In Ephesians 5, Paul shows us that even on earth Jesus did not use his power to oppress us but sacrificed everything to bring us into union with him. And this takes us beyond the philosophical to the personal and the practical. If God had the gospel of Jesus's salvation in mind when he established marriage, then marriage only 'works' to the degree that approximates the pattern of God's self-giving love in Christ.
Timothy KellerI wouldn't venture to say which kind of sin is more prevalent. I wouldn't even want to try to characterize certain 'circles.'
Timothy KellerIt is inaccurate to think the gospel is what saves non-Christians, and then Christians mature by trying hard to live according to biblical principles. It is more accurate to say that we are saved by believing the gospel, and then we are transformed in every part of our minds, hearts, and lives by believing the gospel more and more deeply as life goes on.
Timothy KellerYou can't live the Christian life without a band of Christian friends, without a family of believers in which you find a place.
Timothy KellerThere is no evil that the fatherโs love cannot pardon and cover, there is no sin that is a match for his grace.
Timothy KellerIf you're avoiding sin and living morally so that God will have to bless you and save you, then you may be looking to Jesus as a teacher, model, and helper, but ironically you are avoiding him as Savior. You are trusting in your own goodness rather than in Jesus for your standing with God.
Timothy Keller