Tag: disciple

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Luke: The Last Supper – Part 2

Read: Luke 22:21-38

The second half of the Last Supper narrative in Luke is much more controversial. Jesus starts out by talking about the betrayal that has been planned for some time, then the disciples quibble over designated parking spots followed by Peter’s bold assertion, Jesus’ prediction of his denial, and then some final warnings. Whew! There’s a lot going on in this section.

Betrayal

Jesus tells this small group gathered in a private room for the Passover meal that His betrayer is there amongst them.

But woe to that man who betrays him!” They began to question among themselves which of them it might be who would do this. Luke 22:22-23

It’s not a large crowd, so why the confusion? Was Judas playing along with the “who me?” game?  In reading Luke’s narrative, this debate doesn’t seem to go on for very long. The very next verse changes to a discussion about who will be the greatest among the disciples.

Not So With You

Jesus attempts to adjust the focus of the discussion. His Lordship is not like that which we see in the world. In fact, it’s pretty much upside down. The greatest will be the least, the first will be last, etc. To hammer home the point, He tells His disciples, and us by inference, that His kingdom is different.

But not so with you. Luke 22:26

At Exponential earlier this year, Andy Stanley made this one of his most important points: Not So With You. If I were ever to consider getting a tattoo, this would be high on the list of words to engrave on my body. I must not be like others in society. Leading as a servant is counter-cultural, but it is what Jesus calls us to be, demands this is what we do, then sends us out to go and make it happen.

Denial

Peter’s boldness is often talked about when we study his character. I love the guy! We think he’s all about, speak first, think later, but I like to think he is just in high gear all the time. He’s not concerned about what people think about his actions — only that he would serve Jesus first.

But he replied, “Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death.” Luke 22:33

Prison in those days was not a joy ride with 24-hour TV. And the thought of being put to death was not a surgical process, to say the least. Peter’s statement here is a confession of his willingness to suffer greatly for Christ, even if he doesn’t quite get it all right at this point.

Once again, Jesus peeks into the future and explains what Peter will actually do, the infamous 3-time denial scene, but Jesus doesn’t tell people not to be bold. He does reset reality, but it’s not because Peter acts first and thinks later. I would rather have Jesus reset my expectations than any human. How about you?

Swords

Jesus warns them that times are about to get rough. He explains the challenges that will arise by reminding them of the previous times when they were out spreading the gospel. They didn’t need anything, but very soon this will all change. Jesus paints a picture that the disciples take literally.

The disciples said, “See, Lord, here are two swords.” “That’s enough!” he replied. Luke 22:38

Enough! The night is not over, but the teaching session has ended. I picture Jesus letting out a sigh as He knows the hearts of those who will lead the world into a new day.

This crazy band of disciples who seem to get it wrong so often are Jesus’ select few. This is the group He chose. The handful He used to change the world. In each was planted the seed of greatness for the Kingdom.

I truly believe that within each of us is the capacity to do wonderful things for the Kingdom. The great tempter would like us to remember how we got it wrong last time, but Jesus does not give up on us. He continues to explain that it will not look like the world expects.

Don’t back off of the vision God has planted in your heart. Not so with you!

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Luke: The Last Supper – Part 1

Read: Luke 22:7-20

The first part of the Last Supper in today’s reading includes preparation for the meal and the serving of the bread and wine. The gospel writers each give us a different perspective on events during this significant evening and there is much to consider. I hope you find some time and space to linger in the upper room for a moment.

Celebrations of the Passover are significant, this is a huge part of Jewish culture. Luke tells us the disciples are separating themselves from their families to celebrate the day of Unleavened Bread. Imagine a dozen families whose father is absent on Christmas day because he was celebrating with a famous teacher. That might sound a bit trite, but I wonder what the families thought about the disciples’ personal commitment to Jesus.

Jesus asks His two closest disciples to go and make preparations, a process they all knew well. Ask yourself why Luke included verses 10-12 in his rendering of the narrative surrounding the Last Supper.

