The world will not see me anymore, but you will see me.
Can you see each person of the Trinity in the above? Can you see the three moving as one to bring help and comfort to us? We’re going to dig deeply into this passage and I pray He will show us wondrous things. Pray especially for Patty and Judy who have recently lost their husbands.
My friend Twila has memorized so many books of the Bible that I have stopped counting. I am privileged to count her as a friend, though she no longer lives in my community — but oh the adventures we had together as the Spirit led us to individuals He was already wooing to Himself. We got in step with Him and were thrilled to be spiritual midwives together.
One of the most poignant stories Twila told me happened when her baby died and she sat beside the crib where his still body lay. She told the Lord it was more pain than she could bear. Then she felt as if warm oil was coming down over her head, enveloping her in warmth.
Sunday: Happy Mother’s Day to Spiritual, Biological and Adoptive Moms!
1. What stands out from the above and why?
2. Share any God hunt you like, but if possible, choose two:
God gave you wisdom as a mother
The Holy Spirit assured you of your complete forgiveness
The Holy Spirit led you to speak, be silent, or to act
The Holy Spirit comforted you
Monday: The Text
2. Read John 14:16-26 out loud to yourself.
A. Does anything become radioactive? If so, why, do you think?
B. Why does Jesus say “another” advocate?
C. What name is given Him in verse 17? How do you know if the enemy or the Spirit is whispering to you about a sin present or past?
D. Why can the world not accept Him, but we can? (verses 17-20)
E. How does Jesus know who loves Him? What promises come with that? (Verse 21)
F. How do you see the Trinity in verse 23?
G. What two things will the Holy Spirit do according to verse 26? Give an example from your life.
Tuesday: Who is The Advocate?
3. The above is optional, but was another fresh way to help me appreciate the mystery of the Trinity, other than my favorite, the perichoresis, which is a dance of love. If you watch, share what you learned from Lewis.
4. Watch or read up to minutes 8:29
A. What stands out and why?
B. This is the 3rd gift (the Advocate) Jesus tells us about for our journey on earth — what were the other two in John 14?
C. What is the first thing you learn about the identity of the Spirit?
D. What did you learn about the Spirit’s gender? Bonus: How did The Shack get it wrong?
E. What is the apparent contradiction in the pronouns about the Spirit in verses 16-18? How does Keller explain it?
Wednesday: What Does The Advocate of The Holy Spirit Do?
5. Listen or read up to 22.50
A. What stands out and why?
B. What are the two parts to the word paraclete — how is one part confronting and another part supportive?
C. Para: Comes alongside. How does the Holy Spirit come alongside you according to Romans 8:15-16? Why does Keller say we need this so badly? Explain how you have experienced this.
D. When we condemn ourselves, feeling we cannot be loved, what does the Spirit do according to 1 John 3:20?
E. Clete: Called, Summoned. This is the confronting part. Like you would call out an addict and remind him he is hurting himself by giving into temptation. What light does James 4:4-5 put on this?
F. What is key to having the Holy Spirit work more in your life according to Ephesians 6:17?
Thursday: What Does The Advocate Jesus Do?
6. Listen or read up to 33.42
A. What stands out and why?
B. What does 2:1 tell us that Jesus does as our advocate?
C. Keller says there are two parts of this metaphor of justice. The first is that there is a Divine bar of justice. Why does he say that “not an easy sell today?”
D. What evidence can you give that even if we try to get rid of this bar of justice it still haunts us?
E. The second part is that we do have, if we are a Christian, an Advocate. How did Tim Keller misunderstand what He did, and how did Charles Hodge help him see the truth?
Friday: Why Can Jesus Do It?
7. Listen to the end.
A. What stands out and why?
B. Why does Jesus have an infallible case?
C. What was his point about the words of the dying woman?
I’m excited about tomorrow’s blog! Please pray it will do what the Lord desires. It’s such fresh news that I will have to take a picture of the two women I am talking about when they come to church tomorrow and insert before it is mailed out to everyone at noon central time. So if you get on before that, know another picture is coming!
Sunday: Happy Mother’s Day to Spiritual, Biological and Adoptive Moms! 1. What stands out from the above and why? – Happy Mother’s Day everyone, hope you have a wonderful day!
What stands out to me is Spiritual Midwives. I’ve never heard that before and I like it. We can help bring others that God is already wooing into the world of knowing him. So good. Also, Twila’s story about losing her baby. When we think that we can’t go on after a loss, He is always there for us. He makes his presence known to us with the warmth of a hug in some form. 2. Share any God hunt you like, but if possible, choose two: God gave you wisdom as a mother – A few weeks ago while we were visiting family in Indiana, my youngest son wanted to go to the cemetery and see where my dad was buried, since he was only 12 when he passed away and couldn’t remember. We went and he took it so hard and he broke down. My heart ached for him, and I cried as he cried, but I got it together and went over by him, though I was hesitant to go, not wanting to embarrass him. God nudged me and I went and hugged him and tried to comfort him and explained that his grandpa was in a much better place and not suffering and yes, it’s hard with him not here anymore, but I told him he would be very proud of him and where he is in life right now. My son, just turned 29 last week, so he is now more aware of hurt and sorrow. I can only pray that God continues to give me wisdom when it comes to both of my biological sons and my 3 bonus sons. The Holy Spirit assured you of your complete forgiveness The Holy Spirit led you to speak, be silent, or to act – This I’m amazed at. I say things sometimes and after I speak I wonder where did that come from. I get confirmation after I say things to someone, that they thank me and say, I needed that reminder or something to that effect. It is only truly only the Holy Spirit coming out of my mouth when I say things. I’ve also felt him tell me to stop and be quiet. Thank you Holy Spirit for always guiding me. Help me be more aware of your presence in my life and give me boldness where boldness is needed. Amen. The Holy Spirit comforted you
Oh wow! Twila saying that she felt like oil was pouring in her head! That reminds me of God telling me that I would be okay, He would be my father, when my Earthly father died.
2. Share any God hunt you like, but if possible, choose two: God gave you wisdom as a mother The Holy Spirit assured you of your complete forgiveness The Holy Spirit led you to speak, be silent, or to act
As I spoke of above…standing by my fathers deathbed. A booming voice (not mine!) reassured me. Then on Friday night, I heard that booming voice again. Only 1 word. Steve. It was not my voice in my head. Recently, a good friend, Steve, passed away. I didn’t understand the meaning of this name in my head. Then I went to church today. Another friend’s husband just died, unexpectedly. She told me she didn’t think he accepted Jesus. His name was Steve! I told her my story of the voice. I think I was meant to convey a message to her that Steve was in heaven. Could that be? I didn’t understand why I would hear that one word. I think I might be crazy??? The Holy Spirit comforted you
Once again, we gave money to two needed people. My husband struggles with this. We, once again, received $500 from an unexpected source. It equaled the money we gave! Thank You Lord!
My goodness Laura, what a blessing you have been to your friend and those in need. Truly God sees your obedience and blesses you for it. Prayers that your husband starts seeing God’s goodness in obedience to Him.
Read John 14:16-26 out loud to yourself. A. Does anything become radioactive? If so, why, do you think?
I think the part about Jesus’ words being from the Father is what is interesting to me. I know that Jesus was sent to us, but it’s a wow to me that what He says is straight from God Himself. It’s humbling.
B. Why does Jesus say “another” advocate?
Three in One. The Holy Spirit. C. What name is given Him in verse 17? How do you know if the enemy or the Spirit is whispering to you about a sin present or past?
He is called the spirit of truth. The Spirit lives within us. We can recognize Him; He is goodness. He does not lead us to evil.
D. Why can the world not accept Him, but we can? (verses 17-20)
We know Him. We have Him within us. The world is blind because it doesn’t believe.
E. How does Jesus know who loves Him? What promises come with that? (Verse 21)
Those who accept His commandments are the ones who love Him. God will also love those and know them. He will reveal Himself to them.
F. How do you see the Trinity in verse 23?
The Trinity will dwell within us. We are blessed by all Three! Aren’t we lucky?
G. What two things will the Holy Spirit do according to verse 26? Give an example from your life.
The Holy Spirit will teach and remind us of Jesus’ teachings.
My husband and I are trying to give money more cheerfully, as Jesus taught. He said that to those we care for, we care for Him too. When we do this, we are blessed! My husband and I are learning! The Holy Spirit reminds us of Jesus’ teachings. Thank You Lord.
“We know that Jesus was sent to us, but it’s a wow to me that what He says is straight from God Himself. It’s humbling.”
Awe-stuck to ponder this anew!
Sunday: Happy Mother’s Day to Spiritual, Biological and Adoptive Moms!
1. What stands out from the above and why?
—The beauty of what Twila experienced when the Holy Spirit came to her and enveloped her with his warmth and presence. My sister and my daughter in-law have both personally experienced the covering of the Holy Spirit at times of crises in the presence of death and neither are the same today because of their encounters with God. He brought a depth of peace into their being that has never left them the same as before. It is wonderful to witness.
And now it’s like they can’t not keep from sharing what God means to them and the hope He brings to others. There is a sweetness in their spirit that draws you to them. They both truly “know” God.
2. Share any God hunt you like, but if possible, choose two:
—1. God gave you wisdom as a mother:
When we spent the first 3 months of this year in Texas living in close proximity with my son and daughter in-law God led me to give my daughter in-law a copy of Paul David Tripp’s daily devotional”New Morning Mercies”. She started reading from it everyday and I also shared the link to Paige Brown’s Daniel study with her and she watched each session. Even though in her alcoholism and drinking heavily she says now God was preparing her heart through those resources and some conversations she and I had about the Lord. So when she had her accident she came face to face with God and knew that He was giving her a choice to submit to Him or stay in her own place of stubborn darkness of hate and anger. There weren’t any deep and great words of wisdom on my part but only enough wisdom from God to know I had to keep pointing her towards Jesus.
—2. The Holy Spirit comforted you:
This is hardly noteworthy to anyone besides myself but I found last week before Mother’s Day my husband was pushing me to decide what I wanted to do for the day and I could see he had this need to orchestrate something. It was frustrating me because when I indicated what I would like to do it didn’t really fit with what he thought or with what we have normally done in the past. His love language is doing something for you. I was starting to resent his suggestions and feeling troubled and unhappy in trying to make plans. The Holy Spirit checked my attitude and when I decided I was going to let the Holy Spirit lead us in how I should spend my day it brought a very real peace back into my soul. And we ended up having a sweet and simple day of going to church, a light lunch at home, a quiet rainy afternoon reading and napping and ended the day with going to the movie “Unsung Hero”. A very good movie.
I had sweet acknowledgments from all my children and was blessed through that. I saw again how when you let the Holy Spirit lead He does all things well 💕😊
I love this whole post:
This: My sister and my daughter in-law have both personally experienced the covering of the Holy Spirit at times of crises in the presence of death and neither are the same today because of their encounters with God.
And your stories about your daughter-in-law and husband were both great!
Amen to Miriam and Dee. This post is a huge confirmation to my heart and soul today. Thank you for sharing all of this, Bev. The power of the Holy Spirit is so real and beautiful.
In answers to the questions here on this blog it refreshes my soul to look back to what God has done and is doing. Patti I am humbled and grateful that you are encouraged by this post in what God can and will do through the Holy Spirit knowing your situation is a particularly difficult one right now. I know our gracious Father will care for and lead you by his Holy Spirit. I’m grateful for what we are learning together here from the Word, Dee and Keller. 💕
I saw again how when you let the Holy Spirit lead He does all things well 💕😊 What a great reminder Bev, to just let the Holy Spirit lead and things are so much better.
Monday: The Text
2. Read John 14:16-26 out loud to yourself.
A. Does anything become radioactive? If so, why, do you think?
—from verse 16 where Jesus says he will ask the Father and he will give you another Helper to be with you forever. The particular thought that the Helper or the Holy Spirit will be with me forever stood out. I find great comfort and security in knowing that God’s Spirit is constant and sure. He will never ever leave me. He doesn’t come and go from a believer. Because of Jesus, God sent Him into my life to stay.
B. Why does Jesus say “another” advocate?
—Because up until the Cross Jesus was with his disciples caring for them but after he went to Heaven in his physical body it is now his Holy Spirit that he sent to reside in us.
C. What name is given Him in verse 17? How do you know if the enemy or the Spirit is whispering to you about a sin present or past?
—Spirit of Truth.
If you feel condemned by your sin it is the enemy’s voice because for those who are in Christ we are no longer condemned by our sin.
“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1
Jesus has forgiven and cleansed us who are his.
D. Why can the world not accept Him, but we can? (verses 17-20)
—Because the world does not see or know Him. We know Him and He dwells in us by the Holy Spirit. He lives in us.
E. How does Jesus know who loves Him? What promises come with that? (Verse 21)
—Those who have and know his Word the Bible and lives by his commandments demonstrate their love for Jesus. In return God loves those who love his Son and makes Himself known to that one.
F. How do you see the Trinity in verse 23?
—Anyone who loves (Jesus) and keeps his Word then his (Father) will love that one and (We, the Holy Spirit)comes to make their home with that one.
G. What two things will the Holy Spirit do according to verse 26? Give an example from your life.
—He will teach you all things and will bring back to mind what He has said in his Word.
In my life God has taught me many things about Himself over the years and when confronted by my daughter in-law in her hate filled state of mind last January I was able to point her to what God said in his Word and what He was really like as a loving Father.
Monday: The Text 2. Read John 14:16-26 out loud to yourself. A. Does anything become radioactive? If so, why, do you think? – I never realized before that Jesus asked the Father to give us another counselor. Also I never saw before that the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth in these verses. I wonder if Jesus was asking and hoping the Father would have another way to bring the sinful world under his control and not have to die on the cross. It makes sense that the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth, he guides our knowledge and understanding now and can only bring us the truth since he is one part of the Trinity. B. Why does Jesus say “another” advocate? – Since Jesus was putting himself in our place having to die on the cross, he would no longer be walking with us, so another advocate, or counselor had to come to walk with us in his place. We can’t walk on our earthly journey without help from the Holy Spirit, our lives would be so chaotic without them. C. What name is given Him in verse 17? How do you know if the enemy or the Spirit is whispering to you about a sin present or past? – He is called the Spirit of truth. Well the enemy would bring up old sins that we have been forgiven of, right? The Holy Spirit would guide us away from sin if we are listening to that still small voice. D. Why can the world not accept Him, but we can? (verses 17-20) – The world does not have the heart knowledge of the gospel in them. They are worldly and Jesus is not accepted in the world. To know and accept Him, we need to have accepted Jesus in to our life as our Lord and Savior, then we will have access to the Spirit, if this is not done, there is no knowing the Spirit or the Trinity for that matter. E. How does Jesus know who loves Him? What promises come with that? (Verse 21) – Those that know and follow Jesus’ commands love him. And by obeying the commands and loving Jesus we are loved by the Father as they are one. F. How do you see the Trinity in verse 23? – In this verse I see Jesus and the Father, but I know the Trinity is the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit. G. What two things will the Holy Spirit do according to verse 26? Give an example from your life. – He will teach us all things and remind us of what Jesus had said to us. I’m being reminded all the time of the blessings and promises of Jesus. Just doing this study, I’ve been reminded that there is hope in Jesus and my eternal home is secured already waiting for me. I don’t have to worry where I’m going, I’ve been promised eternity with the Trinity.
Wow, Julie! I’ve been promised eternity with the Trinity! Something never thought of, that we will actually see God in 3 persons in that forever happy home! How awesome is that??!! Mind-boggling!
1. What stands out from the above and why?
The way the Holy Spirit comforted Twila is so beautiful and so shows the overwhelming love of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. She waited on the Lord. She was crushed to her soul. He knew she was frozen and probably unable to respond in any way, yet the Holy Spirit anointed her with the balm of God’s peace. I think death is more pain than we can bear and the Father knows how to comfort each of us in a personal way. 2. Share any God hunt you like, but if possible, choose two: God gave you wisdom as a mother – From the minute I had children, I have needed Him every hour. We got permanent custody of our girls, when our son was a few months old. Even though I had been with them most of the time, the responsibility overwhelmed me. I could never tell you that I did anything, but love them. I was beyond overwhelmed. I cannot give you a specific time, because it was all the time. I knew it was the Lord then and looking back, I can see it more clearly every year!!
