A Tale

Two Bodies

A Survey of Works of Jesus of Nazareth

and Some Activities of the Early Church

(according to Luke)

Leader’s Guide

Unless otherwise noted, the Scriptures quoted in this work are from the King James Version (with some minor edits for grammar and ease of reading).

Printed in Jamaica.

CONTENTS

PROLOGUE (Luke 1:1-4)
THE BIRTH AND EARLY LIFE OF THE CHRIST (Luke 1:5 – 2:52)
PREPARATION FOR THE CHRIST’S MINISTRY (Luke 3:1 – 4:13)
THE CHRIST’S MINISTRY IN GALILEE (Luke 4:14 – 9:50)
THE LATER MINISTRY IN JUDEA AND PEREA (Luke 9:51 – 18:30)
THE PASSION WEEK (Luke 18:31 – 23:56)
THE RESURRECTION AND ASCENSION OF THE CHRIST (Luke 24)
THE BIRTH OF THE CHURCH (Acts 2: )
THE CHURCH SETS UP CAMP IN JERUSALEM (Acts 2:)
THE CHURCH INVADES JUDEA AND SAMARIA (Acts 8:1-)
THE CHURCH INVADES THE ROMAN EMPIRE (Acts 13:1 – )
THE CHURCH INVADES ROME (Acts 21:16 – 28:)
THE CHURCH (Acts – )
THE CHURCH (Acts – )

PROLOGUE

(Luke 1:1-4)

LUKE’S REASON FOR WRITING

Luke 1:1-4

1 Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us, 2 Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word;

3 It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus, 4 That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.

Review Questions

What was it that the eyewitnesses and ministers of the word had delivered?

Declarations (Narratives) of those things which have been fulfilled among the Jews.

Whom was Luke writing to?

The most excellent Theophilus.

COMPARE Luke 1:1-3 with Acts 1:1 and NOTICE that both passages are written to Luke’s friend, Theophilus.

What did he want to write?

A declaration that was in order (v.3) – an orderly narrative account – of things which had been fulfilled among the Jews.

What reason did he give for writing?

For Theophilus to know the certainty of the things in which he (Theophilus) had been instructed.

Discussion Questions

Why did Luke rely so much on eyewitnesses in putting together his Gospel account?

He was writing, not as an original disciple of Jesus, but as a historian.

He was relying on those who had actually travelled with Jesus.

Why do you think Luke referred to Theophilus as “most excellent”?

Theophilus was probably an official of some sort.

Why would someone think that the Book of Luke was written to strengthen the faith of Gentile Christians?

Luke is a Gentile.

The salutation is to a Gentile.

Luke emphasizes Jesus’ ministry to Gentiles, as well as women and outcasts.

THE BIRTH

AND

THE EARLY LIFE

OF THE CHRIST

(Luke 1:5 – 2:52)

THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST FORETOLD

Luke 1:5-25

5 There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth.

6 And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.

7 And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years.

8 And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest’s office before God in the order of his course,

9 According to the custom of the priest’s office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.

10 And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense.

11 And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense.

12 And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.

13 But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.

14 And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth.

15 For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother’s womb.

16 And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God.

17 And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.

18 And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years.

19 And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings.

20 And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.

21 And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that he tarried so long in the temple.

22 And when he came out, he could not speak unto them: and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple: for he beckoned unto them, and remained speechless.

23 And it came to pass, that, as soon as the days of his ministration were accomplished, he departed to his own house.

24 And after those days his wife Elisabeth conceived, and hid herself five months, saying,

25 Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on me, to take away my reproach among men.

Review Questions

What were the names of John’s father and mother?

Zacharias and Elizabeth.

Why had they had no children before?

Elizabeth was barren.

Was she likely to have children?

No. The fact that she was well advanced in years means she was very old and probably past her child-bearing years.

Who was Herod?

He was king of Judea.

What was Zacharias doing when the angel appeared to him?

Either burning or preparing to burn incense for worship.

What was his reaction?

He was troubled, and fear fell upon him.

What was the name of the angel who appeared to Zacharias?

Gabriel.

Why did Zacharias become mute?

Because he did not believe the words of the angel regarding what was to be fulfilled.

How long would Zacharias not be able to speak?

He would not be able to speak “until the day these things take place” – i.e. for the duration of his wife’s pregnancy.

The angel told of several things that John would do. What were they?

He would:

cause many to rejoice at his birth.

be great in the sight of the Lord,

drink neither wine nor strong drink.

be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb.

turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God.

go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah,

turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,

turn the disobedient to the wisdom of the just,

to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”

Discussion Questions

Why do you believe Elizabeth hid herself when she found out that she was pregnant?

She probably wanted to make sure that she was indeed pregnant before going public by announcing it.

Why do you think Elizabeth said that God had taken away her reproach?

In those days, in that culture, childlessness was a great embarrassment, as well as a cause of great emotional pain.

Zacharias doubted and it caused him to become mute for a while. How can doubt affect our lives?

It limits us and our achievements.

It causes us not to try … and causes us not to succeed.

THE ANNUNCIATION TO MARY

Luke 1:26-38

26 And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, 27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary.

28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.

29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be.

30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.

31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. 32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: 33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.

34 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?

35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

36 And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. 37 For with God nothing shall be impossible.

38 And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.

And the angel departed from her.

Review Questions

What was the name of the angel sent to Mary?

Gabriel.

What was the name of the city to which he was sent?

Nazareth.

Verse 26 says the angel was sent in the “sixth month.” Which sixth month was Luke speaking of … What was it the sixth month of?

The sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy. (See verse 36)

What was Mary’s reaction to the angel’s appearing?

She was troubled.

After telling Mary about the impending birth of her son, the angel told her that He should be named Jesus. What else did he tell her about Jesus?

The other things the angel told Mary about Jesus were:

He would be great

He would be called the Son of the Highest

He would receive the throne of His father David from the Lord God

He would reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there would be no end

He would be a Holy One

He would be called the Son of God.

Why, according to v.34, did Mary question what the angel had said?

She had not known a man (intimately, as by having sex with him).

How would Jesus have been different from all other humans?

He would have had no human father.

Who was to be Jesus’ father?

God.

Discussion Questions

Twice, Luke mentions that Mary was a virgin at the time. What is the significance of this?

It had been prophesied that the Christ (the Messiah) would have been born of a virgin. Luke wanted his audience to know that Mary was that virgin and Jesus was the Christ.

Isaiah 7:14 “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.

If you knew your child was a gift from God, would it make a difference in how you treated him or her? Why?

Probably yes. Because God must have had a purpose for him/her.

Why do you think Mary was told her son should be named Jesus?

The word “Jesus” literally means “Jehovah is salvation”.

Since her son was to be the agent of God’s salvation of mankind, it was natural and fitting that He should be given a name (Jesus) which, essentially, means “Saviour”.

Compare what the angel said to Zacharias with what he said to Mary. Do you notice any similarities or differences? If yes, what are they?

In both cases, the angel told each one not to be afraid, and then gave a reason why not to be afraid.

In both cases, the angel told what the person to be born would do.

Compare Mary’s response to the angel’s announcement (v.23) with Zacharias’ response (v.18). Do you notice any similarities or differences? If yes, what are they?

There does not seem to be much difference, qualitatively, in the responses. In both cases, the person wondered how the event would happen.

The context, however, suggests that Zacharias did not believe, while Mary did. The angel told Zacharias that he would be mute because of his unbelief. Mary’s comment that it should be unto her according to God’s word suggests she believed that what was said would happen.

MARY VISITS ELIZABETH

Luke 1:39-56

39 And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda;

40 And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.

41 And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:

42 And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.

43 And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?

44 For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy.

45 And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.

A Song of Praise by Mary

46 And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord,

47 And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.

48 For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.

49 For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name.

50 And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation.

51 He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.

52 He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree.

53 He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away.

54 He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy;

55 As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever.

56 And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.

Review Questions

Where was Elizabeth living when Mary visited her?

She lived in a city of Judah, which was in the hill country.

Where was Mary living at the time?

Mary was living in Nazareth, which was in Galilee.

What happened when Mary greeted Elizabeth?

The baby in Elizabeth’s womb leaped.

During the visit, Mary started to magnify the Lord. What does it mean to “magnify” the Lord?

To magnify the Lord is to praise Him.

What reason(s) did Mary give for magnifying the Lord?

Mary magnified the Lord because:

He had regarded her lowly state and would cause all generations to call her blessed.

He who is mighty had done great things for her,

His mercy is on those who fear Him,

He has shown strength with His arm,

He has exalted the lowly.

He has filled the hungry with good things,

He has helped His servant Israel in remembrance of His mercy.

How long did Mary stay with Elizabeth?

Three months.

Discussion Questions

How far do you think Mary had to travel?

About a hundred miles.

Why did Elizabeth tell Mary that she was “blessed” among women?

She had been chosen, by God, to

carry the Messiah in her womb,

give birth to the Saviour of the world, and

raise the future King of kings as her own son.

Why do you think Mary stayed with Elizabeth for the length of time that she did?

Probably to help Elizabeth during her pregnancy, and to help her prepare for the birth of John the Baptist.

Mary’s song of praise has come to be known as The Magnificat because she “magnifies” the Lord in it. How did Mary magnify God in her song?

By focusing on God’s greatness and wonderful things He has done.

THE BIRTH AND NAMING OF JOHN THE BAPTIST

Luke 1:57-80

The Birth of John the Baptist

57 Now Elisabeth’s full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son.

58 And her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her.

The Circumcision and Naming of John

59 And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father.

60 And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John.

61 And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name.

62 And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called.

63 And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all.

64 And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God.

65 And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea.

66 And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him.

A Song of Praise and Prophecy by Zacharias

67 And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying,

68 Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people,

69 And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David;

70 As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began:

71 That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us;

72 To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant;

73 The oath which he sware to our father Abraham,

74 That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear,

75 In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life.

76 And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways;

77 To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins,

78 Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us,

79 To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.

80 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel.

Review Questions

How did Elizabeth’s neighbours and relatives react when they heard that she had brought forth a son?

They rejoiced with her.

How did they view the birth?

As a manifestation of God showing great mercy to her.

Why did John’s parents wait until the “eighth day” to circumcise him?

That was what was required by the Law. Note the following:

Which name did they want to give John?

They wanted to give him the name of his father, Zacharias.

Who was Zacharias’ song of prophecy and praise about? John, or Jesus, or both?

It was about both.

Where did John spend most of his time until he began his ministry?

John spent most of his time in the deserts. In fact, he was to be there until the day of his manifestation to Israel.

Discussion Questions

Why would Elizabeth’s neighbors and relatives consider her pregnancy as an act of God’s “great mercy to her” (v.58)?

As hinted at earlier, they would have understood how emotionally painful and embarrassing her childlessness would have been to her.

Why do you think Luke gave so much detail about the naming of John?

He probably wanted his readers to realize that John was no ordinary child.

Why do you think the people became afraid when Zacharias began to speak?

Because what was happening was not normal or natural. Who was Zacharias’ song of prophecy and praise about? John, or Jesus, or both?

His song was primarily about God and Jesus as God’s gift by which people would be saved.

The song of Zacharias has come to be known as The Benedictus, from the Latin word for “praise”. How many verses focus on God, and how many verses focus on the future ministry of John the Baptist?

The first 8 verses refer, almost exclusively, to God.

The last 4 verses seem to focus on John’s future ministry. Even in those verses, however, there is implicit reference to God.

According to Zacharias’ song of prophecy, why would John be called “the prophet of the Highest”?

John would be called “the prophet of the Highest” because he would be going before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways.

THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST

Luke 2:1-7

1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. 2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) 3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) 5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. 7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

Review Questions

Why did Joseph go to Bethlehem?

To be registered with Mary (v.5) as a result of the decree sent out by Augustus Caesar that all should be registered. Because Joseph was of the house of David, he had to go Bethlehem, which was the city of David.

Who was Caesar Augustus?

The emperor of Rome at the time.

What is a decree? What is a census?

A decree is an official command to do something.

A census is a numbering of the people in a particular area.

After Jesus was born, what did Mary wrap Him in?

Swaddling cloths.

What was He laid in?

A manger.

Why did Mary put Jesus in a manger?

There was no room in the inn.

Discussion Questions

According to Luke 2:6, Mary was Joseph’s betrothed wife. What does the word “betrothed” mean?

A betrothal was … a mutual promise or contract for a future marriage.

It was confirmed by oaths and was accompanied with presents to the bride and often to the bride’s parents. The betrothal was celebrated by a feast.

In Hebrew custom, a betrothal was more like a marriage than a modern engagement. A Jewish betrothal could be dissolved only by the man’s giving the woman a certificate of divorce.

The betrothal was actually part of the marriage process, and during the period of betrothal, the couple was known as husband and wife, although they did not have the right to be united sexually. The actual marriage took place when the bridegroom took the bride to his home and the marriage was consummated in the sexual union.

What is a manger?

A manger was a container designed to hold fodder for livestock.

In Bible times, mangers were made of clay mixed with straw or from stones cemented with mud.

Jesus was wrapped in swaddling cloths and laid in a manger. What are swaddling cloths?

They were pieces of cloth (like linen) that were used to wrap the bodies of dead people (similar to what is seen on Egyptian mummies).

What do you think the significance of that might be?

The significance could be that God was indicating, from very early in the life of Jesus, that His Son was born to die.

Would you say Jesus was born soon after or long after John the Baptizer? Please give a reason for your answer.

Jesus was born soon after John the Baptizer was born.

Based on what Gabriel told Mary about Elizabeth’s pregnancy (Luke 1:36), it is more than likely that Jesus was born about 6 months after John the Baptizer.

What would you say are some of the unique facts surrounding Jesus’ birth according to Luke?

Luke narrows the time frame during which Jesus was born by locating His birth during a census done while Quirinius was governing Syria.

Joseph and Mary were in Bethlehem at the time of Jesus’ birth because it was the ancestral home of Joseph, and Joseph had to return there in order to register for the census.

Jesus was put in a manger (a feeding trough for animals) after He was born because there was no room for them in the inn.

Angels announced Jesus’ birth to shepherds who were tending flocks near to Bethlehem.

Luke mentions the angelic host Luke mentions the visit of the shepherds

Luke mentions Jesus’ visit to the temple when just a few days old

SHEPHERDS TOLD OF THE BIRTH OF JESUS

Luke 2:8-20

8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

Review Questions

What were the shepherds doing when the angel appeared to them?

They were living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flocks by night.

What time of day was it when the angel appeared?

It seems to be in the night.

What was the reaction of the shepherds?

They were greatly afraid.

What was the good news that the angel had brought?

The good news was that a Saviour had been born that very day in the city of David.

What was the sign they should look for?

A babe wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.

Was the angel alone?

He may have been when he first appeared. At some point, however, he was with a multitude of the heavenly host.

What did the shepherds do after receiving the good news?

They promptly went with haste to Bethlehem and see what had come to pass – that which the Lord had made known to them – and they found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger.

What did the shepherds do after seeing the Child?

When they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child.

What were the shepherds doing as they returned?

They were glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.

Discussion Questions

In the previous section, you were asked about unique facts surrounding the Jesus’ birth. Based on current passage, what would you say are some of the other unique facts surrounding Jesus’ birth according to Luke?

Shepherds were tending their flocks near to Bethlehem at the time.

An angel announced Jesus’ birth to those shepherds.

The angel was joined by an angelic host to praise God.

The shepherds visited and saw the baby Jesus.

The shepherds spread the work about what they heard and saw.

Do you think it likely that Jesus was born on December 25? Why or why not?

According to verse 8, at the time of Jesus’ birth, the shepherds were living out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. That would have been very unlikely on December 25, which would have been very cold and, possibly, snowing.

JESUS IS CIRCUMCISED, NAMED AND PRESENTED

Luke 2:21-40

21 And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

22 And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord;

23 (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)

24 And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.

A Blessing by Simeon

25 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.

26 And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

27 And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,

28 Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

29 Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: 30 For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, 31 Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; 32 A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.

33 And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.

34 And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;

35 (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

A Thanksgiving by Anna

36 And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity;

37 And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.

38 And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

Jesus is carried back to Nazareth and Grows in the Spirit

39 And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth. 40 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.

Review Questions

When was Jesus circumcised?

When eight days were accomplished. (i.e. on the eight day after His birth).

Why was Jesus given that name?

Mary and Joseph were doing what the angel had told them to do.

What did Mary and Joseph wait for before presenting the Child Jesus?

They waited for the days of her purification, according to the law of Moses, to be completed before presenting Him

What had the Holy Spirit revealed to Simeon?

That he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

What did Simeon do when he saw the Child?

He took Him in his arms and blessed God, after which he blessed Mary and Joseph.

How did Joseph and Mary react to what Simeon had to say?

They marveled at those things which he had spoken about Jesus.

How long had Anna the prophetess been married?

It seems seven years.

How long had she been a widow?

It seems she had been a widow for eighty-four years.

What did Anna do when she saw the Child?

She gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

Where did Jesus and His parents return to after presenting Him?

Back to their own city of Nazareth, in Galilee.

Discussion Questions

What is circumcision?

A procedure in which a piece of the foreskin covering the head of the penis is cut off.

Why was Jesus Christ circumcised and why on that particular day?

That was what the Law of Moses required. (See Leviticus 12:1-8).

Leviticus 12:1-8 Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, 2 “Speak to the children of Israel, saying: ‘If a woman has conceived, and borne a male child, then she shall be unclean seven days; as in the days of her customary impurity she shall be unclean. 3 And on the eighth day the flesh of his foreskin shall be circumcised. 4 She shall then continue in the blood of her purification thirty-three days. She shall not touch any hallowed thing, nor come into the sanctuary until the days of her purification are fulfilled. 5 But if she bears a female child, then she shall be unclean two weeks, as in her customary impurity, and she shall continue in the blood of her purification sixty-six days. 6 When the days of her purification are fulfilled, whether for a son or a daughter, she shall bring to the priest a lamb of the first year as a burnt offering, and a young pigeon or a turtledove as a sin offering, to the door of the tabernacle of meeting. 7 Then he shall offer it before the LORD, and make atonement for her. And she shall be clean from the flow of her blood. This is the law for her who has borne a male or a female. 8 And if she is not able to bring a lamb, then she may bring two turtledoves or two young pigeons — one as a burnt offering and the other as a sin offering. So the priest shall make atonement for her, and she will be clean.'”

JESUS AT TWELVE YEARS OF AGE

Luke 2:41-52

41 Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.

42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast.

43 And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it. 44 But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day’s journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance. 45 And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him.

The Teachers Amazed by Jesus

46 And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. 47 And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.

48 And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.

49 And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? Wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?

50 And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.

51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.

The Growth of Jesus in Wisdom and Stature

52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.

Review Questions

Luke uses three phrases to describe Jesus as He grew. What are they?

He became strong in spirit,

He was filled with wisdom, and

the grace of God was upon Him.

Where did Jesus’ parents go to attend the Feast of the Passover?

To Jerusalem.

How often did they go?

They went every year.

Why did Jesus’ parents not miss Him as they were returning home?

They had assumed He was with others in their company.

How long was it before they missed Him?

At least a day.

How did they eventually come to miss Him?

They had gone to seek Him among relatives and acquaintances.

How long did it take for them to find Him?

At least three days.

Where did they eventually find Jesus?

They found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers.

What was Jesus doing when his parents found Him?

Jesus was listening to the teachers and asking them questions.

What was the reaction of those who heard Jesus?

They were all astonished at His understanding and His answers.

Did they understand Jesus’ response?

No.

How does Luke say Jesus related to His parents?

He was subject to them.

According to Luke, a) what did Jesus increase in? and b) whom did He find favour with?

Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and

He increased in favour with God and men.

Discussion Questions

NOTE: Luke is the only Gospel writer that mentions Jesus’ visit to the temple at age 12.

What do you think about Jesus’ reaction to His mother’s question and statement after they had found Him?

Whatever we think, He did not dishonour them in any way, because it would have been a sin for Him to do so, and He was without sin.

What does Jesus’ response to His mother’s question tell you?

Even though He was only 12, Jesus was aware of His special calling from God.

What do you think Luke meant when he said that Jesus “increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.”

He meant that Jesus developed

intellectually (in wisdom),

physically (in stature),

spiritually (in favour with God), and

socially (in favour with man).

Where was Jesus between the ages of 12 and 30?

When Chapter 2 of LUKE ends, Jesus Christ is about twelve. The next time we see Jesus, He is about thirty years of age.

There has been much speculation about where Jesus was and what He was doing between the ages of 12 and 30. However, we cannot say for sure because the Bible does not say.

PREPARATION

FOR

THE CHRIST’S MINISTRY

(Luke 3:1 – 4:13)

THE BEGINNING OF JOHN THE BAPTIST’S MINISTRY

Luke 3:1-6

1 Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, 2 Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. 3 And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins; 4 As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying,

The voice of one crying in the wilderness,

Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.

5 Every valley shall be filled,

and every mountain and hill shall be brought low;

and the crooked shall be made straight,

and the rough ways shall be made smooth;

6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.

Review Questions

Who was the Caesar when the word of God came to John, the son of Zacharias?

Tiberius Caesar.

Who was the governor of Judea at the time?

Pontius Pilate.

Who was the tetrarch of Galilee?

Herod.

Who were the high priests?

Annas and Caiaphas.

Where was John preaching?

In all the region around the Jordan.

What was John preaching?

The baptism of repentance.

Who was the prophet that prophesied about the voice of one crying in the wilderness?

Isaiah.

According to prophecy, what was the ministry of “one crying in the wilderness” about?

Preparing the way of the Lord (coming before the ministry of the Christ).

Discussion Questions

What do you think is the purpose of baptism?

Many think that baptism is supposed to represent turning from sin.

However, the main purpose is as a way of identifying with someone or something.

How would baptism have come to represent a way of identifying with someone?

The English word “baptize” is translated from the Greek word “baptizo” which means has to do with immersion.

In ancient times, when people and tribes were identified by colours, a particular colour would be achieved by immersing (baptizing) a piece of cloth in a liquid dye.

Because the process of immersing the fabric produce a colour that was used as a means of identification, the process of baptizing persons came to represent a means of identifying the baptized person with someone or some thing.

Given what is said above, what do you think is the purpose of Christian baptism?

It is to identify the person being baptized with Jesus Christ.

Given what has been said, what do you think was the purpose of John’s baptism?

It would have been a way of identifying with John and his teaching.

How would you explain the phrase “baptism of repentance for the remission of sins” as it relates to John’s preaching?

The remission of sins means the forgiveness of sins.

The Greek word translated as “repentance” in the phrase is from the Greek word “metanoia” which has to do with a change of mind.

John was preaching that in order for someone to receive forgiveness of sins, he would have to change his mind about someone or something.

Because Jesus is “the way” a person would have change his mind about Jesus in order to receive forgiveness of sins.

A baptism of repentance for the remission of sins is one that identifies a person with the belief that Jesus Christ’s death was for the receive remission of sins.

THE PREACHING OF JOHN THE BAPTIST

Luke 3:7-20

7 Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. 9 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.

10 And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then?

11 He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.

12 Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do?

13 And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you.

14 And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages.

15 And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not; 16 John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire: 17 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and will gather the wheat into his garner; but the chaff he will burn with fire unquenchable.

18 And many other things in his exhortation preached he unto the people.

19 But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him for Herodias his brother Philip’s wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done, 20 Added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison.

Review Questions

Why had the multitudes come out to John?

The multitudes came out to be baptized by him.

What kind of fruits did John tell the multitudes to bear?

Fruits worthy of repentance.

What kind of repentance did John have in mind?

One that would cause them to stop depending on their relationship to Abraham.

What would happen to those who did not bear good fruit of repentance?

They would be thrown into fire.

What specific things did John tell the people to do?

He who had two tunics should share with he who had none; and he who had food should share with he who did not have.

What specific thing did he tell the tax collectors?

They should only collect what they were supposed to collect.

What specific thing did John tell the soldiers to do?

To not intimidate, not accuse anyone falsely and to be content with their wages.

What did the people wonder about the identity of John?

They wondered whether he was the Christ or not.

John baptized with water. What was his successor going to baptize with?

He would baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire.

What did John rebuke Herod the tetrarch about?

For his relationship with Herodias, his brother’s wife, and all the evils he had done.

What did Herod do to John?

Herod shut John up in prison.

Discussion Questions

What was the purpose of John’s Baptism?

A baptism was a way of identifying with a person and his ministry.

Those who allowed themselves to be baptized were identifying with John’s “Back To God” movement, which was preparing people for the coming of the Messiah.

John’s baptism was not the same as Christian baptism.

Why do you think John told them not to say they had Abraham as their Father?

They believed God would judge Jews and other nations with separated standards.

As a result, they believed they were safe from judgement simply by virtue of the fact that they were Jews, descendants of Abraham.

John wanted them to know that life, not lineage, was God’s standard (for all).

What about John’s message stands out for you?

It required that men should share with each other.

It exhorted that men should do their jobs well, as they should be done.

It shows that John saw himself as the forerunner of the King who was to come.

What was the reproof that caused John’s imprisonment all about?

Herod the Great had divided up his empire among three of his sons, Archelaus, Antipas and Philip.

Herodias, the daughter of another of Herod’s sons (Aristobulus) had married another of Herod’s sons (her uncle) and lived with him in Rome.

On a visit to Rome, Antipas (the tetrarch reproved by John) seduced Herodias from her husband (Antipas’ half-brother)

By marrying Herodias, Antipas had not only seduced his sister-in-law (his half-brother’s wife), but he had also married his niece (his half-brother’s daughter).

The whole arrangement was revolting to Jews because it was not only improper in many ways, but also contrary to Jewish laws and custom.

THE BAPTISM OF JESUS CHRIST

Luke 3:21-22

21 Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, 22 And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.

Review Questions

What did Jesus do during His baptism?

He prayed.

What three (3) things happened while Jesus was praying?

The heaven was opened.

The Holy Spirit descended in bodily form like a dove upon Him.

A voice came from heaven.

Discussion Questions

What do you understand from the what the voice said from Heaven?

Jesus was the beloved Son of God.

God was well pleased with Jesus.

Why do you think Jesus insisted on being baptized?

as a way of identifying with John’s preaching about Him

as a means of identifying with sinful humans

as a sign of His commitment to God’s will

Why do you think Christians are baptized?

as a way of identifying with Christ

as a way of indicating commitment to do God’s will

GENEALOGY OF JESUS CHRIST

Luke 3:23-38

23 And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, which was the son of Heli,

24 Which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi, which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Janna, which was the son of Joseph,

25 Which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Amos, which was the son of Naum, which was the son of Esli, which was the son of Nagge,

26 Which was the son of Maath, which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Semei, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Juda,

27 Which was the son of Joanna, which was the son of Rhesa, which was the son of Zorobabel, which was the son of Salathiel, which was the son of Neri,

28 Which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Addi, which was the son of Cosam, which was the son of Elmodam, which was the son of Er,

29 Which was the son of Jose, which was the son of Eliezer, which was the son of Jorim, which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi,

30 Which was the son of Simeon, which was the son of Juda, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Jonan, which was the son of Eliakim,

31 Which was the son of Melea, which was the son of Menan, which was the son of Mattatha, which was the son of Nathan, which was the son of David,

32 Which was the son of Jesse, which was the son of Obed, which was the son of Booz, which was the son of Salmon, which was the son of Naasson,

33 Which was the son of Aminadab, which was the son of Aram, which was the son of Esrom, which was the son of Phares, which was the son of Juda,

34 Which was the son of Jacob, which was the son of Isaac, which was the son of Abraham, which was the son of Thara, which was the son of Nachor,

35 Which was the son of Saruch, which was the son of Ragau, which was the son of Phalec, which was the son of Heber, which was the son of Sala,

36 Which was the son of Cainan, which was the son of Arphaxad, which was the son of Sem, which was the son of Noe, which was the son of Lamech,

37 Which was the son of Mathusala, which was the son of Enoch, which was the son of Jared, which was the son of Maleleel, which was the son of Cainan,

38 Which was the son of Enos, which was the son of Seth, which was the son of Adam, which was the son of God.

Review Questions

How old was Jesus when He began His ministry?

He was about thirty years of age.

Whom did people suppose was Jesus’ father?

Joseph.

Which son of David is mentioned in the genealogy?

Nathan.

Which son of Jacob did Jesus descend from?

Judah.

Which son of Adam did Jesus descend from?

Seth.

Discussion Questions

Why do you think Jesus spent thirty years in Nazareth when He had come to save the world?

He had to take up the personal responsibility of caring for His family (as the oldest son) before He could take up the universal task of saving the world.

He had to know how men lived so that He’d be better able to help them.

He had to live as He taught others they should live, according to the principles He taught.

What are some of the differences between this genealogy in LUKE and the one in Matthew?

Luke covers the period from Adam to Abraham; Matthew doesn’t.

Luke’s genealogy goes from Jesus to God; Matthew’s goes from Abraham to Joseph.

Luke’s genealogy from David to Joseph is very different from Matthew’s.

What do you think explains the differences?

Some have said Luke is focusing on the humanity of Jesus, while Matthew is focusing on His royalty.

Others say Luke is giving the priestly descent, while Matthew is giving the kingly descent.

Still others believe Luke is giving Mary’s genealogy, while Matthew gives Joseph’s.

THE TEMPTATION OF JESUS CHRIST

Luke 4:1-13

1 And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, 2 Being forty days tempted of the devil. And in those days he did eat nothing: and when they were ended, he afterward hungered.

3 And the devil said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, command this stone that it be made bread.

4 And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.

5 And the devil, taking him up into an high mountain, shewed unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. 6 And the devil said unto him, All this power will I give thee, and the glory of them: for that is delivered unto me; and to whomsoever I will I give it. 7 If thou therefore wilt worship me, all shall be thine.

8 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Get thee behind me, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

9 And he brought him to Jerusalem, and set him on a pinnacle of the temple, and said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down from hence: 10 For it is written, He shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee: 11 And in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.

12 And Jesus answering said unto him, It is said, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.

13 And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from him for a season.

Review Questions

How did Jesus come to be in the wilderness?

He was led by the Spirit into the wilderness.

Where had Jesus been before being led into the wilderness?

At the Jordan.

How long was Jesus tempted by the Devil for?

Forty days.

Why was Jesus hungry?

He had not eaten.

What was the first temptation that Luke records?

To command stone to become bread.

What was Jesus’ response?

“It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God’.”

What was the second temptation that Luke records?

To get authority over all the kingdoms of the world by worshiping the Devil.

How was the devil able to give Jesus authority over the kingdoms?

All authority had been given to him, and he could give it to whomever he wished.

What was Jesus’ response?

“Get behind Me, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve’.”

What was the third temptation that Luke records?

To throw Himself from the pinnacle of the Temple and cause the angels to save Him.

What was Jesus’ response?

“It has been said, ‘You shall not tempt the Lord your God’.”

When the devil ended the temptation, how long did he depart from Jesus?

For a season (until an opportune time).

Discussion Questions

Given that we could not be tempted by being told to turn bread into stone, why do you think Jesus would have been tempted by that suggestion?

Jesus must have been aware of His supernatural abilities.

What do you notice is common to all Jesus’ responses?

Jesus always referred to what God’s Word said.

What aspect of human nature was the first temptation appealing to?

The need for food (Gen.3:6) … the lust of the flesh (1 John 2:16).

What aspect was the second temptation appealing to?

The lust of the eyes (Gen.3:6; 1 John 2:16).

What aspect was the third temptation appealing to?

The desire to be wise (Gen.3:6) … the pride of life (1 John 2:16) … the idea of being able to get God to do what is desired.

THE

MINISTRY

GALILEE

(Luke 4:14 – 9:50)

THE BEGINNING OF JESUS’ GALILEAN MINISTRY

Luke 4:14-15

14 And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee: and there went out a fame of him through all the region round about. 15 And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified of all.

Review Questions

Where did Jesus return to after the temptation by the devil?

Jesus returned to Galilee.

How did He return?

Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit.

Note the similarity with His venture into the wilderness (v.1).

What did Jesus do in Galilee?

He taught in the synagogues of Galilee.

What was the response to Jesus’ teaching?

He was glorified by all.

Discussion Questions

What do you understand the phrase “in the power of the Spirit” to mean?

More than being led by the Spirit, it probably meant “energized by the Spirit.”

Why do you think Jesus began His ministry in Galilee?

According to William Barclay, “Galilee … was the most forward-looking and least conservative part of Palestine … extraordinarily densely populated … of extraordinary fertility …” and “the Galilaens … were ever fond of innovations … disposed to changes … delighted in seditions … quick in temper and given to quarreling … more anxious for honour than for gain.”

For these reasons, Barclay believed Galilee would give Jesus “an audience who would listen and kindle at His message.”

What do you think would be the advantage of teaching in the synagogues?

According to Barclay, the synagogue was “the real centre of religious life in Palestine. There was only one Temple, but the law said that wherever there were ten Jewish families, there must be a synagogue; and do in every town and village it was in the synagogue that people met to worship … The Temple was designed for sacrifice; the synagogue for teaching.”

How could Jesus, as a layman, get to teach in the synagogues?

There were three parts to the synagogue service: 1) worship, with prayer; 2) Scripture reading and 3) teaching.

During the teaching part, because there was no professional ministry or special persons to give addresses, the president would invite a distinguished person to speak and discussion would follow after.

Jesus would have been asked by presidents to speak.

THE REJECTION OF JESUS IN NAZARETH

Luke 4:16-30

16 And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read. 17 And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written,

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 bruised,

19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.

20 And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him. 21 And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.

22 And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph’s son?

23 And he said unto them, Ye will surely say unto me this proverb, Physician, heal thyself: whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country.

24 And he said, Verily I say unto you, No prophet is accepted in his own country. 25 But I tell you of a truth, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land; 26 But unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow.

27 And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Eliseus the prophet; and none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the Syrian.

28 And all they in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were filled with wrath, 29 And rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast him down headlong. 30 But he passing through the midst of them went his way,

Review Questions

Where was Jesus brought up?

Nazareth.

What was Jesus’ custom?

His custom was to go into the synagogue on the Sabbath day.

Which book did Jesus quote from?

The book of the prophet Isaiah.

According to the passage from the book of Isaiah, what had the Lord done?

According to Isaiah, the Lord had done the following:

He had anointed One to preach the gospel to the poor;

He had sent One to heal the brokenhearted,

He had sent One to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind,

He had sent One to set at liberty those who are oppressed;

He had sent One to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.

What did Jesus say after He had closed the book, given it back to the attendant, and sat down?

He said, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”

Were there widows in Israel during the three and a half year drought?

Yes. There were many.

To how many of those widows in Israel was Elijah sent at that time?

To none of them.

During the days of Elisha the prophet, were there any lepers in Israel?

Yes. There were many.

How many of those lepers in Israel did Elisha cause to be cleansed?

None of them was cleansed

How did the people react to the examples Jesus gave?

They were filled with wrath, and they led Him to the brow of the hill on which their city was built, so that they might throw Him down over the cliff.

Discussion Questions

What point was Jesus trying to make when He gave those two examples of God’s intervention as illustrations?

Jesus was trying to show that no prophet is accepted in his own country.

The people in His country (Nazareth) wanted Him to do there what He had done in another country (Capernaum).

How did Christ’s reading (vv.18-21) in the synagogue set the stage for His ministry?

His ministry was all about anointing, healing, preaching and setting people free.

AN UNCLEAN SPIRIT CAST OUT BY JESUS

Luke 4:31-37

31 And came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and taught them on the sabbath days.

32 And they were astonished at his doctrine: for his word was with power.

33 And in the synagogue there was a man, which had a spirit of an unclean devil, and cried out with a loud voice, 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.

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.

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.

37 And the fame of him went out into every place of the country round about.

Review Questions

Which city did Jesus go to after He was rejected in Nazareth?

Jesus went down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee.

How did the people there respond to His teaching on the Sabbaths? Why?

They were astonished at His teaching.

Because His word was with authority.

In the case of the man with the spirit of an unclean demon, who cried out?

The man.

Who was it that had recognized Jesus?

The demon.

Whom did the demon say Jesus was?

The demon identified Him as Jesus of Nazareth and the Holy One of God.

Whom did Jesus rebuke?

Jesus rebuked the demon, telling it to come out of him (the man).

How many demons were in the man?

There was only one demon in the man. Note how the text says “And when the demon had thrown him in their midst, it came out of him ….” (verse 35)

What was the result of Jesus having cast out the demon?

The people were all amazed. More importantly, they realized that Jesus had authority and power over demons. It seems, also, from verse 37, that word about His ability, authority, etc. spread throughout the surrounding region.

Discussion Questions

If there was only one demon in the man, what did the demon mean by “Let US alone” and “What have WE to do with you….”?

The demon was probably speaking on behalf of himself and the man whom he had possessed.

Who do you think understood the nature of Jesus more – the people in the synagogue or the demons?

THE HEALING OF PETER’S MOTHER-IN-LAW AND OTHERS

Luke 4:38-41

The Healing of Peter’s Mother-in-law

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.

39 And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever; and it left her: and immediately she arose and ministered unto them.

The Healing of Many Others

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.

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.

Review Questions

What was the situation with Simon’s wife’s mother?

Simon’s mother-in-law was sick with a high fever.

Whom or what did Jesus rebuke?

Jesus rebuked the fever.

How long did it take for Simon’s mother-in-law to get well.

The fever left her immediately.

What did Simon’s mother-in-law do as soon as she had been made well?

She ministered (served) to the others in the house where she was.

What happened as the sun was setting?

All those who had any that were sick with various diseases brought them to Him.

What did Jesus do for those who were brought to Him?

He laid His hands on every one of them and healed them.

What did Jesus do when demons came out of many, crying out that He was the Christ?

He rebuked them, and did not allow them to speak.

Why did He do that?

He did not allow them to speak for they knew that He was the Christ.

Discussion Questions

Whom do you think made request of Jesus concerning Simon’s mother-in-law?

Probably, Simon and his wife made the request.

What can we learn from Simon’s mother-in-law?

The health and strength we have can be used to serve others.

What can we learn from Jesus’ response to requests for healing?

He was never too busy to heal (or help) those who needed help.

Jesus’ prayer life did not prevent Him from helping; it prepared Him for helping.

Why do you think Jesus would not allow the demons to speak?

Most) Jews expected the Messiah to be a conquering king, not a suffering servant.

If people misread Jesus’ ability to heal as proof of His ability to lead, rather than His ability to serve, it could result in death and destruction.

THE PREACHING OF JESUS IN GALILEE

Luke 4:42-44

42 And when it was day, he departed and went into a desert place: and the people sought him, and came unto him, and stayed him, that he should not depart from them. 43 And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: for therefore am I sent.

44 And He preached in the synagogues of Galilee.

Review Questions

What did Jesus do when it was day?

When it was day, He departed.

Where did Jesus go when He departed?

He departed and went into a deserted place.

What did the crowd do?

The crowd sought Him and went to Him, and tried to keep Him from leaving them.

Why did Jesus say He had been sent?

He said that the purpose for which He had been sent was to preach the kingdom of God to other cities as well.

Discussion Questions

What is meant when the passage says the people “stayed” Jesus?

Urged to stay.

Why do you think Jesus preached in synagogues?

People in the synagogues would be familiar with the Scriptures that spoke of Him and what He was going to do.

FOUR FISHERMEN CALLED BY JESUS

Luke 5:1-11

1 And it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret, 2 And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets.

3 And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon’s, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship.

4 Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.

5 And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net.

6 And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake.

7 And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.

8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.

9 For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken: 10 And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.

11 And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him.

Review Questions

Where was Jesus when the multitude pressed about Him?

He was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret.

How did Jesus get the multitude to stop pressing about Him?

He got into a boat that belonged to Simon.

What did Jesus do after getting into the boat?

He asked Simon to put out a little from the land, and He sat down and taught the multitudes from the boat.

What did Jesus do after He had stopped speaking?

He asked Simon to launch out into the deep and let down his nets for a catch.”

What happened after Simon let down his nets?

They caught so much fish that their net was breaking and they had to signal fish that they had enough to fill both the boats, so that they began to sink.

How did Simon Peter react when he saw the size of the catch?

He fell at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!”

How did the others react?

All who were with him were astonished at the size of the catch.

How did Jesus react to what Simon Peter did and said?

Jesus told Simon Peter not to be afraid. He also told him that he would catch men from that time on.

What happened after Simon and his colleagues brought their boats to land?

Simon and James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with him, forsook all and followed Him.

Discussion Questions

How would you describe Simon’s answer to Jesus?

It seems he didn’t think it made much sense since he and his colleagues had been toiling all night without success. He seemed to be skeptical, but did as asked nevertheless.

Would you describe Simon as a) thoughtful, b) reluctant, c) impulsive or d) pessimistic.

Impulsive

What may be seen as pessimism may be better understood as pragmatism.

Why do you think Jesus called fishermen to be His first disciples?

Probably because of the characteristics that most fishermen possess:

patience

optimism

ability to cope with long periods of silence

Do you think you possess any of the characteristics of good fishermen? If yes, which?

Yes or No. (Various answers).

A LEPER CLEANSED BY JESUS

Luke 5:12-16

12 And it came to pass, when he was in a certain city, behold a man full of leprosy: who seeing Jesus fell on his face, and besought him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.

13 And he put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will: be thou clean. And immediately the leprosy departed from him.

14 And he charged him to tell no man: but go, and shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing, according as Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.

15 But so much the more went there a fame abroad of him: and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by him of their infirmities. 16 And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed.

Review Questions

Why did the man who fell on his face to implore Jesus want to be made clean?

He was full of leprosy.

What did the man say Jesus had to be for Jesus to heal him?

According to the man, Jesus would have to be WILLING to make him clean.

What did Jesus tell the man before cleansing him?

That He was willing (to cleanse him).

How did Jesus cleanse the man?

He put out His hand and touched him, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed.”

How long did it take for the man to be cleansed?

Not long. He was cleansed immediately.

What did Jesus do after healing the man?

He charged him to 1) tell no one, 2) go and show himself to the priest, and 3) make an offering for his cleansing.

What happened after Jesus cleansed the man and told him not to tell anyone?

The report went around concerning Jesus all the more

great multitudes came to hear Him and be healed by Him.

Why did Jesus often withdraw into the wilderness?

In order to pray.

Discussion Questions

Why do you think the leper prefaced his request by telling Jesus if He were willing?

Probably he was just recognizing that Jesus had no obligation to heal him.

Why do you think some other healer may not have been willing to heal the leper?

He/She may have believed that the leper had been cursed by God.

A PARALYTIC FORGIVEN AND HEALED BY JESUS

Luke 5:17-26

17 And it came to pass on a certain day, as he was teaching, that there were Pharisees and doctors of the law sitting by, which were come out of every town of Galilee, and Judaea, and Jerusalem: and the power of the Lord was present to heal them.

18 And, behold, men brought in a bed a man which was taken with a palsy: and they sought means to bring him in, and to lay him before him. 19 And when they could not find by what way they might bring him in because of the multitude, they went upon the housetop, and let him down through the tiling with his couch into the midst before Jesus.

20 And when he saw their faith, he said unto him, Man, thy sins are forgiven thee.

21 And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, Who is this which speaketh blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, but God alone?

22 But when Jesus perceived their thoughts, he answering said unto them, What reason ye in your hearts? 23 Whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Rise up and walk? 24 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon earth to forgive sins, (he said unto the sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy couch, and go into thine house.

25 And immediately he rose up before them, and took up that whereon he lay, and departed to his own house, glorifying God. 26 And they were all amazed, and they glorified God, and were filled with fear, saying, We have seen strange things to day.

Review Questions

What had Jesus been doing when men sought to bring a man who was paralyzed to lay him before Him?

He was teaching

What key personalities were there when the paralytic was brought?

There were Pharisees and teachers of the law sitting by.

How did the men who brought the paralytic get him before Jesus?

They went up on the housetop and let him down with his bed through the tiling into the midst before Jesus.

How did the key personalities react to what Jesus said and did?

They believed Jesus was blaspheming.

What did Jesus see that caused Him to say what He did?

He saw their faith

How did He see it?

He saw their faith by what they did (by their works).

How did Jesus know what the key personalities were thinking?

Jesus perceived their thoughts.

Discussion Questions

Why do you think the key personalities responded the way they did?

They believed Jesus was blaspheming because He had told the man his sins were forgiven, and only God alone could forgive sins. Obviously, they did not believe Jesus was God.

Is it easier to say, “Your sins are forgiven you,” or to say, “Rise up and walk”? Please give a reason for your answer.

It is easier to say “Your sins are forgiven you,” because forgiveness of sins is not something that can be proven physically. No human can tell if a person’s sins have been forgiven by looking, hearing, etc., so no human can disprove someone who has claimed to forgive the sins of another.

How would getting a paralytic to walk prove that Jesus could forgive sins?

No ordinary human could cause a known paralytic to walk just by saying it, so if Jesus could heal miraculously, then He could forgive sins.

When Jesus met the paralytic, which problems did He address first – physical or spiritual?

The paralytic’s spiritual problems.

If you were a leper, which would mean more to you – physical healing or spiritual healing?

(Answer will be subjective).

THE CALLING OF MATTHEW

Luke 5:27-32

27 And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me.

28 And he left all, rose up, and followed him. 29 And Levi made him a great feast in his own house: and there was a great company of publicans and of others that sat down with them.

30 But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners?

31 And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. 32 I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

Review Questions

Where was Levi sitting?

At the tax office.

Why was Levi sitting there?

Because he was a tax collector.

What did Levi do when Jesus told him to follow Him?

He left all, rose up, and followed Jesus.

Why did the Pharisees and their scribes complain against Jesus’ disciples?

Because Jesus was eating and drinking with tax collectors and “sinners.”

Discussion Questions

Why do you think Levi gave a feast in his own house?

In honour of Jesus.

Why do you think Jesus attended the feast given by Levi?

Probably to show that He would not be guided by the attitudes of others.

Maybe because he knew He had a special job for Matthew.

What do you think Jesus meant when He said that those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick?

Jesus was explaining why He was spending time with those whom the Pharisees and scribes saw as “sinners.” It was they that He had come to help, not those who thought they were “righteous.”

JESUS QUESTIONED ABOUT FASTING

Luke 5:33-39

33 And they said unto him, Why do the disciples of John fast often, and make prayers, and likewise the disciples of the Pharisees; but thine eat and drink?

34 And he said unto them, Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them? 35 But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.

36 And he spake also a parable unto them; No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old. 37 And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish. 38 But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved. 39 No man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he saith, The old is better.

Review Questions

Who asked Jesus a question comparing His disciples with those of John and the Pharisees?

Scribes and Pharisees who had been guests at the feast at Levi’s home.

What were John’s disciples doing that the disciples of Jesus seemed not to be doing?

They were fasting often and making prayers.

Why didn’t Jesus’ disciples fast?

Because Jesus was still with them.

When would His disciples fast?

After He had gone to Heaven.

Discussion Questions

How do you understand Jesus’ answer about His disciples fasting?

If Jesus was like the bridegroom, then His disciples did not need to fast while He was on earth. Their time to fast would be after He had gone to the Father.

It seems that one purpose for fasting is to draw closer to the spiritual Jesus Christ.

Why should one not patch an old garment with new garment, and why is it not wise to put new wine in old bottles (wineskins)?

The new garment, when it shrinks, will make a tear in the old garment.

The new wine will give off gases that cause the old bottles (wineskins) to burst, spilling the new wine and ruining the old wineskin.

Why do you think, as Jesus said, that someone who has drunk old wine would not immediately desire new wine?

“Old” wine is supposed to be better because wine tends to mellow with age.

He/She will have acquired a taste and liking for that “old” wine, and would probably think of it as better.

What do you think Jesus meant by what He said?

Jesus may have been using wine as a metaphor for ideas.

If so, new wine refers to new ideas and wineskin refers to a way of thinking.

The message seems to be that it is not easy for someone to accept new ideas unless he develops a new paradigm (way of looking at things).

What does the story of old wineskin have to do with a bridegroom (v.34)?

It was because of the Pharisees’ old wineskins that they couldn’t recognize Jesus’ disciples as friends of the “bridegroom”(Jesus) which is what made it possible for them to rejoice (eat and drink) when others were afflicting themselves (by fasting).

LORD OF THE SABBATH

Luke 6:1-5

1 And it came to pass on the second sabbath after the first, that he went through the corn fields; and his disciples plucked the ears of corn, and did eat, rubbing them in their hands. 2 And certain of the Pharisees said unto them, Why do ye that which is not lawful to do on the sabbath days?

3 And Jesus answering them said, Have ye not read so much as this, what David did, when himself was an hungred, and they which were with him; 4 How he went into the house of God, and did take and eat the shewbread, and gave also to them that were with him; which it is not lawful to eat but for the priests alone?

5 And he said unto them, That the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.

Review Questions

What was it that Jesus and His disciples had done that some of the Pharisees said was not lawful?

They had gone through the grainfields on the Sabbath and His disciples had plucked heads of grain and ate them, rubbing them in their hands.

What did Jesus say David and his colleagues did when they were hungry?

Jesus reminded the Pharisees of the Scriptures which said that David went into the house of God, took the showbread, ate some and gave some to those with him.
That David did, knowing it was only lawful for the priests to eat the showbread.

Discussion Questions

What do you think Jesus was trying to show?

Probably that laws have limits, and lesser laws (such as the ones governing the showbread and the Sabbath) must give way to greater laws (such as the ones governing the preservation of life and love). See verse 9.

What do you think Jesus meant when He said that the Son of Man is also Lord of the Sabbath?

For one, the Son of Man (Jesus) had created the Sabbath.
Also, that the Sabbath was made as a benefit for Man, and not the other way around.

How do you view laws?

Important to maintain order and a civilized society.

Do you think it is ever okay to break a law?

Maybe. If the law is immoral … or if keeping that law leads to a violation of greater principles.
NOTE: If someone breaks a law, he/she MUST be prepared to pay the penalty.

What do you think was the purpose of the Sabbath?

To remind Israel that God was Creator (Ex.20:11).
To remind them that God was Redeemer (Dt.5:15).
To identify the nation of Israel as the unique people of God. (Ex.31:13,17)

HEALING ON THE SABBATH

Luke 6:6-11

6 And it came to pass also on another sabbath, that he entered into the synagogue and taught: and there was a man whose right hand was withered. 7 And the scribes and Pharisees watched him, whether he would heal on the sabbath day; that they might find an accusation against him. 8 But he knew their thoughts, and said to the man which had the withered hand, Rise up, and stand forth in the midst. And he arose and stood forth.

9 Then said Jesus unto them, I will ask you one thing; Is it lawful on the sabbath days to do good, or to do evil? to save life, or to destroy it?

10 And looking round about upon them all, he said unto the man, Stretch forth thy hand. And he did so: and his hand was restored whole as the other. 11 And they were filled with madness; and communed one with another what they might do to Jesus.

Review Questions

What was Jesus doing in the synagogue on the Sabbath?

Teaching.

Why were the scribes and Pharisees watching Jesus so closely?

To see if He would heal the man with the withered right hand on the Sabbath, so that they might find an accusation against Him.

Why did Jesus ask the scribes and Pharisees about doing good or evil on the Sabbath?

He knew what they were thinking and planning.

How did Jesus heal the man’s withered hand?

First, Jesus told him to rise and stand in the midst and, later, to stretch out his hand.
Once the man had done as he was told, he was healed.

Was it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do evil?

It was lawful to do good on the Sabbath.

Was it lawful on the Sabbath to save life or to destroy?

It was lawful to save life on the Sabbath.

How did the scribes and Pharisees react to what Jesus did?

They were filled with rage, and discussed with each other what to do to Jesus.

Discussion Questions

In the view of the Pharisees, what was unlawful about healing someone (or picking grain) on the Sabbath?

They saw the healing (and picking) as doing work.
NOTE: The Sabbath was holy time from sunset Friday to sunset Saturday and no work was to be done during that 24-hour period.

How do you think Jesus knew the thoughts of the scribes and the Pharisees?

He was able to read their minds.

TWELVE APOSTLES CHOSEN BY JESUS

Luke 6:12-16

12 And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.

13 And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles;

14 Simon, (whom he also named Peter,) and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew,

15 Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon called Zelotes,

16 And Judas the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot, which also was the traitor.

Review Questions

What did Jesus go out to the mountain to do?

He went out to the mountain to pray.

How long did He spend?

He continued all night in prayer to God.

How many did Jesus choose to be apostles?

Jesus chose twelve to be apostles.

How many women did He choose?

Jesus did not choose any women to be among the apostles.

How many disciples did He have to choose from?

The passage does not say, but it must have been more than twelve, because the passage says that He chose the twelve “from” among the disciples that He had called to Himself.

Who were the ones named to be apostles?

Simon, whom He also named Peter,
Andrew, Simon’s brother,
James,
John,
Philip,
Bartholomew,
Matthew,
Thomas,
James the son of Alphaeus,
Simon called the Zealot,
Judas the son of James, and
Judas Iscariot.

Discussion Questions

Why do you think Jesus spent so much time praying on that particular occasion?

He was going to choose some disciples to become apostles.

A GREAT MULTITUDE HEALED BY JESUS

Luke 6:17-19

17 And he came down with them, and stood in the plain, and the company of his disciples, and a great multitude of people out of all Judaea and Jerusalem, and from the sea coast of Tyre and Sidon, which came to hear him, and to be healed of their diseases;
18 And they that were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed.

19 And the whole multitude sought to touch him: for there went virtue out of him, and healed them all.

Review Questions

After Jesus came down with the apostles and a crowd of disciples, and stood on a level place, there was a great multitude of people. Where did the multitude come from?

The people in the multitude came from all Judea and Jerusalem, and from the seacoast of Tyre and Sidon,

Why had people in the multitude come to be there?

The people had come to hear Jesus, be healed of their diseases. Some had also come to be freed from unclean spirits which were tormenting them.

Why were some seeking to touch Jesus?

The people sought to touch Jesus in order to be healed, because power went out from Him and healed them all.

Discussion Questions

THE BEATITUDES

Luke 6:20-23

20 And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said, Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God.

21 Blessed are ye that hunger now: for ye shall be filled. Blessed are ye that weep now: for ye shall laugh.

22 Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man’s sake.

23 Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets.

Review Questions

Why did Jesus tell His disciples that the poor are blessed?

For theirs is the kingdom of God.

Why did He say those who hunger now are blessed?

For they shall be filled.

Why did Jesus say those who weep now are blessed?

For they shall laugh.

Why did Jesus tell His disciples they are blessed when men hate them, exclude them and revile them, for His sake?

For their reward is great in heaven

What should we do when people hate us for Jesus’ sake?

Rejoice in that day and leap for joy.

What do Jesus’ disciples and the prophets have in common.

They were all hated for the sake of the Son of Man.

Discussion Questions

Read verse 22 again. Does “being hated” and “being hated for Jesus’ sake” mean the same thing? If yes, why? If not, why not?

WOES PRONOUNCED BY JESUS

Luke 6:24-26

24 But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation.

25 Woe unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! for ye shall mourn and weep.

26 Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets.

Review Questions

Why did Jesus say woe to those who were rich?

They had received their consolation.

Why did Jesus say woe to those who were full?

They would hunger.

Why did Jesus say woe to those who laughed then?

They would mourn and weep.

Why did Jesus say woe to those whom all men spoke well of?

That’s how men had spoken well of the false prophets.

Discussion Questions

LOVE FOR ENEMIES

Luke 6:27-36

27 But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,

28 Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you.

29 And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not to take thy coat also.

30 Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again.

31 And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.

32 For if ye love them which love you, what thank have ye? for sinners also love those that love them.

33 And if ye do good to them which do good to you, what thank have ye? for sinners also do even the same.

34 And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again.

35 But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil.

36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.

Review Questions

What did Jesus say His disciples should do to their enemies?

They should love their enemies.

What did Jesus say His disciples should do to those who hate them? To those who curse them? To those who spitefully use them?

They should do good to those who hate them, bless those who curse them, and bless those who spitefully use them.

What did Jesus say one of His disciples should do to someone who strikes him on the cheek? To someone who takes away his cloak?

Jesus told His disciples that if someone were to strike him on one cheek, he should offer the other also, and if someone were to take away his cloak, he should not withhold his tunic either.

What did Jesus say one of His disciples should do to someone who makes a request of him? To someone who takes away his goods?

He should give to everyone who asked of him, and if someone took away his goods, he should not ask for them.

What classic principle did Jesus give His disciples to guide their interpersonal relationship?

He told His disciples that they should treat others just as they would want themselves to be treated.

What did Jesus say to His disciples about loving those who loved them, doing good for those who did good to them, and lending only to those who could repay?

Jesus said it was of no real credit, because even sinners did the same.

What is the real reward for those of Jesus’ disciples who love their enemies, do good to all, and lend, hoping for nothing in return?

Their reward will be great, and they will be sons of the Most High.

Whom did Jesus point to as the prime example for loving enemies, etc.?

Jesus presented God as the example we should look to because He is kind to the unthankful and evil. In that regard, He told His disciples that they should be merciful, just as their Father also is merciful.

Discussion Questions

DO NOT JUDGE

Luke 6:37-42

37 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:

38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.

39 And he spake a parable unto them, Can the blind lead the blind? shall they not both fall into the ditch?

40 The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master.

41 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye?

42 Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother’s eye.

Review Questions

What is one of the key messages of what Jesus said when He told His disciples not to judge, not to condemn and to forgive (verses 37-38)?

One message is that we should do unto others as we would want them to do unto us. Or, conversely, we should not do unto others what we would not want them to do to us.

Jesus exhorted His disciples to give. What benefit did He say they would derive from giving?

Jesus told His disciples that if they gave, they would receive in good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over.

What principle did Jesus give for His disciples to use as a guide for their giving?

Jesus told them that the same measure that they used to determine their giving would be like the one used to determine how much they got back.

What can happen if one blind person leads another?

Both of them could fall into a ditch.

Will a disciple who is perfectly trained be above his teacher?

A disciple who is perfectly trained will not be above his teacher, but he will be like his teacher.

Discussion Questions

What do you think Jesus meant when He said one should remove the plank from his own eye so that he could see clearly to remove the speck in his brother’s eye?

If we assume that the plank and the speck represent problems that people have, then Jesus could be saying that many times when someone is criticizing another person for some problem, the one doing the criticizing has an even bigger problem.
In that case, Jesus could be saying that a person should be careful to deal with his own problem(s) before criticizing another person about a problem that may not even be as great as his.
Further, if a person takes the time to solve his own problem(s), he will be in a better position to help someone else with his problem.

A TREE IS KNOWN BY ITS FRUIT

Luke 6:43-45

43 For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit; neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.

44 For every tree is known by his own fruit. For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble bush gather they grapes.

