Tim Keller on the Christian Life with Matt Smethurst

In this book, Timothy Keller addresses the age-old question of why God allows pain and suffering. He uses biblical wisdom and personal stories to provide a fresh and multidimensional approach to understanding and enduring suffering. The book is divided into sections that explain the character of suffering, the biblical doctrines related to it, and practical steps for walking with God through painful times. Keller emphasizes the importance of trusting God's wisdom and love, and encourages readers to be honest about their pain and sorrow while drawing near to God through prayer, worship, and obedience.

In 'Making Sense of God,' Timothy Keller addresses skeptics of Christianity, arguing that the faith is more relevant and logically consistent than often perceived. The book is divided into three parts: 'Why Does Anyone Need Religion? ', 'Religion Is More Than You Think It Is', and 'Christianity Makes Sense. ' Keller compares and contrasts religious and secular beliefs, examining their emotional, cultural, and rational implications. He discusses topics such as meaning, satisfaction, freedom, identity, justice, and hope, showing how Christianity provides rich resources to address these fundamental human needs. The book is written to engage both skeptics and believers, encouraging honest consideration of the Christian worldview.

In 'Generous Justice', Timothy Keller argues against the common secular view that the Bible hinders justice, instead presenting the Bible as a fundamental source for promoting justice and compassion. He explores how a life of justice is empowered by an experience of grace, emphasizing that true justice is rooted in God's grace and the gospel. The book discusses biblical motivations for doing justice, including the doctrine of creation and the grace of God in redemption, and provides practical applications for social change through immediate relief, individual and community development, and social reform.

In 'Counterfeit Gods,' Timothy Keller identifies and examines specific idols that rule over individual people and nations. He argues that many good things, such as money, sex, power, and success, can become 'ultimate' and thus idols when they are elevated above God. Keller uses biblical stories, contemporary examples, and personal experiences to illustrate how these idols function and how they can be replaced with true, biblical, and spiritual worship. The book emphasizes the need to root out these idols and cling to the one hope worth having, our faith in the work of Jesus Christ.

In 'The Prodigal God', Timothy Keller delves into the parable of the Prodigal Son to uncover the heart of the Christian gospel. He argues that the parable is not just about the wayward younger son, but also about the moralistic elder son and the Father's lavish love for both. Keller redefines key concepts such as sin, lostness, and hope, showing that both the irreligious and the moralistic are spiritually lost but equally loved by God. The book challenges readers to see Christianity in a new light, emphasizing the gospel's message of hope and salvation for all people.

Matt Smethurst distills over 40 years of Tim Keller's teachings into a structured exploration of the Christian life. The book examines Keller's insights on topics like prayer, suffering, friendship, vocation, and intimacy with God, situating them within the biblical narrative of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. Drawing from Keller's sermons, books, and interviews, Smethurst presents a practical guide for believers seeking to grow in their faith and apply gospel-centered principles to daily life.