The Holy Spirit assured you of your complete forgiveness The Holy Spirit led you to speak, be silent, or to act The Holy Spirit comforted you ~ The Holy Spirit has comforted me so much in recent months and in so many loving and overwhelming ways. It helps me to see the Trinity when I think of the ways I am comforted. We read His Word; We remember that Jesus paid the price for our sins; we know that when we cannot hear Him, see Him, or read His Word that the Holy Spirit has ways beyond our understanding to speak to our heart. Yet the the moment that most comes to my mind is always the same one: There was one time many when I was in my late 30’s. I was very very troubled about something in my family and I truly felt like I there was no answer to fix the problem. I was at the bottom of a pit. This particular day, I was taking care of my neighbor’s flower garden when she was out of town. I was bending on the ground, picking some weeds and I suddenly felt a gentle hand on my shoulder and the scent of beautiful flowers that I cannot describe and I felt tremendous peace that Jesus was right there. (I was up on a bank that you needed steps to get to and it was fenced… and nobody had come up there.) I turned to see who had touched me and there was no one there. Yet the aroma of the flowers (that also were not there) remained. I can not explain this to this day, but soon afterward, the issue that had troubled my heart for several years, was completely resolved. Only God. I believe this was the Holy Spirit.
And I do remember that wild time when you took in those troubled girls and had to deal with SOOOO much. You said “My life is a soap opera.” But oh, how God has redeemed their lives using your love.
Oh Patti! What a beautiful testimony of God’s literal touch on your shoulder in the garden. Your comment about death “ I think death is more pain than we can bear and the Father knows how to comfort each of us in a personal way.”
I think that is a true statement. He comes and cares for us in our times of deepest need.
1. What stands out from the above and why? The blessing that was given to Twila from the Holy Spirit after the passing of her baby. I can’t imagine the pain she felt. And such a tangible sense of the presence of the Holy Spirit was given to her. 2. Share any God hunt you like, but if possible, choose two: God gave you wisdom as a mother: At times when 2 of my son’s were engaged to women (teenagers) that I really did not want them to marry, I wasn’t a fan of them or their families. I didn’t say anything negative, knowing that it would just cause a wedge (maybe lifelong) between me and them. I just continued to pray for wisdom in these relationships. In the end, the engagements were broken off and now we laugh about how we dodged those bullets and we have daughters-in-law that we love greatly and get along great with their parents. The Holy Spirit comforted you: I was hurt and betrayed by a person who I thought was my dearest and closest friend, we also worked together. As I was driving home from work, crying and praying after a particularly rough day, a pastor who did the nighttime radio program just started praying for someone who is losing a friendship and is deeply hurt. As he continued praying, everything that he said spoke directly to me. I was reminded of who my true friend is and how He will never leave me, nor forsake me. That the passing of this friendship was a storm that He would take me through.
Dawn, I need to take lessons from you on how to be quiet when my children are dating those of whom I don’t approve. Oh, how much pain I would save myself if I would just let the Holy Spirit do what He does best, and not what I do worst!
Oh, I love how God answered your prayers for your boys, Dawn! And how the radio pastor spoke directly to your need at the moment. Jesus is so good and so close always.
I’m disappointed because I thought I was being a good girl to do the assignment for Monday and carefully answer all the questions. I did not include any links or photos, just my worded answers. When I tried to submit it, I got a message stating that my message was detected as spam by the administrator of the blog and was deleted! I’m guessing God just wants me to rest in Him and be aware that He saw my answers and the time it took to write them and I can be thankful that I was blessed so much and learned so much just by writing my answers. 😩😊 I’m also so glad it didn’t happen to the others here because I love reading and gleaning from every lady here! I hope this message goes through! ❤️
I knew it wasn’t you personally, Dee. My first attempt went through, but then I saw that auto correct had messed up one of my sentences so I edited it within the few minutes it allows for editing. When I attempted to re-submit my response, I got the message that the blog administrator detected spam. It’s okay. I understand technology doesn’t always cooperate with our best efforts for sure. It actually was just another opportunity in a small way for me to rest in Him when things don’t go my way. I need lots of practice so God gives me these opportunities! 😊
Tuesday: Who is The Advocate?
3. The above is optional, but was another fresh way to help me appreciate the mystery of the Trinity, other than my favorite, the perichoresis, which is a dance of love. If you watch, share what you learned from Lewis.
—A Trinity. Not tri-theism as separate Gods.
3 distinct persons in one substance, essence or nature.
3 dimensions illustrations
The divine level 3 persons = 1 being
4. Watch or read up to minutes 8:29
A. What stands out and why?
—Two quotes stood out to me:
1) “Jesus Christ gives his disciples and to us the gift of the Holy Spirit, which is the greatest gift possible, the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
—I feel it is possible to get hung up on focusing and trying to figure out what our own spiritual gifts are when actually they are all tied up in our having the Holy Spirit which Keller tells us here, the Holy Spirit is the greatest gift possible. Spiritual gifts are just that “spiritual “ because they come from the Holy Spirit. He is the ultimate Spiritual Gift Who employs them through our lives.
I hope that makes sense?
And
2)”here’s the thing you need to know, that when you get the Holy Spirit, you get God.”
—I love this comment. What an incredible truth when you consider Who God is. It feels to me like it needs to be in capital letters and nothing more needs to be said.
“WHEN YOU GET THE HOLY SPIRIT, YOU GET GOD!!”
B. This is the 3rd gift (the Advocate) Jesus tells us about for our journey on earth — what were the other two in John 14?
—Not sure? but in His promise to go and prepare a place for us He gives us a wonderful Hope.
And at the end of the chapter he also promises to give us Peace.
Hope & Peace?
C. What is the first thing you learn about the identity of the Spirit?
—He is a person. Not just a force or some kind of energy.
D. What did you learn about the Spirit’s gender? Bonus: How did The Shack get it wrong?
—Jesus deliberately referred to the Holy Spirit as He.
The Shack portrayed the Holy Spirit as a young hippie Indian woman. For me that seems a far cry from the powerful character of our God.
E. What is the apparent contradiction in the pronouns about the Spirit in verses 16-18? How does Keller explain it?
—Jesus kept saying He was going away but that God would send the Spirit. Then verse 18 clarifies that the Holy Spirit would bring Jesus back into our lives. Jesus comes to us today by the power of the Holy Spirit. They are two persons but of the very same essence.
Tuesday: Who is The Advocate? 3. The above is optional, but was another fresh way to help me appreciate the mystery of the Trinity, other than my favorite, the perichoresis, which is a dance of love. If you watch, share what you learned from Lewis. – Well, that was interesting to watch. I kind of think that the Trinity being 3 distinct beings, 3 distinct people in one body, would be like us have different qualities. I think most of us have more than one quality whether they be good or bad we have them and they are in our one body that we were given. 4. Watch or read up to minutes 8:29 A. What stands out and why? – We are given everything we need to live in this world and to be able to function in it, until the return of Christ. We have to be willing to see these gifts and accept them, otherwise they will fall to the wayside and be wasted. If we don’t see them, we lose the hope given to us that we are secure in Christ and have a place with him in the end. Thank you Jesus! B. This is the 3rd gift (the Advocate) Jesus tells us about for our journey on earth — what were the other two in John 14? – We have hope in Christ to know the gospel of truth and are assured that we have a place waiting for us. C. What is the first thing you learn about the identity of the Spirit? – He is a person. He’s not just a force or and not just energy. I knew that, but I never really grasped it this fully. I guess my head knowledge is turning in to heart knowledge. Oh it’s so exciting to dig in to the Word and see just how much God loves me. D. What did you learn about the Spirit’s gender? Bonus: How did The Shack get it wrong? – He’s a male. If I remember the meaning in The Shack, it was playing to what that person needed to see at that time. I think there was something that happened with a male figure so it came in female form to get in to the heart of the person. The male character was leery of male figures in his life. He wouldn’t have accepted or allowed in the male form of the Holy Spirit. God knew what he needed at the time to get him to realize the presence of the Lord and the goodness and love that was his to have. E. What is the apparent contradiction in the pronouns about the Spirit in verses 16-18? How does Keller explain it? – The Greek noun for Spirit is neuter, but God broke that mold of thinking and gives the Spirit a masculine form. God is God and can do what is needed for us to understand what he’s trying to tell us.
2. Read John 14:16-26 out loud to yourself. A. Does anything become radioactive? If so, why, do you think?
The Holy Spirit is “the spirit of truth”. That is why those who are true believers can receive and understand the Word of God. It is how He abides with us and is in us. The Holy Spirit is characterized by truth. B. Why does Jesus say “another” advocate?
Jesus knows that He is will be crucified and no longer with His disciples. After His resurrection He is with them briefly and then ascends to the Father in Heaven. The Holy Spirit will be sent to help the believers after that. C. What name is given Him in verse 17? How do you know if the enemy or the Spirit is whispering to you about a sin present or past?
The Spirit of Truth. The Holy Spirit does not condemn, He forgives and His truth abides in us to encourage us and to warn us to keep us from sinning. D. Why can the world not accept Him, but we can? (verses 17-20)
Because the world does not believe in Him, but He lives in the hearts of believers. E. How does Jesus know who loves Him? What promises come with that? (Verse 21)
The one who keeps His commandments is demonstrating his love for Jesus. The believer loves the Father and the Father loves the believer, discloses Himself to the believer and lives in his heart. F. How do you see the Trinity in verse 23?
If I love the Father, I will show it by obeying His Word. Then the Father will love me and The Father, Son and Holy Spirit will all come and abide with me. G. What two things will the Holy Spirit do according to verse 26? Give an example from your life.
The Holy Spirit, will come into my heart and teach me things and help me to remember His Word, obey His Word and keep it in my Heart. The Holy Spirit can prompt me if I am thinking in a negative or judgmental way or going to speak, when I need to hold my tongue. Words can hurt and I need to always be careful with my thoughts and words.
1. What stands out from the above and why? The beautiful warmth of the oil surrounding her The comfort that would have brought and a firm memory to go back and recall
2. Share any God hunt you like, but if possible, choose two:
God gave you wisdom as a mother
The Holy Spirit assured you of your complete forgiveness
The Holy Spirit led you to speak, be silent, or to act My husband was raised and educated in Catholic schools but was inactive for most of his life. A couple of times he expressed he was a fairly good person in regards to heaven and didn’t want to discuss the truth. We didn’t realze he wasn’t going to get well, but while in hospital I asked if son and I could pray with him. Son and I both prayed for him and I was then nudged to speak to him about salvation and he confessed Jesus as his Savior. Our son said his face glowed after that
The Holy Spirit comforted you. The morning after my hubby passed an image flashed through my head of him skipping into heaven. I know that was from Holy Spirit because skipping and my hubby were not 2 images I would have put together. He was free of all burdens and I had assurance of his salvation.
Oh, Judy! Thanking God that your husband confessed Jesus as his Savior! What a sweet image from the Holy Spirit. Thank you for sharing this, it is so heartwarming.
Judy, what a special blessing to read about your husband. “Walking and leaping and praising God” as the song goes. The Holy Spirit is our great Comforter!
Sunday: Happy Mother’s Day to Spiritual, Biological and Adoptive Moms!
1. What stands out from the above and why?
I couldn’t imagine being in such anguish…“She told the Lord it was more pain than she could bear. Then she felt as if warm oil was coming down over her head, enveloping her in warmth.”
2. Share any God hunt you like, but if possible, choose two:
God gave you wisdom as a mother
The Holy Spirit assured you of your complete forgiveness
I have been doing an online Bible Study Fellowship Study on John and we just finished today (5/14). Our study leader asked us to share what impacted us the most. Jesus’ love for me through His death and resurrection impacted me the most in light of complete forgiveness. The son of God, holy and blameless came to earth in the form of man so He could die the death meant for me and reconcile me to the Father. Why would I question my complete forgiveness?
The Holy Spirit led you to speak, be silent, or to act
The Holy Spirit comforted you
My daughter said something to me that grieved my soul. Instead of verbally expressing my grief to her, I talked to the Holy Spirit about it instead and He comforted me and gave me peace.
Thank you, Dee and Patti. My daughter and I are leaving for the Philippines on May 24th and will be in close quarters (sharing a hotel room) till we return on June 9. It will be an adjustment but I am committed to enjoying her company and having a good visit with my extended family.
2. Read John 14:16-26 out loud to yourself.
A. Does anything become radioactive? If so, why, do you think? Because I live, you also will live I guess He’s referring to His resurrection and a promise of life after earthly death. Our hope of glory for ourselves and loved ones.
B. Why does Jesus say “another” advocate? Jesus is in heaven interceding for us and now as believers we have the Holy Spirit as our helper.
C. What name is given Him in verse 17? How do you know if the enemy or the Spirit is whispering to you about a sin present or past? The Spirit of truth The Holy Spirit brings conviction the devil tries to put condemnation upon us
D. Why can the world not accept Him, but we can? (verses 17-20) the world doesn’t accept Jesus as the way, the truth and the life So they can’t accept or receive the Holy Spirit as part of the Trinity
E. How does Jesus know who loves Him? What promises come with that? (Verse 21) we seek to obey Him We will be loved by the Father and Jesus will reveal Himself to us
F. How do you see the Trinity in verse 23? Jesus spoke, the Father loves us and the Holy Spirit resides in us
G. What two things will the Holy Spirit do according to verse 26? Give an example from your life. Holy Spirit will teach us all things and remind us of what Jesus has said. Lately that I am not alone. Also reminds me of sin and its ease of entanglement . Just yesterday I had a text that 2 friends had talked and told me the decisions they had made about our trip this week to the creation museum and prayer conference. For various reasons it was easy to wonder why they didn’t include me in the conversation. Holy Spirit is reminding me that “It’s best not to go down that rabbit hole and get myself in a place of being offended.”
Monday: The Text
2. Read John 14:16-26 out loud to yourself.
A. Does anything become radioactive? If so, why, do you think?
Wow! I just realized we are also in John this week! Keeping God’s commands should not be difficult because I have an advocate that He has given me in the person of the Holy Spirit. And I know Him because He lives in me. Even though He is not physically present, He is always present in me, teaching me, and reminding me of His words.
B. Why does Jesus say “another” advocate?
Jesus is also advocating for me at the right hand of the Father.
C. What name is given Him in verse 17? How do you know if the enemy or the Spirit is whispering to you about a sin present or past?
The Spirit of Truth. The enemy condemns and the Spirit convicts.
D. Why can the world not accept Him, but we can? (verses 17-20)
Because we know Him for who He is.
E. How does Jesus know who loves Him? What promises come with that? (Verse 21)
Those who keep His commands. We will be loved by both the Father and Jesus, and He will always show Himself to us.
F. How do you see the Trinity in verse 23?
The Holy Spirit dwells in those who are obedient to Jesus’ teachings and are loved by God the Father and God the Son.
G. What two things will the Holy Spirit do according to verse 26? Give an example from your life.
Teach us all things and will remind us of the words of Jesus.
Many times in the classroom or in dealing with others, I would feel the Spirit’s prompting to either say something or be silent. The times when I was tempted to give a snarky response, I almost heard a voice in my head, “Don’t.” And then there is this certain quick burst of pain in my chest. Then a sigh (pause). And I know I shouldn’t say anything,
3. The above is optional, but was another fresh way to help me appreciate the mystery of the Trinity, other than my favorite, the perichoresis, which is a dance of love. If you watch, share what you learned This is so hard for me I hsve liked the perichoresis you taught and found easier to understand CS Lewis is discussing 3 dimensional With 3 dimensions you can make other figures without leaving behind the simpler things you were taught A cube is 6 squares but 1object God is greater than what our 1 dimensional mind can understand about
4. Watch or read up to minutes 8:29
A. What stands out and why? When you get the Holy Spirit you get God Earlier he said we get another Jesus Such beautiful thoughts to have And the wonder of all that The God who speaks life into being and the Christ who saved me have sent their likeness into
B. This is the 3rd gift (the Advocate) Jesus tells us about for our journey on earth — what were the other two in John 14? Preparation of a place for me and peace
C. What is the first thing you learn about the identity of the Spirit? Spirit is a person It’s another Jesus present with us
D. What did you learn about the Spirit’s gender? Bonus: How did The Shack get it wrong? He What I remember frim the book which I liked is that there was a feminine side
E. What is the apparent contradiction in the pronouns about the Spirit in verses 16-18? How does Keller explain it? The one who is not with me is bringing me
3. The above is optional, but was another fresh way to help me appreciate the mystery of the Trinity, other than my favorite, the perichoresis, which is a dance of love. If you watch, share what you learned from Lewis.
