has already gained eternal life. Hearing the Word is also perceiving the Word. Faith connects with eternal life.
B. Was there a moment or time you became confident you were rescued from condemnation? If so, share. Yes, I think that the Word of God became truth in a more real way in my life when I was in my early 20’s. I truly believed in God and Jesus as long as I can remember, but that one day, the Word lit up in my heart.
C. What time is coming according to verse 25? The dead of the future resurrection, as well as the “spiritually” dead will hear the voice of the Son of God. Those who hear and believe will live.
D. In verse 25 we are told those who hear will live. In verse 27 it says all in their graves will hear his voice. What thoughts do you have on this apparent contradiction? (The Greek for the word “hear,” if that is how your translation puts it, will help.) The physically dead and spiritually dead will hear His voice.
E. According to verses 26-27, who has given the Son both the power and the authority over life? According to verse 30, who has given Him the wisdom to judge rightly? How does all this show equality with God? God the Father has given the Son authority to judge. He judges as He hears from the Father, so His judgment is just. The Father gave Him life in Himself and also the authority to execute judgment, because He is the Son of Man.
F. Another easier apparent contradiction is in verses 28-29. We are told we are not saved by works, so how do you explain this apparent contradiction? If we believe the Word of God and have faith in the Father and the Son, we desire to do God’s will in our lives and we do good works out of gratitude, not out of fear. Those who deny God and live for self will not do truly good works; their works are self serving not God serving. We can listen to the Word of God, but not understand (perceive) and follow it; those who are called to God, desire to please God not self. It is about the heart.
4. Keller opens with a New York Times critique on the movie Field of Dreams when the writer said “There is a need to believe in justice beyond the grave” because life is incredibly unfair. Do you have that need to want justice for those who have been horrible to others? Do you think most people do? I think when there is a horrific crime and crimes against children and young people we want justice.
5. But then Keller says, we want justice, but not a Judge, for we ourselves cringe at the thought of being judged. Do you agree or not and why? I think there is truth to that It’s easy to whitewash our own sin a little and have in our minds a justifiable excuse.
6. How would refute the common thought that we will evolve into better and better people? How does the Christian view differ? I don’t have an answer. If I point to rulers like Hitler they could point to the Crusades. Man doesn’t have it within himself to become permanently better. Flesh and ego are always trying to exalt itself. C S Lewis said Pride is the mother hen under which all other sin is hatched. So all kinds of sin come into lives. Christians have a Savior who has given them the Holy Spirit who becomes their constant companion and guide. Then the God of peace, Himself, will sanctify us through and through. The One who has called us is faithful and He will do it.
7. What did he mean when he said our Judge is not only the dispenser of judgment but the absorber of judgment? Jesus took my sin upon Himself to the cross and paid my debt thus freeing me from my obligation to pay for my own sin.
Love the Lewis quote about pride being the mother hen under which all other sin is hatched.
Love this quote! So true!
Tuesday: Introduction
I am being challenged by this section but I am giving it my best.
Listen up to when Keller says he didn’t have the guts to call this sermon the doctrine of judgment. About 9-minute mark.
1. Keller opens with a New York Times critique of the movie Field of Dreams when the writer said “There is a need to believe in justice beyond the grave” because life is incredibly unfair. Do you have that need to want justice for those who have been horrible to others? Do you think most people do?
Yes. I think most people do.
2. But then Keller says, we want justice, but not a Judge, for we ourselves cringe at the thought of being judged. Do you agree or not and why?
I did not even think of this tangent to the equation. When Tim mentioned Saddam Hussein, memories of his atrocities came back. He was judged here on earth, and I remember thinking he deserved it. But I was also reminded that sin is sin, and though I have not killed anybody, I am still a sinful person.
5. How would refute the common thought that we will evolve into better and better people? How does the Christian view differ?
There will be no evolution as history will end and Christ will come as judge. We don’t become better people by evolution; we are transformed by Christ alone, to His image, and not to a better person.
6. What did he mean when he said our Judge is not only the dispenser of judgment but the absorber of judgment?
Our judge gives the right judgment and has the authority to judge but He also absorbed or took the judgment that we deserve through his death on the cross.
