Timothy Keller Sermons Podcast by Gospel in Life Episode: Aspiration: “Lead Us” Release Date: February 28, 2025

1. Introduction to the Lord's Prayer

Tim Keller opens the sermon by focusing on a familiar passage: Matthew 6:9-13, commonly known as the Lord's Prayer. He emphasizes the profound depth embedded within these verses, particularly the petition, "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one" ([00:26] B). Keller challenges listeners to move beyond a surface-level understanding and delve into the transformative power of this prayer in navigating life's challenges.

2. The Nature of Tests and Temptations

Keller defines tests as circumstances that reveal one's true character and integrity. He shares the story of a man convicted of a hit-and-run accident to illustrate how childhood lessons on honesty impact adult behavior. The man had learned early on to avoid facing consequences by hiding his mistakes, leading to his eventual downfall when faced with a life-altering test ([00:26] B).

Notable Quote:

"Jesus Christ knows that life is filled with tests like that, little ones and huge ones. (...) Lead us not into temptation. The Greek word that is used here [...] is a very full word." ([00:26] B)

3. Understanding the Greek Terminology

Keller delves into the Greek word "peirazō" (πειράζω), often translated as "temptation" or "test." He explains its dual nature, where a test can either be constructive or a trap, depending on one's response. This linguistic insight underscores the importance of perception and action when confronted with challenges ([00:26] B).

Notable Quote:

"A test shows you what's really in you. And if you're out of touch with reality, tests can be devastating." ([00:26] B)

4. Practical Approaches to Handling Tests

Keller outlines four practical ways to deal with life's tests, focusing initially on the necessity to expect them. He argues that Christians should not be surprised by trials, drawing parallels to the Lord's Prayer as a constant reminder to anticipate and prepare for challenges.

Notable Quote:

"One way is people get angry despair. They say, I have worked hard. I don't deserve this. Why is this happening to me?" ([17:40] B)

5. The Distinction Between Suffering and Evil

A significant portion of Keller's sermon is dedicated to distinguishing between suffering and evil. He posits that while suffering is an inevitable part of life, evil—rooted in sin—is the true adversary. This distinction empowers believers to focus their prayers and actions on overcoming evil rather than merely enduring pain ([17:40] B).

Notable Quote:

"If you respond to your situation with courage and integrity, it'll just make you into something glorious and beautiful. One ounce of sin will destroy you." ([17:40] B)

6. The Christian Response to Trials

Keller contrasts the Christian approach to trials with that of non-believers. He highlights that Christians, grounded in the understanding of Jesus' sacrifice and the concept of adoption into God's family, approach tests with resilience and hope. This perspective transforms how believers perceive and react to challenges, viewing them as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles ([17:40] B).

Notable Quote:

"A Christian is somebody who says, I've been trying to earn my salvation. A Christian is somebody who knows they were adopted by the Father because of what Jesus Christ did for them." ([17:40] B)

7. The Role of Sin in Tests

Emphasizing the root cause of evil, Keller asserts that sin is the primary issue in any test, not the external circumstances themselves. By recognizing sin as the true enemy, believers can better align their prayers and actions to seek deliverance from evil rather than merely attempting to mitigate suffering ([17:40] B).

Notable Quote:

"The real problem is sin, not the circumstances. If you don't see that, then you'll never, ever, ever really grow through tests." ([17:40] B)

8. Processing Tests Through the Father's Love

Keller introduces the concept of processing tests through the love of the Father, rooted in the believer's identity as an adopted child of God. This relationship provides a framework for understanding and enduring trials, drawing strength from God's unconditional love and purpose in allowing these challenges ([17:40] B).

Notable Quote:

"A Christian says, however, my Father in heaven loves me as much as he loves his natural born son. What did he say to his natural born son? This is my beloved son in whom I'm well pleased." ([17:40] B)

9. Biblical and Historical Illustrations

To reinforce his points, Keller references biblical stories and historical events:

• Daniel in the Furnace (Daniel 3): He recounts the unwavering faith of the three Jewish young men who refused to worship the idol, demonstrating ultimate trust in God despite facing deadly consequences ([17:40] B).

• Evacuation at Dunkirk (1940): Keller cites the British High Command's resolve to obey orders regardless of outcome, leading to a miraculous evacuation of 338,000 allied troops. This example underscores steadfast faith and obedience in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds ([17:40] B).

Notable Quote:

"We could be delivered from our circumstances, but if not, we're going to obey." ([17:40] B)

10. Theological Underpinnings: The Cross as Life's Structure

Keller posits that the cross symbolizes the fundamental structure of life—resurrection through death and redemption through sacrifice. Understanding this theological truth equips believers to navigate life's trials with a perspective that sees suffering as a pathway to spiritual growth and transformation ([17:40] B).

Notable Quote:

"The cross now is the fundamental structure of life. Things aren't that simple in the hands of God. Death leads to resurrection and seeds die. But they come up flowers and mighty oaks, and coal goes under and becomes a diamond." ([17:40] B)

11. Conclusion: Embracing the Lord's Prayer as a Lifeline

Keller concludes by urging listeners to internalize the Lord's Prayer as a comprehensive guide for life's journey. He encourages believers to pray continuously, expect tests, and seek deliverance from evil through God's strength and grace. This devotional practice, he asserts, equips Christians to transform challenges into opportunities for divine refinement and glorification ([17:40] B).

Notable Quote:

"Teach us how to pick up the great resources within it and use them." ([34:29] A)

(Note: The final quote at [34:29] A appears to be part of an outro advertisement and may not directly relate to the sermon's content. However, it encapsulates the call to action for believers to utilize the Lord's Prayer effectively.)

Key Takeaways

1. Expect and Prepare for Tests: Recognize that life's challenges are inevitable and view them as opportunities to demonstrate and strengthen one's faith.

2. Differentiate Between Suffering and Evil: Understand that while suffering is part of the human experience, evil—stemming from sin—is the true enemy to be confronted.

3. Respond with Integrity and Faith: Maintain honesty, compassion, and faithfulness in the face of trials, trusting in God's plan and strength.

4. Process Trials Through God's Love: Embrace the identity as God's adopted children, allowing His love to guide responses to challenges.

5. Utilize the Lord's Prayer as a Framework: Let the Lord's Prayer inform and shape one's approach to prayer and handling life's difficulties.

This episode of Timothy Keller's sermon, "Aspiration: 'Lead Us'," offers profound insights into the Christian approach to life's inevitable tests. By dissecting the Lord's Prayer and exploring the nature of temptation and evil, Keller provides a roadmap for believers to navigate challenges with faith, integrity, and a deepened relationship with God.