Before Jesus sends His disciples out into the dangerous world, He gives them four gifts to fortify them. We’ll look at those four gifts, all in John 14, with the help of Tim Keller these next four weeks.
First is hope — this life is not all there is!
When my granddaughter, Sadie, was in 4th grade in public school in New York, her teacher asked them to write a paragraph answering the question, “What is life?” This is her essay and artwork:
Sadie at 5
Sadie has hope, and so should we, for Jesus told His disciples and us:
Let not your heart be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.
John 14:1-3
In biblical days, after the betrothal, the bridegroom went away to add a room to his father’s house. When the father said all was ready, he would come for his bride with his friends, blowing a shofar horn. She didn’t know when she would hear that “trumpet,” but while he was gone she made sure she her wedding gown was ready. How? We’ll look at that in addition to listening to the sermon.
Sermon Click Below
https://gospelinlife.com/sermon/confident-in-hope/
Sunday: “Home”
Photo by Sebastian on Pexels
1. What stands out from the above. Why?
2. What associations do you have with the word “home?”
In another sermon, Keller said that the reason people sit in the same place each Sunday is because that feels like home. I liked that as I used to be a bit judgmental about that!
3. In what ways do you think heaven will be the home you always yearned for? Explain.
Monday: “What Will Heaven Be Like, Dee?”
C. S. Lewis says our earthly homes will never fully satisfy us, for we were made for another home. Recently my friend Ron asked me, “Dee — what will heaven be like? Where will it be?”
I said, “It will be right here on earth, (Job 19:25-27) but it will be made new and joined to a new heaven. (Isaiah 65:17). Our Bridegroom, King, and Friend will be there. It won’t be ethereal but tangible. Isaiah 65 speaks of homes, vineyards, and animals. There will be no more sin, sorrow, or death. We will be with Jesus and our loved ones in the Lord in resurrected beautiful bodies. Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, what God has prepared for us.”
5. How would you have answered Ron’s question?
6. Meditate on John 14:1-3.
A. What are the promises of this passage?
B. What does the wedding gown seem to represent in Revelation 19:7-8
C. What does it seem to represent in Matthew 22:12?
D. What does it seem to represent in Psalm 45:13-14 Might this be different than the other two Scriptures? If so, what might it mean? (I’ll share my thoughts eventually too!)
Listen up to minute 8/28 or read up to 8:28
7. How does John 14 begin and end according to John 14:27. What is this so important for us to hear in this world? (See John 16:33)
8. He refers to the movie “Up” and the movie “The Trip to Bountiful.” Choose one — what was his point for the movie you chose?
Tuesday: I’m Going To Make This Place Your Home
I imagine Jesus singing this to me when I’m near the end, and longing for Him to come for me:
Listen or read up to minute 14:18
9. What stands out to you in particular and why?
10. What did Jesus know the disciples were going to face?
Here is C. S. Lewis’s close to Narnia, alluding to heaven: “The Term is over! The holidays have begun!”
Photo courtesy of RDNE of Pexels
11. Can you identify with the above? Explain.
12. What makes a home a home?
13. He quoted D. L. Moody and George Herbert. Share one and your thoughts.
Wednesday: Rage Against the Dying of The Light
When the evidence is clear we will all die, it is quite amazing how man tries to repress it, to deny it. Ernest Becker, in his book, The Denial of Death, writes:
“Modern man is drinking and drugging himself out of awareness, or he spends his time shopping, which is the same thing.”
It is far wiser to realize it’s reality so we can apply our hearts to wisdom, and put our trust in the only One who can rescue us.
14. In another message Keller feels that sometimes we make funerals too happy, when even though the loved one was a believer, we must not deny that death is an enemy, though it is the last enemy. Thoughts about this?
Read or Listen up 10 22:12.
15. What stands out from this portion of the sermon and why?
16. What are some various reactions that Keller describes that people have when they are dying?
17. How did Jonathan Edwards describe heaven? (For those who want to read the essay, here is the link: https://www.biblebb.com/files/edwards/charity16.htm
18. What do you learn from George Hebert’s poem?
Thursday: How Jesus Prepared A Place For Us
Listen or read up to 27:16
I’ve always thought that when Jesus said He was going to prepare a place for us He meant He was working on paradise, but Keller says He meant He was going to die for us so we could go to Paradise. I guess the God who spoke the earth into being can do the same for the New Heaven and New Earth.
19. What stood out and why?
20. How do the following verses support Keller’s view that “going to prepare a place for you” means going to the cross.
A. John 13:36
B. John 14:5-6
20. List the things that Jesus gave up to assure a place of love, fellowship, and comfort for us.
21. How did Donald Barnhouse explain death to his children?
22. What did the dying woman in Virginia teach Keller?
Friday: He Has All of Eternity to Make It Up To Me
Listen or read to the end.
23. What did the dying woman in Virginia teach Keller?
24. What was his point with the tower analogy?
Saturday:
25. What is your take-a-way and why?
127 comments
1. What stands out from the above. Why?
Wow! Sadie’s confidence about her destiny, in fourth grade! I am trying to make sure the grands know this too. Grace never hesitates to pray. Cooper is more tentative in his expression although I do think he loves the Lord.
I know you have poured truth into those two, Laura!
1. What stands out from the above. Why? The beautiful essay. The words, the surety of her faith, the artwork, she was only in fourth grade at the time She was in a public school where it would be a worldly mindset and she was able to focus above this world
2. What associations do you have with the word “home?” Today it’s a yearning for the perfection of better things
In another sermon, Keller said that the reason people sit in the same place each Sunday is because that feels like home. I liked that as I used to be a bit judgmental about that!
3. In what ways do you think heaven will be the home you always yearned for? Explain. I will understand how completely loved and accepted I have been
Love your last line!
Sunday: “Home”
1. What stands out from the above. Why? – I love Sadie’s heart. Such a profound thought from someone so young. We all need to be thinking of what Jesus has prepared for us and is still to come. He is going to be giving us so much more than what we have today
2. What associations do you have with the word “home?” – a place that is comforting to me and that God has blessed me with. A place that I can feel loved in. A place that I know he is in.
In another sermon, Keller said that the reason people sit in the same place each Sunday is because that feels like home. I liked that as I used to be a bit judgmental about that! – we sit in the same spot at church too. Near the front so I can see, lol
3. In what ways do you think heaven will be the home you always yearned for? Explain. – it will be where Jesus is present and will have so much more beauty in it. The birds will still be singing and the sun will be shining. The love that we will feel will be so amazing. And death will not be there.
Like your answers to “home!”
1. What stands out from the above. Why?
I love Sadie’s pure heart and beautiful thoughts (and her artwork). She knows that the Lord made this world, yet it is just a taste of what heaven will be like. She is Praising Him for this great gift and knows that it will be her home (love that she said “destiny”) because she made a simple choice to love Jesus and follow Him. (love the maturity of her deep thoughts)
2. What associations do you have with the word “home?”
A place where I feel great comfort and feel welcomed. A place of peace and joy, that is filled with so much of God’s love, there is no room for anything else. A place of community with family and friends, who embrace one another with smiles of welcome on each face, loving eyes and tender hugs. A place when you walk through the door, you give a deep sigh of contentment and think, ” Yes, I am home.”
In another sermon, Keller said that the reason people sit in the same place each Sunday is because that feels like home. I liked that as I used to be a bit judgmental about that!
3. In what ways do you think heaven will be the home you always yearned for? Explain.
I associate my heavenly home, as this world, done in perfection with colors we have never seen, music we have never heard before, more nature, sweet, gentle animals and fields of soft green grass that we can run through with bare feet. It will be filled with people I love, who love me…a wonderful reunion, as we all hug each other. Jesus will be there to greet me and I will not remember any sorrow, pain or loss, only peace and joy, and love.. It will be a kind of beauty that we have not experienced before. There will be radiant light everywhere. When I arrive, I will give a deep sigh, knowing that this is where I belong.
I think we need this hope so much when a spouse dies — this from Patti:
I associate my heavenly home, as this world, done in perfection with colors we have never seen, music we have never heard before, more nature, sweet, gentle animals and fields of soft green grass that we can run through with bare feet. It will be filled with people I love, who love me…a wonderful reunion, as we all hug each other. Jesus will be there to greet me and I will not remember any sorrow, pain or loss, only peace and joy, and love.. It will be a kind of beauty that we have not experienced before. There will be radiant light everywhere. When I arrive, I will give a deep sigh, knowing that this is where I belong.
Amen! So beautiful Patti❤️
Such a welcoming “new” home Patti. Very calming to picture.
Sunday: “Home”
1. What stands out from the above. Why?
—The reality that in this life we have been given a great hope to live by and live for.
If we choose to believe in God and to believe in Jesus the Son of God we can have hearts that are not troubled. And that is the result of the direct promise of Jesus Christ Who has gone before us to Heaven to prepare a place (home) for us. And the promise of His coming back to take us with himself to be there where he is at home in Heaven.
Let not your heart be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.