8. What stood out to you from this section and why?
The judgment is a scary thing even though I am usually my worst critic. I know that He loves me and I am sold out for Him, AND, I am not judged by my works. BUT…..does my heart reveal that I am His through helping the poor, the fruits of the spirit, and such? Not sure about that one. I should be more like Him each day, yet ohhh the frustration of life. It wears me out.
9. Share a time when you deceived yourself about sin in your life and the Lord, somehow or other, then helped you see the truth.
He is with me through it all, that’s for sure. I know that when something I have done just doesn’t “feel” right; I get this funny thing inside that I can’t shake off, that’s when I know I have done something “wrong” and should make it right. It usually involves my big, fat mouth!
10. Honestly, some aspects of future judgment for believers seem like a contradiction to me, but again, I know it is apparent. I know we are completely forgiven through grace, but also that there will be an examination of our works. (1 Corinthians 3:10-15) and our impure works will cause loss. Keller quotes the Scripture that “every mouth will be stopped.” God’s judgment will be just and it seems there will be a judgment of our gold and hay works. Perhaps that has to do with levels in heaven or rewards, I really don’t know, but would love your wise thoughts.
I don’t believe the Bible discusses “levels” in heaven? Isn’t that a Catholic belief? I read the 1 Cor verses and it does say the builder would scarcely escape the flames. I thought sin was sin, but we have also talked about one sin (murder) being worse than another (lying).
It seems that the “good works” idea is second to the believing and loving others ideas. I also think that since God is God and created us, the humble human, He also realizes we can never live up to the perfect standard that could have been (darn Adam and Eve!). He sent Jesus to save us and Jesus took the sin on the cross (thank You Jesus for the blood). He knows we will fail, but He knows our hearts too. What if I truly want to help the unborn babies (from abortion), and I try to get a group together to picket the PP near me, and can only get a few people, but I still go? I wasn’t very successful, yet my heart was in the right place. I am trying to bring an awareness about an injustice of our world. This is all a true story, by the way. I do try to participate in advocating for the babies each year. It’s just difficult to get others on board sometimes.
Here’s my thought though….I can only do so much. I try to help others in my little realm of the world. I wonder when is enough, enough? I also have to work, take care of the family and do all those normal things of life. How do I fit in enough of the good works (mission trips, feeding the poor, etc.) to make sure I am always on point? I don’t believe that is the right thought process. Sometimes there just is no more time in a day. I think if God knows your heart and your heart is thoughtful that way, then you are demonstrating the good works because of your belief in Him.
4. Keller opens with a New York Times critique on the movie Field of Dreams when the writer said “There is a need to believe in justice beyond the grave” because life is incredibly unfair. Do you have that need to want justice for those who have been horrible to others? Do you think most people do? Yes I do and I think most of us want justice for those who have done horrible deeds ~ and there seems to be so much evil in the world right now, it is hard to even grasp the scope of it. Yet, the Grace of Jesus reminds me that I need His grace as much as the most horrible person around.
5. But then Keller says, we want justice, but not a Judge, for we ourselves cringe at the thought of being judged. Do you agree or not and why? Yes, I think that even my thoughts and words condemn my soul on a daily basis. I try to always think before I speak: “Would I want anyone else and everyone else to hear my thoughts or my words?” I pray that God gives me a filter in my heart to weed out the negative thoughts and words before that come out of my mouth. I am so thankful for God’s never ending grace, but how I wish I could erase words that I have said.
6. How would refute the common thought that we will evolve into better and better people? How does the Christian view differ? Well, mankind has become very clever and sophisticated in so many ways and we seem to be devolving into creatures who have erased the important Biblical values from society. The future under the rule of man is not hopeful. The Christian view of Christ’s return is my only Hope for our world. I am reminded as a Christian that this world is not my home and I am only passing through.
7. What did he mean when he said our Judge is not only the dispenser of judgment but the absorber of judgment? Jesus has paid that sentence that I should have for my sins. So grateful that God sent His only Son to carry our sins to the cross, that if we believe in Him, who took our punishment, we will spend eternity in His presence. So thankful.
