Luke

1 Dickson Teacher’s Bible Luke
Dickson
Teacher ’s Bible
eacher’s
LUKE
Roger E. Dickson
2016
Dickson Teacher’s Bible, www.africainternational.org
Luke - Roger E. Dickson, ©1982, 2006, 2016: Africa International Missions, Hutchinson, Kansas U.S.A., Cape Town, South Africa
LUKE
WRITER
The writer of this New Testament document is Luke, the beloved physician (Cl
4:14). He was a Gentile, but was not an eyewitness to the life and death of Jesus.
Luke’s authorship of this document is affirmed because of the close relationship in
writing style and vocabulary between the documents of Luke and Acts. Both books
were written to Theophilus. Luke 1:1-4 and Acts 1:1 are similar in expressing the
purpose of writing, and thus, indicate that there was a common writer for both docu-
ments. The relationship between the two documents is especially indicated in Acts
1:1 when the writer of Acts refers to the “former account,” a reference to the docu-
ment of Luke.
Another important evidence that establishes the relationship between Luke and
Acts is the fact that both books have a common literary structure in the Greek lan-
guage. The vocabulary and writing style of both books are similar, and thus, offer
strong evidence that both came from the pen of the same writer. In reference to the
style and grammar, both are written with a scholarly structure of the Greek language
that would only be natural from the hand of a physician.
In order to establish the author of Acts, Bible students identify him as one of the
close companions of Paul on his missionary journeys. This is determined by iden-
tifying who is included in the pronouns “we” of what is commonly referred to as the
“we sections” of the document of Acts (See At 16:10ff; 20:6; 21:1-18; 27:1ff; see Pl
24; 2 Tm 4:11). These sections identify the author to be with Paul at particular
times during his travels. Luke accompanied Paul on many of his journeys. At one
time Luke stayed in Philippi (At 16:12,40), and then later rejoined Paul (At 20:3-
31). He was probably left by Paul to establish the newly converted disciples in
Philippi. This may account for the spiritual strength of the Philippian disciples that
is revealed in the Philippian letter. Luke is assumed to be this companion of Paul,
and thus, this companion and author of Acts is also identified as the author of Luke.
DATE
The book was written at approximately the same time as the book of Acts. The
document was probably written as a defense document on behalf of Paul who was in
Rome to defend himself against false accusations (See comments in intro. to At).
The first imprisonment of Paul was around A.D. 61-63. When Paul was in Caesarea,
Porcius Festus kept Paul in prison for two years. However, Paul was informed by
God that he must bear witness in Rome (At 23:11). In knowing that God wanted
him to testify concerning the truth of Christianity before the Roman court, Paul
appealed to be tried before Caesar when he was before Festus in Caesarea (At
25:11,12). During the two years Paul and Luke were in Caesarea, and knowing that
God wanted Christianity to be put on trial before the Roman court in Rome, Luke
certainly took the opportunity to do his research in order “to compile an account of
those things that have been believed among us” (1:1). Therefore, during Paul’s
custody in Palestine, as well as the time before the trial in Rome, the documents of
Luke and Acts were prepared for Paul’s trial before Caesar’s court. The document
of Luke, therefore, was probably written in A.D. 60 or 61.
THEME
Acts was written for the purpose of manifesting the effect of what people be-
lieved concerning Jesus. Luke thus introduced the book of Acts by writing this
document concerning what caused the effect of the growth of the early church. The
document of Luke talks about the Christ of the church, whereas, Acts discusses the
effect of the Christ on the lives of people. Luke thus writes with the theme that is
expressed in 2:11, “For to you a Savior is born this day in the city of David, who is
Christ the Lord.” Because men believed this about Jesus, the church grew through-
out the Roman Empire and the world.
PURPOSE
Luke’s purpose for writing is expressed in 1:3,4. “... it seemed good to me also,
having an accurate understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an
orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you might know the certainty of
those things you have been taught.” Luke wrote in order to give an accurate histori-
cal account of the teachings and events in the life of Jesus. The underlying reason
for this purpose of writing is to affirm the very foundation upon which Christianity
is based. That foundation is that Jesus of Nazareth was the Christ, the Son of God.
Since such is true, then those who believed and behaved accordingly, cannot be
accused of acting as insurrectionists against Rome. Particularly, the case in point
would be that the apostle Paul so behaved because he was driven by the fact that he
experienced this Jesus who was more than a man. The behavior of Paul, as well as
all Christians, can be explained only in the fact that Jesus was the Son of God and
was raised from the dead (See intro. to Acts).
RECIPIENT
The document was addressed to the “most excellent Theophilus” (1:3; see At
1:1). Luke refers to this Gentile with the complimentary title of “most excellent.”
Theophilus was no common individual, but one who was evidently a government
official. He may have been connected in some way with the defense of Paul in
Rome, possibly being even Paul’s converted defense advocate who would stand for
him before the Roman court. Or, he could have possibly been the representative of
the Roman court. Neither possibility is verifiable by the study of either Luke or
Acts. We simply speculate such because of the events that were occurring in the
lives of Luke and Paul at this time in the history of the church. Whatever the case,
Theophilus in some way played a significant role in the lives of both Luke and Paul.
For some reason, the Holy Spirit thought it urgent that two inspired New Testament
documents be written to this individual. For this reason, it is our belief that Theophilus
had some direct bearing on the future of Paul’s life since the document of Acts
concentrates so heavily on the activities of Paul and why he lived as he did as a
disciple of Jesus. The document of Acts leaves Paul in Rome to stand before Cae-
sar, and thus, both the documents of Luke and Acts as companion volumes, are
presented to Theophilus on behalf of Paul.
LITERARY STYLE
One of the interesting characteristics of the books of both Luke and Acts is the
fact that the writer uses a prolific literary style in Greek to write the documents. For
Greek students, these two documents are the most challenging to study in the origi-
nal language. But what else would we expect from a physician?
In writing to a Gentile, Luke does not quote much from the Old Testament. His
emphasis is on the life and teachings of Jesus in order to show that Jesus was not
just another Jewish Rabbi of Palestine. He was not promoting another invented
religion of the many thousands of the Roman Empire. The document was thus
written in a literary style that would be presentable to a Roman official as a docu-
ment to prove that Jesus was the actual Son of God.
C HAPTER 1
Purpose For Writing concerning the life and teachings of
(1:1-4) Jesus. Some of these accounts had come
Outline: (1) Formal introduction (1:1-3), (2) to the attention of Theophilus, and thus,
Knowing for certain (1:4) gave a inaccurate account of Jesus’ life
and teachings. Luke’s purpose was to
FORMAL INTRODUCTION write an inspired record, and thus, give
1:1 Many have undertaken to com- an accurate account of the life and teach-
pile an account: This would not be a ings of Jesus in order to give Theophilus
reference to the inspired documents of a correct understanding of who Jesus was
Matthew, Mark or John, which books and what He taught. Luke thus assumes
were probably not written at this time. inspiration here by calling on Theophilus
Luke’s reference here was to uninspired to accept what he writes as accurate. The
records of Jesus’ activities and teachings circulation of inaccurate accounts of
that had been verbally circulated. These Jesus necessitated that the Holy Spirit,
uninspired records had some inaccuracies through the inspired pen of Luke, write
an accurate narrative “of all that Jesus man Empire. Luke uses here the past
began both to do and teach” (At 1:1). tense, thus indicating that he had com-
Believed among us: One could trans- pleted all his research by the time he
late this phrase, “Fully established among wrote this document. He may have had
us.” These are the things that were es- his research notes in hand and was either
tablished among Christians as true con- in Caesarea, on his way to Rome, or ac-
cerning the life and teachings of Jesus. tually in Rome when the Holy Spirit di-
Therefore, by the time Luke wrote this rected him to write an accurate account
document around A.D. 60, all truth had of all that Jesus began both to do and
been revealed that established the foun- teach (See 2 Tm 3:16,17; 2 Pt 1:20,21).
dation of Christianity (See comments Jd Write to you an orderly account: Refer-
3). Luke’s argument here was that Chris- ence here is not to a strict chronological
tianity was not a developed religion as order, for in some cases Luke does not
myths, fables and legends. The beliefs seek to be strictly chronological in refer-
of Christians exploded out of the life of ence to the ministry of Jesus. What is
Jesus in a period of only four to five meant is that he was setting forth the
years. Three of these years were the min- events of the life and teachings of Jesus
istry of Jesus. In another one or two years in an accurate form. He wanted
after the resurrection of Jesus, the gos- Theophilus to understand the correct his-
pel of Jesus was going into all the world torical account of what actually happened
(Mt 28:19,20; Mk 16:16; At 6:7; 8:4). concerning the particular events that took
Luke’s argument is that one could explain place in Jesus’ life, as well as, the cor-
this rapid growth of Christianity only in rect nature of His teachings. Luke was
the fact that such was initiated and nur- correcting all the word-of-mouth infor-
tured by God. mation that had come to the attention of
1:2,3 Eyewitnesses and ministers of Theophilus concerning what Jesus did
the word: Luke was not a personal eye- and taught (At 1:1). Most excellent
witness of the life and death of Jesus. Theophilus: See At 1:1. The term “ex-
However, he had spoken to those who cellent” was often used in Roman soci-
were. These eyewitnesses were possi- ety as a respectful address to government
bly Mary, the mother of Jesus who was officials, and thus, Theophilus was prob-
probably in her 80s at this time. The eye- ably a government official (See At
witnesses here would have been the 23:26). Add to this the fact that the name
apostles who were to bear witness of “Theophilus” includes the Greek word
Jesus before the world (At 1:2). Accu- for “God.” Names that included the word
rate understanding of all things from for God were given in society to those of
the very first: Luke traced the life and social or official standing. The name
work of Jesus from the beginning of means, “one who loves God.”
Jesus’ ministry to the expansion and Theophilus evidently came from a very
growth of the church throughout the Ro- religious family to receive such a name.
KNOWING FOR CERTAIN fact that the Holy Spirit inspired this docu-
1:4 You might know the certainty: ment to be written, as well as the rest of
Luke could only affirm this confidence the New Testament, is evidence that God
in his writing if he knew that he was writ- intended that the church be based on the
ing by inspiration of the Holy Spirit. To truth of the written word of God (See 2
say such by writing on his own would Tm 3:16,17; 1 Pt 4:11).
only manifest an attitude of arrogance,
for he would have been exalting his writ- Preparation For Ministry
ing above the writing of others who (1:5 – 4:15)
would also not have been writing by in- Outline: (1) The announcement of John (1:5-25),
spiration. But because this document is (2) The announcement of Jesus (1:26-38), (3)
an inspired document, Luke affirmed in- Mary visits Elizabeth (1:39-56), (4) The birth of
spiration on the basis of the Holy Spirit, John (1:57-80), (5) The birth of Jesus (2:1-7),
not his personal ability to give an accu- (6) The angels and the shepherds (2:8-21), (7)
rate account of what he had not person- Presentation at the temple (2:22-40), (8) Jesus
ally experienced. Taught: The Greek visits Jerusalem (2:41-52), (9) John the Baptist
word here refers to being instructed by (3:1-22), (10) Beginning of Jesus’ ministry (3:23-
word of mouth. The same word is used 38), (11) The temptation of Jesus (4:1-15)
in Acts 18:25 and Romans 2:18.
Theophilus had no other written docu- THE ANNOUNCEMENT
ment concerning the life and teachings OF JOHN
of Jesus. Luke thus assumed the insuffi- Luke is unique with reference to the
ciency of word-of-mouth communication contents of this chapter. He is the only
to give an accurate account of the life and recorder of the life and ministry of Jesus
teachings of Jesus. For this reason, the who gives the details of this chapter.
Holy Spirit has inspired the records of 1:5 Herod: This is Herod the Great,
the life and teachings of Jesus to be writ- the son of Antipater. Herod reigned from
ten for all time. The beliefs of Christians, 40 B.C. to 4 B.C. He was appointed
therefore, must be based on the written procurator of Judea in 47 B.C. by Julius
word of God and not primarily on the proc- Caesar. He was thus a Roman-appointed
lamations of those who preach the word. king, not a God-anointed king over Is-
Any religion, therefore, that does not fo- rael. Herod died April 1, 4 B.C. accord-
cus on a study of the word of God in order ing to our calendar today. Jesus was born
to establish and confirm one’s belief, is a sometime within the two years before the
religion that will lead people astray after death of Herod. Since Jesus was about
the proclamations of those who do not thirty years old when He began His min-
know the Bible (See comments 2 Tm 4:1- istry, and His ministry was approximately
5). For this reason, one’s belief must be three and a half years in length, He would
based on the Bible and not on either tradi- have been crucified in A.D. 30. Accord-
tions or feelings (Rm 10:17). The very ing to our calendar today, therefore, the
church would have been established in Zacharias was a righteous man. He real-
A.D. 30 (See intro. to At). The division ized that he was in the presence of a heav-
of Abijah: This was the eighth group of enly being, and thus, responded with fear
the twenty-four groups of priests that because Gabriel was a representative of
King David had designated to minister God (2:9; compare Jg 13:6,21,22; Dn
in the tabernacle (2 Ch 24:1-10; 2 Ch 10:12,19; Rv 1:17). Call his name John:
8:14). Daughters of Aaron: Elizabeth See Lk 1:57,60,63. Many will rejoice:
was a descendant from the Old Testament The emphasis of the Greek text here is
priestly tribe of Levi. This tribe origi- that many will leap for joy because of
nated from Levi the son of Jacob through this birth. They would do such because
Leah (Gn 29:34). Aaron was of this tribe, of the miraculous events that surrounded
and thus, he was the father of the Levites John’s birth, which events signified that
whom God separated to be the priestly the hope of Israel was about to be real-
tribe of the nation of Israel (See Nm ized (1:58; Ml 3:1).
36:7,8). Elizabeth was possibly the 1:15 Great in the sight of the Lord:
cousin of Mary who was the mother of John would be the greatest of all proph-
Jesus (vs 36). ets because He would be the forerunner
1:6-11 Both Zacharias and Elizabeth of the Messiah and Son of God (Mt
were obedient to the commandments of 11:11). Will drink neither wine nor
God. Blamelessly: They were such in strong drink: John would come in the
reference to their duties before God, but life-style of a Nazarite, and thus, he
not in reference to being without sin (See would conform to the Nazarite laws (Nm
Rm 3:9,10,23). Zacharias and Elizabeth 6:1-21). He would refrain from strong
were old in age. As a Jewish woman, drink as a commitment to the sanctity of
she had suffered one of the greatest em- his calling (Compare Ep 5:18). Filled
barrassments of the Jewish wife. She with the Holy Spirit: Though he would
could have no children (See vs 25). To work no miraculous wonders throughout
burn incense: See Ex 30:6-8. The his ministry, John would have a miracu-
temple of the Lord: Reference here is to lous relationship with God from the time
the sanctuary of the temple. Twice a day of his conception (vs 41). He was the
the priests would perform the duty of prophet of God to the people for the pur-
burning incense in the sanctuary of the pose of preparing the way for the Son of
temple. The time of incense: This was God. He was filled with the Spirit in the
around 3:00am. An angel of the Lord: sense that God had revealed to him the
Gabriel (vs 19). Altar of incense: This message he was to speak.
was an article of furniture in the temple 1:16,17 John’s mission in preparing
and was located near the veil that sepa- the way for the Lord would be to call
rated the Holy Place from the Most Holy people to repentance (Mt 3:1-12). He
Place in the temple. would call people to accept the Messiah
1:12-14 Fear fell upon him: who would come after him. The spirit
and power of Elijah: John would be the the required duties in the sanctuary.
fulfillment of Malachi 4:5,6 (Mt 3:2; 1:22 Perceived that he had seen a
17:9-13). He would manifest in his min- vision: It was probably obvious that
istry the same zeal and enthusiasm for Zacharias had experienced something in
the Lord as the prophet Elijah. He would the temple. His appearance and lack of
emulate the power of righteousness and speech indicated that something had oc-
commitment that God would expect of curred. The first indications that some-
one totally dedicated to His service. Turn thing had happened was confirmed when
the hearts of the fathers: See Ml 4:5,6. Zacharias had to use hand signs in order
John would cause fathers to consider to communicate with them because he
their children and disobedient people to could neither hear nor speak. Zacharias
listen to the wisdom of righteous people. remained in such a condition until the
He would do this in order to prepare the birth of John.
hearts of people for the coming Son of 1:23-25 The days of His service:
God. When Zacharias completed his priestly
1:18 Being in the presence of Gabriel service according to the time allotted to
did not seem to be proof enough of what the division of the priests of Abijah, he
the angel said. Unlike Mary, to whom and Elizabeth returned home. Elizabeth
the angel later appeared, Zacharias conceived: Her womb was opened by
sought for verification. As a result, the God in her old age and she was thus able
sign the angel gave was punishment for to conceive (See Gn 18:11-15). Such was
Zacharias because of his doubt in what a miracle of God. Hid herself five
Gabriel said. months: She possibly wanted to conceal
1:19-21 Gabriel’s first proof was that herself for the purpose of thanking the
he was the divine messenger from God. Lord for what He had done for her in her
Such should have been proof enough for old age. In her pregnancy, God had taken
Zacharias to believe what he said. Gab- away the embarrassment that she could
riel: This name means “man of God.” not have children (See Gn 30:23).
Such was this angel for he was a revealer
of God’s message. You will be mute: THE ANNOUNCEMENT
Verse 62 indicates that Zacharias was OF JESUS
either deaf already from old age, or lost (Mt 1:18 - 2:12)
his hearing with his speech when Gab- 1:26,27 Sixth month: This is the
riel pronounced this punishment for his sixth month after Elizabeth conceived (vs
lack of faith. Zacharias was evidently 36). Gabriel: See verse 19. Nazareth:
greatly shaken by the vision, for he tar- Because Luke was writing to a Gentile,
ried a long time in the sanctuary. Those Theophilus, he had to name this city, for
who were waiting for him outside began it was unknown to his reader. A virgin:
to worry because he stayed far beyond Mary was a young woman who had never
the time that was necessary to perform had sexual intercourse with a man. She
was a virgin in order to fulfill the proph- 1:31-33 Jesus: This Jewish name
ecy of Isaiah 7:14 where Isaiah proph- means “salvation.” The Greek word is a
esied that a virgin would conceive in or- form of the Old Testament Hebrew name
der to bring forth the Messiah (See Gn “Joshua.” Matthew records the reason
3:15; Mt 1:23). Engaged: The KJV for the name in Matthew 1:21. Son of
reads “betrothal.” The Jewish engage- the Most High: That is, He would be
ment was not binding as marriage, but it the “Son of the Most High” God (See vss
was more than a promise of marriage. 35,76; 6:35; 8:28; 19:38; Mk 5:7). Jesus
The Jewish engagement took place about was the Son of God in the sense that He
one year before the couple actually lived originated from God (Jn 20:30,31).
together after a formal marriage. It was Throne of His father David: Jesus was
a binding relationship that was estab- to fulfill the prophecy that was given to
lished before the marriage vows were David that One would sit on his throne
made and the union consummated. The (2 Sm 7:12,13). Such would not be a
house of David: Such is stated by Luke reign on earth, for the authority of the
to reaffirm that prophecy is here being throne of David was always in heaven.
fulfilled. Both Joseph and Mary (vs 69; Therefore, when Jesus ascended to the
3:23ff) were descendants of King David throne of God in heaven, He would reign
of Israel. from heaven at the right hand of the Fa-
1:28-30 You who are highly father (Dn 7:13,14; Ep 1:20-22; Hb 8:1).
vored: Gabriel announced that Mary was He will reign: After the ascension, Jesus
favored among all women because she began His reign (Rm 5:17; Ep 1:20-22;
was chosen by God to give birth to the Ph 2:8-10). He is now reigning and will
incarnate Son of God (vs 30). At this reign at the right hand of God until He
time, however, Mary did not understand comes again (1 Co 15:24-28). Reference
all that was happening, nor did she un- here is not to a physical reign of Jesus on
derstand that she was selected by God to this earth. Gabriel was speaking of a
bring the Messiah and Son of God into spiritual reign in the hearts of men, for
the world. You have found favor with the kingdom of Jesus is not of this world
God: Mary was chosen by God to be the (Jn 18:36-38). The kingdom is within
means by which the Son of God would the hearts of those who have submitted
be incarnate in the flesh of man. She was to the reign of Jesus (See comments
not chosen because of any special holi- 17:20,21; Mt 6:9,10). House of Jacob:
ness or good works on her part. There This is the house of Israel, the spiritual
were many young women of her time Israel of God (Gl 3:7; 6:16). This is the
who had the same spiritual qualities. It same as the house of God that was proph-
was only by the grace of God that she esied by Isaiah (Is 2:2,3). The house of
was chosen. She did not earn the right to God is the church (1 Tm 3:15). There-
be chosen for this unique work of God to fore, among all things over which Jesus
bring the Redeemer into the world. now reigns, He reigns over those who
have submitted to His word. Forever: it possible for Mary to conceive by the
See Ps 89:36,37; Dn 2:44; 7:13,14. Jesus power of God. At the time this announce-
would reign “forever” in the sense that ment was made to Mary, Elizabeth was
His reign would last throughout its in- six months pregnant with John. Noth-
tended time of existence. Because the ing will be impossible: The almighty
reign was ordained of God, it would cer- power of God in reference to man is here
tainly come to pass (Mt 19:28; Mk 9;1). revealed (See Jr 32:17). What man can-
It would extend until the time when king- not do, God can. And in reference to the
dom reign would be returned to God (1 events of this context, all is outside the
Co 15:28). control and power of man. It was thus
1:34,35 Since I do not know a man: God’s work to bring the Savior of human-
Mary here reaffirmed that she was a vir- ity into the world. Let it be: Contrary to
gin who had never had sexual intercourse the response of Zacharias, Mary exer-
with a man (vs 27; Mt 1:23). Therefore, cised great faith in accepting the words
the conception of Jesus was the miracu- of the angel as truth.
lous work of God. Jesus would be the
“only begotten” Son of God (Jn 1:14-16). MARY VISITS ELIZABETH
One cannot accept Jesus without accept- 1:39,40 Mary left to visit Elizabeth
ing this fact concerning His conception immediately after Gabriel appeared to
and birth. Since Jesus was to be the Son her. From where she lived in Nazareth
of God, then we would expect no other (2:4), it was a long journey to the city
type of conception and birth. If He were where Zacharias and Elizabeth lived. The
just another good teacher of Palestine, city was probably Juttah (Ja 15:55).
then any normal birth would do. How- Mary remained with Elizabeth for ap-
ever, such was not the case with the con- proximately three months (vs 56).
ception and birth of the One who was spe- 1:41 Leaped: The Greek word used
cifically sent into the world. Therefore, here was commonly used to refer to the
any theology of man that does not accept leaping in play of young children and
the miraculous conception of Jesus can- animals. There was a leaping of the un-
not be based on this most fundamental born infant that was not like the natural
teaching of the New Testament. One movements of unborn babies. This leap-
cannot accept Jesus as the Son of God ing was meant to signal Divine interven-
without accepting His miraculous con- tion, and thus the presence of God in the
ception. pregnancy. Filled with the Holy Spirit:
1:36-38 Elizabeth has also con- The result of Elizabeth’s being filled with
ceived: God also miraculously opened the Holy Spirit resulted in her miracu-
the womb of Elizabeth in order that she lous declarations of verses 42-45. Thus
conceive through the impregnation of the being filled by the Holy Spirit in this con-
seed of Zacharias, her husband. How- text refers to being inspired by the Holy
ever, the Holy Spirit miraculously made Spirit to make declarations concerning
the work of God (See At 6:3). THE BIRTH OF JOHN

