George L

What's the difference between power and authority? In original Hebrew writing symbols for power is the bull, authority is the staff. The shepherd prods the recalcitrant of the flock. He also guides with a kind touch. Authority is the authorization to use the power. With believers on up in christianity that throttle on power is the Holy Spirits knowing you and trusting your judgement in using power properly, in proper measure of the need. What purposes did Jesus seem to have in sending the Twelve on this mission? They had seen his demonstration and received explanation and discussed the scriptures long known among themselves. It was time for them to discover they to were part of the prophesied coming of the kingdom of god to the meek, humble, poor, sick in even a fringe of the nation far from Jerusalem. Why did he instruct them to travel light? Why did he tell them not to bring a staff, a bag, or food, or money, or an extra shirt? What was the point in that? Limited equipment rather than flashy equipping made them very kin like the workers in the region going about daily tasks. No fan fair or parade shown, no expensive requirement for fancy lodging or support. Just workmen set on a local journey. Why were they told to stay in just one house in each village, and not try to find better lodgings? It prevented ranking by affluence of the first house discovered that could be hospitable. And the random lot of that occurrence in God’s hands made sure a variety of hosting was observed reinforcing the kingdom of God was playing no favorites. How did the disciples' obedience to Jesus' instructions bless people? Importance must be given to the vision for the mission of the sender therefore obedience to the details of how to act in the going. That portrayed God’s true intent of blessing throughout the nation included the smaller villages, the less prosperous preferences, the less economically prominent locations as well as peoples. Of what value were their reports and Jesus' debriefing? The demonstrated their levels of understanding and progress in ministry skills according to his chosen anointing.

What do Jairus' actions in this story tell us about the state of his faith? He was totally at the end of his rope. Can we imagine the pressure on church leadership to deliver a miracle within the family of leadership. We are the ones who are expected to have a more special relationship with the heavenly. Jairus was beyond what the Rabbi’s of his temple could do. Beyond what his own prayer had accomplished. And then there is this neighbor Jesus of Nazareth with a special reputation matching the prophecies of the messiah. End of our rope, one path open, so act or fail becomes our choice. Always our test of faith. The christian’s version of, Lights Up Full, Curtain Rises, you are onstage to show what you believe. It is not comfortable. It is part of the apostles walk. The believers growing up. Especiallybon your own first opening night.

4. How much of the substance of our faith is self-talk and convincing ourselves that something is true? How do we gain the kind of solid faith that doesn't consist in self-convincing? Self talk is pretty much self deception if not meditation on the word and God’s promises of how it is. Faith is trust and trust grows from continuing positive responses and outcomes in our hours of need, and from our prayers for others. Faith grows by experience. Perfection is a poorly translated Hebrew concept. Perfection is better understood as maturity. Faith grows from milk days of total care until we gain by trials and experience to truly trust ABBA in Jesus name.

What things did the lady in our story have going against her? Religous custom, Jewish Torah uncleanness, a physical ailment for years. Marathon of unsuccessful medical attempts. Do you think she was superstitious about touching Jesus clothes? There was a cultural belief in the tassels of christ’s robe having healing power. Mal 4:2 But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; How would you assess the quality of her faith? When you have no other hope, have given up on the natural then faith in Christ is the only way possible. Is that great faith. Desperation brings focus. Why did Jesus stop? To determine the recipient of the virtue. Do you think there was an actual transfer or flow of power? Yes. Why do you think Jesus caused her the embarrassment of having to tell her story openly? Without testimony the event losses its spiritual value to the multitude. Few people have had the gumption and nerve to push their way to Jesus the way this woman did. Why is this so? Their social inhibitions overpower their need. Why do many fail to receive answers to their prayers? They fail to meet the required follow through requirements. They do not persist, praise, thank and worship God. Reminding him of the effective promises and Gods inability to lie.

An interesting phrase Luke 1:2 2 according to the thing which they delivered unto us, those who previously {lit. from before} were khazaye {eyewitnesses}, and His own Mashamshane {Ministers} of The Miltha {The Word};

What or whom does the lighted lamp represent in 8:16? A disciple? Jesus? The Message? I identify the message as directed to all who claim salvation. Tell why you identify it in the way you do. John 1:1-5 Jesus is the word and the word is the light for mankind. Rev 12:11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. It is our testimony of what Jesus has done for us and the power of the Good News in the bible that wins souls. Why must the lamp be placed on a lampstand rather than hidden? What does this mean in the twenty-first century? A hidden lamp is a total loss of use of its purpose. Unless you are with Joshua at Jericho. We are not to hide the gifts we have been given. We are to bring grace to the poor, weak, downtrodden. In view of 8:18, is there any hope for people who think they are Christians, but don't really "get it"? Only if the come to their senses and begin to reciprocate the Lord’s love with obedience to perform His will, finishing His work on earth. Why would Jesus speak so disrespectfully of his family as he seems to in 8:21? When you walk in your office you are fully in that role. It has responsibilities, and requirements. You are about your assignment. Family is not a part of work, it has it’s own protocol. Perhaps Jesus is pointing out that the apostles are paying more attention to the crowd than the teaching. If you must state a single theme of Luke 8:1-21, what would it be? The importance of setting self aside.. Mar 8:34 And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. We are to be about the masters business first as guided by the holy spirit who will see that our life is balanced, family, work, and living on earth realities handled in order, and opportunities to minister the great grace of the gospel are not missed.

