George L

What lesson was Jesus seeking to teach his disciples when he sent them out without purse, bag, or sandals? Confidence in God the Father supplying their need as they labor for Him.(Luke 22:35) Why now does he tell them to take a purse and a bag? (Luke 22:36a)Time is changing as the religious ‘powers’ begin to defend their traditions of man above the word of God. Why does he tell them to sell their overcoat, if they need to, in order to obtain a sword? A matter of careful evaluation of priorities with limited capacity. What is the main point of mentioning the sword? (Luke 22:36b) The sword is a worldly protection along the roadways of the times. Make sure you listen to the spirit on priorities as you travel. Extra Credit: Is his command to obtain a sword meant literally or figuratively? Literally. What difference will your decision on the interpretation of 22:36b make in terms of your actions? Do I realize as a christian among general population groups I may be called to be one to protect them from worldy assault along the pathway. Why does Jesus' quotation about being "numbered with the transgressors" have to do with the context of this passage? (Luke 22:37) The perception of ‘the way’ the sect of jews believing in Christ were at the tipping point. The beginning of the overturn of the world system. How was being "numbered" with the transgressors fulfilled in Jesus' life? He was sent to the cross among two thieves and so that the worldly could free a murderer to show off their worldly power. According to the passage quoted in Isaiah 53, what did he do for the transgressors by means of his death? The sacrifice of his body and his blood made a way for them to join Him in eternal life. He made intercession for the transgressors…. As should we.

Why would you sift grains of wheat? Sorting the valuable wheat grains from the residue.(Luke 22:31) What kind of experience does "sifting wheat" convey? Shaken and examined for quality. Extra credit: Why is Satan able to attack us? (Luke 22:31) we are not perfect and have several weaknesses remaining where the enemy can inject thoughts.. seeing if we can become distracted, discouraged, or become ensnared in our old lifestyle. What are the chief weapons he has at his disposal? Lies, deceptions, temptations. How could Peter be so unrealistic about the level of his own strength and faith? It had yet to be tested . (Luke 22:33-34) Why is he so out of touch? Students are on cruise until they begin to work in their field. Then they understand to apply is not just think about it. How does a person get in touch with their own spiritual strength? In our testing. That is the testing time for our faith. It us a time for rejoicing. As Paul said count it all joy when you are found worthy of testing. How can a believer's faith possibly become extinguished? Seed parable, become entangled again in the worldly. How does Jesus' prayer affect Peter's faith? He sees to the end result. What are the limits of the power of prayer for another person's faith? We can not over rule their free will, we can surely set the stage, call in spiritual reinforcements, and deal with the enemy. Can we "believe them" back to God? Eze 37:4 I believe in prophetic declairation of God’s word over such situations. Their will remains, lighting the spiritual fire of needing living water is our work in prayer. Is Peter stronger weaker after his "fatal flaw" had been revealed? It strengthens the depth of his knowing, trusting. Why does God allow temptation to come to us at all? We need to know our faith holds like an anchor in the storm. In what ways do you think Peter strengthened his brothers after Jesus' resurrection? His testemony of denial and restoration. If for me, then for you as well. In what ways can we strengthen our brothers and our sisters? The same way, our walk is not without testings. We learn from each. We pass that confidence on. Extra credit: In light of verse 32, why is it so important in God's plan that each of his children be part of a local congregation? True family relationship generates a common bond, a group feeling of how others are free or burdened. We can come alongside of those needing support.

(Luke 22:24) Why does pride so easily dominate the life of leaders? Having something to set one apart is never to be lowervin ones esteem. Why do proud men and women seek out leadership roles? The like to be seen as elevated in place and importance. Why are we tempted to "lord it over" others -- at work? in our families? in our churches? Worldly nature not yet regenerated. (Luke 22:25) Why are we eager for titles? Worldly value system. Reverend, Doctor, Chairperson, President, Director, Minister. What do titles do for us? Feed oned ege. What do titles do to us? Tie us to a role not necessarily our constant calling. (Luke 22:26-27) How does a servant leader contrast with a self-absorbed leader? A servant leader leads beside where a self-absorbed type expects you to follow, not necessarily making sure you advance in capability and function. Whom should leaders serve? Their followers? or Christ? Christ as he will see we follow the holy spirit guidance. Teaching, demonstrating, encouraging. True service as a leader, Building the replacing generation. Can you cite any examples when who we should serve isn't clear? Any time we loose site of the need to traing our replacements. (Luke 22:28-30) What are the four promises Jesus offers his disciples in verses 29-30 eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. (Luke 22:30) What is the significance of eating and drinking at the King's table? Be provided fo at the head of the tables cost. (Luke 22:29-30) What does it mean to rule and reign with Christ? Is this ruling present? or future? We are the ambasadors of the kingdom on earth as Jesus was. We represent Christs rule here and now. I firmly believe the exacting requirements to serve the Lord we are aiming for is filling in the resume deciding our assignment/s in etermity to follow.

