Lessons in Luke On Discipleship

Overview of the Series:

Defining Discipleship (Lesson 1)

The Call of Discipleship is Great (Lessons 2-3)

a. The cost is everything: Luke 14:33b. The cost must be counted: Luke 14:28ff

The Requirement (Lessons 4-8)

c. A life of love & giving (Luke 6:27-49)d. A life for God and not money e. A life of prayer

Lessons on DiscipleshipLesson One: Defining Discipleship

I. Defining the Word Disciple

A. Frequency in Luke: 30 times in reference to the “disciples” of Jesus

B. General Reference: The disciple was a companion, a friend, a compadre

1. Others (John, Pharisees) recognized these travelers with Jesus—5:33, 7:18. It was common for their day.

2. They were with Jesusa. Ate on the run 6:1b. Close by in the morning

6:13

c. With Jesus when he traveled 7:11; 8:22

d. They prayed together 9:18

3. The disciples were being taught:a. 6:20-26; 8:9; 8:43-44; 9:23-24; 12:1-2b. The general idea is that they were with Jesus for the purpose of hearing and

seeing and learning. This was much more than a class; it was a life. The disciples were learning a life and how to live it.

4. References in Luke: 5:30; 6:1; 13, 17, 20, 40; 7:11; 8:9, 22; 9:1, 17:1, 22; 18:15; 19:29, 37, 39; 20:45; 22:11, 39, 45

C. Extra Biblical Thought

1. Homer “sense of adapting oneself, preparing for, growing accustomed to…acquire, adapt.” p. 483

2. Socrates: 3 –step discipleship a) a man learns something, b) he penetrates it’s nature—insight, and c) acts accordingly.

3. Actions come from a learned character. The disciple lives with another to learn his nature and then to imitate it. “An apprentice in a trade, a student of medicine (residency)…one can only be a disciple in the company of a teacher…a man should use the company of his master to enable himself to fathom the nature of things and gain insight independently.” p. 484

D. Mathētēs: 264 times in the N.T.

1. “total attachment to someone” p. 4862. means to learn: much more than just facts. A Mathētēs is learning life in order to

reproduce it.3. Of John in order to reproduce it.4. Of John the Baptist’s group: Mk 6:29, 2:18; Lk. 11:1, Matt. 11:2; Jn. 3:25; 1:25ff.

Of the Pharisees: Mk. 2:16

E. The Gospels: the life of Jesus, as it was seen by the disciples. Luke pictures a life of teaching by word and by example. The disciples were to follow and imitate.

II. Follow

A. Frequency: 56 times in Matthew, Mark, LukeLuke 5:11, 22, 27, 28; 9:23, 57, 59, 61; 18:22, 28; 22:39

B. General Reference

1. A neutral sense: use of the crowds who followed Jesus around. 23:49, 55; 7:9; 9:11; 22:54

2. A specific sense: Jesus called men to follow him—5:27, Jesus intended that they live with him. Jesus warned the disciples not to follow others—17:23.

3. The follower “went behind” because he chose the life of the one he followed. The following that Jesus demanded was the following which is closely related to that of the disciple.

Conclusion:

1. Disciple: One who imitates another by means of hearing and seeing life. This life is to be contemplated, understood and imitated. This is discipleship.

2. Follow: In order to hear and see this life the disciple must “fall in”. He must live with the one whom he goes behind. One cannot be a disciple unless he follows.

References: Colin Brown, Theological Dictionary, Vol. A-F, pages indicated.

