Last weekend we celebrated 50 Years of Discipleship Unlimited, a ministry that the Lord has used powerfully to set thousands of captives free, to overcome their world of drugs, abuse, and crime. Linda Strom, who founded this ministry with her husband Dallas, is a woman who has overcome the world. She models the 2 secrets Tim Keller gives in his message on overcoming the world.
Linda (in blue) blessing residents of a prison “faith dorm” during communion.
Tim Keller’s first point is that to overcome the world we must truly believe Jesus claims and promises.
Story after story was told this week of Linda’s faith. She often reminds me: “God will take care of this.”
Long ago, when her own teenage son was addicted to drugs, she was afraid he would die or accidentally kill someone, and wanted to “fix” him. But the Lord impressed on her heart to surrender Terry to Him, and to trust Him. She tells women in prison who are anxious about their children outside in the world to do the same because:
The truth is, we can’t fix them! Only the Great Physician can do that kind of heart surgery, and we need to let go, watch His skill, and believe His promise.
The Great Physician did “heart surgery” on her son. For decades he has been an amazing worship leader in Discipleship Unlimited, and a loving shepherd to the women in prison.
Tim Keller’s second point is to dare to step out on faith, believing Jesus’ claims. At the 50th Celebration, I shared a few “Linda” quotes:
When she first met a man in prison who was radiant with Christ despite being chained, both his hands and his feet, Linda turned to her husband and said:
Let’s sell everything, move here, and dedicate our lives to helping prisoners find Christ.
And that is what they did. After they’d sold their house and the moving van was packed, her husband was diagnosed with terminal cancer. But instead of staying with their support system in Milwaukee, they went. Once I asked Linda the secret of her life and her ministry — for both explode with power, she said:
When I let go of my agenda and follow Him, whenever and wherever, that’s the adventure of a lifetime.
Sermon Link (Click on “Overcoming the World”) and Transcript
https://gospelinlife.com/sermon/overcoming-the-world/
Overcoming the World Transcript
I find the transcript helpful, but I hope you still watch or listen to Keller, for he is so gifted as an orator at getting to our hearts.
Sunday:
1. What stands out from Linda’s model and why?
2. How have you experienced God’s kindness or power this week? (Give thanks!)
Monday: The Text (John 16:28-33)
3. Read the text and share what stands out initially and why.
4. Take the following four statements Jesus makes about Himself and chew on them until you can come up with 1 or 2 things, for each statement. (Use several translations and ask the Spirit to illumine you. Don’t go to commentaries yet.)
- I came from the Father
- I have come into the world
- I am leaving the world
- and going to the Father
5. How do the disciples respond and what question does Jesus ask? (vs. 28-31)
6. What does he tell them is about to happen in verse 32?
7. How does verse 33 seem paradoxical? How will this be a true test of faith?
Tuesday: I Came From the Father and Have Come Into The World
Listen/read until he moves into “I am leaving the world” at the end of page 2/
3. What are some things Keller says we learn about Jesus from His statement “I come from the Father?”
4. What did you learn from Alexander McClaren?
6. Did anything else stand out for which you are thankful? If so, what and why?
Wednesday: I Am Leaving the World and Going to the Father
Listen/read until he moves into paraphrasing the disciples with: “Wow! Now we can start to see things.” (Bottom of page 4.)
7. What does Keller teach about Jesus’ statement of “I’m leaving the world.” What makes you thankful about this?
8. What did you learn about how Jesus sees you and how this makes Him such a powerful advocate for you?
9. Why isn’t it helpful simply to be told to love others? What do we need and why?
10. Share a few ways that God has turned your heart of stone into a heart of flesh and thank Him for it.
Thursday: Do You Now Believe? For the Hour is Coming!
Listen or Read up to When He says “Take heart” (top of page 6)
11. Jesus is saying “If you really believed my doctrine you wouldn’t be afraid of the world.” Where are fearful of the world and how could you speak doctrine to your heart?
12. The more you lean on Jesus, the more you lean on Jesus. Can you see this happening in your life? If so, give an illustration and give thanks.
13. What else stands out from this part and why?
Friday: You Must Take Heart Now
Read or Listen to the End.
14. Describe what ritual boasting was.
We, however, are to boast in what Christ did for us. Keller puts it like this:
‘I’m going to dare to rest my identity in what Jesus Christ has done for me knowing that the father sees me as a beauty … The father sees me and loves me.’
15. As you face whatever you must today and the near future, take the above thought and “boast in it” to help you overcome any fears.
16. Look at the last verse of “It is Well With My Soul” and explain how Horatio Spafford “overcame the world.”
And Lord haste the day when my faith shall be sightThe clouds be rolled back as a scrollThe trumpet shall sound and the Lord shall descendEven so, it is well with my soul
17. What else stands out from this part and why?
Saturday:
18. What is your take-a-way and why?
96 comments
Sunday:
1. What stands out from Linda’s model and why?
“When I let go of my agenda and follow Him, whenever and wherever, that’s the adventure of a lifetime.”
Oh, how hard it is to let go of my agenda! But wouldn’t I want to be on an adventure with the God of the universe? I could almost hear myself saying, “Whee!!!!” Let go, Bing!
Thank you, Dee, for sharing this. It is a big source of encouragement—more than I can ever express. Linda is radiant as she serves the women.
2. How have you experienced God’s kindness or power this week? (Give thanks!)
Thank you, Lord, for showing me how much you love me, so I do not have to look at people or my circumstance to feel approved of. You have shown me your kindness in reining in my bad attitude and reminding me of the Cross. And to count my blessings too many and undeserved.
Bing — thanks! I wish I had practiced Linda’s wisdom decades ago, but still grateful for when I did get it!
Wheee — let go Bing! 🙂
Sunday:
1. What stands out from Linda’s model and why? – When I read about Linda’s son addicted to drug and how worried she was for him or for others, she gave him over to the Lord. This reminded me of the same thing with my older son Kyle. He wasn’t addicted to drugs, but he was walking with the wrong crowd for sure and my worry was that he would end up dead because of messing with someone who was messed up worse than him. I gave him over to the Lord and when he said he was joining the Army at 17, almost 18, I signed the form and let him go. I was still worried for him, but my thought was if something did happen to him, he was at least doing something good with his life fighting for our country and not killed for taking the wrong path. He has grown into a wonderful, 34-year-old single dad who loves his son and is a very hard-working young man. Thank you, Jesus, for your hedge of protection around Kyle, while he was down the wrong road and brought back a caring son to his mom.
2. How have you experienced God’s kindness or power this week? (Give thanks!) – I’m on the Benevolence team at our church and this week we had a young girl come to us with a request for gas money and a small amount for food so her and her mom could get to Ohio to see her grandma who was not expected to live much longer. She only asked for $250 but our team, who cares and love each person that comes to us, was gracious to also give them money for a two-night stay in a hotel after I found out they were going to sleep in their car while in Ohio. Our church is not a big church in number, but the love and generosity that comes from our church is huge. Thank you, Lord, for giving me the opportunity to work with these great and caring Ladies. What a blessing it is to see the love of Jesus in all of them.
What a blessing your church is to others, Julie.
What a blessing to hear about you and the ladies showing love in action, Julie!
LOve both the story of Kyle and the young girl.
Thank you for sharing these great blessings, Julie. God is so good! I need to be better at letting go! So grateful for God’s protection of Kyle.
1. What stands out from Linda’s model and why? Not only does she completely allow God to lead her wherever He wills, but she’s so close to Him that she knows what His will is. Most people would have taken her husband’s diagnosis as a sign that they shouldn’t move and start a new ministry.
