The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness
Ratings13
Average rating4.3
15
Ratings13
Average rating4.3
What are the marks of a supernaturally changed heart? This is one of the questions the Apostle Paul addresses as he writes to the church in Corinth. He s not after some superficial outward tinkering, but instead a deep rooted, life altering change that takes place on the inside. In an age where pleasing people, puffing up your ego and building your résumé are seen as the methods to make it , the Apostle Paul calls us to find true rest in blessed self forgetfulness. In this short and punchy book, best selling author Timothy Keller, shows that gospel humility means we can stop connecting every experience, every conversation with ourselves and can thus be free from self condemnation. A truly gospel humble person is not a self hating person or a self loving person, but a self forgetful person. This freedom can be yours...
Reviews with the most likes.
The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness fits into that category of books where it's so small but so incredibly rich and insightful that it needs to be read twice a year (at least!) Keller's querying of the human heart, centring around it's ego and subsequent prideful state at times, had me reflecting on my own sense of pride and a lot of questions came up which will no doubt shape a lot of my thoughts and actions henceforth.
A sermon book-ified; I could have read a 200 page work on this topic. It is a one-sitting kind of book and well worth it. Keller beautifully notes the freedom found in the idea that humility is “not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less” and goes through Paul's letter in 1 Corinthians 3:21-4:7 where Paul considers pride and praise.
A Christian Case For A Phenomenon Many Realize As They Mature. In this short text - right around 40 pages or so - Christian theologian Timothy Keller makes a Biblical case for getting onself to the point of both self acceptance and no longer caring what anyone thinks of you. He spins this through his own worldview and builds his case based primarily on a text from 1 Corinthians - and both cites it within its context and doesn't directly appeal to any other texts to “prove” his points, thus earning a rare 5* rating from me for a Christian nonfiction book. Solid within its frame, as noted here there are other methods for achieving the very same state Keller claims is only possible for Christians, which hurts his case objectively but which is understandable within the author's own mindset. Very much recommended.
This is an absolutely incredible book. Very short and very packed with insights. Tim Keller did an incredible job of calling out our narcissism and pointing us to Christ. This is for the person who struggled with “low self-esteem”. This is for the person who struggles with pride. This is a must read for every Christian because we've all fit into one of those two categories and probably both. This book will take you 1 hour to read and benefit you a lifetime if you're paying attention.