Footnote: The Epistles (letters to disciples) indicate that discipleship is imitation and following:

Hebrews 12:2Philippians 2:5-8I Peter 2:21-23I John 2:3-4I John 2:5b-6I Cor. 3:18Col. 1:28

Lessons on DiscipleshipLesson Two: Jesus’ Pivotal Statements

I. On Following: Luke 9:23-27

A. A Self-denial: “Arnāsasthō” (arneomai)

1. To deny, disclaim, disown—Matt. 10:33; renounce, Tit. 2:12; to decline, refuse—Hebrews 11:24.

2. Our own person is the object of denial. The most important part of us must be disowned, our own selves.

B. The Characteristics of Denial:

1. Verses 24-25, contrast to the world. Jesus called his disciples away from the world.

Luke 5:11, 27-“left everything and followed him”Luke 10:4—“Do not take a purse or bag or sandals”Luke 8:7—“they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures”Luke 19:8-9—Zacchaeus knew following demanded a turn from evil ways of worldliness.Luke 18:22—“Sell…give…come, follow me.” The ruler’s life was dominated by worldly goals.

2. Verse 26—Jesus calls his disciple to himself

a. Luke 9:24 “loses his life for me”-Jesus is the central figure and it is to him that he disciples must come.

b. Luke 5:1-10—Jesus’ ability to lead, his ability to offer men what they needed was proven by his power. The demand to follow was preceded by Jesus’ demonstration of ability (on his part). Note especially verse 9.

c. Luke 5:22-26—Jesus’ miracles were motivated by compassion but performed in order to demonstrate authority. Jesus’ miracles proved his ability to lead those who would follow.

d. Luke 6:5—Jesus could, after proving himself to be greater than men, claimed for himself authority over law itself.

Miracles in Luke: 4:31-41, 17-26; 7:1-10, 11-17; 8:22-49; 9:37-45; 13:10-13; 17:11-13; 18:35-43; 24:1-12.

Jesus was worthy. Following Him was not a chance, but a certainty of success. There was no doubt in his ability to lead and to lead with authority. He was followed as opposed to the world.

Verse 26—Jesus calls his disciples with his words (See also Luke 9:35)

a. Luke 6:20-49, the sermon on the plain. Here, as in many places, Jesus’ words speak and reveal the heart of discipleship. Jesus chose the twelve (6:12-16) and then he taught them the foundation of discipleship.

b. Hearing, proper hearing is discipleship.i. Luke 6:27, “you who hear me”, not everyone didii. Luke 6:46, hearing had to be coupled with obedience. V47 “puts them

into practice.”

c. Luke 8:1-21, Hearing emphasized.i. v. 15—hear, retain, persevere: hearing implies keeping and keeping

involves difficulty (implied by the word “persevere”)ii. v. 18—“careful”—how you heariii. v. 21—hear and do! (also see 10:16)

d. Jesus’ warning—Luke 12:1The Pharisees’ “leaven” was their inability to hear and apply (see (11:37-53). They were the example of how not to hear.

Discipleship is hearing Jesus above the world, taking his message into your heart.

Denial: Jesus says it involves: 1) Following Jesus and not the world, 2) Following Jesus, and 3) Hearing Jesus’ words.

II. The Cross: Luke 9:23 (also Luke 14:27)

A. Context: Luke 9:18-21

1. Jesus was the Christ, v202. The “Anointed One” had the cross as his motivation in his life. To this he was

committed.3. The cross is self-denial.

a. Even unto death: predicted by Jesus—Luke 9:22; 13:33b. Accomplished by Jesus—Luke 23:26ff

4. Our cross is self-denial: as disciples

a. Luke 9:24-loss of lifeb. Luke 9:48—humility

This is discipleship—the cross of self-denial is our cross to carry. Following Jesus is doing just that, even to the cross of crucifixion. Jesus makes it clear here (Luke 9:23-27) what discipleship involves.

Lessons on DiscipleshipLesson 3: Jesus’ Pivotal Statements 2

Read Luke 14:25-34

I. “Hate”—father mother, wife, children, brothers, sisters—v26\

A. A statement of commitment, Jesus demands that disciples be dedicated to Him and Him alone. Hate—the question is, how do we esteem Jesus as opposed to others?

1. V. 33—everything must be secondary to Jesus.Note: subsequent lessons will deal specifically with discipline’s attitudes toward other things. Here the principle is laid down plainly by Jesus.

