Every human being is empty inside and needs someone, something, to come along and fill it with significance and honor and glory.
Tim Keller
What did Constantine do with power? He used the power of the sword to form Christendom in the 4th Century B. C., forcing people into Christianity. As a professor at Yale said, “That didn’t work so well, for Eurpose is the area of the world that is weakest to Christianity.”
I could have used a picture of Mother Theresa or Mama Maggie to show the opposite, but I am choosing my friend Linda Strom, whose ministry of Discipleship Unlimited involves hundreds of volunteers and has set thousands free. Linda serves because she loves Jesus and longs to please Him, being Christ to those in prison. Here she is (in blue) serving communion to graduates of a “faith dorm.” Power used like this spreads Christianity so it becomes like a great tree with many branches.
If God has allowed you to be a leader in your church, community, or family — how do you use that power? Do you see the visible roles or serve in ways no one sees because you are desiring to please God? In Keller’s sermon he references an acceptance speech of an honor by Vaclav Havel of Czechoslovakia. I’ve included that as well below, along with a link to Keller’s sermon and the transcript.
Yesterday my precious granddaughter was married at “The Church of the Centurion” – a little chapel on a military base in Va. Beach. Honoring Cornelius, a man of military power who used to it help the poor — and the first Gentile convert in Acts.
https://gospelinlife.com/sermon/you-have-no-power/
You_Have_No_Power-1 (Transcript)
I hope the above works for I have markers, but if it doesn’t, go to my home church webpage and scroll to You Have My Power and click on resources and then on transcript:
https://theorchardefca.org/past-sermon-series.
Václav Havel on the temptations of political power
Sunday: God Hunt
1. How have you experienced the presence, power, or beauty of the Lord this week?
Monday: The Text: John 18:33-38 and John 19:8-11
2. Read John 18:33-38
A. What is Pilate’s first question and how does Jesus answer with a question?
B. Why do you think Jesus asks “Is that your own idea?”
C. What is Pilate’s next statement and question?
D. How does Jesus answer and how is He explaining what is Kingdom is not?
E. What is Jesus further clarifiction in verse 37?
F. How does Pilate respond to this?
3. Read John 19:6-11
A. What do the religious leaders want according to verses 6-7?
B. How does Pilate respond to this? How does he try to warn Jesus? (8-10)
C. What does Jesus tell Pilate?
D. Name some things you learn from Jesus last response to Pilate in verse 11.
Tuesday: Opening
Listen and read in the transcript up to Wednesday: Limits
4. Keller introduces this dialogue between Pilate and Jesus and says: “Here we have the Bible saying, over and over again, that God is completely in control, and yet you are still responsible for your behavior.” How do you this in the dialogue between Pilate and Jesus?
5. Think of a problem or duty you are facing that is challenging. What is your responsibility in this to do in a way that is pleasing to God?
6. If things do not go as you hope, what is your consolation?
7. How does Keller show that Jesus is trying to go after Pilate personally?
8. Have you ever had the experience of sharing your faith and someone trying to get you off subject by bringing up a peripheral question? How should one handle that?
Wednesday: Limits
Read/Listen up to Thursday: Problem
9. Keller says no one should wage war in Jesus’ name, though some have done it. What example does he give and how did it do more damage than good?
10. Why did Jesus actually come if not to seize political power? What was Keller’s point about also not just to give you “groovy vibes.”
11. List some of things that the spread of Christianity actually did do to make the world a better place? What conservative changes and what liberal changes?
12. What else stood out to you from this section?
Thursday: Problem
Listen/Read up to Friday.
13. What is the problem with political power?
14. Read the short essay by the President of Czechsolovakia and summarize it in two sentences.
15. If you are a leader in any way, how could you apply this?
16. What point does Keller make with the Galatians passage?
137 comments
Sunday: God Hunt
1. How have you experienced the presence, power, or beauty of the Lord this week? This study on John 18 and the wrath of God. The scene where the soldiers, Pharisees and some officers from the chief priests come to arrest Jesus and they all fall down when he says, “I am.” WOW. I am not sure how to describe how this has impacted me. Somehow, he has just revealed himself to me in a way I never saw before. I’ve been praying more recently that I want to feel his love. Maybe this?
Chris, that is a WOW revelation, indeed! I have not thought of that phrase in that impactful way!
It really is impactful for me that the original text says, I AM, not I am he. Strange this is lost in translation. The meaning is changed for us, but the impact on the soldiers who heard this is evident. I’m so glad to hear the way it should read.
I also found that amazing as Keller described the Roman soldiers falling and how it must have been a little glimpse of God right at that moment!
Love all this. I remember my amazement the first time I “saw” this.
Oh, Chris! That is gives me chills! I love that Keller brought out that for that moment they had a glimpse of God’s glory in Jesus. And I love that Dee brought out that original text of “I AM”.
Love this Chris…your “WOW” is contagious and I understand not being able to describe how it has impacted you.
1. How have you experienced the presence, power, or beauty of the Lord this week?
All the prayers and people who are standing with us as we enter a hard time. Thank You Jesus for good people.
Laura, Your prayer requests for tomorrow are on my calendar. Asking God’s good hand to be guiding you through this rough time. 💕
Praying for your family today. May the Lord be with you in a way that shows you his love and sovereignty so that ALL may see his glory, in that courtroom today.
Father, how we ask for Your mercy to be displayed in the courtroom today.
In Jesus Name I pray
Praying, sweet Laura 😊❤️
May the Lord be very present in court with you today, precious Laura
Laura, the Lord be with you and your family at this crucial time.
Sunday: God Hunt
1. How have you experienced the presence, power, or beauty of the Lord this week?
—There have been some family relationship struggles down here in Texas this past couple of weeks and I greatly dislike the conflict of drama and pettiness. And a lack of integrity where they keep things from each other and compete with one another. That has not been the habit of our family culture up home in Nebraska or with our other children. It is a dance to try and not get drawn into it. So it easily robs my peace of heart. I am finding the need to immerse myself in God’s Word and prayer. Experiencing God’s presence has helped bring perspective back and I need the power of the Holy Spirit to not respond with anger and frustration which is my bent. Thank God for my husband who helps me get back into focus as we talk and pray through these things. Frankly in the flesh I just want to pack up and go back home but we are here through the end of March and I know my responses are important in this little bit of time we have left. So I am challenged to look to God for his Presence, Power and Beauty in greater measure in this coming week.
Oh, Bev, how wise you are to remain steadfast in your faith. My heart goes out to you in this trial and I know your example is being watched by those struggling in relationship. I’m praying now that the Lord would give you His peace and help you display the fruit of the spirit and not give into the flesh, but be able to give wise counsel to those who need it.
Thank you Chris. What you asked in prayer is truly what I need. 💕
Bev, I am praying for you right now. I know how heart breaking these family struggles can be. May the Lord anoint you with His Peace and Presence. May He give you calm and godly thoughts and words, as you go through this week. You are loved.
Praying Bev…family dynamics can be hard and there are many times I just bite my tongue and turn it over to Him in prayer. So glad you have your husband to talk to also.
Bev, praying for the remaining days you will be spending in TX. Praying what you asked for-His presence, power, and beauty. He is always generous in answering our prayers for such things.
Praying for you and your family Bev
Monday: The Text: John 18:33-38 and John 19:8-11
2. Read John 18:33-38
A. What is Pilate’s first question and how does Jesus answer with a question? “Are you the king of the Jews?” Asks Pilate. Jesus answers by asking Pilate’s personal opinion.
B. Why do you think Jesus asks “Is that your own idea?” He is pressing Pilate’s heart about what he believes himself.
C. What is Pilate’s next statement and question? “Am I a Jew? Your own nation and chief priests have delivered you over to me. What have you done?”
D. How does Jesus answer and how is He explaining what is Kingdom is not? Jesus says his kingdom is not of this world or his followers would have been fighting that he might not be delivered over to the Jews.
