The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness by Timothy Keller
Week 4: Chapter 3 — Gospel-Humility
Read Chapter 3 of The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness by Timothy Keller. Primary Scripture: 1 Corinthians 4:7.
Previewing Week 4 of The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness
Read 3 of 8 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 5-week guide when you’re ready.
In his final chapter, Keller paints a portrait of what a truly freed ego actually looks like in practice — and it is both more ordinary and more beautiful than we might expect.
Discussion Questions
8 questions1.Keller opens this chapter with Paul's devastating rhetorical question in 1 Corinthians 4:7: 'What do you have that you did not receive?' How does this question undercut both pride and shame at the same time?
2.Keller describes what it feels like inside the mind of a truly gospel-humble person: there is a 'blessed self-forgetfulness,' a quiet that replaces the noisy inner courtroom. Can you recall a moment — even a brief one — when you experienced something like this? What were the circumstances?
3.Keller uses the image of someone who is so absorbed in something greater than themselves — a beautiful piece of music, a meaningful task, a loved one in need — that they simply forget to think about how they are coming across. What things in your life most naturally pull you out of self-preoccupation? What does that tell you about where joy is found?