Why do you think Jesus called out, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear?" What was he getting at? I am reminded to listen to the intent of what the speaker intends, and not be listening so I may interject my own thoughts and meaning. The pharisees began desiring to understand his teaching and then his amazing power with the people. Soon they understood the plain truth that they had no such power from God. And that proof was indeed a worldly threat to them. How could people listen to Jesus, but not really understand what he was saying? The ear filter is often quite selective for the self motives, good for me. Openness to new information can be seriously revolutionary to your very way of life and values. In what way does Jesus' teaching harden people's hearts? If you decide not to hear, repetition is like work hardening metal. Increased resistance to flexing. Surely Jesus ministration to the poor and steady supply to his growing following demonstrated continuing blessings while the pharisees had no such supply. Is there any way that we can assist those with hardened hearts? If so, what can we do? Heaping coals upon their heads is a work of loving soft speech words not attacks on their stone walls. Holy Spirit guidance required both in words and in quantity. Proper dosage just as prescription medicine.

How would you describe the expression on Simon the Pharisee's face when he saw the woman touching Jesus' feet? Several come to mind. Unhappy as someone is intruding on my nicely planned dinner. Oh No not Her! And Oh no her hair her hair. Astonished. What was the sinful woman's motive for coming to see Jesus? I agree with your analysis she came to deliver a gift of respectful returned love for his proclaiming of the good news, forgiveness of sins burdens. What can I give… in return… what is most valued in my house.. the oil… Why did Jesus let her continue, since by all appearances what she was doing was scandalous? Jesus respect of individuals each, though among a crowd. He knew her need to reciprocate with gift that only could come from a heart of love. Is your love for the Lord more like the sinful woman's or Simon's? Why? The sinful woman. I was literally rescued on my death bed by crying out to God I can not take the pain that the care will cause this broken body. I had to have the patience to put up with the pain. From a oh you know me god type christian, I became someone who owed a debt beyond payment and knew it was a free gift to me. Miracle upon miracle turning a 9 month expected hospital stay into home by ambulance on 42nd day. Back at work 6 months to the day of my accident. I am now more than 13000 days past dead in the ICU bed revived time and time again. On life support, unable to breath on my own. Every day I have been given is God’s gift to me. Only by acting in love to others who are lost, stollen, and stray sheep can I ever give God my thanks for turning my end into a new beginning. Salvation paid in full, I do not owe him. I Love Him. She and I are family, I say with tears in my eyes.

In what ways is your position in the Kingdom greater than John the Baptist's? (A hard question, but at the root of today's lesson.) I though stumbling and bumbling as I am. I know that I Am. Yes! That I Am is my Father who is in heaven. By the holy spirit I have been given I may learn to know him as Abba (greek for daddy). I may seek Him as a beloved child, with a first born brother seated at His right hand making intercession… read that editing, proof reading, correcting my prayers into perfection for me, always, ever! OH sll ye saint's praise God! Why were people so critical of John and Jesus -- and for opposite reasons? What are we learn from this? So many people want their self verified important. Their self perception of importance. Repent, cry, humble yourself is far beneith them they think. They fail to see the God selected have been public rejects. Abram, Isaac, Jacob, Moses Gideon on and on. Throw away people of humility. John said ‘You repent for your sins snd be washed clean by baptism’ Jesus said ‘what is easier, to say rise up and walk, or hour sins are forgiven you. Already done no sacrifice to buy..” Do you know anyone who has "rejected God's purpose for himself"? What can you do to influence him or her for Christ before it's too late. What is doing too little? What is doing too much? Where is the right balance, do you think? So many have heard the word and then once so enlightened missed the warning and like me, became entangled in worldly pursuits, time wasting, non god serving activities. What to do, pray for them. Prophecy that the life come back into the dead bones. Pray the holy spirit and the Lord act on their behalf. Intrusive is too much, Nothing or no serious prayer on their behalf is too little. Failing to get from praying, petitioning, into praising and thanking God for the positive outcome. That is balance. When you know you know you can trust that God loves them more than you ever can. And He never changes nor goes back on His word.