E. What is Jesus further clarifiction in verse 37? Jesus clarifies that he came into the world to bear witness to the truth and that everyone who is of the truth, listens to his voice.
F. How does Pilate respond to this? He returned outside to the Jews and declares Jesus not guilty.
3. Read John 19:6-11
A. What do the religious leaders want according to verses 6-7? They want him crucified.
B. How does Pilate respond to this? How does he try to warn Jesus? (8-10) Pilate responds that he finds no guilt in him (and feels afraid when he hears Jesus claims to be the Son of God) and asks Jesus where he is from and say that he has the authority to release or crucify him.
C. What does Jesus tell Pilate? Pilate has no authority over him unless it is given from above, therefore those who delivered him to Pilate have the greater sin.
D. Name some things you learn from Jesus last response to Pilate in verse 11. God is sovereign over everything. We may choose to act and feel we are in control, but ultimately God has the last say. There are greater sins. Jesus had the opportunity to be freed from the Jews and chose to obey the Father, for our sake.
2. Read John 18:33-38
A. What is Pilate’s first question and how does Jesus answer with a question?
Are you the king of the Jews? Jesus asks him if that is his question or one told to him by others.
B. Why do you think Jesus asks “Is that your own idea?”
Maybe it’s to show who is really responsible for the actions being taken? The Jewish leaders and crowd? But Tim Keller said we are all responsible, I know that. But at this particular moment the Jewish leaders were convincing the others to arrest Jesus.
C. What is Pilate’s next statement and question?
“Am I a Jew?” And then, your leaders and own people said you should be on trial. Pilate then asks Jesus what He has done.
D. How does Jesus answer and how is He explaining what is Kingdom is not?
He says His kingdom is not of this world. It is not an earthly kingdom. If it were then His people would fight to keep Him safe.
Praying for you this morning and all day today, dear Laura. May the Lord provide a great miracle for you today! Jesus, be very present in court today. Protect Laura’s beautiful grandchildren. Thy will Lord.
Thank you Patti. Update below 👇
Thanks for your grace in my absence the end of the week. We had sooo many answers to prayer for the wedding — and I know many of you prayed. I don’t think I will ever forget the surprise to the bride and groom of the family singing “The Blessing” to them after the vows. I will forever remember my son standing up first and singing:
The Lord bless you and keep you
Make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you
The Lord turn His face toward you
And give you peace
His daughter could not hold back the tears — then one each family member joined in and everyone was crying – oh the tenderness of Christ’s love.
Oh Dee, that sounds amazing…what a wonderful idea and such a blessing to the bride and groom.
Oh Dee! How beautiful! What incredibly wonderful answers to prayer and what treasured memories. God be praised for his incredible faithfulness and pouring out of his love on you and your family. 💕
Beautiful!
Praise God dear Dee, for this beautiful and meaningful wedding!! Oh, I love how your son sang this beautiful blessing and all joined in. Oh, the sweet sweet love of Jesus! Praise His Name! Thank you Lord! These are the moments that change the world!
Beautiful, Dee!
Wow! So cool Dee!
What a blessing, Dee!
Monday: The Text: John 18:33-38 and John 19:8-11
2. Read John 18:33-38
A. What is Pilate’s first question and how does Jesus answer with a question?
“Are You the king of the Jews?”
“Is this your own question, or did others tell you about Me?”
B. Why do you think Jesus asks “Is that your own idea?”
I think Jesus wanted to know if Pilate came up with this on his own or was he just repeating those who were condemning Jesus.
C. What is Pilate’s next statement and question?
“Am I a Jew?” “Your own people and their leading priests brought You to me for trial. Why? What have You done?”
D. How does Jesus answer and how is He explaining what is Kingdom is not?
“My Kingdom is not an earthly kingdom. If it were, My followers would fight to keep Me from being handed over to the Jewish leaders. But My Kingdom is not of this world.”
E. What is Jesus further clarifiction in verse 37?
In his response to Pilates question, “so are You a king?” Jesus says, “You say I’m a king, but I came into the world to testify to the truth. Those who love truth recognize that what I say is true.”
F. How does Pilate respond to this?
“What is truth?” Then he went out to the people and told them “He is not guilty of any crime.”
3. Read John 19:6-11
A. What do the religious leaders want according to verses 6-7?
They wanted Jesus to be crucified because by their law He should die since He called Himself the Son of God.
B. How does Pilate respond to this? How does he try to warn Jesus? (8-10)
Pilate was more frightened than ever and took Jesus back into the headquarters and asked Him, “where are You from?” Jesus gave no answer.
Pilate asked Jesus why he wouldn’t talk to him as he said, “don’t You realize that I have the power to release You or crucify You?”
C. What does Jesus tell Pilate?
He told Pilate that he had no power over Him unless it was given to him from above. The one who handed Me over to you has the greater sin.
D. Name some things you learn from Jesus last response to Pilate in verse 11.
That God is Sovereign and His purpose will prevail.
The importance of being submissive and obedient to His will.
That He was willing to die for a sinner like me.
Monday: The Text: John 18:33-38 and John 19:8-11
2. Read John 18:33-38
A. What is Pilate’s first question and how does Jesus answer with a question?
—Pilate asked “Are you the king of the Jews?” and Jesus responded with “Is this your own question, or did others yell you about me?”
B. Why do you think Jesus asks “Is that your own idea?”
—I honestly don’t know but it would seem that initially Pilate was being a little bit flip with Jesus and maybe a little heady with the power of his position. Jesus was putting Pilate in a position to think more seriously about who He really was. It would seem Pilate had some sense that Jesus was not just your average Jewish rabble rouser.
C. What is Pilate’s next statement and question?
—He said “Am I a Jew? Your own nation and the chief priests have delivered you over to me. What have you done?”
Pilate was seeking an answer for what Jesus had done that broke the law. Jesus was confronting Pilate with Who he was and what his purpose was.
D. How does Jesus answer and how is He explaining what is Kingdom is not?
—Jesus clarifies that if he were trying to set up an earthly kingdom his followers would have been fighting to keep the Jews from arresting him. But instead He tells Pilate he has a kingdom that is not of this world.
E. What is Jesus further clarifiction in verse 37?
—Jesus is saying his purpose in being born and coming into this world is not about him claiming power as a king but rather he is bringing truth to the world and those who recognize truth listen to him.
F. How does Pilate respond to this?
—Pilate questions “What is truth?” That rings loudly as to the philosophies of today’s culture and a world which also does not see truth as an absolute. Rather it is popular to have your own truth according to our culture.
3. Read John 19:6-11
A. What do the religious leaders want according to verses 6-7?
—They want Jesus dead.
B. How does Pilate respond to this? How does he try to warn Jesus? (8-10)
—When confronted with the Jews complaint that Jesus claimed to be the Son of God Pilate was filled with fear. I think at this point Pilate was completely aware he was dealing with a perfectly innocent man. He wanted to let Jesus go and was trying to use his power and authority to release him but it was put of his control.
C. What does Jesus tell Pilate?
—Jesus clarifies that Pilate ultimately has no authority over the life of Jesus.
D. Name some things you learn from Jesus last response to Pilate in verse 11.
—Jesus is declaring the sovereignty of God in even letting Pilate be in the position to affect what happens to Jesus. But he lets Pilate know the greater sin is with the men who are seeking to have Jesus put to death.
Interesting take on Pilate being a bit flip and heady with power — but surely was humbled.
God Hunt
My son recently called to tell us he is having surgery to remove a node in his thyroid, THIS FRIDAY, 3/14 This is the first time we have heard that there was an issue. “We’ve been watching it, and it has grown. The biopsy for cancer was indeterminate, hence the surgery. I’ve been dealing with this for about 9 months.” Nine months, and I’m just now hearing about it, I thought. My son, and the Lord, know me very well and how I can worry about things involving my loved ones. Through prayer, and prayer support from Christian sisters, the Lord has given me peace that only He can give. I don’t know what the outcome will be, but I know I can trust the Lord with my son.
