Luke - 12 Sessions

Bible Study Class — The Story Begins: A Study in Luke

"learning to praise God with our daily walk alongside Jesus."

Part 1: In Galilee (chapters 1–9)

Session 1: "The Story Begins" - Luke 1:1-2:52

Session 2: "Getting Ready for the Mission" - Luke 3:1-4:13

Session 3: "Good News for Everyone" - Luke 4:14-6:11

Session 4: "Building His Team" - Luke 6:12-8:56

Part 2: On the Journey to Jerusalem (chapters 10–19)

Session 5: "Who Is This Jesus?" - Luke 9:1-50

Session 6: "Neighbors and Outcasts" - Luke 9:51-11:54

Session 7: "Don't Worry, Be Ready" - Luke 12:1-14:35

Session 8: "The Heart of the Father" - Luke 15:1-18:14

Part 3: The Cross and Resurrection (chapters 19–24)

Session 9: "The Final Journey" - Luke 18:15-19:48

Session 10: "Tough Questions, Clear Answers" - Luke 20:1-21:38

Session 11: "The Ultimate Sacrifice" - Luke 22:1-23:56

Session 12: "Death Couldn't Hold Him" - Luke 24:1-53

Luke’s Gospel recounts the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus with warmth and clarity that speaks to every generation. More than history, it is good news—an invitation to see how God’s promises unfold in ways no one expected. Outsiders are welcomed, sinners find grace, and those who thought they had it all figured out are challenged by the mercy of Christ. As John Stott once said, “The Gospel is not good advice, but good news,” and Luke’s narrative drives that truth home.

Book Overview

Luke writes as both a careful historian and a faithful theologian. He reminds us that the coming of Jesus fulfills God’s promises to redeem the world through Israel, bridging Old Testament hope with the arrival of the Savior. Luke begins with confidence: “I myself have carefully investigated everything… so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught” (Luke 1:3–4). From its opening, this Gospel offers assurance that our faith rests on firm ground.

Luke’s Gospel can be seen in three movements:

In Galilee (chapters 1–9): Jesus begins His ministry, teaching, healing, and bringing good news to the poor and overlooked.

On the Journey to Jerusalem (chapters 10–19): Along the road, Jesus reshapes values and tells parables like the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son that redefine mercy and grace.

The Cross and Resurrection (chapters 19–24): At the center of Luke stands the suffering and risen Christ, who offers hope to the world.

Following the Faithful One

No person has ever lived more faithfully than Jesus, yet no person has ever endured more suffering. As Luke directs us to the cross and resurrection, he prepares us to follow Christ through hardship and humiliation, strengthened by faith in the God who exalts the lowly. Paul echoes this in 2 Timothy 2:12: “If we endure, we will also reign with Him.”

Timeless Truth and Application

Luke presents a kingdom turned “upside down” where the last are first and the lost are found. As N.T. Wright notes, “Jesus didn’t come to give easy answers, but to transform both the questions and the questioners.” For us today, Luke challenges believers—young and old—to embody compassion, extend hospitality, and walk with steady hope in the risen Lord.

Why This Book Matters

Luke matters because it introduces us to the Savior who redeems the world and our everyday lives. As Dwight L. Moody said, “The Bible was not given for our information, but for our transformation.” Studying Luke invites us into that transformation—following Jesus through suffering into joy, through death into life, and into His everlasting kingdom.

Session 1: "The Story Begins" - Luke 1:1-2:52

Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: God keeps His promises through Jesus' birth and early life
Purpose Statement: To see how God was faithful to bring the Savior He promised, and how this gives us hope in His faithfulness today

What to Look For

As you read these two chapters, watch for God's perfect timing in keeping promises He made long ago. Notice how ordinary people respond when God breaks into their everyday lives. Pay attention to how Mary and others praise God for His faithfulness.

Personal Reflection Questions

If an angel appeared to you today with news that seemed impossible, what would be your first reaction - excitement, fear, or doubt?

When you were young, what family tradition or story was passed down that helped shape who you became?

Scripture: Luke 1:1-2:52

Overview

In a world that often feels uncertain and unpredictable, Luke opens his Gospel by showing us a God who keeps His word. Just as people today wonder if anyone can be trusted to follow through on their promises, the Jewish people had been waiting centuries for God to send the Messiah He had promised. Luke carefully shows us that God's timing was perfect, even when it didn't look like what people expected. From an elderly priest to a young unmarried woman, God chose ordinary people to play extraordinary roles in His plan.

This May Surprise You

Mary's response to the angel might surprise us. When Gabriel told her she would have a baby, she didn't say "No way!" or "That's impossible!" Instead, she asked a practical question: "How can this happen since I am a virgin?" Once Gabriel explained, she simply said, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true." For a young woman in that culture, pregnancy outside marriage could mean disgrace or even death. Yet Mary trusted God completely. Her faith reminds us that trusting God sometimes means accepting what we don't fully understand.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: God chose unlikely people for important roles (Luke 1:5-25, 26-38) Comment: Zechariah was old and had given up hope for children. Mary was young and unknown. Neither seemed like obvious choices for such important roles in God's story. This shows us that God doesn't choose people based on what the world considers important.

Point 2: God's promises come true, but not always how we expect (Luke 1:39-80) Comment: The Jewish people expected a conquering king, but God sent a baby. Elizabeth and Mary both praised God because they recognized His hand at work, even in unexpected ways. Sometimes God's best answers to our prayers look different than what we imagined.

Point 3: Jesus grew up in an ordinary family (Luke 2:1-52) Comment: Jesus experienced everything we do - family trips, childhood learning, and growing up. The fact that He was fully human while being fully God means He truly understands our daily struggles and joys.

Take-Home Thought

The beginning of Luke's Gospel reminds us that God has been working out His plan of salvation for thousands of years. Nothing catches Him by surprise. When we look at our own lives - the delays, the unexpected turns, the ordinary moments - we can trust that God is still faithful. Just as He kept His promise to send Jesus at exactly the right time, He keeps His promises to us today.

Mary's simple trust shows us what faith looks like in real life. She didn't have all the answers, but she knew God could be trusted. When life brings us news that seems impossible or asks us to step into something unfamiliar, we can follow Mary's example and say, "I am the Lord's servant. I trust You with whatever comes next."

Quotes

Charles Spurgeon: "God is too good to be unkind and He is too wise to be mistaken. And when we cannot trace His hand, we must trust His heart."

Max Lucado: "God's love is not dependent on our goodness, our perfection, or our performance. It's not even dependent on our faith. God's love depends on God."

Biblical Connections

Gabriel's announcement echoes Isaiah 7:14: "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel"

Mary's song (Luke 1:46-55) reflects Hannah's prayer in 1 Samuel 2:1-10

Zechariah's prophecy (Luke 1:68-79) recalls God's covenant promises to Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3) and David (2 Samuel 7:12-16)

Simeon's words about Jesus (Luke 2:29-32) connect to Isaiah 49:6 about being "a light for the Gentiles"

The shepherds' visit echoes how God revealed Himself to humble people throughout the Old Testament, like David who was also a shepherd

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we face situations that seem impossible or wonder if God still cares about our problems, Luke's opening chapters remind us that God specializes in keeping promises that seemed impossible. If He could enable an elderly woman to have a baby and a virgin to conceive the Savior, He can handle whatever challenges we're facing. The same God who worked through Mary's ordinary life is still working in our ordinary days today. We may not see angels, but we can trust the same faithful God who has never broken a promise.

Devotional Thought: "The Waiting Room"

Most of us know what it’s like to sit in a waiting room. Maybe it was waiting for the doctor, or for news about a loved one, or for a child to be born. Waiting rooms are places where time seems to move slowly, and we can grow restless.

The people of Israel had been in God’s “waiting room” for centuries. He had promised a Savior, but generation after generation came and went, and still no Messiah. Some must have wondered if God had forgotten. But then, in a quiet town, to ordinary parents, the promise was fulfilled. Jesus was born.

God’s timing wasn’t late. It was right on time. His promises weren’t empty. They were certain. Just as a long wait in a doctor’s office finally ends with your name being called, the long wait for the Savior ended with the cry of a newborn baby in Bethlehem.

We, too, live with promises we cannot yet see—promises of Christ’s return, of eternal life, of peace and joy with Him forever. It may feel like we’re still in the waiting room. But Luke’s story reminds us: God has never once failed to keep His word.

When we feel like hope is fading, we can look back to that first Christmas and remember: the God who kept His promise then will keep His promises now.

Culture Connection

In our world today, promises are often broken—by leaders, companies, even friends and family. Many people have learned not to expect others to keep their word. Luke’s account of Jesus’ birth reminds us that God is different. He had promised a Savior for centuries, and at just the right time, He kept that promise through the birth of Jesus. This truth speaks into our culture of uncertainty: we can trust God’s word completely, even when the world around us feels unreliable. His faithfulness gives us a steady anchor in a time when trust is in short supply.

Changed Life

When we believe that God truly keeps His promises, it changes how we live. Instead of worrying about the future or feeling hopeless when life is hard, we can rest in the fact that God is working out His plan. For example, if you’re facing health challenges or feeling the loneliness that sometimes comes with getting older, remembering God’s faithfulness can replace fear with peace. It can move us from asking, “Will God come through?” to confidently saying, “God will be faithful, just as He always has been.” That shift in thinking leads to a calmer heart and a more hopeful outlook.

Session 2: "Getting Ready for the Mission" - Luke 3:1-4:13

 Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus prepares for His work through baptism and temptation
Purpose Statement: To understand that even Jesus needed to prepare for His calling, and how we can face our own challenges with God's help

What to Look For

Watch how John the Baptist prepares people's hearts for Jesus by calling them to change their ways. Notice what happens when Jesus is baptized and how God the Father responds. Pay attention to how Jesus handles temptation by using Scripture.

Personal Reflection Questions

When you started a new job or took on a big responsibility, what did you do to prepare yourself for success?

What's the hardest temptation you face - is it something you want to do, something you want to avoid doing, or something you want to control?

Scripture: Luke 3:1-4:13

Overview

In our culture of instant everything, we often want to jump right into action without proper preparation. We see athletes train for years before competing, students study before big exams, and professionals practice before important presentations. Luke shows us that even Jesus took time to prepare before beginning His public ministry. Through baptism, He identified with the people He came to save. Through temptation in the wilderness, He proved He could resist what Adam and Eve could not. This preparation wasn't just for show - it was necessary for the mission ahead.