Why do you think John the Baptist had doubts about who Jesus was? John had not seen or heard the walking out Isaiah’s prophecy. He was not hearing of a warrior king putting the Romans to flight which was a common desire of the people for the messiah. The deeper meaning of bringing judgement was not apparent though those offended by his ministry of power out of meekness to the poor, downtrodden lower caste surely offended the religious powers. Thus bringing judgment upon the religious self righteous profiteers on religious practice who cared nothing for the full population. Why didn't Jesus answer John's question directly? Why did he let his deeds speak instead? The deeds matching the prophesies of his coming were iron clad proof. Fare greater powerful proof than ‘He said…”. How was John intended to take Jesus' mild exhortation: "Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of me"? Jesus was walking out the holy spirit lead path of Father Gods choice, not man’s expectations of a coming king. I believe that John who also walked an unusual obedient ministry walk and would more deeply learn from the low key meekness the true nature of the age of grace arriving with its first pages being written in the hearts of the poor. “The kingdom of God has come among you.” How has God lifted your confusion and brokenness in a time of difficulty? How can you encourage those who are now under such a burden? Ex twice associate Pastor. Called back to work in a new place, church doing well. Hearing ‘pray’ and no other instruction. It was a fit in, do not expect to stand out understanding. Importance Almost forbidden. Some months perhaps a year I was filling in as catcher during body ministry after a powerful guest preaching the spirit said “third string fill in”. OK, no issue I must be getting this right. This low key placing is right. Soon Pastor was beside me and ‘tell him’ was the instruction. I turned to pastor and softly said, “God said to tell you I am a third string fill in”…. He responded ‘Oh Good.’ I knew that Father is pleased with you fitting to a needed role rather than your needing your own previous walk in authority…. The understanding of the low key seeking no position as important came clear with time. Those with worry, remember everyone has needs and troubles you know nothing of. Your obedience to walk Gods needed role is seriously important. If you are in the fire of the crucible remember the dross is coming to the surface to be cleared away, and the quiet deeper trusting walk of faith is developing within you. Broken is a repeating selection criteria…….

Did Jesus heal all the sick people he saw? Did Jesus raise all the dead people he encountered? No he departed Nazareth with comment about prophets lack of respect (faith in) in there hometown and family. How do you explain him raising the widow's son at Nain while passing many graveyards his route? The cemeteries were not actively in process. The cemetery while being there is not happening it is. the widow and burial party were encountered on the way. Does acting out of compassion mean responding to a whim? Why or why not? A whim is by definition not deeply emotional or involved.. Compassion is everything a whim is not. Shared pain for an observed condition or situation of what you truly see. Compassion is a dangerous virtue to cultivate. Why is that? What is the cost of compassion? What is the reward of compassion? As with Jesus encounter with the woman who’s faith was if she could only touch his garment. He felt the drawing upon his virtue. Compassion has a price. Caring is more than idle words. It is entering into seeking God for a solution. Prayer of a serious nature is not and adventure for the timid. Not a way to collect look at me awards. Compassion costs seeking God with our most precious thing, our time to be seriously involved with seeking positive out come. Can you be a true disciple and be dispassionate toward people in need? Why or why not? Good news is not the stuff of tabloids. It is the carrying of the true real power of the gospel knowing true hearing will bring expectation of things spoken. Your faith in God’s intent to deliver must be more than read about it. It must be a true lifestyle of experiencing God responding to your compassion as a heart felt need for godly power and supernatural intervention. How can a sense of compassion help you to pray effectively? Most definitely. From knowing of an issue, casual hearing. Some come to roost in your prayer time. And as you pray the flower opens or the layers of the onion are pealed revealing a ‘better more accurate picture’ of the need. You discover it is a mountain in the path. From open pit mine country. You begin turning the mountain into gravel to become a smother pathway for the one in need to receive Gods blessing. Many things are revealed in prayer, dealt with in tears of compassion, knowing God cares far more, knows the pain far better, and shows you just guidance to bring relief. Jesus paid the price. We finish somewhat exhausted yet joyous at the lost found, the captive free, the choice of salvation accepted. Compassion fires the engine to keep you returning again and again like the widow to the unjust judge. Compassion does not seem to allow turning ones back and walking away. Return with your hammer and hit the mountain again and again. Haul another barrow of gravel away. Move the mountain. One prayer session at a time. Loving compassion is like the sticky oil on the neck of an old bottle cooking oil. It sticks to you and doesn't rub off. That is the fats of the oil of anointing that carries through.

In your own words, state the insight that the centurion had of Jesus' power. How did this insight differ from that of Jesus' disciples at the time? The disciples were students not administrators with ‘office’. Giving the territory proper credit the doings of a powerful new Rabi (teacher) whom miraculous strange things of benefit to the poor and needy would be properly reported to the military structure which maintained public order. If nothing else, ‘this is the guy drawing huge crowds’. The miraculous side spoke of power and authority to delegate. Strange as it seems to ‘civilians’ a mikitary trained mine immediately recognizes another authority not by their fancy uniform orvtitle, ut as the nnsvy speaks of certain officers. ‘He/She draws a lot of water.’as battleship or sir aircraft carrier power among the smaller ships. What portion of Jesus' mission do you believe he has delegated to you? The portion before me each day. My claim is not preparedness but availability. I am a bench marker, a fill in. I like the fire crew go when called. Otherwise I train. How is the power Jesus can delegate to you limited by the size of your faith. Faith is trust. Not hearing of possibility, but more a great and powerful double hand grip on the actuality of God’s specific promise forcthe situation before you.

1. Con men continue to trick people and take advantage of them. How can you tell them, according to Jesus' teaching? ‘Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks ‘ careful listening quickly shows if there is value in the words or pompous glib talk, words to generate inappropriate desire for appearance not substance. 2. How does what you say when you're angry indicate what is in your heart? Because the tongue is difficult to tame. It has no ability to prevent the abundance of your heart to appear. 3. What areas of your life where you AREN'T following closely has the Holy Spirit been convicting you about? James 3. The holy spirit began to answer my .quest for a deeper walk with a sudden ability to hear my mutterings while stuck in traffic jams. It is still a progress test to see if I am asking for blessings on the others or am of critical nature once again. 4. How can you tell if you are a true follower of Jesus? Is being "born again" a good indicator? What does "born again" mean if it doesn't affect a person's lifestyle? Born again is a starting point. I often believe we are saving people and leaving them orphan. A true follower wants to learn the biblical pattern and ways because God Said and his word is eternal, trustworthy, never will he turn his word inti a lie. I begin to appreciate the distance yet to grow into with each confrontation where the scripture does not appear quickly showing me the proper A true follower desires above all else to follow in his pattern of behavior and compassion as our guide.

