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Book Club Bible Study Starts Here September 13, 2011
Book Club Bible Study
Yes, U Can Get It
What is the purpose of Book Club Bible Study?
Book Club Bible Study is designed to equip you to effectively study the Bible for yourself; to think, act and respond biblically.
Secondly, it is designed to equip future leaders to lead effective Book Club Bible Study discussion groups.
The New Inductive Study Bible is the Bible study workbook used for every Book Club Bible Study. Click here to order The New Inductive Study Bible from Amazon
Requirements for effective Book Club Bible Study – HOT
H ungry for biblical Truth
O bedient to biblical Truth
T eachable
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Be committed.
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Confidentiality is crucial.
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Discussion based on scripture not opinion.
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Beware of the tongue. Proverbs 12:18 on page 1034 in The New Inductive Study Bible.
How will Book Club Bible Study equip me to effectively study and understand the Bible? Follow this pattern for daily Bible study and group Bible study.
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Open in Prayer – Ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand and apply what you read and study. John 14:26 on page 1743 in the New Inductive Study Bible.
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Read Scripture – “All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17 on page 1961-1962 in The New Inductive Study Bible
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Interact with Scripture – Look for repeated words and phrases. Make a list. Ask who, what, where, when, why and how? Use scripture cross references and allow scripture to interpret scripture. Use a concordance, dictionary or lexicon to define unfamiliar words. Consult a reputable commentary after all personal study has been completed. Above all, keep everything in context. “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 on page 1960 in The New Inductive Study Bible.
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Close in Prayer – Give thanks and rejoice in the Lord. Ask God in prayer to help you think biblically (see Philippians 4:8) and practice right living (see Philippians 4:4-9).
Things to know before you get started:
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The books of the Bible are not chronological.
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Genesis – Deuteronomy = Pentateuch – Greek word meaning a 5 fold book. Also, referred to as the Torah in Judaism. The general consensus is that these books were written by Moses.
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Joshua – Esther = 12 historical books – The history of the nation of Israel from the death of Moses to the restoration of the nation after Babylonian captivity.
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Job – Song of Solomon = Poetry and wisdom books. Wisdom versus folly.
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Isaiah – Malachi = 17 books of prophecy.
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Matthew – John = Biographical books of the life of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.
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Acts = Historical book of the acts of the apostles. The beginning of the church.
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Romans – Jude = Epistles or letters – Letters written to the churches or individual christians.
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Revelation = Prophetic revelation of the destiny of the church. Also, referred to as the apocalypse or revelation.
2. Read “Understand the Value of God’s Word” on pages 2083-2086 in The New Inductive Study Bible. It provides the background on the Bible.
3. Read “Major Events in Israel’s History” on pages 2087-2098 in The New Inductive Study Bible. See the “big picture” of the nation of Israel and its significance to biblical history and modern-day world events.
4. Familiarize yourself with the timeline located on pages NISB-42 – NISB-48 in The New Inductive Study Bible. The timeline provides historical context for each book of the Bible, the nations, and the leaders mentioned in the Bible.
5. http://www.biblestudytools.com is an excellent online resource for the Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance and the Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible.
Yes, U can get it,
Ginger
Armed & Dangerous 4 the One True King – 1 Samuel week 1
1 Samuel - Week 1 Discussion Guide
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Armed & Dangerous 4 the One True King – Week 1
Book Club Bible Studies are designed to equip you to effectively study the Bible for yourself. Begin with a
brief review of the blog post Book Club Bible Study Starts Here. It provides the “big picture” for effective Bible study.
Locate the timeline on page NISB-42 of The New Inductive Study Bible. The nation of Israel can trace its ancestry back to Adam. Begin with Adam and follow the line over to Judges. The season of the judges, over the nation of Israel, spanned 300 years. Judges begins with a generation that did not know war, nor did they know the works of the Lord firsthand. The book of Judges sets the stage for 1 Samuel.
- Read Judges 1:27-33 on page 399-400 in The New Inductive Study Bible.
- God had instructed the tribes of Israel to drive out the inhabitants of the land of Canaan.
- What did the tribes do with the inhabitants of the land according to verses 27-33?
2. An angel of the Lord speaks to the people at Bochim. Read Judges 2:1-3 on page 400 in The New Inductive Study Bible.
What is God’s promise? * ___________________________________________________
What is God’s command? __________________________________________________
How had the tribes of Israel responded? ______________________________________
What were the consequences? ______________________________________________
*See scripture cross reference Genesis 17: 7-8 for covenant in Judges 2:1 on page 26 in The New Inductive Study Bible.
3. Read Judges 2:16-3:6 on page 401 in The New Inductive Study Bible. Mark judge(s) with a “J.”
- What do you learn about the judges, the people & the Lord?
4. Read and highlight Judges 17:6 on page 427 in The New Inductive Study Bible; Judges 18:1 on page 428; Judges 19:1 on page 430 and Judges 21:25 on page 436.
- What is the weakness that kept Israel defeated and ineffective?
- How are the days of the judges similar to today in America and in the world?
5. There is hope. Read the opening of 1 Samuel on page 446 in The New Inductive Study Bible.
Things to do before next week’s group discussion on page 446 in The New Inductive Study Bible.
Chapters 1-3: Samuel, the Last Judge – 1, 2 and 3
Action step to be Armed and Dangerous 4 the One True King
Effective Bible study produces transformation in our individual lives. What idol, sin or weakness do you need to put out of your life this week to be Armed and Dangerous 4 the One True King?
Taking down idols to serve the One True King,
Ginger
What idol are you taking down in your life to serve the One True King? Leave a comment to encourage others to be Armed & Dangerous.
What is Armed & Dangerous 4 the One True King?
- Armed & Dangerous 4 the One True King – 9 week Bible Study 1 Samuel
What is your greatest weakness? Do you know that God’s strength is a perfect
fit for each of our weaknesses? Armed & Dangerous 4 the One True King
is a 9 week Book Club Bible study of 1 Samuel.
Armed & Dangerous 4 the One True King will allow you to…
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Examine the strategies of successful and
unsuccessful men and women. -
Develop a personal action plan to be properly
armed for every battle. - Face the giants in your daily life.
- Hear the voice of the One True King.
Will you join me in the movement this fall to be Armed & Dangerous?
Order the Book Club Bible study work book; The New Inductive Study Bible at Amazon
A small group discussion guide will be posted each week on the blog.
Armed & Dangerous 4 the One True King,
Ginger
Entrusted with much – A Double Dare August 11, 2011
photos by Tina Weir
I dare you to take ACTION on a dream, bigger than yourself, which will change the world. Today I have a guest post from a beautiful young twenty something, Katie Davis. After you read the post be sure to check out
Katie’s web site for the rest of the story http://www.amazima.org/katiesstory.html
If you are fearless, I dare you to read Katie’s entire blog at http://kissesfromkatie.blogspot.com/
Beware, Katie’s journey will challenge you to step up and step out.
