text:
This action might not be possible to undo. Are you sure you want to continue?
Presbyterian Church
271 Madison Avenue, Suite 1600, New York, New York 10016 (212) 808 4460 www.redeemer.com
Studies in the book of Acts
Participant's Guide
"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
Acts 1:8
Tim Keller | Redeemer Presbyterian Church | 2005
Copyright © Timothy J. Keller, and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 All rights reserved. In compliance with copyright restrictions, no portion of these materials may be reproduced in any form or stored on any system without the permission of Redeemer Presbyterian Church 271 Madison Ave., Suite 1600 New York, NY 10016
and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Keller.Table of contents 1 5 6 9 12 15 20 23 28 33 35 41 45 50 55 57 66 71 72 78 83 89 95 99 103 108 113 118 119 Study 1 Study 2 Study 3 Study 4 Study 5 Study 6 Study 7 Study 8 Study 9 Preparing the understanding for mission Preparing the life for mission The power arrives The new community Peter presents the Gospel Peter defends the Gospel Counter-attack Stephen presents the Gospel The ministry of Philip Study 10 The conversion of Saul Study 11 The conversion of Cornelius Study 12 New mission breakthrough Study 13 Paul presents the Gospel Study 14 The Gospel for pagans Study 15 Clarifying the Gospel Study 16 Three surprising conversions Study 17 The gospel for intellectuals Study 18 Mission to Corinth Study 19 Mission to Ephesus Study 20 Farewell to Ephesus Study 21 Arrival at Jerusalem Study 22 Paul's arrest and defense Study 23 Before the Sanhedrin Study 24 Escape to Felix Study 25 Before Felix and Festus Study 26 Before Agrippa (Part 1) Study 27 Before Agrippa (Part 2) Study 28 Shipwreck Study 29 To Rome (Finally!) Copyright © Timothy J.
What does v. 1:3-8. How do these world help assure us of the historical accuracy of the events of the book of Acts (and the gospel of Luke)? 2. Read Luke 1:1-4.3) before he sends them power (v. In what way is the apostolic ministry continuing in the church and in what way is it not? In what ways does this distinction influence the way we apply the book of Acts to ourselves today? 1 Copyright © Timothy J. Why do you think Jesus prepares the apostles' minds (v.1 tell us about Luke's theme or subject for the Book of Acts? How does this theme contrast Christianity from other faiths? 3. Luke 24:44-49)? What does the apostles' question reveal about their understanding of the kingdom? How does Jesus correct and inform their understanding? 4. Keller. 1:1. 1:2-8. What things are given to the apostles uniquely and what things are given to the us along with the apostles? 5.4)? What was it about (cf.Acts Preparing the understanding for mission Study 1 | Acts 1:1-8 1. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .
He gave them both truth and power. As we study Acts 1 and 2. In Acts 1 and 2 we see that Jesus prepared both the understandings and the whole lives of his disciples before he sent them out. Your small group community will be the setting for you to prepare yourselves for the same great experience and service. The following is an outline and schedule. But notice that this preparation came in the context of community. The basis for this course is a study of the book of Acts. in Acts 18-19 we will learn about different strategies and means for sharing our faith with others. As we look at Acts 13-17 we will learn how to answer objections and how to make a case for the truth of Christianity. Finally. They did not learn and grow into "sentness" as individuals. and then supporting and supervising one another as you reach out.] The purpose of this course is to prepare your mind and heart to be effective witnesses for Christ's kingdom in the world — in a small group community.notes PREPARING THE UNDERSTANDING FOR MISSION WEEK 1 PROJECT — DISCUSSION [Leaders should lead the group through this overview of the whole course and allow them to ask questions. October Week Oct 7 Preparing your Life for evangelism Acts 1:1-8: Preparing the Understanding for Mission (Intro to Course) Oct 14 Acts 1:6-26: Preparing the Life for Mission (Building a "Altar" for a Life God Can Use) Oct 21 Acts 2:1-36: The Power Arrives (The Power of the Holy Spirit) Oct 28 Acts 2:37-47: The New Community (The Power of the Gospel) 2 Study 1 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. Then use the discussion questions at the end for sharing. your group will choose a way of outreach to do together. we will learn how to prepare one's life for God to use. They received both the necessary truth and power in community. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . When you get to this point (in March). Keller. and you will spend 2-3 months putting your learning into practice. which is a source for all the principles we need to be witnesses. As we study Acts 3-7 we will learn how to grasp and share the gospel itself. As we study Acts 8-12 we will learn how people come to Christ and are changed through conversion.
and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .PREPARING THE UNDERSTANDING FOR MISSION notes November Week Nov 4 Presenting the Gospel Acts 3:1-26: Peter Presents the Gospel (Sharing a Testimony) Nov 11 Acts 4:1-31: Peter Defends the Gospel (A Gospel Outline) Nov 18 Acts 4:32-6:7: Counter-Attack (Gaining Confidence) Nov 25 Acts 6:8-7:60: Stephen Presents the Gospel ("Oikos" Evangelism) December Week Dec 2 Dec 9 Leading People to Faith Acts 8:1-40: The Ethiopian's Conversion (Special Joint Meeting: Joyful Boldness) Acts 9:1-43: Paul's Conversion (A Gospel Outline: II) Dec 16 Acts 10:1-11:18: Cornelius' Conversion (Understanding Conversion) Jan-Feb Week Jan 6 Persuading People to Believe Acts 11:19-12:24: New Mission Breakthrough (What is Apologetics?) Jan 13 Acts 12:25-13:52: Paul Presents the Gospel (Soundbyte Apologetics) Jan 20 Acts 14:1-28: The Gospel for Pagans (A Case for Christianity: I) Jan 27 Acts 15:1-16:5: Clarifying the Gospel (A Case for Christianity: II) Feb 3 Acts 16:5-40: Three Surprising Conversions (Process Apologetics) Feb 10 Acts 17:1-34: The Gospel for Intellectuals (Helps and Hints for Handling Objections) 3 Copyright © Timothy J. Keller.
Nothing will be forced upon you.notes PREPARING THE UNDERSTANDING FOR MISSION Feb-March Week Learning Strategies for Outreach Feb 17 Acts 18:1-28: Mission to Corinth (Special Joint Meeting: Home Outreach Buffets) Feb 24 Acts 19:1-22: Mission to Ephesus: I (Strategy 2: Discovering Series) Mar 3 Acts 19:23-41: Mission to Ephesus: II (Strategy3-4: Open Group. Keller. 4 Study 1 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. Whether you are "outgoing" or shy — there is a method that fits you. 2. Oikos Intentional. Share the two biggest obstacles for you with regards to witness. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . What one or two important things can be learned about sharing faith from these incidents.) Mar 10 Acts 17-19: Review: Paul's Strategies (Strategy 5-6: Worship/Events. Service Projects. Share either one positive experience or one negative experience you've had in witnessing to your faith. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. your group will choose a strategy together.) March-May Choosing Strategies and Reaching Out Remember.
What is the significance of the multi-lingual proclamation of the gospel on the day of Pentacost? Why do you think God did it that way? 5 Copyright © Timothy J. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . What do they do to prepare for this gift in 1:15-26? 4. Luke 1:41. 7:55. Keller. 4:1. Why do the angels tell the disciples not to "stand… looking into the sky"? What should the ascension mean to them and us? 2. What do they do to prepare for this gift in 1:13-14? 3. and in what ways is it repeatable? 5. Compare and contrast this incident in Acts 2:1-4 with Acts 4:31. 1:9. Jesus told them to not begin their mission until they receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (1:4-5).Acts life for mission Preparing the Study 2 | Acts 1:8-2:12 1. 3:21-22. 13:9. In what ways is Pentacost unique. 67.
What kind of impact did this first corporate celebration have on the audience? 3. What kind of impact does this have on the audience? 5. vv. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .37-40. vv.Acts arrives The power Study 3 | Acts 2:5-39 1.12-13.5-11. vv. What do we learn from this passage about the witness you should have as an individual Christian? The witness we should have as a church? 6 Copyright © Timothy J. What does Peter say in response to this second question? This is a description of how to receive Christ — outline its basic points. Keller. What does Peter say in response to this first question? This is a gospel presentation — outline its basic points.5-13 What evidence is there that this was a worship service that the crowd came to? What is the significance of that fact for us today? 2. vv. What kind of impact does this first gospel presentation have on the audience? 4.14-36. What are the marks of the kind of corporate worship that makes a strong evangelistic impact? vv.
The Holy Spirit came to convict the world of sin. Pentecost was fifty days after Christ was resurrected and just 10 days after His ascension. What has been the world's response. if the Holy Spirit left my life today. Today we have the gospels. And he points to the gift of the Holy Spirit as proof of Christ's Lordship. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Discuss how the Holy Spirit relate to all believers.13). 1. He promised that rivers of living waters would flow out of them. 16 & 26 7 Study 3 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. We are inseparably linked to this Person as believers. Jesus later said it was for our good that He was going away and He promised to send the Counselor. 8: 11. Eph.notes THE POWER ARRIVES WEEK 3 PROJECT — THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT Introduction: The Holy Spirit's Coming Before His death. yet many believers are confused about or ignorant of His ministry in our lives. that we see Jesus' promises about the Holy Spirit fulfilled. Jesus told all those who were spiritually thirsty to come to Him and drink. because Jesus had not yet been glorified (John 7:37-39). #I.for prayer. Christ's last words before His ascension assured believers that they would receive power when the Holy Spirit came. to guide us into all truth and to tell us what is yet to come (John 16:7. #IIA. from Old Testament times until now. Assign these verses. according to Acts 7:51-53? B. Then. in Acts 2:1-36. speaking symbolically of the Holy Spirit who hadn't been given. #IIB. 20 2. The Holy Spirit's Ministry A. the Spirit of truth. Keller. On that day all the Christians were filled with the Holy Spirit. Ask yourself — "Theoretically. I. the book of Acts and the epistles to teach us about the Holy Spirit's ministry in our lives and in the life of Christ's church. 15 min. would it make any difference in the way I respond to things?" (Leader: 10 min. I Corin. 6:19. Peter was empowered to explain what was happening. Rom. 10 min. 10 min. It is here. righteousness and judgment. that would result in their being bold witnesses of His death and resurrection (Acts 1:8). according to John 16:8-11. 1:13 3. He describes David's prediction of Christ's resurrection and exaltation as fulfillment of prophecy and God's foreordained plan.
but He doesn't tell us to do something beyond our grasp. Where you need deeper understanding. I Thes. What potential problems are exposed in the following verses? 1. How Christians relate to the Holy Spirit A. 5:19 (What solutions are offered in verses 20-24?) 3. 8 Copyright © Timothy J. 3:15. confessing obstacles to obedience in your walk and your desire to experience the Spirit's work in yourself and in our church. We speak to one another with songs. 4:30 (What solutions are offered in v. Do you see the Spirit's fullness being manifested in our church? III. C. ALTAR Accountability. How can these verses help us follow through on obeying the solutions offered in the verses above and what's at stake if we don't? B. Eph. He gives 'severally.32?) 2. being thankful for everything and submitting ourselves one to another. I John 1:5-10 once again shows us problems. for the common good. Everyone profits as the spiritual gifts are exercized that the Holy Spirit bestowed.THE POWER ARRIVES notes 4. Eph. we receive. In I Corin. Keller. Pray together about: A. or hindrances. B. In the whole group. that can keep us from the Spirit's fullness. 5:18 is a command for believers to be filled with the Holy Spirit. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . share how you are doing in the 3-5 things that you resolved to do in order to 'build an altar' and have a life more useful to God'. Gal. and spiritual songs. It's not an option.31. singing and making music in our hearts to the Lord.18 & 25?) 4. 12:7-13 we see that there is both diversity and unity in the body of Christ. 5:19-21 and Col. or in smaller groups of 2 or 3. as He wills. hymns. Once we better understand the theology of God's Spirit at work in the church and in us. Eph. 5:17 (What solutions are offered in verses 16. what should be the implications in our walk with God and the life of the church? II.16 describe evidences of the Spirit's fullness in our hearts and in the church.
vv. Keller. and about becoming a Christian? 2. Make a list of the characteristics and functions of the early church which are evident in this passage. What do we learn here about the church's a) ministry of learning and b) ministry of fellowship? 4. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .Acts The new community Study 4 | Acts 2:40-47 1. Why do you think Peter tells them to save themselves from "this generation"? What does this statement imply about the church.40-41.42-47. vv. 3. What do we learn here about the church's a) ministry of worship and b) ministry of witness and service? 9 Copyright © Timothy J.
E. Ministry of learning in the truth. How can it better manifest these 'vital signs'? Consider your local church. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Keller. C. D. B. Ministry of loving in the fellowship. Consider your own small group. A. (1st sign: Theological depth) (2nd sign: Intimate relationships) (3rd sign: Joyous worship) (4th sign: Relentless evangelism) (5th sign: Sacrificial service) 5. How can it better manifest these 'vital signs'? 10 Study 4 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. Ministry of service through deeds. Ministry of worship in the Spirit.notes THE NEW COMMUNITY The five ministries of the early church are also five "vital signs" of a Spirit-filled community. Ministry of witness though words.
PRAY FOR OPPORTUNITIES this week to practice being a minister of reconciliation. 1:17. who is reaching out to whom? B. We can too. in spite of their intellects. Because of the power of the Holy Spirit and the power of the gospel. the lives of many people were touched. B. 5:17-20 – What is God's messenger called? What specifically does he do? Where does he get his authority? What does God's messenger talk about? What's the message? How would you define 'reconcile'? In this passage. I Corin. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . I Corin. II Corin. Understanding where the power lies A. A. He was preaching the gospel boldly. ask each other and share: "How are you doing with the 3-5 things that you resolved to do in order to "build and altar" and have a life more useful to God?" 11 Copyright © Timothy J.THE NEW COMMUNITY notes WEEK 4 PROJECT — THE POWER OF THE GOSPEL Introduction In Acts 2:37. as we continue to contemplate what it means to build an altar.) I. III -10 minutes and discuss the questions. and trust the Holy Spirit to let the fire fall into our hearts as we live for Him in word and deed. A. II . It is the God empowered ministry that has been given to each believer! Accept it joyfully. we see an example of the Spirit convicting the world of sin. Keller. Romans 1:16 – What are we told about the gospel? How does this verse challengeour attitude about witnessing and to whom we witness? B. Accepting the ministry God gave us. morals and philosophies? C. Who have you had an opportunity to share this message with lately and how did they respond? III.10 minutes. (Leader: Look up each verse under I . We should be able to experience increasing confidence in communicating the gospel. ALTAR Accountability. righteousness and judgment (John 16:8-11) as Peter spoke to the crowd at Pentecost.15 minutes. During closing time of sharing and prayer — in the larger group. or in smaller groups of 2 or 3. 2:1-5 – How did Paul proclaim the gospel that he said he was not ashamed of and what comfort does this offer to us? II.18 & 22-24 – What was Paul's central message to the Greeks at Corinth. Pace yourself to leave 10 to 15 minutes to read number IV and pray. make sacrifices to the Lord.
How does Peter prove from the Bible that Jesus is the Messiah? Where did Peter learn all this? What is the importance of seeing the centrality of Christ in the Old Testament? 4. 12 Copyright © Timothy J. Summarize what can we learn about evangelism and witness from Peter. b) What does he say will be the results of receiving Christ? 5. and Timothy J. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . What is striking about the healing of the crippled man? What does it tell us about how God works in our lives? 2. What essential facts does Peter tell them about Jesus? What three kinds of evidence does he give for these facts (apart from his citation of Scripture)? 3.Acts the Gospel Peter presents Study 5 | Acts 3:1-26 1. Keller. a)How does Peter tell his listeners they must do to receive Christ? Compare it with what he told his listeners in Acts 2.Copyright ©Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 Keller.
deep loss. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . by category. What did you understood about the claims of Jesus Christ? This is the part of your testimony that must be clear and about HIM. How did you hear the gospel (who. then share them. The story of Jesus Christ's spiritual journey. In this passage the message is one of victory. "Come and listen. all you who fear God. there was no CNN to take people into the battle zone via television. The Story of your spiritual journey. let me tell youwhat He has done for me. where. Let's consider what we need to know to be ready: A. How would you summarize your differences and what you had in common? II. 1)Before_____________ 2)How_____________ 3)After______________ B. Have you experienced salvation? If so. Proclaiming His praises! Read Isaiah 52:7.notes PETER PRESENTS THE GOSPEL WEEK 5 PROJECT — SHARING A TESTIMONY I. "Your God reigns!" (The Treasures of Encouragement Sharon Betters) A. Write one word best describing your life during each of the three phases of your spiritual journey to knowing Christ. without comment. " In biblical times. Read I Peter 3:15. financial or job pressures? You have a message! 13 Study 5 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. It might encourage them! B. Read Romans 10:14-17 A. you have a message. not you! III. Keller. Instead. share them. illness. How has God comforted you through relational conflict.66:16 says. messengers ran from the war zones to inform anxious family members and friends of the outcome of the battles. circumstances or actions you had before you came to know Christ. What is an area where you have seen change in your life because of Jesus? A true testimony relates to personal experience. when)? Consider finding a way this week to thank that person for influencing you to give your life to Christ. Record 3 phrases or words that describe different attitudes. 2. 1) 2) 3) C. Ps. Then." 1.
Read Jer. trusting hearts. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2003 . Keller. So confess your sins for continual cleansing and consider this quote by Michael Green: 'EVANGELISM IS OVERFLOW'! 14 Copyright © Timothy J. IV. Pray for our testimonies to burst forth from an inward fire! We ARE to preach the gospel. This is how we can preach without 'preaching'! We can cultivate the habit of seeing ALL of life as an opportunity to express gratitude to God! No child of God is exempt from this type of 'preaching' ministry'.PETER PRESENTS THE GOSPEL notes B. without 'preaching' and talk about Jesus! An energizing power is given by the Holy Spirit to cleansed. 20:9.
elders. What are the marks the prayer which brings down such power into the disciples? 5.23-31. rulers.7.Acts the Gospel Peter defends Study 6 | Acts 4:1-31 1. 15 Copyright © Timothy J.8-12. What do we learn about unbelief from the reaction of the Sadducees. vv. and what link is there between this distress and their rejection of the gospel message? 3. vv. Keller. 13-14). What evidence and arguments are used by Peter in his defense? What is the leaders' response? 4. What is particularly troubling to the leaders about the apostles (v. and teachers of the law in contrast to the reaction of the people? 2. What do we learn about witness and ministry from this entire passage? Examine your hearts and our church in light of it. Summarize. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .
WHEN — use a gospel summary or outline? An outline of the gospel should be used when a listener is genuinely interested in knowing what the Christian faith is about. it is necessary to have in your head both an outline of the gospel and a summary of the gospel. It is much shorter than the full presentation that needs to be given to someone who is very ready to believe. The "Bridge Illustration" of Navigators.notes PETER DEFENDS THE GOSPEL WEEK 6 PROJECT — THE CONTENT OF THE GOSPEL: PART 1 Read silently and mark "!" . See a less well-known but fine presentation by John Guest called "A Faith That Can Be Yours". Evangelism Explosion) 2. and how to become a Christian. depending on the circumstances. A gospel outline is an "accordion" in that it can be shared fairly briefly. A 16 Study 6 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. (see numerous Crusade publications) 3. In The Content of the Gospel: Part II (before Christmas) we will provide a single outline that can be memorized. WHAT — is an outline of the gospel and a summary of the gospel? An outline of the gospel is a framework on which you can hang all the relevant information about Christ so that a listener can believe and receive him. Becoming a Contagious Christian) 4. Today. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .James Kennedy. Keller. The "Four Spiritual Laws" of Campus Crusade. (see D. but could also be expanded very fully. we discuss the need for a "gospel summary". 1. (see in Hybels.for something that helped you "?" -for something that raised a question If a Christian is going to share the faith. The "two diagnostic" questions of Evangelism Explosion. (in Risking Faith) A summary of the gospel really needs to be brief — it should 30 seconds to a minute in length at the most.
After they have been. Mainly. nirvana. Rather. it is for the early stages of a conversation or a relationship with a non-Christian. But Christianity is spelled D-O-N-E because God sent his son to earth to live the life we should live.PETER DEFENDS THE GOSPEL notes summary of the gospel is not sufficient for a person who wants to become a Christian. your sharing of the faith will be very directed at the person's particular and specific issues. Here are several examples. You may prefer to write your own. Then.5:21. (formal or informal). The reason we provide a "brief" summary of the gospel is so that. The goal of the brief summary is to get the non-Chrisitian to reveal his or her particular problems with the gospel. because they tell us we have to perform good works and obey moral and religious laws in order to find God. "Done". Keller. and to give a gripping definition of sin and grace. or peace. putting ourselves where only God deserves to be — in charge of our lives. 17 Copyright © Timothy J. Jesus said "It is finished". If you provide first a longer outline of the gospel. Do-Done summary (see example in Bill Hybels. and die on the cross to pay the debt we should pay for wrongs we've done. (John 19:30) To become a Christian is to turn from "do" to "done" by asking God to accept you for Jesus' sake and commit to live for him. Sin-Salvation summary (based on a paragraph in John Stott's The Cross of Christ): Sin is us substituting ourselves for God. to achieve forgiveness. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Becoming a Contagious Christian). Buddha said "Strive w/out ceasing". Salvation is God substituting himself for us. "Do". it is to distinguish Christianity from mere "religion and morality". All forms of religion. you can provide a gospel outline that more fully explains the faith. HOW — to use a gospel summary. are spelled D-O. these barriers can be worked through. the personal barriers against faith. putting himself where only we deserve to be — dying on the cross. eventually. Its purpose is to get the basic idea of the gospel out on the table. you probably will be "scratching where the person is not itching" and thus (perhaps) you may bore them. Read II Cor. But you can never be sure you have done enough.