This May Surprise You

When Jesus was baptized, He wasn't being baptized for the forgiveness of sins like everyone else. He had no sins to forgive! Instead, Jesus was baptized to identify with the people He came to save and to show His commitment to doing what was right. When we see Jesus stepping into those muddy Jordan waters, we're seeing God's Son choosing to stand with sinful humanity rather than staying separated from us. It was His way of saying, "I'm all in with you people, no matter how messy your lives are."

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: John prepared hearts by calling people to real change (Luke 3:1-20) Comment: John didn't just tell people to feel sorry for their sins. He told them to prove their changed hearts by changing their actions - share with the poor, be honest in business, don't abuse power. Real preparation for meeting God always includes treating others better.

Point 2: Jesus' baptism marked the beginning of His public ministry (Luke 3:21-38) Comment: When Jesus was baptized, the Holy Spirit came on Him and God the Father spoke words of approval. Even Jesus needed this public confirmation before starting His work. It reminds us that God wants to equip us for whatever He calls us to do.

Point 3: Jesus faced temptation and won using Scripture (Luke 4:1-13) Comment: Notice that Jesus was "full of the Holy Spirit" when He went into the wilderness, but He still faced real temptation. He didn't use His divine power to resist - He used the same tool available to us: God's Word. Each time Satan tempted Him, Jesus quoted Scripture.

Take-Home Thought

The fact that Jesus took time to prepare for His ministry should encourage us in two ways. First, it shows us that preparation isn't a sign of weakness - it's a sign of wisdom. Even the Son of God didn't rush into His calling without getting ready first. Second, it proves that Jesus really understands what we go through when we face tough times or difficult decisions.

When Jesus was hungry and tired in the wilderness, He faced the same kinds of temptations we do - the desire for immediate satisfaction, the temptation to take shortcuts, and the urge to show off or prove ourselves. But He shows us that we don't have to give in. With God's Word hidden in our hearts and the Holy Spirit's help, we can make it through whatever wilderness experience we're facing.

Quotes

Billy Graham: "Temptation is not sin. It is yielding that is sin. Each temptation is an opportunity to choose God's way instead of our own."

A.W. Tozer: "God never hurries. There are no deadlines against which He must work. Only to know this is to quiet our spirits and relax our nerves."

Biblical Connections

John's baptism connects to Old Testament cleansing rituals described in Leviticus and the ceremonial washings of the priests

Jesus' genealogy (Luke 3:23-38) traces back to Adam, showing He came to save all humanity, not just the Jewish people

Jesus' temptations parallel Israel's testing in the wilderness - both involved 40 days/years of testing and questions about trusting God's provision

Satan's temptations echo the original temptation in Eden (Genesis 3:1-6) - questioning God's word, appealing to physical desires, and promising power

Jesus' responses quote from Deuteronomy 8:3, 6:13, and 6:16 - the same book that talks about Israel's wilderness experience

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we're facing a difficult season or preparing for something challenging, we can remember that Jesus walked this path first. He knows what it's like to be hungry, tired, and tempted to take the easy way out. The same Holy Spirit that strengthened Him is available to strengthen us. The same Scripture that helped Him resist temptation can help us make good choices too. We don't have to face our wilderness experiences alone - we have a Savior who has been there and made it through successfully.

Devotional Thought: "The Training Ground"

Athletes don’t just step onto the field and expect to win. They train. They stretch their muscles, build endurance, and practice for the challenges ahead. Without that preparation, they wouldn’t last long in the game.

In Luke’s Gospel, we see Jesus preparing for His mission. First, He is baptized, setting an example of obedience and surrender to God. Then He is led into the wilderness, where He faces temptation. It wasn’t easy—forty days without food, facing the enemy’s lies—but Jesus stood firm by holding onto God’s Word.

In a way, that wilderness was Jesus’ training ground. Before He preached His first sermon or healed His first sick person, He had to show His dependence on His Father and the strength of God’s Word.

Our lives often bring us into “wilderness times” too. These may not be deserts, but they are seasons of struggle, loneliness, or temptation. It’s there we learn what we’re really leaning on. Like Jesus, we need the strength of God’s Word and the assurance that He is with us.

Preparation isn’t wasted time. It’s the training ground God uses to shape us for what’s ahead.

Culture Connection

Today’s culture often celebrates jumping straight into action—starting a new job, launching a project, or making a big decision—without much preparation. We value speed and results, sometimes more than readiness. Luke’s account of Jesus’ baptism and temptation shows us a different pattern. Even the Son of God took time to prepare before beginning His public ministry. He sought God’s approval, listened to His Father, and faced testing head-on. In a world that prizes quick starts, this reminds us that spiritual preparation is not wasted time—it’s essential for lasting impact.

Changed Life

When we follow Jesus’ example, we learn to slow down and prepare our hearts before stepping into what God has called us to do. That might mean spending more time in prayer before making a big decision, or filling our minds with Scripture so we’re ready when temptation comes. For example, if you’re about to have a hard conversation with a family member, taking time to pray and ask for God’s wisdom can change your tone and your words. Instead of reacting in frustration, you may respond with patience and grace. Preparation with God’s help changes not only what we do, but how we do it.

Session 3: "Good News for Everyone" - Luke 4:14-6:11

 Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus announces His mission and begins healing and teaching
Purpose Statement: To discover that Jesus came with good news for all people, especially those who feel left out or forgotten

What to Look For

Notice how Jesus clearly states His mission in the synagogue and how people react. Watch who Jesus chooses to help and heal - outcasts, foreigners, and people others avoided. Pay attention to how the religious leaders respond when Jesus breaks their rules to help people.

Personal Reflection Questions

When you moved to a new town or started attending a new church, how long did it take before people really accepted you as "one of them"?

Have you ever felt like you didn't belong somewhere because of your age, background, or circumstances? How did that make you feel?

Scripture: Luke 4:14-6:11

Overview

In our world today, many people feel like outsiders looking in. Whether it's because of age, income, education, race, or past mistakes, lots of folks feel like they don't quite fit anywhere. Social media can make this worse by showing us all the groups and parties we weren't invited to join. Jesus faced this same human tendency to create "insiders" and "outsiders." But His response was revolutionary - He purposely reached out to the people everyone else overlooked or rejected. His good news wasn't just for the wealthy, educated, or religiously perfect. It was especially for those who felt forgotten.

This May Surprise You

When Jesus read from Isaiah in His hometown synagogue, He stopped mid-sentence. The passage He was reading actually continues with "and the day of vengeance of our God," but Jesus closed the book after "the year of the Lord's favor." This wasn't an accident. Jesus was announcing that He had come to bring God's grace and mercy, not His judgment. The people in Nazareth expected the Messiah to destroy their enemies, but Jesus came to save everyone - even those enemies. No wonder they got so angry they tried to throw Him off a cliff!

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: Jesus clearly stated His mission was for the overlooked (Luke 4:14-30) Comment: In the synagogue, Jesus said He came for the poor, the prisoners, the blind, and the oppressed. These weren't the people with power or influence. Then He reminded them that God had always cared for foreigners, like the widow in Zarephath and Naaman the Syrian. His own neighbors rejected this inclusive message.

Point 2: Jesus backed up His words with healing power (Luke 4:31-5:26) Comment: Jesus didn't just talk about good news - He demonstrated it. He cast out demons, healed Peter's mother-in-law, cleansed a leper, and healed a paralyzed man. Notice that He touched the untouchable leper and forgave sins before healing the paralytic. He addressed the whole person, not just their immediate problem.

Point 3: Jesus chose unlikely people to follow Him (Luke 5:27-6:11) Comment: Matthew was a tax collector - someone Jews considered a traitor for working with Rome. Jesus called him anyway and even ate at his house with other tax collectors and "sinners." When religious leaders criticized this, Jesus said He came for sick people who know they need a doctor, not for those who think they're already healthy.

Take-Home Thought

The beautiful truth of this passage is that Jesus' good news really is for everyone, but it's especially sweet to those who know they need it most. The people who think they have it all together often miss what Jesus is offering. But those who know they're broken, forgotten, or struggling find hope in His words.

As we get older, it's easy to feel like we've been put on the shelf or that our best days are behind us. Maybe health issues make us feel limited, or family changes leave us feeling lonely. Jesus' ministry reminds us that God never stops seeing us as valuable. The same Savior who touched lepers and called tax collectors still reaches out to us today. No one is too old, too forgotten, or too far gone to receive His good news. In fact, sometimes life's struggles help us appreciate His grace even more than we did when everything seemed easy.

Quotes

Henri Nouwen: "We are precious because we belong to God and God has called us to be with him. We do not have to do anything. We do not have to accomplish anything. We do not even have to feel good about ourselves. All we have to do is believe that we are loved."

Philip Yancey: "Jesus reserved his strongest words not for immoral people but for those who were supremely confident of their own goodness."

Biblical Connections

Jesus' mission statement quotes Isaiah 61:1-2, a passage about the coming Messiah bringing freedom and healing

His reference to Elijah and the widow (1 Kings 17:8-16) and Elisha and Naaman (2 Kings 5:1-14) shows God has always cared for non-Israelites

The cleansing of the leper connects to Levitical laws about uncleanness, but Jesus touches him anyway (Leviticus 13-14)

Jesus calling Matthew echoes how He called other disciples with the simple invitation "Follow me"

The conflicts with Pharisees about Sabbath rules foreshadow the larger conflict that will lead to the cross

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we feel forgotten, overlooked, or like we don't matter anymore, Jesus' ministry reminds us that God's love isn't based on our usefulness or perfection. He sees value in us that others might miss. If we're struggling with illness, loneliness, or feeling like our best years are past, we can trust that Jesus still has good news for us. His mission wasn't just for the young, the healthy, or the successful - it was especially for those who know they need Him most. That includes all of us at different seasons of our lives.

Devotional Thought: "The Open Door"

Have you ever walked up to a building and found the door locked? Maybe it was a store that had closed for the day, or an office that only let certain people inside. Being shut out doesn’t feel good.

When Jesus began His ministry, He made it clear that God’s kingdom wasn’t a locked door. He read from Isaiah: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me… He has sent me to bring Good News to the poor, freedom for the oppressed, sight for the blind.” That was His mission statement. And it was for everyone.

In a world where the sick, the poor, and the outsiders were often pushed to the side, Jesus opened the door wide. He healed. He taught. He welcomed. He made sure those who felt forgotten knew they had a place in God’s plan.

Sometimes we may feel like life has passed us by, or that we don’t matter as much anymore. But the Good News of Jesus says otherwise. His mission is still the same today: to bring hope, healing, and belonging to everyone—especially those who feel left out.