1:42-45 Blessed are you: Verse 28 1:57,58 At the end of nine months
(Compare Jg 5:24). Mary was especially after conception, Elizabeth gave birth to
blessed by God for being chosen to be John. The neighbors and relatives re-
the woman who would give birth to the joiced because she had brought forth a
Son of God. Mother of my Lord: Mary son in her old age (Compare Rm 12:15).
was the mother of the Lord only in the It was a time of excitement and specula-
sense of being the earthly mother through tion concerning the hope of Israel. The
whom Jesus would be born. By inspira- ones who were directly connected with
tion, Elizabeth acknowledged Jesus as the what was happening were very anxious
Lord even before He was born. Blessed about the miraculous events that sur-
is she who believed: When the message rounded the birth of John.
of Gabriel came to Mary, she believed. 1:59-63 The eighth day: See Gn
She did not doubt the work of God in her 17:12; Lv 12:3; Ph 3:5. Circumcise:
life. Told her from the Lord: In verse Jewish male children were to be circum-
46, as well as here, the word “Lord” re- cised the eighth day after birth (See Gn
fers to God. In verse 43 the word refers 17:9-14; Rm 4:11). After the name of
to Jesus. Therefore, Jesus, as the mani- his father: It was customary in Jewish
festation of the Godhead on earth, is here culture to name the son after the name of
identified with the one God (See Jn 1:1- the father or an ancestor in the family.
4; 10:30). He will be called John: This child would
1:46-56 In this context, Mary is also not be named after the father or an an-
filled with the Holy Spirit in order to de- cestor as was the custom of the Jews. He
clare by inspiration the word and work would be named according to the God-
of God. She magnified God for consid- given instructions through Gabriel
ering her lowly state. From the time of (1:13,63). The name John means “the
these events and onward, the world Lord’s gift.” Made signs to his father:
would call her blessed (11:27). With the Zacharias could neither speak nor hear
birth of the Son, she proclaimed that God because he did not at first believe Gabriel
did not come to the proud of this world. concerning the announcement that Eliza-
He came to the lowly and common beth would conceive (1:18-20). From the
people. God has visited His people, Is- time of the announcement by Gabriel,
rael, in fulfilling the promise that was until the time of the naming of John on
made to Abraham concerning his seed the eighth day after birth, Zacharias could
(Gn 12:1-3; 17:7,19). Through the One not hear or speak. His name is John:
she would bear, God would fulfill what Zacharias’ faith was restored in what
He promised to the fathers (See Gn 3:15; Gabriel had said because he followed the
49:10; Is 7:14; 9:6; Dn 7:13,14). Jesus instructions of Gabriel concerning the
was the fulfillment of the seedline prom- naming of the child.
ise. 1:64-66 Zacharias’ first words were
words of praise to God for the great things who fulfilled the promises made to the
He was accomplishing through Elizabeth fathers. Included here also is a prophecy
and himself. Fear came on all: The of John’s relationship to Jesus and a state-
people responded with reverential awe ment of John’s glory as the forerunner to
concerning the miraculous events that the Christ (Ml 3:1). Verses 68,69 dis-
surrounded the birth of John. These cuss Jesus as God’s salvation to bring
events occurred from the time Zacharias light to those who are walking in dark-
could not speak until the time when his ness. There are more than three hundred
tongue was loosed in order to praise God. prophecies in the Old Testament concern-
Everyone recognized that something ing the Messiah and surrounding events
great was happening, though they did not that were at this time in the process of
fully understand the significance of the being fulfilled (See 1 Pt 1:10-12). Holy
events. However, they did recognize that covenant: See Gn 12:1-3; 22:16; Hb
God was working in the birth of this 6:13-15.
child. The hand of the Lord was with 1:80 The child grew: John grew
him: See At 11:21. God providentially spiritually, physically and mentally (See
cared for John from the time of his con- 2:40,52). Was in the deserts: John re-
ception and birth until it was time for him mained in the sparsely inhabited areas or
to be delivered into the hands of Herod wilderness. It was here that he conducted
for his death. his ministry. When God calls great men
1:67-79 Filled with the Holy Spirit: to lead great movements, He must spiri-
The result of this filling with the Holy tually and mentally prepare them for the
Spirit was the inspired preaching of task for which He calls them. He often
Zacharias. These words included giving led His great leaders to deserts.
thanksgiving to God for raising up One
C HAPTER 2
THE BIRTH OF JESUS was conducive to the birth and growth
(Mt 1:18 - 2:12) of Christianity throughout the Roman
2:1 Caesar Augustus: This was a controlled regions of the world. All the
name taken by Caesar Octavianus who world: Reference here was to all the ter-
reigned as Caesar of Rome from 43 B.C. ritory that was under the domain of the
to A.D. 14. Roman Caesars who fol- Roman Empire (See Mt 24:14; At 11:28;
lowed him adopted the name “Caesar” 19:27; Rm 1:8). Census: Archaeologists
as it embodied the concept of what the have recovered the actual documents of
Roman head of state should be to pro- censuses that were taken by the Roman
mote unity and peace throughout the Ro- government every fourteen years from
man Empire. Octavianus brought an era A.D. 20 to A.D. 270 (See At 5:37).
of peace to the Empire. He established 2:2-4 Quirinius was governor of
an environment within the Empire that Syria: This enrollment of Roman inhab-
itants was taken while Quirinius was gov- have used the Greek word monogene
ernor between 10 B.C. and 7 B.C. Ar- which means “only son.” Swaddling
chaeological inscriptions prove that clothes: These were the customary strips
Quirinius also ruled as governor again in of cloth that were wrapped around newly
A.D. 6. His own city: The Jews had to born babies. Luke gives us these details
register at the city where their ancestral in order to affirm that there were eyewit-
records were kept. For Joseph and Mary, nesses to the birth who gave these de-
this meant the city of Bethlehem that was tails. Manger: Jesus was laid on the
referred to as the city of David (Gn 35:16- straw of a manger from which the ani-
20; Jg 17:9; 19:1; 1 Sm 16:1; 17:12). mals fed. No room ... in the inn: It was
Both Joseph and Mary were of the lin- not that they could not afford a room in
eage of David, and thus, both had to reg- the inn. Because of the masses of people
ister in Bethlehem. The long journey coming to the small village of Bethlehem
from Nazareth to Bethlehem, while Mary to be registered, there was simply no
was pregnant, does manifest their sub- room left. Unfortunately, today there is
mission to the law of the government. still no room in most people’s hearts to
2:5 Engaged: The relationship be- give birth to faith.
tween Mary and Joseph was still at this
time not a fully consummated marriage THE ANGELS
under Jewish law. Jewish law consid- AND THE SHEPHERDS
ered the engagement legally binding to 2:8-11 Shepherds dwelling in the
the point that the woman was considered fields: There were shepherds in the area
a wife. However, their relationship was near Bethlehem who lived in the coun-
not a marriage in that it had not been fully tryside in order to watch over their flocks.
consummated. Therefore, Mary was con- When the angel appeared to them, they
sidered to be Joseph’s wife, though they were overcome with great fear because
had not been formally married accord- of the glory of the Lord (See Ex 20:19;
ing to Jewish law. 24:16; 33:20; Nm 14:10; Jg 13:22; Mt
2:6,7 Days were completed: Her 17:5). Good tidings of great joy: No
nine month pregnancy had come to an greater announcement has been made in
end while they were in Bethlehem. This the history of the world. The angel is
means that she made the journey of over here announcing to the shepherds that
one hundred kilometers from Nazareth which would later be proclaimed to the
to Bethlehem while she was probably in world. The coming of the Savior of the
her eighth month of pregnancy. Her first- world would be good tidings of great joy
born son: Luke’s record of Jesus being to all those who realize that they are cap-
her firstborn proves that there were other tives of sin. These are those who realize
children to be born later to Mary and Jo- that they are in sin because they know
seph (See Mt 13:55; Mk 6:3). If Mary that all have sinned (Rm 6:9,10,23). They
had no other children, then Luke would realize that man cannot live according to
law without sin. They realize that there would transpire during the interbiblical
is no atonement in good works. The period. They knew that what was proph-
manifestation of the grace of God through esied concerning the coming of the Mes-
Jesus, therefore, was the salvation for siah was soon to happen. Their accep-
which men had been waiting since the tance of the signs surrounding the birth
sin of Adam. Those who experienced of Jesus, therefore, was based on their
these events had no idea that the mystery expectation that God was bringing to pass
of the cross would be revealed through the fulfillment of prophecy.
this small babe. A savior ... who is Christ 2:16-18 Made known abroad: Af-
the Lord: See Is 9:6; Jn 1:29. The Christ ter witnessing Jesus in the manger as the
(Hebrew, “Messiah”) is the anointed One angels had revealed, the shepherds went
of God who had come to fulfill the eter- forth and proclaimed to everyone they
nal purpose of God. That purpose was encountered what they had seen. These
to make it possible for men to come into were the first evangelists of God going
an eternal covenant relationship with God forth to proclaim the good news of the
(See Ps 2:2; Dn 9:24,25; Jn 1:41; 4:25). coming of the Savior. As a result of the
He would be Lord of heaven and earth. shepherds’ proclamations, the people
All things would be brought under His wondered at the events that surrounded
control (See At 2:36,37; 11:16; 12:11,17; the birth of Jesus. They were certainly
Ep 1:20-22; 1 Pt 3:22). puzzled that their national Savior would
2:12-15 A sign: The sign was how be born in such a humble environment.
they found the baby Jesus. They found Jesus came to minister to the common
Him wrapped in birth clothes and lying people of the world, and thus, had a
in a manger in Bethlehem according to humble birth.
what they had been told. The angels 2:19,20 Mary ... pondering them in
came from heaven and appeared before her heart: Mary did not understand all
the shepherds (Compare Ps 103:21; Dn that was happening. She, as well as oth-
7:10). This awesome sight of heavenly ers who had experienced all the miracu-
angels singing praises to God was cer- lous events surrounding the birth of
tainly an astonishing experience. The Jesus, did not understand that the events
birth of the Son was God’s goodwill to surrounding Jesus’ birth were events that
man, for Jesus was the manifestation of pointed to Him as the Messiah (See com-
the grace of God to all men (Ti 2:11). ments 1 Pt 1:10-12). The mystery of
Let us now go to Bethlehem: In leaving God’s plan for man’s sins through Jesus
their flocks, the shepherds made haste to had not yet been made known. Luke here
go to Bethlehem to see the newly born records that Mary later put these things
infant. We must understand that at this together, possibly during the ministry of
time in the history of Israel, the Jews had Jesus thirty years from this time of His
been following the prophecies of the birth. It would be then that she would
prophets who prophesied of events that deduct that truly she had given birth to
the Savior of the world. They had heard: clean for forty days after the birth of a
The shepherds had heard the angels. son and eighty days after the birth of a
However, they were probably informed daughter (See Ex 13:2; Lv 12:2-8; Nm
by Mary and Joseph concerning all the 8:16; 18:15). Mary and Joseph observed
surreal events that surrounded the con- all legal requirements in reference to the
ception of both John and Jesus. Chris- Sinai law. Law of Moses: Reference
tianity is built upon the foundation of the here is to the Sinai law that is also re-
sonship of Jesus. Luke’s evidence for ferred to as the “law of the Lord” (See vs
the sonship of Jesus begins with the 23), or simply “the law” (Ne
events that surrounded the conception 8:1,3,7,8,14,18; Mk 7:10). Every male:
and birth of both Jesus and John. He tes- Ex 13:2,13,15. A pair of turtledoves:
tifies to the fact that their conceptions and The law required the offering of a lamb.
births were not obscure events that took However, in case of poverty, a pigeon or
place without public notice. Neither did turtledove could be offered (Lv 12:2,8).
Jesus or John just arise out of society as What is implied in their offering, there-
good teachers and invent another religion fore, is that they were poor people. Nev-
of the Roman Empire. Miraculous events ertheless, though they were poor, they
surrounded both the conception and birth brought their offering. Being of a poor
of both men. Miraculous events sur- state does not excuse one from bringing
rounded their ministries. Such events his offering to God. Consolation of Is-
were witnessed by thousands of people. rael: Simeon was looking for the Mes-
As a result of their work, thousands siah who would come to deliver Israel
would believe. This is Luke’s (Mk 15:43). The Messiah was thus re-
apologetical evidence that the beginning ferred to as the “hope of Israel” who
of Christianity was not as those religions would restore Israel to her former na-
of men that develop out of myths, fables tional glory (See At 13:32-34; 26:6-8;
and legends. The beginning of Christian- 28:20). Holy Spirit was upon him: This
ity occurred through the ministry of one statement reveals that Simeon was mi-
person over a period of three years. raculously guided by the Holy Spirit.
2:21 Eight days were completed: Through the inspiration of the Holy
The Jews circumcised all male babies on Spirit, God had promised Simeon that he
the eighth day after birth (Lv 12:3). This would not die until he saw the Anointed
was the day for the formal naming of One from God. Such was promised to
children, though Jesus had been named him in order that others through him
at the time of conception (1:31; Mt 1:21). might know that the Consolation of Is-
rael was near.
PRESENTATION 2:27-32 Simeon was directed by the
AT THE TEMPLE Spirit to the temple on this particular oc-
2:22-26 Days of her purification: casion (Mt 4:1). The parents: The Holy
A mother that had given birth was un- Spirit had caused the conception of Jesus,
but Joseph and Mary were the legal ments Mk 7:1-9). It was the mission of
earthly parents of Jesus. The miraculous Jesus to call the sons of Abraham by faith
events surrounding the conception and out of national Israel, for national Israel
birth of Jesus had been revealed to was coming to a close.
Simeon. Your salvation: It would be 2:35 The thoughts of many hearts
through Jesus that the redemption of Is- may be revealed: Jesus would be the oc-
rael and all mankind would come. Be- casion where the faith of people would
fore the face of all peoples: Jesus would be revealed. Those who did not accept
not only be salvation to Israel, but to all Jesus would have the hardness of their
people (Mk 16:15,16). The Gentiles hearts revealed to all. Those who ac-
would be touched by the light of the rev- cepted Him would have their humble
elation of God through Jesus (Is 9:2; 42:6; hearts revealed. One’s reaction for or
Jn 8:12). against Jesus would thus be the judgment
2:33,34 Joseph and Mary were still one brings on himself (See comments Jn
at this time unaware of the significance 12:48). A sword will also pierce: Mary,
of what the child would be. The words the mother of Jesus, would witness the
of Simeon were a revelation to them con- rejection of Jesus by many people. She
cerning what the baby Jesus would be- would witness His crucifixion as the re-
come to all men. Fall and rising of many sult of religious leaders who led people
in Israel: Because of what Jesus would astray into deceptive religious thinking
preach, many would stumble because of (Ps 42:10).
their pride and religious arrogance (See 2:36 Anna ... of the tribe of Asher:
Is 8:14; Mt 21:42-43; At 4:11; Rm 9:33; Asher was one of the tribes of the north-
1 Co 1:23; 1 Pt 2:7,8). The pride of many ern ten tribes of Israel that were taken
religious leaders would hinder them from into Assyrian captivity in 722/721 B.C.
believing in Jesus. They would cling to (Ja 19:24). A remnant of these tribes re-
their religious positions and traditions in- turned from captivity when Cyrus re-
stead of submitting to Jesus. Neverthe- leased those captives who wanted to re-
less, others would humbly submit them- turn to their homelands in 536 B.C.
selves to Jesus and follow His teaching Therefore, a remnant of Asher, as well
(Rm 6:4,9; Ep 2:6). They would humble as a remnant of all twelve tribes of Is-
themselves because they were not rael, were in Palestine for the establish-
trapped in the pride and religious struc- ment of the promised new covenant. It
tures of the religious leadership of Israel. was the new covenant that God was about
A sign: The life and teachings of Jesus to make with the new Israel of God that
would be the opportunity for people to would include all nations (See Jr 31:31-
either obey or disobey God. Many reli- 34). It was this remnant that was fasting
gious people would speak against Him and praying for the coming of the Mes-
because He would not conform to their siah of Israel. Lived with a husband:
system of traditional religion (See com- Anna had married and lived with her hus-
band for seven years before he died. At Roman Empire, and thus enjoy again
the time of the events recorded here, she their independence as in the days before
was an older woman who had given her- the Babylonian captivity in 586 B.C.
self to the ministry of the Lord in the They had been under the occupation and
temple. Her ministry was fasting and control of the Babylonians, Persians,
prayer. Greeks, and now the Romans. But they
2:37 Depending on the translation believed that God would send a Re-
of this verse, Anna was either a widow deemer who would restored them to na-
unto her age of eighty-four, or she had tional independence. What they failed
been a widow for eighty-four years, thus to understand was that when they went
making her at this time ninety-one years into apostasy before the Assyrian and
old. Served God with fastings and Babylonian captivities, they would never
prayers: Anna had given herself to the again enjoy freedom as an independent
ministry of the Lord. Her service to God nation. The price of their apostasy
was in fasting and prayer. Thus, fasting throughout history was occupation of
is a service to God, as well as, prayer (See their promised land by foreign powers.
Mt 4:1,2; 6:16-18; 9:14,15; 15:32; At The Bible student must not be confused
13:1-3). Older brothers and sisters who with the “Israel” that exists today in the
cannot give themselves to the physical land of Palestine. At the time of the es-
demands of some ministries, can at least tablishment of the church, national Israel
give themselves to the ministry of fast- was assimilated into the spiritual Israel,
ing and prayer. These are services that the church (See comments Gl 3:26-29).
older brothers and sisters should be ren- In the plan of God, national Israel no
dering on behalf of the saints. longer exists as a favored people after the
2:38 Redemption in Jerusalem: See establishment of the spiritual Israel in
vs 25; At 28:20. Faithful Jews came to A.D. 30. At the time of the destruction
Jerusalem every year for the Passover/ of Jerusalem in A.D. 70, all genealogical
Pentecost feast. When they came, there records of the Jews were destroyed, and
was much discussion concerning the thus no Jew today can trace his ancestry
coming of the Messiah. They came look- to any Jewish family that existed at the
ing for the One who would redeem Is- time of the coming of Jesus.
rael. It was a common belief that God 2:39,40 Immediately after perform-
would bring forth the Messiah in Jerusa- ing all things that were required by the
lem since this city was the center of Jew- law, it may have been that Joseph and
ish religion. The hope for redemption Mary returned to Bethlehem which is
was not in reference to redemption from about ten kilometers south of Jerusalem.
sin, but redemption from the oppression While in Bethlehem, they may have been
of foreign nations. The nationalistic Jews visited by the Magi from the East (Mt
hoped that in the Messiah they would be 2:1-12). After the brief visit of the Magi,
redeemed from the occupation of the Joseph and Mary then fled into Egypt (Mt
2:13-18). After Herod the Great died in long distances would stay in Jerusalem
4 B.C., they then returned to their home the entire period between Passover and
in Nazareth of Galilee (Mt 2:19-23). Pentecost. Supposing Him to be in the
Filled with wisdom: The Greek text re- company: The extended family and
fers to Jesus becoming full of wisdom close friends from a particular region
(See 1:80; 2:52). He grew up as the son usually made the long trip together to
of a carpenter. The favor of God was attend these feasts. There would have
upon Him throughout His childhood. been a great multitude going from
There is no inspired record of Jesus’ Nazareth. In such cultural environments,
childhood except for the mention of His all the families cared for the children of
trip to Jerusalem with His parents at the every individual family. In this situation,
age of twelve in the following verses. Joseph and Mary were supposing that
Neither are there any records that He someone was watching over some of their
worked any miracles as a youth. The first children. However, there was a miscom-
miracle He worked was in Cana of Gali- munication somewhere among the fam-
lee at the beginning of His ministry (See ily members, and consequently, it was not
comments Jn 2:1-11). known that Jesus intentionally stayed in
Jerusalem. We must not assume that Jo-
JESUS VISITS JERUSALEM seph and Mary were delinquent in their
2:41,42 Feast of the Passover: All parental duties. It was Jesus’ plan to stay
Jewish males over the age of twelve were behind. He wanted to be about His
required to attend the feast of Passover Father’s business at the young age of
(See Ex 12:1-48; Dt 16:1,16). Jesus’ twelve.
earthly parents possibly came every year 2:46 After three days they found
to this feast. When He was twelve years Him: This would include the one day
old: This may have been the first time journey from Jerusalem, one day return
that Jesus made the journey. Custom of to Jerusalem, and then, one day search-
the feast: See Ex 23:14,15. ing in the city for him. They were possi-
2:43-45 Fulfilled the days: The bly able to find Him because His discus-
Passover took one day and the feast of sions in the temple with the teachers had
Unleavened Bread, which immediately caused some stir among the people. Sit-
followed, took seven days. The terms ting in the midst of the teachers: Jesus
Passover and Unleavened Bread are of- was where there would be discussion
ten used interchangeably to refer to the concerning the Scriptures. It was the
events of both feasts as one (Ex 12:15,17; work of the Rabbis (teachers) of Israel
23:15; Lv 23:4-8). Pentecost came fifty to expound on the Old Testament and to
days later on the day after seven weeks give their interpretations of the law.
from the Passover. These two events, Hearing ... asking: Such is the nature
Passover and Pentecost, were often ob- of those who are interested in religious
served together. Those who came from matters. It is the nature of God’s people
to be in the presence of those who want the work of the Father (Jn 9:4). This
to study the Bible. They listen and ask statement was made before the beginning
in order to learn from others concerning of His official ministry that began when
their understanding of God’s word. In He was about thirty years old. In a ge-
the case of Jesus, the teachers of the law neric sense, therefore, He, as well as all
were amazed concerning His knowledge sons of God, must be about their Father’s
and interest in discussions concerning the business. In this case, Jesus was doing
word of God. the Father’s business. When He reached
2:47,48 All who heard: Jesus was the age of thirty, He would do His busi-
not only listening and asking questions, ness in reference to fulfilling the eternal
He was also stating what was truth (See plan of redemption through the cross.
Mt 7:28; 13:54; 22:33). At the age of Simply because we have only this record
twelve, He was knowledgeable enough of Jesus speaking concerning the word
of the Old Testament to discuss it intelli- of God in His youth, we must not assume
gently with the most educated scholars that this was a unique case. We would
of Israel. All ... were astonished: What assume that His ministry of teaching be-
Jesus did on this occasion was completely gan long before His official mission to
out of character with His normal behav- the cross began at the age of about thirty.
ior as an obedient child. Mary could not 2:50 They did not understand: The
understand why He had done such for she mission and work of Jesus was not known
at this time did not know the extent of to Joseph and Mary when He was a youth
Jesus’ purpose for coming into the world. (Jn 7:15,46). They knew something was
She did not view Him as the Son of God, very unusual about Him, but they did not
but as her son for whom she was respon- know that He was the One sent into the
sible. Why have You treated us this way: world for the redemption of mankind.
Their amazement was linked to the fact For twelve years no unusual happenings
that Jesus willingly stayed behind in or- had occurred in Jesus’ life, and thus, the
der to encounter the Rabbis after every- miraculous events that surrounded His
one had left Jerusalem following the birth may have lost their original impact
feasts. It was His chance to have a pri- on their minds (See 1:32,35; Mt 1:20).
vate conversation with the Rabbis. The The time would come, however, when
Greek text here emphasizes the fact that they would understand the significance
Mary gave Jesus a stern rebuke. The fact of what happened on this occasion.
that she rebuked Him reveals that she did 2:51,52 Subject to them: The time
not understand who Jesus was. would come when all would be made sub-
2:49 This brief statement manifests ject to Him (Ph 2:8-11; 1 Pt 3:22). But
that Jesus knew in His youth that He must in His youth, Jesus was subject to His
be about the work for which He came into earthly parents in all things (See Ep
the world. Must be about My Father’s 6:1,2). Jesus increased in wisdom and
business: It was necessary that He do stature: It would be eighteen years be-
fore the beginning of His earthly minis- know the extent of Jesus’ omniscience
try. During this time, He increased in while He was in His youth. However,
wisdom and physical stature. The fact we would assume that His wisdom would
that the Holy Spirit mentions the physi- guard His conduct in order to behave in
cal growth of Jesus emphasizes the fact a subjective manner as the son of Mary
that Jesus, as a carpenter’s son, grew to and Joseph.
be a physically stout person. We do not
C HAPTER 3
JOHN THE BAPTIST tinued to recognize him as such because
(Mt 3:1-12; Mk 1:1-8) he was probably the head of a family of
3:1 Tiberius Caesar: Tiberius was priests. Caiaphas: He was named high
the stepson of Augustus Caesar. The pro- priest around A.D. 18 but was deposed
vincial affairs of Rome were under in A.D. 36. From these dates it is prob-
Tiberius’ control from A.D. 11, though able that Jesus was baptized and began
he became Caesar of Rome only on Sep- His ministry in A.D. 26. Since He was
tember 17, A.D. 14. He ruled for the next about thirty years old when He began His
23 years as Caesar. It was near this time ministry, this would mean that the cruci-
that Jesus began His three year ministry fixion would have been during the Pass-
toward the cross (vs 23). Pontius Pilate: over in April of A.D. 30 according to our
Pilate was appointed governor of Judea calendar today (See intro. to At). John
in A.D. 26 and continued until A.D. 36. ... in the wilderness: John was already
Herod: Herod Antipas ruled from 4 B.C. in the wilderness when the word of God
to 39 A.D. His nephew denounced him came to him to preach (1:13).
to Caesar Gaius to have schemed a plot 3:3 Baptism of repentance for the
against Rome. He was subsequently de- remission of sins: According to the word
posed to exile. Herod Antipas was the of God, John preached repentance and
younger son of Herod the Great through baptism. By their immersion (baptism),
Malthace. He inherited the Galilean and repentant individuals were professing to
Peraean portions of his father’s kingdom John and others their submission to God.
(See 13:31,32; 23:7ff; Mk 6:14-28). In doing such, they were being prepared
Philip: He was the son of Herod the to receive the coming kingdom reign of
Great through Cleopatra of Jerusalem. Jesus (Jn 1:23,24). The Greek phrase
Lysanias: It is not exactly known when here literally means, “immersion of re-
Lysanias ruled in Abilene. pentance for remission of sins.” The
3:2 Annas: He was appointed high penitent believer was immersed in much
priest by Quirinius around A.D. 6. How- water (Jn 3:23). John’s immersion was
ever, he was deposed by Valerius in A.D. a command of God (7:30; Mt 21:23-27),
15, though the Jews continued to recog- and thus, for remission of sins (1:76,77;
nize him as high priest. The Jews con- Mk 1:4). The immersion in the name of
Jesus today is also for remission of sins community life-style that is considerate
(At 2:38; 22:16). However, John’s im- of others. Selfish people have a hard time
mersion was unto repentance, whereas, accepting these conditions for becoming
the immersion in the name of Jesus that subjects of the kingdom. For this rea-
was enacted on the day of Pentecost in son, the Pharisees, who were lovers of
Acts 2 was because of repentance. Re- money, found it hard to accept the teach-
pentance and immersion were the condi- ings of Jesus (See 16:14).
tions upon which one would receive the 3:12-14 Publicans, or tax collectors
remissions of sins (At 2:38). John’s in Palestine, were Jews who were com-
immersion was in preparation for the missioned by Rome to collect taxes
coming immersion in the name of Jesus (7:29). They were allowed a percentage
in obedience to the gospel (See comments of what they collected. John here calls
Rm 6:3-6; 1 Co 15:1-5). on these tax collectors (publicans) to be
3:4-9 By preaching the fulfillment just and fair in their dealings (19:8). John
of Old Testament prophecies, John came commanded soldiers not to leave their re-
to prepare the way for Jesus, the Mes- sponsibilities to which they had been as-
siah of Israel. Multitudes went out from signed. They were not to abuse their
Jerusalem in order to hear his preaching. power as soldiers or extort money from
The religious leaders of Jerusalem also people by imposing their position on oth-
went out to John. It is here that John’s ers. The directions that John gave in
direct approach to their hypocritical reli- verses 10-14 focuses on one being con-
giosity is proclaimed. It may be here that siderate of others by doing that which is
John was identifying the nature of these good. John’s teachings that he received
religious leaders for the sake of those who from God, as well as what Jesus later
heard. He at least made them see them- taught, encouraged those behavioral
selves in their religion that they had cre- practices that uplift society. God’s law
ated after their own desires (See com- promotes right social conduct on the ba-
ments Mt 3:1-10; compare Is 40:3-5; sis of loving our neighbor as ourselves
52:10). We must keep in mind that the (See comments Mt 22:36-40; Gl
true enemies of John and Jesus were re- 5:13,14,22,23).
ligious leaders. If a religious leader to- 3:15-18 See comments Mt 3:11,12.
day conducts himself in the manner as People were in expectation: They were
those who opposed John and Jesus, then in expectation because they understood
they will reap the condemnation of God that the prophecies were coming to ful-
(See comments Mt 24 – 25; 3 Jn). fillment. They were thus searching for
3:10,11 What will we do: John’s call the One who would be born to be the
for fruit worthy of repentance was that Messiah of Israel. For this reason, they
people accept the life of participating in approached John, for they thought that
the lives of others (See 2 Co 8:14; Is he might be the one for whom they were
58:7). When one shares, he accepts a waiting.
3:19,20 The Jewish historian, giving Mary’s lineage from the beginning
Josephus, recorded that Herod impris- of mankind was that we might conclude
oned John because he was afraid that that Jesus was the fulfillment of the prom-
John would stir up the people in rebel- ise of the seed that was made in Genesis
lion against his reign. Actually, the rea- 3:15. The Seed was Jesus who would
son why Herod imprisoned John was be- crush the head of Satan (See comments
cause John said that it was not right for Gl 3:15-18). Satan was crushed when
Herod to have Herodias as his wife (Mk Jesus went to the cross, and three days
6:17). later, was victorious over death by His
3:21,22 See comments Mt 3:13-17. resurrection. God had preserved the
seedline promise from Adam to the cross.
BEGINNING OF Thus, the spiritual death problem of all
JESUS’ MINISTRY people that results from sin and separa-
(Mt 3:13-17; Mk 1:9-11) tion from God (Is 59:1,2; Rm 3:9,10,23;
3:23-38 As was supposed: Luke 6:23) was answered at the cross (Rm
wants us to know that those in the com- 5:12; 1 Co 15:3). The physical death
munity of Galilee and Palestine who did problem that Adam introduced into the
not believe in Jesus as the Son of God, world was answered by the resurrection
considered Jesus simply to be the son of of Jesus. But as in Adam all will die, so
a carpenter. The son of: Matthew gives in Christ will all be made alive (1 Co
the genealogy of Jesus according to 15:4,20-22; Hb 2:14). The good news of
Joseph’s lineage that goes back to David Jesus (the gospel) is that He came to an-
(See comments Mt 1:1-17). Luke’s ac- swer, not only our spiritual death prob-
count of the genealogy follows Mary’s lem, but also the problem that it is ap-
lineage back to David, and then to Adam. pointed unto all men that they should
One could suppose that the reason for physically die (Hb 9:27).
C HAPTER 4
THE TEMPTATION OF JESUS He was tempted after the lusts of the
(Mt 4:1-11; Mk 1:12,13) flesh, the lusts of the eyes and pride of
4:1-13 See comments Mt 4:1-11. It life (1 Jn 2;15,16). It was Satan’s pur-
must be noted that neither Matthew nor pose through all these temptations to turn
Luke recorded the exact chronological Jesus from His ministry. Since the mys-
order of the temptations. The emphasis tery of the gospel was not known before
of neither writer concerning the tempta- its revelation at the cross (1 Pt 1:10-12),
tions was on listing the order of the temp- we assume that Satan knew nothing about
tations in the ministry of Jesus, but on the gospel. He knew only that the Son
the fact and nature of the temptations. of God would in some way crush him (Gn
Jesus was able to be tempted. He was 3:15). And since the Son of God was
tempted in all ways as we are tempted. now incarnate on earth, Satan knew that
his hour had come. Until an opportune women (8:1-3), (17) Parable of the sower (8:4-
time: Throughout His ministry, Jesus 15), (18) Purpose of the lamp (8:16-18), (19)
was tempted by Satan to leave the pur- Jesus’ physical family (8:19-21), (20) Calming a
pose for which He came into the world, storm at sea (8:22-25), (21) Healing a demoniac
that is, to accomplish the redemption of (8:26-48), (22) Raising of Jairus’ daughter (8:49-
mankind (Hb 4:15). Jesus was later dis- 56), (23) Limited commission of the twelve (9:1-
couraged by Peter to go to Jerusalem. 6), (24) Herod and John (9:7-9), (25) Feeding of
However, at that time Jesus knew that it the five thousand (9:10-17), (26) Peter’s confes-
was Satan working through Peter to turn sion (9:18-22), (27) The cost of discipleship (9:23-
Him again from His death (Mt 16:23). 27), (28) The transfiguration (9:28-36), (29) Faith
4:14,15 Power of the Spirit: See and a demoniac boy (9:37-45), (30) Dispute over
comments Mt 4:12-17. Jesus was now greatness (9:46-50)
under the full power of the Holy Spirit to
carry out His ministry. In His incarna- REJECTION IN NAZARETH
tion He had given up an equality with 4:16 This rejection of Jesus in
God (Ph 2:6-8). It was now the Spirit’s Nazareth took place at the beginning of
working through Him to accomplish the Jesus’ ministry. The rejection of Mat-
miraculous works of His ministry in or- thew 13:54-58 took place at the close of
der to fulfill the purpose of His coming His ministry. The residents of Nazareth
into the world. The need of the Spirit to had two chances to hear Jesus, but they
work through Him explains the extent of would not listen on either occasion. As
the incarnation. Jesus truly became as His custom was: As was the custom of
man in order to identify with those whom the Jews, Jesus went to the synagogue to
He sought to deliver from the confines listen to the reading of the Sinai law and
of the flesh (See Ph 2:5-11). the Prophets. However, the Sabbath as-
sembly in the synagogue was not a part
The Galilean Ministry of the Sinai law. The synagogue came
(4:16 – 9:50) into existence in Palestine after the Jews’
Outline: (1) Rejection in Nazareth (4:16-30), (2) return from Babylonian captivity 536
Healing a demoniac (4:31-37), (3) Jesus’ work of B.C. Keep in mind also that not all Jews
healing (4:38-44), (4) The miracle of the fish (5:1- in a community met in the synagogue
11), (5) A leper is healed (5:12-26), (6) The call simply because the synagogues were not
of Matthew (5:27-32), (7) Teaching on fasting large structures. The synagogue was a
(5:33-35), (8) New wineskins (5:36-39), (9) A Jewish cultural center where reading of
sabbath controversy (6:1-11), (10) Commission- the law and Prophets could be heard.
ing the twelve (6:12-16), (11) Sermon on the plain Stood up to read: The Jews’ custom was
(6:17-49), (12) Healing a centurion’s servant (7:1- that the Sinai law be read only while the
10), (13) Raising a widow’s son (7:11-17), (14) reader stood.
Messengers from John (7:18-35), (15) Anointing 4:17-19 The prophet Isaiah: This
of Jesus’ feet (7:36-50), (16) The ministry of particular scroll was twenty-three feet
long (seven meters), which length was tion of the scripture to Himself. There-
determined by the length of the Isaiah fore, this would be the announcement and
Scroll that was discovered in the Dead beginning of Jesus’ earthly ministry and
Sea area in 1947. There are more proph- work toward the cross in order to bring
ecies concerning Christ in Isaiah than any about what Isaiah had prophesied. Their
other prophet (See in order Is 61:1,2; concept of the ministry of the Messiah
49:8,9; 58:6). Unrolled the scroll: Some was nationalistic, but Jesus’ destiny was
translations use the word “book.” How- spiritual. They would not be delivered
ever, a scroll was not in the format as the from the occupation of foreign powers.
books that we have today. A scroll was a They would be delivered from their bond-
roll of papyrus paper or leather on which age in sin.
the word of God was written. Jesus un- 4:22-24 It was difficult for them to
rolled the scroll and read from the prophet accept these words from the mouth of a
Isaiah. local carpenter’s son (Jn 6:42). They
4:20 Eyes of all ... were fixed on could accept Him as a good teacher, but
Him: Everyone knew who Jesus was. not as the Messiah of Israel. Jesus spoke
He had grown up in the town of Naza- in a manner that was appealing. The elo-
reth. They had heard of the miraculous quence of His speech commanded their
happenings that surrounded His concep- attention. Physician, heal Yourself:
tion and birth. They knew of Him as a They had heard of the healing of the
wise and obedient child of Mary and Jo- nobleman’s son that Jesus worked in
seph. They also knew that He was one Capernaum a few days earlier (Mt 4:13;
who had been very knowledgeable of the Jn 4:46-54). They asked Him for such a
Old Testament Scriptures since child- miracle in Nazareth in order that the hear-
hood. With intense interest, therefore, say concerning His other miracles be con-
they were expecting something of Him firmed in His own country. No prophet
at this time because the age of thirty was is accepted in his own country: Those
the accepted age at which one began any of one’s own home town are slow to ac-
ministry among the Jews. They possibly cept the greatness of one who is from that
expected Him to make some formal an- town (See Mt 13:57; Jn 4:44). Those of
nouncement of His intentions concern- Nazareth were surely proud of Jesus as a
ing His life. He did, but what they heard teacher. But it was difficult for them to
was not what they expected. He claimed accept Him as the Messiah who had been
to be the specific fulfillment of Isaiah’s promised through the prophets.
prophecies concerning the Messiah. 4:25,26 Great famine: See 1 Kg
4:21 Scripture has been fulfilled: 17,18; Js 5:17. The widow of Zarephath
The Jews knew that the scripture from was a Gentile. It was to this woman alone
which Jesus quoted referred to the Mes- that Elijah, the prophet of God, was sent.
siah. When Jesus made this statement, God sent Elijah to her because she ac-
they knew that He was making applica- cepted him. Jesus teaches that the mes-
sengers of God are sent to those who ac- sidered all that Jesus did in fulfillment
cept them. God’s evangelists, therefore, of the prophecies concerning the Mes-
should go to those who are receptive to siah, they would believe. This event was
teaching (Mt 7:6). early in His ministry. It occurred before
4:27 None ... cleansed except they had all the facts concerning His ful-
Naaman: Naaman was a Gentile. It was fillment of prophecy (See At 6:7).
by God’s grace that he was cleansed
while many Israelites at the time who HEALING A DEMONIAC
were lepers remained unclean (2 Kg 5:1- (Mk 1:21-28)
14). His faith led him to Elisha, whereas 4:31,32 Luke explains to
those who ignored the prophet did not Theophilus, his Gentile reader and recipi-
seek him. Those who are accustomed to ent of this document, the location of
the prophets of God are often those who Capernaum in reference to Nazareth be-
reject what the prophets say. In this case, cause Theophilus was unfamiliar with the
Jesus was saying that those who were ac- area of Palestine (See Mt 4:13; 11:23; Jn
customed to Him in Nazareth would re- 4:46). Astonished at His teaching: The
ject Him, though others throughout the authority by which Jesus taught aston-
world would receive Him. ished the people because He did not teach
4:28-30 Filled with wrath: These as the Rabbis of Israel who resorted to
Jews of Jesus’ home town were greatly quotations from the fathers in order to
prejudiced against the Gentiles. When establish authority for their teaching (See
Jesus said that the Gentiles would receive Mt 7:28,29). Jesus’ emphasis was not
the prophets of God before the Jews on teaching the traditions of the fathers
would, such greatly angered the Jews. as did the Pharisees and scribes. The
They could not accept the fact that oth- foundation of His teaching was on the
ers would be more righteous and privi- fact that His word originated with Him
leged than they. Their religious preju- as the Son of God. Jesus was the author-
dices at this time in Jesus’ ministry were ity by which all would be judged, from
stirred to the point of an attempted mur- this time in history and forever (See com-
der of Him (See Jn 8:37; 10:31). Pass- ments Mt 28:18; Jn 12:48).
ing through the midst: The multitude 4:33-35 Spirit of an unclean de-
may have become so confused in what mon: See comments Mt 4:24 (Mk 1:23).
they were about to do that Jesus simply To destroy us: Satan and all his angels
walked through them and on His way knew their destiny. It would be destruc-
(Compare Jn 8:59; 10:39; 18:6). What- tion in a fiery hell (Mt 25:41). All those
ever the case, Jesus simply passed who would align themselves with the
through them on His way to more recep- work of Satan, therefore, have assigned
tive people. We must keep in mind that to themselves the same destiny. The
though these people did not respond to Holy One of God: Even the demons
Jesus at this time, when they later con- knew who Jesus was. They asked for no
mercy, nor did they seek to bargain with 5:23). Immediately she arose and min-
Him. They simply recognized that Jesus istered to them: The healing was instan-
had been given authority over all things, taneous. Such is the nature of true
including them and their destiny (Mt miracles. She was effectively healed in
28:18; Jn 13:3; 17:2; see 1 Pt 3:22). Hold order to be able to immediately serve
your peace: The Greek word here liter- those who were present. This is not as
ally means “to be muzzled.” Jesus con- the false miracles that are worked by
trolled their speech and would not allow those who preach contrary to the word
them to proclaim who He was. Did not of God. True miracles are undeniable and
hurt him: The demons convulsed the instantaneous. They cannot be denied,
man, but they did not physically hurt him. even by unbelievers. In defense of Chris-
4:36,37 He commands the unclean tianity, Luke wanted Theophilus to know
spirits: God allowed demons to possess that the miraculous works of Jesus were
people in the 1st century for this very rea- not as the trickery of false teachers who
son. Such offered the opportunity to claim to work miracles. If the miracles
prove that Jesus had absolute authority were not true, then the people would not
over all the forces of darkness (See Mt have been able to distinguish between
28:18; Jn 13:3; 17:2). There was noth- true miracles and the magical tricks of
ing outside the control of Jesus during false teachers who were among them.
His earthly ministry. He was controlling 4:40,41 See comments Mt 4:23-25.
the environment of people who sur- The friends of the sick went out and
rounded Him. He had such control in brought their sick friends to Jesus in or-
order to take Himself to the cross (Jn der that they be healed (See Mt 8:16,17).
10:17,18). In this, and similar cases The sign of true friendship is to bring
where Jesus confronted demons, the ab- one’s friends to Jesus. Knew that He was
solute authority of Jesus over demons is the Christ: Even the demons recognized
manifested. If God had never allowed that Jesus was the Messiah of Israel.
demons to possess people in the 1st cen- However, Jesus would not allow them to
tury, then we would never have known speak such lest His messiahship be re-
His absolute power over them. His fame jected because it came from the mouth
... went out: Because many people knew of demons (See Mk 8:29). At this time
of the demon possessed man, his healing in His ministry, Jesus needed no testi-
spread throughout the whole region of mony by others concerning who He was.
Galilee. 4:42-44 Went into a desert place:
Jesus had been working hard with the
JESUS’ WORK OF HEALING people. His humanity was manifested in
4:38,39 See comments Mt 8:14-17. this departure to a solitary place where
This miracle was worked for the benefit He could be alone and physically rest.
of Peter in order that he remain focused The people sought Him: The multitudes
on the ministry and work of Jesus (Mk did not care that Jesus was exhausted.
They did not honor His desire to be alone ing the preacher to themselves than in al-
for rest and prayer. Because of their de- lowing him to preach the good news to
sire to be with Him, they sought for Him. the lost. And so it is today. He preached
Came to Him: When they discovered in ... Galilee: Though the people do not
where Jesus was, they selfishly came to understand the mission of the evangelist,
Him, not considering His needs, but their he must continue regardless of their
own. Tried to keep Him from leaving short-sighted desires to keep him to them-
them: They were as sheep without a selves. When disciples covet preachers,
shepherd. They wanted Jesus, the teacher thousands of lost souls never have a
and healer, to stay with them. They did chance to hear and obey the gospel (Rm
not understand His mission, nor were 10:14,15). Evangelists must never allow
they considerate of His personal needs. any group of disciples to steal them away
I must preach the kingdom of God to from the lost to whom they must go in
the other cities also: Such was the mis- order to preach the gospel (See 19:10;
sion of Jesus (19:10). But the people Mt 28:19,20; Mk 16:15,16).
were here more concerned about keep-
C HAPTER 5
THE MIRACLE OF THE FISH among the people cannot compare to the
5:1-7 See comments Mt 4:18-22. true miracles of God (See comments At
Launch out into the deep: After instruct- 8:9-25).
ing the multitudes from the boat, Jesus 5:10,11 You will catch men: These
sought to manifest to the disciples the are some of Jesus’ first words to the dis-
power and authority of the One who did ciples concerning the evangelistic nature
the teaching. At Your word: Reluctantly, of their work (See Mt 28:19,20; Mk
and because of their friendship with Jesus, 16:15,16). They would catch the hearts
Peter and the others went out into the deep of men through the preaching of the gos-
water of the Sea of Galilee (See Ps 33:9). pel. They left all and followed Him:
5:8,9 The miracle of the catch was This is the sacrifice the disciple of Jesus
so evident that it had the impact on the must be willing to make in order to fol-
minds of the beholders as described here. low Jesus (See 14:25-35). With sacri-
And such is the nature of a true miracle. fice comes the opportunity for spiritual
Since miracles were worked for the pur- growth as one is forced to depend on God.
pose of confirming the message and mes- The disciples knew of Jesus and His
sengers of God (Mk 16:20), their mani- teachings before they forsook all to fol-
festation must be so evident that their im- low Him. However, it was the impact of
pact upon the minds of the beholders is His power, as manifested in the preced-
life-changing (See Mk 5:42; 10:24,26; ing miracle, that convinced them that He
At 4:14-16). The false miraculous works was one to be followed. Once one truly
of those who would seek exaltation understands who Jesus is, he has no dif-
ficulty in following Him. Those who do by forgiving the man’s sins. The scribes
not follow actually do not believe that and Pharisees were correct to state that
He is the Son of God. They do not be- only God can forgive sins. Jesus was not
lieve that He will do what He said He speaking blasphemies because He was
would do to those who do not obey the God in their midst. If He were speaking
gospel (Mt 24:41; 2 Th 1:7-9). blasphemies, then He would have been
blaspheming Himself. But that you may
A LEPER IS HEALED know: For this reason Jesus forgave the
(Mt 8:1-17; Mk 1:40 - 2:12) man’s sins first, and then, healed him.
5:12-16 See comments Mt 8:2-4. He The One who had the power to heal, also
ordered him to tell no one: Luke wrote had the authority to forgive. It is only
this document to Theophilus as a defense God who can forgive sins, for sin is
document for the cause (Christ) of Chris- against God. In forgiving the man’s sin,
tianity (See intro. to Lk and At). His ar- therefore, Jesus was affirming that He
gument to prove that Jesus was not a re- was God against whom sin is commit-
ligious fanatic who sought attention ted.
through magical tricks is manifested in
commands as this that Jesus often issued THE CALL OF MATTHEW
to those He healed. If Jesus were as the (Mt 9:9-13; Mk 2:13-17)
sorcerers of the many religions of the Ro- 5:27-32 See comments Mt 9:9-13.
man Empire, then He would have been Follow Me: See Mk 10:28; Jn 12:26;
working wonders in order to impress the 21:19,22. Matthew did not blindly fol-
people. His fame was spreading: The low Jesus. He was acquainted with Jesus’
testimony of Jesus’ miraculous works did teachings and miracles before this call.
not come from a few obscure magical The disciples did not follow Jesus be-
tricks He supposedly performed. The tes- cause He was a popular personality. They
timony came from hundreds who were followed Him because they were con-
affected by His healing hand. The time vinced that He was the Messiah and be-
would come, however, when they would cause of what He taught and did (See
have to accept Him for who He was, not comments Jn 1:41-51). Those who fol-
how He could heal their physical infir- low people because they are popular per-
mities. Withdrew ... into the wilderness: sonalities are often led astray by the one
See comments 4:42-44; 9:10. they follow. They are led astray because
5:17-26 See comments Mt 9:1-8. they have given their right to make deci-
The purpose of this miracle was to prove sions for themselves over to the person-
that Jesus was God on earth. The faith ality they have committed themselves to
of the paralyzed man’s friends moved follow. In this way those who are blind
them to take him to Jesus. Jesus pre- concerning their knowledge of the word
sented the opportunity for the accusation of God are able to lead those who are
to be made by the scribes and Pharisees also blind.
TEACHING ON FASTING to be taken away in order that He estab-

(Mt 9:14,15; Mk 2:18-20) lish a new law and covenant (See com-
5:33-35 The disciples of John fast ments Jr 31:31-34; Rm 7:1-4; Cl 2:14).
often: It was a common religious prac- New teaching demanded new wineskins.
tice of those in the 1st century to deny the Throughout His ministry, the old wine-
lust of the flesh by fasting. The disciples skins of the Pharisees and scribes finally
of John carried on with this practice as broke, and then, they plotted and carried
did most Jews. Then they will fast in out their scheme to kill Jesus. And so it
those days: Jesus, as the bridegroom, has is today when the truth of the gospel is
now gone into heaven. These are the days preached among those who are more con-
of fasting for His disciples about which cerned with keeping the traditions of the
He spoke in this text. Thus the disciples fathers than the truth of God’s word. The
of Jesus fast in this dispensation of time point of Jesus’ message concerning the
until the bridegroom comes (See com- wineskins is that His message must be
ments 2:37; Mt 6:16-17; 9:14,15; At 13:1- accepted above all other teachings one
3). They are fasting in anticipation of may have received in the past that would
His coming. hinder one’s obedience to God. No tra-
dition or religious heritage should stop
NEW WINESKINS one from accepting Jesus and His word.
(Mt 9:16,17; Mk 2:21,22) Before the cross, God spoke to His people
5:36-39 See comments Mt 9:16,17. through the fathers of families (Hb 1:1,2).
These were days of great change. The He spoke to Israel through the Sinai law.
world would never be the same again. Jesus is now the only way into eternal
Jesus did not come to put the new wine life (Jn 14:6). Those who would seek to
of His teachings and covenant into the bypass Jesus have established a false re-
old wineskins of the traditions of the Jew- ligion, one that is created after the inven-
ish religious leaders (See comments Mk tions of men who seek to serve them-
7:1-9). Neither did He come to add an selves and not God.
appendage to the Sinai law. The law had
C HAPTER 6
A SABBATH CONTROVERSY manifest to the world that there was con-
(Mt 12:1-14; Mk 2:23 - 3:6) flict between what Jesus taught and what
6:1-11 See comments Mt 12:1-14. was taught by the Jewish leaders in Pal-
One accusation against Christians by estine at the time Jesus came into the
those who did not know Jewish history world (See comments Mk 7:1-9; Gl
was that Christianity was just another sect 1:13,14). Simply because the Messiah
of Judaism. Luke includes in his defense arose out of Israel in fulfillment of prom-
of Christianity several confrontations, as ises made to Abraham (Gn 12:1-3), did
this Sabbath controversy, in order to not mean that Christianity was an ap-
pendage to the Judaism of Jesus’ day. SERMON ON THE PLAIN