Freedom. achievement or morality to give us meaning and worth. not yours. If a father was also a judge. and a guilty child was brought before him.notes PETER DEFENDS THE GOSPEL To become a Christian is first to admit the problem: that you have been substituting yourself for God either by religion (trying to be your own savior by obedience to moral standards) or by irreligion (trying to be your own lord by disobedience to moral standards). religious or un. he could not just acquit. Slavery-Freedom summary (see What Does It Mean To Know God?) Slavery. If God is not a Judge there is no hope for the world — how else will wrong be punished? Love.11:28-30. the judge was judged. Read Matt. How can God's Law and Love must be reconciled? Solution. Sin is worshipping anything but Jesus — and the wages of sin is slavery. Keller. God is both. If God is not a Father there is no hope for us — how else can we be forgiven? Problem. Thus every person. Law. Law-Love summary. Some see God as simply Judge who demands we be moral and righteous. work. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . "that God might be both just and justifier [judge and father] of those who believe" (Rom. As a fish is only free in water. 18 Study 6 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. But these things enslave us with guilt (if we fail to attain them) or anger (if someone blocks them from us) or fear (if they are threatened) or drivenness (since we must have them).3:26).is worshipping something to get your worth. When God sent his Son to die in our place. On the cross God's justice and his love was satisfied at once. we are only free when serving Jesus supremely. For he is the only source of meaning that we cannot lose (freeing us from fear and anger) and that is a free gift (freeing us from guilt and drivenness). We were built to live for God supremely. And second to accept the solution: asking God to accept you for Jesus' sake and know that you are loved and accepted because of his record. Some see God as simply a Father who loves us and doesn't want to punish. His "yoke" is the only one that does not enslave. but instead we live for love.
Do you have a summary that you have heard or that you use that is not represented here? Share it. Which gospel summary is the most helpful to you? Why? 4. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .PETER DEFENDS THE GOSPEL notes DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. Discuss those things in the reading that raised questions — things you marked with an '?' 3. Discuss those things in the reading that most helped you — things you marked with an '!' 2. 19 Copyright © Timothy J. Keller.
Keller.31) relate to the radical sharing of material possessions? 2. How do we see word-witness relate to deed-witness in the life of the early church? What implications does this have for your own witness here and now? 3. 5:1-12. Survey this long passage and make a list of the characteristics of a spiritually vital church. What was the sin of Ananias and Sappphira? Why was it so serious and so seriously dealt with? How can we a) fall into a similar trap. 4:32-37. 5. 5:12-42. How does v.Acts Counter-attack Study 7 | Acts 4:32-6:7 1. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .31 lead to v. 6:1-6. 4:32-33 and 6:6-7. What does this passage teach us about the marks of a vital church? 20 Copyright © Timothy J. and b) avoid it? 4.32? In what ways does the filling of the Holy Spirit and boldness (v.
What example of an outline of the Gospel have we seen in our Acts study? Have you shared an outline of the Gospel lately? (1 or 2 share) 2." you will find yourself gaining confidence. What are several examples we've seen in Acts that have demonstrated "the power of the Holy Spirit" being unleashed in ordinary men? 2. What are several examples of the Gospel's power we've seen in Acts? 2. What would keep you from experiencing this confidence? How can we get the truths about the Holy Spirit in Scripture to help us gain confidence seeking to represent Christ to others in both word and deed? B. The Power of the Holy Spirit – Read Romans 8:6 & 11 1. how & after.18 1. defining sin and grace. Keller.notes COUNTER-ATTACK WEEK 7 PROJECT — GAINING CONFIDENCE Ice Breaker: What is the key ingredient in gaining confidence in lifestyle evangelism? I. giving the basic idea of the gospel. Obedience to the light you've been given on a subject will always result in strengthened faith and confidence in God working through you with the Holy Spirit's power. using the simple outline of before. Sharing a Testimony – We shared with one another words. Has anyone done this lately? (1 or 2 share) D. What would keep us from taking steps to witness if we believe A & B? How can we get these truths to motivate us into action? C. A summary of the Gospel is for the early stages of conversion. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . As you are a "doer of the Word and not a hearer only. 1:17. Let's review what we've learned through our study in Acts and our projects that should help us develop confidence in being our King's representatives: A. and exposing faith barriers. phrases and sentences describing our spiritual journeys to faith in Jesus Christ. Gaining confidence in lifestyle evangelism will come with practice. The Power of the Gospel – Read I Corin. The Content of the Gospel 1. 21 Study 7 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. Have you tried using one of the examples? (1 or 2 share) II.
praying heart! 22 Copyright © Timothy J. The Spirit empowers obedience. B. Pray for an opportunity to share your testimony (or part of it).COUNTER-ATTACK notes A. an outline of the Gospel (using a booklet or the Scriptures). and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . faith-filled. obedient. Law-Love. or a summary of the Gospel (like: Do-Done. Expect God to answer your prayer and honor your obedience and the desire to see others know Christ. Sin-Salvation. Problem-Solution). Take the initiative to do this. Keller. SlaveryFreedom. The fire will fall on the altar of a pure.
60)? How can we know more of this ourselves? 23 Copyright © Timothy J. How do these verses address the place of the law in Israel? 7:51-53 How does this charge follow from his whole speech? 5. Keller. 7:54-8:1.1)? How does each section about Abraham.Acts the Gospel Stephen presents Study 8 | Acts 6:7 . and Solomon advance his basic argument? How does he adapt his argument to the premises and nature of his audience? 4. How does Stephen's very long speech answer the original question (v. 7:1-50. What happens to Stephen to prepare him for death so well? Why does it lead to courage and forgiveness (v. What does this passage tell us about why Stephen's ministry was so effective? Which of his characteristics do you lack? What can you do to grow in that area? 2. How does the gospel change the way we look at the temple and the law? Why is it significant that the future apostle Paul listened to this Stephanic gospel presentation (8:1)? 3.7:60 1. Joseph. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Moses. 7:37-43. 6:13-14. Summarize Stephen's message from his accusers. 6:8-15.
and had called together his relatives and close friends. and even business associates. and you will be saved — you and all your household. When she and the members of her household were baptized." Acts 16:13-15 "He then brought them out and asked. but we must be careful not to read into this term our own concept of the nuclear family. Keller. 'If you consider me a believer in the Lord. friends. especially in the chapters 10 and following. we went outside the city gate to the river… We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there.' she said. new believers shared their faith with other members of their "oikos". Cornelius met him…" Acts 10:24 "On the Sabbath. At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds. a dealer in purple cloth from the city of Thyatira… The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul's message. 'Believe in the Lord Jesus. 'come stay at my house'. 'We 24 Study 8 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J.for something that helped you "?" -for something that raised a question The Main Method of Evangelism In the book of Acts. As Peter entered the house. 'Sirs. but also included servants. Cornelius was expecting them. but modern research has shown that the vast majority of persons come to faith through the witness of a friend. then immediately he and all his family were baptized.' Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house. Not only church history. Biblical examples "The following day [Peter] arrived in Caesarea. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . "Oikos" is the Greek word for "household".notes STEPHEN PRESENTS THE GOSPEL WEEK 8 PROJECT — Read silently and mark "OIKOS" EVANGELISM: I "!" . the families of servants. the "main method" of evangelism of the early church emerges. One of those listening was Lydia. or associate — not through massive programs or campaigns. A Graeco-Roman household contained not only several generations of the same family. and thus people came to faith through web networks of relationships. It is not a program or a well-oiled scheme — it is what we will call "oikos evangelism". relative. she invited us to her home. what must I do to be saved?' They replied." Acts 16:30-34 "The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him. Essentially.
Notice that Levi (Matthew) the tax collector had a household that consisted mainly of business associates rather than relatives. your life is under observation by those who don't believe. geographical affinity (neighbors). and about whom the prophets also wrote . Your life is the main attractor and the main evidence for the truth of the faith. Pre-requisites. Jesus told him. because it requires primarily that you be a changed person. Definition. and Levi got up and followed him. 'Follow me'. You can't run and you can't hide! If your character is flawed (or even unexceptional). you won't be effective. No wonder it is so effective! 3. First the joyful effects of the gospel in our own lives must give us an enormous energy for witness. In "oikos" evangelism. How can we keep our mouths closed about such a wonder? If that energy is not there. "in the driver's seat". there are not so many oikos's which consist of large extended families.STEPHEN PRESENTS THE GOSPEL notes have found the Messiah' (that is. 2. But second. Is that humility and respect there? If 25 Copyright © Timothy J. He or she also has a personal knowledge of the evangelist." Mark 2:14. the humbling nature of the gospel must lead us to approach non-believers without superiority and with lots of respect."Oikos" evangelism is the most personally demanding of all the methods of evangelism. Until that happens. the son of Joseph. associational affinities (special interest colleagues). we expect to often find wisdom and compassion in non-Christians which at many points may exceed ours. Nonetheless. the pre-requisite is that the gospel change us.15 Principles 1. all the "advantages" of oikos evangelism are for the unbeliever. and plain friends.Jesus of Nazareth. 'We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law.45 "As he walked along." John 1:41. While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house. and thus gets a very good and fair view of what Christianity is all about and how it works in someone's life. he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax collect's booth. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . we must repent and seek God until it flows. The person outside the faith is. An "oikos" is a web of common kinship affinity (relatives). many tax collectors and 'sinners' were eating with him and his disciples. not the believer. In short. Essentially. in a sense. "Oikos" evangelism is therefore very non-manipulative. we will be ineffective witnesses. Since we are saved only by God's grace and not our goodness. everyone has an "oikos". vocational affinity (co-workers). for there were many who followed him. Keller. transformed by the gospel. He or she gets to raise questions and determines at what speed the process procedes. Advantages. In Manhattan. There is no "canned" presentation. the Christ)… Philip found Nathanael and told him.
d) This person is open to me. 4. We should not love people in order to evangelize them. and confidence. Which is it? If the gospel fills us with joy. That is to objectify and dehumanize them. we will be ineffective. Is this boldness increasing? If not. Planning. The more these dynamics are present in our lives the more we will draw in new people like a magnet (Acts 2:47). Make the list: Now begin praying for them. talk to. we will only talk about the first step in an "oikos" evangelism plan — choosing 4 people to begin to pray for. Third. we must repent and reflect on the gospel and God's acceptance with us until this fear diminishes. a lack of humility and gentleness. Make a list of 4 people that fit these qualifications: a) We hit it off well together. the love experience of the gospel must remove from us the fear of others' disapproval. Put another way. if you are not effective in reaching others for Christ. or a lack of boldness. Rather.notes STEPHEN PRESENTS THE GOSPEL not. ironically. it is because of a lack of joy. and begin thinking of ways to strengthen your relationship with them. Keller. and. 26 Study 8 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. These three character qualities are absolutely necessary. humility. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . c) This person would probably enjoy our church or small group. we should evangelize them in order to love them. it is unwinsome. and care for only in order to win them over to our side. In this week's project. b) We share some common interests. then we will not treat non-Christians as "evangelism cases" — people that we relate to.
7:54ff)? 3. Share your list of 4 people with someone in the group and pray for the other person's "oikos" by name as well as your own. 27 Copyright © Timothy J. Keller.STEPHEN PRESENTS THE GOSPEL notes DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Which of the three pre-requisites for witness do you most need? How did Stephen show all three in his life (Acts 6:8-15. What most helped you in the reading? What questions did it raise? 2.
8:5-25.13 with v. Keller. 8:9-25. What are the results of the execution of Stephen and the persecution that it brought? (Have you seen God work good things through a disaster?) How does this result fit in with Stephen's message? 2.v. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . 8:1-4. Who is doing the preaching of the word in these verses and what is the significance of that? 3.Acts of Philip The ministry Study 9 | Acts 8:1-40 1. Did Simon really believe (cf. 8:1-4. What was so amazing about Philip's act of going to Samaria? What were the elements in his effective ministry? What would be the equivalent of his bold ministry action today? 4.21-23)? What was Simon's main problem? How can we avoid his mistake? Do you think he repented? 28 Copyright © Timothy J.
8:14-17. 8:26-40. This is a highly unusual and puzzling passage. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .notes THE MINISTRY OF PHILIP 5. What do we learn about sharing our faith from the story of the Ethiopian' conversion? 29 Study 9 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. and people have been debating it for years. Keller. Let's be guided by this note from John Stott. 6.
But that does not mean that conversion is not absolutely central to Christianity. Turning is a process of ours.for something that helped you "?" -for something that raised a question Christianity without conversion is no longer Christianity. Pauline) conversion experience. One is something God does and one is something we do. whose death on the cross is the basis for God's offer of mercy and forgiveness. a person raised Jewish or Muslim or secular) may have much more of a "Damascus Road" (i. depending on culture. the word "conversion" appears very seldom.). Rather. the other is behavioral. of Cornelius. Thus the book of Acts shows the indispensibility of conversion to being a Christian. Keller. The theological element (what we are in Christ — regeneration) is the same for all.THE MINISTRY OF PHILIP notes CONVERSION PROJECT Read and mark "!" . Jesus was judged in our place so God could extend his righteousness to us. To "become a Christian" is both "Conversion" and "Regeneration". (10:44ff. it tells us of the conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch (8:25ff. They are two sides of the same coin. Turning to God. 22:6ff. But what is conversion? In is common to use terms like "converted" "born again" "believed" "received Christ" all interchangeably. and prior world-view.e.). yet they must be distinguished. But the Bible makes some important distinctions. (Some churches create venues for children to "give their lives to Christ".). But moreover.. with its self-deifying attitudes and selfserving conduct. The first is the theological. because conversion means turning to God.).e. So the theological side of conversion is always identical — regeneration. providing pieces of the gospel. 26:12ff. p. personality. 30 Copyright © Timothy J. and turning to Christ. but the behavioral (what we do — turning) is the different for all.27 In most translations of the Bible.e. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . until it "comes together" for them after a number of years. But usually the process is extremely gradual. it records Paul telling us that all the Gentiles who were entering the church were entering by "conversion" (Acts 15:3). An "insider" to Christianity (i. to help them pinpoint their conversions. depending on many factors. a child raised in a Christian home) may find conversion so natural that he or she cannot pinpoint the time of the change at all. There may be several preparatory steps in which God "illuminates" the youth through the Holy Spirit. an "outsider" to Christianity (i. It involves forsaking sin. The Book of Acts records the conversion of Paul three times (9:5ff. On the other hand. and of the Philippian jailer (16:29ff. Regeneration is an act of God at a single and specific point in time (though we may not be conscious of exactly when that point has occurred). But the behavioral side of conversion is always different. the New Testament writers use many different words to describe the process. In addition. and cannot be separated.. which may be dramatic or gradual. – David Wells.
6:17-18).2. We have a new "genesis". Summary: Now we can see that. 3:9-10. and to faith in Christ and his salvation. a change from darkness to light (Acts 25:18. 2:2. "he saved us… not because of deeds done by us in righteousness. This is so radical a reality that it is called "partaking of the divine nature" (II Peter 1:4).5:17. See also I John 2:29. and it is fair to use the word "reborn" to refer to both rebirth and converting. repentance (turning away) and pistis. that they are two aspects of the same thing. by the washing of regeneration and renewal in the Holy Spirit. to "turn" as the word for conversion. 14:15). but of the will of God (rebirth). Because the word for conversion is "turning". John brings them together when he says: To all who received him. who believed in his name (conversion). "regeneration" or "rebirth" is what is done to us.4:6. II Cor. the word is used as an intransitive verb — it is what we do. In Titus. Gal. which is the same word as "rebirth" (gennetha anothen — "born from above"). so that we might be justified by his grace and become heirs in hope of eternal life. I Pet. 9:35) or Gentile (Acts 11:21. there are therefore two parts to conversion — turning away from and turning toward. though it is fair and right to use the word "conversion" to refer to both rebirth and converting. 2:9). Almost always. we are born again. who are born not of nature or of the will of man. We are only converted as we turn away from sin and self-salvation. Everyone must convert. being born again (John 3:3). What the Holy Spirit does is called "regeneration" (paliggenesias). a change from death to life (John 5:24. but in virtue of his own mercy. B. Conversion The New Testament uses the word epistrepho. Regeneration This is a work of God in which the power and holiness of God enters our hearts in the form of the Holy Spirit.18:3). Paul says. he gave full rights as children of God. James 1:18). I Peter 1:3. (On the other hand.notes THE MINISTRY OF PHILIP A.1:9). These two aspects are metanoia. Rebirth/conversion is also called a change of ownership (Rom. John 1:12-13. Thus the Thessalonians turned from idols and turned to the living God (I Thess. Keller. we also cannot enter the kingdom of God unless we convert (Matt. becoming a whole new creation (II Cor. Eph.2:1-6). faith (turning toward). whether Jew (Acts 3:19. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .) Just as we cannot enter the kingdom of God without being born again (John 3:3). So — we can outline "becoming a Christian" like this: Rebirth (what God does) Conversion (what we do) Repent (turn from self-salvation and serving self) Faith (turn to Christ salvation and serving him) 31 Study 9 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J." (Titus 3:5-7).6:15). which he poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior.
How does this shed light on your own conversion experience? 32 Copyright © Timothy J.THE MINISTRY OF PHILIP notes DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. What questions were raised? 3. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Keller. What helped you most? 2.
Compare this account of Jesus first words to a fuller account in Acts 26:13-14. v.Acts of Saul The conversion Study 10 | Acts 9:1-31 1. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . How do these verses shed light on John 6:44 and John 15:16? How is this an encouragement to us doing evangelism? 2.10-31. v. vv.4-5. v. Some have said that Saul's conversion is a very strong piece of evidence for the supernatural origins of Christianity.3-9. How would that be so? (Compre 9:1-9 with Acts 22:3-16 and 26:9-18). What indication is there that Saul's conversion was not as "sudden" as it seems? What could these "goads" have been? What were the "goads" Jesus used on you? 3. Keller. v.1-2. 4. what changes do we see? 33 Copyright © Timothy J.3-4. What are the results of Saul's conversion evident in these verses? In other words. What is the significance of Jesus' statement that Saul is persecuting Him? (How is a convicting statement? How is it an encouraging statement?) 5.
The following verses describe the spiritual boldness (confidence) God wants us to experience in two other areas of our lives. What resources do we have that Andrew didn't have that should foster joyful boldness in our witness to others? D. A. Heb. Have you seen God at work in any of their lives yet? C. How did Andrew demonstrate his joy and boldness? C. Conclude your discussion with prayer for one another… personal requests and also reflecting on what you've shared about joyful boldness in your lives. intimate. witnessing and on the day of judgment as you stand before Him. a wedding. Ps. Meditate on the things that brought joy to your heart when you first knew Jesus Christ personally. joyful encounter with the living God. a child's birth. Believe that God wants you to be joyful and bold in prayer. But in Ps. How do we allow ourselves to be robbed of joyfulness or boldness? II. or something new. Remember your conversion. I. So it shouldn't surprise us that boldness in witnessing should follow a personal. Why was Andrew joyful? B. Eph. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . 3:12 B. Acts 4:29 assures us we should pray for boldness: "Lord… enable your servant to speak your word with great boldness. What is the source of confidence in each situation… and what are the results? A.notes THE CONVERSION OF SAUL WEEK 10 PROJECT — JOYFUL BOLDNESS Introduction: We tend to talk boldly about the things that bring us the greatest joy. Don't miss it! 34 Study 10 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. Our job. I John 4:13-19 III. Read John 1:35-42. Keller. "…my soul will rejoice in the Lord and delight in his salvation". Suggested action points A. 35:9 says. "Restore to me the joy of your salvation…" Which best describes where you are experientially right now with the Lord? Why? IV. 4:16 and 10:19." Are you willing to pray that? Continue to pray for the four people you recorded in a recent project. What were a few? B. relying on the Father's Savior's and Spirit's love for you. 51:12 David pleaded.
Acts of Cornelius The conversion Study 11 | Acts 9:32 . 10:1-8. Cornelius is an example of a "good man" without the gospel. What do these verses teach us about such a person? 3. 34-35. 10:44-11:18. Keller. 9:32-42. 10:9-23. How does break down Peter's racial/cultural prejudices? 4. 22.34-35 (and his presentation of the gospel) show that Peter understands now the meaning of the vision? What is the meaning of the vision? 5.11:18 1. 10:34-48. How does v. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . What is the final (the fourth) sign given by God to Peter that the gospel is for the Gentiles? How do our converts teach us — ad Cornelius taught Peter? 35 Copyright © Timothy J. Why do you think Luke includes these two miracles as an introduction to the longer account of Cornelius' conversion? 2.
