The Rich and the Kingdom of God
The Rich man in this passage begs Jesus to answer his burning question, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus clearly explains this is a gift to be given, not a thing to acquire. It’s interesting that Jesus highlights some of the Ten Commandments, certainly something every Jew would know well. If we consider …
Jesus’ brief teaching on Divorce
I included “brief” in the title for this post because Jesus doesn’t need a lot of words on this topic. It’s clear and concise. Yet this is a volatile and personal topic that demands our attention. No, we don’t need more words from Jesus on the topic. As followers for Christ we enter marriage with the …
Parable of the Shrewd Manager
This is a most interesting parable, one that truly shows us the unconventional nature of Jesus’ teaching. As with most parables, there are two major takeaways for us to consider: 1) learn how Jesus deals with those far from the church and 2) learn from the lesson itself. This is like learning to fish rather …
Rejoice When the Lost Are Found!
Luke dedicates chapter 15 to remind us that we should rejoice when the lost are found! Three examples are provided: 1) lost sheep, 2) lost coin and 3) lost son. 1. The Lost Sheep. Sheep are certainly important to the shepherd and losing even one might be grounds for losing his job! Jesus uses this …
Parable of the Mustard Seed and Yeast
Relentless in His pursuit to reach people, “Jesus went through the towns and villages, teaching as he made his way to Jerusalem.” His teaching on the Mustard Seed is included in Matthew, Mark and Luke while the parable of the yeast is recalled in Matthew and Luke. Shore verses with strong impact–perhaps we should consider …
Jesus accused of serving Beelzebul
“Any kingdom divided against itself will be ruined…” Jesus provides strong teaching to those who accuse him of serving the “prince of demons” by explaining the impossibility of such an accusation. This passage includes some significant themes to unpack as Jesus preaches unity wrapped in the context of “those who hear the word of God …
Jesus’ Teaching on Prayer
We refer to this as the Lord’s Prayer, but the NIV Study Bible notes suggest this is really the Disciple’s Prayer; the “real” Lord’s Prayer is . The details vary slightly, but the main point remains the same: Honor God first, ask for daily needs and forgiveness. Thoughts about serving othersThis link includes a list …
Return of those commissioned, the 72
The ambassadors return and are excited that they were able to do amazing things, even the demons were frightened of them. Jesus uses this as a teachable moment and explains this is what God was pleased to do and Jesus rejoiced, full of joy. Jesus tells them: However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit …
Conflict over Jesus’ claim to be the light of the world
Jesus speaks to the people in the temple courts again, this time he says “I am the light of the world” and the Pharisees respond that Jesus is making an invalid claim because of a lack of witnesses. It’s like they’re speaking two different languages or having two completely separate conversations. The content of what …
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