He will show you a large room upstairs, all furnished. Make preparations there.” Luke 22:12

Mark’s version is similar: Mark 14:13-15, while Matthew’s is only one verse, Matthew 26:18. Luke promised to give us an orderly account of events to help us understand all the Jesus did. In this case, it seems he wants us to know once again that Jesus can see into the future, that events which are about to unfold are clear to Him. This is significant since He’s about to tell them some other news that’s not so good in Part 2.

They left and found things just as Jesus had told them. So they prepared the Passover. Luke 22:13

“Just as Jesus had told them.” It’s interesting that we don’t read words counter to this anywhere. For example, there’s nothing that implies Jesus is ever surprised at any event. Sure, He is emotional at times, but that’s not the same as being surprised.

Jesus told them many things. We get to flip back through pages and check the notes, the disciples were living through all that Jesus told them in real-time. All this is in preparation for the next few verses:

And he said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God.” Luke 22:15-16

I’m sure it took a while for the disciples to appreciate the significance of this statement, so don’t feel bad when it has to swim around in your mind before it makes sense. Jesus is about to pay the final price for which the entire sacrificial system was created. That might not resonate with us, but this is a complete change for the Jewish nation. This is significant.

And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.
Luke 22:19-20

In a moment, a handful of words spoken in a room separated from families and followers, Jesus changed the course of history.

No more Passover sacrifices will be required. He is about to become the perfect sacrifice.

I’m sure I still don’t appreciate the weight of this moment, but I will continue to try as I read more, as I play songs that honor Christ, as I fast and pray.

Lord, make this moment real for all of us who call ourselves Christ followers.

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Luke: Destruction and Encouragement

Read: Luke 21:5-38

The balance of chapter 21 is titled, The Destruction of the Temple and Signs of the End Times. Mostly red letters, the words of Jesus, are meant to motivate us to be courageous as the world falls apart. Mostly. Some quotes make me pause. Entire books have been written on the Olivet Discourse, so many details and much to debate. I’m not trying to add to that discussion here and I’m not about to explain pre-, post-, a-millennialism in this brief post! What I hear from this morning’s reading is that things are going to get much worse before they get much better. If we stick with Jesus, we will ultimately win. If we choose to ignore His words, we will suffer greatly (to put it mildly).

The disciples are in awe of the beauty of the Temple and make some comments about the beautiful stones and gifts. In my imagination, I can see them looking up and smiling as they express the wonder of the place where God is honored. The music swells, then Jesus throws a wet blanket on the whole group.

“As for what you see here, the time will come when not one stone will be left on another; every one of them will be thrown down.” Luke 21:6

And so the story begins. The Temple, the pride of the Jewish people, will be destroyed. For the Pharisees and Sadducees, this was ludicrous talk! Tantamount to blasphemy. Here’s a thought: when we begin to worship buildings, we’re probably not focused on God. Just sayin.

Jesus goes on to provide a lot of details. I hope He laid these out one at a time because each is heavy and take time to process. For example,

You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers and sisters, relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death. Everyone will hate you because of me. Luke 21:16-17

If I were there, I’d probably try to get Jesus’ attention and say, “WAIT! What did you say? Put some of us to death? Can you explain how you want us to stand firm and win life?”

He’s on a roll, there is much more to be said. As He spoke these words, I envision a somber atmosphere where each is leaning in to hear as they sincerely try to comprehend what is being said.

Jerusalem will be trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled. Luke 21:24

These are not words that Jesus provides out of pride, He is sad about the reality that is about to be imposed on His friends and on the world. Remember His entry to Jerusalem just a few chapters ago:

As He approached Jerusalem and saw the city, He wept over it Luke 19:41

Jesus wept over the vision of what was to become of this most sacred place. So much of the Old Testament was about the Temple. David wanted to build it, but God said no. Solomon built it but got lost in the plethora of wives and concubines. Back and forth we watched as Israel was split and ultimately dispersed. In Jesus’ day, the Jewish community was going through a massive redecorating program where the Temple was once again looking nice. Unfortunately, it appears this was all in vain because those in charge missed the most important event in history: The Messiah was right in front of them. They were so focused on themselves, they missed Jesus. Let that thought sink in for a while.