He may be ripe for conversion. If you have really done that. they still need to be brought to "repentance unto life" (Acts 11:14). as Whitefield.notes THE CONVERSION OF CORNELIUS CONVERSION: PART II PROJECT "!" . Lecture 6 1.___________. what needs more? If a needle has let out the abscess. If he will not. a truth affects you mind._________…" if he is long on knowledge and short on feeling. your course of action is fairly simple. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . • if he is long on feeling and short on knowledge. Here are some helps on helping such persons: Principles for applying the gospel to seekers The following is a paraphrase of a lecture in an out of print book by a Presbyterian minister of the early 19th century. will." – from A Body of Divinity. You may be bold to press for a commitment. Present the truths of the gospel in a balanced. you may need to elaborate the gospel presentation with vivid illustrations and pointed applications. "It is one thing to assent with your mouth. 451 • 36 Study 11 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. William Sprague. Have you ever been saddened by your sins? Have you cried out to God that you need a saviour? Has the mercy of God in Christ seemed precious to you?" [Caution: Keep in mind the words of Thomas Watson — "But wouldest thou know when thou hast been humbled enough for sin? When thou are willing to let go thy sins. Lectures on Revival. How can we help a person who is "on the verge" — who seems to want to come to Christ. full way. and another thing to believe from the heart. a soul is humbled enough. Keller. Determine the amount of knowledge and the amount of feeling. Though they may be very good persons. The gold has lain long enough in the furnace when the dross is purged out. Show him that Christianity is not an academic matter. Say. discover at what point he has trouble. and second. when the love of sin is purged out. asking. so. "Do you understand and agree that first.for something that helped you "?" -for something that raised a question Read silently and mark THE GOSPEL AND THE "SEEKER" In I Corinthians 14:24 Paul describes a person who comes to a worship service "who does not understand" — literally a "seeker". and emotions. not a matter of weaving a web of intricate thought-forms. Review the outline briefly. We have seen Cornelius is a "seeker" who God acknowledges and sincere (Acts 10:1-4). p. what needs a lance? Be no more cruel to thyself than God would have thee..
Until you have grasped this in your heart. Happiness never comes to those who seek it directly. There is no actual saving value in your strivings. Don't delay. you cannot be saved. obeying the law). • God owns you. Keller. You must take it or risk becoming too hard to care. you will never find peace. you'll not have peace. • If you see yourself as a sufferer looking for relief primarily. If you decide to come to God at your own convenience. "Don't stop striving to please God. Beware of a spirit of self-righteousness. Say to him: "Blessed are they which hunger and thirst after — what? Blessedness? No! Righteousness! Happy are they which don't seek happiness. only gratitude value (saying "thank you" for a full salvation). • When a man is first awakened to his need. Then you will be lost forever. but rather to give God his due. Act now. God is no sugar daddy to be used by you to secure your own happiness. so he must examine his heart. Give God what you owe: repentance. you are mocking God. Your troubles will take care of themselves. Even a passing conversation with a friend can drive away your convictions. Impress on the awakened sinner the need to come to God on gospel terms immediately. You are a sinner. Every day you rule your own life you become more and more guilty. he usually sets out on a furious effort to please God through his efforts (church attendance. but do it in the spirit of the new covenant. Beware of making comfort your ultimate end instead of giving God his due. in need of pardon." Warn him that he can assent to justification by faith in the abstract and still try to catch God's eye with his efforts.THE CONVERSION OF CORNELIUS notes 2. The concern you have now is the gracious influence of the spirit of God. Say. which he is offering you now. Until you accept this and fall down helpless at the feet of Christ's mercy and are willing to accept the free gift of eternal life. • • 4. not the covenant of works. Do you think you can repent any time you wish? No! Repentance is a gift from God. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . • 3. Warn him of this. faith. Who is King around here? You are in great danger of losing the openness of heart you have now. He is too great for you to snap your fingers when you are ready. obedience. prayer." 37 Copyright © Timothy J.
stress that these means of study and prayer are only means to the end. not by sight".] What do you mean by 'worked'? Did you expect a certain feeling? Did you expect your problems to go away. but the Holy Spirit has already come to your aid. "You are dying because of all the fat and starch you are eating. What did the blind man do? He was honest. Paul says: "We walk by faith. after sharing the gospel. despite how things feel or appear ("We walk by faith. then that is evidence of the Holy Spirit's work.) Imagine that a doctor tells you. They are only ways to enable God to work in you. Coming to church meetings and so on is good. So tell Jesus what you see and what you don't see.) Now. Also. not by sight". you are unable to believe. trust. Ask him to touch you some more until you see clearly. if you stop eating steak and potatoes. yet is still awakened. or he has a false understanding of what 'worked' means. Walking" in Spiritual Depression: Causes and Cures. "I see fine!" He admitted his condition and Jesus touched him again. If you see what you have to do and wish that you could do it. In yourself. or you can 38 Study 11 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. but it hasn't worked. you must act. your body will begin to strengthen". many well-meaning counselors may be confusing. and in prayer. But above all. he pits faith against feelings and appearances. Keller. but no substitute. faith is acting on what you know to be true. as long as this divine aid is offered to you. yet things are still not in focus. If. How can you stand on this plea of inability? That is an abstract question. The first time someone beside you eats a big steak dinner.notes THE CONVERSION OF CORNELIUS 5. Faith is acting on what you know to be true. the person is not ready to repent and believe. Talk often with one or two spiritual advisors and with the Lord Read the intriguing sermon by Lloyd-Jones on Mark 8:22. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . the Bible. He tells about people who are in a similar condition to the blind man. Don't make an excuse for it. • • Common objections or problems posed by seekers 1. See? He doesn't pit faith against reason. "I've tried all you've said to do." [Evaluate: Either he hasn't 'tried' properly. you follow what you know to be true (this food is poison to me). 2. and it is a sinful refusal. Do you see what you must do? Then repent. won't it smell great? It doesn't smell dangerous and deadly.26 — "Men as Trees. They cannot merit anything from God. It is too easy to derive your spirituality from the environment. obey Christ. "I just can't believe" What you are describing is simply the settled distaste every natural heart has to God. (You give yourself too much credit! You couldn't see all these things unless the Spirit was already at work! Don't despair. They seemed to have been touched by Jesus — they see things they couldn't see before. advise this: • Spend a lot of time reading good books. He did not say. Don't wait for some kind of psychological sense of certainty. Now if you exercise faith.
If you keep seeking. You may not at first experience anything remarkable. the good feeling and visible effects) will come. instead of approaching him as a sovereign king (see above). you will certainly perish. and Lydia (Luke 19:9.THE CONVERSION OF CORNELIUS notes follow your appetites. It doesn't matter if you are in a panic or just a bit upset.] It is not Biblical to require everyone to have equally long. Confront him. Listen! If your house had caught on fire. vivid. His disciples said to Jesus.] 39 Copyright © Timothy J.] I'm sorry you have been frustrated in your seeking God. THE ONLY GOOD YOUR EMOTIONS AND FEAR ARE IS TO GET YOU TO LEAVE. 3:15-20). So submit! Don't wait to feel a certain way. my house' or not. he will not meet you. "I just don't have any sorrow for sin or desire for God. how alarmed would you have to feel about it in order to be saved? Just enough to get out! It doesn't matter whether you leave crying 'Oh! My house. etc. Acts 16:14. He invites the lukewarm. [Ultimately. the effects will flow out into your whole life. 2:12-14 tells us that the strength and life of God comes as you obey him. "Lord. "I owe God everything. On the other hand. and eventually. You haven't got the option of giving up. What is your alternative? You have none.) There is no indication that they spent time in terror and horror. and horrible sorrow over sin. Instead say. If you have put conditions on your seeking him.) [Bottom line. The only good conviction of sin is to get you to repent and humble yourself under the mighty hand of your king. Look at Jesus invitation to the Laodiceans (Rev." [He may be the victim of having heard long. They were called abruptly and they came. and feelings. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . But I do know this. Keller. lurid testimonies which convinced him that he too must have an extended period of self-loathing and weeping over his sin. Nor will all your problems be solved. Zaccheus. and I cannot know your heart or God's heart enough to tell you why you haven't felt that you've connected with him. if you stop seeking him. to whom shall we go? You [alone] have the words of eternal life" (John 6:68). He works as we work. Phil. ("I'll do this and that if God will do this and that". He hopes to please God with his pious feelings. But your standing with God is changed. They were not put through some long time of conviction. Look at Matthew. anyone who is concerned about lack of sorrow and feeling is caught in a self-righteous spirit. the Phillipian jailer. and he owes me nothing. It is only as you practice faith over time that the healing and health (that is. Jesus says that no one who comes to him will he cast out (John 6:37). Perhaps you have been striving in a spirit of bargaining with God. What if you exercise faith? Will it immediately feel wonderful? NO! Your stomach will growl and you will feel unsatisfied. So it is with saving faith. senses. How have you been trying? Perhaps you have been striving in a spirit of selfrighteousness (see above). Don't allow this. 3. self-deluded people to open to him so he can fellowship with him. I'll gladly do whatever he bids me WITHOUT CONDITIONS".
remember that this complaint is often a subtle form of self-righteousness. are you saying that He is not strong enough to deal with your sins? Are you mightier than God? [Again.3:16-17). The Bible says God is "mighty to save". Zeph. Then he is assuming his worthiness is the necessary basis for coming to Christ. 1:15) Jesus loves to save sinners. Keller. What questions did this raise? 3." Look how far Jesus came to save sinners! Are you worse than Paul? (I Tim. (Luke 15:7. he delights to do it. "I'm too bad/depressed. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . 53:11. The man thinks he is unworthy. Is there anything here you wish you knew when you were a young Christian? 40 Study 11 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. What did you find most interesting/helpful? 2.] DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. Is.notes THE CONVERSION OF CORNELIUS 4.
11:19-24. What was the distintive feature of gospel communication at Antioch? How do you think their preaching would have been different from the preaching of Peter that we have seen? What were the results of this ministry? 2. Keller. 41 Copyright © Timothy J.Acts breakthrough New mission Study 12 | Acts 11:19 . This city becomes the site of the next new breakthrough in the Christian mission. 11:22-26. What were the reasons that Barnabus was sent? What were the elements of his ministry — and the results of it? 3. Romans. 1. even for a large city. Asians. and Africans. Greeks. and offered Jews full citizenship. It was unusually multi-cultural and cosmopolitan. Mark the number of stages in its development and name each one. vital communities of Jews. The city officials encouraged immigration.12:24 INTRODUCTION The city of Antioch was the third largest city of the Roman Empire (after Rome and Alexandria) and the capital of Syria. 11:19-30. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Thus there were very large. Look at the whole history of the young church in Antioch.
notes NEW MISSION BREAKTHROUGH 4. Why do you think that Christians weren't called "Christians" until Antioch (v. What does the incident about Peter teach us about prayer? 42 Study 12 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. 12:1-24. Keller. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .26)? Why do you think the Antioch church was so successful in showing the power of the gospel? 5.
1:-9.for something that helped you "?" -for something that raised a question Introduction Acts 11:19ff shows the importance of the ministry of encouragement. and is more effective when using the Bible skillfully (Rom. Sometimes even people who are being disobedient respond better to encouragement (II Thess.22-24 virtually glows as we read it. Heb. We tend to underestimate the importance of this work. It is not the same as evangelism.3:13) than to warning. which we see both here and in Acts 14:21-22. Barnabus' ministry is "sandwiched" between the ministry of evangelism and of training/discipleship.) Encouragers are patient (I Thess. positive and nonargumentative (II Tim. confirming. we burn up and burn out. It means to come near. Without it. but it is always exhorting with a strong proportion of comfort and affirmation. 43 Copyright © Timothy J. to motivate and build confidence and create endurance in another person. we will never do the work of evangelism and discipling that we need to do. supporting.15:4. An encourager is good at putting him or herself in another's shoes.2:24-26).NEW MISSION BREAKTHROUGH notes ENCOURAGEMENT PROJECT Read and mark "!" . Without encouragement. It is a crying need of new Christians in particular. and it is like the "oil" in the church's "engine" — it is a vital spiritual lubricant. vv. It doesn't seem to take as much knowledge or skill as evangelism or discipling per se.3:11-13. Encouragement is also something necessary for those going through difficult times (II Cor. It is often used as a synonym for "counseling" in the New Testament. Keller. cheering.2:7-11). where again we see that encouragement is something done for young converts after they have heard the good news. Acts 14:22-23). "get going" or "do what I have done" but "let's get going". consoling. In some of these passages parakaleo is translated "exhort". to identify closely. affectionate (I Thess. but here we see the power. Barnabus' ministry of encouragement was enormously powerful in the history of the church. II Tim.5:4) gentle. The very Greek word translated "encouragement" is "para-kaleo" which literally means "to call alongside". Definition The very name "Barnabus" means "son of consolation". Clearly.4:1-4). To encourage is not to say. Encouragement is not the same as discipling and teaching. coaching. It is affirming. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Place Encouragement is especially important for newer believers.
however to meet and make ourselves vulnerable to others (James 5:16.3:13. and therefore we must always be on the look out. Is the ministry of encouragement something you particularly need right now? Is it something that you could give to someone in need right now? 44 Study 12 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. It is also our duty to look around us and notice who needs encouragement. But some people have a gift of this — it is listed as a spiritual gift in Romans 12:8. The church needs more Barnabuses! APPLICATION QUESTIONS Think of other marks and characteristics of an encourager. all Christians are to encourage each other (Heb. Consider ways that you could make better use of this gift.10:24-25). Heb. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . On the one hand. Sometimes we don't get encouragement because we are too proud to seek it or let people know we need it. in order to receive encouragement from God through other brothers and sisters. Keller. Other times we are afraid that if we share our weakness we will get warning instead of encouragement. 10:24-25).notes NEW MISSION BREAKTHROUGH Responsibility So often our problems are aggravated because we do not have encouragers in our lives. One sign that you are good at this is that people tend to want to open up to you about their problems. We have to be willing.
Acts the Gospel Paul presents
Study 13 | Acts 12:25 - 13:52
1. vv.1-3. This body became the first missionary-sending body in history. What led them to this? Notice the role of a) their leadership make-up, b) their routines, c) the Holy Spirit. 2. vv.1-3. What can we learn from this incident for our own churches today?
3. vv.6-12. Why was Paul so forceful with Elymas? Why was the miraculous judgement on Elymas appropriate?
4. vv.13-41. Read Paul's gospel presentation. What can you tell from the address about its intended audience? How does he make the case that Christianity is true in vv.16-25 and 31? What does he say the heart of Christianity is in vv.2637? How does he call upon them to respond in vv.38-41?
5. vv.42-52. a) Why do the ones that reject the gospel do so? b) Why do the ones who accept the gospel do so?
Copyright © Timothy J. Keller, and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005
"!" - for something that helped you "?" -for something that raised a question
Read silently and mark
How can we communicate the gospel to someone so that they can receive Christ and become children of God (John 1:12-13)?
The character of the gospel in the book of Acts
The gospel is the essential Christian message. In the book of Acts we see the apostles delivering it in every place and setting. It is called "the gospel" (Acts 14:7,21;16:10), "the gospel of God's grace" (Acts 20:24), "the word of his grace" (Acts 20:32), "the good news about the Lord Jesus" (Acts 11:20), "the message of the gospel" (Acts 15:7), "the message of his grace" (Acts 14:3), "the message of his salvation" (Acts 13:26), or even just "the message" (Acts 11:19. cf.Acts 2:41;4:4;10:44:17:11). What do we learn from these descriptions in Acts? First, we learn that the gospel is not so simple and rigidly fixed that it is presented identically in every setting. A survey of gospel speeches in the book of Acts shows what great variety in presentations there were. The gospel is adapted differently to different audiences. Yet, second, we see, that this is a very definite and limited body of knowledge with a set content. Thus the writer refers to the word, the message. We see from the accounts in Acts that it can be expounded in a single talk. It can be "received" (Acts 8:14;17:11). We are told that when Cornelius' household "received" the message (11:1), the Holy Spirit fell on them (10:44). This shows that the gospel is not "everything in the Bible", but a set of core truths which, when understood and received, saves us. Third, we see that when the gospel is summed up in one or two words, it is usually said to be about "salvation", "grace" or "the Lord Jesus Christ". Thus we see the essential message is that through Jesus we are saved by grace. Does is the gospel "elementary" truths as opposed to "advanced" truths? No. The gospel does not relate so much to the rest of Christian truth as the first step relates to a staircase, but rather as the heart relates to the rest of the circulatory system (or as the brain relates to the nervous system). The rest of Christian truth is just an unfolding of the gospel — it is the working out of its implications and ramifications, intellectually, spiritually, behaviorally.
An overview of the gospel in the book of Acts
Despite the significant adaptations, depending upon the audience, each gospel presentation has several core components. John Stott breaks them down into four basics, and calls them the gospel "events, witnesses, promises, conditions" (See J.Stott, The Message of Acts, p.79-81). Over and over again,
Study 13 | Acts
Copyright © Timothy J. Keller, and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005
They should receive it because it is true. 47 Copyright © Timothy J. Sin and self-salvation. We show the listeners that they must turn away from their former life and honor Christ as Lord. and it is very important to notice that. This means that we are free to juxtapose these in the best way to reach people in our particular time and place. "What must I believe?" The Content ("gospel events") The heart of the gospel. which leads them to seek to be their own savior and lord. "How can I believe?" The Commitment ("gospel conditions") Turning. death. Trusting. "gospel promises" (objective pardon for sins and subjective freedom and joy). Credibilty ("gospel witnesses") We show the listeners that the gospel is supported by strong evidence. We will reorganize the outline and give new names. We show the listeners that they must trust cease self-salvation activity and trust Christ as Savior. We show the listeners that they are under the guilt and power of sin. and "gospel conditions" (the requirements of repentance and faith). THEORETICAL OUTLINE "Why should I believe?" The Case Relevance ("gospel promises") We show the listeners that the gospel answers their deepest problems and issues. They should receive it because they need it.PAUL PRESENTS THE GOSPEL notes the apostles talk about "gospel events" (Jesus' death and resurrection for our sins). Keller. But these components are always there. We show the listeners how Jesus life. and resurrection in our place saves us and opens the way to God. These do not come in the same order or in the same terms. "gospel witnesses" (the testimony of the Bible and the eyewitnesses to the resurrection). and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Grace and Christ's salvation.