I agree I wish I could erase some of the words I have said and a few things I have done
4. Keller opens with a New York Times critique on the movie Field of Dreams when the writer said “There is a need to believe in justice beyond the grave” because life is incredibly unfair. Do you have that need to want justice for those who have been horrible to others? Do you think most people do? Yes to both
5. But then Keller says, we want justice, but not a Judge, for we ourselves cringe at the thought of being judged. Do you agree or not and why? I think that this is true. We want other people to be held accountable for what they do, but we want to justify or make excuses for what we do.
6. How would refute the common thought that we will evolve into better and better people? How does the Christian view differ? This isn’t a concept that I’m familiar with. I haven’t heard anyone say that we are becoming a better society. I’ve only heard the opposite where people think that current society is the most depraved in history which also isn’t true.
7. What did he mean when he said our Judge is not only the dispenser of judgment but the absorber of judgment? That Jesus, God incarnate, took the the punishment that justice demands.
8. What stood out to you from this section and why? My deeds are an index to my heart. The fruit on the tree doesn’t give life to the tree, but the fruit on the tree reveal the tree is alive. It’s a check on me, do I have fruit that will last. What has my day or week looked like? Was there fruit that honors the Father.
9. Share a time when you deceived yourself about sin in your life and the Lord, somehow or other, then helped you see the truth. I wrote about this yesterday. After a busy day I was using TV as a refuge instead of my Father.
10. Honestly, some aspects of future judgment for believers seem like a contradiction to me, but again, I know it is apparent. I know we are completely forgiven through grace, but also that there will be an examination of our works. (1 Corinthians 3:10-15) and our impure works will cause loss. Keller quotes the Scripture that “every mouth will be stopped.” God’s judgment will be just and it seems there will be a judgment of our gold and hay works. Perhaps that has to do with levels in heaven or rewards, I really don’t know, but would love your wise thoughts. I don’t know either. Impure works maybe the good deeds we did for the wrong reason. T Keller has told us we need repent of the reasons for doing the good deeds. I guess when my deeds are held up to the goodness of Christ, He’ll have things to show me. In in His justice may He remember mercy.
11. How did Keller explain verse 29?. Those who believe will have everlasting life. Word believe is key not deeds, but deeds are an index to the heart. ( maybe from James faith without works is dead.)
12. How would you answer his questions: Are your ideas clearer? Is your heart softer? Is your laugh deeper? Are your concerns broader? My ideas through this blog are getting a little clearer, my heart is softer, not sure my laugh deeper, but yesterday it was, my concerns are broader.
Wednesday: The Doctrine of Judgment
Listen up to when he says there are a lot of people who get upset about Jesus throwing people into the Lake of Fire. About 14 minutes in.
Verse 30 says our future judgment will be just. We are very good at denial about our sin. Keller quotes Lewis here:
Some day… an absolutely correct verdict—if you like, a perfect critique—will be passed on what each of us is.
We have all encountered judgments or verdicts on ourselves in this life. Every now and then we discover what our fellow creatures really think of us. I don’t of course mean what they tell us to our faces: that we usually have to discount. I am thinking of what we sometimes overhear by accident or of the opinions about us which our neighbours or employees or subordinates unknowingly reveal in their actions: and of the terrible, or lovely, judgments artlessly betrayed by children or even animals. Such discoveries can be the bitterest or sweetest experiences we have. But of course, both the bitter and the sweet are limited by our doubt as to the wisdom of those who judge. We always hope that those who so clearly think us cowards or bullies are ignorant and malicious; we always fear that those who trust us or admire us are misled by partiality. I suppose the experience of the final judgment (which may break in upon us at any moment) will be like these little experiences, but magnified to the Nth.
8. What stood out to you from this section and why?
You’re not saved by your deeds. You’re revealed by your deeds. Deeds make a difference in judgment.
An absolute correct verdict…will be passed on what each one of us is. My consolation for this is that our “critic” is perfect. All I have now is grace. And it will be by grace then.