The door is open. And it’s open for you.

Culture Connection

In our culture, it’s easy for people to feel overlooked—whether because of age, health, income, or simply not fitting in with the crowd. Society often celebrates the young, the strong, and the successful, while quietly pushing others to the margins. In Luke’s account, Jesus makes it clear that His mission is for everyone, especially those who feel left out or forgotten. He heals the sick, welcomes the poor, and teaches those who are hungry for hope. This challenges today’s mindset by showing that God’s kingdom values people not for what they can offer, but because they are loved by Him.

Changed Life

When we truly believe that Jesus came for everyone, it changes how we see the people around us—and ourselves. Instead of focusing on differences or feeling like we don’t matter, we begin to see each person as someone God treasures. For example, if you meet someone who seems lonely or out of place, remembering Jesus’ welcome can move you to start a conversation, offer a listening ear, or simply show kindness. It also means we can let go of feelings of being “too old,” “too weak,” or “too unimportant” for God to use. His good news reminds us that we are included, valued, and called to share that same welcome with others.

Session 4: "Building His Team" - Luke 6:12-8:56

 Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus chooses disciples and teaches about living God's way
Purpose Statement: To learn what it means to follow Jesus and treat others with His love and grace

What to Look For

Notice how Jesus prayed all night before choosing His twelve disciples. Watch how His teaching goes against what seems natural - love your enemies, don't judge others, give generously. Pay attention to the different people who respond to Jesus and how He treats each one with compassion.

Personal Reflection Questions

When you had to choose people for an important team or committee, what qualities did you look for in those you selected?

Think of someone who has been kind to you when you really needed it. How did their kindness change how you felt or acted?

Scripture: Luke 6:12-8:56

Overview

Building a good team takes wisdom, whether you're starting a business, organizing a volunteer group, or raising a family. In our competitive world, we often choose team members based on their talents, connections, or what they can do for us. But Jesus took a different approach when building His team. He spent the whole night praying before choosing twelve very ordinary men with different backgrounds and personalities. Then He taught them a new way of living that was completely upside-down from what the world expected. His lessons about loving enemies and not judging others still challenge us today.

This May Surprise You

When Jesus taught about loving our enemies, He wasn't just giving nice advice. He was describing how God treats us. Jesus said, "Love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked." In other words, we should treat difficult people the same way God treats us when we're being difficult. That's a much higher standard than just being nice to people who are nice to us first.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: Jesus chose ordinary people after careful prayer (Luke 6:12-16) Comment: Jesus prayed all night before selecting His disciples. His choices included a tax collector, some fishermen, a political activist, and others with no special training or education. This shows us that God can use anyone who is willing to follow Him, and that prayer should guide our important decisions.

Point 2: Jesus taught a revolutionary way of treating others (Luke 6:17-49) Comment: The Sermon on the Plain turns worldly wisdom upside-down. Instead of "get them before they get you," Jesus taught "turn the other cheek." Instead of "love those who love you," He said "love your enemies." This isn't just good advice - it's how God's children should live because it's how God treats us.

Point 3: Jesus showed compassion to all kinds of people (Luke 7:1-8:56) Comment: Jesus healed a Roman soldier's servant, raised a widow's son, welcomed a sinful woman's worship, and was supported by women followers. He crossed social boundaries to show God's love. His parables taught that God's kingdom grows quietly but surely, like seeds taking root in different kinds of soil.

Take-Home Thought

As we look at Jesus building His team and teaching them how to live, we see a pattern that still works today. He chose people based on their willingness to follow, not their ability to impress. He taught them that following Him means treating others with the same grace and kindness that God shows us. This is especially important as we get older and have seen more of life's disappointments and hurts.

It's tempting to become bitter or judgmental when we've been hurt or seen others make poor choices. But Jesus calls us to something higher. When we love difficult people, forgive those who've wronged us, and show kindness to the ungrateful, we're not being naive - we're being like our heavenly Father. This doesn't mean we let people take advantage of us, but it does mean we choose love over revenge and grace over grudges. That's the kind of team member Jesus is still looking for today.

Quotes

Corrie ten Boom: "Forgiveness is not an emotion; it's an act of the will. We can choose to forgive because we are choosing to obey God."

Rick Warren: "We were made to be God's children, not His critics. Our job is to love others, not judge them."

Biblical Connections

Jesus' choice of twelve disciples mirrors the twelve tribes of Israel, showing He was forming a new people of God

The Sermon on the Plain parallels the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5-7, emphasizing key kingdom principles

Jesus raising the widow's son echoes Elijah raising the widow's son in 1 Kings 17:17-24

The woman who anointed Jesus connects to Psalm 23:5 about God anointing with oil and showing hospitality

The parable of the soils reflects themes from Isaiah 55:10-11 about God's word not returning empty

Jesus calming the storm demonstrates the power described in Psalm 107:23-30 about God controlling wind and waves

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we wonder if God can really use someone like us - with our past mistakes, our limitations, or our ordinary backgrounds - Jesus' choice of disciples gives us hope. He didn't choose perfect people; He chose available people. When relationships get difficult and we're tempted to write people off or hold grudges, Jesus' teaching about loving enemies reminds us that this is how we show we're truly God's children. We can trust that God will give us the strength to love like He loves, even when it doesn't come naturally.

Devotional Thought: "The Invitation"

Think back to a time when someone invited you to join in—maybe a ball team as a child, a church group, or even just a neighbor asking you over for supper. That invitation said, “You matter. We want you with us.”

When Jesus began His ministry, He didn’t work alone. He prayed, then chose a group of ordinary people to walk with Him. Fishermen, a tax collector, men with different tempers and personalities. Not one of them was perfect. Yet Jesus called them to be His disciples, to learn from Him, and to carry His mission forward.

He didn’t stop there—He taught them what it really meant to follow: to love their enemies, forgive others, and put God first. Being on His “team” wasn’t about power or position. It was about living God’s way and showing His grace.

The good news is that Jesus is still inviting people today. He doesn’t look for the most talented or important. He looks for those willing to follow Him. And when we say yes, He teaches us, shapes us, and uses us to share His love with others.

It’s the greatest invitation we’ll ever receive.

Reflection Question:
When you think about Jesus inviting you to be on His “team,” how does that change the way you see yourself—and the way you treat others?

Culture Connection

In today’s world, teams are often built around shared skills, status, or personal gain. People tend to choose companions who can help them get ahead or make life easier. But when Jesus chose His disciples, He didn’t pick the most powerful, wealthy, or well-connected. He chose ordinary people—fishermen, a tax collector, and others with no special standing—because His mission was about the heart, not the résumé. In a culture that often measures worth by achievement or popularity, Jesus’ example reminds us that God values willingness over worldly qualifications, and that His way of living puts love and grace at the center.

Changed Life

When we understand that following Jesus is about living God’s way, it changes how we treat others. Instead of asking, “What can this person do for me?” we begin to ask, “How can I show them God’s love?” For example, if a neighbor is difficult to get along with, remembering Jesus’ teaching can move us to respond with patience instead of irritation. It might mean offering help without expecting anything in return, or choosing kind words when criticism would be easier. Living as His disciple means letting His love shape our actions, even when it’s not convenient.

Session 5: "Who Is This Jesus?" - Luke 9:1-50

 Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: People wonder about Jesus' identity while He teaches about following Him
Purpose Statement: To examine our own understanding of who Jesus is and what it costs to follow Him

What to Look For

Notice the different opinions people have about who Jesus is and how Peter finally gets it right. Watch how Jesus begins to prepare His disciples for His death by talking about suffering and sacrifice. Pay attention to how Jesus teaches that following Him requires giving up our own plans and pride.

Personal Reflection Questions

If someone who had never heard of Jesus asked you to describe Him in one sentence, what would you say?

What's the hardest thing you've ever had to give up for something or someone you loved more?

Scripture: Luke 9:1-50

Overview

In our celebrity culture, we're used to people being famous for being famous. Social media influencers gain millions of followers, but when asked what they actually do, the answer is often unclear. Jesus faced the same question, but in reverse. Everyone could see what He was doing - healing the sick, feeding thousands, teaching with authority. The question was: who is this man really? Some thought He was a prophet, others wondered if He was John the Baptist come back to life. But Jesus wasn't content to let people guess. He wanted His closest followers to understand exactly who He was and what it would cost them to follow Him.

This May Surprise You

When Peter correctly identified Jesus as "God's Messiah," you'd think Jesus would be thrilled and want to spread the news everywhere. Instead, He told the disciples not to tell anyone yet! Why? Because people had wrong ideas about what the Messiah would do. They expected a military king who would kick out the Romans and restore Israel's power. Jesus had to first help His disciples understand that He came to die before He could reign. The path to the crown led through the cross, and that wasn't what anyone expected.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: Jesus gave His disciples power and responsibility (Luke 9:1-17) Comment: Jesus sent out the twelve with authority to heal and preach, but told them to travel light and depend on others' hospitality. When they returned, He fed 5,000 people through their hands. This teaches us that God equips us for the work He calls us to do, but He also expects us to step out in faith and trust Him to provide.

Point 2: Jesus revealed His true identity and mission (Luke 9:18-27) Comment: When Peter declared Jesus was "God's Messiah," Jesus immediately began teaching about suffering, death, and resurrection. Then He told His followers they'd need to "take up their cross daily" and lose their lives to find them. Real discipleship isn't just about getting blessings - it's about sacrifice.

Point 3: Jesus showed His glory but emphasized serving others (Luke 9:28-50) Comment: On the mountain, Jesus was transfigured in brilliant light with Moses and Elijah. But when they came down, He immediately healed a demon-possessed boy and taught about greatness through serving. Even after seeing His glory, the disciples argued about who was greatest. Jesus used a child to teach them that true greatness comes through humility.

Take-Home Thought

The question "Who is this Jesus?" isn't just a historical curiosity - it's the most important question each of us must answer. We might have grown up in church, been baptized, and known Bible stories since childhood, but there comes a time when we must personally declare who Jesus is to us. Is He just a good teacher, a moral example, or something more?

Peter's answer - "God's Messiah" - changed everything. It meant Jesus wasn't just another prophet but God's chosen one, the Savior the world had been waiting for. But recognizing who Jesus is also means accepting what He asks of us. Following Him isn't a part-time hobby or something we do when it's convenient. It means saying "no" to our own plans when they conflict with His will, putting others' needs before our own comfort, and trusting Him even when the path gets difficult. That's costly, but it's also the only way to find the life He promises.

