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Secrets of the Kingdom Life  /  Chapter 43: Are you Ready for the Kingdom Life  /  Discussion Questions
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Question 5
William Law says you are to “will nothing, design nothing, do nothing” unless you have reason to believe it is God’s will, and to see yourself as having “no other business in the world”—how would early Christians, especially those facing pressure to blend in with society, have heard that claim, and what parts of our current lifestyles seem built on the assumption that we *do* have other “business” besides obedience?
Another way to ask: How might early Christians, under pressure to fit in, have heard William Law’s claim that we should do nothing unless we believe it is God’s will? What parts of our lifestyle act like we have other “business” besides obeying God?

Direct Answer The transcript implies early Christians would hear Law’s claim as a total, countercultural allegiance—especially fitting for “pilgrims” who refuse to live like everyone else. It challenges modern lifestyles that treat obedience as one part of life rather than the organizing purpose of everything.

Support from Transcript:

  • Bercot presents the kingdom life as something “thousands of Christian pilgrims have lived before us,” suggesting a long tradition of distinct living.
  • William Law’s description is absolute: “will nothing, design nothing, do nothing” unless it aligns with God’s will.
  • Law says you should see yourself as having “no other business in the world but to be that which God requires you to be.”
  • Bercot says such a commitment “will determine what choices we make for the rest of our lives,” implying it governs ordinary decisions, not just “spiritual” ones.
  • Shimer’s later quote adds a social contrast: people notice believers who have “no concern for money or life,” implying nonconformity.
Discussion Follow-ups Where do we act like we have “other business” (comfort, reputation, financial security) that can override obedience? What would change if we treated God’s will as our main job description?

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