1. Why is the real test of agape love being able to love your enemies? If we fail this test, do we really have agape love? The Lords prayer is my guide, one translation includes not only ‘as we forgive those who trespass against us’ but continues with ‘and hold no animosity toward them’. That has indeed proven to be a difficult in practice. Yet with Christ as our example: Heb 12:3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. Are we not willing to forgo earthly satisfaction of holding others acts against them to seek God’s choice of mercy rather than sacrifice. Are we not willing to give time into prayer for them. Time the most precious commodity of earthly life. Let us all give time to praying for the lost. Who else is there but we who know their great need? 2. Do you see "turning the other cheek" and giving your enemy your tunic as literal, figurative, hyperbole, or what? What is the point Jesus is making here? Many proverbs there are about strife. If I refuse to engage in a dispute and forgive, then the contender must find new ground to attack me. If he must win, so win. On scriptural matters, Pro 15:1 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. I find a soft answer and retreat leaves open a future conversation instead of destroying a future opportunity.

2. Choose one of these four alternatives and then support your choice: (1) Christianity can be accurately characterized by delayed gratification. (2) Christianity can be accurately characterized as seeking a present blessing and experience. (3) Christianity can be characterized by both a present blessing and experience, and by delayed gratification. (4) Christianity can be accurately characterized by none of the above. Why did you make the choice you did? The presentation of relationship above is essentially gratify self, now or later. Which totally misses the fundamental core of relationship between man and God. That were knit in the womb to be exactly unique and gifted with skills and abilities to perform duties for God necessary for His plan to have the maximum benefit for mankind. There is no greater feeling on earth as completing a task well done. Adam walked with God in the cool of the evening. We have that opportunity to walk each day with self put on our cross and walk through the day with the Holy Spirit and guide, advisor and that still small voice to work a divine work each day. What could be a higher goal than serving God with his supply and his supernatural abilities for healing, miracles of all kinds, deliverance each day. How could we possibly do greater good?

What kinds of situations face us today where all night prayer is appropriate? (6:12) Major decisions and crisis situations for others. If there are full-fledged apostles today (and let's assume this for the sake of this question), who would be some of your nominees? Why would you nominate them? Apostle is a certain area of gifting. Prophetic insight, discernment, apt to teach. Able to establish and or build up a minister or church. Correct drift from true gospel doctrine as Paul did in his letters and travels. I have not seen apostolic minister, evangelism and many who teach and travel. But arrive to build a work for some time, them move to the next. Have not become aware of any yet. Why do you think most of the apostles were martyred? The world and religion hate ruval power to theirvpolitics and public acclaim. Can you think of any Christians in the twentieth century who were martyred? (Incidentally, they say that there were more Christian martyrs in the twentieth century than in all the other centuries combined.) Many in foreign lands where eastern religions prevail. When is martyrdom glorious? When is it inglorious? I will not judge that. Historic glory is when the death by a loving apostle causes salvations and turns the hearts of the perpetrators. Inglorious may be when one goes off on his or hervown initiative notblead by the holy spirit.bDeath with no positive result for the kingdom. Why do we tend to assume that miracles won't happen today? Many people have not seem one to believe. Scripture lines up the good news was preached and confirmed with signs and wonders following. I am one medically. I am not satisfied with our church family’s success rate. In prayer the answer was “More Jesus”. Our problem, we have lost our foundation, Crisp and him crucified. What would happen in your own local church if people began to get physically healed on a regular basis? They do. Who would it upset? I am sure there are critics of the full gospel approach. What would result? There are always critics. The doubters, critics, nay sayers can have their little cliques. God’s work will succeed without them. Rebellious sheep and goats should be sent on their way, they are in rebellion to God. How could we get our faith ready for such a happy event? God sent me to this church to pray. God wants to raise the power level of anointing, power their evangelistic outreach. Begin to polish the skills of our young gifted. It shall come to to pass if we allow the refining power of the Un-compromised word and allowing the holy spirit guidance in what must go and what to learn.

1. List some of the traditions that are taken for granted in your church, but are not directly mentioned in the Bible. Which seem to aid Christian mission? Which seem to impede the work of Christ? A hugely important thing this. The church began in the woods 40 plus years ago and has grown with God’s gifting into a growth ready larger building. Yet the mindset and organization are small family church. Important ministry people are overloaded with detail work. The transition to the new mindset for operating a larger ministry, not only more people in the flock but multiple outreaches is beginning to dawn on us. So certain habits of small organizations must mature to encompass larger crews versus I’ll handle it. And over site must broaden to deal with the much marger span of control. 2. Teaching that God's rules can sometimes be set aside for the sake of human need, can be dangerous. How can we observe this truth without abusing it? The Holy Spirit is the best guide. That still small voice, go, stop, left, right is so important as we walk through our day. 3. Are there any people who you are "looking for a reason to accuse"? (6:7) Why is this attitude dangerous? How can it blind you? Are there any people who you are "looking for a reason to accuse"? (6:7) Why is this attitude dangerous? How can it blind you? Friends are in a church where the Pastor is having to deal with his board of deacons on these issues. The critical attitude is driving the flock away. It is blocking the ceearion of several ministries to specialized needs identified in the area.