2. Luke 10:40, “Only one thing is needed.” Jesus life consisted of one thing, service to God. To Jesus there was no other “thing” worthy of consideration.

3. Luke 12:51-21, Money becomes extremely important. How do we use it properly? Jesus addresses this subject time and time again. One lesson will deal with discipleship and money. “On your guard against every form of greed.” V. 15

4. Luke 9:1-6, Jesus expected his apostles to be singularly concerned with the mission they were given.

5. Luke 12:22-34, “Do not worry!” Jesus promises that he will provide. There will be no reason to worry over physical needs (18:29).

Note: What a great demand! To commit to Jesus over and above food, shelter, etc…Jesus is surely demanding singular commitment!

6. The demand is clarified: What does “first” mean?

a. Luke 12:49-53, Division even with family members. Radical behavior for the disciple—Jesus is first, even over family. No one can come before Jesus.

b. Luke 9:57-62, death and family must be second! Even loved ones are secondary.

7. A typical response: Luke 8:26

Context: the disciples had heard Jesus’ demand directly and had seen him demand it from others (cf 18:18-29). Such a demand would set the mind churning and cause a would be disciple or even a disciple to ask: “Who then can be saved?”

Point: the demand of discipleship was/is great. At whatever point we find ourselves Jesus demands this singular commitment.

Application: Jesus calls all disciples to consider His call. This message is what the disciples heard!

II. Decide: Count the cost, V. 28-33

A. Do not enter in without consideration:

1. Two examples: the tower builder and the king2. The point: v29, be able to finish

B. The How of counting.

1. Know it is your decision.

a. Luke 18:23—Rich young ruler said, “NO!”b. Luke 19:8—Zacchaeus said, “YES!”c. Luke 14:15-24—The invitation is offered to many. It is an invitation, but the

decision is yours!d. Luke 13:22-25—We walk through the door.

Note: God remains at a distance, a prescribed distance, from man. He prods and encourages, rebukes and disciplines but the decision is always left for the man to make (cf. Luke 14:23—“Make” is used in a reserved sense, men decide, not God).

2. Know the demands: Be clear on what Jesus is asking. Heaven cannot be gained unless we are willing to do what Jesus asks. Before committing, we must know the demands. For this reason Jesus revealed himself. (Luke 14:18-21, some were not willing after they heard the call).

3. Know the promises and consequences:

a. Luke 16:19-31, the end of those who refuse and those who follow.b. Luke 12:47-48, to know and ignore is worse than never having known.c. Luke 10:16-20, those who follow have their names recorded in heaven.d. Luke 9:62, Jesus does not allow looking back. Those who do are not fit,

unworthy!e. Luke 13:26-30, too late is too late

Conclusion: Luke 14:25-34

A. Jesus demands principle attention. He must be first. Even to the point of division in family. First over everything.

B. Jesus asks those who would consider to count the cost.

Lessons on DiscipleshipLesson Four: The Spirit of Discipleship I, Luke 6:27-49

Introduction:

A. Luke 6:27, “I tell you who hear me:” Not those who heard the words but those who head the words and applied them. The “good soil”, the disciples (8:15)

B. Those who hear bear the responsibility of discipleship. For this reason, one must count the cost. Carrying the cross of self-denial requires something—it requires us to be like Jesus.

C. Read Luke 6:27-49. This could be called the pivotal message of Jesus. The sermon he would preach if he only had one. The constitution of the faith. The answer to the question, “How does a disciple live?”

I. The Great Reversal. Read Luke 6:27-31

A. Two general characteristics:

1. Has to do with others: how all deal with the people with who we live. Jesus is concerned with activity in life, not propositions of belief only. This is what caused the great strife between Jesus and the Pharisees. They were “proposition” oriented. They had no heart. Luke 11:44-45.