2. How have you experienced God’s kindness or power this week? (Give thanks!) I have been thankful all week. Last week’s study on joy really kept me focused on the fact that despite anything that is going on in my life, I have that fruit of the Spirit, because of the Spirit, not because of me or my circumstances.
I also found it very “coincidental” that a documentary that I was watching about an attempted murder case featured a man who had spent 16 years in prison for it even though he was innocent (he was the victim’s abusive husband) and during his entire interview he never stopped thanking God that he went to prison, because it was there that he got saved and he knew that he was where God wanted him to be and he would be released when and if God wanted him to be. I’m sure that there are thousands of people who are glad for their time in prison, because it’s there that God opened their eyes.
Oh, wow, Dawn! Surely, that is one grateful man! 16 years would embitter somebody else! Two movies came to mind: Les Miserables and Count of Monte Cristo. Thanks for sharing. Such an encouragement!
I have a penpal who is in prison and he has a very similar experience as he got saved while in prison. 25 years! and now has less than 5 years to go. His testimony makes me cry. God is merciful!
So much injustice, for sure. Have you read Just Mercy or seen the movie, Dawn?
I have not. I’ll have to look into it.
What an amazing and encouraging story of this man, Dawn. How I pray that I will not limit how I see our God!! HE IS ALMIGHTY! This story gave me good chills.
1. What stands out from Linda’s model and why? “God will take care of this.” Her bravery despite challenging and frightening circumstances to turn everything over to God. Her immediate response to trust Him with everything. I need more of that faith and trust
2. How have you experienced God’s kindness or power this week? (Give thanks!). I try not to drive much after dark and avoid the expressway. . Friday I picked 2 grands up from school. They wanted to do some shopping. As we were getting back in car they wanted chick filet for dinner. The restaurant is off an expressway. I got on the expressway planning to turn as soon as I could and take a back way. They changed the intersection and I missed the turn meaning I had to go farther on expressway to make a left turn. I got into the turn lane and then there was an accident blocking the lane I was in and the one beside it. So I had to get over 2 lanes in busy 60 mph 5:00 traffic. The Lord was gracious and kept us safe and gave me a kind driver who let me get over after a few passed by and didn’t. We got to their house safely with dinner. Thank You Father for keeping us safe and keeping me from being stressed. You definitely watched over us. You are so good to me.
Judy, I agree with you totally about Linda’s immediate response to God’s care. How I long to be that way as well! Thank you, God for protecting Judy and her grandkids and for providing that kind driver.
I identify and love hearing of the Lord’s protection while driving in the dark!
Praise God for keeping you in His care, Judy! So thankful that He kept you safe! (I am so uncomfortable driving at night.) So grateful that we have such an amazing Shepherd.
Week 3 of Giving Thanks (Overcoming the World)
Sunday:
1. What stands out from Linda’s model and why?
Her living out Keller’s first point which is
“…to overcome the world we must truly believe Jesus claims and promises”.
And her demonstrating that in her life with the philosophy of faith she has which says “When I let go of my agenda and follow Him, whenever and wherever, that’s the adventure of a lifetime.”
The Lindas of God’s Kingdom serve to point us to and encourage us in our own walk with God.
2. How have you experienced God’s kindness or power this week? (Give thanks!)
—I struggle with some comparatively small physical issues common to my age. Some days I feel weary but for Jesus. His Word always serves to encourage my heart and any endurance I have comes from Him.
I thank Him for his constant presence and guidance in the mundane days of life. I am grateful for how He regularly refreshes my soul.
Oh Bev, I so agree…” Some days I feel weary but for Jesus.” A good reminder for me and you are in my prayers.
Monday: The Text (John 16:28-33)
3. Read the text and share what stands out initially and why.
—In verse 33 Jesus says “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. ….” Our peace is found only in Jesus. He is the one and only source of true and real peace.
4. Take the following four statements Jesus makes about Himself and chew on them until you can come up with 1 or 2 things, for each statement. (Use several translations and ask the Spirit to illumine you. Don’t go to commentaries yet.)
I came from the Father / Jesus speaks to his relationship with God as his father and he is God’s son.
I have come into the world / He left Heaven that was his home. / He came to a foreign place to dwell.
I am leaving the world / He was leaving this foreign place and returning to His original home. / He would no longer be subject to the boundaries and confines of this world.
and going to the Father / He was returning to His original place in Heaven (his home) and being reunited with his Father.
5. How do the disciples respond and what question does Jesus ask? (vs. 28-31)
—The disciples thought they understood his coming and going and felt Jesus had simplified what he was saying so that it made sense to them. They thought it was a simple matter of Jesus came from God and was going back to God so they could believe that. But Jesus says “Do you finally believe?” In other words he questions them as to whether what he said really settles it as they thought. Then goes on to tell them what is going to happen in the immediate future.
6. What does he tell them is about to happen in verse 32?
—He tells them they will be scattered (separated) each one going back to their own place or home and leaving Him alone. But the Father is always with Jesus so in reality he won’t be alone.
7. How does verse 33 seem paradoxical? How will this be a true test of faith?
—How can peace and tribulation coexist? Because Jesus Who is the source of peace came into this world of tribulation and trial and by his taking on the sin of the world in his flesh and dying on the Cross. He made peace with God for us. That is how he overcame the world. And we can have true peace in the midst of the tribulation of this world. As I said before our peace is found only in Jesus. He is the one and only source of true and real peace. He is our Peace!
I think as we live out this truth a key part is knowing that because of Jesus the day is soon coming that we (all who believe in Jesus for our salvation) will also leave this world and go to our Heavenly Father in Heaven.
Sunday:
1. What stands out from Linda’s model and why?
In reading her story the old hymn Trust and Obey kept coming to mind…”Trust and Obey, for there’s no other way, to be happy in Jesus, but to Trust and Obey.” I admire her faith and the courage to act upon it and can only imagine the joy of seeing lives changed. It would be easy to compare my life to hers and be discouraged but we have an awesome God who uses us in so many different ways to accomplish His purpose…we just have to Trust and Obey.
2. How have you experienced God’s kindness or power this week? (Give thanks!)
I give thanks for the time, although short, that we got to spend with our son and daughter… seeing them helps know how to pray and just put them in His hands.
Sharon, “Trust and Obey” is one of my favorite hymns. We sang it at our wedding 36 years ago. I have listed it as one of the songs for my funeral.
Bing, I feel that you and I had a lot of the same bringing up, a beautiful inheritance we were given. Such a wonderful song to be sung at a wedding and now you’ve chosen it for your funeral…that is special. We had All The Way My Savior Leads Me sung at our wedding and I too am thinking of it for my funeral.
Oh, Sharon! This is such a good reminder. It is about our trust and obedience, as we pray for our children. This hymn always speaks to my heart!
How true that being with kids shows us how to pray.
Sharon,
Thanks for the reminder of such a sweet and meaningful old hymn. I went to YouTube and found a beautiful piano arrangement with the lyrics on the screen. The words spoke deeply to my heart this morning. In my Bible reading today God gave me this verse to ponder and then listening to “Trust and Obey” I was greatly encouraged.
”The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.”
Psalm 28:7 ESV
3. What are some things Keller says we learn about Jesus from His statement “I come from the Father?” Jesus wasn’t a regular human being. He wasn’t born, He pre-existed, a divine person , incarnate.
4. What did you learn from Alexander McClaren? Jesus is making it clear that long before He lay on Mary’s breast, He dwelt in the bosom of the Father. If we can’t believe what Jesus said then we know nothing about Him. The meekest man repeatedly made the claim. It’s all or nothing you either believe the claim He often made or not. You can’t take Jesus as nice person or teacher of love and have His peace You must believe He was who He said He was.