Quotes

Dietrich Bonhoeffer: "When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die. It may be a death like that of the first disciples who had to leave home and work to follow him, or it may be a death like Luther's, who had to leave the monastery and go out into the world. But it is the same death every time - death in Jesus Christ."

C.S. Lewis: "I am trying here to prevent anyone saying the really foolish thing that people often say about Him: 'I'm ready to accept Jesus as a great moral teacher, but I don't accept his claim to be God.' That is the one thing we must not say."

Biblical Connections

Jesus feeding the 5,000 echoes God providing manna in the wilderness (Exodus 16) and Elisha's miracle in 2 Kings 4:42-44

Peter's confession connects to prophecies about the Messiah throughout the Old Testament, especially in Isaiah and the Psalms

Jesus' transfiguration fulfills Moses' promise in Deuteronomy 18:15 about God raising up a prophet like Moses

The appearance of Moses and Elijah represents the Law and the Prophets, both pointing to Jesus

Jesus' teaching about taking up our cross echoes His words in Matthew 10:38 and Mark 8:34

Using a child as an example of greatness connects to His later teaching about becoming like children to enter God's kingdom

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we struggle with doubt about who Jesus really is or whether following Him is worth the sacrifice, we can remember that even His closest disciples went through this process. Peter didn't immediately understand everything, and neither do we. But once we truly grasp that Jesus is God's chosen Savior, we can trust that His way is best even when it's difficult. If He has the power to feed thousands and the authority that made Moses and Elijah appear with Him, He also has the power to help us through whatever challenges we face in following Him.

Devotional Thought: "The Question That Matters Most"

Over the years, people have asked us all kinds of questions—about our work, our family, our health. Some questions are small, and others carry great weight. But there’s one question that rises above all the rest: Who is Jesus?

In Luke 9, crowds were amazed at Jesus. Some thought He was a prophet, others compared Him to John the Baptist. Even His closest followers wrestled with understanding Him. But then Jesus asked them directly: “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Messiah sent from God.”

That question hasn’t gone away. Each of us still has to answer it for ourselves. Is Jesus just a teacher we admire? Or is He the Savior we trust?

And Jesus didn’t hide the cost of following Him. He said it meant denying ourselves, taking up our cross, and walking in His steps. Following Him is not always easy—but it leads to life that cannot be found anywhere else.

At the end of the day, many questions come and go. But the one that matters most is still the same: Who do you say Jesus is?

Reflection Question:
How would you answer Jesus if He asked you today, “Who do you say I am?”

Culture Connection

In our world today, people have many different opinions about who Jesus is—some see Him as a great teacher, others as a moral example, and some don’t think about Him much at all. We live in a time when truth is often treated as personal preference, and faith can be seen as just one option among many. In Luke 9, people were also asking, “Who is this Jesus?” His miracles, teaching, and authority forced them to decide. That same question still matters today. Our culture may try to redefine Him, but the Bible calls us to see Him as He truly is—the Son of God who calls us to follow Him fully.

Changed Life

When we settle in our hearts that Jesus is truly the Son of God, it changes everything. Following Him is no longer just about attending church or agreeing with certain beliefs—it becomes a daily choice to live His way, even when it costs us something. For example, it might mean speaking up for what’s right when it’s unpopular, forgiving someone who hurt you, or giving up time and comfort to serve others. Knowing who Jesus is moves us from curiosity to commitment, and that commitment shapes our actions, priorities, and relationships.

Session 6: "Neighbors and Outcasts" - Luke 9:51-11:54

 Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus teaches about loving others through parables and encounters
Purpose Statement: To understand how God wants us to show love and mercy to everyone, especially those society overlooks

What to Look For

Notice how Jesus redefines what it means to be a neighbor through the Good Samaritan story. Watch how He teaches His disciples to pray and emphasizes persistent faith. Pay attention to how Jesus confronts the religious leaders who focus more on rules than on helping people.

Personal Reflection Questions

When you think of your neighborhood or community, who are the people that others tend to avoid or overlook?

Can you remember a time when someone unexpected showed you kindness when you really needed help?

Scripture: Luke 9:51-11:54

Overview

In our divided world, it's easy to stay in our comfort zones and only associate with people who look like us, think like us, and vote like us. We build invisible walls that separate "us" from "them." Social media algorithms make this worse by showing us content that confirms what we already believe. But Jesus had a radical message about breaking down these barriers. Through stories and personal encounters, He taught that love isn't just a feeling - it's action that crosses all the lines society draws between people.

This May Surprise You

The Good Samaritan story would have shocked Jesus' Jewish audience in ways we might miss today. Samaritans weren't just foreigners - they were considered enemies and half-breeds who had corrupted the true faith. For Jesus to make a Samaritan the hero of the story was like telling Americans during World War II that a German soldier was more godly than a pastor and a church deacon. The lawyer who asked "Who is my neighbor?" was probably hoping Jesus would give him permission to limit his love to people like himself. Instead, Jesus made an enemy the example of what love looks like.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: Jesus faced rejection but kept moving forward (Luke 9:51-62) Comment: When Samaritan villages rejected Jesus, James and John wanted to call down fire from heaven. Jesus rebuked them and simply went to another village. Then He warned potential followers that following Him means having no permanent home and putting Him first, even above family obligations. Real commitment requires sacrifice.

Point 2: Jesus taught about prayer and persistent faith (Luke 10:1-11:13) Comment: Jesus sent out seventy-two disciples and they returned excited about their success. But Jesus reminded them the real joy should be that their names are written in heaven. He taught them to pray simply but persistently, comparing God to a friend who gives bread and a father who gives good gifts to his children.

Point 3: Jesus redefined love through the Good Samaritan parable (Luke 10:25-42) Comment: When asked about eternal life, Jesus pointed to loving God and neighbor. But when pressed to define "neighbor," He told a story where the religious people passed by a beaten man, but a hated Samaritan stopped to help. The neighbor isn't the one who lives next door - it's the one who shows mercy.

Take-Home Thought

The heart of this passage challenges us to examine who we consider worthy of our time, attention, and help. It's natural to be drawn to people who are like us or who can benefit us in some way. But Jesus calls us to a love that's much more costly and uncomfortable. The Good Samaritan didn't just feel sorry for the beaten man - he stopped, gave first aid, took him to safety, and paid for his care.

As we get older, it becomes easier to retreat into smaller circles of people who share our experiences and viewpoints. But Jesus' teaching reminds us that our love should expand, not shrink. The person who needs our help might be someone we naturally avoid - different in race, politics, lifestyle, or social class. They might be the difficult neighbor, the immigrant family, or the person whose past mistakes make others uncomfortable. True discipleship means seeing these people through Jesus' eyes and asking not "Do they deserve my help?" but "How can I show God's love to them?"

Quotes

Martin Luther King Jr.: "Life's most persistent and urgent question is: 'What are you doing for others?'"

Mother Teresa: "If you judge people, you have no time to love them."

Biblical Connections

Jesus sending out the seventy-two echoes Moses appointing seventy elders to help lead Israel (Numbers 11:16-17)

The Good Samaritan story fulfills the command to "love your neighbor as yourself" from Leviticus 19:18

Jesus' teaching about prayer connects to persistent prayer examples like Abraham interceding for Sodom (Genesis 18) and Hannah praying for a child (1 Samuel 1)

Martha and Mary represent the tension between service and worship seen throughout Scripture, like Leah and Rachel or active and contemplative spiritual life

Jesus' conflicts with Pharisees echo Old Testament prophets who criticized empty religious rituals without justice and mercy

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we're tempted to close our hearts to difficult people or those who are different from us, we can remember that God's love for us isn't based on how likeable or deserving we are. The same grace that reached us when we were far from God is available to people we might consider outsiders. When we show unexpected kindness to someone society overlooks, we're not just being nice - we're participating in God's work of healing a broken world. We can trust that God will give us opportunities to be Good Samaritans, and the strength to love even when it's costly.

Devotional Thought: "The Other Side of the Street"

Most of us have had the experience of walking down a street and seeing someone we’d rather not deal with. Maybe it was a stranger asking for help, or even a neighbor we didn’t want to talk to that day. Sometimes it feels easier just to cross to the other side of the street and keep going.

In Luke, Jesus tells the story of a man beaten and left on the road. Two religious men saw him and walked by on the other side. But then came a Samaritan—someone considered an outsider. He stopped, helped, and cared for the man. Jesus used that story to show what real love looks like.

God’s love doesn’t cross to the other side to avoid people. It moves toward the hurting, the lonely, the outcast. That’s what Jesus did again and again—whether it was eating with sinners, healing the sick, or welcoming children.

If we want to follow Him, we are called to do the same. Loving others isn’t always convenient or comfortable, but it is the way of Christ. And when we show mercy, we give people a small glimpse of the heart of God.

Reflection Question:
Who in your life might feel like they’re “on the other side of the street,” and how could you show them Christ’s love this week?

Culture Connection

In our culture, people are often divided into “us” and “them.” We see it in politics, neighborhoods, social circles, and even in churches. Those who are different—because of background, appearance, beliefs, or lifestyle—can be ignored or even looked down on. In Luke’s account, Jesus tells stories like the Good Samaritan and interacts with people others avoided. He shows that love and mercy are not limited to those who look, think, or live like us. In a world quick to draw lines, His example calls us to erase them and see every person as our neighbor.

Changed Life

When we take Jesus’ teaching to heart, it changes how we respond to people we might normally pass by. Instead of avoiding someone who seems difficult, different, or in need, we begin to look for ways to help. For example, if you notice someone sitting alone at church or in your community, you might choose to greet them, listen to their story, or offer practical help. Loving our “neighbors” in this way often means stepping out of our comfort zones, but it reflects the heart of God and opens the door for His love to be seen in everyday life.

Session 7: "Don't Worry, Be Ready" - Luke 12:1-14:35

 Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus teaches about trusting God and being prepared for His return
Purpose Statement: To find peace in trusting God with our concerns while staying faithful to His calling

What to Look For

Notice how Jesus contrasts worry about earthly things with trust in God's provision. Watch how He balances the comfort of God's care with the urgency of being ready for His return. Pay attention to His warnings about the danger of living only for this life while ignoring eternal priorities.

Personal Reflection Questions

What keeps you awake at night worrying - health concerns, family problems, financial security, or world events?

If you knew Jesus was coming back next week, what would you want to make sure you had done or said?

