The Gospel-Shaped Life Lecture by Timothy Keller

Introduction

• Topic: The Gospel-Shaped Life.
• Keller explores what it means for the gospel to shape one's life by posing four key questions.

Four Key Questions

1. What is the Gospel?

   • The gospel is news, not advice. It's the report of what Jesus has accomplished, not counsel on what to do.
   • Christianity differs from other religions in that it's founded on the idea of God coming to find humanity, rather than humanity finding God.
   • The gospel removes burdens, unlike advice that imposes them.

2. Does the Gospel Shape Life?

   • Contrary to the belief that law shapes life, Keller argues that the gospel indeed shapes life.
   • Examples include a story of a boss taking the blame for an employee, showcasing a gospel-influenced action beyond the law.
   • Paul's confrontation with Peter in Galatians 2 is cited, emphasizing that gospel understanding affects behavior.
   • Keller highlights how grace, not law, teaches to say 'no' to ungodliness (Titus 2:11-15).

3. What Does a Gospel-Shaped Life Look Like?

   • Gospel-shaped life leads to deep unselfishness and serves both God and others selflessly.
   • Keller contrasts secular secularism (selfish) and religion (tribal) with Christianity, which humbles and fulfills simultaneously.
   • He discusses Delbanco's view on the cultural shift from God to nation to self, and the need for something bigger than self to live for.

4. How Does the Gospel Change and Shape Our Lives?

   • Keller touches upon examples of how the gospel affects various life aspects like discouragement, parenting, race relations, humor, etc.
   • He argues that only a new affection (the Gospel) can displace old, sinful affections (Thomas Chalmers' quote).
   • The gospel provides a new identity beyond cultural pressures and personal idols.

Conclusion

• A gospel-shaped life has the potential to transform society and culture positively.
• Keller urges for a deeper understanding of living a life led by gospel principles.
• Ends with a prayer for understanding and living the gospel-shaped life.

Key Takeaways

• The gospel is transformative, news rather than advice.
• It reshapes priorities and motivations, enhances unselfishness, and counters societal fragmentation.
• Living a gospel-shaped life involves deep heart-level change, not just outward behavior adjustment.