Jesus lived under the Sinai law, and thus This sermon probably took place at
He kept the Sabbath. His confrontation a different location and time than the one
with the religious leaders of His day con- recorded in Matthew 5 – 7. This sermon
cerning the Sabbath was in reference to is chronologically placed here after the
their twisted views of the Sabbath. Jesus calling of the twelve apostles, whereas
did not live contrary to the day of rest the sermon of Matthew 5 – 7 came be-
for which the Sabbath was designated. fore this time. Also, Luke states that this
He honored the Sabbath rest and the Sab- sermon took place on a plain, whereas
bath as a sign of God’s covenant with the sermon recorded by Matthew took
Israel. However, He did not bow to the place on a hill or mountain. The record-
inconsistent laws the religious leaders ing of similar content in these two ser-
had attached to the Sabbath. mons by Matthew and Luke indicates the
independence that the Holy Spirit al-
COMMISSIONING THE TWELVE lowed the writers in recording the teach-
(Mt 10:2-4; Mk 3:13-19) ings of Jesus that pertained to their
6:12-16 See comments Mk 3:13-19. themes. Under the direction of the Holy
Continued all night in prayer to God: Spirit, each writer chose that material or
Jesus’ prayer all night was for a very spe- incident in the life and teaching of Jesus
cific purpose. On the next day after His that harmonized closely with the Holy
night of prayer, He called twelve of His Spirit’s desired theme for each particu-
disciples and designated them as lar book. Thus those teachings that Jesus
“apostles.” The generic meaning of the repeated several times throughout His
word “apostle” means “one who is sent.” ministry were recorded by the inspired
These twelve apostles were Christ-sent historians in accordance with the themes
apostles, and thus different from the and purposes of their particular docu-
church-sent apostles who would be spe- ments. Though the Holy Spirit used the
cifically sent out by the early church (See writers to select different material, we
At 14:4,14; Gl 1:19). These were Christ- must assume that they were under the di-
sent apostles because they were person- rection of the Holy Spirit both in selec-
ally called and sent out by Jesus (See tion and inscription of the events of Jesus’
comments At 1:21,22). The church-sent life and His teachings. The writers could
apostles would be called and sent out by not and did not record everything that
the church. When it came time for His Jesus said or did throughout His earthly
departure from this world, Jesus made ministry. If they had, then the New Tes-
specific promises to the Christ-apostles tament would be a volume far too large
that do not apply to anyone else (See Jn to either copy or print and distribute
14:26; 16:13). throughout the world (Jn 20:30,31;

21:25). The Spirit inspired writers of the 6:27-36 Compare comments Mt

New Testament to write those things that 5:39-48. In these verses Jesus contrasted
would satisfy the spiritual thirst and hun- the abundant life of love and mercy with
ger of those who were hungering and the selfish life of those who lived with-
thirsting after righteousness. out regard for others. He portrayed the
6:17-19 Stood in the plain: The ser- loving spirit of a good neighbor and citi-
mon of Matthew 5 – 7 took place on a zen as God would have men live in har-
hill or mountain (Mt 5:1,2). This ser- mony with one another on earth. If soci-
mon took place on a level place. A great eties practiced these principles, there
multitude of people: Jesus’ healing of would be no need for police and jails (See
all those in this multitude set the stage comments Mt 22:37-40; Gl 5:13,14).
for the principles of His teaching that He 6:37-42 Compare comments Mt 7:1-
would deliver in the following verses. 6. Forgive: See comments Mt 18:21-
6:20-23 Compare comments Mt 5:3- 35. Give: It is the nature of godly people
12. to behave as God. God is a giver, and
6:24-26 Woe: Jesus pronounced thus, godly people give (At 20:35). The
four woes on those who have materialis- love that is taught in verses 27-36 must
tically satisfied themselves at the sake of be carried into action. Those who love
others. The wealthy had consumed riches their brothers do not stand in judgment
on themselves and forgotten the needs of over them. With the same measure that
their fellow man (Js 5:1-6). They had you use, it will be measured to you
gluttonously lavished themselves in their again: The thrust of what Jesus states
world of materialistic living. They had here is that we will be dealt with in final
rejoiced in the self-satisfaction of their judgment by God in the same manner by
own environment without any concern which we treat our fellow man (See Js
for the poor (Pv 14:13; Js 4:9). They had 2:13). Therefore, when we measure
conformed to the status quo of the day in mercy to others, God will in turn mea-
order to remain in the company of sure mercy to us. Can the blind lead the
worldly politicians and religious leaders. blind: Those who are not of the nature
However, Jesus said that their end was of the preceding verses cannot spiritually
coming. Their artificial and unreal world lead the people of God (See Mt 15:14;
of materialistic living was about to come 23:16,19,24). Those who are spiritually
apart. The ax was laid at the root of na- dead cannot lead unto a spiritual life
tional Israel and its destruction was soon those who are also blind. One cannot lead
to come in A.D. 70 with the consumma- above and beyond his own spiritual stat-
tion of national Israel (See comments Mt ure. As his teacher: Those who disciple
24). In this destruction, all those Jews others will lead them to be like them-
who had selfishly consumed the world selves. If the teacher is spiritually blind,
on their own lust would lose their mate- so also will be the student (Compare Jn
rial wealth (See comments Js 5:1-6). 13:16; 15:20). Remove first the beam
from your own eye: The context of the heart his mouth speaks: One’s heart
verses 39-42 is in reference to those who is manifested by how he behaves. Chris-
are religiously hypocritical in their judg- tians have the responsibility of judging
ment of others. In the context of the reli- according to the fruit that one produces.
gious environment into which Jesus However, our judgment cannot be a true
came, the religious leaders gave a pre- judgment of the heart, for the outward
tense of religiosity through the outward performance of religious deeds can de-
performance of the regulations of Juda- ceive those who observe such deeds. The
ism, but inwardly they were spiritually outward performance of religion can be
dead (See comments Mt 23; Mk 7:1-9). carried on without the dedication of one’s
They knew and obeyed all the traditions heart. Nevertheless, those who work
of religion, but forsook the truth of God. from the heart will do that which is good
Such is the nature of traditional religion. to all men (See comments Gl 5:13,14).
Traditional religion is established when 6:46-49 Lord, Lord: See comments
social or religious companions conform Mt 7:21-23. Foundation on a rock: This
to the accepted behavior of a religious is the one who hears the word of Jesus
sect. When religious people become tra- and does it. He is motivated to obedi-
ditional in their doctrine and behavior, ence by his love of Jesus and His word
they often overlook the word of God in (Jn 14:15). One cannot claim to have
order to obey their traditions (See com- Jesus as his Lord if he does not obey what
ments Mk 7:1-9). It is not wrong to do Jesus says. But there will come an end
things traditionally. However, when the to those who hear and do not obey. Jesus’
traditional manner of doing something point is that our religious beliefs and so-
becomes the only way it must be done, cial behavior must be founded upon Him.
then the tradition in religion becomes law, Those who would reject Him, reject the
and thus, is wrong. Traditional religions foundation upon which eternal life is
are validated by the tradition, not by the based. There is no other foundation upon
word of God. Therefore, when the tradi- which one can build for eternal life than
tion is broken, the adherents become very Jesus. It is for this reason that all must
agitated, not because Scripture was con- be sacrificed if necessary in order to come
travened, but because tradition was bro- to Jesus. Does nothing: This is the great
ken. The agitation of the leaders against apostasy that prevailed in Israel before
those who break the traditions that vali- God brought the destruction of the As-
date the existence of their religion often syrians and Babylonians. This was the
becomes vehement. In the context of the same reason Israel would face another de-
ministry of Jesus, it led to His crucifix- struction in A.D. 70 with the destruction
ion. of national Israel. It is not enough to
6:43-45 Compare comments Mt know the truth. If one does not do the
7:18-27. For out of the abundance of will of God, he cannot claim to be of God.

C HAPTER 7
HEALING which Jesus or the disciples healed any-
A CENTURION’S SERVANT one. Jesus did not make faith a condi-
7:1-10 This healing is different than tion for healing. If faith were such a con-
the one that is recorded in Matthew 8:5- dition, then the power of God to heal
13. Here the Greek text emphasizes that would be limited to the will of man.
a bondservant was healed (vs 2). How- Those who place emphasis on faith as a
ever, the Greek word that is translated condition for healing are focusing their
“servant” in Matthew 8:6 is pais, or a attention on the one being healed and not
young boy. The young boy in the Mat- on the God who heals. One’s healing by
thew 8 account could have been the a true miracle in the New Testament was
centurion’s slave. Consider also that the never determined by the measure of faith
centurion of Matthew appears to be a he had. If faith were a measure for heal-
Gentile who is not a believer in the God ing, then those who would not have been
of Israel (Mt 8:8). The centurion in this healed would have considered them-
account is a Jewish proselyte. The cen- selves inadequate. Miracles were not
turion in Matthew 8 personally went to given as a benevolent act of God for hu-
Jesus, whereas this centurion sent the manity. After all, Jesus did not heal ev-
elders. It is important that Bible students eryone of Jerusalem and Palestine (See
not force similar events in the records of comments At 4:1-16). Miracles were
the ministry of Jesus to be the same event. given for the purpose of confirming the
Many similar events occurred in the min- message and messengers of God (Jn 3:2;
istry of Jesus. The individual writers, as Mk 16:17-20; Hb 2:2,3). Therefore, the
in this case, recorded similar but differ- primary focus of miracles was on God,
ent events. There is thus no contradic- His message and His messengers.
tion between Luke and Matthew in the
record of these similar healings by Jesus. RAISING A WIDOW’S SON
He ... built us a synagogue: In the ruins 7:11 A city called Nain: There are
of ancient Capernaum, archaeologists many archaeological remains of this par-
have discovered a synagogue that was ticular city. It was a large city of the area
built during the time of the Herods. This since it was fortified with walls and gates.
is probably the very synagogue that was There is a small city in the Plain of Jezreel
built by this centurion. Great faith: It today that is a few kilometers south of
was the faith of the centurion that resulted Nazareth that some believe is the site of
in the healing of his servant. The faith the same city that existed during Jesus’ day.
of the servant had nothing to do with the 7:12-15 Luke is the only recorder of
healing, and thus, it was not a condition the ministry of Jesus who mentions this
for his healing. It is erroneous to assume miracle of Jesus. Was a dead man car-
that faith was ever a condition upon ried out: A funeral procession was in
progress at the time Jesus arrived. This Mk 5:22-24,35-43; Jn 11:35-53).

dead man was being carried outside the
city in order to be buried at the local cem- MESSENGERS FROM JOHN
etery. She was a widow: Since the man (Mt 11:1-19)
was the only son of this widow, he would 7:18-29 See comments Mt 11:1-15.
probably have been the only means of Tell John: The first proof of His messi-
support for the woman. He had com- ahship was the fact that He had authority
passion: The compassion extended be- over the supernatural, and thus worked
yond the moment of sorrow because this miracles among men (Is 35:5; Jn 3:2).
son was the livelihood of the widow. I Jesus’ second proof was that the poor had
say to you, arise: The open coffin was the good news of the Messiah preached
an open pallet upon which the wrapped to them (4:18; Is 61:1). Messengers: The
body of the dead was laid and carried. Greek word here is angelos. This word
Without any formalities, Jesus simply is also applied to the angels of God who
commanded the dead to arise (Compare are messengers from God. It is also used
At 9:40). Such was not a performance, here in reference to messengers sent out
but simply the act of the power of God by men. In the context here, these mes-
released through the word of the incar- sengers were sent from John to Jesus in
nate Son of God. He who was dead sat order to inquire if Jesus was the expected
up: This was certainly a spectacular oc- Prophet of Israel (Zc 9:9). Jesus did not
currence in the lives of those who car- answer John with a direct statement that
ried the dead man. This was done by He was the Prophet. The Jews expected
Jesus in order to accomplish exactly what that the Prophet, or Messiah, would come
happened as a result of the miracle. The in order to restore national Israel to its
report of what had happened on this oc- fame as in the days of David and Solomon
casion concerning this resurrection, and (At 1:6). But Jesus would not be an
others like it, was proclaimed through- earthly king. He would not proclaim
out the region. Himself to be such on earth (See Jn
7:16,17 Fear came upon all: All 18:36-38). His evidence that He was the
those who were present became fearful Messiah was based on two proofs. Least
because they recognized the presence of in the kingdom: Reference here is not
the supernatural. They correctly de- to a kingdom reign that was yet to be es-
ducted that it was God who had allowed tablished. John was in the kingdom of
the One in their presence to do such a God while he lived. He was an obedient
miraculous work, for they identified subject of the kingdom reign of the Fa-
Jesus as a prophet through whom God ther that was in existence at the time he
was visiting His people. (For a study of and all mankind lived before and during
the three recorded cases where Jesus the ministry of Jesus. Not all men were
raised people from the dead, see 7:11- obedient subjects in the kingdom of God.
17; 8:41,42,49-56; Mt 9:18,19,23-26; However, all were under the kingship and
headship of the Father (See 1 Ch stead of feeding the people with spiritual
29:11,12). When Jesus ascended to the food, they were too busy playing their
right hand of God, He assumed kingship religious political games among them-
of this kingdom (See comments Dn selves in the religious and political world
7:13,14; At 21:24-28). Even the tax col- of the cities. Wisdom is vindicated by
lectors declared the righteousness of all her children: The result of exercis-
God: The work of Jesus among the poor ing wisdom proves the wisdom itself (Mt
manifested specifically the grace of God 11:19). Truth may be suppressed for a
among men. God did not send either short time, but in the end it prevails over
John or Jesus to live luxurious lives in all who would work against it.
the cities of Palestine. They were sent to
those whom society considered lower ANOINTING OF JESUS’ FEET
class citizens. Such clearly manifested We must not confuse this anointing
to all that God’s grace would go where of Jesus’ feet with the anointing by Mary,
the sophisticated of the cities would not the sister of Martha and Lazarus, in
go. His message would go to the recep- Bethany immediately before Jesus’ death
tive of the humble people who would (Jn 12:1-8). This particular anointing is
gladly receive Him. recorded only by Luke for he wants to
7:30-35 See comments Mt 11:16-19. show to Theophilus the great admiration
But the Pharisees and lawyers: Because and respect people at this time had for
of their presumptuous positions in the Jesus.
religious hierarchy of their self-made re- 7:36 Pharisee’s house ... reclined
ligious society, these religious leaders to eat: This was not the only occasion
could not lower themselves to either John when Jesus went in and ate in a Pharisee’s
or Jesus whom they considered unwor- house (11:37; 14:1). The invitation of
thy to be heard. They thus stumbled over the Pharisee indicates that not all the re-
their pride in accepting the One who ligious leaders of Israel fell under the
could deliver them from the intimidation rebuke of verses 30-35 and Matthew 23.
of a religious world that had been mis- Not all the religious leaders were of the
guided by those who defended the insti- evil heart of those who eventually sought
tutional religiosity of Judaism (See com- to kill Jesus (See Jn 3:1,2; At 6:7). Not
ments Mk 7:1-9). This generation: This all the religious leaders had fallen vic-
generation of religious leaders was like tim to the bondage of the religiosity of
unconcerned children playing their Judaism. Jesus knew that there were
games in the market places while people many receptive religious leaders among
went about searching for food. They the Jews. As a disciple of Jesus, one
went about playing their religious games should follow this example of Jesus. One
and politics and were unaware of people should make every effort to seek out
shopping here and there for spiritual food those who are searching (See At 6:7).
in order to feed their hungry souls. In- 7:37-39 This unidentified woman
came to Jesus while He was in the house 7:43 Those who have come the long-
of the Pharisee. Her remorse over her est way out of a life of sin in response to
sinful state was manifested in this most God’s grace usually appreciate their sal-
humble gesture of anointing and wash- vation more than those who have lived
ing of Jesus’ feet. Her penitence was by Christian principles before their obe-
expressed by the outpouring of her emo- dience to the gospel by immersion into
tion. What sort of woman: The host of Christ. When we feel truly forgiven, we
Jesus thought to himself these words of live truly thankful lives (2 Co 4:15).
judgment concerning Jesus. He was right 7:44-48 Simon had failed to perform
in judging that a true prophet would know the customary duties of a host that
the character of the past life of the showed respect to a guest. The humble
woman. However, he was wrong in as- actions of the woman went far beyond
suming that Jesus did not know (See what even a host would perform toward
15:2). his guest. She did more for Jesus than
7:40-42 Graciously forgave them those who considered themselves righ-
both: God’s grace is poured out on all teous in the eyes of God. She manifested
who will receive the free gift. Only God her great love, and thus, she received for-
can forgive sins because it is against God giveness. When anyone responds to the
that sin is committed. Therefore, in for- grace of God that was revealed on the
giving sins, Jesus was claiming to be cross (Ti 2:11), and then obeys the gos-
God. Which of them will love him more: pel by immersion in water, God forgives
God’s forgiveness through grace moti- that person’s sins (At 2:38; 22:16).
vates a loving response (See comments 7:49,50 Who is this who also for-
2 Co 4:15). Herein is the key to Chris- gives sins: There were evidently other
tian behavior. Christians love because Pharisees who were guests at this par-
God first loved them (1 Jn 4:19). The ticular meal. They thought it presump-
disciples of Jesus are motivated into ac- tuous of Jesus to forgive sins (See 5:21;
tion because of the loving action by Mt 9:6). Your faith has saved you: The
which God moved toward them (See woman’s faith in who Jesus was moved
comments 1 Co 15:10; 1 Jn 4:19). Love her to submit to Jesus. She did not have
is the primary motivation that moves one a simple belief in Jesus. Her actions were
toward obedience of the commandments the manifestation of her great faith (Mt
of God (Jn 14:15; 1 Jn 5:1-3). 9:2,22).
C HAPTER 8
THE MINISTRY OF WOMEN in order to preach to the cities. Their
8:1-3 With the twelve, the ministry preaching tours were in preparation for
of Jesus expanded throughout all the re- the preaching of the gospel on the day of
gion of Galilee because He delegated Pentecost in A.D. 30 (See comments At
preaching responsibilities to the twelve 2). Certain women: In the travels of
His ministry, there were certain women ies of the kingdom in parables in order
who gave themselves to minister to the to reveal truth to those who were of an
physical needs of Jesus and the twelve. open heart and mind (Is 6:9). However,
They were not sent to preach as were the the truth was concealed by the parables
apostles, but their ministry to the physi- from those who were religiously preju-
cal needs of Jesus and the disciples was diced (Mt 13:3).
their ministry to proclaim the good news 8:11-15 See comments Mt 13:18-23.
of Jesus. Mary of Magdalene, out of
whom Jesus had cast seven demons, was PURPOSE OF THE LAMP
one of these women (Mk 16:9). Joanna 8:16-18 It is the purpose and nature
and Susanna, who were evidently busi- of the lamp to produce light for all who
ness women, provided for much of the are in its presence. So it is with the gos-
needs of Jesus and the disciples. These pel. It is the nature of the gospel to be
women would later become great wit- light. Because of this nature, it is the pur-
nesses to the life, teaching and resurrec- pose of the gospel to provide the light of
tion of Jesus (See Mt 28:10; Mk 16:1). life to all the world (See Mt 5:14). The
gospel is the death of Jesus for the sins
PARABLE OF THE SOWER of the world. It is His resurrection for
(Mt 13:1-13; Mk 4:1-20) our hope (See comments 1 Co 15:1-4).
8:4-8 See comments Mt 13:1-13. As When this message is preached, people
explained in verses 11-15, this parable find their way out of darkness and into
might be referred to as the parable of the eternity. That will not be revealed: The
soils. Jesus explains that the good news omniscient God who created all things
of the kingdom is received in different was in their midst (See Cl 1:16). What
ways by different people. However, their Jesus was teaching would bring to light
life-style manifests what they feel in their the hidden secrets of men. Their response
hearts. Satan thus steals away the effect to His teaching would reveal the nature
of the good news out of impure hearts. of their hearts. Any negative reaction one
But the heart that is searching, and is thus would have to His teaching would judge
receptive to learning and growth, will one to be of the nature of those about
produce much fruit. We cannot find the whom God spoke in Isaiah 6:9,10: “See-
searching unless we are searching for ing they may not see, and hearing they
them. The one who is searching for hope may not understand.” One’s inability to
realizes that there is something missing understand is not because the message is
in his life. He realizes that he cannot difficult to understand. It is because he
fulfill that which is missing by either ma- is suffering difficulty in humbling him-
terial things or the theologies and phi- self before God (See comments Hb
losophies of men. 5:11,12). Whoever has, to him more will
8:9,10 See comments Mt 13:10-23. be given: Those who humbly hunger and
As prophesied, Jesus spoke the myster- thirst after God’s righteousness will be
filled (Mt 5:6). Those who search for Disciples are related to one another
truth will find truth. However, those self- through a common covenant that they
righteous religious leaders who thought have with God, and thus their relation-
that they had a special relationship with ship is greater than any physical relation-
God by their physical lineage from Abra- ships of this world.
ham, would be rejected (See comments
Mt 21:33-44). One is trusting in the CALMING A STORM AT SEA
wrong things if he believes he is reli- (Mt 8:23-27; Mk 4:35-41)
giously right before God through self- 8:22-25 See comments Mt 8:23-37.
justification by perfect law-keeping or The omniscience of Jesus to know of the
meritorious works. His trust in such coming storm certainly allowed Him to
things will hinder his discovery of the see this opportunity to teach the disciples
truth of God’s grace. When one seeks to that they must depend on Him. Every
validate his faith by his own religious per- storm of life should move one to depend
formances, he is not basing his faith on on God. He fell asleep: Jesus fell asleep
the grace of God (See comments Ep 2:1- before the storm. However, He remained
10). asleep while it was in progress. When
the disciples finally relented to the fact
JESUS’ PHYSICAL FAMILY that they were going to perish, they awak-
(Mt 12:46-50; Mk 3:31-35) ened Jesus. Where is your faith: Their
8:19-21 See comments Mt 12:46-50; lack of faith was manifested in their fear
Mk 3:31-35. On this occasion, Mary and of death. They knew that they were in
the physical brothers of Jesus sought to the presence of One who had already
see Him. This was reported to Jesus, and commanded the elements and healed the
thus, an opportunity arose to teach con- sick. They needed to put their trust in
cerning the adding of spiritual relation- Him, and in doing such, not be afraid of
ships to one’s physical family relation- death or any crisis that life may bring.
ships. Who hear the word of God and They were afraid: See 4:36; 5:26. The
do it: Jesus was not showing disrespect miracle manifested the extent to which
to His mother and brothers. He was Jesus had control over all things. Real-
teaching that one’s spiritual relationship izing such moves one to reverential awe
with those who have committed them- and fear of the power of God. The more
selves to obey God is greater than one’s we understand the power of God, the less
physical relationship with his family (See we fear the things of this world.
comments 14:25-35). Those who are
obedient to the word of God are thus in HEALING A DEMONIAC
fellowship with one another because of (Mt 8:28-34; Mk 5:1-20)
their common obedience to the gospel (Jd 8:26 See comments Mt 8:28-34.
3). One’s physical family is extended Luke’s record of this particular case of
when he becomes a disciple of Jesus. Jesus’ casting out demons is given in
more detail than Matthew’s account be- had determined that Satan and his angels
cause of His purpose for writing (See Mt (demons) would eventually suffer the
8:28-34). In writing a defense of Chris- punishment of hell (Mt 25:41; 2 Pt 2:4;
tianity by explaining the divine power of Jd 6).
Jesus, Luke explains how this demoniac, 8:29 He had commanded the un-
who was well-known in the country of clean spirit to come out: As God on
the Gadarenes, was healed by the com- earth, Jesus had absolute authority and
mand of Jesus. The demoniac was well- power over even the worst of Satan’s
known in the country because of the un- work among men (Jn 13:3; 17:2). Satan
controlled rage by which he terrified ev- has no indigenous or subjective power
eryone. or authority over Jesus or anyone else.
8:27 There met Him a certain man: His power is by the willingness of men
There were two demon possessed men to be deceived. By such deception he
on this particular occasion, though one has captured the minds of the masses of
is the outspoken representative in refer- the world. In the cases of demon posses-
ence to this confrontation with Jesus. For sion in the 1st century, the individuals who
a long time: This man had been pos- were possessed had voluntarily allowed
sessed for an extended period of time, themselves to be controlled by the de-
and thus was known throughout the re- mons. Once they were possessed, the
gion. His terrorizing of the community demons took control. We must keep in
had led to his banishment to the grave- mind that God has not given Satan the
yard. Wore no clothes: When Satan gets power to take control of one’s life as he
hold of one’s character, he or she wants so chooses. Kept bound: When Satan
to take off his or her clothes. There is no controlled the life of an individual in the
shame in a devil-controlled life. Stayed 1st century through demon possession, so-
... in the tombs: When Satan has control ciety did not trust the person the demon
of one’s life, he lives in an unnatural en- controlled. Broke the bonds: It was not
vironment. He is rejected by the com- that he was given supernatural power to
munity, and thus lives alone only where do such, but that the adrenaline was re-
the community does not live. leased into the body of a hysterical indi-
8:28 Jesus, Son of the Most High vidual who was often out of control.
God: This demon, as well as other de- 8:30,31 Legion: A Roman legion was
mons, confessed more than most men comprised of 4,000 to 6,000 men who
confess today (4:41). The demon here were greatly feared by all. It was not that
begs for mercy from the omnipotent Son there were several thousand demons in this
of God. He does not bargain in order to person. There were many. The many who
negotiate a deal with Jesus concerning controlled this individual thus caused ter-
his destiny of destruction (Mt 8:29; ror in the community through the pos-
25:41). He knew that his destiny was sessed man. The abyss: This is the place
sealed and could not be changed. God of torments and captivity to which Jesus
would destine all demons by His victory to depart from their region. And so it is
of the cross and resurrection (See Rm in many places of the world today. Most
10:7; Ep 4:8; 2 Pt 2:4; Jd 6). people are more afraid of giving up their
8:32,33 Spirits seek to be embod- superstitious beliefs than fearing the One
ied. Here the demons choose the body who can destroy soul and body in hell
of pigs over the abyss. He permitted (Mt 10:28).
them: It is interesting to note that the 8:38,39 Begging Him that he might
demons whom so many people feared, be with Him: When the mercy of God is
had to ask permission from the One poured out on one who could not deliver
(Jesus) they refuse to obey. And so it is himself by his own means, the natural re-
today. People will refuse to submit to sponse is to be close by the one who
Jesus as Lord because they desire to sub- showed the mercy (Compare 2 Co 4;15).
mit to the wicked ways of Satan. They Those who truly appreciate the loving
will refuse to submit to Jesus of whom mercy of God, want to be with God. One
the demons had to ask permission. They appreciates God’s mercy when he under-
refuse to submit to the Lord of all things stands how far God had to come in order
by submitting to the will of Satan whom to deliver us from our sinful situation.
Jesus will eventually cast into eternal de- Show what great things God has done
struction (Mt 25:41). for you: Jesus asked this healed demo-
8:34-37 Sitting at the feet of Jesus: niac to give witness to others concerning
When one is in his right mind he will be what God had done for him, for it was
at the feet of Jesus (See 10:39; 17:16; God who actually worked on this occa-
Mt 28:9; Mk 7:25; Jn 11:32). He will sion. It is thus the work of God that mo-
seek to be led to correct his life and the tivates others to obey God (See 1 Co
evil influence he has had on others (See 15:10). The most powerful witness in
Jn 14:15; 15:14). They were afraid: any community is the converted life of
They were afraid of what they did not those who previously wrecked the com-
understand. But if they truly understood munity by their ungodly living. God
who was in their midst—the Son of God seeks to send converted people back to
before whom all will be judged (At repair the lives of those who were rav-
17:30,31)—they would have been afraid aged by their wicked living.
to ask Jesus to leave. Asked Him to de- 8:40-48 See comments Mt 9:20-22.
part from them: If they truly knew In the healing of both the woman with a
whom they asked to depart, surely they hemorrhage of blood and Jairus’ daugh-
would not have done so. Nevertheless, ter, the touch of Jesus released power
the superstitious religious beliefs of the from God. The woman reached out to
ignorant will hinder them from under- touch Jesus (vs 44) and Jesus reached out
standing the truth. On this occasion, the and took the hand of the dead daughter
superstitious beliefs of the Gadarenes (vs 54). In cases as these two miracles,
moved them in fear to ask the Son of God the result was the same. Power went out
from Jesus to those who were spiritually mance in order to draw attention. True
touched by Him. Your faith has made miracles were never worked in order to
you well: It was her faith that moved her satisfy the idle curiosity of man. When
to reach out and touch Jesus (7:50). It is reading the record of any miracle in the
active faith that produces results in the Bible, one must always keep in mind the
kingdom (Js 2:14-26). The faith was not purpose for which the veil of the natural
a condition for her healing. Her faith was world was set aside to reveal the super-
the motivation that put her in contact with natural realm of God. The purpose of
the source of healing. the miracle was to signal to man, who is
confined to the physical world, that there
RAISING OF is a realm beyond the physical world.
JAIRUS’ DAUGHTER This would be the realm of God’s dwell-
(Mt 9:18,19,23-26; Mk 5:22-24,35-43) ing. It was supernatural because it was
8:49-56 See comments Mt above the natural laws of this world.
9:18,19,23-26. It was not Jesus’ prac- Therefore, when Jairus’ daughter was
tice to go through ceremonial perfor- raised, the laws of the supernatural were
mances in order to stimulate the curios- allowed to touch the natural body of the
ity of people to view His miracles. In young girl. She came to life as the su-
this case, only Peter, James and John, pernatural laws of God’s realm of exist-
with the father and mother, were permit- ence superseded the laws of nature. For
ted to be in the presence of the miracle this reason, those who are in the pres-
when the daughter was raised. When ence of God will never die (See com-
unleashing the miraculous power of God, ments 2 Th 1:6-9).
Jesus did not conduct a theatrical perfor-
C HAPTER 9
LIMITED COMMISSION preached. They were to preach the good
OF THE TWELVE news of the kingdom of God. Their
(Mt 10:5-15; Mk 6:7-13) preaching would prepare people for the
At this time in the document of Luke, Pentecost event that would come and the
Luke seems to change his emphasis to preaching of the gospel on and after the
focus on the cross. In His change of day of Pentecost. Take nothing for your
emphasis, he records some teachings of journey: This limited commission was
Jesus that are found only in his writing. to be a test of the disciples’ faith. They
9:1-6 See comments Mt 10:5-15. He were to put their trust in God and the be-
sent them to preach the kingdom: nevolence of those to whom they went.
Equipped with the power over demons At the same time, it would be a test of
and the power to heal, the twelve were hospitality on the part of those who re-
sent forth by Jesus to preach the same ceived them. Those who received the
message that He and John the Baptist messengers of Jesus would be receiving
Jesus. In sending forth the disciples in 9:10-17 See comments Mt 14:13-21.