1. Why do you think Jesus spoke the extremely controversial words, "Your sins are forgiven?" He could have been less offensive to the visiting guests. Why did he choose not to be? My basic goal in my walk is to give the Holy Spirit full reign. I have asked for the anointing Jesus had with Father. Essentially to only do what he saw the father doing and say only what the father was saying. That would be perfect ministry for God bringing him Glory in the name of the Son. I truly believe that was the exact relationship Jesus had and kept fast hold of by his Quiet Time prayer life. Pinnacle example, Gesthemane, not my will but thine be done. Therefore, God’s choice for His perfect reasons. 2. What is the connection between sin and sickness in this passage? Hebrew belief on coupled sin and disease goes back to Exodus Exo 15:26 saying, "If you will diligently listen and pay attention to the voice of the LORD your God, and do what is right in His sight, and listen to His commandments, and keep [foremost in your thoughts and actively obey] all His precepts and statutes, then I will not put on you any of the diseases which I have put on the Egyptians; for I am the  N1 LORD who heals you." A standard reading / teaching of the scroll. 3. Which of the two phrases IS easier to say? "Your sins are forgiven!" OR "Get up, take your mat, and go home!"? What point did Jesus want us to draw from this incident? Both are about equal, but speaking forgiveness of sins is far more the spiritual awakening of the Kingdom of Heaven being at hand. Healing took place through the prophets through the old testament. Jesus was more than prophet or rabbi. 4. Why did Jesus use the term "Son of Man" rather than "Son of God" or "Messiah"? The son of man term is throughout the bible for man. I couple it with our destiny as apostles from Joh 20:21 Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. Joh 20:22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: Joh 20:23 Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; andwhose soever sins ye retain, they are retained. That God forgives peoples sins releasing them from that burden. In our ministry to people we are told to bear others burdens. When folks keep giving the burden to God then taking it back. Many combat veterans have that offload and keep guilts gone failing. After giving it to God they take holh and worry again. On ministry path is to remind then bear another's burden, give it to me, let me give it to God so you can not get it back. The weight cam be immense upon your arms as you take it and raising the burden it lifts openly from them and then from you. I firmly believe it is an early guidance to our ministry 5. Whom do you feel most like at present? The paralyzed man or one of the four friends? Why? The Friends. I fully believe we are to lay hands upon the sick that they be healed. Also that the recipient believe to receive. Many times come to church we can pray for you is the more complete kingdom solution. The afflicted hears the message and gains faith in the family of God present, their love and compassion. The message and the anointing of the minister. Hopefully the seeds of a growing believer in our church family. Then if when the afflicted joins in faith to be prayed for great things can and do happen.

1. Who in our society are treated like lepers were treated in Jesus' day? Who sometimes feels like a leper in the presence of Jesus? Spent teen years in Holy Toledo. Seven distinct neighborhoods by race, wealth, or cultural heritage. You did not cross boundaries at night. There were every sort of prejudice imaginable. My answer is the lepers are those your ‘caste’ real or imagined sees as untouchable. With biblical abominations defining certain behaviors reaching out to them in this day is required in love. That takes special guidance and holy spirit wisdom. Like the woman at the well, telling all done wrong yet generating no rejection of the person, and more so the run into town to announce this” Joh 4:28 The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and saith to the men, Joh 4:29 Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ? Joh 4:30 Then they went out of the city, and came unto him.” We are to free the captives. Bring sight to the blind. Do our best to rescue those that oppose themselves. Yet do do in such a manner to cause hope in Christ to arise not driven off by another condemnation. 2. Describe the kind of faith it takes to act and speak as this leper did. What level of belief was required of him? The Holy Spirit must be dealing with such as he. Bringing not just thoughts but confident driving trust that one of God’s promises is mine if I obey God. For faith is not having read that God said but knowing with assurance that the scripture beginning to burn in your sole is truly a promise from God and he pays no favorites game. 3. What is the difference between believing God can do something for us and believing that he wants to do something for us? Would you call the difference faith? or knowledge? or both? 4. "I will. Be clean!" is pretty strong. Can you think of any place where Jesus indicates that he isn't willing to heal those who are sick? No. But willing yet unable because of unbelief. Mar 6:1 And he went out from thence, and came into his own country; and his disciples follow him. Mar 6:2 And when the sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing him were astonished, saying, From whence hath this man these things? and what wisdom is this which is given unto him, that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands? Mar 6:3 Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him. Mar 6:4 But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house. Mar 6:5 And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them. Mar 6:6 And he marvelled because of their unbelief. And he went round about the villages, teaching. 5. A few weeks ago we studied Luke 4:42 about Jesus going to a solitary place. Since then have you made progress toward establishing a Quiet Time of your own? If not, what steps are you making to establish this Jesus-trait in your life? Reordering my day to develop a specific time for prayer and meditative study. Usually early AM. Late night sudden wide awake I get up and pray.

