the-freedom-of-self

Keller begins with a guiding question: “What are the marks of a heart that has been radically changed by the grace of God?” (5). The answer is not quite as simple as the most common responses might portray it. For example, while moral behavior and virtuous actions are to be expected from someone whose heart has been changed, those things do not constitute a sufficient proof of that change. Keller argues this by using a counterexample, pointing out that good behavior can also be seen in the lives of many people who have not experienced deep spiritual transformation.

In order to seek a biblical answer to the opening question, Keller introduces the main scriptural text for his book, 1 Corinthians 3: 21-4:7, which is quoted in its entirety. This passage, written from the apostle Paul to the early Christian community in the Greek city of Corinth, addresses a problem which had recently come up in that community. It had been the recipient of teaching from some of the leading evangelists and instructors in early Christianity, like Peter, Apollos, and Paul himself. After those teachers departed to continue ministry elsewhere, the church in Corinth had split into factions, with some claiming association with Peter, others with Apollos, and others with Paul.