The view of the Trinity is an advanced one. The Father is not the Son, and the Son is not the Holy Spirt. Each part makes up the whole. God. A simple view would be one human. The advanced view is made of the simpler parts joined in a different way.
4. Watch or read up to minutes 8:29 A. What stands out and why?
The disciples are given gifts by Jesus as He sends them out into the world.
The Holy Spirit is a person, not a force field. Jesus gives the Holy Spirit gender, He. The Spirit is another person like Jesus. When the Holy Spirit comes, you get the Father and the Son as well (no human form). B. This is the 3rd gift (the Advocate) Jesus tells us about for our journey on earth — what were the other two in John 14?
Hope and love. C. What is the first thing you learn about the identity of the Spirit?
The Holy Spirit is a person, He. He is the advocate.
D. What did you learn about the Spirit’s gender? Bonus: How did The Shack get it wrong?
The gender is male, He. I can’t remember!
E. What is the apparent contradiction in the pronouns about the Spirit in verses 16-18? How does Keller explain it?
I’m not sure I’m in the right place of the video. Are you speaking of the word Advocate having different meanings? Counselor, helper, paracleao? (Greek). Two types of advocate, confrontative as well as sober companion. A defense attorney would argue to others about you (outside), and the sober companion argues to you about you (inside). As Christians we get both! The Holy Spirit is the sober companion!! Love this analogy.
3. The above is optional, but was another fresh way to help me appreciate the mystery of the Trinity, other than my favorite, the perichoresis, which is a dance of love. If you watch, share what you learned from Lewis.
I think this is an interesting way to demonstrate the Trinity. It is like Sacred geometry. I think the Trinity is a hard concept to grasp, yet the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are always in one and always in one another. The Celtic Trinity Cross is a good image (for me), of the interlinking of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. 4. Watch or read up to minutes 8:29 A. What stands out and why?
The greatest gift possible is the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is a a person, not an impersonal force field. B. This is the 3rd gift (the Advocate) Jesus tells us about for our journey on earth — what were the other two in John 14?
I see the Father and the Son as the first two gifts. The third gift is the Holy Spirit, the Advocate, our helper, who will be with us after Jesus ascends to the Father. (maybe I am way off). Jesus is the way, the truth and the life~ which is our access to the Father God. C. What is the first thing you learn about the identity of the Spirit?
The Spirit is a person. D. What did you learn about the Spirit’s gender? Bonus: How did The Shack get it wrong?
Jesus refers to the Spirit as masculine. (The Greek work for it is neutral) I think The Shack has the Holy Spirit as feminine E. What is the apparent contradiction in the pronouns about the Spirit in verses 16-18? How does Keller explain it?
Jesus says that He will ask the Father to send another Helper, that He may be with you forever and He says He will not leave them as orphans, He will come to them.
The Spirit will come to you and I am coming to you. Keller states that the Spirit of God is coming to you and bringing the Father and Son into your life.
Keller explains that different versions say it different ways: The helper, counselor, comforter. He says that the Holy Spirit has such a richness of meaning that no one word can properly convey it. Keller says that Jesus is telling them that He is coming, not in a bodily form, but they will see Him because the know Him. This is where I see the “spiritual dance” of the three facets of God that are entwined and full of love that is a realm we cannot totally understand, yet, if we truly believe in Him, we will recognize that it is Him working in our minds, souls, hearts and helping direct our lives. We make the choices, through listening to His guidance, in line with His Word.
Wednesday: What Does The Advocate of The Holy Spirit Do? 5. Listen or read up to 22.50 A. What stands out and why? – Wow, there is so much in Tim’s sermon. I think what is standing out to me, is how easily I can be fooled to think I’ve done too many things wrong that I cannot be loved by God. But those thoughts are the thoughts given to me by the enemy. When I live a life pleasing to God, and do as Jesus has taught me, and accept the Holy Spirit as my new advocate, I’ve got God with me. I can’t lose Him if I listen and do the truth of the Gospel. I think in today’s society, a lot of people think they are owed something for doing good. I see this with my own grandkids, that they get ‘big’ gifts for getting good grades. Maybe I’m just old school, but I always, said you do good, because it’s what you are supposed to do, whether you get something in return or not. God doesn’t owe us anything more. He already gave up His Son as an ultimate gift. I know I surely didn’t deserve that sacrifice, but he did it because it was the right thing to do for. B. What are the two parts to the word paraclete — how is one part confronting and another part supportive? – One part confronts others about me and for me, and the second part confronts the things inside me that are hurting me. The confronting part, helps me to know that I have someone on my side that will stand up for me and let others know the truth about me. They will be confrontational for me, (thankfully so since I don’t like confrontation). The other is supportive because they won’t just say what I want them to say, they will say what I need to hear. They will hold me accountable so I can grow and learn from what they see, but I may not want to see as the truth as the truth. C. Para: Comes alongside. How does the Holy Spirit come alongside you according to Romans 8:15-16? Why does Keller say we need this so badly? Explain how you have experienced this. – We didn’t lose anything that Jesus taught us when he was crucified. The Holy Spirit picked up right where Jesus left off, like twins, knowing what is needed from the other. We need the Holy Spirit because without him, we will not see the truth when Satan uses are sins against us. The Spirit will reveal to us what is deep down in our Spirit that we are loved by God. He will continue to remind us when our minds wander in the opposite direction. He will pull us back on the right path. I know the Spirit is with me, because I feel his presence in my life. When I’m fighting something and struggling, a word may come from a friend, or a song will come on that reminds me of whose I am. It’s not a coincidence that these things come, it’s all in God’s perfect timing and him showing He loves me. D. When we condemn ourselves, feeling we cannot be loved, what does the Spirit do according to 1 John 3:20? – The Holy Spirit is in us and is greater than our condemnation. It’s that small voice in my head that reminds me I’m a child of God. He lifts me up when I’m down. E. Clete: Called, Summoned. This is the confronting part. Like you would call out an addict and remind him he is hurting himself by giving into temptation. What light does James 4:4-5 put on this? – The world will pull us toward their ways and it’s so easy to fall in to that trap. I sometimes get confused of that fine line of loving our neighbors and acceptance their behavior. The Holy Spirit is there for me to guide me and keep me on that narrow path to Jesus. As I start to slip, he hangs on and pulls me back up. The Spirit will give me so rope, but will not let me get tangled up in it. He will make me feel convicted of what I may be slipping in to and tug on that rope. He allows me to choose, and to learn the truth of the matter set before me. F. What is key to having the Holy Spirit work more in your life according to Ephesians 6:17? – Having the Holy Spirit working in my life is bringing the Bible, God’s truth closer and deeper in to my heart so that when the enemy comes at me, I will know how to fight and I will be fight with spiritual truths and not worldly truths that most likely are false.
From Julie: I think what is standing out to me, is how easily I can be fooled to think I’ve done too many things wrong that I cannot be loved by God. But those thoughts are the thoughts given to me by the enemy.
I think your old school philosophy is good. I’m sure I used too many bribes as a mother!
Julie, I too like your “old school” answer for # 5 A. It’s about doing the right thing regardless of what’s in it for me. Especially in light if God’s ultimate gift in sacrificing his Son.
Julie, I am seeing what you said about kids getting “big gifts” for doing well is true among many people nowadays. Volunteerism is fast fading in its truest sense. It seems like there is a pervading thought that when something good is done, accolades, “payment”, and recognition are expected. There must be a fine balance between encouraging others for a job well done and acknowledging that these are gifts from above. We can do nothing on our own.
A. What stands out and why? The 2 Advocates that we have and the second Advocate teaches us about Jesus, the first Advocate It’s a wonderous thought to think of them working in tandem in me
B. What are the two parts to the word paraclete — how is one part confronting and another part supportive? Para meaning come along side and Clete meaning confronting which can be confronting us to deal with our sins So the Holy Spirit is protecting us from others and ourselves
C. Para: Comes alongside. How does the Holy Spirit come alongside you according to Romans 8:15-16? Why does Keller say we need this so badly? Explain how you have experienced this. The Spirit cries out ABBA father and confirming we are children of God. We tend to condemn ourselves and can wallow in shame and failure Holy Spirit wants us to know we are still loved by God and He calls us His own child When our hearts condemn us God is greater than our hearts I can’t think of a specific at the moment but I know it’s happened when my self talk is speaking lies into me instead of God’s truth about me
D. When we condemn ourselves, feeling we cannot be loved, what does the Spirit do according to 1 John 3:20? When our hearts condemn us God is greater than our hearts Holy Spirit will keep us from staying in self condemnation
E. Clete: Called, Summoned. This is the confronting part. Like you would call out an addict and remind him he is hurting himself by giving into temptation. What light does James 4:4-5 put on this? Accepting and living by the world’s values makes us an enemy of God But God is jealous for us and uses the Holy Spirit to call us back from the edge
F. What is key to having the Holy Spirit work more in your life according to Ephesians 6:17? The sword of the Spirit which is the word of God.
Beautiful post, Judy — beginning with this:
The 2 Advocates that we have and the second Advocate teaches us about Jesus, the first Advocate It’s a wonderous thought to think of them working in tandem in me
2. Read John 14:16-26 out loud to yourself. A. Does anything become radioactive? If so, why, do you think? Verse 20: In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. At first I thought that He was saying that we are part of the Trinity, but on closer reading it says we are in Him, He is in us and in the Father so it shows only 2 parts of the Trinity. B. Why does Jesus say “another” advocate? It shows that Jesus is still our advocate and now we have 2. C. What name is given Him in verse 17? The Spirit of truth. How do you know if the enemy or the Spirit is whispering to you about a sin present or past? If I am feeling condemned, defeated, worthless or unlovable then I know it is the enemy talking to me and the only way to combat it is with words of truth. D. Why can the world not accept Him, but we can? (verses 17-20) Because the world cannot see Him and we can. E. How does Jesus know who loves Him? We will keep His commandments. What promises come with that? (Verse 21) Jesus will love us and manifest Himself in us.
F. How do you see the Trinity in verse 23? Jesus says “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.” G. What two things will the Holy Spirit do according to verse 26? He will teach us and bring into remembrance all of Christ’s words. Give an example from your life. There are so many examples from my life, some big and some small. One example is when I was facing a disciplinary action at my then place of employment. I was being falsely accused of harassment and I was stressing out about what I was going to say and all of the possible scenarios that might have played out. The Holy Spirit brought to mind Luke 21 :14-15″ Don’t worry about what you will say to defend yourselves. I will give you the wisdom to know what to say. None of your enemies will be able to oppose you or to say that you are wrong.” I know that in the bible this is speaking of religious prosecution, people who were facing life or death sentences and what I was dealing with was minor in comparison, but it brought comfort to me and let me know that I could just relax and let the process play out how the Lord intended.
Thursday: What DoesThe Advocate Jesus Do?
6. Listen or read up to 33.42
A. What stands out and why?
—I found Keller’s discussion on guilt very interesting. The fact that it doesn’t go away even in people who don’t believe in God. Trying to change your psychology can’t get rid of it. The comments from Freud himself who was an atheist said it’s weird, but even when you deny guilt and even when you say, “It’s all in my head,” and even when you try to say, “Well, there’s no God, so there really isn’t any guilt other than psychological, subjective guilt.” He says, “All that seems to do is drive it in deeper, and it still affects your life, but you don’t have a word for it anymore, and so you actually don’t have any way of dealing with it.”
B. What does 2:1 tell us that Jesus does as our advocate?
—“…..if anyone does sin, we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father. He is Jesus Christ, the one who is truly righteous.” 1 John 2:1 NLT
Jesus Christ intercedes and pleads our case for us the sinner. And He can because he is perfectly righteous.
C. Keller says there are two parts of this metaphor of justice. The first is that there is a Divine bar of justice. Why does he say that “not an easy sell today?”
—Because we live in an era that says that is old school and outdated thinking. People used to believe there was some standard that we were obliged to obey and be accountable to like an external set of moral absolutes but that is no longer the case. Today’s thinking is that “We feel these things, we do these things, we create these things. And so, there’s nothing outside that we’re accountable to. It’s inside. We decide what is right or wrong for us, and therefore guilt is nothing but psychological.”
D. What evidence can you give that even if we try to get rid of this bar of justice it still haunts us?
—The feeling and weight of guilt just seems to remain in spite of trying to deny it.
I say this carefully and it is not a blanket statement because this is a very difficult and painful subject but I have wondered if guilt plays into many of the suicides that happen. I think of the ones that have affected my life personally and feel that there was an overwhelming sense of not being able to handle or get over the guilt of past sin. Like I said I wonder how often that is the case because there is seems to be a despair or hopelessness from guilt that causes a person to give up on life.
I also think how often unbelievers will say they just can’t accept the idea of the Gospel and salvation for themselves personally because they think God could not forgive the sins in their lives. They will say if you only knew the awful things I have done. They feel unforgivable. They have guilt.
E. The second part is that we do have, if we are a Christian, an Advocate. How did Tim Keller misunderstand what He did, and how did Charles Hodge help him see the truth?
—He had the thinking that Jesus as our advocate was going to God the Father repeatedly begging for mercy. That everyday Jesus went before God asking to get him off the hook for his repeated sins.
The metaphor being that God was the Judge and Jesus the defense attorney but as Keller learned that Jesus was the full and perfect representative who actually demands justice for his client (me the sinner) Jesus can obtain acquittal for us based on his own shed blood which satisfies God’s requirement of payment for my sin. And because of Jesus’s paying the debt for my sin I don’t have to. It would be unjust to require two payments for the same debt. Jesus has an infallible case when He goes before God on my account.
Oh what wonderful insight!! I love it. 💕
Bev, What a great insight about the weight of guilt and sin can drive some to suicide. I think this is a huge possibility, as pride so often keeps us from admitting our sin and it keeps us from apologizing to those we have hurt. I think expressing remorse is so important in that it brings redemption and reconciliation, yet we live in a society where it is hard to admit we are wrong.
Thursday: What Does The Advocate Jesus Do? 6. Listen or read up to 33.42 A. What stands out and why? – What better advocate then Jesus is there. Because of Him, and his shedding of his blood for me, I am not seen. WOW! The Judge sees Jesus and my sins on him. He doesn’t see me and my sins. Oh my! B. What does 1 John chapter 2:1 tell us that Jesus does as our advocate? – He tells us not to sin, but if we do, Jesus will go before us to the Father on our behalf and plead our case. C. Keller says there are two parts of this metaphor of justice. The first is that there is a Divine bar of justice. Why does he say that “not an easy sell today?” – We used to believe that we all stood accountable to certain moral standard that we all stood by. But today, people believe that the moral standards are inside of us, and we decide what is right and wrong and so there is no guilt anymore. D. What evidence can you give that even if we try to get rid of this bar of justice it still haunts us? – The guilt people feel when they don’t believe, or stopped believing in God, goes deeper into their being. It’s still there and can mess with your life in other ways. And because you say there is no guilt, there is no way to face it, no way of dealing with it to remove it from your inner being. E. The second part is that we do have, if we are a Christian, an Advocate. How did Tim Keller misunderstand what He did, and how did Charles Hodge help him see the truth? – He thought Jesus was going to the Father on a daily basis to save his life, to defend him to the Father. But he learned that Jesus’ blood paid for his sins and Jesus is defending his case by reminding the Father that he already died on the cross for that sin so it would be unjust for two payments to be made for the same debt.