6. Did anything else stand out for which you are thankful? If so, what and why? I liked how Keller said vs 28 sums up everything, who Jesus is, why He came and what He accomplished. I like description because I find parts of these chapters of John difficult to understand. I also like his reference to Dorothy Sayers creating a character she fell in love with and then wrote herself into the story and saves him. Thats what Jesus has done for me. He created me, saw my mess then entered my story and saved me. That’s an easy description to show Christ’s love for us.
Monday: The Text (John 16:28-33)
1. Read the text and share what stands out initially and why.
I was not sure if the disciples understood what Jesus said in verse 28 although they said He was speaking more clearly. Did they understand that He came from the Father and going back to Him?
4. Take the following four statements Jesus makes about Himself and chew on them until you can come up with 1 or 2 things, for each statement. (Use several translations and ask the Spirit to illumine you. Don’t go to commentaries yet.)
I came from the Father
He came on His own accord. The Father sent Him willingly.
I have come into the world
He came from a different place.
I am leaving the world
His physical presence in the world is temporary
and going to the Father
He is going back to where He came from
2. How do the disciples respond and what question does Jesus ask? (vs. 28-31)
They stated they believed that Jesus came from God. He asked them if they did indeed believe.
3. What does he tell them is about to happen in verse 32?
The hour will come when they will scatter and go back to their own home and He will be alone although the Father will be with Him.
4. How does verse 33 seem paradoxical? How will this be a true test of faith?
The disciples will scatter and will have trouble while in this world. Despite this, if they are in Jesus, they will experience His peace. They will understand that despite their troubles, they can put their faith in Him because He has overcome the world. Rabbit trailing here.
Looking forward to Tim Keller’s insight into this passage.
4. Take the following four statements Jesus makes about Himself and chew on them until you can come up with 1 or 2 things, for each statement. (Use several translations and ask the Spirit to illumine you. Don’t go to commentaries yet.)
I came from the Father. He is saying He is the Son of God.
I have come into the world. Jesus doesn’t say He was born
I am leaving the world
and going to the Father He is returning to heaven.
5. How do the disciples respond and what question does Jesus ask? (vs. 28-31) now Jesus is speaking plainly. We know You know all things and believe You came from God. Jesus asked if they now believed.
6. What does he tell them is about to happen in verse 32? They will scatter to their homes but He won’t be alone because the Father is with Him.
7. How does verse 33 seem paradoxical? How will this be a true test of faith? Having tribulation and trials doesn’t seem like it goes with peace. If we have peace we are putting our future and trust in God and not on our circumstances. Jesus becomes our main focus and the circumstances are in the background instead of circumstances in forefront and Jesus in the peripheral.
From Judy on how to have true peace – our focus!
Jesus becomes our main focus and the circumstances are in the background instead of circumstances in forefront and Jesus in the peripheral.
Wow! Amen!!
1. What stands out from Linda’s model and why?
It’s scary; to let all your guard down and trust is hard. They sold everything. Your son, daughter, etc. Tough stuff. If I knew then what I know now, I may have done life differently for sure. I am in this situation with the grands and doing my best to trust that God is “on it,” and whatever will be will be His doing.
2. How have you experienced God’s kindness or power this week? (Give thanks!)
A couple of people have reached out and made me feel like they care about me. This doesn’t happen often and I appreciate the sentiment. Not trying to have a pity party. I just don’t have much time for friendships; we are all so busy. Thank You Lord, for those who concern themselves with others. It is a special feeling and an extension of Your love for us. Amen.
3. Read the text and share what stands out initially and why.
I think it’s weird that they now “…understand you know everything and believe you came from God.” After seeing all the things they saw with their own eyes, they just now, at the end, believe? Water to wine, healing eyes, and Lazarus raised? It took Him saying He would go back to God, for them to believe?
4. Take the following four statements Jesus makes about Himself and chew on them until you can come up with 1 or 2 things, for each statement. (Use several translations and ask the Spirit to illumine you. Don’t go to commentaries yet.)
I came from the Father
I came forth, through the Father.
I have come into the world
I entered the world through the Father.
I am leaving the world
Again, the Father has the control.
and going to the Father
Through the Father.
5. How do the disciples respond and what question does Jesus ask? (vs. 28-31)
They seem to get that Jesus was sent by God.
6. What does he tell them is about to happen in verse 32?
They will be scattered and He will not be alone because He has the Father with Him. They will have the Spirit.
7. How does verse 33 seem paradoxical? How will this be a true test of faith?
They will have sorrow but also peace with Him. They will need to believe in the worst of times.
Laura, That is insightful and beautiful how you tied each aspect of those 4 statements back to God the Father.
I love that people have reached out to you, Laura. We so need each other in this world. It is so important to know the stories of each other. I agree with Bev, I love your entire post, weaving these statements back to the Father.
Tuesday: I Came From the Father and Have Come Into The World
3. What are some things Keller says we learn about Jesus from His statement “I come from the Father?”
—Before coming into the world Jesus was a divine being sharing divine glory with God his Father. He came down to the world as a human being. Saying I came from the Father He is making the claim that He is God.
4. What did you learn from Alexander McClaren?
—With Jesus and his claim of being God it is all or nothing. Either he was deity as he claimed or he is not worth listening to.
6. Did anything else stand out for which you are thankful? If so, what and why?
—It was interesting to me that Keller explains that Jesus is saying, ‘if you want my peace, you have to believe these things.’ And one of these things is His claim to be God. So the importance of believing this doctrine is tied to my peace. That thought of “unless you accept this claim you can’t have my peace” is crucial to my relationship with Jesus. Apart from believing Jesus is Who he says he is I will not have peace of heart and mind. I am so very thankful to know and believe Him and be able to have his peace.
I love how Keller says true doctrine leads to peace.
Amen, Bev! Apart from believing Jesus is Who he says he is I will not have peace of heart and mind. I am so very thankful to know and believe Him and be able to have his peace.
1. What stands out from Linda’s model and why?
Linda’s faith and her acting on her faith! This lesson took my breath away and is teaching me how I truly need to LET GO and listen to His still small voice….and TRUST and OBEY. (Thank you for that hymn reminder, Sharon!)
2. How have you experienced God’s kindness or power this week? (Give thanks!)
The hymn that comes to my mind is: “I Need Thee Every Hour”. I have felt this so so deeply for the past 5 years! I feel that God is transforming my soul. I feel a peace that I cannot explain. When I am lonely, HE fills me with His peace. I cannot even believe that I moved here, though it is what Ronny wanted me to do. I am so thankful for all that the Lord has done to get me here, in this neighborhood and in this home. My neighbors are lovely and now that I am here in person, I see how the Lord selected this particular neighborhood for me, over all the others where I had looked at homes. All of my house hunting was done on Face time walk throughs with my kids and my wonderful realtor. It is all a huge miracle. Thank you Lord. I do not know what you have in mind for me here, but I love the people I have met. I especially enjoy a sweet friend of Darcy’s who is going through huge drama. Another couple, who is so loving and delightful, says they are atheists, yet they love talking about Jesus! Praise God! Please Lord, lead me and give me courage. Most of all, help me to show Your love in all I do or say. You are my Good Shepherd.
Oh what a good report. I didn’t know Ronny wanted you to move there — and wonderful about your neighbors!!!
Patti, it is so good to see you back here and how God has gone before you in the small and big details! I love the hymn, I Need Thee Every Hour and how it has been a balm to your soul…thank You Jesus for Your loving arms around Patti!
Thank you, Sharon.