2. Reversal: the world is best characterized by the attitude of:

a. Priest and levite (Luke 10:31-32)b. Rich fool (Luke 12:19)c. Pharisees (Luke 11:43a)d. The 9 lepers (Luke 17:15-17)e. Rich ruler (Luke 18:23)

The world is concerned with self and how “numero uno” will get by. In this basic sermon of Jesus, he begins with the foundation principal: others, the opposite view of men in the world.

B. Living as a disciple: Reversing values

1. Love you enemies” V. 27

a. 23:34, 43—the great example of Jesus on the cross. His statements of love and concern even for those who put him to death.

b. 23:31-34, 22:61—Peter was not an enemy but he certainly denied Jesus. Jesus forgave and Jesus knew before hand what Peter would do.

c. Pharisees/Teachers of the law: Jesus always spoke, he always tried when he wept over Jerusalem (19:41) he was weeping for people, not buildings.

d. 13:34-35—those who had rejected God were still loved by Jesus.

2. Living as a disciple: Reversing values

a. “Pray for those who mistreat you” v28. 17:3-4—Jesus teaches that the last thing anyone should do is cause another to sin. The very opposite is true: forgive and forgive. Note the response of the disciples: “Increase our faith” (v5).

b. “Turn to him the other also” (v29)

1. Luke 22:50-51—Not only was Jesus’ action in response to Peter’s erroneous understanding of what was happening, but it illustrates the very spirit which Jesus demands of his disciples.

2. Luke 9:51-56—Jesus rebuked the spirit of vengeance. He had no part in petty anger, which would cause one to turn on his brother.

c. “Give to everyone who asks you” (v. 30)

1. Luke 16:19-31—the rich man was lost because he would not GIVE. This is why money is such an important element in our lives. It causes the very spirit, which Jesus demands that disciples not have.

2. Luke 10:33-35—The Samaritan went that extra mile without being asked. His spirit was the very opposite to that of the rich man.

d. The Golden Rule—v. 31—the spirit of sacrifice “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”

1. This sums up all Jesus has said on how we are to treat others. We are to see them as if we were seeing ourselves. We are to be toward them as we would be to ourselves.

2. V32-36—The next section gives the essence of the love of disciples of Jesus. It is the great difference between disciples and the world.

3. The Good Samaritan : Luke 10:25-37, the application of the “Golden Rule.”

i. He loved his enemies: the Samaritans were detested by the world. They were the half-breeds of their society.

ii. “Bless those who curse you”—the Samaritan, speaking as the world speaks, had every right to pass by thinking; “Why should I help him, I have not been helped”.

iii. “Golden Rule” he treated the hurt person as he himself would be treated.

II. The Great Difference , Luke 6:32-36

A. The main point: loving those who love you is loving very little. Jesus says disciples are to (v35)

1. Love the unlovely2. Do good to those who harm you3. Lend without repayment

B. The Pharisees had no part in this: 11:43

1. They expected praise and greeting for all they did.2. The glory from others was their reward. They would not receive praise from

God (6:65b)

C. Jesus loved the unlovely and the hurting

1. Levi/Zacchaeus—tax collectors: 5:31-32; 19:1-102. Fisherman—5:1-113. Sinful woman—7:36-49. Note the attitude of the Pharisee (7:39)4. The widow—7:13, “his heart went out to her”.5. The lepers—17:11-196. The blind beggar—18:357. The tenants 20:9-13; God’s love compelled him to send and send and send.

Note: the disciples saw the acts of Jesus and heard his words. The message they saw and heard was one that said—love everyone. This is the great difference that marks the disciples as different.

D. The response of the Pharisees to Jesus’ unselfish love: Luke 5:31-32

Main Point: the difference unselfish love makes is unpopular because it allows those who are considered of low estate to become a part of mainstream society. This also puts those in the upper levels of society (like the Pharisees) on a level with the common man. This robs the Pharisees of their self-imposed glory (Luke 20:45-47).