this manner, Jesus was laying the foun- The feeding of the five thousand took
dation on which the disciples would later place sometime before the confession of
go forth after the establishment of the Peter in verses 18-21. Matthew records,
church. These who were sent forth on that at the time Jesus called on the dis-
this occasion would remember the recep- ciples to make the confession that He was
tive homes to which they could go after the Christ and Son of God, He asked them
the establishment of the church in Acts first to recall the feeding of the four thou-
2. They ... went through the towns, sand and five thousand (Mt 16:9,10).
preaching the gospel: Jesus sent the dis- Luke’s purpose here, however, was to
ciples out on more than one preaching lead Theophilus to understand that the
tour during His ministry. There was nature of the miracle of feeding the mul-
much teaching to be done during His titudes should move us to make the same
three and a half year ministry. More confession concerning Jesus. It was a
teaching was needed than what He could miracle of creation, and thus, should
personally do. Therefore, He sent the dis- prove beyond doubt that Jesus was the
ciples to prepare the hearts and minds of Son of God (See comments Cl 1:16).
the people to accept Him as the Messiah,
and later, as the Son of God. He also PETER’S CONFESSION
sent them out in order to prepare them (Mt 16:13-20; Mk 8:27-30)
for the ministry they would be given af- 9:18-21 See comments Mt 16:13-28.
ter the Pentecost of Acts 2. The disciples His disciples were with Him: Jesus and
had observed Jesus’ teaching. It was now the disciples were at this time at Caesarea
time for them to begin teaching as He did. Philippi (Mt 16:13). It was here that they
were together for a private meeting. At
HEROD AND JOHN this meeting, Jesus called on them for a
(Mt 14:1-12; Mk 6:14-29) confession of who He was. Some say:
9:7-9 See comments Mt 14:1-12. At this time in the ministry of Jesus, there
Luke records the inquiry of the perplexed was great speculation among the people
Herod in order to illustrate that even concerning who He was. The Christ of
kings wondered concerning who Jesus God: Peter spoke for the rest of the dis-
was. In his document to prove that Jesus ciples. Their confession at this time was
was the Son of God, Luke is bringing us that they believed Jesus was the Messiah,
to the same confession that Peter made the anointed one of God who had come
in verse 20, that Jesus is the Christ of from God to deliver Israel. Matthew re-
God. corded all that Peter said. “You are the
Christ, the Son of the living God” (Mt
FEEDING OF 16:16; see Jn 6:68,69).
THE FIVE THOUSAND 9:22 The Son of Man must suffer
(Mt 14:13-21; Mk 6:30-44; Jn 6:1-13) many things: It was from this time that
Jesus began to prepare the disciples for of an eternal dwelling in the presence of
His suffering and the cross that He must God (See 12:9; Mt 10:33; Mk 8:38; 2 Tm
endure in order to accomplish the des- 2:12; Rm 1:16). They see the kingdom
tiny for which He was sent (18:31-33; of God: See Mt 16:28; Mk 9:1; At
23:46; 24:46; Mt 16:21; 17:22). 7:55,56. They would not see a physical
kingdom of thrones on earth as a physi-
THE COST OF DISCIPLESHIP cal kingdom of this world. They would
(Mt 16:21-28; Mk 8:31 – 9:1) see the power of the kingdom reign of
9:23-27 See comments Mt 16:21-28. Jesus that would be manifested from
Take up his cross daily: Commitment heaven (24:49; At 1:8). And such they
to serve Jesus is an everyday work in did see when the Holy Spirit was poured
one’s Christian life. Those who have forth on the apostles on the day of Pente-
committed themselves to serve have dedi- cost (At 2:1-4). This great event hap-
cated their entire lives to Jesus (Rm pened before many died who were alive
12:1,2; Gl 2:20). Jesus’ point is not that during Jesus’ ministry. Jesus’ kingdom
we concentrate on denying things, but on reign was not postponed or delayed from
denying ourselves. When one denies the time He said it would be established.
himself, all things of this world are put He wanted His disciples to know that it
into their correct perspective in reference would be established in their lifetime.
to the kingdom (See comments Mt 6:31-
34). Whoever will lose his life for My THE TRANSFIGURATION
sake: Those who control the lusts of the (Mt 17:1-13; Mk 9:2-13)
flesh in this life will enjoy the abundance 9:28-36 See comments Mt 17:1-13.
of life (Jn 10:10). Those who have com- Went up on a mountain: Some believe
mitted themselves to Jesus will not only this may have been Mount Hermon that
receive the abundant life in this life (Jn is 2,814 meters (7316 feet) above sea
10:10), they will also reap eternal life in level. It would have been an isolated lo-
the new heavens and earth to come (See cation for the event of the transfigura-
17:33; Jn 12:25). What profit: It is tion. Great prophets in the Old Testa-
senseless to profit that which is of this ment experienced the glory of God on
life at the expense of that which is be- mountains. Jesus possibly wanted these
yond this life? It is senseless because no three disciples to experience the same
man with the goods of this world can (See Ex 24:15; 1 Kg 19:8). In this case,
make an exchange for the heaven that is Moses represented the Sinai law and
to come (See 16:19-31; Mt 16:26; Mk Elijah the prophets. This event was to
8:36; At 1:18,25). Ashamed of Me and proclaim to the disciples that things were
My words: Those who are ashamed of changing. The voice out of heaven pro-
letting their spiritual light shine before claimed, “This is My chosen One. Hear
men as a result of Jesus living in their Him!” (vs 35; see Ps 2:7; Is 41:1; Mt
hearts are certainly not worthy subjects 3:17; 12:18; Mk 1:11). It was time for
all men to listen to Jesus (Jn 12:48; Hb Him, the power that came from God
1:1-3). Let us make three tents: Peter could not be exercised through them.
made the mistake that many religious 9:43-45 The Son of Man will be be-
people make today. They want to me- trayed: The disciples had accepted Jesus
morialize a place by building a monu- as the Messiah. However, they could not
ment for God. However, God does not connect the Old Testament prophecies of
dwell in buildings or with monuments the death of the Messiah with Jesus (See
that are made with the hands of those He Is 53; Ps 22). They still had the common
created (See 1 Kg 8:27; At 7:48-50; Jewish belief that the Messiah would
17:24). God needs no physical structures come with the mission to deliver Israel
on earth to symbolize either His being or physically from the oppression of foreign
presence. His presence is manifested governments (See At 1:6). His prophecy
through the lives of those who dedicate of His death was to prepare them for the
themselves to following after His will. crucifixion. Though they were not ex-
It is the human temple of those who give pecting the crucifixion, they would later
themselves to holy living that manifests understand that during His ministry, Jesus
His presence, not temples made with the knew that His crucifixion would happen.
hands of men. Cloud: See Ex 24:15-18;
Ps 97:2. Told no one in those days: DISPUTE OVER GREATNESS
Because they did not understand the full (Mt 18:1-5; Mk 9:33-50)
significance of the experience, it was not 9:46-48 See comments Mt 18:1-5.
to be spoken to others until after all things There arose a dispute among them: The
had been revealed to them (See Mt 17:9; fact that they did not understand the death
Mk 9:9). and resurrection of Jesus, but had their
minds on earthly kingdoms, is manifested
FAITH AND A DEMONIAC BOY in the fact that they disputed among them-
(Mt 17:14-23; Mk 9:14-32) selves concerning who was the greatest.
It was at this time that Jesus con- They maintained this carnal rivalry unto
cluded His ministry in Galilee. It was the evening of the last Passover meal He
only a few months before the cross. Be- ate with them (See 22:24; Mk 9:33-37;
cause the disciples did not understand all 10:35-45).
the implications of His death to come, 9:49,50 Because he does not follow
He became more specific with them in with us: The disciples had evidently de-
teaching as He drew near to the cross. veloped some sectarian arrogance in ref-
9:37-42 See comments Mt 17:14-23. erence to their companionship with Jesus.
Your disciples ... could not: Jesus iden- Because this unknown disciple was not
tified that the reason the disciples could in the inner circle of disciples, John and
not cast out the demon was because of the others forbade him from doing good.
their lack of faith (vs 41). Without Jesus, But Jesus counters their sectarian spirit
they could do nothing. Without faith in and behavior. He says that all good must
be commended (See 11:23; Mt 12:30). (13:18-21), (25) Entrance into the kingdom (13:22-
There are those who do good works in 30), (26) Evil intentions of Herod (13:31-35), (27)
the community. The community reaps Healing a man with dropsy (14:1-6), (28) Parable
the effects from the good that is done. on humility (14:7-14), (29) Parable of the great
Some even do their good works in the supper (14:15-24), (30) The cost of discipleship
name of Jesus. The cause of Jesus is fur- (14:25 – 5:2), (31) Parable of the lost sheep (15:3-
thered by such. However, because those 7), (32) Parable of the lost coin (15:8-10), (33)
who do these good works are not in a Parable of the prodigal (15:11-32), (34) Parable of
covenant relationship with the Lord, their good stewardship (16:1-18), (35) The rich man
good works are all in vain in reference to and Lazarus (16:19-31), (36) Warnings to the dis-
their salvation. Only when one is in a ciples (17:1-10), (37) The grateful leper (17:11-
covenant relationship with God through 19), (38) The nature of the kingdom (17:20,21),
obedience to the gospel will his works (39) The day of the Son (17:22-37), (40) Parable
follow with him into eternal glory (See of the persistent widow (18:1-8), (41) Parable of
comments 1 Co 15:58; see Rv 14:13). In the Pharisee and publican (18:9-14), (41) Jesus and
order for one’s good works not to be in children (18:15-17), (42) The rich young ruler (18:18-
vain, he must be in the Lord (See com- 30)
ments Rm 6:3-6; Gl 3:26,27). DESTINY IN JERUSALEM
9:51-54 Beginning at this point in
The Perean Ministry Luke’s narrative, it is difficult to estab-
(9:51 – 18:30) lish the chronological order of Jesus’ ac-
Outline: (1) Destiny in Jerusalem (9:51-56), (2) tivities. The orderly arrangement of the
Total commitment (9:57-62), (3) Sending of the written material itself is apparent, but
seventy-two (10:1-16), (4) Return of the seventy- chronology as it relates to the actual se-
two (10:17-20), (5) The hidden things (10:21- quence of Jesus’ ministry is difficult to
24), (6) The good Samaritan (10:25-37), (7) Mary determine. An orderly arrangement of
and Martha (20:38-42), (8) Jesus teaches on prayer the last six months of Jesus’ ministry is
(11:1-4), (9) Parable of a persistent friend (11:5- indicated by John (See Jn 7:10; 10:22,40-
8), (10) God answers prayer (11:9-13), (11) The 42; 11:1-17,54; 12:1). For Him to be
authority of Jesus (11:14-28), (12) The sign of received up: Jesus was fully conscious
Jonah (11:29-32), (13) The light of the body (11:33- of the fact that at this time His death was
36), (14) Woe to the Pharisees (11:37-44), (15) near (Is 50:7; Mk 16:19; At 1:2). His
Woe to the scribes (11:45-54), (16) Warnings death was not unexpected because He
against insincere religiosity (12:1-12), (17) Trust- knew that He was the Lamb who was
ing in the world (12:13-21), (18) Trusting in God slain before the foundation (creation) of
(12:22-34), (19) Watching servants (12:35-40), the world (Is 53; Ps 22; Rv 13:8). He
(20) The unfaithful servant (12:41-59), (21) Ne- steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusa-
cessity of repentance (13:1-5), (22) Parable of the lem: Jesus now focuses with determina-
unfruitful tree (13:6-9), (23) Healing on the Sab- tion on the cross, and by doing such, em-
bath (13:10-17), (24) Definition of the kingdom phasizes teaching that the disciples will
later understand after the resurrection and longs only to God because He is the one
ascension (Mk 10:32). A village of the who is rejected when His messengers are
Samaritans: Jesus sent messengers rejected. Jesus came to seek and to save
ahead to prepare His entry into a village those who were lost (19:10; Jn 3:17;
of the Samaritans. However, when the 12:47). His disciples must also have a
Samaritans realized that Jesus was spirit of saving the lost, not a spirit of
headed for the feast in Jerusalem, they retaliation and destruction.
rejected Him. Do You want us to com-
mand fire: The sons of thunder wanted TOTAL COMMITMENT
to act immediately against those who re- (Mt 8:19-22)
jected Jesus (Mk 3:17). However, Jesus 9:57-62 See comments Mt 8:19-22.
was going to Jerusalem where He would At this time in the ministry of Jesus, com-
be rejected. It was time now that the dis- mitment to follow Him was demanded
ciples also learn rejection. They had been by Jesus. There were certainly others
with Jesus for about three years, living who were following Jesus other than the
in a fellowship environment where the immediate twelve. Jesus taught that all
people in Galilee were accepting them must commit themselves to follow Him.
by asking for Jesus. Now they must learn They, as He, must be willing to sacrifice
rejection without desiring to retaliate any permanent place of dwelling (vs 58;
(Compare 2 Kg 1:10-12). God would see Lk 2:7; 8:23). They must even put
render vengeance by the harsh judgment Him before social responsibilities and
that would eventually come in A.D. 70 family relationships (vss 59,60; see com-
upon those who rejected Jesus (See comments 14:25-35). It was now a time to
ments Mt 24). Vengeance, therefore, look forward and not back. Those who
must be left to God. The disciples must look back are not of the nature that is
learn to control themselves in reference demanded by the kingdom reign of Jesus.
to those who would reject them. When one looks back, he is often ques-
9:55,56 Rebuked them: In reference tioning his faith in the One who is before
to the spirit of the world that would re- him. When the kingdom reign of heaven
taliate, James and John did know their is done on earth in the hearts of men, then
spirit (See Rm 8:15; 2 Tm 1:7). How- kingdom business must always supersede
ever, they did not understand that their that which is of this world (Mt 6:31-34;
spirit of retaliation was actually the spirit 2 Tm 4:10). One cannot trust in God as
of the world. In reference to the spiri- he does kingdom business while at the
tual nature of the kingdom, they would same time he looks back in order to trust
have to understand that vengeance be- in his own accomplishments.

C HAPTER 110
0
SENDING OF 10:2 Send out laborers: See com-
THE SEVENTY-TWO ments Mt 9:37,38. Herein is an impera-
This section of events and teachings tive for the disciples in their prayers.
are found only in Luke’s document. They must pray for more evangelists (See
10:1 This is a different preaching 1 Co 3:9; 2 Th 3:1).
tour than the one that Matthew mentions 10:3-6 See comments Mt 10:7-16.
in Matthew 10. In some manuscripts, the They were to carry no excess baggage
text reads “seventy.” Seventy-two oth- that would slow them down on their jour-
ers: During His ministry, Jesus prepared ney. They were not even to carry an ex-
more individuals for the work of preach- tra pair of sandals. They must go as they
ing than the twelve apostles. In this case, were. They must learn to put their trust
seventy-two disciples were commis- in God to take care of them. They were
sioned to heal the sick and preach the on an urgent mission because the Pass-
gospel of the kingdom throughout the over/Pentecost of A.D. 30 was nearing.
cities of Palestine (vs 9). Two by two: Do not greet anyone along the way:
For protection, credibility and mutual en- There was an urgency about this mission.
couragement, Jesus sent them forth two They were to waste no time on the road,
by two. Into every city and place: Jesus but to make their way immediately to the
was nearing the end of His ministry, villages and towns to which Jesus was
therefore, He sent these disciples out in about to go. Jesus wanted everyone in
order to prepare the way for His coming Palestine to know that He was the Christ,
and teaching in these cities. It was im- the Son of the living God. Peace to this
portant that a great amount of teaching house: This greeting was to determine
take place throughout Palestine before if the hosts would receive them into their
the events of the coming Passover/Pen- homes. If these messengers were re-
tecost feast. The Passover/Pentecost to ceived into any home, God’s blessing
come would be the most traumatic Pass- would be on that home. The disciples
over/Pentecost in the history of the Jews. must learn to accept the hospitality of
Jesus wanted a great amount of teaching those who want to have fellowship with
that He was the Messiah. He wanted the the preaching of the gospel (See com-
Jews to know this before they came to ments 3 Jn 1-8).
Jerusalem for the feast. Jesus wanted 10:7,8 Eating and drinking such
everyone to know who He claimed to be. things as they give: They were not to
When the people would call for His cru- complain about the food they were given
cifixion at the feast, they would all be or be disrespectful concerning what they
witnesses to His crucifixion. They would were served to eat. They must eat what
thus be of the remorseful thousands who they were served and be thankful for it.
would repent on Pentecost (See At 2:41). It was not a time to ask questions about
food. Their mission was more important enty-two was to proclaim the good news
than their food. The laborer is worthy of the coming kingdom reign. The em-
of his hire: They were to receive the phasis of their preaching at this time was
hospitality of the host without feeling that on the proclamation of the kingdom reign
they should repay money for what they that was soon to be established. They
received (Mt 10:10; 1 Co 9:4-8; 1 Tm preached repentance in view of the com-
5:18). The evangelist must graciously ing kingdom reign of King Jesus. Wipe
receive that which is given to him be- off against you: The Jew’s wiping off
cause he receives it not for himself, but of the dust of another land—that which
for the One for whom he labors. Eat such was considered a polluted land (Am 7:17)
things as are set before you: These mes- in contrast to Israel’s holy land (Ez
sengers were Jews and were going into 45:1)—was a symbol that meant rejec-
Gentile areas. In view of the Sinai law tion and repudiation of the inhabitants of
restrictions concerning Jews eating cer- that land. Jesus instructed the disciples
tain foods, the seventy-two were to be- here to do such in order to indicate that
come all things to all men. They were they had relieved themselves of the blood
instructed to eat what was set before them of responsibility of those who rejected
without causing any disturbance (Com- them (See At 13:15).
pare 10:9-16; Cl 2:16; see Mt 16:10-20; 10:12 In that day: Israel as a whole
1 Co 9:7; 10:27). had a great opportunity to repent during
10:9 The seventy-two are here com- the ministry of Jesus, because the Son of
manded to heal others. They were also God was on earth and personally minis-
to cast out demons (vs 17). However, tering to them. They thus received
they were not commanded to raise the greater responsibility because they had
dead as the twelve were in Matthew 10:8. received a greater witness to the work of
One of the signs of the Christ-sent God. Their rejection of Jesus would re-
apostles was probably that they could sult in greater judgment. In A.D. 70 their
raise the dead (See comments 2 Co rejection would result in the destruction
12:12). The kingdom of God has come of national Israel. Sodom: See Gn 13:13;
near to you: The kingdom reign had 18:20; 19:24; Is 13:19; Jr 49:18; 2 Pt 2:6;
come near in the sense that the King was Jd 7.
on earth ministering among men. How- 10:13,14 The inhabitants of these
ever, He was about to ascend to the throne cities were judged with great judgment
of David in heaven in order to receive all because they had received the personal
authority (Mt 28:18). The first official witness of the Son of God, and yet, there
announcement that He had ascended to was no repentance (See Jh 3). Chorazin:
reign on the throne of David would soon See Mt 11:21-23. Bethsaida: See Mk
be made in a few months (See At 2:25- 6:45; 8:22; Jn 1:44; 12:21. Mighty
36). works: Many miracles were worked in
10:10,11 The command to the sev- these cities of Israel during the personal
ministry of Jesus. Mark records only one the final judgment (See Mt 25:46; 2 Th
miracle that was worked in these cities 1:7-9). Capernaum had exalted herself
(Mk 8:22). But Luke records that Jesus to be seen, but she would go to the abode
had worked many miracles in these cit- of the unseen. Her religious arrogance
ies. Thus, the New Testament does not would be the occasion for her judgment
record all the miracles that were worked (Compare Mt 24:35ff). When Saul per-
by Jesus throughout His ministry (Jn secuted Christians, he was persecuting
20:30,31; 21:25). Tyre and Sidon: Jesus (At 22:8). Since Jesus works
These were Gentile cities (Gn 10:15; through those who carry out His mission,
49:13; Is 23: Ez 26-28; 29:18). The an- it is important that we receive His mes-
cient cities of Tyre and Sidon would have sengers in order to receive Him. Those
repented if they had the opportunity the who do not receive the evangelists of
cities of Israel had during the personal Jesus are rejecting Jesus. Some individu-
ministry of Jesus. Sackcloth and ashes: als and churches would do well to be
Sackcloth was a very coarse material that warned by what Jesus states here (See
was often made of goats’ hair and was comments 3 Jn 1-10).
black in color (Rv 6:12). It was worn for
many purposes by the Jews (See Gn RETURN
37:34; 2 Sm 3:31; Jb 16:15; Ne 9:1; Et OF THE SEVENTY-TWO
4:1; Dn 9:3; Jl 1:8). Jesus’ use of sack- 10:17,18 Demons are subject to us:
cloth and ashes here is His revelation that The demons were subject to the com-
the cities of Tyre and Sidon would have mand of the seventy-two because it was
mourned over their sinful state and re- by the authority of Jesus that they could
pented long before His immediate audi- unleash the power of the supernatural in
ence repented. Their repentance would order to control any work of Satan. Jesus
have resulted from their recognition that had total power over Satan, even through
they were not right with God. On the His disciples (See comments Mt 4:24).
other hand, these to whom Jesus Satan fall from heaven as lightning: As
preached, but did not repent, felt reli- lightning strikes from heaven to earth,
giously right with God, and thus, were Jesus here metaphorically pictured the
not moved to repentance. Those who fall of the power of Satan. Emphasis is
refuse to allow the word of God to direct not on Satan himself, but the fall of his
their lives will refuse to turn to God be- power that was manifested through the
cause they believe that they are righteous casting out of demons. Satan was being
before God on the basis of their own per- disarmed by Jesus and openly led cap-
formance of law and good works (See tive by His power and authority. Satan’s
comments Mk 7:1-9; Cl 2:20-23). power through sin would fall by the cross
10:15,16 Hades: Reference here is (1 Co 15:3). His power through physi-
to the unseen abode of the dead, not the cal death would fall through the resur-
Gehenna of destruction that will follow rection of Jesus (1 Co 15:20-22; Hb
2:14). His final fall will be in the final own arrogant attitudes toward Jesus (See
judgment (Mt 25:41). Rm 9:11-17; 1 Co 1:22,24,26,27; com-
10:19,20 Tread on serpents and pare Mt 16:17; 18:3,4; Lk 9:47,48; 2 Co
scorpions: These metaphors are sym- 4:3,4). See comments Mt 13:10-17.
bolic of the disciples’ conquest over the Delivered to Me: See Jn 3:35; 5:27; 13:3;
works of Satan (See Rm 8:38,39; 2 Co 17:2; Mt 28:18. Except the Father:
10:3-5; Gl 5:19-21; Ep 6:10-18). Because men are not omniscient, they
Through the word of Jesus, the disciples cannot know the nature of the relation-
had all power over the deceptions of Sa- ship between the Father and Son (See Jn
tan. Through the works of Jesus, they 1:18; 6:44,46). No one can know all that
had all power over the being of Satan. God is. For this reason, Jesus was re-
Nothing will by any means hurt you: vealed in order to reveal the Father (Jn
Jesus here instills confidence in the dis- 1:1-5; 6:44; 10:30; 14:6; 17:6,25,26).
ciples. It is a confidence that they will 10:23,24 The things you see: The
surely need after the cross and resurrec- disciples could walk by fact, not by faith,
tion when they go forth to preach the because they stood in the presence of the
gospel (Mt 28:19,20; Mk 16:15-20). Son of God. They personally experi-
They must remember that their rejoicing enced the unveiling of the realm of the
over the subjugation of Satan to them on supernatural. They were specifically
the mission trip they had just completed blessed for living in such a time that God
was not as important as their salvation. had chosen to personally reveal Himself
The miraculous power that Jesus had through the Son. It is by their testimony
entrusted to them for this trip was not as that we believe. The immediate disciples
important as the salvation that they had were blessed because of their privilege
received from Jesus. Names are written of personally experiencing the Son of
in heaven: Jesus made this statement in God. However, we are more blessed to-
order to reassure the disciples (See Ps day because we believe, but we have not
69:28; Is 4:3; Dn 12:1; Ph 4:3; Hb 12:23; personally experienced the Son of God
Rv 13:8; 20:12). in the flesh (See comments Jn 20:29).
Many prophets: Many Old Testament
THE HIDDEN THINGS prophets looked forward to the days of
10:21,22 You have hidden these the unveiling of the mystery. They did
things: God was revealing the mystery, not understand the eternal plan of God
the gospel, that had been hidden from (1 Pt 1:10-12). However, by faith they
man since the creation of the world (See knew that God would reveal a marvel-
Ep 3:8-13; 1 Pt 1:10-12). However, the ous thing.
gospel would continue to be hidden from
those who considered themselves wise. THE GOOD SAMARITAN
It was hidden from them, not because it 10:25 This encounter of Jesus with
was not revealed, but because of their a lawyer (scribe) was different than the
encounter that is recorded by Matthew neighbor would extend far beyond what
and Mark (Mt 22:34-40; Mk 12:28-34). he presumed. One’s neighbor did not
With the encounter that is recorded by have cultural boundaries as those that
Matthew and Mark, it was Jesus who re- were established between the Jews and
sponded with the statement to love God the Gentiles (See Mt 5:43). When Jesus
with one’s total being. Here Luke records answered the lawyer’s questions, the law-
an encounter where a lawyer addressed yer would be put in a position of having
Jesus with similar statements. A certain to love a Samaritan whom the Jews de-
lawyer: This was a scribe, or one who spised.
was a lawyer of the Old Testament and 10:30-37 In this parable, Jesus an-
Jewish religious traditions. The first of swers the question of who is our neigh-
the two questions he asked was presented bor. A certain priest ... a Levite: These
in order to set a trap for Jesus. were the respected religious leaders in
10:26-28 You will love the Lord your the community of the Jews. Many of
God: See comments Mt 22:34-40. The these leaders manifested an outward ap-
lawyer knew this principle of the Sinai pearance of religious behavior, but many
law (Lv 19:18; Dt 6:5; Mt 19:19). In or- had little compassion in their hearts to-
der to establish a spiritual relationship ward the needs of their fellow man. Jesus
with God, one must first love God. Love here manifests the hypocrisy of their re-
is manifested by one’s response to the ligious beliefs and behavior. The nation
commandments of God (Jn 14:15). of Israel had spiritually fallen and these
When one loves God, he responds with religious leaders were more concerned
obedience to God (See 18:20; Mt 7:21- over their religious positions and ceremo-
27; 19:17; 1 Jn 4:19). Therefore, it is nialism than over the people. They had
upon the principle of love that all law in focused primarily on their own preser-
reference to God is based (See comments vation as religious leaders, instead of put-
Rm 3:31). Love ... your neighbor as ting the spiritual needs of the people first.
yourself: Our relationship with our fel- A certain Samaritan: The Samaritans
low man is based on the fact that we were a crossbreed between Jews and the
manifest love to one another (See com- Gentiles who were brought into Pales-
ments Gl 5:13,14; 1 Jn 4:19). This prin- tine after the Assyrian captivity of 722/
ciple of love is based on one’s acceptance 721 B.C. They were despised by the Jews
of one’s self. We love others as we have because they were not considered pure
concern for ourselves. However, Jesus Jews (See Jn 4:9). They had not pre-
would later give the principle of loving served their national identity as Jews, and
as He had loved us (See comments Jn thus, those Jews who could trace their
13:34,35). This was a sacrificial love of genealogy to their ancestral Israelites
giving oneself for the benefit of those considered themselves racially superior
who do not deserve our love. to the Samaritans. The religious leaders
10:29 Justify himself: The lawyer’s of Israel during Jesus’ day would not as-
sociate with the Samaritans. They would sister Mary and brother Lazarus, lived in
not practice the principle of loving one’s Bethany (Jn 11:1; 12:2,3). Sat at the
neighbor as himself as Jesus previously Lord’s feet: She, as well as her brother
stated. The scribe had asked who his and sister, were students and followers
neighbor was in order to justify himself of Jesus’ teachings (See At 22:3). Dis-
(vs 29). But one cannot perform his own tracted with much serving: At the time
invented religion, and at the same time, Jesus was present in the house, Martha’s
violate the very principle upon which the priorities were wrong. She was doing a
law of God hangs. That principle is that needed and good work. However, the
one love God with the totality of his be- situation demanded a change in her pri-
ing and to love his neighbor as himself orities because the end of Jesus’ minis-
(See comments Mt 22:37-40). When one try was drawing near. It was a time to
is driven by love, he applies the law of listen to Jesus for the last time. Mary
God to his behavior (See comments Rm has chosen that good part: It is good to
3:31). Go and do likewise: True reli- care for the physical needs of the hour.
gion that is pure and undefiled before However, the spiritual needs of man are
God is to minister to the needs of all men always more important. One must not
(Js 1:27). All humanity is the neighbor use the service of physical needs as an
of the Christian. “Therefore, as we have excuse to neglect the spiritual food that
opportunity, let us do good to all, espe- is more important. In this case, Mary
cially to those who are of the household sensed the finality of the hour, and thus,
of faith” (Gl 6:10). she concentrated on what Jesus had to
say. Her priorities were determined by
MARY AND MARTHA what was most important at the time.
10:38-42 Martha: Martha, with her
C HAPTER 1111
JESUS TEACHES ON PRAYER according to the will of God in reference
This teaching on prayer took place to what was to come with Jesus’ leader-
at a different time than the time when ship. They realized that Jesus was mov-
Jesus taught on this subject in Matthew ing them toward new things, and thus,
6:7-15 (See Mt 7:7-11). We must keep they possibly felt here that they should
in mind that Jesus taught on key subjects change their prayer requests to be in har-
as prayer on more than one occasion. mony with His will and mission (1 Jn
11:1 Teach us to pray: The disciples 5:14). After the establishment of the
were spiritually minded. However, they church in Acts 2, these disciples went forth
had been with Jesus long enough to real- and made disciples in areas of idolatrous
ize that their prayers needed guidance. worship. One work of the Holy Spirit that
They also realized that new things were was later given through the laying on of
coming, and thus needed to learn to pray the apostles’ hands was the gift of proph-
ecy, which gift included the direction in by obedience to His will. When people
prayer by the Holy Spirit (See comments do such, the will of the Father is done on
1 Co 14:14,15; Jd 20; see Rm 8:26,27). earth as it is done in heaven. If we make
The newly converted did not know how the request, therefore, we are asking that
to pray according to the word of God, and the gospel be preached in a particular area
thus, they needed direction by the Spirit. in order that the kingdom reign of Jesus
Today our prayers are directed by the word be established in that area. The one who
of God because we have the written word prayers, therefore, may be God’s answer
that guides our thinking. to the prayer (See comments Mt 9:37,38).
11:2-4 See comments Mt 6:7-15. When the kingdom reign of Jesus comes
Jesus is not teaching that we should re- into one’s heart, he is moved to be obe-
cite this prayer word for word as a ritual- dient to the King to take the gospel into
istic prayer. He simply gives an example all the world (Mt 28:19,20; Mk
of what should be general content of the 16:15,16).
prayer of the disciples. Your kingdom
come: One must not believe that the es- PARABLE OF
tablishment of the kingdom reign of Jesus A PERSISTENT FRIEND
when He ascended to the right hand of 11:5-8 Jesus here continues with the
God was dependent on the prayers of the subject of prayer that was stimulated by
disciples. God was going to establish the disciples’ requests concerning prayer.
Jesus as King regardless of the prayers The lesson of this parable is that our heav-
of the disciples or the rejection of the enly Father is a willing listener. He is
Jews. Emphasis here was on the will of ready to answer the prayers of those who
the Father being done on earth as it was stand in an obedient relationship with
done in heaven. When the will of the Him (See 1 Jn 5:14). Jesus taught that
Father is done in the hearts of men, then the disciples continue in their prayers. In
the kingdom reign of God is established this case, He was teaching that one con-
on earth (See comments 17:20,21). Jesus tinue in requests for a specific thing,
reigns in the hearts of those who have though in some things one need pray only
submitted to His will. When the first once and God will answer (See comments
official announcement of His kingdom Js 5:17,18). One prayer that is accord-
reign was made in Acts 2, and people ing to the will of God will unleash the
submitted to His kingship. His kingdom power of God.
reign was manifested on earth through
the obedience of about 3,000 people. The GOD ANSWERS PRAYER
church was the manifestation of the king- 11:9-13 See comments Mt 7:9-11.
dom reign of Jesus on earth. Therefore, Ask ... seek ... knock: See Ps 50:14,15;
when one would pray for the kingdom to Is 55:6; Jr 33:3; Mt 7:7,21,22; Mk 11:24;
come, emphasis is on people accepting Jn 14:7; Js 1:5,6; 1 Jn 3:22. Give the
the kingdom reign of Jesus in their hearts Holy Spirit to those who ask Him: Keep
in mind that Jesus was here talking di- whom he possessed. This case of pos-
rectly to the apostles. He was giving session is similar to the one that is re-
them instruction for their prayers that corded in Matthew 12:22-37, though it
would be applicable to them in their lives is probably not the same case (See com-
as His special Christ-sent apostles to the ments Mt 12:22-37). By Beelzebul: Or,
world. This verse should be compared Beelzebub. See comments Mt 9:34;
with the parallel statement He made in 12:24. At this time in the ministry of
Matthew 7:11. On the occasion of Mat- Jesus, there were many in the multitudes
thew 7:11, Jesus said that the Father gives who were making and seeking accusa-
“good things.” Here Luke records that tions against Jesus because of what He
He said He gives the Holy Spirit. Em- taught and said. These religiously mis-
phasis, therefore, is on the good things guided individuals could not answer His
that would come as a result of the Holy arguments, nor could they deny His
Spirit. Jesus was directing the apostles works. However, because of their un-
toward the miraculous work of the Holy righteous hearts, their hypocrisy was
Spirit that would come in fulfillment of manifested by their unwillingness to ac-
the prophecy of Joel 2:28. The apostles cept Jesus regardless of the miraculous
would be immersed in the Holy Spirit in works that He worked. Those who are
the coming Pentecost (At 2:1-4). From arrogantly religious have closed their
this would come the miraculous gifts of minds to the truth. Regardless of what is
the Spirit that would be imparted to the said and done by a righteous proclaimer
early Christians through the laying on of of the truth, those who are of a closed
the apostles’ hands (See comments Mk mind and unrighteous heart will continue
16:17-20; At 2:38,39; 8:18; 19:1-6; Rm to reject truth. They will twist what they
1:11). The good things of the Holy Spirit, hear in order to slander those they op-
therefore, would go throughout the world pose, as they did with Jesus on this occa-
as a result of His initial outpouring of the sion.
Holy Spirit on the apostles in Acts 2. 11:16-23 Sought ... a sign: See Mt
Therefore, in this dispensation of the 12:38; 16:1; Mk 8:11. Divided against
Holy Spirit, we partake of the good things itself: See comments Mt 12:22-30. If
of the Spirit that originated from the out- their accusations against Jesus were true,
pouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of then His kingdom would fall. However,
Pentecost in A.D. 30. what is manifested by their accusation is
the fact that they could not deny that
THE AUTHORITY OF JESUS Jesus was doing the work of the king-
(Mt 12:22-30,43-45; Mk 3:22-27) dom of God. If they did admit that Jesus
11:14,15 Casting out a demon: See was doing the work of the kingdom, then
comments Mt 4:24; 9:32-34; 12:22,24. they would have confessed that their ef-
Mute: In this case of demon possession, forts were against the kingdom of God.
the demon hindered the speech of the man Therefore, they had to assign the work
of Jesus to Satan because of their claim 9:40). Those who did not choose to give
that they were of the kingdom of God. themselves to Jesus would identify them-
When a stronger than he comes: Jesus selves as servants of Satan.
here states that He is stronger than Sa- 11:24-26 Compare comments Mt
tan. The work of Jesus casting out de- 12:43-45. Jesus now warns that if one
mons was to prove this point. God had does not accept Him as the revelation of
given Satan control over the realm of God to man, then his heart will be harden
darkness, but such in no way can be com- even more. He will be hardened because
pared to the One who had created all he has rejected the direct manifestation
things in the first place (Is 53:12; Cl 2:15; of the Son of God. There were many
see comments Cl 1:16). We often do not people during the personal ministry of
consider the extremity between Jesus and Jesus who rejected Him. Since there
Satan that is here expressed in a few were many who personally rejected the
words. Jesus created all things. This Son of God when He was on earth, then
would include all things that are per- we should not be surprised that there will
ceived through the senses of men, that be many today who will also reject Him.
is, the material world. He also created 11:27,28 Blessed: This woman of
all that is of the unseen world (Cl 1:16). the multitudes, called Mary, was blessed
This would include Satan himself. Sa- because she was the mother of Jesus who
tan certainly was not created evil as he was the Son of God (1:28,48). Her ad-
now is. He was created as a spirit being mission and proclamation affirmed that
who free-morally gave up his intended Jesus was no ordinary child or teacher of
habitation of dwelling (See 2 Pt 2:4; Jd Israel. Jesus replied that even more
6). As a created being, therefore, Satan blessed are those who willingly hear
has no indigenous power. He can act only God’s word and obey (Ps 1:1,2; 112:1;
insofar as God allows Him to act. He is 119:1,2; Is 48:17,18; Mt 7:21; Js 1:25).
thus allowed to work in order to create It is not good enough to hear only. One
an environment of evil choices for free- must have an active faith that follows the
moral individuals who desire to rebel direction of God through His word (See
against God. In the context here, Jesus comments Js 1:22; 2:14-26). Without an
wants us to understand that He has all active faith, one’s faith is dead.
authority to devastate the work of Satan.
Divides his spoils: The time was ap- THE SIGN OF JONAH
proaching when Jesus would despoil the (Mt 12:38-42; Mk 8:11,12)
household of Satan in reference to his 11:29-32 Compare comments Mt
spiritual control over men (Cl 2:15; Hb 12:38-45. It is possible that these words
2:14). The gospel was about to be re- of Jesus were spoken at a different time
vealed. He who is not with Me: It was than the similar words that are recorded
now time in the ministry of Jesus for in Matthew 12:38-45. Jonah was a sign:
people to choose sides (Mt 12:30; Mk The sign that was given through Jonah
was his deliverance from the belly of the hold the light. One’s reaction to the light,
whale after he had been there for three therefore, judges whether his heart is ei-
days (Jh 1:17; 2:10; 3:3-10; Mt 12:39,40). ther full of light or darkness. The spiri-
Similarly, the sign of Jesus’ resurrection tual condition of the beholders of the light
after three days in the tomb would be the will judge whether one is either for or
signal to His generation that He was from against Jesus. Judgment, therefore, is the
God (Rm 1:4). Queen of the south: See responsibility of the individual. Jesus
1 Kg 10:1-9; 2 Ch 9:1-8. Condemn came in order to present the occasion for
them: Those who repented before the one to judge himself. For this reason,
coming of Jesus repented on the basis of Jesus made the statement of John 3:18,19
hearing the word of God. Those of Jesus’ at the beginning of His ministry. Men
generation did not repent though they may judge one another on the basis of
both heard and saw the Word of God. laws that they have established for them-
Therefore, those who repented without selves. The authority of the judge lies in
personally seeing Jesus will rise in judg- the fact that other men have devised the
ment over those of Jesus’ generation who laws by which he judges. However, with
were standing before Jesus who was the God and His laws the judgment is differ-
Son of God. He was the incarnate Word ent. Men did not formulate the laws of
of God who had come into the world, and God that have been delivered to man.
yet, they did not repent (Jn 1:1-3,14). God gave His own laws. He has a right
Those who stood before Him, therefore, to do such because He is God. There-
and rejected His teaching would be fore, when a representative of God de-
judged faithless by those who never saw livers His law to the listeners, it is the
Him but believed. Those who believe authority of the God-ordained law that
without ever having seen Him are more judges, not the messenger of the law.
blessed (See comments Jn 20:29). When one negatively reacts to the
preached law of God, then that person
THE LIGHT OF THE BODY has judged himself in reference to the
11:33-36 Compare comments Mt divine standard of God’s law. God’s
5:15; 6:22,23 (Lk 8:16; Mk 4:21). Jesus messengers are only the mediums
illustrated that God’s true moral light had through whom God works to deliver His
come into the world through Him (Jn judgments to the people.
1:1ff; 8:12). However, only those who
have an unprejudiced and pure heart are WOE TO THE PHARISEES
able to see this revelation from God. 11:37 Jesus frequently ate with those
They are able to see because they are who were considered the religious lead-
humble in heart (Compare comments Mt ers of the community. It was His work
5:1-16). Full of light ... of darkness: to work with all who would accept Him
Emphasis of the context is not on the and what He taught. He also ate with
light, but on the hearts of those who be- those the religious leaders considered to
be sinners in the community (5:29; 7:36; mances. They loved being accepted and
14:1; 19:5; Jn 2:1-11; 12:1,2). One recognized as religious leaders and given
should never refuse an opportunity to special attention for such. Unmarked
teach and preach the word of God in or- graves: They covered their inner dead
der that all men have an opportunity to hearts by the outward performance of
receive and obey the will of God. their religious rites and rules. Thus, men
11:38,39 Compare comments Mt could not see their true hearts because of
15:1-20; Mk 7:1-23. Clean ... outside ... their pompous religious actions that were
inward ... wickedness: Such was a de- only on the outside. Their religious ac-
scription of what their legal-oriented re- tivities deceived others into thinking that
ligion had done to their lives. On the out- they were spiritually driven from within.
side they professed religiosity by the per-
formance of religious codes and ceremo- WOE TO THE SCRIBES
nies. However, their performance of their 11:45 Lawyers: These were the
religious works did not change their scribes who were the interpreters of both
hearts. They could thus maintain an out- the Sinai law and the Jewish oral and
ward performance of religious rules, but written religious traditions that had been
at the same time maintain wickedness in handed down from generation to genera-
their hearts (See comments intro. to Gl). tion in Israel. In times of dispute, they
11:40,41 God made the whole man. made application of the law and tradi-
He made man in a way that the outward tions in reference to those who were in
behavior of the individual should natu- dispute. You insult us also: These law-
rally manifest his inward character (See yers were of the same religious behavior
Gn 1:26,27). Anything different from this as the Pharisees. They concentrated on
would be hypocrisy. Therefore, one’s the outward appearance of religious be-
inner holiness must be manifested by out- havior, but their hearts were wicked.
ward obedience to the will of God. 11:46 For you load men with bur-
11:42-44 Woe to you Pharisees: In dens hard to bear: These scribes were
the house of this Pharisee, Jesus directly interpreters of the law. They often bound
addressed the hypocritical religion of the on others interpretations and opinions of
Pharisees (See comments Mt 23). Dis- the law that were not a part of the law.
regard justice and the love of God: By The fact that the people could not keep
emphasizing a pretense of a just heart be- all their opinions and interpretations of
fore God by their religious performances, the law is manifested in the fact that Jesus
they neglected justice toward their fel- here identifies their system of religion as
low man and obedience as a result of their a burden to the people (At 15:10). One
love of God (Mt 23:23; Jn 5:42). Love who is legalistic will always bind the
the best seats: See 14:7; 20:46; Mt 23:6; burden of man-made religious codes on
Mk 12:38,39. They loved to be seen for the hearts of others in an effort to sup-
their religious presence and perfor- posedly guarantee salvation through per-
fect keeping of law (See comments in Jerusalem in A.D. 70. Abel: See Gn 4:8;
intro. to Gl). 2 Ch 26:16. Zechariah: See 2 Ch
11:47,48 You build the tombs of the 24:20,21. Jesus’ generation of Jews
prophets: These hypocritical religious would suffer the consequences of the sins
leaders built beautiful tombs to honor of rejection by the fathers whose tradi-
God’s Old Testament prophets. At the tions had become so binding in Jesus’
same time, they rejected the word of the generation that many were blinded to the
prophets (Mt 23:29; At 7:52). They were coming of Jesus (See comments Mk 7:1-
actually of the same evil spirit as those 9). They were blinded because they
who killed the prophets because they could not leave their traditional religion
spoke the truth of God concerning the in order to accept the teachings of Jesus.
apostasy of Israel. You approve the deeds The religious traditions were given more
of your fathers: The scribes were be- authority in religious matters than the
having after the same manner as their word of God.
fathers who killed the prophets of God. 11:52 Taken away the key of knowl-
Not long after the time Jesus delivered edge: These scribes who had bound
this stern rebuke to the legalistic scribes, where God had not bound did not allow
they joined with the other religious lead- the kingdom reign of God to control their
ers in order to devise a plot to murder lives. They were more concerned with
Jesus. They were more concerned with their religious traditions, and numerous
their power and positions as religious religious laws where God had not bound,
leaders than with the word of the Son of than they were with the word of God. In
God who was in their presence. binding such on the consciences of the
11:49 Jesus refers here to His own Jews, they hindered others from also en-
prophecy of sending out His prophets and tering into the kingdom reign of God (Mt
apostles with the message of the gospel 23:13). Others were hindered because
(Mt 23:34). But the Jews who reject His they were intimidated by the legalistic
apostles and prophets would deal with scribes and Pharisees who functioned as
them in the same manner as the fathers guardians of Judaism. The scribes and
of the rebellious Jews in the Old Testa- Pharisees thought that they had all the
ment (See At 4). They would persecute answers to the law and correct interpre-
and kill the prophets and apostles of tations of prophecy, and thus, there was
Jesus. no more need for study and reconsidera-
11:50,51 Compare comments Mt tion of the prophecies. If anyone did not
23:35,36. All the rejection that antago- conform to their interpretations and opin-
nistic religious leaders had heaped upon ions of the law, then they were judged
the messengers of God would come upon heretical in reference to Judaism. There-
Jesus’ generation in that God would bring fore, they allowed no objective Bible
national Israel to a close. The nation study by individuals who wanted to re-
would terminate with the destruction of consider the prophecies concerning the
kingdom and Messiah. They thus shut that he upholds, he will vehemently at-
out of the kingdom those who sought God tack those who would endanger his live-
by faith. lihood through the preaching of the truth.
11:53,54 The scribes and the Phari- To catch Him: The legalist seeks to catch
sees began to vehemently rail at Him: his opponent in some type of verbal trap
Such was only the natural reaction of all in order to defeat his opponent. The foun-
those who have satisfied themselves with dation of his argumentation is not based
their own created religions after the de- on love and mercy, and a search for truth.
sires and traditions of men. When one’s It is based on the arrogance of his own
religious tradition is under attack, he of- ability to verbally out perform his oppo-
ten resorts to vehement attack because sition. Luke here records the behavior
he knows his faith is not based on the of legalistic religionists in order that we
word of God, but on his own traditions identify the behavior and character of
or emotional hysteria. If one is finan- such in their opposition to the truth of
cially sustained by the man-made religion God.
C HAPTER 112
2
WARNINGS AGAINST ther accept or reject Him. The response
INSINCERE RELIGIOSITY of each individual to Jesus would bring
12:1 The leaven of the Pharisees: judgment into his or her life (See com-
Jesus identified the leaven as the insin- ments Mt 10:26-33; compare 1 Co 4:5;
cere religiosity of the Pharisees (See Ep 5:13).
comments Mt 16:6). They were insin- 12:4,5 This discourse is directed pri-
cere, and thus hypocritical, because one marily to the disciples who would suffer
could perform the outward ceremonies at the hands of persecutors. The disciples
of the religion without dealing with one’s must not fear the persecutors who can kill
heart. Judaism had digressed, as in the the body. They must walk in fear of God
times of the prophets, to a religion of who has the power to cast one into the
social politics. It was a code of regula- punishment and destruction of Gehenna
tions to which people were intimidated (See Ps 119:120; see comments Mt
to conform. But in the performance of 10:28).
the outward obedience of codes and regu- 12:6,7 See comments Mt 10:29-31.
lations that gave the appearance of reli- God cares for those who are His. In these
giosity, one could leave his heart un- words, Jesus reassured the disciples be-
checked (See comments Cl 2:20-23). cause they did not know the extent of the
12:2,3 Nothing covered: One’s re- persecution into which He was sending
sponse to the grace of God, either nega- them. They would later remember these
tively or positively, reveals his heart. words in the heat of persecution in order
Jesus’ coming was the occasion that of- to be comforted by the fact that God cares
fered the opportunity for all men to ei- for His friends (vs 4).
12:8,9 See comments Mt 10:32,33. TRUSTING IN THE WORLD

