Timothy Keller Sermons Podcast by Gospel in Life Love and the Fruit of the Spirit
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Nov 5, 2025 Change is hard, and mere willpower often leads to a rubber ball experience—tightened temporarily, but nothing truly transformed. In discussing 1 Corinthians 13, it becomes clear that true heart change isn't about busy service or moral commitment. Love is personified, not as a rule, but as a powerful force that can regenerate us from within. Keller emphasizes that without love, even noble actions lack spiritual value. By embracing Christ's love, we can break free from fear and pride, leading to genuine transformation.
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Willpower Produces Temporary Change
- Many people try to change with willpower but their change snaps back like a squeezed rubber ball.
- Timothy Keller says true character change is a supernatural work of the heart, not mere restraint.
Coke Can Versus Rubber Ball
- Keller uses a Coke can and a rubber ball to illustrate two kinds of change.
- The Coke can stays changed; the rubber ball snaps back once restraint is removed.
Love, Not Activity, Marks Change
- A supernaturally changed heart is not merely busy service or moral commitment.
- Keller emphasizes love as the defining mark of genuine spiritual change.