5. Listen or read up to 22.50 A. What stands out and why?
The Spirit of God is coming to you and Bringing the Father and the Son into your life. The Holy Spirit is a person; you listen to Him; you talk to Him. It is complicated and yet, simple. The Holy Spirit is the counselor and comforter, who speaks to our hearts. He is a person, who is an advocate; who confronts others on your behalf and a sober companion, who argues with you on your behalf.. This sounds complicated, yet the Holy Spirit confronts you where no human can, but the purpose in the confrontation is to protect you from yourself! The Holy Spirit argues with us when our hearts accuse us and also when our hearts tempt us. B. What are the two parts to the word paraclete — how is one part confronting and another part supportive? The Holy Spirit is supportive, sympathetic and supportive as an advocate. The Holy Spirit is also a sober companion, who argues with you on the inside with things that could hurt you. He confronts you, but He is still on your side. C. Para: Comes alongside. How does the Holy Spirit come alongside you according to Romans 8:15-16? Why does Keller say we need this so badly? Explain how you have experienced this. The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God. If we are children of God, our motives should reflect that and our hearts need to have pure motives. Our hearts can easily stray because we can become enticed with things of the world. D. When we condemn ourselves, feeling we cannot be loved, what does the Spirit do according to 1 John 3:20? When I am filled with self doubt and fear, the Spirit comes into my heart to remind me that I am a child of God. And God has me in His hand. E. Clete: Called, Summoned. This is the confronting part. Like you would call out an addict and remind him he is hurting himself by giving into temptation. What light does James 4:4-5 put on this? If we are friends with the world that we make ourselves an enemy of God. This is when the Holy Spirit see my heart being enticed away from God by other things, the Spirit has a jealous anger for your love. He does not want you to get involved with things of the world that can destroy you. F. What is key to having the Holy Spirit work more in your life according to Ephesians 6:17? The key to having the Holy Spirit in knowing the Word of God. The more of the Bible I know, the more I am given the Holy Spirit. The best weapon against the evil one is the Sword of the Spirit; it is ammunition against the things in your heart that can destroy you.
Wednesday: What Does The Advocate of The Holy Spirit Do?
5. Listen or read up to 22.50
A. What stands out and why?
B. What are the two parts to the word paraclete — how is one part confronting and another part supportive?
Kleo-to summon and declare-confrontive
Para- to come alongside, to support, sympathetic
Two ways, confrontive like a defense attorney -making a case for you to others; sober companion and confronting you for you. He gave the example of being a sober companion to an addict. Confronting things inside of you that could harm you.
C. Para: Comes alongside. How does the Holy Spirit come alongside you according to Romans 8:15-16? Why does Keller say we need this so badly? Explain how you have experienced this.
In Romans 8:15, it says this, God has not given us a Spirit of fear, but he has given us the Spirit of his Son who comes into our hearts crying, Abba Father. The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.
There is a trial going on and I am losing. Your spirit condemns you of a wrong. But then the Spirit comes in and argues with you for you. You are loved; the Father is well pleased with you.
I have experienced this when my idol of approval rears its ugly head. The Spirit comes alongside me and reminds me that I only need to please one-God. He reminds me trying to please everybody is a losing endeavor. And yet, at times when I let the idol control me and when the enemy’s condemning voice threatens, the Holy Spirit reminds me that I am loved, and I can go to the Father and confess, and I have the promise of forgiveness and cleansing and an opportunity to start anew. I John 1:9
D. When we condemn ourselves, feeling we cannot be loved, what does the Spirit do according to 1 John 3:20?
“1 John 3:20 says, When our hearts condemn us, God is greater than our hearts. Well, how does God overcome the condemnation of our hearts? With the Holy Spirit. When our hearts condemn us, the Holy Spirit is greater than our hearts. The Holy Spirit brings us to the truth that we are God’s children and we are loved.”
E. Clete: Called, Summoned. This is the confronting part. Like you would call out an addict and remind him he is hurting himself by giving into temptation. What light does James 4:4-5 put on this?
When one is tempted by the world, the Spirit longs to bring you back to God and to say no to that temptation.
“Don’t you realize that friendship with the world is enmity with God?” “And that the Spirit of God within you longs intensely.”
F. What is key to having the Holy Spirit work more in your life according to Ephesians 6:17?
The Sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God. Letting the Bible speak to me.
C. Para: Comes alongside. How does the Holy Spirit come alongside you according to Romans 8:15-16?
Keller says that the Holy Spirit is bearing witness for us in a trial of our spirit. He is crying out for us that we are a child of God. Why does Keller say we need this so badly? Explain how you have experienced this.
We condemn ourselves and the Holy Spirit comes to us and says, “No! You are a child of God!”You are loved! He is pleased with you!” The Holy Spirit fights for you, to you.
I think I feel like a failure with the raising of our children. I have had thoughts that I did the eat job I could, at the time. I’m not sure I have experienced the Holy Spirit swooping down to contradict me, but I have been given a second chance with the grands. Not sure I’m doing so well there either, but these guys know Jesus better than my kids did, so there is success in itself, I suppose.
D. When we condemn ourselves, feeling we cannot be loved, what does the Spirit do according to 1 John 3:20?
He supports us. God is greater than our feelings. He knows everything anyway.
E. Clete: Called, Summoned. This is the confronting part. Like you would call out an addict and remind him he is hurting himself by giving into temptation. What light does James 4:4-5 put on this?
The Holy Spirit has been placed within us to remind us to remain in Him and not the world.
F. What is key to having the Holy Spirit work more in your life according to Ephesians 6:17?
We need to know the Word.
“Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”
Ephesians 6:17 NLT
Raising children is not easy, in this time in history. It is a huge blessing for your grandchildren that you are raising them. I pray that they know what a gift they have in you. I could not survive one day as a mom, without the Lord’s guidance.
I know for me as a single Mom trying to raise two boys in the right way was hard. I felt I was not made for it, but now as they are grown, I see that my job was done with Jesus by my side, and they have turned out to be great men, fathers and one as a husband. I’m proud of both of them. The journey wasn’t easy, but we made it.
F riday: Why Can Jesus Do It?
7. Listen to the end.
A. What stands out and why?
—This comment by Keller. “Those perfect eyes of the judge of all the Earth who see through everything and see everything you’ve ever done and see every thought you’ve ever had. They see everything. When they see you, in Jesus Christ, they see nothing but a perfect beauty.”
It gives me a deep sense of worth and security to be so cleansed and perfected by Jesus and his sacrifice for me.
B. Why does Jesus have an infallible case?
—Well I realize now I read beyond yesterday’s assignment and I answered this in yesterday’s last question but I will reiterate what an incredibly wonderful truth this is that Jesus has an infallible case for my acquittal from being condemned to die for my own sins. His shed blood is the rock solid, in place and absolute gold standard of payment for my sin debt. He paid in full! Again it thrills my soul at the deepest level to remember it, consider it and accept it!!
C. What was his point about the words of the dying woman?
—She had no fear of dying based on her sad life on earth but her worth was in Jesus snd the incredible riches of his salvation. Beautiful!
D. Give thanks for both Advocates.
—God, my Father. I give you all praise and glory and my heart is so thankful for your wonderful and incredible gifts of Jesus your Son and the precious Holy Spirit. I thank you Jesus for the Cross and the immeasurable work of salvation that is mine because of You. I thank You Holy Spirit for the great comfort and help you bring to my daily life and for your work of bringing glory to God the Father through Jesus the Son. I praise You the Triune God!
Saturday:
8. What is your take-a-way and why?
—This week’s teaching served in great measure to reiterate and reaffirm the wonder of the Trinity. Of God as three distinct Persons and in particular the wonderful work of the Holy Spirit. It has served to deepen my love and appreciation for His place in my life as my Advocate.
A. What stands out and why? That Jesus is able to demand justice for believers at the judgement seat and not plead for mercy It just floods my spirit with gratitude how blessed I am with the plan God had
B. What does 2:1 tell us that Jesus does as our advocate? We have an Advocate who is Jesus Christ the Righteous One
C. Keller says there are two parts of this metaphor of justice. The first is that there is a Divine bar of justice. Why does he say that “not an easy sell today?” People do what seems right in their own eyes .
D. What evidence can you give that even if we try to get rid of this bar of justice it still haunts us? I can’t think of a specific but I know there were times walking without Jesus I knew something I did or said was wrong and left me unwashed
E. The second part is that we do have, if we are a Christian, an Advocate. How did Tim Keller misunderstand what He did, and how did Charles Hodge help him see the truth? Jesus daily pled for mercy for my sins, but because Jesus has already paid the price for my sin He goes to God demanding justice because it’s not necessary for another payment for my sin.
Friday: Why Can Jesus Do It? 7. Listen to the end. A. What stands out and why? – I loved the comment of the dying woman. How sad they all were thinking she had nothing at all. This is what the world has gotten to, that we have to have stuff to be happy. But she had it all, the most precious gift of all, her relationship with Jesus. She knew where she was going in the end, and it was so much better to her than her life on earth. It couldn’t compare. I hope those around her so the peace and love of Jesus through her and wanted what she had. This reminds me of when I was a single mom struggling to make it with two boys. A friend who knew what had happened, asked me how I could be so peaceful about my situation. I told him that anyone can have things, but those things can be taken in an instant so I didn’t rely on them, I relied on Jesus to provide what I needed. He always came through for me. B. Why does Jesus have an infallible case? – Because he shed his blood for my debt, his blood was the wages needed to be forgiven. Every debt was already paid, there was nothing left, the balance was zero, so justice was needed, we were off the hook. There was no need for a payment from us to be made. C. What was his point about the words of the dying woman? – She may have been poor in the eyes of the world since it is so materialistic, but in the eyes of Jesus she was the richest woman in the world. She had the best gift ever. His love and acceptance, a place reserved for her in heaven, next to him. D. Give thanks for both Advocates. – Oh Lord, how my eyes have been opened to who you really are. You left us, but you did not leave us as orphans. Your partner, the second Advocate, stepped right in and took over in guiding and helping us. I appreciate you for going in front of the judge for me and by doing that you made me invisible to Him. He saw my sins on you and not on me any longer. I just can’t thank you enough for choosing me and for giving me more help until my last breath is out. Thank you, for your sacrifice, your love that is so unconditional. I pray I am bringing you glory as I walk this path I’m on. In your mighty name I pray. Amen.
6. Listen or read up to 33.42 A. What stands out and why?
Jesus intercedes for us in heaven. I love this imagery! He defends me to the Father!
Keller picked the verses in Hebrews about Jesus our advocate as his first sermon to the people when they opened Redeemer in NYC. I think it’s a strange thing to select, yet probably a very good choice really.
B. What does 2:1 tell us that Jesus does as our advocate?
In 1 John 2:1, we are told that we are to not sin. But, if we do sin then we have an advocate in Jesus Christ. He pleads our case to the Father
C. Keller says there are two parts of this metaphor of justice. The first is that there is a Divine bar of justice. Why does he say that “not an easy sell today?”
There is a judgment bar of the universe where we stand accountable. Today people don’t believe this, rather they believe that it is inside of themselves instead. We decide what is right or wrong.
D. What evidence can you give that even if we try to get rid of this bar of justice it still haunts us?
We all have this bar of justice inside of us even if we are non-believers. The guilt of sinning doesn’t go away, even in non-believers.
E. The second part is that we do have, if we are a Christian, an Advocate. How did Tim Keller misunderstand what He did, and how did Charles Hodge help him see the truth?
The court sees the defense attorney, not you. Our defense attorney is Jesus. How ever the court sees the defense atty, they see you. They see Him.
Jesus intercedes not with mercy but rather by asking the Father for justice for us. He defends us by saying that we are His children, and that He paid the price for us. That there shouldn’t be two payments for the same crime. This is good.
This was such a great reminder of how things are today, Laura! There is a judgment bar of the universe where we stand accountable. Today people don’t believe this, rather they believe that it is inside of themselves instead. We decide what is right or wrong.
Thursday: What Does The Advocate Jesus Do?
6. Listen or read up to 33.42
A. What stands out and why?
B. What does 2:1 tell us that Jesus does as our advocate?
Jesus is the righteous One who intercedes for us as the Father sits in the Judgment seat.
C. Keller says there are two parts of this metaphor of justice. The first is that there is a Divine bar of justice. Why does he say that “not an easy sell today?”
Because people don’t believe that there is a divine bar of justice outside of us. People now look for justice inside of them. We decide what is right and what is wrong. Guilt is just psychological and subjective.
D. What evidence can you give that even if we try to get rid of this bar of justice it still haunts us?
The conviction of the Holy Spirit. There is an innate desire in all of us for justice and no earthly judge has the perfect solution to all injustices. As I long for God, my heart is also tuned to His definition of true justice, and if I listen, then getting rid of this bar of justice will haunt me until it aligns with God’s.
E. The second part is that we do have, if we are a Christian, an Advocate. How did Tim Keller misunderstand what He did, and how did Charles Hodge help him see the truth?
Tim K used to believe that Jesus could be pleading for mercy on my behalf. But Charles Hodge clarified this for him by saying that Jesus stands in my place. There is only one payment for my sins and He has paid it for me. So, Jesus can “demand” my acquittal. This section made me cry and to a similar degree to Tim, I have a greater appreciation of the 2 Advocates, namely, Jesus and the Holy Spirit, whom I have since I am Christian. This gives me so much confidence as I go through the days of my life.
Thursday: What Does The Advocate Jesus Do?
6. Listen or read up to 33.42
A. What stands out and why?
B. What does 2:1 tell us that Jesus does as our advocate?
Jesus is the righteous One who intercedes for us as the Father sits in the Judgment seat.
C. Keller says there are two parts of this metaphor of justice. The first is that there is a Divine bar of justice. Why does he say that “not an easy sell today?”
Because people don’t believe that there is a divine bar of justice outside of us. People now look for justice inside of them. We decide what is right and what is wrong. Guilt is just psychological and subjective.
D. What evidence can you give that even if we try to get rid of this bar of justice it still haunts us?
The conviction of the Holy Spirit. There is an innate desire in all of us for justice and no earthly judge has the perfect solution to all injustices. As I long for God, my heart is also tuned to His definition of true justice, and if I listen, then getting rid of this bar of justice will haunt me until it aligns with God’s.
E. The second part is that we do have, if we are a Christian, an Advocate. How did Tim Keller misunderstand what He did, and how did Charles Hodge help him see the truth?
Tim K used to believe that Jesus could be pleading for mercy on my behalf. But Charles Hodge clarified this for him by saying that Jesus stands in my place. There is only one payment for my sins and He has paid it for me. So, Jesus can “demand” my acquittal. This section made me cry and to a similar degree to Tim, I have a greater appreciation of the 2 Advocates, namely, Jesus and the Holy Spirit, whom I have since I am Christian. This gives me so much confidence as I go through the days of my life.
Friday: Why Can Jesus Do It?
7. Listen to the end.
A. What stands out and why?
Tim Keller has a way of weaving the cohesiveness of Scripture from the OT to the NT. The verse Hebrews 12 that Jesus’ blood speaks greater than the blood of Abel was a light bulb moment for me.
It will be unjust to receive 2 payments for the same debt. Jesus said, “I am not asking for mercy, I am asking for justice.”
B. Why does Jesus have an infallible case?
He fulfilled the bar of justice by his blood on the cross.
C. What was his point about the words of the dying woman?
Physical death is nothing compared to her heavenly gifts. Death of 2 husbands (she has a heavenly husband); Earthly poverty (heavenly riches); death as punishment for her sins (eternal life in Jesus). “I will stand before the judgment seat bold as a lion!”
D. Give thanks for both Advocates.
Oh, God. I don’t deserve your mercy and grace and this greatest gift you left me to empower me to live a joyful and confident life here on earth. Thank you to Jesus, my first Advocate who loves me and gave Himself up to die on the cross for my sins. And even right now, He is at your right hand advocating for me. And not only that but He also left me with Himself through the Holy Spirit, my second Advocate. What a mystery the Triune God is and yet You continue to reveal yourselves as One in a personal way to me. Deep calls to deep. Spirit to spirit. I praise you, Triune God!
Saturday:
8. What is your take-a-way and why?
I have a greater awareness of how much the Triune God loves me. That they are always with me and for me. I love you, Lord!
Psalm 139:1-12 “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me.You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.Before a word is on my tongueyou, Lord, know it completely. You hem me in behind and before,and you lay your hand upon me.Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea,even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,”even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day,for darkness is as light to you.”
Saturday: 8. What is your take-a-way and why? – This has been a great study. So much hope has been revealed for those of us who believe in the Trinity. They are one but separate. They each have a function and a part to play in my life. The Advocates I’ve been given, oh my, what a blessing they are and one that I certainly don’t deserve, but because of their love I have.