45 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.

Review Questions

Why would one say that a bad tree cannot bear good fruit?

The type of fruit a tree bears depends on its nature. It is not in the nature of a bad tree to bear good fruit.

How is a fruit tree best known?

A person may be able to tell the kind of tree by its leaves, but the sure way is to examine it’s fruit.

Discussion Questions

What message do you think Jesus was trying to get across when He spoke about the hearts of men and their words after talking about trees and their fruit?

One message seems to be that the way to tell the true nature of a man is by paying attention to his words and deeds.

BUILD ON THE ROCK

Luke 6:46-49

46 And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?

47 Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like:

48 He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock.

49 But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great.

Review Questions

What does Jesus expect of His disciples, those who call Him “Lord”?

He expects His disciples to do the things which He says. To put it another way, He expects His disciples to obey Him.

What kind of person is exemplified by the man who builds the foundation of his house deep into a rock?

The man who builds His house with foundation in rock is like a person who hears the sayings of Jesus and does them.

What kind of person is exemplified by the man who builds his house on earth (or sand) without building a foundation for the house?

The man who builds his house without a foundation is like the person who hears the sayings of Jesus and does not do what Jesus says he should.

Discussion Questions

Given the analogy above, what do you think the floods represent?

In the analogy, the floods represent the trials and hardships that a person may encounter in life.

A CENTURION’S SERVANT HEALED

Luke 7:1-10

1 Now when he had ended all his sayings in the audience of the people, he entered into Capernaum.

2 And a certain centurion’s servant, who was dear unto him, was sick, and ready to die.

3 And when he heard of Jesus, he sent unto him the elders of the Jews, beseeching him that he would come and heal his servant.

4 And when they came to Jesus, they besought him instantly, saying, That he was worthy for whom he should do this:

5 For he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue.

6 Then Jesus went with them. And when he was now not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying unto him, Lord, trouble not thyself: for I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my roof:

7 Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto thee: but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed.

8 For I also am a man set under authority, having under me soldiers, and I say unto one, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.

9 When Jesus heard these things, he marvelled at him, and turned him about, and said unto the people that followed him, I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.

10 And they that were sent, returning to the house, found the servant whole that had been sick.

Review Questions

After Jesus had entered Capernaum, who was it that sent for Jesus?

It was a certain centurion that sent for Jesus.

Why did he send for Jesus?

The centurion sent for Jesus because his servant, who was dear to him, was sick and ready to die.

Whom did he send to Jesus?

The centurion sent elders of the Jews to Jesus.

What did the centurion do when he heard that Jesus was coming to his home?

Before Jesus got to his house, the centurion sent friends to Jesus, telling Him it was not necessary for Him to enter his house.

What reason did the centurion give for telling Jesus it was not necessary for Him to enter the his house?

The centurion said he was not worthy. Indeed, the centurion did not think of himself as worthy enough to meet Jesus personally.

Why did the centurion think it was not necessary for Jesus to enter his house in order to heal his servant?

The centurion believed that Jesus had such great authority over disease that He did not need to touch the servant in order to heal him. The centurion believed that all Jesus had to do was say the word (from wherever He was) and the sick servant would be healed.

What was Jesus’ response when He heard what the centurion had said?

He marveled at the centurion, and told the crowd that followed Him that He had not found such great faith before, not even in Israel.

Those who were sent to Jesus returned to the house and found the servant well. How was the servant healed?

The passage does not say how the servant was healed. It seems that Jesus did not have to touch him/her. It seems Jesus just willed it.

Discussion Questions

What do you think the relationship between the centurion and the Jews was like, and why do you think so?

The relationship seems to have been a very good one, because 1) the fact that the centurion was able to send the “elders” of the Jews to Jesus, 2) the elders begged Jesus on behalf of the centurion, 3) the elders told Jesus that the centurion was deserving and had even built a synagogue for the Jews as a token of his love for them.

THE SON OF THE WIDOW OF NAIN RAISED BY JESUS

Luke 7:11-17

11 And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called Nain; and many of his disciples went with him, and much people.

12 Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her.

13 And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not.

14 And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.

15 And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother.

16 And there came a fear on all: and they glorified God, saying, That a great prophet is risen up among us; and, That God hath visited his people.

17 And this rumour of him went forth throughout all Judaea, and throughout all the region round about.

Review Questions

Who went with Jesus into Nain?

Many of His disciples and a large crowd.

What happened as Jesus approached the gate of the city?

A dead man was being carried out.

What are we told about the man?

He was the only son of his mother.

What are we told about his mother?

She was a widow.

Who was with the man and his mother?

A large crowd from the city.

What did Jesus do when He saw the woman?

He had compassion on her and told her not to weep.

What did Jesus do before addressing the young man?

He touched the open coffin.

What did Jesus say to the young man?

He said, “Young man, I say to you, arise.”

What happened after Jesus addressed the young man?

The young man (who was dead) sat up and began to speak.
Jesus presented the young man to his mother.

How did the people respond to what happened?

Fear came upon all of them, and they glorified God.

What did the people say about Jesus?

They said that He was a great prophet.
They said that God had visited His people.

What happened as a result of what Jesus did?

A report about Jesus and what He had done went throughout all Judea and all the surrounding region.

Discussion Questions

MESSENGERS SENT TO JESUS BY JOHN THE BAPTIST

Luke 7:18-35

18 And the disciples of John shewed him of all these things.

19 And John calling unto him two of his disciples sent them to Jesus, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?

20 When the men were come unto him, they said, John Baptist hath sent us unto thee, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?

21 And in that same hour he cured many of their infirmities and plagues, and of evil spirits; and unto many that were blind he gave sight.

22 Then Jesus answering said unto them, Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard; how that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached.

23 And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.

24 And when the messengers of John were departed, he began to speak unto the people concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness for to see? A reed shaken with the wind?

25 But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously apparelled, and live delicately, are in kings’ courts.

26 But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much more than a prophet.

27 This is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.

28 For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.

29 And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John.

30 But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him.

31 And the Lord said, Whereunto then shall I liken the men of this generation? and to what are they like?

32 They are like unto children sitting in the marketplace, and calling one to another, and saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned to you, and ye have not wept.

33 For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine; and ye say, He hath a devil.

34 The Son of man is come eating and drinking; and ye say, Behold a gluttonous man, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners!

35 But wisdom is justified of all her children.

Review Questions

What did John send two of his disciples to ask Jesus?

He sent them to ask Jesus if He was “the Coming One” of if they should look for another.

What happened at about the time the two disciples met with Jesus?

Jesus cured many of infirmities, afflictions, and evil spirits, and He “gave sight” to many blind.

How did Jesus answer the two disciples?

Jesus told them to go and tell John the things that they had seen and heard.

What were some of the things they would have seen and heard?

They would have seen and heard that:

blind people were able to see; lame started to walk; lepers were cleansed; deaf began to hear; dead were raised; and the poor had the gospel preached to them.

Who did Jesus say would be blessed?

The one who is not offended because of Him.

What did Jesus confirm John to be?

A prophet.

How did John compare with others in his vocation?

There was none greater that had been born of a woman.

How did John compare with those who are the least in the kingdom of God?

The least in the kingdom of God is greater than John was.

Discussion Questions

What “things” (verse 35) do you think the disciples of John reported to him?

Probably what happened to the son of the widow of Nain and other such events.

Why do you think the Son of Man (Jesus) was called a “glutton” and a “winebibber?”

More than likely, He was called a glutton because He ate things which John the Baptist did not eat, and He was called a winebibber because He drank wine.

Why do you think He was called “a friend of tax collectors and sinners?”

Probably because He spent time with persons who were tax collectors and sinners.

A SINFUL WOMAN FORGIVEN

Luke 7:36-50

36 And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee’s house, and sat down to meat.

37 And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster box of ointment,

38 And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.

39 Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner.

40 And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on.

41 There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty.

42 And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most?

43 Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged.

44 And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head.

45 Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet.

46 My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment.

47 Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.

48 And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven.

49 And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also?

50 And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.

Review Questions

Where was Jesus when the woman brought in an alabaster flask of fragrant oil?

He was in the home of a Pharisee who had asked Him to eat with Him.

What do we know about the woman who brought the oil?

She was a sinner.

What five things did the woman with the flask of fragrant oil do?

She stood behind Jesus weeping,
She washed His feet with her tears,
She wiped His feet with the hair of her head,
She kissed His feet, and
She anointed His feet with the fragrant oil.

What did Jesus’ host do when he saw what the woman was doing?

He spoke to himself, saying, “This man, if He were a prophet, would know who and what manner of woman this is who is touching Him, for she is a sinner.”

How did Jesus respond to the host’s action?

Jesus told the host a parable about a creditor who had two debtors.

How much did the debtors owe?

One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty.

Which of the debtors did the man forgive?

He forgave both debtors?

Why did the man forgive the debtors?

They had nothing with which to repay.

Which of the debtors did Jesus agree would love the creditor more?

The one whom he forgave more.

Why did Jesus liken the woman who anointed His feet to the debtor who loved the creditor more?

By her actions, she was showing that she realized she had many sins and therefore owed much. Like the debtor who loved more because he had been forgiven more, she loved the One who could forgive sins more because she realized she had more to be forgiven of than others?

How did Jesus respond to the woman’s actions?

He forgave her of her many sins.

Discussion Questions

Why do you think the Pharisee (Simon) invited Jesus to his home?

(Variety of possible answers)

What do you think about Simon’s assessment of Jesus when he saw that Jesus allowed the woman to touch Him?

He was wrong about Jesus, by thinking He was not a prophet.
He was wrong about the woman, judging her by appearance only.

What do you think is the main point of the parable Jesus told?

The parable was about God’s forgiveness.

JESUS MINISTERED TO BY WOMEN

Luke 8:1-3

1 And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him,

2 And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils,

3 And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance.

Review Questions

Who was with Jesus as He went through cities and villages, preaching and bringing glad tidings of the kingdom of God?

The twelve and certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities.

What had Mary called Magdalene been healed of?

She had been healed of evil spirits. Seven demons had come out of her.

Who were some of the other women (apart from Mary) who were with Jesus?

Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna.

What did the women do for Jesus?

They provided for Him from their substance.

Discussion Questions

THE PARABLE OF THE SOWER

Luke 8:4-8

4 And when much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spake by a parable:

5 A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it.

6 And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture.

7 And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it.

8 And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

THE PURPOSE OF PARABLES

Luke 8:9-10

9 And his disciples asked him, saying, What might this parable be?

10 And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand.

EXPLANATION OF THE PARABLE OF THE SOWER

Luke 8:11-15

11 Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.

12 Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.

13 They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away.

14 And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection.

15 But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.

Review Questions

According to the parable of the sower, in what four areas did the seed fall as he sowed?

Some seed fell by the wayside;
Some fell on rock;
Some fell among thorns;
Some fell on good ground.

What happened to seed that fell in the different areas?

The seed by the wayside was trampled, and devoured by birds.
The seed on rock lacked moisture, so it sprang up soon, but withered.
The seed among thorns was choked by the thorns.
The seed on good ground sprang up and yielded a large crop.

What did Jesus say after He had told the parable?

He said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”

Did the disciples understand the meaning of the parable at first?

It does not seem so, because the asked Jesus what the parable meant.

Why did Jesus say He spoke in parables?

He spoke in parables so that those who were not His disciples aid, “To you it has been given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest it is given in parables, that ‘Seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand.’

In Jesus’ explanation of the parable, what does the seed represent?

The seed represents the word of God.

In Jesus’ explanation of the parable, what does the locations represent?

The different types of hearts of people who hear the word of God.

Why does the devil take the word of God out of the hearts of some?

To prevent them from believing so that they can be saved.

Why do some people receive the word of God with joy but fall away in the time of temptation?

They fall away because they have no root.

Why do those who hear the word of God have to be wary of cares, riches and pleasures?

Those cares can so consume them that they fail to mature (spiritually).

Why do some who hear the word of God bear fruit?

They bear fruit because they keep God’s word in their hearts.

Discussion Questions

THE PARABLE OF THE REVEALED LIGHT

Luke 8:16-18

16 No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light.

17 For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad.

18 Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have.

Review Questions

Why is it better to put a lamp on a lampstand than to cover it with a vessel or put it under a bed?

To derive maximum benefit from the light.
To make it easier for those in its presence to see.

What did Jesus say about things that are secret?

Nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light.

According to Jesus, why should one take heed how he hears?

For whoever has, to him more will be given; and whoever does not have, even what he seems to have will be taken from him.”

What is it that a person who hears can have and be given more of?

Probably, an understanding of what he has heard.

What is it that a person who hears can seem to have and lose or have taken from him?

Again, probably an understanding of what he has heard.

Discussion Questions

What is the purpose of lighting a lamp?

To provide light where there is darkness.

Could there be a link between light and what one hears?

Yes, if light is likened to understanding, as darkness is sometimes likened to ignorance.

JESUS VISITED BY HIS MOTHER AND BROTHERS

Luke 8:19-21

19 Then came to him his mother and his brethren, and could not come at him for the press.

20 And it was told him by certain which said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to see thee.

21 And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.

Review Questions

Who was it that had come with Jesus’ mother to see Him?

The brothers of Jesus.

Why could they not see Him?

They could not see Him because of the crowd.

Whom did Jesus say are His brothers?

Those who hear the word of God and do it.

Discussion Questions

WIND AND WAVE OBEYED BY JESUS

Luke 8:22-25

22 Now it came to pass on a certain day, that he went into a ship with his disciples: and he said unto them, Let us go over unto the other side of the lake. And they launched forth.

23 But as they sailed he fell asleep: and there came down a storm of wind on the lake; and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy.

24 And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, Master, master, we perish. Then he arose, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: and they ceased, and there was a calm.

25 And he said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, What manner of man is this! for he commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey him.

Review Questions

Why did Jesus get into a boat with His disciples?

He wanted to cross to the other side of the lake.

What happened to Jesus as they sailed to the other side of the lake?

He fell asleep.

What happened on the lake as they were sailing to the other side?

A windstorm came down on the lake.

What was happening to the boat?

The boat was being filled with water.

Why did the disciples do to Jesus? Why?

They woke Him up. They were in jeopardy, and they thought they were perishing.

What did Jesus do in response to their action?

He arose and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water.

What happened as a result of Jesus’ action?

There was a calm on the lake because the storm winds ceased, and the water stopped raging.

What did Jesus ask the disciples after His action?

He said to them, “Where is your faith?”

Why did the disciples marvel?

They were afraid, and marveled, because they had seen the winds and water obey Jesus Christ when He commanded them.

Discussion Questions

A DEMON-POSSESSED MAN HEALED

Luke 8:26-39

26 And they arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is over against Galilee.

27 And when he went forth to land, there met him out of the city a certain man, which had devils long time, and ware no clothes, neither abode in any house, but in the tombs.

28 When he saw Jesus, he cried out, and fell down before him, and with a loud voice said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God most high? I beseech thee, torment me not.

29 (For he had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. For oftentimes it had caught him: and he was kept bound with chains and in fetters; and he brake the bands, and was driven of the devil into the wilderness.)

30 And Jesus asked him, saying, What is thy name? And he said, Legion: because many devils were entered into him.

31 And they besought him that he would not command them to go out into the deep.

32And there was there an herd of many swine feeding on the mountain: and they besought him that he would suffer them to enter into them. And he suffered them.

33 Then went the devils out of the man, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the lake, and were choked.

34 When they that fed them saw what was done, they fled, and went and told it in the city and in the country.

35 Then they went out to see what was done; and came to Jesus, and found the man, out of whom the devils were departed, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid.

36 They also which saw it told them by what means he that was possessed of the devils was healed.

37 Then the whole multitude of the country of the Gadarenes round about besought him to depart from them; for they were taken with great fear: and he went up into the ship, and returned back again.

38 Now the man out of whom the devils were departed besought him that he might be with him: but Jesus sent him away, saying,

39 Return to thine own house, and shew how great things God hath done unto thee. And he went his way, and published throughout the whole city how great things Jesus had done unto him.

Review Questions

How did Jesus get to the country of the Gadarenes, which was opposite Galilee?

He got there by boat.

Why did the man, who met Jesus when He arrived in the country of the Gadarenes, live in tombs and not wear clothes?

He had had demons for a long time.

When the man saw Jesus, what did the man do before saying anything?

When the man saw Jesus, he cried out and fell down before Him.

How did the man refer to Jesus?

He referred to Him as Jesus, Son of the Most High God.

What did the man beg of Jesus?

He begged Him not to torment him.

Why did he beg that of Jesus?

Jesus had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man.

What had the demon done to the man that caused the man to have to be bound?

The demon had often seized the man.

How did the man come to be in the wilderness?

He was driven by the demon into the wilderness after he had broken the bonds.

Why did the demon answer Jesus that his name was Legion?

Because many demons had entered him.

What did the demons beg Jesus? Why?

They begged Jesus to allow them to enter a herd of swine. Because they did not want Jesus to send them into the abyss.

What happened to the swine that was feeding on the mountain?

After Jesus had permitted the demons to enter the swine, the herd ran into the lake and drowned.

When the people from the city found the man who had been demon-possessed clothed and in his right mind, did they find out how he had come to be healed?

Yes, because those who had seen what happened told them by what means he who had been demon-possessed was healed.

What did the people from the city beg Jesus to do? Why?

The whole multitude of the surrounding region of the Gadarenes asked Him to depart from them? Because they were seized with great fear.

What did Jesus do?

He got into the boat and returned.

What did the man who had been demon-possessed beg Jesus to do?

The man begged Jesus to allow him to go with Him.

What was Jesus response?

Jesus sent him away, and told him to return to his own house and tell what great things God had done for him.

What did the man do?

He went his way and proclaimed throughout the whole city what great things Jesus had done for him.

Discussion Questions

A WOMAN WITH A FLOW OF BLOOD HEALED

Luke 8:40-48

40 And it came to pass, that, when Jesus was returned, the people gladly received him: for they were all waiting for him.

41 And, behold, there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue: and he fell down at Jesus’ feet, and besought him that he would come into his house:

42 For he had one only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she lay a dying. But as he went the people thronged him.

43 And a woman having an issue of blood twelve years, which had spent all her living upon physicians, neither could be healed of any,

44 Came behind him, and touched the border of his garment: and immediately her issue of blood stanched.

45 And Jesus said, Who touched me? When all denied, Peter and they that were with him said, Master, the multitude throng thee and press thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me?

46 And Jesus said, Somebody hath touched me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me.

47 And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before him, she declared unto him before all the people for what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately.

48 And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.

Review Questions

Where was Jesus going when the woman touched Him?

He was going to the house of Jairus.

Where was the woman when she touched Jesus?

She was in the crowd that was following Jesus.

Why did the woman touch Jesus?

She had had a flow of blood for twelve years, had spent all her livelihood on physicians, and could not be healed by any.

What did the woman actually do?

She approached Jesus from behind and touched the border of His garment.

What happened when she did that?

Immediately her flow of blood stopped.

What was Jesus’ response?

Jesus asked who touched Him.

Why was Jesus’ response so surprising to His disciples?

There were many people who were pressing Him and therefore touching Him, so it would seem strange that He would be able to discern the touch of a single person.

What reason did Jesus give for His response?

He perceived power going out from Him.

Why did the woman eventually declare that she had touched Jesus?

She realized that she was not hidden.

What did Jesus say had made her well?

Jesus, before telling her to go in peace, told her that her faith had made her well.

Discussion Questions

THE DAUGHTER OF JAIRUS HEALED

Luke 8:40-42

40 And it came to pass, that, when Jesus was returned, the people gladly received him: for they were all waiting for him.

41 And, behold, there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue: and he fell down at Jesus’ feet, and besought him that he would come into his house:

42 For he had one only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she lay a dying. But as he went the people thronged him.

Luke 8:49-56

49 While he yet spake, there cometh one from the ruler of the synagogue’s house, saying to him, Thy daughter is dead; trouble not the Master.

50 But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.

51 And when he came into the house, he suffered no man to go in, save Peter, and James, and John, and the father and the mother of the maiden.

52 And all wept, and bewailed her: but he said, Weep not; she is not dead, but sleepeth.

53 And they laughed him to scorn, knowing that she was dead.

54 And he put them all out, and took her by the hand, and called, saying, Maid, arise.

55And her spirit came again, and she arose straightway: and he commanded to give her meat.

56 And her parents were astonished: but he charged them that they should tell no man what was done.

Review Questions

Whom did the person from the ruler of the synagogue’s house tell to not trouble the Teacher?

The person told the ruler.

Why did the person say that the Teacher shouldn’t be troubled?

Because the ruler’s daughter had died.

What did Jesus say when He heard the news?

He said, “Do not be afraid; only believe, and she will be made well.”

When Jesus arrived at the house of the ruler, whom did He allow to go in with Him?

He permitted no one to go in except Peter, James, and John, and the father and mother of the girl.

What did Jesus say to the other mourners?

He told them not to weep, because the girl was not dead, but asleep.

How did they respond when He said that?

They ridiculed Him.

Why did they respond in that way?

They knew that the girl was dead.

How did Jesus respond to what the mourners did?

He put them all outside, took the girl by the hand, and told her to arise.

What happened to the girl after that?

Her spirit returned, and she arose immediately.

What two instructions did Jesus give afterwards?

He commanded i) that the girl be given something to eat, and ii) that the parents tell no one what had happened.

Discussion Questions

THE SENDING OUT OF THE TWELVE

Luke 9:1-6

1 Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.

2 And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick.

3 And he said unto them, Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither have two coats apiece.

4 And whatsoever house ye enter into, there abide, and thence depart.

5 And whosoever will not receive you, when ye go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet for a testimony against them.

6 And they departed, and went through the towns, preaching the gospel, and healing every where.

(10a And the apostles, when they were returned, told him all that they had done.)

Review Questions

After Jesus had called His twelve disciples together, what did He give them?

He gave them 1) power and authority over all demons, and 2) power to cure diseases.

What did He then send them to do?

He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.

What did He tell them to take for their journey?

He told them to take nothing, neither staffs nor bag nor bread nor money nor extra tunics.

How were the twelve disciples to be provided for on their journey?

Apparently, they would have to depend on God, who would provide persons to receive them and host them.

What were they told to do to those who did not receive them?

They were told to shake off the dust from your feet as a testimony against those who did not receive them, after they had left that city.

Discussion Questions

A REQUEST BY HEROD TO SEE JESUS

Luke 9:7-9

7 Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by him: and he was perplexed, because that it was said of some, that John was risen from the dead;

8 And of some, that Elias had appeared; and of others, that one of the old prophets was risen again.

9 And Herod said, John have I beheaded: but who is this, of whom I hear such things? And he desired to see him.

Review Questions

Why was Herod the tetrarch perplexed when he heard of all that was done by Jesus?

He was perplexed because it was said by some that John had risen from the dead, and by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the old prophets had risen again.

Why did Herod seek to see Jesus?

He wanted to find out more about the man whom he was hearing such things about.

Discussion Questions

FEEDING THE FIVE THOUSAND

Luke 9:10-17

10 And the apostles, when they were returned, told him all that they had done. And he took them, and went aside privately into a desert place belonging to the city called Bethsaida.

11 And the people, when they knew it, followed him: and he received them, and spake unto them of the kingdom of God, and healed them that had need of healing.

12 And when the day began to wear away, then came the twelve, and said unto him, Send the multitude away, that they may go into the towns and country round about, and lodge, and get victuals: for we are here in a desert place.

13 But he said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they said, We have no more but five loaves and two fishes; except we should go and buy meat for all this people.

14 For they were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, Make them sit down by fifties in a company.

15 And they did so, and made them all sit down.

16 Then he took the five loaves and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed them, and brake, and gave to the disciples to set before the multitude.

17 And they did eat, and were all filled: and there was taken up of fragments that remained to them twelve baskets.

Review Questions

What did the apostles do when they had returned from their journey?

They told Jesus all that they had done.

Where did Jesus take the apostles after they returned?

He took them into a deserted place belonging to the city called Bethsaida.

What did Jesus do to the multitudes who followed Him to that place?

He received them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who had need of healing.

Why did the twelve tell Jesus to send the multitude away?

The day began to wear away, and the twelve wanted the multitude to go into the surrounding towns and country, and lodge and get provisions, because there was none where they were.

How did Jesus respond to the twelve?

He told the twelve that they should give the multitudes something to eat.

Why would the disciples need to go and buy food for the multitudes to eat?

There were about five thousand men.
They had no more than five loaves and two fish.

How did Jesus resolve the problem?

He told His disciples to make the multitude sit down in groups of fifty.
After the disciples had made them all sit down, Jesus took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, He blessed and broke them, and gave them to the disciples to set before the multitude.

Did the multitude have enough to eat?

They had more than enough, because after they had all eaten and were filled, twelve baskets of leftover fragments were taken up.

Discussion Questions

PETER’S CONFESSION AND JESUS’ PREDICTION

Luke 9:18-22

18 And it came to pass, as he was alone praying, his disciples were with him: and he asked them, saying, Whom say the people that I am?

19 They answering said, John the Baptist; but some say, Elias; and others say, that one of the old prophets is risen again.

20 He said unto them, But whom say ye that I am? Peter answering said, The Christ of God.

21 And he straitly charged them, and commanded them to tell no man that thing;

22 Saying, The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be slain, and be raised the third day.

Review Questions

Was anybody with Jesus when His disciples joined Him?

No. He was alone.

What was Jesus doing when His disciples joined Him?

He was alone praying.

What was the first question He asked them?

He asked them what the crowds were saying about whom He was.

What was the disciples’ response?

They told Jesus that some were saying He was John the Baptist, some were saying He was Elijah, and others were saying He was one of the prophets that had risen.

What was the second question that Jesus asked them?

He asked them what they themselves were saying about whom He was.

What was Peter’s response?

Peter answered that Jesus was the Christ of God.

Did Jesus deny what Peter was saying? What did He command the disciples to do after?

No.
He strictly warned and commanded them to tell no one what Peter had said.

What four things did Jesus tell His disciples would happen to the Son of Man?

He told them that the Son of Man must 1) suffer many things, 2) be rejected by the elders, chief priests and scribes, 3) be killed, and 4) be raised the third day.

Discussion Questions

TAKING UP ONE’S CROSS AND FOLLOWING CHRIST

Luke 9:23-27

23 And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.

24 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.

25 For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away?

26 For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father’s, and of the holy angels.

27 But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God.

Review Questions

What three things must a person who wants to go after Jesus Christ (to be a disciple of Jesus Christ) be prepared to do?

He must be prepared to 1) deny himself, 2) take up his cross daily, and 3) follow Jesus.

How often must one be prepared to take up his cross?

One must be prepared to take up his cross DAILY.

What did Jesus say will happen to the person who “desires” to save his life?

He will lose his life.

What will happen to the one who “loses” his life for Jesus’ sake?

His life will be saved.

Discussion Questions

Is Jesus speaking about a person’s physical life or eternal life?

The implication is that He is referring to a person’s eternal life, since there is nothing anyone can do to prevent himself from dying since it is appointed for men to die once (Hebrews 9:27). It is possible, however, for one to try to save his eternal life, or qualify for eternal life, by doing certain things.

Also, notice verse 25, where Jesus speaks about being destroyed or lost, seemingly in a spiritual, eternal sense.

How do you think one can lose his life for Jesus’ sake?

By surrendering his physical life to Jesus – by asking Jesus to take control of his physical life.

What profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost?

There may be profit, in a physical sense, but no “real” profit, in a spiritual sense. NOTE: It is possible to be rich and be saved, but the majority of those who are more focused on being rich are not doing what is necessary for them to be saved.

How would it be possible for some of those who were with Jesus to see the kingdom of God before tasting death (dying)?

They would witness the “transfiguration” of Jesus Christ. (See the next section)

THE TRANSFIGURATION

Luke 9:28-36

28 And it came to pass about an eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray.

29 And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering.

30 And, behold, there talked with him two men, which were Moses and Elias:

31 Who appeared in glory, and spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem.

32 But Peter and they that were with him were heavy with sleep: and when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him.

33 And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias: not knowing what he said.

34 While he thus spake, there came a cloud, and overshadowed them: and they feared as they entered into the cloud.

35 And there came a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him.

36And when the voice was past, Jesus was found alone. And they kept it close, and told no man in those days any of those things which they had seen.

Review Questions

Why did Jesus go up on the mountain?

He went up on the mountain to pray.

Whom did Jesus take with Him up on the mountain?

He took Peter, John, and James.

What happened to Jesus while He was on the mountain?

As He prayed, His appearance was altered, and His robe became white and glistening.

How long after Jesus had told His disciples that some would see the kingdom of God before dying did this event happen?

This happened about eight days after Jesus had told them.

Whom did the disciples see Jesus talking with?

The two men were Moses and Elijah, who had appeared in glory.

What were they speaking with Jesus about?

They spoke of the death which Jesus was about to accomplish at Jerusalem.

What happened while Peter was suggesting that three tabernacles be built?

A cloud came and overshadowed them.

What happened next?

A voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!”

When the voice had ceased, Jesus was found alone.

Discussion Questions

THE HEALING OF A BOY

Luke 9:37-42

37 And it came to pass, that on the next day, when they were come down from the hill, much people met him.

38 And, behold, a man of the company cried out, saying, Master, I beseech thee, look upon my son: for he is mine only child.

39 And, lo, a spirit taketh him, and he suddenly crieth out; and it teareth him that he foameth again, and bruising him hardly departeth from him.

40 And I besought thy disciples to cast him out; and they could not.

41 And Jesus answering said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you, and suffer you? Bring thy son hither.

42 And as he was yet a coming, the devil threw him down, and tare him. And Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and healed the child, and delivered him again to his father.

Review Questions

What did the man from the multitude implore Jesus to do?

The man from the multitude implore Jesus to look on his son.

What reason did he give for imploring Jesus to do so?

The man’s son was his only child.

What was the problem with the boy?

A spirit would seize him, causing him to suddenly cry out. The spirit would also cause the boy to have convulsions and foam at the mouth, and it would depart from him with great difficulty, bruising the boy in the process.

What had happened when the man had carried his son to Jesus’ disciples previously?

The man had implored the disciples to cast out the demon, but they could not.

What happened as the man’s son was approaching Jesus?

As he was approaching Jesus, the demon threw the boy down and convulsed him.

What did Jesus do next?

Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, healed the child, and gave him back to his father.

Discussion Questions

ANOTHER PREDICTION OF HIS DEATH BY JESUS

Luke 9:43-45

43 And they were all amazed at the mighty power of God. But while they wondered every one at all things which Jesus did, he said unto his disciples,

44 Let these sayings sink down into your ears: for the Son of man shall be delivered into the hands of men.

45 But they understood not this saying, and it was hid from them, that they perceived it not: and they feared to ask him of that saying.

Review Questions

What were the people all amazed at?

They were all amazed at the majesty of God.

Why did Jesus tell His disciples to let the words sink into their ears?

As He put it, the Son of Man was about to be betrayed into the hands of men.

Did the disciples understand what Jesus was saying?

They did not understand what Jesus was saying.

Why was it that the disciples did, or did not, understand?

The disciples did not understand because it (the understanding of what Jesus had said) was hidden from them.

Why did they not ask Jesus about what He had said?

They were afraid to ask Him.

Discussion Questions

A CONSIDERATION FOR GREATNESS

Luke 9:46-48

46 Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest.

47 And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a child, and set him by him,

48 And said unto them, Whosoever shall receive this child in my name receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great.

Review Questions

What was the dispute among the disciples about?

The dispute was about which of them would be greatest.

What did Jesus do as a result?

He took a little child and set him by Him.

What did Jesus go on to say to His disciples?

He told them that whoever received that little child in His name received Him, and whoever received Him received the One who sent Him.

Discussion Questions

What was the main point that Jesus wanted them to understand?

Given what the disciples were disputing about, the main point was that the one who was the least among them would be great.

What do you think Jesus meant by His last statement to His disciples?

Jesus meant that those who want to be great must be prepared to be least. Those who would rule must be prepared to serve. In a sense, He was saying that if a person desires to lead a group that he is in, he must begin by serving those in the group. Jesus was talking about servant-leadership.

NO NEED TO FORBID THOSE WHO ARE NOT AGAINST US

Luke 9:49-50

49 And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad him, because he followeth not with us.

50 And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us.

Review Questions

What did John say that the disciples had seen?

They had seen someone casting out demons in Jesus’ name.

What did the disciples do?

They prevented him from doing so.

Why did they do so?

The disciples forbade the man from casting out demons in Jesus’ name because the man was not following Jesus with them.

Did Jesus agree with their action?

No. Jesus told them not to forbid the man.

What was Jesus’ explanation for His statement?

According to Jesus, because the man was not against them, he was, in effect, on their side.

Discussion Questions

THE

LATER MINISTRY

JUDEA AND PEREA

(Luke 9:51 – 18:30)

REJECTION OF CHRIST IN A SAMARITAN VILLAGE

Luke 9:51-56

51 And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem,

52 And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him.

53 And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem.

54 And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did?

55 But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of.

56 For the Son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them. And they went to another village.

Review Questions

Why did Jesus steadfastly set His face to go up to Jerusalem?

The time had come for Him to be received up.

Why did Jesus send messengers ahead of Him?

Jesus sent messengers ahead of Him to prepare for Him.

What happened when the messengers entered a village of the Samaritans?

The Samaritans did not receive Jesus because His face was set for the journey to Jerusalem.

What did Jesus’ disciples James and John do when they saw what happened?

They asked Jesus if He wanted them to command fire to come down from heaven and consume the Samaritans.

How did Jesus respond?

He turned and rebuked them.

Why did Jesus respond in that manner?

Jesus responded in that manner because by thinking as they were, James and John were encouraging a spirit that was not supportive of what He was about, which was to save lives.

What did Jesus and His disciples end up doing?

They went to another village.

Discussion Questions

THE COST OF DISCIPLESHIP

Luke 9:57-62

57 And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.

58 And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.

59 And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.

60 Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God.

61 And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house.

62 And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

Review Questions

Why did Jesus tell someone that the Son of Man had nowhere to lay His head?

Jesus said that because the person had said he would follow Jesus wherever He went.

What did Jesus say to a second person?

Jesus told the person to follow Him.

How did the person respond?

The person wanted to go and bury his father before following Jesus.

What did Jesus say to the person?

Jesus told the person to let the dead bury their own dead, and go and preach the kingdom of God.

What did a third person say to Jesus?

He said he would follow Jesus, but he wanted to go and bid farewell to those who were at his house first.

How did Jesus respond to that third person?

Jesus told him that no one who looks back, having put his hand to the plow, is fit for the kingdom of God.

Discussion Questions

THE SENDING OUT OF SEVENTY OTHERS

Luke 10:1-12

1 After these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself would come.

2 Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.

3 Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves.

4 Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes: and salute no man by the way.

5 And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house.

6 And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it: if not, it shall turn to you again.

7 And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.

8 And into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you:

9 And heal the sick that are therein, and say unto them, The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.

10 But into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you not, go your ways out into the streets of the same, and say,

11 Even the very dust of your city, which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off against you: notwithstanding be ye sure of this, that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.

12 But I say unto you, that it shall be more tolerable in that day for Sodom, than for that city.

Review Questions

How many persons did Jesus appoint to send out?

It is not totally clear, but we know that Jesus appointed seventy others also.

How did Jesus send them out?

Jesus sent them out two by two (in groups of two).

Where did Jesus send the emissaries?

Jesus sent them into every city and place where He Himself was about to go.

What did Jesus tell the emissaries about the harvest and the labourers that were available?

He told them that the harvest was great, but the labourers were few.

What did Jesus say His disciples should do as a result?

Jesus said they should pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.

Whose harvest was Jesus speaking about?

Jesus was speaking about God’s harvest.

What warning did Jesus give the emissaries?

Jesus told them that He was sending them out as lambs among wolves.

What specific instructions did Jesus give the emissaries about what to carry and whom to greet along the road?

His specific instructions were that they should carry neither moneybag, nor knapsack, nor sandals, and they should greet no one along the road;

What did Jesus say about going from house to house?

Jesus told the emissaries not to go from house to house.

What did Jesus say they should eat and drink?

Jesus told them that they should eat and drink such things as they were given (v.7), and eat such things as were set before them (v.8).

What reason did Jesus give as to why they should they eat and drink what they were given?

They should do so because the labourer is worthy of his wages.

What were the emissaries to tell the occupants of the houses where they were well received?

They were to tell them that the kingdom of God had come near to them.

Discussion Questions

WOE TO IMPENITENT CITIES

Luke 10:13-16

13 Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes.

14 But it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment, than for you.

15 And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted to heaven, shalt be thrust down to hell.

16 He that heareth you heareth me; and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me.

Review Questions

Which two cities did Jesus pronounce woes upon?

Chorazin and Bethsaida.

Why did Jesus pronounce woes upon them?

Because they were unrepentant despite the mighty works which had been done in those two cities.

What did Jesus say about those who heard His emissaries and those who rejected them?

To give the emissaries a hearing would be like giving Jesus a hearing.
On the other hand, to reject His emissaries would be like rejecting Him.

What did Jesus say about those who reject Him?

Those who reject Jesus Christ would, in effect, be rejecting God, who had sent Him.

Discussion Questions

Why would it be more tolerable in Tyre and Sidon, at the judgment, than for Chorazin and Bethsaida?

Because the people in Tyre and Sidon had a more repentant attitude.

THE RETURN OF THE SEVENTY

Luke 10:17-20

17 And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name.

18 And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven.

19 Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

20 Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.

Review Questions

What was one reason why the seventy returned with joy?

Even the demons were subject to them.

Why was that possible?

They were acting in Jesus’ name.

What did Jesus say the seventy in response?

He said to them that He saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.

What did Jesus say about the kind of authority that He gave them?

He gave them authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing would hurt them.

What did Jesus tell His disciples not to rejoice in?

Jesus told His disciples not to rejoice just because the spirits were subject to them.

Why did Jesus say they should rejoice?

Jesus said they should rejoice because their names were written in heaven.

Discussion Questions

REJOICING BY JESUS IN THE SPIRIT

Luke 10:21-24

21 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight.

22 All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him.

23 And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see:

24 For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.

Review Questions

What did Jesus thank His Father for?

Jesus thanked His Father because He had hidden certain things from the wise and prudent and revealed them to babes.

Why did the Father hide certain things from the wise and prudent?

The Father hid them because it seemed good to the Father to do so.

What else (apart from revelation by the Father) is necessary for one to understand whom the Father is?

It requires the will of the Son. Only the one to whom the one to whom the Son wills to reveal the Father can know Him.

Why did Jesus tell His disciples that they were blessed?

Jesus told His disciples they were blessed because they had seen and heard things that many prophets and kings had desired to see but had not.

Discussion Questions

What do you think were the “things” that the Father had hidden?

Probably the information on how to get one’s name written in heaven (verse 20).
More than likely, however, the revealed “things” included knowledge of whom the Son of God and God the Father were (verse 22).

THE PARABLE OF THE GOOD SAMARITAN

Luke 10:25-37

25 And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?

26 He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou?

27 And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.

28 And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.

29 But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour?

30 And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.

31 And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.

32 And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side.

33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him,

34 And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.

35 And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.

36 Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?

37 And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.

Review Questions

Who was it that asked Jesus what to do to inherit eternal life?

It was a certain lawyer.

Why did the lawyer ask Jesus that question?

He wanted to test Jesus.

How did Jesus respond?

Jesus asked the lawyer what was written in the law and what his understanding of it was.

What did Jesus tell the lawyer that he needed to do to have eternal life?

Jesus agreed with the lawyer that if he could love the Lord God with all his heart, with all his soul, with all his strength, and with all his mind, and also love his neighbor as himself, then he would have eternal life (verse 28).

Why did the lawyer ask Jesus to tell him who his neighbor was?

He wanted to justify himself. It could be that he already knew whom God was (since there is only one God), but he wasn’t sure who was to be considered as his neighbor (since he had many).
The use of the phrase “justify himself” suggests, however, that he had not been loving all those around him as he should.

What did the thieves do to the man?

They 1) stripped him of his clothing, 2) wounded him, and 3) left him half dead.

According to the parable, the wounded man was seen by both a priest and a Levite. What did each of them do after seeing the wounded man?

Each of them passed by on the other side.

What was the nationality of the man who had compassion and stopped?

The man who stopped was a Samaritan.

What is significant about that?

The Samaritans and the Jews did not get along. In fact, the Jews viewed the Samaritans as “dogs” and probably treated them as such.

Can you identify six things the Samaritan did soon after seeing the wounded man?

On seeing the wounded man, the Samaritan 1) went to him, 2) bandaged his wounds, 3) poured oil and wine on his wounds, 4) set him on his own animal, 5) brought him to an inn, and 6) took care of him.

What did the Samaritan do the next day?

As he was departing, he gave two denarii to the innkeeper, and told him to take care of the man. He also told the innkeeper that if he had to spend more because of the wounded man, he (the Samaritan) would repay him when he returned.

What did Jesus tell the lawyer to do, and what did He mean?

Jesus told the lawyer to go and do likewise. He probably meant that the lawyer should go and be prepared to show compassion to all, including Samaritans.

Discussion Questions

Why do you think Jesus answered the lawyer’s question with a question?

He probably wanted the lawyer to think about His answer more intently.
He may have asked the question to focus the lawyer’s mind on the essential point.

In the parable Jesus told the lawyer, where was the man who fell among thieves from?

He was from Jerusalem.

What is the significance of that?

The significance is that the man was likely to be a Jew.

What do you think was the message that Jesus was trying to get the lawyer to understand?

The main message that Jesus wanted the lawyer to understand was that even a Samaritan is to be regarded and treated as a neighbor.

Do you think Jesus’ parable would have affected the lawyer’s view of priests, Levites or Samaritans?

If he had any stereotypical views of them, the parable would probably have challenged those and caused him to question and/or reconsider them.

What do you think is the main point of the parable?

Many believe the main message is, essentially, that our neighbour is anyone who is in need.
But that is only one message … and that may not be the main message.

What, then, could the main message be?

Simply that Man, on his own, can do nothing to save himself.

MARY AND MARTHA VISITED BY CHRIST

Luke 10:38-42

38 Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word.

40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.

41 And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: 42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.

Review Questions

Who was it that welcomed Jesus into her house after He entered the village?

It was a woman named Martha who welcomed Him into her house.

What was the name of her sister, who sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word?

The name of her sister, who sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word, was Mary.

Why wasn’t Martha sitting at Jesus’ feet and hearing His word?

Martha was distracted with much serving.

What did Martha accuse Jesus of?

Martha accused Jesus of not caring that Mary had left her to serve alone. Apparently, Jesus had seen Martha serving by herself, and He had not helped nor asked Mary to help.

What did Martha want Jesus to do?

Martha wanted Jesus to tell Mary to help her serve.

Did Jesus do what Martha wanted Him to? If yes, why? If not, why not?

Jesus did not do what Martha wanted Him to do. In fact, Jesus told Martha that what Mary had chosen the “good part” and it would not be taken from her.
In effect, Jesus was telling Martha that Mary was doing what Martha needed to be doing since she (Martha) was worried and troubled by so many things.

Discussion Questions

What can we learn from Mary?

Like Mary, we must give top priority to the words of Christ. We must never allow ourselves to become so busy that we cannot find time to spend listening to Christ.

What can we learn from Martha?

Like Martha, if we are not careful, we can be distracted from spending time with God by “good” and “important” things like service, even service that we might be doing for Christ.
Service is a significant part of our worship, BUT it is not always the most appropriate or important part.

A PRAYER TAUGHT TO THE DISCIPLES

Luke 11:1-4

1 And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.

2 And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. 3 Give us day by day our daily bread. 4 And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.

Review Questions

What did one of Jesus’ disciples ask Him to do?

One of His disciples asked Him to teach him and the other disciples to pray.

Were the disciples unfamiliar seeing others pray?

Apparently not. They knew that John had taught his disciples to pray, and they probably had seen Jesus praying.

What had Jesus just finished doing when the disciple came to him?

Jesus had just finished praying in a certain place.

Whose “Father in heaven” did Jesus say His disciples should address their prayers to?

Jesus told them to address their prayers to their Father in heaven.

Whose name should be hallowed?

The Father’s name is the name that should be hallowed.

Whose will should the disciples pray would be done on earth?

They were to pray that the Father’s will would be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Whose daily bread should the disciples pray for?

They were to pray for their daily bread.

Whom should they ask for that daily bread?

They were to ask the Father.

Why did Jesus say they could expect the Father to forgive their sins?

They could expect the Father to forgive them because they forgave others.

Discussion Questions

What or whom did Jesus say His disciples should pray to be delivered from?

They should pray to be delivered from the evil one.

Why do you think the disciples should pray for that particular deliverance?

The juxtaposition of the two phrases “do not lead us into temptation” and “but deliver us from the evil one” suggest that the evil one could lead them into temptation.

THE PARABLE OF A MIDNIGHT VISITOR

Luke 11:5-8

5 And he said unto them, Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves;

6 For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him?

7 And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee.

8 I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth.

Review Questions

When did the visitor in the parable go to the friend?

The visitor went to the friend at midnight.

What did the visitor ask of the friend?

The visitor asked to borrow three loaves from the friend.

Why did the visitor make such a request?

The visitor had been visited by a friend on a journey, and had nothing to set before him.

Did the friend respond favourably or unfavourably?

The friend responded unfavourably at first, citing a number of reasons as excuses. Eventually, however, the friend responded favourably.

What did the friend end up doing?

The friend eventually got up and gave the visitor what he needed.

Why did the friend do that?

The friend eventually gave the visitor the bread, not because the visitor was his friend, but because the visitor was persistent.

Did the visitor receive what was asked for?

We don’t know, because while we know how many loaves the visitor asked for, we don’t know how many loaves the friend gave him.

Did the visitor receive enough? What exactly did the visitor receive?

Yes. The parable says the visitor received as many as he needed.

Discussion Questions

What is one lesson of the story?

If we think of the parable as being about praying to God, then one lesson is that if we are persistent in our praying, we may not get all that we ask for, or want, but we will get all that we need.

ASKING, SEEKING AND KNOCKING

Luke 11:9-13

9 And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.

10 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

11 If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent?

12 Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion?

13 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?

Review Questions

What should one do if one wants to receive?

He should ask.

What should one do if one wants to find?

He should seek.

What should one do if one wants to have a door opened?

He should knock.

If one wants to receive the Holy Spirit, what should one do?

He should ask his heavenly Father.

Why should one expect to receive the Holy Spirit if he does what Jesus says he should do?

He should expect to receive the Holy Spirit because his heavenly Father is like a father who knows how to give good gifts.
More importantly, however, if a human father, who is evil, can give good gifts, how much more will the heavenly Father, who is not evil, give us what is good for us.

Discussion Questions

What two lessons can we learn from this passage?

First, that if we want the Holy Spirit, we must ask God to give us.
Secondly, God may not always give us what we ask for, BUT He will always give us what is good for us.

A HOUSE DIVIDED CANNOT STAND

Luke 11:14-23

14 And he was casting out a devil, and it was dumb. And it came to pass, when the devil was gone out, the dumb spake; and the people wondered.

15 But some of them said, He casteth out devils through Beelzebub the chief of the devils.

16 And others, tempting him, sought of him a sign from heaven.

17 But he, knowing their thoughts, said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and a house divided against a house falleth.

18 If Satan also be divided against himself, how shall his kingdom stand? because ye say that I cast out devils through Beelzebub.

19 And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your sons cast them out? therefore shall they be your judges.

20 But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you.

21 When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace:

22 But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils.

23 He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth.

Review Questions

How did Jesus get the demon to leave the mute person?

Jesus cast out the demon.

What caused the multitudes to marvel?

After the demon had gone out, the person who had been mute spoke.

What did some in the multitude say about Jesus’ ability?

Some of them said that Jesus got His authority over demons from Beelzebub, who was the ruler of demons.
They were saying that Jesus was somehow working with Beelzebub.

How did Jesus respond to that accusation?

Jesus tried to show them that it wouldn’t make sense for Satan to be involved in the casting out of his own demons because a kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation. If Satan were to work against his demons, his kingdom would not stand.

Why did Jesus say that those who made such an accusation would be judged by their sons?

Because those who accused Jesus of casting out demons by Beelzebub would be accusing their sons who also cast out demons of the same thing.

What did Jesus say about those who did not gather with Him?

Those who did not gather with Jesus were, in effect, scattering.

Discussion Questions

THE RETURN OF AN UNCLEAN SPIRIT

Luke 11:24-26

24 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out.

25 And when he cometh, he findeth it swept and garnished.

26 Then goeth he, and taketh to him seven other spirits more wicked than himself; and they enter in, and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first.

Review Questions

According to Jesus, what does an unclean spirit do when it goes out of a person?

The unclean spirit goes through dry places, seeking rest.

What might such an unclean spirit do?

If an unclean spirit, who has been cast, is not able to find rest, he may want to return to the person out of whom he came.

What else might such an unclean spirit do?

The unclean spirit may want to take other spirits, more wicked than himself, to go and possess the person out of whom he came.

How would such action by the unclean spirit affect the man?

It would cause the last state of that man to be worse than when he was first possessed.

Discussion Questions

A BLESSING FOR THOSE WHO KEEP THE WORD

Luke 11:27-28

27 And it came to pass, as he spake these things, a certain woman of the company lifted up her voice, and said unto him, Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps which thou hast sucked.

28 But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.

Review Questions

What did the woman from the crowd say to Jesus?

She said that the womb that bore Him was blessed, and so were the breasts which had nursed Him.

How did Jesus respond?

Jesus responded by saying that among those who were blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it. Some may even say that they are more blessed.

Discussion Questions

THE SEEKING OF A SIGN

Luke 11:29-32

29 And when the people were gathered thick together, he began to say, This is an evil generation: they seek a sign; and there shall no sign be given it, but the sign of Jonas the prophet.

30 For as Jonas was a sign unto the Ninevites, so shall also the Son of man be to this generation.

31 The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation, and condemn them: for she came from the utmost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here.

32 The men of Nineve shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here.

Review Questions

What did Jesus say that people in His generation were seeking?

According to Jesus, they were seeking a sign.

Would they receive what they wanted?

Not necessarily, because Jesus said that the only sign they would receive would be the sign of Jonah the prophet. Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so also would the Son of Man be a sign to the people of His generation.

Why would the queen of the South rise up in the judgment and condemn the men of Jesus’ generation?

Because while she traveled far to hear the wisdom of Solomon, they wouldn’t listen to Jesus, even though He was greater than Solomon.

Why would the men of Nineveh in Jonah’s generation rise up in the judgment and condemn the men of Jesus’ generation?

Because the men of Nineveh repented at the preaching of Jonah, whereas the men of Jesus’ generation did not repent at the preaching of Jesus, even though He was greater than Jonah.

Discussion Questions

THE LAMP OF THE BODY

Luke 11:33-36

33 No man, when he hath lighted a candle, putteth it in a secret place, neither under a bushel, but on a candlestick, that they which come in may see the light.

34 The light of the body is the eye: therefore when thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light; but when thine eye is evil, thy body also is full of darkness.

35 Take heed therefore that the light which is in thee be not darkness.

36 If thy whole body therefore be full of light, having no part dark, the whole shall be full of light, as when the bright shining of a candle doth give thee light.

Review Questions

Why does someone normally light a lamp?

Not to put it under a basket or some place where no one will see it, but to put it on a lampstand, or some place where those who enter the place where it is may have light to see.

What did Jesus say is the lamp of the body?

Jesus said the eye is the lamp of

What did Jesus say happens when it is good?

When the eye is good, Jesus said, the whole body is full of light.

What did Jesus say happens when it is bad?

When the eye is bad, Jesus said, the body is full of darkness.

What did Jesus say we should take heed to ensure?

We should take heed to ensure that the light that is in us is not darkness.

Discussion Questions

WOES TO THE PHARISEES AND SCRIBES

Luke 11:37-54

37 And as he spake, a certain Pharisee besought him to dine with him: and he went in, and sat down to meat.

38 And when the Pharisee saw it, he marvelled that he had not first washed before dinner.

39 And the Lord said unto him, Now do ye Pharisees make clean the outside of the cup and the platter; but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness.

40 Ye fools, did not he that made that which is without make that which is within also?

41 But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you.

42 But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.

43 Woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye love the uppermost seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets.

44 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are as graves which appear not, and the men that walk over them are not aware of them.

45 Then answered one of the lawyers, and said unto him, Master, thus saying thou reproachest us also.

46 And he said, Woe unto you also, ye lawyers! for ye lade men with burdens grievous to be borne, and ye yourselves touch not the burdens with one of your fingers.

47 Woe unto you! for ye build the sepulchres of the prophets, and your fathers killed them.

48 Truly ye bear witness that ye allow the deeds of your fathers: for they indeed killed them, and ye build their sepulchres.

49 Therefore also said the wisdom of God, I will send them prophets and apostles, and some of them they shall slay and persecute:

50 That the blood of all the prophets, which was shed from the foundation of the world, may be required of this generation;

51 From the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, which perished between the altar and the temple: verily I say unto you, It shall be required of this generation.

52 Woe unto you, lawyers! for ye have taken away the key of knowledge: ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered.

53 And as he said these things unto them, the scribes and the Pharisees began to urge him vehemently, and to provoke him to speak of many things:

54 Laying wait for him, and seeking to catch something out of his mouth, that they might accuse him.

Review Questions

What did the Pharisee ask Jesus to do?

The Pharisee asked Jesus to dine with him.

What did the Pharisee see that caused him to marvel?

After the Pharisee had invited Jesus to dine with him, Jesus sat down to eat. Jesus did not wash (in the traditional way) before sitting down to eat.

What did Jesus say to the Pharisee after the Pharisee had marveled at what he saw?

Jesus pointed out that the Pharisees made the outside of cups and dishes clean, even though they were full of greed and wickedness.

Should the Pharisees have been tithing or should they have been concerned about justice and the love of God?

They should have done both.

What did the Pharisees love?

The Pharisees loved the best seats in the synagogues and greetings in the marketplaces.

Jesus called the scribes and Pharisees hypocrites, but what did He liken them to?

Jesus said the scribes were like graves which are not seen, and the men who walk over them are not aware of them.”

What did Jesus accuse the lawyers of?

According to Jesus, the lawyers were:

loading men with burdens that were hard to bear, even though they themselves were not carrying such burdens;
building the tombs of prophets, which their fathers had killed, thereby approving of the deeds of their fathers;
taking away the key of knowledge, and hindering those who were entering (the kingdom of God), which they (the lawyers themselves) had not entered.

How did the scribes and Pharisees react to what Jesus was saying?

As Jesus was accusing them, the scribes and the Pharisees began to assail Him vehemently, and to cross-examine Him about many things.

Why were the scribes and Pharisees lying in wait for Jesus?

They were lying in wait for Him, seeking to catch Jesus in something He might have said, with the hope that they might find something to accuse Him of.

Discussion Questions

What do you think is the point Jesus was trying to make when He implied that He who made the “outside” make the “inside” also?

Jesus was probably making the point that God not only made man with a physical body, but also with a spiritual aspect to his being as well.

WARNING TO BEWARE OF HYPOCRICY

Luke 12:1-3

1 In the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.

2 For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known.

3 Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops.

Review Questions

What was the leaven of the Pharisees?

The leaven of the Pharisees was hypocrisy.

What did Jesus say about things that were covered?

They would be revealed.

What did Jesus say about things that were hidden?

They would be known.

What did Jesus say about things that have been spoken in the dark?

They will be heard in the light.

What did Jesus say about things that have been spoken in inner rooms?

They will be proclaimed on the housetops.

Discussion Questions

A LESSON ON THE FEAR OF GOD

Luke 12:4-7

4 And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.

5 But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.

6 Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God?

7 But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.

Review Questions

Why don’t men deserve to be feared?

Because they can’t do anything to us after they have killed our bodies.

Who really deserves to be feared?

God is the One who really deserves to be feared because, after He has killed, He has power to cast into hell.

What or whom did Jesus say is not forgotten before God?

Jesus said that not one sparrow is forgotten before God.

Why should we, or should we not, fear God?

Because the very hairs of our heads are all numbered, and we are more value than sparrows.

Discussion Questions

Do you think God wants us to fear Him?

Yes, but not in the way that most people consider fear to mean. The “fear” that God wants us to have for Him is one of “awe” and “reverence” for Him.

What do you think is the message Jesus is trying to convey?

If God is concerned about every sparrow, and we are of more value than sparrows, then God is concerned about us. This is confirmed by the fact that the very hairs on our heads are numbered, which means that God is aware of, and concerned about, every strand of hair on each of our heads.

Do you think there may be a link between this passage (Luke 12:4-7) and the previous passage (Luke 12:1-3)?

It may be that fear of other people, and what they might think or do (vv.4-7), may cause us to be hypocrites (v.1).

CONFESSING CHRIST BEFORE MEN

Luke 12:8-12

8 Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God:

9 But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God.

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.

11 And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say:

12 For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.

Review Questions

What did Jesus say about a person who confesses Him before men?

He will confess that person before the angels of God.

What did Jesus say about a person who denies Him before men?

That person will be denied by Jesus before the angels of God.

What did Jesus say about a person who speaks against Him?

What that person said will be forgiven.

What did Jesus say about a person who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit?

What that person said will not be forgiven.

What did Jesus tell His disciples they should do when they were taken before magistrates and authorities?

They should not worry about how or what they should answer, or what they should say.

Why?

They should not worry what to say because the Holy Spirit would teach them, whenever that happened, what they ought to say.

Discussion Questions

THE PARABLE OF THE RICH FOOL

Luke 12:13-21

13 And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me.

14 And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you?

15 And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.

16 And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully:

17 And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?

18 And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods.

19 And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry.

20 But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?

21 So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.

Review Questions

What did the man from the crowd want Jesus to tell His brother?

He wanted Jesus to tell his brother to divide an inheritance with him.

How did Jesus respond?

Jesus responded by asking him who made Him (Jesus) to be a judge or an arbitrator over them.

In the parable, what did the rich man plan to do?

He thought about replacing his existing barns with greater barns so that he would have enough room to store his abundance of crops and all his goods.

What was his objective?

He wanted to put away enough goods for many years, so that he could take it easy, eat, drink and be merry.

What did God think of what the man was planning to do?

God did not think much of the rich man’s plans. God called him a fool.

What did God say would happen that night?

The man’s soul would be required of him – he would die.

What would happen to the man’s goods?

We don’t know for sure. What we do know is that they would be of no value to the man because he would be dead.
More than likely, the goods would be of value to someone else.

Discussion Questions

Why did Jesus say that one should take heed and beware of covetousness?

One should beware of covetousness because one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.

What do you think Jesus meant by that saying?