Why was Jesus so secretive about the location of his Passover meal with his disciples? (Luke 22:7-13) The tradition of the passover for the household and perhaps a neighbor family is expected. Avoiding drawing some of the crowd away from their proper family place as well as avoiding the Jewish hierarchy Why do you think Jesus desired with such great intensity to eat this Passover meal with his disciples? He was declairing the formation, completion of the new beginning of His family, his body. Follows the ‘Mat 12:48 But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren? Mat 12:49 And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! Mat 12:50 For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.(Luke 22:15) What did Jesus hope to find this sacred meal for himself? Declairation of the apostles placement as those who would walk out the life (ministry) of Christ for him into the future. What did he hope to impart? An anchor for their rememberance and faith. Luke has a different pattern than we're used to: cup - bread - cup. What message does Jesus convey to his disciples with the first cup mentioned in 22:17? Perhaps the continuation of passover into eternity with a spiritual salvation to come. What is the message that comes with the second cup mentioned in 22:20? The new covenant is to be cut in/by his own blood. It's easy to see how wine conveys the idea of blood. But in what way does bread convey to us the idea of Jesus' body? Bread is the power energy fuel of ones physical life. Don't think of a risen loaf of yeast bread. Think of a flat loaf of unleavened bread, kind of like Jewish Matzos. What does it mean when Jesus' says "This is my body given for you"? Given how? Given why? Given for what purpose? He will be physically broken for them and us. What does it mean "Do this in remembrance of me"? What are we to do? We are to use the ceremony as a personal remeberance of what has been provided for us in life, healing, forgiveness, and eternal fellowship with Him. What does it mean "my blood, which is poured out for you"? Jesus was the sacraficial lamb for them. Why was it poured out? There is no forgiveness of sins without a blood scarifice. Why "for you"? Jesus was making clear that their following him was not the completion but his shedding of his blood. Why was the shedding of blood necessary at all? Cutting of the covenant sacrifice as halving the offering animal and the shedding, sprinkling of the blood on the altar and the people. Blood was required to seal covenants from ancient times.

What kind of schedule does Jesus keep the last week of his life? (Luke 21:37-38) appears to be normal pattern with more emphasis on the length of his nightly prayer time. In what way do the crowds of people protect Jesus from his enemies? Because of his constant grace and mercy in healings and deliverence they know that power of God has come upon them as it has not done for them by the churches rulers. They value Jesus as no man before him. Why do they want to kill him? Jesus healed the crippled man at the pool of Bethesda. The man had been there 38 years. There is no mention of him going to the temple, stronghold of the scribes, pharisees, saducees for healing. Evidently that ministration of grace had already departed the temple. Even to the Romans it was becoming clear that the temple had become an empty powerless shadow. Jesus was the ultimate threat to religion for political favour, (Luke 22:2) How does Judas enable Jesus' enemies to capture him cleanly? (Luke 22:6) He provides a time, place knowledge when Jesus will not have the multitude gathered around him. How can greed so overwhelm a person that he'll betray his Friend and Savior for money (or drugs or ....)? So often we see a murder’s face close after the crime. They appear bewildered, blank. The capture of their mind focused on completing the goal appears to depart immediatly from many once the act is performed. I believe that is direct evidence of the evil spirit having control in focusing on completing and shielding out other thoughts. Then abandonmet right after to their fate. Saton is a liar, it will solve your problem, followed by departure once your destruction is accomplished. In what ways do our sins give Satan inroads into us so he can control us? Sin blocks prayers effectivness. You are not heard. As you continue unrepentant your rebellion multiplies your own knowledge guilt. Reducing your trust in God’s statement that He rathers mercy over judgement. We like Peter should turn to forgiveness expecting.

What is Jesus' reference to the fig tree supposed to teach his disciples? Be ready for the first sign of the next season, the harvest.. (21:29-30) The season of Christs rule is coming. As in it is the next season after. Extra Credit. In verse 31, what does the term "these things" refer back to in the context? The terrorizing chaos of the end of the gentiles times. It is the flowering of the next beginning. Extra Credit. If we assume that "this generation" doesn't refer to merely the people who were contemporaries of Jesus, then what DOES "this generation" mean in the context? (12:32) The time period of the “ALL” of humanity available for the full harvest of lost, stolen, stray sheep that Jesus gave his life for upon the cross. He really does desire all should be saved. Why does Jesus warn us of spiritually-dulling lifestyles? (21:34) It is a parallel to the seeds sown and ensnared by the briars and thorns of life. How can "the anxieties of life" be just as dulling as drunkenness? They can overwhelm our attention. What are Jesus' direct commands to his disciples in light of his teaching on the end-times? Watch and Pray.. (21:36) What will these commands do for us? As those that knew by the spirit in the days Jerusalem before the Romans began the seige, “leave now”. What will they do for Jesus' cause? An immediacy of harvesting the last few souls will come upon those who remain assigned to that task. What does it mean, to "stand before the Son of Man"? To me it is judgement day, when we may give account of our self. What does that refer to? Jesus will see if we match the image we were designed to be before we were knit in the womb. “I knew you before..” Not in any man’s perfection, but did we even struggle to try. Extra Credit. What is the balance between resting in the assurance of the grace of God, on the one hand, and striving to escape the temptations all around us, on the other? I find as I rid myself from trophies and collected “stuff” I care less and less for the things of the world. Making more and more room for Christ’s life to flow through me, and much less of my major sin which is “Self wants to…” and I know is His grace, paid for by His beatings and His blood, not anything I could do myself. Like a child trying to imitate his father or older brother.. we are loved for our intent to try, not the perfection of our performance.