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I’m excited about tomorrow’s blog! Please pray it will do what the Lord desires. It’s such fresh news that I will have to take a picture of the two women I am talking about when they come to church tomorrow and insert before it is mailed out to everyone at noon central time. So if you get on before that, know another picture is coming!
Sunday: Happy Mother’s Day to Spiritual, Biological and Adoptive Moms!
1. What stands out from the above and why? – Happy Mother’s Day everyone, hope you have a wonderful day!
What stands out to me is Spiritual Midwives. I’ve never heard that before and I like it. We can help bring others that God is already wooing into the world of knowing him. So good. Also, Twila’s story about losing her baby. When we think that we can’t go on after a loss, He is always there for us. He makes his presence known to us with the warmth of a hug in some form.
2. Share any God hunt you like, but if possible, choose two:
God gave you wisdom as a mother – A few weeks ago while we were visiting family in Indiana, my youngest son wanted to go to the cemetery and see where my dad was buried, since he was only 12 when he passed away and couldn’t remember. We went and he took it so hard and he broke down. My heart ached for him, and I cried as he cried, but I got it together and went over by him, though I was hesitant to go, not wanting to embarrass him. God nudged me and I went and hugged him and tried to comfort him and explained that his grandpa was in a much better place and not suffering and yes, it’s hard with him not here anymore, but I told him he would be very proud of him and where he is in life right now. My son, just turned 29 last week, so he is now more aware of hurt and sorrow. I can only pray that God continues to give me wisdom when it comes to both of my biological sons and my 3 bonus sons.
The Holy Spirit assured you of your complete forgiveness
The Holy Spirit led you to speak, be silent, or to act – This I’m amazed at. I say things sometimes and after I speak I wonder where did that come from. I get confirmation after I say things to someone, that they thank me and say, I needed that reminder or something to that effect. It is only truly only the Holy Spirit coming out of my mouth when I say things. I’ve also felt him tell me to stop and be quiet. Thank you Holy Spirit for always guiding me. Help me be more aware of your presence in my life and give me boldness where boldness is needed. Amen.
The Holy Spirit comforted you
What a tender heart your son has – beautiful story.
Julie, your entire post is beautiful. Such a precious time with you son.
1. What stands out from the above and why?
Oh wow! Twila saying that she felt like oil was pouring in her head! That reminds me of God telling me that I would be okay, He would be my father, when my Earthly father died.
2. Share any God hunt you like, but if possible, choose two:
God gave you wisdom as a mother
The Holy Spirit assured you of your complete forgiveness
The Holy Spirit led you to speak, be silent, or to act
As I spoke of above…standing by my fathers deathbed. A booming voice (not mine!) reassured me. Then on Friday night, I heard that booming voice again. Only 1 word. Steve. It was not my voice in my head. Recently, a good friend, Steve, passed away. I didn’t understand the meaning of this name in my head. Then I went to church today. Another friend’s husband just died, unexpectedly. She told me she didn’t think he accepted Jesus. His name was Steve! I told her my story of the voice. I think I was meant to convey a message to her that Steve was in heaven. Could that be? I didn’t understand why I would hear that one word. I think I might be crazy???
The Holy Spirit comforted you
Once again, we gave money to two needed people. My husband struggles with this. We, once again, received $500 from an unexpected source. It equaled the money we gave! Thank You Lord!
How did your husband respond when you received an unexpected 500?
He said, “I know, I know…” he is changing!!
🙂
Oh, Laura! This gave me such chills that the Lord spoke Steve’s name to you and that was the name of your friend’s husband. God has His ways.
My goodness Laura, what a blessing you have been to your friend and those in need. Truly God sees your obedience and blesses you for it. Prayers that your husband starts seeing God’s goodness in obedience to Him.
Read John 14:16-26 out loud to yourself.
A. Does anything become radioactive? If so, why, do you think?
I think the part about Jesus’ words being from the Father is what is interesting to me. I know that Jesus was sent to us, but it’s a wow to me that what He says is straight from God Himself. It’s humbling.
B. Why does Jesus say “another” advocate?
Three in One. The Holy Spirit.
C. What name is given Him in verse 17? How do you know if the enemy or the Spirit is whispering to you about a sin present or past?
He is called the spirit of truth. The Spirit lives within us. We can recognize Him; He is goodness. He does not lead us to evil.
D. Why can the world not accept Him, but we can? (verses 17-20)
We know Him. We have Him within us. The world is blind because it doesn’t believe.
E. How does Jesus know who loves Him? What promises come with that? (Verse 21)
Those who accept His commandments are the ones who love Him. God will also love those and know them. He will reveal Himself to them.
F. How do you see the Trinity in verse 23?
The Trinity will dwell within us. We are blessed by all Three! Aren’t we lucky?
G. What two things will the Holy Spirit do according to verse 26? Give an example from your life.
The Holy Spirit will teach and remind us of Jesus’ teachings.
My husband and I are trying to give money more cheerfully, as Jesus taught. He said that to those we care for, we care for Him too. When we do this, we are blessed! My husband and I are learning! The Holy Spirit reminds us of Jesus’ teachings. Thank You Lord.
“We know that Jesus was sent to us, but it’s a wow to me that what He says is straight from God Himself. It’s humbling.”
Awe-stuck to ponder this anew!
Sunday: Happy Mother’s Day to Spiritual, Biological and Adoptive Moms!
1. What stands out from the above and why?
—The beauty of what Twila experienced when the Holy Spirit came to her and enveloped her with his warmth and presence. My sister and my daughter in-law have both personally experienced the covering of the Holy Spirit at times of crises in the presence of death and neither are the same today because of their encounters with God. He brought a depth of peace into their being that has never left them the same as before. It is wonderful to witness.
And now it’s like they can’t not keep from sharing what God means to them and the hope He brings to others. There is a sweetness in their spirit that draws you to them. They both truly “know” God.
2. Share any God hunt you like, but if possible, choose two:
—1. God gave you wisdom as a mother:
When we spent the first 3 months of this year in Texas living in close proximity with my son and daughter in-law God led me to give my daughter in-law a copy of Paul David Tripp’s daily devotional”New Morning Mercies”. She started reading from it everyday and I also shared the link to Paige Brown’s Daniel study with her and she watched each session. Even though in her alcoholism and drinking heavily she says now God was preparing her heart through those resources and some conversations she and I had about the Lord. So when she had her accident she came face to face with God and knew that He was giving her a choice to submit to Him or stay in her own place of stubborn darkness of hate and anger. There weren’t any deep and great words of wisdom on my part but only enough wisdom from God to know I had to keep pointing her towards Jesus.
—2. The Holy Spirit comforted you:
This is hardly noteworthy to anyone besides myself but I found last week before Mother’s Day my husband was pushing me to decide what I wanted to do for the day and I could see he had this need to orchestrate something. It was frustrating me because when I indicated what I would like to do it didn’t really fit with what he thought or with what we have normally done in the past. His love language is doing something for you. I was starting to resent his suggestions and feeling troubled and unhappy in trying to make plans. The Holy Spirit checked my attitude and when I decided I was going to let the Holy Spirit lead us in how I should spend my day it brought a very real peace back into my soul. And we ended up having a sweet and simple day of going to church, a light lunch at home, a quiet rainy afternoon reading and napping and ended the day with going to the movie “Unsung Hero”. A very good movie.
I had sweet acknowledgments from all my children and was blessed through that. I saw again how when you let the Holy Spirit lead He does all things well 💕😊
Bev, what sweet confirmation of the joy and peace we get when we submit to the Holy Spirit and don’t lean to our own understanding.
So true, Miriam.
I love this whole post:
This: My sister and my daughter in-law have both personally experienced the covering of the Holy Spirit at times of crises in the presence of death and neither are the same today because of their encounters with God.
And your stories about your daughter-in-law and husband were both great!
Amen to Miriam and Dee. This post is a huge confirmation to my heart and soul today. Thank you for sharing all of this, Bev. The power of the Holy Spirit is so real and beautiful.
In answers to the questions here on this blog it refreshes my soul to look back to what God has done and is doing. Patti I am humbled and grateful that you are encouraged by this post in what God can and will do through the Holy Spirit knowing your situation is a particularly difficult one right now. I know our gracious Father will care for and lead you by his Holy Spirit. I’m grateful for what we are learning together here from the Word, Dee and Keller. 💕
I saw again how when you let the Holy Spirit lead He does all things well 💕😊 What a great reminder Bev, to just let the Holy Spirit lead and things are so much better.
Monday: The Text
2. Read John 14:16-26 out loud to yourself.
A. Does anything become radioactive? If so, why, do you think?
—from verse 16 where Jesus says he will ask the Father and he will give you another Helper to be with you forever. The particular thought that the Helper or the Holy Spirit will be with me forever stood out. I find great comfort and security in knowing that God’s Spirit is constant and sure. He will never ever leave me. He doesn’t come and go from a believer. Because of Jesus, God sent Him into my life to stay.
B. Why does Jesus say “another” advocate?
—Because up until the Cross Jesus was with his disciples caring for them but after he went to Heaven in his physical body it is now his Holy Spirit that he sent to reside in us.
C. What name is given Him in verse 17? How do you know if the enemy or the Spirit is whispering to you about a sin present or past?
—Spirit of Truth.
If you feel condemned by your sin it is the enemy’s voice because for those who are in Christ we are no longer condemned by our sin.
“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1
Jesus has forgiven and cleansed us who are his.
D. Why can the world not accept Him, but we can? (verses 17-20)
—Because the world does not see or know Him. We know Him and He dwells in us by the Holy Spirit. He lives in us.
E. How does Jesus know who loves Him? What promises come with that? (Verse 21)
—Those who have and know his Word the Bible and lives by his commandments demonstrate their love for Jesus. In return God loves those who love his Son and makes Himself known to that one.
F. How do you see the Trinity in verse 23?
—Anyone who loves (Jesus) and keeps his Word then his (Father) will love that one and (We, the Holy Spirit)comes to make their home with that one.
G. What two things will the Holy Spirit do according to verse 26? Give an example from your life.
—He will teach you all things and will bring back to mind what He has said in his Word.
In my life God has taught me many things about Himself over the years and when confronted by my daughter in-law in her hate filled state of mind last January I was able to point her to what God said in his Word and what He was really like as a loving Father.
Monday: The Text
2. Read John 14:16-26 out loud to yourself.
A. Does anything become radioactive? If so, why, do you think? – I never realized before that Jesus asked the Father to give us another counselor. Also I never saw before that the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth in these verses. I wonder if Jesus was asking and hoping the Father would have another way to bring the sinful world under his control and not have to die on the cross. It makes sense that the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth, he guides our knowledge and understanding now and can only bring us the truth since he is one part of the Trinity.
B. Why does Jesus say “another” advocate? – Since Jesus was putting himself in our place having to die on the cross, he would no longer be walking with us, so another advocate, or counselor had to come to walk with us in his place. We can’t walk on our earthly journey without help from the Holy Spirit, our lives would be so chaotic without them.
C. What name is given Him in verse 17? How do you know if the enemy or the Spirit is whispering to you about a sin present or past? – He is called the Spirit of truth. Well the enemy would bring up old sins that we have been forgiven of, right? The Holy Spirit would guide us away from sin if we are listening to that still small voice.
D. Why can the world not accept Him, but we can? (verses 17-20) – The world does not have the heart knowledge of the gospel in them. They are worldly and Jesus is not accepted in the world. To know and accept Him, we need to have accepted Jesus in to our life as our Lord and Savior, then we will have access to the Spirit, if this is not done, there is no knowing the Spirit or the Trinity for that matter.
E. How does Jesus know who loves Him? What promises come with that? (Verse 21) – Those that know and follow Jesus’ commands love him. And by obeying the commands and loving Jesus we are loved by the Father as they are one.
F. How do you see the Trinity in verse 23? – In this verse I see Jesus and the Father, but I know the Trinity is the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit.
G. What two things will the Holy Spirit do according to verse 26? Give an example from your life. – He will teach us all things and remind us of what Jesus had said to us. I’m being reminded all the time of the blessings and promises of Jesus. Just doing this study, I’ve been reminded that there is hope in Jesus and my eternal home is secured already waiting for me. I don’t have to worry where I’m going, I’ve been promised eternity with the Trinity.
Wow, Julie! I’ve been promised eternity with the Trinity! Something never thought of, that we will actually see God in 3 persons in that forever happy home! How awesome is that??!! Mind-boggling!
That is mind-boggling!
Amen!! Hard to grasp that we will be with them in eternity!! What a God we have!!!
1. What stands out from the above and why?
The way the Holy Spirit comforted Twila is so beautiful and so shows the overwhelming love of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. She waited on the Lord. She was crushed to her soul. He knew she was frozen and probably unable to respond in any way, yet the Holy Spirit anointed her with the balm of God’s peace. I think death is more pain than we can bear and the Father knows how to comfort each of us in a personal way.
2. Share any God hunt you like, but if possible, choose two:
God gave you wisdom as a mother – From the minute I had children, I have needed Him every hour. We got permanent custody of our girls, when our son was a few months old. Even though I had been with them most of the time, the responsibility overwhelmed me. I could never tell you that I did anything, but love them. I was beyond overwhelmed. I cannot give you a specific time, because it was all the time. I knew it was the Lord then and looking back, I can see it more clearly every year!!
The Holy Spirit assured you of your complete forgiveness
The Holy Spirit led you to speak, be silent, or to act
The Holy Spirit comforted you ~ The Holy Spirit has comforted me so much in recent months and in so many loving and overwhelming ways. It helps me to see the Trinity when I think of the ways I am comforted. We read His Word; We remember that Jesus paid the price for our sins; we know that when we cannot hear Him, see Him, or read His Word that the Holy Spirit has ways beyond our understanding to speak to our heart. Yet the the moment that most comes to my mind is always the same one: There was one time many when I was in my late 30’s. I was very very troubled about something in my family and I truly felt like I there was no answer to fix the problem. I was at the bottom of a pit. This particular day, I was taking care of my neighbor’s flower garden when she was out of town. I was bending on the ground, picking some weeds and I suddenly felt a gentle hand on my shoulder and the scent of beautiful flowers that I cannot describe and I felt tremendous peace that Jesus was right there. (I was up on a bank that you needed steps to get to and it was fenced… and nobody had come up there.) I turned to see who had touched me and there was no one there. Yet the aroma of the flowers (that also were not there) remained. I can not explain this to this day, but soon afterward, the issue that had troubled my heart for several years, was completely resolved. Only God. I believe this was the Holy Spirit.
I always love your testimonies, Patti, and how they exalt the mercy and love of Jesus. You bless my spirit so often.
I love that garden story, Patti.
And I do remember that wild time when you took in those troubled girls and had to deal with SOOOO much. You said “My life is a soap opera.” But oh, how God has redeemed their lives using your love.
Only God! He is faithful! So much from that time, has given me faith to get through this time. God has redeemed their loves and I Praise Him!!!
Oh Patti! What a beautiful testimony of God’s literal touch on your shoulder in the garden. Your comment about death “ I think death is more pain than we can bear and the Father knows how to comfort each of us in a personal way.”
I think that is a true statement. He comes and cares for us in our times of deepest need.
Oh to know that God is that close to us every day, WOW!
1. What stands out from the above and why? The blessing that was given to Twila from the Holy Spirit after the passing of her baby. I can’t imagine the pain she felt. And such a tangible sense of the presence of the Holy Spirit was given to her.
2. Share any God hunt you like, but if possible, choose two:
God gave you wisdom as a mother: At times when 2 of my son’s were engaged to women (teenagers) that I really did not want them to marry, I wasn’t a fan of them or their families. I didn’t say anything negative, knowing that it would just cause a wedge (maybe lifelong) between me and them. I just continued to pray for wisdom in these relationships. In the end, the engagements were broken off and now we laugh about how we dodged those bullets and we have daughters-in-law that we love greatly and get along great with their parents.
The Holy Spirit comforted you: I was hurt and betrayed by a person who I thought was my dearest and closest friend, we also worked together. As I was driving home from work, crying and praying after a particularly rough day, a pastor who did the nighttime radio program just started praying for someone who is losing a friendship and is deeply hurt. As he continued praying, everything that he said spoke directly to me. I was reminded of who my true friend is and how He will never leave me, nor forsake me. That the passing of this friendship was a storm that He would take me through.