I’m glad you are back online also and thankful you had the faith and strength to make the decision to relocate and every thing is going well. Prayers you continue to have wisdom and support for Darcy’s friend and that your life of love for Jesus continues to affect your atheist neighbors. You will bloom where you are planted bearing fruit for His glory.
I pray for your conversations with your atheist acquaintances. Atheists who like to talk about Jesus are rare.
WOW Patti, your neighbors all sound wonderful, and what a blessing you will be to them. Atheists who love to talk about Jesus, that is definitely a God placement.
Thank you all for your encouragement! I have missed you all so much. I am still overwhelmed with settling in, but I am reading all of your answers to the lesson!
Monday: The Text (John 16:28-33)
3. Read the text and share what stands out initially and why.
Through times recently of feeling that my peace has been robbed, it is a good reminder that my peace is in Jesus Christ and that’s where I need to focus, I can take heart for He has overcome the world.
4. Take the following four statements Jesus makes about Himself and chew on them until you can come up with 1 or 2 things, for each statement. (Use several translations and ask the Spirit to illumine you. Don’t go to commentaries yet.)
I came from the Father
His testimony is true as He knows where He came from. (John 8:14)
Jesus knew that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God. (John 13:3)
I have come into the world
He left the Father to come into the world.
I am leaving the world
He will be going back to His home in heaven.
and going to the Father
Heaven is where His Father is.
5. How do the disciples respond and what question does Jesus ask? (vs. 28-31)
”Ah, now You are speaking plainly and not using figurative speech! You know all things and we don’t need to question You; this is why we believe that You came from God.”
“Do you now believe?”
6. What does he tell them is about to happen in verse 32?
That they will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave Him alone. Yet, He won’t be alone for the Father is with Him.
7. How does verse 33 seem paradoxical? How will this be a true test of faith?
In Him they’ll have peace but in the world they’ll have tribulations.
The true test is how they handle the tribulations, where will their focus be and will they still believe?
Wednesday: I Am Leaving the World and Going to the Father
Listen/read until he moves into paraphrasing the disciples with: “Wow! Now we can start to see things.” (Bottom of page 4.)
7. What does Keller teach about Jesus’ statement of “I’m leaving the world.” What makes you thankful about this?
—He makes the point that Jesus’s leaving the world was by his very own choice. He was very much in control of his life and the decision to leave the world and go back to his Father in Heaven.
—I’m thankful because in His decision to lay down his life he demonstrated his deep and perfect love for me and as a result I found and have new life because he gave his own. He knew it was the only way to save us and he did it freely out of his love.
8. What did you learn about how Jesus sees you and how this makes Him such a powerful advocate for you?
—There is such richness in this truth that God the Father doesn’t just give me a pass for my sins and flaws but it goes much deeper. I am actively loved by God because of Jesus who is at the right hand of God. God’s love for me is reflected through Jesus who loved me and died for me and takes away my sin. I come to God cleansed because of Jesus and the love He has for his Son is poured out on me. A teacher I have listened to says when God stops loving Jesus then He will stop loving me and that just isn’t possible. I think I fail way too often to remember and realize how deeply I am loved by my God and Savior.
9. Why isn’t it helpful simply to be told to love others? What do we need and why?
—Telling us what we already know won’t change us. We have to have a heart change and that only comes through Jesus. He is the One who has overcome the world and brings us his peace and joy and enables us to love others with his kind of love.
10. Share a few ways that God has turned your heart of stone into a heart of flesh and thank Him for it.
—I have struggled sometimes long and certainly more often than I wish to admit in loving individuals who have hurt me, lied about me or just treated me badly in some way. Or I have taken offense toward someone who has hurt or injured someone close to me. Interestingly because I have lived in the place where I grew up and have lived here most of my life I have watched God bring several of those people back into my life in some way and in some measure. And in doing so He has given me the opportunity to demonstrate grace to them. I could not have arranged it because often the circumstances are unlikely and but for God he softened my heart towards them. It certainly wasn’t natural for me to do it. But I am so grateful to Him for changing my heart as needed.
I love this testimony, Bev — how He softens and changes our hearts!
Bev, I love your testimony. I have those types of people in my life too and reaching out in grace is only possible through the love of Jesus Christ flowing through me. I still ache at times when I take the initiative to reach out but are never have it returned. BUT…when I focus my eyes on Jesus, the ache serves a function to remind me of his unconditional love for me so I can love in return. Only God can create a soft heart in me.
Such a great testimony to God softening your heart, Bev. Thank you for sharing so openly and honestly.
3. What are some things Keller says we learn about Jesus from His statement “I come from the Father?”
He was here before the world existed. He shared the divine glory with the Father.
4. What did you learn from Alexander McClaren?
Jesus has always been with the Father. You either accept that or you don’t. If you do accept Him and don’t believe this then you really don’t accept Him. If you do accept him then you will have peace.
6. Did anything else stand out for which you are thankful? If so, what and why?
I used to love the Lord Peter Wimsy series that Dorothy L Sayer wrote! I also love, love, love this idea of God writing Himself into our story! So cool. Makes me feel so special 😇.
Laura, I need to look up Dorothy’s books! Yes, I so agree: I also love, love, love this idea of God writing Himself into our story!
3. What are some things Keller says we learn about Jesus from His statement “I come from the Father?” (I’m not sure where the numbers come from for these 3 questions. Monday ends at 7 and Wednesday starts at 7 🙂 ) That He existed before He came to the earth, He’s incarnate. That He is God.
4. What did you learn from Alexander McClaren? The simple truth that it is all or nothing. Either Jesus is who He repeatedly said that He is (God incarnate) or He is nothing more than another person who we don’t need to pay attention to.
6. Did anything else stand out for which you are thankful? If so, what and why? I’m thankful that I am able to have peace even in a world full of tribulation.
Sorry about the numbers!
Dawn,
You amaze me with your attention to detail and remind me how much I need people like you in my life. I am not detail oriented and often wish I had more ability that way. 😊
Tuesday: I Came From the Father and Have Come Into The World
Listen/read until he moves into “I am leaving the world” at the end of page 2/
3. What are some things Keller says we learn about Jesus from His statement “I come from the Father?”
He existed before, not just born. He came into the world through the incarnation and is a divine being but He is human.
4. What did you learn from Alexander McClaren?
We have a choice to either believe that Jesus “dwelt in the bosom of the Father, long before He lay on the breasts of Mary,” or not believe it at all…it’s one or the other. Many years ago in a discussion with my sister, who is Buddhist she said that Jesus was “just a prophet, a good person” that’s it! My response was no, “He is the Son of God and that is the truth!” What McLaren said and having the understanding I have today would of been very helpful…”Jesus claimed that He came from the Father so often that He is who He said He is, or you shouldn’t have anything to do with Him.”
6. Did anything else stand out for which you are thankful? If so, what and why?
Like Laura, I love the illustration of Him writing Himself into our world to save us. That’s how much He loves us…WOW!
The McLaren quote reminds me of Lewis Liar, Lunatic, or Lord quote
Dee, thanks for this reminder of the Lewis quote.
Thursday: Do You Now Believe? For the Hour is Coming!
Listen or Read up to When He says “Take heart” (top of page 6)
11. Jesus is saying “If you really believed my doctrine you wouldn’t be afraid of the world.” Where are fearful of the world and how could you speak doctrine to your heart?
—If it weren’t for my knowledge that God is sovereign and almighty and the truth that Jesus is King of Kings and Lord of Lords I would live in fear of all the warmongering that is taking place right now in the world. I believe currently that the world is close to moving beyond rhetoric and posturing into making threats that are going to become serious action. It is a very fearful thing we are currently hearing and observing. But for God! As a believer who belongs to God his Word is clear to me as to Who he is and the power he has over this world. I find comfort and peace in Him. I find great hope in Biblical prophecy and believe we are in the end times and that Jesus is coming soon.