“I thought that if she was just going to die anyway, I should let her die quickly. Then I wouldn’t have to love her, and it wouldn’t have to hurt. Anyway, if she lives, she’ll just grow up to be like this. Who wants to live like this?”
5 months ago my friend Regina, a Karimojong woman who picks fallen branches off our street to sell as firewood and occasionally stopped in for water, came to me desperate. She and her 4 small children had been evicted from their house because for the fourth time in four months she had been unable to pay their rent. As I looked at the three youngest, all on the brink of starving to death, I will admit I judged her. I had been providing the family with food for a while now, how did the children still look like this? But as she breathed the words above I understood. If one’s hope is not in Christ, she simply believes that life is hard and then you die. If this is the case then of course, of course, run from the hard. If you know the pain of losing a child and you know that you will, eventually lose this one too, then obviously your only choice is to run. Immediately, my judgment turned to sorrow.
I don’t think I have to tell you what happened next. Regina, Girl, Capata, Salimu, and baby Katie moved in. They needed a place to go, they needed some hearty meals, and Regina needed someone to teach her how to love her children. Someone to teach her about the Savior.
“I am entrusting you with much,” He whispered.
4 months ago Makerere, the resident “crazy man” of Masese showed up at my gate with his leg burnt to the bone. Believing that his leg was salvageable even after several doctors alleged otherwise, I continued to bandage it daily. The only problem? As soon as Makerere went home each day he again fell prey to the addiction that has haunted him for years. Drunk and stumbling around the slum, his leg would get dirty and he would forget to eat. There was no way it would heal if he kept this up. His house had been burnt down; the reason for his leg wound, and all Makerere really wanted was to die. We begged him to move into the small house in our backyard. (This little house serves as a place for men or families to stay while we minister to them so that both my family and our guests can maintain a semblance of “normal” life while living in community.) Friends advised against it. “You can’t move the crazy guy into your back yard. You can’t let the crazy guy sit at your table.” But the vote from the kids was unanimous. Yes you can. We packed his remaining belongings (a lantern, an extra shirt, and half of a chair) into our van and made him part of the family.
“I am entrusting you with much,” God whispered.
Last week a grandmother approached me at worship in Buziika and handed me a 6 pound 7 month old. I wasn’t really sure he was breathing. His mother is dead, his father is gone, and this grandmother is just not really sure what to do with him. Figuring he would need at least a month of high fat milk dropped into his little mouth every twenty minutes before he was ready to live in Buziika and be bottle fed by Grandma, we again made the decision to grow. The two of them hopped in the van to come home with us while Grandma learns to take care of sweet baby Juma. In conversation on the way home it was apparent that Grandma had some confused ideas about Jesus and witchcraft. I sighed as I realized that taking care of babies wasn’t all we would be teaching her.
“I am entrusting you with much,” He whispered.
Today Regina and all 4 of her children are incredibly healthy and happy. Though we will miss them terribly, it is time for them to move out, to stand on their own two feet. Regina has been doing some work around the house to build up some savings and with this money and a small loan from Amazima, will begin selling tomatoes and onions to make an income and support her family herself. She is a beautiful mother. She is a beautiful friend.
Makerere’s leg is almost completely healed. Only some pink granulation tissue and lots of smooth brown skin cover the area that was once festering with infection. Makerere is 3
months sober. He will stay here for a bit longer because he is afraid to relapse, but soon he will begin attending vocational school. This face that was once constantly sullen is now ever-joyful. Makerere smiles and sings songs he has learned at church as he rakes our leaves or picks eggplant from our garden.
While Grandma and baby Juma are still fairly new, Grandma is learning and Juma is already growing. They are a sweet addition to our days.
This house I call home, it is where people flock for help. For a glass of water, for a welcoming smile, for a story of redemption, for a place to belong. “Come and listen,” we say. “Come and listen to what He’s done for us. For you.” These 8 will leave, but more will come. They always come. I don’t know why us and I don’t know why here. Our house is a wreck and dinner is late. We make a ruckus in the grocery store and we don’t get invited out much because surely we will bring a screaming baby or worse, crazy people. We are late to church and sometimes we get there and one doesn’t have shoes and one forgot to comb her hair. We are the messy ones. And we pray and we pray that we could spill out the grace God has so lavished on us.
13 pairs of eyes look at me as if I hold the world. I pray they learn from me half of what I learn from them. They are growing. Trauma from their pasts surfaces and we fight to cling to truth and joy. The days feel long but the years are so short. Time slips away and these little people transform into big people and I pray only that they are becoming people who know Him more.
“I have entrusted you with much,” He whispers.
The book releases in October. I know what this means: more eyes on us. I struggle with the thought of it. All I want is more eyes on Him. I am just a broken mess, grabbing for His feet, reaching out to touch His cloak, thankful for His mercy that washes over me. I am just a little girl, relieved to crawl into His lap and curl up there.
He has entrusted me with so much. And from those who much has been entrusted, much more will be demanded. We want only to represent Him well. So I have taken some time away to feel the weight of it all. 13 little girls, the families in the back yard, friends, family, people in Masese, people in Buziika, people in America looking at me. And Satan whispers, “Run. Run and run and run. No book. No blog. No more homeless people in the guestroom. Lock your doors. Take these 13 and just shut yourselves in and stay away from all these eyes because you are not good enough to have so many eyes on you. Run.”
But I look out in the yard and I see only redemption. I see God making thorn bushes into pine trees. I see Him filling our holes with His blood. I see traumatized children that struggle sometimes but laugh mostly. I see them embracing these one-drunk, once-lifeless, once-starving people who are growing in a merciful, healing Father. I see lives changed and I see eternities changed. I see family where there once was only loneliness. And I don’t know why He chose me, this broken little girl, to witness all of it.
I look up. And His voice is so much louder than Satan’s. “I have entrusted you with much and I have demanded of you much. But only with me will your life bear much. So run. Run and run and run into my arms. Run. Run and run and run into this world sharing this story that has Me at the center. This making of disciples, it is my business. And I am with you always and my burden is light. I spill through your brokenness and I will be glorified. I promise. I will be glorified.” And that is all I want.
I sat in the heaviness. And I weighed the risks of sharing our entire life, all of it, the joy and the sad, the beautiful and the ugly, with the whole crazy world. And I know. That if on
the other side of that risk is the possibility that someone may see Jesus in our brokenness and know that there is grace and purpose in theirs too, then thewhole crazy world is welcome. For a glass of water, for a welcoming smile, for a story of redemption, for a place to belong. For a glimpse of a Savior who uses even us, the messy ones. “Come
and listen to what He’s done for us. For you.”
We look up. We are thankful for the mess. We are thankful for the much. We are thankful for a story to share, the story of His death and His story in our lives.