9. Share a time when you deceived yourself about sin in your life and the Lord, somehow or other, then helped you see the truth.
I was hanging on to a relationship that was going nowhere (he was my “idol”) and a couple who were missionaries in the Philippines, showed me the futility of such a relationship. They were very gracious to me and stood by me after the breakup. My boyfriend eventually got married to somebody else. I don’t know where I would have ended up if I insisted on my ways.
10. Honestly, some aspects of future judgment for believers seem like a contradiction to me, but again, I know it is apparent. I know we are completely forgiven through grace, but also that there will be an examination of our works. (1 Corinthians 3:10-15) and our impure works will cause loss. Keller quotes the Scripture that “every mouth will be stopped.” God’s judgment will be just and it seems there will be a judgment of our gold and hay works. Perhaps that has to do with levels in heaven or rewards, I really don’t know, but would love your wise thoughts.
I am not sure either, Dee. And I am sad here for the many times I grieved the Lord. But I believe there will not be time for regrets and jealousy (where would Abraham and David and Paul be? And Peter?) I find comfort that whatever judgment I will receive is just.
11. How did Keller explain verse 29?
What Jesus is saying here is what the Bible says everywhere, that your deeds are an index to your heart. You see when I look at the index, the index tells me what’s in the book. Your deeds are an index to your heart. The fruit on a tree doesn’t give the tree life, but the fruit on the tree reveals that the tree is alive.
12. How would you answer his questions: Are your ideas clearer? Is your heart softer? Is your laugh deeper? Are your concerns broader?
Yes, in varying degrees in the above areas. I feel like my path is clearer day by day, my heart is easily touched by the consequences of evil in this world yet comforted much by the sovereignty and future judgment of God. I laugh more often, and God has given me a heart for those I did not care for before.
I watched Tim Keller’s memorial service on you-tube. He planned it himself so it would honor God. Chose the hymns, what should be said about them, and even their tempo! Wonderful. So like him.
I watched the service too, Dee and I totally agree with your words. I love that they all said that Tim’s character, so modeled after Jesus, was what made him so special. Hearing Kathy and his sons speak and pray was so moving too. He truly walked his talk. I am going to re-watch it, because it was so inspiring.
I watched it, too! And I cried! So love the man! Made me think of what my funeral service should be. I have written down some ideas but would like to add hymns that talk about the character of God.
Thursday: Separation
Listen up to when he says “And one last thing, the doctrine of judgment will free you from judging yourself.” 27 minute mark
13. What stood out to you from this section and why?
Every right now counts forever. I liked his illustration of being on camera all the time.
You see, the doctrine of judgment imbues everything with a glory, with a significance. There’s an urgency about everything that happens… And C. S. Lewis says, “The doctrine of judgment tells us that any minute that irresistible light of God’s presence could come breaking through the roof.” Everything now is significant.
14. What did you learn about what it means to be separated from God, which is the judgment for unbelievers.
Being separated from God means one starts falling apart. No coherence to your persona. God gives you what you want and lets you go to have your own way. Oh, no! I don’t want to go my own way. I think of the verse in Jeremiah 17:8 “The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately sick, who can understand it?”
I cannot trust my heart but I can ALWAYS trust the heart of Jesus. I don’t want to be separated from Him.
15. How does Christianity diverge from other religions when it comes to justice?
Jesus took the punishment, the judgment in our place. He was crucified for our sins. No other religion has this form of justice.
16. What do you think about his comment that “Right now counts forever?”
This makes me take stock of what I do and where my heart is at any given time. Conviction to make things right, gratitude for times when I know He is truly pleased, and confidence that I matter and that my deeds matter.
17. He refers to Luke 16:9. What does it say — what do you think it means — and what does Keller say it means?
Whatever wealth we accumulate here on earth should be used for others. These deeds will be shown when we get to heaven and people will say thank you to us for helping them through our resources.
Another thought I have is that as part of this present world, we accumulate wealth as a natural outcome of honest work. It does not matter who the recipients are of my giving or helping. Some of those that I may have helped or am helping may have led them to Christ. Am excited that what I do matters!
