Morally virtuous behavior can arise out of a heart that hasn’t actually been supernaturally changed.
For example, in traditional moral training, we teach people to be honest by using a motive of fear and insecurity. But only for a heart that feels absolutely loved is lying unnecessary and unnatural. It’s only an experience of the grace of God through Jesus Christ that changes the heart rather than restrains the heart. 
We’re looking at the marks of a supernaturally changed heart, and we come now to patience. Let’s look at patience: 1) why do we need it? 2) what is it? and 3) how do we get it?
This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on January 20, 2002. Series: Practical Grace; How the Gospel Transforms Character. Scripture: Matthew 18:21-35; 1 Corinthians 13:4, 6.
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Released on 5 Oct 2026