John 14:1-3
2. What associations do you have with the word “home?”
In another sermon, Keller said that the reason people sit in the same place each Sunday is because that feels like home. I liked that as I used to be a bit judgmental about that!
—For the most part “Home” feels secure and it feels comfortable but in this fallen broken world that can be disrupted because of the struggles of life. I also think of the word familiar. There is comfort in familiarity. These things security, comfort and familiarity are all reasons we like to come home or go home.
3. In what ways do you think heaven will be the home you always yearned for? Explain.
—When my Mom passed away in February a sweet friend gave me a copy of Randy Alcorn’s book “Heaven”. I had read it about 20 years ago when it first came out but I don’t know where my head was at that time. I remembered very little from it. Just recently I reread it but not hurriedly. I found that it brought great comfort to consider the New Heaven and the New Earth and the promise from Jesus that he is going to “renew“ or restore this old earth. Dee, as you have said in tomorrow’s first comments the new Earth “won’t be ethereal but tangible” and joined with a new Heaven.
For me that speaks to familiarity, absolute security and comfort. And it will be so because of Jesus. It will have everything we need to be completely satisfied.
Love this, Bev: For me that speaks to familiarity, absolute security and comfort. And it will be so because of Jesus. It will have everything we need to be completely satisfied.
It is so interesting to read classic books when we are decades older and have a more mature perspective. I recently did that with Mere Christianity and wondered how in the world I grasped any of it at the age of 21, before I received Christ!
1. What stands out from the above. Why? Sadie’s essay. She captured the truth about our life on earth. At such a young age, she put it into words better than I could.
2. What associations do you have with the word “home?” Something that sticks out in my mind, fifty years later, is on the farm that my family lived on. It was winter, almost dark, and my siblings and I had been out sledding. I was tired and my fingers, toes, ears, and nose were frozen. As I crested the hill, there was our house. It was a very old, run down, rented farm house that had peeling paint and rotted boards, but the windows were lit up against the darkening sky and I knew that when we got there we would be warm and dry and have a hot dinner ready to eat. Every time I see a picture that slightly resembles it, I get a pang in my heart.
3. In what ways do you think heaven will be the home you always yearned for? Explain. It’s what we were made for. Every longing of our heart will be satisfied. I think of every high point and most joyous moment in my life here (new romance, birth of a baby, celebrations, laughter, friendships, vacations) and I know that my heavenly home will be all that and more, continually. Not just a temporary rush, but always! Without doubts and fears. Complete freedom. Our core desires will be satisfied, not because of our lust for self satisfaction, but because this how it was meant to be, before the fall.
What a great picture of home Dawn painted:
Something that sticks out in my mind, fifty years later, is on the farm that my family lived on. It was winter, almost dark, and my siblings and I had been out sledding. I was tired and my fingers, toes, ears, and nose were frozen. As I crested the hill, there was our house. It was a very old, run down, rented farm house that had peeling paint and rotted boards, but the windows were lit up against the darkening sky and I knew that when we got there we would be warm and dry and have a hot dinner ready to eat. Every time I see a picture that slightly resembles it, I get a pang in my heart.
Dawn, I love your story and it resonates with me having that same experience as kids of being out sledding and coming home with hands and feet and face freezing to a place where we gathered around a gas heater and drank hot chocolate to warm up. You give a beautiful picture of light shining from inside the house welcoming you in to where it was warm.
What a great childhood memory to hold on to. A lot of kids today don’t and won’t have those memories. They don’t know how to play outside.
I so relate to this sweet memory you have of coming home after sledding, Dawn. Brought back memories of my childhood in Minnesota.
Dawn,
I love your answer to #2.
Dawn, I, too, loved what you shared about your home. I thought of the song, “Leave the light on” by Tom Walker. It is a very poignant song from a different angle on “home”:
If you look into the distance, there’s a house upon the hill Guiding like a lighthouse to a place where you’ll be Safe to feel at grace ‘cause we’ve all made mistakes If you’ve lost your way…I will leave the light on….
What a great memory Dawn! I can’t relate at all since I am a southern girl and never got to sled as a child! It seems so wonderful to me, your memory. I think I can understand the lights in the window though, and imagine the freezing hands since I have lived in the north for the last 20 years. I’m so glad you have this memory.
PRIVATE MESSAGE FOR DEE!!!
AFTER PRAYER AND CONSIDERATION, I HAVE DECIDED TO FACILITATE A LADIES SUMMER BIBLE STUDY. And I have chosen your Friendships of Women book. Several women have asked me to do this study, some of whom have not done this study through SonRise. So many women have joined SonRise in the last 30 years that were not in the study in 1987. So far, I have five ladies who have made the commitment to join the group, but I know that there will be others. The study is not yet public, but I plan to inform the SonRise groups this week about the study. It will start June 11 and go through July 30. I am suggesting the purchase of the book, but not the Bible study book at this time. Is this the right decision on my part?
IF you are in Kearney anytime this summer, please get in touch with me. AND if you are able, I would love to have you come and share with the group.
Thank you for this study and the revision also. May God bless us all, In Him, Marla cell: 402-499-5177
That’s exciting Marla! The newest edition of the book, the 20th anniversary edition (Brown Cover) has small group questions after each chapter. The Bible study is no longer in print. The page of questions after each chapter in this latest edition are not really a Bible study, but knowing you, you could easily find a passage for each chapter that would coincide for them to read and discuss.
I won’t be in Kearney this summer — non-stop guests in Ephraim from late June to early September. But I did a recent interview you could play that is on my home page of this website under Interviews.
You can also e-mail me at dee@deebrestin.com
Much Love
Dee
Sunday: “Home”
1. What stands out from the above. Why?
What Sadie wrote about life is so insightful for a 9 year old. I would have loved to have seen what the reaction her teacher had when she read it…did she understand, did she have questions???
The passage from John 14:1-3 is one of my favorites. It’s a passage, along with verse 4, I had to memorize as a child…so glad I did❤️
2. What associations do you have with the word “home?”
The word home stirs within my heart, love, comfort, security, warmth and acceptance.
3. In what ways do you think heaven will be the home you always yearned for? Explain.
Not to be cheesy, but I can only imagine…being with others where I’ll experience perfect agape love, being among tame creatures and best of all, being in His presence!
My husband still talks of going to a men’s conference in Oregon many years ago where over 1,000 men are all singing 🎵 How Great Thou Art 🎵 and thinking, this is what heaven will be like!
Sharon– the teacher (public school New York) told Sadie it wasn’t what she was looking for. Sadie took it well though, telling me, “Grandma — she just doesn’t get it.”
I’ll bet that was Promise Keepers Jim attended. I’ve heard other men say the same.
I was wondering that too. Sad that she didn’t accept the invitation. Sadie sounds like a very mature young lady.
Oh, this makes me sad, yet Sadie had a very mature response! 🙂
This is not at all cheesy, Sharon! I love love love this! Not to be cheesy, but I can only imagine…being with others where I’ll experience perfect agape love, being among tame creatures and best of all, being in His presence! AMEN! Oh, and thousands singing “How Great Thou Art”. It gives me chills and tears just reading this!
Monday: “What Will Heaven Be Like, Dee?”
C. S. Lewis says our earthly homes will never fully satisfy us, for we were made for another home. Recently my friend Ron asked me, “Dee — what will heaven be like? Where will it be?”
I said, “It will be right here on earth, (Job 19:25-27) but it will be made new and joined to a new heaven. (Isaiah 65:17). Our Bridegroom, King, and Friend will be there. It won’t be ethereal but tangible. Isaiah 65 speaks of homes, vineyards, and animals. There will be no more sin, sorrow, or death. We will be with Jesus and our loved ones in the Lord in resurrected beautiful bodies. Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, what God has prepared for us.”
5. How would you have answered Ron’s question?
—Well as I referred to the book “ Heaven” in my Sunday answers I would have directed Ron to consider reading it. But a short answer would be similar to the points that you made Dee. I particularly appreciate your scriptural references to support your answer to Ron. I also appreciate that Randy Alcorn gives strong biblical background for the things he has written in his book but he is honest about anything that he is just being speculative about. Nevertheless there is much scriptural basis for the reality and wonder of Heaven.
6. Meditate on John 14:1-3.
A. What are the promises of this passage?
—Jesus tells us there are many rooms in his Father’s House and he promises to go there and prepare a place for us and he promises to come back again to get us and take us to that place he has prepared so we can be there with him.
I like these comments by Warren Weirsbe.
“Christ speaks of heaven as a real place, not merely as a state of mind. He pictured heaven as a loving home where the Father dwells. “Mansions” in the Gk. is actually “abiding places,” speaking of the permanency of our heavenly home. Heaven is a prepared place for a prepared people.”
B. What does the wedding gown seem to represent in Revelation 19:7-8
—It specifically refers to the righteous deeds of the saints. So it appears the good deeds we do personally for the Savior out of a heart of love for Him will somehow be reflected by what we will be wearing. I have a feeling the martyrs who died for Jesus will be wearing something amazingly special.