Confess Me before men: The Christian 12:13-15 It was the privilege of the
confession is more than words that often older brother in the Jewish culture to re-
give only lip service to God. Jesus calls ceive a double portion of the inheritance.
on the commitment of one’s life by sac- However, he also had the responsibility
rificial living (Rm 12:1,2; see Rm 10:9; of caring for the mother and unmarried
2 Tm 2:12; 1 Jn 2:23). Disciples must sisters (See Gn 25:29-34; Dt 21:17).
offer a living confession before those With the inheritance came also the re-
whom they live. sponsibility. But this brother who asks
12:10 One could speak against Jesus Jesus to divide the inheritance had his
during His ministry. However, in the time mind focused on the material things of
of the Holy Spirit after the events of Acts the inheritance and not the responsibil-
2 when the kingdom reign of Jesus was ity of the family. Jesus thus warned
announced, one could not reject the work against being deceived into believing that
and word of the Holy Spirit and expect material possessions added security to
to be saved. The Holy Spirit’s work one’s life. Beware of all covetousness:
through the apostles and prophets was Materialism is the exaltation of the things
God’s last appeal to all men to repent. of this world above that which will go
As a result of the Spirit’s appeal through beyond the destruction of this world (See
the apostles, many did repent (At 2:36- 20:25; Cl 3:1-5; 1 Tm 6:6-10,17; Js 4:4).
38,41; 6:7; see comments 12:32; Mk Materialism is idolatry. It is the con-
3:29). These are the last days wherein sumption of the wealth of this world upon
God is working among those of this one’s own pleasures in order to bring self-
world. There will be no more dispensa- satisfaction. When one has a great
tions of opportunity for men to respond amount of money, he has the opportunity
to God, and thus have the opportunity to to spend in order to enjoy possessions
enter eternity. and activities that bring pleasure. How-
12:11,12 These words were directed ever, such possessions and activities are
specifically to the twelve because it was personally enjoyed by the individual.
to them that Jesus gave the special prom- The thinking of the materialist thus
ise of the inspiration of the Spirit. The changes. He spends his money and en-
Spirit would reveal to them all truth that joys the results. He becomes a self-ori-
was necessary for the community of ented personality. The poor man does
God’s people (See Jn 14:26; 16:13,14; not fall into the trap of this materialistic
see Lk 24:44). The time of these trials thinking because he does not have
before courts would happen after the es- enough money to establish the behavioral
tablishment of the church in Acts 2 (Com- pattern of spending money in order to
pare 21:15; At 4:8-12; see comments Mt continually reap the material benefits.
10:19,20). His spending is for survival, not for pos-
sessions and pleasure.
12:16-21 The lesson of the parable one maintain the correct priorities of the
is the deception of material possessions. Christian life. It is when one places God
Jesus does not condemn material things. first in all things that God takes care of
He condemns such only when the mate- him in all ways. Give you the kingdom:
rial things possess the individual, and All the threats and oppositions of the re-
thus, direct one’s mind away from that ligious leaders that Jesus would encoun-
which is more important than the mate- ter in these last months of His earthly
rial (See 18:22; Mt 19:21). One must ministry would not hinder the establish-
keep in mind that ambitions to acquire ment of His kingdom reign in heaven.
worldly treasures do not profit toward the Though the Jews as a whole rejected
edification and growth of the soul that Jesus (Jn 1:11), God would establish the
must be spiritually prepared for eternal kingdom of Jesus (See Dn 7:18,27). The
dwelling (See Jb 27:16-19; Ps 39:6; Ec establishment of the kingdom did not de-
2:18,19,26). There is no spiritual profit pend on the will of man. Sell what you
in spending one’s life in the acquisition have: In the context of this statement of
of the things of the world, when in the Jesus to the disciples, He was preparing
end, the things of this world will be de- them for their coming mission to all the
stroyed and one is left with a life that has world. They must dispense with anything
been wasted on acquiring material things. that would hinder them from the mission
He would soon give them to preach the
TRUSTING IN GOD gospel to all the world (Mt 28:19,20; Mk
12:22-28 Compare comments Mt 16:15; see comments Mk 10:17-22). This
6:25-33. Life is more than food: In con- did not mean that they were to give ev-
trast to the error of the materialistic per- erything away that they owned, for all
son of the preceding parable, Jesus re- the apostles had wives for whom they had
minded the disciples that true life is more to care (See comments 1 Co 9:5). For
than the food that the body consumes. It where your treasure is: The direction
is more than the activities in which one of one’s energy determines the focus of
can participate in order to entertain him- his heart. If our lives are consumed with
self. God feeds them: Faith in God the earning and possession of material
draws one away from the material world things, then our hearts are directed to-
in order to trust in God as the provider of ward such. However, if our minds and
all that is necessary for life. The abun- hearts are focused on that which is above,
dant life results in one’s reliance on God then the direction of our lives will be
as the provider of both our physical and pointed toward heavenly things (Rm
spiritual needs (Jn 10:10). 12:1,2; Cl 3:1,2). Our work for the ne-
12:29-34 Seek His kingdom: Mat- cessities of life takes second place to that
thew records that Jesus said one must which is above this world. When mate-
seek the kingdom first (Mt 6:33). Only rial things are in their right priority, they
in seeking first the kingdom of God can become spiritual in the sense that we con-
sider such to be blessings from God. It 24:43-51; Mk 13:33; 1 Th 5:2,6. Be

is not that material things are wrong. ready: Those who have made it their
When material blessings are used for the priority to consume their time and ener-
work of God, then they are a blessing to gies with the things of this world have
many. The rich man who continually diverted their attention away from being
focuses his material blessings toward the prepared for the coming of the Son of
propagation of the gospel is a blessing to Man. The materialist does not want the
the kingdom of God (See comments 1 Tm master to come because His coming will
6:6-10,17; 3 Jn 1-8). upset his comfortable way of life. In the
historical context of what Jesus is say-
WATCHING SERVANTS ing, many of the rich to whom Jesus
12:35,36 The lesson here is similar came, were not prepared to receive Him.
to the one given by Jesus in the parable They were more concerned over the
of the ten virgins (See comments Mt 25:1- things of the world than the fulfillment
13). Jesus’ emphasis is that the servants of prophecies concerning the Messiah.
be ready through active service in king- Jesus was the Son of Man (the Messiah)
dom business. One must be prepared for in their midst and they were not spiritu-
the master by maintaining service. Those ally prepared to accept Him (See com-
who have a heart of service will always ments Mt 24:36-39). Specifically, the
be watching for the master. They are Pharisees and Sadducees were lovers of
looking for the coming of the master be- money, and thus, they were not prepared
cause they are ready (See comments 2 Pt to have Jesus upset their financial use of
3:11-13). religion to consume things upon their
12:37,38 Blessed: Servants who own lusts (See comments 16:14; Mt 15:3-
watch, maintain their preparedness by 6).
humble service (See Jn 13:4-8). Thus one
can identify those who are focused on THE UNFAITHFUL SERVANT
eternity by the good works in their lives 12:41-46 Compare the parable of Mt
(Js 2:14-26). Second ... third watch: 24:45-51. To us: Peter wondered con-
According to the Roman accounting of cerning the application of the preceding
time, these were times of the night. parable. The parable was for the dis-
Therefore, the master could come at any ciples, though they did not understand the
time. In fact, when Jesus comes some great persecution into which they were
people will be in the night on the earth, going. Faithful and wise steward: The
whereas others will be in the day. Jesus’ twelve must become faithful to the mis-
point is that one must always be prepared sion Jesus was going to give them (Mt
for the coming of the Lord. Being pre- 28:19,20; Mk 16:15). They must be wise
pared meant that one was continually in the application of the truth that would
working in the vineyard. be revealed to them (Jn 14:26; 16:13,14).
12:39,40 Compare comments Mt In general, every disciple must exercise
the same faithfulness and wisdom with 2 Th 1:7-9). Those in ignorance of the
the truth that has been revealed through master’s word will be beaten because
the apostles. Cut him in two: This is they had no remedy for their sin that sepa-
the severe punishment of being cut off rated them from God. Beaten with few
from the presence of God (See 1 Sm stripes: The duration of their beating will
15:33; Dn 2:5; 3:29; Hb 11:37). The dis- be less than the one who knew, but be-
ciples must be careful not to engage in came unfaithful. Jesus emphasizes the
the affairs of this life to the extent that fact that punishment will match the
they are distracted from their mission crime. The duration of the punishment
(See comments 2 Pt 3:3,4). If they for- for the unfaithful steward will be longer
get the coming of the Lord, they will be- than for the one who did not know (See
come slack in their work. Jesus uses the Mt 25:14-30; Js 3:1). However, both will
fact that He is coming again as a stimu- be beaten, but one longer than the other.
lus to keep the disciples energetic about After the stripes have matched the crime,
their preparedness for His coming. For the end result of both will be their de-
this reason, neither He nor the apostles struction from the presence of God (See
ever gave a specific date for the final comments Mt 10:28; 2 Th 1:7-9). Some
coming of the Lord. The very reason He have affirmed that Jesus’ emphasis here
here leaves the specific time of His com- is on the degrees of the severity of the
ing out of this parable and other teach- punishment, not the duration. In other
ings is evidence that there is no specific words, those who receive many stripes
date stated in Scripture concerning either will receive more severe punishment than
the coming of Jesus in judgment on those who receive few stripes. This is
Jerusalem or the end of the world. true to a limited extent. Receiving more
12:47,48 Beaten with many stripes: stripes is more severe than a few. From
One stripe is severe in its punishment this reasoning it is assumed that there are
upon the unfaithful steward. The suc- degrees of punishment in an endless hell.
cession of stripes continues over a longer But we would question the concept of an
period of time. The point is that the one endless hell, simply because such chal-
who receives many stripes receives the lenges the justice of God. If the punish-
severity of stripes over a longer period ment is far beyond the crime, then the
than the one who receives only one stripe. justice does not meet the crime, and thus
Did not know: Ignorance is no excuse. God would be unjust to administer stripes
Those who are ignorant of the will of God without end. We must keep in mind that
will be lost. They will be lost because the text says “many stripes,” not stripes
the law of sin and death under which they without end. If the stripes were without
live cannot deliver them from the bond- end, then at some time during the beat-
age of sin (See comments Rm 4, 5; Gl 3, ing after just punishment had been ren-
4). Salvation, therefore, is by grace in dered, God would become fiendish in His
Christ (At 4:12; 2 Tm 2:10; see Rm 1:20; punishment of the wicked. We must
never allow our understanding of Scrip- 12:54-56 Compare comments Mt

ture to bring into question the justice of 16:1-5. Jesus here turns to the multitudes.
God. He specifically turns to those who were
12:49,50 Fire on the earth: The caught up in the traditional religion of
preaching of the gospel would cause great the Jews that had been handed down from
turmoil among men because many would the fathers (Mk 7:1-9). Hypocrites:
reject the gospel by remaining in their They were zealous to perform the out-
own religious beliefs (At 8:1-4). We must ward ceremonies of their religion, but
view these statements of Jesus in view were corrupt in their hearts. They legally
of how God worked in punishment on performed the regulations of their reli-
Israel in her history when she went into gion, but failed to obey the command-
apostasy. When the northern kingdom ments of God (See comments Mt 15:1-
of Israel went into apostasy, God brought 9; Cl 2:20-23; intro. to Gl). You can dis-
the Assyrians upon them in order to de- cern: They could understand the chang-
stroy the kingdom. He brought the Baby- ing of the weather by the changing of the
lonians upon the southern kingdom, and signs of nature. However, they could not
subsequently destroyed Jerusalem be- understand that the great miraculous
cause they had rejected God. Judgment works of Jesus indicated that something
was again looming in the near future with was about to be changed in Israel.
another destruction, the destruction of Change was happening, but they were too
national Israel in A.D. 70. Because Is- afraid to flow with the wave of change
rael had again rejected God, specifically, that would eventually overwhelm Juda-
the Son of God, she would again suffer ism and national Israel. They were in
the fire of judgment. Baptized: The times of change, but their fear of change
Greek word baptizo is used here. It is moved them to fight against Jesus who
used to refer to the great suffering into was causing the change. Their failure to
which Jesus would be immersed in order recognize a spiritual paradigm shift from
to ignite the fire of judgment that would the old wineskins to the new, left them
go throughout humanity by the preach- victims of themselves in the destruction
ing of the gospel (Mt 20:18,22,23; Mk of Jerusalem that would come in forty
10:38). years from the time these statements were
12:51-53 Division: Obedience to the made.
gospel would cause religious division 12:57-59 Compare comments Mt
within families, among friends, and wher- 5:25,26. Jesus was the judge in this case
ever men would seek to obey traditional who was preaching the truth by which
religions and subjective emotions instead men would judge themselves. Those of
of God’s word (See Mt 10:24-36; Jn 7:43; Jesus’ audience who rejected Him,
9:16; 10:19; At 14:4). The gospel would judged themselves. They would face
bring great division among Jewish fami- their own judgment in the destruction of
lies. national Israel in A.D. 70, and finally, in
their eternal condemnation in final judg- Judge who was in their midst (See com-
ment. It was the time, therefore, that they ments Jn 12:48).
should be seeking reconciliation with the
C HAPTER 113
3
NECESSITY OF REPENTANCE they would perish in the destruction of
13:1 All that is known of this inci- Jerusalem if they did not accept Jesus as
dent is what Luke records here. The in- the Messiah and Savior of the world.
dication is that Pilate sent soldiers to ex- 13:4,5 Those eighteen: Jesus chal-
ecute punishment on some insurrection- lenged the teaching that calamity was a
ist Galileans while they were offering the sign of sin. The eighteen who perished
sacrifices of the Passover. The reason were the victims of an unfortunate acci-
some evidently brought this incident to dent. Everyone knew that they were not
the attention of Jesus was an effort to sinners according to how sin was under-
justify themselves in their own sin. In stood by those who made the accusation
order to divert Jesus’ previous teaching in verse 1. In this context, however, Jesus
from direct application of themselves, says that if those in Jerusalem did not
they asked Jesus this question. A com- repent, they would perish in a similar ca-
mon belief among the Jews was that calamity. They did not repent, and thus,
lamity was an indication of sin in the life they suffered the calamity of the destruc-
of an individual (See Jn 9:2; At 28:4). tion of Jerusalem wherein over one mil-
Since those who suffered at the hands of lion Jews died (See comments Mt 24).
Pilate were punished, they reasoned that Though they would suffer physical death
they were deserving of such because of in the destruction of Jerusalem, they
their sin. would suffer eternal condemnation when
13:2,3 Do you suppose: All sin re- Jesus comes again (2 Th 1:7-9). Repent:
sults in the same consequence. Sin sepa- In order to escape destruction, one must
rates one from God (Is 59:2), and thus, change his thinking and life in order to
causes spiritual death (Rm 3:23; 6:23). submit to the will of God (At 3:19;
One cannot justify his own sin by point- 17:30,31; 2 Pt 3:9). Repentance means
ing out the supposedly greater sin of some- that one must not only change his think-
one else. Repent ... perish: There is pos- ing, he must change his behavior to con-
sibly a double meaning with Jesus’ call form to that which he knows he must do.
for their repentance. One would certainly A remorseful heart that does not lead to
eternally perish as a result of sin that sepa- a change in one’s life is useless in refer-
rates one from God. One sin will cause ence to one’s salvation.
one to perish (Js 2:10). And unless one
repents of sin, he will perish from the pres- PARABLE OF
ence of God (2 Th 1:7-9). In the histori- THE UNFRUITFUL TREE
cal context of national Israel, however, 13:6-9 The ax was laid at the root of
national Israel (Mt 3:10). The nation was healed on the Sabbath. He evidently had
soon to be cut down. The meaning of little concern for humanitarian works in
this parable is that Israel (the fig tree) was view of the fact that one of the traditional
planted years before the coming of Jesus regulations of the Sabbath was broken.
who came to receive its fruit (See Gn Such indicates the judgmental harshness
12:1-3). However, Israel was unfruitful of legal religion in reference to the
in that many in Israel strayed from God weightier matters of the law as love,
to follow after their own traditional reli- mercy and justice. Those who promote
gion (Mk 7:1-9). Nevertheless, Jesus (the legal religions are more concerned over
vinedresser) pleaded to God on behalf of conformity to their humanly devised
Israel (Mt 23:37). But Israel would not regulations than the will of God (Mk 7:1-
repent, and thus, the tree was cut down 9; compare also Mt 12:10; Mk 3:2; Lk
in A.D. 70 (See comments Mt 24). The 4:16; 6:1-6; 14:1-6; Jn 5:16; see com-
lesson of the parable is that God expects ments in intro. to Gl).
fruit. He expects fruit because fruit is 13:15,16 Hypocrites: All those
the indication of an obedient heart. If present who felt that Jesus was violating
there is no fruit, then there is no active a Sabbath law, as interpreted by the reli-
faith. And without an active faith, no one gious leaders, fell under the condemna-
can be saved (See comments Js 2:14-16). tion Jesus gives. The binding of their in-
terpretations of the Sabbath law had led
HEALING ON THE SABBATH them away from God’s original purpose
13:10-13 Spirit of infirmity: We do for the Sabbath. At the time of Jesus, the
not know specifically what this infirmity Jews were more concerned with the
was. Since the sick woman could not scribes and Pharisees’ interpretations and
straighten herself, some believe it was a opinions of the Sabbath law than the
deformity in her back. Jesus saw her: original intent of the Sabbath. If humani-
This is a case where Jesus took the ini- tarian healing on the Sabbath contra-
tiative to heal the woman. He did so be- dicted what they believed was a viola-
cause she had not come to Him seeking tion of Sabbath law, then their interpre-
to be healed. Immediately she was made tation was wrong. In fact, Jesus points
straight: True confirming miracles that out that they were more concerned for
confirmed God’s message and messen- their animals on the Sabbath than for their
gers before unbelievers were instanta- fellow human being.
neous. They could be recognized as mi- 13:17 All His adversaries were
raculous even by those who did not be- ashamed: Those who were the adver-
lieve in Jesus (At 4:14-16). saries of Jesus were in bondage to their
13:14 Ruler of the synagogue an- beliefs because they had bound that
swered with indignation: The ruler did which God had not bound. Their inter-
not deny the miracle. His indignation pretations of the law had led them astray
resulted from the fact that Jesus had from the One who originally gave the law.
Their antagonism against Jesus mani- 13:20,21 Leaven: Once the seed of
fested that their religious beliefs did not the kingdom is planted in the hearts of
originate from God, but from themselves. men, as leaven is placed in the bread, then
When those with contradictory beliefs the growth begins. In time, the influence
could not answer Jesus, they were em- of the kingdom spreads throughout soci-
barrassed before the people. All the ety (Mt 13:33). The kingdom thus starts
people: It seems that the common people small and then has the characteristic of
who were not of the social group of reli- gradually growing throughout the hearts
gious leaders, were receptive to the teach- of people. Workers in the kingdom,
ings of Jesus. They rejoiced over the therefore, should always be patient. It
work of Jesus. However, those who were takes time for one’s labors to bring forth
bound by the politics of religious leader- fruit. Patient laboring in the vineyard will
ship suffered with indignation because bring forth fruit. The seed of the king-
Jesus threatened their social religious sta- dom will produce if one is patient for the
tus. Jesus upset their institutional reli- fruit. The result of the leaven is fruit. If
gious fellowship, and thus, He became the leaven is not spreading, it is dead.
the subject of their indignation. Disciples that are not multiplying them-
selves throughout their communities are
DEFINITION dead, and thus cannot be identified as the
OF THE KINGDOM leaven of the kingdom.
(Mt 13:31-33; Mk 4:30-32)
13:18,19 See comments Mt 13:31- ENTRANCE
33; Mk 4:31,32. Mustard seed: The INTO THE KINGDOM
kingdom reign that originates from the (Mt 7:13,14,21-23)
God of heaven is planted in the hearts of 13:22 Went through the cities and
men when men submit to the will of the villages: As the prophets of the Old Tes-
Father (17:20,21). When the will of the tament, Jesus journeyed through the
Father is done on earth as it is done in population centers in order to teach. He
heaven (Mt 6:9,10), then the kingdom has was laying the foundation upon which the
come. The beginning of the process of disciples would reap a great harvest af-
submitting to the will of God starts small ter the cross, resurrection and beginning
as a mustard seed in the lives of a few of the new covenant in Acts 2. Toward
disciples. From this small start the in- Jerusalem: Jesus was near Jerusalem in
fluence of the kingdom grows through- the town of Bethany when He raised
out society. During the ministry of Jesus Lazarus from the dead. The resurrection
there were only a few disciples. How- of Lazarus took place on this final trip to
ever, this would change. From those Jerusalem (Jn 10:22-42).
small beginnings the kingdom reign of 13:23,24 Few who are saved: This
Jesus has spread throughout the world to question stimulated Jesus’ teaching con-
millions of hearts. cerning the narrow gate. It is a fact of
historical significance. Throughout his- Israel’s rejection of His Son. At the time
tory few people are obedient in compari- of the destruction, many who had for-
son to the population of the world. As in merly rejected Jesus would accept Him.
the few eight souls who were saved in However, at the end of the world there
Noah’s ark, so few who will be obedient would be no second chance. When Jesus
to the gospel at any one time in history comes in the end, all choices to obey Him
(1 Pt 3:20,21). Strive to enter: See 1 Co will be terminated. Depart from Me:
9:24-27; Ph 3:12; 1 Tm 6:12; 2 Tm 4:7. Compare comments Mt 7:13-23; 8:11ff;
Narrow gate: The gate is narrow, not 19:30; 20:16; 25:10-12,41; Ti 1:16.
because it is the fault of God, but because 13:28 Weeping and gnashing of
of the unwillingness of men to submit to teeth: See Mt 8:12; 13:42; 24:51. This
the will of God. Men make the gate nar- figure does not only refer to pain or tor-
row because of their own rebellion ment, but also to the anguish of losing
against God (See comments Mt 7:13,14). that for which one hoped and thought he
Will not be able: They cannot enter be- had secured. The religious leaders
cause they are either trapped by their love thought that they were right in their reli-
of the world, or are caught in the decep- gion. However, when they finally real-
tion of their own devised religions. Many ized through the total destruction of
religious people cannot enter because Jerusalem and the end of the Jewish State
they have tried to make their own gate in A.D. 70 that God had rejected them,
through which to enter. Since they have then they would weep and gnash their
convinced themselves that their gate is teeth, realizing that God had rejected
the right gate, they will not seek to enter them.
the true gate (Jn 14:6; At 4:12). 13:29,30 They will come: The obe-
13:25-27 Lord, Lord: The context dient of all the world would come to sub-
and nature of the teachings of Jesus here mit to the kingdom of God. The king-
seem to indicate that His teaching is in dom would not be exclusively for the
reference to the last days of national Is- Jews, but for Gentiles throughout the
rael. Jesus was at this time personally in world (Is 45:6; 49:12; Cl 1:13; Hb 11:8-
their presence, eating and drinking with 10). When Jesus came, He came to re-
those who would reject Him. However, lease God’s people from a specific terri-
there would come a time when they tory or land. Their land would be the
would finally realize that they should world, not the land of Palestine. His word
have accepted Him. But it will be too would go into all the world, and thus, He
late when they come to this realization. would have disciples throughout the
God’s judgment through the proxy of the world (Compare comments Jn 4:19-24).
Roman Empire would have already been Those who were obedient to His word in
set in motion. Only the total destruction all nations would come into a covenant
of national Israel would quench the fury relationship with Him, and thus be the
of Rome and the justice of God for universal church in all the world (Mt
28:19,20; Mk 16:15,16). They would not 13:32 Tell that fox: The Greek word
be identified by their possession of a land here is “she fox.” Jesus was not intimi-
or physical structure, or an assembly of dated by the cunning practices of Herod.
like-minded people, but by their love and He would continue on with His prede-
individual covenant relationship with termined ministry regardless of the wick-
God. Last who will be first: Those edness of Herod. Those who teach the
people the self-righteous religious lead- truth must never be intimidated by those
ers considered to be last, will actually, who are more concerned with maintain-
because of their humble hearts, be the ing their religious traditions than hear-
first to submit to the will of God by obe- ing the word of God. In this case, Jesus
dience to the gospel (See comments Mt would not be intimidated by the power
20:16). And so it is in reference to those of the state that would set its powers
who have constructed their own religious against His destiny. The power of the
means by which they would enter the state must never be allowed to determine
kingdom. Those who trusted in their own the work and mission of the disciples of
religion in Jesus’ day did not realize the Jesus. The disciples must obey God
futility of Judaism until God destroyed above all men who would rise up in op-
Jerusalem and the temple in A.D. 70. Af- position against their faith. I must walk
ter the destruction, however, they began today: Jesus had set His face toward
to understand that God had finalized na- Jerusalem, the place where it was pre-
tional Israel (Compare At 6:7). destined that He die on the cross for the
sins of man (Rv 13:8). Nothing would
EVIL INTENTIONS OF HEROD change His destiny. No man or govern-
13:31 Herod Antipas had arrested ment would detour the eternal plan of
John the Baptist because John had a great God for the salvation of all men.
following of people. This report by some 13:34,35 See comments Mt 23:37-
of the Pharisees that Herod was seeking 39. Jesus here addressed “Jerusalem” in
to kill Jesus was, according to these the first person. He was God on earth
Pharisees, for the same reason. However, who would have forgiven the city as He
it is improbable that Herod wanted to kill forgave Nineveh, if only she would re-
Jesus for he later had the chance to kill pent. The inhabitants of the city were
Jesus at the time of Jesus’ trials, but did not willing to gather unto God because
not (See 23:11). These Pharisees were they had forsaken the commandments of
proclaiming this lie in order to intimidate God and gone after their own religion
Jesus into ceasing His teaching. At least, (See comments Mk 7:1-9). Your house:
they wanted Him to depart from their re- The temple was now desolate of any sig-
gion. When false religious leaders can- nificance in reference to God. It was now
not refute the truth, they will often resort their house. God had forsaken it because
to civil government in an effort to do the religious leaders had stolen the vine-
away with their opposition. yard. They would in a few days from the
time Jesus made these statements kill the comments Mt 21:33-45).

