Week 47: Luke

Prepare these questions for Sunday March 2, 2014.

The book of Luke is named after it's author, Luke. He was a non-Jewish (Gentile) follower of Jesus's teachings who was also a physician. Luke set out to interview eyewitnesses and review reports and records of Jesus's life in order to record the most accurate retelling of the story that he could. This book, probably written in the early 60s AD, is the first part of Luke's efforts (the second part is the book of Acts).

1. Chapters 1-2 record the birth of Jesus. Compare this retelling of the story to those in Matthew and Mark. What is similar about these books? What is different? Why might there be more or less detail in one than in another?

2. Chapter 4 v. 1-13 recounts the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness. What do you learn about God from this passage? What do you learn about the humanity of Christ? How can we use these lessons in our own lives?

3. Read Luke 6:17-49. What do these verses say about the way believers should treat those around them? Do you think the modern church is behaving in a way that Jesus (according to Luke's account) commanded people to behave? Are you following these instructions in your own life? What can you do to change your behavior for the better?

4. Chapters 7-14 are filled with parables, miracles, and teachings Jesus told or performed. There are lessons from Mary and Martha, the Parable of the Mustard Seed, the Transfiguration, and some impressive healing. Choose one passage from these chapters that stands out to you. What does this passage teach you about God and what do you think God wanted to tell future generations through this story? How can these stories be relevant to your modern life right now?

5. Chapter 15 tells three parables with the same point. They relate to the telling of an actual event in chapter 19 v. 1-10. In fact, these examples tell the primary purpose of Jesus's life and teachings. What is this point and why would Luke (the gentile doctor writing to other gentiles) be the one most likely to focus on this message?

6. The last chapters of Luke retell the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. Is there anything you notice that is different than the other Gospels we've read (Matthew and Mark)? 

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