C. What does it seem to represent in Matthew 22:12?
—From this verse it shows that the right wedding clothes are required to be at the Wedding.
D. What does it seem to represent in Psalm 45:13-14 Might this be different than the other two Scriptures? If so, what might it mean? (I’ll share my thoughts eventually too!)
—Hmmm? I don’t know.
But again how the Bride is clothed is important. And there is great beauty reflected in the descriptions in these verses. It would seem perhaps this attire has been provided for her.
7. How does John 14 begin and end according to John 14:27. What is this so important for us to hear in this world? (See John 16:33)
—In both places Jesus says don’t let heart be troubled because in this world we will have trouble. There will be trials and sorrows but He promises to give us peace.
Our natural response to trouble is fear and anxiousness but Jesus brings a supernatural strength and peace into our lives and we can take heart because he has overcome the world with all its troubles.
8. He refers to the movie “Up” and the movie “The Trip to Bountiful.” Choose one — what was his point for the movie you chose?
—“A Trip To Bountiful” is an example of the deep longing in a heart to go back home but we really can’t. Keller says “There is no earthly home that can satisfy our desire for home. Because home isn’t just a house”.
Keller goes onto point out that the disciples were wanderers in this life and were being sent out so they needed the truth that God had a specific place (a home in Heaven) for them and Jesus was going ahead of them to prepare it and then he would be returning to take them back there. That would be the home to bring them ultimate satisfaction.
My husband and I were reflecting on this in a conversation about our childhood homes. We currently live about 9 miles from the small town with the house where I grew up and actually only a few blocks from the house where he grew up. But even in close proximity to those places we cannot go back to the homes we grew up in as we knew them. We talked about how on earth time ages everything and everyone so it isn’t possible to recapture the experience of “home” from our growing up years. That all makes the hope of Heaven so sweet and our future is bright when the longing for home will be satisfied.
This is so true, Bev: We talked about how on earth time ages everything and everyone so it isn’t possible to recapture the experience of “home” from our growing up years. That all makes the hope of Heaven so sweet and our future is bright when the longing for home will be satisfied.
I love your answers to the wedding gown scriptures, Bev. It seems to me to mean both the cleansing forgiveness of Christ, for no one can get in without that, yet if it is real, righteous deeds will flow from that.
Bev, I really liked your answer to number 8. We can’t go back to what we knew as home, because it and we have changed. So true!
2. What associations do you have with the word “home?”
Anywhere I have lived for a long time, family, comfort, good food (meatloaf and mashed potatoes!), my bed!!
Chris Tomlin’s song, Home.
https://youtu.be/YIb4NC5ikYo?si=nhy5MrxyBdwydlET
3. In what ways do you think heaven will be the home you always yearned for? Explain.
No family fights! True love, not contrived. Families can be hard. Each person is unique and not everyone appreciates that. We are not always on our best behavior…
Monday: “What Will Heaven Be Like, Dee?”
5. How would you have answered Ron’s question? – I probably would have said very similar to your answer Dee. That Heaven will be like our current home, but so, so much better. It will have no pain or sorrow and everything will be so bright and beautiful.
6. Meditate on John 14:1-3.
A. What are the promises of this passage? – In God’s house there are many rooms. Enough for all of us. Jesus is going there to get them ready and will be back for us when it is the appointed time. We will be with him.
B. What does the wedding gown seem to represent in Revelation 19:7-8 – The wedding gown, being white and of a luxurious material, represents us a blessed and righteous child of God. It shows that we are free from sin and worthy to be His bride.
C. What does it seem to represent in Matthew 22:12? – I think here it seems to be referring to a sinner, one who doesn’t have a relationship with Jesus.
D. What does it seem to represent in Psalm 45:13-14 Might this be different than the other two Scriptures? If so, what might it mean? (I’ll share my thoughts eventually too!) – Does this mean of royal descent, a chosen child of the King? I think in a sense it is the same, saying we are chosen by God to be his heir and because Jesus is King, we are royalty by election.
Listen up to minute 8/28 or read up to 8:28
7. How does John 14 begin and end according to John 14:27. Why is this so important for us to hear in this world? (See John 16:33) – He’s reassuring us that even though there will be trouble in this world, while we are in it, he is reminding us that we do not need to be troubled.
8. He refers to the movie “Up” and the movie “The Trip to Bountiful.” Choose one — what was his point for the movie you chose? – Both of these movies are opposite of what I have always thought. For Up, I had to sell my home, where my kids were growing up because I could not afford it any longer as a single mom. But I didn’t have the hold on feeling of it. To me it was just a dwelling for that time. The memories are in my mind and heart and new memories were made at the next place God brought our way. Just like my body, it’s a temporary dwelling that God has given me to take care of, but to not get tied down to.
Great perspective on letting go of a house from Julie:
The memories are in my mind and heart and new memories were made at the next place God brought our way. Just like my body, it’s a temporary dwelling that God has given me to take care of, but to not get tied down to.
5. How would you have answered Ron’s question?
I could not respond well on the spot, as Dee did, for sure! I am reading Heaven by Randy Alcorn and it has many great references. I like these scriptures that help describe Heaven. I think it will be far beyond what we can conceive in our imaginations.
Heaven will be in a realm that we do not see with our earthly eyes, just yet. When God creates the new heavens and a new earth, the former things will not be remembered or brought to mind. We will know only joy and praise there. The current earth is the Lord’s footstool and Heaven is His throne. (Isaiah 66:1) This earth and heaven will pass away, as it is transitory, but there will be new eternal heavens and a new earth, where righteousness dwells. (Peter 3:10-13) The church will be the bride of Christ. The glory of God will give Heaven its light ; there will no long be a sea. He will make all things new. Rev 21:7 He who overcomes will inherit these things and I will be his God and he will be My son. (Revelation 21:1-7)
6. Meditate on John 14:1-3.
A. What are the promises of this passage?
Jesus is designing an eternal home for us in Heaven, His Father’s house. There are many living places there. He is telling us to assure us that He is really doing this and He will return again to take us to our eternal home, where He resides.
B. What does the wedding gown seem to represent in Revelation 19:7-8
The wedding gown seems to represent those who have put their faith in Christ, lived for Christ, having a personal relationship with Him and being obedient to His commandments.
C. What does it seem to represent in Matthew 22:12?
The guests who were not dressed in wedding clothes had not accepted the Gospel. They had chosen their own way and dishonored the Word of God.
D. What does it seem to represent in Psalm 45:13-14 Might this be different than the other two Scriptures? If so, what might it mean? (I’ll share my thoughts eventually too!)
The bride seems to represent one who, despite being in a family or society of unbelievers, has chosen to follow Jesus. It is someone who desires the righteousness of God and has chosen a relationship with Him, rather thank join those striving for the earthly pleasures; it is one setting one’s eyes on the treasures of Heaven, our true treasure and eternal home. Chosen the eternal over the temporal.
From Patti:
The bride seems to represent one who, despite being in a family or society of unbelievers, has chosen to follow Jesus. It is someone who desires the righteousness of God and has chosen a relationship with Him, rather thank join those striving for the earthly pleasures; it is one setting one’s eyes on the treasures of Heaven, our true treasure and eternal home. Chosen the eternal over the temporal.
Tuesday: I’m Going To Make This Place Your Home
—Great song! “I’m Gonna Make This Place Your Home”. Thanks for sharing that. 😊
Listen or read up to minute 14:18
9. What stands out to you in particular and why?
—I like the fact that this feels very personal. Jesus has a place prepared just for me. And for each of you. It sounds like we will have our own special abiding places in our Father’s house. I am reminded of my maternal grandmother who in her mid 90s was bedfast sharing a small room in a care home with another lady. One day she asked me if I thought when she got to Heaven she would have her own room. It was a sweet thought for her when I assured her that I believed she would. These verses from John 14:1-2 made me think so. 😊
10. What did Jesus know the disciples were going to face?
—Danger and troubles for the rest of their earthly lives. And he was sending them out from their familiar home places. They would be wanderers.
11. Can you identify with the above? Explain.
—Yes, She exudes joy and freedom in the picture. She is done with the hard work and struggles and is free to enjoy respite and refreshing.
Yes I look forward to when the term is over and the holidays begin!!
12. What makes a home a home?
—Love. Love shared between family members gives life and security to each one. The beauty of Heaven will be that because God is there it will be filled and permeated with the perfect love of God.
13. He quoted D. L. Moody and George Herbert. Share one and your thoughts.
—Moody’s comment was that when you read in the newspapers that Dwight Moody is dead. Don’t believe it! He said I’ll be more alive than I’ve ever been. I love that thought and it brings me such joy to know my sweet mom who passed away in February is living life to the fullest in the presence of her God and Savior. 💕
I liked that you liked the song “Home!”
Amen to Bev. Love the song, “Home”!
5. How would you have answered Ron’s question?
I would have said that I don’t know. Or, “it will be a beautiful thing.”
6. Meditate on John 14:1-3.
A. What are the promises of this passage?
Jesus is making a place for us, in heaven. There is enough room and He will come for us; we will always be with Him.