According to Jesus' teaching here, how is the destruction of Jerusalem related to the time of his return? (21:20-24a) It will preceed his return. What are the Times of the Gentiles The time alloted to ungodly kingdoms to flourish.(21:24b). What significance does it have for the return of Christ? The seeds of the gentile nations beliefs, standards, and lack of justice will bear full fruit. The traps and snares they used and planned for others will be their own ending tribulation. What words are used in verses 25 and 26 to describe what will take place at the very end? Nature which is violent and held in check by the word of God shall be loosed. What effects will these have upon people?Psalm 114:4 The mountains skipped like rams, and the little hills like lambs…. Terror as nature returns to its creative violent character. Earthquakes terify, imagine the mountains beginning to dance again. What will be the direct sign of Jesus' return? Jesus coming in a great cloud.(21:27) What Old Testament Scripture passage is Jesus referring to when he describes his coming?Daniel 7:13-14. If fear will characterize unbelievers at these terrible signs, what emotion should characterize believers? (21:28) We will be delighted to see the true signs of His impending arrival. Oh the joy and knowing to save that last few that can be rescued.

What does Jesus say will happen to Herod's Temple? It will be destroyed, demolished. (21:5-6) When did this take place? Roman seige ending in 70AD. What kinds of signs will be seen that do NOT portend the immediate return of Jesus? Wars, rumors or wars, nation upon nation, famine, crop failures, disease. False messianic claims etc.(21:7-19) Why are people tempted to see them as signs of the end? They desire to know even though none will know but the Father. No profiteering allowed.. What good results from a disciple's persecution and death, according to verse 13? History of early evangelism shows many conversions due to the unexplainable love, prayers for those persecuting them being demonstrated by those being persecuted even to death. Why will people hate Christians? (21:17) Because we will remain loving, blessing, caring for as the society around us disintegrates, If Christians will be condemned and executed, what does it mean, "Not a hair of your head will perish"? We shall not experienced the second death. What does Jesus mean by this? We shall come home. To our true home as He did. What does the phrase mean, "By standing firm you will gain life." Maintain your purpose and calling on earth, salvation of as many lost sheep as possible. (21:19) Is this "faith by works" or something else? It is obedience, which is a very special form of worship to the one who loved us first.

In what way are church leaders, both clergy and laity, susceptible to the sins of the "teachers of the law" that Jesus criticizes in 20:45-47? Ostentatious show rather than caring shepherd. How can a leader walk in humility? Delivering what God wants delivered to the flock and the individuals is what we are to be about. We have no other purpose. What are the keys you've discovered? Strive to walk the Christ walk not the self walk. Doing as the Lord, only that which the Father was about, and saying only what the Father was saying. How does Jesus compare the gifts of the rich verse the poor in 21:1-4? The rich were seen condiscending to give. The widow understood God’s principle. Everything is the seed planting principle. Give and it multiplies as a crop back to you. Who put in the most? The obedient widow. How does the widow demonstrate the principle of proportional giving? Every giving is planting seed either in good ground, where needed or required as a tithe. How large are your gifts to God in proportion to your income? Well beyond our tithing. How large are your gifts in proportion to how much you have left after the bills are paid? About athird of my income or more. How does the widow demonstrate the principle of sacrificial giving? She gave of here need to be blessed in and by her giving. What did that mean for her? That she understood ‘give and it shall be given unto you, … so 30, 60, or 100 fold’. What would sacrificial giving mean for you? Every time one choses to do without something so another may receive into their need it is rewarded. I delight in giving as the Holy Spirit leads. I have often been surprised at the direction and amount. Yet my needs in the days ahead were always met. Sacrifice is of believing in our self and struggling to believe we are truly more valuable to God that the sparrows. How does the widow demonstrate the principle of faith-filled giving? She knew she could trust God’s promises. Is this the same kind of faith you and I exhibit in our giving? I believe so. Why or why not? Oh so often has God cared for our family beyond all natural understanding because we are delighted to give into needs as guided. What are the characteristics of well-to-do people who try to control churches by their giving? ( Luk 22:25 And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors.) They want control and are parsiminous if their wishes are not followed. Expecting the sheherd to become their hireling. If you become aware that such behavior is tolerated were you attend, depart it is a corrupt place and not a church serving God.