Jesus was saying that the real value of one’s life is not determined by the possessions that he has.

Why do you think God called the rich man a fool?

The man was ignoring the fact that he had no control over the future.
He did not take into account that he could lose all his valuables overnight.

What do you think is the message in the parable?

We should be more concerned about being rich toward God than about laying up treasure for ourselves on earth.

Assume that you and all your property was being threatened by a hurricane, forest fire or a tsunami and you had to flee.

If God told you He would grant you one wish, what would you ask Him for?
If you could get two wishes, what would your second wish be for?
If you could go back to your home to get one thing, what would it be?

Based on your responses, what would you say you value the most in life?

(Responses will most likely vary from person to person)

What do you think the rich man valued most in life?

His crops and his good. In short, he valued his possessions most.

DO NOT WORRY

Luke 12:22-34

22 And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.

23 The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment.

24 Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls?

25 And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit?

26 If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest?

27 Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.

28 If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith?

29 And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind.

30 For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.

31 But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.

32 Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.

33 Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.

34 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

Review Questions

According to this passage, what did Jesus tell His disciples to worry about?

Nothing.

What did Jesus tell them not to worry about?

Jesus told them not to worry about their lives and what they would eat to sustain their lives. He also told them not to worry about their bodies and what they would put on.

Why did Jesus say they should not worry about such things?

Because life is about more than food, and the body is about more than clothing.

What about ravens did Jesus tell His disciples to consider?

Jesus told them to consider that the ravens did not have to sow or reap, or worry about having storehouses or barns, because God feeds them.

What about the lilies did Jesus tell His disciples to consider?

Jesus told them to consider that the lilies were able to grow, even though they did not toil or spin, and yet they were beautifully arrayed (well-dressed) by God.

What can we learn by considering the birds and the flowers around us?

If God provides for birds, which are of less value than we, then He can provide for us. Also, if God is able to dress up plants with flowers, and grass which only last for a few days, then He can dress us as well.

According to verses 29 and 30, why should we not have anxious minds about what we will eat or drink?

We should not be anxious about food and drink because such things are normal and necessary and God knows that we need such things.

What should we seek, and even be anxious, for?

We should seek the kingdom of God.

What will happen if we seek that?

If we seek the kingdom of God, then all these things (the things we need – like food and drink) shall be added to us (we will come to have).

Why did Jesus tell His disciples to give alms?

By giving alms, they were providing themselves with treasures in heaven.

Why did Jesus want them to have such treasures?

Jesus wanted them to have treasures in heaven because he knew that their hearts would be wherever their treasure was.

Discussion Questions

Read verses 25 and 26 again. What do you think is the message of that passage?

There are certain things which we need to have done, which we cannot do. But God is able to do all things, and He can do for us what we cannot do for ourselves.

There is, therefore, no reason for us to be anxious if we trust God to provide for us.

Why did Jesus tell His little flock (His disciples) not to fear?

He told them not to fear because it was God’s will to give them the kingdom of God.

Why do you think Jesus was telling them that?

Jesus was probably telling them that in order to give them some extra assurance. He had just told them that if they sought the kingdom of God then all their needs would be taken care of. If God wanted them to receive the kingdom, then they would have it, and their needs would be met.

THE FAITHFUL SERVANT AND THE EVIL SERVANT

Luke 12:35-48

35 Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning;

36 And ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately.

37 Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them.

38 And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants.

39 And this know, that if the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through.

40 Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.

41 Then Peter said unto him, Lord, speakest thou this parable unto us, or even to all?

42 And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season?

43 Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.

44 Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make him ruler over all that he hath.

45 But and if that servant say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to beat the menservants and maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken;

46 The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers.

47 And that servant, which knew his lord’s will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes.

48 But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.

Review Questions

What or whom did Jesus say His disciples should be like?

They should be like men who wait for their master, when he will return from the wedding, that when he comes and knocks they may open to him immediately.

Whom did Jesus say would be blessed?

Those servants whom the master finds watching when he comes will be blessed.

According to the parable, why did the master not do what he could have done to prevent his house being broken into?

He didn’t know at what hour the thief would come.

Why did Jesus say His disciples should be ready?

They should be ready because the Son of Man would be coming at an hour that they did not expect.”

Why was the faithful and wise steward made ruler over his master’s house?

He was made ruler over his master’s belongings, by his master, because his master, when he returned, found him doing what he was supposed to be doing.

What could have caused the servant in the parable to begin beating the other servants?

He thought his master had delayed his coming.

What happened that caused that servant to be punished?

His master came on a day when the servant was not expecting him.

What was the main difference given between the servant who was beaten with many stripes and the servant who was beaten with few stripes?

The servant who was beaten with many stripes knew his master’s will but did not do it, while the servant who was beaten with few stripes did not know his master’s will.

What did Jesus say about the person to whom much is given?

Jesus said much would be required of the person to whom much is given.

What did Jesus say about the person to whom much has been committed?

Of that person, Jesus said, others will ask the more.

Discussion Questions

DIVISIONS CAUSED BY CHRIST

Luke 12:49-53

49 I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled?

50 But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished!

51 Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division:

52 For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three.

53 The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.

Review Questions

What did Jesus say He came to do?

He said He came to send fire on the earth.

What did Jesus wish for?

He wished that the fire He had come to send were already kindled.

Why did Jesus say He was distressed?

Jesus was distressed because He had a baptism to be baptized with, and it had not yet been accomplished.

What was it that Jesus said He had not come to give?

Jesus said He did not come to give peace on earth.

So what did Jesus say He came to give?

Jesus said He came to give division.

When a house became divided, according to what Jesus said, how would that division be manifested? Who would be divided against whom?

Father would be divided against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.

Discussion Questions

DISCERN THE TIME

Luke 12:54-56

54 And he said also to the people, When ye see a cloud rise out of the west, straightway ye say, There cometh a shower; and so it is.

55 And when ye see the south wind blow, ye say, There will be heat; and it cometh to pass.

56 Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time?

Review Questions

How could the multitudes tell that a shower was coming?

They could tell a shower was coming whenever they saw a cloud rising out of the west.

How could the multitudes tell when there would be hot weather?

They could tell hot weather was coming whenever they saw the south wind blowing.

What was it that the multitudes could not discern?

They could not discern the time they were in.

Discussion Questions

MAKING PEACE WITH YOUR ADVERSARY

Luke 12:57-59

57 Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right?

58 When thou goest with thine adversary to the magistrate, as thou art in the way, give diligence that thou mayest be delivered from him; lest he hale thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and the officer cast thee into prison.

59 I tell thee, thou shalt not depart thence, till thou hast paid the very last mite.

Review Questions

What did Jesus say a person should do even as he went with his adversary to the magistrate?

The person should make every effort along the way to settle with him.

What could happen if the person was not able to settle with his adversary?

The adversary could drag the person to the judge, the judge could deliver the person to the officer, and the officer could throw the person into prison.

What could eventually happen to the person who was not able to settle with his adversary?

He could end up staying in prison until he had paid all that he owed.

Discussion Questions

THE NEED TO REPENT OR PERISH

Luke 13:1-5

1 There were present at that season some that told him of the Galilaeans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices.

2 And Jesus answering said unto them, Suppose ye that these Galilaeans were sinners above all the Galilaeans, because they suffered such things?

3 I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.

4 Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem?

5 I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.

Review Questions

What was Jesus told about certain Galileans?

He was told the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices.

What did Jesus ask the reporters in His response?

Jesus asked them if they thought that those particular Galileans were worse sinners than all other Galileans because they had suffered such things.

What did Jesus say about the Galileans who had suffered at the hands of Pilate?

Jesus told the reporters that those Galileans were not necessarily worse than other Galileans just because of the kind of fate they suffered.

What did Jesus tell His listeners they would have to do so as not to perish?

By telling them that they would also perish unless they repented, Jesus was telling them (indirectly) that they would have to repent.

Discussion Questions

What do you understand from what Jesus said in His response to those who told Him about certain Galileans?

One thing that should be understood from what Jesus said is that a person does not have to be particularly bad in order to suffer a terrible fate,

THE PARABLE OF THE BARREN FIG TREE

Luke 13:6-9

6 He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none.

7 Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?

8 And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it:

9 And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.

Review Questions

In the parable about the fig tree, what was the man who planted the tree seeking?

The man who had planted fig tree was seeking figs.

Did the man find what he was looking for?

No. He did not find any figs.

What did the man want to do as a result?

He told the keeper of his vineyard to cut down the tree.

Why did he want to do that?

For three years he had been seeking fruit from the tree and had found none, and he had come to the conclusion that the tree was using up the ground.

How did the keeper of the vineyard respond to the man’s request?

He suggested that the man let the tree alone for another year, allowing him to dig around the tree and fertilize it. He also suggested, however, that if the tree did not bear fruit during the year, then the man could cut it down.

Discussion Questions

A SPIRIT OF INFIRMITY

Luke 13:10-17

10 And he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath.

11 And, behold, there was a woman which had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no wise lift up herself.

12 And when Jesus saw her, he called her to him, and said unto her, Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity.

13 And he laid his hands on her: and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God.

14 And the ruler of the synagogue answered with indignation, because that Jesus had healed on the sabbath day, and said unto the people, There are six days in which men ought to work: in them therefore come and be healed, and not on the sabbath day.

15 The Lord then answered him, and said, Thou hypocrite, doth not each one of you on the sabbath loose his ox or his ass from the stall, and lead him away to watering?

16 And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the sabbath day?

17 And when he had said these things, all his adversaries were ashamed: and all the people rejoiced for all the glorious things that were done by him.

Review Questions

What was Jesus doing in the synagogue on the Sabbath?

He was teaching.

What was noticeable about the woman with the spirit of infirmity?

She was bent over and could not raise herself up.

What did Jesus do when He saw the woman?

When Jesus saw the woman He called her to Him, told her that she was loosed from her infirmity, and laid His hands on her.

What happened when Jesus laid His hands on the woman?

When Jesus laid His hands on the woman, immediately she was made straight.

What was the response of the woman?

She glorified God.

What was the response of the ruler of the synagogue?

The ruler of the synagogue was filled with indignation.

Why did the ruler respond in that way?

He responded like that because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath.

What did the ruler have to say about healing on the Sabbath?

The ruler believed that healing should not be done on the Sabbath. He said that there are six days on which men ought to work and, therefore, those are the days on which persons should be healed.
He obviously saw healing as some form of work, which should not be done on the Sabbath, which was a day of rest.

How did Jesus respond to what the ruler said?

Jesus called the man a hypocrite because he had no problem with someone loosing his ox or donkey and leading it to water on the Sabbath, even though that involved work, but he had a problem with the woman being loosed from a type of bondage on the Sabbath.

How did the woman come to be bound, and how long had she been bound?

She was bound by Satan, and she had been bound for eighteen years.

What happened after all had been said and done?

In the end, Jesus’ adversaries were put to shame, and all the multitude rejoiced.

Discussion Questions

THE PARABLE OF THE MUSTARD SEED

Luke 13:18-19

18 Then said he, Unto what is the kingdom of God like? and whereunto shall I resemble it?

19 It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and cast into his garden; and it grew, and waxed a great tree; and the fowls of the air lodged in the branches of it.

Review Questions

To what did Jesus compare the kingdom of God?

Jesus compared the kingdom of God to a mustard seed.

In the parable, what did the man do with the mustard seed?

The man took the mustard seed and put in his garden.

What happened to the mustard seed?

The mustard seed grew and became such a large tree that birds could nest in its branches.

Discussion Questions

THE PARABLE OF THE LEAVEN

Luke 13:20-21

20 And again he said, Whereunto shall I liken the kingdom of God?

21 It is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.

Review Questions

To what did Jesus liken the kingdom of God?

Jesus likened the kingdom of God to leaven.

According to the parable, what did the woman do with the leaven?

A woman took the leaven and hid in three measures of meal.

What eventually happened to the leaven?

The leaven eventually spread throughout the entire three measures of meal.

Discussion Questions

THE NARROW WAY

Luke 13:22-33

22 And he went through the cities and villages, teaching, and journeying toward Jerusalem.

23 Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them,

24 Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.

25 When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are:

26 Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets.

27 But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity.

28 There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out.

29 And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God.

30 And, behold, there are last which shall be first, and there are first which shall be last.

31 The same day there came certain of the Pharisees, saying unto him, Get thee out, and depart hence: for Herod will kill thee.

32 And he said unto them, Go ye, and tell that fox, Behold, I cast out devils, and I do cures to day and to morrow, and the third day I shall be perfected.

33 Nevertheless I must walk to day, and to morrow, and the day following: for it cannot be that a prophet perish out of Jerusalem.

Review Questions

What was Jesus doing as journeyed toward Jerusalem?

He was teaching, as He went through the cities and villages.

Why did Jesus tell His listeners to strive to enter through the narrow gate?

Jesus told them to strive to enter through the narrow gate because many will seek to enter and will not be able.

Why would the Master of the house, after He had shut the door, not open for those who were knocking and asking to enter?

He would not open because He did not know them.

Why did Jesus say there would be weeping and gnashing of teeth?

There would be weeping and gnashing of teeth because the people, who were descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, would see them and the all the prophets in the kingdom of God, but they themselves would not be there.

Where will those who sit in the kingdom of God come from?

Those who have the privilege of sitting in the kingdom of God will come from the east, the west, the north and the south.

Who was it that went to Jesus and told Him to depart from where He was?

It was some Pharisees that told Jesus to depart.

Why did they say Jesus should depart?

They told Jesus to depart because Herod wanted to kill Him.

What did Jesus tell the Pharisees to do?

Jesus told them to go and tell Herod that He was casting out demons and performing cures then, but He would be perfected on the third day.

Why did Jesus say He had to keep journeying?

Jesus said He had to keep going because a prophet should not perish outside of Jerusalem.

Discussion Questions

THE LAMENT OF JESUS OVER JERUSALEM

Luke 13:34-35

34 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not!

35 Behold, your house is left unto you desolate: and verily I say unto you, Ye shall not see me, until the time come when ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.

Review Questions

What did Jesus say about Jerusalem?

According to Jesus, Jerusalem was the one who killed the prophets and stoned those who were sent to her.

Jesus said He wanted to gather your children of Jerusalem together, as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, but He was not able to. Why not?

Jesus could not gather them because Jerusalem was not willing.

When did Jesus tell the people they would see Him again?

Jesus told His listeners that they would not see Him until the time came when they would say “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!”

Discussion Questions

THE HEALING ON THE SABBATH OF A MAN WITH DROPSY

Luke 14:1-6

1 And it came to pass, as he went into the house of one of the chief Pharisees to eat bread on the sabbath day, that they watched him.

2 And, behold, there was a certain man before him which had the dropsy.

3 And Jesus answering spake unto the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day?

4 And they held their peace. And he took him, and healed him, and let him go;

5 And answered them, saying, Which of you shall have an ass or an ox fallen into a pit, and will not straightway pull him out on the sabbath day?

6 And they could not answer him again to these things.

Review Questions

What had Jesus gone into the house of one of the rulers of the Pharisees to do?

He had gone in there to eat bread.

What were the people there doing to Jesus?

They were watching Him closely.

Why did Jesus ask the Pharisees if it was lawful to heal on the Sabbath?

It was the Sabbath, there was man who had dropsy there, and Jesus was about to heal the man.

How did the people respond to Jesus’ question?

They kept silent.

What did Jesus then do?

Jesus took the man who had dropsy, healed him, and let him go.

What did Jesus do after He let the man go?

He asked the people who were there which of them, if he had a donkey or an ox that had fallen into a pit, would not pull the animal out on the Sabbath.

How did the people respond to what Jesus had said?

They could not answer Him regarding what He had asked.

Discussion Questions

THE PRINCIPLE OF TAKING THE LOWLY PLACE

Luke 14:7-14

7 And he put forth a parable to those which were bidden, when he marked how they chose out the chief rooms; saying unto them,

8 When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him;

9 And he that bade thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room.

10 But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee.

11 For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

12 Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee.

13 But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind:

14 And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.

Review Questions

What did Jesus do to those who were invited?

He told them a parable.

Why did Jesus do that?

Jesus did that because He had noted how they chose the best places.

According to the parable, where should a person who has been invited to a wedding feast not go (if he has not been assigned to a seat)?

A person invited to a wedding feast should not sit in the best place.

Why should he not do that?

He should not sit in the best seat because he may be embarrassed if someone more honorable than he had been invited needed to sit there.

So where should a person sit (if he has not been assigned to a seat)?

To be safe, he should sit in the lowest place.

Why should he sit there?

He should sit there so that he won’t be embarrassed by being asked to move to a lower seat when anyone else comes after him.
If anything, he may be honoured by being asked to move to a higher seat.

What was the main message that Jesus was trying to get across?

The message was that the person who exalts himself will be humbled, and the person who humbles himself will be exalted.

What advice did Jesus give to His host?

He told him than when he was hosting a dinner or a supper, he should not invite only his relatives and friends and rich neighbours, who could invite him back, and thus repay him for his invitation.
Rather, Jesus told him, he should seek to invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind, who would not be in a position to repay him for inviting them.

What would be the benefit to the host of following Jesus’ advice?

If the host were to do so (invite those who could not repay him), he would be blessed. Even though they could not repay him, he would be repaid at the resurrection of the just.

Discussion Questions

THE PARABLE OF THE GREAT SUPPER

Luke 14:15-24

15 And when one of them that sat at meat with him heard these things, he said unto him, Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God.

16 Then said he unto him, A certain man made a great supper, and bade many:

17 And sent his servant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, Come; for all things are now ready.

18 And they all with one consent began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused.

19 And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them: I pray thee have me excused.

20 And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.

21 So that servant came, and shewed his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind.

22 And the servant said, Lord, it is done as thou hast commanded, and yet there is room.

23 And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.

24 For I say unto you, That none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper.

Review Questions

According to this parable, what did the man do?

The man gave a great supper and invited many,

What did the man send his servant to do at supper time?

The man sent his servant to tell those who had been invited that they should come because all things had been prepared.

What was the response like?

All those who had been invited to the great supper began to make excuses.

What did the servant then do?

The servant came and reported that the invitees were making excuses.

How did the master of the house feel when the servant did that?

The master of the house became angry.

What did the master of the house do afterward?

The master told the servant to go quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in the poor, the maimed, the lame and the blind.

What happened as a result?

The persons whom the servant had invited came, but there was still room for more.

What did the master then tell the servant to do?

The master then told the servant to go out into the highways and hedges and invite others, compelling them if necessary, so that his house would be filled.

What did the master say would happen to those who were invited?

He said that none of those men who were invited would taste his supper.

Discussion Questions

THE LEAVING OF ALL TO FOLLOW CHRIST

Luke 14:25-33

25 And there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them,

26 If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.

27 And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.

28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?

29 Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him,

30Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish.

31 Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand?

32 Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace.

33 So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.

Review Questions

What should someone who intends to build a tower do before starting to build?

Someone who intends to build a tower should sit down first and count the cost to see whether he has enough to finish building it.

What should a king who intends to make war against another king do before going to war?

A king who intends to make war against another king should consider whether he has enough men to fight against the other king.

What three things did Jesus say someone must be prepared to do if he wanted to be His disciple?

Based on what Jesus said in this passage, anyone who wants to be a disciple of His should be prepared to:

hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, and his own life also;
bear his cross and follow Him;
forsake all that he has.

Discussion Questions

What do you think Jesus meant when He used the phrase “hate his father and mother” to explain what a potential disciple should do?

More than likely, Jesus used the word “hate” to mean “love less.” In other words, Jesus was saying that anyone who wanted to be His disciple should love his father and mother less than they love Him.

What do you think Jesus meant by using the phrase “bear his cross” in reference to something one of His disciples must do?

Jesus was saying that anyone who wanted to be His disciple would have to endure hardships.

What do you think Jesus meant by saying that a person must “forsake all that he has” if he wanted to be His disciple?

It seems Jesus was saying that anyone who wanted to be His disciple would have to give up everything – burn his bridges behind him.

TASTELESS SALT IS WORTHLESS

Luke 14:34-35

34 Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be seasoned?

35 It is neither fit for the land, nor yet for the dunghill; but men cast it out. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

Review Questions

Based on what Jesus said, what is one reason why salt is good?

Salt is good because it has flavour, which enables it to be used as a seasoning.

What is salt fit for if it loses it flavour?

Salt that has lost its flavour is not fit for anything, really – neither for the land nor for the dunghill.

What usually happens to salt that loses its flavour?

When salt loses its flavour, it is usually thrown out.

Discussion Questions

THE PARABLE OF THE LOST SHEEP

Luke 15:1-7

1 Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him. 2 And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.

3 And he spake this parable unto them, saying, 4 What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? 5 And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6 And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.

7 I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.

Review Questions

Who were among those who drew near to Jesus to hear Him?

Tax collectors and sinners were among those who drew near to Jesus to hear Him.

What caused the Pharisees and scribes to murmur?

The Pharisees and scribes were murmuring because Jesus was receiving sinners and eating with them (the sinners).

In the parable, how many sheep did the man have?

The man had a hundred sheep.

How many sheep did he lose?

He lost one sheep.

What caused the man to rejoice?

The man rejoiced because he had found his sheep.

What did the man do when he arrived back home?

When the man arrived back home, he invited his friends to rejoice with him because he had found his sheep.

What was the message that Jesus was trying to get across to the Pharisees and scribes?

There will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.

Discussion Questions

THE PARABLE OF THE LOST COIN

Luke 15:8-10

8 Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it?

9 And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost.

10 Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.

Review Questions

How many coins did the woman have at the beginning?

The woman had ten silver coins.

What caused the woman to light a lamp and sweep the house?

She swept the house because she had lost one of the coins.

According to the parable, what did the woman do until after lighting the lamp and sweeping the house.

She searched carefully until she found the coin?

Why did the woman call her friends and neighbours together?

The woman called her friends and neighbours together because she had found the lost coin.

What did she tell her friends and neighbours to do?

She told them to rejoice with her because she had found the coin.

What message was Jesus trying to get across?

The message was that there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.

Discussion Questions

THE PARABLE OF THE LOST SON

Luke 15:11-32

11 And he said, A certain man had two sons:

12 And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.

13 And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.

14 And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.

15 And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.

16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.

17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!

18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,

19 And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.

20 And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.

21 And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.

22 But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:

23 And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:

24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.

25 Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing.

26 And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant.

27 And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound.

28 And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him.

29 And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends:

30 But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.

31 And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine.

32 It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.

Review Questions

How many sons did the man have?

The man had two sons.

What did the younger of the man’s sons ask his father for?

The younger of the sons asked his father to give him the portion of goods that was due to him.

What did the father do as a result?

The father divided his livelihood between his two sons.

What did the younger son do after journeying to a far country?

While in the far country, the younger son wasted his possessions.

Why did the younger son begin to be in want?

The younger son began to be in want because there was a severe famine in the land and he had spent all that he had.

What did the younger son do to try and cope?

The young son went and joined himself to a citizen of the far country.

What job did the younger son get to do?

He was sent into his fields to feed swine.

What hints do we have that the younger son became desperate?

He got to the point where he would gladly have filled his stomach with the pods that the swine ate, and no one gave him anything, even though he was perishing with hunger.

When did the younger son eventually decide to return home?

The younger son eventually decided to return home when he came to himself.

What did he finally realize?

He realized that he was perishing with hunger, even while his father’s hired servants had more than enough bread to eat.

What did the younger son plan to tell his father after he arrived home?

He planned to tell his father that he had sinned against heaven and before him, and that he was no longer worthy to be called his son.
Also, he planned to ask the father to make him like one of his hired servants.

What did the son eventually get to tell his father?

He was only able to tell his father that he had sinned against heaven and in his father’s sight and was no longer worthy to be called his son.

Why didn’t he get to tell his father all that he had planned to tell him?

He didn’t get to tell his father all that he planned to because his father interrupted him.

When did the father first see his younger son?

He saw his son when he was still a great way off.

What did the father do when he saw him?

His father had compassion, ran and fell on his neck, and kissed him.

What did the father tell his servants to do?

The father told his servants to bring out the best robe and put it on the younger son, put a ring on his hand, put sandals on his feet, kill the fatted calf, so that they could all eat and be merry.

What reason did the father give for telling his servants to do all that?

The father told his servants to do all that he did because his son who had been “dead” was “alive” again and who had been lost was found.

How did the older brother react when he heard that his brother had returned and, because he was safe and sound, his father had killed the fatted calf?

The older brother became angry and would not go in to meet his brother.

What did the father do when he realized his older son was angry?

The father went out to him and pleaded with him.

What reason did the older son give for being angry.

According to the older son, he was angry because he had never left his father nor transgressed his commandment. He had been serving his father all the while, and yet the father never gave him a young goat so that he could celebrate with his friends. And yet, as soon as his younger brother, who had wasted the father’s money, returned home, the father killed the fatted calf for him.

What did the father say in response to his older son?

The father reassured him that all that he, the father, had was the older son’s, but it was right for the father to rejoice because his son who was lost had been found.

Discussion Questions

What had to happen before the son and his father could be reconciled?

The son had to come to himself.
The son had to return to his father.

What are the two requirements for a reconciliation?

Repentance.
Forgiveness.

What can we learn from the lesson of the parable?

God loves us even when we sin, and even after we have sinned.
We will be truly fulfilled only when we live according to the Father’s will.

THE PARABLE OF THE UNJUST STEWARD

Luke 16:1-13

1 And he said also unto his disciples, There was a certain rich man, which had a steward; and the same was accused unto him that he had wasted his goods.

2 And he called him, and said unto him, How is it that I hear this of thee? give an account of thy stewardship; for thou mayest be no longer steward.

3 Then the steward said within himself, What shall I do? for my lord taketh away from me the stewardship: I cannot dig; to beg I am ashamed.

4 I am resolved what to do, that, when I am put out of the stewardship, they may receive me into their houses.

5 So he called every one of his lord’s debtors unto him, and said unto the first, How much owest thou unto my lord?

6 And he said, An hundred measures of oil. And he said unto him, Take thy bill, and sit down quickly, and write fifty.

7 Then said he to another, And how much owest thou? And he said, An hundred measures of wheat. And he said unto him, Take thy bill, and write fourscore.

8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light.

9 And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations.

10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.

11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?

12 And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man’s, who shall give you that which is your own?

13 No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.

Review Questions

What was the accusation that was brought to the rich man?

The accusation was that his steward was wasting his goods.

What did the rich man do?

He called him the steward, told him what he had heard, asked him to give an account of his stewardship, and gave him notice.

How did the steward respond when he realized he was going to lose the stewardship?

When the steward realized he was going to lose the stewardship, he started to plan what he would do afterward.

What did the steward eventually decide to do?

Because the steward could not dig, and was ashamed to beg, he resolved to go to his master’s debtors and make some deals with them that were beneficial to them.

Why did he do that?

The steward did that so that his master’s debtors would receive him into their houses after he had lost the stewardship.

What did the steward do for the debtor who owed a hundred measures of oil?

He told the debtor to write that he only owed fifty measures.

What did the steward do for the debtor who owed a hundred measures of wheat?

He told that debtor to write that he owed eighty measures.

Why did the master commend the unjust steward?

The master commended the unjust steward because he had dealt shrewdly.

How did Jesus tell his listeners they should use unrighteous mammon?

Jesus told them they should use the unrighteous mammon to make “friends” for themselves.

What would be the reason for using the mammon in that way?

The listeners should use the mammon to make “friends” so that when they (the listeners) failed, their “friends” could receive them into an everlasting home.

What did Jesus say about the person who is faithful in what is least and the person who is unjust in what is least?

According to Jesus, the person who is faithful in what is least will be faithful also in much, and the person who is unjust in what is least will be unjust also in much.

What must disciples of Jesus Christ do with mammon, whether theirs or someone else’s if they want to be entrusted with true riches?

If a disciple of Jesus wants to be entrusted with his own true riches, then he must begin by being faithful in his use of the unrighteous mammon.

Why did Jesus say a servant cannot serve two masters?

No servant can serve two masters, Jesus said, because he will love one more than the other, and he will be more loyal to one than to the other. In fact, he can only be truly loyal to one.

Discussion Questions

What was the lesson Jesus wanted His listeners to learn?

Jesus wanted them to learn that it is not possible to serve God and mammon.

THE LAW, THE PROPHETS, AND THE KINGDOM

Luke 16:14-18

14 And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things: and they derided him.

15 And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.

16 The law and the prophets were until John: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it.

17 And it is easier for heaven and earth to pass, than one tittle of the law to fail.

18 Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery: and whosoever marrieth her that is put away from her husband committeth adultery.

Review Questions

Why did the Pharisees, who had heard what Jesus had said about money, deride Him?

The Pharisees derided Jesus because they were lovers of money.

What was the mistake the Pharisees were making in justifying themselves?

The mistake the Pharisees were making was in justifying themselves before men, and what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God.

Whom should they have been concerned about?

They should have been concerned about God’s assessment more that men’s because God knows our hearts.

What did Jesus say about the law and the prophets?

According to Jesus, the law and the prophets were until John.

Which did Jesus say was easier – for one tittle of the law to fail to fail, or for heaven and earth to pass?

Jesus said it was easier for heaven and earth to pass away than for one tittle of the law to fail.

What did Jesus say about a man who divorced his wife and married another, and a man who married a divorced woman?

According to Jesus, both men would have been committing adultery.

Discussion Questions

THE PARABLE OF THE RICH MAN AND LAZARUS

Luke 16:19-31

19 There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:

20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,

21 And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.

22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;

23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.

24 And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.

25 But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.

26 And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.

27 Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father’s house:

28 For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment.

29 Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.

30 And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.

31 And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.

Review Questions

What are we told about the rich man in the parable?

The rich man was clothed in purple and fine linen, and he fared sumptuously every day.

What are we told about the beggar?

The name of the beggar was Lazarus, and he was full of sores. The beggar was laid at the rich man’s gate, and desired to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table.

According to the parable, what happened when the beggar died?

When the beggar died, he was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom.

What happened when the rich man died?

When the rich man died, he was buried.

Where was the rich man when He saw Lazarus?

The rich man was in Hades when he saw Lazarus.

Where was Lazarus?

Lazarus was in the bosom of Abraham.

What did the rich man ask of Abraham?

The rich man asked Abraham to have mercy on him, and to send Lazarus so that Lazarus could help him cool his tongue.

How did Abraham respond to the rich man’s request?

Abraham reminded the rich man the roles of the rich man and Lazarus had been reversed, and then he pointed out that there was a great gulf fixed between the rich man and Lazarus.

What did Abraham say about the gulf that was between the rich man and Lazarus?

According to Abraham, persons who wanted to pass from one side to the other side could not.

What did the rich man then beg Abraham to do?

The rich man begged Abraham to send Lazarus to his father’s house to testify to his five brothers.

What was the rich man hoping for by asking Abraham to do that?

The rich man was hoping that his five brothers would be able to avoid going to the place of torment if Lazarus would testify to them.

Why did Abraham seem to believe that it would not make any sense to send Lazarus to the rich man’s brothers (even if he could)?

Abraham was of the opinion that since the brothers had access to Moses and the prophets and did not hear them, they would not hear Lazarus either.

Discussion Questions

What was the essential difference between Lazarus and the rich man?

What do you think is the message of the parable?

THE WARNING OF OFFENCES BY JESUS

Luke 17:1-4

1 Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come!

2 It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones.

3 Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him.

4 And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.

Review Questions

What did Jesus tell His disciples was impossible?

Jesus told His disciples that it was impossible that no offences should come.

Whom did Jesus pronounce a woe upon?

Jesus said woe to the person through whom the offence may come.

What should a disciple of Jesus Christ do if his brother sins against him?

He should rebuke him.

What should a disciple of Jesus Christ do if his brother repents after sinning against him?

If his brother repents after sinning against him, then he should forgive him.

What should a disciple of Jesus Christ do if his brother sins against him seven times in a day and repents seven times?

If his brother sins against him seven times in a day, and repents seven times in a day, then he should forgive him.

Discussion Questions

FAITH AND DUTY

Luke 17:5-10

5 And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.

6 And the Lord said, If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you.

7 But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat? 8 And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink? 9 Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow not.

10 So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.

Review Questions

What did he apostles ask Jesus to do?

The apostles asked Jesus to increase their faith.

What did Jesus tell His apostles they could do if they had faith as a mustard seed?

Jesus told them that if they had faith as a mustard seed, they could tell a mulberry tree to be pulled up by the roots and be planted in the sea, and it would obey them.

According to Jesus, if one of His apostles had a servant, was the apostle obligated to thank the servant for doing was supposed to do?

Jesus Christ did not think so.

What did Jesus say His apostles should consider themselves to be when they had done all those things that they were commanded to do?

They should consider themselves to be unprofitable servants.

Why should they consider themselves to be unprofitable servants if they did all that they were commanded to do?

They should consider themselves to be unprofitable servants because they had done that which was their duty to do.
NOTE: The fact that they should consider themselves to be unprofitable, having done what they were supposed to do, does not mean that they were not good servants. Nor does it mean they could not become profitable servants, perhaps by doing more at no extra charge.

Discussion Questions

What message do you think Jesus was trying to get across to His apostles?

One message seems to be that servants of Christ should be prepared to go the extra mile.

THE CLEANSING OF TEN LEPERS

Luke 17:11-19

11 And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee.

12 And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:

13 And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.

14 And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.

15 And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,

16 And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.

17 And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?

18 There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.

19 And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.

Review Questions

What two regions did Jesus pass through on His way to Jerusalem?

As Jesus went to Jerusalem that He passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee.

Who met Jesus as He entered a certain village?

As He entered a certain village, He was met by ten men who were lepers.

Where were they standing when they greeted Jesus, and how did they greet Him?

They stood afar off, and lifted their voices, asking Jesus to have mercy on them.
They also referred to Jesus as Master.

How did Jesus respond when He saw them?

When Jesus saw them, He told them to go and show themselves to the priests.

What did they then do?

They went and showed themselves the priests, as Jesus had said they should.

What happened as a result?

They (the ten lepers) were cleansed.

One of the men returned after he had done what Jesus had told him to do. Why did he return? What did he do after returning?

When he saw that he was healed, he returned to glorify God.
He glorified God with a loud voice, and fell down on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving Him thanks.

What nationality was the man who returned?

The man who returned was a Samaritan.

What did Jesus ask when He saw that the one man had returned?

Jesus asked where the other nine men were since ten that had been cleansed, and He asked if it was only a foreigner who saw it fit to return to give glory.

What did Jesus say to the man who returned?

Jesus told him to arise and go his way, and that his faith had made him well.

Discussion Questions

THE COMING OF THE KINGDOM

Luke 17:20-37

20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:

21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.

22 And he said unto the disciples, The days will come, when ye shall desire to see one of the days of the Son of man, and ye shall not see it.

23 And they shall say to you, See here; or, see there: go not after them, nor follow them.

24 For as the lightning, that lighteneth out of the one part under heaven, shineth unto the other part under heaven; so shall also the Son of man be in his day.

25 But first must he suffer many things, and be rejected of this generation.

26 And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man.

27 They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all.

28 Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded;

29 But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all.

30 Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed.

31 In that day, he which shall be upon the housetop, and his stuff in the house, let him not come down to take it away: and he that is in the field, let him likewise not return back.

32 Remember Lot’s wife.

33 Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life shall preserve it.

34 I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left.

35 Two women shall be grinding together; the one shall be taken, and the other left.

36 Two men shall be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left.

37 And they answered and said unto him, Where, Lord? And he said unto them, Wheresoever the body is, thither will the eagles be gathered together.

Review Questions

What two things did Jesus tell the Pharisees about the kingdom of God?

Jesus told them that 1) the kingdom of God does not come with observation, and 2) the kingdom of God was within them.

To what did Jesus liken the Son of Man in His day?

Jesus said the Son of Man in His day would be like lightning that flashes out of one part under heaven shines to the other part under heaven.

What did Jesus say must happen before the Son of Man would have His day?

According to Jesus, the Son of Man would have to suffer many things and be rejected by His generation before He would have His day.

To which days of old did Jesus liken the days of the Son of Man?

Jesus said the days of the Son of Man would be as it was in the days of Noah and as it was in the days of Lot.

What was similar about the days of Noah and the days of Lot?

In both the days of Noah and of Lot, people were eating and drinking, and living their lives as they usually did, just before they were destroyed.

What was different about the destruction that took place in the days of Noah and destruction that took place in the days of Lot?

In the days of Noah, the destruction was by water in a flood, while the destruction in the days of Lot was by fire and brimstone.

What did Jesus say those who were separated from their goods on the day when the Son of Man was revealed should do?

Based on what Jesus said, they should not try to go back to get them; they should leave them.

At the time when the Son of Man is revealed, what would happen in the case of two men in one bed, two women grinding together, and two men in the field?

In all three (hypothetical) cases, one would be taken and the other would be left.

Discussion Questions

Why do you think Jesus said told His listeners to remember Lot’s wife?

Jesus was probably hoping that if they remembered what had happened to Lot’s wife (how she turned a pillar of salt because she wanted to go back into Sodom), it would make it easier for them to flee and leave their goods behind.

What do you think Jesus meant when He said whoever seeks to save his life would lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it?

Jesus by saying so was probably trying to make a link between loving one’s physical life so much as to be unwilling to do what was necessary to receive eternal life.

What do you think Jesus meant when He said that wherever the body is, there the eagles would be gathered together?

Just prior to Jesus making that statement, He had told His disciples about two persons being together and one being taken. That caused the disciples to ask Jesus where, obviously meaning where those who were taken would be taken.
Since the entire context of the passage was about the time when the Son of Man was revealed, Jesus probably meant that wherever the Son of Man was, there would those who were taken at the time of His revelation be.

THE PARABLE OF THE PERSISTENT WIDOW

Luke 18:1-8

1 And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint; 2 Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man: 3 And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary.

4 And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man; 5 Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.

6 And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith.

7 And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them?

8 I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?

Review Questions

According to the parable, what was the judge’s attitude towards God and man?

The judge did not fear God nor regard man.

What did the widow who had come to the judge want?

The widow was seeking justice in a matter between her and her adversary.

How did the judge respond at first?

At first the judge did not pay her much regard.

How did the judge respond in the end?

The judge, in the end, decided to avenge her.

Why did the judge decide to do that?

The judge decided to avenge the widow because she troubled him by her continual coming to him.

What was the message that Jesus wanted His disciples to understand about God?

Jesus wanted His disciples to understand that God is prepared to avenge His own elect who cry out to Him day and night (even though it may seem to them as if they were bothering Him).

Why did Jesus tell this parable?

Notice verse 1. Jesus told the parable to them, because He wanted them to know that men always ought to pray and not lose heart.

What concern did Jesus express at the end of the passage?

Jesus asked if the Son of Man would find faith on the earth when He came?

Discussion Questions

THE PARABLE OF THE PHARISEE AND THE TAX COLLECTOR

Luke 18:9-14

9 And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:

10 Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.

11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.

12 I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.

13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.

14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

Review Questions

What do we know about the two men who went to the temple to pray?

One of the men was a Pharisee, and the other was a tax collector.

Who was the Pharisee praying with or about?

The Pharisee prayed with himself?

What was the Pharisee saying about himself?

According to the Pharisee, he was not like other men. He was not an extortioner, or unjust, or an adulterer, or like the tax collector, who had gone to the temple at about the same time. He also fasted twice a week and gave tithes of all that he possessed.

What are we told about the tax collector’s approach to prayer?

The tax collector stood afar off, and would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast.

What did the tax collector pray about?

The tax collector asked God to be merciful to him.

What reason did Jesus give for saying that the tax collector went down to his house justified while the Pharisee did not?

According to Jesus, the one who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted. It seems that the tax collector was prepared to humble himself, while the Pharisee seemed to be exalting himself.

To whom was Jesus addressing this parable?

Jesus spoke this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others.

Discussion Questions

When you compare the two prayers, what was similar, and what was different?

The similarity is that both the Pharisee and the tax collector addressed their prayers to God. The difference is that the tax collector recognized himself as a sinner and that he needed God to be merciful to him, whereas the Pharisee seemed not to.

CHILDREN BLESSED BY JESUS

Luke 18:15-17

15 And they brought unto him also infants, that he would touch them: but when his disciples saw it, they rebuked them.

16 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.

17 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.

Review Questions

What or whom did people bring to Jesus for Him to touch?

The people brought infants to Jesus that He might touch them.

What did the disciples say when they saw that?

When the disciples saw the people bringing the children, they rebuked the people who were bringing them.

What did Jesus do?

Jesus called the disciples to Him and told them to let the little children come to Him, and not forbid them, for of such is the kingdom of God.

What did Jesus say could prevent a person from entering the kingdom of God.

According to Jesus, if someone is not prepared to receive the kingdom of God as a little child he will not enter it.

Discussion Questions

A RICH YOUNG RULER COUNSELED BY JESUS

Luke 18:18-23

18 And a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?

19 And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? none is good, save one, that is, God.

20 Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother.

21 And he said, All these have I kept from my youth up.

22 Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.

23 And when he heard this, he was very sorrowful: for he was very rich.

Review Questions

What did the ruler want to Jesus to tell him?

The ruler wanted Jesus to tell Him what he could do to inherit eternal life.

What did Jesus tell the ruler he would have to do?

Jesus told the ruler (indirectly) that he would have to keep the commandments.

How did the ruler respond when he heard what Jesus said to him?

The ruler responded by saying that he had kept all the commandments from his youth.

What else did Jesus tell the ruler he would have to do?

After the young man told Jesus that he had kept all the commandments from his youth, Jesus told him he would have to sell all that he had, distribute the proceeds to the poor, and then follow Him (Jesus).

How did the ruler react when he heard what else he would have to do?

When the ruler heard what else Jesus said he would have to do, he became very sorrowful.

Why did the ruler react in that manner?

The ruler became sorrowful because he was very rich.

Discussion Questions

WITH GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE

Luke 18:24-30

24 And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!

25 For it is easier for a camel to go through a needle’s eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.

26 And they that heard it said, Who then can be saved?

27 And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.

28 Then Peter said, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee.

29 And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God’s sake,

30 Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting.

Review Questions

What did Jesus see that caused Him to say how hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God?

Jesus saw that the ruler had become very sorrowful.

What did Jesus say was easier to be done than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God?

Jesus said it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.

What did those who heard what Jesus had said ask Him?

Those who heard what Jesus had said asked Him who could be saved.

How did Jesus respond to their question?

Jesus responded by saying that things which are impossible with men are possible with God.

What did Jesus say that those disciples who had left house, or parents, or brothers, or wife, or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God receive in their time?

Jesus said they would receive many times more in their time?

What did Jesus say they would receive in the time to come?

Jesus said they would receive everlasting life.

Discussion Questions

THE

PASSION WEEK

(Luke 18:31 – 23:56)

A THIRD PREDICTION OF HIS DEATH AND RESURRECTION BY JESUS

Luke 18:31-34

31 Then he took unto him the twelve, and said unto them, “Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of man shall be accomplished.

32 For he shall be delivered unto the Gentiles, and shall be mocked, and spitefully entreated, and spitted on:

33 And they shall scourge him, and put him to death: and the third day he shall rise again.”

34 And they understood none of these things: and this saying was hid from them, neither knew they the things which were spoken.

Review Questions

Where did Jesus tell the Twelve He and they were going?

Jesus told them that they would be going up to Jerusalem?

What did Jesus tell the Twelve would be accomplished as a result of going there?

He told them that all things that were written by the prophets concerning the Son of Man would be accomplished.

What specific things did Jesus say would happen to the Son of Man?

According to Jesus:

delivered to the Gentiles
mocked
insulted
spat upon.
scourged
killed

What did Jesus say would happen to the Son of Man on the third day?

He would rise again (from the dead) on the third day.

Did the Twelve understand what Jesus had just told them? Why or why not?

According to the passage, the twelve did not understand what they had just been told.
They did not understand because the saying was hidden from them.

Discussion Questions

Why do you think the disciples did not understand what Jesus was speaking of things that would happen to Him?

The meaning was hid from them.
One thing that may have caused it to be hidden is that Jesus kept referring to the Son of Man, rather than to Himself.

How does the passage reveal that Jesus was a man of supreme courage?

He knew that something terrible was awaiting Him – something He could have avoided by turning back – but He went on to face it, anyway.

According to William Barclay, Jesus never foretold the cross without foretelling the resurrection. How would that have helped?

It was His certainty of ultimate victory (at His resurrection) that helped Him to face apparent defeat (of His death).

THE RECEIPT OF SIGHT BY A BLIND MAN

Luke 18:35-43

35 And it came to pass, that as he was come nigh unto Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the way side begging: 36 And hearing the multitude pass by, he asked what it meant. 37 And they told him, that Jesus of Nazareth passeth by. 38 And he cried, saying, Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me.

39 And they which went before rebuked him, that he should hold his peace: but he cried so much the more, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me.

40 And Jesus stood, and commanded him to be brought unto him: and when he was come near, he asked him, 41 Saying, What wilt thou that I shall do unto thee? And he said, Lord, that I may receive my sight.

42 And Jesus said unto him, Receive thy sight: thy faith hath saved thee.

43 And immediately he received his sight, and followed him, glorifying God: and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise unto God.

Review Questions

What town was Jesus approaching when He met a certain blind man?

Jesus was approaching Jericho.

What was the blind man doing just before Jesus met Him?

The blind man was sitting by the road and begging.

How did the blind man know that Jesus was passing by?

He was told so, after hearing a multitude passing by and asking what it meant.

What did the blind man do once he heard that Jesus was passing by?

He cried out and asked Jesus to have mercy on him.

Whom did the blind refer to Jesus as?

as the Son of David.

How did other people around react to what the blind man did?

Those who went before warned him that he should be quiet.

How did the blind man respond to what others were telling him?

He cried out all the more.

What did Jesus do?

He stood still and commanded that the blind man be brought to Him.
He asked the blind man what he wanted Him to do for him.

What did the blind man say in response to Jesus’ question?

He told Jesus that he wanted to receive his sight.

How did Jesus help the man?

He told the man to receive his sight and the man received his sight.

What was it about the blind man that caused Jesus to help him?

It was his faith.

How did the blind man respond after being helped by Jesus?

After receiving his sight, the blind man followed Jesus and glorified God.

What effect did the man’s actions have on others?

All the people, when they saw what happened, gave praise to God.

Discussion Questions

What can we learn about the blind man from the passage?

He was determined to see Jesus.

What can we learn about Jesus from the passage?

He more interested acting than in talking.

THE VISIT TO ZACCHAEUS’ HOUSE

Luke 19:1-10

1 And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho.

2 And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich.

3 And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature. 4 And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycomore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way.

5 And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house. 6And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully.

7 And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner.

8 And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord: Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold.

9 And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

Review Questions

We are told that Zacchaeus was rich. What was the nature of his job?

Zacchaeus was a chief tax collector. As such, he would organize other tax collectors and, very likely, collect substantial commissions.

What did Zacchaeus want to do?

He wanted to see who Jesus was.

Why could Zacchaeus not do what he wanted to do?

Because he was of short stature and there was a crowd around him.

How did Zacchaeus solve his problem?

He ran ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree in order to see Jesus.

What did Jesus do when He got to the place where Zacchaeus was?

He looked up and told Zacchaeus to make haste and come down, for He had to stay at his house on that very day.

How did Zacchaeus react to what Jesus did?

He quickly came down out of the tree and received Jesus joyfully.

How did the people in the crowd react to what Jesus did?

They all complained that Jesus had gone to be a guest with a man who was considered a sinner.

What did Zacchaeus tell Jesus about his future plans for his goods?

He told Jesus that he would give half of his goods to the poor … and, if he had taken anything from anyone by false accusation, he would restore it fourfold.

What was the reason why the Son of Man had come?

According to Jesus, the Son of Man had come to seek and to save the lost.

Discussion Questions

Do you think Zacchaeus was wealthy, happy, lonely or a combination? Why or why not?

Chances are he was wealthy (as most tax-collectors were), but not happy.
More than likely, he was unhappy because he was lonely (having chosen as way of life that caused him to be an outcast).

Why would Zacchaeus need courage to go into the crowd?

As a tax-collector, Zacchaeus would be greatly disliked.
Many persons would love to hurt him while he was in the crowd.

What indication is there that Zacchaeus was a changed man?

He was prepared to do far more than the law demanded.
He had decided to give half of his goods to the poor … and, from the other half, he was planning to make some sort of restitution.
The restitution he planned was more than was legally necessary.

For voluntary restitution – 120% of original cost. (Lev.6:5; Num.5:7)
For ordinary robbery, with no goods returned – 200% of original cost. (Ex.22:4)
For deliberate robbery and malicious destruction – 400% (Ex.22:1)

Which people do you think the term “lost” would refer to?

All people … because all people have been (or will be) lost, at some point.

THE PARABLE OF THE MINAS

Luke 19:11-27

11 And as they heard these things, he added and spake a parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear.

12 He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. 13 And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come.

14 But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us.

15 And it came to pass, that when he was returned, having received the kingdom, then he commanded these servants to be called unto him, to whom he had given the money, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading.

16 Then came the first, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds.

17 And he said unto him, Well, thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities.

18 And the second came, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained five pounds.

19 And he said likewise to him, Be thou also over five cities.

20 And another came, saying, Lord, behold, here is thy pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin: 21 For I feared thee, because thou art an austere man: thou takest up that thou layedst not down, and reapest that thou didst not sow.

22 And he saith unto him, Out of thine own mouth will I judge thee, thou wicked servant. Thou knewest that I was an austere man, taking up that I laid not down, and reaping that I did not sow: 23 Wherefore then gavest not thou my money into the bank, that at my coming I might have required mine own with usury?

24 And he said unto them that stood by, Take from him the pound, and give it to him that hath ten pounds.

25 (And they said unto him, Lord, he hath ten pounds.)

26 For I say unto you, That unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him.

27 But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.

Review Questions

Why did the nobleman go into a far country?

To receive for himself a kingdom.

Did the nobleman plan to stay in the far country for the rest of his life?

No. He planned to return.

What did the nobleman do before he left to go to the far country?

He called ten of his servants … delivered to them ten minas … and told them to do business until he returned.

What did the nobleman do after he had received the kingdom and returned?

He summoned the servants to whom he had given the money … that he might know how much every man had gained by trading.

What did the nobleman give the first servant? Why? What had the first servant done?

He gave the first servant authority over ten cities.
Because he had been faithful (in very little).
He had used the mina he received to earn ten minas for his master.

What did the nobleman give the second servant? Why?

He gave the second servant authority over five cities.
Because he had used the mina he received to earn five minas for his master.

What did the nobleman give the third servant? Why?

He gave the third servant nothing.
Because he had done nothing with the mina he had received. He had kept the mina in a handkerchief all the time.

What reason did the third servant give for not using the mina more profitably?

He said he had kept the mina stored away because:

he believed the nobleman to be an austere man and he feared him;
he believed the nobleman to be someone who would collect what he did not deposit, and reap what he did not sow.

What did the nobleman say he would use to judge the third servant?

What came out of his own mouth – by what he, the servant, had said.

What, according to the nobleman, could the servant have done with the mina?

He could have put my money in the bank, so that the nobleman would have been able to collect the money plus the interest when he returned.

What did the nobleman tell others who stood by to do with the third servant?

He told those who stood by to take the mina from the third servant, and give it to the first servant who had ten minas.

What did the nobleman do to those who did not want him to reign over them?

The nobleman had those who did not want him to reign over them slain.

Why did Jesus tell this parable?

Jesus told this parable because there were some in the audience who thought the kingdom of God would appear immediately.

Discussion Questions

How did the nobleman show his trust in his servants?

He gave them his money and then left them to use it as they thought best.
He did not watch them, stand over them or interfere with them in any way.

How did the nobleman’s show of trust turn out to be a test?

By not watching or standing over them, the nobleman could see which servants were giving eye-service (working only when a boss can see) and which were not.
By not interfering with them, the nobleman could see which servants would be faithful in the little things.

According to the parable, what is the reward for work well done?

More work.
(The servant who gained ten minas was rewarded with rule over ten cities, while the servant who gained five minas was rewarded with rule over five cities.)

What was the principle that was guiding the nobleman in rewarding the servants?

The principle may SEEM to have been that … to everyone who has will be given; and from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.
The MAIN guiding principle, however, may have been that … one should not waste, or fail to make use of, the talent(s) that he/she has been given.

How can that guiding principle help Christians?

If we exercise regularly, we will get fitter.
Similarly, if we strive after goodness, we shall get better.
As Christians, we cannot stand still. We either get more or lose what we have.

THE TRIUMPHAL ENTRY

Luke 19:28-40

28 And when he had thus spoken, he went before, ascending up to Jerusalem.

29 And it came to pass, when he was come nigh to Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount called the mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, 30 saying, Go ye into the village over against you; in the which at your entering ye shall find a colt tied, whereon yet never man sat: loose him, and bring him hither. 31 And if any man ask you, Why do ye loose him? thus shall ye say unto him, Because the Lord hath need of him.

32 And they that were sent went their way, and found even as he had said unto them. 33 And as they were loosing the colt, the owners thereof said unto them, Why loose ye the colt?

34 And they said, The Lord hath need of him.

35 And they brought him to Jesus: and they cast their garments upon the colt, and they set Jesus thereon. 36 And as he went, they spread their clothes in the way.

37 And when he was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen; 38 saying, Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord: peace in heaven, and glory in the highest.

39 And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said unto him, Master, rebuke thy disciples.

40 And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.

Review Questions

How many disciples did Jesus send into the village?

Two.

What did Jesus send them to do?

To find a colt and take it back to Him.

How would they know which colt to take?

The colt would be tied … and no one would have ever sat on it before.

What were they to do if anyone asked them why they were loosing the colt?

They should tell them that it was because the Lord had need of it.

What happened when the two disciples went into the village?

They found the colt and they were asked by the owners why they were loosing it.

What did the disciples do after they took the colt to Jesus?

They threw their own clothes on the colt, and they set Jesus on it.

What happened as Jesus went along?

Many people spread their clothes on the road.

What happened as Jesus drew near the descent of the Mount of Olives?

T he whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works they had seen.

How did the disciples in the multitude refer to Jesus?

As the King who was coming in the name of the Lord, and that He was blessed.

How did some of the Pharisees respond to what they were seeing and hearing?

They called to Jesus from the crowd and told Jesus to rebuke His disciples.

What did those Pharisees refer to Jesus as?

As a teacher.

How did Jesus respond to the request by the Pharisees?

He said if those persons in the multitude who were rejoicing and praising God, and referring to Jesus as King, were to keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out.

Discussion Questions

How far was Jericho from Jerusalem?

About seventeen miles.

What do you think is noteworthy about Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem?

His entry had been carefully planned.

He had made prior arrangement to get an ass.
His decision to ride an ass into Jerusalem was to send a clear message.

It was an act of great courage.

By now, He was a wanted man.
Yet, He chose to enter in a way that would draw attention to Himself, rather than in some secretive manner.

It was a tacit way claiming to be a king.

Riding into a city on an ass is something that a king would do.
It was in times of war that a king would ride a horse.

JESUS WEEPS OVER JERUSALEM

Luke 19:41-44

41 And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, 42 saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes. 43 For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass thee round, and keep thee in on every side, 44 and shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee; and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another; because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation.

Review Questions

What did Jesus do as He saw the city?

He wept over it.

What did Jesus say about the people’s awareness of the things that make for peace?

The people in the city did not know the things that would make for their peace.
They didn’t know because those things were hidden from their eyes.

What kind of days did Jesus say would come upon the people?

Days of disaster.

Why would such days come upon the people?

Disaster would befall them because they did not know the time of their visitation.

Discussion Questions

Why do you think Jesus wept over Jerusalem?

It is probable that Jesus wept because the people did not know the way to peace.
It is also likely, however, He was weeping because He could foresee that their enemies would besiege the city, eventually leveling the city, with the adults and their children in it, to the ground, and not leaving one stone upon another.

CLEANSING OF THE TEMPLE BY JESUS

Luke 19:45-48

45 And he went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold therein, and them that bought; 46 saying unto them, It is written, My house is the house of prayer: but ye have made it a den of thieves.

47 And he taught daily in the temple. But the chief priests and the scribes and the chief of the people sought to destroy him, 48 and could not find what they might do: for all the people were very attentive to hear him.

Review Questions

What did Jesus do after He went into the temple?

He began to drive out those who bought and sold in it.

Why did Jesus do that?

Because those who were buying and selling inside the Temple were making it a den of thieves (instead of a house of prayer, as God had intended).

What did Jesus do daily in the temple?

He taught.

What were the chief priests, the scribes and the leaders of the people doing while Jesus was in the Temple?

While Jesus was teaching, they were seeking to destroy Him.

Why were the chief priests, et al, not able to do what they wanted?

The chief priests, and their colleagues, were unable to do anything because all the people were very attentive to hear Jesus.

Discussion Questions

Whom do you think were among “them that sold” in the Temple?

Money changers and Sellers of animals.

Why would Jesus get so upset (to the point of being violent) with each group of sellers?

Because the sellers were using the requirements for worship to exploit the worshippers.

Every male Jew had to pay a Temple Tax of half a shekel, which was about two days pay … but it had to be paid either in exact half-shekels or Galilean shekels. The local Jews would would have no problem … but pilgrims would have to change their currency. Some money changers used this to profiteer. According to William Barclay, “To change a coin of exact value, they charged one maah … If a larger coin was tendered, a charge of one maah was made for the requisite half shekel and of another maah for the giving of change.”
Almost every visit to the Temple involved sacrifice, but animal sacrifices had to be without spot or blemish. For this purpose, the Temple authorities appointed inspectors so it was usually safer to buy animals from within the Temple.

THE AUTHORITY OF JESUS QUESTIONED

Luke 20:1-8

1 And it came to pass, that on one of those days, as he taught the people in the temple, and preached the gospel, the chief priests and the scribes came upon him with the elders, 2 and spake unto him, saying, Tell us, by what authority doest thou these things? or who is he that gave thee this authority?

3 And he answered and said unto them, I will also ask you one thing; and answer me: 4 The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or of men?

5 And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say, Why then believed ye him not? 6 But and if we say, Of men; all the people will stone us: for they be persuaded that John was a prophet.

7 And they answered, that they could not tell whence it was.

8 And Jesus said unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things.

Review Questions

What was Jesus doing in the temple on the day that the chief priests and scribes confronted Him?

On that particular day, Jesus was teaching the people and preaching the gospel.

What did the chief priests and scribes who confronted Jesus want Him to do?

The chief priests and scribes wanted Jesus to tell them by what authority He was doing the things He did, or who had given Him the authority that He had.

What were the chief priests and scribes acknowledging by asking Jesus such questions?

They were acknowledging that Jesus had authority.

How did Jesus respond to what the chief priests and scribes were asking?