Dawn, I need to take lessons from you on how to be quiet when my children are dating those of whom I don’t approve. Oh, how much pain I would save myself if I would just let the Holy Spirit do what He does best, and not what I do worst!
Oh I love those stories of marriage bullets dodged and how you responded so WISEY!
Oh, I love how God answered your prayers for your boys, Dawn! And how the radio pastor spoke directly to your need at the moment. Jesus is so good and so close always.
I’m disappointed because I thought I was being a good girl to do the assignment for Monday and carefully answer all the questions. I did not include any links or photos, just my worded answers. When I tried to submit it, I got a message stating that my message was detected as spam by the administrator of the blog and was deleted! I’m guessing God just wants me to rest in Him and be aware that He saw my answers and the time it took to write them and I can be thankful that I was blessed so much and learned so much just by writing my answers. 😩😊 I’m also so glad it didn’t happen to the others here because I love reading and gleaning from every lady here! I hope this message goes through! ❤️
The administrator of the blog is not a person but a program that makes errors, yet also protects us from some bad people. But I am sorry!
I knew it wasn’t you personally, Dee. My first attempt went through, but then I saw that auto correct had messed up one of my sentences so I edited it within the few minutes it allows for editing. When I attempted to re-submit my response, I got the message that the blog administrator detected spam. It’s okay. I understand technology doesn’t always cooperate with our best efforts for sure. It actually was just another opportunity in a small way for me to rest in Him when things don’t go my way. I need lots of practice so God gives me these opportunities! 😊
Miriam, So sorry your answers were lost because I deeply appreciate your posts but so good to see you back on here with comments. 💕
Oh, dear Miriam! I have had that happen! I am so happy to see you back and I always treasure your wisdom.
Tuesday: Who is The Advocate?
3. The above is optional, but was another fresh way to help me appreciate the mystery of the Trinity, other than my favorite, the perichoresis, which is a dance of love. If you watch, share what you learned from Lewis.
—A Trinity. Not tri-theism as separate Gods.
3 distinct persons in one substance, essence or nature.
3 dimensions illustrations
The divine level 3 persons = 1 being
4. Watch or read up to minutes 8:29
A. What stands out and why?
—Two quotes stood out to me:
1) “Jesus Christ gives his disciples and to us the gift of the Holy Spirit, which is the greatest gift possible, the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
—I feel it is possible to get hung up on focusing and trying to figure out what our own spiritual gifts are when actually they are all tied up in our having the Holy Spirit which Keller tells us here, the Holy Spirit is the greatest gift possible. Spiritual gifts are just that “spiritual “ because they come from the Holy Spirit. He is the ultimate Spiritual Gift Who employs them through our lives.
I hope that makes sense?
And
2)”here’s the thing you need to know, that when you get the Holy Spirit, you get God.”
—I love this comment. What an incredible truth when you consider Who God is. It feels to me like it needs to be in capital letters and nothing more needs to be said.
“WHEN YOU GET THE HOLY SPIRIT, YOU GET GOD!!”
B. This is the 3rd gift (the Advocate) Jesus tells us about for our journey on earth — what were the other two in John 14?
—Not sure? but in His promise to go and prepare a place for us He gives us a wonderful Hope.
And at the end of the chapter he also promises to give us Peace.
Hope & Peace?
C. What is the first thing you learn about the identity of the Spirit?
—He is a person. Not just a force or some kind of energy.
D. What did you learn about the Spirit’s gender? Bonus: How did The Shack get it wrong?
—Jesus deliberately referred to the Holy Spirit as He.
The Shack portrayed the Holy Spirit as a young hippie Indian woman. For me that seems a far cry from the powerful character of our God.
E. What is the apparent contradiction in the pronouns about the Spirit in verses 16-18? How does Keller explain it?
—Jesus kept saying He was going away but that God would send the Spirit. Then verse 18 clarifies that the Holy Spirit would bring Jesus back into our lives. Jesus comes to us today by the power of the Holy Spirit. They are two persons but of the very same essence.
Tuesday: Who is The Advocate?
3. The above is optional, but was another fresh way to help me appreciate the mystery of the Trinity, other than my favorite, the perichoresis, which is a dance of love. If you watch, share what you learned from Lewis. – Well, that was interesting to watch. I kind of think that the Trinity being 3 distinct beings, 3 distinct people in one body, would be like us have different qualities. I think most of us have more than one quality whether they be good or bad we have them and they are in our one body that we were given.
4. Watch or read up to minutes 8:29
A. What stands out and why? – We are given everything we need to live in this world and to be able to function in it, until the return of Christ. We have to be willing to see these gifts and accept them, otherwise they will fall to the wayside and be wasted. If we don’t see them, we lose the hope given to us that we are secure in Christ and have a place with him in the end. Thank you Jesus!
B. This is the 3rd gift (the Advocate) Jesus tells us about for our journey on earth — what were the other two in John 14? – We have hope in Christ to know the gospel of truth and are assured that we have a place waiting for us.
C. What is the first thing you learn about the identity of the Spirit? – He is a person. He’s not just a force or and not just energy. I knew that, but I never really grasped it this fully. I guess my head knowledge is turning in to heart knowledge. Oh it’s so exciting to dig in to the Word and see just how much God loves me.
D. What did you learn about the Spirit’s gender? Bonus: How did The Shack get it wrong? – He’s a male. If I remember the meaning in The Shack, it was playing to what that person needed to see at that time. I think there was something that happened with a male figure so it came in female form to get in to the heart of the person. The male character was leery of male figures in his life. He wouldn’t have accepted or allowed in the male form of the Holy Spirit. God knew what he needed at the time to get him to realize the presence of the Lord and the goodness and love that was his to have.
E. What is the apparent contradiction in the pronouns about the Spirit in verses 16-18? How does Keller explain it? – The Greek noun for Spirit is neuter, but God broke that mold of thinking and gives the Spirit a masculine form. God is God and can do what is needed for us to understand what he’s trying to tell us.
2. Read John 14:16-26 out loud to yourself.
A. Does anything become radioactive? If so, why, do you think?
The Holy Spirit is “the spirit of truth”. That is why those who are true believers can receive and understand the Word of God. It is how He abides with us and is in us. The Holy Spirit is characterized by truth.
B. Why does Jesus say “another” advocate?
Jesus knows that He is will be crucified and no longer with His disciples. After His resurrection He is with them briefly and then ascends to the Father in Heaven. The Holy Spirit will be sent to help the believers after that.
C. What name is given Him in verse 17? How do you know if the enemy or the Spirit is whispering to you about a sin present or past?
The Spirit of Truth. The Holy Spirit does not condemn, He forgives and His truth abides in us to encourage us and to warn us to keep us from sinning.
D. Why can the world not accept Him, but we can? (verses 17-20)
Because the world does not believe in Him, but He lives in the hearts of believers.
E. How does Jesus know who loves Him? What promises come with that? (Verse 21)
The one who keeps His commandments is demonstrating his love for Jesus. The believer loves the Father and the Father loves the believer, discloses Himself to the believer and lives in his heart.
F. How do you see the Trinity in verse 23?
If I love the Father, I will show it by obeying His Word. Then the Father will love me and The Father, Son and Holy Spirit will all come and abide with me.
G. What two things will the Holy Spirit do according to verse 26? Give an example from your life.
The Holy Spirit, will come into my heart and teach me things and help me to remember His Word, obey His Word and keep it in my Heart. The Holy Spirit can prompt me if I am thinking in a negative or judgmental way or going to speak, when I need to hold my tongue. Words can hurt and I need to always be careful with my thoughts and words.
1. What stands out from the above and why? The beautiful warmth of the oil surrounding her The comfort that would have brought and a firm memory to go back and recall
2. Share any God hunt you like, but if possible, choose two:
God gave you wisdom as a mother
The Holy Spirit assured you of your complete forgiveness
The Holy Spirit led you to speak, be silent, or to act My husband was raised and educated in Catholic schools but was inactive for most of his life. A couple of times he expressed he was a fairly good person in regards to heaven and didn’t want to discuss the truth. We didn’t realze he wasn’t going to get well, but while in hospital I asked if son and I could pray with him. Son and I both prayed for him and I was then nudged to speak to him about salvation and he confessed Jesus as his Savior. Our son said his face glowed after that
The Holy Spirit comforted you. The morning after my hubby passed an image flashed through my head of him skipping into heaven. I know that was from Holy Spirit because skipping and my hubby were not 2 images I would have put together. He was free of all burdens and I had assurance of his salvation.
Oh, Judy! Thanking God that your husband confessed Jesus as his Savior! What a sweet image from the Holy Spirit. Thank you for sharing this, it is so heartwarming.
So thankful for the assurance you were given for your husband! Sounds like your son is a believer.
Oh Judy, what a blessing that must have been and for your son to see his Dad’s face glowing. Thank you Jesus.
Thank you ladies, knowing what God did does help carry me.
Judy, what a special blessing to read about your husband. “Walking and leaping and praising God” as the song goes. The Holy Spirit is our great Comforter!
Sunday: Happy Mother’s Day to Spiritual, Biological and Adoptive Moms!
1. What stands out from the above and why?
I couldn’t imagine being in such anguish…“She told the Lord it was more pain than she could bear. Then she felt as if warm oil was coming down over her head, enveloping her in warmth.”
2. Share any God hunt you like, but if possible, choose two:
God gave you wisdom as a mother
The Holy Spirit assured you of your complete forgiveness
I have been doing an online Bible Study Fellowship Study on John and we just finished today (5/14). Our study leader asked us to share what impacted us the most. Jesus’ love for me through His death and resurrection impacted me the most in light of complete forgiveness. The son of God, holy and blameless came to earth in the form of man so He could die the death meant for me and reconcile me to the Father. Why would I question my complete forgiveness?
The Holy Spirit led you to speak, be silent, or to act
The Holy Spirit comforted you
My daughter said something to me that grieved my soul. Instead of verbally expressing my grief to her, I talked to the Holy Spirit about it instead and He comforted me and gave me peace.
So thankful for the comfort of our grieving souls from the Holy Spirit.
That shows real maturity, Bing!
Thank you, Dee and Patti. My daughter and I are leaving for the Philippines on May 24th and will be in close quarters (sharing a hotel room) till we return on June 9. It will be an adjustment but I am committed to enjoying her company and having a good visit with my extended family.
2. Read John 14:16-26 out loud to yourself.
A. Does anything become radioactive? If so, why, do you think? Because I live, you also will live I guess He’s referring to His resurrection and a promise of life after earthly death. Our hope of glory for ourselves and loved ones.
B. Why does Jesus say “another” advocate? Jesus is in heaven interceding for us and now as believers we have the Holy Spirit as our helper.
C. What name is given Him in verse 17? How do you know if the enemy or the Spirit is whispering to you about a sin present or past? The Spirit of truth The Holy Spirit brings conviction the devil tries to put condemnation upon us
D. Why can the world not accept Him, but we can? (verses 17-20) the world doesn’t accept Jesus as the way, the truth and the life So they can’t accept or receive the Holy Spirit as part of the Trinity
E. How does Jesus know who loves Him? What promises come with that? (Verse 21) we seek to obey Him We will be loved by the Father and Jesus will reveal Himself to us
F. How do you see the Trinity in verse 23? Jesus spoke, the Father loves us and the Holy Spirit resides in us
G. What two things will the Holy Spirit do according to verse 26? Give an example from your life. Holy Spirit will teach us all things and remind us of what Jesus has said. Lately that I am not alone. Also reminds me of sin and its ease of entanglement . Just yesterday I had a text that 2 friends had talked and told me the decisions they had made about our trip this week to the creation museum and prayer conference. For various reasons it was easy to wonder why they didn’t include me in the conversation. Holy Spirit is reminding me that “It’s best not to go down that rabbit hole and get myself in a place of being offended.”
Holy Spirit is reminding me that “It’s best not to go down that rabbit hole and get myself in a place of being offended.”
Sounds like His Spirit said the same thing to you and to Bing (Ernema)
Monday: The Text
2. Read John 14:16-26 out loud to yourself.
A. Does anything become radioactive? If so, why, do you think?
Wow! I just realized we are also in John this week! Keeping God’s commands should not be difficult because I have an advocate that He has given me in the person of the Holy Spirit. And I know Him because He lives in me. Even though He is not physically present, He is always present in me, teaching me, and reminding me of His words.
B. Why does Jesus say “another” advocate?
Jesus is also advocating for me at the right hand of the Father.
C. What name is given Him in verse 17? How do you know if the enemy or the Spirit is whispering to you about a sin present or past?
The Spirit of Truth. The enemy condemns and the Spirit convicts.
D. Why can the world not accept Him, but we can? (verses 17-20)
Because we know Him for who He is.
E. How does Jesus know who loves Him? What promises come with that? (Verse 21)
Those who keep His commands. We will be loved by both the Father and Jesus, and He will always show Himself to us.
F. How do you see the Trinity in verse 23?
The Holy Spirit dwells in those who are obedient to Jesus’ teachings and are loved by God the Father and God the Son.
G. What two things will the Holy Spirit do according to verse 26? Give an example from your life.
Teach us all things and will remind us of the words of Jesus.
Many times in the classroom or in dealing with others, I would feel the Spirit’s prompting to either say something or be silent. The times when I was tempted to give a snarky response, I almost heard a voice in my head, “Don’t.” And then there is this certain quick burst of pain in my chest. Then a sigh (pause). And I know I shouldn’t say anything,
3. The above is optional, but was another fresh way to help me appreciate the mystery of the Trinity, other than my favorite, the perichoresis, which is a dance of love. If you watch, share what you learned This is so hard for me I hsve liked the perichoresis you taught and found easier to understand CS Lewis is discussing 3 dimensional With 3 dimensions you can make other figures without leaving behind the simpler things you were taught A cube is 6 squares but 1object God is greater than what our 1 dimensional mind can understand about
4. Watch or read up to minutes 8:29
A. What stands out and why? When you get the Holy Spirit you get God Earlier he said we get another Jesus Such beautiful thoughts to have And the wonder of all that The God who speaks life into being and the Christ who saved me have sent their likeness into
B. This is the 3rd gift (the Advocate) Jesus tells us about for our journey on earth — what were the other two in John 14? Preparation of a place for me and peace
C. What is the first thing you learn about the identity of the Spirit? Spirit is a person It’s another Jesus present with us
D. What did you learn about the Spirit’s gender? Bonus: How did The Shack get it wrong? He What I remember frim the book which I liked is that there was a feminine side
E. What is the apparent contradiction in the pronouns about the Spirit in verses 16-18? How does Keller explain it? The one who is not with me is bringing me
3. The above is optional, but was another fresh way to help me appreciate the mystery of the Trinity, other than my favorite, the perichoresis, which is a dance of love. If you watch, share what you learned from Lewis.
The view of the Trinity is an advanced one. The Father is not the Son, and the Son is not the Holy Spirt. Each part makes up the whole. God. A simple view would be one human. The advanced view is made of the simpler parts joined in a different way.
4. Watch or read up to minutes 8:29
A. What stands out and why?
The disciples are given gifts by Jesus as He sends them out into the world.
The Holy Spirit is a person, not a force field. Jesus gives the Holy Spirit gender, He. The Spirit is another person like Jesus. When the Holy Spirit comes, you get the Father and the Son as well (no human form).
B. This is the 3rd gift (the Advocate) Jesus tells us about for our journey on earth — what were the other two in John 14?
Hope and love.
C. What is the first thing you learn about the identity of the Spirit?
The Holy Spirit is a person, He. He is the advocate.
D. What did you learn about the Spirit’s gender? Bonus: How did The Shack get it wrong?
The gender is male, He. I can’t remember!
E. What is the apparent contradiction in the pronouns about the Spirit in verses 16-18? How does Keller explain it?
I’m not sure I’m in the right place of the video. Are you speaking of the word Advocate having different meanings? Counselor, helper, paracleao? (Greek). Two types of advocate, confrontative as well as sober companion. A defense attorney would argue to others about you (outside), and the sober companion argues to you about you (inside). As Christians we get both! The Holy Spirit is the sober companion!! Love this analogy.