Would you pray with us? That as eyes turn to us, they would see only Him. That however, whatever, wherever He would be glorified. He will.
Guest post by: Katie Davis http://kissesfromkatie.blogspot.com/
photos by Tina Weir
Do you hear God’s whisper? “I have entrusted you with much. Now what are you going to do with My resources?”
Living the double dare,
Ginger
Priority for 2011… Do whatever it takes to BE READY! (Part 2) Luke 16-18 January 11, 2011
Change requires adjustments…
Change can be awkward and uncomfortable…
Opposition arises…
Will you quit?
Will you do whatever it takes to BE READY?
As Jesus approached the end of His life, He was purposeful to prepare His followers for the changes that lay ahead. Review the chart “Life of Christ Showing Coverage by Luke” on page 1710 of “The New Inductive Study Bible.” Over a brief three year span notice how Jesus has transitioned from obscurity to popularity to increasing opposition.
This week we will see how Jesus continues to offer instruction, correction and encouragement to his followers.
Things to Do this Week
Read Luke chapters 16-18 on pages 1688-1694 in “The New Inductive Study Bible.” (Or use the Bible of your choice.)
Make an effort to read and interact with a portion of Luke each day.
- An easy way to read Luke is one event at a time. List each main event in the margin of your Bible for easy reference. Mark every reference to time with a circle. Underline geographic locations.
- Record your answers to the questions below in a notebook or journal.
- Consider adopting this pattern for your personal Bible study time each day.
- Pray – John 14:26 Ask the Helper, the Holy Spirit to teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance what you read and study.
- Read Scripture – 2 Timothy 3:16-17 Why? All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness; so the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
- Interact with Scripture – 2 Timothy 2:15 Why? So you will not be ashamed and you will be able to accurately handle the word of truth and apply it to your life effectively. Interaction with scripture includes: keeping everything in context; marking repeated words & references to time; asking questions… who, what, where, when, why & how; using scripture cross references to allow scripture to interpret scripture; word studies (dictionary, lexicon, concordance)
- Pray – Philippians 4:4-9 Thank God for what you learn. Ask God to help you PRACTICE what you learn. Ask God to help you THINK correct thoughts based on what you learn.
Main Events – Luke 16-18
- Read 16:1-12 Who is Jesus speaking to in verse 1? When the manager was confronted by his boss about the mismanagement of his possessions, how did the manager respond? Why did the manager respond by collecting only part of what was owed to his boss? Verses 8-9 can be confusing so it is helpful to consult a reputable commentary. An excerpt from Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible (Concise) is copied below. The link is also included.
Verses 1-12 Whatever we have, the property of it is God’s; we have only the use of it, according to the direction of our great Lord, and for his honor. This steward wasted his lord’s goods. And we are all liable to the same charge; we have not made due improvement of what God has trusted us with. The steward cannot deny it; he must make up his accounts, and be gone. This may teach us that death will come, and deprive us of the opportunities we now have. The steward will make friends of his lord’s debtors or tenants, by striking off a considerable part of their debt to his lord. The lord referred to in this parable commended not the fraud, but the policy of the steward. In that respect alone is it so noticed. Worldly men, in the choice of their object, are foolish; but in their activity, and perseverance, they are often wiser than believers. The unjust steward is not set before us as an example in cheating his master, or to justify any dishonesty, but to point out the careful ways of worldly men. It would be well if the children of light would learn wisdom from the men of the world, and would as earnestly pursue their better object. The true riches signify spiritual blessings; and if a man spends upon himself, or hoards up what God has trusted to him, as to outward things, what evidence can he have, that he is an heir of God through Christ? The riches of this world are deceitful and uncertain. Let us be convinced that those are truly rich, and very rich, who are rich in faith, and rich toward God, rich in Christ, in the promises; let us then lay up our treasure in heaven, and expect our portion from thence.
http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-concise/luke/16.html
- Read Luke 16:13-18 Remember Jesus is speaking to the disciples in chapter 16. Who is listening “to all these things” in verse 14? How did the Pharisees respond to what Jesus was saying?
Verses 13-18 To this parable our Lord added a solemn warning. Ye cannot serve God and the world, so divided are the two interests. When our Lord spoke thus, the covetous Pharisees treated his instructions with contempt. But he warned them, that what they contended for as the law, was a wresting of its meaning: this our Lord showed in a case respecting divorce. There are many covetous sticklers for the forms of godliness, who are the bitterest enemies to its power, and try to set others against the truth.
http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-concise/luke/16.html
- Read Luke 16:19-31 What do you learn about the rich man? What do you learn about the poor man? If you died today would you be with Lazarus or the rich man? Who will your brothers, sisters, coworkers, friends and family be with today if they die? Will this prompt you to take action? If yes, what action will you take?
- Read Luke 17:1-6 What do you learn about stumbling blocks, correction, forgiveness and faith?
- Read Luke 17:7-10 Do you expect an immediate reward or an expression of appreciation for doing what is right? What insight do you gain from the parable of the servant?
- Read Luke 17:11-19 Where is Jesus going? Where is Jesus when he encounters the 10 leprous men? When were the Lepers cleansed according to verse 14? How many lepers gave thanks to God for their healing? Notice that the one who returned to give glory to God and thank Jesus was a Samaritan… a foreigner. Take time today to give glory to God and thanks to Jesus for the blessings in your life.
- Read Luke 17-:20-37 How is Jesus the Son of Man described in verse 24? List what will happen to Jesus in verse 25? How are the days of the Son of Man described?
- Read Luke 18:1-14 Remember Jesus is speaking to the disciples and the Pharisees are listening. When should the followers of Christ pray? Should they give up after awhile if their prayers are not answered? Why? Why not? In verse 9 we see another group of people listening to Jesus. How are the people in verse 9 described and how do they view others? Describe the Pharisee and the tax collector. Which are you most like and why?
- Read Luke 18:15-27 The disciples mess up. What do they do? How do men and women receive the kingdom of God and enter it? What does the ruler want to know in verse 18? How had the ruler been conducting himself throughout his life? What did Jesus say the ruler lacked in verse 22? How did the ruler respond? Is it impossible for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God? Why or why not… back your answer up with scripture.
- Read Luke 18:28-34 What do you learn about the people who leave their homes and families for the sake of the kingdom of God? List what Jesus tells the 12 disciples in verses 31-33. Did the disciples understand what Jesus was telling them?
- Read Luke 18:35-43 What city is Jesus approaching? How did the people respond to the blind man who was calling out to Jesus? How did Jesus respond to the blind man? Why did the blind man receive his sight? How did the man respond to Jesus when he received his sight? How did the people respond to the miracle?
Are you willing to do whatever it takes to be ready?