B. What does the wedding gown seem to represent in Revelation 19:7-8
A covering of sorts? Protection?
C. What does it seem to represent in Matthew 22:12?
Purity.
D. What does it seem to represent in Psalm 45:13-14 Might this be different than the other two Scriptures? If so, what might it mean? (I’ll share my thoughts eventually too!)
More of an offering. I think it’s different. In this case The bride is being offered. In the other two cases it is though she is being protected.
Monday
5. How would you have answered Ron’s question?
I would take him to various passages like Revelation 21 and 22, Isaiah 65:17-25 and make sure he understands the gospel and has a personal relationship with Jesus Christ (which is something you may know but I think we should always make sure).
6. Meditate on John 14:1-3.
A. What are the promises of this passage?
There are many rooms in My Father’s house.
Jesus is going there to prepare a place for us.
He will come again and take us to Himself, that we will be where He is.
B. What does the wedding gown seem to represent in Revelation 19:7-8
Purity and righteousness. It takes me back to what He said to the church in Sardis, “…the one who conquers will be clothed in white garments,” and Laodicea. “…I counsel you to buy from Me…white garments.”
C. What does it seem to represent in Matthew 22:12?
It seems the man is out of place without wedding clothes and has no understanding of why they are needed. God sees the heart.
D. What does it seem to represent in Psalm 45:13-14 Might this be different than the other two Scriptures? If so, what might it mean? (I’ll share my thoughts eventually too!)
It seems to represent the church…the marriage between Christ and the church.
Sharon, Love your answer to 5.) make sure he understands the gospel and has a personal relationship with Jesus Christ (which is something you may know but I think we should always make sure). Amen!
Why do you think it represents the Church in this case? You may be right! Song goes back and forth between singular and plural pronouns to describe the bride. I thought it represented her acts that are evidence of her grasping the gospel. I’m just interested!
One of he cross references to verse 13 was Revelation 19:7,8, ”Let us be glad and rejoice, and let us give honor to him. For the time has come for the wedding feast of the Lamb, and his bride has prepared herself. She has been given the finest of pure white linen to wear.” For the fine linen represents the good deeds of God’s holy people.”
I also think you’re right, but I’ve always thought the bride to be the church and the wedding will only include those that do have acts evident of grasping the gospel. I appreciate you bringing out the personal in it too, did not see it that way.
9. What stands out to you in particular and why?
Keller: “The only thing death can do to a Christian is to make you infinitely better than you are now. Leaving this dark world to into the light, where there is love.”
10. What did Jesus know the disciples were going to face?
The disciples were being sent out, with no home to retreat to on this earth.
Here is C. S. Lewis’s close to Narnia, alluding to heaven: “The Term is over! The holidays have begun!”
11. Can you identify with the above? Explain.
We will know real joy when we arrive at our permanent home in heaven. This earth and body are temporary, sort of like a term at school!
12. What makes a home a home?
Welcoming Love, joy, peace, wellness, acceptance….so so much love !
13. He quoted D. L. Moody and George Herbert. Share one and your thoughts.
I love both quotes! George Herbert: Death used to be an executioner, but the Gospel makes him a gardener. (John 12: 24: Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.”)
Moody’s quote demonstrates that when he dies on this earth, he will be more alive in heaven than he is here now! That is our real home!
7. How does John 14 begin and end according to John 14:27. What is this so important for us to hear in this world? (See John 16:33)
Do not be troubled! God is in control. We get peace!
8. He refers to the movie “Up” and the movie “The Trip to Bountiful.” Choose one — what was his point for the movie you chose?
Trip to Bountiful…. I saw this movie when it came out way back. I remember feeling her disappointment and pain when she realized Home was no longer there. We can’t go back to those good old days except through our memories. Isn’t it wonderful that we have memories? It’s not about the physical place, it’s about the place AND the people. But, mostly the people.
C. S. Lewis says our earthly homes will never fully satisfy us, for we were made for another home. Recently my friend Ron asked me, “Dee — what will heaven be like? Where will it be?”
I said, “It will be right here on earth, (Job 19:25-27) but it will be made new and joined to a new heaven. (Isaiah 65:17). Our Bridegroom, King, and Friend will be there. It won’t be ethereal but tangible. Isaiah 65 speaks of homes, vineyards, and animals. There will be no more sin, sorrow, or death. We will be with Jesus and our loved ones in the Lord in resurrected beautiful bodies. Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, what God has prepared for us.”
5. How would you have answered Ron’s question? You have a beautiful answer, Dee I would only know to say it will be better than anything we could imagine and then talk about no more sorrow or tears and there will be no need for for the sun or moon because God will be our light. I wouldn’t know how to answer where I just know there is a new heaven and new earth.
6. Meditate on John 14:1-3.
A. What are the promises of this passage? Jesus has prepared a place for us and He will come back and get us so we can be where He is.
B. What does the wedding gown seem to represent in Revelation 19:7-8 the righteous acts of God’s holy people
C. What does it seem to represent in Matthew 22:12? The acceptance of what Christ has done for us and the protective covering He gives us
D. What does it seem to represent in Psalm 45:13-14 Might this be different than the other two Scriptures? If so, what might it mean? (I’ll share my thoughts eventually too!) I don’t know Maybe the church
7. How does John 14 begin and end according to John 14:27. What is this so important for us to hear in this world? (See John 16:33) Don’t let hearts be troubled We will have problems and hurt hearts on this world, but Jesus overcame all that
8. He refers to the movie “Up” and the movie “The Trip to Bountiful.” Choose one — what was his point for the movie you chose? In Up a man refuses to sell his home frustrating developers because it’s home. That home is something we long for because it’s where are hearts can rest
“Where our hearts can rest” — Love that.
5. How would you have answered Ron’s question? The same way that you did, thanks to your insight.
6. Meditate on John 14:1-3.
A. What are the promises of this passage? That Jesus is preparing a place for me and He will return to bring me to this place where I will live with Him forever.
B. What does the wedding gown seem to represent in Revelation 19:7-8 The righteous deeds of the saints.
C. What does it seem to represent in Matthew 22:12? Proof that you are chosen and welcomed at the wedding feast
D. What does it seem to represent in Psalm 45:13-14 Might this be different than the other two Scriptures? If so, what might it mean? (I’ll share my thoughts eventually too!) A sign of royalty, not just a bride.
Listen up to minute 8/28 or read up to 8:28
7. How does John 14 begin and end according to John 14:27. What is this so important for us to hear in this world? (See John 16:33)
8. He refers to the movie “Up” and the movie “The Trip to Bountiful.” Choose one — what was his point for the movie you chose?
That’s interesting. A sign of royalty. New thought for me!
Monday
7. How does John 14 begin and end according to John 14:27. What is this so important for us to hear in this world? (See John 16:33)
”Don’t let your hearts be troubled.”
“So don’t be troubled or afraid.”
It’s important because on this earth we’ll have many trials and sorrows.
8. He refers to the movie “Up” and the movie “The Trip to Bountiful.” Choose one — what was his point for the movie you chose?
The point of Up was the refusal of Carl to sell his home to developers because of what his home meant to him, the memories it held with his wife that had passed.
I have never experienced homelessness but our family moved around so much that “a home” wasn’t as important to me as what made the home…a loving family.
Interesting from Sharon:
I have never experienced homelessness but our family moved around so much that “a home” wasn’t as important to me as what made the home…a loving family.
14. In another message Keller feels that sometimes we make funerals too happy, when even though the loved one was a believer, we must not deny that death is an enemy, though it is the last enemy. Thoughts about this? I agree. Although I have never been to a funeral that was too happy. Even the funerals of Christians who were terminally ill and everyone was glad that their pain was relieved, were still solemn occasions where we acknowledged that they will be greatly missed and that living without them will be hard.
Read or Listen up 10 22:12.
15. What stands out from this portion of the sermon and why? He makes it sound so good that I almost wish I could hurry up and die (as morbid as it sounds).
16. What are some various reactions that Keller describes that people have when they are dying? Some people look back with regret, knowing that they didn’t live the life that they should have lived and they are not sure that they are going to have a good afterlife. Some people think that after death is nothing and they are unhappy that “the essence” of them will be gone.
17. How did Jonathan Edwards describe heaven? (For those who want to read the essay, here is the link: https://www.biblebb.com/files/edwards/charity16.htm A world of love.
18. What do you learn from George Hebert’s poem? That death is victory for the believer. We will exist forever and death will be annihilated.
As I’m going back to edit my comments, I realize that I somehow jumped from Monday’s questions to Wednesday’s and missed Tuesday’s. I’ll do those tomorrow, I guess.
Dawn, Your answer to # 5 made me smile. 😊 He does make it sound good. And we have every reason to think it will be.
“He makes it sound so good that I almost wish I could hurry up and die (as morbid as it sounds).”
I know, right?!
7. How does John 14 begin and end according to John 14:27. Let not your hearts be troubled. What is this so important for us to hear in this world? (See John 16:33) That we can be in peace in this troubled world, knowing that Jesus has overcome the world and we will be with Him for eternity.