You got it, Laura!
3. The above is optional, but was another fresh way to help me appreciate the mystery of the Trinity, other than my favorite, the perichoresis, which is a dance of love. If you watch, share what you learned from Lewis.
I think this is an interesting way to demonstrate the Trinity. It is like Sacred geometry. I think the Trinity is a hard concept to grasp, yet the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are always in one and always in one another. The Celtic Trinity Cross is a good image (for me), of the interlinking of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
4. Watch or read up to minutes 8:29
A. What stands out and why?
The greatest gift possible is the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is a a person, not an impersonal force field.
B. This is the 3rd gift (the Advocate) Jesus tells us about for our journey on earth — what were the other two in John 14?
I see the Father and the Son as the first two gifts. The third gift is the Holy Spirit, the Advocate, our helper, who will be with us after Jesus ascends to the Father. (maybe I am way off). Jesus is the way, the truth and the life~ which is our access to the Father God.
C. What is the first thing you learn about the identity of the Spirit?
The Spirit is a person.
D. What did you learn about the Spirit’s gender? Bonus: How did The Shack get it wrong?
Jesus refers to the Spirit as masculine. (The Greek work for it is neutral) I think The Shack has the Holy Spirit as feminine
E. What is the apparent contradiction in the pronouns about the Spirit in verses 16-18? How does Keller explain it?
Jesus says that He will ask the Father to send another Helper, that He may be with you forever and He says He will not leave them as orphans, He will come to them.
The Spirit will come to you and I am coming to you. Keller states that the Spirit of God is coming to you and bringing the Father and Son into your life.
Keller explains that different versions say it different ways: The helper, counselor, comforter. He says that the Holy Spirit has such a richness of meaning that no one word can properly convey it. Keller says that Jesus is telling them that He is coming, not in a bodily form, but they will see Him because the know Him. This is where I see the “spiritual dance” of the three facets of God that are entwined and full of love that is a realm we cannot totally understand, yet, if we truly believe in Him, we will recognize that it is Him working in our minds, souls, hearts and helping direct our lives. We make the choices, through listening to His guidance, in line with His Word.
sacred geometry!
I love your spiritual dance description too.
Wednesday: What Does The Advocate of The Holy Spirit Do?
5. Listen or read up to 22.50
A. What stands out and why? – Wow, there is so much in Tim’s sermon. I think what is standing out to me, is how easily I can be fooled to think I’ve done too many things wrong that I cannot be loved by God. But those thoughts are the thoughts given to me by the enemy. When I live a life pleasing to God, and do as Jesus has taught me, and accept the Holy Spirit as my new advocate, I’ve got God with me. I can’t lose Him if I listen and do the truth of the Gospel. I think in today’s society, a lot of people think they are owed something for doing good. I see this with my own grandkids, that they get ‘big’ gifts for getting good grades. Maybe I’m just old school, but I always, said you do good, because it’s what you are supposed to do, whether you get something in return or not. God doesn’t owe us anything more. He already gave up His Son as an ultimate gift. I know I surely didn’t deserve that sacrifice, but he did it because it was the right thing to do for.
B. What are the two parts to the word paraclete — how is one part confronting and another part supportive? – One part confronts others about me and for me, and the second part confronts the things inside me that are hurting me. The confronting part, helps me to know that I have someone on my side that will stand up for me and let others know the truth about me. They will be confrontational for me, (thankfully so since I don’t like confrontation). The other is supportive because they won’t just say what I want them to say, they will say what I need to hear. They will hold me accountable so I can grow and learn from what they see, but I may not want to see as the truth as the truth.
C. Para: Comes alongside. How does the Holy Spirit come alongside you according to Romans 8:15-16? Why does Keller say we need this so badly? Explain how you have experienced this. – We didn’t lose anything that Jesus taught us when he was crucified. The Holy Spirit picked up right where Jesus left off, like twins, knowing what is needed from the other. We need the Holy Spirit because without him, we will not see the truth when Satan uses are sins against us. The Spirit will reveal to us what is deep down in our Spirit that we are loved by God. He will continue to remind us when our minds wander in the opposite direction. He will pull us back on the right path. I know the Spirit is with me, because I feel his presence in my life. When I’m fighting something and struggling, a word may come from a friend, or a song will come on that reminds me of whose I am. It’s not a coincidence that these things come, it’s all in God’s perfect timing and him showing He loves me.
D. When we condemn ourselves, feeling we cannot be loved, what does the Spirit do according to 1 John 3:20? – The Holy Spirit is in us and is greater than our condemnation. It’s that small voice in my head that reminds me I’m a child of God. He lifts me up when I’m down.
E. Clete: Called, Summoned. This is the confronting part. Like you would call out an addict and remind him he is hurting himself by giving into temptation. What light does James 4:4-5 put on this? – The world will pull us toward their ways and it’s so easy to fall in to that trap. I sometimes get confused of that fine line of loving our neighbors and acceptance their behavior. The Holy Spirit is there for me to guide me and keep me on that narrow path to Jesus. As I start to slip, he hangs on and pulls me back up. The Spirit will give me so rope, but will not let me get tangled up in it. He will make me feel convicted of what I may be slipping in to and tug on that rope. He allows me to choose, and to learn the truth of the matter set before me.
F. What is key to having the Holy Spirit work more in your life according to Ephesians 6:17? – Having the Holy Spirit working in my life is bringing the Bible, God’s truth closer and deeper in to my heart so that when the enemy comes at me, I will know how to fight and I will be fight with spiritual truths and not worldly truths that most likely are false.
From Julie: I think what is standing out to me, is how easily I can be fooled to think I’ve done too many things wrong that I cannot be loved by God. But those thoughts are the thoughts given to me by the enemy.
I think your old school philosophy is good. I’m sure I used too many bribes as a mother!
Julie, I too like your “old school” answer for # 5 A. It’s about doing the right thing regardless of what’s in it for me. Especially in light if God’s ultimate gift in sacrificing his Son.
Julie, I am seeing what you said about kids getting “big gifts” for doing well is true among many people nowadays. Volunteerism is fast fading in its truest sense. It seems like there is a pervading thought that when something good is done, accolades, “payment”, and recognition are expected. There must be a fine balance between encouraging others for a job well done and acknowledging that these are gifts from above. We can do nothing on our own.
A. What stands out and why? The 2 Advocates that we have and the second Advocate teaches us about Jesus, the first Advocate It’s a wonderous thought to think of them working in tandem in me
B. What are the two parts to the word paraclete — how is one part confronting and another part supportive? Para meaning come along side and Clete meaning confronting which can be confronting us to deal with our sins So the Holy Spirit is protecting us from others and ourselves
C. Para: Comes alongside. How does the Holy Spirit come alongside you according to Romans 8:15-16? Why does Keller say we need this so badly? Explain how you have experienced this. The Spirit cries out ABBA father and confirming we are children of God. We tend to condemn ourselves and can wallow in shame and failure Holy Spirit wants us to know we are still loved by God and He calls us His own child When our hearts condemn us God is greater than our hearts I can’t think of a specific at the moment but I know it’s happened when my self talk is speaking lies into me instead of God’s truth about me
D. When we condemn ourselves, feeling we cannot be loved, what does the Spirit do according to 1 John 3:20? When our hearts condemn us God is greater than our hearts Holy Spirit will keep us from staying in self condemnation
E. Clete: Called, Summoned. This is the confronting part. Like you would call out an addict and remind him he is hurting himself by giving into temptation. What light does James 4:4-5 put on this? Accepting and living by the world’s values makes us an enemy of God But God is jealous for us and uses the Holy Spirit to call us back from the edge
F. What is key to having the Holy Spirit work more in your life according to Ephesians 6:17? The sword of the Spirit which is the word of God.
Beautiful post, Judy — beginning with this:
The 2 Advocates that we have and the second Advocate teaches us about Jesus, the first Advocate It’s a wonderous thought to think of them working in tandem in me
Amen to Dee!
2. Read John 14:16-26 out loud to yourself.
A. Does anything become radioactive? If so, why, do you think? Verse 20: In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. At first I thought that He was saying that we are part of the Trinity, but on closer reading it says we are in Him, He is in us and in the Father so it shows only 2 parts of the Trinity.
B. Why does Jesus say “another” advocate? It shows that Jesus is still our advocate and now we have 2.
C. What name is given Him in verse 17? The Spirit of truth. How do you know if the enemy or the Spirit is whispering to you about a sin present or past? If I am feeling condemned, defeated, worthless or unlovable then I know it is the enemy talking to me and the only way to combat it is with words of truth.
D. Why can the world not accept Him, but we can? (verses 17-20) Because the world cannot see Him and we can.
E. How does Jesus know who loves Him? We will keep His commandments. What promises come with that? (Verse 21) Jesus will love us and manifest Himself in us.
F. How do you see the Trinity in verse 23? Jesus says “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.”
G. What two things will the Holy Spirit do according to verse 26? He will teach us and bring into remembrance all of Christ’s words. Give an example from your life. There are so many examples from my life, some big and some small. One example is when I was facing a disciplinary action at my then place of employment. I was being falsely accused of harassment and I was stressing out about what I was going to say and all of the possible scenarios that might have played out. The Holy Spirit brought to mind Luke 21 :14-15″ Don’t worry about what you will say to defend yourselves. I will give you the wisdom to know what to say. None of your enemies will be able to oppose you or to say that you are wrong.” I know that in the bible this is speaking of religious prosecution, people who were facing life or death sentences and what I was dealing with was minor in comparison, but it brought comfort to me and let me know that I could just relax and let the process play out how the Lord intended.
Great illustration, Dawn. I remember when you were in the midst of that persecution!
Thursday: What DoesThe Advocate Jesus Do?
6. Listen or read up to 33.42
A. What stands out and why?
—I found Keller’s discussion on guilt very interesting. The fact that it doesn’t go away even in people who don’t believe in God. Trying to change your psychology can’t get rid of it. The comments from Freud himself who was an atheist said it’s weird, but even when you deny guilt and even when you say, “It’s all in my head,” and even when you try to say, “Well, there’s no God, so there really isn’t any guilt other than psychological, subjective guilt.” He says, “All that seems to do is drive it in deeper, and it still affects your life, but you don’t have a word for it anymore, and so you actually don’t have any way of dealing with it.”
B. What does 2:1 tell us that Jesus does as our advocate?
—“…..if anyone does sin, we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father. He is Jesus Christ, the one who is truly righteous.” 1 John 2:1 NLT
Jesus Christ intercedes and pleads our case for us the sinner. And He can because he is perfectly righteous.
C. Keller says there are two parts of this metaphor of justice. The first is that there is a Divine bar of justice. Why does he say that “not an easy sell today?”
—Because we live in an era that says that is old school and outdated thinking. People used to believe there was some standard that we were obliged to obey and be accountable to like an external set of moral absolutes but that is no longer the case. Today’s thinking is that “We feel these things, we do these things, we create these things. And so, there’s nothing outside that we’re accountable to. It’s inside. We decide what is right or wrong for us, and therefore guilt is nothing but psychological.”
D. What evidence can you give that even if we try to get rid of this bar of justice it still haunts us?
—The feeling and weight of guilt just seems to remain in spite of trying to deny it.
I say this carefully and it is not a blanket statement because this is a very difficult and painful subject but I have wondered if guilt plays into many of the suicides that happen. I think of the ones that have affected my life personally and feel that there was an overwhelming sense of not being able to handle or get over the guilt of past sin. Like I said I wonder how often that is the case because there is seems to be a despair or hopelessness from guilt that causes a person to give up on life.
I also think how often unbelievers will say they just can’t accept the idea of the Gospel and salvation for themselves personally because they think God could not forgive the sins in their lives. They will say if you only knew the awful things I have done. They feel unforgivable. They have guilt.
E. The second part is that we do have, if we are a Christian, an Advocate. How did Tim Keller misunderstand what He did, and how did Charles Hodge help him see the truth?
—He had the thinking that Jesus as our advocate was going to God the Father repeatedly begging for mercy. That everyday Jesus went before God asking to get him off the hook for his repeated sins.
The metaphor being that God was the Judge and Jesus the defense attorney but as Keller learned that Jesus was the full and perfect representative who actually demands justice for his client (me the sinner) Jesus can obtain acquittal for us based on his own shed blood which satisfies God’s requirement of payment for my sin. And because of Jesus’s paying the debt for my sin I don’t have to. It would be unjust to require two payments for the same debt. Jesus has an infallible case when He goes before God on my account.
Oh what wonderful insight!! I love it. 💕
Your answer to D Bev, makes a lot of sense. I never thought of guilt/sin to be so deep that it takes over in a person’s head.
Thoughtful responses, Bev.
Bev, What a great insight about the weight of guilt and sin can drive some to suicide. I think this is a huge possibility, as pride so often keeps us from admitting our sin and it keeps us from apologizing to those we have hurt. I think expressing remorse is so important in that it brings redemption and reconciliation, yet we live in a society where it is hard to admit we are wrong.
Thursday: What Does The Advocate Jesus Do?
6. Listen or read up to 33.42
A. What stands out and why? – What better advocate then Jesus is there. Because of Him, and his shedding of his blood for me, I am not seen. WOW! The Judge sees Jesus and my sins on him. He doesn’t see me and my sins. Oh my!
B. What does 1 John chapter 2:1 tell us that Jesus does as our advocate? – He tells us not to sin, but if we do, Jesus will go before us to the Father on our behalf and plead our case.
C. Keller says there are two parts of this metaphor of justice. The first is that there is a Divine bar of justice. Why does he say that “not an easy sell today?” – We used to believe that we all stood accountable to certain moral standard that we all stood by. But today, people believe that the moral standards are inside of us, and we decide what is right and wrong and so there is no guilt anymore.
D. What evidence can you give that even if we try to get rid of this bar of justice it still haunts us? – The guilt people feel when they don’t believe, or stopped believing in God, goes deeper into their being. It’s still there and can mess with your life in other ways. And because you say there is no guilt, there is no way to face it, no way of dealing with it to remove it from your inner being.
E. The second part is that we do have, if we are a Christian, an Advocate. How did Tim Keller misunderstand what He did, and how did Charles Hodge help him see the truth? – He thought Jesus was going to the Father on a daily basis to save his life, to defend him to the Father. But he learned that Jesus’ blood paid for his sins and Jesus is defending his case by reminding the Father that he already died on the cross for that sin so it would be unjust for two payments to be made for the same debt.
From Julie:
WOW! The Judge sees Jesus and my sins on him. He doesn’t see me and my sins. Oh my!
5. Listen or read up to 22.50
A. What stands out and why?
The Spirit of God is coming to you and Bringing the Father and the Son into your life. The Holy Spirit is a person; you listen to Him; you talk to Him. It is complicated and yet, simple. The Holy Spirit is the counselor and comforter, who speaks to our hearts. He is a person, who is an advocate; who confronts others on your behalf and a sober companion, who argues with you on your behalf.. This sounds complicated, yet the Holy Spirit confronts you where no human can, but the purpose in the confrontation is to protect you from yourself! The Holy Spirit argues with us when our hearts accuse us and also when our hearts tempt us.
B. What are the two parts to the word paraclete — how is one part confronting and another part supportive? The Holy Spirit is supportive, sympathetic and supportive as an advocate. The Holy Spirit is also a sober companion, who argues with you on the inside with things that could hurt you. He confronts you, but He is still on your side.
C. Para: Comes alongside. How does the Holy Spirit come alongside you according to Romans 8:15-16? Why does Keller say we need this so badly? Explain how you have experienced this. The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God. If we are children of God, our motives should reflect that and our hearts need to have pure motives. Our hearts can easily stray because we can become enticed with things of the world.
D. When we condemn ourselves, feeling we cannot be loved, what does the Spirit do according to 1 John 3:20? When I am filled with self doubt and fear, the Spirit comes into my heart to remind me that I am a child of God. And God has me in His hand.
E. Clete: Called, Summoned. This is the confronting part. Like you would call out an addict and remind him he is hurting himself by giving into temptation. What light does James 4:4-5 put on this? If we are friends with the world that we make ourselves an enemy of God. This is when the Holy Spirit see my heart being enticed away from God by other things, the Spirit has a jealous anger for your love. He does not want you to get involved with things of the world that can destroy you.