Oh Cheryl, us Mom’s do tend to worry. Praying for God’s peace over you and your son.
Oh, dear Cheryl. I will pray for good health for your son and for peace and trust for you and your family. May the Lord give wisdom to the surgeons.
Cheryl Ann, we do tend to worry as moms. am glad to hear Hog has given you peace.
What a shock for you. So hard the news was kept. Trusting our Lord with your son. Praying thanks for your peace about the outcome. Lord we pray for healing, in Jesus name.
Father, please guide the surgeon’s hands and put Your healing hand on Cheryl’s son. In Your Name I pray.
I am praying for you and your son Cheryl Ann.
Praying for your son today dear Cheryl. Lord, we ask for wisdom for the surgeons. Please keep this young man in your care. We ask that you will be very present in the surgery and with Cheryl and her family. In the Name of Jesus, I pray.
1. How have you experienced the presence, power, or beauty of the Lord this week?
I am pressing into Jesus and I know that He is faithful and I am learning how important it is to be His alone. I must love the giver of the greatest gift ever more than any gift He has given to me. I was so convicted by last week’s lesson. Jesus showed HIS glory for a brief moment and all fell to their knees. I need to fall before Him on my knees daily and pray for His will alone, in my life. Jesus taking on the Wrath of His Father, for us! Such wrath that the Father had to look away. How that struck me once again, but more than I have ever felt it. Thank you dear Jesus for opening my eyes to the Wrath you accepted and the Glory you displayed.
Patti, the power of God’s Word revealing His character to us amazes me. And for us to even understand it is truly a gift from Him!
So beautiful how he loved us!
Monday: The Text: John 18:33-38 and John 19:8-11
2. Read John 18:33-38
A. What is Pilate’s first question and how does Jesus answer with a question?
Are you the King of the Jews? Jesus asks him, Is that your own thought, or did someone tell you I claimed that?
B. Why do you think Jesus asks “Is that your own idea?” Since Jesus already knew the answer, I think He wanted Pilate to examine his own thoughts and beliefs.
C. What is Pilate’s next statement and question? Am I a Jew? Your own people and priests have turned you in; What have you done? (my paraphrase) In verse 30 the Jews had called Jesus a criminal when Pilate asked them what Jesus had done.
D. How does Jesus answer and how is He explaining what is Kingdom is not? Jesus answers by talking about His kingdom, the implication being that He IS a king. He explains that His kingdom is not an earthly one. Jesus also talks about His servants who would fight to defend Him, but not on earth.
Interesting here that Jesus says his servants would fight to prevent His deliverance to the Jews.
E. What is Jesus further clarifiction in verse 37? Pilate responds, So You ARE a king? Jesus says to Pilate, You say I am a king. I was born and came to the world to bear witness to the truth. Everyone that is of the truth hears me (understands/believes). (my paraphrase)
F. How does Pilate respond to this? Pilate asks, “What is truth?”, and the truth is right in front of him. Then Pilate goes out to the Jews and says, I don’t find any fault in him (Jesus).
3. Read John 19:6-11
A. What do the religious leaders want according to verses 6-7? They want Jesus killed.
B. How does Pilate respond to this? How does he try to warn Jesus? (8-10) Seeking to pacify the Jews, Pilate has Jesus scourged, Pilate tells the Jews again, I don’t find any fault in him, and Pilate presents Jesus to them (beaten, robed, crown of thorns.
When the Jews call for crucifixion, Pilate says to them, You do it; I don’t find any fault in Him (the third time he says that).
It almost seems like Pilate is begging Jesus to respond and defend Himself. Pilate says, don’t you know that I have the power to condemn or release you?
C. What does Jesus tell Pilate? He tells Pilate he would not have this power unless it was granted to him from above (by God). Jesus says that those who delivered him to Pilate have the greater sin.
D. Name some things you learn from Jesus last response to Pilate in verse 11.
Pilate as magistrate had power to judge and release/condemn. God had put him in this position for this exact time. Although we don’t always see/understand God’s purposes for existing governments, there IS a reason they are in power. Also, just because someone has governmental power, allowed by God, does NOT mean they are godly men/women.
Those who delivered Jesus to Pilate KNEW He was innocent of their charges. They succeeded in swaying Pilate to do what they wanted, what they willed to happen. An application I see here is that we cannot blame government for the choices that we ourselves make. For example, The Nazis sought to exterminate the Jews and many others they deemed unfit. Some people agreed with them, some ignored what was happening, and some stood against them. Their responses: I was just following orders, I didn’t know, and That’s wrong.
Your assessment about civil leaders is convicting. It’s challenging to think of opposing authorities especially when we feel as though we can’t have much influence or when we are not impacted by the situation ourselves.
Cheryl Ann,
With the situation at our church right now, your comments on civil leaders struck a chord in my heart. “Also, just because someone has governmental power, allowed by God, does NOT mean they are godly men/women.” I have to always remind myself that God is sovereign and that I need to pray for the situation trusting all is in God’s hands. “The king’s heart is like a stream of water directed by the LORD; he guides it wherever he pleases.” NLT Proverbs 21:1
Sunday: God Hunt
1. How have you experienced the presence, power, or beauty of the Lord this week?
One of the young families attending our church was in a crisis last week. They are relatively new (since August of last year) to our congregation having left another church amidst a painful situation. They have been consistent in attendance with the 5 kids joining our children’s activities as often as they could. There might be a court case coming and in the meantime, the father (a good man) has not been allowed to go back to their house until things are settled. Though scared and fearful of the future, the wife and the kids came to church yesterday. During the prayer request time, she tearfully asked for prayers for their family without going into details. (Richard and I and a very few members were privy to the situation).
Looking back later after church to how things unfolded, I was struck by how I felt God’s presence in the sanctuary, steering/stirring conversations to what I would call the body of Christ working in love and support. It was very palpable. I sensed His power in the wife being courageous to come and to be vulnerable to the congregation. This crisis is far from over. But I saw the Lord’s beauty in each of the concerns expressed in the faces of the men and women who were there. Their sincere voluntary offer to help in any way they can was a blessing to hear.
Pray for us. Strangely, I am waiting in much anticipation to continually see God’s hands in all of the hard circumstances we have been having in our church and community. I feel God’s peace and provision and protection He is giving us personally and to our church as we rally together against this seeming oppression from the enemy. I pray Richard and I will be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance and wisdom as we shepherd our “flock”. We claim the victory we have in Christ.
Oh, dear Bing. This sounds like a lot. I will pray for you and Richard. We know that you both love and trust God. May the Holy Spirit anoint you and give you wisdom, peace, direction and endurance.
Prayers of guidance and discernment for this delicate situation. May the Holy Spirit continue to lead you and your spirits, in your congregation, to continue to discern how you can fulfill the Lord’s work.
Bing — may the Lord’s hand guide you all!
All, thank you for your prayers. A couple of trusted friends and I visited the wife and her 4 children today. We brought lunch and stayed with her and the kids for a little while. We had prayer time with Mom and gathered a little more information about their situation. This is more complex than I thought but confident God has this family in His grip. We can sense the earthly powers at work but we encouraged her to cling to God and to allow our church to help them spiritually and practically. Please pray for sensitivity to the Holy Spirit to lead us.
Mom and Dad agreed that this was a wake-up call for both of them and that they have taken God for granted but are desperate for Him to see them through their circumstance. Dad is staying with a brother who is not a believer. Thank you again for your prayers.
It’s hard to see a family in such desperate circumstances. Thank the Lord the parents have turned to Him. Continued prayer for them, you, and your church as you seek to help this family.
2. Read John 18:33-38
A. What is Pilate’s first question and how does Jesus answer with a question?
Are you speaking for yourself about this or did others tell you about me?