The Encouragement

When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near. Luke 21:28

When these things take place, not if. Lift up your heads, not with pride or arrogance, but with the assurance that you have chosen well, you have seen beyond the fog of this present day and to the future that holds eternity.

I leave you with a glimpse of John’s revelation:

The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life. Revelation 22:17

Be strong and courageous. Seek the lost as one who is found.

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Luke: Triumphal Entry as Jesus Weeps

Read: Luke 19:28-44

Most of this passage is focused on the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem as prophesied hundreds of years before. The text contains highlights of the momentous occasion, songs, and joyful celebration as well as tears from Jesus as He reflects on the future. Let that last thought sink in for a moment. Only God can look back on that which has not happened in our time.

As we dive into the passage, I can’t help but wonder how amenable the owner of the colt was to the disciples’ request.

As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, “Why are you untying the colt?” They replied, “The Lord needs it.” Luke 19:33-34

With that short explanation, they take the colt and present it to Jesus. This is a colt that’s never been ridden before. The owner must have been thinking these guys are a bit off their rocker for borrowing this particular colt. I can picture him shrugging it off with a “good luck with that” kind of glance.

No one hesitates. The colt is secured, covered with a few coats to make the ride comfortable, and the animal appears to calmly accept its burden. Jesus enters Jerusalem.

Memories flood the minds of the crowd of disciples, more than just the twelve, a festive atmosphere begins to fill the hearts of the few that actually got to witness that which multitudes have been hoping to see for centuries.

the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen: “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” Luke 19:37-38

Not everyone was happy about this moment. Luke reports that some of the Pharisees told Jesus to rebuke His disciples. From their perspective, this couldn’t possibly be right. With their pious belts tight, they have the audacity to confront Jesus, but He will not be moved.

“I tell you,” he replied, “if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.” Luke 19:40

Without a doubt, Jesus will be honored, He will be praised. For most of those present, at least from Luke’s account, this is a joyful moment.

The Roman authorities are not in the least bit threatened. The people might be using the word “king,” but where is the army? No worries, go about your business. This is just some religious thing. I suspect they simply dismissed the activity.

On the other hand, Jesus looks to the future and sees what no one else can. As I proposed at the beginning of this post, He reflects on the future. He knows that within the human lifespan of many of those who are singing, Jerusalem will be destroyed. Utterly and completely. No one of Jewish heritage could view that scene and hold back tears. This is a tragic moment.

As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes. Luke 19:41-42

This is our Lord, our Savior, our God. He is mighty and powerful and yet He truly cares about us and for us. There are a lot of “ands” in the last sentence, not enough to capture His essence, but I hope you get the point.

In His role as Creator, I don’t think God gets excited about judgment or effecting His wrath. But I don’t think He withholds it either.

We are about to enter the last days of Jesus on earth through Luke’s eyes. It seems fitting as we continue to prepare for Pentecost at this present time. Lord, help us to remember and help us to look forward to your next triumphal entry. May this thought cause us to spread your Gospel today!

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Luke: Ten Minas and a Choice

Read: Luke 19:11-27

Interestingly, just after we read about Zacchaeus’ conversion, Jesus continues with a parable that uses money management to make His point. Much like Matthew’s account (Matthew 24:14-30), Luke presents three servants to depict those who do and those who do not. From the outset, it’s important to appreciate this is not a parable of the haves and have-nots. That seems obvious, but I want to make sure we’re at least on the same page there!

There are several things going on at once in this parable. Honestly, I had to read it a few times to grasp some of the subtleties. There are ten servants, though we only hear about three, and there are the master’s subjects whose fate is horrible in the end.