What was the strategy of the scribes and chief priests that involved trick questions? Carefully crafted questions to connect Jesus answers to the reputation of revolts coming from the Galieans more than any other Jewish area. What did they seek to accomplish? That way he was a threat to Roman rule. Therefore subject to Roman's death penalty. In what way did the "spies" act as hypocrites, that is, pretending they were something that they were not? Asking as impressed and applauding of him while seeking any excuse to accuse him to the Romans. Can flattery ever be used to accomplish righteous purposes? Yes.Why or why not? It may lift a down person to the reality of Jesus sacrifice for them even if they were the onlybone in need of it. Why did Jesus ask his opponents for the coin? To show them the value system they already countenanced. Why would they have in their possession a coin that carried blasphemous inscriptions? Because it was the required head tax amount in Roman coin which was also required by the Romans. How does Jesus' answer affect our attitude in paying taxes? We are to properly support and pray for the government. Are we ever to resist civil government? Only when the government decides to have a contest with God. What does Jesus mean when he says to render to God what is God's? Exactly what it says. God expects us to use His gifts in us to further the kingdom of heaven. How do we do that? My walking each day as the holy spirit directs. How do we live that out? Prayer, praise, study, obedience to his directions. As A.B. Simpson said, put our ‘self desires’ up on the tree daily, and walking in our spiritual life. As did Jesus saying and doing as the Fathers business needs done.

How did tenant farming work in Jesus' day? In our day? Both the same. Percentage of the crop and some agreement on bearing the cost of seed etc. What did the owner of the vineyard expect of his tenants? That they were not theives. That they would honor the contract terms. What does the vineyard itself represent? The world we are to care for then harvest from. The owner? The Father God is the owner. The tenants? The Church. The servants who are sent to collect the owner's portion? In practice they should be those who we are to raise up and minister to. That is our investment in growth. Who is the son? The Lord. Historically, how did God destroy the "tenants"? (20:9-16) He used the roman government which tired of the theiving sanhedron. In 20:17 who is the stone? Jesus. Who are the builders? The religious leadership failing their spiritual duties. In your opinion, why did they ultimately reject Jesus after studying him carefully? The had become blinded to the reality, spiritual and worldly, they were in. Strong delusion territory. In what ways did the Pharisees and Chief Priests stumble on the stone and were broken to pieces? They failed to realize their forgiveness was before their eyes. The consolation of Israel. In what ways are they crushed by the "falling stone"?There spiritual and worldly lives were snuffed out. How can we detect when our hearts are rebellious against God? We notice the still small voice has gone scilent. What should we do when we are angry at God? Angry is fine, but the scripture is and sin not. How can we prevent "a root of bitterness" against God to grow in our heart? We need to give up our illusion of any control. For me it was his question did I know an exact future detail. Followed by, then why do you think you can tell me how to adjust today. I went to repentace, heart felt. I went from doing a good important thing to knowing I was meddling in something I was backwards about. Is this only hypothetical or is there any danger of the Stone crushing us to powder? We best repent for all times we are harming baby lambs, alienating future harvest and doing damage to the kingdom. I know personally ministries ended and ministers who passed on early from cancer who became insistant on continuing in mistakes. God is serious about caring for and about his creation.

Why does Jesus weep at the sight of Jerusalem? He sees its future in the spirit. Because of their blindness or because of their fate? Both. In what way is the Triumphal Entry a royal "visitation" or inspection tour? John 2:24,25 (he knew what was going on) they were getting a royal visitation. Which is also an accurate assessment of their stewardship. Why are the leaders unwilling or unable to recognize Jesus as the Messiah, the King? They are worldly, compromised religious profiteers. Why does Jesus drive the money-changers and sacrifice-sellers out of the temple? Cleansing out those not present for spiritual purpose. What reason does he give? They are marketers and tradesmen for profit. How does Jesus' action to cleanse the temple make his crucifixion more inevitable? (Hint: At whose home was his mock trial held?) The sanhedron and temple religeous leadership were all of one related family. There position and influence with the roman rulers was threatened. Not to mention their cut of the sacrifice business. The chief priests are prejudiced toward Jesus because they have corrupted themselves with proceeds from temple sales and Jesus threatens their revenue. How can tithing serve to challenge the shallowness of our Christianity? Tithing is an honor with a promise. If obedient you will receive blessings beyond your ability to receive it all. That beyond the ability to hold it all happens to me often. Failure to tithe with expectation is essentially calling the Father a liar. Curse territory. It shows quite openly. How can we Christians be corrupted by money? Like the servants and the talents, we should be about the Fathers business with our finances as well as our ability and giftings. The world about us is full of distractions, attractions, and things to corrupt us. Why does righteous indignation tend to be shallow when it is not accompanied by tears? The Lord has impressed upon me that the days if cheap give me candy grade vending machine prayers are over. If we are not praying and in tears over what we see we do not have ahold of His heart in the situation. God cares greatly, so should we.