8. He refers to the movie “Up” and the movie “The Trip to Bountiful.” Choose one — what was his point for the movie you chose? A Trip to Bountiful-The point is that we are all longing for home and that our memories of how great our past homes are, exceeds what they really were. We can’t go back there, but we have a better one waiting for us.
I love that movie! I remember seeing it on TV when I was in my late 20’s. It was the first time that I heard the song Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling. It made me cry. Here’s a short link of the song from the movie: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EgJxPbS9ds
Dawn, I had forgotten but your reminder of the hymn “Softly and Tender” is what stood out to me from that movie as well. What a beautiful old hymn. I was really blessed again by hearing it sung from the soundtrack of the movies because it is so beautifully done. Thank you for sharing that.
Oh Dawn — this moved my heart — I hope everyone watches. I put it on my author facebook feed:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EgJxPbS9ds
Thank you for sharing this beautiful hymn.
I realized too late that I accidentally did Wednesday’s assignment instead of Tuesday’s. Right now, it’s awaiting moderation for some reason.
I guess I’ll do Tuesday’s tomorrow.
And maybe, Wednesday’s again if it isn’t approved 🙂
Wednesday: Rage Against the Dying of The Light
14. In another message Keller feels that sometimes we make funerals too happy, when even though the loved one was a believer, we must not deny that death is an enemy, though it is the last enemy. Thoughts about this?
—That is a very good point of thought. I have lived long enough to experience and observe quite a few funerals. My husband and I had a neighbor pass away where the family and friends just wanted to say nice things and even told jokes at the service. I would say it was a form of denial about the reality of death. To our knowledge the deceased was not a believer and those people wanted to just talk about the good ol’ boy he was. It actually was very sad from our perspective. At the very recent funeral of my Mom there was a very real joy in knowing Mom was with Jesus but my sister and I identified our grief had been hardest in that year before she died because Mom was in the process of dying. Dying is never natural. God never intended it to be. Her aged decrepit body was slowly robbing her of life. Taking her life away. It was hard to watch. And ultimately it has brought separation from her now in this life. None of it should be this way but for sin which in this world robs us of life in the lives of those we love and our own lives. To ignore grief is to ignore the Cross. We must go through the Cross to get to life. But oh the hope and the wonder of what Jesus accomplished there. We are privileged to be on the other side of the Cross which offers us life and a deep and satisfying joy.
Read or Listen up 10 22:12.
15. What stands out from this portion of the sermon and why?
—what stands out to me is the point Keller makes about the Trinity and the love between a triune God, a God who in one God has had three persons from all eternity knowing, loving each other. It is that love which permeates and overflows in all of Heaven and that is what makes Heaven a home. Home is love. Then Keller enlarged on that point by sharing Jonathan Edward’s thoughts.
16. What are some various reactions that Keller describes that people have when they are dying?
—He said they can either believe in an afterlife or they don’t. If they do people often look back at their lives and say they haven’t lived as they should and they know that is true so they come to death and are not sure they are good enough to have a good afterlife. The other option is believing you are just gone and become nothing. That can be very upsetting because you lose yourself, you lose love and other people.
17. How did Jonathan Edwards describe heaven?
—Edwards asks what is Heaven and then says what makes any place great is love. His point is that what makes a home a home is love. It’s not harps and thrones and streets of gold that make it a home. But rather it is the presence of God who is love.
I think it is important to shift our preconceived view of Heaven to the life giving truth that when we step into Heaven we will be drawn into and experience as Keller says “a God who in one God has had three persons from all eternity knowing, loving each other.”. the Father, Son and Holy Spirit in that eternal dance of loving each other. That is what permeates Heaven. The essence of God as love. Edwards described “a fountain of love….a deluge of love”.
18. What do you learn from George Hebert’s poem?
—We learn that death as awful and life ending as it is in the physical realm of this world does not have the last say. In fact when it happens for the Christian death opens the door to a far better existence and abundant life and death is the one destroyed and will be no more. All because of Jesus we have a wonderful hope and a true home in Heaven.
I hadn’t thought about how that kind of funeral was a denial of death. So true.
What a powerful answer to 14, Bev! Amen! To ignore grief is to ignore the Cross. We must go through the Cross to get to life. But oh the hope and the wonder of what Jesus accomplished there. We are privileged to be on the other side of the Cross which offers us life and a deep and satisfying joy.
Amen!
Love this Bev… To ignore grief is to ignore the Cross. We must go through the Cross to get to life. But oh the hope and the wonder of what Jesus accomplished there. We are privileged to be on the other side of the Cross which offers us life and a deep and satisfying joy.
14. In another message Keller feels that sometimes we make funerals too happy, when even though the loved one was a believer, we must not deny that death is an enemy, though it is the last enemy. Thoughts about this?
There is great sorrow in loss. I think we need to walk through that sorrow and not decorate it with frosting and candy. It is real and it is hard. Yet, Jesus is with us through it. He is holding my hand when I wobble, He is carrying me when I am to weak to think, He is comforting me when my heart is breaking, and He is the Light that is shining through the darkness, He is my Hope. Unless, I allow myself to grieve, I cannot get through the process. It helps to verbalize the valleys, He has brought me through and my own words of His faith through valleys, reminds me that He is Always faithful. Always and Eternally Faithful. How can I not trust Him, He is Trust Worthy.
Read or Listen up to 22:12.
15. What stands out from this portion of the sermon and why?
Love is what makes a home. I have never imagined “a brick and mortar” home in Heaven. I always imagine a sense of perfect love and light; joy and comfort.
16. What are some various reactions that Keller describes that people have when they are dying?
Dread, fear, uncertainty, nervous, reluctance, and peace. I pray Psalm 23 daily. His rod and staff they comfort me.
17. How did Jonathan Edwards describe heaven? (For those who want to read the essay, here is the link: https://www.biblebb.com/files/edwards/charity16.htm
God is a triune God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit, united in infinitely dear and in comprehensible, mutual love. They are an eternal mutual Holy energy, a pure Holy act where the deity becomes an infinite and unchangeable act of love. A fountain of Love.
18. What do you learn from George Hebert’s poem?
You are experiencing this truth right now — so raw.
Hugs to you Patti. Love how Jesus is with you through the process.
This is good. Thanks Patti, for the truth.
“There is great sorrow in loss. I think we need to walk through that sorrow and not decorate it with frosting and candy. It is real and it is hard. Yet, Jesus is with us through it. He is holding my hand when I wobble, He is carrying me when I am to weak to think, He is comforting me when my heart is breaking, and He is the Light that is shining through the darkness, He is my Hope. Unless, I allow myself to grieve, I cannot get through the process. It helps to verbalize the valleys, He has brought me through and my own words of His faith through valleys, reminds me that He is Always faithful. Always and Eternally Faithful. How can I not trust Him, He is Trust Worthy.”
Patti, thank you for what you shared in your answer to #14…”unless I allow myself to grieve, I cannot get through the process.” Wow! That is so insightful, so hard and so true…love and hugs!
Patti, As I read your comments in answer to #14 I like the others here appreciate the very personal experience you are having in this time of grief you are living in. Your comment is so powerfully true. “He is Always faithful. Always and Eternally Faithful. How can I not trust Him, He is Trust Worthy.” We continue to pray for God’s grace, mercy and comfort for you. 💕
Thank you dear friends for your prayers. Prayer makes all the difference. I am so blessed by all of you, daily.
9. What stands out to you in particular and why?
Our place is already set up for us. It exists now. If we are followers of Christ, we leave this world for a better place! The attitude of death should be a positive one, in that He is waiting for us and we will have the best “us” we have ever had here on Earth! We triumph over death.
10. What did Jesus know the disciples were going to face?
Trouble! But, He would help them face it.
11. Can you identify with the above? Explain.
Absolutely! Every Christmas break, winter break, spring break, and end of the school year! A chance to start new and fresh and to put the bad things behind me.
12. What makes a home a home?
love
This from Laura reminds me of an Anne of Green Gables quote:
Absolutely! Every Christmas break, winter break, spring break, and end of the school year! A chance to start new and fresh and to put the bad things behind me.
“Tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes.”
Tuesday: I’m Going To Make This Place Your Home
Listen or read up to minute 14:18
9. What stands out to you in particular and why? – Oh what hope we have in being with Jesus forever. The instant we believe, our room is reserved. Jesus doesn’t wait for to see if we do enough good in our current world, he is waiting for us now. Yes my fruit needs to be seen, but my room has already been set aside.
10. What did Jesus know the disciples were going to face? – He knows they will face trials and a terrible life on earth for believing in Him, but he wants them not to be troubled, because their death, in any form it comes, ensures them a place in Heaven beside Jesus.
Here is C. S. Lewis’s close to Narnia, alluding to heaven: “The Term is over! The holidays have begun!”
11. Can you identify with the above? Explain. – YES! What joy and abundant blessings we will have. There will be no more pain or suffering and we will be in the presence of Jesus face to face. Not just with a hope that is unseen. YES! The holidays will definitely begun at our last breath.