Son of the owner of the vineyard (See
C HAPTER 114
4
HEALING the religious leaders at this time at the
A MAN WITH DROPSY close of His ministry and destiny of the
14:1-6 As on many other occasions, cross, He builds their antagonism against
Jesus never refused an invitation and an Him. He stirs their anger against Him in
opportunity to teach. He came with a order that they rise up to have Him cru-
message, and taught everywhere there cified. Chose the best places: The
would be those who would listen (Mt pompous character of the religious lead-
4:23). Dropsy: This may have been a ers moved them to choose places of
disease that was manifested by the accu- prominence and notoriety when in pub-
mulation of water in limbs of the body. lic gatherings. The principal seats were
It would be associated with edema in seats where the honored guests were ex-
modern medical terms. Only Luke, the pected to be seated. But in this teaching,
physician, records this particular miracle Jesus provided a lesson on humility for
of Jesus. They closely watched Him: It those who would seek to be noticed. Do
seems that there may have been a group not sit down in the highest place: One
of Pharisees and scribes present at this should not seek recognition for the sake
gathering. They sought for an opportu- of exalting himself before others. Those
nity to accuse Jesus of violating their Sab- who behave in a manner to be noticed in
bath traditions. Religious leaders with public will invariably be embarrassed be-
evil motives seek opportunities for ac- cause of their over exaltation of them-
cusations, not truth to be discussed. Is it selves. Sit ... the lowest place: This is
lawful: If they answered Jesus’ question good advice for those who would use re-
by saying that it was not lawful to heal ligion as a means to exalt themselves
on the Sabbath, then they would have among men (See 18:9ff; Pv 25:6,7; Ez
been perceived to be unmerciful toward 21:26). Many preachers would do well
the person who was healed (See Mt to follow this advice. Will be humbled:
12:10). If they answered yes, then they See Jb 22:29; Ps 18:27; Pv 29:23; Mt
would have no opportunity to accuse 23:12; Lk 18:14; Js 4:6; 1 Pt 5:5.
Jesus of healing on the Sabbath. Ox fall 14:12-14 Blessed because they can-
into a pit: From what Jesus here says, not repay you: True hospitality is shown
they valued their animals more than they by being benevolent to those who can-
did the humanitarian act of healing some- not repay. It is giving in a manner where
one on the Sabbath (13:15; Mt 12:11,12). one does not receive any benefit as a re-
sult of the giving. Unlike the Pharisees
PARABLE ON HUMILITY who formed social groups in order to en-
14:7-11 From how Jesus addressed tertain themselves, Christians would do
well to invite to their love feasts those the Son (the great supper). The messen-
who are poor (Ne 8:10-12; Mt 25:34-40). gers of the kingdom (the apostles and
Jesus does not condemn feasts among evangelists) went out to invite the Jews
friends, but he does speak against hav- to come to the spiritual feast of the
ing such for the purpose of gaining an Messiah’s kingdom. However, the Jews
invitation to another feast for one’s own who were invited were too concerned
gratification. Jesus’ point is that one over the material things of life (piece of
should show a spirit of giving without ground, oxen, marriage) to give attention
motives of reaping something from the to the seriousness of the invitation. Jesus’
giving. point is that the Jews stumbled over the
things of this world. They thought that
PARABLE OF the Messiah should establish some type
THE GREAT SUPPER of an earthly kingdom reign where they
14:15 Eat the bread in the kingdom: would enjoy more of the world’s posses-
While still at the feast in the Pharisee’s sions. The Jews presumed that the king-
house that Luke records in 14:1, the op- dom reign of the Messiah would be of
portunity now shifts for Jesus to change this world where they could possess the
the subject concerning feasts to a parable. world and live a very materialistic life of
The parable is in reference to the great comfort.
feast of spiritual food that God has pre- 14:21-24 Go out quickly: Those
pared for all. This feast was provided who were gratified with their own reli-
through the establishment of the kingdom gions and material possessions did not
reign of Jesus (Compare comments Mt receive the message of Jesus. Therefore,
22:1-14). God sent His messengers to those who
14:16,17 Great supper: Many of were receptive. In this case, the recep-
the Jews thought that the messianic era tive were the common people of society.
of an earthly kingdom would be inaugu- The lesson is that when one realizes the
rated with the celebration of a great feast. unreceptive attitude of certain groups, he
However, such would not happen. In this must go to those who are receptive in
parable, Jesus seeks to correct their mis- order that God’s house be filled. In this
conceptions. They must come to His parable, the host did not tell his servant
kingdom feast upon the basis of repen- to linger with the unreceptive. Once the
tance (13:3-5). Invited many: The invi- lack of receptivity was discovered, he
tation was going out at the very time Jesus told the servant to go quickly to those
was sitting at the Pharisee’s table. All who were receptive to his invitation.
must come to the spiritual feast of righ- Compel them to come in: The recep-
teousness in the kingdom reign of Jesus. tive, including the Gentiles, were con-
14:18-20 All ... began to make ex- strained to submit to the kingdom reign
cuse: God (the man who prepared the of God by the appeal of the gospel (1 Th
supper) prepared the kingdom reign of 2:12; 2 Th 2:14). People are compelled
to come to Jesus by the appeal of the his family less than he loves Jesus. In
cross. Jesus draws people to Himself by order to be a disciple of Jesus, one can-
His loving sacrifice for their sins (Jn not love his family and his own life more
12:32). Those who are not drawn by love than he loves Jesus. If any situation de-
are not of the nature that characterizes velops in one’s life when he must make
the kingdom of God. None of those men a decision between following and serv-
... will taste of my supper: The reli- ing Jesus or his own family, his eternal
giously comfortable and materialistically destiny would dictate that he follow Jesus
obsessed will not submit to the kingdom (See comments Mt 22:37-40; see Dt 13:6;
reign of Jesus. Therefore, they will not Rm 9:13; Rv 12:11). Cannot be My dis-
enjoy the salvation that Jesus offers sim- ciple: Jesus calls for total commitment.
ply because they have chosen to main- He calls for the sacrifice of one’s entire
tain their own life-style that is patterned life (See 9:23; Rm 12:1,2; Gl 2:20; 6:14).
after religious traditions and the world Many cannot be disciples simply because
(See comments Ep 2:1-4). If one would they are not willing to pay the price of
come to Jesus as a disciple, he or she must discipleship. The evangelist must under-
make every sacrifice that is necessary to stand that there are many to whom he will
be obedient to Jesus. preach who do not desire to meet the
qualifications of self-denial that Jesus
THE COST OF DISCIPLESHIP here calls on people to make in order to
14:25-27 See comments Mt 10:34- follow Him. He must accept the fact,
42. Great multitudes went with Him: therefore, that some people will not be
People were following Jesus to Jerusa- disciples of Jesus because they are not
lem for various reasons. However, it was willing to pay the cost of discipleship.
at this time in Jesus’ ministry that He was 14:28-30 First sit down and count
nearing Jerusalem and the cross. In the the cost: Counting the cost of what it
following discourse, He sought to sift out will take to be a disciple assumes that
of the multitudes those who were not one may make the decision to turn away
willing to pay the cost of being a true from the gospel. Though Paul was a cho-
disciple. These are hard words for those sen vessel for God’s work, Jesus first
who are not willing to commit themselves showed him all things that he had to suf-
totally to Him. Many will not pass the fer in order to carry out his mission (See
test. But those who do will have a tre- comments At 9:15,16). The early dis-
mendous influence in the world with their ciples were shown what the cost of dis-
lives. Hate ... father ... mother ... wife cipleship would be in their lives. They,
... children ... brothers ... sisters ... own as well as all disciples, must go through
life: Matthew says, “He who loves fa- many sufferings in order to be saved (At
ther or mother more than Me is not wor- 14:22; Rv 2:10; see Rm 8:18). Begin to
thy of Me” (Mt 10:37). Luke’s use of mock him: Those who convert to Jesus,
the word “hate” means that one must love and then fall away, will be mocked by
those who never wanted to become dis- necessary in order to be such (9:61; 12:33;
ciples in the first place (See 2 Pt 2:20-22). Ph 3:7-11). If he is not willing to forsake
14:31-33 Before a king goes to war all for Jesus, then that which he is not will-
with the enemy he must first consider ing to forsake will eventually be his stum-
whether he has enough power to win the bling block over which he will fall as a
battle. Before one becomes a disciple he Christian.
must first consider whether he can win 14:34,35 The salt has lost its salti-
the battle (Ep 6:10-18). Jesus’ emphasis ness: When salt loses its saltiness, it is
here is that one must seriously consider good for nothing, and thus, it is thrown
his call to discipleship. His emphasis is out into the rubbish heap. So it is with a
on the seriousness by which we must con- disciple. When a Christian loses his
sider being a disciple. Those who do not Christian influence in the community, he
take their discipleship seriously will in- is good for nothing with reference to in-
evitably become indifferent and luke- fluencing people to come to Jesus. His
warm. Their attitude of indifference and bad reputation repels people from Jesus.
lukewarmness will be as leaven, and thus, The light of the gospel that dwells in the
affect the entire group of disciples (See hearts of humble people draws the lost
comments Rv 3:15,16). Asks for terms to the cross (Mt 5:13-16; Mk 9:50).
of peace: Jesus is the King who is com- Therefore, when one considers becom-
ing against all those who have not obeyed ing a disciple of Jesus, he must consider
the gospel. He is coming with destruc- whether he will be a positive influence
tion (2 Th 1:6-9). If one would have for Jesus or a negative influence. Those
peace with King Jesus at the time of His who are not willing to forsake all for
final coming, then he must sit down and Jesus, will be a negative influence for
consider Jesus’ conditions for peace. His Jesus. Those who are willing to pay the
conditions begin with obedience to the price of discipleship will reap the life
gospel (See comments 1 Co 15:1-4; Rm about which Jesus spoke in John 10:10.
6:3-6). Forsake all that he has: The rich “I have come that they may have life, and
young ruler who wanted to be a disciple that they may have it more abundantly.”
of Jesus had to pay this price because his They will enjoy the fullness of life be-
riches stood between him and commit- cause they will understand the purpose
ment to Jesus (See comments Mk 10:17- of life and their eternal destiny in the
31). If one wants to be a disciple of Jesus, presence of God.
he must be willing to forsake all that is
C HAPTER 115
5
15:1,2 In this chapter Luke brings lectors ... sinners drew near to Him: See
together several parables of Jesus that Mt 9:10-15. These were those who were
deal with the condition of the lost and judged to be sinners by the Pharisees and
their opportunity for salvation. Tax col- scribes because they did not conform to
their code of religious behavior. How- fold of the sheep are identified as such
ever, the hearts of some of these tax col- because they rejoice over the fact that a
lectors and supposed sinners were lost sheep was found (Rm 12:15). They
humble enough to know that Jesus had rejoice because they are of the same na-
the words of life. They did not stumble ture as the shepherd. His mission is their
over their religiosity in order to find in mission. They are identified to be of the
Jesus that which they knew they needed flock because their desire is the same as
in their lives. Receives sinners: This is the shepherd of the flock. However,
the work of Jesus and all who would those who are of a judgmental attitude
claim to be of Him (19:10; see comments will not willingly receive the lost sheep
Rm 14). Those who seek Jesus are those back into the fold (See comments 15:27-
who realize their own sin. When one is 32). Their nature excludes them from
religiously self-righteous, he will not being identified with the flock.
seek God’s grace through Jesus. He will
remain in his own self-deception and turn PARABLE OF THE LOST COIN
away from the One who can spiritually 15:8-10 Coins: The coin here was a
heal him of sin. The disciples of Jesus, drachma which was a valuable coin. It
therefore, must never turn away from one was often worn around the neck by mar-
who is seeking eternal life. ried women in a ten-piece garland. Jesus’
emphasis in this parable was on the value
PARABLE OF THE LOST SHEEP of just one soul. Sweep the house: With
(Mt 18:12-14) diligence, God desires to find those who
15:3-7 See comments Mt 18:12-14. are lost. Rejoice with me: As in the par-
He loses one of them: The fact is that able of the lost sheep, so here again Jesus
one loses himself when he strays from emphasizes the rejoicing of God over the
the flock. When lost, he cannot find his salvation of those who are lost. Those
way back, and thus, he is hopeless in a who cause rejoicing in the presence of
situation where he cannot save himself. the angels of heaven are those who save
However, from God’s viewpoint, it is He the lost by the preaching of the gospel.
who loses a sheep. When a sheep strays, In the cultural context in which Jesus
it is He who provides the grace for the presented these parables, there were rac-
lost sheep to be restored to the flock. Go ist Jews who did not associate with ei-
after the one: Once it is discovered that ther the Samaritans or Gentiles. In the
the sheep has strayed, the owner imme- community of God that Jesus would es-
diately goes after the stray (See Jr 31:10- tablish, however, all those who come to
20; Ez 34:11-16; 1 Pt 2:25). Good shep- Him in obedience to His lordship must
herds know the flock well enough to accept one another regardless of their cul-
know when a sheep goes astray. They tural background (See comments Jn 4:1-
love enough to go after lost sheep. Re- 26; Gl 3:26-29).
joice with me: All those who are in the
PARABLE OF THE PRODIGAL 15:20,21 Once the prodigal son had

15:11-16 This parable describes the made the decision to return, and was in
behavior and attitude of two sons. The the process of returning to his father, the
younger son foolishly took his inherit- father embraced him and accepted him
ance and wasted it in riotous living until back into the family. However, when the
he ended up in the worst of conditions. prodigal was in the pig pen, the father
It took tragedy in his life to bring him to did not search him out and drag him back
his senses. At the same time, the older home. The son had to make the decision
son remained faithful to his duties. In for himself in order that his repentance
the context of this chapter, and the pres- bring forth fruit in his life. In the com-
ence of the Pharisees and scribes, the pany of Jesus on this occasion were the
older son would represent the attitudes tax collectors and “sinners” whom the
of these religious leaders who judged the Jewish religious leaders had judged un-
Gentiles unworthy. Those whom the worthy of God’s acceptance. But those
scribes and Pharisees considered unrigh- who were humbled by their life in the
teous are here pictured coming back to pig pen wanted to draw near to Jesus (vs
God with a repentant attitude. The Jews 1).
thought that God had made the promise 15:22-24 As the Father rejoiced over
of Genesis 12:3 exclusively to them. the one lost sheep (vs 7) and the lost coin
However, the promise was that in Abra- (vs 10), so here there is rejoicing again
ham all nations of the earth would be over one who has realized the sin of his
blessed (See comments Gl 3:26-29). life (See 9:60; 15:32; Mt 8:22; Rm 11:15;
15:17-19 When the prodigal son fi- Ep 2:1-5; 5:14; Cl 2:13; 1 Tm 5:6). In
nally realized the depths to which he had the historical context of Jesus’ ministry,
digressed in life, he humbled himself in the common people, Samaritans and Gen-
order to return and seek the work of a tiles were coming to Jesus. Those who
slave in his father’s house (See Ex 9:27; were considered religiously unclean by
10:16; Nm 22:34; Ja 7:20; 1 Sm 15:24,30; the Jewish religious leadership were the
26:21; 2 Sm 12:13; Ps 51:4; Mt 27:4). ones who were receiving the message of
And so it is with those who come to Jesus. the kingdom.
Those who have been humbled by life 15:25-30 The older son ... became
are receptive to the message of the One angry: The older son could not under-
who would be their Lord, and thus, di- stand why the father would show grace
rect their lives to an abundant life (Jn and mercy to one who had rebelled
10:10; 1 Pt 5:5,6; see comments Mt 5:1- against the father. The older son had re-
16). Those who have come the longest mained faithful to his duties, and thus,
way in changing their lives in order to judged the younger son to be undeserv-
accept the lordship of Jesus are often those ing of the mercy of the father. So also
who have a greater appreciation of God’s was the legalistic attitude of the Phari-
grace (Compare comments 2 Co 4:15). sees and scribes concerning any whom
they had judged to be sinners. They could judgmental of all those who were not sub-
not understand how God could extend missive to their system of Judaism. But
grace and mercy to those who had been Jesus teaches here that if they would re-
rebellious against the commandments of main faithful to the Father, they must
God (See comments Ep 2:1-10). To them change their attitudes toward the Gentiles
it was inconceivable that God would and Samaritans who were coming into
reach out to the Gentiles or Samaritans. the kingdom by their submission to the
15:31,32 The Pharisees and scribes will of God. They must come out of their
had maintained their institutional religi- isolation and embrace the Gentiles and
osity. However, they also developed an Samaritans who were to be invited by
arrogant attitude toward those who were God through the preaching of the gos-
not of their cultural or religious fellow- pel.
ship and heritage. They thus became
C HAPTER 116
6
PARABLE OF because they were lovers of money (See
GOOD STEWARDSHIP comments Mt 15:1-9). Give an account:
16:1,2 Jesus spoke this parable to The presence of the Son of God in their
the disciples, but the message of the par- midst meant that it was the time that they
able was about the religious leaders of should give account of their stewardship
Israel. A certain rich man: God had en- before God. But these stewards would
trusted the religious leaders of Israel with soon kill the Son and seize upon His in-
the spiritual care of the nation (Mt 23:2; heritance (See comments Mt 21:33-45).
Rm 3:2). They were to lead the nation Their greed moved them to do that which
spiritually by directing the minds of the was contrary to the will of God.
people toward God and the hope of Is- 16:3,4 I cannot dig: These religious
rael. However, because of their love for leaders had lived off the coveted contri-
power, positions and possessions, they butions of the people for a long time.
were moved by their love of money in They had been full-time religious lead-
their relationship with the people. They ers in society for so long that they could
viewed the people as a source for sus- not make a living for themselves with
taining their support. Their ministry was their hands. Instead of correcting their
based on maintaining the financial sup- life-style in reference to God, which
port of the people, not on ministry to the meant that they would lose their full-time
people. A steward: The religious lead- positions as religious leaders, they
ers were entrusted with the heritage of schemed as to how they might maintain
God, but they became materialistic with their positions. When Jesus came, their
their holdings (vs 14). They took advan- financial security was endangered, and
tage of the people and consumed the thus they rose up against Jesus.
material things of Israel upon themselves 16:5-8 He had acted shrewdly: The
master did not commend his dishonesty. entrusted with the care of the flock of
He commended his shrewdness to seize God. Therefore, one’s correct use of
the opportunity to take care of himself. material things will determine one’s right
The steward had dealt in a shrewd man- to eternal life. A man’s faithfulness is
ner with the possessions that did not be- measured by what he does with what he
long to him. His actions were selfish in has (See comments At 2:44,45; 4:32-37;
that he was looking out for himself and 3 Jn 1-8).
not for the stewardship that was entrusted 16:13,14 See Mt 6:24; Cl 3:1-3; Js
to him. And so, the Pharisees were look- 4:4; 1 Jn 2:15. One cannot take his pos-
ing out for themselves in reference to the sessions with him into the dwelling of
threat that Jesus made concerning their the new heavens and earth, but he can
full-time support from the multitudes. take the results of his giving (See 12:21;
Children: Unrighteous religious leaders Mt 19:21; 2 Co 4:7; Gl 6:10; see com-
who are lovers of money will behave as ments 1 Co 15:58; Rv 14:13). Lovers of
the world in order to guard their finan- money: It is not the money that is evil,
cial support. They are more concerned but the love and selfish use of it (See Mt
for themselves than for the spiritual well- 23:14; 1 Co 5:10,11; 6:10; 1 Tm 6:10).
being of the people. It is not sin to be rich. Riches are wrong
16:9-12 Jesus applied the lesson of when they lead one into sin (See com-
the parable to those to whom it was di- ments 1 Tm 6:6-10,17; 1 Jn 3;16,17). In
rected. He taught that the righteous lead- this context the lovers of money were the
ers should be wise about taking care of religious leaders in the community. Be-
their spiritual life as the shrewd steward cause they were lovers of money, they
took care for his material life. Wealth of viewed their positions as an opportunity
unrighteousness: This would be mate- for gain. They viewed the people as an
rial possessions that are dishonestly ac- opportunity to sustain themselves as full-
quired. The possessions within them- time workers in religious matters.
selves are not wrong. What is wrong is Scoffed: Literally, they turned up their
how they are acquired and idolized (See noses at Jesus.
1 Tm 6:10; 2 Tm 4:10). The Pharisees, 16:15 God knows your hearts: One
who were lovers of money (vs 14), were may self-righteously approve of himself
not faithful to God in what they had ac- as right in the eyes of God, but God
quired (See comments Mt 15:3-6). They knows what is in our hearts (1 Ch 28:9; 2
could not be good stewards of God’s heri- Ch 6:30; Ps 7:9; Pv 15:11; Jr 17:10). One
tage because they had proved themselves may seek to gain the approval of others
dishonest by taking advantage of the by religious performances (10:29; Mt
people in order to take care of their own 6:2,4,16), but what is important is what
material well-being. If one cannot be is in one’s heart. Our acceptance by oth-
trusted with the correct use of material ers in the religious world should not de-
things, he cannot be trusted to do right if termine how we behave. What is most
important is being accepted by God. We 16:18 See comments Mt 19:18,19;

can know that we are accepted by God if compare comments Rm 7:1-4.
we love Him and keep His commandments
(Jn 14:15; see comments 1 Jn 5:1-4). THE RICH MAN AND LAZARUS
16:16 The Jews lived under the Si- In order to illustrate further the situ-
nai law and prophets. However, John the ation of the Pharisees who loved money
Baptist, though he lived under the Sinai (vs 14), Jesus revealed the following case
law, began the introduction of a new dis- concerning the life and death of a rich
pensation. It was a new dispensation of man and a poor man. In telling this story
grace and truth (Jn 1:17). Forcing his of the rich man and Lazarus, He reveals
way into it: The Jews had an earthly con- facts about life after death that are no-
cept of the kingdom of the Messiah. They where else explained in the Bible.
thought that the reign of the Messiah 16:19-21 Rich man: In Jesus’ illus-
would be over a kingdom of this world tration, the individual who is not here
(See comments At 1:6). Based on this named represented the privileged few.
misunderstanding of the nature of the Their riches had made them grow cal-
kingdom, many tried to press Jesus into lous to the needs of the poor. Lazarus:
being an earthly king in order that they Lazarus was a beggar who was of a con-
might establish this earthly kingdom. dition that was repulsive to others. His
They were eager to rebel against Rome condition was so deplorable that others
in order to set up the Jewish State in the had to lay him at the gate of the rich man
glory that it enjoyed during the days of in order to beg. Desiring to be fed:
David and Solomon. But such was not Lazarus did not seek the wealth of food
in the minds of the prophets who spoke at the rich man’s table. He sought only
of Jesus as the Messiah of a spiritual that which the rich man would never eat.
kingdom (17:20,21; Jn 18:33-37). 16:22,23 Lazarus died, his body was
16:17 Jesus did not destroy the pur- buried, and his spirit was taken by an-
pose for which the law was given. He gels to a place of comfort. He went to be
came to fulfill the Sinai law. Once the with the Lord (See 2 Co 5:1-8; 12:1-4;
law was fulfilled, it had accomplished the Ph 1:23). The rich man also died, his
purpose for which it was given to Israel body was buried, and his spirit was taken
(See comments Mt 5:17,18; Cl 2:14; Rm into torments in hades. The spirits of both
7:4). Once the law was fulfilled, then went to a specific place and were not al-
the Israelites were brought under the es- lowed to roam at will among men. When
tablished law of Christ (See comments one dies, the spirit returns to God who
Jr 31:31-34). Today people should look gave it (Ec 12:7). At death, one’s des-
to the law of Christ for salvational guid- tiny is sealed (Hb 9:27). There is no sec-
ance and to the Old Testament for learn- ond chance after death. Hades: This
ing concerning the ways of God and wis- Greek word simply means the “unseen
dom (Rm 15:4; 1 Co 10:11). abode of the dead.” When one dies, his
spirit goes into a realm where it cannot go to Abraham’s bosom, neither could he
be perceived by the living. In this case, return to this world in order to warn his
the spirit of the rich man went into a brothers. Lazarus could not go to him,
realm of torments. The rich man’s tor- nor could he return to this world. There
ments were different than the torment that is finality of destiny after death. Our re-
one would receive in the flesh, for at the alization of such should motivate us to
time of the rich man’s torments, he was be prepared for death.
disembodied. In both cases, neither the 16:27-31 The living cannot commu-
rich man nor Lazarus were left floating nicate with the dead, neither are the dead
in space. They were without bodies, and allowed to send someone to communi-
thus, in a disembodied state of existence cate to the living. They have Moses and
in some realm dwelling that had been pre- the prophets: This is why it is unneces-
pared by God. It was not the eternal state sary for the dead to communicate with
of dwelling for Lazarus, for he was still the living. It is the responsibility of the
disembodied. The righteous will be in living to turn to God’s word in order to
the eternal presence of God in an embod- be directed by God. In the context here,
ied state (See comments 2 Co 8; 2 Th Jesus was referring directly to the Phari-
4:1-13) Lifted up his eyes ... and saw: sees and scribes who should be listening
His perception was not as that which to Moses and the prophets who spoke of
would be experienced by the physical the coming of the Messiah who was
eyes of a physical body because his standing before them (See Is 34:16; Jn
physical body was in the grave. There is 5:39,45; At 15:21; 17:11). If one will not
evidently a different manner of percep- listen to what God says through His word,
tion and communication after death that then he will not be delivered from the
we do not understand this side of death. destiny that the rich man was experienc-
16:24-26 The rich man did not ask ing. If one goes to them from the dead:
for deliverance from his predicament. He They would not listen to someone who
asked for relief. He realized the hope- was resurrected. Jesus resurrected the
lessness of deliverance from his condem- Lazarus who was the brother of Mary and
nation to torments. Finger ... water .... Martha, but the Jews would not listen to
tongue ... flame: These are metaphori- him because they devised a plot to mur-
cal statements that refer to that which is der both him and Jesus (Jn 11; 12:10).
beyond the physical. The hadean world When Jesus was resurrected from the
is a realm of existence that is beyond this dead, people would not and still do not
physical world. A great gulf fixed: listen to Him. The point is that if one
There is no hope for those who die in will not listen to God through His word,
sin. The rich man had received final judg- he is not of an open and humble heart to
ment, for he could not be delivered from listen to any miraculous witness that God
his state of condemnation. He could not might give.

C HAPTER 117
7
WARNINGS TO THE DISCIPLES will hinder his spiritual growth. An un-
17:1,2 See Mt 17:19-21; 18:6,7, forgiving spirit leads to a bitter spirit.
21,22; Mk 9:23,29,42. Jesus now turns 17:5-10 Increase our faith: The
to the disciples in order to warn them disciples were startled by what Jesus just
concerning apostasy. Satan will use de- said concerning forgiveness. They
ceived men to tempt the disciples to fall sensed that they might be in a situation
away (Rm 14:13; 1 Co 8:12,13). If the where they might not be able to forgive.
disciples are inclined to believe the de- They were not asking Jesus to miracu-
ceptions of Satan, then they will be in lously give them faith. They were ask-
danger of falling away after the enticing ing Him to help them to learn how to for-
words of those who speak well through give when sinned against. In the future,
the deceptions of false doctrines (See they would learn to forgive by the many
comments Mt 24:23-25). Offenses will experiences wherein they would suffer
come: Because of their commitment to at the hands of those who would unjustly
Jesus, they will be scoffed and mocked persecute them. Since God forgives our
(See Mt 18:6,7; 26:24; Mk 9:42; 1 Co sins, in order to be like Him we seek to
11:19; 2 Th 1:6; Jd 11). forgive those who sin against us. Faith
17:3,4 See comments Mt 18:14,20- as a ... mustard seed: See comments Mt
25 (Ps 119:164). Forgive him: There is 17:20; 21:21 (Mk 9:23; 11:23). It is our
no sin too great that we can commit faith that gives us the power to allow God
against one another that we should not to work through us in order to accom-
forgive. However, it is difficult for one plish His work. A bondservant: The
to forget. Forgiveness means putting slave obediently serves his master. He
thoughts of the offense out of our minds, does all that is required of him. When
though we might have to live with the he has done his duty, he asks the master
consequences of the offense. Neverthe- what is yet to be done. When the dis-
less, we must forgive. Such is necessary ciples have done all that they think is re-
because of the great mercy God has had quired of them as disciples, they will still
on those who have sinned against Him lack. In reference to their salvation, they
(See comments Mt 18:22-35; Js 2:13). owe more than they can ever repay.
Unlike man, God is able to forget our sins When considering the reward of eternal
(Hb 10:17). He is able to do so because heaven for one’s few years of service on
it is against Him that sin is committed. earth, one can never put God in debt to
However, regardless of our inability to pay us with salvation. It is because of
totally forget, we must carry on with for- God’s grace that we receive the reward
giveness. Forgiveness is for the benefit that far outweighs the small price of ser-
of the one who is sinned against. If one vice Christians must pay by faithfulness
does not forgive, his unforgiving attitude to their duties as slaves of God on earth.
Therefore, when the disciples of Jesus (See comments At 13:46-48; 1 Co 15:10;

asked what they lacked, the answer will 2 Co 4:15).
always be that they lack too much to com- 17:17-19 Jesus asked the questions
plete. here to stimulate all to think concerning
their obligation of returning thanks to
THE GRATEFUL LEPER God for all that He would do in showing
17:11-13 He went to Jerusalem: mercy to man. The gratitude of the one
This was Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem in leper in contrast to the ingratitude of the
order to go to the cross. This was the nine, illustrates how often men forget
end of His three and a half year earthly God’s blessings in both the material and
ministry. Therefore, the statements He spiritual realms. Christians give their
now makes are in reference to the end of lives to God for all that God has done for
the ministry as He focused on the cross. them in saving them through the grace
Luke’s historical mention of Jesus’ go- of the cross. Those who are ungrateful
ing to Jerusalem in 9:51; 13:22; 17:11 will not serve God with zeal. Lazy Chris-
probably corresponds to John’s state- tians will be lost because they showed
ments of Jesus’ going to Jerusalem in no gratitude for what God did for them
John 7:2; 11:17; 12:1. Between verses through the cross.
10 and 11 in this context Jesus went to
Bethany, Ephraim, Samaria and Galilee THE NATURE OF THE KINGDOM
(See Jn 11). Ten men who were lepers: 17:20,21 These Pharisees did not
Because of their leprosy they could not understand the nature of the kingdom.
associate with society, for they were con- They were asking from their understand-
sidered by the law to be unclean (See Lv ing that the kingdom of God would be a
13:45,46; Nm 5:2). physical kingdom of this world where
17:14-16 Show yourselves to the Israel would enjoy prosperity and na-
priest: After a leper was cleansed of his tional sovereignty (At 1:6). They thus
disease, he was to present himself to a asked this question because they had
priest in order to receive confirmation misunderstood Jesus’ previous teachings
that he was clean (5:14; Lv 13:1-6,45- concerning the nature of the kingdom.
49; 14:1-32). Glorified God ... giving They were here possibly seeking for a
Him thanks: It was the Samaritan who sign of the coming of the kingdom (See
was thankful for his healing (5:25; 3:16; 11:2-31; 13:20; 16:16; Mt 16:1-4).
18:43). This one who was rejected by Does not come with observation: A
the Jewish society was shown mercy by physical kingdom would come with ob-
God, and thus, God’s mercy stirred servation. One could see the king reign-
thanksgiving in his heart. The natural in- ing on a literal throne in Jerusalem. But
clination of those who have received such would not be the nature of the king-
mercy from God is to give their lives in dom that Jesus would establish. The
thanksgiving for what they have received kingdom of God is within you: The king-
dom reign of Jesus was never intended ment on Jerusalem would not be a hid-
to be a physical kingdom as those of the den event. As lightning is seen by all, so
world. The metaphorical use of the word will the coming He discusses here be
“kingdom” indicates that the kingdom of known to all (Mt 24:27).
God is something greater than a physical 17:25-30 Jesus must first go to the
kingdom of this world. It is a kingdom cross. About forty years after the cross,
with authority and rule that originates all the events of judgment about which
from God out of heaven and is manifested He spoke in this context would happen
in the hearts of those who submit to Jesus (Mt 26:67; 27:29-31; Mk 8:31; 9:31;
as King and Lord (Dn 2:44; 7:13,14; see 10:33). Not only would Jesus person-
comments Jn 18:36-38; Ph 2:5-11). ally suffer, His body (the church) would
Therefore, “The kingdom of God is not also suffer the rejection of His genera-
meat and drink, but righteousness and tion (At 8:1-4). Days of Noah: In the
peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Rm days of Noah, Noah’s generation rejected
14:17). The kingdom of God involves God’s call to repentance through the
relationships, relationships between God preaching of righteous Noah (Gn 6:5-8;
and man (justification), and man and man 7:6-24; 1 Pt 3:20). People were more
(peace and joy). concerned about worldly living and
things than righteousness. When the
THE DAY OF THE SON flood came to destroy them, it was too
Verses 22-27 refer primarily to the late for repentance (Gn 7:1-23). Days of
consummation of national Israel in A.D. Lot: Likewise, in the days of Lot, the
70, though the judgment language that is cities of Sodom and Gomorrah were
used by Jesus in this context refers to any given over to unrighteous living (Gn 19;
of God’s judgments, either in time or at 2 Pt 2:6,7). In both the cases of Noah
the end of time. God’s judgments in time and Lot, the wicked were taken and the
illustrate His judgment at the end of time righteous were left. So it would be in
when Jesus will come to terminate all the destruction of Jerusalem. The nor-
things of this world. mal activities of the lives of unconcerned
17:22-24 When you will long to see: men would be occurring when the Ro-
Jesus turns to the disciples. He stated man armies came upon the Jewish State.
that the cataclysmic days of turmoil were The Jews never believed that their city,
coming when they would wish that they and especially the temple, would be de-
were back in the days of Jesus’ presence stroyed by the will of God, even though
and mercy during His earthly ministry it had been destroyed by the Babylonians
(Compare Mt 9:15; 13:21; 24:30). See in 586 B.C. However, the Christians
here: See Mt 24:23; Mk 13:21. Do not knew that God would do such because
go after them: Jesus warned against fol- they believed Jesus’ prophecy concern-
lowing after false teachers (Mt 24:4,5). ing the destruction. For this reason,
The coming of the Son of Man in judg- Christians stayed away from Jerusalem
during the time preceding the destruction destruction of Jerusalem. Those who
in A.D. 70. Son of Man is revealed: The would give heed to Jesus would spare
phrase “Son of Man” was used by the themselves by believing this prophecy of
Jews to refer to the Messiah. Jesus would the destruction. Those Jews in Jerusa-
be revealed as the Messiah because His lem who rejected Jesus, and held on to
prophecy of the destruction of Jerusalem their possessions and way of life, would
would have come to pass. This revela- lose their lives by being taken away with
tion of Jesus as the Messiah would be the over one million Jews who were
important in time, not at the end of time, killed during the war. Those Jews who
because it would stimulate many Jews to survived were sold into slavery.
reconsider who Jesus was. 17:37 The dead carcass is national
17:31-33 In that day: Jesus now Israel. The vultures of the Roman armies
gives details concerning the time of the would gather overhead in order to devour
destruction (See comments Mt 24). the spiritually dead who rejected the Son
There will be no purpose in considering of Man (See comments Mt 24:28). We
the salvation of material goods in the time must keep in mind that the end of Israel
when the city is being destroyed, for all was to be in Christ. National Israel as an
will be lost. When the Roman armies independent state ended with the Baby-
did come, Titus withdrew from his attack lonian conquest of Judah and Jerusalem
upon the city to return to Rome. But this in 586 B.C. From that time to the de-
withdrawal lasted only a short time. It struction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70, the
was at this time that every faithful Chris- land of Palestine was always an occupied
tian remembered these words of Jesus, land that was controlled by a foreign
and thus, fled the region. Remember power. In the destruction of Jerusalem,
Lot’s wife: Lot’s wife hesitated by long- ethnic Israel was to be absorbed into
ing for those things she possessed in the Christ where there is neither Jew nor
city that were about to be destroyed. She Gentile (Gl 3:26-29). However, the na-
thus looked back with the desire of re- tionalism of the Jews had grown too
turning to the city (Gn 19:26). Will pre- strong to accept the dissolving of Israel
serve it: See comments 9:24; Mt 10:39; in Christ. The religion of the Jews had
16:25; Mk 8:35; Jn 12:25. Those who become so traditional that the religious
have committed themselves totally to leaders could not accept Jesus as the
Jesus will believe what He is here say- Messiah. Therefore, ethnic Israel became
ing, and thus, they will be willing to leave a dead carcass in reference to God’s eter-
all that they have in order to save their nal plan. National Israel had served its
lives in the impending destruction. purpose of bringing the Messiah and Sav-
17:34-36 See comments Mt 24:40. ior into the world. It was now to be ter-
As in the days of Noah and Lot, the minated. A.D. 70 was the termination of
wicked are taken and the righteous are centuries of God’s work among a people
left. So it would be in the days of the who had forgotten the very purpose for
which they were called out of Egyptian there was no more need for national Is-
captivity. Once the promises were ful- rael.
filled in the coming of the Son of God,
C HAPTER 118
8
PARABLE OF liverance throughout their time of perse-
THE PERSISTENT WIDOW cution. God would bring down judgment
18:1-5 Men should always pray: It on those who persecute His flock. In the
is the desire of the Father that His chil- historical context of His statements here,
dren approach Him in prayer. Prayer is Jesus foresaw the time between the es-
the natural response of those who recog- tablishment of the church in Acts 2 and
nize their need for the help of God in their the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70.
lives (See 11:5-10; 18:9-14; Rm 12:12; It would be during this time when the
Ep 6:18; Cl 4:2; 1 Th 5:17). Judge who Jews would severely persecute Christians
did not fear God: One who does not re- from city to city. However, after God’s
spect the law of God will often have little judgment on the nation of Israel in the
respect for man. Give me justice: Some- destruction of Jerusalem, Jewish perse-
one had wronged this woman. She thus cution of the church would be greatly
made her plea to the judge for justice curtailed. Nevertheless, persecution
against the one who wronged her. He would eventually be launched against the
would not: The judge seems to be un- church by the Roman State (See com-
concerned with doing his duties. It seems ments of Rv).
that he was more interested in getting rid
of this pleading woman than in doing his PARABLE OF
job as a just judge. Nevertheless, because THE PHARISEE AND PUBLICAN
of the persistent pleading of the woman, 18:9 Trusted in themselves that they
the judge acted and dealt just judgment were righteous: Luke introduced this
to the one who had unjustly treated her. parable by telling us the meaning. It was
18:6-8 Bring about justice ... about legalistic religionists who justified
quickly: Jesus’ lesson is that if an un- themselves because of their performance
righteous and unconcerned judge would of their religious codes and ceremonies
act upon the persistent requests of a (10:29; 16:15; Pv 30:12). Those who do
pleading woman, then certainly the pleas not conform to their religious behavior
of the righteous to a concerned God are thus judged or condemned because
would bring justice to those who perse- they do not measure up to the legalists’
cute His children (See Hb 10:37; 2 Pt self-imposed standards. Such was the
3:8,9; Rv 6:10). Therefore, Christians nature of the religion of the scribes and
must believe that God will readily answer Pharisees (See intro. to Gl; see comments
their prayers. Jesus here encourages Cl 2:20-23).
Christians to continue in prayer for de- 18:10-14 A Pharisee: The Pharisee
boasted concerning his obedience to his ceived ideas and beliefs that contradict
self-imposed religious codes and tradi- God’s word, lest we bring into the church
tions. He checked off his list of righ- of Christ religious practices that have
teous deeds that he did and evil deeds been invented after the desires of men
that he did not do. He thus trusted in and not God (See comments Mk 7:1-9).
himself, feeling self-confident that his
performance of law should satisfy God, THE RICH YOUNG RULER
and thus, put God in debt to save him (Mt 19:16-30; Mk 10:17-32)
(See comments Rm 3:20; Gl 2:16). Tax 18:18-30 See comments Mt 19:16-
collector: The tax collector stood far 30; Mk 10:17-32. As the Pharisee of
from the Pharisee because he was judged verses 9-14, the rich young ruler was also
unrighteous by the Pharisee. However, trusting in his performance of law-keep-
he stood close to God because he ap- ing in order to justify himself before God.
proached God on the basis of his spiri- He boasted of all that he had done from
tual inadequacies (See comments Mt 5:3- his youth. However, according to Jesus
10). Because he recognized his spiritual he still lacked that which was necessary
poverty, he trusted in God’s grace for his in order to be a disciple. He had to dis-
salvation. Down to his house justified: pose of whatever hindered him from giv-
He was justified by his faith in God’s ing total commitment to God. In this
grace, not by his perfect law-keeping or case, as the twelve disciples of Jesus, he
performance of good deeds (Hk 2:4; Rm had to sell all that he had in order to fol-
1:17; Gl 3:11; Hb 10:38). Exalts him- low Jesus. Therefore, one must not come
self: See 14:11; Jb 22:29; Mt 23:12; Js to Jesus with his own self-righteousness
4:6; 1 Pt 5:5. Those who have self-righ- as the Pharisee. Self-righteousness must
teously exalted themselves will be be discarded for total dependence on
brought down. And so, God brought the God. When one comes to Jesus, he must,
arrogant Pharisaical religion of Jerusa- as the young ruler, discard that which
lem down in A.D. 70. would hinder total commitment to Him
(See comments 14:25-35). Because some
JESUS AND CHILDREN people cannot place total trust in God in
(Mt 19:13-15; Mk 10:13-16) all aspects of life and belief, they cannot
18:15-17 See comments Mt 19:13- be disciples of Jesus. There are those
15. In order to receive the kingdom reign who create religions that conform to the
of Jesus, one must humble himself as a level of commitment they are willing to
child who is not presumptuous in his be- give. Lukewarm Christians will convince
havior. One must accept God’s condi- themselves that God is pleased with their
tions and directives in reference to righ- lukewarm discipleship (See Rv 3:15,16).
teous behavior and not be presumptuous They thus create a religion in which their
by establishing his own self-justification. consciences are not troubled by the com-
We must not come to God with precon- mitment that Jesus demands (14:25-35).
A lukewarm Christianity is not Christian- The kingdom over which He would reign
ity at all. Jesus calls upon our total com- would not be a kingdom of this world
mitment and dedication to Him without (17:20,21; Jn 18:36-38). The disciples
compromise. must now focus on that which is above
this world because the hour was soon to
The Jerusalem Ministry come in Jesus’ ministry when the world
(18:31 – 21:38) would unleash a blow of death against
Outline: (1) Destined to the cross (18:31-34), Him. His destiny to be the Savior and
(2) Healing of two blind men (18:35-43), (3) The King was about to be fulfilled.
zeal of Zacchaeus (19:1-10), (4) Parable of the
pounds (19:11-27), (5) The triumphal entry HEALING OF TWO BLIND MEN
(19:28-40), (6) Lamentation over Jerusalem (Mt 20:29-34; Mk 10:46-52)
(19:41-44), (7) Cleansing of the temple (19:45- 18:35-43 See comments Mt 20:29-
48), (8) Challenge of Jesus’ authority (20:1-8), 34. There were two blind men here as
(9) Parable of the vineyard (20:9-19), (10) Pay- recorded by Matthew (Mt 20:30). How-
ing taxes to Caesar (20:20-26), (11) Confronta- ever, Luke informs us that there was one
tion with the Sadducees (20-27-40), (12) Jesus, who was the outspoken of the two.
the Lord of David (20:41-44), (13) Denunciation Luke’s testimony here defines the nature
of the scribes and Pharisees (20:45-47), (14) Sac- of a true miracle. Miracles are to be be-
rificial thanksgiving (21:1-4), (15) Judgment on lieved because of the valid testimony of
Jerusalem (21:5-38) true witnesses. There were multitudes
present at this healing who could give tes-
DESTINED TO THE CROSS timony to what actually happened. Luke
(Mt 20:17-19) wants Theophilus to know that the
18:31-34 See comments Mt 20:17- miracles of Jesus were true happenings.
19. The preconceived ideas of the dis- They were not the invention of over zeal-
ciples concerning the nature of the king- ous religionists who were promoting a
dom and the work of Jesus still blinded new religion in the Roman Empire. The
them from understanding the destiny of miracles Jesus worked were not the per-
Jesus. They knew the prophecies (See Is formance of a skillful person who de-
53; Ps 22). They accepted Jesus as the ceived the people into thinking they were
Messiah. However, they failed to under- healed. The miracles that Jesus worked
stand that the Messiah, as prophesied, were a testimony that God was with Him
must suffer at the hands of wicked men (Jn 3:2; 20:30,31).
(See 2:50; 9:45; Mk 9:32; Jn 10:6; 12:16).
C HAPTER 119
9
THE ZEAL OF ZACCHAEUS a superintendent of Roman-sanctioned
19:1,2 Chief ... tax collector: The tax collectors in his region. Though we
name Zacchaeus means “pure.” He was are not given information on how he be-
came rich, we must assume that he was progressive action. Zacchaeus continu-
honest in his dealings as a tax collector ally gave to the poor. He was thus a be-
because of what he said in this text. He nevolent man who had compassion on the
was a righteous rich man as Gaius in 3 poor (Ps 41:1). I restore to him four-
John 1-8. This is one case where it is fold: This restoration went beyond what
possible for the rich to remain faithful to the Sinai law required (See Ex 22; Nm
God regardless of their wealth (See 5:6,7; Lv 6:1-6), but was often what was
18:24-27; 1 Tm 6:6-10,12). Being rich required by Roman law in some cases.
is not wrong, for a righteous rich person What Zacchaeus’ restoration policy
is a blessing to the kingdom. Therefore, manifested was his caution to deal justly
when a rich man becomes a disciple of with all people in reference to money. If
Jesus, we must not think that he should he inadvertently miscalculated one’s
give away everything that he has and taxes, he restored fourfold. He took ev-
become poor. Otherwise, he could not ery precaution, therefore, to guard his
use his gift to make money to help oth- integrity.
ers to feed the poor and preach the gos- 19:9,10 Salvation has come to this
pel to the world. house: Zacchaeus was a son of Abra-
19:3-7 He sought to see ... Jesus: ham by faith (See comments Rm 2:28,29;
Though a rich man in a great position, Gl 3:7,26-29). By his faith he was saved
Zacchaeus was driven to climb a tree in for his faith moved him to respond to
order to see Jesus. Jesus’ omniscience to Jesus. We must not conclude that he was
know the minds of men allowed Him the saved by faith only. Faith without an
opportunity to know this man by name obedient response is of no profit in ref-
(See 6:8; 9:47; Mt 9:4; 12:25; 22:18; erence to one’s salvation (See comments
24:25; Mk 2:8; 5:30). Received Him joy- Js 2;14-26).
fully: God will receive anyone who will
receive Him with joy. A man who is a PARABLE OF THE POUNDS
sinner: Those who assumed that 19:11 Luke gives us an inspired in-
Zacchaeus was a sinner made their judg- terpretation of the meaning of this par-
ments as men judge. Zacchaeus did not able. The Jews thought that the Messiah
conform to their code of religious con- would establish an earthly kingdom reign
duct. He was thus classified with all tax with the Messiah reigning as king in
collectors who were considered traitors Jerusalem (See At 1:6). They seem to
to Israel because they worked for Rome have forgotten that God had terminated
in collecting taxes from the Jews. The earthly kings that would come from the
multitudes here made the mistake of seed of David (See comments Jr 22:30).
judging one to be a sinner because of his They did not realize that they were in the
associations. last days of national Israel which was
19:8 Half of my goods I give to the coming to an end. The Jews’ belief in an
poor: The tense of the verb “I give” is earthly kingdom fostered the materialis-
tic inclinations of the Pharisees and Dn 7:13,14). A few days later on the day
Sadducees, for both were lovers of money of Pentecost in Acts 2 Peter announced
(16:14). Jesus did not fit into their con- the kingdom reign of Jesus (At 2:29-36).
cept of what and who the Messiah would From this day the servants were to do
be. Since He was nearing Jerusalem and kingdom business. Some of the servants
the cross, Jesus gave this parable con- produced. However, some refused to
cerning their rejection of Him as the work, and thus were unproductive. An
Messiah. They rejected Him because He unproductive servant has no place in the
did not conform to their teachings con- kingdom.
cerning the Messiah and the kingdom. 19:20-27 In the context of Luke’s
19:12-14 To receive for himself a explanation as to why Jesus gave this par-
kingdom: Jesus (the nobleman) as- able, the unproductive servant repre-
cended to the Father in order to receive a sented those of Israel who did not give
kingdom, glory and dominion. In fulfill- their service to the King. They stumbled
ment of prophecy, such would be what because of their unbelief. Enemies ...
He would do not long after this time (See who did not want me to reign over them:
Dn 7:13,14; At 1:9,10). Jesus will re- Such were the Jewish religious leaders
turn at the end of time. Verse 15 says who did not want Jesus as their Messiah
that He will have already received the and King. He did not conform to their
kingdom when He returns. He is not definition of the Messiah. Therefore,
coming at the end of time in order to es- they sentenced Him to be crucified.
tablish another kingdom. He is coming However, the heirs of those who con-
in order to terminate this present envi- demned Jesus were slain in the destruc-
ronment, and then, return kingdom reign tion of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 (See com-
to God (See comments 1 Co 15:25-28). ments Mt 24).
His ... bondservants: The responsibility
for carrying the gospel to all the world THE TRIUMPHAL ENTRY
was given to the servants. They were to (Mt 21:1-11; Mk 11:1-11; Jn 12:12-19)
go about doing kingdom business 19:28-36 See comments Mt 21:1-11.
throughout Jesus’ kingdom reign. Mina: Jesus is now on His way into Jerusalem
A mina was worth about three months’ in order to accomplish the eternal plan
salary. His citizens hated him: Jesus of redemption for man that was in the
came to the Jews, but the Jews rejected mind of God before the creation of the
Him as their Messiah (Jn 1:11). They world (Ep 3:8-13). We must keep in mind
thus worked through the Roman authori- that from this time forward in His minis-
ties in Jerusalem in order to have Him try, Jesus will confront the religious lead-
crucified. ers in Jerusalem to the point that they will
19:15-19 In Acts 1 Jesus ascended take Him to the cross (See comments Jn
to receive kingdom reign at the right hand 10:17,18). Bethphage and Bethany:
of the Father (At 1:9,10; Ep 1:20-22; see These were two towns east of Jerusalem
on the hillside of the Mount of Olives. the mind of Jesus when He made this
Mary, Martha and Lazarus lived in statement, the meaning would be that
Bethany (Mt 26:6; Jn 12:1). Colt: It was when Jerusalem was levelled by the Ro-
the fulfillment of Zechariah 9:9 that Jesus mans in A.D. 70, such would proclaim
proceed with the victory march into that God was with Jesus and His dis-
Jerusalem. The acquisition of the colt ciples, and had terminated national Israel
for Jesus’ plan to triumphantly enter the (See Mt 13:43).
city of Jerusalem was for the purpose of
symbolizing the victory return of a con- LAMENTATION
quering king. Jesus knew He would con- OVER JERUSALEM
quer Satan with the victory of the cross 19:41-44 Jesus wept over the city of
and His conquest over the tomb. Jesus Jerusalem because it was caught up in
also allowed the triumphal entry in or- the affairs of this world and religious
der to provide the opportunity for the re- heresy. The religious hierarchy of lead-
ligious leaders of Jerusalem to manifest ership had rejected the word of God, and
their envious hearts. Once their envy was thus, the religious leaders rejected the
stimulated, such would drive them to nail Son of God who was sent to redeem all
Him to the cross. Israel (Mk 7:1-9). Jesus also knew that
19:37-40 Multitude of the disciples: because of their rejection, within forty
It was the disciples who had accepted years Jerusalem would be levelled to the
Jesus as the Messiah. The Pharisees in ground by the Roman army (See com-
the midst of the multitude were evidently ments Mt 24). The nation that had been
motivated to jealousy because the dis- the chosen by God to bring the Redeemer
ciples had accepted Jesus as the Messiah. into the world was being terminated.
Because they resented the disciples’ loy- National Israel was coming to an end
alty to Jesus, the religious leaders asked because God had fulfilled His purpose
Jesus to ask the disciples to be quiet con- for which she was created. National Is-
cerning their praise of Him. The Phari- rael was also rejected because she had
sees had accepted Jesus as a teacher, but rejected the Son of God. History was
they did not accept Him as a king. There- indeed repeating itself in Israel because
fore, their rejection of Him was the ful- they had again forgotten the law of God
fillment of the parable of verses 11-27 (See Hs 4:6; Mk 7:1-9). The nation had
(Jn 1:11). Stones ... cry out: See Hk a history of rejecting God. This was just
2:11. This should be the response of another in a series of rejections for which
those who recognize the sonship of Jesus. they would pay the ultimate price. This
That which we would assume would was the final rejection and final judgment
never respond (stones), would give testi- of the nation. In the eyes of God, the
mony to the sonship of Jesus. If the Jews as a chosen people were coming to
stones of the city of Jerusalem were in an end (See comments Gl 3:26-29).