But second. Keller. Others may have low awareness of any subjective needs. and there the credibility case (Acts 13:16-31) came before relevance case (Acts 13:38-39). Then we ask how their basic beliefs about God and the world are helping them face these things. Step #1 – Case for relevance Answers: "Why do I need this?" First. we discern the person's own "themes of relevance" — basic aspirations/hopes and fears/struggles. regardless of what they believe. "why should I believe this?" As we outlined it. we supply a brief gospel summary but geared to show how it meets the needs of the listeners. It is the most rational way to account for the world and life we see. First. How do we do it today? Obviously. we begin to answer more intellectual objections. This is a "brief summary of the gospel" (see previous document) which is not designed to explain the whole. it is relevant to them. and solves the most basic problems of the human condition. Step #3 – Case for credibility Answers: "How can you know it's true?" Third. people should believe because they need it. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . there are two very important and fairly different lines of argument for Christianity. with questions about "how does it work for you?" 48 Study 13 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J.notes PAUL PRESENTS THE GOSPEL PRACTICAL OUTLINE We see in the book of Acts that changes in the audience most effect how the "case" part of the gospel is presented. the appeal and relevance case (Acts 14:15a) comes before the credibility case (Acts 14:15b-17). Step #2 – Brief content Answers: "What is the Christian message?" Second. The Case part of the gospel addresses the basic question. but here is a good procedure for our time and place. we need to be flexible. whether they like it or not! Which of these should come first? We see Paul talking to religious educated people in Pisidian Antioch. It meets the deepest aspirations of the human heart. so you do not answer questions they aren't asking. But in Lystra. The brief summary lets them set the agenda. they are rather different. To sum up — "why should we believe?" Because it is both subjectively true (the relevance case) and objectively true (the credibility case). when Paul was speaking to uneducated pagans. Sometimes there is a return to "relevance". Some people and groups have an acute consciousness of subjective needs. and they must be pressed to see the objective truth of Christianity. people should believe because it is true. their "themes of relevance". and they will be extremely sensitive to hearing more of the relevance-case. As important as these two "cases" are.
and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . What in the reading was most illuminating or helpful? Why? 2. making him Lord and Savior.PAUL PRESENTS THE GOSPEL notes Step #4 – Full content Answers: "What must I believe?" Fourth. What in the reading puzzles you or leads you to want more information? 3. and grace). repenting and resting. this time explaining the two basic points more fully — who we are (the character of sin). Have you used the "Brief Summary of the Gospel" from a former week? What are the questions you are getting in response to it? 49 Copyright © Timothy J. so that the gospel promises (named under "the case for relevance") become ours. What does your own experience of witnessing in New York City lead you to think about the "Practical Outline"? Is this a good order? 4. Sometimes this leads back to step 3 again! Step #5 – Commitment Answers: "How can I believe — make it mine?" Fifth. Christ. and who he is and what he has done (the character of God. we explain how to appropriate the work of Christ. Keller. This always has two parts — both turning and trusting. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. we return and unpack the gospel.
vv. Were you properly "followed up"? Do you properly "follow up"? 50 Copyright © Timothy J.Acts for pagans The Gospel Study 14 | Acts 14:1-28 1 vv.8-15a.15-17. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .21-28. Make a list of all the principles of "follow-up" and ministry that Paul and Barnabus followed after the many were converted. What does the crowd's reaction to the healing of the crippled man tell us about them? 3. How is the talk in Acts 13:16ff the same as the speech to the Lycoanians? What can we learn from the comparison and contrast of the two speeches? 5. vv.1-7. vv. compare it to the talk in Acts 13:16ff.15-17. Though this is a brief summary of Paul's talk. What were the three main stages of the work at Iconium? What lessons do we learn for our own ministry? 2. How is it different from that talk and why? To what kind of person would Paul bring such a message today? 4. Keller. vv.
persuasive people combine three different factors in themselves. Identifying themes of relevance. They show how their life was changed. "Logos" will not persuade. but it is 51 Study 14 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. authenticity and consistency. since is rationality is only one aspect of human nature. Persuasive people earn trust by their thoughtfulness. Thus they demonstrate how their hearts were changed. Building trust. Apologetics recognizes that non-Christians do know the truth about God. and integrity. we make a "case for relevance" — we discern the person's own "themes of relevance" — basic aspirations/hopes and fears/struggles. Thus the Christian develops redemptive relationships of active listening. This takes time but it creates openness to the message when it comes from you.1:18-21). warmth. the Christian discerns "themes of relevance" (see below) — things that are burning issues for the non-Christian. A theme of relevance is some true concern or conviction which arises from the person's creation in the image of God. BRIDGE BUILDING 1.notes THE GOSPEL FOR PAGANS THE GOSPEL: A USER'S GUIDE "!" . 2. "Ethos" means that they are able to demonstrate attitudes and a lifestyle consistent with what they believe. emotion. The Christian makes contact with the knowledge of God which every non-Christian has (Rom. Finally. But on its own. Then we ask how their basic beliefs about God and the world are helping them face these things. and experience. "Logos" means they are able to demonstrate clear and persuasive reasons for what they believe. service. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Through discussions and interaction. Keller. "Pathos" means they show are able to demonstrate both a passion and a compassion as they communicate what they believe. According to Aristotle. Persuasion involves appeals to reason. They show how their minds were changed.for something that helped you "?" -for something that raised a question Part II – CASE FOR RELEVANCE Read silently and mark How can we communicate the gospel to someone so that they can receive Christ and become children of God (John 1:12-13)? First.
and generally you can simply demonstrate the case for relevance with a personal testimony. eternal. and will reject most or all basic Christian doctrines. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . ("I think that the way to determine right and wrong is…") Spiritual meaning. relational. Keller. most people will be more secular. Identifying belief position A "belief position" is what the person consciously believes about theological and religious issues. Life Priorities include Major job and vocational issues ("My job isn't fulfilling. But in NYC. Apologetics recognizes that non-Christians' deepest longings demonstrate the absence of God in a heart that was designed for him. and so on. creative. Anxiety and fears about the future ("I am very worried about…"). What are examples of "themes of relevance"? These are the person's greatest hopes. There are Life Priorities. aspiriations. fears. and go immediately to the full content of the gospel (there is seldom a need to make a case for credibility). ("I think God is…") Human nature. But a person's essential belief position can be ascertained by looking at these basic questions. ("What I think is basically wrong with people… (or) what I think is the reason most people are unhappy…") Moral order. but have not understood or "grasped" the gospel. These people are not very secular. This includes what they believe about God. and longs for justice and freedom even when his/her world view can neither explain or satisfy those impulses. God's nature. They are trying to save themselves by being good. he Christian makes contact with the image of God which every non-Christian has (Gen. Heroes and ideas ("The person/idea that influences me most…"). treats love as a reality. Overall life goals ("In my life I want to accomplish…"). There are two basic categories of them.THE GOSPEL FOR PAGANS notes intellectually and emotionally repressed. We were created to be rational. And a person fears death. and Life Problems. Boredom or frustration with the present ("Nothing tastes…") Ethical dilemmas ("I don't know what the right thing to do is…") 3. Therefore you need to identify their belief position. ("I think what would ultimately fulfill me…") You will discover two basic kinds of non-believers — those who subscribe to the basic beliefs of the Christian faith. Analysis of world problems ("I think the problem with our society is…"). about life after death. I don't know if I want to spend my life on this"). about Jesus. and make the case for relevance as in #4 below. Life Problems include Guilt or anger about the past ("I regret… I have trouble with"). Love and marriage ("Marriage isn't for me…"). about human nature. 52 Copyright © Timothy J.1:27).
) b. Show tension between their theme and their belief.) Becky meets LS on the bus and introduces the subject of heroes. Relate a brief presentation of the gospel to their theme. a.. It seems strange to value people so highly when they are random products of a universe. and we have meaning only in a corporate sense of class. Once you have pointed out some tension between the person's concern or conviction and his or her belief position. We are not significant as individuals. If we could just live in a classless society.. he would still think 'nigger'." LS: "Yes… he sees the universe as godless." BP: "But what exactly is so great about his ideas?" LS: "He's my hero because of his passionate regard for the oppressed" BP: "I agree with that concern. It is adapted from account of a conversation between Becky Pippert (BP) with a black female law student (LS) on a bus in Salem. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . IVP. Arousing interest." BP: "Yet you admire his regard for the oppressed even though they are ultimately insignificant. Oregon. 1979. Why not manipulate them as you please?" LS: "I couldn't do that… I guess if my natural response is to feel [individuals] are significant then I need a philosophic system that says the same things… But I believe we are basically good. but… I know Marx holds no belief in God.160ff. LS: "I guess Karl Marx is my hero. p. make a brief presentation of the gospel in such a way that shows how it addresses the person's "theme". The fundamental way to arouse interest in the gospel is to show a person a tension between their themes of relevance (which reveals their primal understanding that there is a God) and their belief position (which expresses their conscious denial of the Biblical God. I know a guy who is one of the worst racists. this was 1979!] BP: "What makes him your hero?" LS: "I think his ideas were great — they haven't always been carried out rightly of course. The following example shows how this works.notes THE GOSPEL FOR PAGANS 4." 53 Study 14 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. we would be free of the things that weigh us down… BP: "Listen. How can Marx wipe out the ugliness and hatred of a bigot?" LS: [Eyes glaring] "We've been trying to change that for centuries… And all the rules and laws in the world can't… make you love me.if he lived with you for fifty years in your classless society." [Editor's note: Remember. (in Out of the Salt Shaker. Keller.
and you need a system that says so. She listened intently. I think I had better not quote her exact words of response! But after she recovered from her shock she asked me how I knew it was true. What in the reading was most illuminating or helpful? Why? 2. too. 'I'd like to get together again… When I went home this weekend my younger sister came to see me. For the rest of our trip she asked me to defend Christianity. And here I got on a bus and sat down next to you." LS: "Hey. and when we arrived she said. I told her it was antiintellectual and unsubstantiated. Which of the three factors in "building trust" do you most need to work on. Now you're saying that the real evil comes from within us. So you need a system that regards evil as internal and a solution that transforms radically not curbs superficially. Keller. that's the very kind of system I've found. Think of one key relationship you have with a non-Christian. if you are to be a more effective witness? 4. In a furor I packed my bags.THE GOSPEL FOR PAGANS notes BP: "Look. you tell me you know individuals are significant. What in the reading puzzles you or leads you to want more information? 3.' We do indeed worship the Hound of Heaven. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . walked out saying I never wanted to discuss it again. Right?… Well. How does Becky Pippert uncover a "theme of relevance" for the law student? How does she uncover her "belief position"? How does she show the contradiction between the two? How does she adapt her gospel presentation to the theme of relevance? 54 Copyright © Timothy J. what kind of revolution are you into?" (Pippert) "When I told her I followed Jesus. For external rules or laws can curb but cannot transform behavior. Then she told me she'd become a Christian." DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1.
43) and the Gentiles who Paul turned to in v. How is this the background for the crisis of chapter 15? What was different about the Gentiles Paul preached to in the synagogue (v. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .1-5 represent the apostles' position in Jerusalem? b) Why were they contending that the Gentile converts of Paul were not obeying the law of Moses? (Were they breaking the 10 commandment?) 2.46b? Why and how did Paul's ministry arouse such opposition from some Jewish Christians (15:1-2)? 3. vv.Acts Gospel Clarifying the Study 15 | Acts 15:1 . Keller. even when the particular issue is not Jewish-Gentile tensions? 55 Copyright © Timothy J. and what conclusions does he draw from them? Application question: How is this problem of culture a continual one for the Christian church. Of what three facts does Peter remind the Council. a) Did the "some men" in vv.16:5 1.7-11. Read 13:42-48.
4. vv.12-21. a) How does James solve the problem theologically? How does he solve it practically? b) Read vv.22-35. What does this entire debate and event teach us about what to do when Christians differ?
5. 16:1-5. Is Paul's behavior with Timothy seem in tension with his uncompromising stand in 15:1-5? What does this teach us about where to contend and where to compromise?
Study 15 | Acts
Copyright © Timothy J. Keller, and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005
Keller. Trace these moves on a map to see how unusual a route this is. Why do you think Luke chose three such disparate people to profile for readers? 57 Copyright © Timothy J. 6-10. What are we told about Lydia? How did she come to faith? What signs are we given that Lydia was truly converted? 3. Surely there were many conversions at Philippi. What is Luke trying to show us? 4.1. a) What led the jailer to believe? b) Compare his pre-Christian spiritual condition with that of Lydia and the Pythoness. vv. vv. Contrast the pre-Christian spiritual state of the slave-girl with that of Lydia. what are the possible ways that the Holy Spirit may have been guiding them away from these provinces? b) What does this incident tell us about how God will guide us? 2. Contrast the ministry of Paul to Lydia with that of Paul to the slave-girl. vv. c) How does Paul lead him to Christ? d) Why does Paul insist on a public apology v.19-40.11-15.16-19. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .Acts conversions Three surprising Study 16 | Acts 16:5-40 1. a) On the basis of other passages in Acts.37? 5. vv.
for something that helped you "?" -for something that raised a question Part III – B – CONTENT: PRESENTATION #1 Read silently and mark As we said last week in the introduction. 58 Study 16 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. They differ mainly in how they demonstrate the hearer's need for Christ. The other two summaries. The "Slavery" presentation is an extension of the "Slavery-Freedom" summary of the gospel provided in Week 6. Therefore we provide two ways to present the gospel. finding themes of relevance. since they both focus not so much on our need. Keller. The following is very extensive. and persons with a more deeply secular world view.notes THREE SURPRISING CONVERSIONS THE GOSPEL: A USER'S GUIDE "!" . The "Brief Summaries" and the Extended Gospel Presentations How do these two extended gospel presentations provided in weeks 16 and 17 relate to the "Brief Gospel Summaries" of week 6? The "Separation" presentation is an extension of the "Law-Love" summary of the gospel provided in the Week 6 project. there are two basic kinds of person to share the faith with in our western society today — persons with a more traditional world view. but on how salvation is accomplished by Christ. and therefore are slanted toward one kind of listener or the other. "Do-Done" and "Sin-Salvation". is for people of a more traditional mindset. Presentation #1 (this week's project). I will provide an "easy outline" and summary later. These two summaries take different perspectives on the subject of sin. called "Sin as Separation". and sharing a gospel summary. in how they present the guilt and danger of sin. called "Sin as Slavery". The following assumes that this presentation is not an abrupt or an inappropriate changing of the subject. would fit with presentations either way. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . They are people with a) no belief in a personal God and/or b) little concept of any absolute moral standards. one for each kind of person. is for people of a more deeply secular mindset. Presentation #2 (next week's project). These are people with a) a belief in God and b) a definite sense of obligation to absolute moral standards. PRESENTATION #1 (Sin as Separation) Pre-Presentation Refer to previous material on building trust.
just very low ones!) People who insist on this kind of universalism or relativism (despite seeming to have a definite belief in God) are candidates for Presentation #2--Sin as slavery. These are the only two possible answers." or "I think if there is a God. The person's answer may reveal that they are not sure there is a God. or do not believe in an afterlife of rewards based on moral behavior. that they separated from God and are accepted only by mercy through Jesus. but when you get into your discussion. "because we are very sorry for them and really want to do better" or "because God is very loving". choose "because I have confessed my sins and accepted Christ as my Savior" (G.45n). All these responses indicate that the person would be more helped by the "Slavery" presentation. no matter what. the light" or "if there is a God and heaven. But always probe for the real foundation for their hope. It reveals if they believe in a "good works" system or a "grace" system for approaching God. it is a "qualifier". this question identifies the person's "salvation system". they may be very turned off or so confused by the question that they simply do not answer it. though there are a great variety of forms. Examples are: "you have to — be a decent person" "follow the golden rule" "obey the 10 commandments" "go to church" "follow the example of Jesus" "it doesn't matter what you believe as long as you are a loving person". they have no sense of obligation to be good. Evangelism That Works. but must show that the perso knows they are too weak to live up to God's standards. since it confirms or denies your assumption that this person has definite concept of God and moral absolutes (and is thus best helped with the "Separation" approach). I think when we die. (You may ask: "do you really mean everyone is accepted? Even genocidal dictators?" They may back off then. Note 1: Sometimes people say they believe in God and heaven. First. when asked this questions and given 7 possible answers.Barna. p. All these show a lack understanding that we are separated from God by our sin and no amount of good works or good intentions can bridge the gap. Often they may give a vague answer such as "you have to ask God for forgiveness". God is just the power of love and life" or "I think God accepts everyone" or "I think after death we all just get absorbed into God. The large majority of responses to this question then are "works" answers. 59 Copyright © Timothy J. They may say things like: "well. and you find that they do believe in moral standards. Ask "but why would he forgive someone for sin?" Often they will say. Second. it will just depend if you followed your own beliefs very fervently". you will find they insist that everyone and anyone is saved or loved by God. Essentially. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .THREE SURPRISING CONVERSIONS notes Opening question: "WHAT DO YOU UNDERSTAND TO BE THE GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR BEING ACCEPTED BY GOD OR FOR ADMISSION TO HEAVEN?" This question serves two purposes. In some cases. that's it. A "grace" answer does not have to be perfectly precise. National surveys show that 35% of Americans. Keller.
Note 2: People with a Catholic backgrounds need to realize that some
Protestants seem at first sight to believe in a "grace system" but really do not. People from conservative Protestant churches may give a general answer like: "you have to believe that Jesus died for you" or "make a decision for Jesus". But if you ask, "why does that get you in?" you may find that they really believe they have to love and follow Jesus as a way to be good enough for God. Many people with Protestant backgrounds have what's been called a "sincerity covenant" — they try to live the best they sincerely can and Jesus makes up the rest with this forgiveness. That is salvation by a "works-and-alittle-grace" system. On the other hand, people with a Protestant background need to realize that some Catholics seem at first sight to believe in a "works system" but really do not. Catholics who believe they are saved from first to last by grace will take hold and receive that grace by taking the Sacraments (of baptism and the Lord's Supper). That does not mean that they are relying on their works for salvation. In the final analysis, however, most people with Protestant and Catholic backgrounds are trying to go to God on a "works system". They all need the gospel. This question and approach is not new. D.James Kennedy made it popular in his book Evangelism Explosion, but evangelists have been using it for literally centuries. Here is an example of how the British pastor Charles Spurgeon shared the gospel in the mid-19th century with a "waterman", a ferry operator. This does not provide a good example of the language we should use, but it illustrates how the principles of the gospel have been used across time and culture. Spurgeon: "Have you, my friend, a good hope of heaven if you should die?" Waterman: "Well, sire, I think as how I have." S: Pray tell me, then, what your hope is, for no man need ever be ashamed of a good hope. W: Well sir, …I don't know that anybody ever saw me drunk...I do think as how I am as good as most folk that I know. S: Oh dear! Oh dear! Is that all you have to trust to? ["The waterman then told me that he was charitable as well, and I told him that I was glad to hear it, but I did not see how his good conduct could carry him to heaven. He asked why."] S: You have sometimes sinned in your life, have you not? W: Yes, sir, that I have, many a time. S: On what ground, then, do you think that your sins will be forgiven? W: Well, sir, I have been very sorry for them,and I think they are all gone--they don't trouble me now.
Study 16 | Acts
Copyright © Timothy J. Keller, and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005
S: Now, my friend, suppose you were to go and get into debt with the grocer where you deal, and you should say to her, 'Look here, missus, you have a long score against me, I am sorry to say that I cannot pay you for all those goods that I have had; but I'll tell you what I will do, I'll doe. I'll never get into your debt any more.' She would very soon tell you that was not her style of doing business; and do you suppose that is the way in which you can treat the great God? He is going to strike out you past sins because you say you will not go on sinning against Him? W: Well, sir, I should like to know how my sins are to be forgiven... S: ["Then I told him, as plainly as I could, how the Lord Jesus had taken the place of sinners, and how those who trusted in Him, and rested on His blood and righteousnesss, would find pardon and peace."] Charles Spurgeon, Autobiography: The Early Years, pp.373-375
Follow-up questions: (If a "works" answer) "COULD I SHARE WITH YOU A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE, HOW YOU CAN KNOW GOD'S LOVE AND ACCEPTANCE AS A FREE GIFT, NOT ON THE BASIS OF (WHAT THEY JUST SAID)?" This gets permission to do the presentation. It has the integrity to say
upfront that you are disagreeing with them, but the extremely positive expression "as a free gift" is usually winsome and elicits an affirmative answer. Go to the Presentation below.
(If a "grace" answer) "ARE YOU CONFIDENT THAT, IF YOU WERE TO DIE TONIGHT, YOU WOULD DEFINITELY GO TO HEAVEN?" This is called the
"assurance" question". Though they may have given the "right" answer, and have an intellectual grasp of the gospel, this question helps reveal whether or not they have appropriated it for themselves. If they gave a grace answer and a "yes" answer to assurance, then as far as you can tell (without knowing them better), they are professing Christians. But if the person gives a "no" answer to assurance, it could be that they realize that they have never made the commitment themselves. Or it could mean that they have done this, but their lives and lifestyle has contradicted Christianity. In that case, they have a bad conscience which blocks their assurance. In all cases, you need to go to the part of the presentation that has to do with "Commitment" which we cover in a subsequent week.
Presentation A. Sin
Read or quote Luke 10:25-27. "ALL THE MORAL LAWS OF CHRISTIANITY AND
Copyright © Timothy J. Keller, and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005
This really is common sense. First, if God really made us and keeps us alive every second, then we belong completely to him and we owe him everything. (Anything you create yourself is yours to do with what you will.) Second, the "golden rule" for loving others is something absolutely imprinted on us. You don't have to teach it to children, they know it instinctively before they can barely talk (e.g. "I gave you my toy, you give me yours.") Read or quote I Corinthians 13:4-8a (to "Love never fails"). "LOOK AT THE SECOND PRINCIPLE FIRST. PAUL SAYS THAT REAL LOVE ALWAYS FORGIVES, SERVES, AND ENDURES BECAUSE IT SHOULD BE UNCONDITIONAL. THAT IS HOW WE ALL WANT TO BE LOVED. YET WE DO NOT COME EVEN CLOSE TO GIVING OTHERS WHAT WE DEMAND OURSELVES. " What is 'unconditional love'? It is loving people not for what they give you, but for simply for they themselves. If that was the case, then your love would never give up on them — there would be no conditions that it required. That is how we all want to be loved. We want to know that others love us, and not the things we are providing them. Yet we fail to do to others what we want from them. We do give up on people when they stop being kind and useful to us. "THE GOLDEN
RULE MEANS WE SHOULD MEET THE NEEDS OF OTHERS WITH THE SAME SPEED, JOY, AND RELENTLESSNESS WHICH WE USE TO MEET OUR OWN". It
does not take much reflection to see that the golden rule is absolutely right, we owe it, yet it is impossible to keep. Read or quote Exodus 20:3. "LOOK AT THE FIRST PRINCIPLE. GOD SIMPLY ASKS THAT THERE BE NOTHING MORE IMPORTANT TO YOUR THINKING, FEELING, AND BEHAVIOR THAN HE IS." When Jesus said, "Love him with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind" he was only being reasonable. If we owe God absolutely everything, then we should not love anything more than him, nor depend on anything more than him. But do we come close? Use the test of your thoughts. When you have nothing else that you have to think of, what do you enjoy dwelling on? Is it God, or are there other things more absorbing and enjoyable. Of course, everyone on the earth does not find that God is the most important thing to their hearts. To put God first is absolutely right, we owe it, yet it is impossible to do. Read or quote Romans 3:10. "THE BIBLE IS CATEGORICAL THAT 'NO ONE IS RIGHTEOUS — NO, NOT ONE'. NO ONE COMES CLOSE TO OBEYING THE MOST REASONABLE AND COMMON SENSE MORAL PRINCIPLES." Of course, some people are far more moral and decent than others, but Christianity says that is to only compare less unrighteous people to more unrighteous. Compared to what we all owe God and our neighbor, we all fail. For example, imagine if you asked three swimmers to swim from Hawaii to California. One cannot swim and drowns in a few yards; one is a good swimmer and drowns in four miles; one is a great swimmer and drowns in a hundred miles. Though one is many times better than the rest, they are all incapable of swimming to California, and they are all equally dead.