Lessons on DiscipleshipLesson Five: Spirit of Discipleship II, Luke 6:37-49

Introduction:

A. Remember that Luke 6:37-49 is a continuation of Luke 6:27-49. Jesus is laying down the basic tenants of discipleship. These tenants put into words the spirit, which the disciple will carry to those whom he contacts in living. Remember, Jesus is demanding:

1. “The Great Reversal” from worldly standards to spiritual standards. They are: love, kindness, and the “Golden Rule”.

2. “The Great Difference”, the “how” of love, loving and unlovely not just those who love you back

3. The tenets listed in Luke 6:37-49 are application from the basic pattern of love already established.

B. V40, Pivotal Statement in this section: The disciples had been called to Jesus and they were to initiate him. What they saw and heard was to be written on their hearts so that they could allow others to see Jesus through themselves. “Everyone who is fully trained will be like his teacher”. Discipleship is a matter of training, we must learn from words and actions of Jesus.

I. “Forgive” V. 37-42

A. Dancing to a different tune, Luke 7:31-35

1. Jesus was seen as a “friend of tax collectors and ‘sinners’” (v34).

2. He did not meet the pattern of the people to who he preached (v32). They asked for Jesus to dance to one tune, he danced to another.

a. v33, John did not eat! “He has a demon”b. v34, Jesus ate “He is a friend to sinners”

3. “Forgiveness” was/is a new tune. Jesus is calling us to practice love by looking at others as people who need forgiveness, just like us!

Note: This “tune” is certainly different. To forgive is to unsettle and surprise the sinner.

B. The surprise of forgiveness:

1. Luke 7:48, “Your sins are forgiven” to a known, sinful woman (v39).

a. To Jesus those who had sinned the worst were in the greatest need. b. To disciples those in need are the ones to whom we must go.

Illustration: Someone said the church usually kills it’s wounded.

2. Luke 5:31-32, it is no surprise that the sick need the doctor. Human nature, however, tells us that the sinful need to be ignored or rejected. Jesus said they needed forgiveness. This attitude is certainly a surprise to the world.

3. Luke 3:6, “and all mankind will see God’s salvation”

a. the surprise in Jesus coming was that he came to help and forgiveb. the redemption of Israel (2:38) was not the king of redemption Israel had

in mind. The surprise was great!

4. Luke 11:46, “You yourselves will not life one finger to help them”

a. The compassion and love of God was not seenb. The great surprise here is that no one considered the duty of helping

someone elsec. The experts of the Law had not even thought about forgiveness. This

attitude was taught and passed on to the populace. The spirit of forgiveness was gone.

5. Jesus’ ministry surprised the world and its’ leaders because it was a ministry of forgiveness. This same spirit of forgiveness is to be seen in us.

C. “Give” v38, in the context, the giving of self, is the spirit of Christ.

1. Our forgiveness is tied to the way we forgive v38b2. Luke 11:4, “Forgive us our sins FOR also forgive”3. Forgiveness from God is promised in abundance for those who will measure it out

for others.4. Forgiveness possible through introspection

a. “First take the plank our of your eye” v42.b. Luke 7:41-42—the one who is forgiven understands the needc. Luke 18:9-14—the Pharisee was conditioned to look at others and not

himself. d. V. 12—the proof of his self-righteous attitudee. Luke 18:15-17—humility, the key to introspection.f. Only when we see out own need and accent forgiveness will be able to

forgive.

Point: Look at yourself: the disciple is concerned first with his relationship to God, not others

5. V. 39-40, Jesus’ illustration: we cannot lead others until we have become like our teacher

Example: Elders; not to be novices. They must have become like Jesus before they can lead.

II. The Heart, V. 43-45

A. The inner man must be changed first:1. 12:15, life is more than outward things2. 17:20-21, the kingdom is not worldly.3. The inner man must be converted.