Scripture: Luke 12:1-14:35

Overview

We live in an age of anxiety. News alerts ping our phones with fresh disasters, medical websites let us diagnose ourselves with rare diseases, and financial experts warn about economic collapse. For older adults, worry can be especially heavy - concerns about health, family, finances, and whether we'll be a burden to others. Jesus understood this human tendency to worry, but He offered a different way of thinking. He taught that we can live with peace about our daily needs while staying alert and ready for His return. It's a balance between trusting God today and being prepared for eternity.

This May Surprise You

When Jesus told the parable of the rich fool who built bigger barns, He wasn't condemning wealth or planning for the future. The man's sin wasn't having money - it was living as if this life was all there is. He said "I" twelve times in his planning speech and never once mentioned God or others. Jesus called him a fool because he was "rich toward himself but not rich toward God." The problem wasn't his prosperity but his priorities. He forgot that everything we have is on loan from God and should be used for His purposes.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: God knows our needs, so we don't need to worry (Luke 12:1-34) Comment: Jesus taught that God feeds the birds and clothes the flowers, so surely He'll take care of His children. Our heavenly Father knows what we need before we ask. Instead of worrying about food and clothes, we should seek God's kingdom first. When we do, He promises to provide what we need - not necessarily what we want, but what we need.

Point 2: We should be ready for Jesus' return at any time (Luke 12:35-59) Comment: Jesus used several pictures to teach about readiness - servants waiting for their master's return, a homeowner watching for thieves, and people reading weather signs. We don't know when He's coming back, but we should live as if it could be today. This means staying faithful in our daily responsibilities and keeping our priorities straight.

Point 3: Following Jesus requires careful consideration and commitment (Luke 13:1-14:35) Comment: Jesus warned that following Him isn't always easy or popular. He used examples of builders counting costs and kings preparing for war to show that discipleship requires thoughtful commitment. The narrow door to salvation means not everyone will enter, and being His disciple means loving Him more than family, carrying our cross, and giving up everything.

Take-Home Thought

The challenge of this passage is finding the right balance between trust and readiness. On one hand, Jesus tells us not to worry because God will take care of us. On the other hand, He warns us to be ready because we don't know when our time will come. This isn't contradictory - it's wisdom for living well in an uncertain world.

As we've gotten older, many of us have learned that worry rarely changes our circumstances but always steals our peace. The things we worried about in our twenties seem small now, and the current things we worry about will probably seem small twenty years from now. Jesus invites us to trust that the same God who has carried us through decades of life will continue to provide what we need. At the same time, knowing that our time on earth is limited should motivate us to live with purpose and urgency about the things that truly matter - our relationship with God and others.

Quotes

Corrie ten Boom: "Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength."

Charles Spurgeon: "Anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its troubles, but only empties today of its strength."

Biblical Connections

Jesus' teaching about God's provision echoes the manna in the wilderness (Exodus 16) and God's care for Elijah (1 Kings 17:2-6)

The parable of the rich fool connects to Ecclesiastes and its warnings about the emptiness of living only for earthly gain

Being ready for the master's return relates to the parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25 and the theme of watchfulness throughout Scripture

Jesus' teaching about counting the cost connects to Old Testament wisdom literature about planning and considering consequences (Proverbs)

The narrow door teaching fulfills Jesus' words in Matthew 7:13-14 about the narrow way to life

References to division in families echo Micah 7:6 and Jesus' earlier teaching about the cost of discipleship

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we're overwhelmed by worries about things we can't control - our health, our family's future, world events - we can remember that the same God who notices when a sparrow falls is intimately aware of our concerns. He's proven His faithfulness through decades of our lives and countless generations before us. Instead of spending our energy on worry, we can invest it in the things that will matter for eternity - loving God, serving others, and being ready to meet Him whenever He calls us home. This isn't denial of real problems but a choice to trust the God who is bigger than all our problems.

Devotional Thought: "Packed and Ready"

If you’ve ever prepared for a trip, you know the feeling of checking your suitcase one more time. Do I have my toothbrush? My medicine? My ticket? Being ready gives peace of mind—you can walk out the door without fear of forgetting something important.

Jesus told His followers not to live weighed down with worry about food, clothes, or tomorrow’s troubles. God cares for the birds of the air and the flowers of the field—how much more will He care for us? Instead of worrying, Jesus said, be ready. Ready for His return. Ready to live faithfully. Ready to put God’s kingdom first.

Worry drains our energy, but readiness builds our hope. It doesn’t mean having every detail figured out—it means trusting that God is in control, and choosing to live today as if His promises are true.

When our hearts are “packed and ready,” we don’t have to be anxious about tomorrow. We can rest in God’s care and look forward to His coming with peace.

Reflection Question:
What is one worry you need to hand over to God today so you can live more ready and less anxious?

Culture Connection

We live in a time when worry seems constant—about health, finances, safety, and the future. News headlines and social media often feed our fears, making it easy to feel unsettled. In Luke’s account, Jesus speaks directly to this human tendency. He reminds us that God knows our needs and calls us to trust Him instead of being consumed by anxiety. At the same time, He urges us to stay ready for His return, living each day with purpose. In a culture that often focuses on short-term concerns, His words lift our eyes to the bigger picture—God’s care for us now and His promise for the future.

Changed Life

When we take Jesus’ teaching to heart, it changes both our mindset and our daily habits. Trusting God with our worries frees us from the constant pressure to control everything. For example, instead of lying awake at night replaying “what if” scenarios, we can pray and release those concerns to Him, knowing He is faithful. Staying ready for His return also shapes our choices—prompting us to live with integrity, to forgive quickly, and to invest our time in what matters most. This shift from fear to faith brings peace in the present and hope for what’s ahead.

Session 8: "The Heart of the Father" - Luke 15:1-18:14

 Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: God's love for the lost shown through parables and teachings about money
Purpose Statement: To experience God's joy over every person who turns to Him and learn about using our resources wisely

What to Look For

Notice how Jesus tells three parables about things that were lost and found to defend His ministry to outcasts. Watch how He teaches about money and possessions through challenging stories. Pay attention to the contrast between the humble tax collector and the proud Pharisee in prayer.

Personal Reflection Questions

What's the most precious thing you've ever lost and found again? How did it feel when you found it?

If someone looked at how you spend your money and time, what would they say you value most?

Scripture: Luke 15:1-18:14

Overview

Every parent knows the panic of losing a child in a crowded store and the overwhelming relief of finding them safe. Every person has experienced the frustration of losing something important and the joy of discovering it again. Jesus used these universal experiences to teach about God's heart for people who are spiritually lost. But some religious people criticized Him for spending time with "sinners" instead of respectable folks. So Jesus told stories that revealed something beautiful about God's character - He doesn't just tolerate the lost, He actively seeks them and celebrates when they're found.

This May Surprise You

In the parable of the prodigal son, the most shocking character isn't the rebellious younger son or even the resentful older brother - it's the father. In that culture, fathers were dignified figures who commanded respect. They didn't run down roads, hike up their robes, and embrace wayward children in public. But that's exactly what this father did. When he saw his son "while he was still a long way off," he ran to him. This wasn't just forgiveness - it was eager, embarrassing, undignified love. Jesus was showing that this is how God feels about us when we come home to Him.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: God actively seeks the lost and celebrates their return (Luke 15:1-32) Comment: The shepherd searches for one lost sheep, the woman hunts for one lost coin, and the father watches for his lost son. In each story, finding what was lost brings great joy and celebration. Jesus told these parables because religious leaders criticized Him for eating with tax collectors and sinners. He wanted them to understand that seeking the lost is exactly what God does.

Point 2: Wealth can be a tool for good or a dangerous trap (Luke 16:1-31) Comment: The dishonest manager used money cleverly to secure his future, and Jesus said we should be just as smart about using earthly wealth for eternal purposes. The rich man ignored poor Lazarus and ended up in torment, while Lazarus was comforted in Abraham's side. Money itself isn't evil, but how we use it reveals our heart.

Point 3: True humility opens the door to God's grace (Luke 17:1-18:14) Comment: Jesus taught about forgiveness, faith, gratitude, and prayer through various encounters and parables. The tax collector who beat his chest and begged for mercy went home justified, while the Pharisee who listed his good deeds was not. God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.

Take-Home Thought

These chapters reveal the heart of God in ways that should both comfort and challenge us. The comfort comes from knowing that no matter how far we've wandered or how badly we've messed up, God is like the father in the parable - watching for our return and ready to run toward us with open arms. His joy over one person who repents is greater than our joy over anything we've ever found.

The challenge comes from examining our own hearts. Do we share God's joy when someone we've written off turns their life around? Or are we more like the older brother, resentful that God shows mercy to people we think don't deserve it? As we've lived longer and seen more, it's easy to become cynical about people changing. But God never gives up hope. He also challenges us to examine how we use our money and possessions. Are we using them to build God's kingdom and help others, or just to make our own lives more comfortable? The rich man's tragedy wasn't his wealth but his blindness to the needs around him.

Quotes

Timothy Keller: "We are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than we ever dared believe, yet at the very same time we are more loved and accepted in Jesus Christ than we ever dared hope."

Henri Nouwen: "The father's love was not dependent on anything the son had done. It was a love freely offered, without conditions or requirements."

Biblical Connections

The parable of the lost sheep connects to Ezekiel 34:11-16, where God promises to search for His scattered sheep

The prodigal son story echoes the theme of Israel's unfaithfulness and God's persistent love throughout Hosea and other prophets

The rich man and Lazarus reflects teachings about caring for the poor found throughout the Law and Prophets (Deuteronomy 15:7-11, Isaiah 58:6-7)

Jesus' teaching about forgiveness connects to His instruction to pray "forgive us our debts" in the Lord's Prayer

The humble tax collector's prayer echoes David's repentance in Psalm 51 and God's response to the humble throughout Scripture

References to Abraham's bosom connect to Jewish beliefs about the afterlife and comfort for the righteous

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we feel like we've made too many mistakes for God to love us, or when we're disappointed by family members who seem far from God, these parables remind us that God's heart is bigger than our failures and His patience longer than our timeline. He's still seeking the lost and celebrating every person who comes home to Him. When we're tempted to judge others or become bitter about how they've hurt us, we can remember that we too needed God's grace. And when we wonder how to use the resources and time we have left, we can ask how they might serve God's kingdom and help the people He loves.

Devotional Thought: "The Porch Light"

Have you ever left the porch light on for someone coming home late? That light says, “I’m waiting for you. I want you home safe.” It’s a small act of love, but it carries a big message.

In Luke 15, Jesus tells stories about things lost and found—a sheep, a coin, a son. Each one shows us the heart of God: He doesn’t give up on the lost. He searches, He waits, He welcomes. And when the lost are found, heaven rejoices.