The parable is about the coming day of judgment, a subject we tend to avoid, and about the ultimate authority of Jesus as Lord and Master. For those who are using Multiply as the resource for discipleship, this concept is discussed in the very first chapter, the third question for those trying to wrap their mind around what it means to be a disciple.

Jesus is pretty clear here. We are each given a mission, a ministry if you will. He will be gone for some indeterminant amount of time, but He will return. And when He does, He anticipates we will have done something positive with that which He provided.

The Subjects

Those who have hardened their hearts and have blatantly rejected Jesus will receive ultimate punishment. Don’t read my words, hear what Jesus said:

But those enemies of mine who did not want me to be king over them—bring them here and kill them in front of me. Luke 19:27

Their fate is sealed by dismissing Jesus with such brash words in verse 14, “We don’t want this man to be our king.” One comfort I take from this is simply that you and I don’t need to be their judge, Jesus will take care of this in the end.

The Good Servants

Those who invested wisely will be rewarded with even more.

“‘Well done, my good servant!’ his master replied. ‘Because you have been trustworthy in a very small matter, take charge of ten cities.’ Luke 19:17

Jesus greatly rewards those who have been trustworthy in small matters. These words provide great encouragement to all who are diligently following Christ with their whole heart. The reward is more than we can imagine.

The Bad Servant

For those who know the master, who have heard the instructions, but have chosen to go the other way, the words are rather harsh.

I will judge you by your own words, you wicked servant! Luke 19:22

This servant reminds me of many who have the arrogance to stand up against Jesus as if they had greater knowledge or insight. His words make no sense, and his accusation is unfounded, but the master plays along, then uses his own words to condemn him.

I was afraid of you, because you are a hard man. You take out what you did not put in and reap what you did not sow. Luke 19:21

If the master were a hard man that reaped where he did not sow, why would the first two servants be rewarded so graciously? There is no indication of hesitation on the part of the master to reward those who did well. No, I’m afraid this wicked servant is making excuses that will not be tolerated.

The socialists complained that giving more to those who already had much was unfair, but Jesus is the judge and final authority, whether we like it or not.

“He replied, ‘I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given, but as for the one who has nothing, even what they have will be taken away. Luke 19:26

In Luke’s last parable, Jesus presents a portrait of the end of time. Perhaps I should have named this post, Eschatology Part 2. While I’m looking forward to His return, I hesitate to stop and wonder if I look like the good servants in this parable. Of course, it is my desire to be counted in that group, but my failures seem to take center stage more often than they should. Isn’t this the voice of the deceiver? Genesis 3:1 creeps in uninvited,“Did God really say…”

Lord, may we be the good servants in this parable, those who do what you ask, even when unspecified. Help us to know Your voice and You so well that we naturally do Your will.

 

https://soundcloud.com/teracomp/luke-ten-minas-and-a-choice

 

 

This parable has a historical background. Both Herod in 40 B.C. and Archelaus in 4 B.C. went to Rome to receive ruling authority from the emperor. In the case of Archelaus, who was not popular, there was a public outcry not to grant him the position. Rome responded by giving him a less comprehensive mandate— an ethnarchy, not a kingship.2 Part of the captivating interest in this story for Jesus’ original audience was its parallelism to these well-known ancient events.3

Wilkins, Michael J.; Garland , David E.; Bock, Darrell L.; Burge, Gary M.; Fernando, Ajith. NIVAC Bundle 6: Gospels, Acts (The NIV Application Commentary) (Kindle Locations 53677-53682). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

2Josephus, Antiquities 14.14. 1-4, 370-85
3C. Blomberg, Interpreting the Parables, 217-20

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Luke: Jesus Predicts His Death a Third Time

Read: Luke 18:31-34

In the moment, the disciples are unable to comprehend what Jesus is telling them. It’s so easy to look back and criticize them, but Jesus’ actions were unprecedented, no one did the things He did, well, that is the point, right?