1. What things does Jesus asks Peter to do and in what order? Why the progression, do you think? He is asked to assist in a small way, “would you row me out a small way so I might speak to the crowd”. After the teaching where he has the best seat, greater request. Fetch your nets back in the boat, and row out deep to fish. Who knows what part of the teaching convinced him to hear in faith and make the effort. He humored the teachers request. And in so doing positioned himself to receive a tremendous blessing. Why? I believe throughout the biblical accounts from Genesis onward being obedient to meet the need, request, of a ministry gift always brought blessings. Peter and the crowd were waiting, I believe, having heard the wonderful assurance of his teaching.. that ‘the promise of the Kingdom of God has come near you’ in hope something strange and wonderful would happen. The draught of fishes confirming the teaching and the truth before a ‘great cloud of witnesses’. Then as now, hear the teaching, risk believing and step out as asked. Receive a blessing both unexpected and of supernatural in character. 2. Why do you think Jesus asked Peter to attempt the seemingly impossible task of catching fish during the day, after he's tried all night and failed? Why now, why this way is often in my heart. Because of the great cloud of witnesses is often the answer both of why did it happen now, and Lord why the delay? It suddenly occurs to me that the crowd on the shore watched a common family of fishermen, who had only helped him minister by taking him slightly off shore to speak more fully to the crowd. They saw a powerful blessing of impossible proportions from giving up some personal time in service of God’s messenger. Do we now expect our seeds of kindness and tiny blessings to grow and produce as mustard seeds. We should. God proved he cared about their situation. God acted in blessing multiplied for their kindness meeting the Lord’s need for the boat to speak from. Imagine the bust of wealth into the town. Fish be dried and traded, not just local food, but economic gain. 3. How does Jesus respond to Peter's plea for him to leave, due to Peter's sinfulness? Why doesn't Jesus address Peter's sinfulness at this point? What does Jesus talk about instead? The soft kind offer, come with me (serve me in seeming small things as was rowing me out to speak) and after the great blessing to large to receive all. Mal 3:10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. No mention of Peters past, all erased by the offer of a tremendous future in the Lord’s service. And any having seen in hands on actual blessing to large to receive. It is as though he is asked ‘will you come assist as I open the windows of heaven and pour out upon others? Come walk in the super natural with me learn of me. 4. Does Jesus require all his disciples to leave everything? If not, why not? If so, in what sense? Personal belief.. God designed each human with a unique and special gifting. That so if obedient to His calling of us to service we are an exact fit to a roll in the divine plan for harvesting souls. Some engines are “stock”, some are “blueprinted”, others are designed and built to be exceptional high performance race engines. We do best as we accept our adjustment to our gift matching role. Accepting “greatest good for the kingdom” above our own desires. A.B. Simpson on Self Life vs Christ Life. “Put your self up on your cross daily…. And come follow me.” Im my life it is verse three of old rugged cross. So I'll cherish the old rugged Cross, Till my trophies at last I lay down, I will cling to the old rugged Cross, And exchange it some day for a crown…. Hang on to badges from my past, or walk into the future with the Holy Spirit. Every day a choice to make. 5. What does it mean to you personally to "follow" Jesus? Share a bit of your personal journeying with your brothers and sisters and they'll share a bit of theirs with you. Mutual encouragement and reinforcement. I came fully to the Lord from what should have been my death bed. Motorcycle wreck on a country bridge, thrown into the girders then a 60 foot fall into 3 feet of water. I awoke on life support realizing that my own snap at anyone near me when I was sick or hurting personality, my control freak nature, and that would be my death. As instead of caring for me as they would prefer my own mouth would drive my care to minimum. And knowing that every thing they did to help me would be painful. I cried God give me the patience to put up with the pain. God answered. His spirit poured into my ICU room. My maybe live thru the night, maybe hospitalized 6 to 9 months became home on the 47th day. Wheel chair, yes, nurse with me when family could not be, and six months of more healing. Today is the 13395th day of life given me because of his great mercy. Stumble, fall away, drag back. Yes. His calling renewed. Past associate pastor of two churches in the last 33 years. Thinking I was finished. No, called deeper into prayer and time with Him. Follow.. fill the roll He has for you. The most dangerous prayer to your comfortable life is not, I am qualified to do, x y or z, but I am available. Then when He calls you can only trust Him and not your self. Dear friends, commit to His calling and invitation. No matter how small it seems to you or a moment of inconvenient, row out a bit deeper. The reward is great. PS, I am a 3rd string fill in for a gift missing from the church I attend. It is not a step down to serve as the Master needs. It is joyous to see the working of prayer. The power of our prayers is far greater than iyr natural stamina and reaches farther than we could ever run.