Write out a prayer of confession and thanksgiving. Ask God to help you with the difficult and challenging areas of your life. Give all glory and honor to God the Father and thank Jesus for the example that He has provided for you.
As a guide for prayer consider the words of Jesus from Luke 12.
All things that are hidden will be revealed.
Do not worry or be anxious about how or what you should speak in your defense.
The Holy Spirit will teach you what to say when you need to say it.
Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed.
Seek God first and He will provide what you need.
Be ready, Jesus will return unexpectedly.
Doing whatever it takes,
Ginger
Priority for 2011… Do whatever it takes to BE READY! Luke 13-15 January 4, 2011
Change is coming…
Out with the old, in with the new…
What is your priority for 2011?
Do you need insight at work or home?
Need help with relationships, marriage or parenting?
Do you need to get your physical body or spiritual body in shape?
As Jesus approached the end of His life, He was purposeful to prepare His followers for the changes that lay ahead. Consider the words of Jesus from Luke 12.
All things that are hidden will be revealed.
Do not worry or be anxious about how or what you should speak in your defense.
The Holy Spirit will teach you what to say when you need to say it.
Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed.
Seek God first and He will provide what you need.
Be ready, Jesus will return unexpectedly.
Are you willing to do whatever it takes to be ready?
Things to Do this Week
Read Luke chapters 13-15 on pages 1683-1688 in “The New Inductive Study Bible.” (Or use the Bible of your choice.)
Make an effort to read and interact with a portion of Luke each day.
- An easy way to read Luke is one event at a time. List each main event in the margin of your Bible for easy reference. Mark every reference to time with a circle. Underline geographic locations.
- Record your answers to the questions below in a notebook or journal.
- Consider adopting this pattern for your personal Bible study time each day.
- Pray – John 14:26 Ask the Helper, the Holy Spirit to teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance what you read and study.
- Read Scripture – 2 Timothy 3:16-17 Why? All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness; so the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
- Interact with Scripture – 2 Timothy 2:15 Why? So you will not be ashamed and you will be able to accurately handle the word of truth and apply it to your life effectively. Interaction with scripture includes: keeping everything in context; marking repeated words & references to time; asking questions… who, what, where, when, why & how; using scripture cross references to allow scripture to interpret scripture; word studies (dictionary, lexicon, concordance)
- Pray – Philippians 4:4-9 Thank God for what you learn. Ask God to help you PRACTICE what you learn. Ask God to help you THINK correct thoughts based on what you learn.
Main Events – Luke 13-15
- Read Luke 13:1-5 Highlight the word “repent.” Notice chapter 13 begins with the phrase “Now on the same occasion…” Review Luke 12 to see what the occasion is. Who is in the audience in Luke 12 that Jesus is addressing? Jesus tells this audience to “Be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour that you do not expect.” Luke 12:40 What does Jesus say about the Galileans who had been put to death by Pilate? What does Jesus say about the 18 who were killed when the tower fell on them in Siloam? Who will die according to verses 3 & 5?
- Read Luke 13:6-9 In Luke 12:40 Jesus instructed this audience to “Be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour that you do not expect. Following the admonition to be ready Jesus teaches the group with several parables. What do you learn from the parable of the fig tree?
- Read Luke 13:10-21 Where is Jesus teaching? How did Jesus respond to the woman who had been sick for 18 years? How did the synagogue official respond to Jesus? Why? How did Jesus respond to the synagogue official? What was the response of the opponents in verse 17? What was the response of the “entire multitude” in verse 17? Explain how your personal response to Jesus teaching is more like the opponents or the multitude.
- Read Luke 13:22-35 Where is Jesus and where is he going? Have you ever wondered how many people are being saved? Jesus answers this question beginning in verse 24. What do you learn about the people that are being saved? What had the people been doing who are not saved in verse 26? Who had they been with? What does Jesus say to the people He does not know? What will happen to them? Mark the word see in verse 28. When will there be weeping and gnashing of teeth? Why? According to verses 28-30 who will be reclining at the table with Jesus in the kingdom of God?
- Read Luke 14:1-24 Where is Jesus and who is with Him? What day of the week is it? What happens in verses 1-6? What were the invited guests doing in verse 7? What do you learn from the parable that Jesus told to the guests in verses 7-11? What does Jesus say to the host in verses 12-14? Who do you invite to your home? Does Jesus instruction to the host challenge you to look at who you invite into your home differently? Who is blessed according to verse 14? A guest challenges Jesus in verse 15 by saying, “Blessed is everyone who shall eat bread in the kingdom of God!” Jesus responds by restating the truth of verses 12-14 in parable. What do you learn from Jesus’ answer in verses 16-24?
- Read Luke 14:25-35 A large group of people are traveling with Jesus. What is Jesus main point in verses 25-35 to the people traveling with Him? What is required of a disciple of Jesus Christ?
- Read Luke 15:1-2 Who is listening to Jesus? Who is grumbling? Why? Jesus responds to the grumbling by telling three parables in chapter 15 to the audience of tax-gatherers, sinners, Pharisees and scribes.
- Read Luke 15:3-7 What is the main point of the parable of the sheep? When is there joy and celebration in heaven?
- Read Luke 15:8-10 What is the main point of the parable of the coins? When does the woman call her friends to rejoice with her? When is there joy in the presence of the angels of God?
- Read Luke 15-12-32 Who are you most like, the younger son, the older son or the father? Why? According to verse 32 why was there rejoicing?
Are you ready? Jesus will return unexpectedly.
Are you willing to DO WHATEVER IT TAKES TO BE READY?
Repent…
be blessed by inviting others to join you…
rejoice with heaven because one who was dead and lost has been found and has begun to live!
Thank you dear friends for sharing this journey with me.
Whatever it takes,
Ginger
Do You See What I See? Luke 10-12 December 27, 2010
Do You See What I See?
In the pre-dawn darkness a blog post is made at 4:39 a.m. “Hitting the wall can be quite painful. I have reached that place often lately and find myself retreating. It is hard to face my friends because they see and hear it in my voice. I am not supposed to be weak! The last few weeks have been overwhelming and difficult to wade through and I am just tired.”
The pre-dawn blog ended with these words, “I want to live near the altar! I want my heart set on the pilgrimage! My goal is to go from strength to strength till I stand before God and I want my legacy to be that in all things… I trusted and praised the One that created me!” (The complete blog post can be found at http://jennysue1538.blogspot.com )
The hours tick by and the pre-dawn blogger makes a Facebook post at 2:11 p.m. “Experienced an angry Christmas shopper that told me to get my ugly bald head out of his way before he came over and —– slapped me. Poor guy must have been having a really bad day!”
My heart aches for my friend as I see into her life through these brief social media posts. I sense the warrior rising within me as I hear her goal ring true in my heart. I marvel at her ability to see into the life of the angry Christmas shopper who insulted her on an already difficult day.
