Episode Summary: "Facing Doubt"
Timothy Keller Sermons Podcast by Gospel in Life
Release Date: August 8, 2025
Host/Author: Tim Keller
Podcast Information: Sermons by Tim Keller, founder of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in NYC and NY Times best-selling author of “The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism.” For more sermons and resources, visit www.gospelinlife.com.
Introduction
In the episode titled "Facing Doubt," Tim Keller delves into the complexities of maintaining and expressing faith within a pluralistic and often skeptical society. He addresses the challenges believers face when being open about their faith and explores how doubt interacts with faith from a biblical perspective.
Scripture Reading: Psalm 73:1-3, 12-26
Keller begins by reading Psalm 73, focusing on verses that highlight the psalmist Asaph's struggle with observing the prosperity of the wicked and his ensuing doubts about God's justice and goodness. This scriptural foundation sets the stage for the episode's exploration of doubt.
"Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart. But as for me, my feet had almost slipped." — Psalm 73:1-2
Time Stamp: [00:30]
Understanding Public Faith and Doubt
Keller introduces the series "Public Sharing the Hope That's Within," emphasizing the societal reluctance to openly discuss religious beliefs compared to other personal aspects like sexuality. He underscores the importance of being authentic about one's faith to foster civility and meaningful dialogue.
"Doubt is not so simplistic. It's not at all a good, it's not all a bad."
Time Stamp: [02:04]
What Is Doubt?
Doubt is characterized using the metaphor of slipping feet—"I almost lost my foothold," illustrating the disorientation and uncertainty that accompanies doubts about faith.
"Asaph was an author of Scripture, divinely inspired, and yet he was filled with doubts."
Time Stamp: [02:04]
Causes of Doubt
Keller explains that doubt arises from a combination of intellectual reasoning and personal experiences. He highlights how social environments and personal interactions significantly influence one's faith and skepticism.
"Doubts come from a combination of reason and rationality and personal experience."
Time Stamp: [13:00]
He cautions against viewing doubt solely as an intellectual challenge or merely as a product of one's cultural and social background, advocating for a balanced understanding that incorporates both elements.
Transforming Doubt
Doubt can lead to spiritual growth when processed thoughtfully. Keller identifies three key factors that transform doubt:
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Experience: Engaging in communal worship and being surrounded by believers can provide clarity and strengthen faith.
"Till I entered the sanctuary of God, then I understood their final destiny."
Time Stamp: [24:17] -
Thinking: Honest reflection and admitting one's motives are crucial. Keller emphasizes intellectual honesty, encouraging believers to recognize both their rational doubts and emotional struggles.
"Admit that your motives are involved. You're not just having an intellectual issue."
Time Stamp: [19:30] -
Enlarged View of God: Expanding one's understanding of God's nature allows believers to reconcile their doubts with a broader, more compassionate view of the divine.
"You hold me by my right hand... yet I'm always with you."
Time Stamp: [22:45]
Case Study: Asaph's Journey Through Doubt
Using Psalm 73 as a case study, Keller narrates Asaph's journey from doubt to a deeper faith. Asaph's observations of the wicked prospering lead him to question God's justice. However, through entering the sanctuary and experiencing God's presence, Asaph gains a renewed perspective on divine justice and his own faith.
"My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."
Time Stamp: [24:50]
Assurance of God's Presence
Keller reassures believers of God's unwavering presence, even amidst intense doubt and suffering. He draws parallels with Jesus' cry on the cross, illustrating that God's commitment to humanity remains steadfast despite human failings.
"Who have I in heaven but you... My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."
Time Stamp: [40:20]
Conclusion and Prayer
Keller concludes with a prayer, seeking God's help in transforming doubts into deeper faith and encouraging listeners to trust in God's grace and unconditional love.
"We thank you that we're saved by grace through Jesus... Help us to grow in grace because of what He did."
Time Stamp: [46:30]
Key Insights and Takeaways
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Doubt is Normal: Even revered biblical figures like Asaph experienced doubt, highlighting that uncertainty is a common aspect of faith journeys.
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Balanced Perspective on Doubt: Doubt should neither be entirely condemned nor overly celebrated. Instead, it should be viewed as a complex experience that can lead to spiritual growth.
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Role of Community and Worship: Engaging with a faith community and participating in worship can provide support and clarity during times of doubt.
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Intellectual Honesty: Admitting personal motives and emotional struggles is essential for addressing and overcoming doubts.
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Expanded Understanding of God: Broadening one's perception of God's nature can help reconcile difficult questions and reinforce faith.
Notable Quotes
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"I almost lost my foothold." — Asaph (Psalm 73:2)
Time Stamp: [02:04] -
"Doubts come from a combination of reason and rationality and personal experience."
Time Stamp: [13:00] -
"Till I entered the sanctuary of God, then I understood their final destiny."
Time Stamp: [24:17] -
"Who have I in heaven but you... My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."
Time Stamp: [40:20]
This episode of "Facing Doubt" provides a profound exploration of how believers can navigate doubts through honest reflection, community support, and an expanded understanding of God's nature. Tim Keller offers both theological insights and practical guidance, encouraging listeners to embrace their doubts as opportunities for deeper faith rather than obstacles to belief.