“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.”
Titus 2:11-14 ESV
“He (Jesus) who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.”
Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!”
Revelation 22:20 ESV
12. The more you lean on Jesus, the more you lean on Jesus. Can you see this happening in your life? If so, give an illustration and give thanks.
—Because I came to Jesus as a young girl I have tried to live my life in a personal relationship with him and have many times over the years had to lean on him through my life’s events. Now that I am old and advancing in years I find I feel like Peter. “Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life,”
John 6:68 ESV
I go to Him. I have learned that “…He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him.” Psalm 91:2 NLT
—I thank God for his precious Word that strengthens me and encourages me in hard times. I thank Him for being absolutely faithful to me as I have trusted him in the past and can trust Him for the future.
13. What else stands out from this part and why?
—It is just simply true as Keller pointed out that we grow more as the result of trouble in our lives than when things are going just fine.
I need to go dig out my copy of “Knowing God” by Packer and reread what Keller suggests. It has been a few years since I read it and I have a feeling since I have a few more years of trouble under my belt I will appreciate what is being taught there more deeply.
I agree with you about the world. Wondering if Putin really will strike now. But we are in His hands. I loved your very last sentence, Bev.
We do live in a very interesting time, Bev! I just unpacked “Knowing God” !! I will re-read it too!
Wednesday: I Am Leaving the World and Going to the Father
Listen/read until he moves into paraphrasing the disciples with: “Wow! Now we can start to see things.” (Bottom of page 4.)
7. What does Keller teach about Jesus’ statement of “I’m leaving the world.” What makes you thankful about this?
Jesus is actually saying “I’m going to the cross.” He chose to go to the cross, it’s voluntary.
Thank You Jesus for obediently choosing to sacrifice Your life so that I might have eternal life.
8. What did you learn about how Jesus sees you and how this makes Him such a powerful advocate for you?
Jesus being my advocate “gets across the idea that even though I’m unacceptable to God, because of my sins and flaws, unacceptable to a holy and just God, in Jesus Christ, HE ONLY SEES JESUS WHEN HE SEES ME!”
9. Why isn’t it helpful simply to be told to love others? What do we need and why?
Because we can’t. We need Jesus who is the only one who can save us and give us a new heart.
10. Share a few ways that God has turned your heart of stone into a heart of flesh and thank Him for it.
1. He softens my heart by revealing my lack of compassion and grace towards others.
2. He softens my heart by revealing the importance of praying for those that are hard to love, I distrust or feel are manipulative.
3. He softens my heart by revealing through His Word areas of sin in my life, which really sum up the first 2 listed.
Thank You Jesus for not giving up on me and chipping away the ice that forms on my heart each day, for placing in my heart a desire to be in Your Word that is sharper than any double-edged sword, judging the thoughts and attitudes of my heart and that because of Jesus, my advocate, I can approach Your throne and know I am loved, accepted and heard.
Love this from Sharon:
1. He softens my heart by revealing my lack of compassion and grace towards others.
2. He softens my heart by revealing the importance of praying for those that are hard to love, I distrust or feel are manipulative.
3. He softens my heart by revealing through His Word areas of sin in my life, which really sum up the first 2 listed.
I need to print this off and put it on my refrigerator!
Yes to you comment; “Thank You Jesus for not giving up on me and chipping away the ice that forms on my heart each day, for placing in my heart a desire to be in Your Word that is sharper than any double-edged sword, judging the thoughts and attitudes of my heart and that because of Jesus, my advocate, I can approach Your throne and know I am loved, accepted and heard.”:
Tuesday: I Came From the Father and Have Come Into The World
Listen/read until he moves into “I am leaving the world” at the end of page 2/
3. What are some things Keller says we learn about Jesus from His statement “I come from the Father?”
He pre-existed as a divine being. He claims to be God.
4. What did you learn from Alexander McClaren?
It’s all or nothing. Either you believe that Jesus is divine, one with the Father or you don’t. I also love this: “Jesus expressed His “tremendous claim to have dwelt in the bosom of the Father, long before He lay on the breasts of Mary.” Oh, what love that He would condescend so that He can rescue us!
6. Did anything else stand out for which you are thankful? If so, what and why?
“…there is no peace without doctrine. But then, secondly, there is no peace unless you do something with the doctrine.” My peace is based on God’s truth (doctrine) and no one or nothing can take it away from me. I need to have a solid doctrine of who God is for me to experience His peace that passes all understanding.
Wednesday: I Am Leaving the World and Going to the Father
Listen/read until he moves into paraphrasing the disciples with: “Wow! Now we can start to see things.” (Bottom of page 4.)
1. What does Keller teach about Jesus’ statement of “I’m leaving the world.” What makes you thankful about this?
Wow! I did not think of this: “I am leaving the world.” He is doing it on his own accord, not that somebody is going to take Him out! He is doing it willingly and voluntarily.
Thank you, Lord, for coming down to earth willingly for me. I don’t deserve it but you love me so much that you went to the cross for me.
2. What did you learn about how Jesus sees you and how this makes Him such a powerful advocate for you?
I love the Dorothy Sayers’ comparison. I don’t think I have read any of her books. He knows me through and through and can express my deepest needs to the Father better than I could ever do. And because He is seated at the right hand of the Father, God the Father sees Him in my place with all my flaws and sins.
Another wow here! What does He(Jesus) look like to the Father? He must look like an absolute moral beauty! And the Bible says, when you believe in Him, that’s what you look like, because God sees you in Him.
Tim K again, at his best: . The internet, the anonymity of the Internet, has actually shown us we are more wicked than we ever dared think. Because it takes away the kind of guardrails, and takes away the shame, that sort of thing that makes you kind of keep it inside. He makes the Word pop even for somebody as simple-minded as me.
3. Why isn’t it helpful simply to be told to love others? What do we need and why?
Because we know we should love one another but we don’t. what we need is a Savior and a new heart, Only believing the right doctrine of God’s divinity, incarnation resurrection, and ascension can give us a new heart and a supernatural love for others.
4. Share a few ways that God has turned your heart of stone into a heart of flesh and thank Him for it.
Reading the Bible and increasing comprehension of the depth of Jesus’ love for me have softened my heart of stone. Thank you, Lord, for your word. Thank you for community, such as the body of believers in this blog who have shared their lives with me-your faithfulness to each one amid sorrow, grief, failures, and successes have pointed me to you, the one Faithful and True.
Love we share a love for Tim K making things pop. Just finished his book on preaching and hope to apply it when I speak at a Christmas tea.
Dee, I am considering buying that book for me and my husband to read.
Thursday: Do You Now Believe? For the Hour is Coming!
Listen or Read up to When He says “Take heart” (top of page 6)
1. Jesus is saying “If you really believed my doctrine you wouldn’t be afraid of the world.” Where are fearful of the world and how could you speak doctrine to your heart?
The seeming increase in things such as violence, greed, materialism, mental health issues, and the political climate.
Jesus’ words, “Take heart, I have overcome the world…”
“Do not be surprised when fiery trials… I peer 4:12-13
“When you pass through the waters…” Isaiah 43:2
“In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God.” John 1
2. The more you lean on Jesus, the more you lean on Jesus. Can you see this happening in your life? If so, give an illustration and give thanks.
Yes. Every strength discovered in Him is proof of His faithfulness and because I have experienced His faithfulness, I am learning there is no other way but to just keep leaning on Him.
“Leaning, leaning Safe and secure from all alarms
Leaning, leaning, Leaning on the everlasting arms.”
