#62 Sermon Review: Psalm 27 - Keller

Biblical Text: Psalm 27

Name: Timothy Keller

Sermon Title: The Problem of Anxiety

Link to Sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1s_y0L5BZE0&list=WL&index=16 

Rating

1-100 score 

 85 out of 100 

1-20 Christological 

10 Could do better. Sermons that are founded on the Old Testament seem to have a harder time remembering that the culmination of their truth is founded on Christ.

1-20 Holds Attention 

15 The sermon is hard to follow at the beginning and then improves over time. As the Keller focuses in on how David dealt with anxiety. 

1-20 Compelling

20 The sermon is quite compelling. It provides a reasonable explanation of what anxiety is, modern, and then biblical approaches to anxiety. And all of that hinging on the very real anxieties of manhattanites. 

1-20 Memorable 

20 The structure is clear, and the topic is central to many peoples lives. The key paraphrase from Augustine especially, “Anxiety Is Always the Sign of the Collapse of a False God.”

1-20 Application to Life 

20 The application is clear and relevant to later on and helps inform on the present moment. 

Thoughts 

The sermon is impressive in many ways from its format, application, and storytelling. Yet it could be better by providing one or two verses that corroborate his claim about anxiety. As well as how Christ is connected to this verse. 

Outline 

*This outline was artificially generated and deemed accurate to the sermon.

Introduction:

• The speaker highlights how each generation tends to see its problems as unique and severe.

• Psalm 27 is introduced as a tool for addressing fear, worry, and anxiety.

Reading Psalm 27:

• The Psalm emphasizes trust in God despite adversities.

• It portrays God as a protector and a source of confidence.

Fear and Realism:

• The speaker mentions Ernest Becker, who underscores the importance of acknowledging life's inherent evil and terror to take life seriously.

• Many modern approaches to anxiety focus on dismissing potential problems, but Psalm 27 suggests confronting the worst-case scenarios head-on.

David's Approach:

• Unlike modern advice to avoid thinking about potential problems, David in Psalm 27 imagines the worst to develop a resilient strategy.

• He doesn't ignore or minimize his fears but prepares to face them with faith.

Strategy Against Fear:

• David's strategy involves three key actions: dwelling, gazing, and seeking.

• "Dwelling" in God's house symbolizes seeking God's constant presence.

• "Gazing" on God's beauty involves a deeper, intimate relationship with God beyond just acknowledging His existence.

• "Seeking" God implies actively following His will and teachings.

Practical Application:

• The speaker encourages developing a habit of looking at life's challenges through the lens of faith.

• A relationship with God, built on consistent seeking and gazing, can help overcome anxiety and fear.

Personal Illustration:

• The speaker shares an anecdote about missionaries who sang a hymn before facing a dangerous mission. Their faith and focus on God's presence gave them peace despite their eventual martyrdom.

Conclusion:

• Emphasizing the importance of making God the primary focus in life.

• The speaker calls for a commitment to prioritize seeking and dwelling in God's presence to lead a fearless life.