B. Why do you think Jesus asks “Is that your own idea?”
He wanted to know if Pilate had just listened to what the ruler of the Jews had said or if this was his idea.
C. What is Pilate’s next statement and question?
He told Jesus that His own nation and chief priests had delivered Him to Pilate. Pilate asked what Jesus had done.
D. How does Jesus answer and how is He explaining what is Kingdom is not?
Jesus answered that His kingdom is not of this world. If His kingdom were of this world, His servants would fight so that He should not be delivered to the Jews.
E. What is Jesus further clarification in verse 37?
Jesus told Pilate that He right said the He is a king. He was born to bear witness of the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears His voice.
F. How does Pilate respond to this?
Pilate said to Him, “What is truth?” and leave to go out to the Jews. He said to them, “I find no fault in Him at all.”
3. Read John 19:6-11
A. What do the religious leaders want according to verses 6-7?
They want to crucify Him.
B. How does Pilate respond to this? How does he try to warn Jesus? (8-10)
Pilate asks Jesus where He is from and tell Him that He has the power to crucify Him.
C. What does Jesus tell Pilate?
Jesus tells Pilate that he has no power against Jesus, unless it is given to him from above.
D. Name some things you learn from Jesus last response to Pilate in verse 11.
Jesus knows exactly who is in charge, His Heavenly Father. Jesus is calm, even when Pilate is not. Pilate has no power over Jesus, unless it was given to him by God.
Update on the situation with the grands…
Firstly, thank you to everyone who is praying. We still need continued prayers when you think of it.
We are back to waiting again. There was no time for us to present our case as the docket was very full today. They said we will need 4-5 (!) hrs. So we continue along the same path. It is frustrating, and I am tired. But, God is in charge here so onward we march. I’m guessing it will be summer. At least we have more time to make our case stronger. The details are on Dee’s fb group page.
I’m sorry it’s such a long case, but you are right about the time being in your favor. Continued prayers.
Oh — so frustrating, Laura. Wheels of government do grind soooo slowly.
Praying for you daily, Laura. God has His ways and His time.
New date is July 1.
I will put this on my prayer calendar, Laura. Trusting God for His perfect timing and His will be done. 💕🙏
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1. How have you experienced the presence, power, or beauty of the Lord this week? For the first time in the 10 years that my 2 sons have been married there was an issue between their 2 families over an incident that happened back in October. My sons married women that have been best friends since junior high school so it was really sad to see everyone’s hurt and anger. My husband and I have been staying out of it. We’ve listen to everyone’s side of things when they wanted to talk about it, but haven’t “taken sides”. We have been praying for a peaceful resolution. This past week the 4 of them finally talked about things and got a lot of the misunderstandings cleared up (they had talked before, but was heated and unproductive). It has been an answer to prayer. They are all strong Christians and it was hard to see them in conflict.
Praise God for reconciliation and for your wise counsel to them.
Praising God with you, Dawn. What a wonderful reconciliation of family.
You were so wise to stay out of it and just pray!
Dawn, such a great and wise example of staying out of it so the 2 couples can work things out among themselves.
2. Read John 18:33-38
A. What is Pilate’s first question and how does Jesus answer with a question? Pilate: Are you the king of the Jews? Jesus: Do you say this of your own accord or did others say it to you about me?
B. Why do you think Jesus asks “Is that your own idea?” Because Jesus wants to know us personally. Our thoughts and heart, not what others tell us.
C. What is Pilate’s next statement and question? Am I a Jew? Your own nation and chief priests have delivered you to me. What have you done?
D. How does Jesus answer and how is He explaining what is Kingdom is not? He says that His kingdom is not of this world.
E. What is Jesus further clarification in verse 37? He says, ” for this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice.”
F. How does Pilate respond to this? He asks “What is truth?”
E. What is Jesus further clarifiction in verse 37?
He says that Pilate (and the people) says He is a king. He says He came into the world to declare the truth. He says those who know the truth recognize it.
F. How does Pilate respond to this?
He asks, “What is the truth?”
3. Read John 19:6-11
A. What do the religious leaders want according to verses 6-7?
They want Hin dead.
B. How does Pilate respond to this? How does he try to warn Jesus? (8-10)
He says Jesus hasn’t broken any law; that He is not guilty.
He tells Jesus that he has the power to either let Him go or to crucify Him.
C. What does Jesus tell Pilate?
Jesus says Pilate has no power over Him. The one who handed Him over has greater sin.
D. Name some things you learn from Jesus last response to Pilate in verse 11
I learned that any power over Jesus would have come from God, not Pilate.
Sunday: God Hunt
1. How have you experienced the presence, power, or beauty of the Lord this week? – With my son and daughter in law and 3 kids and two dogs moving in with us temporarily, I thought it would be constant chaos, (small home, lots of people and dogs, we also have a puppy) but it hasn’t been that bad. Kitchen duties are being shared, laundry time is working out and kids get to play outside. And best of all Justin got a job and has started working already. God’s hand is in this journey and will work all things out as He sees they should be. Thank you Lord for your hands upon our family.
Wonderful news Julie! Praise God!!
Praise God, Julie! God is so good and He is working out the details! So happy Justin got a job!
So happy for all! Sounds so nice.
Wonderful answers, Julie.
Monday: The Text: John 18:33-38 and John 19:8-11
2. Read John 18:33-38
A. What is Pilate’s first question and how does Jesus answer with a question? – Pilate asked “are you the King of the Jews”? and Jesus replied “do you say this of your own accord, or did others say it to you about me?”
B. Why do you think Jesus asks, “Is that your own idea?” – There was so much talk about who he was, he wanted Pilate to know on his own and say who he thought he was. Not just say it from hearsay. He wanted Pilate, a leader to have his own voice.
C. What is Pilate’s next statement and question? – “Am I a Jew?” “Your own nation and the chief priests have delivered you over to m. What have you done?”
D. How does Jesus answer and how is He explaining what his Kingdom is not? – “My kingdom is not of this world.” He goes on to say that if it was of this world, his servants would have started fighting back to stop them from taking Jesus away.
E. What is Jesus further clarification in verse 37? – He tells Pilate that his purpose was to come to the world as a king and to bear witness to the truth.
F. How does Pilate respond to this? – Pilate goes back out to the Jew and tells them “I find no guilt in him.”
3. Read John 19:6-11
A. What do the religious leaders want according to verses 6-7? – They want Jesus crucified
B. How does Pilate respond to this? How does he try to warn Jesus? (8-10) – He tells the people to do it themselves because he finds no guilt in Jesus. He warns Jesus of the power he has, that he has authority to release him or crucify him.
C. What does Jesus tell Pilate? – He tells Pilate that he only has authority over him because God of heaven gave it to him as part of the redemption plan.
D. Name some things you learn from Jesus last response to Pilate in verse 11. – Nothing happens in this world, without the authority of God letting it happen. All journeys have the hand of God on them, I think. Jesus knew what his purpose was. As hard as it was to accept it, he knew he was born to reveal the truth.
Tuesday: Opening
Listen and read in the transcript up to Wednesday: Limits
4. Keller introduces this dialogue between Pilate and Jesus and says: “Here we have the Bible saying, over and over again, that God is completely in control, and yet you are still responsible for your behavior.” How do you this in the dialogue between Pilate and Jesus? – I agree with this completely. God allows us choices, He’s willing to live within us and guide us along, but he wants us to accept him freely and without a push from anyone else. Our choices whether good or bad will bring consequences. And through those consequences God will walk with us and try to get us back on track. We have to have open and willing hearts to allow him to guide us and allow him to take control of our life.
5. Think of a problem or duty you are facing that is challenging. What is your responsibility in this to do in a way that is pleasing to God? – I struggle with worrying about my oldest son Kyle and his son, my grandson Logan. They are struggling right now, financially, emotionally and physically. I don’t have the means to help them right now as my home is full to the brim, but what I am doing is giving them both over to God, for him to guide and protect them as much as they are willing to allow him to do. I’m praying for open hearts to accept Jesus completely into their lives and feel the freedom and peace only God can provide.