He told them He would also ask them a question that He wanted them to answer.

What did Jesus ask the chief priests and scribes?

Jesus asked them to tell Him if the baptism of John was from heaven or from men.

How did they answer Jesus?

They answered that they did not know where the baptism of John was from.

Why did the chief priests and scribes give that answer to Jesus’ question?

They had reasoned among themselves and had come to the following conclusions:

If they told Jesus that the baptism of John was from heaven, then Jesus would ask them why they did not believe John.
If they told Jesus that the baptism of John was from men, then the people would stone them, because the people were persuaded that John was a prophet.

How did Jesus respond to their answer?

He said He would not tell them by what authority He did the things He did.

Discussion Questions

Why is it possible that the questions to Jesus were designed by the Sanhedrin?

The chief priests (ex-high priests and some relatives), the scribes (lawyers) and the elders were members of the Sanhedrin … so their questions could have been discussed and agreed upon in a meeting of the Sanhedrin.

Why was the questions so threatening to Jesus?

If He had said His authority was from God, He could have been charged with blasphemy.

Why do you think Jesus’ question in His response was so hard for them to answer?

They knew that John believed that he was the forerunner to the Messiah. If they said John’s authority was divine, they would be agreeing that Jesus was the Messiah.

THE PARABLE OF THE WICKED VINEDRESSERS

Luke 20:9-19

9 Then began he to speak to the people this parable; A certain man planted a vineyard, and let it forth to husbandmen, and went into a far country for a long time.

10 And at the season he sent a servant to the husbandmen, that they should give him of the fruit of the vineyard: but the husbandmen beat him, and sent him away empty. 11 And again he sent another servant: and they beat him also, and entreated him shamefully, and sent him away empty. 12 And again he sent a third: and they wounded him also, and cast him out.

13 Then said the lord of the vineyard, What shall I do? I will send my beloved son: it may be they will reverence him when they see him.

14 But when the husbandmen saw him, they reasoned among themselves, saying, This is the heir: come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours.

15 So they cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him. What therefore shall the lord of the vineyard do unto them? 16 He shall come and destroy these husbandmen, and shall give the vineyard to others.

And when they heard it, they said, God forbid.

17 And he beheld them, and said, What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner? 18 Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.

19 And the chief priests and the scribes the same hour sought to lay hands on him; and they feared the people: for they perceived that he had spoken this parable against them.

Review Questions

Why did the man who had planted a vineyard lease it to vinedressers?

Because he was going into a far country for a long time.

What did the man do at vintage-time?

He sent a servant to the vinedressers, that they might give him some of the fruit.

How did the vinedressers respond to what the man did?

They beat the servant and sent him away empty-handed.

What happened to the second servant that the man sent to vinedressers?

He was treated shamefully by the vinedressers, who sent him away empty-handed.

What happened to the third servant that the man sent?

He was wounded and cast out by the vinedressers.

What did the owner of the vineyard do after the third servant was cast out?

He sent his beloved son to the vinedressers, hoping that they would respect him.

How did the vinedressers respond to that move by the owner?

They killed the owner’s son.

Why did the vinedressers do that?

They had reasoned and concluded that if they killed the owner’s son (the heir) they would get the inheritance.

What action would the owner then take?

He would destroy the vinedressers and give the vineyard to others.

What did the chief priests and the scribes decide to do after Jesus had told the parable?

They sought to lay hands on Jesus Christ.

Why did the chief priests and the scribes want to do that?

They knew that Jesus had spoken the parable against them.

Why didn’t the chief priests do what they wanted to do?

They feared the people.

Discussion Questions

What or whom do you think is represented by the following: i) the owner; ii) the vineyard; iii) the husbandmen (vinedressers, tenants); iv) the servants; v) the beloved son.

The owner = God
The vineyard = the nation of Israel
The husbandmen = the rulers of Israel
The servants = the prophets
The beloved son = Jesus Christ

Given the symbolic representations above, what can we glean about Man from this parable?

Man is privileged. – Just as the husbandmen did not make or own the vineyard, but found themselves in possession of it, we did not make the things we have. And, just as the owner did not stand over the husbandmen with a whip, so God has left us to pretty much do as we please with what He has given us.
Man is sinful. – Just as the husbandmen refused to give the owner His due and sought to control what was the owner’s right to do, Man refuses to give God His due and usurp the power that is God’s.

What can we learn about God?

God is patient. – Just as the owner did not strike out at the first sign of rebellion, so it is that God has given Man chance after chance.
God will judge. – Just as the owner left the husbandmen to their own devices, so God has left Man to his. However, just as the owner would return, God will also return and Man will have to give account.

What can we learn about Jesus Christ?

Jesus was incredibly courageous. – Jesus knew there was no escaping what awaited Him in Jerusalem, but He went to Jerusalem anyway, open-eyed and aware.
Jesus never doubted God’s ultimate triumph. – Jesus knew that although evil seemed to be prevailing, it was only for a time and, in the end, God would win.
Jesus was the Son of God. – In telling the story, Jesus made a distinction between the servants that the owner had sent and the son of the owner.

THE PAYING OF TAXES TO CAESAR

Luke 20:20-26

20 And they watched him, and sent forth spies, which should feign themselves just men, that they might take hold of his words, that so they might deliver him unto the power and authority of the governor. 21 And they asked him, saying, Master, we know that thou sayest and teachest rightly, neither acceptest thou the person of any, but teachest the way of God truly: 22 Is it lawful for us to give tribute unto Caesar, or no?

23 But he perceived their craftiness, and said unto them, Why tempt ye me? 24 Shew me a penny. Whose image and superscription hath it? They answered and said, Caesar’s.

25 And he said unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which be Caesar’s, and unto God the things which be God’s.

26 And they could not take hold of his words before the people: and they marvelled at his answer, and held their peace.

Review Questions

What did the chief priests and scribes who were watching Jesus Christ do?

They sent spies to spy on Jesus.

How did the spies behave in the presence of Jesus?

They pretended to be righteous.

Why did the spies behave like that?

They were hoping to catch Him in His words in the presence of the people (v.26), in order to deliver Him to the power and the authority of the governor.

What did those who had been sent to Jesus say they knew about Him?

That He spoke and taught rightly, did not show favoritism, and taught the way of God in truth.

What question did they ask Jesus?

They asked if it was lawful for them to pay taxes to Caesar or not.

Why did Jesus respond to their question in the way that He did?

Because He perceived their craftiness.

How did Jesus respond?

First, by asking them why they were testing Him.
Then, by telling them to show Him a denarius and tell Him whose inscription was on it.

When the people answered Jesus that it was Caesar’s inscription on the denarius, what did Jesus then tell them?

They should give Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s.

How did the people respond to Jesus’ answer?

The spies marveled at His answer and kept silent.

Were the people who had been sent to Jesus successful in their mission?

No. Because they could not catch Him in His words in the presence of the people.

Discussion Questions

What was the tribute being discussed?

It was a poll tax (of one denarius per year) that was to be paid by every man aged 14 – 65 and every woman aged 12 – 65, just for the privilege of existing.

Why was this particular tribute problematic?

Given that the tribute was not a great financial burden, the real issue was that many Jews believed that it was wrong to pay tribute to Caesar because God was their king.

How did the question pose a dilemma for Jesus?

If He said the tribute should not be paid, then He would be reported to Pilate and arrested. If He said it should be paid, then He would lose the support of many Jews.

Why do you think Jesus would say they should give Caesar what was his?

In those days, one sign of kingship was the issue of currency. Also, to have the right to issue currency carried the right to impose taxes. Jesus was essentially saying that by using Caesar’s currency, they were recognizing his right to impose taxes and were, therefore, obligated to pay.

Why do you think Jesus would say they should give God what was His?

There is an area in which God’s decrees trumps Caesar’s.

What is the implication for Christians today?

If a Christian enjoys the benefits of living in a society, then he is obligated to play his part in supporting that society.
However, it is also true that, in the life of a Christian, God has the last word and not the society.
He must serve his conscience, even as he serves the state, fearing God and honouring the king at the same time. By so doing, he is the servant and conscience of the state, at the same time.

A QUESTION ON THE RESURRECTION

Luke 20:27-40

27 Then came to him certain of the Sadducees, which deny that there is any resurrection; and they asked him, 28 saying, Master, Moses wrote unto us, If any man’s brother die, having a wife, and he die without children, that his brother should take his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother. 29 There were therefore seven brethren: and the first took a wife, and died without children. 30 And the second took her to wife, and he died childless. 31 And the third took her; and in like manner the seven also: and they left no children, and died. 32 Last of all the woman died also. 33 Therefore in the resurrection whose wife of them is she? for seven had her to wife.

34 And Jesus answering said unto them, The children of this world marry, and are given in marriage: 35 But they which shall be accounted worthy to obtain that world, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage: 36 Neither can they die any more: for they are equal unto the angels; and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection. 37 Now that the dead are raised, even Moses shewed at the bush, when he calleth the Lord the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. 38 For he is not a God of the dead, but of the living: for all live unto him.

39 Then certain of the scribes answering said, Master, thou hast well said.

40 And after that they durst not ask him any question at all.

Review Questions

What did the Sadducees believe about the resurrection?

They did not believe in resurrection.

According to the preamble to the question that the Sadducees wanted to ask Jesus, how was the woman able to marry seven brothers?

She was able to marry seven brothers because each time she married one, he died leaving her childless, thus requiring her dead husband’s brother to marry her.

According to the preamble, how many times did the woman get married before dying?

She had gotten married seven times.

What question did the Sadducees eventually ask Jesus?

They asked whose wife she would be in the resurrection, since she had married all.

How did Jesus respond to the question?

He said that there is no marriage in the resurrection.
The implication is that she would be the wife of none of them.
(It is unclear if she would know that she was married to each of the seven.)

What else did Jesus say about people who come up in the resurrection?

He said those who are in the resurrection will not die any more for they will be as the angels and will be sons of God.

By calling the Lord the “God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob” (v.37), what was Moses showing about the dead?

That the dead will be raised, and that God is not a God of the dead but of the living.

Discussion Questions

Do you know anything about that aspect of the Law of Moses that would make it possible for one woman to get married to seven brothers?

It is known as the levirate law of marriage (Deuteronomy 25:5), which said, in effect, that if a man died childless, his brother must marry the widow and beget children to carry on the line.
(NOTE: It is unlikely that the law was still being practised in Jesus’ time, but the Sadducees still viewed it as binding because it was in the Law.)

What were some of the differences between the Pharisees and the Sadducees?

Whereas the Pharisees were entirely religious with no political ambitions … the Sadducees (who were few, but wealthy and included most of the priests and aristocrats) were more political than religious, often collaborating with the Romans in order to preserve the status quo and their wealthy standard of living.
Whereas the Pharisees accepted the oral laws and traditions (with their many rules and regulations), as well as the written Law … the Sadducees accepted only the written law, stressing only the Mosaic Law and disregarding the prophetic books.
Whereas the Pharisees believed in the resurrection, angels and spirits … the Sadducees did not believe in a resurrection from the dead, in angels or in spirits.
Whereas the Pharisees believed in fate, because a man’s life was planned by God … the Sadducees believed in unrestricted free will and free moral agency.
Whereas the Pharisees believed in the coming of the Messiah … the Sadducees did not (probably because it would upset their standard of living).

How does referring to the Lord as “the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob” show that He is not a God of the dead, but of the living?

By referring to Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (all of whom had already died), God was, in effect, saying that they were not permanently dead.

THE REASON DAVID COULD CALL HIS DESCENDANT “LORD”

Luke 20:41-44

41 And he said unto them, How say they that Christ is David’s son? 42 And David himself saith in the book of Psalms, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, 43 Till I make thine enemies thy footstool. 44David therefore calleth him Lord, how is he then his son?

Review Questions

What did the people believe about the Christ?

They believed the Christ (Messiah) was the Son of David.
NOTE: The title Son of God was the most popular title of the Messiah. (Note what the blind man at Jericho called Jesus in Luke 18:38-39 and how the crowds addressed Jesus in Matthew 21:9).

Whom (according to the book of Psalms) did the LORD say would sit on His right hand?

David’s lord.

Discussion Questions

In the book of Psalms, whom was the term LORD referring to?

God, the Father.

Whom do you think David’s Lord (referred to as “my Lord”) was?

The One who became the Christ.

In light of the above, why would the belief that the Christ was the Son of David seem illogical?

According the Book of Psalms, David had said that the LORD (God) had said to David’s Lord (Christ) that He (Christ) should sit at His (God’s) right hand.
If that were the case, then the Christ, who was David’s Lord, would also be David’s son?

NOTE: The word that is translated as “son” can also be rendered as “grandson” or “great grandson” or some other word meaning “descendant.”

The reason the belief seems illogical is that it requires that an unborn descendant of David be David’s Lord, even while David was still alive.

Assuming the people’s belief to be true, how could an unborn descendant of David be David’s Lord, even while David was still alive?

The One who was David’s Lord, while David was alive, would have to be the same One who became a descendant of David as a child of one of David’s descendants.

WARNING TO BEWARE THE SCRIBES

Luke 20:45-47

45 Then in the audience of all the people he said unto his disciples, 46 Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in the synagogues, and the chief rooms at feasts; 47 which devour widows’ houses, and for a shew make long prayers: the same shall receive greater damnation.

Review Questions

Whom did Jesus tell His disciples to beware of?

The scribes.

Who else was present when Jesus told His disciples that?

Jesus warned them in the hearing of all the people, so people, other than the disciples, must have been present.

What did Jesus say were some characteristics of the scribes?

According to Jesus, the scribes …

desired to walk in long robes,
loved greetings in the marketplaces,
loved the best seats in the synagogues,
loved the best places at feasts,
devoured widows’ houses, and
made long prayers for a pretence.

What did Jesus say would happen to those scribes who displayed such characteristics?

They would receive greater condemnation.

Discussion Questions

The passage mentions some of the things the scribes desired – long robes, highest seats, chief rooms, etc. – and some of their desires would give rise to great expectations. What do you think were some of the expectations?

According to William Barclay, in his commentary on LUKE, wrote:

“The honours which the scribes and Rabbis expected to receive were quite extraordinary. They had rules of precedence all carefully drawn up. In the college, the most learned Rabbi took precedence; at a banquet, the oldest ….

“They claimed to rank even above parents. They said, ‘… Respect for a teacher should exceed respect for a father, for both father and son owe respect to a teacher … If a man’s father and teacher have lost anything, the teacher’s loss has the precedence … If a man’s father and teacher are carrying burdens, he must first help his teacher and afterwards his father … If his father and teacher are in captivity, he must first ransom his teacher and afterwards his father.’ ”

What do you think Jesus meant when He said the scribes would “devour widows’ houses”?

To take advantage of the weak and the powerless.

What two practical problems of the Pharisees are exposed in the passage?

Abuse of authority. They loved the position, prominence, power and prestige of leadership … and their greed led them to abuse their authority to take advantage of the weak and the powerless. In Jesus’ words, they “devoured widows’ houses.”
Hypocrisy. They wanted to appear righteous and practised a “righteousness” which could be seen and applauded by men (Luke 16:15). To mask this, they made a great show by praying lengthy prayers. (By way of contrast, to note how short the recorded prayers of our Lord are.)

THE WIDOW’S TWO MITES

Luke 21:1-4

1 And he looked up, and saw the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury. 2 And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites. 3 And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all: 4 For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had.

Review Questions

What did Jesus see the rich doing?

He saw them putting their gifts into the treasury.

What did Jesus see a poor widow doing?

He saw her putting two mites into the treasury.

What did Jesus say about the widow’s offering?

He said she had given more that all the rich.

Discussion Questions

What was the value of the two mites, in actual terms?

The two mites were really two lepta. One lepton was the smallest of coins and was worth one fortieth (1/40) of a penny.

Why did Jesus say that about the widow’s offering? How could she have given more?

It was more than that of the rich because he had given out of her poverty all the livelihood that she had, whereas they had given out of their abundance.
Proportionately, the widow had given more than they.
Also, her gift involved more sacrifice on her part than their gifts involved on theirs.

How did the widow’s offering compare to that of the rich in terms of quantity?

In terms of quantity, the widow’s donation was far less than that of the rich.

How did her offering compare in terms of quality?

In terms of quality, the widow’s offering was much greater.

What two things, in your opinion, determine the real value of a gift?

The spirit in which is it is given. Something that is given unwillingly, grudgingly, of necessity or to impress does not have as much value as something given freely and cheerfully, out of love
The sacrifice which it involves. An amount that is of little significance to one person may be a vast amount to someone else. Sometimes, the real value of the gift is NOT in how much is given, BUT in how much is left. Sometimes, real giving hurts.

DESTRUCTION OF THE TEMPLE PREDICTED BY JESUS

Luke 21:5-6

5 And as some spake of the temple, how it was adorned with goodly stones and gifts, he said,

6 As for these things which ye behold, the days will come, in the which there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.

Review Questions

What was adorned with goodly (beautiful) stones and gifts (donations)?

The temple.

What did Jesus say about the temple?

That days were coming in which its stones would be upset.

What caused Jesus to say what He did about the temple?

Comment(s) about the temple (and its splendour).

Discussion Questions

Why could Jesus’ comments be considered as a prophecy?

Because He was foretelling some events.

What was implied by Jesus’ comments?

Not only that the temple would be destroyed, but also that Jerusalem would fall.

SIGNS OF THE TIMES AND END OF THE AGE

Luke 21:7-19

7 And they asked him, saying, Master, but when shall these things be? And what sign will there be when these things shall come to pass?

8 And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them. 9 But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by.

10 Then said he unto them, Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom:

11 And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven. 12 But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name’s sake. 13 And it shall turn to you for a testimony.

14 Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer: 15 For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist. 16 And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death. 17 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake. 18 But there shall not an hair of your head perish. 19 In your patience possess ye your souls.

Review Questions

What did those who heard Jesus prophesy about the destruction of the temple ask Him?

When the things He spoke of (the destruction of the temple) would take place.
What sign there would be when the things were about to take place.

What was the first warning that Jesus gave?

That the people should take heed that they not be deceived.

What was one form of deception that the people would need to be wary of?

Other persons claiming to be the Christ and saying that the time had drawn near.

What did Jesus say the people should do if such people came around them?

They should not go after those who claimed to be Christ.

What did Jesus tell the people to do when they heard of wars and commotions?

He told them they should not be terrified.

Did Jesus say how close the end would be to the news of wars and commotions?

No, but He did say that the end would not come immediately.

(NOTE: By “immediately” He probably meant “immediately after hearing the news” or “immediately after the wars and commotions.”)

Given that people claiming to be Christ and people speaking about wars and commotions were possible “signs” that Jesus spoke of, what were some of the other signs?

Some of the possible signs were:

nation rising against nation, and kingdom against kingdom;
great earthquakes in various places;
famines and pestilences;
fearful sights and great signs from heaven.

What did Jesus say would happen before all the things mentioned above took place?

Some people would lay their hands on the followers of Christ and persecute them, delivering them up to the synagogues and prisons.
Some of His followers would be brought before kings and rulers for His name’s sake.

What opportunities would the arrests and persecutions of Jesus’ disciples provide?

Opportunities to testify.

What did Jesus say His followers should settle in their hearts?

To NOT meditate beforehand on what they would answer (whenever they were brought before kings and rulers for Jesus’ sake).

What reason did Jesus give for telling them that?

He would cause them to know what to say, giving them wisdom that their adversaries would not be able to contradict or resist.

Whom did Jesus say would be among those who would betray His disciples?

Parents and brothers, as well as relatives and friends.

How far would the persecutions go?

Some of Jesus’ disciples would be persecuted to the point of death.

Why would Jesus’ disciples be hated by all?

For Jesus’ name’s sake (Because they were His disciples).

What comforting words did Jesus give to His followers?

He told them that not a hair of their heads would be lost.

What did Jesus tell His listeners to do in order to possess their souls?

He told them to be patient.

Discussion Questions

What would you say verses 8–11 are about?

Signs – things that would come to pass before the destruction of the temple.

What would you say verses 12 – 17 are about?

Persecution – which would take place even before the signs.

What would you say verses 18 and 19 are about?

Jesus’ promise of protection for His people during the difficult times.

Based on verses 12–19, what can we say about the Christian life?

It is not an easy life and it may involve persecution, but Christians can be sure that God is aware of everything they go through and can protect them, if necessary.

A PROPHECY REGARDING THE DESTRUCTION OF JERUSALEM

Luke 21:20-24

20 And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh. 21 Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto. 22 For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled.

23 But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people. 24 And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.

Review Questions

What would be one sign that the desolation of Jerusalem was near?

According to Jesus, when the people saw Jerusalem surrounded by armies.

What did Jesus say those in Judea should do if and when they saw the armies surrounding Jerusalem? What about those in the midst of Jerusalem? What about those in the country?

Jesus said that when they saw the armies surrounding Jerusalem …

those who were in Judea should flee to the mountains.
those in the midst of Jerusalem should depart.
those in the country should stay outside Jerusalem.

Why did Jesus say that suggests that those difficult days had to happen?

He described them as “days of vengeance” because, as He put it, all things that were written had to be fulfilled.

Why would it be woeful for pregnant women and nursing mothers in those days?

There would be great distress in the land and wrath upon the people.

What would happen as a result of armies surrounding Jerusalem?

Some people would be killed and some would be led away into other nations.
Gentiles would trample Jerusalem until the times of the Gentiles were fulfilled.

Discussion Questions

What do you know of the fulfilment of Jesus’ prediction about Jerusalem?

Jerusalem fell to the Romans in 70 A.D. after a terrible siege.
During the siege, the people in the city had to resort to cannibalism to survive.
According to Josephus, 1,100,000people died and 97,000 were taken captive.

What purposes of God do you think were accomplished by the destruction of the temple?

The old order would be done away with.
The priesthood would be done away with.
The way would be made for the church to be established as the “dwelling place of God” – the “new temple” (cf. Ephesians 2:18-22).
The temple made with human hands would be no more.
The Jews would be removed from their land.
The times of the Gentiles would be in full swing.

THE COMING OF THE SON OF MAN

Luke 21:25-28

25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; 26 Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.

27 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.

28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.

Review Questions

Where else, apart from Jerusalem and its environs, did Jesus say signs would occur?

In the heavens – among the sun, moon and stars.

What would be happening on earth at about the same time?

There would be perplexity and distress among nations.

What would happen to some people during those times?

Some people’s hearts would fail because of the fear and the expectation of those things that were coming on the earth, for the powers of heaven will be shaken.

What would people then see?

The Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.

What did Jesus say the people should do once that happened? Why?

They should look up and lift up their heads (be encouraged) …
… because it meant their redemption was near.

Discussion Questions

What two themes are covered in the passage above (verses 25–28)?

The second coming of the Christ
The signs of His coming

If you had to give an outline for vv.25 – 28, what would be the main point and the sub-points?

The second coming of the Christ (vv.25-28)

The signs which precede His coming (v.25)
The response of unbelievers (vv.26-27)
The response of the saved (v.28)

THE PARABLE OF THE FIG TREE

Luke 21:29-33

29 And he spake to them a parable; Behold the fig tree, and all the trees; 30 When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand.

31 So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.

32 Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled. 33 Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.

Review Questions

What did Jesus say people could know by looking at the fig tree?

That the summer was near … if the fig trees were budding.

Why did Jesus start to talk about the fig tree?

Jesus was using it as an illustration of something the people could use to tell that the kingdom of God was near.
Just as the people could use the budding of a fig tree to tell that summer was near, so they could use upcoming events (armies surrounding Jerusalem, heavenly signs, etc.) to tell that the Kingdom of God was near.

What are the two promises of Jesus in the last two sentences (verses) of the passage?

That generation would not pass away until those things He had told them about had taken place.
Heaven and earth would pass away, but His words would not.

Discussion Questions

What is similarity between last two sentences in the passage (vv.32 and 33)?

They both have to do with things that “shall not pass away”.

What is the difference between the two?

The first refers to that generation, whereas the second refers to His words.
The first refers to something that is temporary (that generation); the second refers to something that is eternal (His words).

Given that many of the things Jesus told that particular audience about would span more than one generation, how should we understand what Jesus said in the first promise?

It could be that “all these things” were really meant to happen twice (once in 70 A.D. and again in the end of the age).
It could be that the Kingdom of God appeared in some way during that generation.

What is the significance of Jesus saying, “my words shall not pass away”?

First, Jesus was speaking with an authority far greater than that of any other prophet. Whereas other prophets would say, “Thus saith the Lord,” Jesus speaks of His own words. He is actually speaking as God. His words were of divine revelation.
Second, Jesus spoke of His words as eternal. Jesus said His words will outlast Heaven and Earth, which means they would never fail.

Why is it that we so often value those things which are destined to perish above those words of God which will never perish?

Because we can see material things … and because they appear to be lasting.
If we valued things on the basis of how long they will really last, then nothing has greater value than the Word of God.

THE IMPORTANCE OF WATCHING

Luke 21:34-38

34 And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. 35 For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.

36 Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.

37 And in the day time he was teaching in the temple; and at night he went out, and abode in the mount that is called the Mount of Olives. 38 And all the people came early in the morning to him in the temple, for to hear him.

Review Questions

What did Jesus say could happen if the people did not take heed to themselves?

Their hearts could become weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and the cares of life, and that Day (the day of Christ’s return, and all associated with it) could come upon them unexpectedly.

How would that Day come upon them?

It would come “as a snare” (unexpectedly).

Jesus told the people to watch and pray always. What did He tell them to pray for?

That they would be counted worthy … to escape all the things that would come to pass … and to stand before the Son of Man.

How did Jesus organize His time during this period?

In the daytime, He would teach in the temple, from early in the morning (v.38).
In the night, He would spend time in the Mount of Olives.

Discussion Questions

Why would some say that it is useless to speculate about when and how the Second Coming of Christ will take place?

Because those things (time and manner) are not ours to know.

When Jesus told His disciples to watch (so that they could be accounted worthy to escape), what do you think He intended for them to watch?

Interestingly, some think He was telling them to watch world events.
More than likely, however, He meant their spiritual conditions.

Do you see any link between what Jesus did in the day and what He did in the night?

He gained strength to interact with the people in the day … because He had spent time with God in the night.

JUDAS AGREES TO BETRAY JESUS

Luke 22:1-6

1 Now the feast of unleavened bread drew nigh, which is called the Passover. 2 And the chief priests and scribes sought how they might kill him; for they feared the people.

3 Then entered Satan into Judas surnamed Iscariot, being of the number of the twelve. 4 And he went his way, and communed with the chief priests and captains, how he might betray him unto them. 5 And they were glad, and covenanted to give him money. 6 And he promised, and sought opportunity to betray him unto them in the absence of the multitude.

Review Questions

Which Feast was drawing near?

The Feast of Unleavened Bread.

What was that Feast also called?

It was also called Passover.
NOTE: Strictly speaking, the Feast of UB and the Passover were different. The Feast lasted for seven days (15th Nisan through 21st Nisan, inclusive), whereas the Passover was for one day (the 15th of Nisan), which is when the lamb was eaten.

What were the chief priests and the scribes seeking?

Ways to kill Jesus (or have Him killed).

Why did they want to do that?

Because they feared the people.

What caused Judas Iscariot to go and confer with the chief priests and captains?

Satan had entered him.

What did Judas confer with the chief priests and captains about?

How he might betray Jesus to them.

How did the chief priests and captains feel about what Judas was prepared to do?

They were glad.

How did they show their feelings?

By agreeing to give Judas money.

What did Judas seek to do from that moment on?

He sought opportunity to betray Jesus to them, in the absence of the multitude.

Discussion Questions

About how many people do you think were in Jerusalem for the Passover?

According to William Barclay, in his commentary on LUKE, Josephus wrote that 256,500 lambs were slain at one particular Passover and, since their law stated that the minimum number for a Passover celebration was ten, there must have been more than 2,700,000 pilgrims to the Passover (if the figures were correct).
It was in a city crowded like that, Barclay points out, that the drama of the last days of Jesus was played out.

What do you think the chief priests and scribes “feared the people”?

They feared how the people might react … if they arrested Jesus. That could provoke a riot and, because more Roman troops would have been drafted in to deal with the increased numbers, the situation could get very nasty, very quickly.

What can we learn from the fact that Satan entered Judas?

Just a God is looking for people to use as His instruments, so is Satan.
Satan could not have entered Judas IF he had not opened the door to let him in. Similarly, he cannot enter us IF we do not let him in. The handle to the door of the human heart is on the inside; that door must be opened from the inside.

JESUS’ DISCIPLES PREPARE FOR THE PASSOVER

Luke 22:7-13

7 Then came the day of unleavened bread, when the passover must be killed. 8 And he sent Peter and John, saying, Go and prepare us the passover, that we may eat.

9 And they said unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare?

10 And he said unto them, Behold, when ye are entered into the city, there shall a man meet you, bearing a pitcher of water; follow him into the house where he entereth in. 11 And ye shall say unto the goodman of the house, The Master saith unto thee, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with my disciples? 12 And he shall shew you a large upper room furnished: there make ready.

13 And they went, and found as he had said unto them: and they made ready the passover.

Review Questions

What was the day on which the Passover was to be killed?

The Day of Unleavened Bread.

What did Jesus send Peter and John to do?

To prepare the Passover for Jesus and His disciples.

What did Peter and John want to know from Jesus before they left?

Where Jesus wanted them to prepare.

What did Jesus tell them in response to their question?

He told them that when they entered the city, a man carrying a pitcher of water would meet them. They should follow the man into the house he entered, and they should ask the master of the house for the guest room in which Jesus and His disciples could eat the Passover.
Jesus then told the disciples that the master of the house would show them a large, furnished upper room, and that would be the room that they should prepare.

What happened when Peter and John went into the city?

They found things just as Jesus had said. So they prepared as Jesus had instructed.

Discussion Questions

Why do you think a man carrying water would stand out?

Because carrying water was usually the job of women.

What can we learn about event planning from this passage?

To NOT wait until the last minute when planning. Jesus didn’t.

JESUS INSTITUTES THE LORD’S SUPPER

Luke 22:14-23

14 And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him. 15 And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer: 16 For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God.

17 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, Take this, and divide it among yourselves: 18 For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come.

19 And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.

20 Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.

21 But, behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me is with me on the table. 22 And truly the Son of man goeth, as it was determined: but woe unto that man by whom he is betrayed!

23 And they began to inquire among themselves, which of them it was that should do this thing.

Review Questions

When the time to eat the Passover had come, who was with Jesus?

The Twelve apostles.

What did Jesus say about the Passover that He was about to eat?

He said He had fervently desired to eat that Passover before He suffered;
He also said it would be the last Passover He would eat until the Passover was fulfilled in the kingdom of God.

After Jesus had given the disciples the cup to share, what did He do with the bread?

He gave thanks, broke it and gave it to them, telling them it was His body, which was given for them and that they should take it in remembrance of Him.

What did Jesus do with the cup afterwards?

He took it and told the disciples that it was the new covenant in His blood, which was shed for them.

What did Jesus have to say about His betrayal?

By saying He was going as determined, He was saying it had been predetermined.

What did Jesus’ comments about His betrayer cause to happen among His disciples?

They caused the disciples to ask which of them would be the betrayer.

Discussion Questions

In what way were the bread and content of the cup like sacraments?

They acquired meanings far beyond themselves for those who understand.

Why was a new covenant necessary?

Because the continuance of the old covenant depended on Israelites obeying the law, which is something they could not do.

How did the sacrifice of Christ help the relationship between God and Man?

The Jewish sacrificial system was designed to restore the relationship between God and Israelites by offering sacrifice to God to atone for sin.
Jesus gave His life to restore the relationship between God and Man.

Why do you think God gave a ceremony that was to be repeated?

He knew how easily we forget, so He designed it to help us remember.

ARGUMENT AMONG THE DISCIPLES ABOUT GREATNESS

Luke 22:24-30

24 And there was also a strife among them, which of them should be accounted the greatest.

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. 26 But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. 27 For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth.

28 Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. 29 And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me; 30 That ye may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

Review Questions

What was the nature of the dispute among the disciples?

It was about which of them should be considered the greatest.

How did Jesus respond to the dispute among the disciples?

He told them that they should not be like the kings of the Gentiles, who exercised lordship over those below them. Rather, they should be as servants.

What did Jesus say to the disciples about the one who was the greatest among them?

He said the one who was the greatest among them should be as the younger, and the one who governed should be as the one who serves.

What did Jesus have to say about Himself?

He said He was among the disciples as one who was there to serve.

What did Jesus say about His disciples’ action during His trials?

He said they had continued with Him in His trials.

What did Jesus say He was bestowing on His disciples?

A kingdom, in much the same way His Father had bestowed a kingdom on Him.

What did Jesus say the disciples would do in His kingdom?

They would be able to eat and drink at His table in His kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

Discussion Questions

What do you think may have caused the dispute among the disciples?

The seating arrangements.

Why would that cause concern, to the point of causing a dispute?

In that society, seating arrangements at a hosted meal were very definite and would give an indication of the esteem in which a particular guest was held.
According to William Barclay, tables would be arranged as if on three sides of a square. In the centre of the middle table, was the host. To the host’s right, would be the 1st guest; to the host’s left, the 2nd guest; to the host’s second right, the 3rd guest; to the host’s second left, the 4th guest and so on.

Why would a disciple be concerned about how Christ viewed him?

They were still thinking about an earthly kingdom in their time and, by extension, their relative positions in such a kingdom.

What makes this particular dispute so tragic?

It was taking place a few hours before the trial and crucifixion of Jesus.

Based on what Christ said, what is the essential attitude of a good leader?

A desire to serve, sincerely.

PREDICTION OF PETER’S DENIAL OF HIM BY JESUS

Luke 22:31-34

31 And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: 32 But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.

33 And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into prison, and to death.

34 And he said, I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day, before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest me.

Review Questions

What did Jesus tell Simon?

That Satan had asked for him (Simon).

What did Satan want to do with Simon?

To sift him (as wheat).

What did Jesus pray on behalf of Simon?

That his faith would not fail, and that, when he had been converted, he would strengthen his brethren.

How did Simon react to what Jesus told him?

He told Jesus that he was ready to go with Him to prison and even to death.

What did Jesus tell Simon in response to how he reacted?

That he would deny Him three times before the rooster crowed once that day.

Discussion Questions

What do you think is meant by “converted” in verse 32?

Turned around (with a view to what he would need to do after he had denied Jesus).

Why would Peter have to wait to be “converted” before strengthening his brethren?

One cannot really help a man if he has not gone through what the man is going through.
Peter, having gone through what he did, would be better able to help his brethren.

What can we learn about Peter from what he said to Jesus?

He was a good man, essentially.
He was loyal to Jesus, and as faithful as he could be.
He was over-confident.

Why is it dangerous to be over-confident?

Because it is in those areas where a man is most sure of himself that he is usually least prepared and becomes most vulnerable.

SUPPLIES FOR THE ROAD

Luke 22:35-38

35 And he said unto them, When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye any thing? And they said, Nothing.

36 Then said he unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip: and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one. 37 For I say unto you, that this that is written must yet be accomplished in me, And he was reckoned among the transgressors: for the things concerning me have an end.

38 And they said, Lord, behold, here are two swords. And he said unto them, It is enough.

Review Questions

When Jesus had sent His disciples out before, what did he send them without?

Purse (archaic word for money), scrip (moneybag, wallet) and shoes (sandals).

What did the disciples lack as a result of not having those things?

Nothing (despite those things being considered as essential for a journey)

What did Jesus tell His disciples would be different about the coming journey?

They could/should take purse (money), scrips (moneybags) and even swords.

What did Jesus tell those disciples who did not have swords?

Any disciple who did not have a sword should sell his garment and buy one.

What did Jesus say about that which was written?

It was to be accomplished in Him.

What was one thing that was written that would be accomplished in Jesus?

The passage that said “He (the Christ) was numbered with the transgressors.”

What did Jesus say about the things concerning Him?

They had an end.

Discussion Questions

Why do you think Jesus would tell the apostles that they would have to start carrying purses, scrips and even swords, unlike previously?

Because He was leaving them, they would have to start depending on their own resources … to provide for, and defend, themselves.

What do you make of Jesus’ comments regarding purchasing and carrying swords?

It was not necessarily an incitement to violence, but a vivid eastern way of telling the disciples that their lives were at stake.

THE PRAYER IN THE GARDEN OF GETHSEMANE

Luke 22:39-46

39 And he came out, and went, as he was wont, to the mount of Olives; and his disciples also followed him.

40 And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation.

41 And he was withdrawn from them about a stone’s cast, and kneeled down, and prayed,

42 Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.

43 And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.

44 And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.

45 And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow, 46 And said unto them, Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.

Review Questions

Where did Jesus go after the supper?

He went to the Mount of Olives.

Who went with Jesus?

His disciples.

What did Jesus tell His disciples when they got to the place?

To pray so that they would not enter into temptation.

How far from His disciples was Jesus when He knelt down to pray?

A stone’s throw away.

What did Jesus pray His Father to do?

To take the cup away from Him.

What condition did Jesus put on His request?

IF that were His Father’s will.

How did Jesus view His will in relation to His Father’s will?

He wanted to do what was Father’s will rather than His own.

What additional help did Jesus get as He prayed?

An angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him.

What was Jesus’ sweat compared to as He prayed?

To great drops of blood falling down to the ground.

What did Jesus find His disciples doing when He had finished praying?

He found them sleeping.

Why were the disciples sleeping? What was it that caused the disciples to sleep?

Sorrow.

What did Jesus say to His disciples having found them asleep?

First, He asked them that why they were sleeping.
Then, He told them to rise and pray, lest they enter into temptation.

Discussion Questions

Why do you think Jesus prayed more earnestly?

Probably because He was in agony.

Why do you think Jesus may have been in agony?

He knew He was going to be crucified and knew what crucifixion was like.
He was only about thirty-three years old.
He

Do you think Jesus would ever ask you to do something that He would not do?

Do you think Jesus would ever ask you or someone else to die for Him?

Yes.

What are some of the reasons someone in Jesus’ position may say “Your will be done”?

He may do it …

out of submission;
with a sense of ultimate defeat;
out of frustration;
with regret;
in anger;
with confidence.

How does this episode show Jesus’ exceptional courage?

He could have turned back, especially since He knew about crucifixion, but He didn’t.

BETRAYAL AND ARREST IN GETHSEMANE

Luke 22:47-53

47 And while he yet spake, behold a multitude, and he that was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them, and drew near unto Jesus to kiss him. 48 But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?

49 When they which were about him saw what would follow, they said unto him, Lord, shall we smite with the sword?

50 And one of them smote the servant of the high priest, and cut off his right ear.

51 And Jesus answered and said, Suffer ye thus far. And he touched his ear, and healed him.

52 Then Jesus said unto the chief priests, and captains of the temple, and the elders, which were come to him, Be ye come out, as against a thief, with swords and staves? 53 When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched forth no hands against me: but this is your hour, and the power of darkness.

Review Questions

What happened while Jesus was still speaking?

A multitude came to the place where Jesus was.

What did Judas, who was a part of the multitude, do?

He went ahead of the crowd and drew near to Jesus to kiss Him.

What did Jesus say to Judas?

He asked him if he was going to betray the Son of Man with a kiss.

What happened next?

When those around Jesus saw what was going to happen, they asked Jesus if they should strike with the sword.

What happened before Jesus could respond?

One of His disciples struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his right ear.

When Jesus was eventually able to respond, what did He do?

He told His disciples to permit those in the crowd to do what they wanted to do.
Then He touched the servant’s ear and healed him.
After that, He asked those who had come to arrest Him if they had come out to apprehend Him, with swords and clubs, as if He were a robber.

Discussion Questions

Who was the Captain of the Temple and who were the captains of the Temple?

The Captain (Sagan) was the official responsible for the good order of the Temple.
The captains were his lieutenants, responsible for arresting Jesus.

If you could name four parties involved in the arrest, what would they be and how would you describe the action of each?

Judas …… who betrayed the Christ.
Those who had come to arrest Jesus …… who couldn’t recognize the Christ.
The disciples …….. who had forgotten that Jesus was the Christ.
Jesus, Himself …….. who was focused on God.

What can we learn from the behaviour of Jesus compared to that of the disciples in this instance?

One who forgets God, like the disciples, becomes terrified, disorganized and unable to properly cope with life’s trials.
One who stays focused on God, like Jesus, can cope with any challenge that life may throw up.

THE BITTER WEEPING BY PETER AFTER HIS DENIAL OF JESUS

Luke 22:54-62

54 Then took they him, and led him, and brought him into the high priest’s house. And Peter followed afar off. 55 And when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the hall, and were set down together, Peter sat down among them. 56 But a certain maid beheld him as he sat by the fire, and earnestly looked upon him, and said, This man was also with him.

57 And he denied him, saying, Woman, I know him not.

58 And after a little while another saw him, and said, Thou art also of them. And Peter said, Man, I am not.

59 And about the space of one hour after another confidently affirmed, saying, Of a truth this fellow also was with him: for he is a Galilaean.

60 And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou sayest. And immediately, while he yet spake, the cock crew. 61 And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. 62 And Peter went out, and wept bitterly.

Review Questions

Where did the chief priests and their colleagues take Jesus after they arrested Him?

Into the high priest’s house.

How far did Peter follow Christ and His captors before sitting down?

He followed them as far as to the courtyard.

What did the servant girl do when she saw Peter sitting by the fire?

She looked at Peter intently, and said that Peter had also been with Jesus.

How did Peter react to what the girl had said?

He said that he did not know Jesus (thereby denying Jesus).

What did the second person say to Peter?

He said that Peter was one of Jesus’ disciples.

How did Peter react to what that person had said?

He said he was not one of Jesus’ disciples (thereby denying Jesus).

After about an hour, Peter was recognized by another person. What did that person do?

That third person affirmed that Peter, because He was a Galilean, had been with Jesus.

How did Peter react to what that third person did?

Peter said that he did not know what the man was saying.

What happened while Peter was still responding to the third person?

A rooster crowed.

What happened next?

Jesus turned and looked at Peter.

What did Peter do?

He remembered that Jesus had said he would deny Him three times before the rooster crowed.

What did Peter do when He realized what he had done?

He went out of the courtyard and wept bitterly … because he realized that he had denied Jesus three times (just as Jesus had predicted he would).

Discussion Questions

Why do you think Jesus was taken to the High Priest’s house?

It was too early to take Him before the Sanhedrin, which did not meet at night.
It allowed for a unofficial trial, since the HP was the President of the Sanhedrin.
It was a place where they could gloat over Christ.
It provided an opportunity for them to try and trip up Jesus so that they could formulate a charge against Him.

What can we learn about Peter from this passage?

He was courageous.
Of all the disciples that were with Jesus at the time, only two disciples (John 18:15) had the courage to follow Jesus into the courtyard.

Why do you think Peter followed Jesus?

Curiosity
Loyalty
Faithfulness

What do you think made Peter cry?

Probably, the realization that he had denied Jesus three times.
Probably, the look (of sorrow and heartbreak) that Jesus gave him.

Do you think you would have followed Jesus, at that time? Why or why not?

_______

Do you think you would have denied Jesus? Why or why not?

_______

THE MOCKING AND BEATING OF JESUS

Luke 22:63-65

63 And the men that held Jesus mocked him, and smote him. 64 And when they had blindfolded him, they struck him on the face, and asked him, saying, Prophesy, who is it that smote thee? 65 And many other things blasphemously spake they against him.

Review Questions

What did the men who held Jesus do to Him?

They mocked Him and beat Him.

What did they do after blindfolding Jesus?

They struck Him on the face
They asked Him to prophesy and say who was the one that struck Him
They said many other things that were blasphemous against Him.

Discussion Questions

Who were the “men” that were mocking and beating Jesus?

More than likely, Temple police.

Why would they have been able to do that?

Jesus would have been put in their custody for safe-keeping (until He was able to appear before the Sanhedrin, during the day).

THE APPEARANCE BEFORE THE SANHEDRIN BY JESUS

Luke 22:66-71

66 And as soon as it was day, the elders of the people and the chief priests and the scribes came together, and led him into their council, saying, 67 Art thou the Christ? tell us.

And he said unto them, If I tell you, ye will not believe: 68 And if I also ask you, ye will not answer me, nor let me go. 69 Hereafter shall the Son of man sit on the right hand of the power of God.

70 Then said they all, Art thou then the Son of God?

And he said unto them, Ye say that I am.

71 And they said, What need we any further witness? for we ourselves have heard of his own mouth.

Review Questions

What did the chief priests and the scribes come together to do as soon as it was day?

To lead Jesus into their council so that they could question Him.

What did the elders ask Jesus first?

If He were the Christ.

How did Jesus respond to the question?

He said that if He told them He was the Christ, they would not believe Him.
He also said that if He asked them a question, they would not answer or let Him go.
Finally, He told them that afterwards the Son of Man would sit on the right hand of the power of God.

What was the second question that the elders asked Jesus all about?

Because Jesus had said that the Son of Man would sit on the right hand of the power of God, they asked Jesus if He were the Son of God.

How did Jesus respond to the second question?

He said they were right in saying that He was the Son of God.

How did the elders et al respond to Jesus’ answer?

They asked what further testimony they needed, in effect saying that they did not need to hear any more because they had heard Jesus say He was the Son of God.

Why would the elders say that they did not need to hear anything else?

By saying He was the Son of God, Jesus was saying that He equal with God.
For the elders, that was enough for Him to be charged with blasphemy.

Discussion Questions

Which council do you think is being referred to?

The Sanhedrin (which was the supreme court of the Jews).

Why do you think it would be referred to as “their” council, in relation to the elders, chief priests and scribes?

Probably because the Sanhedrin was composed of elders, priests and scribes, as well as Pharisees, Sadducees and Rabbis.

What do you know about the Sanhedrin?

It was the supreme court of the Jews.
It had complete jurisdiction over all religious and theological matters.
It was composed of seventy members.
Elders, priests, rabbis, Sadducees, Pharisees and scribes were all represented.
The High Priest was the President.
It could not meet during the hours of darkness.
It could only meet in the Hall of Hewn Stone in the Temple court.

THE HANDING OVER OF JESUS TO PONTIUS PILATE

Luke 23:1-5

1 And the whole multitude of them arose, and led him unto Pilate. 2 And they began to accuse him, saying, We found this fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to give tribute to Caesar, saying that he himself is Christ, a King.

3 And Pilate asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews?

And he answered him and said, Thou sayest it.

4 Then said Pilate to the chief priests and to the people, I find no fault in this man.

5 And they were the more fierce, saying, He stirreth up the people, teaching throughout all Jewry, beginning from Galilee to this place.

Review Questions

What was Jesus accused of?

Perverting the nation,
Forbidding others to pay taxes to Caesar, and
Saying that He Himself was Christ (a king).

How did Pilate respond to the accusations against Jesus?

He asked Jesus if He were the King of the Jews.

How did Jesus respond to Pilate’s question?

He said it was as Pilate had said (essentially saying He was the King of the Jews).

What did Pilate say to the chief priests and the crowd?

He could find no fault in Jesus … and, therefore, no reason to try Jesus.

How did the people in the crowd react to what Pilate said?

They became fiercer and
They accused Jesus of stirring up the people from Galilee to Jerusalem.

Discussion Questions

Why do you think they would have led Jesus to Pilate?

The Jews wanted Christ to be sentenced to death, but they could not carry it out.
A death sentence had to be passed by the Roman governor and carried out by the Roman authorities.

How does the accusation of Jesus before the Sanhedrin compare with that before Pilate?

Before the Sanhedrin, the charge was religious (blasphemy).
Before Pilate, the charges were political (re: sedition, taxes and kingship).

What do you think accounts for the difference in accusation?

The Jews knew Pilate would have seen the charge of blasphemy as a Jewish matter.

Why do you think Pilate would entertain the Jews’ charge against Jesus?

He saw right through it, recognizing the accusations as lies.
BUT … He didn’t want to offend them.

THE APPEARING OF JESUS BEFORE HEROD

Luke 23:6-12

6 When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked whether the man were a Galilaean. 7 And as soon as he knew that he belonged unto Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who himself also was at Jerusalem at that time. 8 And when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceeding glad: for he was desirous to see him of a long season, because he had heard many things of him; and he hoped to have seen some miracle done by him. 9 Then he questioned with him in many words; but he answered him nothing.

10 And the chief priests and scribes stood and vehemently accused him. 11 And Herod with his men of war set him at nought, and mocked him, and arrayed him in a gorgeous robe, and sent him again to Pilate. 12 And the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends together: for before they were at enmity between themselves.

Review Questions

What did Pilate do when he heard reference to Galilee?

He asked if Jesus were a Galilean.

Why would Jesus be considered a Galilean?

Because He was from Nazareth … and Nazareth was in Galilee.

What did Pilate do when he found out that Jesus was a Galilean?

He sent Him to Herod because He would have been under Herod’s jurisdiction.

Why was Herod (who was in Jerusalem at that time) glad to see Jesus?

Because he had desired for a long time to see Him.
He had heard many things about Jesus and hoped to see some miracle done by Him.

How did Jesus respond to the many questions by Herod.

He did not answer him.

What were the chief priests and scribes doing while Herod was questioning Jesus?

They were vehemently accusing Him.

What did Herod do after he saw how Jesus was responding to him, and how the chief priests and scribes were behaving?

He, along with his men of war, treated Jesus with contempt and mocked Him.
They arrayed Jesus in a gorgeous robe, and sent Him back to Pilate.

What effect did the trial of Jesus have on the relationship between Pilate and Herod?

They became friends with each other. Prior to that, they had been enemies.

Discussion Questions

Why does it seem that the Jews mentioning that Jesus was Galilean work against them?

Galilee was notorious for supporting seditions and the Jews may have hoped that would cause Pilate to be more likely to believe their lie.
By being a Galilean, however, Jesus would have been under Herod’s jurisdiction, thereby providing Pilate with an opportunity to send Jesus to Herod Antipas.

Why do you think Christians should view Jesus differently than Herod Antipas did?

He saw Jesus as a spectacle to look at; we must see Jesus as someone to obey.
He saw Jesus as a joke; we must take Jesus seriously.
He saw Jesus as unimportant; we must see Jesus as important and relevant.

Why do you think Herod sent Jesus back to Pilate?

He could not find anything to charge Him with. (see v.15)

BARABBAS FREED IN PLACE OF JESUS

Luke 23:13-25

13 And Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people, 14 Said unto them, Ye have brought this man unto me, as one that perverteth the people: and, behold, I, having examined him before you, have found no fault in this man touching those things whereof ye accuse him: 15 No, nor yet Herod: for I sent you to him; and, lo, nothing worthy of death is done unto him. 16 I will therefore chastise him, and release him. 17 (For of necessity he must release one unto them at the feast.)

18 And they cried out all at once, saying, Away with this man, and release unto us Barabbas: 19(Who for a certain sedition made in the city, and for murder, was cast into prison.)

20 Pilate therefore, willing to release Jesus, spake again to them. 21 But they cried, saying, Crucify him, crucify him.

22 And he said unto them the third time, Why, what evil hath he done? I have found no cause of death in him: I will therefore chastise him, and let him go.

23 And they were instant with loud voices, requiring that he might be crucified. And the voices of them and of the chief priests prevailed.

24 And Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they required. 25 And he released unto them him that for sedition and murder was cast into prison, whom they had desired; but he delivered Jesus to their will.

Review Questions

When Pilate assembled the chief priests, rulers and people, what did he tell them?

He told them that …

he had examined Jesus in their presence,
he had found no fault in Jesus concerning the accusations,
Herod had not found any fault in Jesus either,
his (Pilate’s) conclusion was that Jesus had done nothing deserving of death.

What did Pilate decide to do?

He decided to chastise Jesus and release Him.

Why did Pilate want to release Jesus?

He had concluded that Jesus had done nothing deserving of death.
Also, it had become customary (necessary) for one person to be released at the feast and since he believed Jesus did not deserve to die, he wanted Jesus to be the one.

How did the people react when they heard that Pilate intended to release Jesus?

They cried out that Pilate should release Barabbas instead.

What had Barabbas been thrown into prison for?

Murder and sedition (as a result of a rebellion in the city).

How did Pilate respond to the crowd’s cries?

He called out to the crowd (Verse 22 suggests he told them he had found no reason to kill Jesus and so he wanted to release Jesus).

What happened after Pilate’s third attempt to release Jesus?

The people still demanded that Jesus be crucified.

What did Pilate eventually end up doing?

The will of the chief priests by sentencing Jesus (whom he felt had done nothing to deserve death), releasing a guilty Barabbas instead.

Discussion Questions

What do you think Pilate did that was so wrong?

He went against his conscience.
He compromised his integrity to gain the favour of the people.

Why is it clear that Pilate did not want to condemn Jesus?

Because of the many attempts he made to avoid passing the sentence of condemnation:

He told the Jews to settle the matter themselves (John 19:6-7)
He tried to refer the whole case to Herod.
He tried to get Jesus to be the one released at the time of the Feast (Passover).
He tried to get a compromise, scourging and then releasing Christ.

Why do you think Pilate eventually gave in to the Jews?

It seems Pilate’s had become compromised.
According to William Barclay, in his commentary on LUKE:

“It is literally true that the Jews blackmailed Pilate into sentencing Jesus to death. The basic fact is that, under impartial Roman justice, any province had the right to report a governor to Rome for misgovernment, and such a governor would be severely dealt with. Pilate had made two grave mistakes in his government of Palestine.

“The one thing the Roman government could not afford to tolerate in their far-flung empire was civil disorder. Had the Jews officially reported either of these incidents there is little doubt that Pilate would have been summarily dismissed. It is John who tells us of the ominous hint the Jewish officials gave Pilate when they said, ‘If you release this man you are not Caesar’s friend.’ (John 19:12) They compelled Pilate to sentence Jesus to death by holding the threat of an official report to Rome over his head.”

What lesson(s) can we learn from Pilate’s experience?

Once again, Barclay’s commentary on LUKE is instructive …

“If a man has been guilty of certain actions there are certain things which he has no longer the right to say, otherwise his past will be flung in his face. We must have a care not to allow ourselves any conduct which will some day despoil us of the right to take the stand we know we ought to take ….

“But if such a situation should arise, there is only one thing to do – to have the courage to face it and its consequences. That is precisely what Pilate did not possess. He sacrificed justice rather than lose his post; he sentenced Jesus to death in order that he might remain the governor of Palestine. Had he been a man of real courage he would have done the right and taken the consequences, but his past made him a coward.”

CARRYING HIS CROSS

Luke 23:26-31

26 And as they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon, a Cyrenian, coming out of the country, and on him they laid the cross, that he might bear it after Jesus.

27 And there followed him a great company of people, and of women, which also bewailed and lamented him. 28 But Jesus turning unto them said, Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children. 29 For, behold, the days are coming, in the which they shall say, Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bare, and the paps which never gave suck. 30 Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us. 31 For if they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in the dry?

Review Questions

What did the people do as they were leading Jesus away?

They laid hold of Simon (a Cyrenian), who was coming from the country, and forced him to help Jesus bear the cross.

What did Jesus tell the women who followed Him, mourning and lamenting?

He told them not to weep for Him, but to weep for themselves and their children.

Why did Jesus tell the women they should weep for themselves and their children?

Because very difficult days were ahead of them.

Discussion Questions

What emotions do you think Simon was experiencing as he carried the cross?

Humiliation. Shame. Frustration. Anger. Bitterness.

Why do you think he would feel such emotion(s)?

Humiliation … b/c all eyes were on him and he was unprepared.
Shame … b/c he was being associated with a criminal.
Frustration … b/c he could not do anything to change his situation.
Anger … towards the Roman(s) for choosing him.
Bitterness … towards Christ for involving him in his condition, if not his crime.

Do you think Simon’s bitterness towards Christ may have changed?

Two passages, when used together, indicate it might have.

Mark 15:21 Simon had two sons: Rufus and Alexander.
Romans 16:13 Paul sent greetings to someone named Rufus.

Many believe that MARK, like the book of ROMANS, was written to Christians in the church in Rome.
So, the Rufus mentioned by Mark may be the Rufus mentioned by Paul.
If that is true, then Rufus became an eminent Christian probably because his father, Simon, had also become a Christian (probably because of his experience in carrying the cross of Christ).
It is possible that Simon’s bitterness had turned to admiration and amazement.

Why do you think Jesus would have told the women to weep for themselves?

He was looking ahead to the destruction of the city (and the siege that preceded it).
Normally, childlessness was almost like a curse (and even grounds for divorce, in some cases), but the siege would be so bad that a woman who had no child at that time would likely see it as a blessing.

What do you understand the last verse (v.31) in the passage to mean?

If they do that to someone who is innocent, then what will they do to someone who is guilty?

THE CRUCIFIXION OF JESUS

Luke 23:32-38

32 And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death. 33 And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.

34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.

And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.

35 And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God.

36 And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar, 37 And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself.

38 And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.

Review Questions

How many others were led away with Jesus to be put to death?

Two … who were malefactors (criminals).

Where were Jesus and the two criminals crucified?

The KJV says … Calvary, which is the Latin for Skull (Kranion, in Greek).
Some translations … Golgotha, which means “Place of the Skull”.

What did Jesus ask His Father to do?

To forgive those who had crucified Him.

What did Jesus give as the reason for the people doing what they did?

They did not “know” (realize, understand fully) what they were doing.

What did the rulers say, sneeringly (mockingly), about Jesus?

They said He should save Himself … IF He were Christ, the Chosen of God.

What did the soldiers do?

They also mocked Jesus
They offered Him vinegar (sour wine)
They told Him that IF He were the King of the Jews, He should save Himself.

What was the inscription that was written above Jesus?

It said: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.

What languages was the inscription above Jesus written in?

Greek, Latin, and Hebrew.

Discussion Questions

How was Jesus led away?

Probably, with five soldiers around him … two soldiers on either side of Him … and one in front carrying a sign with His crime inscribed on it (as a warning to others).
Along the longest route.

How do you think Christ was crucified?

According to William Barclay, in his commentary on LUKE …

“When a criminal reached the place of crucifixion, his cross was laid flat upon the ground. Usually, it was a cross shaped like a T with no top piece against which the head could rest. It was quite low, so that the criminal’s feet were only two or three feed above the ground … The victim’s arms were stretched out upon the cross bar, and the nails were driven through his hands. The feet were not nailed, but only loosely bound to the cross. Half way up the cross there was a projecting piece of wood, called the saddle, which took the weight of the criminal, for otherwise the nails would have torn through his hands. Then the cross was lifted and set upright in its socket.

The terror of crucifixion was this – the pain of that process was terrible but it was not enough to kill, and the victim was left to die of hunger and thirst beneath the blazing noontide sun and the frosts of the night. Many a criminal was known to have hung for a week upon his cross until he died raving mad.“

Do you think it was an accident that Jesus was crucified between two criminals?