14. Why does he say the doctrine of judgment will free you from bitterness?
It enables me to forgive and keeps me from desiring to bring somebody down. I think of 2 situations that often come to mind and this study reminded me to let go and forgive and to be grateful that Jesus died for the people involved as well as for me. There is no dividing line between them and me in terms of justice to be meted, My bitterness is at the same level as what I perceived was their wrongdoing.
Love your excitement in giving, Bing. As we should all feel!
11. How did Keller explain verse 29?
“…that your deeds are an index to your heart. ” Actual belief in God means a change in your heart. You are saved by grace, but your belief will show growth after that initial concession. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
12. How would you answer his questions: Are your ideas clearer? Is your heart softer? Is your laugh deeper? Are your concerns broader?
I am getting better! I stop before I speak (most of the time), I have so much more patience than I used to also. I do need to be more gentle sometimes, and to think of others more often.
Love hearing of your growth, Laura.
13. What stood out to you from this section and why?
The point about judging yourself really hit home with me. By trying to be in control, you become a slave who judges yourself to death. Stand in the mirror and say to yourself that you aren’t perfect, God made me as I am. Be forgiving and find the true joy in your life!
14. What did you learn about what it means to be separated from God, which is the judgment for unbelievers.
I learned that the more decomposed the body becomes, the farther we are from God. The farther I am from God, the more I live for myself, the more my soul falls apart.
15. How does Christianity diverge from other religions when it comes to justice?
Christianity tries to answer the question of judgment. It tackles the point that if others are to be judged, then so are we. We have a God who has the ability to judge us because He was judged Himself.
16. What do you think about his comment that “Right now counts forever?”
I agree. God is with us and know everything about our hearts. He sees it all.
13. What stood out to you from this section and why? The part where He talked about the love of God, the love that created the world, like an artist’s love for his work. I will make you holy because it’s the only way you can have joy. Face judgement day because you know the past of judgement day. I have received so much favor and love that I can easily forget an humdrum daily stuff.
14. What did you learn about what it means to be separated from God, which is the judgment for unbelievers. They want to get away from Him. Then finally God turns them over to their desires. They lose their ability to love and to understand. They start coming apart. Everything goes to pieces.
Rt15. How does Christianity diverge from other religions when it comes to justice? We want a judge but we are afraid to meet a judge. We need justice in the world. Because of His sinless life Christ and every right to judge me. My sin deserves punishment, but my Savior took my punishment. We have a God who can be just and the justifier of those who believe in Him.
16. What do you think about his comment that “Right now counts forever?” It’s convicting of thoughts I ve had today that I d like hidden but they are not.
17. He refers to Luke 16:9. What does it say — what do you think it means — and what does Keller say it means? I tell you, use use worldly wealth to gain, friends for yourselves, so when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings. What we do with worldly wealth and how we spend our lives matter. Did we use it to bring people to Jesus.
14. Why does he say the doctrine of judgment will free you from bitterness? Bitterness is the desire to see people brought down. God in His justice will take care of everything No one will get away with anything. Don’t take away God’s job. It’s too great of a burden Your heart and soul will burn out.
9. Share a time when you deceived yourself about sin in your life and the Lord, somehow or other, then helped you see the truth. So many times that it is uncountable. There was a time when he really showed my how my attitudes and actions toward my coworkers was prideful and while I thought that it was justified, He showed me how I was being the exact opposite of a humble servant.
10. Honestly, some aspects of future judgment for believers seem like a contradiction to me, but again, I know it is apparent. I know we are completely forgiven through grace, but also that there will be an examination of our works. (1 Corinthians 3:10-15) and our impure works will cause loss. Keller quotes the Scripture that “every mouth will be stopped.” God’s judgment will be just and it seems there will be a judgment of our gold and hay works. Perhaps that has to do with levels in heaven or rewards, I really don’t know, but would love your wise thoughts. This has always baffled me. On one hand, I thought that we would all be equal because the work that Christ did on the cross. None of us did anything that contributed to our salvation. Then I read passages which seem to indicate that we will get some kind of special recognition for the amount of our faithfulness. But again, it is a faithfulness that was given by God himself and not of anything from us.