12. What makes a home a home? – It’s where love, family and friends are. It’s where you don’t have to pretend to be someone you aren’t. It’s where the presence of God is among everyone. A comfortable, joyful place to rest at the end of our earthly life.
13. He quoted D. L. Moody and George Herbert. Share one and your thoughts. – I’ve heard the D. L. Moody quote before and love it. George Herbert’s quote I’ve never heard before. But what a picture. It brought to mind the ‘gardener’ at the tomb of Jesus. Death could not hold him, the stone was rolled away.
Wednesday: Rage Against the Dying of The Light
When the evidence is clear we will all die, it is quite amazing how man tries to repress it, to deny it. Ernest Becker, in his book, The Denial of Death, writes:
“Modern man is drinking and drugging himself out of awareness, or he spends his time shopping, which is the same thing.”
It is far wiser to realize it’s reality so we can apply our hearts to wisdom, and put our trust in the only One who can rescue us.
14. In another message Keller feels that sometimes we make funerals too happy, when even though the loved one was a believer, we must not deny that death is an enemy, though it is the last enemy. Thoughts about this? – It is sad for those left behind, but a joyous time for the loved one who is now with Jesus. I know some who are dying say don’t be sad, but it is just part of how God created us. We have emotions so I think we will be sad, but for Christians, after grief has subsided, and that is different for everyone, we have hope that we will see them again at the end of our life. People need to know, especially non-believers, that death and hell are real. I can’t imagine not having the hope of a beautiful home in the end. They need to take it serious and give their life to Jesus in order to have what we know and expect is ours in the end.
Read or Listen up 10 22:12.
15. What stands out from this portion of the sermon and why? – We aren’t made for death. Because of sin in the beginning, we now face what we were not created for. I have friends that want Jesus to come now and I can understand why they do, but I’m not ready to be gone, as bad as this world seems sometimes. I love where God has me placed right now and I’m not looking forward to dying. I’m grateful that he chose me to be with him when I die, and that my home with him will be so much better than it is now, but I want to see my kids and grandkids grow up and I continue to pray that they will be with me and Jesus in the end, but I’m not sure they all will be right now. And that makes me not want the end to come yet.
16. What are some various reactions that Keller describes that people have when they are dying? – Some think there is an afterlife, some aren’t sure. Some are nervous because they aren’t sure what is to come and some think they aren’t good enough now to enjoy a good afterlife.
17. How did Jonathan Edwards describe heaven? (For those who want to read the essay, here is the link: – He said heaven may have thrones and look like a castle, but it is where love is. https://www.biblebb.com/files/edwards/charity16.htm
18. What do you learn from George Hebert’s poem? – Death may think it has the final answer, but it doesn’t. The world may think it is getting rid of what God created but it isn’t. God will reign in the end over death and all who take that route. His love endures, and we get to enjoy it all.
The Hebert quote reminds me of John Donne’s poem “Death be not proud.”
So many great thoughts in your answers, Julie. I pray that my kids and grandkids will all come to know Jesus too! and this: I can’t imagine not having the hope of a beautiful home in the end. They need to take it serious and give their life to Jesus in order to have what we know and expect is ours in the end.
Julie, As much as I want Jesus to “Come quickly!” I really identify with your answer to question 15. “I’m grateful that he chose me to be with him when I die, and that my home with him will be so much better than it is now, but I want to see my kids and grandkids grow up and I continue to pray that they will be with me and Jesus in the end, but I’m not sure they all will be right now. And that makes me not want the end to come yet.”
I agree Julie and Bev!
9. What stands out to you in particular and why? “…no home here would ever satisfy what you’re looking for anyway. And when you get there, you’re going to say what that character said at the end of the Narnia Chronicles. I’ve come home at last. I belong here.” People are always looking for peace and satisfaction in this life. And just knowing that this longing will be fulfilled after death is a comfort.
10. What did Jesus know the disciples were going to face? Persecution and some very gruesome deaths.
11. Can you identify with the above? Explain. Yes, I can. It will be like the joy and freedom that I felt at the end of a school year or when I get to go on vacation. Although these are only temporary, our release from this earth will be permanent.
12. What makes a home a home? Love
13. He quoted D. L. Moody and George Herbert. Share one and your thoughts. They were both good parallels. We are going to be more alive than we ever were before, just as a beautiful flower is more alive than it was before it was planted as a seed in the ground.
13. He quoted D. L. Moody and George Herbert. Share one and your thoughts.
George Herbert: “…He says, death used to be an executioner, but the gospel makes him just a gardener. You see? What does a gardener do? Takes seeds, plants, these little seeds, but then they become flowers, little seeds, and it becomes fruit. And see, all death can do to a Christian is make you infinitely greater than you are now…”
This is so comforting to me! From an executioner to a gardener! There is hope. A gardener cares for his/her plants. Watering, talking (!), loving them to be the big plants they grow into. I will be what I always hoped for here on Earth. I will be with the King ♥️.
Amen, Laura!
14. In another message Keller feels that sometimes we make funerals too happy, when even though the loved one was a believer, we must not deny that death is an enemy, though it is the last enemy. Thoughts about this?
When my mom died my siblings gave me the privilege of selecting scripture to read. I’m the more “scholarly” one of the three of us. I selected a lot! There were so many good, fitting scriptures. This was one of them 😉, just like Tim Keller said! I wonder if they read it at his funeral? I never got to watch. Maybe I will go back and do so now. I also selected the Hebrews scripture about those in the Bible who were faithful, because that’s who my mom was.
Indeed we need to be cognizant in the midst of the pain. We need to feel and be aware. As painful as that may be, it is right and true. Even though the enemy seems to be the victor, God is right there to catch us and win the fight. Thank You Lord! 🙏🙏🙏🙏♥️♥️♥️♥️
Great Scripture for a funeral. Keller’s funeral was a model for what a funeral should be. He planned it.
Tuesday
9. What stands out to you in particular and why?
I never really saw this passage as Jesus taking away the unknown of death for the believer…how comforting to know that there is a place for me and “Jesus has it in His keeping,” and it exists now and He’ll be there! “He wants us to be untroubled by the prospect of death as we’re going from darkness to light and love,”…that just gives me goosebumps and great hope!
10. What did Jesus know the disciples were going to face?
They were going to face wondering as they would have no home, great danger and horrible deaths.
11. Can you identify with the above? Explain.
I remember when we came back to the states for deputation and hating it here. I didn’t feel like I belonged and when I stepped on that plane to return to Africa, “The term was over! The holidays had begun!”
12. What makes a home a home?
Uncondional love.
13. He quoted D. L. Moody and George Herbert. Share one and your thoughts.
I love the quote from George Hubert, “the gospel makes Him a gardener.” I can’t put into words what this means to me…He loves me so much and his care for me is amazing. I look at this from the aspect of dying to self and physical death…”it makes us infinitely greater.”
Thursday: How Jesus Prepared A Place For Us
Listen or read up to 27:16
I’ve always thought that when Jesus said He was going to prepare a place for us He meant He was working on paradise, but Keller says He meant He was going to die for us so we could go to Paradise. I guess the God who spoke the earth into being can do the same for the New Heaven and New Earth.
19. What stood out and why?
—How he describes the real meaning of Jesus “going” to prepare a place for us. We look at the end result of the place rather than the act of His going as being what prepares the place.
Keller’s comment that “the wages of sin is loneliness” was a clearer and larger explanation of death. He brings out that the natural consequence, the natural and right punishment for sin is homelessness, is loneliness. It is our sin that tends to push us away from people and push people away from us. Hence without our Savior Jesus taking our sin in our place and experiencing the exile for us then death is the ultimate homelessness. The preparation is the way of the Cross that gets us to the place.
20. How do the following verses support Keller’s view that “going to prepare a place for you” means going to the cross.
A. John 13:36
B. John 14:5-6
—Jesus clearly was telling his disciples that the time had come for Him to go to the Cross and accomplish his mission. In Jesus saying he was the way, the truth and the life he meant the way of the Cross. He was the only way to get back home to the Father and have a restored relationship and that way was through his own death.
20. List the things that Jesus gave up to assure a place of love, fellowship, and comfort for us.
—He gave up his very life which meant his own perfect fellowship with God his Father. The horrible separation which caused Him the ultimate loneliness and homelessness. He gave up his sinlessness for our sinfulness. How easily I forget that his cost was excruciating but in exchange it allows me to find and live in a place of love, fellowship and comfort.
21. How did Donald Barnhouse explain death to his children?
—On the way to his wife’s funeral they were driving by a truck and they passed through the shadow of the truck. Barnhouse asked his son if he’d rather be hit by the truck or be hit by the shadow. He then explained that Jesus had been hit by the truck and He experienced what real death is but his wife upon her death only experienced the shadow because she was with God.
22. What did the dying woman in Virginia teach Keller?
—She taught him that God ultimately was going to make all things right for her and for the whole world and by going up into the “watch tower “ his perspective changed and it is in that place of recognizing the love of God for us and the more we know Him the more we realize everything is going to be all right and we don’t need to let our hearts be troubled.