Here in the midst of some amazing teaching, Jesus takes the disciples aside and explains what will happen in the very near future. The scene I envision is one where everything seems to be going well, people are hearing lessons that inspire them to a higher calling.

We often like to portray the disciples as ignorant fishermen, those who have little education. While it may be true that their names are not suffixed with Ph.D., MBA, etc., that does not mean they are unwise. Wisdom is not equal to degrees. This is a reminder to myself as much as anyone!

It’s easy for us to pick up our Bibles and point back in time when Isaiah outlined this present future: Isaiah 52:13-53:12, but that’s cheating! We have the privilege of seeing the past, of pinpointing the verses that are surrounded by lots of details. This is the kind of stuff that makes forensic television shows so popular, where mysteries are completely resolved in 42 minutes (without commercials). Looking back, everything is clear. Not so much in the moment.

Luke is pretty pointed here in his version of Jesus’ third prediction:

The disciples did not understand any of this. Its meaning was hidden from them, and they did not know what he was talking about. Luke 18:34

It’s significant to see how Luke points out that Jesus took His disciples aside and told them what was going to happen during their traveling ministry. We have to wait until the end of Luke’s gospel, after the resurrection, to finally get hear these great words:

Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. Luke 24:45

Aha! Finally, they get it! Not so fast, we’re not in chapter 24 just yet.

Allow me to lean into this passage a bit. Many times in our lives we don’t understand what is happening around us. Why certain events happen make no sense — good or bad. The list of confusing interactions in my life is long. We have four daughters. Enough said, right? Seriously, it would be easy to go into despair by overthinking each moment of every day, but that isn’t my point.

Just like the disciples, we have to have faith that God has a plan. Our responsibility is to continue to listen closely and live with the confidence that His will for our lives is better than we could ever imagine. Easier said than done. That’s why we don’t do this alone. Look at the example Jesus gave us and find a group of people you can walk with through the trials and tribulations of your present circumstances. Be one of those people known to be reliable. Pour into others and allow them to speak to you.

Learn from my Exponential friend, Ron Dotzler’s motto: Better Together. We’re not perfect, just better.

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Luke: The Persistent Widow and the Power of Prayer

Read: Luke 18:1-8

A few days ago we read about the shrewd manager, a nice way of referring to the guy who was about to get fired so he reduced the debt of his master’s clients to gain favor. Today we read a story where Jesus refers to a worldly character, in this case, an unjust judge, for a kingdom-centered example:

And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says… Luke 18:6

The woman in the parable presents an example of the relentless pursuit of justice, for that which she knows is right, even though she seems to be getting nowhere. Jesus uses this parable to make the point that if a self-seeking person in power, i.e., the unjust judge, will relent to get rid of the complainant, imagine how much more your loving Father will do for us! He truly desires to hear our prayers, our petitions, our sincere hearts! The Creator is the One who seems to be reckless in His pursuit of us. No one on earth compares to His great love.

This parable gives us a reason to pause and consider how we should approach prayer. Jesus doesn’t expect us to be perfect prayer warriors. Take a look at how Luke begins this section:

…to show them that they should always pray and not give up. Luke 18:1

If Jesus is telling a parable to show His disciples why they should not give up when their prayers seem to go unanswered, we need to pay attention.  Lord knows how many times I’ve prayed the same thing over and over again. If you have children, you know what I mean!

One of the beautiful things we experience in reading the book of Psalms, especially those from David, is the raw emotion revealed in many of them. For example, in just six verses, Psalm 13 goes from “Will you forget me forever,” to:

But I trust in your unfailing love;
my heart rejoices in your salvation.
I will sing the Lord’s praise,
for he has been good to me.
Psalm 13:5-6

Shifting Gears

While I think the main point of this passage is covered above, I can’t help but remember that this comes on the heels of Jesus’ teaching about the end of time. Recently, we considered this subject (I updated the post after it was published), that distant, or present future which will happen in the blink of an eye. We’ve heard many times that no one knows when the end will come, I get that, but here’s the question: will we be found as persistent as the widow?