In our study of Luke last week, we see that Jesus knew difficult days were coming. He spoke truth to His followers and encouraged them to press on confidently.
The followers of Jesus were increasing. In Luke 9 the chapter begins with Jesus sending the 12 out to “proclaim the kingdom of God, and to perform healing.” In Luke 10 we see Jesus appointing 70 others to go out ahead of Him into every city and place where He was going to visit. Jesus could see that the harvest was plentiful, but the laborers were few.
This week as we study Luke 10-12, let us purpose to SEE…
- SEE Jesus from God the Father’s vantage point.
- SEE ourselves from Jesus’ perspective.
- SEE others in the light of how Jesus SEES them.
Things to Do this Week
Read Luke chapters 10-12 on pages 1676-1683 in “The New Inductive Study Bible.” (Or use the Bible of your choice.)
Make an effort to read and interact with a portion of Luke each day.
- An easy way to read Luke is one event at a time. List each main event in the margin of your Bible for easy reference. Mark every reference to time with a circle. Underline geographic locations.
- Record your answers to the questions below in a notebook or journal.
- Consider adopting this pattern for your personal Bible study time each day.
- Pray – John 14:26 Ask the Helper, the Holy Spirit to teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance what you read and study.
- Read Scripture – 2 Timothy 3:16-17 Why? All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness; so the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
- Interact with Scripture – 2 Timothy 2:15 Why? So you will not be ashamed and you will be able to accurately handle the word of truth and apply it to your life effectively. Interaction with scripture includes: keeping everything in context; marking repeated words & references to time; asking questions… who, what, where, when, why & how; using scripture cross references to allow scripture to interpret scripture; word studies (dictionary, lexicon, concordance)
- Pray – Philippians 4:4-9 Thank God for what you learn. Ask God to help you PRACTICE what you learn. Ask God to help you THINK correct thoughts based on what you learn.
Main Events – Luke 10-12
- Read Luke 10:1-16 According to verse 9 what were the 70 supposed to do? What were they supposed to say to the people? Where were they supposed to stay when they entered a city? How do the instructions given to the 70 compare to the instructions Jesus gave to the 12 in Luke 9:2-5? What do you learn about the cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida, Tyre, Sidon & Capernaum? If you have underlined the geographic regions in green it is easy to glance back over Luke 1-9 and spot the references to each of these cities. See what Jesus said or did in each of these cities previously in chapters 1-9.
- Read Luke 10:17-20 When the 70 returned to Jesus what emotions did they exhibit? What did they tell Jesus? How did Jesus respond to the 70? What do you learn from Jesus instructions to the 12 disciples in chapter 9 and His instructions to the 70 in chapter 10 that you need to apply to your personal life? What do you learn about responding to those who reject the message of Jesus?
- Read Luke 10:21-24 Highlight the words “see” and “eyes.” What do you learn about Jesus and God the Father? According to your study of Luke, what “things” did the disciples “see?” Insert yourself into this setting with Jesus, the disciples and the 70 who had just returned from the cities. What would you think? What emotions would you experience?
- Read Luke 10:25-37 Highlight the word “saw.” The Samaritan exhibited love for God and love for his neighbor in verses 33-35. In verse 37 Jesus says, “Go and do the same.” Notice how the Samaritan responded to the naked, beaten, and half dead man. He gave sacrificially of his time and his resources. The Samaritan followed up to verify that the beaten man’s needs were met. How have you loved God and loved your neighbor… today… this week? What action steps do you need to take to follow Jesus instruction to “go and do the same”?
- Read Luke 10:38-42 Listening versus being distracted. To listen is to understand, learn, comprehend and perceive what is being said. To be distracted is to be driven about mentally, over-occupied and too busy. How would you describe yourself? Do you listen to the things of God or are you distracted, driven about mentally, over-occupied and too busy? Would those who matter most to you, describe you as one who listens or one who is distracted? What adjustments will you choose to make to become a better listener?
- Read Luke 11-13 How did Jesus teach His disciples to pray? The word “hallowed” means to acknowledge and dedicate to God the things of God; to purify; to consecrate things to God and to dedicate people to God. A practical way to apply this to personal prayer is to thank God for Who He is… Creator, Ruler, Sovereign, Just, Healer, All Knowing, Eternal, All Powerful, Compassionate, Patient, Creative, Good, Loving, Kind +++++ How are we to pray for our needs according to verse 3? How do we pray for forgiveness of our sins? How should we pray about temptation? What do you learn about our responsibility to pray in verses 5-10? What do you learn about God the Father in verses 11-13? Take time to write a personal prayer to God following Jesus example in Luke 11.
- Read Luke 11:14-26 What do you learn from verses 14-23? Is neutral an option? What is the consequence of being neutral or empty in verses 24-26?
- Read Luke 11:27-28 According to Jesus who is blessed? Are you blessed? What are you doing to hear the word of God and apply it to your life (work, marriage, parenting, dating…)?
- Read Luke 11:29-32 How is a wicked generation described in verse 29? Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites to repent. Who is the sign to this generation according to verse 30? Allow scripture to interpret scripture – Read 1 Kings 10:1-10 on pages 571-572 to learn who the Queen of the South is. According to Luke 11:31 what will she do at the judgment? Read Jonah 1:1-4 on page 1483. According to Luke 11:32 what will the men of Nineveh do and why?
- Read Luke 11:33-36 Highlight the word “eye.” The eye is described as the lamp of your body. Consider the things your eyes have seen and taken in over the last day… the last week… the last month. What things have you seen that have dimmed your light? What things have caused your light to shine from within?
- Read Luke 11:37-54 How are the Pharisees, scribes and lawyers described? In verse 52 we see that the lawyers rejected the truth of Jesus for their personal lives. They also hindered those who were receiving the truth of Jesus. Who became hostile and began plotting against Jesus in verses 53-54?
- Read Luke 12:1-12 Chapter 12 begins with “Under these circumstances.” The circumstances are described in Luke 11:53-54 “…the scribes and the Pharisees began to be very hostile and to question Him closely on many subjects, plotting against Him, to catch Him in something He might say.” How many were gathering together to hear and see Jesus? What will happen to the things that are covered up? Who should man fear in verses 4-5? What do you learn about yourself, Jesus and God from verses 6-12?
- Read Luke 12:13-21 What are we to “beware” of in verse 15? How can you and I be rich toward God? Remember what Jesus told the disciples and the 70 to go out and do?
- Read Luke 12:22-34 Jesus begins speaking to His disciples in verse 22 by saying, “For this reason I say to you, do not worry about your life,…” The reason can be found in the previous verses 20-21. Because the follower’s of Jesus are to be “rich toward God” He tells them “do not worry.” Make a list titled “Jesus said, Do Not Worry About…” Worry is defined as: to be anxious, to be troubled with cares, and to be weighed down. List what you learn from verses 30-34 and add it to a second list titled “Do this instead of worrying.” What do you learn about the heart in verse 34? Where are you spending your time and resources? Where is your heart?