Why do you think Jesus gave such cryptic instructions to the two disciples about where to find the donkey and what to say if they were challenged? Limited instruction information recuces oportunities to talk unnecessarily about ones mission. What is the significance of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey? Riding was a sign of important person as opposed to walking. Why a donkey that no one had previously ridden? A sign of special spiritual/religeous mission. What elements of the Triumphal Entry point to Jesus' claim to be the King of the Jews, the rightful Anointed One, the Messiah? The actions matching the prophetic predictions of the messiahs coming. Why do you think Jesus is now open about being the Messiah, whereas previously this was something he didn't want his disciples to discuss openly? It is time to confront the corrupt higherarchy. What was the reaction of the pilgrims to Jesus' glorious entry? Praise at his coming. What was the reaction of the Pharisees? Religeon (act as we say to please us and we will say your blessed) vs true spirituality, please God and be blessed. Why the difference in reactions? The religeous leadership wer man pleasers not God pleasers and were confronted by losing their earthly place politically and with the people.

This parable has some allegorical elements. Who is represented by the hated nobleman who becomes king? Jesus. In the Parable of the Talents each of the servants had huge sums to work with. In the Parable of the Pounds each has only $7800 or so. Why is Jesus emphasizing this test of faithfulness as a "small matter"? You are offered opportunity to work for the kingdom. How you care for the masters goals determines your advancement. Your ability to handle more responsibility.(19:17b) What is large by comparison? For us the management of and growing up the end time harvest crews. Why was the master so delighted with the servants who earned 10-fold and 5-fold on his tiny investment? It showed management of anothers goals. Was it the money or something else? It was the accomplishment of an assigned task. (19:15-19) What do the unproductive servant's words tell us about his character? He felt no empowerment or authority to work independantly with the masters talent or mina. (19:20-21) Why was the master so disgusted with the unproductive servant who never traded with his portion? He took no initiative. Felt no responsibility. (19:22-23) In what way does this Parable promise us more if we need it to develop the Lord's work? If we apply ourself to the masters goals. What are the conditions? That we are trustworthy to work without the masters direct supervision. (19:26) When you talk about the fruit of your service for God, do you sound more like a victor or a victim? Victor. Why? I delight in testifying what God can do with the wreckage I was when he saved me. How will that change? Haul donated goods, clean restrooms. Advance. Associate pastor twice. Now watchman over the growth stage of an advancing work. I expect specific assignments. What and where are my Fathers choice based on his trust I will listen. Where I am He described as a third string fill in. Evidently some others failed to stay or show up. My pleasure is pleasing Him, not me.

What do we learn about Zacchaeus in verses 1-4? He saught to overcome his stature to see the real Jesus. Limiting yourself to these verses, what do you know about Zacchaeus? Goal setting overcomer of his physical limits. About his life, his hopes, his desires? He was into the real, not the imaginary. He wanted to see the ohysical Jesus. Why do the townspeople despise Zacchaeus so much? He was are of the occupying governments enforcement of taxation, How do you think Jesus knew Zacchaeus' name? Yes. By divine knowledge? Yes. From the bystanders? No,e he called him before the reaction of the crowd who had no readon to notice Zacchaeus before this. Why do you think Jesus said that he MUST stay at Zacchaeus' house that very day? He only did what he saw his father doing. What risk did Jesus take in doing this? Truly is there really a risk if we obey a curaately what the ho,y spirit is telling us to do? What were the implications of this action to the bystanders? The become aware there is much more depth to ‘no rspector of persons’. To Zacchaeus? Astonishment, then amazement at the pronouncement of saving grace. Which aspects of Jesus' ministry to Zacchaeus seem to motivate him the most? (1) Jesus' love and acceptance? (2) Jesus' reputation? (3) Zacchaeus' consciousness of his sinfulness? Others? How does our cynicism about people keep us from presenting Christ to them? I would say we fail to plow the ground and go freelancing instead of working a prepared ground forvour crop. Can we be open and loving without being vulnerable and overly trusting? Strange balance easy to go beyond appropriate. Never should we move the focus to ourself as source not God through the word and Jesus intercession. What's the balance? Keep praying you hear the spirit for go and stop. How do we achieve this? Prayer. Which shepherd role does Jesus comment on in this passage? Shepherd. (19:10) In what ways can his disciples be involved in this role? It is our nob these days. Find the lost sheep, bring them to the fold.