3. What else stands out from this part and why?
If you really believe in the doctrine of who I am, that is, I came from the Father and I will leave to go back to Him, you will fear this world.
This passage gives me peace every time “trouble” comes. I have Jesus to go to!
Monday: The Text (John 16:28-33)
3. Read the text and share what stands out initially and why. – At first, I saw sadness. When Jesus needs them the most, they will scatter and leave him alone. But then I read it again and I see a true love there. Love from Jesus encouraging the disciples even though the hour of pain and suffering for him has come. And a deep love from the Father. A Father who loves his son so much that he will be with him when the hour comes. It’s hard for parents to see their children suffer and we would do anything for them to not have to. Like our heavenly Father we will be there for them when they need us. I know I pushed my boys to make sure they could function on their own. I didn’t always bail them out of their messes that they needed to learn from, but when their hour has come, whatever that might be, I will be there for them, just like Jesus and the Father are for me.
4. Take the following four statements Jesus makes about Himself and chew on them until you can come up with 1 or 2 things, for each statement. (Use several translations and ask the Spirit to illumine you. Don’t go to commentaries yet.)
1. I came from the Father – God knew the mess this world was creating, and he knew that we needed someone more powerful than any human that He created. Jesus was that person. God created in Jesus a love that only he could endure. I know as Christians, we have the love of Christ in us, but I don’t believe we can handle the deep-down love for everyone, that only Jesus could do. That deep-down love that only Jesus could endure was putting himself in our place on the cross. I can only pray that with the help of the Holy Spirit, I would put myself out there for someone, but I know that will take a lot of prayer and help.
2. I have come into the world – Jesus came into this world for one purpose, to save us. He had no choice in it, that was his purpose, and it came from God. We have a different path that we walk. We make mistakes along the way and at times I think our purpose can change. God will use us as he sees the need, and the need may change. But Jesus had only that one purpose from the start and there was no changing it. He was born, he served, he loved, and he died, all for us.
3. I am leaving the world – When Jesus did all that the Father told him to do, it was his hour, his time to put himself in our place. This was what he was born to do from the start. We needed Jesus to show us the way, and we needed Him to die for us so we could live a life in eternity with the Father.
4. and going to the Father – In a sense, Jesus’ job was done. The suffering was for us but now he is free from that pain because he is with the Father. But his love for us still is there in the Holy Spirit. The Trinity, though they are three they are one and each have different roles. Jesus had to leave so we could have access to the Holy Spirit who will guide us the rest of our days and lead us to our eternal home.
5. How do the disciples respond and what question does Jesus ask? (vs. 28-31) – The disciples said, ah now you are speaking plainly and not using figurative speech and that now they knew that he knew all things and they now believe he came from God. Jesus asked them “Do you know believe?”
6. What does he tell them is about to happen in verse 32? – “The hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to your own home and will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone for the Father is with me.”
7. How does verse 33 seem paradoxical? How will this be a true test of faith? – Jesus is telling them that they will have trouble, but don’t worry about it, I’ve overcome the world. Such a hard concept for me at times to not worry.
Your analogy with parenting your boys and God parenting us is so good.
Tuesday: I Came From the Father and Have Come Into The World
Listen/read until he moves into “I am leaving the world” at the end of page 2/
3. What are some things Keller says we learn about Jesus from His statement “I come from the Father?” – Jesus is claiming to be God. He’s said it over and over and we either take it for truth or we don’t. But if we don’t believe it the peace of God will not be ours.
4. What did you learn from Alexander McClaren? – It’s not a new fact that Jesus came from the Father. He has repeated it many times and has claimed it to be true. Jesus was with the Father first, before Mary every gave birth to him. He shared glory with the Father. We have to take all Jesus has said to be truth. We can’t pick and choose what parts suit us best.
6. Did anything else stand out for which you are thankful? If so, what and why? – The Gospel and teachings of Christ are not a miracle pill or some fast weight loss diet or a get rich quick scheme. Jesus has given us everything we need to live a godly life. One full of peace, love, blessings, grace and mercy. But we have to take it, absorb it, read it over and over and have it written on our hearts to make any kind of difference. We have to live out the gospel. We can’t just sit back and expect God to react, if we don’t show we believe and love ALL of Him. Thank you, Jesus, for giving me ALL of you and not just bits and pieces. Help me to always have my heart open to learn what you want me to do. Your love and peace are there for me, but I need to reach out and take them. In Jesus name I pray, amen.
Wednesday: I Am Leaving the World and Going to the Father
Listen/read until he moves into paraphrasing the disciples with: “Wow! Now we can start to see things.” (Bottom of page 4.)
7. What does Keller teach about Jesus’ statement of “I’m leaving the world.” What makes you thankful about this? – Oh wow, I never saw this before. His wording, ‘I’m leaving the world’. This is saying that Jesus chose this for us. No one took him out, he did it himself, voluntarily, in a brutal way, but all for love he volunteered to leave the world.
8. What did you learn about how Jesus sees you and how this makes Him such a powerful advocate for you? – This is so powerful. He sees me as a moral, loving being. He doesn’t see my sin or flaws; he sees nothing but good in me. If all he sees is a moral, good, loving person, then when someone comes up and starts to tell him things that are untrue, he knows that person is lying, and he can easily rebuke them. Because He loves me so much, he knows my character and will stand up for me against my enemies.
9. Why isn’t it helpful simply to be told to love others? What do we need and why? – We can be told over and over to love, but if our heart does not line up with God’s heart, we won’t truly love everyone. Our hearts need to be cleansed from all the hurt, abuse, doubt and whatever else the devil has thrown at us to make room for the love that God has given us through Jesus Christ.
10. Share a few ways that God has turned your heart of stone into a heart of flesh and thank Him for it. – The more I grow closer to Jesus in my walk, the more I can feel the walls being broken down. I’m starting to see others in a different light, more in loving way. I am learning that Jesus doesn’t see my flaws and sins so I should not look for those things in others either. I need to daily ask God to forgive me so I can free up my heart to forgive others and see them as Jesus sees them. God created everyone in this world, some are Christian, and some are not. So, I need to remember that not everyone is at the place I am at in my relationship with Jesus. If they don’t have a relationship with Him, then they don’t know or have the unconditional love and peace that we as Christians have. We need to be the light of Christ so they can get what we have. Being mean and ugly will not get them there but love and understanding will. Thank you, Jesus, for opening my eyes to see what you see and love like you love. I wouldn’t be where I am without you. In your mighty name I pray, amen.
Oh, Julie! I especially your answer to 10.)! It is so true and so good to remember!! Love the entire answer! We need to see others the way Jesus sees us and we need to be the Light in a world of darkness!! Love your prayer:
We need to be the light of Christ so they can get what we have. Being mean and ugly will not get them there but love and understanding will. Thank you, Jesus, for opening my eyes to see what you see and love like you love. I wouldn’t be where I am without you. In your mighty name I pray, amen.
7. What does Keller teach about Jesus’ statement of “I’m leaving the world.” What makes you thankful about this?
He did it voluntarily. Thank You Lord! He loves me so.
8. What did you learn about how Jesus sees you and how this makes Him such a powerful advocate for you?
He doesn’t see our flaws. When God sees us, He sees Jesus. Wow.
9. Why isn’t it helpful simply to be told to love others? What do we need and why?
We need a Savior to fix our hearts. We need this so we can have peace.
10. Share a few ways that God has turned your heart of stone into a heart of flesh and thank Him for it.
God has put people into my life who are not like me. It is hard to love them at times. Other times I absolutely love their sweet ways. I am teaching a Colombian boy who is such a love! He reminds me of the goodness that can be in the world. He reminds me that my parents taught me to love everyone and sometimes the world makes me forget that.