I’ve always loved your honest humility, Dawn.
Yes — works a bit baffling but we know He does all things well.
17. He refers to Luke 16:9. What does it say — what do you think it means — and what does Keller say it means?
I think it means that we should care for others regardless of their status and our money. They will then appreciate that we did it because they are eternally saved.Keller says they will approach you in heaven to thank you for helping them be saved. I’m not sure about that…
14. Why does he say the doctrine of judgment will free you from bitterness?
The doctrine of judgment frees us from bitterness because we aren’t supposed to be the ones judging, only God does that. It takes away our thought of having to be the one to see someone brought down. Feeling that way means nothing is accomplished because (maybe) it will never happen in our lifetime. Let God do His job!
Friday: The Only Way Out
Listen up to the end.
13. What stood out to you from this section and why?
Because whatever you use to try to keep control of your life, mastery of your life, instead of liberating, it will turn you into your own judge. It will drive you. How do you take control of your life? Maybe not through eating, not through weight, through professional competence… if you want to be your own king, you will end up being your own judge. And you will judge yourself into the ground and you will never be satisfied. And God says, “You see, I’m the only one qualified for this job. Make me your King and you will no longer be a slave. Make yourself your king and you will end up being a slave. You will end up being your own judge.”
I don’t want to be my own judge as I am very fickle. Lord, I surrender control of my life to you. I trust your plan and your heart for me and those I love.
14. How can letting Jesus be in control of your life be the end of boredom?
This meant a lot to me. Because Jesus is in control, I can go through my day knowing He is with me and that He imbues my day, my life, with his glory. No second-guessing of what is brought into my life.
I just finished this section and all my answers went away! yikes.
8. What stood out to you from this section and why? Our deeds are an index to our hearts. A changed heart is a changed life. The analogy of the fruit on the tree does not give the tree life, but reveals that the tree is alive. If you truly believe, there is real life change~ the only sign of a changed life is growth. Love this from Keller: This is how you know you believe: your deeds and your character: (fruits of the spirit) Love, joy, peace, generosity, courage, integrity, humility, self control! You are not saved by your deeds, but revealed by your deeds.
9. Share a time when you deceived yourself about sin in your life and the Lord, somehow or other, then helped you see the truth. I can fall into self pity over things I have no control of…like my husband’s health….do I/we deserve this?…..yet, the Lord reminds me~ thankfully, that if I got what I deserve, I would really be in a bad way! It is always helpful to look back at times where my heart has strayed, or difficult things have happened in life or relationships and see how the Lord has used those things to draw me closer to Him. I constantly need to re-focus that He is the center of all that happens, and I need to keep my eyes on Him.
yikes? How I love you!
13. What stood out to you from this section and why? If I try to be in control of my own life, I then become judge of my life. Judging myself into the ground and never being satisfied. The more I give God control, the less I will judge myself. Sounds like freedom to me from self critical spirit and trying to measure self against others
14. How can letting Jesus be in control of your life be the end of boredom? I can be radiant and follow Him into the adventures He leads.
Judy — I’ve been listening to Jinger Dugger’s Free Indeed, how she had to disentangle the lies from Bill Gothard that called for constant self-judgment from the truth. How that attitude destroys our joy and distorts what God is like!
Thank you. I will look for that.
Saturday:
15. What’s your take-a-way and why?
—I apologize for falling off on the study and answering the questions this week. I read the entire transcript of Keller’s sermon a couple of times and pondered the questions but my week took me down some other paths of study and meditation because of a personal conflict which is too much to tell here. But God as my Father has been very gracious to me to orchestrate reconciliation and give encouragement.
I had taken some time to ponder and answer Wednesday’s question #10 and I am going to copy and add that here because I think it is a good takeaway.
10. Honestly, some aspects of future judgment for believers seem like a contradiction to me, but again, I know it is apparent………..God’s judgment will be just and it seems there will be a judgment of our gold and hay works. Perhaps that has to do with levels in heaven or rewards, I really don’t know, but would love your wise thoughts.