B. Pharisees, Luke 20:45-461. Concerned with the ritual, pomp and showy side of religion.2. V47—they were void of compassion and mercy3. “Take care of the heart and actions will follow suit”

C. Our actions reveal our heart: See Luke 81. birds eat seed: ground is hard2. pleasure is supreme: ground is thorny3. plant withers: ground is rocky4. there is fruit: ground is good

Example: Luke 5: the call to discipleship; Luke 24: commission to the world5. Between the two was a time of growth and preparation for disciples6. Pharisees served as a living example of the very opposite to what Jesus was

asking men to do

III. Life Building V. 46-49

A. Discipleship is not religious practice but the building of a life: the HouseB. Discipleship is based on Jesus and his word as our guide. We are to be like him: The

FoundationC. Discipleship is preparing to meet the struggles of life: The Storms

Conclusion: Spirit of Discipleship I & II (Luke 6:27-49)

A. The Great Reversal: Jesus calls disciples to new principles of life—love, pray, and give to and for others. Golden Rule: Treat others as you would treat yourself.

B. The Great Difference: Unselfish love, what the world needsC. Forgive: We have been forgiven and others need that from usD. Give: Give and it will be given unto usE. Look inside: See our own sins, then we can help othersF. Look at the heart: Actions will follow suitG. We are building a life on Jesus, not on religious practice!

Discipleship is life building. It is dealing with the inner man and the heart. It is becoming like Jesus.

Lessons on DiscipleshipLesson Six: The Call of the World: Money and what it can buy I

Introduction: Luke 6:46-49

1. We are building a life: What do we build on?

A. Sand/rock: in Luke the sand is the world, the rock is JesusB. We must choose. We are choosing: one of the sandiest foundations is money. If

there is one great seducer, one great enemy of discipleship, it is money

I. General Observations:

1. The disciples sacrificed things:A. 5:11—“Left everything”B. 5:28—Levi “left everything”C. 9:3—Jesus expected them to “go” without goods and with faith

Read Luke 9:57-62, What must Jesus be first over? Would money not be under him? Would the disciples understand this? 18:28-29, the disciples had sacrificed and Jesus promised reward.

Note: This frugal life was imposed on the apostles because of their mission. While we are not asked the same, the lesson is clear: love of money robs us of initiative to do the job for which Jesus called us.

1. The Pharisees loved money

A. Luke 16:14-15, states this idea clearly. Is there any wonder they opposed Jesus?B. Pharisees and banquets: 14:1ff, 7:36ff; 14:12-14—they were inviting the rich

2. The rich in Luke:

A. Centurion 7:1ff had faithB. Simon 7:36ff no faithC. Thorny heart 8:14 no faithD. Samaritan 10:25ff had faithE. Rich fool 12:13-21 no faithF. Pharisees 16:14-15 no faithG. Lost son 15:11-31 had faith (at last)H. Rich man 16:19-31 no faithI. Rich ruler 18:18-30 no faithJ. Zacchaeus 19:1-9 had faithK. Rich givers 21:1-2 no faithL. Joseph 23:50-56 had faith

3. There is no doubt that money, its use and its place in the disciples’ lives was important

A. Because Jesus taught about money and its use many timesB. Those who opposed him were richC. Those who followed him were generally not richD. A disciple must consider this call of the world, money

II. Examination of the Characters:

A. Luke 8:14 Thorny soil:

1. Money: can buy pleasure and comfort from worries. It is this desire that caused many would be disciple to turn away. In Luke 8:14, the pull of the physical world was too much.

2. Luke 12:22-34—money causes us to become the owners of ourselves, the buyers of the cures for our worry. It deludes us and causes us to think we are efficient and able to provide:

a. Faith: v28, weak in those who trust in moneyb. Heart: v34, captivated by money (remember Luke 8, ground is heart)c. God (v28) will provide: This is discipleship: trusting God first.d. 16:31, money hardens the heart to truth

B. Luke 12:13-21. I’ve got it made

1. V. 19—the feeling that there is no need. I have it or I can buy it. The self sufficient man

2. Illustration: This is the American Dream!3. V. 15—There is more to life than meets the eye: money deludes us into thinking

there is peace when there is no peace.4. God is left out v21, WHO NEEDS GOD? Only the rich would come to this

conclusion. The poor must trust in God, they have nothing else in which to trust. In this life there is no place for God.