Wonderful about the Colombian boy!
Thursday: Do You Now Believe? For the Hour is Coming!
Listen or Read up to When He says “Take heart” (top of page 6)
11. Jesus is saying “If you really believed my doctrine, you wouldn’t be afraid of the world.” Where are you fearful of the world and how could you speak doctrine to your heart? – I think lately I see so much anger and hatred in the world. It’s sad and my fear is that we will not see or have a peaceful world anymore. But I know that this is part of God’s plan. His word says in Matthew 10:21-22 “Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child. Children will rise up against parents and have them put to death. You will be hated by everyone because of my name. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” We need to stand strong on the Word of God and know that the Lord is in control.
12. The more you lean on Jesus, the more you lean on Jesus. Can you see this happening in your life? If so, give an illustration and give thanks. – I have seen this especially when troubled times come. I’m quicker to turn to him for help and cry out to him when I need resolution to situations. Our friend Tim had treatments for a very rare cancer in his jaw and while doing treatments found out he had stage 4 lung cancer as well. Him and Deb were devasted and so were we as they are very good friends of ours. I turned to the Lord and lifted Tim up and cried out for him to be healed. I reminded the Lord how he healed our other friend Tom from stomach cancer so I knew he could do it for Tim. It was a battle I kept bringing to God. He was not healed from the lung cancer but the Lord removed all signs of cancer from his jaw and a spot on his head and stopped it from advancing into his body. Radiation treatments will be started and they, the doctors, are saying they are 90% sure they can give him 5 years now instead of spring of 2025. Thank you, Lord, for your healing touch on Tim. This brings you so much closer to my heart. Knowing you heard our cries because we could not do what you did. We knew it was only going to come from you. I ask that you continue to touch his body and give him the strength he needs to endure another round of radiation. In your mighty, healing name, Jesus I pray, amen.
13. What else stands out from this part and why? – We need to grab on to the pain, bring it to God and ask him to walk with us as we go through it. As much as it hurts to be in pain, or see someone in pain, we need that to make us stronger. It will, or it should anyway, bring us to our knees and seek the Lord in those times. It’s only with the pain that we can feel our heart change and really see the presence of God in our lives.
Friday: You Must Take Heart Now
Read or Listen to the End.
14. Describe what ritual boasting was. – You have to boast in the Cross of Christ. I see it as getting my mind ready and filled with the Word and all of God’s promises so when the battle before me gets closer, I’m ready to fight and push it back with all of the promises of God. Putting on the armor of God, gets me out of world and into the presence of God. I’m ready and charged up to fight.
We, however, are to boast in what Christ did for us. Keller puts it like this: ‘I’m going to dare to rest my identity in what Jesus Christ has done for me knowing that the father sees me as a beauty … The father sees me and loves me.’
15. As you face whatever you must today and the near future, take the above thought and “boast in it” to help you overcome any fears. – When I read this, I get a picture in my mind of kids on a school playground, back in my day anyways. I see them arguing over whose parent is better trying to be one step above their friend. But I can boast and know for certain that my heavenly parent, my heavenly Father is better and stronger and wiser and more loving, more righteous, more powerful than any other parent on earth. I’m grateful that he chose me as His own and will always be there for me.
16. Look at the last verse of “It is Well With My Soul” and explain how Horatio Spafford “overcame the world.” – He knows that one day Christ will return and with that, his daughters along with Him. Horatio knows his place in Christ and that is the only way the Lord’s peace will come to him.
And Lord haste the day when my faith shall be sightThe clouds be rolled back as a scrollThe trumpet shall sound and the Lord shall descendEven so, it is well with my soul
17. What else stands out from this part and why? – I don’t need to doubt that God loves me. Even when times are hard, that I don’t feel his presence with me, I can know for sure He is there and working in my life. He may be in the distance, waiting and watching, but at the right moment, His presence will be made known to me and everyone else around me. Thank you, Jesus, for always being with me.
I like the analogy of boasting in our heavenly Father — my Dad is the best!
Friday: You Must Take Heart Now
Read or Listen to the End.
Dare to believe as if He loved you.
1. Describe what ritual boasting was.
Ritual boasting is our way of resting in our performance-knowledge, grit, and power. All these things the world can take away from us.
We, however, are to boast in what Christ did for us. Keller puts it like this:
‘I’m going to dare to rest my identity in what Jesus Christ has done for me knowing that the Father sees me as a beauty … The father sees me and loves me.’
This is a boasting that is based on doctrine. I can rest my identity in what Jesus Christ has done for me. I am beautiful in God’s sight through Jesus Christ.
2. As you face whatever you must today and the near future, take the above thought and “boast in it” to help you overcome any fears.
Lord, I dare to boast and believe that you love me and died for me. Nothing can separate me from your love. I can smile without fear of the future. When the world brings me trouble, let me be reminded of your great sacrifice, the Father’s compassion, and your “never-ending, never giving up, unbreaking, always and forever love.” (Sally, Lloyd Jones)
16. Look at the last verse of “It is Well With My Soul” and explain how Horatio Spafford “overcame the world.”
And Lord haste the day when my faith shall be sightThe clouds be rolled back as a scrollThe trumpet shall sound and the Lord shall descendEven so, it is well with my soul
This last verse is full of hope for the day when faith gives way to sight. We shall behold Him face to face, our Savior and Lord. That hope, which we also have for the taking, will help us dare to live for Him.
Live for Jesus by Evie Tornquist
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=76k2fNudq1s
3. What else stands out from this part and why?
This part of Newton’s poem: “…That thou may’st find thy all in Me.” (when faced with inward trials.)
Dear Dee, thank you for investing in the transcripts so we can go back to it and remember these nuggets from Tim Keller. He is so good in this one.
Thanks, Bing. I am thankful for them too.
Bing, thank you for sharing this song from Evie (one of my mother-in-laws favorite singers)…Live For Jesus! It fit right in with what my fear in this world is😊❤️
Thursday: Do You Now Believe? For the Hour is Coming!
Listen or Read up to When He says “Take heart” (top of page 6)
11. Jesus is saying “If you really believed my doctrine you wouldn’t be afraid of the world.” Where are fearful of the world and how could you speak doctrine to your heart?
I have often throughout my life been fearful of being persecuted for my faith and if I could stand firm. I know as a child in Africa and hearing of Missionaries being killed for sharing their faith always made it so real to me. We also had to evacuate three times out of the Congo not only for political reasons but also for our safety because Missionaries were a target of the mercenaries. In growing older not just in age but in my faith, I cling to these verses from Psalm 56:3-4, “When I am afraid, I will put my trust and faith in You. In God, whose word I praise; In God I have put my trust; I shall not fear. What can mere man do to me?” I know my faith will be tested and persecution (don’t know what level ) is inevitable but I also know I can trust in Him to carry me through. I also keep Ephesians 6 close to my heart as the battle isn’t against flesh and blood but against forces of evil in the heavenly places and therefore I take up the whole armor of God and stand firm.
12. The more you lean on Jesus, the more you lean on Jesus. Can you see this happening in your life? If so, give an illustration and give thanks.
I find that I lean more and more on Him in the area of my children’s spiritual lives.
Thank You Jesus for hearing my prayers regarding my children and helping me to just put them in Your hands and trust that You are doing a work in their hearts in Your time.
13. What else stands out from this part and why?
The truth in the statement that Keller wished he didn’t have to say but it’s in the Bible…”you spiritually grow more on stormy days than sunny days.” He goes on to say, “For most of us, you’ll never find out that Jesus is all you need until you get into a situation where Jesus is all you’ve got.