When Jesus returns in the blink of an eye, will we be found faithfully praying for those things the Spirit has been putting on our hearts?

However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?” Luke 18:8

Lord, I will trust in Your unfailing love. Help me to learn from this example and pray consistently and persistently. Thank you for the reminder that even Your disciples didn’t get it all the time! Help us to lean on each other, to spur one another onto doing good deeds, to pray relentlessly, and have faith that You will answer in Your way and in Your time.

 

Resource:  If you’re like me, you need to be reminded of prayers. Here’s an app to help — https://new.echoprayer.com/

 

 

 

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Luke: Eschatology Lesson One

Read: Luke 17:20-37

Two women will be grinding grain together; one will be taken and the other left.” Luke 17:35

The Left Behind series, among a host of fiction novels that explore this concept, dive into the end times, those days we look forward to with great anticipation and fear. In the next few paragraphs, I’ll make this all clear for you. (lol).

Luke begins this section with a phrase that previously escaped my attention, “…on being asked by the Pharisees…” At this point in the narrative, the Pharisees seem like the least likely group to want a lesson from Jesus, but here they are again. Somehow Jesus is able to continue wading into a dialogue with those who sought to discredit Him, even to kill Him. He never backed away and somehow kept getting invited to the conversation. Lord, help me to learn how to You did this! How to keep involved, yet remain untainted. Amazing.

His response to the Pharisees is brief. Essentially, He tells them it’s right in front of you, but you are blind to the truth and therefore cannot see it.

the kingdom of God is in your midst.

Done with the Pharisees, though there’s no indication that they were dismissed, the conversation turns to His disciples. Jesus give them a history lesson, one that should inspire us to study what we refer to as the Old Testament. Remember Noah? Remember Lot? Think back on these old stories when people had no idea what was about to happen. Only the faithful were saved. The warning about the flood was boldly presented, but no one believed. Lot was saved, but the people who reveled in their depravity were destroyed in an instant. Jesus recalls these stories to make His point. We should not discount them, nor sweep them under the rug, even if they’re hard to understand.

Remember the stories of old. Learn from them. Don’t count on tomorrow. We simply don’t know.

Whoever tries to keep their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life will preserve it. I tell you, on that night two people will be in one bed; one will be taken and the other left. Luke 17:33-34

I don’t like to dwell on eschatology, though I’ve read some books on the subject, years ago! As mentioned before, the subject is fascinating and frightening! Remembering this lesson is meant to encourage us all to take advantage of the few days we have on earth. The brief visit we have in skin.

Time is of the essence. Somehow we have to find balance being anxious and being content. Desperate enough to reach out to the lost, but solid in our faith and immersed in sound doctrine. It’s not easy, but that’s why we don’t do ministry alone. We sharpen each other, hold each other accountable, work together as a team.

In a way, I’m glad it’s not easy. But there are days when I wish each step was well defined. I’m so glad I don’t have to do this alone. How about you?

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Luke: Jesus Heals Ten Men With Leprosy

Read: Luke 17:11-19

Traveling on the border between Samaria (the forbidden) and Galilee (the promised), Jesus encounters a group of men with leprosy. Somehow they heard about His ability to heal this dreaded disease, so they broke the rules and sought Him out, though they were respectful enough to stand at a distance and called out in a loud voice:

Jesus, Master, have pity on us! Luke 17:13

Without missing a beat, Jesus heals them and sends them to return to the priests to be officially accepted back into the community from which they were no doubt ostracized for their uncleanliness.

You would think they would all be overwhelmed with gratitude, praise, and worship beyond words. Not so quick. One of the ten sought out Jesus to show his appreciation. One knew he was clean and fell at the feet of Jesus. One.

Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.” Luke 17:17-19

The wording of Jesus’ response is interesting. The way I read this, Jesus is not looking for any glory at all. Instead, He points to God. I know this is a bit beyond human comprehension, the whole notion of the triune Father-Son-Spirit relationship is challenging, but for those listening, He provides another great example of His desire to follow the will of God.