Not necessarily.
More than likely, it was done deliberately 1) to humiliate Jesus before the crowd and 2) to associate Him with known criminals.

Why would the soldiers have cast lots for a piece of Jesus’ raiment?

Once again, Barclay’s commentary is instructive …

“The clothes of the criminal were the perquisites of the four soldiers among whom he marched to the cross. Every Jew wore five articles of apparel – the inner tunic, the outer robe, the girdle, the sandals and the turban. Four were divided among the four soldiers. There remained the great outer robe. It was woven in one piece without a seam. (John 19:23-24) To have cut it up and divided it would have ruined it; and so the soldiers gambled for it in the shadow of the cross. It was nothing to them that another criminal was slowly dying in agony.”

Why do you think Jesus would have been offered vinegar (sour wine) to drink?

Possibly, to mock Him (given the context), but not necessarily.
The “vinegar” was likely wine mixed with gall and was sometimes taken to relieve pain.
While this passage suggests the soldiers gave Him, Matthew 27:34 suggests it was some women who gave it to Him.
Interestingly, Matthew’s account says Jesus refused it, implying that He was determined to face death with a clear mind and sharp senses.

What can we learn from what Jesus Christ said while on the cross?

People will sin against us … sometimes in ignorance. (Acts 3:17; 13:27)
We may be tempted to not forgive … but we must NOT be unforgiving.
As Christians, we must seek to forgive … as He forgave. (Acts 7:60; Ephesians 4:32.)
He set us an example … by asking forgiveness for those who crucified Him.

THE CRIMINAL ON THE CROSS

Luke 23:39-43

39 And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.

40 But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss.

42 And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.

43 And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in Paradise.

Review Questions

What did the criminal who blasphemed Jesus say to Him?

He told Jesus that IF He were the Christ He should save Himself and them.

How did the other criminal respond to what the first one had said?

He rebuked the first criminal, asking him if he did not fear God.
According to him, both of them (as criminals) had received what they deserved, unlike Jesus who had done nothing wrong and was getting what He did not deserve.

What did the second criminal ask of Jesus?

That Jesus remember him when He entered His kingdom.

What did Jesus say to that second criminal?

He told him that he would be with Him in Paradise.

Discussion Questions

How would you compare or contrast the attitudes of the two thieves who were crucified along with Jesus?

One was arrogant and rude … and unrepentant.
The other was humble, caring and considerate … and repentant.

What can we conclude from their attitudes?

One did not believe in Christ.
The other believed in Christ.

What can we conclude based on Jesus’ response to the repentant criminal?

He would be in the Kingdom with Christ.
The word Paradise is a Persian word meaning “a walled garden.”
When a Persian king wanted to show one of his subjects special honour, he would walk with him in the garden.
By saying the criminal would be with Him in Paradise, Jesus was promising him more than immortality; He was promising him companionship.

What can we learn from the passage?

It is never too late to turn to Christ.
Indeed, where there is life, there is hope.

THE DEATH OF JESUS

Luke 23:44-49

44 And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. 45 And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst.

46 And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.

47 Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man.

48 And all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the things which were done, smote their breasts, and returned. 49 And all his acquaintance, and the women that followed him from Galilee, stood afar off, beholding these things.

Review Questions

What happened at about the sixth hour on the day that Jesus was crucified?

Darkness covered the land until the ninth hour. Then the sun was darkened.

What happened to the veil of the temple?

It was torn in two.

What did Jesus cry out before breathing His last?

He was committing His spirit into His Father’s hands.

What did the centurion say when he saw what had happened?

He said Jesus was certainly a righteous Man.

What did the people in the crowd do when they saw what had been done?

They beat their breasts and returned from whence they came.

What did Jesus’ acquaintances, and the women who followed Him, do when they saw what had been done?

They stood at a distance, watching what was happening.

Discussion Questions

What do you think about the darkness covering the land?

It reminds that the Passover lamb was killed in relative darkness (at even; between the two evenings).

What do you think of the Veil of the Temple being rent in the midst (torn in two)?

It was symbolic of the way to God’s presence being open to all.

What do you think of Jesus crying out shortly before He died?

According to John’s gospel, Jesus said “It is finished!” and Barclay tells us that the phrase “It is finished” is one word in both Greek and Aramaic.
The implication is that what Jesus cried out “It is finished!” as He was dying.
It was a victorious cry of triumph.

What can we learn about Jesus by what He said just before He died?

He was always thinking about His Father.
He closed that chapter of His life with a prayer.

What can we learn from the utterance of the centurion?

Even in dying, Christ was able to change men’s hearts.
Even in death, we can be powerful examples to others.

THE BURIAL OF JESUS

Luke 23:50-56

50 And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counsellor; and he was a good man, and a just: 51 (The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them;) he was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God.

52 This man went unto Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. 53 And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid. 54 And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath drew on.

55 And the women also, which came with him from Galilee, followed after, and beheld the sepulchre, and how his body was laid. 56 And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments; and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment.

Review Questions

What do we know about the man who went to Pilate to ask for the body of Jesus?

His name was Joseph;
He was from Arimathea, a city of the Jews;
He was a good and just man;
He was a council member;
He had not consented to the decision of the council and their deed;
He was himself waiting for the kingdom of God.

What did Joseph do with the body of Jesus after he had taken it down?

He wrapped it in linen and laid it in a tomb (that was hewn out of the rock and where no one had ever laid before).

Where was Jesus buried?

In the borrowed tomb of Joseph of Arimathea.

Which day was it that Joseph buried Jesus in the tomb?

The preparation day.

What was significant about the day that was drawing near?

It was a Sabbath.

What did the women who had come with Jesus from Galilee do?

They followed Joseph,
They observed where the tomb was, and
They noted how Jesus’ body was laid.

What did the women then do?

They returned (to their homes),
They prepared spices and fragrant oils, and
They rested on the Sabbath, according to the commandment.

Discussion Questions

Why do you think Joseph had to “beg” for the body of Jesus?

It was the custom not to bury the bodies of dead criminals, but to leave them for vultures and dogs to eat them.

Why do you think Joseph wanted to bury the body of Christ?

To prevent the indignity of Jesus’ body being eaten by vultures.
Maybe to help soothe his conscience since he was part of the Sanhedrin who had earlier turned Jesus over to the Roman authorities.

THE

RESURRECTION

AND

ASCENSION

(Luke 24:1-53)

THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST

Luke 24:1-12

1 Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them. 2 And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. 3 And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments:

5 And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? 6 He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, 7 Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.

8 And they remembered his words, 9 And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest. 10 It was Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles. 11 And their words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them not.

12 Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass.

Review Questions

What day of the week was it when the women went to the tomb?

It was the first day of the week.

What time of day was it when the women arrived at the tomb?

It was very early in the morning.

Why had the women gone to the tomb?

To apply the spices, which they had prepared, to Jesus’ body.

What did the women find when they arrived at the tomb?

They found the stone rolled away from the tomb.

What did the women find when they went inside the tomb?

They found that Jesus’ body was not in it.

What happened as the women were being perplexed by what they had seen?

Two “men” stood by them in shining garments.

What were the women asked?

Why they were seeking the living among the dead.

What were the women told?

Jesus was not there because He was risen.
That Jesus had told them that the Son of Man would be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, but would rise again on the third day.

What did the women do when they returned from the tomb?

They went and told what they had experienced to the eleven and the rest.

Who were some of the women who told the apostles about what happened at the tomb?

Mary Magdalene, Joanna and Mary the mother of James.

How was the report by the women received by the apostles and the others?

The words of the women seemed like idle tales and they did not believe them.

Which of the apostles ran to the tomb?

Peter.

What did Peter see when he arrived at the tomb?

The linen cloths (that had been used to wrap Jesus’ body), but not Christ’s body.

What was Peter doing as he departed from the tomb?

He was marveling to himself about what had happened.

Discussion Questions

What does the Jewish Sabbath (seventh day) commemorate?

God’s rest from His creation.

What does the first day of the week commemorate?

The resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Which would you say is the most important verse or sentence in the passage?

Verse 6 (“He is not here; He is risen.”) because it communicates the fact that Jesus had come back to life, something no other religious leader has ever done.

AN INCIDENT ON THE ROAD TO EMMAUS

Luke 24:13-27

13 And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs. 14 And they talked together of all these things which had happened. 15 And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. 16 But their eyes were holden that they should not know him.

17 And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?

18 And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?

19 And he said unto them, What things?

And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people: 20 And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. 21 But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, today is the third day since these things were done. 22 Yea, and certain women also of our company made us astonished, which were early at the sepulchre; 23 And when they found not his body, they came, saying, that they had also seen a vision of angels, which said that he was alive. 24 And certain of them which were with us went to the sepulchre, and found it even so as the women had said: but him they saw not.

25 Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: 26 Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?

27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.

Review Questions

Which day was it that the two disciples were traveling to the village called Emmaus?

It was the same day, the first day of the week.

What were the two disciples talking about?

All the things that had happened.

When did Jesus join the two disciples?

While they conversed and reasoned.

Why did the two disciples not recognize Jesus?

Their eyes were holden (restrained in such a way that they did not know Him).

What did Jesus ask them?

What kind of conversation they were having and why they were sad.

How did the two disciples respond to Jesus’ question?

Cleopas, one of the two, asked Jesus if He did not know about the things that had come to pass during the previous few days.

What things were the two disciples talking about?

Things concerning Jesus of Nazareth.

Whom did the two disciples say Jesus was?

A Prophet, who had been mighty in deed and word before God and all the people,

What did the two disciples say had happened to Jesus?

The chief priests and rulers delivered Him to be condemned and crucified Him.

Which day was it, since the things had happened, that Jesus was talking to the two?

It was the “third day” since the things had happened.

According to the two, what did certain women, who had gone to the tomb early, tell them that was astonishing?

They did not find Jesus’ body.
They had also seen a vision of angels, who said that Jesus was alive.

What did the two disciples say that others had found when they went to the tomb?

The tomb was just as the women had said and without Jesus’ body.

Why did Jesus say that the two disciples were foolish?

Because they were slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets had spoken, and
They should have known that the Christ would have had to suffer the things that Jesus of Nazareth had suffered and to enter into His glory.

What did Jesus expound to the two disciples?

The things concerning Himself that were in all the Scriptures, including Moses and all the Prophets.

Discussion Questions

Why do you think the men did not recognize Jesus?

Some have said it was because Emmaus was west of Jerusalem and the men were walking towards the setting sun.
It is possible, however, that their ability to recognize Jesus may have been obscured supernaturally.

How did the perspective of the two men – towards the recent events – differ from that of Jesus?

They could not make sense of the events.
Jesus saw the events in context of prophecy and could make sense of them.

THE OPENING OF THE DISCIPLES’ EYES

Luke 24:28-35

28 And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and he made as though he would have gone further. 29 But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And he went in to tarry with them.

30 And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them. 31 And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight. 32 And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?

33 And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them, 34 Saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon. 35 And they told what things were done in the way, and how he was known of them in breaking of bread.

Review Questions

Why did the two disciples feel they had to constrain Jesus to go into the village with them?

Because He had indicated that He would have gone farther.

What did Jesus do as He sat at the table with them?

He took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them.

Why were the disciples eventually able to know it was Jesus?

Because their eyes were opened.

What happened after Jesus was revealed to the disciples?

He vanished from their sight.

What did the two disciples do after Jesus had been revealed and then vanished?

They remembered that their hearts had burned within them while Jesus talked with them on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to them;
They returned to Jerusalem, found the eleven and those who were gathered with them, and told them that Jesus was risen and had appeared to Simon;
They told the eleven about the things that had happened on the road, and how Jesus was known to them in the breaking of bread.

Discussion Questions

Why do you think Jesus made as though He would have gone on?

He didn’t want to force Himself on them.
He was giving them the option of inviting Him in.

What can we learn from decision by the two men to constrain Jesus from going on?

Like them, we can invite Jesus into our circumstance …
Or we can allow Him to pass (effectively denying Him a say in our lives).

What was it that caused Jesus to be known to the two disciples?

It was something about the breaking of bread (v.35) … probably the way in which Jesus broke it … or maybe the words He used in blessing it.

Assuming the breaking of bread was not Lord’s Supper event, what can we learn from the fact that Jesus had dinner with the men?

We can meet Jesus at the dinner table, as well as the Communion table.
Jesus is not only the Host in His Church; He can be a guest in our homes.

Why does it seem the two men were overjoyed by their interaction with Jesus?

They rose up and went to Jerusalem almost immediately (notwithstanding that Jerusalem was about seven miles from Emmaus … and they were walking).

THE APPEARANCE OF JESUS TO HIS DISCIPLES

Luke 24:36-43

36 And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. 37 But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit. 38 And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? 39 Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.

40 And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet.

41 And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat? 42 And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb. 43 And he took it, and did eat before them.

Review Questions

What happened as the two disciples were telling the eleven and the others about the things that had happened to them?

Jesus Himself appeared and stood in the midst of them.

How did those who had gathered together react to what happened?

They were terrified and frightened, and supposed they had seen a spirit.

What did Jesus ask the disciples?

He asked why they were troubled and why doubts were arising in their hearts.

What did Jesus do to try and show that He was not a spirit?

He showed them His hands and My feet, and invited them to handle Him.

What would those who handled Jesus have noticed if they touched Him?

That He had flesh and bones, which a spirit would not have had.

How did the disciples et al respond to what Jesus did?

They still did not believe.

Why did the disciples not believe?

They did not believe “for joy” (which probably meant that to believe would cause so much joy that they couldn’t deal with it).

What did Jesus ask about?

If they had any food there with them.

How did the disciples respond, and what did Jesus do?

They gave Jesus a piece of a broiled fish and some honeycomb, which He took and ate in their presence.

Discussion Questions

What do you think was accomplished by Jesus showing the disciples His hands and feet?

They were then convinced that His resurrection was bodily – that the Jesus who died was the same as the Christ who was resurrected.

Why do you think Jesus asked for meat?

Not because He was hungry, but, probably, to reinforce the point that His resurrection was indeed a bodily one.

THE OPENING OF THE DISCIPLES’ MINDS

Luke 24:44-49

44 And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.

45 Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, 46 And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: 47 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 And ye are witnesses of these things. 49 And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.

Review Questions

What were the words that Jesus had spoken to the disciples while He was with them?

Words that had to do with the fact that all that was written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Him had to be fulfilled.

What was done so that the disciples could comprehend the Scriptures?

Jesus opened the understanding of the disciples.

What did Jesus tell them about the Christ?

It was written, and therefore necessary, for the Christ to suffer and rise from the dead the third day.

When did Jesus say the Christ was supposed to rise?

On the third day.

What did Jesus say should be preached in His name?

Repentance and remission of sins.

What did Jesus say about the disciples and those with them?

They were witnesses of the things He was speaking about, including the death and resurrection of the Christ.

What did Jesus tell the disciples He would send upon them?

The Promise of His Father.

What did Jesus tell them to do?

To tarry in Jerusalem until they were endued with power from on high.

What did the Promise of Jesus Father involve?

It involved their being endued with power from on high.

Discussion Questions

What do you understand from what Jesus said in the passage above?

His crucifixion, like His resurrection, was necessary. His death on the cross was NOT a back-up measure; it was God’s original plan.
Natural man cannot see Jesus in the Scriptures.
The time had come to go into the world and preach in His name.
They had to be empowered for the task at hand.

The Eleven were told to tarry before they would be empowered. What can we learn from that?

There is a time to wait … and a time to work.
Time spent waiting on God is never wasted. It helps us to be stronger and more focused for the times ahead troubles to follow.

THE ASCENSION OF JESUS

Luke 24:50-53

50 And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them.

51 And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. 52 And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: 53 And were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen.

Review Questions

Where did Jesus lead His disciples to?

To Bethany.

What did Jesus do after getting to Bethany?

He lifted up His hands and blessed His disciples.

What happened while He was doing that?

He was parted from them and carried up into heaven.

What did the disciples do after that event?

They worshiped Him,
They returned to Jerusalem with great joy,
They were continually in the temple praising and blessing God.

Questions for Discussion

Why was it important that the ascension take place?

There had to come a day when the earth-bound Jesus became the Heaven-based Christ.
If He had remained on earth … and His appearances became fewer and farther between … then the faith of His disciples would suffer.

What was the significance of the ascension for the disciples?

It signified an ending … of Jesus’ flesh and blood sojourn on earth.
It signified a beginning … of Christ’s new role as High Priest, Intercessor, etc.
It signified that they now had a friend in high places.

THE CHURCH

SETS UP CAMP

JERUSALEM

(ACTS of The CHURCH)

VOLUME 1

INTRODUCTION

Acts 1:1-8 (NKJ)

1 The former account I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, 2 until the day in which He was taken up, after He through the Holy Spirit had given commandments to the apostles whom He had chosen, 3 to whom He also presented Himself alive after His suffering by many infallible proofs, being seen by them during forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God. 4 And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me; 5 “for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” 6 Therefore, when they had come together, they asked Him, saying, “Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 And He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority. 8 “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

Review Questions

Which is the “former account” being referred to?

The former account being referred to is the Book of LUKE.

Why did Jesus tell the disciples not to depart from Jerusalem?

He wanted them to be in Jerusalem when the Holy Spirit arrived.

What does it mean to be “baptized with the Holy Spirit”?

To be “baptized with the Holy Spirit is to receive the Holy Spirit as an indwelling Presence.

When would the disciples receive power?

The disciples would receive power when the Holy Spirit came upon them (i.e. when they received the Holy Spirit.

Who do you think gave the disciples power?

The Holy Spirit gave the disciples power?

What do you think was the purpose of the power?

The purpose of the power was to equip the disciples, and the other believers, to be effective witnesses for Christ.

What does verse 8 tell you about the role of the church?

The Church was not to lie dormant. It was to grow and expand beyond Jerusalem. It was literally to invade the kingdom of Satan.

JESUS IS TAKEN UP INTO HEAVEN

Acts 1:9-12 (NKJ)

9 Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. 10 And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, 11 who also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.” 12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day’s journey.

Review Questions

What happened when Jesus finished speaking to the disciples?

He ascended (was taken up) into a cloud until He was out of sight.

Who were the two men referred to in verse 10?

The “two men” referred to in verse 10 were angels.

How can we know where Christ was going?

The angels told the disciples that is where He was taken to (see verse 11).

What do you understand by the phrase “will so come in like manner”?

Christ is coming back to earth, in bodily form, and when He does He will descend from the heavens and touch down on the Mount of Olives, eventually.

What mountain were the disciples on when the aforementioned event took place?

On the mount called Olivet (the Mount of Olives – NIV).

How far do you think a “Sabbath day’s journey” is?

Between 1000 and 1200 yards.

THE DISCIPLES CONTINUE IN PRAYER

Acts 1:13-14 (NKJ)

13 And when they had entered, they went up into the upper room where they were staying: Peter, James, John, and Andrew; Philip and Thomas; Bartholomew and Matthew; James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot; and Judas the son of James. 14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.

Review Questions

Where did the disciples go once they arrived in Jerusalem?

They went into the upper room.

Why did they go there?

That was where the disciples had been staying (or meeting on a regular basis). The “upper room” was a like a base of operations.

Do you find anything interesting about the way the names of the disciples are recorded in verse 13?

Accepting that there were no punctuations in the original manuscripts, the way the word “and” is used suggests there were small groups within the Twelve. They may even have operated as small groups.

What do you understand the difference between “prayer” and “supplication” to be?

The term “prayer” is more general, and includes all aspects of talking to God – to praise, to thank, to intercede, etc. The term “supplication” is more specific, and refers to (earnest) requests made of God.

THE APOSTLES CONSIDER A REPLACEMENT FOR JUDAS ISCARIOT

Acts 1:15-22 (NKJ)

15 And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples (altogether the number of names was about a hundred and twenty), and said, 16 “Men and brethren, this Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke before by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus; 17 “for he was numbered with us and obtained a part in this ministry.” 18 (Now this man purchased a field with the wages of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst open in the middle and all his entrails gushed out. 19 And it became known to all those dwelling in Jerusalem; so that field is called in their own language, Akel Dama, that is, Field of Blood.) 20 “For it is written in the book of Psalms: ‘Let his dwelling place be desolate, and let no one live in it’; and, ‘Let another take his office.’ 21 “Therefore, of these men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 “beginning from the baptism of John to that day when He was taken up from us, one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection.”

Review Questions

How many disciples was Peter addressing?

About one hundred and twenty.

What did Judas do with the money he had received for betraying Jesus?

He bought a field.

What did the field come to be called in the language of those dwelling in Jerusalem?

Akel Dama.

What does the name of the field mean?

Field of Blood.

According to Acts 1:18, what does Luke say happened to Judas Iscariot?

He fell headlong and burst open causing his intestines to gush out.

How do you reconcile that with what Matthew said in Matthew 27:5?

According to Matthew 27:5, he hanged himself. What may happened, then is that the rope may have broken, after Judas had hanged himself, causing him to fall and his body to burst. If the body had become swollen, it would have been easy for it to burst once it hit the ground?

Do you believe Judas repented of what he did to Jesus?

We cannot tell, conclusively. It does seem, however, that he became sorry for what he had done. The fact that he hanged himself suggests he could not live with his conscience, a fair indicator that he may have repented.

What two criteria did Peter give for replacing Judas?

The individual must have (a) been with Jesus during His ministry on earth after His baptism by John (see John 15:27) and (b) been certain of Jesus’ resurrection.

Where did Peter say the principle of finding a replacement for Judas could be found?

In the Book of Psalms.

MATTHIAS IS CHOSEN TO REPLACE JUDAS ISCARIOT

Acts 1:23-26 (NKJ)

23 And they proposed two: Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. 24 And they prayed and said, “You, O Lord, who know the hearts of all, show which of these two You have chosen 25 “to take part in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.” 26 And they cast their lots, and the lot fell on Matthias. And he was numbered with the eleven apostles.

Review Questions

How many men were proposed as replacements for Judas?

Two.

What were the names of those who were proposed?

Joseph (called Barsabas, and surnamed Justus) AND Matthias.

What two things did the believers do in choosing the replacement for Judas Iscariot?

After presenting the two men,

they prayed, asking God to show whom He had chosen, and
they cast lots.

Which of the two do you think would have been more important to the disciples?

They prayed first, suggesting they gave it top priority.

What do you understand the casting of lots to be?

The use of pieces of stone, wood, paper, etc., to make a final decision?

THE HOLY SPIRIT COMES AT PENTECOST

Acts 2:1-13 (NKJ)

1 Now when the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. 5 And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven. 6 And when this sound occurred, the multitude came together, and were confused, because everyone heard them speak in his own language. 7 Then they were all amazed and marveled, saying to one another, “Look, are not all these who speak Galileans? 8 “And how is it that we hear, each in our own language in which we were born? 9 “Parthians and Medes and Elamites, those dwelling in Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10 “Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya adjoining Cyrene, visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, 11 “Cretans and Arabs — we hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God.”

12 So they were all amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “Whatever could this mean?” 13 Others mocking said, “They are full of new wine.”

Review Questions

What day was it when the disciples heard what sounded like a rushing mighty wind coming from heaven?

The Day of Pentecost.

Where were the disciples when it happened?

Verse 2 – in a house.

What happened to the disciples after they heard what sounded like wind?

Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared and sat on each of the disciples.

What was the evidence that the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit?

They spoke in tongues.

Why were the disciples able to speak in tongues?

The Spirit gave them utterance.

Were the disciples hearing and seeing the Holy Spirit or manifestations of the Spirit?

The Spirit is not physical or material. Because of this, it is cannot be heard or seen. Hearing and sight are physical senses and as such can only be used to sense physical things. They cannot be used to sense spiritual beings. What they can be used to sense are really manifestations of spirit, not spirit.

Were they sensing the Spirit or the “presence of the Spirit”?

For the reason given above, the believers could not have been sensing the Spirit; they must have been sensing the “presence of the Spirit”.

Re: verse 6, was there a miracle in the hearing as well as in the speaking?

The miracle was in the speaking. Different people were able to hear in their own languages because different believers were probably speaking in different languages. There is nothing to prove, or even suggest, that all the believers were speaking the same “tongue”, whether at the same or at different times.

What is the significance of the last phrase in verse 4 (“as the Spirit gave them utterance”)?

They could not speak in tongues on their own. They were only able to speak in tongues because the Holy Spirit enabled (made it possible for) them to do so.

Why do you think people would say they were drunk? Because of how they were moving or because of what they were saying?

When a person is drunk, there are usually two main manifestations: (1) he may stagger and/or (2) he may speak “jibberish”. We have no reason to think the believers were staggering as if they were out of control. Rather, it is more likely that the tongues they spoke may have sounded like “jibberish” to some of the onlookers.

PETER’S FIRST SERMON

Acts 2:14-36 (NKJ)

14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, raised his voice and said to them,

“Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and heed my words. 15 “For these are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day. 16 “But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 ‘And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, that I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your young men shall see visions, your old men shall dream dreams. 18 And on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days; and they shall prophesy. 19 I will show wonders in heaven above and signs in the earth beneath: blood and fire and vapor of smoke. 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the coming of the great and awesome day of the Lord. 21 And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.’

22 “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which God did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves also know – 23 “Him, being delivered by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death; 24 “whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that He should be held by it. 25 “For David says concerning Him:

‘I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for He is at my right hand, that I may not be shaken. 26 Therefore my heart rejoiced, and my tongue was glad; moreover my flesh also will rest in hope. 27 For You will not leave my soul in Hades, nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption. 28 You have made known to me the ways of life; you will make me full of joy in Your presence.’

29 “Men and brethren, let me speak freely to you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. 30 “Therefore, being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that of the fruit of his body, according to the flesh, He would raise up the Christ to sit on his throne, 31 “he, foreseeing this, spoke concerning the resurrection of the Christ, that His soul was not left in Hades, nor did His flesh see corruption. 32 “This Jesus God has raised up, of which we are all witnesses. 33 “Therefore being exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He poured out this which you now see and hear. 34 “For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he says himself:

‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand,

35 Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.” ‘

36 “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.”

Review Questions

What time of the day was referred to as “the third hour”?

For all practical purposes, the morning started at 6:00 a.m. and the evening started at 6:00 p.m. If we consider 6:00 a.m. to be the “zero” hour, then “the third hour” would be 9:00 a.m.

According to Peter, what had the prophet Joel said that God would do in the “last days”?

According the Joel’s prophecy, God would pour out of His Spirit on all flesh.

Peter told the crowd that the disciples were not drunk. How did Peter explain what the disciples were doing if they were not drunk?

Based on what Peter said, the actions of the disciples were a result of God’s Spirit being poured out on the disciples.

Can God’s Spirit be poured out, literally, or was the prophet using figurative language to show something else?

One cannot pour out a person, so the prophet was using figurative language to show that each person becomes like a container for the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

What did Joel prophesy that young men would do?

Young men would see visions.

What did Joel prophesy that old men would do?

Old men would dream dreams.

According to Joel’s prophecy, who are the ones that are to be saved?

Anyone (whoever) calls upon the name of the Lord.

What did God do to attest (accredit) Jesus?

God did miracles, wonders and signs through Him.

Whom does Luke give credit for the miracles Jesus did?

Luke says God did the miracles through Jesus. The credit goes to God.

Why was it not possible for Jesus to be held by death?

It was always God’s plan and purpose to resurrect Jesus. David was just telling, beforehand, what had to happen.

Is David still dead?

According to Peter, David was still dead at that time, which was about 1000 years after David had lived. There is no reason to think that he has come back to life since then.

Did David ascend to Heaven?

According to Peter, David was not only still dead; he was also still buried, and his tomb was still with them (v.29).

Whom did Peter say crucified Jesus of Nazareth?

Those who were listening to him.

THE PEOPLE RESPOND TO PETER’S SERMON

Acts 2:37-41 (NKJ)

37 Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” 38 Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 “For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.” 40 And with many other words he testified and exhorted them, saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation.” 41 Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them.

Review Questions

Why did people in the crowd ask Peter what to do?

They were cut to the heart. They had become convicted and convinced that they had sinned against Jesus.

What did Peter tell the people they should do?

He told them they should repent and be baptized.

What is the difference between baptism and a mere affirmation of faith?

Baptism indicates a sincerity that mere affirmation of faith might not.

What is baptism “in the name of Jesus Christ”?

In this case, “ baptism upon the name of Jesus Christ”. It refers to a baptism that identifies the baptized person with Jesus Christ.

What is the “remission” of sins?

The remission of sins is the forgiveness of sins.

When does it take place?

The remission of sins take place the moment a person truly believes in Jesus Christ as personal Saviour (i.e. the moment that person places his trust in Jesus Christ alone for his own salvation).

What did the people in Acts 2:37 need to repent of?

They needed to repent of their unbelief in Jesus of Nazareth. They needed to repent of their wrong belief that He was a mere man like them. They needed to believe, instead, that He was God in the flesh, the Son of God, as well as the Son of Man. They needed to believe that He was the Christ, the Messiah.

What does it mean to “repent”?

The word “repent” means “change of mind”. The word for change of behaviour is a different word completely. To repent, therefore, is to have a change of mind – to change the way of thinking. In the case of biblical repentance it means changing the way of thinking about God, self, and the relationship with God.

To repent does not mean to change behaviour, BUT genuine repentance will result in a definite change in behaviour.

What does a person need to repent of for “remission of sins” to take place?

For a person’s sins to be remitted (forgiven), he must repent of unbelief. He must stop believing that he can save himself, or that he can contribute in some way to his salvation, or that he can somehow help Jesus to save him.

What is the gift of the Holy Spirit?

The gift of the Holy Spirit is the Holy Spirit Himself, as the primary gift. However, the gift of the Holy Spirit may also refer to what the Holy Spirit gives to the believer so that he can be a powerful witness (witness effectively).

What is the “promise” spoken of in verse 39?

Note verses Acts 2:17 and 18. Did God say He was going to pour out His Spirit, or did He say He was going to pour out “of” His Spirit? The Greek mss for Acts 2:17 and 18 has the word for “of” (apo) in both verses. The Hebrew for Joel 2:28 has a word (‘et-)(pronounced “ayth”) which Strong says is “unrepresented in English”. The POINT is that “pouring out My Spirit” and “pouring out of My Spirit” may mean different things.

It seems safe to say, however, that the “promise” spoken of in verse 39 is the same as the “gift” of verse 38, be it the Giver or the Gift that the Giver gives.

GOD ADDS TO A DEVOTED FELLOWSHIP

Acts 2:42-47 (NKJ)

42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. 43 Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. 44 Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, 45 and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need.

46 So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.

Review Questions

How do you think they “continued steadfastly” in the apostles’ teaching?

More than likely, this would include listening to the apostles, reading and studying their writings, and discussing their teaching with a view to applying it.

What is the difference between “fellowship” and “breaking of bread”?

The word “fellowship” is a general term that describes all the activities that would go into the building of a loving, sharing community. The “breaking of bread” is a more specific term that related to one activity, and may have been a reference to partaking in the Lord’s Supper.

What did the believers had in common?

The believers had everything in common.

What do you understand by that?

The believers viewed individual possessions as things that God allowed them to have, not for personal benefit, but for the benefit of the group (see chapter 4:32).

Why do you think Luke would make a distinction between “breaking of bread” and “eating of food” (see KJV or NKJV of verse 46)?

Probably because of what was said in the answer to question 2. The “breaking of bread” may have been a reference to partaking in the Lord’s Supper.

Verse 47 says that those who were being saved were added to the church daily. How do you think that happened? What do you think was involved?

Undoubtedly, people were being baptized daily. This would involve people hearing the Gospel, believing it, and receiving Jesus Christ as personal Saviour.

PETER HEALS A CRIPPLED BEGGAR

Acts 3:1-10 (NKJ)

1 Now Peter and John went up together to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. 2 And a certain man lame from his mother’s womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms from those who entered the temple; 3 who, seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, asked for alms. 4 And fixing his eyes on him, with John, Peter said, “Look at us.” 5 So he gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them. 6 Then Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” 7 And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. 8 So he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple with them — walking, leaping, and praising God. 9 And all the people saw him walking and praising God. 10 Then they knew that it was he who sat begging alms at the Beautiful Gate of the temple; and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.

Review Questions

At what time did Peter and John go up to the temple to pray?

The ninth hour.

How long had the lame man at the gate called Beautiful been lame?

He had been lame from his mother’s womb.

Why was the lame man at the gate called Beautiful?

He had been carried there (probably by relatives or friends) to beg (ask alms) from those who entered the temple.

Why did the man give Peter and John his attention?

Peter had told him to look at them. He thought they were going to give him something.

Why did Peter preface his command to the beggar with “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth”?

What he did have – the ability to heal – he had because of what Jesus Christ had done. Also, Jesus Christ was in him, and working through him. What he was doing was on behalf of Jesus Christ and with His authority.

What did the man do after being healed?

He leaped up, walked and entered the temple with Peter and John — walking, leaping, and praising God.

Why were the people who saw the beggar walking and praising God filled with wonder when they saw him?

They were filled with wonder because they recognized him as the one who sat begging alms at the Beautiful Gate of the temple. They were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.

Why do you think the man would praise God (instead of Peter) for his healing?

He somehow realized that it was God who had healed him, and not Peter.

What have you learned about giving to beggars from this passage?

One doesn’t always have to give them money.

One can try to understand, and then fill, their need(s).

PETER SPEAKS TO THE ONLOOKERS

Acts 3:11-26 (NKJ)

11 Now as the lame man who was healed held on to Peter and John, all the people ran together to them in the porch which is called Solomon’s, greatly amazed. 12 So when Peter saw it, he responded to the people:

“Men of Israel, why do you marvel at this? Or why look so intently at us, as though by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk? 13 The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God of our fathers, glorified His Servant Jesus, whom you delivered up and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let Him go. 14 But you denied the Holy and Just One and asked for a murderer to be granted to you, 15 and killed the Prince of life, whom God raised from the dead, of which we are witnesses. 16 And His name, through faith in His name, has made this man strong, whom you see and know. Yes, the faith which comes through Him has given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.

17 “Yet now, brethren, I know that you did it in ignorance, as did also your rulers. 18 But those things which God foretold by the mouth of all His prophets, that the Christ would suffer, He has thus fulfilled.

19 “Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, 20 and that He may send Jesus Christ, who was preached to you before, 21 whom heaven must receive until the times of restoration of all things, which God has spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began. 22 For Moses truly said to the fathers,

‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from your brethren. Him you shall hear in all things, whatever He says to you. 23 And it shall be that every soul who will not hear that Prophet shall be utterly destroyed from among the people.’

24 “Yes, and all the prophets, from Samuel and those who follow, as many as have spoken, have also foretold these days. 25 “You are sons of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying to Abraham, ‘And in your seed all the families of the earth shall be blessed.’ 26 To you first, God, having raised up His Servant Jesus, sent Him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from your iniquities.”

Review Questions

Who, according to Peter, “delivered up and denied” Jesus?

The Jews who were listening to him.

Who, according to Peter, killed Jesus?

The same Jews.

What did Peter say made it possible for the man to be healed? Whose?

It was faith in Christ’s name that made it possible for the man to be healed.

It was NOT the beggar’s faith, BUT the apostles’ faith that made it possible for the man to be healed. That faith came from God.

What did Peter say that the people needed to do? Of what?

They needed to repent and be converted (verse 19). And it was their unbelief in Jesus that they had to repent of. Notice verse 18, which preceded his exhortation to repent. What verse 18 shows is that those things which the prophets had said the Christ would suffer had in fact been suffered by Jesus, thereby proving that Jesus was the Christ.

To whom did God send His Servant Jesus first?

It was God’s plan to offer salvation to the Jews first (verse 26). However, salvation would also be offered to the Gentiles.

PETER AND JOHN BEFORE THE SANHEDRIN

Acts 4:1-22 (NKJ)

1 Now as they spoke to the people, the priests, the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees came upon them, 2 being greatly disturbed that they taught the people and preached in Jesus the resurrection from the dead. 3 And they laid hands on them, and put them in custody until the next day, for it was already evening. 4 However, many of those who heard the word believed; and the number of the men came to be about five thousand.

5 And it came to pass, on the next day, that their rulers, elders, and scribes, 6 as well as Annas the high priest, Caiaphas, John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the family of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem. 7 And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, “By what power or by what name have you done this?”

8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders of Israel: 9 “If we this day are judged for a good deed done to a helpless man, by what means he has been made well, 10 “let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole. 11 “This is the ‘stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone.’ 12 “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus. 14 And seeing the man who had been healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.

15 But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, 16 saying, “What shall we do to these men? For, indeed, that a notable miracle has been done through them is evident to all who dwell in Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it. 17 “But so that it spreads no further among the people, let us severely threaten them, that from now on they speak to no man in this name.”

18 And they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.

19 But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. 20 “For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.”

21 So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding no way of punishing them, because of the people, since they all glorified God for what had been done. 22 For the man was over forty years old on whom this miracle of healing had been performed.

Review Questions

Why were the disciples arrested?

Because some of the priests and Saducees had become greatly disturbed by what the apostles were preaching and teaching the people.

What were they preaching?

They were preaching resurrection from the dead in Jesus.

By what power or name had the man been healed?

By the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.

Who was the “stone” that had been rejected which became the “chief cornerstone”?

Jesus of Nazareth.

What caused the members of the Sanhedrin to marvel?

When they saw the boldness and courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary (uneducated and untrained – NIV) men (v.13).

What did they note about the men that could have caused their boldness?

The members of the Sanhedrin noted that the men had been with Jesus.

What was it that the members of the Sanhedrin could not deny?

The members of the Sanhedrin could not deny that a notable miracle had been done through the apostles.

What were they trying to prevent by threatening the disciples?

They were trying to prevent the apostles from speaking and teaching in the name of Jesus.

THE BELIEVERS PRAY FOR BOLDNESS AND MIRACLES

Acts 4:23-31 (NKJ)

23 And being let go, they went to their own companions and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them. 24 So when they heard that, they raised their voice to God with one accord and said: “Lord, You are God, who made heaven and earth and the sea, and all that is in them, 25 “who by the mouth of Your servant David have said: ‘Why did the nations rage, and the people plot vain things? 26 The kings of the earth took their stand, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord and against His Christ.’ 27 “For truly against Your holy Servant Jesus, whom You anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, were gathered together 28 “to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose determined before to be done.

29 “Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, 30 “by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.” 31 And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.

Review Questions

What was the first thing the disciples did once they were released?

They went to their companions (v.23).

What was the response of their companions?

They began to pray with one accord.

What, specifically, did the believers ask God for?

They prayed that God would grant His servants with boldness to speak His word, and that signs and wonders would be done through the name Jesus.

What happened as a result of their prayer?

After they had prayed, the place where they were was shaken, they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word with boldness.

THE BELIEVERS CARE FOR EACH OTHER

Acts 4:32-37 (NKJ)

32 Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common.

33 And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all.

34 Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold,

35 and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need.

36 And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus,

37 having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.

Review Questions

How did the believers feel about the things they possessed?

No one felt that any of the things he possessed was his own.

There was a strong sense of community, with a lot of sharing. The believers seemed to view their possessions as gifts from God that they had been blessed with, and as blessings with which they could be used to bless others with.

What did the apostles witness to?

The apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus.

What was their witness linked to?

Great power and great grace.

Obviously, the grace of God on them resulted in displays of power.

Why was it that none of the believers lacked anything?

Those believers who possessed land or houses sold them and carried the proceeds to the apostles.

The apostles would then distribute the proceeds to those who had need.

By what other name had Barnabas been known?

Joses.

Where was Barnabas from?

Barnabas was from Cyprus. He was a Levite.

Who gave him the name Barnabas?

The apostles.

What does the name Barnabas mean?

The name Barnabas means “Son of encouragement”.

ANANIAS AND SAPPHIRA ARE KILLED

Acts 5:1-11 (NKJ)

1 But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession.

2 And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain part and laid it at the apostles’ feet.

3 But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price of the land for yourself?

4 “While it remained, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not in your own control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God.”

5 Then Ananias, hearing these words, fell down and breathed his last. So great fear came upon all those who heard these things.

6 And the young men arose and wrapped him up, carried him out, and buried him.

7 Now it was about three hours later when his wife came in, not knowing what had happened.

8 And Peter answered her, “Tell me whether you sold the land for so much?” She said, “Yes, for so much.”

9 Then Peter said to her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.”

10 Then immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. And the young men came in and found her dead, and carrying her out, buried her by her husband.

11 So great fear came upon all the church and upon all who heard these things.

Review Questions

What was the name of Ananias’ wife?

Sapphira.

What did Ananias do that was wrong?

He sold a possession, kept a part of the proceeds, and gave the other part of the proceeds to apostles, apparently giving them the impression that what he had given them was all the proceeds from the sale.

According to what Peter said in verse 3, to whom did Ananias lie?

To the Holy Spirit.

According to what Peter said in verse 4, to whom did Ananias lie?

To God.

Why did Ananias die?

He died because he had lied to God (the Holy Spirit).

Why did Sapphira die?

She died because she also lied.

What happened to those who heard about the deaths of Ananias and Sapphira?

Great fear fell upon them.

What do you understand the nature of the sin of Ananias and Sapphira to be?

They obviously lied about how much they had received for the sale of the land.

THE APOSTLES ARE ARRESTED THEN RELEASED MIRACULOUSLY

Acts 5:12-23 (NKJ)

12 And through the hands of the apostles many signs and wonders were done among the people. And they were all with one accord in Solomon’s Porch.

13 Yet none of the rest dared join them, but the people esteemed them highly.

14 And believers were increasingly added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women, 15 so that they brought the sick out into the streets and laid them on beds and couches, that at least the shadow of Peter passing by might fall on some of them. 16 Also a multitude gathered from the surrounding cities to Jerusalem, bringing sick people and those who were tormented by unclean spirits, and they were all healed.

17 Then the high priest rose up, and all those who were with him (which is the sect of the Sadducees), and they were filled with indignation, 18 and laid their hands on the apostles and put them in the common prison.

19 But at night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out, and said, 20 “Go, stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this life.”

21 And when they heard that, they entered the temple early in the morning and taught. But the high priest and those with him came and called the council together, with all the elders of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought.

22 But when the officers came and did not find them in the prison, they returned and reported, 23 saying, “Indeed we found the prison shut securely, and the guards standing outside before the doors; but when we opened them, we found no one inside!”

Review Questions

The NIV of the first part of verse 12 says “the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders” while the NKJV says “through the hands of the apostles many signs and wonders were done”. Which do you think is the more accurate? Why?

The NKJV seems to be more accurate here, because it was God who performed any miraculous signs and wonders the apostles may have done.

Why do you think “none of the rest” dared to join the apostles in Solomon’s Porch?

The use of the word “dared” suggests they might have been afraid.

Why did some of the people put their sick to lie on beds and couches in the streets?

They were hoping that the shadow of Peter might fall on them. Apparently, they believed that that would have been enough for their sick to be healed.

Why were the apostles arrested this time around?

God was working miracles through them, and the high priest and their associates (some Sadducees) were filled with indignation (jealousy – NIV).

What does it mean to be filled with indignation?

It means the high priest and his associates were so full of indignation (jealousy) that they made decisions based on it.

How did the apostles get out of prison?

During the night, an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and led them out of the prison.

What did the apostles do the morning after they got out of prison?

They entered the temple early in the morning and taught.

Why did they do that?

The angel of the Lord, who had opened the prison doors and led them out, had said that they should go, stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this life.

Why did the officers go to the prison?

They had been sent there by the high priest and the council members to take the apostles out of prison so that they could appear before the council.

When the officers went to the prison where the apostles had been put, was it open or shut?

According to their report, it was shut securely.

Whom did the officers find standing outside before the doors of the prison?

They found guards standing before the prison doors.

Whom did the officers find inside the prison?

They found no one inside.

THE APOSTLES REAPPEAR BEFORE THE SANHEDRIN

Acts 5:24-33 (NKJ)

24 Now when the high priest, the captain of the temple, and the chief priests heard these things, they wondered what the outcome would be.

25 So one came and told them, saying, “Look, the men whom you put in prison are standing in the temple and teaching the people!”

26 Then the captain went with the officers and brought them without violence, for they feared the people, lest they should be stoned.

27 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the high priest asked them,

28 saying, “Did we not strictly command you not to teach in this name? And look, you have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this Man’s blood on us!”

29 But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: “We ought to obey God rather than men.

30 “The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom you murdered by hanging on a tree.

31 “Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins.

32 “And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit (whom) God has given to those who obey Him.”

33 When they heard this, they were furious and plotted to kill them.

Review Questions

How did the high priest and the chief priests find out where the apostles were?

Someone had told them that the men whom they had put in prison were teaching in the temple.

Why did the captain of the temple and the officers arrest the apostles without violence?

The captain and his cronies feared the people, lest the people stoned them.

What was the reason Peter and the apostles gave for disobeying the Sanhedrin?

It was better for them to obey God rather than men (the Sanhedrin). (verse 29)

What, according to Peter, had God done with Jesus?

God had raised up Jesus and exalted Him to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins.

Whom did Peter say murdered Jesus?

Peter told the members of the council that they had murdered Jesus.

Why did the members of the Sanhedrin become furious (verse 33)?

The apostles were saying, in effect, that they had the Holy Spirit.

GAMALIEL INTERVENES

Acts 5:34-42 (NKJ)

34 Then one in the council stood up, a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law held in respect by all the people, and commanded them to put the apostles outside for a little while.

35 And he said to them: “Men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what you intend to do regarding these men.

36 “For some time ago Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody. A number of men, about four hundred, joined him. He was slain, and all who obeyed him were scattered and came to nothing.

37 “After this man, Judas of Galilee rose up in the days of the census, and drew away many people after him. He also perished, and all who obeyed him were dispersed.

38 “And now I say to you, keep away from these men and let them alone; for if this plan or this work is of men, it will come to nothing;

39 “but if it is of God, you cannot overthrow it — lest you even be found to fight against God.”

40 And they agreed with him, and when they had called for the apostles and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.

41 So they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name.

42 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.

Review Questions

Who was Gamaliel?

He was a member of the council, a Pharisee and a teacher of the law.

How was Gamaliel viewed by the people?

He was held in respect (well-respected) by all the people.

What was the reason Gamaliel gave for the Sanhedrin to leave the apostles?

Gamaliel’s argument was that if the plan of the apostles was the work of men, it would come to nothing, but if it were of God, they would not be able to stop it, and maybe even find themselves fighting against God (verse 38).

According to Gamaliel, what happened to those who had joined and obeyed Theudas after he was slain?

They were scattered and came to nothing.

According to Gamaliel, what happened to those who had gone after and obeyed Judas of Galilee?

They were dispersed.

After Gamaliel spoke to the council members, they decided to let the apostles go. What did the council members do to the apostles before letting them go?

They beat them and commanded them not to speak in the name of Jesus.

Why did the apostles rejoice after being threatened and beaten?

They rejoiced because they were counted worthy to suffer shame for the name of Jesus Christ (verse 41).

What did the apostles do after being released?

They rejoiced and continued to teach and preach Jesus as the Christ.

SEVEN MEN CHOSEN TO TAKE CARE OF BUSINESS

Acts 6:1-7 (NKJ)

1 Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a murmuring against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution.

2 Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables. 3 Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business; 4 “but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”

5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude. And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch, 6 whom they set before the apostles; and when they had prayed, they laid hands on them.

7 Then the word of God spread, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith.

Review Questions

What was the cause of the problem between the Hebrews and the Hellenists? Why were the Hellenists murmuring against the Hebrews?

The Hellenist widows were being neglected in the daily distribution.

The Hellenists were accusing the Hebrews of neglecting (overlooking) the widows of the Hellenists in the daily distribution.

(NOTE: The daily distribution may have been of food, but it may also have been of clothing and/or other supplies.)

Who were the “Hebrews” and the “Hellenists”?

The Hebrews were the Hebraic Jews (the Jews who had lived and grown up in Judea). The Hellenists were the Grecian or Greek-speaking Jews (the Jews who had been Hellenized – heavily influenced by the Greek culture – probably because of growing up and living among Greeks or Greek-speaking Jews).

Why did the twelve summon the disciples and tell them to seek out seven men?

It seems the apostles had to be leaving the word of God in order to serve tables (help with the daily distribution), and that was not desirable.

The twelve (apostles) wanted to have more time to give themselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.

What characteristics did the twelve say that the seven men should have?

The seven men should be of good reputation and full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom.

What were the seven men to do?

They were to serve tables, thereby freeing up the apostles to give themselves more continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.

What do you understand by the phrase “full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom”, as used in verse 3, to mean?

It depends on whether the phrase “the Holy Spirit” is referring to the Giver or to the gifts that He gives.

What do you understand by the phrase “full of faith and the Holy Spirit”, as stated in verse 5, to mean?

Once again, it depends on whether the phrase “the Holy Spirit” is referring to the Giver or to the gifts that He gives.

STEPHEN IS SEIZED BY THE OPPOSITION

Acts 6:8-15 (NKJ)

8 And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and signs among the people.

9 Then there arose some from what is called the Synagogue of the Freedmen (Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and those from Cilicia and Asia), disputing with Stephen.

10 And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke.

11 Then they secretly induced men to say, “We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God.”

12 And they stirred up the people, the elders, and the scribes; and they came upon him, seized him, and brought him to the council.

13 They also set up false witnesses who said, “This man does not cease to speak blasphemous words against this holy place and the law;

14 “for we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs which Moses delivered to us.”

15 And all who sat in the council, looking steadfastly at him, saw his face as the face of an angel.

Review Questions

Why was Stephen able to do great signs and wonders among the people?

He was full of faith and power (verse 8).

Why did the “Freedmen” set up false witnesses to accuse Stephen?

They were not able to resist the wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke (v.10).

What did the “Freedmen” secretly induce men to say?

They induced men to say that they had heard Stephen speak blasphemous words against Moses and God.

After stirring up the people, the elders, and the scribes, and taking Stephen before the council, what did they set up false witnesses to say?

They set up false witnesses to say that Stephen spoke blasphemous words against the holy place (the Temple) and the law.

What did the false witnesses give as evidence of their accusations?

They said they had heard Stephen say that Jesus would destroy the Temple and change the customs which Moses had delivered to them.

STEPHEN’S SPEECH TO THE SANHEDRIN

Acts 7:1-8 (NKJ)

1 Then the high priest said, “Are these things so?”

2 And he said, “Brethren and fathers, listen: The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Haran, 3 and said to him, ‘Get out of your country and from your relatives, and come to a land that I will show you.’

4 “Then he came out of the land of the Chaldeans and dwelt in Haran. And from there, when his father was dead, He moved him to this land in which you now dwell.

5 “And God gave him no inheritance in it, not even enough to set his foot on. But even when Abraham had no child, He promised to give it to him for a possession, and to his descendants after him.

6 “But God spoke in this way: that his descendants would dwell in a foreign land, and that they would bring them into bondage and oppress them four hundred years.

7 ‘And the nation to whom they will be in bondage I will judge,’ said God, ‘and after that they shall come out and serve Me in this place.’

8 “Then He gave him the covenant of circumcision; and so Abraham begot Isaac and circumcised him on the eighth day; and Isaac begot Jacob, and Jacob begot the twelve patriarchs.

Review Questions

Where did Abraham live before living in Haran?

Mesopotamia.

Where was Abraham living when God first appeared to him?

In Mesopotamia.

What did God tell Abraham to do?

God told him to leave his land and his relatives and go to a land that God would show him.

What did God promise to give Abraham, and his descendants, even when he had no child?

God promised to give Abraham, and his descendants, the land that the Jews were living in, even when Abraham had no children. This is significant because the Jews were descendants of Abraham.

Which did God give to Abraham first – the covenant of circumcision or the promise?

God gave the promise first (v.5) and then the covenant (v.8).

What did God prophesy would happen to Abraham’s descendants before they would receive the promise?

They would dwell in a foreign land, where they would be in bondage and oppressed for four hundred years.

How long would Abraham’s descendants be oppressed?

They would be oppressed for four hundred years.

STEPHEN’S SPEECH TO THE SANHEDRIN

Acts 7:9-16 (NKJ)

9 “And the patriarchs, becoming envious, sold Joseph into Egypt. But God was with him 10 “and delivered him out of all his troubles, and gave him favor and wisdom in the presence of Pharaoh, king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house.

11 “Now a famine and great trouble came over all the land of Egypt and Canaan, and our fathers found no sustenance.

12 “But when Jacob heard that there was grain in Egypt, he sent out our fathers first.

13 “And the second time Joseph was made known to his brothers, and Joseph’s family became known to the Pharaoh.

14 “Then Joseph sent and called his father Jacob and all his relatives to him, seventy-five people.

15 “So Jacob went down to Egypt; and he died, he and our fathers.

16 “And they were carried back to Shechem and laid in the tomb that Abraham bought for a sum of money from the sons of Hamor, the father of Shechem.

Review Questions

Why did the patriarchs sell Joseph into Egypt?

They had become envious of him (v.9).

Why was Joseph able to overcome his troubles?

God was with him, God delivered him out of all his troubles, and God gave him favor and wisdom in the presence of Pharaoh (vv.9-10).

Why did Jacob send Joseph’s brothers into Egypt?

There was a famine in the land, but there was grain in Egypt.

Where did Jacob die?

He died in Egypt.

Where was Jacob buried?

He was buried in Shechem, in a tomb that Abraham had bought from the sons of Hamor, the father of Shechem.

STEPHEN’S SPEECH TO THE SANHEDRIN

Acts 7:17-29 (NKJ)

17 “But when the time of the promise drew near which God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt 18 “till another king arose who did not know Joseph.

19 “This man dealt treacherously with our people, and oppressed our forefathers, making them expose their babies, so that they might not live.

20 “At this time Moses was born, and was well pleasing to God; and he was brought up in his father’s house for three months.

21 “But when he was set out, Pharaoh’s daughter took him away and brought him up as her own son.

22 “And Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and deeds.

23 “Now when he was forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brethren, the children of Israel.

24 “And seeing one of them suffer wrong, he defended and avenged him who was oppressed, and struck down the Egyptian.

25 “For he supposed that his brethren would have understood that God would deliver them by his hand, but they did not understand.

26 “And the next day he appeared to two of them as they were fighting, and tried to reconcile them, saying, ‘Men, you are brethren; why do you wrong one another?’

27 “But he who did his neighbor wrong pushed him away, saying, ‘Who made you a ruler and a judge over us? 28 ‘Do you want to kill me as you did the Egyptian yesterday?’

29 “Then, at this saying, Moses fled and became a dweller in the land of Midian, where he had two sons.

Review Questions

Why did the other king deal treacherously with the Israelites?

He did not know Joseph.

For how long was Moses brought up in his father’s house after he was born?

He was brought up in his father’s house for three months.

Who brought up Moses after that?

He was brought up by Pharaoh’s daughter, who treated him as her own son.

How old was Moses when he thought God would use him to deliver Israel?

He was forty years old (v.23).

Why did Moses have to flee from Egypt?

Moses had killed an Egyptian who was oppressing an Israelite.

The day after he killed the Egyptian, Moses was trying to reconcile two Israelites who were fighting, when one of them asked him if he was going to kill him as he had killed the Egyptian.

That saying caused Moses to flee.

Where did Moses dwell after fleeing Egypt?

He became a dweller in the land of Midian.

How many sons did Moses have while dwelling there?

He had two sons.

STEPHEN’S SPEECH TO THE SANHEDRIN

Acts 7:30-40 (NKJ)

30 “And when forty years had passed, an Angel of the Lord appeared to him in a flame of fire in a bush, in the wilderness of Mount Sinai.

31 “When Moses saw it, he marveled at the sight; and as he drew near to observe, the voice of the Lord came to him, 32 saying, ‘I am the God of your fathers — the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’ And Moses trembled and dared not look.

33 ‘Then the Lord said to him, “Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground. 34 “I have surely seen the oppression of my people who are in Egypt; I have heard their groaning and have come down to deliver them. And now come, I will send you to Egypt.”‘

35 “This Moses whom they rejected, saying, ‘Who made you a ruler and a judge?’ is the one God sent to be a ruler and a deliverer by the hand of the Angel who appeared to him in the bush.

36 “He brought them out, after he had shown wonders and signs in the land of Egypt, and in the Red Sea, and in the wilderness forty years.

37 “This is that Moses who said to the children of Israel, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from your brethren. Him you shall hear.’

38 “This is he who was in the congregation in the wilderness with the Angel who spoke to him on Mount Sinai, and with our fathers, the one who received the living oracles to give to us, 39 whom our fathers would not obey, but rejected. And in their hearts they turned back to Egypt, 40 saying to Aaron, ‘Make us gods to go before us; as for this Moses who brought us out of the land of Egypt, we do not know what has become of him.’

Review Questions

How long after Moses had fled from Egypt did an Angel of the Lord appear to him?

When forty years had passed, an Angel of the Lord appeared to him.

How did the Angel of the Lord appear to Moses?

He appeared in a flame of fire in a bush (popularly called a “burning bush”).

Where did the Angel of the Lord appear to Moses?

He appeared to Moses in the wilderness of Mount Sinai.

What happened after Moses saw the fire in the bush and drew near to observe it?

As he drew near to observe it, the voice of the Lord came to him, and God identified Himself as the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.

What did God tell Moses to do after He had identified Himself?

God told Moses to take his sandals off his feet, for the place where he stood was holy ground.

What reason did God give Moses for His appearance to Moses?

God told Moses that He had seen the oppression of His people (the Israelites) while they were in Egypt, and He had heard their groaning. As a result, he had come down to deliver them.

Why did God send Moses into Egypt?

God sent Moses back into Egypt to be a ruler and a deliverer.

What did Stephen say about the Moses whom the people had rejected?

The Moses whom the people had rejected was the same Moses whom God sent to be a ruler and a deliverer for them.

According to Stephen, what are the three areas where God had shown wonders and signs on behalf of the Israelites?

God had shown wonders and signs 1) in the land of Egypt, 2) in the Red Sea, and 3) in the wilderness.

How long were the children of Israel in the wilderness?

Forty years.

Who or what did Moses tell the Israelites God would raise up from among them?

Moses told them that God would raise up a Prophet like him from among them.

To whom did Stephen refer as the “congregation in the wilderness”?

The children of Israel (the Israelites).

How did the Israelites show that they had turned back to Egypt in their hearts?

While Moses had gone to receive the oracles from God, they asked Aaron to make for them gods to go before them.

How old was Moses when he thought God would use him to deliver Israel?

He was forty years old (v.23).

How old was he when God actually chose to use him to deliver Israel?

It was forty years later (v.30), so he would have been about 80 years old.

Whom do you think was the “Prophet” like Moses that the people should hear?

Jesus Christ was the Prophet that would be like Moses.