6. If things do not go as you hope, what is your consolation? – God will bring me the peace I need to accept the outcome. He will be with me as I walk through the trial/trauma.
7. How does Keller show that Jesus is trying to go after Pilate personally? – Jesus is asking Pilate what he thinks. He wants Pilate to take his thoughts and decisions about Jesus personally. Not to listen what others say, but to determine on his own, who Jesus really is.
8. Have you ever had the experience of sharing your faith and someone trying to get you off subject by bringing up a peripheral question? How should one handle that? – I don’t think we should disregard their question. We should listen with interest, not get disgusted and let them talk. Once they are done, address it as minimally as possible but bring the conversation back around to the gospel of Christ. Maybe ask them what scares them about the conversation and get their concerns addressed so their hearts can be open to listen and absorb the gospel. If they are distracted, they won’t be listening to anything I have to say.
4. Keller introduces this dialogue between Pilate and Jesus and says: “Here we have the Bible saying, over and over again, that God is completely in control, and yet you are still responsible for your behavior.” How do you see this in the dialogue between Pilate and Jesus?
Pilate does not want to be politically or personally responsible for making the decision to crucify Jesus. In his heart, he is afraid of Jesus. In his heart, he felt something about Jesus and that Jesus was not guilty of anything. In his political life, he felt that he could not lose face and turn against Caesar. It was a challenging dilemma, but the Jews were pretending to protect Caesar’s empire (though they hated him) . Pilate did not want to be accused of being disloyal to Caesar, so he brought Jesus out to the judgment seat on the day of Passover and said to the Jews: “Behold your King!” When they yelled “Crucify Him!” Pilate asked “Shall I crucify your King?” The chief priests replied that they had no king but Caesar. The political pressure persuaded Pilate to deliver Him to them to be crucified. He caved to the pressure. God was in control, as He had a plan and Jesus knew the plan. Yet, Pilate will be held responsible for his decision.
5. Think of a problem or duty you are facing that is challenging. What is your responsibility in this to do in a way that is pleasing to God?
I had a challenge this week and it seemed like a “no win” situation, where someone who had done some paid chores for me would not be happy and the pressure was coming from my grown children. I prayed that this would not end in a negative situation with the lovely people who had done the yard work. Thankfully, the Lord worked it out. I think it will be a win win situation, so I am Praising Him! I would rather lose a bit of earthly money than lose a relationship.
6. If things do not go as you hope, what is your consolation?
The Lord knows my heart and that I am trying to do what is pleasing to Him. I am choosing to let go of people pleasing and please God in my response.
7. How does Keller show that Jesus is trying to go after Pilate personally?
In His response to Pilate’s threat of power to crucify Jesus. Jesus knows that God has already made the decision of what is going to happen. Jesus tells Pilate, “You could have no power at all against Me unless it had been given to you from above. Therefore the one who delivered Me to you has the greater sin.”
8. Have you ever had the experience of sharing your faith and someone trying to get you off subject by bringing up a peripheral question? How should one handle that?
I am not sure. I might quit sharing if someone was rude or just cutting me off. It is okay to question, but if they are truly uninterested, I would not be pushy.
So wise: I would rather lose a bit of earthly money than lose a relationship.
3. Read John 19:6-11
A. What do the religious leaders want according to verses 6-7? They want Jesus crucified.
B. How does Pilate respond to this? He was scared and was trying to find a reason to release Him. How does he try to warn Jesus? (8-10) Pilate tries to get Jesus to answer some questions and when Jesus refuses he reminds Jesus that he has the authority to crucify Him.
C. What does Jesus tell Pilate? That he has no authority other than what was given to him.
D. Name some things you learn from Jesus last response to Pilate in verse 11. That God is in 100% control of everything. Jesus knew that what was going to happen was God’s will and ultimately the best thing. He didn’t blame Pilate. The greater sin was committed by the one that turned Him over to Pilate. Satan, maybe?
I’m not sure if it was Caiphas or Judas — though Satan was involved, yet that sure boomeranged on him.
Tuesday: Opening
Listen and read in the transcript up to Wednesday: Limits
4. Keller introduces this dialogue between Pilate and Jesus and says: “Here we have the Bible saying, over and over again, that God is completely in control, and yet you are still responsible for your behavior.” How do you this in the dialogue between Pilate and Jesus?
In the fact that Jesus asks Pilate to think about it personally as to whether Jesus is the King of the Jews. And when Jesus states that Pilate’s power was granted from above (by God), and the ones who arrested Jesus and turned Him over to Pilate have the greater sin. Jesus is saying there are consequences for individual choices.
5. Think of a problem or duty you are facing that is challenging. What is your responsibility in this to do in a way that is pleasing to God?
I think about leading a bible study back home in NY. More and more I’ve come to realize that I am now in a position where my example (choices, actions, etc) affects the women so much. What I do and say might encourage growth, or it might lead someone astray if I’m not careful. My responsibility is to stay in the Word, guard my heart, study, and follow the Lord’s leading (don’t do anything apart from that).
6. If things do not go as you hope, what is your consolation?
I don’t entertain any expectations for the group. I focus on my commitment, and whoever comes – comes. The growth, relationships are all the Lord’s work.
7. How does Keller show that Jesus is trying to go after Pilate personally?
Keller said, “Don’t talk about me as an abstraction. What do you think? Where do you stand with regard to me? Pilate’s questions were impersonal, I think, at the beginning, Are you the king…? Jesus makes it a personal issue by asking Pilate what he is thinking, Did someone tell you this… is that your idea…?
8. Have you ever had the experience of sharing your faith and someone trying to get you off subject by bringing up a peripheral question? How should one handle that?
I have not had that experience, and I’m not sure how I would handle that kind of situation. I hope I would be mindful enough to answer the off subject, but bring the conversation back to my faith and the Lord.
Tuesday: Opening
Listen and read in the transcript up to Wednesday: Limits
4. Keller introduces this dialogue between Pilate and Jesus and says: “Here we have the Bible saying, over and over again, that God is completely in control, and yet you are still responsible for your behavior.” How do you this in the dialogue between Pilate and Jesus?
—Jesus pins Pilate down about his reason for asking if Jesus is the king of the Jews. He makes Pilate’s question personal to what he thinks about Jesus. Pilate was put in a position to decide what to do with Jesus based on what he thought of him.
5. Think of a problem or duty you are facing that is challenging. What is your responsibility in this to do in a way that is pleasing to God?
—Since being down here in Texas my husband and I had an uncomfortable discussion about some biblical truth with our grand daughter’s husband. He became argumentative and now he won’t speak to us. The most I will say is that he is very anti-Semitic. And very naive about the Bible as well as young and immature in that he thinks he knows far more than we do. He professes to be a believer but it is very hard to tell. We have attempted to continue the relationship but have been met with a very cold shoulder. We would like to apologize if necessary but can’t force ourselves on him when he has written us off. We aren’t the first to offend him and then be shut out. We are praying and asking God to direct us.
6. If things do not go as you hope, what is your consolation?
—We had hoped to make some kind of reconciliation before going back home the end of this month. Consolation is kind of hard because he has made bold statements and God will hold him accountable for them. I hope in the end he will realize his need to be teachable but I’m afraid it is going to come at the expense of his extreme pride being dealt with. We will make every attempt to practice love toward him.
7. How does Keller show that Jesus is trying to go after Pilate personally?
—Keller says that Jesus wasn’t letting Pilate talk about him in an abstract sort of way but challenging him as to where he personally stood with who Christ was.
4. Keller introduces this dialogue between Pilate and Jesus and says: “Here we have the Bible saying, over and over again, that God is completely in control, and yet you are still responsible for your behavior.” How do you this in the dialogue between Pilate and Jesus?