Study 16 | Acts
Copyright © Timothy J. Keller, and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005
B. God. "CHRISTIANITY TELLS US 2 BASIC THINGS ABOUT THE NATURE OF GOD" — 1) Read or quote Psalm 11:7 GOD LOVES JUSTICE AND THEREFORE CANNOT ACCEPT EVIL OR SIN AT ALL. We all long for justice. If a man in a car
was to back into your car and damage it, you would not be satisfied if he only said, "I'm sorry". You would want nothing short of justice. But God loves justice far more than we do; he is absolutely just and holy and cannot accept wrongdoing at all. 2) Read or quote I John 4:8. "GOD IS LOVE, AND HE SEEKS THE GOOD EVEN OF PEOPLE WHO HAVE DISOBEYED AND OPPOSED HIM." It is perhaps too easy and popular today to believe that God is love. He is a God who wants to forgive and restore. Transition: BUT FORGIVING US IS, IN A SENSE, THE BIGGEST PROBLEM GOD HAS EVER FACED." These two "sides" of his nature create a dilemma, a great problem.
3) Read or quote Exodus 34:5-7. GOD LOVES US AND DOES NOT WANT TO PUNISH US, BUT IS JUST AND MUST PUNISH SIN. When God revealed himself
to Moses on Mt.Sinai he made a startling statement. He said that he was abounding in love and forgiveness, "yet" he will always punish wrongdoing. It seems impossible that God could be both. "IT SEEMS HE CAN EITHER HE CAN
LOVE US, AND NOT LOVE JUSTICE, OR HE CAN LOVE JUSTICE AND THEN NOT LOVE US — BUT HE CANNOT LOVE BOTH." What a problem. If he does not love
justice perfectly, what hope is there for the world? But if he does love us perfectly, what hope is there for us? Imagine an illustration. If a father was also a judge, and his guilty child was brought before him, he could not just acquit his child. He could either do what he wanted to do as a judge, or what he wanted to do as a father, but not both.
C. Christ.
1) Read or quote Acts 20:28. GOD HIMSELF CAME TO EARTH IN HUMAN FORM AS JESUS CHRIST. This text tells us that it was God's own blood shed for us. God became human and vulnerable and subject to death. 2) Read or quote I Peter 2:22. JESUS WAS THE ONLY ONE WHO EVER HAD A PERFECT RECORD — LOVING GOD AND HIS NEIGHBOR. He lived the life we should have lived. 3) Read or quote II Corinthians 5:21. BUT ON THE CROSS THERE WAS A GREAT TRANSFER — HE IS TREATED AS OUR BAD RECORD DESERVES, SO THAT WE CAN BE TREATED AS HIS PERFECT RECORD DESERVES. Look at the verse. It says that Jesus was "made… to be sin". Since Jesus did not actually become selfish, cruel, etc. on the cross, that means that he was treated as if he were sinful — he became "legally" sinful and liable for our sins. But it says that now it is possible for us to "become the righteousness of God". Since Jesus "became sin" by being treated as sinful, so we can "become righteous", be treated as perfectly righteous. He is treated as if our record is his, so we can be treated as if his record is ours. THE GOSPEL IS: GOD TREATS BELIEVING
Copyright © Timothy J. Keller, and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005
BECOMING A CHRISTIAN NOT TRYING HARDER. The moment you do this. you not only receive "rights" as children." D. Keller. you may trust God for many things. BUT IN JESUS AS YOUR NEW RIGHTEOUSNESS BEFORE GOD. Put one in this hand and one in the other.3:8. Paul says that first you must "not work": that means that you must see that you cannot earn God's favor with any moral effort. being heirs of God's love and life. This is the solution to the dilemma. but still be trusting in your-self for salvation. but they are not his children! Saving faith is not less than intellectual belief — you must have that — but it is more. Read or quote Romans 4:5 (also refer back to Phil.3:8-9. I know that right now I am 'wicked'. Notice that becoming a Christian is like being adopted. not even with efforts to develop a penitent. Faith. You say: "Lord. we get his record and rise with it. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Take a book: "this is a our record. Receive me because of him.notes THREE SURPRISING CONVERSIONS 4) Read or quote Romans 3:26. So becoming a Christian is receiving this new status. Read or quote James 2:19. but you are trusting yourself for your salvation. BECOMING A CHRISTIAN IS NOT ME DEVELOPING A RIGHTEOUS RECORD THROUGH MORAL EFFORT AND GIVING IT TO GOD. BUT RECEIVING A STATUS — "RIGHTS AS CHILDREN OF GOD". the children automatically become you heirs. both his love for us and his love for justice were satisfied in one stroke "that God might be both just and justifier [judge and father] of those who believe" (Rom. The demons believed Jesus lived and died for sin. MORE THAN TRUST FOR HELP AND STRENGTH. Take a blank white card or piece of paper: "this is Christ's record. 1) Read or quote John 1:12-13. Then Paul says you must "trust God who justifies the wicked". A visual illustration to use at this point. but you are "born of God" — God's spirit comes in and begins to renew you. 64 Study 16 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. and sinks under it. a ticket into the presence of God". When Christ was punished. Read or quote Phil. The love of God fulfilled the law of God — in Christ on the cross. It is possible to pray to God and trust in him for strength and protection." Refer back to John 1:12-13. BUT FOR TRYING TO BE YOUR OWN LORD AND SAVIOR. a) REPENT — NOT JUST FOR SINS. You must admit that it can only be received.9) REAL FAITH IS REMOVING YOUR SAVING FAITH FROM WHERE IT IS NOW. 3) WHAT SAVING FAITH IS. but I can be just and acceptable through Christ. full of sins". Then switch them. That means you ask God to accept (justify) you solely for the sake of what Christ did for you. surrendered. Adopting children is a legal act. AND PUTTING IT ON JESUS CHRIST. Remember your answer to my first question: you said you thought it was possible to find God through (what they said). IT IS GOD DEVELOPING A RIGHTEOUS RECORD THROUGH CHRIST AND GIVING IT TO US. "He gets our record. So you see. 2) WHAT SAVING FAITH IS NOT.3:26). In one moment. MORE THAN INTELLECTUAL BELIEF. sincere heart. perfect. IT IS RECEIVED BY "BELIEVING" — BY FAITH. b) BELIEVE — NOT JUST IN JESUS IN GENERAL.
of all — I have good news — better you have — but first.THREE SURPRISING CONVERSIONS notes IS NOT TRYING HARD TO QUALIFY FOR GOD. I Cor. Golden rule. BUT ADMITTING THAT YOU CANNOT First.13 — go and do that! Do you? 65 Copyright © Timothy J. a much higher view of the law. Keller. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .
1-9. Keller. Eph.16-21. v. vv. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .Acts for intellectuals The Gospel Study 17 | Acts 17:1-34 1.17-18) b) How does he gain the interest of his hearers in vv. What was Paul's basic strategy in Thessalonica and Berea? What was the reaction to it and why? 3. How would you answer that? c) How does Paul's message fit this audience (refer to the introduction to the Athenian mission)? 66 Copyright © Timothy J.3:8) why does he always first go to the synagogue in any town? What are the implications for our own efforts to spread the gospel? 2.22-23? 5. If Paul's great burden is the win the Gentiles (cf. a) What can we tell about how Paul reasoned in the marketplace? (vv.1-9.24-31) ) b) Some people have criticized this sermon as not being Christ-centered enough. vv. a) What six principles (at least) does Paul lay out to show them who the true God is? (vv. From what motives did Paul operate (what did he see and feel when he first saw Athens)? What can we learn from his example? 4.
like: "HOW MANY PEOPLE REACH THAT. 67 Study 17 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. AND HOW THAT IS POSSIBLE? This gets permission to do the presentation. Keller. so it is here.notes THE GOSPEL FOR INTELLECTUALS THE GOSPEL: A USER'S GUIDE "!" . THAT THE MOST FUNDAMENTAL HUMAN NEED IS NOT JUST (WHAT THEY JUST SAID) BUT TO KNOW AND EXPERIENCE GOD PERSONALLY.for something that helped you "?" -for something that raised a question Part III – A – CONTENT: PRESENTATION #2 Read silently and mark The following is very extensive. it is important to understand their answer. Follow-up question: "COULD I SHARE WITH YOU A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE. like "find what they really want to accomplish in life and do it" or "find people who love and accept you for who you are". I will provide an "easy outline" and summary later. A more indirect approach might be preferable. impersonal answer. Opening question: "WHAT DO YOU UNDERSTAND TO BE THE MOST IMPORTANT THING A PERSON NEEDS (OR YOU NEED) IN ORDER TO BE HAPPY AND FULFILLED?" This question is an extremely direct way to find a "theme of relevance" as described in Part II. in Presentation #1. The purpose of this question or its like is to find what the person thinks is real meaning in life. in order to refer back to it later. Go to the Presentation below. DO YOU THINK?" "WHY OR WHY NOT?" "HOW EASY OR HARD ARE YOU FINDING IT?" Just as. It has the integrity to say upfront that you are disagreeing with them. but the extremely positive expression "know and experience God" is usually winsome and elicits an affirmative answer. "Relevance". PRESENTATION #1 (Sin as Separation) Pre-Presentation Refer to presentation #1 on "Pre-Presentation" and to the "Content: Introduction" on discerning whether a person would be helped by the following approach or not. You should follow that up with genuinely interested queries to explain. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . They are likely to give a fairly general.
but as our Savior. moral character. Keller. Whatever is the most important thing in life for us controls us. possessions. But they are not fundamentally different from the irreligious people. love. family. The problem — Slavery. they enslave us with guilt and self-hatred (if we fail to attain them) or with anger and resentment (if someone blocks them from us) or with fear and anxiety (if they are threatened) or at least with drivenness (since we must have them). personal "bests". So there is no really fundamental difference between religious and irreligious people. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . B. A very liberal person will have a different path by which to prove him or herself than a very conservative person. And we cannot just give it to ourselves — we must have the love and approval of others. We must see: 1) WE ARE LIBERATED NOT SO MUCH THROUGH THE TEACHING. They may look to God as Helper. There are plenty of religious and moral people in the world. appearance. But we all have a path. good causes. came not primarily as example. This means two things — 2) THAT EVEN THE MOST IRRELIGIOUS ARE REALLY WORSHIPPING SOMETHING. In other words. Teacher. For example. 3) THAT EVEN THE MOST RELIGIOUS. but we will never earn our sense of worth by trying to love others. just as fearful and anxious if something threatens it. 68 Copyright © Timothy J. Whatever is ultimate serves as a 'god' and a 'righteousness' even if we don't think in those terms. Teacher. The word "redemption" literally means — "bought out of slavery". or Example. The Solution — Redemption. Our deep sense that we need to be good and loving to others is not mistaken. Now there are innumerable ways we seek this sense of worth — career. and devastate us if we lose them. Whatever thing or things from which we choose to derive our value become the ultimate meaning in our lives. just as angry and resentful if someone blocks it. peer groups. We will always fail. and Example. certain kinds of relationships — or a combination of a several. ARE NOT REALLY WORSHIPPING GOD. Jesus. No one has ever "done unto others as we would have them do unto us". Jesus came not primarily to be our Helper. They may use religion and morality to do it. He came to live the life we should have lived and die the death we should have died (as penalty for our failures). 1) NOBODY IS BORN WITH A SENSE OF WORTH OR VALUE IN THEMSELVES. just as driven "to be good". These things control and disappoint us if we find them. We do not control ourselves. we are not free. but as a substitute. but their moral performance is serving as their Savior. All persons need to establish a sense of worth or value — nobody is born just having it.THE GOSPEL FOR INTELLECTUALS notes Presentation A. because they too are trying to prove themselves through their performance in order to establish their value and worth. achievement. AS THROUGH THE WORK OF CHRIST. They are just as guilty and self-hating if they fail it.
Read or recite John 1:12-13. For he is the only source of meaning that we cannot lose (freeing us from fear and anger) and that is a free gift (freeing us from guilt and drivenness). As a fish is only free in water. Keller. It is the only one that is perfect. But then imagine that this man adopted you. I thank you for the magnificent. He is the only God who can forgive — none of the other ones can or will. if I have never done so before. The Bible calls this worthiness our "righteousness". FOR JESUS' SAKE. can stand up to any circumstance or human failure. It is transferred — and then we are worth what Christ is worth. But Jesus' free righteousness is the only true righteousness. 3) WE ARE LIBERATED BECAUSE JESUS IS THE ONLY GOD WHO DOES NOT ENSLAVE. we get Christ's spotless record. and therefore the rights that go with it." 69 Study 17 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. His "yoke" is the only one that does not enslave. Repent not just for doing wrong. but on the basis of the legal relationship. but of the self-righteousness under all you do. but the belief that receives Christ is not so much subscribing to a set of doctrines about Christ (though it is that). Pray: "Lord.11:28-30. and it would not come to you on the basis of your performance. You have to "believe". C. Read or quote Matt. sufficient sacrifice of your Son for me. but it is admitting that your main sin is your efforts of self-salvation. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . BUT BY RECEIVING A WORTHY RECORD FROM GOD. at trying to be your own Savior. and I ask you to receive and adopt me as your child. How do we "receive" this record? 1) CHANGE NOT THE AMOUNT BUT THE DEPTH OF YOUR REPENTANCE. but because of what Christ has done for me. You have to "repent". When we believe. but for the reason you did right! 2) CHANGE NOT THE AMOUNT. bad and good. That's what it means to become a Christian. 3) ASK DIRECTLY FOR A NEW FAMILY RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD. we are only free when serving Jesus supremely. but transferring your trust from your own works and record to Christ's work and record. Suddenly the relationship would become loving and intimate. not because of anything I have done. Your relationship depended on your performance week by week. Imagine you worked for a very rich man. BUT THE OBJECT OF YOUR FAITH. We all make something our righteousness. and his wealth would all be yours automatically. The Reception — Adoption. but the repentance that receives Christ is not so much being sorry for specific sins (though it is that).notes THE GOSPEL FOR INTELLECTUALS 2) WE ARE LIBERATED NOT BY GIVING A WORTHY RECORD TO GOD. Don't just repent of sins.
all our good deeds are essentially self-interested. 70 Copyright © Timothy J. The New Life of Growth. Without an experience of grace. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . A new quality of life results as you learn to joyfully repent for remaining "idols". Keller. But the gospel moves us to love and serve God for who he is in himself. This new life of freedom grows over time. impersonal. 2) THROUGH A GROWING EXPERIENCE OF GRATEFUL LOVE. How? 1) THROUGH CONTINUAL REPENTANCE FOR RESIDUAL SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS. and conditional. left-over systems of self-salvation. Under every problem there is something more important than Jesus that is operating as our functional righteousness and worth.THE GOSPEL FOR INTELLECTUALS notes D. A new quality of life results as you lose the old motivation of selfish fear ("slave" mentality) and become empowered by the new dynamic of grateful love ("child of God" mentality).
What can we learn for our own effectiveness in ministry from Apollos? From Priscilla and Aquila? 71 Copyright © Timothy J.9 in light of v. Compare Paul's choice of ministry sites with 16:12. What kinds of places does he give priority? Why? What impact should that have on Christians today? 2.24-28. Collect and list all the ways that God's help and encouragement comes to us. how did he respond each time. and how did God respond each time? 3. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .I Cor. Keller.2:2-3)? How does God respond to him? 4. vv. What is surprising about the emotional condition of Paul in v. vv.8-11.8? Should it be surprising? Why would Paul find ministry in Corinth so difficult (cf. What can we learn from a) Paul's actions and b) God's directions (in v. Notice the distinct stages in the Corinthian mission.1-18.9-10) about how we can receive God's help ourselves? 5. and what you recall from the rest of the book of Acts. vv. What were they? What led to each move to a new stage? What obstacles did he meet at each stage.ActsCorinth Mission to Study 18 | Acts 18:1-28 1.
What was Paul's main method in his mission in Ephesus. 3. c) about the marks of real conversion from vv.13-16. What caused the riot? What lessons can we draw from it? What do you think was Luke's purpose in relating this account of the riot? 72 Copyright © Timothy J.1-7.23-41. vv. Recall what we know about Apollos (18:24-28). How does that account for the "problem" of these men? Do you think these men were Christians? Look at Paul's questions and try to discern what elements were missing and what elements must be present before a person can truly said to be a Christian? 2.8-22. vv.ActsEphesus Mission to Study 19 | Acts 19:1-41 1. vv. Keller. What can we learn: a) about the place of miracles in ministry from vv.17-20? 5. Take some time to reflect on how Paul's mission methods (especially in Acts 17-19) instruct the modern church? What does he do that we neglect or omit? 4. b) about the power of Jesus' name from vv. and how does it compareand contrast with those in Corinth and Athens? Make a list of all the methods of evangelism you've seen Paul use. vv. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .11-12.11-20.
With many people. But they will be absolutely necessary with a number of people. What in the reading was most illuminating or helpful? Why? 2. This particular set of sheets is the most difficult. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. Keller. it would be good to skip some or all of them. Would you consider lending one or more of these to a non-believing friend and asking for their reaction and then sharing their reaction next week with the group? 73 Study 19 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. especially those who have thought through their objections to Christianity in a coherent way.for something that helped you "?" -for something that raised a question Part IV – B – THE CASE FOR CREDIBILITY: HOW TO BELIEVE ANYTHING Read silently and mark The following is part of a series of sheets to give and discuss with friends who don't believe the Christian faith.notes MISSION TO EPHESUS THE GOSPEL: A USER'S GUIDE "!" . and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . What in the reading puzzles you or leads you to want more information? 3. How do you think non-believing people would respond? What would be helpful to them? What might not be helpful? 4.
HOW TO BELIEVE IN ANYTHING (B-1) How can we come to know if a religion like Christianity is true? Before we outline an approach (in B-3). it is in the end a self-contradictory statement. But two people who disagree about the Yeti can still agree about the rest of the reality. the uniformity of nature. Now since the origin and the limits of the universe are hidden to us. because cannot prove the uniformity of nature. nor a fair one. 3) You cannot prove the existence of other persons. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . So to disbelieve in God is at that moment to believe "I live in a universe in which nature is uniform and in which reason and sense perception work. and yet we consider someone who denies them as irrational! I know that this kind of thinking makes one's head hurt. "well it always has been so in the past"." Many people have taken this for granted for years. 1. and the other believes all things are able to exist "on their own". You can't prove that our sense experience is valid without using our sense experience. The assertion "a belief is only rational if it is proved by logic or scientific investigation" is then irrational on its own terms.MISSION TO EPHESUS notes B. the statement is not fair. the reliability of our senses. So we cannot prove our most basic beliefs about the existence of persons. To say "belief in God is only rational if there is proof" puts a burden on belief in God that you don't put on yourself for many of your most basic beliefs. There would be no warrant to believe in such a thing without empirical proof. both views of reality are assumptions of faith. we need to deal with two common assertions in B-1 and B-2. Belief in God is not like belief in the Yeti. but there are grounds why this isn't a rational assertion (on its own terms). since it cannot be verified in the way it makes demands on other assertions. But we have to address this very common assertion. You cannot act as if the Christian's world-view is on trial and yours is not. So the non-believer in God is not in a neutral. the "abominable snowman". First. You can't prove that the future will be like the past without saying. Keller. which is to base your argument on the principle you are trying to prove. 2) You cannot prove that because paper is flammable in the past it will be in the future. whereas two people who disagree about the reality of God have a different view of everything else." How can you prove that? We've seen that you cannot. 1) You cannot prove that you were eating lunch today — because memory is something we must take on faith. These are by far the most difficult sheets of the series. which is to assume the very thing you are trying to prove. which is to assume the very thing you are trying to prove. is not the only way to know things for certain. Why not? You can't prove logic without using logic. then. 74 Copyright © Timothy J. uncommitted position. Second. that your senses are showing you the real world "out there". "I don't have to believe in God unless you can prove his existence. You cannot demand a proof for the Christian's basic beliefs about the universe that you yourself cannot produce. all without God. "Proof". One person believes everything exists only because of God. but rather must assume it.