CLEANSING OF THE TEMPLE principle would apply to religious lead-

(Mt 21:12,13; Mk 11:15-17; Jn 2:13-17) ers today who take advantage of the spiri-
19:45,46 See comments Mt tual hearts of the people in order to main-
21:12,13. My house: In view of the fact tain their financial well-being.
that the physical temple was never in the 19:47,48 Taught daily in the temple:
plan of God for Israel (see comments 2 See 21:37; 22:53. The work of a teacher
Ch 2-6), we must view this reference to is to teach. Jesus taught daily in the place
the temple that Herod built to be meta- where religious people assembled be-
phorical of the true house of God (See cause of their interest in the Old Testa-
comments 1 Tm 3:15). Reference was ment Scriptures. It will be the practice
to the people of God, not to a physical of good teachers to teach daily. Their
structure. House of prayer: Nowhere daily teaching will be in places where re-
in the Old Testament was the physical ligious people assemble who are inter-
temple of Solomon designated a house ested in the Scriptures. When there is
of prayer. The prophecy of Isaiah 56:7 much teaching going on concerning the
was in reference to the present spiritual word of God, there will be many re-
house of God, the church, which offers sponses. Sought to destroy Him: Luke’s
up prayers continually to God (1 Th 5:17; historical record of the plot of the Jew-
1 Pt 2:5). The statement of Jeremiah 7:11 ish religious leaders to kill Jesus was a
was in reference to a spiritually fallen testimony to Theophilus that Christian-
Jerusalem whose religious leaders were ity was not a sect of Judaism. The Jew-
more concerned about their own physi- ish religious leadership rejected Jesus.
cal well-being than repentance. The re- They did not accept Him as the Messiah
ligious leaders of Israel at the time of and king of Israel. Therefore, the belief
Jesus had turned from prayer to God to that Christianity was just another sect of
payments for sacrifices. They became Jewish denominationalism was not true.
as their forefathers before the destruction Those who led the Judaism of the day,
of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 586 rejected Jesus who was the Son of God.
B.C., which is the context of Jeremiah Jesus claimed to be both the Messiah and
7:11. The money changers in the temple Son of God. The religious leaders could
had turned the temple into a market for not accept either claim, regardless of the
selling at inflated prices the sacrifices that miraculous confirmation of Jesus. There-
were necessary for the feast of the Pass- fore, these religious leaders deceived
over. They were using the sacrificial re- themselves into believing that they could
sponsibilities that were required under violate one of the ten commandments—
the Sinai law as an opportunity to make you will not kill—in order to silence the
unfair profit from the people. This same teaching of Jesus.

C HAPTER 20
CHALLENGE teach. Since He was the author of the
OF JESUS’ AUTHORITY word He spoke, He did not need the ap-
(Mt 21:23-27; Mk 11:27-33) proval of man (See Jn 12:48). It is
20:1-8 See comments Mt 21:23-27. through the authority of His word that
Preaching the gospel: It was at this time men of God speak today. Those who
that Jesus spoke to all the multitudes con- would seek to be preachers and teachers
cerning the sacrificial death and resur- of the word of God today, speak the au-
rection of the Lamb of God (Jn 1:29; Rv thority of Jesus by preaching the word
13:8; see comments 1 Co 15:1-4). This of God. God’s teachers have the privi-
is the good news for Israel for which lege of teaching the authority of Jesus,
those who were children of Abraham by which is His word. The authority is in
faith had been waiting. Chief priests ... the Bible, not in the man (Jn 12:48; 2 Tm
scribes ... elders: This was the local es- 3:16,17; 4;1,2). Jesus now has all au-
tablishment of the religious leaders of thority (Mt 28:18). This authority is ex-
Jerusalem who had been consumed by ercised among men through the preach-
the positions and traditions of Judaism ing of His word, not some authority that
(Mt 15:1-9; Mk 7:1-9). They had hi- religious leaders might assume in order
jacked the people of God and brought to control His people (Compare com-
them under their domination. Con- ments Mk 10:35-45). They answered
fronted Him: Jesus did not fit the mold that they could not tell: Their answer
of the traditional religious establishment. was not based on the fact of recognizing
As a result, the religious establishment the source of His authority. The Phari-
of Jerusalem rose up against Him. Not see Nicodemus was of this group and had
long after this time they would be agi- previously stated to Jesus, “Rabbi, we
tated by the teachings of Jesus to the point know that You are a teacher come from
of planning and carrying out a plot to God, for no one can do these signs that
murder Him. Such illustrates the extent You do unless God is with him” (Jn 3:2).
to which traditional leaders of religion The authority by which Jesus spoke origi-
will go in order to protect their jobs and nated from God. Though most of the
influence with the people over whom Pharisees did not recognize this, they did
they have set themselves as protectors understand that the miraculous works of
and judges. By what authority: Jesus Jesus originated from that which was
was teaching by direct authority from beyond this world (At 4:14-16). Their
God (At 4:7; 7:27). He was not teaching concern was not in the fact of the miracles
with the authority or approval of the Jew- and teachings, but on maintaining their
ish fathers. He needed no diploma from positions and influence among the
their schools, or the laying on of hands people. If what Jesus was saying was
from the religious leaders in order to true, then they would lose their positions
and possessions. It is for this reason that ever, the common people were accept-
they would not confess that He was the ing the teaching of Jesus. Because of the
Son of God and Messiah of Israel. religious pomp and pride of the religious
leaders, they sought for an opportunity
PARABLE OF THE VINEYARD to do away with Jesus. If it were not for
(Mt 21:33-46; Mk 12:1-2) the hate of the religious leaders, there-
20:9-18 See comments Mt 21:33-46. fore, Jesus would not have gone to the
Jesus gave this parable in order to call cross. As a result of the religious lead-
on the religious leadership of Israel to ers’ sinful attitudes, the multitudes were
unknowingly judge themselves. God (a eventually turned against Jesus in order
certain man) had planted a vineyard (Is- to have Him crucified. We must assume,
rael). He gave the responsibility for spiri- therefore, that it was not the common
tual leadership of the vineyard to the re- people of Israel who rejected Jesus, but
ligious leaders of Israel (vinedressers). the religious leaders who deceitfully led
When Jesus (the beloved son) and the them against Him.
early evangelists (servant) came (harvest
time), it was the time to reap those who PAYING TAXES TO CAESAR
were children of Abraham by faith. What (Mt 22:15-22; Mk 12:13-17)
will the lord of the vineyard do to them: 20:20-26 See comments Mt 22:15-
Matthew’s account mentions that the re- 22. Watched Him ... and sent spies: The
ligious leaders answered this question religious leaders were at this time on a
(Mt 21:40,41). Their answer was that the witch-hunt (See comments Gl 2:4). Such
owner (God) would destroy the wicked is the behavior of legalistic religionists
men who killed the son and seized the who seek to accuse, and thus, discredit
vineyard. Luke records that Jesus re- others before the people by pointing out
peated their answer. And such was the violations of their self-imposed religios-
fulfillment of the prophecy. The build- ity they have confused with the word of
ers would reject the chief cornerstone by God (Compare comments 3 Jn 9-12). In
which the measurements of the entire this case, they wanted to find some ac-
house were determined (Ps 118:22,23; Is cusation against Jesus where He might
28:16; Mt 21:42; 1 Pt 2:7,8). They re- have possibly contradicted Roman law.
jected the Son of God, and thus, God He perceived their craftiness: Men with
would manifest His rejection of them by evil hearts will debate issues in order to
the destruction of the temple and Jerusa- trap their opposition. Their motive is not
lem in A.D. 70. to correct their opposition by the discus-
20:19 They understood: The reli- sion of the truth, but to discredit their op-
gious leaders had no problem understand- ponents. Those who would be wise
ing this parable. As a result, their anger would do well to use great wisdom in
was agitated to the point of disposing of such debate in order not to fall victim to
Jesus at that very time (19:47,48). How- the work of Satan in the hearts of envi-
ous men. They could not catch Him: sees affirmed that the Messiah would
The religious leaders marveled at the wis- come from the lineage of David. They
dom by which Jesus answered their ques- were right. By His quotation of Psalm
tion that was meant to be a trap. There- 110:1, Jesus reminded them that David
fore, because they could not publicly dis- addressed his descending “son” as Lord.
credit Jesus before the multitudes, they Therefore, David considered his descen-
sought to do away with Him secretly by dant to be more than a prophet. The
murder (vs 19; 19:47,48). Pharisees considered David to be a
prophet, which he was. Since they con-
CONFRONTATION sidered him to be a prophet, then they
WITH THE SADDUCEES must consider his descendant to be more
(Mt 22:23-33; Mk 12:18-27) than a prophet, just as David considered
20:27-33 See comments Mt 22:23- him to be more than a prophet by calling
33. The autocratic Sadducees, who did Him “son” (See Jn 4:19,20,42).
not believe in the resurrection and life
after death, sought to trap Jesus with a DENUNCIATION OF THE
question that proposed a supposed di- SCRIBES & PHARISEES
lemma. However, they did not know the (Mt 23:1-36; Mk 12:38-40)
law of Moses in reference to what they 20:45-47 See comments Mt 12:1-13.
asked (See Dt 25:5-10). Matthew recorded that this address was
20:34-40 In answering their ques- to the scribes and Pharisees. Many of
tion, Jesus also answered their disbelief the scribes were Pharisees, and thus, the
in the resurrection. Moses lived four denunciation was directed toward the re-
hundred years after the death of Abra- ligious establishment that held the people
ham. However, he wrote that God was captive by their doctrines and traditions
the God of the living (Ex 3:1-6,15). Abra- of men (See comments Mk 7:1-9). De-
ham, Isaac and Jacob were still alive and vour widows’ houses: Because the Phari-
in fellowship with God at the time Moses sees loved money (16:14), they played
wrote. Contrary to the beliefs of the on the consciences of widows to donate
Sadducees, therefore, there is life after their houses for religious purposes. How-
death. The scribes—many of whom were ever, the motives of the Pharisees was
Pharisees—agreed with this teaching selfish. They enjoyed all that was do-
because they were theologically opposed nated to God by the sincere hearts of
to the Sadducees. those who wanted to please God (See
comments Mt 15:3-6). They materialis-
JESUS, THE LORD OF DAVID tically played on the sincere consciences
(Mt 22:41-46; Mk 12:35-37) of those who wanted to please God in
20:41-44 See comments Mt 22:41- order to satisfy their own love of money.
46. Matthew gives the account that Jesus They used religion as a means for mate-
here addresses the Pharisees. The Phari- rial gain.
C HAPTER 21
SACRIFICIAL THANKSGIVING (Mt 24; Mk 13:1-37)
(Mk 12:41-44) 21:5-36 See comments Mt 24. When
21:1-4 Two copper coins: A mite studying this chapter, the Bible student
was a small Jewish coin (lepta) of bronze must keep in mind that Jesus’ primary
or copper that was the smallest in value emphasis was on the destruction of
of Roman coins (Mk 12:42). It is also Jerusalem in A.D. 70. This historical
called a farthing or cent, depending on event dramatically affected the lives of
the translation (12:59). Out of her pov- all Jews throughout the world, and the
erty this widow gave all that she had. church in and around the area of Pales-
Jesus did not ask that her contribution be tine, and specifically, the city of Jerusa-
given back to her because she, as all who lem (See comments Mt 24). This event
come to Jesus, must express their sacri- changed the historical environment in
ficial thanksgiving for their salvation (2 which the early disciples lived. It also
Co 4:15). When one becomes a Chris- greatly stirred world evangelism as Chris-
tian, his standard of living often comes tian Jews fled from Palestine to find
down because of sacrificial giving. The safety in the far corners of the world. The
materialist can never understand why the biblical interpreter, therefore, should not
widow gave all that she had. He cannot underestimate the impact of the A.D. 70
understand because he usually gives as event upon the lives of the early Chris-
the rich in the context of this incident. tians and the resulting proclamation of
The rich man has selfishly consumed so the gospel to all the world. Therefore,
much upon his own desires by buying we must not underestimate the signifi-
things and engaging in activities, that he cance of this event that is mentioned
does not understand the character of the throughout the New Testament.
widow who never had an opportunity to 21:37,38 Teaching in the temple:
enjoy excess wealth in her life. Her giv- This was in the temple courtyard, not
ing was easy because before she gave she within the physical temple itself. This is
did not consider whether the giving a restatement of Jesus’ daily work of
would endanger her life-style. She sim- teaching in the temple during these final
ply gave out of a heart of gratitude for all days before the cross. Assembled in the
that God had done for her. It was not a temple courtyard were those who sought
matter of sacrifice, but a response to answers from God through study of the
God’s love that she felt in her heart. And Old Testament Scriptures. In the eve-
such should be the response of everyone nings, Jesus evidently stayed with Mary,
who has recognized the grace of God by Martha and Lazarus in Bethany, whose
which one is saved. house was on the slopes of the Mount of
Olives east of Jerusalem (See 22:39; Jn
JUDGMENT ON JERUSALEM 8:1,2).
The Redemption Ministry (22:39-46), (7) The betrayal and arrest (22:47-53),
(22:1 – 23:56) (8) The trials (22:54-71), (9) The trial before Pilate
Outline: (1) The betrayal scheme of Judas (22:1- (23:1-5), (10) The trial before Herod (23:6-12),
6), (2) Preparation for the Passover (22:7-16), (11) The second trial before Pilate (23:13-25), (12)
(3) The last supper (22:17-23), (4) Servanthood The crucifixion (23:26-43), (13) The death of
greatness (22:24-30), (5) Prophecy of Peter’s de- Jesus (23:44-49), (14) The burial of Jesus (23:50-
nials (22:31-38), (6) The prayer in Gethsemane 56)
C HAPTER 22
THE BETRAYAL Himself. In such an environment he
SCHEME OF JUDAS could secretly betray Jesus to the chief
(Mt 26:14-16; Mk 14:10,11) priests and scribes without causing a riot
22:1,2 See Mt 26:2; Mk 14:1. among the people. His actions of betrayal
Sought how they might kill Him: This were planned beforehand with the reli-
desire by the chief priests and scribes gious leaders.
manifests the extent to which Satan can
deceive the human mind with religiously PREPARATION
misguided beliefs. These religious lead- FOR THE PASSOVER
ers were meeting in order to devise some (Mt 26:17-19; Mk 14:12-16)
method by which they might physically 22:7-13 See comments Mt 26:17-19.
remove their religious opposition. Preparation day was before the annual
22:3-6 See comments Mt 26:14-16. Passover and was in preparation for the
Satan entered into Judas: This is not Passover (Mt 27:62; Mk 15:42). The
talking about locating Satan literally in- Passover was instituted to remember the
side Judas. Satan is not as God who alone Jews’ deliverance from Egyptian captiv-
can be everywhere and in all those who ity (Ex 10:2; 12:8,14). There is some
are His (At 17:28). What is meant is that question as to whether Jesus ate the ac-
Judas first conceived in his mind to be- tual Passover meal with the disciples on
tray Jesus, and then, he carried out his this occasion. Some Bible students be-
betrayal scheme (Mt 26:14-16; Mk lieve that Jesus, the Passover Lamb, was
14:10,11; Jn 13:2). Satan was in him in either on the cross or in the tomb at the
the sense that he was carrying out the time the customary Passover meal was
desires of Satan to betray Jesus. When eaten. Therefore, it is assumed that He
anyone sets his course of life to do the ate a pre-Passover meal with the dis-
will of Satan, Satan metaphorically ciples, and thus ate it during the Pass-
dwells in that person in the sense that in over events that carried on for more than
his life he is carrying out the will of Sa- one day. What is of primary importance
tan. In the absence of the multitude: here is the fact that Jesus became the sac-
Judas knew where Jesus would be when rificial lamb that was offered for the sins
he was away from the multitudes and by of mankind (Jn 1:29). He offered His
blood in order that God pass over our 22:17-20 See comments Mt 26:26-
sins. Upper room: Some believe that 29; 1 Co 11:23-26. Until the kingdom
this may have been the home of Mary, of God comes: In Acts 1:9,10 it is re-
the mother of John Mark (See At 1:13; corded that Jesus ascended to the right
12:12). hand of the Father to reign as king (Dn
22:14-16 I have earnestly desired 7:13,14; Ep 1:20-22). He was reigning
to eat this Passover: See comments Jn as king when Peter made the first offi-
13:1-28; 19:14. Jesus had a strong de- cial announcement of His kingdom reign
sire to eat the Passover celebration meal on the day of Pentecost (At 2:36). It was
with the disciples, though He may have then that the disciples began eating with
been crucified before the actual time the the Lord at His table in His kingdom (See
Passover meal was eaten. If He did not At 2:42; 20:7). However, we must af-
eat the actual Passover meal at the cus- firm that more was in the mind of Jesus
tomary time, then in view of His death at this time than His kingdom reign that
He ate a special preparatory meal with began with His ascension and will con-
the disciples on the day of Preparation. clude with His final coming. Matthew
At the time of the Passover, the Prepara- records the words of Jesus, “When I drink
tion Day meal would have been consid- it new with you in My Father’s kingdom”
ered a part of the entire Passover event. (Mt 26:29). Mark reads, “... in the king-
In eating a meal on this day, Jesus would dom of God” (Mk 14:25). When Jesus
have been eating with the disciples on ascended to the right hand of God, the
the Passover. The Passover meal was a kingdom became His. When He returns
celebration of deliverance from Egyptian again, however, He will return kingdom
bondage in anticipation of receiving the reign to the Father, that God may be all
promised land in the future. The Pass- in all (1 Co 15:26-28). We would con-
over meal was eaten in reference to cel- clude, therefore, that what Jesus insti-
ebration over something in the past, with tuted here was in anticipation of eating
hope for promises to be fulfilled in the the celebration feast of the Passover with
future. Jesus wanted to celebrate their all the disciples when they came into the
deliverance from sin through the cross. eternal kingdom of heaven (See Rv 19:7-
He also wanted them to celebrate what 9). The cup: Emphasis is not on the
would take place in the future that would container, but what was in the container.
result from their forgiveness of sins. The word “cup” is used to symbolize the
Though they did not understand the sig- contents of the cup. There is no spiritual
nificance of what He was about to insti- significance to the container. It was only
tute, they would fully understand after incidental to the institution of this great
the coming of the Holy Spirit in Acts 2. memorial representation of Jesus’ blood.
The disciples were in an upper room, but
THE LAST SUPPER such was also only incidental for the in-
(Mt 26:26-29; Mk 14:22-25; Jn 13:1-30; 1 Co 11:23-26) stitution of the Supper. We must be care-
ful not to concentrate on the incidental manna from heaven (Ex 16). They lived
things and events surrounding the insti- throughout the wilderness wanderings
tution of the Lord’s Supper, and miss the because of the manna. Every day they
significance of the memorial on which were reminded that they had life because
Jesus wanted us to focus. If one legalis- of the manna from God. When Jesus
tically seeks to perform legally the inci- came, He was the “Bread of life” that
dentals of the Passover, he will lose the came down from heaven (Jn 6:35). When
significance of what Jesus was trying to we partake of the bread during the Lord’s
institute. This is My body: The bread Supper, we partake of the life that we
that He used to represent His body did have in the body of Christ. If one is not
not become His literal body. The bread in the body, therefore, he does not have
only became the representation of His life. It is for this reason that we are bap-
body. Therefore, when the disciples par- tized into the body in order to have life
took of the fruit of the vine that was in (1 Co 12:13).
the cup, and the bread that was in His 22:21-23 See comments Mt 26:21-
hand, they were to remember His body 25. Throughout the three years of His
and blood of the new covenant He would ministry, and at this time of the institu-
establish with them. They were to re- tion of the Supper, Jesus knew who
member the blood of the covenant, the would betray Him (Ps 41:9; Mt 26:21,23;
body that was sacrificed, and His univer- Mk 14:18; Jn 13:21,26,27). He knew also
sal body of disciples. Paul adds that the that it was necessary that He be betrayed
body represents the oneness of the uni- by one whom Satan would use. What is
versal body of believers (1 Co 10:14-17). illustrated again in reference to God’s use
Therefore, when brethren partake of the of Satan’s evil, is what Satan has done
Lord’s Supper throughout the world to- throughout the centuries to destroy the
day, they remember the oneness of the seedline of woman to bring the Savior
universal body of Christ (the church). To into the world. Regardless of Satan’s on-
the Jews, the bread of the Passover had a slaught against the work of God, the Seed
great significance in reference to their of woman came into the world for the
past. They came from Egyptian captiv- salvation of all men (See Gn 3:15). God
ity where “bread” meant life. The Egyp- has even used Satan’s work through the
tians lived from the grain that was pro- religious leaders to condemn and kill
duced from the crops of the Nile River. Jesus in order that Jesus be the sacrifice
When the Nile flooded their lands, they for the sins of the world. We must al-
were able to plant crops, eat the grain, ways keep in mind that Jesus was in con-
and live. The water of the Nile came from trol of all that happened at this time in
the heavens, and thus, to the Egyptians, His ministry (Jn 10:17,18).
from the gods. Bread, therefore, signi-
fied life from the gods. When the Israel- SERVANTHOOD GREATNESS
ites went into captivity, God gave them 22:24-27 It was at this time in His
ministry that Jesus washed the disciples’ has all authority (Mt 28:18). He has not
feet (See comments Jn 13:3-17). He even delegated any authority to man. Unfor-
washed the feet of Judas. Sometime dur- tunately, there are those who use the flock
ing this meeting with the disciples, and of God as an opportunity to exercise their
after Jesus washed his feet, Judas left desire to be first and have authority over
their presence in order to carry out his others (See comments 3 Jn 9,10). They
betrayal scheme (Jn 13:30). Dispute manifest their lust for power and control
among them: See comments Mt 20:25- by intimidating the sheep into submitting
28 (Compare Lk 9:46-48; Mt 18:1-4; Mk to their demands (2 Pt 3:1-5). They steal
10:35-45). Because the disciples had an the sheep of God by regimenting others
earthly concept of the kingdom, they to conform to their authority. They thus
thought there would be positions of satisfy their selfish ambition by feeding
power in the kingdom. They equated the their own egos (See At 20:29,30; Rm
kingdom about which Jesus spoke with 16:17,18). Such leaders should never be
the physical kingdoms of this world (At among the community of God, because
1:6; see comments Jn 18:36-38). Kings those who are such, serve themselves and
of the Gentiles: Jesus reminded them of not the flock of God (See comments 2 Pt
what they already knew. In the world, 2). People can never enjoy a personal
those who are in authority are in posi- relationship with Jesus, if one who as-
tions of command where they can hand sumes authority on earth, stands between
down decisions to those over whom they them and Jesus. The one reclining at
have been placed. Benefactors: This the table: The disciples viewed them-
was given as a title of honor to rulers, selves as sitting at the table and being
especially to those who did good, for the served by others. However, Jesus came
title means “doer of good.” But you will to be the servant of all. Being God, He
not be this way: The leadership by au- could have demanded submission. But
thority that is seen in the world must not He assumed the position of a servant. If
be brought into the community of God. the disciples would be as Jesus, they must
The reason for the disciples’ dispute view their lives as servants and slaves to
among themselves concerning who was the needs of others (See comments Mk
the greatest must not be a motivation for 10:35-45). As the one who serves: Jesus
desiring greatness among God’s commu- was the creator of all things (Cl 1:16).
nity of servants. There will be no sys- He was the Son of God incarnate in this
tem of rank and authority in the kingdom world (Jn 1:1,2,14). Though the disciples
of Jesus as is seen in the world. When- misunderstood the nature of His king-
ever we think about what leadership dom, they knew that Jesus had the right
should be in the community of God on to reign with authority in any kingdom.
earth, we must at least affirm that it However, He came to serve (See Mt
should not be as the authoritarian leader- 20:28; Jn 13:13,14; Ph 2:7). And in com-
ship of the world. In the church, Jesus ing as a servant, He died for the sake of
others. Such is the nature of the leader- working through them. The authority
ship in the kingdom over which Jesus they would manifest would not be in
now reigns with all authority (Mt 28:18). themselves, but in the revealed word of
It is certainly not a kingdom that is of God that would originate from God
this world (Jn 18:36-38). It is a kingdom through the Holy Spirit (Jn 14:26; 16:13).
of slaves who have allowed the will of In the kingdom of Jesus, therefore, all au-
Jesus in heaven to reign in their hearts thority must rest in the reign of Jesus from
(See Mt 6:9,10). Any concept of leader- heaven (Jn 12:48; Mt 28:18). He is the
ship that one would conceive in reference final authority in the kingdom because
to the community of God, therefore, must He is the King (See comments Ep 1:20-
be centered around servanthood (See Mk 23). Judging the twelve tribes of Israel:
10:35-45). There is only one head of the Their judgment of Israel would be
universal body who continues as the con- through the revelation of God’s word
trolling center of reference from which through them. Men would judge them-
all authority comes. This is Jesus (Cl selves as they either respond favorably
1:18). There is only one Lord to which to or reject the inspired truth that was
we are all slaves. This is Jesus (At 2:36; preached by the apostles. Figuratively
Ep 4:4-6). Anyone who would in leader- speaking, therefore, the apostles would
ship of the body seek the position of lord- be the judges of Israel when they
ing over the flock, or becoming the cen- preached the word of God.
ter of control for the organic function of
the body, is setting aside the lordship and PROPHECY OF
headship of Jesus. But there is now only PETER’S DENIALS
one who has all authority (Mt 28:18). (Mt 26:31-35; Mk 14:27-31; Jn 13:36-38)
Any who would claim authority of the 22:31-34 See comments Mt 26:31-
body in order to make laws for the body 35. Satan has desired to have you: Sa-
is taking authority from King Jesus. tan wanted to use one of those who was
22:28-30 I grant to you a kingdom: closest to Jesus in order to deter Jesus
The apostles would reign in the sense that from His destiny (Compare 1 Pt 5:8; Am
through them the Holy Spirit would de- 9:9). We do not know when this asking
liver inspired direction (Jn 14:26; by Satan took place. We do know that
16:13,14). They would bind and loose Satan could not simply possess or vol-
on earth that which God would deliver untarily take control of Peter in order to
to them for the direction of His people subject him to his control. He had to ask
(See comments Mt 16:18,19). Such permission. Jesus prayed, and thus,
would put them in a position of great- Satan’s desires were stopped. I have
ness, not because of either authority or prayed for you: Jesus specifically prayed
power that originated from themselves as that Peter be strong. He also prayed for
was characteristic with worldly kings and all the twelve on this occasion (Jn
lords, but because of the power of God 17:9,11,15). His prayer was that their
faith be strong enough to withstand the would eventually suffer prison and death
trials through which they were about to for the name of Jesus because of his com-
go in the next few days. It was a prayer mitment to Jesus (At 14:22; Rv 2:10). He
that they not be so discouraged that they would overcome his weakness by faith
fall away. When you are converted: in God (Ph 4:13).
Jesus knew that Peter would stumble be- 22:35 Did you lack: Jesus reminded
cause of the turmoil of the arrest, trials them of the times He sent them out on
and crucifixion that were about to hap- mission trips. During those trips they
pen. But He also knew that afterward lacked nothing (9:3ff; 10:4ff; Mt 10:9ff;
Peter would come to himself and return. Mk 6:8). God will care for those who
Jesus knew a weakness in Peter that Pe- have committed themselves to serve Him
ter did not know. Peter sometimes mani- (See Mt 6:33).
fested a strong desire, but in reference to 22:36 Jesus now looks toward their
his desire to stand for Jesus during the commission to all the world (Mt
time of the trials of Jesus, he fell short 28:19,20; Mk 16:15). They must use all
because of his lack of confidence (See they have in order to accomplish the mis-
comments Gl 2:11-13). Strengthen your sion to the world to preach the gospel to
brethren: See comments Jn 21:15-17 (At every creature. Sword: Jesus is not
1:15; 2:14; 2 Pt 1:10-15). One responsi- teaching that the kingdom is to be propa-
bility of Peter and the other disciples was gated by the use of weapons of war. This
to care for the flock of God (See 1 Pt was not the spirit of Jesus, nor the nature
5:1-5). Though Peter would stumble, of the kingdom (See Jn 18:36-38). He
Jesus would still use him to introduce the does, however, recognize the perils of
kingdom of God on the day of Pentecost their journeys and instructs them con-
in Acts 2 (Mt 16:18,19). Those disciples cerning self-defense. His thought here
who would return to Jesus after stum- is that they must not die senselessly at
bling, must allow themselves to be used the hand of some thief or murderer while
by God to their greatest potential. Once on their journeys from one city to another.
one is restored, his stumbling should He also emphasizes the dangerous envi-
never be used to discourage him from ronment into which He was sending
doing his best for Jesus. When one’s res- them. All things would change in the
titution is based on true repentance, he is future. The environment of peace into
restored to the flock. The forgiving spirit which He sent them forth on the mission
of the flock should encourage such a one trips during His ministry would change.
to begin again his work for God. To Now He was sending them into a hostile
prison and to death: Such would be the environment.
desires of a faithful disciple (Rv 2:10). 22:37 Which is written: See Is 53:12
He must be willing to suffer prison and (Mt 27:38; Mk 15:28). Have a fulfill-
death for the name of Jesus. Though ment: Jesus’ ministry had come to an
Peter would stumble for a moment, he end. He had accomplished all things that
were to be accomplished during His Not My will, but Yours be done: Before
earthly ministry as the Messiah of Israel. the creation of the world, Jesus knew that
Now it was time to accomplish that for He had to drink of the sufferings of the
which He came into the world in refer- cross (See Rv 13:8). He had created all
ence to the eternal plan of salvation, that humankind (Cl 1:16). And now it was
is, the atonement for the sins of mankind. time to die for His creation. He was thus
22:38 The Jews had previously committed to accomplish the eternal plan
planned to secretly murder Jesus (Mt of God. It was a plan of redemption that
26:1-5). The swords here were possibly had been predestined before the world
taken in order to be a means to intimi- began (Is 50:5; Jn 4:34; 5:30; 6:38; 8:29;
date those who might seek to carry out see comments Ep 3:8-12). It was now
their murder scheme against Jesus. At time for the Son to submit to His destiny.
least Peter, who swung a sword to kill An angel appeared: In the absence of
Malchus, misunderstood Jesus. On the the comfort of man, God sent the angel
spur of the moment, he took aggressive to bring strength through his presence
action in order to defend Jesus. The with Jesus (See Mt 4:11). Being in
swords were taken for defense, not ag- agony: The intensity of the moment
gression. However, at the time the mob called for agony in prayer (Rm 15:13, see
came to take Jesus into custody, Jesus will- comments Cl 4:12). Rise and pray: The
ingly relinquished Himself to them. It was purpose for the prayer that was given here
time to go to the cross. Therefore, Jesus by Jesus was that they not enter into
offered no resistance. temptation, and thus, fall. In times of
great turmoil, it is a time for agony in
THE PRAYER IN GETHSEMANE prayer in order that one not be tempted
(Mt 26:36-46; Mk 14:32-42; Jn 18:1) to forsake his faith or his work. Jesus
22:39-46 See comments Mt did not ask the disciples here to pray sim-
26:30,36-46. The meal in the upper room ply as a mental exercise. Prayer accom-
was completed, and now, Jesus went to plished that for which He asked them to
mentally prepare for the cross. Remove pray. And so it is today. We must pray
this cup from Me: The cup was a meta- earnestly that we remain faithful to our
phorical expression that symbolized that calling. Those who have fallen away are
portion of responsibility that was ac- usually those who have not agonized in
cepted by the Son of God to make the prayer and fasting over their ministry.
eternal sacrifice of the cross. It was a
cup of suffering. His humanity would THE BETRAYAL AND ARREST
naturally not wish to suffer on a cross as (Mt 26:47-56; Mk 14:43-52; Jn 18:2-14)
a humiliated spectacle before a mocking 22:47,48 See comments Mt 26:47-
crowd. However, His omniscience as 56; Jn 18:2-14. These were the final
Deity allowed Him the opportunity to hours before the cross. We must assume
know that the sacrifice had to be made. that all that happens was foreknown and
foreplanned by God before the creation plish what God had intended from times
of the world (See Rv 13:8). What was eternal. God always turns the work of
about to happen was in the plan of God Satan on himself. Little did Satan or the
to save man. There are no surprises with chief priests and elders know that God
God. Judas: See Ps 41:9; Mt 20:18; Lk was working their evil for the redemp-
9:44; At 1:16,17. With a kiss: The com- tion of mankind (See comments Rm
mon Jewish kiss of brotherly affection is 8:28). We must also assume that Satan
here used by Judas for a totally opposite did not know what he was about to ac-
reason. Judas uses the kiss as a kiss of complish through his own evil work. The
betrayal, not brotherly affection. The fact mystery of God’s plan of redemption had
that Judas behaved in this manner mani- been concealed from all men, angels,
fests what had been lurking in his heart. demons and Satan from the beginning of
His heart was not right with God, and be- time (Ep 3:3-5; 1 Pt 1:10-12). Satan had
cause of this, Satan was able to use him no idea that he was actually carrying out
to carry out the betrayal of the Son of the work of God by his evil work of hav-
God. ing Jesus crucified (See At 2:23).
22:49-51 One of them smote: Peter
lashed out with a sword and struck off THE TRIALS
the ear of Malchus who was a servant of (Mt 26:57-75; Mk 14:53-65; Jn 18:24)
the high priest (Mt 26:51; Jn 18:10). This 22:54-62 See comments Mt 26:57-
was a moment of great anxiety. We 75 (Concerning Peter’s denials, see com-
should probably expect nothing less of ments Mt 26:58,69-71; see Mk 14:54,66-
Peter who was an impulsive person. Per- 72; Jn 18:15-18,25-27). Peter’s denials
mit even this: Never would the king- of the Lord manifest the fact that those
dom of God be promoted with swords and who often suppose to be the most brave
physical violence (See Jn 18:36-38). The in discipleship can fall when the occa-
disciples must permit the betrayal and sion brings out one’s weakness (See vs
crucifixion to happen for it was the plan 33; Gl 2:11,12). “Therefore let him who
of God. Jesus here gave an example for thinks he stands take heed lest he fall”
all His disciples. It is better to suffer than (1 Co 10:12; see Rm 11:20). Peter fol-
to lash out (1 Pt 4:16). lowed at a distance: When Jesus was
22:52,53 This is your hour and the taken away, at least Peter stayed as close
power of darkness: Jesus now relin- to Jesus as he dared. The Lord turned
quished Himself to the hands of those and looked at Peter: After the denials
who sought to kill Him. It was their time and the time of the cock crow of the early
to carry out their murderous scheme. All morning roosters, Peter was close enough
such schemes were the deception of Sa- to Jesus for Peter to see His face when
tan to supposedly destroy the Son of God. He turned and looked at him. Jesus said
The chief priests and elders were allow- nothing, but Peter remembered the proph-
ing Satan to use them in order to accom- ecy of Jesus that he would deny Him.
And so, Peter went out and cried bitterly Jesus (Mk 14:61,62). Nevertheless, those
in remorse over what he had done. He who are moved by jealousy and evil mo-
not only denied his friendship with Jesus, tives will overlook all evidence in order
but he also denied the One he confessed to dispose of their opposition (20:5-7).
to be the Christ and Son of God (See Mt Their motives will not allow them to ac-
16:13-19). However, his bitter remorse cept the truth. It is for this reason that
indicated the nature of his heart. God men must be cautious about their mo-
can use men and women who recognize tives. The exhortation of Paul in 2 Thes-
the error of their way and have remorse salonians 2:10-12 would certainly have
over their sin (See comments Mt 5:1-12). applied to these who rejected Jesus re-
Their remorse manifests their repentant gardless of the evidence. If one does not
hearts. have a love of the truth, God will allow
22:63-65 Mocking and beating him to believe a lie. But in believing the
Him: This not only begins the trials of lie, he will be condemned. The Son of
Jesus, but also the humiliation He suf- Man will sit at the right hand: Jesus
fered from the hands of those He had cre- knew where He was going (See Ps 110:1;
ated (Cl 1:16). Jesus was taken through Dn 7:13,14; Ep 1:20-22). He was going
a succession of trials. He stood before to reign over all things as King of kings
the Jewish authorities (22:64-71). He and Lord of lords (1 Tm 6:15; 1 Pt 3:22).
was then taken before Pilate, the Roman Every Christian should also know where
governor (23:1-5). He was then sent by he is going. The knowledge of one’s des-
Pilate to Herod (23:6-12). And finally, tiny will take him through great trials as
He was taken again before Pilate (23:13- Jesus here focused on His destiny, not
25). The Jews had no authority to con- the suffering of the moment. Son of God:
demn one to death. Only Pilate, as a rep- As He always had, Jesus affirmed that
resentative of Rome, could do this. He was the Son of God (Mt 26:64,65;
Through all the trials, Jesus stood alone. 27:11; Mk 14:62). He was not one in a
The disciples had all fled. Jesus’ knowl- succession of sons of God. He was the
edge of His destiny of the cross gave Him only begotten (monogenes) Son of God
strength to carry out the plan of God. (See comments Jn 1:14; 3:16). Anyone
When Christians discover their destiny who would accept Jesus for less than
in the kingdom of God, they will also be what He claimed to be will not reap the
determined as Jesus to carry such to the benefits of His sonship. We must believe
end of their lives. who He is and that He rewards those who
22:66-71 See comments Mt 27:1,2. accept Him as the Son of God (See Hb
You will not believe: They had both the 11:6).
miraculous evidence and the teachings of