5. V. 20b—the only thing prepared for the rich man who trusts in himself is Himself. In eternity he is of no consequence.

6. V. 15—Greed—another reason why money is a danger

C. Luke 16:14-15, Social standing

1. The Pharisees “loved money”2. Note:

a. They had banquets 7:36, 14:1, 11:37

b. They loved chief seats 20:46

c. They were merciless 20:47

d. They were prominent 20:46

e. They were greedy 11:39f. They had no faith 11:37-

45

3. Money can buy in this world all the things man wants. From the worldly point of view, money is sufficient. It is this sufficiency that God wants to provide. God and money are on opposite sides.

4. Luke 12:29-30, the world runs opposite to God and it runs on money.

D. Luke 18:18, the stolen heart/divided soul—The Rich Ruler

1. He was religious: v18—he had interest in doing what God commanded and in receiving the Kingdom.

2. He was dedicated: v21—from his youth he had observed the law3. He was fooled, his heat was divided and his loyalty stolen: v23—he had not

considered the real ruler of his life, his wealth—money becomes God when we don’t even realize it.

Note: Luke 12:1-2 he probably gave “out of his wealth” and thought he was fine. Key Point: The decision as to who would be Lord had finally arrived. He had no faith.

4. Statement of Jesus: v24-25, it is “hard” because the real dedication of the rich is to their money. The real drive is their own ability. Their goal is their self-sufficiency. Note: the denial of self is most difficult here.

5. Response of the disciples; v26a. They recognized their own ties to wealthb. They recognized the difficulty involvedc. They recognized the universality of the problem

6. Jesus counter-response, v27, 29a. God can make you able, faith is the keyb. God will provide: do not worry

Lessons on DiscipleshipLesson Seven: The Call of the World: Money and What it Can Buy, II

Introduction: ReviewA. Money is one of the strongest calls of the world. Who will we follow?B. Money: (This should say something)

1. Was forsaken by disciples2. Was loved by Pharisees

C. Characters in Luke1. 8:14, thorny soil: the heart set on money2. 12:13-21, “I’ve got it made—self-sufficiency3. 16:14-15, social standing4. 18:18-30, stolen heart/divided soul

Continuation of Previous Outline:

E. Luke 16:19-31—Greed & Mercilessness

1. “Rich man”—no name, remembered for his selfish, greedy, opulent lifea. 27-28 probably the first time he ever thought about anyone elseb. 20: at his gate—he had to have seen Lazarus as he passed by each day.

2. Selfish: v21—he had plenty and shared none of it with Lazarus. This was his sin!

3. Blind: v25—rich man was only able to see this world. There is no doubt that the price for selfishness is great. This is indeed the prime call of the world.

4. V. 23,24,28,31: the result of the selfish life is torment. There is no doubt that the price for selfishness is great. This is indeed the prime call of the world.

5. You cannot take it with you: v22, “the rich man also died”

F. Luke 15:11-31, False promises/hedonism

1. Prodigal son: v13—the “good life” was far away from hard work and responsibility. “Wild living” pleasures (thorny soil) and cares of the body and feelings.

2. Money (inheritance) promised this young man something it just could not give. The things money can buy will not sustain.

3. Eating with the pigs: v16—alcoholism, gambling, prostitution, all results of man’s desire for the fast lane of a distant country (v30)

4. V21—this is a sin against man and God. Money cannot keep its promise.5. Prodigal: teaches us the false hope and promise of wealth. Pleasure can be

bought but the price is high.

G. Greed/Selfishness

1. Luke 21:1-2—Giving out of riches. There is no sacrifice here. The money seems to be better spent on self.

2. Luke 12:15—all kinds of greed:

Illustration: How many families are split fighting over the inheritance? Christians fighting over buildings?