Jesus asks him if it was his idea, or someone else’s.
5. Think of a problem or duty you are facing that is challenging. What is your responsibility in this to do in a way that is pleasing to God?
Well, with the court thing, I am trying to be patient, respectful, and have self control. Sometimes it’s is very difficult when lies are thrown around.
6. If things do not go as you hope, what is your consolation?
I did the right thing. I can live with myself.
7. How does Keller show that Jesus is trying to go after Pilate personally?
I’m not sure here. Isn’t this the same as question 4? He wonders if Pilate is actually interested himself. Is he curious at all about Jesus?
Oh Laura, Doing the right thing is all that the Lord asks of us. I will continue to pray that you have the peace of God throughout this time of waiting and clear guidance from the Holy Spirit. May the love of Jesus surround you in a very personal way.
Tuesday: Opening
Listen and read in the transcript up to Wednesday: Limits
4. Keller introduces this dialogue between Pilate and Jesus and says: “Here we have the Bible saying, over and over again, that God is completely in control, and yet you are still responsible for your behavior.” How do you this in the dialogue between Pilate and Jesus? We are not puppets on a string. Interesting how we do hold responsibility for our actions and yet God is in control. A passage that comes to mind is in second kings chapter 20 when Hezekiah is sick and will die but he prays for God to extend his life and he gets 15 more years. It’s miraculous. It reminds us that we do have a relationship with God. Obviously this isn’t the kind of prayer that God answers lightly and this fit into his plan during that time, but it does show that there is relationship between us and God. Another passage I think of is during the time Joseph lived when pharaoh needed his help and put him in place to secure the country during the famine.When Joseph’s brothers came for food and we’re fearful of Joseph retaliating for what they had done. Joseph said what you meant for evil God has used for good though his brothers were acting on their fleshly desire to hurt Joseph, God used that to put Joseph in a place he needed to be to save the world from the famine.and to display his great power and love for his people.
5. Think of a problem or duty you are facing that is challenging. What is your responsibility in this to do in a way that is pleasing to God? Daily I find that my husband and I are in a place of leadership and example to our adult children who need guidance. Sometimes counsel we should give, is not immediately obvious, and the degree of involvement we should engage in, is not always clear and so much prayer goes into how we act and what we say. Outside of our family, we are also called to many places of leadership and mentorship and we find this a great responsibility and often feel the weight of that.
6. If things do not go as you hope, what is your consolation? We do trust in God’s sovereignty.
7. How does Keller show that Jesus is trying to go after Pilate personally? Jesus asks Pilot about what he thinks and doesn’t let him just speak in generalities.
8. Have you ever had the experience of sharing your faith and someone trying to get you off subject by bringing up a peripheral question? How should one handle that? Yes. I loved Julie’s answer to this and would like to have another opportunity to try her approach.
my keyboard is not working on my iPad and so my answer is a great mess. Hopefully, it makes sense
I liked your Hezekiah example — though those were 15 hard years!
true!
Wednesday: Limits
Read/Listen up to Thursday: Problem
9. Keller says no one should wage war in Jesus’ name, though some have done it. What example does he give and how did it do more damage than good?
Keller uses the example of old world Europe, where churches/Christianity was supported by political power, laws, taxes, and the sword. In order to rise into a position of power, a person had to be a Christian. The churches were filled with nominal Christians following the laws and seeking power. This was how the church/Christendom became weak. Keller says the modern Europe has empty churches now.
10. Why did Jesus actually come if not to seize political power? What was Keller’s point about also not just to give you “groovy vibes.”
Jesus came to bear witness to the truth and preach about a new way of life that is not based on political power or laws. It’s based on a relationship with God, through Jesus’ blood, and it affects all relationships with others.
“groovy vibes” implies a private warm, fuzzy feeling that is private and other worldly, and it does not really affect life in the real world. That’s the opposite of what Jesus taught.
11. List some of things that the spread of Christianity actually did do to make the world a better place? What conservative changes and what liberal changes?
Conservative: Killing children is wrong; sex outside of marriage is wrong for man or woman
Liberal: All ethnicities, men, women, all classes bond/free, are equal in the body of Christ; Charity was established, sharing wealth with the poor, widows, orphans
12. What else stood out to you from this section?
“he’s not just saying, like some people, have nothing to do with political power, nor on the other hand is he saying political power is the way to go.”
This reminded me of “The Moral Majority,” that sought to legislate morality; you can’t, but we can live our lives in such a way as to affect those around us.
A great deal of harm has been and still is being caused in the name of Christ; physically (Crusades, Inquisition, Torture/death, Indulgences, etc) and spiritually (excessive guilt, fear, abuse of power, driven people away from the Lord, etc).
Appreciated this from Cheryl:
This reminded me of “The Moral Majority,” that sought to legislate morality; you can’t, but we can live our lives in such a way as to affect those around us.
Read/Listen up to Thursday: Problem
9. Keller says no one should wage war in Jesus’ name, though some have done it. What example does he give and how did it do more damage than good?
One of the only places that has used the name of Jesus for political power is Europe. It was called Christendom. Now the churches are empty and Christianity is on the decline in Europe. Jesus said He did not want people to serve that way. It makes Christianity into an institution that is telling people how to think, as well as how to live. Jesus was interested in relationship. He did not want to be an earthly king; He is a Heavenly King, come to save our souls. The masses were alienated and Christianity lost its power.
10. Why did Jesus actually come if not to seize political power? What was Keller’s point about also not just to give you “groovy vibes.”
Jesus came to save souls. He came to take on our sins and He took those sins to the cross and paid a great price for each of us. Jesus came to save our souls, to change the way we see God; to have a relationship with each one of us; to change the way we live and the way we serve Him. It is not about Him making us feel “warm and fuzzy”. It is about changing our hearts and our values. It is about living for Him and not for ourselves. It is truth not laws that change the way people think and behave.
11. List some of things that the spread of Christianity actually did do to make the world a better place? What conservative changes and what liberal changes?
The conservative things that changed were conscience and no longer having infanticide. There is no sex outside marriage. The Liberal changes were that Christianity was the great equalizer ~ everyone was the same at the foot of the cross. When it came to money, race and power, Christianity brought a more liberal turn. To cities all over the world filled with homeless people and those in poverty, Christianity brought hope. To cities filled with orphans and widows, and ethnic strife, it opened up a better culture for everyone.
12. What else stood out to you from this section?
I love where Keller points out that Jesus said He was not interested in political power, but in changing the way people live. It is all about the heart. Once we see what the real gift is, it is powerful not political and it is Heart Changing and Life Changing, no matter where you fit in society.
It is about living for Him and not for ourselves – yes, Patti, that’s it in a nutshell.
9. Keller says no one should wage war in Jesus’ name, though some have done it. What example does he give and how did it do more damage than good?
Constantine evoked “Christendom” where everyone had to be a Christian and follow Christianity. It occurred in Europe and today, Europeans are “done” with Christianity. It was about power not Jesus.
10. Why did Jesus actually come if not to seize political power?
He came to change the way people live. He came to give peace, and joy, and hope to the world.
What was Keller’s point about also not just to give you “groovy vibes.”
Sure it might make some feel good (peace, joy, and hope) but ultimately it should effect the way you live and how your interact with others.
11. List some of things that the spread of Christianity actually did do to make the world a better place?
Women were treated better. Abortion was wrong, female infanticide was wrong, no sex outside of marriage, people were mixed.
Christianity offered a good life for all!
What conservative changes and what liberal changes?
conservative was issues with sex.
liberal was issues with money.
12. What else stood out to you from this section?
The idea that churches have lessened in Europe and gained in many other parts of the world interests me. Gather 25 helped me see this too. I have shared that movement so many times in the last 2 weeks! It’s sad about Europe. They need a revival for sure!!