C HAPTER 23
THE FINAL HOURS ture of what He taught was contrary to
(Mt 27:1,2,11-26; Mk 15:1-15; Jn 18:28 – 19:16) the institutional religion that they had
constructed after their traditions. He thus
THE TRIAL BEFORE PILATE intimidated them to the point that they
23:1,2 See comments Mt 27:1,2; Jn sought any means to remove Him.
18:28-38. The whole multitude: This
was a delegation of accusers who came THE TRIAL BEFORE HEROD
to the garden. Perverting our nation and 23:6-12 He sent Him to Herod:
forbidding to give tribute: Unrighteous This trial before Herod Antipas, who
men with evil motives will always resort ruled Galilee and Perea, the center of
to slanderous accusations against those Jesus’ ministry, is recorded only by Luke.
they seek to destroy (See Mt 17:27; Mk In Luke 13:31 it is recorded that the
12:17; compare At 17:7). Since Jesus Pharisees had lied by saying that Herod
was sinless, the only means by which an wanted to kill Jesus. But Luke here
accusation could be made against Him records that Herod did not want to kill
was through slanderous charges. Our Jesus, for he sent Jesus back to Pilate.
nation: They had truly seized upon the Exceedingly glad: Herod’s desire to see
vineyard of God and stollen the inherit- Jesus was because he had heard of the
ance from the Son. It was no longer the many miracles that Jesus had worked. He
Israel of God, but their nation. therefore wanted Jesus to perform a cir-
23:3-5 I find no fault: According cus act of miracles before him in order
to Roman law, Jesus had committed no to satisfy his idle curiosity (See At
crime (Mt 27:11; 1 Tm 6:13). Credit must 4:26,27). Vehemently accused Him:
at least be given to Pilate for being ob- The tremendous self-control of Jesus is
jective. As Luke writes to Theophilus, most evident on this and other occasions.
he wants Theophilus to know that accord- He knew what He was doing. He was
ing to Roman law there was no crime taking Himself to the cross (Jn 10:17,18).
found in Jesus. Jesus was crucified be- In the midst of slanderous accusations by
cause of the envy and jealousy of wicked those who have evil motives, it is some-
religious leaders who saw Jesus as a times best to be silent as Jesus and sim-
threat to their power and positions. He ply move on with one’s work. Pilate and
stirs up the people: The teachings of Herod became friends: Enmity may
Jesus did stir up the people, but the people have started between Pilate and Herod
who were stirred up were not the com- when Pilate had previously put down a
mon people. The religious leaders of Is- probable insurrection in Galilee that was
rael were stirred up because Jesus did not under Herod’s jurisdiction (13:1,2).
fit into their regimented code of religious Whatever the reason for the enmity, the
rules and conduct (Mk 7:1-9). The na- act of legal courtesy on the part of Pilate
to send Jesus to Herod led to the dissolv- Him that Theophilus may have heard, for
ing of the enmity, and thus, the two beat the time of Luke’s writing, many erro-
come friends. Luke possibly recorded neous things were spoken against Christ
this in order to inform Theophilus that and Christianity in Rome (See At 28:22).
Jesus was not a cause for political divi- 23:18-21 Release to us Barabbas:
sion. Jesus’ work centered around reli- See Is 53:3; At 3:13-15. A Roman cour-
gious matters. It was the Jewish religious tesy during the Passover/Pentecost feast
leaders, therefore, who put Jesus on the was to release to the Jews a condemned
cross, not the government officials of Jew. In this case, Pilate was politically
Rome, though Jesus could be nailed to motivated to release a Jewish insurrec-
the cross only by the authorities of the tionist, Barabbas, who had committed
Roman official, Pilate. murder, though he sought to release Jesus
instead of Barabbas. It was the religious
SECOND TRIAL leaders who cried out that Jesus should
BEFORE PILATE be crucified. Willing to release Jesus:
23:13-17 See comments Mt 27:15- This again is another opportunity where
26; Jn 18:39 – 19:16 (Mk 15:6-15). Have Pilate sought to have Jesus released. But
found no fault in this man: Pilate per- Jesus would not have it so. Jesus was
ceived the truth concerning the slander- using Satan’s work through the mis-
ous accusations the religious leaders were guided religious leaders to accomplish
making against Jesus. Neither he nor the atonement of the cross (At 2:23).
Herod could find anything that would be 23:22-25 He delivered Jesus to their
deserving of the punishment of death that will: Pilate thus relinquished to the de-
the religious leaders wanted to inflict mands of the envious religious leaders
upon Jesus. Punish Him and release in order to maintain calm in a politically
Him: In view of the fact that there was unstable environment. Little did those
no cause for the death penalty, Pilate who sought Jesus’ death know that they
sought to soothe the anger of the religious were accomplishing the will of God that
leaders by scourging Jesus and letting the incarnate Word be crucified for the
Him go. We must not miss the point here salvation of mankind and the ultimate de-
that Pilate was inadvertently giving tes- struction of the kingdom of darkness.
timony that Jesus was innocent of all false Satan’s desire to crush the seed of woman
accusations that were made against Him ultimately led to his own crushing (See
in reference to Roman law. Rome’s au- Gn 3:15).
thority in Palestine could find no fault in
Jesus. Luke wanted Theophilus to know THE CRUCIFIXION
that Jesus was not an insurrectionist (Mt 27:27-44; Mk 15:16-36; Jn 19:16-27)
against the Roman government. Jesus did 23:26-32 See comments Mt 27:27-
not break Roman law in Palestine. He 44. Great multitude: This multitude that
was innocent of all negative gossip about followed Jesus probably consisted of a
great number of His disciples. At least Jesus to remember him when He came
many of the women who were disciples into His kingdom reign. At some time in
of Jesus followed in the procession where the past this particular thief had learned
He carried His own cross to the site of of Jesus and His teachings concerning
the crucifixion. Daughters of Jerusa- His kingdom. He may at one time have
lem: Jesus again made a prophecy con- even been a disciple of either John or
cerning the great turmoil that was com- Jesus.
ing upon national Israel. He reminded 23:43 Be with Me in Paradise:
the lamenting women to mourn for them- Even on the cross Jesus continued to for-
selves in view of the fact that Israel was give sins. It is God who forgives, for all
headed for a great national calamity (See sin is against God. As the Son of God
comments Mt 24). Criminals: See Is was hanging on the cross beside the thief,
53:9,12. Both criminals were thieves (Mt He had the authority to forgive sins, for
27:38,44; Mk 14:27). Calvary: See com- sins were against Him as God (Mt 9:6).
ments Mt 27:33,34 (Mk 15:22,23; Jn This thief was personally forgiven by the
19:16,17). This means the “place of the Son of God who had authority to forgive
skull” (Ps 22:16-18; Mt 27:33-44; Jn sins. Jesus’ authority to forgive sins on
19:17,18). earth was evidence that He was the mani-
23:34-38 Father, forgive them: The festation of God on earth. Paradise:
nature of God’s grace toward all men is When Jesus died, He went in spirit to the
here revealed even in the last hours of Paradise of the hadean (unseen) existence
the work of the Son of God on earth. His (At 2:29-31). It was to this realm the re-
grace is extended because the multitude pentant thief also went in a disembodied
was carrying out this deed in ignorance state. All the spirits of the righteous dead
of who Jesus was (See Ps 108:4; At 3:17; are now with Jesus in Paradise (Ph 1:23;
7:60; 1 Co 4:12). See comments Mt 2 Co 5:8). They are there in a disembod-
27:35-44 (Mk 15:24-32; Jn 19:18-22). ied state until the final resurrection of the
Parted His garments: See Ps 22:18 (Mt dead when they will be reunited with a
27:35; Mk 15:24; Jn 19:23). Sneering: new habitation from God (See comments
Some were so calloused in heart that they 1 Co 15; 2 Co 5:1-8; 1 Th 4:13-17). The
would mock and sneer even at a person other thief, however, did not go to Para-
who was about to die (Ps 22:8,17; Zc dise in the hadean world (See comments
12:10). This is the King of the Jews: 16:19-23). His destiny after death was
Pilate had the sign placed above Jesus’ not the same as the repentant thief.
head in order to mock the Jews (Mt
27:37; Mk 15:26; Jn 19:19). THE DEATH OF JESUS
23:39-42 At first both thieves railed (Mt 27:45-56; Mk 15:33-41; Jn 19:28-30)
at Jesus (Mt 27:44). However, one thief 23:44-49 See comments Mt 27:45-
realized his predicament, which realiza- 56. Father, into Your hands I commend
tion brought him to his senses. He asked My spirit: It was Jesus’ decision to die
(Jn 10:17,18). When He had accom- and chief priests who were the majority
plished all that was predetermined before that instigated the crucifixion. Joseph
the creation of the world in relation to was bold enough at this time to go to
the salvation of man, He gave up His Pilate to ask for the body of Jesus. The
spirit into the hands of the Father. The body was thus wrapped for burial and
first part of the plan of redemption was hurriedly placed in his own new tomb
accomplished. The resurrection re- outside the walls of Jerusalem.
mained. Beat their breasts: The crowd 23:55,56 They observed the tomb
knew that they had crucified an innocent and how His body was laid: Luke re-
man. Their lust for blood that was driven corded this important detail for
by the envious hate of the religious lead- Theophilus. He did so because there
ers, finally exhausted itself in the events would later be the rumor spread through-
of the crucifixion. Their guilt was now out the land that these women had gone
apparent as they returned to Jerusalem. to the wrong tomb three days after the
It would be the remorse of many of these burial. It would be claimed that they went
that would later drive them to plead about to an empty tomb, found it empty, and
fifty days later, “Men and brethren, what then spread a false hope that Jesus had
will we do?” (At 2:23,37). They had arisen from the dead. Luke wanted us to
committed a deed that only grace and understand that there was no mistake
mercy could rectify. All His acquaintan- about where the empty tomb was located.
ces: The disciples stood in unbelief. The The women had found the right tomb on
One in whom they had hope would be the the third day. It was empty. Prepared
Messiah of Israel was now dead on a cross. spices and ointments: Their intention
They stood stunned and disillusioned (Ps was to return on the first day of the week
38:11). (Sunday) in order to complete the burial
preparations.
THE BURIAL OF JESUS
(Mt 27:57-66; Mk 15:42-47; Jn 19:31-42) The Resurrection Ministry
23:50-54 See comments Mt 27:52- (24:1-53)
61. Joseph: This member of the Outline: (1) The resurrection of Jesus (24:1-8),
Sanhedrin was a good and just man. (2) The appearances of Jesus (24:9-43), (3) Prom-
Therefore, we must not assume that all ises and Commissions to the apostles (24:44-49),
the religious leaders of Israel were as (4) The ascension of Jesus (24:50-53)
wicked as many of the scribes, Pharisees
C HAPTER 24
THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS James, Joanna, the wife of Chuza, steward
(Mt 28:1-8; Mk 16:1-8; Jn 20:1) of Herod (8:3; 24:10), and Solome, the
24:1-8 See comments Mt 28:1-8. mother of James and John (Mt 27:56; Mk
Mary Madgalene, Mary, the mother of 16:1; Jn 19:25-27), all went to the tomb in
order to complete the burial of Jesus. It home. Luke adds this incident to recon-
was early Sunday morning. Did not find firm the fact that the disciples were not
the body of the Lord Jesus: It was not expecting the resurrection. Though the
that they did not find the right tomb. resurrection had been reported to them,
They did not find the body of Jesus. they still did not believe (vs 25). Their
Lord: Luke now identifies Jesus as the eyes were restrained: As the disciples
Lord. Because He was the Lord, He had walked, they were discussing what had
risen from the dead. Death could not happened. They possibly reasoned con-
keep in bondage the One who had cerning the fact that all the prophecies
brought to life all living creatures. Of seemed to be fulfilled in Jesus, but some-
the two angels that were present, one told thing had gone wrong. Jesus joined them,
the women that Jesus had risen and that but He did not allow their minds to per-
they needed to tell the other disciples (Jn ceive that it was actually Him in their
20:12). They remembered: See Hs presence.
6:1,2; Lk 9:22,44; 11:29,30; 18:31-33. 24:17-24 In order to invite Himself
into their conversation, Jesus asked a
THE APPEARANCES OF JESUS question. They were puzzled because of
24:9-12 See comments Mt 28:8-10. the question, for everyone from the rul-
The women immediately went to the dis- ers to the common people knew of the
ciples and told them that Jesus had been events that surrounded the death of Jesus
raised from the dead. Their words (At 26:26). Jesus of Nazareth: Jesus
seemed to them as idle tales: The dis- was called a Nazarene because He grew
ciples were not expecting the resurrec- up in the small village of Nazareth (1:26;
tion of Jesus. Luke wanted Theophilus 2:39; 18:37). Mighty in deed and word:
to understand that the resurrection was Jesus had done many miraculous works
not the invention of men who were so and taught many good things (Mt 21:11;
expectant of the resurrection that they Lk 7:16; Jn 3:2; 12:17; At 2:22; 7:22).
hallucinated such in order to begin a new His reputation throughout all the region
sect of religion. He recorded that when of Palestine was concerning His deeds
the resurrection was first reported, the and teachings. We were hoping that it
disciples did not believe in the resurrec- was He who was going to redeem Israel:
tion themselves (vs 25). The statement of these two disciples ex-
24:13-16 This event followed a few plains the physical concept many of the
hours after the women had reported that disciples had concerning the nature of the
Jesus was resurrected (vs 22). Two of kingdom reign of the Messiah. They
them: These two disciples, one of whom thought that Israel would be redeemed
was named Cleopas (vs 18; Jn 19:25), had from Roman occupation. They would be
given up hope in Jesus as the Messiah to set free from foreign powers as God re-
establish a physical kingdom reign here deemed Israel out of Egyptian captivity.
on earth. They were thus on their way Their hopes, therefore, had been dashed
by the crucifixion of the One they thought All these prophecies were fulfilled. It
would reign in Jerusalem on David’s was not by chance that so many prophe-
throne. They told Jesus that the Messiah cies were fulfilled by one individual. The
for whom they hoped was condemned to fulfillment of all Old Testament prophe-
death and crucified. They thought that cies in Jesus is proof that Jesus was the
this was the end of the story, though the Messiah of God, the prophet of God who
women had reported the resurrection. would redeem all men from the debt of
They had witnessed the death, but not the sin.
resurrection. Third day: The crucifix- 24:28-31 They constrained Him:
ion took place on Friday since the events These men hungered and thirsted after
that are recorded here took place on Sun- the word of God. Jesus’ explanation of
day. John 21:19 states that Jesus ap- the prophecies took some time, and thus,
peared to the disciples on this same day. these two men were motivated to study
Some of ... us went to the tomb: Peter even more. Their eyes were opened: It
and John had gone to the tomb to recon- was Jesus’ desire that they now know
firm the report of the women (See vs 12; who He was. He therefore made them
Jn 20:3-6). aware of who He was. He vanished:
24:25-27 O foolish ones: See the Jesus disappeared from their sight. At
prophecies of Jesus’ death in Isaiah 53 this time Jesus was in His resurrected and
and Psalm 22. The Jews sought for an changed body in which He could appear
earthly Messiah who would establish an and disappear as He so chose. It was a
earthly kingdom (At 1:6). This twisting real body, but one that was not limited as
of prophecy by the materialistic and na- our physical body (See comments 1 Jn
tionalistic Jews clouded their correct ap- 3:2). Since He was God, He could ap-
plication of the prophecies to Jesus who pear or disappear in whatever form He
fulfilled all prophecies concerning the so chose.
Messiah (See 1 Pt 1:10-12). Since Jesus 24:32 He opened to us the Scrip-
fulfilled all the prophecies concerning the tures: Jesus interpreted the prophecies
Messiah, then all the prophecies concern- in order that they might understand that
ing the Messiah never referred to an the kingdom was going to be a spiritual
earthly reign of Jesus on earth. Begin- kingdom, and not a physical kingdom of
ning with Moses: See Gn 3:15; 12:3; this world (17:20,21). The Messiah was
22:18; Nm 21:9; 24:17; Dt 18:15; Ps to be a king, but not a king who would
16:9,10; 22; 132:11; Is 7:14; 9:6; 53; Jr rule on this earth. Jesus had made appli-
23:5; 33:14,15; Ez 34:23; 37:25; Dn 9:24; cation of the Old Testament Scriptures
Mc 5:2; 7:20; Zc 6:12; 9:9; Ml 3:1; 4:2. that spoke of the Messiah. He applied
There are over three hundred prophecies all the prophecies to the nature of who
in the Old Testament that refer to Jesus He was and how He would reign from
and the events surrounding His coming heaven over all things.
and establishment of His kingdom reign. 24:33-35 The two men of Emmaus
began their journey back to Jerusalem in them, was the same Jesus who was nailed
the evening. It was possibly dark by this to the cross, and then buried in a tomb.
time. They found the eleven apostles still Did not believe for joy: They were so
together and confused concerning the excited that their emotions and thinking
events that had happened, and especially, had not yet caught up with the reality of
the report of the women who reported His presence. Ate before them: He did
Jesus’ resurrection. Appeared to Simon: such in order to continue to prove that
Jesus appeared specifically to Peter (1 Co He was actually there in His resurrected
15:5). For what reason we do not know. body. They were not imagining some-
He may have appeared to him because thing because they were anxious or ex-
of his denials during the trials. He wanted pectant of His resurrection.
to reassure Peter that all was well. He
wanted to reassure Peter that he had PROMISES AND COMMISSIONS
greater things to do, for in only a few days TO THE APOSTLES
from this time, Peter would be standing After the resurrection, Jesus appeared
up and boldly proclaiming the resurrec- to the eleven at different times and dis-
tion of Jesus and His kingdom reign over cussed different things with them con-
all things (See At 2:16-36). Good lead- cerning their future mission. The appear-
ers get over their mistakes and move on. ances occurred over a period of forty
24:36-39 Terrified and frightened: days. Luke recorded that Jesus on sev-
They reacted with such emotions because eral occasions, showed Himself alive to
they had never before experienced such the disciples (At 1:3). He spoke to them
(See Mt 14:26; Mk 6:49). A spirit does for forty days concerning His kingdom
not have flesh and bones: Jesus here reign. The teachings Jesus delivered dur-
defined the nature of a spirit. At the same ing some of the appearances are recorded
time He defined that He was not in the in Matthew 28:16-20; Mark 16:15-20;
form of a spirit because He had flesh and Acts 1:1-12 (See comments Mt 28:16-20;
bones. His actual body had been resur- Mk 16:15-20).
rected, but it had been changed. He was 24:44 All things must be fulfilled:
able to eat a meal and be touched in His All Old Testament prophecies concern-
resurrected body (See Jn 20:20,27; 1 Jn ing the work and reign of Jesus would be
1:1,2; 3:2). fulfilled when He ascended to the right
24:40-43 His body still had the nail hand of the Father not long from the time
holes from the crucifixion (Jn 20:27). He made this statement. Therefore, He
Luke wanted Theophilus to understand is not coming again in the future in order
that the physical senses of the disciples to fulfill more Old Testament prophecies
proved that Jesus had risen from the dead. concerning a supposed earthly kingdom
The disciples did not experience a hallu- reign. We must understand, therefore,
cination. The pierced hands and feet that in this statement Jesus was affirm-
proved that the Jesus, who stood before ing that all prophecies concerning His
work and reign in reference to the dis- 13:38; 26:18). Beginning at Jerusalem:
ciples had now been fulfilled. There are When Peter announced the kingdom
no Old Testament prophecies yet to be reign of Jesus in Acts 2 on the day of
fulfilled in reference to Jesus’ kingdom Pentecost not many days from the time
reign. The New Testament prophecy of Jesus gave this commission, men and
His return, and the kingdom of heaven women submitted to the kingdom reign
that is to come, will be fulfilled when He of Jesus (At 2:41,47). The church began
comes again (1 Co 15:24-28). This event as a result of men and women submit-
will be in fulfillment of prophecies that ting to the kingdom reign of Jesus who
Jesus and the New Testament writers is now at the right hand of God (See com-
made concerning His final coming. ments 17:20,21; Mt 6:9,10; At 2:29-
24:45,46 Opened their understand- 36,41,47). From the event in Jerusalem,
ing: Here is a case where Jesus aided the fulfillment of Isaiah 2:1-4 began to
them through inspiration to understand take place in the history of the world.
the Scriptures concerning the fulfillment 24:48,49 You are witnesses: The
of prophecy in Him. This was something apostles were the special witnesses of the
that was personally done by Jesus and sufferings and resurrection of Jesus that
specifically for the eleven apostles. The they personally experienced (At 1:8).
Christ should suffer: Without the cross, They were to proclaim to others what
there would have been no salvation for they had seen. I send the Promise of
mankind. Therefore, it was necessary My Father upon you: The antecedent
that a manifestation of God through the of the pronoun “you” is the eleven
Son be offered as a sufficient sacrifice apostles that Luke identified in verse 33
for man’s sin. Not only was Jesus’ death of this narrative. The special promise
necessary for purposes concerning re- about which Jesus here speaks was spe-
demption, but also to fulfill the promises cifically made to the eleven apostles.
made to the fathers of Israel (See Gn Luke wanted Theophilus to clearly un-
12:1-3). In order for God to be found derstand that this, for he wrote in the sec-
faithful, all that was promised concern- ond document to Theophilus, “But you
ing the blessing of the Messiah had to be [the apostles] will receive power when
fulfilled. the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you
24:47 Would be preached: This was will be My witnesses both in Jerusalem,
the great commission to the disciples (Mt and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and to
28:19,20; Mk 16:15). They should the ends of the earth” (At 1:8). Any wit-
preach the suffering Christ on the cross ness who proclaimed something differ-
and His resurrection (See comments 1 Co ent concerning Jesus than what the eleven
15:1-4). Repentance toward God and proclaimed, was to be considered a false
God’s remission of man’s sins in obedi- witness with false information. Clothed
ence to the gospel should be proclaimed with power from on high: In Acts 2:1-4
to all men (See At 2:38; 3:19; 5:31; 10:43; the apostles were empowered from on
high when they were baptized with the (See comments 1 Co 15:24-28). They
Holy Spirit. This baptism was the fulfill- worshiped Him: Worship does not have
ment of the promise that Jesus had made to be commanded. It is the natural re-
to them in this context and during His sponse of hearts that recognize the maj-
ministry. It was when they were over- esty of God. It is spontaneous in the
whelmed with the Holy Spirit that they hearts of those who come to understand
received all truth that was to be deliv- the power, authority and presence of God.
ered to those who submitted to Jesus (Jn On this occasion, the disciples were vis-
14:26; 16:13,14). ibly made aware of the deity of Jesus.
The result of this awareness was that they
THE ASCENSION OF JESUS poured out their worship of Him. Re-
(At 1:9-11) turned to Jerusalem: They returned to
24:50-53 See comments At 1:9-11. Jerusalem as Jesus had instructed in or-
The ascension of Jesus to heaven took der to wait for the coming of the Holy
place around Bethany that is east of Spirit, who would come in about six days
Jerusalem. Carried up into heaven: on the day of Pentecost.
Jesus was bodily raised up to heaven in a (Luke concluded this first defense of
cloud in order to assume His authority Christianity by giving evidence to the
over all things (Dn 7:13,14; Ep 1:20-22; sonship of Jesus. Jesus was the cause
Ph 2:9-11). He is now at the right hand that motivated thousands to become
of God as King of kings and Lord of lords Christians. Luke then turned to write the
(1 Tm 6:15). He is reigning over all document of Acts in order to explain the
things for the sake of His disciples (Ep effect of the fact that Jesus was the res-
1:22,23; 1 Pt 3:22). He will reign until urrected Son of God.)
the last enemy, death, has been conquered


Luke

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Luke

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1 Dickson Teacher’s Bible Luke

the work of God (See At 6:3). THE BIRTH OF JOHN

TEACHING ON FASTING to be taken away in order that He estab-

pendage to the Judaism of Jesus’ day. SERMON ON THE PLAIN

Dickson Teacher’s Bible, www.africainternational.org

21:25). The Spirit inspired writers of the 6:27-36 Compare comments Mt

Dickson Teacher’s Bible, www.africainternational.org

progress at the time Jesus arrived. This Mk 5:22-24,35-43; Jn 11:35-53).

Jesus. In sending forth the disciples in 9:10-17 See comments Mt 14:13-21.

Dickson Teacher’s Bible, www.africainternational.org

12:8,9 See comments Mt 10:32,33. TRUSTING IN THE WORLD

sider such to be blessings from God. It 24:43-51; Mk 13:33; 1 Th 5:2,6. Be

never allow our understanding of Scrip- 12:54-56 Compare comments Mt

time Jesus made these statements kill the comments Mt 21:33-45).

PARABLE OF THE PRODIGAL 15:20,21 Once the prodigal son had

important is being accepted by God. We 16:18 See comments Mt 19:18,19;

Dickson Teacher’s Bible, www.africainternational.org

Therefore, when the disciples of Jesus (See comments At 13:46-48; 1 Co 15:10;

Dickson Teacher’s Bible, www.africainternational.org

CLEANSING OF THE TEMPLE principle would apply to religious lead-

Dickson Teacher’s Bible, www.africainternational.org

Dickson Teacher’s Bible, www.africainternational.org

Dickson Teacher’s Bible, www.africainternational.org

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