What did Moses mean when he told the people “Him shall you hear”?

Essentially, that there was coming a time when the Law of Christ would supersede the so-called Law of Moses. In other words, there would be a time when what Christ said would be more important than what Moses had said.

STEPHEN’S SPEECH TO THE SANHEDRIN

Acts 7:41-50 (NKJ)

41 “And they made a calf in those days, offered sacrifices to the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands.

42 “Then God turned and gave them up to worship the host of heaven, as it is written in the book of the Prophets: ‘Did you offer Me slaughtered animals and sacrifices during forty years in the wilderness, O house of Israel? 43 You also took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, images which you made to worship; and I will carry you away beyond Babylon.’

44 “Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness, as He appointed, instructing Moses to make it according to the pattern that he had seen, 45 which our fathers, having received it in turn, also brought with Joshua into the land possessed by the Gentiles, whom God drove out before the face of our fathers until the days of David, 46 who found favor before God and asked to find a dwelling for the God of Jacob. 47 “But Solomon built Him a house.

48 “However, the Most High does not dwell in temples made with hands, as the prophet says:

49 ‘Heaven is My throne, and earth is My footstool. What house will you build for Me? says the Lord, or what is the place of My rest? 50 Has My hand not made all these things?’

Review Questions

What were some of the things that the Israelites did that displeased God?

They made a calf in those days,
offered sacrifices to the idol, and
rejoiced in the works of their own hands.
They worshipped the host of heaven.
They took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, images which you made to worship.

What did God say would happen to them as a result?

He would carry them (or cause them to be taken) away beyond Babylon.

How was Moses able to make the tabernacle of witness while in the wilderness?

God appointed Moses to make the tabernacle, instructing him to make it according to the pattern that he had seen. God showed Moses the pattern for building the tabernacle.

How did God help Joshua to enter the land that was possessed by the Gentiles?

God drove out the Gentiles before Joshua. He did the same for other Israelite leaders.

Who asked to find a dwelling for the God of Jacob?

David asked to find a dwelling for God.

Whom did God allow to build a house for the God of Jacob?

Solomon built Him a house.

Does God need a temple to dwell in?

The Most High does not dwell in temples made with hands.

But, of course, God is everywhere, including temples made with hands.

STEPHEN’S SPEECH TO THE SANHEDRIN

Acts 7:51-53 (NKJ)

51 “You stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit; as your fathers did, so do you. 52 “Which of the prophets did your fathers not persecute? And they killed those who foretold the coming of the Just One, of whom you now have become the betrayers and murderers, 53 “who have received the law by the direction of angels and have not kept it.”

Review Questions

Why did Stephen say his listeners were “stiffnecked” and “uncircumcised”?

According to Stephen, they always resisted the Holy Spirit, as their fathers had done before.

How do you think the people “resisted” the Holy Spirit?

They did not believe what the Holy Spirit was showing them.

Who was Stephen referring to as the “Just One” in verse 52?

The “Just One” is a reference to Jesus Christ.

According to Stephen, who betrayed and murdered the Just One?

The Jews who were listening to Stephen, but especially their leaders.

STEPHEN IS STONED TO DEATH

Acts 7:54 – 8:1 (NKJ)

54 When they heard these things they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed at him with their teeth. 55 But he, being full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God, 56 and said, “Look! I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!”

57 Then they cried out with a loud voice, stopped their ears, and ran at him with one accord; 58 and they cast him out of the city and stoned him. And the witnesses laid down their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul.

59 And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”

60 Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

Review Questions

Why did the people gnash at Stephen with their teeth?

They were cut to the heart when they heard the things that Stephen said.

What did the people eventually do to Stephen?

They eventually cast him out of the city and stoned him (to death).

What did Stephen see before he was stoned?

According to Luke, Stephen, being full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.

What is Stephen quoted as saying he saw?

Stephen said he saw the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.

At whose feet did the witnesses lay down their clothes?

They laid down their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul.

What was Stephen doing when they stoned him?

They stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and asking Jesus to receive his spirit.

What did Stephen do shortly before he died?

He knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, asking God not to charge his killers with the sin of killing him.

THE CHURCH INVADES

JUDEA

AND

SAMARIA

THE CHURCH IS PERSECUTED AND CAUSED TO SCATTER

Acts 8:1-3 (NKJ)

1 Now Saul was consenting to his death. At that time a great persecution arose against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles.

2 And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him.

3 As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison.

Review Questions

To whose death was Saul consenting?

Saul was consenting to Stephen’s death.

What happened to the Church after Stephen was killed?

At that time a great persecution arose against the church.

Where was the Church located at the time of Stephen’s death?

The Church was located in Jerusalem.

What happened as a result of the persecution of the Church in Jerusalem?

The church was scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. (verse 1)
Saul made havoc of the church. (verse 3)
Some people were imprisoned. (verse 3)

What caused the Church to move into Judea and Samaria?

The persecution of the Church in Jerusalem caused believers (members of the Church) to scatter into Judea and Samaria.

Did the apostles move their base from Jerusalem?

No. The apostles were NOT among those who had been scattered. (verse 1)

PHILIP GOES TO SAMARIA

Acts 8:4-8 (NKJ)

4 Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word.

5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them.

6 And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. 7 For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed. 8 And there was great joy in that city.

Review Questions

Who was it that went everywhere preaching the word?

It was those who had been scattered as a result of the great persecution – regular members of the church, ordinary believers – who preached the word.

Was Philip an apostle or one of “those” who were scattered?

Philip was not an apostle; he was one of the seven appointed to look after tables.

If Philip was not an apostle, and had not been imprisoned, then he was more than likely one of those who had been scattered.

What did Philip preach to those who were in the city of Samaria?

Philip preached Christ to them.

In addition to preaching in Samaria, what else did Philip do in the city of Samaria?

Philip did miracles.

Why was there great joy in the city?

There was great joy because unclean spirits came out of many who were possessed and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed.

PHILIP’S ENCOUNTER WITH SIMON THE SORCERER

Acts 8:9-13 (NKJ)

9 But there was a certain man called Simon, who previously practiced sorcery in the city and astonished the people of Samaria, claiming that he was someone great, 10 to whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, “This man is the great power of God.” 11 And they heeded him because he had astonished them with his sorceries for a long time.

12 But when they believed Philip as he preached the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, both men and women were baptized.

13 Then Simon himself also believed; and when he was baptized he continued with Philip, and was amazed, seeing the miracles and signs which were done.

Review Questions

What had Simon (of Samaria) done to astonish the people of Samaria?

He had previously practiced sorcery in the city.

What he claim to be?

He claimed that he was someone great.

What did the people in the city of Samaria say about Simon?

They said he was the great power of God.

Why did the people give heed to Simon?

They all, from the least to the greatest, gave heed to him because he had astonished them with his sorceries for a long time.

What caused men and women from the city of Samaria to be baptized?

The men and women were baptized when they believed Philip as he preached the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ.

Why was Simon baptized?

Simon was baptized because he also believed.

What did Simon do after he was baptized?

When Simon was baptized he continued with Philip, and was amazed, seeing the miracles and signs which were done.

What was it that amazed Simon?

Simon was amazed when he saw the miracles and signs which were done.

PHILIP’S ENCOUNTER WITH SIMON THE SORCERER

Acts 8:14-25 (NKJ)

14 Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them, 15 who, when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. 16 For as yet He had fallen upon none of them. They had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.

17 Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.

18 And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, 19 saying, “Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.”

20 But Peter said to him, “Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money!

21 “You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God.

22″Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you.

23 “For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.”

24 Then Simon answered and said, “Pray to the Lord for me, that none of the things which you have spoken may come upon me.”

25 So when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, they returned to Jerusalem, preaching the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.

Review Questions

Why did the apostles who were at Jerusalem send Peter and John to Samaiia?

They sent Peter and John to Samaria because they heard that people in Samaria had received the word of God.

What did Peter and John do when they arrived in Samaria?

They prayed for the believers in Samaria that they might receive the Holy Spirit.

Why did Peter and John pray that the believers in Samaria would receive the Holy Spirit?

They prayed for the Samaritan believers to receive the Holy Spirit because, up until the time they arrived in Samaria, the Holy Spirit had not fallen upon any of them. They had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.

What had Peter and John done just before the people received the Holy Spirit?

They had laid hands on the people,

Why did Simon offer Peter and John money?

Simon offered the apostles money when he saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given.

What did Simon hope would happen as a result of him offering the apostles money?

He hoped to receive power so that whomever he laid his hands on they would receive the Holy Spirit.

What did Peter understand Simon to be wanting to purchase?

Based on what Peter said, he believed that Simon wanted to purchase the gift of God. (verse 20)

Why did Peter tell Simon to repent?

Peter told Simon to repent because:

Simon’s heart was not right in the sight of God;
the way Simon was thinking was viewed by Peter as wickedness;
Simon was poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.
Peter wanted God to forgive Simon for the thought of his heart.

How did Simon respond to Peter’s exhortation?

Simon asked Peter to pray to the Lord for him, that none of the things which Peter had spoken would come upon him.

Apart from praying for, and laying hands on, the believers in Samaria, what else did Peter and John do before they returned to Jerusalem?

Before they returned to Jerusalem, Peter and John …

testified and preached the word of the Lord;
preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.

PHILIP’S ENCOUNTER WITH THE ETHIOPIAN EUNUCH

Acts 8:26-40 (NKJ)

26 Now an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip, saying, “Arise and go toward the south along the road which goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” This is desert.

27 So he arose and went. And behold, a man of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under Candace the queen of the Ethiopians, who had charge of all her treasury, and had come to Jerusalem to worship,

28 was returning. And sitting in his chariot, he was reading Isaiah the prophet.

29 Then the Spirit said to Philip, “Go near and overtake this chariot.”

30 So Philip ran to him, and heard him reading the prophet Isaiah, and said, “Do you understand what you are reading?”

31 And he said, “How can I, unless someone guides me?” And he asked Philip to come up and sit with him.

32 The place in the Scripture which he read was this: “He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and as a lamb before its shearer is silent, so He opened not His mouth.

33 In His humiliation His justice was taken away, and who will declare His generation? For His life is taken from the earth.”

34 So the eunuch answered Philip and said, “I ask you, of whom does the prophet say this, of himself or of some other man?”

35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning at this Scripture, preached Jesus to him.

36 Now as they went down the road, they came to some water. And the eunuch said, “See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?”

37 Then Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart, you may.” And he answered and said, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.”

38 So he commanded the chariot to stand still. And both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him.

39 Now when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught Philip away, so that the eunuch saw him no more; and he went on his way rejoicing.

40 But Philip was found at Azotus. And passing through, he preached in all the cities till he came to Caesarea.

Review Questions

Who told Philip to go to the south along a certain road?

It was an angel of the Lord who told Philip to go toward the south along the road which goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.

What do we know about the man that Philip met along the road?

The man who Philip met:

was from Ethiopia.
was a eunuch.
had been given great authority under Candace the queen of the Ethiopians.
had charge of all of the Queen’s treasury.
had gone to Jerusalem to worship.
was returning to Ethiopia.

Where was the man sitting when Philip met him?

The man was sitting in his chariot.

What was the man doing just before Philip met him?

The man was reading Isaiah the prophet.

Why do you think the Ethiopian eunuch would have gone to Jerusalem to worship?

It seems he was an adherent of the Jewish faith.

What do you understand from the fact that he was reading Isaiah?

One, that he was a devout Jew.

Two, he may have been a wealthy Jew, because Scripture manuscripts were expensive.

Who told Philip to go near the chariot and overtake it?

The Spirit.

What did the eunuch want Philip to tell him about what he was reading?

The eunuch wanted Philip to tell him if the prophet (Isaiah) was talking about himself or about some other person.

What did Philip use the eunuch’s question to do?

Philip used the eunuch’s question about what he had been reading to preach Jesus to the man, starting at the very Scripture that the man was reading.

What did the eunuch ask Philip as they approached some water?

He asked Philip what would prevent him from being baptized.

How did Philip respond?

Philip told the eunuch that if he believed with all his heart, he could be baptized. In other words, all the man needed to do to be baptized was believe sincerely.

What did the eunuch tell Philip that he believed?

The eunuch told Philip that he believed that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

What happened after the eunuch had told Philip what he believed?

After alighting from the chariot, both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and Philip baptized him.

SAUL’S ENCOUNTER WITH THE LORD JESUS

Acts 9:1-7 (NKJ)

1 Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.

3 And as he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven.

4 Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”

5 And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” And the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.”

6 So he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?” And the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”

7 And the men who journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice but seeing no one.

Review Questions

Who was Saul threatening?

Saul was threatening the disciples of the Lord.

Why did Saul go to the high priest?

He went to the high priest to get letters to the synagogues of Damascus.

Why would Saul need such things from the high priest?

Saul needed the letters so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.

The letters were like warrants for the arrest of believers. (See verse 14)

As Saul journeyed to Damascus, he fell to the ground and heard a voice. What had happened just before he fell?

A light from heaven had shone around him suddenly.

What did Saul hear the voice saying?

Saul heard the voice saying, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”

According to the voice, whom was Saul persecuting?

Saul was persecuting Jesus Christ.

When we compare what the voice said with what we read in verse 1, we can conclude that to threaten the church is to persecute Jesus Christ.

What was Saul’s first question?

“Who are You, Lord?”

What was Saul’s second question?

“Lord, what do You want me to do?”

To whom did the voice that Saul heard belong?

It was Jesus who was speaking.

What was Saul told to do?

He was told to arise and go into the city, where he would be told what he was to do.

Why did the men who journeyed with Paul stand speechless?

The men with Paul stood speechless because they heard a voice but saw no one.

Did the men who were journeying with Paul hear the voice that Paul heard?

According to Luke, the men who journeyed with Paul did hear a voice. (v.7)

SAUL IN DAMASCUS

Acts 9:8-22 (NKJ)

8 Then Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened he saw no one. But they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. 9 And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank.

10 Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” 11 So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. 12 And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.”

13 Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.”

15 But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. 16 For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.”

17 And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized. 19 So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent some days with the disciples at Damascus.

20 Immediately he preached the Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God. 21 Then all who heard were amazed, and said, “Is this not he who destroyed those who called on this name in Jerusalem, and has come here for that purpose, so that he might bring them bound to the chief priests?”

22 But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who dwelt in Damascus, proving that this Jesus is the Christ.

Review Questions

How did Saul get into Damascus?

He was led by the hand into Damascus by those who were travelling with him.

How long was Saul without sight?

He was without sight for three days.

What did Saul eat and drink during the time he was without sight?

Nothing. He neither ate nor drank during that time.

Who told Ananias to go and inquire at the house of Judas for Saul?

The Lord told Ananias.

How was Ananias told?

The Lord told him in a vision.

How did Saul know beforehand that Ananias was going to put his hand on him so that he could receive his sight?

He had seen it in a vision.

What had Ananias heard about Saul?

Ananias had heard from many that Saul had done much harm to the saints of God in Jerusalem.

Why was Ananias so concerned about what he had heard about Saul?

Ananias was concerned because Saul had gone to Damascus with authority from the chief priests to bind all who called on the name of the Lord.

What did the Lord tell Ananias He had chosen Saul to do?

Jesus had chosen Saul to be His vessel to:

bear His name before Gentiles, kings, and Israelites, (v.15) and to
suffer for His name’s sake.” (v.16)

What reason did Ananias give Saul for going to see him?

Ananias told Saul that the Lord Jesus, who had appeared to Saul, had sent him so that he would receive his sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.

What happened after Ananias laid hands on Saul?

something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he received his sight.

How long did it take for that to happen?

Not long. According to Luke, it happened immediately.

What did Saul do after that happened?

He arose and was baptized.

What did Saul do while he was in Damascus?

He spent some days with the disciples, and he preached the Christ in the synagogues.

What did Saul preach about the Christ?

He preached that He is the Son of God.

Why were those who heard Saul preaching so amazed?

They were amazed because Saul had destroyed those who had called on that name in Jerusalem, and he had gone to Damascus for a similar purpose – to capture some and take them to the chief priests in Jerusalem.

What was Paul doing that confounded the Jews who dwelt in Damascus?

He was proving that Jesus (of Nazareth) is the Christ.

SAUL LEAVES DAMASCUS FOR JERUSALEM

Acts 9:23-31 (NKJ)

23 Now after many days were past, the Jews plotted to kill him. 24 But their plot became known to Saul. And they watched the gates day and night, to kill him.

25 Then the disciples took him by night and let him down through the wall in a large basket. 26 And when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and did not believe that he was a disciple.

27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. And he declared to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.

28 So he was with them at Jerusalem, coming in and going out. 29 And he spoke boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus and disputed against the Hellenists, but they attempted to kill him. 30 When the brethren found out, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him out to Tarsus.

31 Then the churches throughout all Judea, Galilee, and Samaria had peace and were edified. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, they were multiplied.

Review Questions

Why did Saul leave Damascus?

Because the Jews had plotted to kill him.

How did Saul leave Damascus?

The disciples took him by night and let him down through the wall in a large basket.

Where did he head for after leaving Damascus?

He headed for Jerusalem.

Why did Saul have to “try” to join the disciples?

Saul had to try to join the disciples because they were all afraid of him, and did not believe that he was a disciple.

How was it that he was finally able to join with the disciples?

Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles and declared to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.

Why did Saul have to leave Jerusalem?

Saul had to leave Jerusalem because he spoke boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus and disputed against the Hellenists, and they attempted to kill him.

According to the passage above, what contributed to the multiplication (growth) of the churches in Judea, Galilee and Samaria?

Some of the things that contributed to the growth of the churches were:

peace in Palestine
walking in the fear of the Lord
the comfort of the Holy Spirit.

PETER AND AENEAS OF LYDDA

Acts 9:32-35 (NKJ)

32 Now it came to pass, as Peter went through all parts of the country, that he also came down to the saints who dwelt in Lydda.

33 There he found a certain man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden eight years and was paralyzed. 34 And Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus the Christ heals you. Arise and make your bed.” Then he arose immediately.

35 So all who dwelt at Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord.

Review Questions

What was the problem that Aeneas had?

Aeneas had been bedridden for eight years and was paralyzed.

Whom did Peter say healed Aeneas?

According to Peter, it was Jesus the Christ who healed Aeneas.

How was Aeneas healed?

Peter just told him to arise and make his bed, and he was able to get up.

What happened to the people who dwelt at Lydda and Sharon when they saw what had happened to the Aeneas?

They turned to the Lord.

PETER RAISES TABITHA FROM THE DEAD

Acts 9:36-43 (NKJ)

36 At Joppa there was a certain disciple named Tabitha, which is translated Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and charitable deeds which she did. 37 But it happened in those days that she became sick and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. 38 And since Lydda was near Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent two men to him, imploring him not to delay in coming to them.

39 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he had come, they brought him to the upper room. And all the widows stood by him weeping, showing the tunics and garments which Dorcas had made while she was with them. 40 But Peter put them all out, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. 41 Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive.

42 And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord.

43 So it was that he stayed many days in Joppa with Simon, a tanner.

Review Questions

What was the other name of the disciple named Tabitha?

Her other name was Dorcas, which was a translation of Tabitha.

What was Tabitha full of (What was she known for doing)?

She was full of good works and charitable deeds which she did.

How did Tabitha die?

She became sick and died.

What did they do with Tabitha’s body after she died?

They (more than likely, the disciples – see v.38) washed her body and laid it in an upper room.

What did the disciples in Joppa do when they heard that Peter was in Lydda?

Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples sent two men to Peter to ask him to go without delay to Joppa.

After Peter arrived in Joppa, and was led to the upper room, what were the widows who stood beside him doing?

The widows who stood by him were weeping and showing the tunics and garments that Dorcas had made while she was with them.

What did Peter do to the widows who were in the upper room?

Peter put them all out.

What did Peter do afterwards?

He knelt and prayed and then he turned to the body and said “Tabitha, arise.”

What happened after Peter spoke to the body?

Tabitha, who had died, opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up.

What did Peter do after he had spoken to the body?

After Tabitha had opened her eyes and sat up, Peter gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive.

What happened after the news of what had happened became known throughout all Joppa?

Many believed on the Lord.

With whom did Peter stay while he was in Joppa?

He stayed many days in Joppa with Simon, a tanner.

Did Peter stay with that person for a long time or a short time?

Peter stayed a long time (many days) with Simon in Joppa.

CORNELIUS IS TOLD TO SEND FOR PETER

Acts 10:1-8 (NKJ)

1 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of what was called the Italian Regiment, 2 a devout man and one who feared God with all his household, who gave alms generously to the people, and prayed to God always.

3 About the ninth hour of the day he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God coming in and saying to him, “Cornelius!” 4 And when he observed him, he was afraid, and said, “What is it, lord?” So he said to him, “Your prayers and your alms have come up for a memorial before God. 5 Now send men to Joppa, and send for Simon whose surname is Peter. 6 He is lodging with Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea. He will tell you what you must do.”

7 And when the angel who spoke to him had departed, Cornelius called two of his household servants and a devout soldier from among those who waited on him continually. 8 So when he had explained all these things to them, he sent them to Joppa.

Review Questions

Where did Cornelius live at the time of this event?

He lived in Caesarea.

What was Cornelius’ occupation?

He was a centurion (a Roman officer responsible for 100 soldiers).

What four phrases are used to describe Cornelius in verse 2?

According to Luke, Cornelius:

was a devout man
feared God with all his household
gave alms generously to the people
prayed to God always.

At what time of day did the “angel of God” appear to Cornelius?

It was about the ninth hour (3:00 p.m.).

How did Cornelius respond when the angel appeared to him?

When Cornelius saw the angel, he was afraid,

Why do you think Cornelius referred to the angel as “lord”?

It could have been out of respect, or he may have recognized him as a messenger from God.

According to the angel, what was part of the reason why God sent him to Cornelius?

Part of the reason why God sent the angel to Cornelius was that his prayers and his alms had come up for a memorial before God.

What did the angel tell Cornelius to do?

The angel told Cornelius to send men to Joppa for Simon Peter, who was lodging with Simon, a tanner, in a house is by the sea.

What did the angel tell Cornelius that Simon would do?

He told Cornelius that Simon would tell him what he should do.

How many people did Cornelius send to Joppa to see Peter?

He sent three persons (two household servants and a “devout” soldier).

PETER IS PREPARED FOR HIS ENCOUNTER WITH CORNELIUS

Acts 10:9-23a (NKJ)

9 The next day, as they went on their journey and drew near the city, Peter went up on the housetop to pray, about the sixth hour.

10 Then he became very hungry and wanted to eat; but while they made ready, he fell into a trance 11 and saw heaven opened and an object like a great sheet bound at the four corners, descending to him and let down to the earth. 12 In it were all kinds of four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, creeping things, and birds of the air.

13 And a voice came to him, “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.” 14 But Peter said, “Not so, Lord! For I have never eaten anything common or unclean.” 15 And a voice spoke to him again the second time, “What God has cleansed you must not call common.” 16 This was done three times. And the object was taken up into heaven again.

17 Now while Peter wondered within himself what this vision which he had seen meant, behold, the men who had been sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon’s house, and stood before the gate. 18 And they called and asked whether Simon, whose surname was Peter, was lodging there.

19 While Peter thought about the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are seeking you. 20 Arise therefore, go down and go with them, doubting nothing; for I have sent them.”

21 Then Peter went down to the men who had been sent to him from Cornelius, and said, “Yes, I am he whom you seek. For what reason have you come?” 22 And they said, “Cornelius the centurion, a just man, one who fears God and has a good reputation among all the nation of the Jews, was divinely instructed by a holy angel to summon you to his house, and to hear words from you.”

23a Then he invited them in and lodged them….

Review Questions

At what time did Peter go to pray?

At about the sixth hour (12:00 noon).

Where did Peter go to pray?

He went on the housetop.

What did Peter see after he had fallen into a trance?

Peter saw heaven opened and an object like a great sheet bound at the four corners, descending to him and let down to the earth.

What was in the object that Peter saw?

In it were all kinds of four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, creeping things, and birds of the air.

What did the voice that came to Peter tell him to do?

The voice told him to rise and eat.

Why did Peter refuse to do what the voice had told him to do?

He had never eaten anything common or unclean.

What did the voice say to Peter after he had given his reason for refusing to do what was asked?

The voice told him that he should not refer to anything that God had cleansed as “common.”

How many times was Peter told to do what the voice required before the object was taken up to heaven again?

Peter was told three times.

What was Peter doing when the men whom had been sent by Cornelius arrived?

Peter was wondering within himself (thinking about) what the vision which he had seen meant.

Who told Peter that three men were seeking him?

It was the Spirit who told him.

Whom did the Spirit say had sent the three men?

According to the Spirit, He (the Spirit) had sent them.

Whom did the three men say had instructed Cornelius to send them?

According to the three men, Cornelius was divinely instructed by a holy angel.

What was the reason the men gave going to see him?

They had come, on behalf of Cornelius, to summon Peter to his house, so that Cornelius could hear words from Peter.

PETER’S ENCOUNTER WITH CORNELIUS

Acts 10:23b-48

23b … On the next day Peter went away with them, and some brethren from Joppa accompanied him.

24 And the following day they entered Caesarea. Now Cornelius was waiting for them, and had called together his relatives and close friends.

25 As Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him.

26 But Peter lifted him up, saying, “Stand up; I myself am also a man.”

27 And as he talked with him, he went in and found many who had come together.

28 Then he said to them, “You know how unlawful it is for a Jewish man to keep company with or go to one of another nation. But God has shown me that I should not call any man common or unclean.

29 “Therefore I came without objection as soon as I was sent for. I ask, then, for what reason have you sent for me?”

30 So Cornelius said, “Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing,

31 “and said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard, and your alms are remembered in the sight of God.

32 ‘Send therefore to Joppa and call Simon here, whose surname is Peter. He is lodging in the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea. When he comes, he will speak to you.’

33 “So I sent to you immediately, and you have done well to come. Now therefore, we are all present before God, to hear all the things commanded you by God.”

Review Questions

Who accompanied Peter and the three men sent by Cornelius back to Caesarea?

They were accompanied by some brethren from Joppa.

Who was waiting with Cornelius when Peter entered Caesarea?

Cornelius was waiting with his relatives and close friends, whom he had called together.

What did Cornelius do as met Peter?

As Cornelius met Peter, he fell down at his feet and worshiped him.

What did Peter say was unlawful for a Jewish man to do?

Peter told Cornelius and those with him that it was unlawful for a Jewish man to keep company with or go to one of another nation.

Why did Peter do what was considered unlawful by the Jews?

God had shown Peter, by the vision, that he should not call any man “common” or “unclean.”

Obviously, it was the Jews, not God, who had made it unlawful for a Jewish man to keep company with Gentiles.

How long after Cornelius had received the message from God to send for Peter did Peter arrive at Cornelius’ home?

It took four days.

According to Cornelius, why were he and those with him all present there before God?

According to him, they were all present before God to hear all the things that God had commanded Peter.

PETER PREACHES TO CORNELIUS

Acts 10:34-48

34 Then “Peter opened his mouth and said: “In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. 35 But in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him.

36 “The word which God sent to the children of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ — He is Lord of all — 37 that word you know, which was proclaimed throughout all Judea, and began from Galilee after the baptism which John preached: 38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.

39 “And we are witnesses of all things which He did both in the land of the Jews and in Jerusalem, whom they killed by hanging on a tree. 40 Him God raised up on the third day, and showed Him openly, 41 not to all the people, but to witnesses chosen before by God, even to us who ate and drank with Him after He arose from the dead. 42 And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead. 43 To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins.”

44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. 45 And those of the circumcision who believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God. Then Peter answered, 47 “Can anyone forbid water, that these should not be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?”

48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then they asked him to stay a few days.

Review Questions

What did Peter say he had come to perceive?

Peter said he perceived that God shows no partiality.

Whom did Peter say is accepted by God?

According to Peter, anyone who fears God and works righteousness is accepted by God, no matter what nation he/she is from.

What was the word which God sent to the children of Israel all about?

The word which God sent to the children of Israel was all about peace through Jesus Christ, the Lord of all.

Why was Jesus of Nazareth able to do good and heal those who were oppressed by the devil?

Jesus was able to do good and heal because God was with Him. God had anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit and with power.

What did Peter say he was a witness of?

Peter said that he was a witness of all things which Jesus did both in the land of the Jews and in Jerusalem.

When, according to Peter, did God raise Jesus after He had been killed?

Peter said God raised Jesus up on the third day.

What, according to Peter, happened after Jesus had been raised up?

God allowed Jesus to be seen, not by all, but by certain witnesses, including Peter and other disciples who had eaten with Jesus after His resurrection.

What was special about those witnesses who saw Jesus after His resurrection?

The witnesses had been chosen before by God.

What did Peter say Jesus had commanded him and the other apostles to do?

He commanded them to 1) preach to the people, and 2) testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead.

Whom did the prophets say would receive remission of sins?

The prophets witnessed that, through the name of Jesus, anyone who believes in Jesus will receive remission of sins.

What happened while Peter was still speaking to Cornelius et al?

While Peter was still speaking to Cornelius, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word.

Why were those who had gone with Peter astonished?

Those who had gone with Peter were astonished because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also.

How did those who had gone with Peter know that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles?

They knew because they heard the Gentiles speak with tongues and magnify God.

What did Peter say should be done to the Gentiles after he realized that they had received the Holy Spirit?

He commanded that the Gentiles be baptized in the name of the Lord.

PETER EXPLAINS HIS ACTIONS

Acts 11:1-18 (NKJ)

1 Now the apostles and brethren who were in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God.

2 And when Peter came up to Jerusalem, those of the circumcision contended with him, 3 saying, “You went in to uncircumcised men and ate with them!”

4 But Peter explained it to them in order from the beginning, saying:

5 “I was in the city of Joppa praying; and in a trance I saw a vision, an object descending like a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came to me.

6 “When I observed it intently and considered, I saw four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, creeping things, and birds of the air.

7 “And I heard a voice saying to me, ‘Rise, Peter; kill and eat.’

8 “But I said, ‘Not so, Lord! For nothing common or unclean has at any time entered my mouth.’

9 “But the voice answered me again from heaven, ‘What God has cleansed you must not call common.’

10 “Now this was done three times, and all were drawn up again into heaven.

11 “At that very moment, three men stood before the house where I was, having been sent to me from Caesarea.

12 “Then the Spirit told me to go with them, doubting nothing. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered the man’s house.

13 “And he told us how he had seen an angel standing in his house, who said to him, ‘Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon whose surname is Peter,

14 ‘who will tell you words by which you and all your household will be saved.’

15 “And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them, as upon us at the beginning.

16 “Then I remembered the word of the Lord, how He said, ‘John indeed baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’

17 “If therefore God gave them the same gift as He gave us when we believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could withstand God?”

18 When they heard these things they became silent; and they glorified God, saying, “Then God has also granted to the Gentiles repentance to life.”

Review Questions

What did the apostles and brethren who were in Judea hear about the Gentiles?

They heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God.

When Peter arrived in Jerusalem, who was it that contended with him?

Those of the circumcision contended with him,

Why did they contend with Peter?

They contended with him because ate with uncircumcised men.

How many brethren from Joppa had gone with Peter to visit Cornelius?

Six brethren accompanied Peter on his visit to Cornelius.

What did the angel tell Cornelius about the words that Peter would tell him?

They were words by which Cornelius and all his household would be saved.

What word of the Lord did Peter remember when the Holy Spirit fell upon Cornelius and his household?

Peter remembered when Jesus had told them that John baptized with water, but they would be baptized with the Holy Spirit.

What did Peter conclude about the gift that Cornelius and his household had received from God?

Peter concluded that the gift that Cornelius et al had received from God was the same gift that Peter et al had received when they believed on the Lord Jesus (on the day of Pentecost).

He concluded further that it would therefore be futile to try to withstand God.

How did the apostles and those in Judea react when they heard what Peter had to say?

When they heard what Peter had to say, they became silent and glorified God.

What did the apostles conclude when they heard Peter?

They concluded that God had also granted repentance to life to the Gentiles.

BELIEVERS IN ANTIOCH ARE CALLED CHRISTIANS

Acts 11:19-30 (NKJ)

19 Now those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one but the Jews only. 20 But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord.

22 Then news of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch. 23 When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord. 24 For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord.

25 Then Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul. 26 And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.

27 And in these days prophets came from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 Then one of them, named Agabus, stood up and showed by the Spirit that there was going to be a great famine throughout all the world, which also happened in the days of Claudius Caesar. 29 Then the disciples, each according to his ability, determined to send relief to the brethren dwelling in Judea. 30 This they also did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.

Review Questions

How far did those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen travel?

They traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch.

To whom did those who were scattered preach the word?

They preached the word to no one but the Jews only.

Who were the men who preached the Lord Jesus to the Hellenists?

They were men from Cyprus and Cyrene.

Where were they when the preached Jesus to the Hellenists?

They were in Antioch.

Why did many people believe and turn to the Lord?

The hand of the Lord was with them (those who were preaching).

Why did the church in Jerusalem send Barnabas to go out as far as Antioch?

The church in Jerusalem heard that people from as far as Antioch had believed the word and turned to the Lord Jesus.

When Barnabas saw the grace of God, how did he feel and what did he encourage the believers to do?

When he saw the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged the believers to continue with the Lord with purpose of heart.

Where did Barnabas go to seek Saul?

Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul.

What did Barnabas do when he found Saul?

He took Saul to Antioch.

How long did Barnabas and Saul assemble with the church in Antioch?

They assembled with the church and taught many people for a whole year.

Where were the disciples first called Christians?

The disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.

Where did the prophet Agabus go to Antioch from?

He went there from Jerusalem.

What did Agabus prophesy that came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar?

He showed that there was going to be a great famine in the world.

How was Agabus able to make that prophecy?

He was able to do so by the Spirit.

What did the disciples decide to do as a result of Agabus’ prophecy?

They determined to send relief to the brethren dwelling in Judea.

How would each disciple determine how much to send?

Each disciple would send according to his ability.

How did the brethren in Antioch send the relief to the elders in Jerusalem?

They sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.

PETER’S MIRACULOUS ESCAPE FROM PRISON

Acts 12:1-10 (NKJ)

1 Now about that time Herod the king stretched out his hand to harass some from the church.

2 Then he killed James the brother of John with the sword. 3 And because he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to seize Peter also. Now it was during the Days of Unleavened Bread.

4 So when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four squads of soldiers to keep him, intending to bring him before the people after Passover. 5 Peter was therefore kept in prison, but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church.

6 And when Herod was about to bring him out, that night Peter was sleeping, bound with two chains between two soldiers; and the guards before the door were keeping the prison.

7 Now behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison; and he struck Peter on the side and raised him up, saying, “Arise quickly!” And his chains fell off his hands. 8 Then the angel said to him, “Gird yourself and tie on your sandals”; and so he did. And he said to him, “Put on your garment and follow me.” 9 So he went out and followed him, and did not know that what was done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision.

10 When they were past the first and the second guard posts, they came to the iron gate that leads to the city, which opened to them of its own accord; and they went out and went down one street, and immediately the angel departed from him.

Review Questions

How did James the brother of John die?

He was killed with the sword.

Who killed James the brother of John?

Herod the king killed James the brother of John with the sword.

Why did Herod seize Peter and put him in prison?

Herod saw that his killing of James pleased the Jews.

What did Herod intend to do with Peter?

Herod intended to take Peter before the people after Passover.

What was the church doing while Peter was in prison?

The church was offering constant prayer to God for Peter.

Where was Peter when an angel of the Lord stood by him?

He was sleeping, bound with two chains, between two soldiers.

Where were the other soldiers?

The other soldiers were outside the cell, guarding the door.

What did the angel do to Peter?

He struck Peter on the side and raised him up.

What happened to the chains that were on Peter’s hands?

They fell off his hands.

What happened after the chains had fallen off Peter’s hands?

The angel told Peter to get dressed (gird himself, tie on his sandals, put on his garment) and follow him.

What did Peter think was happening to him?

Peter thought he was seeing a vision. He did not realize that what was being done by the angel was real.

What did Peter and the angel pass before they got to the iron gate that led to the city?

They passed the first and the second guard posts.

How were they able to get through the iron gate which had been closed?

When they got to the gate, it opened to them of its own accord.

What did the angel do after they went through the gate?

The angel accompanied Peter down one street, and then he departed from him.

PETER REPORTS TO THE BRETHREN

Acts 12:11-19 (NKJ)

11 And when Peter had come to himself, he said, “Now I know for certain that the Lord has sent His angel, and has delivered me from the hand of Herod and from all the expectation of the Jewish people.”

12 So, when he had considered this, he came to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose surname was Mark, where many were gathered together praying.

13 And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a girl named Rhoda came to answer.

14 When she recognized Peter’s voice, because of her gladness she did not open the gate, but ran in and announced that Peter stood before the gate.

15 But they said to her, “You are beside yourself!” Yet she kept insisting that it was so. So they said, “It is his angel.”

16 Now Peter continued knocking; and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished. 17 But motioning to them with his hand to keep silent, he declared to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, “Go, tell these things to James and to the brethren.” And he departed and went to another place.

18 Then, as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers about what had become of Peter. 19 But when Herod had searched for him and not found him, he examined the guards and commanded that they should be put to death. And he went down from Judea to Caesarea, and stayed there.

Review Questions

What did Peter do after he realized that God had sent His angel to deliver him from Herod and the expectation of the Jewish people?

He went to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose surname was Mark.

What was happening at the house when Peter arrived there?

Many persons had gathered together and were praying.

Why didn’t Rhoda open the gate for Peter when she recognized his voice?

She was so glad that instead of opening the gate she ran back inside to announce that Peter was at the gate.

How did the others in the house react when Rhoda told them that Peter was at the gate?

At first, they said she was beside herself. Then, when she kept insisting, they said it must be Peter’s angel that she saw.

How did they react when they eventually saw Peter?

They were astonished.

What did Peter do after declaring to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison?

He told them to go and tell what had happened to James and the brethren, and then he departed and went to another place.

What happened among the soldiers when day came?

There was a great stir among the soldiers about what had become of Peter.

What did Herod do when he realized that Peter been delivered?

He searched for Peter, and when he could not find him, he examined the guards and commanded that they should be put to death.

After that, he went down to Caesarea, and stayed there.

THE DEATH OF HEROD

Acts 12:20-25 (NKJ)

20 Now Herod had been very angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon; but they came to him with one accord, and having made Blastus the king’s personal aide their friend, they asked for peace, because their country was supplied with food by the king’s country.

21 So on a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat on his throne and gave an oration to them.

22 And the people kept shouting, “The voice of a god and not of a man!”

23 Then immediately an angel of the Lord struck him, because he did not give glory to God. And he was eaten by worms and died.

24 But the word of God grew and multiplied.

25 And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem when they had fulfilled their ministry, and they also took with them John whose surname was Mark.

Review Questions

Why did the people of Tyre and Sidon ask for peace with the king?

They asked for peace because their country was supplied with food by the king’s country.

Who was the king?

The king was Herod.

What were the people saying about Herod as he sat on his throne and gave an oration to them?

They kept shouting that his voice was the voice of a god and not of a man. Effectively, they were regarding Herod as a god.

What happened to Herod while the people were shouting?

An angel of the Lord struck Herod, and he was eaten by worms and died.

Why did the angel of the Lord strike Herod?

Herod was struck by the angel because he did not give glory to God.

What did Barnabas and Saul do after they had fulfilled their ministry?

They returned from Jerusalem when they had fulfilled their ministry, and they also took with them John whose surname was Mark.

THE CHURCH INVADES

THE

ROMAN

EMPIRE

(ACTS of The CHURCH)

VOLUME 3

THE HOLY SPIRIT CHOOSES BARNABAS AND SAUL

Acts 13:1-3 (NKJ)

1 Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.

2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”

3 Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.

Review Questions

Where was the church that Saul had fellowship with?

The church was at Antioch.

What were Barnabas, Saul and other prophets and teachers doing when the Holy Spirit communicated with them?

They were ministering to the Lord and fasting.

What did the Holy Spirit tell the believers in Antioch to do?

He told them to separate Barnabas and Saul to Him for the work to which He had called them.

What did the believers do before sending Barnabas and Saul away?

They fasted and prayed and laid hands on them.

ON CYPRUS – The First Missionary Journey

Acts 13:4-12 (NKJ)

4 So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus.

5 And when they arrived in Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews. They also had John as their assistant.

6 Now when they had gone through the island to Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew whose name was Bar-Jesus,

7 who was with the proconsul, Sergius Paulus, an intelligent man. This man called for Barnabas and Saul and sought to hear the word of God.

8 But Elymas the sorcerer (for so his name is translated) withstood them, seeking to turn the proconsul away from the faith.

9 Then Saul, who also is called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked intently at him

10 and said, “O full of all deceit and all fraud, you son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, will you not cease perverting the straight ways of the Lord?

11 “And now, indeed, the hand of the Lord is upon you, and you shall be blind, not seeing the sun for a time.” And immediately a dark mist fell on him, and he went around seeking someone to lead him by the hand.

12 Then the proconsul believed, when he saw what had been done, being astonished at the teaching of the Lord.

Review Questions

Who was it that sent out Barnabas and Saul?

It was the Holy Spirit who sent them out.

What did Barnabas and Saul do when they arrived in Salamis?

They preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews.

Who was the assistant of Barnabas and Saul at the time?

They also had John as their assistant.

Who was Bar-Jesus?

He was a Jewish sorcerer and a false prophet.

Who was Sergius Paulus?

He was an intelligent man who happened to be a proconsul.

Why had Sergius Paulus sent for Barnabas and Saul?

He was seeking to hear the word of God.

What was Bar-Jesus (a.k.a. Elymas) trying to do that caused Saul (a.k.a. Paul) to confront him?

Bar-Jesus, the sorcerer, was withstanding Barnabas and Saul (working against them) and seeking to turn the proconsul away from the faith.

What phrases did Saul, being filled with the Holy Spirit, use to describe Bar-Jesus?

Saul, being filled with the Holy Spirit, described Bar-Jesus as 1) full of all deceit and all fraud, 2) a son of the devil, and 3) an enemy of all righteousness.

What did Saul accuse Bar-Jesus of doing?

Saul said he was perverting the straight ways of the Lord.

What did Saul say would happen to Bar-Jesus?

He would be blind for a time.

How long did it take for that to happen?

According to Luke, it happened immediately.

What effect did the incident involving Saul and Bar-Jesus have on the proconsul?

When the proconsul saw what had been done, he believed, being astonished at the teaching of the Lord.

IN ANTIOCH OF PISIDIA – The First Missionary Journey

Acts 13:13-22 (NKJ)

13 Now when Paul and his party set sail from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia; and John, departing from them, returned to Jerusalem.

14 But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day and sat down.

15 And after the reading of the Law and the Prophets, the rulers of the synagogue sent to them, saying, “Men and brethren, if you have any word of exhortation for the people, say on.”

16 Then Paul stood up, and motioning with his hand said, “Men of Israel, and you who fear God, listen:

17 “The God of this people Israel chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an uplifted arm He brought them out of it.

18 “Now for a time of about forty years He put up with their ways in the wilderness.

19 “And when He had destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan, He distributed their land to them by allotment.

20 “After that He gave them judges for about four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the prophet.

21 “And afterward they asked for a king; so God gave them Saul the son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, for forty years.

22 “And when He had removed him, He raised up for them David as king, to whom also He gave testimony and said, ‘I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will.’

Review Questions

After Paul and his party sailed from Paphos and arrived in Perga, what did John do?

John departed from them and returned to Jerusalem.

Where did Paul et al go after leaving Perga?

They went to Antioch in Pisidia.

What did they do on the Sabbath day after they had arrived there?

They went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day and sat down.

What happened after the reading of the Law and the Prophets on that Sabbath day?

The rulers of the synagogue sent to them, inviting them to speak if they had any word of exhortation for the people.

Who, according to Paul, brought the people of Israel out of Egypt?

God brought them out.

How long after Israel came out of Egypt did God put up with their ways in the wilderness?

God put up with them for forty years.

How many nations in the land of Canaan did God destroy before distributing the land to the Israelites?

He destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan before distributing the land.

How did God distribute the land?

He distributed the land by allotment.

How long did God give judges to the Israelites?

God gave them judges for about four hundred and fifty years.

Who was the last judge of Israel?

Samuel the prophet was the last judge.

Why did God give Saul to be king over Israel?

The Israelites had asked for a king.

How long did Saul reign as king over Israel?

God gave them Saul as king for forty years.

How, according to Paul, did Saul cease to be king of Israel?

According to Paul, God removed Saul.

How, according to Paul, did David become king of Israel?

According to Paul, God raised up David as king.

What testimony did God give about David?

God said that David, the son of Jesse, was a man after His own heart, who would do all His will.

IN ANTIOCH OF PISIDIA – The First Missionary Journey

Acts 13:23-31 (NKJ)

23 “From this man’s seed, according to the promise, God raised up for Israel a Savior – Jesus – 24 after John had first preached, before His coming, the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel.

25 “And as John was finishing his course, he said, ‘Who do you think I am? I am not He. But behold, there comes One after me, the sandals of whose feet I am not worthy to loose.’

26 “Men and brethren, sons of the family of Abraham, and those among you who fear God, to you the word of this salvation has been sent. 27 “For those who dwell in Jerusalem, and their rulers, because they did not know Him, nor even the voices of the Prophets which are read every Sabbath, have fulfilled them in condemning Him.

28 “And though they found no cause for death in Him, they asked Pilate that He should be put to death.

29 “Now when they had fulfilled all that was written concerning Him, they took Him down from the tree and laid Him in a tomb. 30 “But God raised Him from the dead. 31 “He was seen for many days by those who came up with Him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are His witnesses to the people.

Review Questions

Which of God’s promises to Israel is referred to in the passage?

The promise was that God would raise up a Saviour for Israel.

In whose seed would the promise be fulfilled?

In David’s seed.

In whom was the promise fulfilled?

The promise was fulfilled in Jesus, who is the promised Saviour.

Who preached to Israel about repentance before the coming of the Saviour?

John (the Baptist) preached before His coming.

What did Paul say had been sent to the descendants of Abraham and those who feared God?

According to Paul, the “word of this salvation” (salvation through Christ) had been sent to them.

According to Paul, who condemned Jesus?

According to Paul, those who were dwelling in Jerusalem, and their rulers, were the ones who condemned Jesus.

What were they fulfilling by condemning Jesus?

They were fulfilling the voices of the Prophets.

Why did they condemn Jesus?

They did not know Him (as the Saviour), and they did not know the voices of the Prophets (i.e. they did not understand that the Prophets were speaking about Jesus).

Why should the people and their leaders have known better?

They should have known better because they were reading the Prophets every Sabbath.

When the people and their leaders asked Pilate to put Jesus to death, had they found any reason for putting Him to death?

No.

Why didn’t Jesus stay in the tomb?

God raised Him from the dead.

At the time Paul was speaking, who were Jesus’ witnesses to the people?

Those who came up with Him from Galilee to Jerusalem.

Why were they Jesus’ witnesses?

They had seen Jesus for many days after His resurrection.

IN ANTIOCH OF PISIDIA – The First Missionary Journey

Acts 13:32-41 (NKJ)

32 “And we declare to you glad tidings — that promise which was made to the fathers. 33 God has fulfilled this for us their children, in that He has raised up Jesus. As it is also written in the second Psalm: ‘You are My Son, today I have begotten You.’ 34 And that He raised Him from the dead, no more to return to corruption, He has spoken thus: ‘I will give you the sure mercies of David.’ 35 Therefore He also says in another Psalm: ‘You will not allow Your Holy One to see corruption.’ 36 “For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell asleep, was buried with his fathers, and saw corruption; 37 “but He whom God raised up saw no corruption.

38 “Therefore let it be known to you, brethren, that through this Man is preached to you the forgiveness of sins; 39 and by Him everyone who believes is justified from all things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses. 40 Beware therefore, lest what has been spoken in the prophets come upon you: 41 “Behold, you despisers, marvel and perish! For I work a work in your days, a work which you will by no means believe, though one were to declare it to you.’ “

Review Questions

What was the essence of the “glad tidings” that Paul and his colleagues were declaring?

The essence was that the promise which was made to the fathers was fulfilled by God for them in that generation.

How had God shown His decision to fulfill His promise to the fathers?

God fulfilled His promise by raising up Jesus.

How long would it be before Jesus returned to corruption?

Jesus would never return to corruption because God would not allow His Holy One to see corruption (as was said in a Psalm).

How do we know that the psalmist was not talking about David as the Holy One?

We know that because David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, died, was buried, and saw corruption. Jesus, however, whom God raised up, saw no corruption (as the psalmist had said about His Holy One).

What did Paul say was being preached to the people?

Paul said that through this Man (Jesus) the forgiveness of sins was being preached to them.

What did Paul say everyone who believes in Jesus would be justified from?

Paul said that everyone who believes in Jesus is justified from all the things from which they could not be justified by the law of Moses.

What did Paul say about a “work” that would be done in the days of his listeners?

A “work” would be worked in their days which they would not believe, even if someone were to declare it to them.

40 “Beware therefore, lest what has been spoken in the prophets come upon you:

41 “Behold, you despisers, marvel and perish! For I work a work in your days, a work which you will by no means believe, though one were to declare it to you.’ “

IN ANTIOCH OF PISIDIA – The First Missionary Journey

Acts 13:42-52 (NKJ)

42 So when the Jews went out of the synagogue, the Gentiles begged that these words might be preached to them the next Sabbath.

43 Now when the congregation had broken up, many of the Jews and devout proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas, who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.

44 On the next Sabbath almost the whole city came together to hear the word of God. 45 But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy; and contradicting and blaspheming, they opposed the things spoken by Paul.

46 Then Paul and Barnabas grew bold and said, “It was necessary that the word of God should be spoken to you first; but since you reject it, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, behold, we turn to the Gentiles. 47 For so the Lord has commanded us: ‘I have set you as a light to the Gentiles, that you should be for salvation to the ends of the earth.’ ”

48 Now when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and glorified the word of the Lord. And as many as had been appointed to eternal life believed. 49 And the word of the Lord was being spread throughout all the region.

50 But the Jews stirred up the devout and prominent women and the chief men of the city, raised up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region. 51 But they shook off the dust from their feet against them, and came to Iconium. 52 And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.

Review Questions

What did the Gentiles do after the Jews had gone out of the synagogue?

The Gentiles begged that the words which they had heard might be preached to them the next Sabbath.

Who followed Paul and Barnabas after the congregation had broken up?

Many of the Jews and devout proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas.

What did Paul and Barnabas persuade them to do?

They, by speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.

What happened on the next Sabbath?

On the next Sabbath, almost the whole city came together to hear the word of God.

How did the Jews feel when they saw the multitudes?

When the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy.

What did the Jews do?

They opposed the things spoken by Paul by contradicting and blaspheming.

How did Paul and Barnabas respond?

Paul and Barnabas grew bold. They told the Jews that it was necessary that the word of God should be spoken to them first. However, by rejecting the word of God, they showed themselves unworthy of everlasting life, so they would be turning to the Gentiles instead.

Why had the Lord set Paul and Barnabas as a light to the Gentiles?

The Lord had set them as a light to that they should be for salvation to the ends of the earth.

How did the Gentiles respond when they heard what Paul and Barnabas had to say?

They were glad and glorified the word of the Lord.

Who were the ones who believed?

The ones who believed were those who had been appointed to eternal life.

How did the Jews respond to what Paul and Barnabas said?

The Jews responded by:

stirring up the devout and prominent women and the chief men of the city,
raising up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and
having Paul and Barnabas expelled from their region.

How did the disciples respond?

The disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.

IN ICONIUM – The First Missionary Journey

Acts 14:1-7 (NKJ)

1 Now it happened in Iconium that they went together to the synagogue of the Jews, and so spoke that a great multitude both of the Jews and of the Greeks believed. 2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brethren.

3 Therefore they stayed there a long time, speaking boldly in the Lord, who was bearing witness to the word of His grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands.

4 But the multitude of the city was divided: part sided with the Jews, and part with the apostles.

5 And when a violent attempt was made by both the Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to abuse and stone them, 6 they became aware of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the surrounding region. 7 And they were preaching the gospel there.

Review Questions

What happened in Iconium when Paul and Barnabas went together to the synagogue of the Jews and spoke?

Paul and Barnabas so spoke that a great multitude both of the Jews and of the Greeks believed.

How did the unbelieving Jews respond?

The unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brethren.

What was one of the things that probably caused Paul and Barnabas to speak boldly in the Lord?

The Lord was bearing witness to the word of His grace.

How was the Lord bearing witness to the word of His grace?

He was granting signs and wonders to be done by the hands of Paul and Barnabas.

How was the multitude of the city divided?

Part sided with the Jews, and part with the apostles.

Why did Paul and Barnabas go to Lystra and Derbe?

There was a violent attempt made by both the Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to abuse and stone Paul and Barnabas and, when they became aware of it, they fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the surrounding region.

NOTE: Once again, the Jews were at the centre of the plot.

What did Paul and Barnabas do in Lystra and Derbe?

They were preaching the gospel there.

IN LYSTRA AND DERBE – The First Missionary Journey

Acts 14:8-20 (NKJ)

8 And in Lystra a certain man without strength in his feet was sitting, a cripple from his mother’s womb, who had never walked. 9 This man heard Paul speaking. Paul, observing him intently and seeing that he had faith to be healed, 10 said with a loud voice, “Stand up straight on your feet!” And he leaped and walked.

11 Now when the people saw what Paul had done, they raised their voices, saying in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men!” 12 And Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul, Hermes, because he was the chief speaker.

13 Then the priest of Zeus, whose temple was in front of their city, brought oxen and garlands to the gates, intending to sacrifice with the multitudes. 14 But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard this, they tore their clothes and ran in among the multitude, crying out 15 and saying, “Men, why are you doing these things? We also are men with the same nature as you, and preach to you that you should turn from these useless things to the living God, who made the heaven, the earth, the sea, and all things that are in them, 16 who in bygone generations allowed all nations to walk in their own ways. 17 “Nevertheless He did not leave Himself without witness, in that He did good, gave us rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.”

18 And with these sayings they could scarcely restrain the multitudes from sacrificing to them. 19 Then Jews from Antioch and Iconium came there; and having persuaded the multitudes, they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing him to be dead.

20 However, when the disciples gathered around him, he rose up and went into the city. And the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.

Review Questions

How long had the man without strength in his feet been a cripple?

He had been a cripple since his birth.

What did Paul see, after observing the man intently, that caused him to tell the man to stand up?

Paul saw that he had faith to be healed.

What did the man do when Paul told him to stand up on his feet?

He leaped and walked.

How did the people who had seen what Paul had done respond?

They raised their voices and started saying, in the Lycaonian language, that the gods had come down to them in the likeness of men.

What did the people call Barnabas and Paul?

They called Barnabas Zeus, and they called Paul Hermes.

Why did they give Paul that name?

They called Paul Hermes because he was the chief speaker.

What did the priest of Zeus do?

The priest of Zeus, whose temple was in front of their city, brought oxen and garlands to the gates, intending to sacrifice with the multitudes.

What did Barnabas and Paul do when they realized what the priest wanted to do?

They tore their clothes and ran in among the multitude, crying out and telling them that they were men like them who were preaching to them that they should turn from such useless things to the living God.

What did the apostles tell the people about the living God?

They told them that the living God, who made the heaven, the earth, the sea, and all things that are in them, and who in bygone generations allowed all nations to walk in their own ways, did not leave Himself without witness. God, they told them, had done good, given them rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling their hearts with food and gladness.

What was the effect of what the apostles had said to the multitude?

As a result of their sayings, they could scarcely restrain the multitudes from sacrificing to them.

What was the effect of the intervention by the Jews from Antioch and Iconium?

The Jews from Antioch and Iconium persuaded the multitudes, and they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing him to be dead.

What did the multitudes do to Paul?

They stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing him to be dead.

What happened when the disciples gathered around Paul?

Paul rose up and went into the city.

What did Paul do the next day?

He departed with Barnabas to Derbe.

THE RETURN TO ANTIOCH IN SYRIA – The First Missionary Journey

Acts 14:21–28 (NKJ)

21 And when they had preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, 22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.”

23 So when they had appointed elders in every church, and prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord in whom they had believed.

24 And after they had passed through Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia.

25 Now when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down to Attalia. 26 From there they sailed to Antioch, where they had been commended to the grace of God for the work which they had completed.

27 Now when they had come and gathered the church together, they reported all that God had done with them, and that He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.

28 So they stayed there a long time with the disciples.

Review Questions

What happened as a result of Paul and Barnabas preaching the gospel in Derbe?

They made many disciples.

Where did Paul and Barnabas go after they had preached the gospel to Derbe and made many disciples?

They returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch (in Pisidia).

What did Paul and Barnabas do while in those places?

They strengthened the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith and telling them that entrance into the kingdom of God involved going through many tribulations.

They had appointed elders in every church, and prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord in whom they had believed.

How did Paul and Barnabas complete the work they had been commended to the grace of God for?

They completed the work they had been commended to grace of God for (i.e. the missionary journey) by sailing from Attalia to Antioch (where the journey had begun).

What happened when they arrived in Antioch?

When they arrived in Antioch, they gathered the church together and reported all that God had done with them.

What did Paul and Barnabas report that God had done for the Gentiles?

They reported that God had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.

THE JERUSALEM COUNCIL

Acts 15:1-12 (NKJ)

1 And certain men came down from Judea and taught the brethren, “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.”

2 Therefore, when Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and dispute with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain others of them should go up to Jerusalem, to the apostles and elders, about this question.

3 So, being sent on their way by the church, they passed through Phoenicia and Samaria, describing the conversion of the Gentiles; and they caused great joy to all the brethren.

4 And when they had come to Jerusalem, they were received by the church and the apostles and the elders; and they reported all things that God had done with them.

5 But some of the sect of the Pharisees who believed rose up, saying, “It is necessary to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses.”

6 Now the apostles and elders came together to consider this matter.

7 And when there had been much dispute, Peter rose up and said to them: “Men and brethren, you know that a good while ago God chose among us, that by my mouth the Gentiles should hear the word of the gospel and believe.

8 “So God, who knows the heart, acknowledged them by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He did to us,

9 “and made no distinction between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.

10 “Now therefore, why do you test God by putting a yoke on the neck of the disciples which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?

11 “But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved in the same manner as they.”

12 Then all the multitude kept silent and listened to Barnabas and Paul declaring how many miracles and wonders God had worked through them among the Gentiles.

Review Questions

What were certain men from Judea teaching the brethren in Antioch?

Certain men from Judea were teaching the brethren that unless they were circumcised according to the custom of Moses, they could not be saved.