- Read Luke 12:35-48 Who is described as blessed in these verses? What are we to be ready for according to verse 40?
- Read Luke 12:49-59 Do you see from the beginning of Jesus instructions to the disciples in Luke 4 through chapter 12 the ways of the world are being held up as a contrast to the ways of God the Father and His Son Jesus. The behavior of the scribes, Pharisees and lawyers are held in contrast to the followers of Jesus. Satan’s plan for Jesus is held in contrast to God’s plan in Luke 4.
In Luke 3:16 John said, “I baptize you with water; but One is coming who is mightier than I, and I am not fit to untie the thong of His sandals; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” In Luke 12:49 Jesus says, “I have come to cast fire upon the earth…” Keep this in context with everything you have been learning about Jesus. Remember Luke 9:52-56 when the disciples were not received and the disciples said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?” But He turned and rebuked them… “for the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them.” Grace and opportunity for men to be saved from judgment is provided by Jesus first. It is followed by judgment by fire. God is both perfectly loving and abounding in grace and He is also just and will bring judgment. In Luke 12:52-53 families will be divided. Matthew 10:21-22 gives insight into why this division will happen. “And brother will deliver up brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents, and cause them to be put to death. And you will be hated by all on account of My name, but it is the one who has endured to the end who will be saved.”
Do you see what I see? More importantly, do you see what God sees?
Let us purpose to SEE…
- SEE Jesus from God the Father’s vantage point.
- SEE ourselves from Jesus’ perspective.
- SEE others in the light of how Jesus SEES them.
Learning to see,
Ginger
Why Do You Call Me Coach? Luke 7-9 December 20, 2010
What was I thinking?
Yes, I will train with you for “The Rookie Triathlon.” The enthusiasm of being invited to be a part of a triathlon team quickly subsided as I began to research training plans for TRIATHLON WANNA-B’s. Reality dawns on me. I need more than a partner, a training manual, a schedule, equipment and a coach.
I need to take action, persevere, be disciplined and face my fears… over a LONG period of time! Success will be directly related to the quality of my training each day. Optimal results will only come if I submit to the authority and guidance of the coach. My intellect, emotions and weak physical body will have to submit to his authority.
Training for a triathlon transforms my mind and body much like effective Bible study transforms my personal life. The results of each one are directly proportional to the amount of action I put into place each day.
Last week the study of Luke chapters 4-6 ended with Jesus teaching the 12 disciples and a large group of people from the surrounding cities.
Imagine Jesus asking, “Why do you call me coach and do not do what I say?” “Everyone who comes to me and hears my words and acts on them, I will show you whom he is like: a seasoned athlete competing at the highest level.” “But the WANNA-B athlete hears my words but he does not act accordingly, he is like a couch potato unable to endure the rigors of the race.”
This week I challenge you to join me as we put the words of “Coach Jesus” into action from the study of Luke chapters 7-9.
Luke chapter 7 begins with a man who understood authority. A Roman centurion (an officer in the Roman army) who put his commanders orders into practice daily.
Things to Do this Week
Read Luke chapters 7-9 on pages 1667-1676 in “The New Inductive Study Bible.” (Or use the Bible of your choice.)
Make an effort to read and interact with a portion of Luke each day.
- An easy way to read Luke is one event at a time. List each main event in the margin of your Bible for easy reference. Mark every reference to time with a circle. Underline geographic locations.
- Record your answers to the questions below in a notebook or journal.
- Consider adopting this pattern for your personal Bible study time each day.
- Pray – John 14:26 Ask the Helper, the Holy Spirit to teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance what you read and study.
- Read Scripture – 2 Timothy 3:16-17 Why? All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness; so the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
- Interact with Scripture – 2 Timothy 2:15 Why? So you will not be ashamed and you will be able to accurately handle the word of truth and apply it to your life effectively. Interaction with scripture includes: keeping everything in context; marking repeated words & references to time; asking questions… who, what, where, when, why & how; using scripture cross references to allow scripture to interpret scripture; word studies (dictionary, lexicon, concordance)
- Pray – Philippians 4:4-9 Thank God for what you learn. Ask God to help you PRACTICE what you learn. Ask God to help you THINK correct thoughts based on what you learn.
Main Events – Luke 7-9
- Read Luke 7:1-10 Note: a centurion is an officer of the Roman army. Who was sick and about to die? Who sent for Jesus? Who did he send? What did the Jewish elders say about the centurion in verse 5? Jesus responded to the request from the Jewish elders and headed toward the centurion’s house. What did the centurion’s friends say to Jesus in verses 6-8? How did Jesus respond in verse 9? What happened to the slave? Where does Jesus Christ get His authority from? Support your answer with scripture. Give an example from the previous chapters in Luke 1-6 where Jesus was under authority.
- Read Luke 7:11-17 When Jesus saw the widow woman with her dead son, what emotion did he feel for her? What did Jesus do? Jesus has authority over life and death. When fear gripped the people what did they do and say in verse 16? What areas in your personal life to you need to exhibit compassion? What can you say to glorify God?
- Read Luke 7: 18-35 John the Baptist was imprisoned by Herod. Read Matthew 14:1-12 to understand why John was imprisoned by Herod. Take what you have learned from these passages of scripture and consult the chart on page 1658 “Herod’s Family Tree” to determine which Herod imprisoned John the Baptist. After John’s disciples leave, Jesus explains to the large group of people that John is “one who is more than a prophet.” How did the people and the tax-gatherers respond to what they heard in verse 29? How did the Pharisees and the lawyers respond to God? …to John? How did Jesus respond to John in Luke 3:21-22? Have you responded to John’s exhortation to be baptized with water? Have you followed Jesus’ example? Why or why not?
- Read Luke 7:36-50 What do you learn about the religious man Simon the Pharisee? What do you learn about the woman who was a sinner? How did Jesus respond to the Pharisee? …to the woman? Who are you most like?
- Read Luke 8:1-3 Who is Jesus traveling with? What do you learn about the women in the group?
- Read Luke 8:4-18 What is the seed in the parable? Think of your heart as the soil for the seeds of God’s word. Which type of soil is your heart most like? Are there hidden things in your heart that are displeasing to God that you need to turn from and ask forgiveness from God? Are there steps of obedience that you need to take? Ask God to give you His help and power through the Holy Spirit.
- Read Luke 8:19-21 What two characteristics does Jesus use to define family in verse 21? Remember to keep this passage in context with all that the scripture teaches about family from Genesis to Revelation.
- Read Luke 8:22-25 In the previous chapters of Luke we have seen that Jesus teaches with authority. He also has authority over life and death, over sin, over disease, over demons, over fish in the nets and He is the Lord of the Sabbath. What does Jesus have authority over in verses 22-26? How does this impact your current circumstances?