What does Jesus' ministry of laying on of hands for healing teach us about him? He cared at an individual level. How did Jesus treat the sick people he encountered that afternoon and evening in Capernaum? What kind of example does that set for us to follow? I see the true meaning of ‘the kingdom of heaven is at hand’ in this. God delivering the confort, healing, and well-being to the poor, downtroden average people. Not a select upper crust group. Which was the more important motivator for Jesus: compassion or duty? Did they ever conflict? The example of both while carrying out his assigned ministry. Personal wishes are ruled by our values, compassion, and desires. I remember well the counseling that you pray the amount of anointing the Holy Spirit desires to impart, not the whole truck load that may be available. As I grow in understanding and acceptance that Father has the divine plan fully worked out, and it is our job as good stewards to be obedient, not willful. Extreme case, Jesus on the Mount of Olives, Luk 22:42 Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. So too should we walk through our days in obedience to the Fathers wishes and goals. For in God’s plan enough here go to the next is the best for all, not our desire to complete what we desire in the natural. Why is it so hard to maintain a Quiet Time? What have you found that enables you to set aside this time? Any tips to share with the rest of us? The enemy is quite adept at distraction. His orchestration of the world about us is quite good at showing hurry hurry emergency signals to us. In directions far from God’s will for us. Time wasters. Also the self life of setting our own agenda is difficult to break. Once ingrained in our schedule, the distractions try, but habit, practice and understanding the necessity of Quiet Time to our very stability is paramount gives far more success. I have not found the struggle to stop for long.

What is the relationship between Jesus' commission in Luke 4:18-19 and his ministry acts in Capernaum? It appears to be a demonstration of the teaching, proof of the prophecies of christs nature. That the kingdom of heaven are at hand is truly happening.n Luk 4:18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruisedLuv 4:19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.Luk 4:31 And came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and taught them on the sabbath days.Luk 4:32 And they were astonished at his doctrine: for his word was with power.4:18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor;Luk 4:33 And in the synagogue there was a man, which had a spirit of an unclean devil, and cried out with a loud voice,Luk 4:34 Saying, Let us alone; what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art; the Holy One of God.Luk 4:35 And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him, and hurt him not.preach deliverance to the captives Luck 4:36 And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out. Luk 4:37 And the fame of him went out into every place of the country round about. Jesus Heals Many Luk 4:38 And he arose out of the synagogue, and entered into Simon's house. And Simon's wife's mother was taken with a great fever; and they besought him for her. Luk 4:39 And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever; and it left her: and immediately she arose and ministered unto them. Luk 4:40 Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto him; and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them. to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, Luk 4:41 And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ the Son of God. And he rebuking them suffered them not to speak: for they knew that he was Christ. 2. Jesus' words were spoken with conviction and authority, compared to the scribes who often spoke in….. What was the source of Jesus' conviction and authority? His divinity? Or something else? Should we expect conviction and authority to attend our own teaching? Why or why not? Jesus knew who he was by his relationship with the holy spirit from it’s decent upon him after John’s baptism. And his deep prayer life seeking the exact direction for what was ahead. I am an advocate of seeking the anointing Jesus had. “I only do what I see my Father doing, .. A.B. Simpson, the self life or the christ life. … pray and praise until you are removed and your spirit can hear clearly. Daily put your ‘self desires’ Upon your cross and come follow me, equals pray until the holy spirit is fully in control of your day. Then walk through your earthly day and expecting to hear and responding to the still small voice of the holy spirit to speak and do as the Father would have us do at each encounter. My experience on some days i struggle and others it is a sequence of God orchestrated ministry opportunities. Humbly, simply Jesus was so much better at it than we are. He honors or willingness to follow and act as he guides and not so acting of self. Why do you think the demon oppressed man interrupted Jesus? After you've read Dr. Wilson's essay on "Demonization and Deliverance in Jesus' Ministry" (in Appendix 2, do you think he proves his assertion that demonization describes a range of demon influence, rather than complete possession? Why or why not? You can normally see the little pig eyes looking at you through the persons eyes if they have serious infestation with a powerful daemon. Familiar spirits, others that effect your behavior and judgement are often family blood line curses. They have effect but not control. Still they generate repetitive patterns of the same bad decision. Do I agree or disagree. Both. The upper boundary is likely crossed into when one takes multiple choices into iniquity. And when approached in love and care to turn from the wickedness begins to blaspheme the holy spirit and more. That cursing is fatally serious. I would say fully possessed in that case rather than effected by. Luk 12:10 And whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but unto him that blasphemeth against the Holy Ghost it shall not be forgiven. Why isn't recovery from demonic deception always instantaneous? What is the process of deliverance that a person must go through to come to full freedom? The habit patterns need to be broken and new established. It takes about 21 repetitions of confront the error, recognize it, avoid it to establish a full break pattern. The enemy will always try again to see if the old snare will catch you unawares. Give examples from your own life or experience on how deceptive and innocent involvement in sin can appear, and how terrible the consequences. The pastor had a problem, weakness call it and would misbehave with women behind his closed office door. The church that had been effective and powerful became dwindle to nothing. Property sold to another congregation that prospers mightily where the first failed. In mid stream I found myself asking God how such miraculous healings could happen with the issues present. The Holy Spirit said the need of the person is honored. The success of thevlaying on of hands and prayer is not a co firmation of the ministry, it is only proof of thectruth of my word. What will happen in your life if you toy with or nurture the temptations you have to sin? What happens when sin and Satan get a foothold in your life? Destruction begins. Have an anointed brother struggling to get straight from drugs for the third time. He reestablished a relationship that should have remained severed each time. He is on the mend once again. We shall see.