So should we.

Even if we are foreigners.

It strikes me that we talk about Samaritans here as if we appreciate the implication. For our culture, we might substitute something a bit more relatable like whore, drug dealer, child-molester, Islamic State, Mormon, Wiccan, witch, etc., something to drive home the point that Samaritans were looked down upon as if they were scum of the earth. Obviously, I’m not advocating for anyone in the sample list provided, but let’s get real. We were called to seek those who are lost. I don’t relate to anyone in the list, but I must somehow get my mind wrapped around the idea that God wants all to come into His glory–even those I don’t like to think about!

Years ago I, when I was on active duty in the military in England, I removed myself from chapel leadership because of the presence of the new Base Chaplain. You see, he was a Mormon and was implementing new policies that offended me as a Christian. For example, the Base Christmas Tree lighting ceremony was renamed the Base Holiday Tree. Seriously. Like any other religion has an evergreen tree as its centerpiece. Don’t get me started!

I ran and joined a wonderful group of Christ-following missionaries in a nearby village. I hid myself until one day we had an event in the base chapel where we (five of us) sang an old a capella song as a tribute to someone being transferred back to the States. I sang low bass. After we were done an old lady (I mean this with the best of intentions) came up to me and asked me where I’d been? You see, I was the “song leader” for the chapel prior to the Mormon’s arrival. She flat out rebuked me: “Don’t ever hide your gifts from God again,” she convicted me, “promise me you won’t ever run away again. We needed your leadership while we were going through this dark time!” Ouch!

Glory and gratitude belongs to God alone. I’ll never forget that rebuke and I suspect the disciples will never forget the story of the Samaritan leper who was cured and worshiped Jesus.

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Luke: Sin, Forgiveness, Faith, and Duty

Read: Luke 17:1-10

What is discipleship all about? Sin, forgiveness, faith, and duty. The reading this morning encourages us to look at three aspects of discipleship, well, bullet points from Jesus’ presentation.

  1. Don’t cause someone else to sin: Luke 17:1-3a
  2. Forgiveness: Luke 17:3b-4
  3. Have faith: Luke 17:5
  4. Do your duty: Luke 17:6-10

Causing someone to sin who is under your leadership is a tragedy that will not be overlooked. This is not intended to be a guilt-trip for those with rogue students. From my perspective, this short narrative serves as a strong reminder that we must take our role as discipler seriously. I think it’s reasonable to extend this into other venues, e.g., work, home, etc., since the thought of leading someone astray can arise in many areas, but help me to stay focused as Jesus is speaking to us directly.

This heavy edict is followed quickly by the need to forgive — often. Jesus knows us well. He knows we will continue to trip and fall. The good news is that He not only forgives us, He teaches us to forgive others.

Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them. Luke 17:4

I’m so very thankful for this assertion, and unhappy at the same time. Thankful for those who forgive me, unhappy that I have to forgive someone again and again! I’m just being honest. This is not as easy as it sounds!

This verse always astounds me:

The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” Luke 17:5

Don’t you find this troubling? The apostles, the very men that walked with Jesus, watched Him perform miracles, saw how He handled religious leaders, these men have to ask Jesus to increase their faith. Their struggle helps me to know I’m not alone. Thanks, Luke, for putting that in there for us!

Jesus’ answer let’s us know that it doesn’t take a certain amount of faith to do amazing things. In other words, don’t wait until you have all of your faith merit badges before you start your ministry!

The last point in this passage addresses those who simply doing their duty. This story depicts a servant that does his job all day, then comes in to serve his master a meal. I want to say, “there, there,” to the servant, take a break, but that’s not his job. He has a responsibility to serve the master his supper.

So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty. Luke 17:10

Lord, help me to hear what you command and go about doing your business as required. It it my duty. Beyond that, I should not look for rewards or recognition. Help me to work with excellence beyond what is simply required without any promise of earthly reward.

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