—I wish you hadn’t used the word wise 🥴 but this is a good question Its a very hard one because there are two biblical truths at play and actually hard to mesh. It feels like a contradiction as you have said. But both are truths and it is a mystery how God applies both. The first truth is that my sin, the inherit sin that comes with being born in the flesh is forgiven and changed by the power of the death of Christ on the cross when I bow my knee to Jesus and submit my life to Him. And as a result of my becoming a child of God through believing in Him all of my sins (actions against God by doing my own thing) are forgiven as well. They are completely forgiven all because of that finished work of Jesus on the Cross. But as long as I am alive in this fleshly body I will struggle to overcome sins and have the need to daily seek strength and wisdom from God to live a more holy life. In becoming a child of God I have a responsibility to turn my life over to him and consistently live a life pleasing to God first and then serving others. As a result we are told He will at a future time examine (judge)our lives and there will be some measure of reward given for gain or loss of reward in how we lived our lives. It will be something separate from our eternal salvation which is completely secure because of Jesus. I do think at that time of judgement or examination of how we lived in the flesh there will be no comparisons or questions as to the “fairness” of God toward any of us. He is the all knowing, sovereign God who fully knows the intents of the heart of every individual and will be completely equitable in what he does. We will know Him and see Him in his holiness and purity and it will be beyond question He has all authority. But even in his judgment of our works we will experience it done in perfect love for us and I think at that time we will again realize fully the power of the Cross that saved us from our sin. I think perhaps instead of coming away from that judgement feeling in anyway diminished we will experience the fullness of what He did and will proceed throughout eternity praising Him for what He has done for us. We had nothing and He gave us everything.
Bev, your takeaway based on Question 10 is so good and thoughtful. I am leasing our Sunday School class tomorrow as our leader is gone for the weekend. Our topic is sanctification and is always a hot topic for us as we talk about our daily struggles with sin. Having the confidence that we are secure in Christ keeps me from just giving up when I fail. Knowing that God is a God of righteous justice keeps me from dreading judgment day. It will be completely equitable as you have said.
Great thoughts from Bev and Bing.
Thank you, Bev. It gives me more understanding.
10. Honestly, some aspects of future judgment for believers seem like a contradiction to me, but again, I know it is apparent. I know we are completely forgiven through grace, but also that there will be an examination of our works. (1 Corinthians 3:10-15) and our impure works will cause loss. Keller quotes the Scripture that “every mouth will be stopped.” God’s judgment will be just and it seems there will be a judgment of our gold and hay works. Perhaps that has to do with levels in heaven or rewards, I really don’t know, but would love your wise thoughts.
11. How did Keller explain verse 29? Keller speaks of the heart. Your heart motives will be revealed. The good will arise to the resurrection of justice. The evil will arise to be condemned. Your deeds are an index to your heart. If you truly believe it changes your heart and your motivation in you life. There are thousands that say they believe, but only their character and growth are the true indicators. I really liked the idea that you are not saved by your deeds, you are revealed by your deeds. There are many deeds we do, but what is our motivation? Is it for self or is it selfless?
12. How would you answer his questions: Are your ideas clearer? Is your heart softer? Is your laugh deeper? Are your concerns broader? This is my prayer every day. Lord, keep my eyes on You when I plan my day~ take my plans and my heart be my day planner. Help me to focus on You and Your desires for my heart. How I pray to focus on others and not myself. Lord soften my heart and help me to see with the eyes of Christ, to have the compassion of Christ in my heart and to glorify You in all I think and do.
Saturday:
15. What’s your take-a-way and why?
Letting God be in control is the end of boredom, bitterness, and of judging myself. As one author says, Life in Christ is a life of freedom”. Free to joyful living unexplainable, daily repenting and forgiving of others and of self, and accepting of who I am in Christ.
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.
15. What’s your take-a-way and why? I’m still thinking about being my own judge and where my trying to control comes in. I find myself trying to measure up to where I think friends are spiritually and not surrendering that to God. So guess that is control. I need to release that to Him and stand on He who began a good work in me will carry it through to completion.