Great answers, Laura!
x
Thursday: Problem
Listen/Read up to Friday.
13. What is the problem with political power? “And that’s the reason power is abused, because power becomes a means, not a means to serve others, but an end in itself, something you hold on to no matter what.”
14. Read the short essay by the President of Czechsolovakia and summarize it in two sentences.
Here is a link for the speech https://www.cs.utexas.edu/~vl/notes/havel.html
Three motives for entering politics are: desire to serve and improve society, desire to achieve acclaim as a person of importance, and desire to have the perks that come with the title/office.
No matter what the motive if you are not vigilant in examining yourself, you will be corrupted by the power and perks you enjoy and will do anything to hold on to that power.
15. If you are a leader in any way, how could you apply this?
Firstly, I did not have a desire to lead; the Lord placed it on my heart, and I resisted for years. I could easily get puffed up with all the notes/expressions of thanks I get, or comments such as, “I want to be like you…you do such a beautiful job…” I point the speaker to Jesus, and then thank the Lord that He has used me. It’s not me, I tell myself, it’s Christ IN me. So I would agree with Havel that I need to be vigilant in self-examination, but the difference is that I have a relationship with the Lord who keeps me on track. I don’t have to depend on MY evaluation of myself.
16. What point does Keller make with the Galatians passage?
I was confused by this, because I could not find a passage in Galatians that corresponded to what Keller said. I wondered if he was referring to Galatians 5:13-15 where Paul talks about service, serving each other, out of love. There is a warning to “take heed”, which could be self-examination, that we don’t hurt/destroy someone with our words/actions.
I’m not sure either which passage he meant!
Wednesday: Limits
Read/Listen up to Thursday: Problem
9. Keller says no one should wage war in Jesus’ name, though some have done it. What example does he give and how did it do more damage than good?
—He gives Europe as an example of “Christendom” with it’s state churches has been practiced for a 1000 years and has failed miserably. It was built on political power and ended up alienating the masses.
It goes against the way of Christ who founded his church on what appears to be a weak person who gave up power.
10. Why did Jesus actually come if not to seize political power?
—Jesus came with truth to witness to the truth. Truth that changes people’s lives.
What was Keller’s point about also not just to give you “groovy vibes.”
—He didn’t come to just make people feel good in their private lives. But through the truth to affect the way they live apart from political mandates and laws.
11. List some of things that the spread of Christianity actually did do to make the world a better place? What conservative changes and what liberal changes?
—He gave the example of the Roman Empire that as the population of true believers in Christ lived out the truth in holy living such as valuing life and the sanctity of marriage the world was a far better place.
Christian communities, on the one hand, looked more conservative than the
surrounding culture. When it came to sex and family.
Christian communities look more liberal than the surrounding
culture…. Because the gospel truth changed the way in which they related to each other. And the gospel truth was everybody’s a sinner saved by grace, the great equalizer.
Wednesday: Limits
Read/Listen up to Thursday: Problem
9. Keller says no one should wage war in Jesus’ name, though some have done it. What example does he give and how did it do more damage than good? – Using the sword showed you had political power. Jesus didn’t want that to be the case with His kingdom. He mentioned that in Europe they were using Christendom and they went away from what John 18 says. People were ‘forced’ into state churches. These state churches had the power and if you were anything in society, you went to these churches. These churches lost their power by mixing with political power.
10. Why did Jesus actually come if not to seize political power? What was Keller’s point about also not just to give you “groovy vibes.” – He doesn’t want Christianity to be a feel-good church. He wants people to live their life the same behind closed doors as they do in the outside world.
11. List some of things that the spread of Christianity actually did do to make the world a better place. What conservative changes and what liberal changes? – The early Christian church was shaped by the truth of the gospel, and it changed the way people lived. Their view on sex and family made a huge turn. They respected both of these areas in their lives. They were the first to think abortion was wrong and how women were treated badly was frowned upon. They got rid of the double standards and men and women were treated equally. The Christian churches looked different than the surrounding culture and people were treating others differently. They started to realize that everyone was a sinner saved by grace. They started getting rid of ‘class in society’ and mixed up their relationships.
12. What else stood out to you from this section? – I didn’t realize the sword was showing political power. But I can see by what Tim Keller has said about it, makes so much more sense to me. Jesus didn’t want people to just believe in him and His Truth. He wanted them to have a mind of their own and truly, deep down, believe Him because of who he was and what he stood for. Not because they wanted to be high in society.
That was enlightening about the sword representing political power.
Thursday: Problem
Listen/Read up to Friday.
13. What is the problem with political power? we humans desire to use that power to meet our own desires rather than caring more about truth.
14. Read the short essay by the President of Czechsolovakia and summarize it in two sentences. People will use power to legislate truth and to fill their own needs and their own needs will take over the good they set out to do if they are not vigilant.
15. If you are a leader in any way, how could you apply this? I must be careful to watch that I don’t abuse the power I have for my own pleasure. As a mom, don’t just make myself more comfortable in the way I discipline but discipline to bring out the truth in the Word and lead the child to Christ.
16. What point does Keller make with the Galatians passage? we have a hole as humans that we need to fill, he says don’t be empty of glory but fill our hole with God instead of earthly power.
I wonder if he is referring to Galatians chapter 6, verse 3
That would make sense!
Oh, Chris! Yes! That makes good sense. I was unsure, as there were a few things I thought applied.
Chris, this stood out to me as I work on training somebody to take my place shortly as a lead teacher in our school. ” People will use power to legislate truth and to fill their own needs and their own needs will take over the good they set out to do if they are not vigilant. ” Though I am not a legislator, my past experiences and qualifications lend some “power’ to my position and I am to be vigilant not to manipulate it in the guise of “I know it all”. Jesus’ humility and his containment of His power as the I AM is a strong and vivid example of how to have a servant-leader attitude. Selflessness goes against the grain of the flesh of self-focus. And it is impossible to accomplish daily without the grace and enabling of God.
Wow! Love this, Bing!
Yes, Bing, the really applies to all power situations. Your training for this person must be bittersweet, as you prepare to step down. Hugs to you. I am sure your humble heart is evident and hopefully “caught”, by your student.
Thursday: Problem
Listen/Read up to Friday.
13. What is the problem with political power? – People feel threatened by others, and in this case, Pilate felt threatened by Jesus. He didn’t care about truth at all, he was worried about his power over the people. He didn’t want anyone to have more power, more influence than him. He wanted to be in the high seat, no matter the cost.
14. Read the short essay by the President of Czechoslovakia and summarize it in two sentences. – When we first go into politics or a leadership role, we are ourselves. We care about what happens to others and care about the position we are holding. In time, we lose ourselves because of all the benefits and help that come along with that position. We don’t know who we are anymore and when we look in the mirror, we don’t recognize the person we were, but we see a person, who in the past we criticized. We have become THAT person.
15. If you are a leader in any way, how could you apply this? – I lead the benevolence team at church, and I have to constantly not just jump in and want to help everyone, though we do try to do that. I need to search my heart, listen for God and wait to see how he leads. I have to remember that God needs to direct my answers and that the budget is not mine to freely give away. We as a team have to be mindful of wants and needs and have discernment before giving an answer on the request. I need to consider the budget as if it was my own and decide how and what to spend it on. I can’t lose sight of who I am and what purpose our team serves.
16. What point does Keller make with the Galatians passage? – Galatians 5:26 – Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. I think we try to outdo one another, to see who the better person can be. But all we do is lose our focus on what we are supposed to be doing. On the real purpose God has chosen us. We don’t focus on God and his word any longer, but on how we look to others that see us. We become a fake, someone, if we are honest with our self, don’t even want to know.
I agree with you Julie on #16, That entire chapter is all about walking in the spirit vs. fleshly words/actions. We should be very careful Remember the song, “O be careful little eyes what you see…hands what you do…mouth what you say, etc.” not just for children is it?