God’s love is not cold or distant. It’s like a father running down the road to embrace his child. It’s like a shepherd lifting a sheep onto his shoulders. It’s like a woman sweeping her whole house to find one coin. His heart is full of joy when even one person turns back to Him.

And Jesus also reminds us that how we use what God gives us—our money, our time, our opportunities—should reflect that same heart. Everything we have is a chance to point people to the Father who waits with the porch light on.

Reflection Question:
When you think about God’s heart for the lost, how does it shape the way you see the people around you—and the way you use what God has given you?

Culture Connection

In our culture, people are often valued for what they can produce, earn, or contribute. Those who have made mistakes, lost their way, or seem to have little to offer can be pushed aside or forgotten. In Luke’s parables—like the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son—Jesus paints a very different picture of God’s heart. He shows us a Father who searches, welcomes, and celebrates when the lost are found. This challenges the way our world measures worth and reminds us that God’s love is not based on performance, but on relationship. His joy over one person turning back to Him is greater than anything our culture can offer.

Changed Life

When we understand God’s heart for the lost, it changes how we see people and how we use what we have. Instead of holding tightly to our time, money, or energy, we begin to see them as tools to help others find their way to Him. For example, we might choose to spend time with someone who feels forgotten, give generously to meet a need, or forgive someone who has hurt us. Knowing that God rejoices over every person who turns to Him moves us to share His love freely and to invest our resources in ways that reflect His priorities.

Session 9: "The Final Journey" - Luke 18:15-19:48

 Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus heads to Jerusalem with purpose while continuing to teach and heal
Purpose Statement: To see Jesus' determination to complete His mission and how this encourages us in our own difficult times

What to Look For

Notice how Jesus welcomes children while teaching about faith and wealth. Watch His determination as He heads toward Jerusalem despite knowing what awaits Him there. Pay attention to how He continues serving others even when focused on His approaching sacrifice.

Personal Reflection Questions

Think of a time when you had to do something difficult that you knew was right. What helped you follow through when you wanted to quit?

When you look back on your life, what relationships or moments brought you the most joy - the big achievements or the simple, everyday connections?

Scripture: Luke 18:15-19:48

Overview

There's something powerful about watching someone finish strong. Whether it's an athlete pushing through pain to complete a marathon or a caregiver staying faithful through a loved one's long illness, we're inspired by people who don't quit when things get tough. As Jesus made His final journey to Jerusalem, He knew exactly what was waiting for Him - betrayal, suffering, and death. Yet He kept moving forward with purpose, continuing to teach, heal, and love people along the way. His determination shows us what it looks like to stay faithful to God's calling even when the path leads through pain.

This May Surprise You

When the rich young ruler walked away sad because he couldn't give up his wealth, Jesus didn't chase after him or lower the standard to make it easier. Instead, He let him go. This surprises us because we expect Jesus to do whatever it takes to "close the deal." But Jesus understood that some people aren't ready to pay the price of discipleship, and He won't force anyone to follow Him. Real faith can't be talked into or pressured into existence. The young man had to choose between his money and eternal life, and he chose money. Jesus honored his freedom to make that choice, even though it broke His heart.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: Jesus welcomes the humble and challenges the proud (Luke 18:15-34) Comment: When disciples tried to keep children away, Jesus welcomed them as examples of how to receive God's kingdom. The rich young ruler couldn't give up his wealth, showing how possessions can possess us. The blind beggar persistently called out for mercy and received his sight. Jesus then predicted His death and resurrection, but the disciples didn't understand.

Point 2: Jesus transforms lives through unexpected encounters (Luke 19:1-27) Comment: Zacchaeus, a wealthy tax collector, climbed a tree just to see Jesus. That encounter changed his heart and his checkbook - he gave half his possessions to the poor and repaid anyone he'd cheated four times over. Then Jesus told a parable about servants using their master's money wisely while he was away, teaching about faithfulness with what God gives us.

Point 3: Jesus enters Jerusalem as King but weeps over the city (Luke 19:28-48) Comment: The crowds welcomed Jesus with palm branches and shouts of "Blessed is the king!" But Jesus wept because He knew they didn't understand what kind of king He was or what would happen to their city. He cleansed the temple because it had become a place of business instead of prayer.

Take-Home Thought

Jesus' final journey to Jerusalem teaches us about finishing well. He knew the cost of His mission, but He didn't let that knowledge paralyze Him or make Him bitter. Instead, He stayed focused on His Father's will and continued loving people along the way. He welcomed children, challenged the rich, healed the blind, transformed a tax collector, and cleansed the temple. Even facing the cross, He kept serving others.

This example speaks powerfully to those of us in the later seasons of life. We may face our own difficult journeys - health challenges, family problems, financial concerns, or the reality that our time is limited. Jesus shows us that we don't have to let these struggles make us self-absorbed or hopeless. We can keep moving forward with purpose, continuing to love and serve others while trusting God with the outcome. The same determination that carried Jesus to the cross can carry us through whatever difficult path lies ahead. We may not be able to control our circumstances, but we can choose how we respond to them.

Quotes

John Stott: "We must allow the Word of God to confront us, to disturb our security, to undermine our complacency and to overthrow our patterns of thought and behavior."

Elisabeth Elliot: "The will of God is always a bigger thing than we bargain for, but we must believe that whatever is His will is our welfare, ultimately, at the end of the way."

Biblical Connections

Jesus blessing the children fulfills His earlier teaching about becoming like children to enter God's kingdom (Matthew 18:3)

The rich young ruler's question about eternal life connects to the lawyer's question in Luke 10:25 and the theme of what's required for salvation

Zacchaeus's transformation echoes Old Testament laws about restitution for theft (Exodus 22:1, Leviticus 6:5)

The parable of the ten minas parallels the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30 about faithful stewardship

Jesus' triumphal entry fulfills Zechariah 9:9 about the king coming "gentle and riding on a donkey"

Jesus cleansing the temple echoes the prophecy in Malachi 3:1 about the Lord suddenly coming to His temple

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we face difficult seasons that test our faith and endurance, we can look to Jesus' example of staying faithful to God's purpose even when the path is hard. He didn't avoid suffering but walked through it with grace, continuing to serve others along the way. If we're dealing with illness, loss, or other challenges, we can trust that God will give us the strength to keep moving forward with purpose. Our struggles don't disqualify us from serving God - they can actually deepen our compassion for others who are hurting. Like Jesus, we can finish strong by staying focused on what truly matters.

Devotional Thought: "Eyes on the Goal"

Have you ever watched a runner in a long race? At the beginning, there’s energy and excitement. But as the miles go by, the real test comes—legs grow heavy, the finish line feels far away, and it takes determination to keep going.

As Jesus made His way to Jerusalem, He knew what was waiting for Him. The cross was not a surprise; it was the reason He had come. Still, He didn’t turn aside. Along the way, He kept teaching, healing, and reaching out to people in need. His eyes were fixed on the goal—completing the mission the Father had given Him.

That determination gives us courage. Life brings seasons where the road feels long, and quitting would be easier. But we are not walking without purpose. Jesus shows us how to keep going: trust the Father, keep loving others, and remember the finish line is worth it.

If He could press on to the cross for us, then by His strength, we can press on through our own trials for Him.

Reflection Question:
What helps you keep your eyes on the goal when life feels heavy or difficult?

Culture Connection I

n our world, it’s common to see people give up when the road gets hard. Whether it’s a project, a relationship, or a personal goal, many lose heart when challenges pile up. In Luke’s account, Jesus is heading toward Jerusalem knowing full well the suffering that awaits Him. Yet He keeps teaching, healing, and showing compassion along the way. His determination stands in sharp contrast to a culture that often chooses the easiest path. It reminds us that real purpose isn’t about comfort—it’s about staying faithful to what God has called us to do, even when it’s costly.

Changed Life

When we take Jesus’ example to heart, it changes how we face our own difficult seasons. Instead of letting hardship stop us, we can keep moving forward with God’s help. For example, if you’re caring for a loved one, dealing with health struggles, or walking through a season of loss, remembering Jesus’ steady focus can give you strength to keep going. It shifts our mindset from “I can’t do this” to “God will help me take the next step.” That kind of perseverance not only carries us through, it also shows others the hope and courage that come from trusting Him.

Session 10: "Tough Questions, Clear Answers" - Luke 20:1-21:38

 Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus faces opposition in Jerusalem while teaching about the future
Purpose Statement: To learn how to stand firm in our faith when others challenge what we believe

What to Look For

Notice how religious leaders try to trap Jesus with tricky questions about His authority, taxes, and theology. Watch how Jesus answers their questions with wisdom that exposes their motives. Pay attention to His warnings about difficult times ahead and how His followers should respond.

Personal Reflection Questions

Has anyone ever tried to make you look foolish because of your faith? How did you handle it?

When you see troubling things happening in the world, do you feel more worried or more hopeful about the future?

Scripture: Luke 20:1-21:38

Overview

We live in a time when people love to challenge and debate everything, especially religious beliefs. Social media has made everyone an expert, and it's easy to get into arguments about faith, politics, and values. Some people ask sincere questions because they really want to understand, but others ask questions just to make believers look foolish or outdated. Jesus faced the same thing during His final week in Jerusalem. Religious leaders came at Him with trick questions, trying to trap Him into saying something they could use against Him. But Jesus showed us how to respond with both wisdom and grace when people challenge what we believe.

This May Surprise You

When the Pharisees and Herodians asked Jesus about paying taxes to Caesar, they thought they had Him cornered. If He said "yes," the people would see Him as a Roman collaborator. If He said "no," the Romans would arrest Him for rebellion. But Jesus asked for a coin and said, "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's." This wasn't just a clever escape - it was a profound principle. We have earthly responsibilities (like paying taxes and obeying laws), but we also have higher loyalty to God. When these conflict, God comes first, but most of the time they don't have to conflict at all.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: Jesus answered challenges with wisdom and authority (Luke 20:1-19) Comment: When religious leaders questioned His authority, Jesus asked them about John the Baptist's authority. They couldn't answer without getting in trouble, so Jesus didn't answer their question either. Then He told a parable about wicked tenants who killed the landowner's son, clearly referring to what they were planning to do to Him.

Point 2: Jesus handled trick questions by revealing deeper truths (Luke 20:20-44) Comment: Spies tried to trap Jesus with questions about taxes and resurrection. He showed that we can be good citizens while serving God, and that God's power extends beyond this life. Then Jesus asked His own question about how the Messiah could be both David's son and David's Lord, pointing to His divine nature.