What motivates Blind Bartimaeus to call out to Jesus? His revelation that IS 35:5-6 was walking toward him. What motivates the bystanders to try to stop him? They are bystanders, not spiritually aware of the gift. They are about the show. What can we learn about Bartimaeus' faith by the evidence of his actions and his words? He is acting upon his spiritual revelation. What were the political and spiritual implications of the phrase "Son of David"?It is declairation that the messiah is there. Why did Jesus ask the blind man, "What do you want me to do for you?" To understand the basis of his faith. What was Jesus' purpose in asking the question? Receive a prophet as a prophet you may receive the prophets reward. He is saying I recognize what the prophecy says I may expect. In what ways is the question, "What do you want Jesus to do for you?" a good question for disciples today to ask? We build upon firm foundations. For the gift delivered in answer to prayer to take hold and last… the recipient must truly value the answer. An answer from the heavenly relm, not a piece of candy from God’s vending. In what sense did the blind man's own faith heal him? He reported his foundation. If he had faith, why hadn't he been healed before? The messiah was not present. He believed in a certain promise. Look that the crippled man stayed at the pool and never is reported as going to the temple for a miracle. What was the blind man's response after being healed? He began to praise. In what ways is this a good model for us? We overcome by the gospel and the word of OUR testemony.. so many of us do not truly value what has been done for us as a powerful tool for the Lord.

Why is impossible for rich people to enter the Kingdom of God? Their value system is worldly. Is it really impossible? Until ones value system is in the blood shed for them they remain dead in the spirit. Is Jesus speaking in hyperbole in order to make a point? Making a point. Why or why not? (18:24-27) Because our focus must become what Christ paid with his life for. The harvest of lost souls. There is no other priority. Each must take their proper place in that work. How is Peter's question in 18:28 similar to Jesus' direction in 18:22? He was asking of what to compare. In what sense must disciple give up everything to follow Jesus? Everything which is blocking your path into your calling needs removed. How literally should we take this? Very, realizing that each of us is different and what is blocking our advancement into God’s purpose is different. Are the rewards Jesus promises in 18:29-30 literal or figurative? Once the spiritual relm becomes important to one, spiritual blessings are far more valuable than worldly trophies. Acts 4:31 applies. How do Jesus' sacrifices to follow the Father's will parallel our own sacrifices to follow Jesus. The Lord assumed the required role. What are the points of comparison? Ones life including power, position, expectations. What are the points of contrast? What have you given up that the Lord asked if you would take the next step. Position, trophies, so far for me. (18:31-34)

What does the Scripture tell us about this man? Rich and young. What do we know about him from his words, his manner, and his actions? (Feel free to include parallels from Matthew and Mark in your profile of the man.) He uses the word inherit, as in take posession of in hebrew thought. That is not receive the giftvof or harvest as a crop by effort. How to have ownership of/in eternal life. What do we learn about Jesus from this encounter? He is exacting on his requirements. What does this account tell us about him? He requires obediance of what we are told to do to receive of the kingdom. Why does Jesus challenge the man's seemingly innocent form of address: "Good teacher"? What is Jesus' point? Why does Jesus interrupt answering the man's question to make a big thing about something so small? He is not impressed with flattery. He does not allow recognition of persons status. Why does Jesus tell him to sell all his possessions? He wants to inherit, take poessuon of heavenly here after. Is this something Jesus requires of everyone? If you want ownership on an ownership basis then you must eely only on the source of the inheritance. If not, why single out this man? This applies to everyone that wants ownership not grace. How are we to generalize about "selling all our possessions"? We are not if we want inhertance, instead of gift or grace. What application does this have to us? If we want ownership there is requirement to fully join the family. Not live worldly and think we belong to inherit as a legal right. Why did Jesus designate the poor to be the recipients of the man's wealth, do you think? Who needs the blessing of posessions, those without them. Could the man have followed Jesus without divesting himself of what he held dear? Yes but he asked for inheritance not grace. Can you? I would not attempt to. Can anyone? I have serious doubts that shiuld be attempted.

What is the point of the parable that precedes the incident of Jesus and the Little Children? That our righteousness, what we think or do carry in annointing and trophies of our christain work are if no account. It is our need if Christ not our have that is right relationship. Why is that important to the interpretation of this passage? Because the children know they are welcome as they are not for what they can bring. They know in the culture they are considered unimportant. (18:9-14) Why would parents want to bring their babies and little children to Jesus? (18:15a) The tradition of bringing children to the temple or synagog on the 8th day or other for blessing. Why did the disciples rebuke the parents? The did not understand Jesus value system well. What was the disciples' view of the children's importance? Not appropriate concern for the lords time. How did they see their actions as serving Jesus' interests? It was a teaching point for the disciples, a demonstration to the people that the kingdom of God cared for all, not a select few. (18:15b) Why did Jesus interrupt his teaching to call all the children in the crowd to him at this point? I see the fishnet filled to breaking. The harvest will be all that can be drawn. In what sense is this a "teachable moment"? It causes inspection of ones values of those who are not yet mature and can do little for the kingdom now, yet are important for their future service.(18:16) What point is Jesus making by inviting the children to come freely? He is demonstrating the open welcome will draw all not just narrow selections. It is the welcome to outcasts that brings many in. How does Jesus follow up on his action? He makes sure the disciples hear that it is the acceptance of the children as having value though they seem to have little to bring that creates a joyous gather. Children have lots of endearing (and not so endearing) characteristics. Which characteristics of children is Jesus pointing to in this context that he wants would-be disciples to emulate? To come openly and joyously. In what way does Jesus' teaching here offer hope to us who read it today? Oh so many are burdened, downtrodden, ensnared in passed things. The Lord asked me why I was looking for the best fruit on the vine. Did I not trust Him to repair the weak, poor, damaged fruit. It is the damaged ones that give the greatest testamony and show the Lords loving kindness to the great cloud of wittnesses.