Hello, Sisters,
I am back in NY and have been preparing to begin a women’s study group, that’s why I haven’t been involved here. We’re doing “Falling in Love With Jesus,” and I spent weeks searching for and purchasing pre-owned workbooks. I bought 11. At our first meeting, eight women came, and a few more expressed interest, but could not come then. I was surprised by a few of the women who came, and apologized to the Lord for my doubting them. He knows who exactly He wants involved. I am excited to see what He is going to do, as we explore abandoning ourselves to Jesus.
I won’t be able to be involved here until July. Lord bless you richly as you continue to be faithful to Him. Lovingly, Cheryl
That’s exciting Cheryl. Good work. May the Lord be with you. A love relationship with Jesus is a new thought for many but life-changing.
Cheryl, Many blessings to you as you prepare to do the study on Falling in Love with Jesus. Your investment in other women will be like the 5 and 2 principles of God’s math! You give your five loaves and 2 fish and He will multiply the returns! The idea of the 5 and 2 is borrowed from the series of The Chosen by Dallas Jenkins. 🙂
What a blessing you will be to these woman, Cheryl Ann. “Falling in Love with Jesus” is a life-changing book. May God bless you and the ladies in your study. I pray that many hearts will be opened to His Word.
Wednesday
14. In another message Keller feels that sometimes we make funerals too happy, when even though the loved one was a believer, we must not deny that death is an enemy, though it is the last enemy. Thoughts about this?
I remember a funeral I went to back in the late 70’s where it was called a “celebration of life,” rather than a funeral and this has continued to be a popular theme for Christian funerals. I’m not saying it’s wrong but I do wonder if it’s to make it more pleasant or “happy,” as Keller says. To be honest I can’t even remember most of our son’s funeral as I was in such deep grief but I also had a hope. He was in the arms of Jesus and I know that one day I will see him again.
I can’t even imagine that grief, Sharon.
I have heard the celebration of life theme, but if it a Christian funeral it should really be an honor to Christ. I thought Tim Keller’s funeral, which he planned, was such a great model. My friend Sylvia just told me a great story. A friend of her asked another friend to stand up during the funeral after things were said about her and say, “Mary told me to tell you not to be impressed with who she was, but instead to be impressed, as she was, at Jesus great love despite who she was.”
Oh, Sharon. I cannot imagine how deep your grief at losing a child. So thankful we have hope.
1. What stands out from the above. Why?
Sadie’s poem was so touching. What maturity at such a young age!
2. What associations do you have with the word “home?”
Home is a safe place, where things are familiar, where people I love live in, and where I can be myself and not feel judged.
In another sermon, Keller said that the reason people sit in the same place each Sunday is because that feels like home. I liked that as I used to be a bit judgmental about that!
Same here, Dee! This was insightful although I was beginning to like people “homing in” to their regular spots. I can picture the congregation seated and can pray for them by name! Of course, we do not have very many members/attendees.
3. In what ways do you think heaven will be the home you always yearned for? Explain.
It will be a forever home where all the fruit of the Spirit will be everpresent, and all created things will be in order and all are in harmony with one another! WOW! And where the triune God will be with us forever!
Monday: “What Will Heaven Be Like, Dee?”
C. S. Lewis says our earthly homes will never fully satisfy us, for we were made for another home. Recently my friend Ron asked me, “Dee — what will heaven be like? Where will it be?”
I said, “It will be right here on earth, (Job 19:25-27) but it will be made new and joined to a new heaven. (Isaiah 65:17). Our Bridegroom, King, and Friend will be there. It won’t be ethereal but tangible. Isaiah 65 speaks of homes, vineyards, and animals. There will be no more sin, sorrow, or death. We will be with Jesus and our loved ones in the Lord in resurrected beautiful bodies. Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, what God has prepared for us.”
1. How would you have answered Ron’s question?
Heaven is where everything is perfect! I like what Dee said about heaven being tangible and not ethereal.
6. Meditate on John 14:1-3.
A. What are the promises of this passage?
Jesus is preparing a place for me, and He will come back for me to be with Him forever.
B. What does the wedding gown seem to represent in Revelation 19:7-8
We will be Jesus’ bride and our wedding gown in fine linen represents our righteous acts.
C. What does it seem to represent in Matthew 22:12?
The friend did not have his wedding garment on which would be his “pass” to enter into the banquet. We must have the right dress for the wedding. Since righteous acts are represented by our wedding gown, then they must be an outflow of the righteousness imputed to us by Jesus. Kind of like our faith and good works going together.
D. What does it seem to represent in Psalm 45:13-14 Might this be different than the other two Scriptures? If so, what might it mean? (I’ll share my thoughts eventually too!)
Not sure. Maybe, the beauty that Jesus has imputed in us is beyond comparison? And that I as a bride of Christ will have others joining me at the wedding?
Somebody mentioned the church is represented in this Psalm.
Listen up to minute 8/28 or read up to 8:28
7. How does John 14 begin and end according to John 14:27. What is this so important for us to hear in this world? (See John 16:33)
Words of comfort from Jesus: “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” His peace will be with us in times of trouble.
Tim said: There will be trouble. But do not let it trouble your heart. I am giving you My peace.”
8. He refers to the movie “Up” and the movie “The Trip to Bountiful.” Choose one — what was his point for the movie you chose?
The “Trip to Bountiful” sounds like a great movie and I may have to look it up. This movie depicted a powerful desire among us for a home that can never be satisfied here on earth. We long for a place of deep rest. A harbor.
I think the wedding gown is both His cleansing of us (because of the parable of the man who tried to get in without a gown) and the righteous acts that proceed from it, as the Revelation passage says. But if you really have one you will have the other!
Tuesday: I’m Going To Make This Place Your Home
I imagine Jesus singing this to me when I’m near the end, and longing for Him to come for me:
Beautiful song! “Hold on to me… settle down, it will all be clear ’cause I’m gonna make this place your home.”
Listen or read up to minute 14:18
9. What stands out to you in particular and why?
Jesus has prepared a place for me, and it is guaranteed and reserved for me.
10. What did Jesus know the disciples were going to face?
They are going to wander and face horrific deaths except for John. Jesus promised a place so they could face their troubled life untroubled. This place He has prepared for us is in His keeping.
Here is C. S. Lewis’s close to Narnia, alluding to heaven: “The Term is over! The holidays have begun!”
11. Can you identify with the above? Explain.
I just finished a “term” at school. My students passed their certifying exams the day before graduation. I remember seeing the relief in their countenances and the joy we all shared that the “term” is over. My earthly “holiday” has begun. And in a few weeks, it will be spent in the Philippines which was “home” for me for 30 some years! Although I am looking forward to going “home”, I know it will not be my forever “home”.
12. What makes a home a home?
This study has been poignant for me as we just sold our house of 31 years yesterday. Richard and I have spent over 2 years getting this house ready to sell. This week was bittersweet as we finished boxing the rest of our earthly belongings.
As I went through each room for the last time, I thanked God for the precious memories it elicited. And memories of other places I have lived at with my parents and siblings. Richard and I consider where we live now as our last earthly dwelling.
I thought of Dione Warwick’s song, “A house is not a home” which reflected man’s desire for a home and looking for it in a human being. Only the person of Jesus Christ can satisfy our longing for home.
13. He quoted D. L. Moody and George Herbert. Share one and your thoughts.
Moody: “he says sooner, pretty soon, you’re going to read the newspapers that Dwight Moody is dead. Don’t believe it. I’ll be more alive than I’ve ever been.”
Oh, how I love this! Life on this earth is just a shadow. I will step into a place where the Light will always be, and there will be no more aggravations of the mind, body, and spirit.
I love the way you said goodbye to your home.
When I sold the house we raised our children in, Sally had to catch a plane, and nearly missed it, because she had to go sit in her playhouse to say good-bye.
Aawww…Dee. what a sweet picture of Sally in her playhouse came to my mind!
Wednesday: Rage Against the Dying of The Light
When the evidence is clear we will all die, it is quite amazing how man tries to repress it, to deny it. Ernest Becker, in his book, The Denial of Death, writes:
“Modern man is drinking and drugging himself out of awareness, or he spends his time shopping, which is the same thing.”
It is far wiser to realize it’s reality so we can apply our hearts to wisdom, and put our trust in the only One who can rescue us.
14. In another message Keller feels that sometimes we make funerals too happy, when even though the loved one was a believer, we must not deny that death is an enemy, though it is the last enemy. Thoughts about this?
He said we are not built for death and it is our last enemy.
Read or Listen up 10 22:12.
15. What stands out from this portion of the sermon and why?
16. What are some various reactions that Keller describes that people have when they are dying?
Fear that you did not live a good life, there would be nothing after death and indifference.
17. How did Jonathan Edwards describe heaven? (For those who want to read the essay, here is the link: https://www.biblebb.com/files/edwards/charity16.htm
Heaven is where overflowing love is. Where the triune God is.