but only impose a "structure" on reality. but they are assuming then that there is an objective reality that exists or else they could not say we are failing to see it. it will not use its own critical tools on itself. we also cannot avoid knowing them. 75 Study 19 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. Summary: We really do know many things by evidence and probability." We have seen that a person who insists that basic belief in God must be proven gives reason "too much credit". you cannot contradict the idea of truth without using it. these folk say. Where does this leave us? Pascal summarized it perfectly in Pensee 406. the laws of logic — that could not be proven without using them. or that we cannot use our reason and senses to sift the evidence for it. the uniformity of nature. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . That shows that though we cannot prove them. We just "find ourselves" knowing these things inescapably. our faculties don't tell us anything about the world as it is. we can get to work to outline a way to sift and evaluate the evidence for Christianity. there is no use doubting it. Many people today are going beyond even the "no religion is superior" view of A-2 to a radical skepticism. If you cannot even doubt something without affirming it. "We have an incapacity for proving anything which no amount of dogmatism can overcome." On the one hand. we must not make the "under-rational" objection that there is no objective truth. But there is an opposite mistake that can be made — to give reason too little credit. We have an idea of truth which no amount of skepticism can overcome. "But you have demonstrated too much! Since no one can prove anything at all. They cannot communicate their points without expecting their words to be understood (thus showing their belief in the reliability of sense perception). In short. Where does this leave us? We said that the "basic beliefs" we mentioned in B-2 — memory. Maybe. no one can be sure of anything at all. yet 2) radical skepticism about reason. and also 3) the mistaken notion that non-belief in God is neutral and objective. how it cannot prove any foundational beliefs about the nature of the universe. Keller. On the other hand. the reality of the external world. But this view is untenable because it is dishonest. sense perception. but almost nothing at all by "proof". But now we also see now that we cannot deny them without using them either. we must not make the "over-rational" objection that Christianity has to be proven before it can be believed. no matter how much we protest that we don't believe in them. saying that we cannot know any reality at all. So we actually "create our own reality". Now that we have rid ourselves of 1) the demand for absolute proof. Radical skeptics cannot disagree with using laws of logic without using laws of logic.notes MISSION TO EPHESUS (B-2) 2. They insist that our perception of reality is not reliable.
if an empiricist says. or one's own experience (existentialism — the feelings). the alternatives have far more trouble accounting for and "making sense" of what we know.MISSION TO EPHESUS notes (B-3) 3. regardless of our "ultimate criterion" cannot doubt without affirming certain "givens" — that there is a material universe. then we need to reject the premises. there is a "revolution"! The old world-view or theoretical framework is shaken and falls to the ground and the new one is moved into. "how can you know that your heart and experience is in touch with reality?" And so on. For example. The lack of the paradigm's explanatory power leads the holders of the paradigm to question whether it is really in accord with reality. This is a master theory of life which is a set of interlocking beliefs based on some ultimate criterion for determining truth and falsity. we need to test our world views using "givens" that we cannot avoid knowing." Now you are talking like an existentialist. "How can we test different sets of religious beliefs to come to know which ones are true?" First we must recognize that everyone has a "world-view". or without assuming some other one. If we agree on that these things are there. or some religious authority (the Bible. Koran). the "givens". So are we all stuck within our world-view frameworks? No. Our argument will be that Christianity explains and accounts for everything we observe. Keller. or of ourselves. of God. not just a narrow range of data." Pensees 417 76 Copyright © Timothy J. "well. no person can examine Christianity without at the very same time testing his or her own world-view. We have seen that all of us. you could be asked. in his landmark book The Structure of Scientific Revolutions. or empirical observation (empiricism — the senses). your ultimate criterion might be logical consistency (rationalism — the mind). that nature is uniform. and whose world-view leads us to expect the opposite of what we see? We look at the premises of each world view and ask: if the premise of this world view leads to conclusions that do not fit with what we see. we now can ask: "whose world-view can best explain what we see. Third. "I will only believe that which is proven scientifically". Thomas Kuhn. The holders may posit a new paradigm and see if the phenomena can better be explained and made to "fit" coherently in this new framework. I know it in my heart — I just feel it is right. that our rational intuition works. or some other authority (family tradition. Though there are difficulties with the Christian faith. Now we cannot "prove" an ultimate critierion without using it. Our approach then will be to show that there is more evidence for Chriistianity than for any alternative world-view (and everyone has one). But a stream of phenomena may become evident which the paradigm cannot explain. and you aren't an empiricist! But the next question will be. If they can. For example. Second. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . and so on. "but how can you prove that scientific proof is the only valid criterion for truth?" In that case he or she might say. demonstrates how we interpret "facts" and "evidence" in terms of our own world view (what he calls a paradigm). ethnic culture) etc. As Pascal put it: "Apart from Jesus Christ we cannot know the meaning of our life or our death.
then that should be my position. in real life. this level of probability suffices us. In other words. The judge tells the jury to convict if the accused is guilty beyond a "reasonable" doubt. Imagine that both Susie and Sally want to marry Michael. Now. Also. that belief in God is more like belief in other persons and minds than like belief in the Abominable Snowman. because virtually everything else in life works on principles of rational probability. He also cannot prove that Sally will not change beyond a possible doubt — but he can be confident that she will be a bad wife beyond a reasonable doubt.notes MISSION TO EPHESUS (B-4) 4. before. We can go no further. "why?" We would all think him irrational. consider how reason only takes us to a state of probability. he cannot prove that Susie will be a good wife until he marries her." We would retort. Susie is compassionate. it is virtually impossible to demonstrably prove that a person did a crime. and since it is possible that Sally will be a good wife. "since you can't prove your case. smart. will often insist that. First. The demand for "proof" was a quest for religious certainty apart from making a commitment. because no process of reasoning can rob us of the risk of commitment. There no certainty with persons before commitment. But he cannot be certain. not beyond a possible doubt. more rational than to hold to any other set of beliefs. Second. Suppose Michael would say. not Sally. and they suffice for us. rational inquiry can only indicate who is probably the right person for the job. Sally is a serial killer in prison. If we cannot know any other significant person without it — what makes us think we could know God without it? 77 Study 19 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. Why? First. and kind. consider what we said. then that should be my position. Yet skeptics. "But how can I be certain that Christianity is true before I believe in it?" Actually you can't. and since it is possible to disbelieve in God. and then we must commit if we are going to reach a state of certainty. but that is not necessary for the law to work. When we have done that we have done our job. But we must not be too dissappointed or even surprised at this. "since you can't prove your case. If you are going to hire someone to work for you in your office. in fact. not certainty. and she insists she will probably do it again. Keller. disciplined. Second. and persons cannot be known for certain without commitment. but you will have to commit to the candidate (hire him or her) to be certain. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . How can Michael be sure which one will be the better wife? All the rational evidence points to Susie." So the purpose of our process of rational expression is to show that it is very rational to be a Christian. consider how evidence is sifted and evaluated in a court of law. in just this way. But the rest of life does not work that way. because God is personal.
Why is Luke's story so detailed? How do the details tell us about what happened to Eutychus? What evidence is there that Luke is describing a resurrection.Acts Ephesus Farewell to Study 20 | Acts 20:1-38 1. Compare vv.1-16. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . 5. Keller.17 and 28. and/or b) direction. 78 Copyright © Timothy J.18-36. Make a list of the specific character traits that Paul urges Christian leaders to have. vv. either by a) example and/or b) direction.Gen. What do we learn about how the early church was governed from these verses? 4.7-12. Where was Paul heading when he set out from Ephesus? Why did he take such a roundabout route? How were these difficulties actually an advantage for Paul and the church? What do you learn from this for yourself (cf. vv. Make a list of the specific duties that Paul urges Christian leaders to do either by a) example. vv.18-36. not a resuscitation? What do we learn here about early Christian worship? 3.50:20)? 2. vv.
for something that helped you "?" -for something that raised a question Part IV – B – THE CASE FOR CREDIBILITY: HOW TO BELIEVE ANYTHING Read silently and mark The following is part of a series of sheets to give and discuss with friends who don't believe the Christian faith. With many people. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . How do you think non-believing people would respond? What would be helpful to them? What might not be helpful? 4. especially those who have thought through their objections to Christianity in a coherent way. Would you consider lending one or more of these to a non-believing friend and asking for their reaction and then sharing their reaction next week with the group? 79 Study 20 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. Keller. What in the reading was most illuminating or helpful? Why? 2. This particular set of sheets is the most difficult. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1.notes FAREWELL TO EPHESUS THE GOSPEL: A USER'S GUIDE "!" . What in the reading puzzles you or leads you to want more information? 3. it would be good to skip some or all of them. But they will be absolutely necessary with a number of people.
some 80 Copyright © Timothy J. morals. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Matter What do we see? That the universe came into existence with a "Big Bang". and used to understand the world we see. how can you 'prove' that?" You can't. "how do you know that. of moral outrage would be perfectly rational and expected. you are simply going to hold to your theory anyway. which we all have. These things are (in a non-theistic world view) difficult to account for yet impossible to live without. an "ultimate criterion" — for believers he is the way we explain and understand everything. But if your premise/theory (that there is no God) does not lead you to expect what we see (a big bang out of nothing. When the secularist says. "well. the way we test one foundation over another is by asking: "which view of the universe explains rationally what we see?" That is how we test scientific theories about entities that are not observable (such as quarks) — that is also how we also test faith-based worldviews. not just as a matter of opinion or taste or culture. "we can only be sure of what scientific observation proves" we can ask. if you say. the universe and life just happened!" that means that though Christian world view DOES lead us to expect what we see. though there's no God. For example. Foundational concepts are assumed. When the secularist says. If there is not a God. WHY TO BELIEVE IN GOD (C-1) An Overview Let's recap. No one can "prove" an ultimate criterion for truth without using it (or using another one). If there is a God. we would not expect them at all. the Big Bang and the beginning of organic life are perfectly rational and expected. the strength of weak and strong nuclear forces) were all calibrated to exactly as they are. their "ultimate criterion" — namely that through reason and science we must explain and understand everything. organic life out of inorganic) — why not change the premise? Morality What do we see? That we recognize some behavior as wrong absolutely. "well. If there is a God. mind. the universal experience of a moral obligation. we see that it makes much more sense of four things we see: matter. But God is a foundational concept. Therefore. That life would have been impossible on earth unless the fundamental constants of physics (the speed of light. though there's no God. These occurrences are (in such non-theistic world-view) highly unlikely — the chances are infinitesimally small. When we put the theistic (believing in God) world view up against the non-theistic world view. Keller. music. It is typical for people to say.FAREWELL TO EPHESUS notes C. Therefore. he cannot be proven any more than skeptics can "prove" their foundation. we would not expect them at all. and your world view leads you to expect the opposite. "I'll believe in God if you can prove that he exists using reason and science". If there is not a God. the gravitational constant.
notes FAREWELL TO EPHESUS things are definitely wrong!" that means that though the Christian world view DOES lead to expect this experience and conviction. normal desire that has no object. physical appetite (corresponding to food). That there exists in us a desire that nothing in time and space can satisfy. though there is no God. Lewis) The secularist says. then these things are expected. "if I find in myself a desire which no experience in the world can satisfy. that our senses can be trusted) — why not change the premise? Music What do we see? That all natural. innate desires correspond to real objects that can satisfy them. the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world. If there is not a God. though there is no God. we just know reason works". and even obligatory. if the universe is random. When the secularist says. you are simply going to hold to your theory anyway. who is rational and created and sustained a rationally ordered universe. If there is a God. But if your premise/theory (that there is no God) does not lead you to expect what we know (that nature is uniform. "well. friendship. But if your premise/theory — that there is no God — does not lead you to expect what we know (that some things are wrong. yet impossible to avoid." (C. that means — that though Christian world view DOES lead us to expect what we see. believing in something beyond the here and now that will fill the desire for that "something"." That means — that though Christian world view DOES lead us to expect what we see. and c) trusting laws of logic. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . That human beings everywhere and at all times have been overwhelmingly religious. deep. Keller. and your world view leads you to expect the opposite. Therefore. tiredness (corresponding to sleep). then we would not expect them at all. relational desires (corresponding to friendship). success can satisfy. b) expecting the uniformity of nature. such as sexual desire (corresponding to sex). "well. But if your premise/theory (that there is no God) does not lead you to expect what we know (that the vast majority of people sense that there is another world) — why not change the premise? 81 Study 20 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. These things are (in a non-theistic world view) difficult to account for.S. you are simply going to hold to your theory anyway. aesthetic desire (corresponding to beauty). we just know that this is the one innate. you are simply going to hold to your theory anyway. the secularist says. a desire for an unknown "something" that no amount of food. for we can only deny these things by using them. just matter in motion. not random. and your world view leads you to expect the opposite. and your world view leads you to expect the opposite. sex. that some laws are unjust despite what the populace says) — why not change the premise? Mind What do we see? That we reason by a) trusting our senses.
and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . So to speak in this way is to concede that point.FAREWELL TO EPHESUS notes Summary Someone certainly has the right to say: "I don't want to be consistent — I'm just going to hold my views arbitrarily. that it makes more sense than non-theism. Keller. But the point of our discussion is only to show that Christianity is more rational. We should not even try to do that." Of course there is nothing that we said here that can compel or coerce anyone to believe. 82 Copyright © Timothy J.
22-26. What signs were there that James' "Jewish" Christianity and Paul's "Gentile" Christianity were compatible? If so. How can you practice it if you don't have a family or a spacious home? 3. the point of difficulty? 5.10. Heb. vv. I Peter 4:9. Look at Romans 12:13.1-9. What does James recommend as a solution? How does Paul's action here reflect principles he himself has laid down elsewhere? (cf. Titus 1:8. Lev. what is the problem here. Acts 16:15. Acts 20:24. 10:32.33) How might these same principles affect our own attitudes toward others? Provide some specific example. I Cor.Acts Arrival at Jerusalem Study 21 | Acts 21:1-26 1. vv. Is Paul disobeying the Spirit (v.4 and 10-11) by continuing on toward Jerusalem (v. 83 Copyright © Timothy J. with 20:22-23. What do they tell you about a) the importance and b) the expression of hospitality among Christians.13:2.9:20-23. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .14)? Cf. Keller. What do we learn about a) the strength of Christian fellowship and b) the ways it is expressed and carried out? Can you share examples of how Christians you didn't know personally provided support and help for you? 2. vv.19:33-34.17-26. 4.
for something that helped you "?" -for something that raised a question Part IV – B – THE CASE FOR CREDIBILITY: HOW TO BELIEVE ANYTHING Read silently and mark The following is part of a series of sheets to give and discuss with friends who don't believe the Christian faith. What in the reading puzzles you or leads you to want more information? 3. But they will be absolutely necessary with a number of people. With many people. especially those who have thought through their objections to Christianity in a coherent way. Would you consider lending one or more of these to a non-believing friend and asking for their reaction and then sharing their reaction next week with the group? 84 Study 21 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. This particular set of sheets is the most difficult. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .notes ARRIVAL AT JERUSALEM THE GOSPEL: A USER'S GUIDE "!" . Keller. it would be good to skip some or all of them. What in the reading was most illuminating or helpful? Why? 2. How do you think non-believing people would respond? What would be helpful to them? What might not be helpful? 4. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1.
without an intelligent Creator.without an intelligent designer. though you cannot prove the remote possibilty wrong. For example. or of the solar system itself. the gravitational constant. Though these hundreds of rocks could have fallen into this pattern by chance. physicists tell us of the astonishing "fine tuning" of the universe that some call 'the Anthropic principle'. Life would have been impossible on earth unless all the fundamental constants of physics (the speed of light. WHY TO BELIEVE IN GOD (C-1) The "Matter" Argument for God One of the things we see when we look at the universe is order and design. Yet the structure and order of the human brain. our argument is "probabilistic" and it is possible that we just happened to find ourselves here. "But what if there have been a countless series of universes over time and we just happen to find ourselves in the one conducive to life?" Of course. But Alvin Plantinga shows how irrational it is to live upon such a possibility. so that for any possible distribution of possible poker hands. is billions of times more intricate. if the universe had expanded even a miniscule measure faster or slower (after the Big Bang). is it rational to live as if that remote chance must be true. "I know it looks suspicious! But what if there is an infinite succession of universes. What if he said. The chances are extremely small that all this happned by accident. Today. just because no one can prove that it is not? 85 Copyright © Timothy J. He asks us to imagine "Tex" dealing himself 10 straight hands of four aces in a game of poker.ARRIVAL AT JERUSALEM notes C. But the "fine tuning" of the universe is far less probable than 10 straight winning hands of 4 aces! While all the elements of design could have happened by chance. it would be irrational to conclude that they did. Keller. There's a road out of Tennessee that passes a hillside with a set of rocks that spell out "Welcome to Georgia". "But doesn't evolution explain the design and structure of organisms?" Evolution can only deal with organic design and it assumes the orderly forces of nature that even allow 'natural selection' to allow fit species to survive. the strength of weak and strong nuclear forces) were calibrated exactly as they are. life would never have occured. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . there is a universe in which that possibility is realized: we just happen to find ourselves in one where I always deal myself 4 aces without cheating?" It would be irrational to assume that Tex is not cheating.
and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . though there's no God.notes ARRIVAL AT JERUSALEM "But maybe the order we see is merely a product of our minds?" This question puts you in a very awkward position. organic life out of inorganic) — why not change the premise? 86 Study 21 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. yet you want us both to use our minds to see it. But if your premise/theory (that there is no God) does not lead you to expect what we see (a big bang out of nothing. You are proposing that our minds are playing tricks on us. You say. are essentially saying: "well. and the non-theistic world view leads you to expect the opposite. then. Keller. "maybe there is no order and intelligibility" but then why should our thinking be orderly about it? Conclusion The non-theists. the universe and life just happened!" that means that though Christian world view does lead us to expect what we see. you are simply going to hold to your theory anyway.
and fair — and wrong to be selfish. but that people are obligated to them no matter what they feel about them. courageous. then you should admit that you do see it and believe in it. "But I don't believe in objective moral obligation. This is more than saying that there are moral "values" or moral feelings. But if there is no God. cowardly and unjust. If our actions show that we believe certain acts to be objectively wrong despite our internal psychology. Do you think that it was a good thing for America to abolish slavery? Are you critical of any ethical practices in your own culture? Do you think that child sacrifice was a bad thing? The only way you can do so is by appealing to objective moral obligations to which others are as bound as yourself. not subjective — it is "there" no matter what anyone thinks of feels about it. kindness. deceptive. "But isn't morality just a product of cultures and relative to them?" The problem for those who espouse relativism is that they cannot avoid comparing cultures. "but there are not moral obligations. They should never be morally outraged or hold anyone responsible for rape and murder. All people know it is right to be generous. then surely it is fair to say. An obligation is objective. how can you even make an argument? If you cannot deny objective moral obligation without using it. kind. But the one espousing this shows the very next moment that he or she does not believe it. Consider what you do when you affirm that there are no objective moral obligations. But if there is no objective moral obligation. genetically based moral feelings" that means that they espouse that murder and rape are not truly wrong." One problem with this view is that it is difficult to prove that unselfishness. honest. not moral obligations. Why? Now if there is a God who created a moral order. so that we are accountable to him and it.ARRIVAL AT JERUSALEM notes C-2 The "Morality" Argument for God One of the things we see when we look at life is an inescapable sense of moral obligation. They should not ever hold people morally responsible for swindling and cheating. But what we mean by "right" is not merely that we feel good about such actions. cruel. only impractical. If a person says. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . fairness are genetic traits that help one survive! But the problem is that the evolutionary theory can only account for moral feelings. that is outside of me. to which you say I ought to be accountable. only evolved. You are saying. it is very hard to see where these objective obligations come from. Keller. "we ought to be reasonable and tolerant". "But isn't our sense of morality a product of evolution? It helped us survive. we show that we don't believe the evolutionary model to be true. But to say this you are pressing an obligation upon me that you are appealing to. 87 Copyright © Timothy J. "you ought not to evaluate me by your moral principles". Every moral statement in only an expression of the subjective feelings of the speaker".
health. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Honesty and courage and love are often extremely impractical. leading to diminishment of money.notes ARRIVAL AT JERUSALEM "But maybe there just are moral obligations. raping the vulnerable. What it is saying is: "while the view that there is a Creator God would lead us to expect moral obligations. Why would such obligations have ever arisen in a world where death is the end of everything? Conclusion We know that napalming babies. even the end of life. starving the poor. and the view that there is no God would not lead us to expect it. Moral obligations in a world without God mean that the atheistic world would be absurd. but are not wrong] why not change the premise? 88 Study 21 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. Here you have unavoidable obligations to do things that will give you no benefits in this life at all. How does that prove God?" This is a weak argument. I am going to hold to an atheistic viewpoint anyway". and buying and selling people is wrong — does not just feel wrong. But if your premise [that there is no God] leads you to a conclusion that you know isn't true [namely that these things only feel wrong. Keller.