How did Paul and Barnabas respond to the teaching of those men from Judea?

Paul and Barnabas dissented greatly, and disputed with them.

What did the brethren in Antioch decide should happen?

The brethren determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain others of them should go up to Jerusalem, to the apostles and elders, about this issue.

What did Paul and Barnabas do when they passed through Phoenicia and Samaria on their way to Jerusalem?

When they passed through Phoenicia and Samaria, they described the conversion of the Gentiles, and they caused great joy to all the brethren.

What did Paul and Barnabas do when they arrived in Jerusalem?

After being received by the church, the apostles and the elders, Paul and Barnabas reported the things that God had done with them.

Which group of believers was it that said it was necessary for the Gentile believers to be circumcised?

It was some from the sect of the Pharisees.

What exactly were those persons saying was necessary?

Some of the sect of the Pharisees who believed were saying it was necessary for the Gentile believers to 1) be circumcised, and 2) keep the law of Moses.

When the apostles and elders came together to consider the matter, what did Peter remind them that God had chosen for him?

Peter said to them that God had chosen among them, that by his mouth the Gentiles should hear the word of the gospel and believe.

According to Peter, how did God acknowledge the Gentiles?

God, who knows the heart, acknowledged the Gentiles by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He given the Holy Spirit to Peter and the other apostles. By so doing, Peter said, God had made no distinction between the apostles and the Gentiles, thereby purifying their hearts by faith.

What was Peter’s question for the apostles?

Peter questioned why they would want to “test God” by putting a yoke, which neither their “fathers” or they were unable to bear, on the neck of the disciples (Gentile believers),

What did Peter believe as a result of what had happened to the Gentiles?

Peter believed that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ the Gentile would be saved in the same manner as the apostles.

What happened after Peter made his contribution to the discussion?

After Peter had spoken, all the multitude kept silent and listened to Barnabas and Paul declaring how many miracles and wonders God had worked through them among the Gentiles.

According to Paul and Barnabas, what had God done among the Gentiles?

God had worked many miracles and wonders, through them, among the Gentiles.

THE DECISION OF THE COUNCIL

Acts 15:13-21 (NKJ)

13 And after they had become silent, James answered, saying, “Men and brethren, listen to me:

14 “Simon has declared how God at the first visited the Gentiles to take out of them a people for His name.

15 “And with this the words of the prophets agree, just as it is written:

16 ‘After this I will return and will rebuild the tabernacle of David, which has fallen down; I will rebuild its ruins, and I will set it up;

17 So that the rest of mankind may seek the Lord, even all the Gentiles who are called by My name, says the Lord who does all these things.’

18 “Known to God from eternity are all His works.

19 “Therefore I judge that we should not trouble those from among the Gentiles who are turning to God,

20 “but that we write to them to abstain from things polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from things strangled, and from blood.

21 “For Moses has had throughout many generations those who preach him in every city, being read in the synagogues every Sabbath.”

Review Questions

According to James, what did Simon give as the reason that God visited the Gentiles at the first?

God at the first visited the Gentiles to take out of them a people for His name.

With what did James say the words of the prophets agreed?

The words of the prophets agree with Simon’s conclusion that God would take a people for His name from among the Gentiles.

According to James, the prophecy was that God would rebuild the tabernacle of David, which had fallen down, so that even the Gentiles may seek the Lord.

What was James’ judgement regarding the Gentiles who were turning to God?

James judged that the apostles should not trouble those from among the Gentiles who are turning to God. He also judged, however, that they should write to those Gentiles, telling them to abstain from certain things.

What four (4) things did James believe the Gentiles who were turning to God should be asked to abstain from?

James believed those Gentiles should be asked to abstain from 1) things polluted by idols, 2) sexual immorality, 3) things strangled, and 4) blood.

What reason did James give for asking the Gentiles to abstain from those things?

James believed the Gentiles should be asked to abstain from those things because Moses had been preached in every city and was being read in the synagogues every Sabbath.

THE JERUSALEM COUNCIL’S LETTER TO GENTILE BELIEVERS

Acts 15:22-35 (NKJ)

22 Then it pleased the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas, namely, Judas who was also named Barsabas, and Silas, leading men among the brethren.

23 They wrote this letter by them:

The apostles, the elders, and the brethren, To the brethren who are of the Gentiles in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia: Greetings.

24 Since we have heard that some who went out from us have troubled you with words, unsettling your souls, saying, ‘You must be circumcised and keep the law’ — to whom we gave no such commandment — 25 it seemed good to us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men to you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, 26 men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

27 We have therefore sent Judas and Silas, who will also report the same things by word of mouth. 28 For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things: 29 that you abstain from things offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from sexual immorality.

If you keep yourselves from these, you will do well. Farewell.

30 So when they were sent off, they came to Antioch; and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the letter.

31 When they had read it, they rejoiced over its encouragement.

32 Now Judas and Silas, themselves being prophets also, exhorted and strengthened the brethren with many words.

33 And after they had stayed there for a time, they were sent back with greetings from the brethren to the apostles.

34 However, it seemed good to Silas to remain there.

35 Paul and Barnabas also remained in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also.

Review Questions

What did the apostles and elders, with the whole church, decide to do?

It pleased them to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas.

Whom did the church in Jerusalem send with Paul and Barnabas to Antioch?

The church sent Judas, who was also named Barsabas, and Silas, leading men among the brethren.

To whom was the letter that was sent with them addressed?

The letter from the Jerusalem church was addressed to the brethren who are of the Gentiles in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia.

According to the letter, where had those who were troubling the Gentiles come from?

They had come from among the members of the church in Jerusalem.

How were they troubling the Gentiles?

They were troubling the Gentiles by telling them that they had to be circumcised and keep the law.

What did the letter from the church in Jerusalem make clear about the commandment that the Gentiles should be circumcised?

The letter made it clear that the church in Jerusalem gave no such commandment to the men who were troubling the Gentiles.

What did the letter say about Judas and Silas, the men the church had decided to send to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas?

Judas and Silas were men who had risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Judas and Silas would also confirm, by word of mouth, what had been written in the letter to the Gentiles.

How did the Gentiles react when they received the letter from Jerusalem?

When they had read it, they rejoiced over its encouragement.

What did Judas and Silas do?

They, being prophets also, exhorted and strengthened the brethren with many words.

Which of the two, Judas and Silas, decided to stay in Antioch?

It seemed good to Silas to remain in Antioch.

Who else remained in Antioch?

Paul and Barnabas also remained in Antioch.

What were they doing while they were there?

They were teaching and preaching the word of the Lord.

THE SECOND MISSIONARY JOURNEY BEGINS AMIDST CONTENTION

Acts 15:36-41 (NKJ)

Paul and Barnabas Disagree

36 Then after some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us now go back and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they are doing.”

37 Now Barnabas was determined to take with them John called Mark.

38 But Paul insisted that they should not take with them the one who had departed from them in Pamphylia, and had not gone with them to the work.

39 Then the contention became so sharp that they parted from one another. And so Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus;

The Journey Begins

40 but Paul chose Silas and departed, being commended by the brethren to the grace of God. 41 And he went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.

Review Questions

What did Paul suggest to Barnabas that they do?

After some days Paul suggested to Barnabas that they go back and visit their brethren in the cities where they had preached the word of the Lord, and see how the brethren were doing.

Whom did Barnabas want to take with them?

Barnabas was determined to take with them John called Mark.

Why didn’t Paul want to take him with them?

Paul insisted that they should not take John called Mark with them because he had departed from them in Pamphylia, and had not gone with them to the work.

It seems Paul was concerned that John might have deserted them again.

Why did Paul and Barnabas eventually part company?

Paul and Barnabas parted from one another because the contention became so sharp.

Whom did Barnabas take with him, and where did he go?

Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus.

Whom did Paul choose to take with him, and where did he go?

Paul chose Silas and he went through Syria and Cilicia.

What was Paul doing as he went through the various areas.

He was strengthening the churches.

TIMOTHY JOINS PAUL AND SILAS – Paul’s Second Missionary Journey

Acts 16:1–5 (NKJ)

1 Then he came to Derbe and Lystra. And behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a certain Jewish woman who believed, but his father was Greek. 2 He was well spoken of by the brethren who were at Lystra and Iconium.

3 Paul wanted to have him go on with him. And he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in that region, for they all knew that his father was Greek.

4 And as they went through the cities, they delivered to them the decrees to keep, which were determined by the apostles and elders at Jerusalem.

5 So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and increased in number daily.

Review Questions

What was the name of the disciple that Paul wanted to go with him?

Timothy.

What are we told about his mother?

His mother was Jewish.

What are we told about his father?

His father was Greek.

How was he regarded by the brethren in Lystra and Iconium?

He was well spoken of by the brethren who were at Lystra and Iconium.

What did Paul do to him because of the Jews in that region?

He took him and circumcised him.

Why did Paul do that to the young man?

Paul circumcised him because the Jews in that region knew that his father was Greek.

What did Paul et al do as they went through the cities?

As they went through the cities, they delivered to the brethren the decrees to keep, which were determined by the apostles and elders at Jerusalem.

What happened as a result of the visits by Paul and his companions?

The churches were strengthened in the faith, and increased in number daily.

PAUL RECEIVES A VISION – Second Missionary Journey

Acts 16:6–10 (NKJ)

6 Now when they had gone through Phrygia and the region of Galatia, they were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia.

7 After they had come to Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit did not permit them. 8 So passing by Mysia, they came down to Troas. 9 And a vision appeared to Paul in the night. A man of Macedonia stood and pleaded with him, saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.”

10 Now after he had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go to Macedonia, concluding that the Lord had called us to preach the gospel to them.

Review Questions

Why were Paul and his companions not able to preach the word in Asia?

They were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia.

What happened when Paul et al tried to go into Bithynia?

The Spirit did not permit them.

Where was Paul when he had the vision?

The vision appeared to one night while he was in Troas.

What did Paul see in the vision?

In the vision, which had appeared to Paul in the night, Paul saw a man of Macedonia standing and pleading with him, telling him to go over to Macedonia and help them.

What did Paul and his companions do after he had seen the vision?

After Paul had seen the vision, he sought to go to Macedonia.

Why did Paul seek to do that?

After the vision, he had concluded that the Lord had called them to preach the gospel to the people in Macedonia.

LYDIA’S CONVERSION IN PHILIPPI – Second Missionary Journey

Acts 16:11–15 (NKJ)

11 Therefore, sailing from Troas, we ran a straight course to Samothrace, and the next day came to Neapolis, 12 and from there to Philippi, which is the foremost city of that part of Macedonia, a colony. And we were staying in that city for some days.

13 And on the Sabbath day we went out of the city to the riverside, where prayer was customarily made; and we sat down and spoke to the women who met there.

14 Now a certain woman named Lydia heard us. She was a seller of purple from the city of Thyatira, who worshiped God. The Lord opened her heart to heed the things spoken by Paul.

15 And when she and her household were baptized, she begged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.” So she persuaded us.

Review Questions

After leaving Troas, Paul et al went to Samothrace, Neapolis, and Philippi. Which of those three was the foremost city of that part of Macedonia?

Philippi was the foremost city of that part of Macedonia, a colony.

While in that city, where did they go on the Sabbath day?

On the Sabbath day, they went out of the city to the riverside.

Why did they go to there?

There, by the riverside, was where prayer was customarily made.

What did Paul et al do when they got there?

They sat down and spoke to the women who met there.

One of the women they met was named Lydia. Where was Lydia from?

She was from Thyatira.

What was Lydia’s occupation?

She was a seller of purple from the city of Thyatira, who worshiped God.

Why was Lydia able to heed (understand) the things spoken by Paul?

She was able to understand because the Lord had opened her heart to heed the things spoken by Paul.

What happened to Lydia and her household as a result of her heeding the things that Paul had spoken?

As a result of Lydia heeding the things that Paul had said, she and her household were baptized.

How did Paul and his companions end up at Lydia’s house after they left the riverside?

After Lydia and her household were baptized, she begged Paul et al to go to her house and stay, and she persuaded them.

PAUL AND THE SLAVE GIRL – Paul’s Second Missionary Journey

Acts 16:16–23 (NKJ)

16 Now it happened, as we went to prayer, that a certain slave girl possessed with a spirit of divination met us, who brought her masters much profit by fortune-telling.

17 This girl followed Paul and us, and cried out, saying, “These men are the servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to us the way of salvation.”

18 And this she did for many days. But Paul, greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And he came out that very hour.

19 But when her masters saw that their hope of profit was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to the authorities.

20 And they brought them to the magistrates, and said, “These men, being Jews, exceedingly trouble our city;

21 “and they teach customs which are not lawful for us, being Romans, to receive or observe.”

22 Then the multitude rose up together against them; and the magistrates tore off their clothes and commanded them to be beaten with rods.

23 And when they had laid many stripes on them, they threw them into prison, commanding the jailer to keep them securely.

Review Questions

Where were Paul and his companions going when they met the slave girl who was possessed?

They were going to prayer.

What kind of spirit was the slave girl possessed with?

She was possessed with a spirit of divination.

How was she able to bring her masters much profit?

She brought her masters much profit by fortune-telling.

What was the girl doing that annoyed Paul?

The girl, for many days, was following Paul et al and crying out that they were the servants of the Most High God who proclaimed to her and other the way of salvation.

For how long did the girl do that?

She did so for many days.

What did Paul eventually do?

Paul turned and spoke to the spirit, command him, in the name of Jesus Christ, to come out of the girl.

In whose name was the command given?

Paul commanded the spirit in the name of Jesus Christ.

What happened when Paul did that?

The spirit came out of the slave girl that very hour.

What did the girl’s masters do as a result of what Paul did?

They seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to the authorities.

Why did the girl’s masters do that?

They saw that their hope of profit was gone. The spirit had left the girl, and she was no longer able to tell fortune.

What were Paul and Silas accused of?

The girl’s masters, having taken Paul and Silas before the magistrates, accused them of greatly troubling their city and teaching customs which were not lawful for people in that area, being Romans, to receive or observe.

What was the response of the people and the magistrates?

The multitude rose up together against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates tore off their clothes and commanded them to be beaten with rods.

What was done to Paul and Silas after they had been beaten?

After they had been beaten (had many stripes laid on them), they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to keep them securely.

PAUL AND SILAS IN PRISON – Paul’s Second Missionary Journey

Acts 16:24-33 (NKJ)

24 Having received such a charge, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks.

25 But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.

26 Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were loosed.

27 And the keeper of the prison, awaking from sleep and seeing the prison doors open, supposing the prisoners had fled, drew his sword and was about to kill himself.

28 But Paul called with a loud voice, saying, “Do yourself no harm, for we are all here.”

29 Then he called for a light, ran in, and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas.

30 And he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”

31 So they said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.”

32 Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house.

33 And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their stripes. And immediately he and all his family were baptized.

Review Questions

Having received a charge to keep Paul and Silas secure, what did the jailer do?

The jailer put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks.

What were Paul and Silas doing that caused the other prisoners to take note?

Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.

What happened at midnight?

There was an earthquake, which was so great that the foundations of the prison were shaken. In addition, all the doors of the prison were opened and everyone’s chains were loosed.

What did the keeper of the prison (the jailer) do after he awoke and saw that the prison doors were open?

He supposed that the prisoners had fled, and drew his sword, intending to kill himself.

How did Paul respond?

Paul called out with a loud voice and told the jailer not to harm himself because all the prisoners were still there.

What did the jailer do when he heard Paul’s voice?

He called for a light, ran into the prison, and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. He then took them out of the cell.

What did the jailer ask Paul and Silas?

The jailer asked Paul and Silas what he should do in order to be saved.

What did Paul and Silas tell the jailer to do?

They told the jailer to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and he would be saved.

What did Paul and Silas do after they had told the jailer what to do?

They spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house.

What eventually happened to the jailer and his family that same night?

The jailer and all his family were baptized.

What did the jailer do for Paul and Silas?

He took them the same hour of the night and washed their stripes.

PAUL AND SILAS IN PRISON – Paul’s Second Missionary Journey

Acts 16:34-40 (NKJ)

34 Now when he had brought them into his house, he set food before them; and he rejoiced, having believed in God with all his household.

35 And when it was day, the magistrates sent the officers, saying, “Let those men go.”

36 So the keeper of the prison reported these words to Paul, saying, “The magistrates have sent to let you go. Now therefore depart, and go in peace.”

37 But Paul said to them, “They have beaten us openly, uncondemned Romans, and have thrown us into prison. And now do they put us out secretly? No indeed! Let them come themselves and get us out.”

38 And the officers told these words to the magistrates, and they were afraid when they heard that they were Romans.

39 Then they came and pleaded with them and brought them out, and asked them to depart from the city.

40 So they went out of the prison and entered the house of Lydia; and when they had seen the brethren, they encouraged them and departed.

Review Questions

What did the jailer do after taking Paul and Silas into his house?

When he had taken them into his house, he set food before them, and he rejoiced.

Why did the jailer rejoice?

He rejoiced because he and all his household had been saved, having believed in God.

What did the magistrates do on the day after the earthquake?

When it was day, the magistrates sent the officers to tell the jailer to let Paul and Silas go.

How did Paul react when the keeper of the prison told him what the magistrates had done?

Paul refused to leave the prison. He also said that the magistrates themselves should go to the prison and release Paul and Silas.

Why did Paul do that?

Paul obviously did not think it was right for the magistrates, who had beaten them openly should be allowed to put them out secretly.

It seems also that, as uncondemned Romans, Paul and Silas should not have been beaten.

How did the magistrates feel when the officers told them what Paul had said and they found out that Paul and Silas were Romans?

The magistrates were afraid when they heard that they were Romans.

What did the magistrates do as a result?

The magistrates went to the prison and pleaded with Paul and Silas, took them out of the prison, and asked them to depart from the city.

Where did Paul and Silas go after they were released?

They went to the house of Lydia.

What did Paul and Silas do there when they had seen the brethren?

When they had seen the brethren, they encouraged them and departed.

IN THESSALONICA – Paul’s Second Missionary Journey

Acts 17:1–9 (NKJ)

1 Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews.

2 Then Paul, as his custom was, went in to them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures, 3 explaining and demonstrating that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and saying, “This Jesus whom I preach to you is the Christ.”

4 And some of them were persuaded; and a great multitude of the devout Greeks, and not a few of the leading women, joined Paul and Silas.

5 But the Jews who were not persuaded, becoming envious, took some of the evil men from the marketplace, and gathering a mob, set all the city in an uproar and attacked the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people.

6 But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some brethren to the rulers of the city, crying out, “These who have turned the world upside down have come here too. 7 Jason has harbored them, and these are all acting contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying there is another king – Jesus.”

8 And they troubled the crowd and the rulers of the city when they heard these things. 9 So when they had taken security from Jason and the rest, they let them go.

Review Questions

What are we told about Thessalonica?

There was a synagogue of the Jews there.

What did Paul do while in Thessalonica?

He went into the synagogue, as his custom was, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with persons there from the Scriptures.

For how long did Paul reason with persons in the synagogue?

He reasoned with them, from the Scriptures, for three Sabbaths.

What did Paul explain and demonstrate when he reasoned?

When Paul reasoned in the synagogue, he was explaining and demonstrating that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead.

What was Paul trying to show in his reasoning?

Paul was trying to show that the Jesus whom he preached to them was the Christ.

What happened as a result of Paul’s preaching and reasoning?

Some of those who heard him were persuaded.

Who joined Paul and Silas?

A great multitude of the devout Greeks and many of the leading women joined Paul and Silas.

What did the unbelieving Jews, who had not been persuaded, do?

They gathered a mob, with the help of some evil men from the marketplace, set all the city in an uproar, attacked the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people.

Why did the unbelieving Jews do that?

They had become envious of Paul. Also, they probably thought that Paul and Silas were in Jason’s house.

What did the unbelieving Jews do when they did not find Paul and Silas?

They dragged Jason and some brethren to the rulers of the city.

What did the Jews accuse Jason of?

They accused Jason of harbouring people who had turned the world upside down and who were acting contrary to the decrees of Caesar by saying there was another king – Jesus.

How did the rulers of the city respond to the Jews’ accusations of Jason?

The rulers of the city, like the crowd, were troubled when they heard what the unbelieving Jews said, but they let Jason and the rest go after they had taken security from them.

IN BEREA – Paul’s Second Missionary Journey

Acts 17:10–15 (NKJ)

10 Then the brethren immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea. When they arrived, they went into the synagogue of the Jews.

11 These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.

12 Therefore many of them believed, and also not a few of the Greeks, prominent women as well as men.

13 But when the Jews from Thessalonica learned that the word of God was preached by Paul at Berea, they came there also and stirred up the crowds.

14 Then immediately the brethren sent Paul away, to go to the sea; but both Silas and Timothy remained there.

15 So those who conducted Paul brought him to Athens; and receiving a command for Silas and Timothy to come to him with all speed, they departed.

Review Questions

Where did the brethren send Paul and Silas?

They sent them to Berea.

What time of day did they send them?

The brethren sent Paul and Silas away by night.

What did Paul and Silas do once they arrived in the city?

When they arrived in Berea, they went into the synagogue of the Jews.

Why were the Bereans considered more fair-minded than the Thessalonicans?

The Bereans received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether what they had heard were so.

What was the result of the Bereans’ attitude?

Many Bereans believed. Those who believed included many Greeks, some of which were prominent women.

What happened when the Jews from Thessalonica learned that the word of God was preached by Paul in Berea?

The Jews from Thessalonica went to Berea and stirred up crowds there.

What did the Berean brethren do in response to the actions by the Jews from Thessalonica?

They immediately sent Paul away (to Athens).

Where did Silas and Timothy go?

Both Silas and Timothy remained in Berea.

Where did the brethren who escorted Paul out of Berea take him?

Those who conducted Paul took him to Athens.

Why did Silas and Timothy eventually leave Berea?

When Paul arrived in Athens, he gave the brethren who had escorted him a command for Silas and Timothy to go to him with all speed. So it was that Silas and Timothy departed from Berea to be with Paul.

PAUL IS TAKEN TO THE AREOPAGUS – Paul’s Second Missionary Journey

Acts 17:16–21 (NKJ)

16 Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him when he saw that the city was given over to idols.

17 Therefore he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and with the Gentile worshipers, and in the marketplace daily with those who happened to be there.

18 Then certain Epicurean and Stoic philosophers encountered him. And some said, “What does this babbler want to say?” Others said, “He seems to be a proclaimer of foreign gods,” because he preached to them Jesus and the resurrection.

19 And they took him and brought him to the Areopagus, saying, “May we know what this new doctrine is of which you speak?

20 “For you are bringing some strange things to our ears. Therefore we want to know what these things mean.”

21 For all the Athenians and the foreigners who were there spent their time in nothing else but either to tell or to hear some new thing.

Review Questions

What caused Paul’s spirit to be provoked within him while he waited in Athens for Silas and Timothy?

Paul’s spirit was provoked within him when he saw that the city was given over to idols.

What did Paul do as a result of that provocation of his spirit?

He reasoned with people in the synagogue and in the marketplace.

In the synagogue he reasoned with Jews and Gentile worshipers, and in the marketplace, he reasoned daily with those who happened to be there.

Who encountered Paul as a result of his reasonings?

Certain Epicurean and Stoic philosophers encountered him.

Why did some of those who encountered Paul say he seemed to be a proclaimer of foreign Gods?

Some of the philosophers said that because he preached to them Jesus and the resurrection.

Where did they take Paul?

The philosophers took him and brought him to the Areopagus.

Why did they take Paul there?

They wanted to know more about the “new” doctrine of which he spoke.

The Areopagus was where Athenians and foreigners who loved to discuss new ideas went to argue and debate. The things that Paul was saying were strange to them, and they wanted to understand what those things meant.

PAUL ADDRESSES AREOPAGITES – Paul’s Second Missionary Journey

Acts 17:22–34 (NKJ)

22 Then Paul stood in the midst of the Areopagus and said, “Men of Athens, I perceive that in all things you are very religious; 23 “for as I was passing through and considering the objects of your worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Therefore, the One whom you worship without knowing, Him I proclaim to you:

24 “God, who made the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands. 25 “Nor is He worshiped with men’s hands, as though He needed anything, since He gives to all life, breath, and all things.

26 “And He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their preappointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings, 27 “so that they should seek the Lord, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; 28 “for in Him we live and move and have our being, as also some of your own poets have said, ‘For we are also His offspring.’ 29 “Therefore, since we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, something shaped by art and man’s devising.

30 “Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, 31 “because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead.”

32 And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked, while others said, “We will hear you again on this matter.”

33 So Paul departed from among them. 34 However, some men joined him and believed, among them Dionysius the Areopagite, a woman named Damaris, and others with them.

Review Questions

As Paul stood in the midst of the Areopagus, what did Paul tell the Athenians that he had perceived?

Paul told the Athenians that he had perceived that in all things they were very religious.

Why had caused Paul to say that?

As he was passing through, he saw many objects of their worship, including an altar with an inscription: TO THE UNKNOWN GOD.

What did Paul say he would do as a result of what he had perceived?

He told the Athenians that he was going to proclaim “the unknown God” to them.

Why did Paul say he was going to do that?

Paul was going to proclaim God to them because he believed the Athenians were attempting to worship the true God without knowing Him.

What does God give to all?

God gives to all life, breath, and all things.

What do all men from every nation have in common?

God has made them all from one blood.

Why is the Lord not far from each one of us?

The Lord is not far from us because it is in Him that we live and move and have our being.

How ought we not to think of the Divine Nature since we are God’s offspring?

Since we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, something shaped by art and man’s devising.

What does God want men everywhere to do?

God now commands all men everywhere to repent.

How will God judge the world in righteousness?

God will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained.

How has God assured us that He will judge the world in righteousness?

He has given assurance of this to all by raising Jesus, the Man whom He has ordained to do the judging, from the dead.

How did the people respond when they heard of the resurrection of the dead?

Some mocked, others said they wanted to hear Paul say more on the matter, and some joined him and believed.

PAUL GOES TO CORINTH – Paul’s Second Missionary Journey

Acts 18:1–8 (NKJ)

1 After these things Paul departed from Athens and went to Corinth.

2 And he found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla (because Claudius had commanded all the Jews to depart from Rome); and he came to them.

3 So, because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked; for by occupation they were tentmakers.

4 And he reasoned in the synagogue every Sabbath, and persuaded both Jews and Greeks.

5 When Silas and Timothy had come from Macedonia, Paul was compelled by the Spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ.

6 But when they opposed him and blasphemed, he shook his garments and said to them, “Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.”

7 And he departed from there and entered the house of a certain man named Justus, one who worshiped God, whose house was next door to the synagogue.

8 Then Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his household. And many of the Corinthians, hearing, believed and were baptized.

Review Questions

What city did Paul go to after he left Athens?

Paul departed from Athens and went to Corinth.

Where did Paul meet Aquila and his wife, Priscilla?

Paul met Aquila and Priscilla in Athens.

Where had Aquila and Priscilla recently come from?

They had come from Italy.

Why had Aquila and Priscilla gone to Athens?

Claudius had commanded all the Jews to depart from Rome, and being Jews they had to leave.

Why did Paul stay and work with Aquila and Priscilla?

Paul stayed and worked with them because he and they were of the same trade.

What trade did Paul and Aquila and Priscilla have in common?

They were tentmakers.

What did Paul do in the synagogue every Sabbath?

Paul reasoned in the synagogue every Sabbath, and persuaded both Jews and Greeks.

Why did Paul testify to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ?

Paul was compelled by the Spirit.

What happened when Paul testified that Jesus is the Christ?

The Jews opposed him and blasphemed.

What did Paul do when the Jews opposed him and blasphemed?

He shook his garments and told them that their blood would be upon their own heads and, from that time onwards, he would be going to the Gentiles.

Where did Paul go after he stopped going to the synagogue?

He entered the house of a certain man named Justus, one who worshiped God.

Where was the house of Justus?

His house was next door to the synagogue.

Who was Crispus?

Crispus was the ruler of the synagogue.

What happened to Crispus?

He believed on the Lord with all his household.

What effect did Paul’s reasoning have on the Corinthians?

Many of the Corinthians, on hearing the word of God, believed and were baptized.

THE LORD SPEAKS TO PAUL IN A VISION

Acts 17:9-17

9Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent; 10 for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city.”

11 And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.

12 When Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews with one accord rose up against Paul and brought him to the judgment seat, 13 saying, “This fellow persuades men to worship God contrary to the law.”

14 And when Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews, “If it were a matter of wrongdoing or wicked crimes, O Jews, there would be reason why I should bear with you. 15 But if it is a question of words and names and your own law, look to it yourselves; for I do not want to be a judge of such matters.” 16 And he drove them from the judgment seat.

17 Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat. But Gallio took no notice of these things.

Review Questions

How did the Lord speak to Paul in the night?

The Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision.

What did the Lord tell Paul?

He told Paul not to be afraid, but to speak and not keep silent.

What did the Lord tell Paul to help him not be afraid?

The Lord told Paul that He was with him. He also told Paul that no one would hurt him because He had many people in that city (Corinth).

How long did Paul spend in Corinth?

Paul continued in Corinth for a year and six months, teaching the word of God among the Corinthians.

What did Jews do with Paul when Gallio was proconsul of Achaia?

The Jews, with one accord, rose up against Paul and took him to the judgment seat of Gallio?

What did the Jews accuse Paul of?

The Jews accused Paul of persuading men to worship God contrary to the law.

What did Paul say in his defence?

Paul did not have to say anything in his defence because when he was about to speak, Gallio spoke instead.

What did Gallio tell the Jews?

Gallio told the Jews that if it were a matter of wrongdoing or wicked crimes, there would be reason for him to bear with them, but if it were a question of words and names and their own law, they should look to it themselves because he did not want to be a judge of such matters.

What happened after Gallio drove the Jews from the judgment seat?

The Greeks took Sosthenes, the ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat.

How did Gallio respond to the beating of Sosthenes?

Gallio took no notice of it.

PAUL LEAVES CORINTH EN ROUTE TO ANTIOCH – The Second Journey

Acts 18:18–22 (NKJ)

18 So Paul still remained a good while. Then he took leave of the brethren and sailed for Syria, and Priscilla and Aquila were with him. He had his hair cut off at Cenchrea, for he had taken a vow.

19 And he came to Ephesus, and left them there; but he himself entered the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews.

20 When they asked him to stay a longer time with them, he did not consent, 21 but took leave of them, saying, “I must by all means keep this coming feast in Jerusalem; but I will return again to you, God willing.” And he sailed from Ephesus.

22 And when he had landed at Caesarea, and gone up and greeted the church, he went down to Antioch.

Review Questions

Who were with Paul when he left Corinth and sailed for Syria?

Priscilla and Aquila were with him.

What did Paul do in Cenchrea?

Paul had his hair cut off at Cenchrea.

Why did Paul do that?

He had his hair cut off because he had taken a vow.

What did Paul do when he came to Ephesus?

He left Priscilla and Aquila there, and he himself entered the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews.

What did Paul do when he entered the synagogue in Ephesus?

He reasoned with the Jews.

Why didn’t Paul stay a longer time in Ephesus as people there wanted?

He felt compelled to keep an upcoming Feast in Jerusalem.

What did Paul tell the people in Ephesus before leaving?

He told them he would return to them again, God willing.

After Paul sailed from Ephesus, where did he land?

He had landed at Caesarea.

What did Paul do while in Caesarea?

He went up and greeted the church.

Where did Paul go after leaving Caesarea?

He went down to Antioch.

PRISCILLA, AQUILA AND APOLLOS – The Third Missionary Journey

Acts 18:23-28 (NKJ)

23 After he had spent some time there, he departed and went over the region of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.

24 Now a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus. 25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John.

26 So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately.

27 And when he desired to cross to Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him; and when he arrived, he greatly helped those who had believed through grace; 28 for he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ.

Review Questions

Where did Paul go after he departed from Antioch?

He went to the region of Galatia and Phrygia.

What did Paul do while in those areas?

He strengthened the disciples who were in Galatia and Phrygia.

In which city did Aquila and Priscilla hear Apollos speaking boldly?

They heard Apollos speaking in Ephesus.

Was Apollos a Jew or a Gentile?

Apollos was a Jew.

Where had Apollos been born?

He was born at Alexandria.

What did Apollos do as a result of being instructed in the way of the Lord and being fervent in spirit?

He spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord.

Which baptism did Apollos know?

Apollos knew only the baptism of John.

What did Aquila and Priscilla do after hearing Apollos speak boldly in the synagogue?

They took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately.

What did the brethren in Ephesus do when Apollos desired to cross to Achaia?

They wrote to the disciples there, exhorting them to receive Apollos.

Whom did Apollos help greatly by his preaching in Achaia?

He greatly helped those who had believed through grace.

In vigorously refuting Jews in Achaia, what did Apollos do?

He showed from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ.

PAUL IN EPHESUS – The Third Missionary Journey

Acts 19:1-7 (NKJ)

1 And it happened, while Apollos was at Corinth, that Paul, having passed through the upper regions, came to Ephesus. And finding some disciples 2 he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” So they said to him, “We have not so much as heard whether there is a Holy Spirit.”

3 And he said to them, “Into what then were you baptized?” So they said, “Into John’s baptism.”

4 Then Paul said, “John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.”

5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.

6 And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied.

7 Now the men were about twelve in all.

Review Questions

Where was Apollos when Paul arrived in Ephesus?

Apollos was at Corinth when Paul arrived in Ephesus.

Whom did Paul find in Ephesus?

In Ephesus, Paul found some disciples who had not heard whether there is a Holy Spirit.

What did Paul ask the disciples about the Holy Spirit?

Paul asked them if they had received the Holy Spirit when they believed.

How did they respond to Paul’s question?

They told him that they had not so much as heard whether there is a Holy Spirit.

Which baptism had the disciples been baptized into?

They had been baptized into John’s baptism.

What did Paul tell the disciples about John’s baptism?

Paul told them that John baptized with a baptism of repentance.

Regarding John’s baptism, what did John tell the people they should believe?

John told the people that they should believe on Christ Jesus.

What name were the disciples baptized in before Paul laid hands on them?

They were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.

What happened when Paul had laid hands on the disciples?

When Paul laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied.

PAUL IN EPHESUS – The Third Missionary Journey

Acts 19:8-10 (NKJ)

8 And he went into the synagogue and spoke boldly for three months, reasoning and persuading concerning the things of the kingdom of God.

9 But when some were hardened and did not believe, but spoke evil of the Way before the multitude, he departed from them and withdrew the disciples, reasoning daily in the school of Tyrannus.

10 And this continued for two years, so that all who dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.

Review Questions

How long did Paul spend reasoning in the synagogue?

Paul spent three months.

What was Paul reasoning and persuading about?

He was reasoning and persuading about the things of the kingdom of God.

Why did some of those who heard Paul not believe?

Some did not believe because they were hardened.

What did those who did not believe do before the multitude?

They spoke evil of the Way before the multitude.

What did Paul do as a result of what the unbelievers did?

He departed from them and withdrew the disciples.

Where did Paul go to reason after he had withdrawn from among the unbelieving Jews and taken the disciples with him?

He went to reason in the school of Tyrannus.

How often did Paul reason there?

He reasoned in the school of Tyrannus daily.

How long did Paul spend reasoning there?

Paul spent two years reasoning in the school of Tyrannus.

What happened as a result of Paul’s reasoning for that period?

As a result of Paul reasoning in the school for two years, all who dwelt in Asia, Jews and Greeks alike, heard the word of the Lord Jesus.

PAUL IN EPHESUS – The Third Missionary Journey

Acts 19:11-20 (NKJ)

11 Now God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul,

12 so that even handkerchiefs or aprons were brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them.

13 Then some of the itinerant Jewish exorcists took it upon themselves to call the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, “We exorcise you by the Jesus whom Paul preaches.”

14 Also there were seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, who did so.

15 And the evil spirit answered and said, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?”

16 Then the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, overpowered them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.

17 This became known both to all Jews and Greeks dwelling in Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.

18 And many who had believed came confessing and telling their deeds.

19 Also, many of those who had practiced magic brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all. And they counted up the value of them, and it totaled fifty thousand pieces of silver.

20 So the word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed.

Review Questions

Who was it that worked unusual miracles?

God worked unusual miracles.

How did He work those unusual miracles?

He (God) worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul.

How did God show that He was working through Paul?

Sick people were healed of diseases and evil spirits when handkerchiefs or aprons from Paul’s body were brought to them.

What did some itinerant Jewish exorcists start doing?

Some of them took it upon themselves to call the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits.

What were the itinerant Jewish exorcists saying?

They were telling the evil spirits that they, as exorcists, were exorcising them by the Jesus whom Paul preached.

What were the seven sons of Sceva, the Jewish chief priest, trying to do when they were attacked?

They were trying to cast an evil spirit out of a man.

Who attacked the seven sons of Sceva?

The man in whom the evil spirit was. He leaped on them, overpowered them, and prevailed against them.

What did the evil spirit say before the sons of Sceva were attacked?

He said he knew Jesus and Paul. It seems, however, that he did not know the sons of Sceva. What the evil spirit was saying, in effect, was that he did not recognized any authority they thought they had.

How did the sons of Sceva react to the attack?

They fled out of that house naked and wounded.

What happened when news of the incident involving the sons of Sceva became known to the Jews and Greeks dwelling in Ephesus?

Fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.

What did many of those who had believed do?

They came confessing and telling their deeds.

What did many of those who had practiced magic do?

They carried their books together and burned them in the sight of all.

What was the value of the books that were burnt?

The value of them was fifty thousand pieces of silver.

What happened to the word of Lord as a result of all that was happening? \

The word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed.

PAUL IN EPHESUS – The Third Missionary Journey

Acts 19:21-29 (NKJ)

21 When these things were accomplished, Paul purposed in the Spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, “After I have been there, I must also see Rome.”

22 So he sent into Macedonia two of those who ministered to him, Timothy and Erastus, but he himself stayed in Asia for a time.

23 And about that time there arose a great commotion about the Way.

24 For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, who made silver shrines of Diana, brought no small profit to the craftsmen.

25 He called them together with the workers of similar occupation, and said: “Men, you know that we have our prosperity by this trade.

26 “Moreover you see and hear that not only at Ephesus, but throughout almost all Asia, this Paul has persuaded and turned away many people, saying that they are not gods which are made with hands.

27 “So not only is this trade of ours in danger of falling into disrepute, but also the temple of the great goddess Diana may be despised and her magnificence destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worship.”

28 And when they heard this, they were full of wrath and cried out, saying, “Great is Diana of the Ephesians!”

29 So the whole city was filled with confusion, and rushed into the theater with one accord, having seized Gaius and Aristarchus, Macedonians, Paul’s travel companions.

Review Questions

Where did Paul want to go after he passed through Macedonia and Achaia?

Paul purposed in the Spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem.

Where did Paul want to go after going there?

He wanted to go to Rome.

Whom did Paul send into Macedonia?

He sent Timothy and Erastus, two of those who ministered to him.

Where did Paul stay in the interim?

He himself stayed in Asia for a time.

What happened at about the time that Paul was there?

About that time, there arose a great commotion about the Way.

What was the commotion about?

The commotion was about the Way.

Who caused the commotion?

A certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith.

Why was he able to influence the craftsmen?

He enabled the craftsmen to make large profits because he made silver shrines of Diana.

Whom did he call together?

He called the craftsmen together with the workers of similar occupation.

What did he tell the people he brought together in order for them to start the commotion?

First, he reminded them that their prosperity was by the trade of making shrines, etc. for worship.

Secondly, he reminded them that Paul had turned away many people from them by telling them that the things that they made with their hands were not gods.

Thirdly, he pointed out that not only was their trade was in danger of falling into disrepute because of Paul, but the temple of the goddess Diana, whom the people of Asia worshipped, could be despised and her magnificence destroyed.

How did the people feel when they heard what Demetrius said?

When the people heard what Demetrius had to say, they were full of wrath and cried out, saying that Diana of the Ephesians was great.

What did people in the city do as a result of the confusion?

People in the city seized Gaius and Aristarchus, two Macedonians who were Paul’s travel companions, and rushed into the theater with one accord.

PAUL IN EPHESUS – The Third Missionary Journey

Acts 19:30-34 (NKJ)

30 And when Paul wanted to go in to the people, the disciples would not allow him.

31 Then some of the officials of Asia, who were his friends, sent to him pleading that he would not venture into the theater.

32 Some therefore cried one thing and some another, for the assembly was confused, and most of them did not know why they had come together.

33 And they drew Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward. And Alexander motioned with his hand, and wanted to make his defense to the people.

34 But when they found out that he was a Jew, all with one voice cried out for about two hours, “Great is Diana of the Ephesians!”

Review Questions

Why wasn’t Paul able to go in to see people when he wanted to?

The disciples would not allow him.

What did some of the Asian officials, who were Paul’s friends, sent to tell him?

They to him, pleading that he would not venture into the theater.

What is the evidence that the assembly was confused.

Some in the assembly cried one thing and some cried another, and most of them did not know why they had come together.

Whom did the Jews put forward to address the people?

The Jews put forward Alexander to address the people.

Why wasn’t he able to address the people?

When the people found out that Alexander was a Jew, they all started to cry out with one voice, saying that Diana of the Ephesians was great.

For how long did the people cry out about Diana?

They cried out for about two hours.

PAUL IN EPHESUS – The Third Missionary Journey

Acts 19:35-41 (NKJ)

35 And when the city clerk had quieted the crowd, he said: “Men of Ephesus, what man is there who does not know that the city of the Ephesians is temple guardian of the great goddess Diana, and of the image which fell down from Zeus?

36 “Therefore, since these things cannot be denied, you ought to be quiet and do nothing rashly.

37 “For you have brought these men here who are neither robbers of temples nor blasphemers of your goddess.

38 “Therefore, if Demetrius and his fellow craftsmen have a case against anyone, the courts are open and there are proconsuls. Let them bring charges against one another.

39 “But if you have any other inquiry to make, it shall be determined in the lawful assembly.

40 “For we are in danger of being called in question for today’s uproar, there being no reason which we may give to account for this disorderly gathering.”

41 And when he had said these things, he dismissed the assembly.

Review Questions

Who eventually quieted the crowd?

The crowd was quieted by the city clerk.

Who or what did he say was the temple guardian of the great goddess Diana?

According to the city clerk, the city of the Ephesians was the temple guardian of the great goddess Diana.

Who or what was the temple guardian of the image which fell down from Zeus?

According to the city clerk, the city of the Ephesians was the temple guardian of the image which fell down from Zeus.

What did the city clerk recommend the people should do?

He city clerk told the people that they ought to be quiet and do nothing rashly.

Why did he recommend that?

He said that because they had taken men there who were neither robbers of temples nor blasphemers of their goddess.

What course of action did the city clerk recommend for Demetrius and his fellow craftsmen?

The city clerk said that if Demetrius and his fellow craftsmen had a case against anyone, then the courts were open and proconsuls were available. They should take their charges there.

What course of action did he recommend for any in the crowd who may have had other inquiry to make?

The city clerk told the crowd that if any among them had any other inquiry to make, they should seek to have it determined in the lawful assembly.

Why did the city clerk make those recommendations?

He recommended those courses of action because they were in danger of being called into question for the day’s uproar, and there was no good reason which they could give to account for the disorderly gathering.

THROUGH MACEDONIA AND GREECE – The Third Missionary Journey

Acts 20:1-6 (NKJ)

1 After the uproar had ceased, Paul called the disciples to himself, embraced them, and departed to go to Macedonia.

2 Now when he had gone over that region and encouraged them with many words, he came to Greece

3 and stayed three months. And when the Jews plotted against him as he was about to sail to Syria, he decided to return through Macedonia.

4 And Sopater of Berea accompanied him to Asia– also Aristarchus and Secundus of the Thessalonians, and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy, and Tychicus and Trophimus of Asia.

5 These men, going ahead, waited for us at Troas.

6 But we sailed away from Philippi after the Days of Unleavened Bread, and in five days joined them at Troas, where we stayed seven days.

Review Questions

After the uproar had ceased, what region did Paul depart to?

Paul departed to Macedonia.

After encouraging believers in that region, where did Paul go?

He went to Greece.

How long did Paul spend there?

Paul stayed in Greece three months.

Where was Paul planning to sail to when the Jews plotted against him?

Paul was planning to sail to Syria.

What did Paul do instead?

Paul decided to return through Macedonia.

Where did the men who were to accompany Paul to Asia wait for him?

The men – Sopater, Aristarchus, Secundus, Gaius, Timothy, Tychicus and Trophimus – waited for Paul at Troas.

Where did Paul et al sail from en route to Troas?

They sailed from Philippi.

When did Paul sail and company sail for Troas?

It was after the Days of Unleavened Bread.

How long did it take them to sail to Troas?

About five days.

How long did Paul and company stay in Troas?

They stayed in Troas for seven days.

IN TROAS – The Third Missionary Journey

Acts 20:7-12 (NKJ)

7 Now on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul, ready to depart the next day, spoke to them and continued his message until midnight.

8 There were many lamps in the upper room where they were gathered together.

9 And in a window sat a certain young man named Eutychus, who was sinking into a deep sleep. He was overcome by sleep; and as Paul continued speaking, he fell down from the third story and was taken up dead.

10 But Paul went down, fell on him, and embracing him said, “Do not trouble yourselves, for his life is in him.”

11 Now when he had come up, had broken bread and eaten, and talked a long while, even till daybreak, he departed.

12 And they brought the young man in alive, and they were not a little comforted.

Review Questions

What day of the week was it that the disciples came together to break bread?

It was on the first day of the week.

What was Paul getting ready to do?

Paul was preparing to depart the next day.

How long did Paul speak the disciples?

It is not clear when Paul started his message to the disciples, but he spoke to them until midnight.

Why did Eutychus fall?

He was overcome by sleep – he fell asleep.

What was Paul doing when Eutychus fell?

Paul was still speaking.

How serious was the fall?

Eutychus was taken up dead as a result of the fall.

(He had fallen from the third story of the building.)

What did Paul do when he realized the young man had fallen?

Paul went down, fell on him, embraced him, and told the disciples not to trouble themselves because the young man still had life in him.

What did Paul do afterwards?

Paul went back upstairs, broke bread and ate, talked to the disciples some more, and then departed.

When did Paul stop talking?

Paul talked until daybreak (and departed some time afterward).

What caused the disciples to be greatly comforted?

The young man was brought to them alive.

PAUL’S JOURNEY TO MILETUS

Acts 20:13-16

13 Then we went ahead to the ship and sailed to Assos, there intending to take Paul on board; for so he had given orders, intending himself to go on foot.

14 And when he met us at Assos, we took him on board and came to Mitylene.

15 We sailed from there, and the next day came opposite Chios. The following day we arrived at Samos and stayed at Trogyllium. The next day we came to Miletus.

16 For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus, so that he would not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hurrying to be at Jerusalem, if possible, on the Day of Pentecost.

Review Questions

Where did Paul intend to meet his companions on his journey to Jerusalem?

Paul intended to meet his companions at Assos.

How did Paul’s companions get there?

They sailed to Assos.

How did Paul get there?

Paul got there by foot.

After Paul boarded the ship with his companions at Assos, what was his first stop?

After they boarded the ship, their first stop was Mitylene.

When Paul and his companions arrived at Samos, where did they stay?

They stayed at Trogyllium.

Where did Paul et al go after sailing past Ephesus?

They went to Miletus.

Why did Paul decide to sail past Ephesus?

Paul did not want to spend time in Asia, at that time, because he was hurrying to be in Jerusaelem.

What event was Paul trying to get to Jerusalem in time for?

Paul was hoping to be at Jerusalem on the Day of Pentecost.

PAUL’S FAREWELL TO THE EPHESIAN ELDERS – The Third Journey

Acts 20:17-27 (NKJ)

17 From Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called for the elders of the church. 18 And when they had come to him, he said to them: “You know, from the first day that I came to Asia, in what manner I always lived among you, 19 serving the Lord with all humility, with many tears and trials which happened to me by the plotting of the Jews; 20 how I kept back nothing that was helpful, but proclaimed it to you, and taught you publicly and from house to house, 21 testifying to Jews, and also to Greeks, repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.

22 “And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, 23 except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. 24 But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. 25 “And indeed, now I know that you all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, will see my face no more.

26 “Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. 27 “For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God.

Review Questions

Where was Paul when he sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church?

Paul was in Miletus.

What are some of the things that Paul told the Ephesian elders he had done while he was living among them?

Paul reminded the Ephesian elders that, while he was among them:

He had served the Lord with all humility, with many tears and trials which happened to me by the plotting of the Jews.
He had kept back nothing that was helpful, but proclaimed it to them,
He had taught them publicly and from house to house,
He had testified to Jews, and also to Greeks, about repentance toward God and faith toward the Lord Jesus Christ.

What did Paul say about the manner in which he was going to Jerusalem?

He was going to Jerusalem bound in the spirit.

Apart from the manner in which he was going there, what else did Paul know about his trip to Jerusalem?

Paul knew that chains and tribulations awaited him in Jerusalem, but he did not know what exactly would happen to him while he was there.

How did Paul know that such things awaited him in Jerusalem?

The Holy Spirit was testifying in other cities that such chains and tribulations awaited Paul.

Did the news cause Paul to change his mind or to worry about losing his life?

The news of chains and tribulations awaiting him in Jerusalem did not cause Paul to change his mind. Nor did it cause him to worry about losing his life.

What did Paul want to finish?

Paul wanted to finish his race (with joy) and the ministry that he had received from the Lord Jesus?

What was the ministry that Paul had received from the Lord Jesus?

His ministry was to testify to the gospel of the grace of God, which involved preaching the kingdom of God.

Why did Paul say he was innocent of the blood of all men?

He had not shunned to declare the whole counsel of God.

PAUL’S FAREWELL TO THE EPHESIAN ELDERS – The Third Journey

Acts 20:28-38 (NKJ)

28 “Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. 29 For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. 30 Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves.

31 “Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears.

32 “So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.

33 “I have coveted no one’s silver or gold or apparel.

34 “Yes, you yourselves know that these hands have provided for my necessities, and for those who were with me.

35 “I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'”

36 And when he had said these things, he knelt down and prayed with them all. 37 Then they all wept freely, and fell on Paul’s neck and kissed him, 38 sorrowing most of all for the words which he spoke, that they would see his face no more. And they accompanied him to the ship.

Review Questions

What ministry had the Holy Spirit given the Ephesian elders?

The Holy Spirit had made them overseers of the church of God.

Why did Paul tell the shepherds to take heed to shepherd the flock (church) of God?

Paul knew that after his departure, savage “wolves” would come in (from outside the congregation) among them, not sparing the flock.

There would also be some men (from within the congregation) who would seek to draw away disciples after themselves.

How would the “wolves” and the unfaithful men seek to draw away disciples?

By speaking perverse things.

How long did Paul warn the brethren?

Paul warned the brethren for three years, night and day, with tears.

To whom or to what did Paul commend the elders?

He commended them to God and the word of His grace.

What did Paul say God’s word was able to do?

God’s word was able to build believers up and cause them to receive an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.

How did Paul get necessities that he and his companions needed?

Paul provided for those necessities by his own hands, not depending on others.

What example was Paul setting for the elders by so doing?

Paul was showing the elders, by laboring as he did, that they should support the weak (and not expect the weak to support them).

What else did Paul want the elders to know?

He wanted them to remember that the Lord Jesus had said that it is more blessed to give than to receive.

Why did the elders and the others with them cry and become sorrowful?

They cried because he was leaving them, but they sorrowed most of all because he had told them that they would not see him again.

HEADING FOR JERUSALEM – The Third Missionary Journey

Acts 21:1-7 (NKJ)

1 Now it came to pass, that when we had departed from them and set sail, running a straight course we came to Cos, the following day to Rhodes, and from there to Patara. 2 And finding a ship sailing over to Phoenicia, we went aboard and set sail.

3 When we had sighted Cyprus, we passed it on the left, sailed to Syria, and landed at Tyre; for there the ship was to unload her cargo. 4 And finding disciples, we stayed there seven days. They told Paul through the Spirit not to go up to Jerusalem.

5 When we had come to the end of those days, we departed and went on our way; and they all accompanied us, with wives and children, till we were out of the city. And we knelt down on the shore and prayed.

6 When we had taken our leave of one another, we boarded the ship, and they returned home.

7 And when we had finished our voyage from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, greeted the brethren, and stayed with them one day.

Review Questions

Where did Paul board a ship that was going to Phoenicia?

He went aboard the ship at Patara.

Why did Paul et al stop at Tyre?

They stopped at Tyre because it was there that the ship had to unload.

How long did Paul and his companions spend in Tyre?

Paul et al stayed in Tyre for seven days.

Whom did Paul and his companions stay with?

They stayed with disciples that they met in Tyre.

What was Paul told about Jerusalem?

They (the disciples in Tyre) told Paul through the Spirit not to go up to Jerusalem.

After leaving the city, what did Paul et al do on the shore before boarding the ship?

They knelt down on the shore and prayed.

How long did Paul spend in Ptolemais with the brethren?

Paul (and his companions) stayed with them one day.

HEADING FOR JERUSALEM – The Third Missionary Journey

Acts 21:8-16 (NKJ)

8 On the next day we who were Paul’s companions departed and came to Caesarea, and entered the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, and stayed with him. 9 Now this man had four virgin daughters who prophesied.

10 And as we stayed many days, a certain prophet named Agabus came down from Judea.

11 When he had come to us, he took Paul’s belt, bound his own hands and feet, and said, “Thus says the Holy Spirit, ‘So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man who owns this belt, and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.'”

12 Now when we heard these things, both we and those from that place pleaded with him not to go up to Jerusalem.

13 Then Paul answered, “What do you mean by weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”

14 So when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, “The will of the Lord be done.”

15 And after those days we packed and went up to Jerusalem.

16 Also some of the disciples from Caesarea went with us and brought with them a certain Mnason of Cyprus, an early disciple, with whom we were to lodge.

Review Questions

With whom did Paul and his companions stay while in Caesarea?

They stayed with Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven.

What do we know about Philip?

About Philip, we know that …

he lived in Caesarea;
he was an evangelist;
he was one of the seven (original deacons – see chapter 6);
he had seven daughters who prophesied.

Where did the prophet Agabus come from?

He came down from Judea.

What did Agabus do in the presence of Paul and his companions?

Agabus took Paul’s belt, bound Paul’s own hands and feet, and prophesied that the Jews at Jerusalem would similarly bind Paul and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.

Who had inspired Agabus to say what he said?

It was the Holy Spirit who had said what Agabus said?

How did Paul’s companions respond to what Agabus said?

Paul’s companions (and others from Caesarea) pleaded with Paul that he should not go up to Jerusalem.

How did Paul respond?

Paul told them that by weeping they were breaking his heart.

More importantly, however, Paul said he was ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.

Why did Paul’s friends eventually say that the will of the Lord be done?

They realized that Paul would not be persuaded to not go to Jerusalem.

Who else, apart from his traveling companions, went with Paul to Jerusalem?

Some of the disciples from Caesarea went with them.

THE CHURCH INVADES

ROME

PAUL’S ARRIVAL IN JERUSALEM

Acts 21:17-26 (NKJ)

17 And when we had come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.

18 On the following day Paul went in with us to James, and all the elders were present.

19 When he had greeted them, he told in detail those things which God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry.

20 And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord. And they said to him, “You see, brother, how many myriads of Jews there are who have believed, and they are all zealous for the law;

21 “but they have been informed about you that you teach all the Jews who are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children nor to walk according to the customs.

22 “What then? The assembly must certainly meet, for they will hear that you have come.

23 “Therefore do what we tell you: We have four men who have taken a vow.

24 “Take them and be purified with them, and pay their expenses so that they may shave their heads, and that all may know that those things of which they were informed concerning you are nothing, but that you yourself also walk orderly and keep the law.

25 “But concerning the Gentiles who believe, we have written and decided that they should observe no such thing, except that they should keep themselves from things offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from sexual immorality.”

26 Then Paul took the men, and the next day, having been purified with them, entered the temple to announce the expiration of the days of purification, at which time an offering should be made for each one of them.

Review Questions

How did the brethren in Jerusalem receive Paul and his companions?

The brethren received them gladly.

Whom did Paul go to see on the day after he arrived in Jerusalem?

Paul went in to see James.

Whom else was present when Paul met with James?

All the elders were present.

What did Paul do after greeting James and the elders?

Paul told James and the elders, in detail, those things which God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry.

What did the elders do after they heard Paul?

After Paul told them what God had done, they glorified the Lord.

What had the believing Jews, who were all zealous for the law, been informed about Paul?

They had been informed that Paul taught all the Jews who were among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, telling them that they ought not to circumcise their children nor to walk according to the customs.

What did James and the elders suggest that Paul should do?

They suggested that Paul take four men who had taken a vow and be purified with them, including paying their expenses so that their heads could be shaven.

What would be the benefit of doing what they suggested?

The benefit was that others, including the believing Jews, would know that those things of which they were informed about Paul were nothing, and that Paul himself walked orderly and kept the law.

What did James and the elders tell Paul concerning the believing Gentiles and their observance of the law?

They told Paul that they had decided that the believing Gentiles did not need to observe the law as the Jews did.

What did James and the elders tell Paul about what they believed that the believing Gentiles should do?

They told Paul that they had decided that the believing Gentiles should keep themselves from things offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from sexual immorality.

What did Paul do on the day after he had met with James?

After he had been purified with the four men, he entered the temple to announce the expiration of the days of purification (at which time an offering should be made for each one of them).

PAUL IS ARRESTED

Acts 21:27-36 (NKJ)

27 And when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews from Asia, seeing him in the temple, stirred up the whole crowd and laid hands on him, 28 crying out, “Men of Israel, help! This is the man who teaches all men everywhere against the people, the law, and this place; and furthermore he also brought Greeks into the temple and has defiled this holy place.” 29 (For they had previously seen Trophimus the Ephesian with him in the city, whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.)

30 And all the city was disturbed; and the people ran together, seized Paul, and dragged him out of the temple; and immediately the doors were shut.

31 Now as they were seeking to kill him, news came to the commander of the garrison that all Jerusalem was in an uproar. 32 He immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down to them. And when they saw the commander and the soldiers, they stopped beating Paul. 33 Then the commander came near and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains; and he asked who he was and what he had done.

34 And some among the multitude cried one thing and some another. So when he could not ascertain the truth because of the tumult, he commanded him to be taken into the barracks.

35 When he reached the stairs, he had to be carried by the soldiers because of the violence of the mob. 36 For the multitude of the people followed after, crying out, “Away with him!”

Review Questions

What did the Jews from Asia do when they saw Paul in the temple?

They stirred up the crowd and laid hands on Paul.

What did the Jews from Asia accuse Paul of?