4. After you've read Dr. Wilson's essay on "Demonization and Deliverance in Jesus' Ministry" (in Appendix 2, do you think he proves his assertion that demonization describes a range of demon influence, rather than complete possession? Why or why not? Many of us who returned from war have a great many spirits whick have infiltrated our hearts. When polititions are openly refering to warefare as sending signal to those opposed you undrstand how little value your life has to your nation in fact. A great deal of hatred and unforgiveness enters in. Without deliverence, and your own intention to break free of the spirits which corrupt your behavior, your care, your speach, can not be defeated. Once youbbecome aware you have given reactive control to a spirit ungodly… you have a choice to make and a lifetime of watchfullness to keep the room in your heart cleaned forcthe Lord. James 3 notice if your tongue has unrully spells with certain provocations. 5.Why isn't recovery from demonic deception always instantaneous? What is the process of deliverance that a person must go through to come to full freedom? The primary awareness is to realize the father of lies and his minions will be sending you thoughts, to generate misbehavior so they can accuse you. Believe in the continuing power of the blood and that you may return to calvary any time to see the blood is eternally there for us and not dried up samples in some museum.

How can it be that Jesus can go from declaring his commission from God on high one moment, to being subjected to an attempted assassination the next? Have you ever experienced highs and lows this extreme? I am a full believer in the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Hard words and preaching of A.B Simpson’s The Self Life and tht Spirit Life in a out three readings have convinced me that Jesus completely, and the apostles as best as humanly possible prayed until ready, then proceded to ministry. If our day is controlled by spirit lead decisions self remains upon our cross and God is responsible for the outcome. We are to be obedient to do and say as directed. A very difficult habitual way of life to attain. It is the relm of Jesus to the Pharisees. I only do what I see my father doing. I only say what I hear my father saying. A goal, surely I struggle to near that commitment to hear before making easy seeming decisions. Why do you think Jesus "rubbed it in" with two stories of God blessing Gentiles while Jews were still in need? Is he egging on the residents of Nazareth? Per my number one, be was obedient to deliver the abundance of God’s heart in every situation. Jesus is ‘the Word of God’ my take is that his every behavior wasan express message from the a undance of God Almighty’s heart. Often we forget God did not change his nature bewtween Malachi and Matthew. Same God. Same heart. Why couldn't they kill Jesus at Nazareth? Why did Jesus willingly allow himself to be captured in the Garden of Gethsemane? All things work for the glory of God. Wht we must be patient and obedient. God is gathering the cloud of witnesses to see what he does through his ministering gifts.It gives the power of teste ony to the cloud of observers. How did Jesus show courage in the face of rejection? What lessons can you learnfrom his example? He never walked in his self life. Only in his human life as a spirit lead soul. His life was fully committed into the Fathers hands.

1. Is it reasonable to expect that the power of the Spirit will be as great in a Christian today as it was in Jesus? Hohn 14:12 Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. I must believe it because he said it. I am 13370 days post death experience 3 times. God pulled me back from where the beings are chained under the earth three times out of 7 code blue events. I do fully expect greater things than I have already seen. . 2. Here is a premise: "If we are followers of Jesus, then Jesus' commission is our commission, too. We must both embrace his mission and adopt it for ourselves." It could be argued that one person's mission need not be another's. Do you think this is a valid premise? Why or why not? Yes quite valid. We each are a body part of christ present on the earth. The body of the betrothed to the son of God himself. Different parts with different giftings all working in unity as one body of Christ. 3. Why can being around the very poor make us feel uncomfortable? Can we with integrity declare good news to the poor without seeking to alleviate their poverty? Can the two be separated? Should they be? Did Jesus give alms to the poor, do you think? So very easy to be looking at a worldly view rather than God’s view. I have never seen more caring, sharing, helpful people than the down and out living just a breath above homeless. Jesus said the poor would always be with us. What a wonderful souce of prayer warriors, watchmen, and helps. And give them a bie extra and watch them share instead of hoard up. Being close in ministry with the poor iss a true eye opener. 4. Who around you is a prisoner? How can you declare freedom to them with sensitivity? A great many war veterans can not shake the sights, sounds, and smell of war. Right now we are loosing many to suicide. No matter how we try to reach them we have yet to find that grade of anointing. They slowly drift away, stop communicating, and then chose to depart by their own hand. Surely they are prisoners of the damage done to their hearts in combat. 5. How should you heal the brokenhearted in your world? Bring them gently to a meeting with Jesus. 6. Who are the oppressed in your particular community? How can you assist them and help them find justice? Everyone not born again is oppressed of the enemy. The world about them is controlled by him. There is no justice in the world system. As long as someone seeks justice the question becomes have the failed to forgive and move on? Many are sick, unable to get prayer answered and worse by staying in unforgiveness. On the practical side many oppressed are bypassed in the efficient digital government scheme of administration. The total burn out couple has no cell phone, no computer, no vehicle, no money… and most if all systems they encounter have no front desk, expect to email, computer access our forms, we need your address. But they are in a homeless shelter. How.. be christian, help, and keep them praying for their own solutions. As the successes arrive so their faith grows.