F. What is key to having the Holy Spirit work more in your life according to Ephesians 6:17? The key to having the Holy Spirit in knowing the Word of God. The more of the Bible I know, the more I am given the Holy Spirit. The best weapon against the evil one is the Sword of the Spirit; it is ammunition against the things in your heart that can destroy you.
5. Listen or read up to 22.50
A. What stands out and why?
The Holy Spirit being in my heart, defending and supporting me. I have never really understood the Holy Spirit. Keller made it clearer for me.
B. What are the two parts to the word paraclete — how is one part confronting and another part supportive?
Helper and summoner (confrontative). In one case he outlines a defense attorney who is defending us and the other case is sympathetic to us.
Wednesday: What Does The Advocate of The Holy Spirit Do?
5. Listen or read up to 22.50
A. What stands out and why?
B. What are the two parts to the word paraclete — how is one part confronting and another part supportive?
Kleo-to summon and declare-confrontive
Para- to come alongside, to support, sympathetic
Two ways, confrontive like a defense attorney -making a case for you to others; sober companion and confronting you for you. He gave the example of being a sober companion to an addict. Confronting things inside of you that could harm you.
C. Para: Comes alongside. How does the Holy Spirit come alongside you according to Romans 8:15-16? Why does Keller say we need this so badly? Explain how you have experienced this.
In Romans 8:15, it says this, God has not given us a Spirit of fear, but he has given us the Spirit of his Son who comes into our hearts crying, Abba Father. The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.
There is a trial going on and I am losing. Your spirit condemns you of a wrong. But then the Spirit comes in and argues with you for you. You are loved; the Father is well pleased with you.
I have experienced this when my idol of approval rears its ugly head. The Spirit comes alongside me and reminds me that I only need to please one-God. He reminds me trying to please everybody is a losing endeavor. And yet, at times when I let the idol control me and when the enemy’s condemning voice threatens, the Holy Spirit reminds me that I am loved, and I can go to the Father and confess, and I have the promise of forgiveness and cleansing and an opportunity to start anew. I John 1:9
D. When we condemn ourselves, feeling we cannot be loved, what does the Spirit do according to 1 John 3:20?
“1 John 3:20 says, When our hearts condemn us, God is greater than our hearts. Well, how does God overcome the condemnation of our hearts? With the Holy Spirit. When our hearts condemn us, the Holy Spirit is greater than our hearts. The Holy Spirit brings us to the truth that we are God’s children and we are loved.”
E. Clete: Called, Summoned. This is the confronting part. Like you would call out an addict and remind him he is hurting himself by giving into temptation. What light does James 4:4-5 put on this?
When one is tempted by the world, the Spirit longs to bring you back to God and to say no to that temptation.
“Don’t you realize that friendship with the world is enmity with God?” “And that the Spirit of God within you longs intensely.”
F. What is key to having the Holy Spirit work more in your life according to Ephesians 6:17?
The Sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God. Letting the Bible speak to me.
C. Para: Comes alongside. How does the Holy Spirit come alongside you according to Romans 8:15-16?
Keller says that the Holy Spirit is bearing witness for us in a trial of our spirit. He is crying out for us that we are a child of God.
Why does Keller say we need this so badly? Explain how you have experienced this.
We condemn ourselves and the Holy Spirit comes to us and says, “No! You are a child of God!”You are loved! He is pleased with you!” The Holy Spirit fights for you, to you.
I think I feel like a failure with the raising of our children. I have had thoughts that I did the eat job I could, at the time. I’m not sure I have experienced the Holy Spirit swooping down to contradict me, but I have been given a second chance with the grands. Not sure I’m doing so well there either, but these guys know Jesus better than my kids did, so there is success in itself, I suppose.
D. When we condemn ourselves, feeling we cannot be loved, what does the Spirit do according to 1 John 3:20?
He supports us. God is greater than our feelings. He knows everything anyway.
E. Clete: Called, Summoned. This is the confronting part. Like you would call out an addict and remind him he is hurting himself by giving into temptation. What light does James 4:4-5 put on this?
The Holy Spirit has been placed within us to remind us to remain in Him and not the world.
F. What is key to having the Holy Spirit work more in your life according to Ephesians 6:17?
We need to know the Word.
“Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”
Ephesians 6:17 NLT
That’s a big success, Laura.
Raising children is not easy, in this time in history. It is a huge blessing for your grandchildren that you are raising them. I pray that they know what a gift they have in you. I could not survive one day as a mom, without the Lord’s guidance.
I know for me as a single Mom trying to raise two boys in the right way was hard. I felt I was not made for it, but now as they are grown, I see that my job was done with Jesus by my side, and they have turned out to be great men, fathers and one as a husband. I’m proud of both of them. The journey wasn’t easy, but we made it.
I love this example of how Jesus was by your side, Julie. He is our heavenly husband.
Should have said “ best job,” “not eat job.” Silly autocorrect
F riday: Why Can Jesus Do It?
7. Listen to the end.
A. What stands out and why?
—This comment by Keller. “Those perfect eyes of the judge of all the Earth who see through everything and see everything you’ve ever done and see every thought you’ve ever had. They see everything. When they see you, in Jesus Christ, they see nothing but a perfect beauty.”
It gives me a deep sense of worth and security to be so cleansed and perfected by Jesus and his sacrifice for me.
B. Why does Jesus have an infallible case?
—Well I realize now I read beyond yesterday’s assignment and I answered this in yesterday’s last question but I will reiterate what an incredibly wonderful truth this is that Jesus has an infallible case for my acquittal from being condemned to die for my own sins. His shed blood is the rock solid, in place and absolute gold standard of payment for my sin debt. He paid in full! Again it thrills my soul at the deepest level to remember it, consider it and accept it!!
C. What was his point about the words of the dying woman?
—She had no fear of dying based on her sad life on earth but her worth was in Jesus snd the incredible riches of his salvation. Beautiful!
D. Give thanks for both Advocates.
—God, my Father. I give you all praise and glory and my heart is so thankful for your wonderful and incredible gifts of Jesus your Son and the precious Holy Spirit. I thank you Jesus for the Cross and the immeasurable work of salvation that is mine because of You. I thank You Holy Spirit for the great comfort and help you bring to my daily life and for your work of bringing glory to God the Father through Jesus the Son. I praise You the Triune God!
Saturday:
8. What is your take-a-way and why?
—This week’s teaching served in great measure to reiterate and reaffirm the wonder of the Trinity. Of God as three distinct Persons and in particular the wonderful work of the Holy Spirit. It has served to deepen my love and appreciation for His place in my life as my Advocate.
A. What stands out and why? That Jesus is able to demand justice for believers at the judgement seat and not plead for mercy It just floods my spirit with gratitude how blessed I am with the plan God had
B. What does 2:1 tell us that Jesus does as our advocate? We have an Advocate who is Jesus Christ the Righteous One
C. Keller says there are two parts of this metaphor of justice. The first is that there is a Divine bar of justice. Why does he say that “not an easy sell today?” People do what seems right in their own eyes .
D. What evidence can you give that even if we try to get rid of this bar of justice it still haunts us? I can’t think of a specific but I know there were times walking without Jesus I knew something I did or said was wrong and left me unwashed
E. The second part is that we do have, if we are a Christian, an Advocate. How did Tim Keller misunderstand what He did, and how did Charles Hodge help him see the truth? Jesus daily pled for mercy for my sins, but because Jesus has already paid the price for my sin He goes to God demanding justice because it’s not necessary for another payment for my sin.
Interesting about the unwashed feeling before Jesus, Judy.
Judy, do you mean ‘unwashed’ as a kind of guilty feeling and not being able to be present with Jesus at that moment because of what was done?
Friday: Why Can Jesus Do It?
7. Listen to the end.
A. What stands out and why? – I loved the comment of the dying woman. How sad they all were thinking she had nothing at all. This is what the world has gotten to, that we have to have stuff to be happy. But she had it all, the most precious gift of all, her relationship with Jesus. She knew where she was going in the end, and it was so much better to her than her life on earth. It couldn’t compare. I hope those around her so the peace and love of Jesus through her and wanted what she had. This reminds me of when I was a single mom struggling to make it with two boys. A friend who knew what had happened, asked me how I could be so peaceful about my situation. I told him that anyone can have things, but those things can be taken in an instant so I didn’t rely on them, I relied on Jesus to provide what I needed. He always came through for me.
B. Why does Jesus have an infallible case? – Because he shed his blood for my debt, his blood was the wages needed to be forgiven. Every debt was already paid, there was nothing left, the balance was zero, so justice was needed, we were off the hook. There was no need for a payment from us to be made.
C. What was his point about the words of the dying woman? – She may have been poor in the eyes of the world since it is so materialistic, but in the eyes of Jesus she was the richest woman in the world. She had the best gift ever. His love and acceptance, a place reserved for her in heaven, next to him.
D. Give thanks for both Advocates. – Oh Lord, how my eyes have been opened to who you really are. You left us, but you did not leave us as orphans. Your partner, the second Advocate, stepped right in and took over in guiding and helping us. I appreciate you for going in front of the judge for me and by doing that you made me invisible to Him. He saw my sins on you and not on me any longer. I just can’t thank you enough for choosing me and for giving me more help until my last breath is out. Thank you, for your sacrifice, your love that is so unconditional. I pray I am bringing you glory as I walk this path I’m on. In your mighty name I pray. Amen.
Julie,
I love your prayer. 💕
I do too, Julie! Amen!
Amen to Dee and Bev, Julie.
Perfect song for this week. I love this artist:
https://open.spotify.com/track/3VHNtJNVPazkHGpeGgpoOd?si=3tTc2MKqRYelmiUoSs0M2Q&context=spotify%3Aartist%3A29ywwKkxfoH7iWwNY1UezA
Absolutely perfect. Thanks for sharing Laura.
6. Listen or read up to 33.42
A. What stands out and why?
Jesus intercedes for us in heaven. I love this imagery! He defends me to the Father!
Keller picked the verses in Hebrews about Jesus our advocate as his first sermon to the people when they opened Redeemer in NYC. I think it’s a strange thing to select, yet probably a very good choice really.
B. What does 2:1 tell us that Jesus does as our advocate?
In 1 John 2:1, we are told that we are to not sin. But, if we do sin then we have an advocate in Jesus Christ. He pleads our case to the Father
C. Keller says there are two parts of this metaphor of justice. The first is that there is a Divine bar of justice. Why does he say that “not an easy sell today?”
There is a judgment bar of the universe where we stand accountable. Today people don’t believe this, rather they believe that it is inside of themselves instead. We decide what is right or wrong.
D. What evidence can you give that even if we try to get rid of this bar of justice it still haunts us?
We all have this bar of justice inside of us even if we are non-believers. The guilt of sinning doesn’t go away, even in non-believers.
E. The second part is that we do have, if we are a Christian, an Advocate. How did Tim Keller misunderstand what He did, and how did Charles Hodge help him see the truth?
The court sees the defense attorney, not you. Our defense attorney is Jesus. How ever the court sees the defense atty, they see you. They see Him.
Jesus intercedes not with mercy but rather by asking the Father for justice for us. He defends us by saying that we are His children, and that He paid the price for us. That there shouldn’t be two payments for the same crime. This is good.
This was such a great reminder of how things are today, Laura! There is a judgment bar of the universe where we stand accountable. Today people don’t believe this, rather they believe that it is inside of themselves instead. We decide what is right or wrong.
Thursday: What Does The Advocate Jesus Do?
6. Listen or read up to 33.42
A. What stands out and why?
B. What does 2:1 tell us that Jesus does as our advocate?
Jesus is the righteous One who intercedes for us as the Father sits in the Judgment seat.
C. Keller says there are two parts of this metaphor of justice. The first is that there is a Divine bar of justice. Why does he say that “not an easy sell today?”
Because people don’t believe that there is a divine bar of justice outside of us. People now look for justice inside of them. We decide what is right and what is wrong. Guilt is just psychological and subjective.
D. What evidence can you give that even if we try to get rid of this bar of justice it still haunts us?
The conviction of the Holy Spirit. There is an innate desire in all of us for justice and no earthly judge has the perfect solution to all injustices. As I long for God, my heart is also tuned to His definition of true justice, and if I listen, then getting rid of this bar of justice will haunt me until it aligns with God’s.
E. The second part is that we do have, if we are a Christian, an Advocate. How did Tim Keller misunderstand what He did, and how did Charles Hodge help him see the truth?
Tim K used to believe that Jesus could be pleading for mercy on my behalf. But Charles Hodge clarified this for him by saying that Jesus stands in my place. There is only one payment for my sins and He has paid it for me. So, Jesus can “demand” my acquittal. This section made me cry and to a similar degree to Tim, I have a greater appreciation of the 2 Advocates, namely, Jesus and the Holy Spirit, whom I have since I am Christian. This gives me so much confidence as I go through the days of my life.
Thursday: What Does The Advocate Jesus Do?
6. Listen or read up to 33.42
A. What stands out and why?
B. What does 2:1 tell us that Jesus does as our advocate?
Jesus is the righteous One who intercedes for us as the Father sits in the Judgment seat.
C. Keller says there are two parts of this metaphor of justice. The first is that there is a Divine bar of justice. Why does he say that “not an easy sell today?”
Because people don’t believe that there is a divine bar of justice outside of us. People now look for justice inside of them. We decide what is right and what is wrong. Guilt is just psychological and subjective.
D. What evidence can you give that even if we try to get rid of this bar of justice it still haunts us?
The conviction of the Holy Spirit. There is an innate desire in all of us for justice and no earthly judge has the perfect solution to all injustices. As I long for God, my heart is also tuned to His definition of true justice, and if I listen, then getting rid of this bar of justice will haunt me until it aligns with God’s.
E. The second part is that we do have, if we are a Christian, an Advocate. How did Tim Keller misunderstand what He did, and how did Charles Hodge help him see the truth?
Tim K used to believe that Jesus could be pleading for mercy on my behalf. But Charles Hodge clarified this for him by saying that Jesus stands in my place. There is only one payment for my sins and He has paid it for me. So, Jesus can “demand” my acquittal. This section made me cry and to a similar degree to Tim, I have a greater appreciation of the 2 Advocates, namely, Jesus and the Holy Spirit, whom I have since I am Christian. This gives me so much confidence as I go through the days of my life.
Friday: Why Can Jesus Do It?
7. Listen to the end.
A. What stands out and why?
Tim Keller has a way of weaving the cohesiveness of Scripture from the OT to the NT. The verse Hebrews 12 that Jesus’ blood speaks greater than the blood of Abel was a light bulb moment for me.
It will be unjust to receive 2 payments for the same debt. Jesus said, “I am not asking for mercy, I am asking for justice.”
B. Why does Jesus have an infallible case?
He fulfilled the bar of justice by his blood on the cross.
C. What was his point about the words of the dying woman?
Physical death is nothing compared to her heavenly gifts. Death of 2 husbands (she has a heavenly husband); Earthly poverty (heavenly riches); death as punishment for her sins (eternal life in Jesus). “I will stand before the judgment seat bold as a lion!”
D. Give thanks for both Advocates.
Oh, God. I don’t deserve your mercy and grace and this greatest gift you left me to empower me to live a joyful and confident life here on earth. Thank you to Jesus, my first Advocate who loves me and gave Himself up to die on the cross for my sins. And even right now, He is at your right hand advocating for me. And not only that but He also left me with Himself through the Holy Spirit, my second Advocate. What a mystery the Triune God is and yet You continue to reveal yourselves as One in a personal way to me. Deep calls to deep. Spirit to spirit. I praise you, Triune God!
Saturday:
8. What is your take-a-way and why?
I have a greater awareness of how much the Triune God loves me. That they are always with me and for me. I love you, Lord!
Psalm 139:1-12
“You have searched me, Lord, and you know me.You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely.
You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me.Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.
Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,” even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day,for darkness is as light to you.”
You are such a good student, Bing!
Saturday:
8. What is your take-a-way and why? – This has been a great study. So much hope has been revealed for those of us who believe in the Trinity. They are one but separate. They each have a function and a part to play in my life. The Advocates I’ve been given, oh my, what a blessing they are and one that I certainly don’t deserve, but because of their love I have.