- Read Luke 8:26-39 How did the demons affect the behavior of the man? What was the response in verse 30 when Jesus asked, “What is your name?” The demons implored Jesus not to command them to go away to the abyss. To learn more about the abyss see Romans 10:7; Revelation 9:1; Revelation 9:11; Revelation 20:1-3
In Luke 8:32 did the demons have free reign to do anything they wanted to do? Who has authority over demons? Does Jesus have complete authority over demons or can they usurp His authority? Back your answer up with scripture. What did the man who was freed from the demons ask of Jesus in verse 38? What did Jesus instruct the freed man to do in verse 39? Has God done something in your life that you need to tell others about?
- Read Luke 8:40-56 Who is Jarius and what did he want with Jesus? What made the woman with the hemorrhage well? What happened in verse 49 to Jarius’ daughter? What was Jesus’ response in verse 50? Who went with Jesus into Jarius’ house to see the girl? What emotions did they exhibit inside the house in verses 52-56? Is there an area of your life where you need to apply faith? What steps of faith do you need to take?
- Read Luke 9:1-9 What did Jesus give the 12 when He called them together? List the instructions that Jesus gave the disciples. Jesus had been teaching and leading the disciples by example. Now review the list of instructions He gave the disciples. Did Jesus model each of these instructions for them while they traveled with Him? Review the previous chapters and note in the margin of your list of instructions, where Jesus modeled each instruction before giving it to the disciples in chapter 9. How did Herod the tetrarch respond to what was happening?
- Read Luke 9:10-17 Remember Jesus called the 12 disciples in Luke 6:13 “And when day came, He called His disciples to Him and chose twelve of them, whom He also named as apostles.” The word disciple means a learner or a pupil. The word apostle is defined as a delegate, messenger and one sent forth with orders. Notice how the 12 grew from pupils in chapters 6-8 and then in Luke 9:1-9 they were sent forth with orders. In verse 10 the apostles returned to Jesus. How did the 12 respond to the need of the people in verse 12? What was Jesus’ response to them? Here we see that Jesus has authority to create and multiply food. How much food was provided? Were the people satisfied? How much was left over? Do you have a need in your life that is bigger than anything that you can provide for alone? Ask God to provide for your specific needs.
- Read Luke 9:18-27 What question did Jesus ask the disciples in verse 18? How did they respond? What did Jesus tell the disciples about Himself and what was to come in the future?
- Read Luke 9:28-36 What happened 8 days later? Who went up the mountain with Jesus to pray? While Jesus was praying what happened to His face? Who were the two men talking with Jesus? During this prayer time what did Peter, John & James do according to verse 32? What was Peter’s bright (a.k.a. foolish) idea in verse 33? What was God’s response to Peter’s bright idea? Who is speaking in verse 35 and what does He say? How do the disciples respond in Verse 36? Remember what Peter wrote to the followers of Christ in 2 Peter 1:16-19. “For we did not follow cleverly devised tales when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but WE WERE EYEWITNESSES OF HIS MAJESTY. For when He received honor and glory from God the Father, such an utterance as this was made to Him by the Majestic Glory, ‘This is My beloved Son with whom I am well-pleased’ and we ourselves heard this utterance made from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain So we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to PAY ATTENTION as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts.” Note: “appearing in glory” = magnificence, excellence, as apparent in their exterior brightness, a most glorious condition or most exalted state
- Read Luke 9:37-50 What happens the next day? What does Jesus tell the disciples about Himself? The disciples are struggling in several areas in this passage of scripture. What issues were they struggling with? Have you struggled with these same issues? What do you learn that can help you when you struggle?
- Read Luke 9:51-62 Locate Bethsaida and Jerusalem on the map “Israel in the Time of Christ” on page 1661. Now locate Samaria. Notice Samaria is a city and a region. In our modern day context, it would be the city of Austin and the greater Austin area. The Samaritans were considered “half-breeds” by the Jews. The two groups did not associate with one another. In Israel the most direct route from the north to the south was through Samaria. It was common practice for the Jews to take the longer route around Samaria. Jesus chose to go through Samaria on His way to Jerusalem. When the Samaritans did not receive them how did James and John respond in verse 54? This makes me laugh but it also gives me insight into myself. I am a lot like the disciples. Often, I wish to use the power of God for my purpose, not His purpose. Have you caught yourself looking like the foolish disciples?
How does Jesus respond in verse 55-56? Remember how Jesus instructed the disciples in Luke 9:5, “And as for those who do not receive you, as you go out from that city,” (call fire down upon them from heaven). NO, Jesus said, “shake off the dust from your feet as a testimony against them.” Give thanks to God because Jesus came to save us. He did not come to destroy men’s lives. My life and purpose needs to look more like the life of Jesus. What about your life?
Feed the Fire Comments
Who do you call Coach? Have you responded to Jesus’ call to “FOLLOW ME”? Maybe you are an unconvinced observer. The Bible is a safe place for the” follower” and the “unconvinced observer” alike to bring their questions. Continue to study the Bible for yourself.
Feed the fire and encourage others. When something jumps off the page and into your life from your study of Luke, share your comments.
Training for His purpose,
Ginger
Reality Check – Luke 4-6 December 14, 2010
Reality Check?
“…heaven was opened
…the Holy Spirit descended upon Him in bodily form like a dove
…a voice came out of heaven
…You are My beloved Son, in You I am well-pleased.”
Insert yourself into the scene… standing on the bank of the river. John has just baptized Jesus of Nazareth. A thirty-something year old man is before you. A carpenter by trade he is a local guy from the neighborhood. Jesus is praying and the events above unfold. You are an eyewitness. What are you seeing with your eyes? What do you hear? What do you think?
“I’m more convinced than ever that people don’t care to hear about our Jesus these days until they meet the reality of Jesus in our lives.” Lysa TerKeurst
I heartily agree with Lysa!
Is Jesus a reality in your life or is he some action hero from long ago?
This week join me as we examine three chapters from the book of Luke in the Bible. (Luke 4-6) Remember, Luke is the chronological account of the life of Jesus of Nazareth.
Chapter 3 of Luke begins with John the Baptist preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. The chapter ends with Jesus being baptized by John. Notice the next event in Jesus life as detailed by Luke the beloved physician in Luke 4.
“And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit
…was led about by the Holy Spirit in the wilderness for forty days
being tempted by the devil.”
Wow, what a jaw dropping dose of reality! God speaks from heaven… then Jesus is smack dab in the middle of the wilderness, tired, hungry and being tempted by the DEVIL. Have you experienced this type of tectonic shift in your life? If your answer is yes, you will want to dig in and see how Jesus handled this transition.
Things to Do this Week
Read Luke chapters 4-6 on pages 1660-1667 in “The New Inductive Study Bible.” (Or use the Bible of your choice.)