Point 3: Jesus warned about false teachers and coming troubles (Luke 20:45-21:38) Comment: Jesus criticized religious leaders who loved attention but neglected widows. He praised a poor widow who gave her last coins to God. Then He warned that the temple would be destroyed and spoke about persecution, wars, and signs before His return, encouraging His followers to stand firm and not be afraid.

Take-Home Thought

The challenges Jesus faced in Jerusalem remind us that standing firm in our faith doesn't mean being argumentative or defensive. Jesus responded to hostile questions with wisdom, often turning the questions back on the questioners to expose their real motives. He didn't feel obligated to answer every trap or debate every skeptic. Sometimes the wisest response is a question of our own or simply walking away.

As we face a world that increasingly challenges Christian values and beliefs, we can follow Jesus' example. We don't need to win every argument or convince every skeptic. Our goal isn't to be right but to be faithful. When people ask sincere questions, we can answer with gentleness and respect. When they're just trying to make us look foolish, we can respond with the same wisdom Jesus showed - not taking the bait but staying focused on what really matters. The truth doesn't need our defense as much as it needs our demonstration through how we live.

Quotes

Francis Schaeffer: "We must never separate what we believe from how we act. Truth demands a response, and the response is always a life lived in accordance with that truth."

Josh McDowell: "I have found that most people are not looking for a reasonable argument for the faith. They are looking for a reasonable person who has faith."

Biblical Connections

The parable of the wicked tenants connects to Isaiah's song of the vineyard (Isaiah 5:1-7) and other Old Testament images of Israel as God's vineyard

Jesus' question about David's son echoes Psalm 110:1, a key messianic passage about the Lord sitting at God's right hand

The widow's offering parallels Elijah and the widow of Zarephath (1 Kings 17:8-16), showing God's blessing on sacrificial giving

Jesus' prophecy about the temple's destruction recalls Old Testament warnings about judgment on unfaithful Israel

His teaching about the end times connects to Daniel's prophecies and other apocalyptic literature about God's final victory

The call to endure persecution echoes throughout Scripture from the Psalms to Paul's letters about suffering for righteousness

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we're challenged or criticized for our faith, we can remember that Jesus faced the same opposition and handled it with grace and wisdom. We don't have to be afraid of difficult questions or feel like we need to have all the answers immediately. God will give us wisdom when we need it, just as He did for Jesus. When the world seems to be falling apart around us, we can trust that God is still in control and that His kingdom will ultimately triumph. Our job isn't to defend God but to trust Him and live faithfully, knowing that He sees everything and will set all things right in His time.

Devotional Thought: "Standing Firm"

Most of us have had moments when someone questioned what we believed. It might not have been hostile—maybe just a skeptical friend or a family member who didn’t understand. Those moments can feel uncomfortable, and it’s tempting to stay quiet.

In Jerusalem, Jesus faced constant questions. Religious leaders tried to trap Him with clever arguments, but His answers cut through their tricks. He spoke truth with wisdom and authority. And when He taught about the future—about trials, persecutions, and His return—He told His followers, “Stand firm, and you will win life.”

Our faith may be challenged in different ways, but the call is the same: stand firm. Not with anger or pride, but with the quiet confidence that God’s Word is true and His promises will not fail.

When the questions come, we don’t stand alone. The same Spirit who gave Jesus wisdom is with us. And that gives us courage to hold steady, even when others push back.

Reflection Question:
When your faith is questioned, what helps you respond with both courage and grace?

Culture Connection

We live in a time when faith is often questioned—sometimes politely, sometimes with hostility. In conversations, on the news, and even within families, people challenge what Christians believe about truth, morality, and the future. In Luke’s account, Jesus faced direct opposition from religious leaders who tried to trap Him with difficult questions. Instead of avoiding the conflict or responding in anger, He answered with wisdom, clarity, and confidence in God’s truth. In a culture where debates can quickly turn into arguments, His example shows us how to respond with both conviction and grace.

Changed Life

When we learn to stand firm in our faith like Jesus did, it changes how we handle challenges to what we believe. Instead of feeling defensive or afraid, we can respond calmly, knowing that God’s truth doesn’t need to be forced—it simply needs to be shared with love and clarity. For example, if a friend questions why you trust the Bible, you might take the opportunity to share how God’s Word has guided and comforted you, rather than trying to “win” the argument. This approach not only strengthens our own faith, it also opens the door for others to see Christ through our words and actions.

Session 11: "The Ultimate Sacrifice" - Luke 22:1-23:56

 Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus' last supper, arrest, trial, and crucifixion
Purpose Statement: To understand the depth of God's love shown through Jesus' willing sacrifice for our sins

What to Look For

Notice how Jesus prepares His disciples for His death through the Last Supper and His prayer in the garden. Watch how He faces betrayal, abandonment, and injustice with grace and forgiveness. Pay attention to the different responses people have to Jesus during His final hours - from denial to faith.

Personal Reflection Questions

When you've faced your most difficult moments, what helped you get through them - prayer, family, friends, or something else?

Have you ever forgiven someone who really hurt you? What made that possible, and how did it change you?

Scripture: Luke 22:1-23:56

Overview

Some moments in history change everything. We remember exactly where we were when we heard about Pearl Harbor, President Kennedy's assassination, or September 11th. The crucifixion of Jesus was that kind of moment - not just for the people who witnessed it, but for all of human history. What looked like a terrible defeat was actually God's greatest victory. What appeared to be the end of hope was really the beginning of salvation for anyone who would believe. As we walk through these dark hours with Jesus, we see love in its purest form - willing to suffer and die for others.

This May Surprise You

When Jesus was arrested in the garden, Peter drew his sword and cut off the ear of the high priest's servant. Jesus immediately healed the man's ear - His last recorded miracle before the cross. Think about that: in the moment when Jesus was being betrayed and arrested, when His own safety was at stake, He still had compassion on His enemies. He could have called down legions of angels to rescue Him, but instead He chose to heal the very people who were taking Him to His death. This shows us the heart of Jesus - even facing the cross, He was more concerned about others than Himself.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: Jesus prepared His disciples and faced His fear with prayer (Luke 22:1-46) Comment: At the Last Supper, Jesus established communion and warned Peter about his coming denial. In the garden, He prayed so intensely that His sweat became like drops of blood. Even though He was afraid, He submitted to His Father's will. His disciples, meanwhile, fell asleep when He needed them most. Sometimes even our closest friends can't help us in our darkest hours.

Point 2: Jesus faced injustice with dignity and grace (Luke 22:47-23:25) Comment: Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss. Peter denied knowing Him three times. The religious leaders accused Jesus of crimes He didn't commit. Pilate knew Jesus was innocent but gave in to political pressure. Herod mocked Him. Through it all, Jesus remained calm and truthful, never fighting back or calling down judgment on His enemies.

Point 3: Jesus died as He lived - loving and forgiving others (Luke 23:26-56) Comment: On the way to the cross, Jesus comforted the women who wept for Him. While being crucified, He asked God to forgive His executioners and promised paradise to the repentant thief. Even in agony, He was more concerned about others than His own suffering. When He died, the centurion declared Him innocent, and people went home beating their chests in grief.

Take-Home Thought

The crucifixion shows us both the worst of humanity and the best of God. Human beings at their worst betrayed, denied, accused, mocked, and murdered the Son of God. But God at His best used even this evil for good, turning the cross into the means of salvation for anyone who believes. Jesus could have stopped it at any moment, but He chose to endure it for us.

This changes everything about how we understand love, forgiveness, and sacrifice. When we're hurt by others, we can remember that Jesus was hurt far worse but still forgave. When we face our own suffering, we can know that Jesus understands because He's been there. When we wonder if God really loves us, we can look at the cross and see love that was willing to die for us even when we were His enemies. The ultimate sacrifice wasn't just about paying for sin - it was about showing us how much we mean to God.

Quotes

Max Lucado: "The cross is the place where God's justice and mercy meet. Where love and wrath collide. Where divine grace and human rebellion are reconciled."

John Stott: "We must never separate what God has joined, namely his love and his holiness. It is precisely because God is holy that his wrath rests upon all ungodliness and unrighteousness; and it is precisely because God is love that he himself has borne his own wrath in the person of his Son."

Biblical Connections

The Last Supper connects to the Passover meal described in Exodus 12, with Jesus as the ultimate Passover lamb

Judas's betrayal for thirty pieces of silver fulfills Zechariah 11:12-13 about the price of the shepherd

Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane echoes His teaching about praying "Your will be done" in the Lord's Prayer

Peter's denial fulfills Jesus' earlier prediction and connects to the rooster crowing as a sign

The crucifixion fulfills numerous Old Testament prophecies, including Psalm 22 about being forsaken and Isaiah 53 about the suffering servant

Jesus' words "Into your hands I commit my spirit" quote Psalm 31:5, showing His trust in the Father even in death

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we face betrayal, abandonment, or injustice, we can remember that Jesus experienced all of these things and more. He understands our pain because He's felt it Himself. When we struggle to forgive people who have hurt us, we can look at Jesus forgiving His killers and ask for the same grace. When we wonder if our suffering has any purpose, we can remember that God used even the crucifixion - the worst thing that ever happened - for the greatest good. If He can bring salvation out of such evil, He can bring good out of whatever we're facing too.

Devotional Thought: "The Gift We Didn’t Deserve"

Have you ever received a gift that took your breath away? Not because it was expensive, but because it showed love—someone thinking of you, choosing you, giving something of themselves.

That’s what Jesus’ sacrifice was. He knew the suffering, the betrayal, and the pain He would face, yet He went willingly. The cross wasn’t an accident or a tragedy that caught God by surprise—it was the plan to save us. Every lash, every insult, every moment of darkness was part of a love that refused to turn away from us, even when we didn’t deserve it.

We cannot earn this gift. We cannot repay it. We can only receive it with gratitude and let it change how we live. Jesus’ death shows us the depth of God’s love—love so vast, so personal, that it carries our sins, our failures, and our shame.

The cross reminds us: nothing can separate us from God’s love, not even death.

Reflection Question:
How does remembering Jesus’ willing sacrifice change the way you live or relate to others?

Culture Connection

In our world, love is often measured by feelings, convenience, or personal benefit. Many relationships end when they become too costly or difficult. Luke’s account of Jesus’ final hours shows a love that is completely different—a love that gives everything, even life itself, for the good of others. In a culture where self-preservation is often the highest value, the cross stands as a powerful reminder that real love is sacrificial. Jesus’ willing choice to endure betrayal, injustice, and suffering for our sake challenges the way we think about love and what it truly means to care for others.