23. Keller. 22:1-22.Acts and defense Paul's arrest Study 22 | Acts 21:27 . when he did not do so in Phillipi? How is this instructive for us? 89 Copyright © Timothy J. How is Paul's speech specifically instructive for us? Have you had experiences in which someone became very offended by what you said about your faith? In light of this passage. 21:30-39. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Compare these verses with 16:22. 22:22-29.37-39.22:29 1. How is Paul's speech well-designed for its audience and the situation? 4. was the reason for that mainly in you or mainly in them (or both)? 5. Why does Paul mention his citizenship to avoid the flogging here. Trace the parallels between Paul's suffering and Christ's? In what way is this instructive for us personally? 2. 21:27-36. What does it tell us about Paul that he would turn and speak to the mob when he did? 3.
especially those who have thought through their objections to Christianity in a coherent way. What in the reading was most illuminating or helpful? Why? 2. This particular set of sheets is the most difficult. Would you consider lending one or more of these to a non-believing friend and asking for their reaction and then sharing their reaction next week with the group? 90 Study 22 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. Keller. But they will be absolutely necessary with a number of people. With many people. it would be good to skip some or all of them.for something that helped you "?" -for something that raised a question Part IV – B – THE CASE FOR CREDIBILITY: HOW TO BELIEVE ANYTHING Read silently and mark The following is part of a series of sheets to give and discuss with friends who don't believe the Christian faith. How do you think non-believing people would respond? What would be helpful to them? What might not be helpful? 4.notes PAUL'S ARREST AND DEFENSE THE GOSPEL: A USER'S GUIDE "!" . What in the reading puzzles you or leads you to want more information? 3. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .
they are produced by a blind process that helps us survive in the world. only that what we perceive leads to surviving. when he wrote: "The horrid doubt always arises whether the convictions of a man's mind. then so are the thoughts that espouse this view. brought to us by the long process of evolution. If it is too painful to acknowledge how angry someone is or how hurt someone is through our behavior.PAUL'S ARREST AND DEFENSE notes C. For example. Darwinian theory is that absolutely every capacity we have is due to a process called "natural selection". natural cause. and everything else. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Would any one trust the convictions of a monkey's mind. But if our thoughts are not free and rational. we know that "psychological" survival needs regularly lead us to repress or deny realities. in which those traits that help us adapt to our environment are passed along genetically (since only those with those traits survive). "don't trust a word I am saying". Therefore all our thinking and choices are pre-determined — there is no real freedom of thought. "But surely the process of evolution has given us minds that we can trust. Our minds therefore were not designed by a Creator to perceive the real world. Neuroscientists today tell us that all thinking is the product of chemicals which are the product of our genetic code. Now we cannot possibly know that perceiving reality leads to surviving. that our sense perception and rational intuition help us perceive the real world. Any view of the universe which would make it impossible to trust our thinking or minds to tell us about reality hast to be dismissed. but determined. This is an inescapable conclusion of the belief that there is no God or eternal reality. What proof have we that the same thing has not happened to our capacities for perceiving the physical world. not the production of true beliefs. in which case we cannot trust them — they are only conditioned responses. And so we are in the position of listening to a man who says. are of any value or at all trustworthy. WHY TO BELIEVE IN GOD (CONT.) C-3 The "Mind" Argument for God One of the things that we see is that our minds work. then we are led to some very disturbing conclusions about our own minds. which means we should then be agnostic about evolution itself. we may complete deceive ourselves about it — just refuse to "see" it. Thoughts of the brain are only the results of non-rational. 91 Copyright © Timothy J. But if there is no God. Darwin himself admits this. which has been developed from the mind of lower animals." Evolutionary biology is no help here at all. The simple fact is that evolutionary theory says the purpose of our minds is physical survival. You have to dismiss that sentence as self-refuting nonsense — failing to satisfy its own criteria of acceptability. non-intelligent chemical processes in the brain. if there were any convictions in such a mind?" At best evolution makes us agnostic about our minds. and therefore it gives us no reason to trust our minds — quite the contrary. In fact. and everything has a physical. for we could not have survived unless they told us about reality. Keller.
The main reason our minds help us understand the world is what has been called "the uniformity of nature". Rational mind appears to be a reality (and to deny it is self-defeating). I am going to hold it anyway. Now if we set the theistic view next to the non-theistic (which sees the universe as the production of random matter-in-motion) and ask: "which view best comports with the inductive principle?" we have to conclude that it isn't the non-theistic view. I just know that reason works". we would not be able to learn from experience. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . yet how do we account for it unless there is a rational mind behind the universe? Some say." But if our premise (that there is no God) leads to a conclusion that is completely impossible to hold (that we cannot trust our minds. all of which involve observing similarities and projecting them into the future. Keller. What that means is: "though your world-view does lead us to expect what we see and mine does not.notes PAUL'S ARREST AND DEFENSE "But maybe our minds just emerged and do 'work' — why do we have to have a God for that?" This raises an additional problem for the non-theistic world-view. Without it. The method of generalizing from observed cases to all cases of the same kind is called "induction". we would not be able to rely on memory or advance science. including the thought that we cannot trust our minds). or accounting for why induction and deduction and sense perception works at all. "though there is no God. Conclusion So we see the severe problems with non-theistic thinking — it cannot account for itself! It is belief in God that provides us the necessary pre-conditions for trusting our minds at all. we would not be able to use language. why not question the premise? 92 Study 22 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J.
in the lowest sense. But if there is no God. Leonard Bernstein said. 93 Copyright © Timothy J. so far you will be forced to feel the hopeless disharmony between the universe in which you really live [and the universe in which you think you live]. relational desires (corresponding to friendship). But thirst is fundamental and innate. personal experience). and that your own response to them is only a sort of psychic phosphorescence arising from the behavior of your genes. that somethings are valuable. nor does it mean that one exists anywhere in the world. except in the lowest animal sense. or love and beauty and meaning are a complete illusion (and why would these deep convictions have ever arisen. "Listening to Beethoven's Fifth. just in so far as it ever threatens to push you on from cold sensuality into real warmth and enthusiasm and joy. love is an illusion — it is just a function of my brain chemistry. or love and beauty is an absolute illusion. but the thirst desire is completely natural and innate. something that checks throughout. have a "good time". you get the feeling there's something right with the world. But innate desires correspond always to real objects that can satisfy them.that you like it only because your nervous system is irrationally conditioned to like it. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 ." But are we only talking about "feelings" here? There is a difference between innate and artificial desires. Keller. that will never let us down. be in love with a girl if you know (and keep on remembering) that all the beauties both of her person and of her character are a momentary and accidental pattern produced by the collision of atoms. You may still. something we can trust. anyway?) "But just because we feel these things are real is no argument that they exist. physical appetite (corresponding to food). but just in so far as it becomes very good. such as with sexual desire (corresponding to sex). just because you want a Coke doesn't mean there is a Coke at hand. that love is real. and beautiful music is also an illusion — it is just the way my nervous system is designed. something that follows its own laws consistently. C. The desire for Coke came from factors outside of us (advertizing. For example. Artificial desires can exist without a corresponding object. For example. tiredness (corresponding to sleep). and it does mean that there is such a thing as liquid.PAUL'S ARREST AND DEFENSE notes C-4 The "Music" Argument for God One of the things that we see in the world is that great art makes us feel that there is meaning in life. We all disagree on which art is "great" and which art affects us like this." This is a simple fact of experience.S. So either there is a God. Either there is a God. You can't go on getting very serious pleasure from music if you know and remember that its air of significance is a pure illusion. but we all experience it.Lewis put it quite well: "Let us suppose that Nature is all that exists… you can't.
Keller. Lewis puts it best. normal desire that has no object. But if your premise/theory (that there is no God) does not lead you to expect what we know (that the vast majority of people sense that there is another world) — why not change the premise? 94 Study 22 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. a ducking wants to swim — such a thing as water. sex. friendship. This is an innate desire. believing in something beyond the here and now that will fill the desire for that "something". a baby wants to suck — such a thing as milk. though there is no God. "So. success can satisfy. you are simply going to hold to your theory anyway.notes PAUL'S ARREST AND DEFENSE Now there exists in us a desire that nothing in time and space can satisfy. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Again. then it probably means that I was made for another world as well. And if I find in myself a longing which this world cannot meet. deep." Conclusion The non-theist says: "well." That means — that though Christian world view DOES lead us to expect what we see. a desire for an unknown "something" that no amount of food. Human beings everywhere and at all times have been overwhelmingly religious. and your world view leads you to expect the opposite. we just know that this is the one innate.
and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Keller. 23:11. How can we have a good conscience when we know we are sinners? How can Paul (in Acts 23 and I Cor 4:3-5) give us guidance for having the same kind of confidence that he had? 3. What do you think? Was Paul's anger wrong? How does Paul's own statement in Eph. 23:1-5.21:11 1.ActsSanhedrin Before the Study 23 | Acts 22:30 .4:1-4 help us understand what a "good conscience" is? 2.4:26-27 shed light on this issue? How does Paul get self-control? Where do you need to practice these insights? 4. 22:30-23:1 – Paul is facing death at any minute. 23:1. 23:6-10. How does the Lord encourage Paul? How does he encourage you during hard times? 95 Copyright © Timothy J. What do we see here is one of the secrets of his boldness? How does I Cor. What was Paul's tactic in this hearing? Did it work? Was Paul more concerned with his own welfare or more concerned for the truth? 5. Commentators are divided over: a) why Ananias had Paul struck and b) how Paul could have failed to recognize the High Priest.
000 in Canada. who were there on that day. the oldest copy of Caesar's Gallic Wars [c. What if the thousands of residents who were related or who knew the thousands of now deceased residents report that they never had heard anything about it in all those years? Surely. denied any such memory. "But weren't the gospels really legends written long after the events. 46-47. The earliest copies we have of other documents of antiquity are usually 500-1000 years newer than the originals. In the same way. some within a few decades of its composition.) Yet we have thousands of copies of the Bible. that dozens of people saw him risen from the dead) were circulating within the lifetime of thousands of people who had lived in Judea and had witnessed Jesus' ministry. Keller. the author of the book could insist that people were lying.D. But the number of believers in the book would be exceedingly small. Certainly someone would go to that town and ask for corroboration. were written just two decades after his death. "But we don't even have the original manuscripts — we only have copies of copies. Who knows how reliable they are?" No scholars doubt that what we have today is essentially the same Gospels as originally written.D. (For example.Paul's letters. which contain much information about Jesus. How could Christianity have flourished when thousands of people (many of them hostile) could have contradicted the message? Imagine a book coming out that claims that on a a day 45 years ago.000 residents still alive. so that we cannot be sure that they reflect accurate first person memory?" In the 19th century.. Yet no historian doubts that we can trust it. 19:4-5).notes BEFORE THE SANHEDRIN WHY TO BELIEVE IN CHRISTIANITY Part 1 – Trusting the Bible Why should we trust the Bible in general? Because Jesus taught and believed in the Bible's trustworthiness (John 5:37-39. but archaeology and scholarship has forced the consensus that all the Gospels were written 65-95 A. But what if none of the 1. in a remote town of 5.19. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Matthew 5:17.] is from 850 A. many scholars insisted that the Bible was written over 100 years after the event. a flying saucer landed in full view of all the town. or 30-60 years after the life of Jesus.C. (And St. or that some miraculous "memory loss" had happened.50 B. that he claimed to be God.) Thus all the essential historical claims of the New Testament (that Jesus did miracles such as the raising of Lazarus. But how can we know what Jesus did and taught? Because the four gospels in the New Testament can be trusted as reliable history. 96 Study 23 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. it would have been impossible for Christianity to have gained such widespread support if its critical historical claims were bluntly contradicted by the numerous witnesses who were still alive. 10:34.
But we know that the rules of Jewish oral tradition (which would have governed the teaching of the earliest church) insisted on accurately memorizing massive amounts of material. There are numerous examples of "irrelevant details" (like the 153 fish in John 21:11) which have no reason to be included in the narrative and would not have occurred to the author unless they simply happened. One of the evidences of this is how often the Gospels. 97 Copyright © Timothy J. the writers could draw not only on eyewitness memories. preserve Aramaic words and word order.Lewis) Therefore. these are either history or very intentional and deliberate fabricated lies.2:7). some unknown [ancient] writer… without known predecessors or successors. I know none of them are like this. after the death of Christ. so that when the Gospels were written. written in Greek. (Aramaic was the language of Jesus. Either this is reportage… pretty close to the facts. vision literature. Keller. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .The reader who doesn't see this has simply not learned how to read. Also. While ancient historians were not as critical and precise as modern ones. myths all my life. How can we be sure memories of Jesus' words and deeds were accurate?" Some have taught that..) "But ancient writers were not interested in the difference between fact and legend. suddenly anticipated the whole technique of modern novelistic. I Corinthians 15:3-8. the early Christians spun out stories of Jesus' words and deeds which quickly changed and evolved in the telling. romances. realistic narrative.. in a sort of "whisper down the alley" way. but they are not legends." This is simply not the case. The New Testament itself claims that this is what happened (Luke 1:1-4. Col.BEFORE THE SANHEDRIN notes "But still — 30 to 60 years is a long time. Of this text there are only two possible views. I know what they are like. ancient legends and forms of fiction did not contain the kind of detailed descriptions of events that the Gospels do. legends. but on large amounts of Jesus' words and deeds carefully preserved in the churches." (C. nearly as close as Boswell. Jewish disciples of a rabbi would have memorized his teachings word for word and then would have passed on the tradition faithfully and unaltered. Or else. there was a real effort to ask "did it really happen"? Luke (1:1-4) makes a very specific claim to be preserving historical facts through eyewitness accounts and the painstaking checking of sources. The "I have been reading poems.S.
then we can view the evidence for the claim that Jesus is the Son of God. but were teachers.N. For example. Many other apparent discrepancies are explained similarly. They had their perspectives and they selected and organized their material to get their points across. the non-fictional literary form. we will be able to embrace the entire trustworthiness of the Bible. Luke 24 seems to say that Jesus ascended on the same day that he rose from the dead (thus contradicting the other Gospels). But in Acts 1 (also written by Luke) we see that Luke did know about the 40 days between the resurrection and the ascension. There are a few difficuties that are harder to explain. we are not going to accept the whole Bible (nor will we need to). Summary Why are we only arguing for the historical reliability of the Gospels? Because if they are reliable.Sherwin-White. an Oxford historian. Keller. studied the rate at which legend accumulated in the ancient world and wiped out the core of historical fact. The essential claims of Christianity were publically circulating within too short a time for that to happen. "But aren't the Gospels full of contradictions?" This is a great misconception. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . and the continued presence of corroborative eyewitnesses. 98 Study 23 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. But all the same reasons (stated above) make it impossible for them to have done outright fabrications: the rules of Jewish oral tradition.notes BEFORE THE SANHEDRIN "But — no offense — isn't that what religious activists do? Didn't the authors embellish and shape the story of Jesus to bolster their authority and meet the needs of the early church?" Certainly we must agree that the Gospel writers were not just reporters. but we should remember that we are only arguing here that the Gospels are reliable history. It took at least three full generations. because he taught it. A. Most of the contradictions between the Gospels are the result of the authors' selective use of data. If we do not accept his claims. If we decide that he is that. the blunt claims of accuracy.
Keller.ActsFelix Escape to Study 24 | Acts 23:11 .24:21 1.11 to the rest of the chapter? How does it shed light on a) God's actions. Make a list of the charges brought against Paul before Felix? What evidence is mustered for each charge? 4. What is the relationship of v. Are any of these charges against Paul also thrown at Christians in New York City? How can we answer them? 99 Copyright © Timothy J. and what does it not guarantee? Do we have anything like the same guarantee or promise that Paul was given? 2. 24:10-21. John Stott writes: "the most… cunning of human plans cannot succeed if God opposes them." a) How does this passage show this? (Trace the "coincidences". and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . How does Paul defend himself against the accusations? 5.11 guarantee. 24:1-9. 23:12-35. and b) Paul's heart and attitude? What does v.) b) How has your experience shown this? How does Claudius Lysias twist the truth to look good? Do you ever do this? 3.
for something that helped you "?" -for something that raised a question Part IV – B – THE CASE FOR CREDIBILITY: HOW TO BELIEVE ANYTHING Read silently and mark The following is part of a series of sheets to give and discuss with friends who don't believe the Christian faith. especially those who have thought through their objections to Christianity in a coherent way. What in the reading was most illuminating or helpful? Why? 2. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . But they will be absolutely necessary with a number of people. it would be good to skip some or all of them. What in the reading puzzles you or leads you to want more information? 3. Would you consider lending one or more of these to a non-believing friend and asking for their reaction and then sharing their reaction next week with the group? 100 Study 24 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J.notes ESCAPE TO FELIX THE GOSPEL: A USER'S GUIDE "!" . With many people. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. This particular set of sheets is the most difficult. How do you think non-believing people would respond? What would be helpful to them? What might not be helpful? 4. Keller.
For example. the laws of nature are not rules to which he must submit. there are three basic reasons for rejecting the possibility of miracles. while nature has regularities. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Experience can only tell us that a "law" or custom of nature has not been violated. But this is something that a great number of contemporary people cannot do." "We now know".ESCAPE TO FELIX notes WHY TO BELIEVE IN CHRISTIANITY Part 2 – The possibility of miracles Before we can assess the evidence for Jesus' claims and identity we must first be in the position of admitting at least the possibility of miracles. But first. "Modern science makes it impossible to believe in miracles. Keller. a baseball ought to fall to the ground when I let it go (because the the "law of gravity"). but it will not if another person catches it and holds it up. but are just customary ways in which he upholds the world. but empirical observation could never prove that it never can be. Physical science has had a revolution lately in which the assumed invoilability of Newtonian mechanics has given way to quantum theory. Secondly. 101 Copyright © Timothy J. it is really only just an emotional assertion — "I feel when I use technology that miracles don't exist". when he wrote. But why should a new invention lead us to disbelieve in God? Why didn't we stop believing in God when the wheel was invented (a much more revolutionary technological advance than electricity or even the microprocessor). could he do so? If God exists. If he wills something unusual on a particular occasion. if God exists." This view was put forth in a famous statement by Rudolph Bultmann in the 1950's. then a "miracle" occurs. "We cannot believe in miracles in a modern. Some people feel skeptical or miracles and many others feel the opposite. they can be altered by the actions of personal agents. technological age. "it is impossible to use electrical lights and the radio and to avail ourselves of modern medical and surgical discoveries. fewer and fewer scientists are willing to talk about "laws" of nature. in which physical 'laws' are now only seen as regularities of nature. But this is not an argument. this view goes. how much more. but there is nothing analogous to a human being breaking through a barrier or violating a law. Such psychological and sociological facts do not provide evidence either way. Now if personal agents can regularly bring about new events that would not have occurred by natural forces alone. "Laws" are really only descriptions of how entities usually behave. "that there are Laws of Nature which cannot be violated". Broadly speaking. and at the same time to believe in the New Testament world of spirits and miracles".
To say. an openminded person will be on the side of the angels.notes ESCAPE TO FELIX "But I don't know that there is a God. Bk. Keller. "miracles cannot happen because miracles just cannot happen. Since (as we tried to show in previous places) no one can prove that God cannot exist. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . and therefore I cannot assume that miracles are possible. And you would have to absolutely know that there is no God in order to say "miracles are impossible".141). But mice just don't do these things. "miracles are impossible" is thus a statement of faith. Sum: Miracles are impossible only if you assume (take on faith) that there is no personal supernatural God. then you cannot assume that miracles are impossible.II. which attest to miracles like the resurrection of Christ. therefore no one can insist on the impossibility of miracles. like the Gospels. "When the Old Testament says that Sennacherib's invasion was stopped by angels (II Kings 19:35). we must be at least open to historical accounts. Therefore. many efforts to explain away Biblical miracles require greater "leaps of faith" than to accept them. It is to say. Lewis 102 Study 24 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J.S. Sect. Not knowing that there is a God is not the same as knowing there is no God." But this statement is not really reasonable." Therefore. and Herodotus says it was stopped by a lot of mice who came and ate up all the bowstrings of the whole army (Herodotus. Unless you start by beggin the question [assuming miracles cannot happen] there is nothing intrinsically unlikely in the existence of angels or in the action described to them. Unless you could prove that there is no personal God who can alter nature's regularities. not something that anyone can prove." – C.