Make an effort to read and interact with a portion of Luke each day.
- An easy way to read Luke is one event at a time. List each main event in the margin of your Bible for easy reference. Mark every reference to time with a circle. Underline geographic locations.
- Record your answers to the questions below in a notebook or journal.
- Consider adopting this pattern for your personal Bible study time each day.
- Pray – John 14:26 Ask the Helper, the Holy Spirit to teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance what you read and study.
- Read Scripture – 2 Timothy 3:16-17 Why? All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness; so the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
- Interact with Scripture – 2 Timothy 2:15 Why? So you will not be ashamed and you will be able to accurately handle the word of truth and apply it to your life effectively. Interaction with scripture includes: keeping everything in context; marking repeated words & references to time; asking questions… who, what, where, when, why & how; using scripture cross references to allow scripture to interpret scripture; word studies (dictionary, lexicon, concordance)
- Pray – Philippians 4:4-9 Thank God for what you learn. Ask God to help you PRACTICE what you learn. Ask God to help you THINK correct thoughts based on what you learn.
Main Events – Luke 4-6
- Read Luke 4:1-13 Now put yourself in the setting with Jesus. How would you have responded? What three incentives did the devil use to tempt Jesus? How did Jesus respond to each temptation? According to verse 13 was the devil finished tempting Jesus? What areas of your life has the devil tempted you in? How does the fact that the devil departed from Jesus encourage you? How does the fact that the devil departed from Jesus “until an opportune time” impact you?
- Read Luke 4:14-15 After Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness where did he go? What did he do? How did the people respond?
- Read Luke 4:16-30 Jesus is in his hometown of Nazareth speaking and teaching. Who is He teaching? Jesus was a H.O.T. influencer among the people. In Galilee He was “Praised by all.” What was the response of the people in the synagogue in 4:28-29? How did Jesus respond to their rejection? As a modern day H.O.T. influencer (Hungry for biblical truth, Obedient, Teachable), what do you learn from Jesus example about handing the positive and negative responses of the people around you?
- Read Luke 4:31-37 In Capernaum, we see the people are amazed by Jesus teaching because He was teaching with authority. How did Jesus respond to the outburst from the crowd by the man who was possessed by a demon? Who did Jesus rebuke? What happened to the man who was possessed by the demon? How did the crowd respond? Where did Jesus’ authority originate? (Hint: Luke 3:21-22) Where does your authority originate as a leader, parent, single adult, employee or student? How does that authority impact your daily life?
- Read Luke 4:38-41 Jesus goes to Simon’s home. Note: This passage does not identify which Simon is being referred to. Among Jesus disciples there were two men named Simon (Simon Peter and Simon the Zealot). The New Testament also refers to Simon, father of Judas who betrayed Jesus; Simon Magus, the Samaritan wizard; Simon the tanner; Simon the Pharisee; Simon of Cyrene who carried the cross of Christ; Simon the cousin of Jesus, the son of Cleophas and Simon the leper. Why did Jesus heal Simon’s mother-in-law according to verse 38? Does Jesus have authority over sickness and demons? What did the demons know about Jesus? Could the demons speak whatever they wanted to speak? Why or why not?
- Read Luke 4:42-5:11 When Jesus departs from the crowd in verse 42 how do the people respond? How did Jesus express His purpose to the crowd in verse 43? What did Jesus do in verse 44? What was his location in verse 44? Whose boat does Jesus get into in the lake of Gennesaret? What do you learn from the interaction between Jesus and Simon Peter that can help you in your personal life? Who else was with Jesus and Simon Peter that day? In verse 11 we see “they left everything and followed Him (Jesus). Who left everything and followed Jesus?
- Read Luke 5:12-16 What does Jesus do in the passage of scripture? How were the people responding to Jesus? Jesus was actively teaching individuals and large groups on a daily basis. He was also healing many people and casting out demons. In the mist of all of this activity, what did Jesus do “often” according to verse 16? Where did he go? How would you characterize the wilderness? How often do you pray? Where do you pray? Do you need to make any adjustments in your prayer life? If yes, what?
- Read Luke 5:17-26 Where was Jesus teaching? Who were the people in the audience? How many people were in the audience? Who told Jesus what the Pharisees and scribes were “reasoning?” What happen to the man who was brought in on the stretcher? Why?
- Read Luke 5:27-35 Who was Levi and where was he? What did Jesus say to him in verse 27? How did Levi respond? How did the Pharisees and their scribes respond? Who did Jesus tell the scribes and Pharisees He had come to call? What was he calling them for? Remember John’s teaching in Chapter 3. According the Luke 3:3-6 what was John preaching? The prophets wrote about a man who would be “the voice of the one crying in the wilderness, make ready the way of the Lord… all flesh shall see the salvation of God.” Do you see that John and Jesus were the fulfillment of the prophecy written by Isaiah? John was the one in the wilderness making ready the way of the Lord Jesus Christ. Remember how Elizabeth greeted Mary when she came to visit in Luke 1:39-45.
- Read Luke 5:36-39 A parable is a simple story illustrating a moral or religious lesson. What do you learn from the parable of the wine skin?
- Read Luke 6:1-11 This passage covers two separate instances on two different Sabbath days. In Exodus 20:8 we learn, “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Remember Jesus came to fulfill God’s law not break it. The Sabbath is the Lords’ day and Jesus wants us to know and remember that it is His day. We are to honor the Sabbath by spending the day in His service for His honor. These examples are not a license to sin but an example that brings us back to the real intent of God’s instruction in Exodus. Does this insight into the Sabbath day challenge you or encourage you? Are you like the Pharisees… just going through the motions to satisfy some law or expectation? Or are you more like the disciples and the man who was healed on the Sabbath… fully engaged in spending time with the Lord on His day serving and honoring Him?
- Read Luke 6:12-16 Jesus chooses 12 disciples. List the 12 disciples that are listed in this passage of scripture.
- Read Luke 6:17-38 Jesus is teaching the disciples and a large group of people. Make a list of the “blessing” Jesus gives. Make a list of “woes.” Make a list of instructions. What do you learn from the lists you have made?
- Read Luke 6:39-45 What do you learn from each parable that you can apply to your life?
- Read Luke 6:46-49 How are people described who calls Jesus Lord and yet they do not do what he says? How are people described who hear the words of Jesus and act upon them? A call to action is clearly identified in these verses. Which people are you most like? What action do you need to take today to be H.O.T. (Hungry for biblical truth, Obedient, Teachable)? How will you encourage and influence others to be H.O.T.?
Feed the Fire Comments
Feed the fire and encourage others. When something jumps off the page and into your life from your study of Luke, share your comments.
Feeding the fire,
Ginger
Ginger Craddock | Executive Coach
Find Joy In The Journey 