Understanding that the Bible is primarily about God is a helpful truth to grasp. The video below by Tim Keller is concise and helpful. But he uses the word “basically” to describe the Bible’s central truth, and at one point declares, “The Bible is not about you!” Taken out of context this statement is misleading. Keller’s point is that the Bible is not primarily or ultimately about us. In a secondary way, or by application, the Bible certainly does address us and concerns us. The Bible teaches us truths about ourselves at every turn. However, the first question we out to ask when reading Scripture is – What does this passage or story teach us about God.
I hope you find this video helpful. Our greatest desire – to know God and make him known – begins with the truth explained here.
A Very timely message Pastor Andy. I need to get over me, so that I can do the work The Lord is calling me to do. Because – It’s about Him and those he has called me to witness to. How can you do that without turning off the very people you want to love and be friends with? Is it a matter of ” Leave it to JESUS”.
Should I get my hands dirty in the field? or just let HIM fertilize, water, and watch the field grow? When so much of me want to take credit and reap the fruit. All because of my pride and sinfulness? I want the grand rewards the big prize. (that is peace instead of fear).So how does that work. I hear your/their words, and think about the meaning, but within me there is very little change.
The spiritual application involved in your question is very important. God’s ordinary manner of working in the world is through means. He works through his people. As we live and do, our doing is his doing. So, you should definitely get your hands dirty in the field while simultaneously recognizing that if your dirty hands do any good its because God is fertilizing, watering, and giving growth. He should be the one getting the glory even when we are the tool or occasion for a timely word or act of service. And, when humility and love shape your service turning people off will be the least of your worries. We must seek to serve in a way that when people are offended, they are offended at the gospel rather than us.
Ah, I love the Redemptive-Historical approach!
🙂
This is a wonderful reminder!
Soli Deo Gloria!
Amen!
Hey David – thanks for taking the time to leave an encouraging word – SDG
In case any others who viewed this video found the background music as distracting as Dave & I did, but really appreciated and want to have the text,the transcript of Keller’s message is provided in a Randy Alcorn blog: http:/www.epm.org/blog/2011/May/30/jesus-true-and-better