They accused Paul of teaching all men everywhere against the people, the law, and the temple, as well as leading Greeks into the temple and thereby defiling what they considered to be a holy place.

Why did the Jews from Asia accuse Paul of leading Greeks into the temple?

They had previously seen Trophimus, the Ephesian, with Paul in the city, and they assumed that Paul had taken him into the temple.

What happened as a result of the accusation of Paul by Jews from Asia?

All the city was disturbed. The people ran together, seized Paul, and dragged him out of the temple. The doors of the temple were shut.

What were the people seeking to do when news of the uproar got to the commander of the garrison?

The people were seeking to kill Paul when the news got to the commander.

What did the commander do when he got the news?

He immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down to them.

What did the people do when they saw the commander and the soldiers?

When they saw the commander and the soldiers, they stopped beating Paul.

What did the commander do when he got into the crowd?

The commander took Paul and commanded him to be bound with two chains, and he tried to find out who Paul was and what he had done.

Why was the commander not able to be certain of the truth about Paul?

Some among the multitude were saying one thing, and some were saying something else. That caused a great tumult.

What did the commander do when he could not be certain of the truth?

When the commander could not ascertain the truth because of the tumult, he commanded that Paul be taken into the barracks.

Why did Paul have to be carried by the soldiers when he reached the stairs?

He had to be carried by the soldiers because of the violence of the mob.

PAUL ADDRESSES THE COMMANDER

Acts 21:37-39 (NKJ)

37 Then as Paul was about to be led into the barracks, he said to the commander, “May I speak to you?” He replied, “Can you speak Greek?

38 “Are you not the Egyptian who some time ago stirred up a rebellion and led the four thousand assassins out into the wilderness?”

39 But Paul said, “I am a Jew from Tarsus, in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city; and I implore you, permit me to speak to the people.”

40 So when he had given him permission, Paul stood on the stairs and motioned with his hand to the people. And when there was a great silence, he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, saying,

Review Questions

What did Paul do as he was about to be led into the barracks?

He asked the commander if he could speak with him.

What did the commander ask Paul in response to what Paul had done?

He asked Paul if he could speak Greek.

Whom did the commander believe Paul was?

He thought that Paul was the Egyptian who had previously stirred up a rebellion and led four thousand assassins out into the wilderness.

How did Paul describe himself to the commander?

Paul described himself as a Jew from Tarsus, in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city.

What did Paul ask the commander to allow him to do?

Paul implored the commander to permit him to speak to the people.

After the commander consented, what did Paul do?

He stood on the stairs and motioned with his hand to the people. And when there was a great silence, he spoke to them in the Hebrew language.

PAUL ADDRESSES THE CROWD

Acts 21:40

40 So when he had given him permission, Paul stood on the stairs and motioned with his hand to the people. And when there was a great silence, he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, saying,

Acts 22:1-11 (NKJ)

1 “Brethren and fathers, hear my defense before you now.”

2 And when they heard that he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, they kept all the more silent. Then he said:

3 “I am indeed a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, taught according to the strictness of our fathers’ law, and was zealous toward God as you all are today.

4 “I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women,

5 “as also the high priest bears me witness, and all the council of the elders, from whom I also received letters to the brethren, and went to Damascus to bring in chains even those who were there to Jerusalem to be punished.

6 “Now it happened, as I journeyed and came near Damascus at about noon, suddenly a great light from heaven shone around me.

7 “And I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?’

8 “So I answered, ‘Who are You, Lord?’ And He said to me, ‘I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting.’

9 “And those who were with me indeed saw the light and were afraid, but they did not hear the voice of Him who spoke to me.

10 “So I said, ‘What shall I do, Lord?’ And the Lord said to me, ‘Arise and go into Damascus, and there you will be told all things which are appointed for you to do.’

11 “And since I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of those who were with me, I came into Damascus.

Review Questions

How did the people react when they heard Paul speak to them in the Hebrew language?

They kept all the more silent.

Where did Paul say he was brought up, even though he was born in Tarsus?

He was brought up in Jerusalem.

Who was Paul’s teacher?

He was taught by Gamaliel.

What did Paul do as part of his persecution of the Church?

He bound men and women and delivered them to prisons.

To what extent had Paul gone in his persecution of the Church?

He had persecuted Christians to the death.

Who had given Paul letters to the brethren?

The high priest and the council of the elders had given Paul letters to the brethren.

Why was Paul going to Damascus?

He was going there to capture those Christians who were in Damascus and take them back in chains to Jerusalem to be punished.

What happened, at about noon, as Paul came near to Damascus?

A great light from heaven suddenly shone around Paul, and he fell to the ground.

What did Paul see and hear?

Paul saw a light from heaven, and he heard a voice.

What happened when Paul fell to the ground?

He heard a voice.

To whom did the voice belong?

Jesus of Nazareth.

Whom did Jesus say Paul was persecuting?

According to Jesus, Paul was persecuting Him.

Did the persons who were with Paul see the light?

Those who were with Paul did see the light and were afraid.

Did they hear the voice that Paul had heard?

They did not hear the voice of Him who spoke to Paul.

What was Paul told to do?

The Lord told Paul to arise and go into Damascus, and there he would receive further instructions. He would be told all things which were appointed for him to do.

How did Paul get into Damascus?

He was led there by the hand of those who were with him.

Why did Paul have to be led?

He could not see because of the glory of the light that had shone.

PAUL CONTINUES HIS ADDRESS TO THE CROWD

Acts 22:12-21 (NKJ)

12 “Then one, Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good testimony with all the Jews who dwelt there,

13 “came to me; and he stood and said to me, ‘Brother Saul, receive your sight.’ And at that same hour I looked up at him.

14 “Then he said, ‘The God of our fathers has chosen you that you should know His will, and see the Just One, and hear the voice of His mouth.

15 ‘For you will be His witness to all men of what you have seen and heard.

16 ‘And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.’

17 “Now it happened, when I returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple, that I was in a trance

18 “and saw Him saying to me, ‘Make haste and get out of Jerusalem quickly, for they will not receive your testimony concerning Me.’

19 “So I said, ‘Lord, they know that in every synagogue I imprisoned and beat those who believe on You.

20 ‘And when the blood of Your martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by consenting to his death, and guarding the clothes of those who were killing him.’

21 “Then He said to me, ‘Depart, for I will send you far from here to the Gentiles.'”

Review Questions

Whom did God use to restore Paul’s sight?

Ananias.

How did Paul receive his sight?

Ananias stood and told Paul to receive his sight, and Paul received his sight.

According to Ananias, why had God chosen Paul to 1) know His will, 2) see the Just One, and 2) hear His voice?

Paul was to be His witness to all men of what he had seen and heard.

After telling Paul why God had chosen him, what did Ananias tell Paul to do?

He told Paul to arise and be baptized, and wash away his sins, calling on the name of the Lord.

What happened to Paul when he returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple?

He was in a trance.

Whom did Paul see while he was in the trance?

While Paul was in a trance, he saw Jesus.

What was Paul told to do in the trance?

He was told by Jesus to make haste and get out of Jerusalem quickly.

Why was Paul told to do that?

He was told to do that because the people in Jerusalem would not receive his testimony about Jesus.

How did Paul respond to what he had been told?

He told Jesus that the people in Jerusalem knew that he imprisoned and beat those who believed on Him.

What did Paul confess about the death of Stephen?

Paul told Jesus that when His martyr Stephen was killed, he was standing by consenting to his death, and guarding the clothes of those who were killing him.

What was Paul told after his confession?

Jesus told Paul to depart because He was going to send him far from there to the Gentiles.

PAUL REVEALS HIS ROMAN CITIZENSHIP

Acts 22:22-30 (NKJ)

22 And they listened to him until this word, and then they raised their voices and said, “Away with such a fellow from the earth, for he is not fit to live!”

23 Then, as they cried out and tore off their clothes and threw dust into the air,

24 the commander ordered him to be brought into the barracks, and said that he should be examined under scourging, so that he might know why they shouted so against him.

25 And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said to the centurion who stood by, “Is it lawful for you to scourge a man who is a Roman, and uncondemned?”

26 When the centurion heard that, he went and told the commander, saying, “Take care what you do, for this man is a Roman.”

27 Then the commander came and said to him, “Tell me, are you a Roman?” He said, “Yes.”

28 The commander answered, “With a large sum I obtained this citizenship.” And Paul said, “But I was born a citizen.”

29 Then immediately those who were about to examine him withdrew from him; and the commander was also afraid after he found out that he was a Roman, and because he had bound him.

30 The next day, because he wanted to know for certain why he was accused by the Jews, he released him from his bonds, and commanded the chief priests and all their council to appear, and brought Paul down and set him before them.

Review Questions

What did the people say about Paul after he said that Jesus had told him that He was going to send him to the Gentiles?

After he had spoken that word, they raised their voices, saying that Paul should be taken from the earth because he was not fit to live.

What were the people doing when the commander ordered that Paul be taken into the barracks?

They were crying out, tearing off their clothes and throwing dust into the air.

What did the commander say should happen to Paul after he was taken into the barracks?

He said that Paul should be examined under scourging.

Why did the commander say that?

He wanted to know why the people shouted so against Paul.

What did Paul ask as they bound him with thongs?

Paul asked if it were lawful for them to scourge a man who was a Roman, and uncondemned.

Whom did Paul ask?

He asked the centurion who stood by.

What did the commander do when he was told that Paul was a Roman?

The commander went to ask Paul if he was a Roman.

When Paul confirmed that he was a Roman, what did the commander say about his own (Roman) citizenship?

He said he had obtained his citizenship with a large sum.

How had Paul obtained his citizenship?

Paul was born a citizen. He obtained his citizenship by birth.

What happened once it was found out that Paul was a Roman citizen?

Immediately, those who were about to examine Paul withdrew from him.

Why did the commander become afraid?

He was afraid because he had bound Paul, who was a Roman.

What did the commander do the following day in order to find our why Paul was accused by the Jews?

The commander released Paul from his bonds, commanded the chief priests and all their council to appear, and then he set Paul down before them.

PAUL BEFORE THE SANHEDRIN

Acts 23:1-11 (NKJ)

1 Then Paul, looking earnestly at the council, said, “Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day.”

2 And the high priest Ananias commanded those who stood by him to strike him on the mouth.

3 Then Paul said to him, “God will strike you, you whitewashed wall! For you sit to judge me according to the law, and do you command me to be struck contrary to the law?”

4 And those who stood by said, “Do you revile God’s high priest?”

5 Then Paul said, “I did not know, brethren, that he was the high priest; for it is written, ‘You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.'”

6 But when Paul perceived that one part were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, “Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee; concerning the hope and resurrection of the dead I am being judged!”

7 And when he had said this, a dissension arose between the Pharisees and the Sadducees; and the assembly was divided.

8 For Sadducees say that there is no resurrection– and no angel or spirit; but the Pharisees confess both.

9 Then there arose a loud outcry. And the scribes of the Pharisees’ party arose and protested, saying, “We find no evil in this man; but if a spirit or an angel has spoken to him, let us not fight against God.”

10 Now when there arose a great dissension, the commander, fearing lest Paul might be pulled to pieces by them, commanded the soldiers to go down and take him by force from among them, and bring him into the barracks.

11 But the following night the Lord stood by him and said, “Be of good cheer, Paul; for as you have testified for Me in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness at Rome.”

Review Questions

Who commanded that Paul be struck while he was addressing the council?

Ananias the high priest.

On what part of his body did he command that Paul be struck?

He commanded that Paul be struck on the mouth.

What reason did Paul give to the high priest for calling him a whitewashed wall?

He, the high priest, had commanded that Paul be struck contrary to the law, even while he was supposed to be judging Paul according to the law.

What reason did Paul give to those standing by him for calling the high priest a whitewashed wall?

Paul said he did not know that he was addressing the high priest.

What was it that Paul noticed about the persons in the council that caused him to say that he was a Pharisee?

Paul had noticed that some were Sadducees and some were Pharisees.

What did Paul say he was being judged for?

He said he was being judged concerning the hope and resurrection of the dead.

Why did that statement by Paul cause a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees and a division in the assembly?

The statement caused a division because the Sadducees believed that there is no resurrection while the Pharisees believed in a resurrection.

Who were the ones that arose and said they found no evil in Paul?

The scribes of the Pharisees’ party arose and protested that they found no evil.

What else did they say?

They also said that if a spirit or an angel had spoken to Paul, they did not want to fight against God.

What did the commander do when the dissension became great?

He commanded the soldiers to go down and take Paul by force from among the members of the council and take him into the barracks.

Why did the commander to that?

The commander feared that Paul might be pulled to pieces by the council.

What happened on the following night?

The Lord stood by Paul and told him to be of good cheer, because he was going to bear witness of Him at Rome, just as he had testified for Him in Jerusalem.

THE PLOT TO KILL PAUL

Acts 23:12-22 (NKJ)

12 And when it was day, some of the Jews banded together and bound themselves under an oath, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul.

13 Now there were more than forty who had formed this conspiracy.

14 They came to the chief priests and elders, and said, “We have bound ourselves under a great oath that we will eat nothing until we have killed Paul.

15 “Now you, therefore, together with the council, suggest to the commander that he be brought down to you tomorrow, as though you were going to make further inquiries concerning him; but we are ready to kill him before he comes near.”

16 So when Paul’s sister’s son heard of their ambush, he went and entered the barracks and told Paul.

17 Then Paul called one of the centurions to him and said, “Take this young man to the commander, for he has something to tell him.”

18 So he took him and brought him to the commander and said, “Paul the prisoner called me to him and asked me to bring this young man to you. He has something to say to you.”

19 Then the commander took him by the hand, went aside and asked privately, “What is it that you have to tell me?”

20 And he said, “The Jews have agreed to ask that you bring Paul down to the council tomorrow, as though they were going to inquire more fully about him.

21 “But do not yield to them, for more than forty of them lie in wait for him, men who have bound themselves by an oath that they will neither eat nor drink till they have killed him; and now they are ready, waiting for the promise from you.”

22 So the commander let the young man depart, and commanded him, “Tell no one that you have revealed these things to me.”

Review Questions

Some Jews banded together and bound themselves under an oath because of Paul. What was the oath about?

The oath was about them saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul.

How many were involved in the conspiracy?

There were more than forty who had formed the conspiracy.

What did they propose to the chief priests and elders?

They proposed that the chief priests and elders arrange with the council to give the commander the impression that they wanted make further inquiries concerning Paul. The proposal involved the commander taking Paul from the barracks to the council meeting, and that would give the Jews an opportunity to ambush Paul and kill him before he got to the council.

How did Paul find out about the conspiracy?

Paul found out about the conspiracy when his sister’s son, who had heard of their plans to ambush Paul, entered the barracks and told him.

What did Paul do when he found out?

Paul called one of the centurions to him and told him to take his nephew to the commander because he had something to tell him.

What did the commander do when he heard about the conspiracy?

He allowed Paul’s nephew to leave, after commanded him to tell no one what he had told him.

PAUL IS TRANSFERRED TO CAESAREA

Acts 23:23-35 (NKJ)

23 And he called for two centurions, saying, “Prepare two hundred soldiers, seventy horsemen, and two hundred spearmen to go to Caesarea at the third hour of the night;

24 “and provide mounts to set Paul on, and bring him safely to Felix the governor.”

25 He wrote a letter in the following manner:

26 Claudius Lysias, to the most excellent governor Felix: Greetings.

27 This man was seized by the Jews and was about to be killed by them. Coming with the troops I rescued him, having learned that he was a Roman.

28 And when I wanted to know the reason they accused him, I brought him before their council.

29 I found out that he was accused concerning questions of their law, but had nothing charged against him deserving of death or chains.

30 And when it was told me that the Jews lay in wait for the man, I sent him immediately to you, and also commanded his accusers to state before you the charges against him. Farewell.

31 Then the soldiers, as they were commanded, took Paul and brought him by night to Antipatris.

32 The next day they left the horsemen to go on with him, and returned to the barracks.

33 When they came to Caesarea and had delivered the letter to the governor, they also presented Paul to him.

34 And when the governor had read it, he asked what province he was from. And when he understood that he was from Cilicia,

35 he said, “I will hear you when your accusers also have come.” And he commanded him to be kept in Herod’s Praetorium.

Review Questions

How many centurions did the commander call for?

He called for two centurions?

How many troops did the commander tell the centurions to prepare?

He told the two centurions to prepare two hundred soldiers, seventy horsemen, and two hundred spearmen.

Where were the centurions to provide for Paul?

They were to provide mounts to set Paul on.

What city were they to take Paul to?

They were to go to Caesarea.

When were they and the troops to take Paul there?

They were to go to Caesarea at the third hour of the night (about 9 p.m.).

To whom were they to deliver Paul safely?

They were to take Paul safely to Felix the governor.

What was the name of the commander?

Claudius Lysias.

What were some of the things that the commander wrote in his letter to Felix?

After giving his name and greeting Felix, the commander wrote that:

Paul was seized by the Jews and was about to be killed by them;
he, with the help of troops, rescued Paul from the Jews;
he learned that Paul was a Roman;
he took Paul before the Jewish council because he wanted to know why the Jews were accusing Paul,
he found out that Paul was accused concerning questions of the Jewish law;
he found out also that Paul had nothing charged against him deserving of death or chains;
he was sending Paul to him (Felix) because he had been told that Jews lay in wait for Paul;
he had commanded Paul’s accusers appear before him (Felix) to state the charges against Paul.

To what place did the soldiers take Paul, by night, en route to Caesarea?

They took Paul, by night, to Antipatris.

Where did the soldiers go the next day?

The soldiers returned to the barracks.

Where did the horsemen go day?

The horsemen went to Caesarea.

Who took Paul to Caesarea?

The horsemen were the ones who escorted Paul to Caesarea.

What did they do when they arrived in Caesarea before presenting Paul to the governor?

They delivered the letter, which the commander had written, to the governor.

What did the governor do after he read the letter?

He asked what province Paul was from.

When he heard that Paul was from Cilicia, he agreed to hear Paul when his accusers had also arrived in Caesarea.

Where did the governor command that Paul be kept (until the hearing)?

He commanded that Paul be kept in Herod’s Praetorium.

PAUL IS ACCUSED BEFORE FELIX

Acts 24:1-9 (NKJ)

1 Now after five days Ananias the high priest came down with the elders and a certain orator named Tertullus. These gave evidence to the governor against Paul.

2 And when he was called upon, Tertullus began his accusation, saying: “Seeing that through you we enjoy great peace, and prosperity is being brought to this nation by your foresight, 3 we accept it always and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness.

4 “Nevertheless, not to be tedious to you any further, I beg you to hear, by your courtesy, a few words from us.

5 “For we have found this man a plague, a creator of dissension among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes.

6 “He even tried to profane the temple, and we seized him, and wanted to judge him according to our law.

7 “But the commander Lysias came by and with great violence took him out of our hands, 8 commanding his accusers to come to you. By examining him yourself you may ascertain all these things of which we accuse him.”

9 And the Jews also assented, maintaining that these things were so.

Review Questions

How long after Paul arrived in Caesarea did the high priest and the elders arrive there?

After five days, the high priest and the elders arrived in Caesarea.

What was the name of the high priest?

Ananias.

What was the name of the orator whom the high priest took with them?

The orator was named Tertullus.

Why had the high priest, the elders and Tertullus gone to Caesarea?

They had gone there to give evidence to the governor against Paul.

What accusations did Tertullus bring against Paul on behalf of the high priest et al?

According to Tertullus, they had found that:

Paul was a plague;
Paul was a creator of dissension among all the Jews throughout the world;
Paul was a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes;
Paul had tried to profane the temple.

What did Tertullus and the Jews want the governor to do?

They wanted the governor to examine Paul for himself.

What were they hoping would be accomplished?

They hoped that by examining Paul for himself the governor would ascertain all the things of which they accused Paul.

PAUL’S RESPONSE TO HIS ACCUSERS BEFORE FELIX

Acts 24:10-21 (NKJ)

10 Then Paul, after the governor had nodded to him to speak, answered: “Inasmuch as I know that you have been for many years a judge of this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself,

11 “because you may ascertain that it is no more than twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem to worship.

12 “And they neither found me in the temple disputing with anyone nor inciting the crowd, either in the synagogues or in the city.

13 “Nor can they prove the things of which they now accuse me.

14 “But this I confess to you, that according to the Way which they call a sect, so I worship the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the Law and in the Prophets.

15 “I have hope in God, which they themselves also accept, that there will be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and the unjust.

16 “This being so, I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward God and men.

17 “Now after many years I came to bring alms and offerings to my nation,

18 “in the midst of which some Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with a mob nor with tumult.

19 “They ought to have been here before you to object if they had anything against me.

20 “Or else let those who are here themselves say if they found any wrongdoing in me while I stood before the council,

21 “unless it is for this one statement which I cried out, standing among them, ‘Concerning the resurrection of the dead I am being judged by you this day.'”

Review Questions

How long before his appearance before his appearance before his accusers and Felix, had it been since Paul had gone up to Jerusalem to worship?

It had been no more than twelve days since he went to Jerusalem to worship.

According to Paul, what had his accusers not found?

They neither found him in the temple disputing with anyone nor inciting the crowd, either in the synagogues or in the city.

According to Paul, what could they not prove?

They could not prove the things of which they were accusing him.

What did Paul confess to Felix?

Paul confessed that:

according to the Way which they call a sect, he worshipped God;

he believed all things which are written in the Law and in the Prophets;

he had hope in God that there would be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and the unjust.

What was Paul always striving to do?

He was always striving to have a conscience without offence toward God and men.

How had some Jews from Asia found Paul in the temple?

They found him purified, neither with a mob nor a tumult.

Why had Paul gone to the temple when the Jews from Asia found him?

He had gone there to bring alms and offerings to his nation.

If what Paul was being accused of was true, what, according to Paul, ought his accusers had to have done?

They ought to have appeared there before Felix to object if they had anything against Paul.

What did Paul say those accusers who were there before Felix should do?

He said they should say if they had found any wrongdoing in Paul while he stood before the council.

What was the one statement, which Paul had made, that he thought his accusers might have had a problem with?

It was the statement that he was being judged concerning the resurrection of the dead.

FELIX RESPONDS TO WHAT HE HAS HEARD

Acts 24:22-27 (NKJ)

22 But when Felix heard these things, having more accurate knowledge of the Way, he adjourned the proceedings and said, “When Lysias the commander comes down, I will make a decision on your case.”

23 So he commanded the centurion to keep Paul and to let him have liberty, and told him not to forbid any of his friends to provide for or visit him.

24 And after some days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish, he sent for Paul and heard him concerning the faith in Christ.

25 Now as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, “Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.”

26 Meanwhile he also hoped that money would be given him by Paul, that he might release him. Therefore he sent for him more often and conversed with him.

27 But after two years Porcius Festus succeeded Felix; and Felix, wanting to do the Jews a favor, left Paul bound.

Review Questions

What did the hearing do for Felix’s understanding of the Way?

After Felix had heard from Paul and his accusers, he had a more accurate knowledge of the Way.

What did Felix say about the case after he had heard from Paul and his accusers?

He adjourned the proceedings and said he would make a decision in the case when Lysias the commander arrived in Caesarea.

What did Felix command the centurion to do?

He commanded the centurion to keep Paul and to let him have liberty, and told him not to forbid any of Paul’s friends to provide for or visit him.

After some days, Felix sent for Paul. What did he hear from Paul?

Felix sent for Paul, after some days, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ.

Who was with Felix at the time?

Felix’s wife, who was Jewish, was with him.

Was Drusilla, the wife of Felix, a Jew or a Gentile?

She was Jewish.

What happened as Paul reasoned with Felix about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come?

Felix became afraid and sent Paul away.

After sending Paul away, what was Felix hoping for?

He hoped that Paul would give him money so that he might release him.

Why did Felix send for Paul more often and converse with him.

He was hoping that Paul would give him money in order to be released.

What happened to Felix after two years?

After two years, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus.

Why did Felix leave Paul bound?

He wanted to do the Jews a favor, so he left Paul bound.

PAUL APPEARS BEFORE FESTUS

Acts 25:1-6

1 Now when Festus had come to the province, after three days he went up from Caesarea to Jerusalem.

2 Then the high priest and the chief men of the Jews informed him against Paul; and they petitioned him,

3 asking a favor against him, that he would summon him to Jerusalem– while they lay in ambush along the road to kill him.

4 But Festus answered that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself was going there shortly.

5 “Therefore,” he said, “let those who have authority among you go down with me and accuse this man, to see if there is any fault in him.”

6 And when he had remained among them more than ten days, he went down to Caesarea. And the next day, sitting on the judgment seat, he commanded Paul to be brought.

Review Questions

How long after Festus had gone to the province did he go up to Jerusalem?

Festus went up from Caesarea to Jerusalem after three days.

Who informed Festus against Paul?

The high priest and the chief men of the Jews informed Festus against Paul.

What did they petition Festus about?

They petitioned him to ask that he would summon Paul to Jerusalem.

Why did the high priest and the chief men of the Jews want Festus to summon Paul to Jerusalem?

They wanted to lay in ambush along the road to kill him.

What did Festus answer?

Festus answered that Paul should be kept at Caesarea and that he himself was going there shortly.

What request did Festus make of the high priest and the chief Jews?

He requested that they let those who had authority among them go down to Caesarea with him, and accuse Paul there, to see if there was any fault in him.

How long, after Festus had made his request, did he remain in Jerusalem before he actually went down to Caesarea?

Festus remained among them more than ten days after making his request of the high priest before going down to Caesarea.

After getting to Caesarea, how long was it before Festus had Paul taken before the judgment seat?

Festus had Paul taken before the judgment seat the next day.

PAUL RESPONDS TO THE JEWS BEFORE FESTUS

Acts 25:7-12

7 When he had come, the Jews who had come down from Jerusalem stood about and laid many serious complaints against Paul, which they could not prove,

8 while he answered for himself, “Neither against the law of the Jews, nor against the temple, nor against Caesar have I offended in anything at all.”

9 But Festus, wanting to do the Jews a favor, answered Paul and said, “Are you willing to go up to Jerusalem and there be judged before me concerning these things?”

10 So Paul said, “I stand at Caesar’s judgment seat, where I ought to be judged. To the Jews I have done no wrong, as you very well know.

11 “For if I am an offender, or have committed anything deserving of death, I do not object to dying; but if there is nothing in these things of which these men accuse me, no one can deliver me to them. I appeal to Caesar.”

12 Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, “You have appealed to Caesar? To Caesar you shall go!”

Review Questions

What did the Jews who had come down from Jerusalem do when Paul arrived?

They stood about and laid many serious complaints against Paul.

What is significant about the claims that the Jews were making?

The claims could not be proved by the Jews who were making them.

Who answered for Paul?

Paul answered for himself.

What three things or persons did Paul say he had not offended against?

Paul said he had not offended against 1) the law of the Jews, 2) the temple, or 3) Caesar.

Why did Festus ask Paul if he was willing to go up to Jerusalem to be judged before him?

Festus wanted to do the Jews a favor.

How did Paul respond to Festus’ question?

Paul responded by appealing to Caesar.

Why did Paul appeal to Caesar?

He was already standing at Caesar’s judgment seat;

He had done no wrong to the Jews, as Festus well knew;

He had not done anything deserving of death;

What did Paul say could not happen if there was nothing in the claims that were being made against him?

If there was nothing in the things of which the Jews accused Paul, then no one could deliver him to them.

With whom did Festus confer before making his decision?

He conferred with the council.

What did Festus decide after conferring?

Festus decided that since Paul had appealed to Caesar, to Caesar he should go.

FESTUS CONSULTS WITH AGRIPPA

Acts 25:13-22 (NKJ)

13 And after some days King Agrippa and Bernice came to Caesarea to greet Festus.

14 When they had been there many days, Festus laid Paul’s case before the king, saying:

“There is a certain man left a prisoner by Felix, 15 about whom the chief priests and the elders of the Jews informed me, when I was in Jerusalem, asking for a judgment against him. 16 To them I answered, ‘It is not the custom of the Romans to deliver any man to destruction before the accused meets the accusers face to face, and has opportunity to answer for himself concerning the charge against him.’

17 “Therefore when they had come together, without any delay, the next day I sat on the judgment seat and commanded the man to be brought in.

18 “When the accusers stood up, they brought no accusation against him of such things as I supposed 19 but had some questions against him about their own religion and about a certain Jesus, who had died, whom Paul affirmed to be alive. 20 And because I was uncertain of such questions, I asked whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem and there be judged concerning these matters.

21 “But when Paul appealed to be reserved for the decision of Augustus, I commanded him to be kept till I could send him to Caesar.”

22 Then Agrippa said to Festus, “I also would like to hear the man myself.” “Tomorrow,” he said, “you shall hear him.”

Review Questions

Why did King Agrippa and Bernice go to Caesarea?

They went there to greet Festus.

What did Festus do after they had been there many days?

He laid Paul’s case before King Agrippa.

What did Festus tell Agrippa that the elders of the Jews were asking for?

He told the king that they were asking for a judgment against Paul.

What did Festus say his answer to the elders had been?

His answer had been that it was not the custom of the Romans to deliver any man to destruction before the accused had met his accusers face to face, and had opportunity to answer for himself concerning the charge against him.

What did Festus subsequently do as a result of the charge against Paul?

When the elders of the Jews had come together, he sat on the judgment seat the next day, and commanded that Paul be brought in before his accusers.

What did Festus tell Agrippa that the accusations against Paul were not about?

According to Festus, the accusations that were brought against Paul were not of such things as he supposed.

What were the accusations about?

The accusations against Paul were about the Jews’ own religion and about a certain Jesus, who had died, whom Paul affirmed to be alive.

What reason did Festus give for asking Paul if he were willing to go to Jerusalem to be judged concerning the accusations by the elders of the Jews?

He had done so because he was uncertain of such questions.

What reason did Festus give for not sending Paul to Jerusalem?

Paul had appealed to be reserved for the decision of Augustus, so Festus had commanded that Paul be kept in Caesarea until he could be sent, by Festus, to Caesar.

What did Agrippa say to Festus having heard what he had to say?

He told Festus that he wanted to hear Paul for himself.

What was Festus’ response to what Agrippa said?

Festus told Agrippa that he would hear Paul the next day.

PAUL IS RECEIVED BY KING AGRIPPA

Acts 25:23-27

23 So the next day, when Agrippa and Bernice had come with great pomp, and had entered the auditorium with the commanders and the prominent men of the city, at Festus’ command Paul was brought in.

24 And Festus said: “King Agrippa and all the men who are here present with us, you see this man about whom the whole assembly of the Jews petitioned me, both at Jerusalem and here, crying out that he was not fit to live any longer.

25 “But when I found that he had committed nothing deserving of death, and that he himself had appealed to Augustus, I decided to send him.

26 “I have nothing certain to write to my lord concerning him. Therefore I have brought him out before you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after the examination has taken place I may have something to write.

27 “For it seems to me unreasonable to send a prisoner and not to specify the charges against him.”

Review Questions

Who were among those who entered the auditorium with Agrippa and Bernice?

Agrippa and Bernice entered the auditorium with the commanders and the prominent men of the city.

Who commanded that Paul be brought into the auditorium?

Festus commanded that Paul be brought in.

In which two cities did the assembly of Jews petition Festus against Paul?

They petitioned him in Jerusalem and in Caesarea.

What were the Jews crying out about Paul in their petition to Festus?

They were crying out that Paul was not fit to live any longer.

What did Festus find regarding Paul?

He found that 1) Paul had committed nothing deserving of death, and 2) Paul himself had appealed to Augustus.

What reason did Festus give for taking Paul before King Agrippa?

According to Festus, he had nothing certain to write to his lord concerning Paul, and he was hoping that after Agrippa had examined Paul, he would have something to write.

What did Festus want to write?

He wanted to write the specific charges against Paul.

What reason did Festus give for wanting to write such?

It seemed unreasonable to Festus for him to send a prisoner and not specify the charges against him.

PAUL IS HEARD BY KING AGRIPPA

Acts 26:1-8

1 Then Agrippa said to Paul, “You are permitted to speak for yourself.” So Paul stretched out his hand and answered for himself:

2 “I think myself happy, King Agrippa, because today I shall answer for myself before you concerning all the things of which I am accused by the Jews,

3 “especially because you are expert in all customs and questions which have to do with the Jews. Therefore I beg you to hear me patiently.

4 “My manner of life from my youth, which was spent from the beginning among my own nation at Jerusalem, all the Jews know.

5 “They knew me from the first, if they were willing to testify, that according to the strictest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.

6 “And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made by God to our fathers.

7 “To this promise our twelve tribes, earnestly serving God night and day, hope to attain. For this hope’s sake, King Agrippa, I am accused by the Jews.

8 “Why should it be thought incredible by you that God raises the dead?

Review Questions

Why did Paul stretch out his hand and answer for himself?

Paul stretched out his hand because Agrippa had given him permission to speak for himself.

Why was Paul happy?

He was happy because he had been given opportunity to answer for himself, before Agrippa, concerning the things of which the Jews accused him.

What did Paul believe Agrippa to be expert in?

He believed Agrippa to be expert in all customs and questions which have to do with the Jews.

Why did the Jews know Paul’s manner of life from his youth?

Paul’s youth was spent from the beginning among his own nation at Jerusalem.

What did the Jews know about how Paul lived his religion?

They knew that Paul lived as a Pharisee, according to the strictest sect of the Jewish religion.

Why, according to Paul, was he being judged?

He was being judged for the hope of the promise made by God to the forefathers of the Jews.

Who else, according to Paul, hoped to attain to the promise God had made?

The twelve tribes (of Israel) hoped to attain to the promise God had made.

What was it that did not seem to be incredible to Paul?

Paul, seemingly, did not think it incredible that God raises the dead.

PAUL CONFESSES TO AGRIPPA AND RECOUNTS HIS CONVERSION

Acts 26:9-18

9 “Indeed, I myself thought I must do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth.

10 “This I also did in Jerusalem, and many of the saints I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I cast my vote against them.

11 “And I punished them often in every synagogue and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly enraged against them, I persecuted them even to foreign cities.

12 “While thus occupied, as I journeyed to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests,

13 “at midday, O king, along the road I saw a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, shining around me and those who journeyed with me.

14 “And when we all had fallen to the ground, I heard a voice speaking to me and saying in the Hebrew language, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’

15 “So I said, ‘Who are You, Lord?’ And He said, ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.

16 ‘But rise and stand on your feet; for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness both of the things which you have seen and of the things which I will yet reveal to you.

17 ‘I will deliver you from the Jewish people, as well as from the Gentiles, to whom I now send you, 18 ‘to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.’

Review Questions

What did Paul think he had to do?

He thought he had to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth.

What did Paul do to many of the saints in Jerusalem?

He shut them up in prison.

Where did Paul get the authority to do that?

He received authority from the chief priests.

What were some of the other things that Paul did against the saints?

When they were put to death, he cast his vote against them.
He punished them often in every synagogue and compelled them to blaspheme.

What reason did Paul give for persecuting saints even to foreign cities?

He was exceedingly enraged against them.

Where was Paul going when he saw the bright light from heaven?

He was journeying to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests.

Where was the light shining?

The light was shining around Paul and those who journeyed with him.

What time of day was it that Paul saw the light?

It was at midday.

What happened when Paul and the others had fallen to the ground?

Paul heard voice speaking to him, asking him why he was persecuting the One who was speaking to him.

Whom did the voice say Paul was persecuting?

The voice belonged to Jesus, whom Paul was persecuting.

What was the purpose for which Jesus had appeared to Paul?

Jesus appeared to Paul in order to make him a minister and a witness both of the things which he had seen and of the things which would yet be revealed to him.

Whom did Jesus promise to deliver Paul from?

Jesus said he would deliver Paul from the Jewish people, as well as the Gentiles.

Why was Jesus sending Paul to the Gentiles?

Jesus wanted Paul to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Jesus Christ.

PAUL CONTINUES HIS DEFENCE

Acts 26:19-23

19 “Therefore, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision,

20 “but declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance.

21 “For these reasons the Jews seized me in the temple and tried to kill me.

22 “Therefore, having obtained help from God, to this day I stand, witnessing both to small and great, saying no other things than those which the prophets and Moses said would come —

23 “that the Christ would suffer, that He would be the first to rise from the dead, and would proclaim light to the Jewish people and to the Gentiles.”

Review Questions

What did Paul say he was not disobedient to?

He said he was not disobedient to the heavenly vision.

To whom first did Paul declare?

Paul declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judea. Essentially, he declared first to the Jews.

To whom did Paul then declare?

He then declared to the Gentiles.

What did Paul declare that those hearing him should do?

He declared that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance.

What did the Jews do to Paul as a result of his declarations?

The Jews seized him in the temple and tried to kill him.

How was Paul able to stand until that time?

He was able to stand because he obtained help from God.

How did the sayings of Paul (as he witnessed to small and great) compare with those of the prophets and Moses?

Paul was saying no other things than those which the prophets and Moses said would come.

What did the sayings of Paul, the prophets and Moses have in common?

They were all saying 1) that the Christ would suffer, 2) that He would be the first to rise from the dead, and 3) that He would proclaim light to the Jewish people and to the Gentiles.

PAUL CONCLUDES HIS DEFENCE

Acts 26:24-32

24 Now as he thus made his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, “Paul, you are beside yourself! Much learning is driving you mad!”

25 But he said, “I am not mad, most noble Festus, but speak the words of truth and reason.

26 “For the king, before whom I also speak freely, knows these things; for I am convinced that none of these things escapes his attention, since this thing was not done in a corner.

27 “King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you do believe.”

28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, “You almost persuade me to become a Christian.”

29 And Paul said, “I would to God that not only you, but also all who hear me today, might become both almost and altogether such as I am, except for these chains.”

30 When he had said these things, the king stood up, as well as the governor and Bernice and those who sat with them;

31 and when they had gone aside, they talked among themselves, saying, “This man is doing nothing deserving of death or chains.”

32 Then Agrippa said to Festus, “This man might have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar.”

Review Questions

How did Festus respond to what Paul was saying?

As Paul made his defense, Festus said with a loud voice that Paul was beside himself and much learning was driving Paul mad.

What did Paul offer as support to Festus to show that he was speaking words of truth and reason?

Paul made reference to King Agrippa whom he said knew about what Paul was saying. According to Paul, Agrippa would have known since what was done was not done in a corner.

What did Paul ask King Agrippa?

Paul asked the king if he believed the prophets.

What did Paul say he knew about what the king believed?

He said he knew that the king did believe (the prophets).

How did Agrippa respond to Paul’s question and statement?

Agrippa told Paul that he almost persuaded him to become a Christian.

What did Paul say in response to Agrippa’s comment?

Paul said that he wished to God that not only Agrippa, but also all who heard him that day, would become both almost and altogether such as Paul was, except for the chains.

What did the king, the governor, the king’s wife, and those who sat with them, do after Paul had finished talking?

They went aside and talked among themselves.

What did they conclude about Paul’s case?

Their opinion was that Paul was doing nothing deserving of death or chains.

What did Agrippa then say to Festus?

He told Festus that Paul might have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar.

PAUL STARTS HIS JOURNEY TO ROME

Acts 27:1-12 (NKJ)

1 And when it was decided that we should sail to Italy, they delivered Paul and some other prisoners to one named Julius, a centurion of the Augustan Regiment.

2 So, entering a ship of Adramyttium, we put to sea, meaning to sail along the coasts of Asia. Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, was with us.

3 And the next day we landed at Sidon. And Julius treated Paul kindly and gave him liberty to go to his friends and receive care.

4 When we had put to sea from there, we sailed under the shelter of Cyprus, because the winds were contrary.

5 And when we had sailed over the sea which is off Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra, a city of Lycia.

6 There the centurion found an Alexandrian ship sailing to Italy, and he put us on board.

7 When we had sailed slowly many days, and arrived with difficulty off Cnidus, the wind not permitting us to proceed, we sailed under the shelter of Crete off Salmone.

8 Passing it with difficulty, we came to a place called Fair Havens, near the city of Lasea.

9 Now when much time had been spent, and sailing was now dangerous because the Fast was already over, Paul advised them,

10 saying, “Men, I perceive that this voyage will end with disaster and much loss, not only of the cargo and ship, but also our lives.”

11 Nevertheless the centurion was more persuaded by the helmsman and the owner of the ship than by the things spoken by Paul.

12 And because the harbor was not suitable to winter in, the majority advised to set sail from there also, if by any means they could reach Phoenix, a harbor of Crete opening toward the southwest and northwest, and winter there.

Review Questions

What was decided as to how Paul would get to Italy?

It was decided that Paul et al should sail to Italy.

To whom did they deliver Paul?

They delivered Paul, and some other prisoners, to one named Julius, a centurion of the Augustan Regiment.

After the ship carrying Paul put to sea, where was the first stop?

The next day, they landed at Sidon.

How was Paul treated by the one to whom he had been delivered while in Sidon?

Julius treated Paul kindly and gave him liberty to go to his friends and receive care.

After leaving Sidon, why did they sail under the shelter of Cyprus?

They sailed under the shelter of Cyprus because the winds were contrary.

What happened with Paul while they were in Myra?

While there, Lucius, the centurion who was responsible for Paul, found an Alexandrian ship sailing to Italy, and he put them on board.

How would you describe the voyage from Myra to Fair Havens?

The voyage was, in a word, difficult.

After the Fast, when the sailing had become dangerous, what did Paul tell the people on the ship?

Paul told them that the voyage would end with disaster and much loss, not only of the cargo and ship, but also of their lives.

How did the centurion respond to what Paul had said?

The centurion was more persuaded by the helmsman and the owner of the ship than by the things spoken by Paul.

Why did the majority on the ship advise the centurion to set sail from Fair Havens?

The majority advised to set sail from there also because the harbor was not suitable to winter in.

Where were they hoping to reach so they could winter there?

They were hoping to reach Phoenix, a harbour of Crete opening toward the southwest and northwest, and winter there.

PAUL ENCOUNTERS A STORM AT SEA

Acts 27:13-26 (NKJ)

13 When the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their desire, putting out to sea, they sailed close by Crete. 14 But not long after, a tempestuous head wind arose, called Euroclydon.

15 So when the ship was caught, and could not head into the wind, we let her drive.

16 And running under the shelter of an island called Clauda, we secured the skiff with difficulty. 17 When they had taken it on board, they used cables to undergird the ship; and fearing lest they should run aground on the Syrtis Sands, they struck sail and so were driven. 18 And because we were exceedingly tempest-tossed, the next day they lightened the ship.

19 On the third day we threw the ship’s tackle overboard with our own hands.

20 Now when neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest beat on us, all hope that we would be saved was finally given up.

21 But after long abstinence from food, then Paul stood in the midst of them and said, “Men, you should have listened to me, and not have sailed from Crete and incurred this disaster and loss.

22 “And now I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship.

23 “For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve, 24 “saying, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.’

25 “Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me.

26 “However, we must run aground on a certain island.”

Review Questions

Why did the crew of the ship that Paul was on put out to sea?

They thought they had obtained their desire when they saw the south wind blew softly.

Who or what was Euroclydon?

Euroclydon was a tempestuous head wind.

What happened to the ship when it ecountered Euroclydon?

The ship was caught, and could not head into the wind.

What did those on the ship do after they had secured the skiff?

They used cables to undergird the ship.

; and fearing lest they should run aground on the Syrtis Sands, they struck sail and so were driven.

Why did they lighten the ship?

They lightened the ship because it was exceedingly tempest-tossed.

What caused those on the ship to give up hope of being saved?

They gave up hope after they had been unable to see the sun or the stars for many days and the tempest showed no sign of letting up.

After a long abstinence from food, what did Paul tell the people on the ship?

First, he told them that if they should have listened to him and not sailed from Crete, they would not have incurred such disaster and loss.

Then, he urged them to take heart because although the ship would be lost, there would be no loss of life.

How did Paul know that there would be no loss of life?

God had sent an angel to tell Paul not to be afraid because he had to be taken before Caesar, and because of that God had granted that all who sailed with Paul would survive.

What did Paul say would still happen however?

Paul told them that they would run aground on a certain island.

PAUL ENCOURAGES THOSE ON THE SHIP

Acts 27:27-38 (NKJ)

27 Now when the fourteenth night had come, as we were driven up and down in the Adriatic Sea, about midnight the sailors sensed that they were drawing near some land.

28 And they took soundings and found it to be twenty fathoms; and when they had gone a little farther, they took soundings again and found it to be fifteen fathoms.

29 Then, fearing lest we should run aground on the rocks, they dropped four anchors from the stern, and prayed for day to come.

30 And as the sailors were seeking to escape from the ship, when they had let down the skiff into the sea, under pretense of putting out anchors from the prow,

31 Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, “Unless these men stay in the ship, you cannot be saved.”

32 Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the skiff and let it fall off.

33 And as day was about to dawn, Paul implored them all to take food, saying, “Today is the fourteenth day you have waited and continued without food, and eaten nothing.

34 “Therefore I urge you to take nourishment, for this is for your survival, since not a hair will fall from the head of any of you.”

35 And when he had said these things, he took bread and gave thanks to God in the presence of them all; and when he had broken it he began to eat.

36 Then they were all encouraged, and also took food themselves.

37 And in all we were two hundred and seventy-six persons on the ship.

38 So when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship and threw out the wheat into the sea.

Review Questions

What happened as they were being driven up and down the Adriatic Sea on the fourteenth night?

The sailors sensed that they were drawing near some land.

How deep was the water when the sailors took the first soundings?

They found it to be twenty fathoms.

How deep was the water when they took soundings a little farther?

They found it to be fifteen fathoms.

How many anchors did they drop from the stern?

They dropped four anchors.

Why did they drop them at that point?

They feared running aground on the rocks.

What were the sailors who pretended to be putting out anchors from the prow really trying to do?

They were seeking to escape from the ship.

What did Paul tell the centurion when the sailors let down the skiff?

Paul told the centurion and the soldiers that if the sailors did not stay in the ship, they (the centurion and the soldiers) could not be saved.

What did the soldiers do as a result?

The soldiers cut away the ropes of the skiff and let it fall off.

When day was about to dawn, what did Paul implore the others on the boat to do?

Paul implored them all to take food.

What reason did Paul give for imploring them to do that?

It was the fourteenth day that they had gone without food, and eaten nothing.

What assurance did Paul give them after telling them to do that?

The assurance was that all on the ship would survive.

What did Paul do after saying those things?

When he had said those things, he took bread and gave thanks to God in the presence of them all; and when he had broken it he began to eat.

How many persons in all were on the ship?

In all, there were two hundred and seventy-six persons on the ship.

What did they do after they had eaten enough?

They lightened the ship and threw out the wheat into the sea.

PAUL REACHES LAND SAFELY

Acts 27:39-44 (NKJ)

39 When it was day, they did not recognize the land; but they observed a bay with a beach, onto which they planned to run the ship if possible.

40 And they let go the anchors and left them in the sea, meanwhile loosing the rudder ropes; and they hoisted the mainsail to the wind and made for shore.

41 But striking a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the prow stuck fast and remained immovable, but the stern was being broken up by the violence of the waves.

42 And the soldiers’ plan was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim away and escape. 43 But the centurion, wanting to save Paul, kept them from their purpose, and commanded that those who could swim should jump overboard first and get to land, 44 and the rest, some on boards and some on parts of the ship. And so it was that they all escaped safely to land.

Review Questions

What did the crew of the ship plan to do when they observed a bay with a beach?

They planned to run the ship onto the beach, if possible.

What did they do as a result?

They let go the anchors, loosed the rudder ropes, hoisted the mainsail to the wind, and made for shore.

What happened as they headed toward the shore?

When they got to the place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground.

What happened to the ship?

The prow of the ship stuck fast and remained immovable, but the stern was broken up by the violence of the waves.

What did the soldiers plan to do after that happened?

The soldiers’ plan was to kill the prisoners.

Why did the soldiers plan to do that?

They did not want any of the prisoners to swim away and escape.

What did the centurion do about their plan?

The centurion kept the soldiers from their purpose (killing the prisoners).

Why did the centurion do that?

He wanted to save Paul.

What happened to those on the ship who could swim?

The centurion commanded them to jump overboard first and swim to land.

What happened to the rest of persons on the ship?

The rest, some on boards, and some on parts of the ship, apparently floated to land.

How many of those on the ship made it to land safely.

They all escaped safely to land.

PAUL ON MALTA

Acts 28:1-10 (NKJ)

1 Now when they had escaped, they then found out that the island was called Malta.

2 And the natives showed us unusual kindness; for they kindled a fire and made us all welcome, because of the rain that was falling and because of the cold.

3 But when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and laid them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat, and fastened on his hand. 4 So when the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, “No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he has escaped the sea, yet justice does not allow to live.” 5 But he shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm.

6 However, they were expecting that he would swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But after they had looked for a long time and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds and said that he was a god.

7 In that region there was an estate of the leading citizen of the island, whose name was Publius, who received us and entertained us courteously for three days.

8 And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him.

9 So when this was done, the rest of those on the island who had diseases also came and were healed.

10 They also honored us in many ways; and when we departed, they provided such things as were necessary.

Review Questions

What was the name of the island on which Paul had landed?

The island was called Malta.

How did the natives on the island react to Paul and the others?

The natives showed them unusual kindness – they kindled a fire and made them all welcome, because of the rain that was falling and because of the cold.

What happened to Paul when he laid a bundle of sticks on the fire?

A viper came out because of the heat, and fastened on his hand.

What did the natives say to each other when they saw that?

When the natives saw the snake hanging from Paul’s hand, they said to one another that Paul must have been a murderer, whom, though he had escaped the sea, justice would not allow to live.

What did Paul do?

He shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm.

Why did the natives say that Paul was a god?

After the viper had bitten Paul, the natives were expecting that he would swell up or suddenly fall down dead. However, after they had looked for a long time and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds and said that he was a god.

Who was Publius?

Publius was the leading citizen of the island.

What did Publius do for Paul and the others?

He received them and entertained them courteously for three days.

What did Paul do for Publius?

Paul prayed for Publius’ father, who lay sick of a fever and dysentery, and laid his hands on him, causing him to be healed.

What happened as a result of what Paul did?

The rest of those on the island who had diseases also went to Paul and were healed.

What happened to Paul’s companions as a result?

They were honoured in many ways, and when they departed, the natives provided such things as were necessary.

PAUL HEADS TOWARD ROME

Acts 28:11-15 (NKJ)

11 After three months we sailed in an Alexandrian ship whose figurehead was the Twin Brothers, which had wintered at the island.

12 And landing at Syracuse, we stayed three days.

13 From there we circled round and reached Rhegium. And after one day the south wind blew; and the next day we came to Puteoli, 14 where we found brethren, and were invited to stay with them seven days. And so we went toward Rome.

15 And from there, when the brethren heard about us, they came to meet us as far as Appii Forum and Three Inns. When Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage.

Review Questions

What did Paul and his companions do after three months?

They sailed in an Alexandrian ship whose figurehead was the Twin Brothers.

Why were they able to sail in that particular ship?

That ship had wintered at the island where they were.

Where did they land?

They landed at Syracuse.

How long did they stay there?

They stayed there for three days.

Whom did Paul and his companions find when they went to Puteoli?

They found brethren in Puteoli.

What did they do for Paul et al?

They (the brethren) invited Paul and his companions to stay with them seven days.

After Paul et al left Puteoli, and headed toward Rome, what happened when the brethren heard about them?

The brethren in the area went as far as Appii Forum and Three Inns to meet them.

How did Paul respond?

When Paul saw the brethren, he thanked God and took courage.

PAUL ARRIVES IN ROME

Acts 28:16-22 (NKJ)

16 Now when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard; but Paul was permitted to dwell by himself with the soldier who guarded him.

17 And it came to pass after three days that Paul called the leaders of the Jews together. So when they had come together, he said to them: “Men and brethren, though I have done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans,

18 “who, when they had examined me, wanted to let me go, because there was no cause for putting me to death.

19 “But when the Jews spoke against it, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar, not that I had anything of which to accuse my nation.

20 “For this reason therefore I have called for you, to see you and speak with you, because for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain.”

21 Then they said to him, “We neither received letters from Judea concerning you, nor have any of the brethren who came reported or spoken any evil of you.

22 “But we desire to hear from you what you think; for concerning this sect, we know that it is spoken against everywhere.”

Review Questions

What did the centurion do when they arrived in Rome?

The centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard.

What happened to Paul?

Paul was permitted to dwell by himself with the soldier who guarded him.

What did Paul do after three days?

He called the leaders of the Jews together.

What reason did Paul give for doing that?

Paul wanted to see the leaders of the Jews and speak with them, and to explain that he had been bound with chain for the hope of Israel.

Why, according to Paul, did the Romans want to let him go after examining him?

They wanted to let him go because there was no cause for putting him to death.

Why, if the Romans wanted to let Paul go, did he feel compelled to appeal to Caesar?

The Jews did not want Paul to be set free.

What did the leaders of the Jews say to Paul after he had spoken to them?

They told Paul that they had not received any letters from Judea concerning him, nor had any of the brethren who came from Judea reported or spoken any evil of him.

How did the leaders of the Jews view Christianity?

They viewed Christianity as a sect.

Why did the leaders of the Jews desire to hear from Paul?

They desired to hear what Paul thought, especially about the Christians, because the Christian way was spoken against everywhere.

PAUL PREACHES THE GOSPEL IN ROME

Acts 28:23-31

23 So when they had appointed him a day, many came to him at his lodging, to whom he explained and solemnly testified of the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets, from morning till evening. 24 And some were persuaded by the things which were spoken, and some disbelieved.

25 So when they did not agree among themselves, they departed after Paul had said one word: “The Holy Spirit spoke rightly through Isaiah the prophet to our fathers, 26 “saying, ‘Go to this people and say: “Hearing you will hear, and shall not understand; and seeing you will see, and not perceive; 27 For the hearts of this people have grown dull. Their ears are hard of hearing, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, lest they should understand with their hearts and turn, so that I should heal them.” ‘

28 “Therefore let it be known to you that the salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will hear it!”

29 And when he had said these words, the Jews departed and had a great dispute among themselves.

30 Then Paul dwelt two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who came to him, 31 preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence, no one forbidding him.

Review Questions

What did Paul do to those who went to him at his lod

THE CHURCH INVADES

JUDEA

AND

SAMARIA

(ACTS of The CHURCH)

VOLUME 2

THE CHURCH IS PERSECUTED AND CAUSED TO SCATTER

Acts 8:1-3 (NKJ)

2 And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him.

3 As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison.

Review Questions

To whose death was Saul consenting?

Saul was consenting to Stephen’s death.

What happened to the Church after Stephen was killed?

At that time a great persecution arose against the church.

Where was the Church located at the time of Stephen’s death?

The Church was located in Jerusalem.

What happened as a result of the persecution of the Church in Jerusalem?

The church was scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. (verse 1)
Saul made havoc of the church. (verse 3)
Some people were imprisoned. (verse 3)

What caused the Church to move into Judea and Samaria?

The persecution of the Church in Jerusalem caused believers (members of the Church) to scatter into Judea and Samaria.

Did the apostles move their base from Jerusalem?

No. The apostles were NOT among those who had been scattered. (verse 1)

PHILIP GOES TO SAMARIA

Acts 8:4-8 (NKJ)

4 Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word.

5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them.

Review Questions

Who was it that went everywhere preaching the word?

It was those who had been scattered as a result of the great persecution – regular members of the church, ordinary believers – who preached the word.

Was Philip an apostle or one of “those” who were scattered?

Philip was not an apostle; he was one of the seven appointed to look after tables.

If Philip was not an apostle, and had not been imprisoned, then he was more than likely one of those who had been scattered.

What did Philip preach to those who were in the city of Samaria?

Philip preached Christ to them.

In addition to preaching in Samaria, what else did Philip do in the city of Samaria?

Philip did miracles.

Why was there great joy in the city?

There was great joy because unclean spirits came out of many who were possessed and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed.

PHILIP’S ENCOUNTER WITH SIMON THE SORCERER

Acts 8:9-13 (NKJ)

12 But when they believed Philip as he preached the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, both men and women were baptized.

13 Then Simon himself also believed; and when he was baptized he continued with Philip, and was amazed, seeing the miracles and signs which were done.

Review Questions

What had Simon (of Samaria) done to astonish the people of Samaria?

He had previously practiced sorcery in the city.

What he claim to be?

He claimed that he was someone great.

What did the people in the city of Samaria say about Simon?

They said he was the great power of God.

Why did the people give heed to Simon?

They all, from the least to the greatest, gave heed to him because he had astonished them with his sorceries for a long time.

What caused men and women from the city of Samaria to be baptized?

The men and women were baptized when they believed Philip as he preached the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ.

Why was Simon baptized?

Simon was baptized because he also believed.

What did Simon do after he was baptized?

When Simon was baptized he continued with Philip, and was amazed, seeing the miracles and signs which were done.

What was it that amazed Simon?

Simon was amazed when he saw the miracles and signs which were done.

PHILIP’S ENCOUNTER WITH SIMON THE SORCERER

Acts 8:14-25 (NKJ)

17 Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.

20 But Peter said to him, “Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money!

21 “You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God.

22″Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you.

23 “For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.”

24 Then Simon answered and said, “Pray to the Lord for me, that none of the things which you have spoken may come upon me.”

25 So when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, they returned to Jerusalem, preaching the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.

Review Questions

Why did the apostles who were at Jerusalem send Peter and John to Samaiia?

They sent Peter and John to Samaria because they heard that people in Samaria had received the word of God.

What did Peter and John do when they arrived in Samaria?

They prayed for the believers in Samaria that they might receive the Holy Spirit.

Why did Peter and John pray that the believers in Samaria would receive the Holy Spirit?

What had Peter and John done just before the people received the Holy Spirit?

They had laid hands on the people,

Why did Simon offer Peter and John money?

Simon offered the apostles money when he saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given.

What did Simon hope would happen as a result of him offering the apostles money?

He hoped to receive power so that whomever he laid his hands on they would receive the Holy Spirit.

What did Peter understand Simon to be wanting to purchase?

Based on what Peter said, he believed that Simon wanted to purchase the gift of God. (verse 20)

Why did Peter tell Simon to repent?

Peter told Simon to repent because:

Simon’s heart was not right in the sight of God;
the way Simon was thinking was viewed by Peter as wickedness;
Simon was poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.
Peter wanted God to forgive Simon for the thought of his heart.

How did Simon respond to Peter’s exhortation?

Simon asked Peter to pray to the Lord for him, that none of the things which Peter had spoken would come upon him.

Apart from praying for, and laying hands on, the believers in Samaria, what else did Peter and John do before they returned to Jerusalem?

Before they returned to Jerusalem, Peter and John …

testified and preached the word of the Lord;
preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.