Amen to Cheryl! Oh, that is so good, Julie!!
Friday: Solution
Read/Listen to The End
17. What example of a child does Keller give? – As parents we want our kids to be good, to do as we’ve asked them to do, but they don’t. And then all of sudden we see them doing what we have asked all along. Our faces light up and our kids see the pleasure on our faces, and they get excited to see that. For us as Christians, we feel the same way when we accomplish something we have been praying for, for a long time. We know God is pleased with us and it excites us.
18. What should be our motivation for anything we do? Why? – To see the delight of Jesus’ face and know without a doubt he is proud and grinning from ear to ear. Saying “that’s my child, that’s my heir, see they love me so much, they want to do good”. We love to know that someone is happy and proud of us for doing good. It’s affirmation that we look for and makes us happy that we accomplished His will for our lives.
19. What was his point with the George Herbert poem? – When we try to throw our power around, we will only fall and fail and make those around us, standing by on the sidelines, be more successful and more in power than they were trying to be. Those others will be noticed for accomplishments, and we will be known for jealousy, deceit and failure.
20. What else stood out and why? – We need to do everything that comes our way with God in mind. Not for our own gain, but to lift up our heavenly Father, for others to see his goodness through us.
Hello, Sisters, My son’s surgery went very well, thank you for praying. Pathology report takes 7-14 days, BUT the surgeon does not believe it is cancerous judging by size and appearance of removed node.
Praise God, Cheryl Ann! What wonderful news! Thank you Father God for answered prayer! I will continue to pray that it is benign.
That is good news!
Just heard, no cancer! Surgeon called pathology and contacted my son. Praise the Lord, and thankful we don’t have to wait for results.
Thank you Lord!
Praise the Lord!
praise God for answered prayer.
Praise the lord, Cheryl!
Such hopeful news, Cheryl!
Listen/Read up to Friday.
13. What is the problem with political power?
Political power can start off with a sincere heart to use the power in the service of truth, but once in power that can be forgotten because the human heart loves the self affirmation and the perks of the power, in and for itself.
14. Read the short essay by the President of Czechsolovakia and summarize it in two sentences.
Many can desire political power to help organize and make society in general, run well and fairly. Though this is altruistic, the result more often turns into a combination of desiring the power for one’s own self affirmation and clinging to that power in order to continue with all the perks it provides, while the original proposed purpose may soon be forgotten.
15. If you are a leader in any way, how could you apply this?
I have never desired to be a leader, I prefer to work as a mentor or quietly one on one, with individual people, to encourage them, through Christ, in things that will bring them to know the Lord, have Him be the self affirmation, which we each desire. That can be applied in any facet of leadership. I just don’t have the skill set to be an upfront leader.
16. What point does Keller make with the Galatians passage?
I thought it might possibly be referring to Galatians 5: 19-26 after he speaks about the fruits of the spirit; specifically Verse 26: “Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another; or Galatians 6:11-16, focusing all things to the cross of Christ.
Patti, your comments here reminded me of this verse:
“Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:11
Perhaps instead of making power our ambition, we should aim for a quiet life (which I think you do so well) just as admonished here. At times, we might be called to be leaders with influence but we must remember that we are held accountable to God for how we use that power.
The older I get the more I crave a quiet life. Just you and me, God but not as I will but yours be done.
Amen, Bing. Not as I will but yours be done.
I love all of this-especially your hearts desires to please the Lord and his evident work in your lives through the Word.
17. What example of a child does Keller give?
When parents try so hard to get their small children to mind and to get along. Then, they see them do it on their own, and the parents acknowledges it by something like “That’s by boy!” and the child is delighted! That is what we get and we can only truly get it from God. Our focus in life should be doing what is pleasing to Him, regardless of our circumstances. Helping, healing, encouraging, giving ~ things that God finds pleasing in His children. He is our most important cheerleader.
18. What should be our motivation for anything we do? Why?
Our motivation should be pleasing God and behaving and treating others the way we know would make God smile upon us.
19. What was his point with the George Herbert poem?
Those who use their gifts and power for the unselfish and giving things of God, will increase in their relationship with Him. Those who harm others and use their power for their own selfish desires, will never be happy or content in the Lord; they will desire more and more and their value will shrink away and disappear. We need to focus only on what is good and lovely, and of the Lord. We need to not be weary or jealous when those who reign cruelty seem to win; it is an illusion and they are not hurting anyone but the Heart of God, which in turn will hurt them.
20. What else stood out and why?
This was such a great lesson and I loved the sermon, and the reminders that the Power of God is the only real power that exists. I need to keep my focus on Him and the things He desires of me.
Patti, I thought of another verse when I read your answer to #20: the Power of God is the only real power that exists. I need to keep my focus on Him and the things He desires of me.
I read this from the bible Hub after searching for the verse that talks about God laughing for their days are coming speaking of evil: ”
This phrase indicates God’s supreme authority and sovereignty over human affairs. The idea of God laughing is anthropomorphic, attributing human characteristics to God to convey His response to human folly. In a biblical context, this laughter is not one of amusement but of derision, as seen in Psalm 2 where God laughs at the futile plans of the nations against Him. It underscores the futility of wickedness against divine power. The laughter signifies God’s confidence in His ultimate justice and the certainty of His plans.
Thank you for the great verses, Bing!
I just listened to a Tim Keller sermon on Galatians 6 ~ Boasting on nothing other than the Cross . This is the sermon that uses that phrase : “Vain Glorious”:He talks about Gal 5:26 ( let us not be conceited) kinodoxo =empty of glory. It means that we are desperate to prove ourselves; we need other peoples affirmations. We are made to serve and honor God: “every part of us wants to hear God say well done, good and faithful servant.” It is a great sermon on this verse. I was not searching for this sermon or these words it just popped up on my YouTube feed under Tim Keller sermons just after I finished these last questions spiritual! 🙏🙏
13. What is the problem with political power?
It is forced on people and their “bent” is to say, “no!”
14. Read the short essay by the President of Czechsolovakia and summarize it in two sentences.
You initially enter politics/power to do good and aren’t thinking how it might make you a different person. It ends up satisfying your need for self-affirmation, something that everyone desires because they are unaware just how much God loves them, which should be enough.
15. If you are a leader in any way, how could you apply this?
Remember who you belong to always. No one else’s opinion matters.
16. What point does Keller make with the Galatians passage?
We need to be humble. There will always be someone else who can fill the gap if you are not available. Help others because they need help.
Love your answer to 14. Laura . Yes, God’s love should be enough
Friday: Solution
Read/Listen to The End
17. What example of a child does Keller give? The example of a child who has learned to behave and receives the approval of the parent-that welcoming, loving embrace of acceptance and approval.
18. What should be our motivation for anything we do? Why? Our purpose is to glorify God-this should be our motivation in everything.
19. What was his point with the George Herbert poem? Power is found in loving others and serving, not in control.
20. What else stood out and why? The neutralizing effect that Christ has on power. When we forgive, we are in control of those who abuse power. When we give away our money, it no longer controls us with desires for more stuff. When we serve others, we free ourselves from being selfishness. Keller is speaking about abuse of power in politics, but it applies to any abuse of power.
Love your entire post, Chris! Love your heart for God! Love this: : “The neutralizing effect that Christ has on power.”
So good, Chris!
17. What example of a child does Keller give?
Children testing the waters and trying to be independent. Not listening to their parents. Then, one day, they do! They receive the accolades of the parent. The child is in “heaven” because they have the acceptance and pleasure of their parent.
18. What should be our motivation for anything we do? Why?
We should be motivated to please our Father. It makes Him, and us, happy.
19. What was his point with the George Herbert poem?
The “good” person, who doesn’t react negatively will be promoted. The “bad” person, who reacts negatively, will be squashed.
Your paraphrase of Herbert made me laugh.
Well, it does encourage me because boy, have I learned to keep my mouth shut the past few years!