Changed Life

When we grasp the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice, it changes how we live and love. We begin to see that following Him means putting others before ourselves, even when it costs us something. For example, it might mean forgiving someone who has deeply hurt us, serving quietly without recognition, or giving generously to meet a need. Remembering the cross moves us from asking, “What do I get out of this?” to “How can I give, as Christ gave for me?” That shift in thinking shapes our actions, softens our hearts, and draws us closer to the heart of God.

Session 12: "Death Couldn't Hold Him" - Luke 24:1-53

 Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus' resurrection and final instructions to His followers
Purpose Statement: To celebrate the victory over death and understand our mission to share this good news

What to Look For

Notice how the disciples struggle to believe the resurrection even with evidence right in front of them. Watch how Jesus patiently proves He's alive and helps them understand what happened. Pay attention to His final instructions about spreading the good news to all nations.

Personal Reflection Questions

What's the best news you've ever received? How did it change your outlook on everything else?

If you had to tell someone the most important thing you've learned about Jesus, what would you say?

Scripture: Luke 24:1-53

Overview

Every great story needs a great ending, and Luke's Gospel has the greatest ending of all - death was defeated and Jesus rose from the dead. But this isn't just the end of Jesus' story; it's the beginning of our story. The resurrection changes everything because it proves that Jesus really is who He claimed to be and that His promises can be trusted. Death, which has been humanity's greatest enemy since Adam and Eve, has been conquered. The grave, which seemed so final, has been opened. Hope, which died on Friday, came alive on Sunday morning.

This May Surprise You

When the women found the empty tomb and told the disciples, Luke says the men thought their words were "nonsense" and didn't believe them. Even when Peter saw the empty tomb himself, he only "wondered" what had happened. Later, when Jesus appeared to the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, they didn't recognize Him until He broke bread with them. The point is that even Jesus' closest followers had trouble believing the resurrection at first. This wasn't because they were gullible people looking for any excuse to believe - it was because the resurrection was so far beyond their expectations that it took time and evidence to convince them.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: The empty tomb was just the beginning of the evidence (Luke 24:1-12) Comment: The women found the tomb empty and heard angels say Jesus had risen. When they told the disciples, the men didn't believe them. Peter ran to see for himself and found only the burial cloths. An empty tomb could be explained in different ways, but it was the first sign that something extraordinary had happened.

Point 2: Jesus appeared to His followers and proved He was alive (Luke 24:13-43) Comment: Two disciples walking to Emmaus met Jesus but didn't recognize Him until He broke bread with them. When they rushed back to Jerusalem, Jesus appeared to all the disciples. He showed them His wounds, ate fish in front of them, and opened their minds to understand how His death and resurrection fulfilled Scripture. He was the same Jesus they knew, but somehow different.

Point 3: Jesus commissioned His followers to spread the good news (Luke 24:44-53) Comment: Jesus explained that His suffering and resurrection were foretold in Scripture and that repentance and forgiveness should be preached to all nations, starting in Jerusalem. He promised to send the Holy Spirit to give them power for this mission. Then He blessed them and was taken up into heaven while they worshipped and praised God.

Take-Home Thought

The resurrection is the foundation of everything we believe as Christians. Without it, Jesus would just be another good teacher who died tragically young. With it, He is the Son of God who conquered death and offers eternal life to anyone who believes in Him. This isn't just ancient history - it's the most relevant news in the world today because it means death is not the end of the story for anyone who trusts in Jesus.

As we face the reality of our own aging and mortality, the resurrection gives us hope that goes beyond this life. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is available to help us live with purpose and courage now, and it guarantees that death is not our final destination. We can face whatever comes knowing that our best days are still ahead of us. But the resurrection also gives us a mission. Just as Jesus commissioned His disciples to share this good news with all nations, He commissions us to share it with everyone we meet. We may not travel to foreign countries, but we can be witnesses right where we are - in our families, neighborhoods, and communities.

Quotes

N.T. Wright: "The resurrection of Jesus is the beginning of God's new project not to snatch people away from earth to heaven but to colonize earth with the life of heaven. That, after all, is what the Lord's Prayer is about."

John Chrysostom: "Death has been conquered, Hell has been overcome, The devil has been bound. Christ is risen! Christ is alive! Christ reigns!"

Biblical Connections

The women at the tomb connect to the faithful women who supported Jesus throughout His ministry (Luke 8:1-3)

Jesus opening the Scriptures echoes His earlier teaching that all Scripture points to Him (Luke 4:21)

The commission to preach to all nations fulfills God's promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through his offspring (Genesis 12:3)

Jesus' ascension parallels Elijah being taken up to heaven (2 Kings 2:11) and anticipates His return in the same way (Acts 1:11)

The promise of the Holy Spirit connects to Joel 2:28-32 about God pouring out His Spirit on all people

The disciples' joy and worship fulfill the psalmist's call to praise God for His mighty acts (Psalm 150)

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we face uncertainty about the future, illness, loss, or the fear of death itself, the resurrection reminds us that God has the final word. Death could not hold Jesus, and it cannot hold us either if we belong to Him. When we wonder if our faith makes any real difference in a world full of problems, the resurrection proves that God's power is greater than any force opposing Him. When we feel too old or insignificant to matter in God's kingdom, we remember that Jesus chose ordinary people to be His witnesses and that the Holy Spirit gives us power to share His love wherever we are. The same Jesus who conquered death is with us every day, and nothing can separate us from His love.

Devotional Thought: “Planting a Seed”

When you’ve lived a long life, you’ve said a lot of goodbyes. We’ve buried friends, family, and even some who were younger than us. Death feels final. That’s why the empty tomb in Luke 24 is such a shock. The women went expecting to care for a dead body, but instead they heard, “He isn’t here! He is risen!”

It’s almost like planting a seed in the ground. To the outside eye, placing a seed in the soil looks like death—buried, covered, gone. But given time, life breaks out of that same soil, stronger and more beautiful than before. Jesus’ resurrection shows us that death isn’t the end; it’s the planting of something greater. Because He lives, what feels buried in our lives—our years, our energy, our hopes—can also spring to new life in His hands.

And after His rising, Jesus didn’t just walk away in silence. He gave His friends a mission: to go into the world with the news that life has defeated death. That mission didn’t stop with them. Even now, in our later years, we are still called to pass on this hope—to our children, grandchildren, neighbors, and friends.

Reflection Question

Where in your life do you most need to remember that Jesus has already defeated death, and how might you share that hope with someone who needs to hear it this week?

Culture Connection

In our world, death is often seen as the final word. Many people live in fear of it, avoid talking about it, or try to distract themselves from thinking about it. The resurrection of Jesus changes that perspective completely. Luke’s account shows that death could not hold Him—He is alive, and His victory over the grave offers hope that nothing else can. In a culture that often searches for meaning and security in temporary things, the empty tomb points us to a hope that is eternal. It reminds us that life with God goes beyond this world, and that His power is greater than anything we face.

Changed Life

When we believe that Jesus truly rose from the dead, it changes how we live each day. Fear loses its grip, and hope takes its place. We begin to see our lives as part of God’s bigger story, and we take seriously His call to share the good news. For example, we might be more willing to talk about our faith with a friend, write a note of encouragement that points someone to Christ, or pray for opportunities to share His love. The resurrection moves us from simply believing in Jesus to actively living for Him, confident that His victory is ours as well.

(another approach to studying Luke, the class worked through this on in 2024)

Recounting the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, the Son of God

 — Download full series: Editable Word DOC — Printable PDF

His time in Galilee

1. Introduction, The Prologue (Luke 1:1–4)

2. The Infancy Narrative (Luke 1:5–2:52)

3. Preparation for the Ministry of Jesus (Luke 3)

4. The Temptation of Jesus (Luke 1-15)

5. Jesus' Ministry Luke (4:16–5:16)

6. Controversy (Luke 5:17–6:11)

7. Jesus teaches the disciples (Luke 6:12–49)

8. Who is this Jesus? (Luke 7:1–50)

9. Ears to Hear (Luke 8:1–21)

10. Fear versus Faith (Luke 8:22–56)

11. Sharing the Ministry—and Destiny—of a Cross-Bearing King (Luke 9:1–50)

On his way to Jerusalem, the Cross, Jesus tells of the kingdom of God

12. Kingdom Priorities (Luke 9:51–11:13)

13. Kingdoms in Conflict (Luke 11:14–54)

14. Preparing for Judgment (Luke 12:1–59)

15. Judgment, Conflict, Kingdom (Luke 13:1–21)

16. The Last Will Be First (Luke 13:22–14:24)

17. Radical Demands, Radical Grace (Luke 14:25–15:32)

18. Of Riches and Repentance (Luke 16:1–31)

19. Radical Demands, Radical Need (Luke 17:1–10)

20. Mercy and Gratitude (Luke 17:11–19)

21. The Coming of the Kingdom (Luke 17:20–18:8)

22. Kingdom Humility (Luke 18:9–17)

23. Leaving All to Follow the King (Luke 18:18–34)

24. Persistent Faith, True Repentance (Luke 18:35–19:10)

25. About the Master’s Business (Luke 19:11–27)

Jesus, the cross and resurrection 

26. Triumph and Tragedy (Luke 19:28–48)

27. Jesus: Answers—Issues—Challenges (Luke 20:1–21:4)

28. Judgment in This Age and the Next (Luke 21:5–38)

29. The Significance of Jesus’ Death (Luke 22:1–22)

30. Preparing for Coming Trials (Luke 22:23–65)

31. Jesus Is Tried, Found Innocent—and Condemned (Luke 22:66–23:25)

32. The Death of the Son of God (Luke 23:26–56)

33 The Earliest Eyewitnesses of Jesus’ Resurrection (Luke 24:1–12)

34. Jesus Persuades Skeptics on the Emmaus Road (Luke 24:13–35)

35. Jesus Provides Further Evidence of His Resurrection (Luke 24:36–43)

36. Jesus Prepares His People for Faith, Obedience, and Mission (Luke 24:44–53)

The Gospel of Luke is divided into several sections that cover Jesus' life from birth to ascension:

• Prologue: 1:1–4

• Infancy Narrative: 1:5–2:52

• Preparation for the Public Ministry: 3:1–4:13

• Ministry in Galilee: 4:14–9:50

• Journey to Jerusalem: 9:51–19:27

• Teaching Ministry in Jerusalem: 19:28–21:38

• Passion Narrative: 22:1–23:56

• Resurrection Narrative: 24:1–53

Journey to Jerusalem: 9:51–19:27

Audio Essay