18. What do you learn from George Hebert’s poem?
The Christian taunts death because in the end death will be no more
Thursday: How Jesus Prepared A Place For Us
Listen or read up to 27:16
I’ve always thought that when Jesus said He was going to prepare a place for us He meant He was working on paradise, but Keller says He meant He was going to die for us so we could go to Paradise. I guess the God who spoke the earth into being can do the same for the New Heaven and New Earth.
19. What stood out and why?
The phrase, “I am going to prepare…” caught my attention. Paradise has a price. And Jesus had paid for it so I have a secure place to go home to eternity. “Kept for/by Jesus” -Jude
20. How do the following verses support Keller’s view that “going to prepare a place for you” means going to the cross.
A. John 13:36 Jesus told Peter that he could not follow where He was going (the cross) now but later he would (heaven).
B. John 14:5-6 going to the Father who is in Heaven requires going through the Son as the way to the Father.
20. List the things that Jesus gave up to assure a place of love, fellowship, and comfort for us.
The song “If that isn’t love” came to mind: “He left His throne in glory..” He was homeless, a wanderer, abandoned by the Father.
Philippians 2: 6-8 Who, being in very nature[a] God did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage, rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature[b] of a servant, being made in human likeness.And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!
21. How did Donald Barnhouse explain death to his children?
He and his children were on their way to his wife’s and their mother’s funeral. Death is like being hit by the shadow of a truck and not hit by the truck. Jesus was hit by the truck. For us.
22. What did the dying woman in Virginia teach Keller?
The dying woman lived a difficult life. When Tim was talking to her about the wrong things that other people have done to her, she said God knows what people will deserve someday. That is God’s job. When speaking of her suffering, she said God would take care of her and make everything right. She invited Tim to go up the watch tower where they could see that things were fine up there. We might not see things from that vantage because we are down on the ground level. But up in the watchtower, everything is fine. Everything is in the Lord’s hands.
Wednesday
16. What are some various reactions that Keller describes that people have when they are dying?
They believe in an after life but in looking back they haven’t lived the life they should have. Others believe there is no after life and when you die, that’s it.
17. How did Jonathan Edwards describe heaven? (For those who want to read the essay, here is the link: https://www.biblebb.com/files/edwards/charity16.htm
A place where the full force of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit is a fountain of love…set up without any obstacles to hinder access to it.
18. What do you learn from George Hebert’s poem?
I’m glad Keller explained it. (Poetry is not my strength😏) Death only makes us better than before and it will be so much worse as it will soon be no more.
Thursday
20. How do the following verses support Keller’s view that “going to prepare a place for you” means going to the cross.
A. John 13:36
Jesus was telling Peter that he couldn’t follow Him unto death but would follow later.
B. John 14:5-6
Jesus wasn’t telling Thomas He was showing them the way but that He is the only way by which they could come to where He was going
20. List the things that Jesus gave up to assure a place of love, fellowship, and comfort for us.
He gave up His home, He was a wanderer. He gave up being embraced by the Father when He took on the sins of the world and for that moment was forsaken.
21. How did Donald Barnhouse explain death to his children?
Driving on the road with his children they came upon a truck and he asked his son, would you rather be hit by the shadow of the truck or be hit by the truck? He chose the shadow but Barnhouse went on to explain that his mother who had died only experienced the shadow of the truck as Jesus Christ was really hit by the truck. When Jesus died He descended into to hell which is something we will not have to experience.
22. What did the dying woman in Virginia teach Keller?
Instead of focusing on how you’ve been wronged or treated badly, give it to God as He’ll take care of them.
15. What stands out from this portion of the sermon and why?
The triune God is love. Three times the love!! I can’t wait for that. I can just imagine Jesus holding me with God watching and the Holy Spirit within me overflowing with joy and love!
16. What are some various reactions that Keller describes that people have when they are dying?
Courage, there is an afterlife or you don’t. Regret. Did I do enough during my life? Your conscious makes a coward of us. Indifference if you don’t believe. The Gospel gives you triumph over death!
17. How did Jonathan Edwards describe heaven? (For those who want to read the essay, here is the link: https://www.biblebb.com/files/edwards/charity16.htm
Holy energy, a fountain of love! Enough for all.
18. What do you learn from George Hebert’s poem?
Death does not win. Jesus wins!
Good way to sum it up, Laura.
Amen! Love you answer to 18, Laura!
Friday: He Has All of Eternity to Make It Up To Me
Listen or read to the end.
23. What did the dying woman in Virginia teach Keller?
—Guess I already answered in
# 22 😊
24. What was his point with the tower analogy?
—Keller says we should read the beginning verses of John 14 every so often using it like a watch tower to get above the struggles and battles down here and to get better perspective to help us realize it’s going to be fine.
This morning as I got up to read my daily devotional and bible reading the thoughts in my mind were struggling with the troubles of this world and for some people that are close to me.
But these verses from the Psalms were like a watch tower for me. I was encouraged with a new perspective because I was reminded of God’s faithfulness.
Psalm 6:4
”Return, O Lord, and rescue me. Save me because of your unfailing love.“
And Psalm 89:1&2
”I will sing of the Lord’s unfailing love forever! Young and old will hear of your faithfulness. Your unfailing love will last forever. Your faithfulness is as enduring as the heavens.“
I just needed to hear that today.💕
Saturday:
25. What is your take-a-way and why?
—It is a better understanding of what Jesus was really saying in the verses from John 14: 1-3
Basically that He was going to the Cross to the place of death that opened the door for us God’s children and his Bride to enter a place where we will never die. His destination was death which results in our destination of life. He is sooo good and he is truly faithful in his love for us.
Friday
24. What was his point with the tower analogy?
We need to get into the watchtower to get an overview of what our troubles look like, a better vantage point and John 14:1-3 needs to be that watchtower for us. We need to read it when our hearts get troubled and remember what Jesus did for us so that He could go and prepare a place for us. A place we will go when He comes to get us and a place where He will be with us. The battle may fierce, but when we get in the watchtower and see Jesus is the victor, we can say, “O death, where is your sting?”
Saturday
25. What is your take-a-way and why?
I see John 14:1-3 in a whole new light and will keep it hidden in my heart. I can be so forgetful so I pray that God will bring it to memory when it is needed, for myself and as a comfort to others.
Your prayer is my prayer, Sharon!
Friday: He Has All of Eternity to Make It Up To Me
Listen or read to the end.
23. What did the dying woman in Virginia teach Keller?
See my answer to Q 22.
24. What was his point with the tower analogy?
See my answer to Q 22.
Saturday:
25. What is your take-a-way and why?
Tim speaking on death: The worst thing that can happen to you on this earth is actually the best thing, the darkest thing that could happen to you, which means get killed or you die, will make you. The darkest thing that could happen is actually the most brilliant thing.
Jesus is saying, have fellowship with me. Know, my love. I am your shelter from the stormy blast and your eternal home. So, the more you are able to know him, the more you get up in that tower and you realize everything’s going to be all right. Don’t let your heart be troubled.
To memorize/sing John 14:1-4. When I was in the Philippines, I sang in the choir and this passage was included in the song. I can almost hear us singing it!
19. What stood out and why?
The wages of sin is loneliness. Homelessness.
20. How do the following verses support Keller’s view that “going to prepare a place for you” means going to the cross.
A. John 13:36
Jesus says Peter can’t go with Him now, but will follow later.
B. John 14:5-6
Jesus says no one can go to the Fathernunless it is through Him.
So good, Laura: The wages of sin is loneliness. Homelessness.
Thursday: How Jesus Prepared A Place For Us
Listen or read up to 27:16
I’ve always thought that when Jesus said He was going to prepare a place for us He meant He was working on paradise, but Keller says He meant He was going to die for us so we could go to Paradise. I guess the God who spoke the earth into being can do the same for the New Heaven and New Earth.
19. What stood out and why? – Because of our sin we alienate people and we become lonely. People don’t want to be around us. I never connected that Adam and Eve’s sin, made them homeless. They had no place with God at that point, and our sin will keep us from him as well if we don’t repent of our sins and start to bear fruit.
20. How do the following verses support Keller’s view that “going to prepare a place for you” means going to the cross.
A. John 13:36 – Jesus was going to the cross to die in our place and he told Peter he could not go now, but he would follow later.
B. John 14:5-6 – Jesus had to die in order for us to be able to go to the Father. We could only get to the Father through Jesus.
20. List the things that Jesus gave up to assure a place of love, fellowship, and comfort for us. – He gave up help from the Father. He gave up his life. He gave up his reign on earth and his earthly fellowship with us.
21. How did Donald Barnhouse explain death to his children? – That we could pass through the shadow of the truck, be hit by the shadow of the truck or be hit by the truck. And because Jesus was hit by the truck, we can get to heaven when we die, by passing through the shadow of the truck.
22. What did the dying woman in Virginia teach Keller? – She taught him that on the ground level, on the lower surface, things may look bad, but when you get up in the watch tower, you can see so much more of what God is doing. He was in control of those people who had hurt her and if judging was needed, He would judge them in time.