What can we tell from this brief description that Paul said to Felix and Drusilla? 3. 25:1-12.25:22 1. 24:24-27. How do the charges differ this time? Why did Festus offer Paul a trial in Jerusalem? Why did Paul refuse Festus' offer of a trial in Jerusalem and claim his right to appeal to Caesar? 5. 25:13-22. 24:22-27.Acts and Festus Before Felix Study 25 | Acts 24:22 . Keller. What do Paul's actions teach us about our relationship to civil authority? 103 Copyright © Timothy J. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .) What does that tell us about how and why people show interest in the gospel? 2. What were the four factors that contributed to prevent Felix from embracing the gospel? Do the same factors prevent you from doing what is right? 4. 24:22-27. What hints are there that Felix and Drusilla were interested in Paul's message? Why do you think they might have been? (Consider what we know about them from the introduction.
notes BEFORE FELIX AND FESTUS THE GOSPEL: A USER'S GUIDE "!" . What in the reading puzzles you or leads you to want more information? 3. Would you consider lending one or more of these to a non-believing friend and asking for their reaction and then sharing their reaction next week with the group? 104 Study 25 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. especially those who have thought through their objections to Christianity in a coherent way. This particular set of sheets is the most difficult. What in the reading was most illuminating or helpful? Why? 2. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. But they will be absolutely necessary with a number of people. How do you think non-believing people would respond? What would be helpful to them? What might not be helpful? 4. Keller. it would be good to skip some or all of them.for something that helped you "?" -for something that raised a question Part IV – B – THE CASE FOR CREDIBILITY: HOW TO BELIEVE ANYTHING Read silently and mark The following is part of a series of sheets to give and discuss with friends who don't believe the Christian faith. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . With many people.
but revived in the tomb. No. We also know that there was great hostility from the leaders of Jerusalem toward the spread of Christianity. why would they leave the grave clothes behind. But this is contradicted by the second line of evidence — the eyewitness sightings. we find ourselves making even greater leaps of faith than if we believed in the resurrection itself. The account of the folded graveclothes in John 20:5-7 contradicts all the theories. since enemies would have had strong reasons to produce the body. Here is one more piece of historical evidence. or no one would have believed the preaching for a minute. but other considerations make it hard to believe in the three possible nonsupernatural explanations for the empty tomb. they would have made up and provided such a plausible alternative explanation for the empty tomb. that does not prove a resurrection.BEFORE FELIX AND FESTUS notes WHY TO BELIEVE IN CHRISTIANITY Part 3 – The Resurrection of Jesus Christ The case for the resurrection of Christ is very strong. The fact that they include the body-snatching claim is very strong evidence that it existed. then three basic lines of evidence converge to convince us that Jesus rose from the dead: 1) the fact of the empty tomb. if the gospel writers were fabricating these resurrection stories. And if it existed. as long as we grant the possibility of miracles. if they had it. How do we know the tomb was empty at all? (Isn't this just legend)? We know that the early church was proclaiming the resurrection of Christ very early. since the earliest church preached the empty tomb — it must have been empty. If anyone had stolen the body. Therefore. It is extremely unlikely that.28:13). But this is contradicted by both the second and also the third line of evidence — the changed lives of the believers. Second is the theory that the disciples stole the body. Here is one more piece of historical evidence. If we try to explain these effects away. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . how could he have gotten out of the graveclothes without tearing them to pieces? (cf. But even if the tomb is empty. It indicates that the graveclothes of Jesus left behind in the tomb were still wrapped around. then there must have been an empty tomb that had to be explained. First is the theory that Jesus did not die on the cross. neatly wrapped and folded? Or if Jesus had revived. This is the weakest of all the theories. Third is the theory that the enemies stole it. 2) the testimony of numerous eyewitnesses. as if the body had passed through it. John 11:44) 105 Copyright © Timothy J. Keller. 3) the long-term impact on the lives of Jesus' followers. The gospel writers mention that the earliest hostile explanation of the empty tomb was that the disciples had stolen it (Matt. If we do that.
This would have been a hoax that lasted for years. Why? First. How could Paul write that "Mary and Peter said they saw the risen Jesus" when Peter and Mary were saying. and notes that "most of them are still living" (I Cor. women's low social status meant that their testimony was usually not admissible evidence in court. there are two factors that make it highly unlikely that they would be hallucination or a conspiracy. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . they developed a confidence and joy that enabled them to spread the gospel so powerfully that it transformed the whole Roman world. and there are three or four others mentioned by the gospels. Paul suggests to his readers that any of them can go and talk to the five hundred witnesses. Second. Paul alone mentions five appearances. In those times. and one in which no conspirators ever broke down and told the truth. There was no reason for Christian writers to fabricate accounts of women seeing Christ first. 106 Study 25 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. First. five hundred persons saw him at once. The only explanation for the existence of these reports is that they really happened. But despite the fact that their belief system provided no basis for it — they began to proclaim the resurrection of Christ. But the final difficulty with the conspiracy theory is how hard it is to square it with the subsequent lives of the apostles and earliest disciples. every gospel states that the first eyewitnesses to the resurrection were women.15:6 tells us that at one "sighting". Scholars recognize now that first century Jewish people did not believe in an individual resurrrection.15:6). or hundreds of people must have been part of an elaborate conspiracy which lasted for decades. So we can conclude that there really were many. Couldn't the eyewitness accounts been a hallucination. Acts 1:3-4 tells us that for forty days he appeared constantly to numerous groups of people.notes BEFORE FELIX AND FESTUS How do we know anyone claimed to see Jesus? Aren't these just legends? We can tell that the eyewitness accounts were not legendary. Either they must have actually seen Christ. many people who claimed to have seen the risen Christ personally. long after the eyewitnesses are gone to act as controls on the narratives. "I [believe] those witnesses that get their throats cut". As Pascal put it. Most impressive of all is the historical fact that nearly all the early apostle's died as martyrs. "no we didn't"? It is extremely difficult to see how Christianity could have spread so rapidly if Paul's amazing assertions were so easily refuted. Keller. And despite the fact that they were poor and small and marginal. It is hard to believe that this kind of powerful self-sacrifice could be done for a hoax. The size of the groups and the number of the sightings make it virtually impossible to conclude that all these people had hallucinations. or a conspiracy? Once we grant that the eyewitness claims really occurred. the eyewitnesses accounts are too numerous and the groups of eyewitnesses are too large. Scholars have noted that legendary accounts of historical events take at least two generations to accrue. but only in a general resurrection at the end of time. And I Cor. Paul in I Corinthians 15 makes a long list of people who claimed to have seen the risen Christ personally.
it is most reasonable to conclude that the disciples saw what they said they saw. Yet the transformed. Keller. sacrificial lives of the early disciples surely indicates that the beliefs were sincere. There were too many sightings for them to be hallucinations. We know that there were hundreds and hundreds of eyewitnesses who claimed to have seen Jesus dozens of time. Therefore. 107 Copyright © Timothy J.BEFORE FELIX AND FESTUS notes Summary It is impossible for Christianity to have begun unless the tomb was empty. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .
Acts (Part I) Before Agrippa Study 26 | Acts 25:13 . Why is this such a tremendous opportunity to proclaim the gospel.9-11. vv. but what can we learn from Paul for our own sharing of our experience? 108 Copyright © Timothy J. How does his "spin" reveal how Paul is a problem for Festus? Why is Agrippa a help for him? 3. Keller. How is Festus' summary of the case (v18-20. vv.2223. vv. 26:1-23. 4.17-21. Refer to the last few chapters.12-16. 24-27) a mixture of truth and untruth? 2.2-3.4-8. Most of us do not have such dramatic "testimonies" such as this one. vv. 25:23-27. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Trace each stage of Paul's defense by giving a one sentence argument that summarizes his point in: vv. 25:13-27. vv.26:23 1. How many of these factors were "bad" things? How can this illustration of Romans 8:28 help you right now? 5. 25:13-27. Consider how many things God had to work together for this to occur. 25:23-27.
But they will be absolutely necessary with a number of people.notes BEFORE AGRIPPA (PART I) THE GOSPEL: A USER'S GUIDE "!" . With many people. What in the reading puzzles you or leads you to want more information? 3. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . it would be good to skip some or all of them. Keller. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. What in the reading was most illuminating or helpful? Why? 2. especially those who have thought through their objections to Christianity in a coherent way.for something that helped you "?" -for something that raised a question Part IV – B – THE CASE FOR CREDIBILITY: HOW TO BELIEVE ANYTHING Read silently and mark The following is part of a series of sheets to give and discuss with friends who don't believe the Christian faith. This particular set of sheets is the most difficult. How do you think non-believing people would respond? What would be helpful to them? What might not be helpful? 4. Would you consider lending one or more of these to a non-believing friend and asking for their reaction and then sharing their reaction next week with the group? 109 Study 26 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J.
and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . emphatic protestations. Many believe that Jesus. Huston Smith. that they were only teachers. More than that. Yet their first followers had views of God which allowed the possibility of a God-man.40). and with the least likely people on earth to divinize their teacher? The letters of Paul (written only 15-25 years after Jesus' death) and the even earlier hymns and creeds he quotes (like Phillipians 2:5-11) show that the Christians worshipped Jesus immediately after his death.BEFORE AGRIPPA (PART I) notes WHY TO BELIEVE IN CHRISTIANITY. for Buddha asserted that he was not a god. At the heart of the evidence for Christianity is a great conundrum. But first century Jews had a theology and a culture that in every regard was completely and totally resistent to the idea of God becoming human. though God alone has the right to give or take life." (C. why would he have failed where the other founders succeeded. But if Jesus had also denied that he was God. and the divinity of a human being is the very last thing that first century Jewish minds would be able to make up. are those of a megalomaniac. was a humble sage who refused divine claims. So on the one hand. Lewis) But couldn't his followers have just make these divine claims up? No. (1) Jesus assumed authority to forgive all sins (Mark 2:7-10) — not just sins against him. but on the other. the Creator of the universe. Jesus claimed to have a power that could actually eliminate death.S. and therefore that he is God whose laws are broken and whose love offended in every violation. There is an unsurpassed moral and spiritual beauty about the character and the teaching of Jesus. like all the other founders of great religions. Mohammed. in The World's Great Religions says that only Buddha and Jesus so impressed their contemporaries that they were not just asked "who are you?" but "what are you?" But the difficulty for observers comes in just at this point. Jesus' premise is that all sins are against him. A number of reasons were given in sheet #1. but Jesus repeatedly and continually claimed to be the God. a man whose claims "if not true. First there were all this astounding indirect claims. through strenuous. and he 110 Copyright © Timothy J. Part 4a – The Challenge of Jesus Christ — His claims. compared with whom Hitler was the most sane and humble of men. But why couldn't he just have been a very good teacher? The strength of the Christ's claims make that option impossible. Buddha. But the main reason is that the original followers of Christ were Jews. Since we can only forgive sins that are against us. Keller. The only fair explanation is that Jesus was the source of the claims — that his continual and powerful assertions of deity eventually broke through their walls of resistance. (2) Jesus claimed that he alone could give eternal life (John 6:39. there is a person of supreme love and moral wisdom. to convince their subsequent followers that they were not to be worshipped. Confucius et al were able. above. The concept would not have even occurred to them.
Rather. This means that what he was saying was the most stupendous claim that anyone has ever made.11:27) (So he is claiming to be all-knowing). which are staggering. (3) Jesus claimed to have the truth as no one else ever has. Exodus 3:14. More than that.10:32. "thus saith the Lord" but Jesus teaches with "but I say unto you" out of his own authority (Mark 1:22. But Jesus was Jew. Since God alone has both the infinite knowledge and the right (as Creator and owner) to evaluate every person.22:8. he claims not just to have or bring truth.33.) He puts his own knowledge on a par with God the Father's (Matt. Only through him can anyone know or come to God (Matt. We must remember one more point. John Stott has organized his assertions this way. Eastern religions were "pantheistic" and understand God to be the spiritual force in everything. Acts 14:11-15). He claimed to be perfectly sinless (John 8:46). Jesus actually takes upon himself the divine name "I AM" (John 8:58. but that the weakest follower of Christ is greater than he (Matt.11:27. 6:33). (4) Jesus assumed the authority to judge the world (Mark 14:62). He claims to have sent all the prophets and wise teachers in the world through all the centuries (Matt. but to be the Power that can destroy death (John 11: 25-26).notes BEFORE AGRIPPA (PART I) claims not just to have or bring a power to raise the dead. (3) to receive him is the receive the God (Mark 9:37).23:34). the source and locus of all truth (John 14:6).9. John 14:6). but to be the Truth itself. (5) Jesus assumed the right to receive worship (John 5:23. (6) His even off-hand statements and actions continually assume that he has divine status. (So he is claiming to be Creator. And he did not make it once or twice. We cannot minimize 111 Study 26 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. (So he is claiming to be eternal. Even when Jesus called himself "the Son of God". he was claiming equality with the Father.) He says that the greatest person in the history of the world was John the Baptist. since in ancient times an only son inherited all the father's wealth and position and was thus equal with him. This list could be stretched out indefinitely. he was naming himself as fully God (John 5:18). and when he described God he meant the God who was beginningless Creator who was infinitely exalted above everything else. John 20:28-29) which neither great persons nor even angels would accept (Rev. cf. (2) to see him was to see God (John 12:45). claiming to the "Yahweh" who appeared to Moses in the burning bush. All prophets said. 9:38. John 3:18). Finally. The listeners knew that everytime Jesus called him self "the Son". Jesus premise is that he has both divine attributes. Keller. (So he is claiming to be completely holy.11:11). Then there are his direct claims. (1) To know him is to know God (John 8:19).) He comes to the temple and says all the rules about observing the Sabbath are off now because the inventor of the Sabbath is now here (Mark 2:23-28). his was a consciousness which suffused everything he said and did. Luke 5:8. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Western religions were "polytheistic" and believed in various gods who could take on human guises. Luke 4:32) And more than that. so to say "I am part of God" or "I am one with God" is not terribly unusual. Jesus claimed that we will be judged in the end primarily on our attitude toward him (Matt.
If you heard a man saying "I have always existed. These two parts go together. He did not leave that open. or attack him. or fear him.BEFORE AGRIPPA (PART I) notes these. I will return at the end of time and your fate will depend on your obedience to me. Please immediately read part 4b. I created the world. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Keller." — you could not laugh. I am ultimate reality. You would reject him. 112 Copyright © Timothy J. but you could not consider him a fine moral teacher.
c) the ground of salvation (the reason God can save us)? 3. b) the method of salvation (how to become a Christian). 22:5-16? How do those differences show Paul tailoring his presentation to his audience? 2. Once again. and finally. How is this account of Paul's conversion different from the others — in 9:1-19. 26:24-27. direct appeal to the king? 4.Acts (Part II) Before Agrippa Study 27 | Acts 26:1-32 1. 22:12-18. Keller. 26:17-23. Luke shows that Paul is not guilty — and that Christianity is not disruptive to public order and society? Why do you think Luke is pressing this point so much? How can we make the same case today? 113 Copyright © Timothy J. What does Paul tell Agrippa here about a) the need for salvation (our lost condition). How does Paul summarize his two lines of argument in a final stunning. 26:30-32. Should we be as direct in our argumentation as Paul was? 5. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .
But they will be absolutely necessary with a number of people.for something that helped you "?" -for something that raised a question Part IV – B – THE CASE FOR CREDIBILITY: HOW TO BELIEVE ANYTHING Read silently and mark The following is part of a series of sheets to give and discuss with friends who don't believe the Christian faith. it would be good to skip some or all of them. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. What in the reading puzzles you or leads you to want more information? 3. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .notes BEFORE AGRIPPA (PART II) THE GOSPEL: A USER'S GUIDE "!" . Keller. Would you consider lending one or more of these to a non-believing friend and asking for their reaction and then sharing their reaction next week with the group? 114 Study 27 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. What in the reading was most illuminating or helpful? Why? 2. With many people. How do you think non-believing people would respond? What would be helpful to them? What might not be helpful? 4. This particular set of sheets is the most difficult. especially those who have thought through their objections to Christianity in a coherent way.
This brings us to the second part of the challenge of Jesus Christ. That. Part 4b – The Challenge of Jesus Christ — His character The first part of the challenge of Jesus Christ is the extraordinarily self-centered teaching. We can do that partially by imagining how you yourself would react if a neighbor of yours began to claim that he or she was the Creator of the universe who would judge the world. Anyone who knew anything about him knew that there were only three possibile explanations for him: he was either a liar. in deed. He spawned either passionate worshippers or furious people who wanted to kill him. and becoming weary and lonely and moved to joy and love and anger. he is continually surprising us. Despite being profoundly human. "in thought he put himself first. He combines qualities that no one ever has. we never see him inconsistent. Most interesting of all. The accounts of him in the New Testament speak for themselves. yet never disappointing us. Keller. because he is incomparably better than you could imagine for yourself. explains the actual historical record of human reactions to him. in fact. we never see him pompous or offended or standing on his own dignity. We must try to grasp how absolutely astounding these claims were to the listeners. in the accounts of his dealings with people. we never see him being strong where he should be tender or tender where he should be strong. What is startling is not just that his claims that were so self-centered.) Despite being absolutely approachable to the weakest and most broken people. he is always surprising you and taking your breath away. strength without harshness. This is life at the highest. but that his character and his actions were so completely unself-centered. Well.BEFORE AGRIPPA (PART II) notes WHY TO BELIEVE IN CHRISTIANITY. Nothing he does falls short. shocking us. he is completely fearless before the proud and corrupt. of course. why could he not have been a fraud. You would almost certainly regard your neighbor as either insane or fraudulent. There is never a false step." 115 Copyright © Timothy J. last". then? There have been lots of cult leaders who claimed to be divine. yet we never see him moody. moral teacher". or the Lord he claimed to be. a lunatic. power without insensitivity. One writer summed it up with a remarkable challenge: "No one has ever yet discovered the word Jesus ought to have said or the deed he ought to have done. He is tenderness without weakness. Why? They are the surprises of perfection. humility without the slightest lack of confidence. If he was a "good. holiness and unbending convictions without the slightest lack of approachability. we cannot explain either the worshippers or his execution. Despite his incredible claims. never a jarring note. passion without prejudice. (As one said. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .
and continues to grow and spread rapidly… [even today]. then. There have been many people in history who have made divine claims. it is more likely they were designed by the heartmaker. are they likely to be the work of a deceiver or a fool? In fact. unsuccessful cults have). If I find a set of teaching set out in pre-modern Oriental society that has proven itself of such universal validity that it has fascinated or satisfied millions of people in every century. (though many tiny. Keller. Second." In summary. utterly selfless. there has never been a member of that culture in its 4. 116 Study 27 | Acts Copyright © Timothy J. that it has made itself at home in virtually every culture. I'd assume most likely the key was made by the lockmaker. he really was insane? But this possibility is greatly undermined by the almost universally acclaimed wisdom and beauty of Jesus' teaching. Does a liar produce the kind of humble.000 year history who has even made such an allegation. let alone got anyone to believe it.notes BEFORE AGRIPPA (PART II) But can we really be sure those Biblical stories aren't embellished and idealized? We should reflect on why it is that no major religion has a founder which claimed to be God. In Jesus' case. but they have never been able to make their assertions broadly believable except to that tiny percentage of the population which is unusually credulous or emotionally needy. including the best minds and yet the simplest hearts. The claims of Jesus make it impossible that he would be just a good man. The resurrection of Jesus clinches the case. then. there are always people who have grown up with and lived with the claimant. we must also remember that. Chesterton wrote: "If I found a key on the road and discovered it fit and opened a particular lock. G. sacrificial. inspired masterpieces in every field of art. The great consensus of history is that the teaching of Jesus is at least as remarkable and brilliant as that of any other great sage. though there were Jews who claimed to be the Messiah.K. Why not? First. The character and teaching of Jesus make it nearly impossible to believe that he was a deceiver or insane. Yet this is what Jesus did. forgiving lifestyle that Jesus had? What kind of life must Jesus have had to have led to overcome the profound resistance of Jews to such unique claims? What kind of life must Jesus have had to have led to convince even the people who lived with him? What kind of life would Jesus have had to have led to do what no other person in history has ever done — convince more than a tiny percentage of unbalanced people that he is the Creator and Judge of the universe? It would have to have been like the incomparable life depicted in the New Testament. Maybe. and they know his or her character flaws. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . there is a huge resistance in the human mind to such an assertion.
if God is really all-loving. but deceivers. would he not have done it? 117 Copyright © Timothy J. How could a man who produced a kind of life and teaching that has never been produced before be a liar or a lunatic? How could a man make the claims he did and make good on them? How could hundreds of people be deceived into thinking they saw him alive after his resurrection? Yet if they were not deceived. then it is even more crazy and ridiculous to believe the alternatives to the Christian explanation for the phenomenon of Jesus. Is it really impossible for God to become human? Why. Keller. why would have they lived and died sacrificially for a hoax? As hard as it is to believe that he is God come to earth. could he not have done it? And why. But why is it ridiculous? Once we remove a dogmatic bias against miracles (see sheet #2).BEFORE AGRIPPA (PART II) notes But it is crazy and ridiculous to believe that a human being could be God? Amazing — yes. if God is really all powerful. it is more difficult not to. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 .
yet b) was graciously eased and lightened by God? 4. Compare Paul's predictions in v.31? b) How do these two statements show the unique view of Christianity with regards to the old "fate vs. Keller. 27:1-26. How does God give Paul encouragement during the voyage? How has God sustained you during tough "voyages"? 3. 42-22)? 5.30-32? Why do they follow his leadership at the end but not at the beginning? What does this tell us about leadership in general? How did Paul's leadership save everyone's life twice (v. 2.Acts Shipwreck Study 28 | Acts 27:1-44 1.21-25.10 and v. Why does Luke know so much about the voyage? Make a list of the statements in these early verses that indicate first hand experience (that the narrator could not know from simply looking at a map). Compare the response to Paul's advice v.22 and his command in v.10 and vv. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Does he contradict himself here? Have you ever experienced a disaster a) which was do to your refusal to take advice. The account of Paul's voyage to Rome is vivid with details.31-32. free will" debate? c) Why is this view so intensely practical for our daily living? 118 Copyright © Timothy J. a) What tension is there between Paul's prediction of v. 27:1-12.
Acts To Rome (finally!) Study 29 | Acts 28:1-31 1. Why does Luke leave us hanging like this? Does this seem like an appropriate ending to the book? Why or why not? 4. 28:1-16. This is the end of the story of Paul's journey to Rome. 28:17-28. What does Paul's movements in these verses tell you about his ministry strategy? 3. and Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2005 . Keller. Many people think this account was too long in proportion to its value. Do you? Why? 2. Try to put the theme or message of the book of Acts into one sentence. Looking back over the book. 5. 28:30-31. what major lessons stick out to you? What verses or incidents were the most personally significant for you? Why? 119 Copyright © Timothy J.
This action might not be possible to undo. Are you sure you want to continue?
We've moved you to where you read on your other device.
Get the full title to continue listening from where you left off, or restart the preview.