What makes us confident in our own righteousness? I am confident in the grace Christ paid for me. Only that.. (18:9) Have you ever known anyone like this? Many. Been this way yourself? It is always a temptation to move self to importance not up on your personal cross. What causes it? Failure to be guided by the holy spirit and moving forward on our own understanding. What are the symptoms? Not hearing the still small voice. In what ways do twenty-first century Christians look down on others? As in all centuries before those who adopt the label of christian without developing the content. Who are the people we look down on? I tend to look down on self righteous christians and shepherds fleecing their flocks. Eze 34 applies. I need to be praying for them. How does this grieve Jesus' heart? He paid the price for all the friut on the vine, not just the best looking. How does it injure the cause of Jesus' church? The poor will always be with you. Not the rich. Best pay heed to their need of salvation. What did the Pharisee's prayer consist of? Me Me Me I I I What does that tell us about him?He was about self not others. (18:11-12) What did the tax collector's prayer consist of? Forgive me for I so need it from you. What do his prayer and his body language tell us about him? (18:13).He was humble before the Lord. Extra Credit. In what way can the forgiveness of gross sin feel like a threat to the righteous person? They fail to understand the great sin of the zealous Saul of Tarsis. How can the righteous person avoid feeling threatened? Understand where that righteousness price was paid for, and by who. Should Christians consider themselves righteous persons? If we see plainly Jesus paid for and provides it. Not we by any self actions. Is this consistent with humility? Yes. In what way (if any) does looking down on a sinner constitute a sin? I elevates everyones worst sin. Self. Does forgiveness from this sin require humbling? It requires honesty with God. You may require humbling if you are not yet humble. What kind of humbling is appropriate? What ever causes one to learn their lesson of the constant danger of self. If Jesus were in the confessional speaking to you about this, what penance should he prescribe for your sin? Verse three of old rugged cross. Lay down your trophies to your self.

Describe the judge in this parable. What do we know about his motivations? (18:2, 4-5) For what ever reason he was not giving consideration to the widows just request. He became motivated by the persistence of the widow. Like a boxer constantly being hit with a jab to the face. The judge was not being over powered. He was being belittled by the widows persistant attack. Describe the widow. What makes her tick? Why do you think she is so persistent? (18:3) She was much like my 4 ft 10 1/2 inch mother. Buckle down, face the problem and just keep coming until you win. Persistance is always a weapon of choice. It takes less effort to jab than body punch. And once you have beaten the face until swelling about the eyes causes vision problems to the opponent. Victory is assured. They nolonger see the attack to defend themselves. A standard Greek Olympic boxing tactic. What is the stated purpose why Jesus told this parable? (18:1) Be persistant if your cause is just. What kinds of things can happen that cause us to lose hope, and lose any heart to pray consistent and believing prayers? Our own impatience or lack of true resolve. How can we get out of these "pits"? If we are attacking a wall or fortification, then persistance is adjacent to breakthrough. And victory follows. Keep on wth the attack. Do not turn away. Realize the wall of resistance is a sure sign you are near victory How can we believe in swift justice from God when he hasn't brought it yet? Because he is assembling the ‘great cloud of witnesses’. Trials are tests. We pass and grow in trust in God when we continue as directed until we win. Not by looking for an alt route. Do YOU think Jesus will find faith on the earth when he returns? Of the faithful, yes. Why or why not? Because we have matured to understand we are in God’s game and not our own. We are to perform as directed, not run about gathering trophies for ourselves. What is this parable saying to you personally? Continue in assigned mission. What disciple-lesson are you taking away from this? God sent me to a specific church to pray them through the change time as they grow from small family church to 150 plus or more. Two years in, quite concerned with apparent lack of progress the message arrived.. ‘I didn’t tell you it would be easy’. And understanding came. The greatest resistance and slowest rate of advance is the seige at the wall of your victory. Do not stop the attack. Constant pressure and persistence wins.