You had such a maturing experience as a child in the Congo. I love when you share about it.
Oh, Sharon! Your post is so incredible, hearing about your childhood. That must have been so frightening for you, as a child. Praise God for His protection and safety. Being a missionary is such an act of love and courage!
I love this beautiful prayer for your children! How I pray this for my children and grandchildren!
I find that I lean more and more on Him in the area of my children’s spiritual lives.Thank You Jesus for hearing my prayers regarding my children and helping me to just put them in Your hands and trust that You are doing a work in their hearts in Your time.
Friday: You Must Take Heart Now
Read or Listen to the End.
14. Describe what ritual boasting was.
Ancient warriors getting ready to charge meant they were boasting as it was their way of saying they’ve got their armor and the best captain and they were ready.
We, however, are to boast in what Christ did for us. Keller puts it like this:
‘I’m going to dare to rest my identity in what Jesus Christ has done for me knowing that the father sees me as a beauty … The father sees me and loves me.’
15. As you face whatever you must today and the near future, take the above thought and “boast in it” to help you overcome any fears.
Lord, I boast in Your faithfulness, that being Your child, I can be assured that You are the same yesterday today and forever.
16. Look at the last verse of “It is Well With My Soul” and explain how Horatio Spafford “overcame the world.”
And Lord haste the day when my faith shall be sightThe clouds be rolled back as a scrollThe trumpet shall sound and the Lord shall descendEven so, it is well with my soul
The fact that he could write the above after losing 4 children in a shipwreck…he knew God was in control and that He had overcome the world, having a hope that was sure.
17. What else stands out from this part and why?
Keller’s closing prayer where he says to pray into your heart the things that Jesus Christ did for you…know them, learn them, memorize them and meditate on them until your heart’s changed. This is my prayer!
7. What does Keller teach about Jesus’ statement of “I’m leaving the world.” What makes you thankful about this? This is something Christ chose to do. Keller referred back to the Good shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep. That’s love Thank you Father and Jesus that it was always part of your plan to save me. You were in control. Your life was taken from you, you freely gave it for me. Thank you
8. What did you learn about how Jesus sees you and how this makes Him such a powerful advocate for you? Jesus is our high priest interceding for us. On my own, I’m unacceptable before God, but when God looks at me He sees Jesus, not my sins or flaws God sees Jesus goodness and sees me as beautiful and adores me. Thank you, Jesus.
9. Why isn’t it helpful simply to be told to love others? What do we need and why? We can’t love others on our own We need Jesus to give us a new heart.
10. Share a few ways that God has turned your heart of stone into a heart of flesh and thank Him for it. Lord, you know what an angry, hurt person I was. How could lash out at people and had little patience. Thank you Lord you have changed me, though I still need work to be done, You Lord have soften my attitude towards people who have hurt me and given me tenderness and compassion towards people that I never had before. Thank you thank you.
Love your prayer of thanks, Judy.
11. Jesus is saying “If you really believed my doctrine you wouldn’t be afraid of the world.” Where are fearful of the world and how could you speak doctrine to your heart? Lord, I don’t understand what goes on in this nation. Please keep reminding me that You are in control. I don’t need to fret or be concerned about my family’s future. You know all things and control all things.
12. The more you lean on Jesus, the more you lean on Jesus. Can you see this happening in your life? If so, give an illustration and give thanks. I thank you Father that you are with me and will get me through this week and help me make it through the things I don’t really want to do. Help me listen to praise music and sing it more and focus on You. Let Your Presence be strongly felt in all gatherings. I thank Your Father. I’m not alone.
13. What else stands out from this part and why? You grow more spiritually on stormy days than sunny days. I like sunny carefree days, but it makes sense that I have to keep my focus more on Him during the stormy days. I’m not sure how He s using that to grow me, but I hope I can look back and agree. Thank you Lord, for the wisdom you have given teachers to open our eyes to your truths
Judy, Amen to your answer to #1…”Please keep reminding me that You are in control. I don’t need to fret or be concerned about my family’s future. You know all things and control all things.”
A perfect song for this week!
https://open.spotify.com/track/7BTmtN6bP35E54vVASTqao?si=jmEUwR4GQ3irUQ0O_AmSXA&context=spotify%3Aplaylist%3A37i9dQZF1DZ06evO20Fwt2
Loved the song Laura 💕
Here is another very encouraging one. https://open.spotify.com/track/15eJjGIuCDEtF6ph4Hd3eR?si=3mQw3vJ5RC64hvcGWNSP8g&context=spotify%3Aplaylist%3A37i9dQZF1E36yIT1rykv9w
Laura and Bev, enjoyed both of these songs. I love how the Holy Spirit spoke to each of you through this lesson in giving you just what you needed to hear❣️
Thanks for sharing😊
11. Jesus is saying “If you really believed my doctrine you wouldn’t be afraid of the world.” Where are fearful of the world and how could you speak doctrine to your heart?
For some reason, probably time (!), I am not fearful of the world scene, more so the moral decay I see every day at my job. A boy who thinks he is a girl, a 14 yr old girl who carries around a stuffed fox (!), people who think it’s okay to have a Muslim club but not a Christian club, me and my colleagues being subjected to training on us not being racist because apparently someone, somewhere thinks we are (?) (thank You God for the NH State Legislature being on top of this one so we can walk out of the training and don’t have to be subjected to the training). I can remember that Jesus has “got it.” Also, it is what is supposed to happen. The Bible says we will endure awful things in the end times, right?
12. The more you lean on Jesus, the more you lean on Jesus. Can you see this happening in your life? If so, give an illustration and give thanks.
Hmmmm….Jesus interests me, as the Bible does. Every time I read something from Him I have to chew on it for it to sink in. I’m a perpetual learner, so I glean from these times of chewing. Same for the Bible. Every time I pick it up I’m learning something new! It’s wild.
So, with this, I want more of Him. I want to know more about Him. I do lean on Him and I find myself as a more mature Christian, leaning more and more because what else would I do?? If I don’t have Him there is no hope but in myself and whoa! what then? Just me? What in the world can I do? Thank You Jesus for being my hope! Amen.
13. What else stands out from this part and why?
This is so good! I want to always remember this so I don’t depend on other things.
“Or put another way, the Bible is constantly saying that the way God builds you up spiritually is by taking things away that you tend to rely on for your peace. And then it makes you rely on God, then you find out ‘oh my goodness, God was a far better thing to lean on than the thing I was leaning leaning on before.’”
Great post, Laura.
Takeaway:
This quote from Newton:
“I asked the Lord that I might grow In faith, and love, and every grace; Might more of His salvation know, And seek, more earnestly, His face. Instead of this, He made me feel The hidden evils of my heart; And let the angry pow’rs of hell Assault my soul in every part. Lord, why is this, I trembling cried, Wilt thou pursue thy worm to death? “ ‘Tis in this way, the Lord replied, I answer prayer for grace and faith. These inward trials I employ, From self, and pride, to set thee free; And break thy schemes of earthly joy, That thou may’st find thy all in Me.”
His prayer from the transcript:
Let’s pray: Our Father, thank you for giving us your peace. Thank you for giving us your peace the way you do. You don’t give it to us just by somehow infusing it in us. You say here’s the doctrine, here’s the Bible, here’s the things that my son Jesus Christ did for you. Know them, learn them, memorize them, meditate on them. Pray about them into your heart, until your heart’s changed. And we pray Father, when trouble comes, and it will come, we will have trouble in the world … Show us how to dare to believe that we are as loved… how to restore identity in Christ. Our Lord Jesus Christ, we do take heart, because you will overcome the world. Thank you. Give us all these things. We ask them in Jesus’ name.