What two things do the "days of Noah" have in common with the "days of Lot"? What point is Jesus making by comparing his coming to those events? (17:26-30).The end has been declaired, those who are righteous in their desires to walk in God’s ways eill have salvation. The skepticle worldly will remain in the destruction. At his coming is Jesus going to bring peace or punishment? Peace to ‘His’ people faithful to follow him, seek the lost for him. Punishment will come to the disobediant. Jesus warns those on the roof or in the field not to go back to get their possessions. Why? What does this have to do with Lot's wife? (17:31-32) when heaven is calling head for our new home. Their is absolutly nothing of earth worth brining to the eternal life. What does "trying to keep one's life" have to do with turning to get one's possessions? Having self’s desires rather than God’s plan. What is the paradox here that trying to save one's life results in losing it? Explain. (17:31-33) You can preserve your self choices orcyou have already learned to allow Christ to live hisclife through you ministering the good news of the gospel rather than kiving for self. Jesus tells of people in close physical proximity to each other, and warns that one will be taken and the other left. What does this teach us about the nature of Jesus' coming? Where will they be taken? What happens to those who are left? (17:34-35) It is our inner spiritual dedication to be one with God’s plan for us on earth rescuing his lost, stollen, deceived sheep that will select us to go on in the spirit of life. Life being with God. I believe they will experience total evil as only those who chose worldy ways are lect behind. What does Jesus' parable of the gathering vultures teach us about his location when he comes? (17:37) The signs of his coming will be in the sky. They will have some period of warning as did the men of Sodom as Abraham saught them to turn from their intent. The vultures perhaps are the enemies spiritual parties who will begin to gather when God removes any restraint of righteousness.

How could the Kingdom be in or in the midst of the Pharisees? (17:20-21) Jesus was the manifested presence of kigndom authority. Luk 11:20 But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you. Jesus was walking out the prophetic proclamations of the Messah’s ministry. So ‘in the midst’ of them their very culture and society. How do we know for certain that the real messiah won't be the subject of messiah-sightings in the next decade or two? (17:22-23) He will be seen by all arriving as with a lightning strikes suddenss. According to 17:24, will Jesus' coming be secret or public? Very open for all to see. Why was it so difficult for the disciples to comprehend that Jesus had to suffer? It was not clear to them that the teacher they knew was also the Lamb of God. The perfect one sacrifice for all. There's been a lot of speculation in our own day about the coming of Christ. Witness the huge mainstream popularity of Tim LeHay's "Left Behind" series. What are the problems this creates for disciples? What are the strengths this offers disciples? It generates supositions of the end which are not exact to God’s actual plan. The opening of the subject of the end of the age to the public creates interest and generates conversations giving opportunity to bring the good news.

What do you think the lepers expected when they called out to Jesus for mercy? (17:13) Food, shelter, clothing, or actual healing? Oriental giving of alms was a standard social practice. Receiving something was expected. The healing, restoring them to social acceptance was beyond any expectation. What is the significance of the lepers showing themselves to the priests? (17:14a) Conforming to the requisite social health clearance in the culture for that time. Allowed to return into society. Why does Luke make the point that the lepers weren't healed until they started to obey Jesus' command? (17:14b) There is a price to pay to receive from God. There must be faith, either their own or as the man lowered on the pallet, those who helped him. There must be more than want. Obedience is a form of worship. Honoring the word. What about the thankful leper's actions showed his thankfulness? (17:15-16) His offer to serve. A simple and for him perhaps the only thing he had to give as a gift of thanks. His time in public, which he may have not had for years. What was Jesus' attitude toward the thankful leper? Toward the other nine lepers? (17:17-18) Here is a hint of a serious biblical truth, we must begin to gain a heart to serve others rather than hording to our self. In the phrase "Your faith has saved you" (17:19b) is Jesus speaking of the leper's physical healing, or his spiritual salvation, or both? Were the nine lepers saved or healed spiritually? Why or why not? Pre reserection salvation was still remote I believe. The healing should take place. Holding onto received godly gifted things requires thanksgiving, and some tangible repentance action, change of way honoring God for his gift to you. Why is it so easy to forget to thank God for his blessings? Terribly often we find our attitude as expectation of collecting on a promise, failing to honoring the cost of the gift received.

In Jesus' parable, should a slave expect his master to prepare dinner for him, or should the slave expect to prepare dinner for his master after doing his other chores? The only expectation a slave has is hope for a meal and a safe bed at the end of his or her day. In the parable, the slave should not expect thanks for fixing the family dinner. Why? Slave is there to perform as requested and expected only. If not so the slave would nolonger be present, housed, or kept. What does this parable say to the Pharisees, who expected God's special favor towards them because of their strict observance of the law? Nothing as they were seriously failing to perform their duties to the less fortunate. They were operating in curse territory. In what ways do we citizens of the twenty-first century take God for granted, expect him to do our bidding, and become petulant when he doesn't grant our wishes? Too many think God is a vending machine responding to a few prayer coins when we desire. Why is "duty" such a bad word in our culture? Rebellion in our hearts. Refusal to take up our duty. The long time military tradition is that the wishes of a superior officer are to be interpreted as an order. If you are a lax and poor performing soldier will the commander risk others lives to rescue you? Are you worth the loss, injury deaths of one or several useful soldiers commited to doing their duty? Our culture seems to expect others to carry our desire for a comfortable life though we refuse to be usefull to society.