Foundation principle: Life is more than what you have—V. 15

3. Luke 20:47—“devour widow’s houses”—compassionless, greedy people; do anything to get on top

4. Samaritan—10:25ff (he may have been rich, he was able to pay for an inn) He gave of himself and his money!A. 18:22—give to the poorB. 16:25—“You did not share” C. The gift to the less fortunate is a sign that the disciple is able to handle the

wealth that he has received.

Conclusions:

I. Luke 11:39—Pharisees: note Jesus’ words

A. “Inside you are full of greed” v39aB. “One who made the outside made the inside also?” 40aC. “Give what is inside to the poor!” 41 God’s answer is greed to give! The

Pharisees were told to give what is in the dish, which was “greed” or money. To rid ourselves of greed, we must give!

Note: The disciples were to give themselves so they had to give what they had. Money then becomes a basic problem for the disciple. The disciple must decide whom he will serve.

II. There are many dangers inherited in money:

A. Self-sufficiency 12:19B. Greed 12:15;20:47C. Selfishness 12:19D. Pride/prominence 20:46E. Mercilessness 20:47; 16:21F. Hardened heart 16:31G. False hopes 15:13

III. Money

A. Is a great danger to the discipleB. He must learn from God to deal with it

IV. In Closing: Luke 4:1-12

A. V. 4—“Man does not live on bread alone”Devil 12:19, money says he can!

B. V. 8—“Worship the Lord your God and serve him only”Devil—18:23, money will not let you do it!

C. V. 12—“Do not put the Lord your God to the test”Devil 16:19, this pride of life was the downfall of the rich man

V. Hope: It is hard (18:24) but it is possible (18:27)

A. Centurion, 7:1ff, probably wealthy yet was able to trust in God. All things are possible with God (18:27)

B. Lost son, 15:17—there is always hope, man can repentC. Zacchaeus, 19:1-9—he was rich and through honesty and giving, he came to GodD. Joseph, 23:50-56—he demonstrated his faith by his gift to Jesus.

Lessons on DiscipleshipLesson Eight: Prayer I

Introduction:

A. The Call of Discipleship is Great:

1. The cost is everything: Luke 14:332. The cost must be counted: Luke 14:28ff

B. The Call Requires a lot

1. A life of love 6:272. A life of giving 6:333. A life for God and not money 19:27

I. Prayer: Dependence Upon God

A. Temple Controversy: Luke 19:21-46; Isa. 56:1-7

1. The dwelling place of God. Built for man’s communion with the father. When the temple was void of faithfulness, man had missed the point. V46—“the house of prayer”---men were to draw near.

2. V46—“den of robbers”; v45 “selling”—the leaders who loved money were using the templea. Not as a place of communionb. As a place to help themselves—a start rejection of God

3. Isa. 56:1-7, The text speaks of salvation for others, holy communion with God, it was desecrated by the selfish, material desires of the people

4. Prayer: was to be spiritual and the temple was to be used for spiritual needs

Point: This conflict points out what Jesus had in mind regarding both the temple and prayer. The disciples saw the importance of communion in prayer.

B. The Disciples Learn to Pray, Luke 11:1-4

1. “Father” v2: dependence (completely gone in the activity of buying and selling in the temple)

a. v. 11-13, the Father is indeed the father of the faithful. The emphasis is upon His willingness to hear and to help.

b. To see God as “Father” is to recognize our sonship, His love and our dependence

c. “Father” denotes love, concern and authority.

2. “Hallowed be your name” v. 2. The name of God is holy because of which our father is. To the disciple, He is the author of the way that he follows the Father of the Son (Jesus) whom he sent and the giver of all the disciple needs. God’s loving work calls upon us to revere Him and call his name “holy”.

3. “Your Kingdom Come” v. 2

a. The kingdom to the disciple is not a place but the reign of God in themb. Luke 17:20-21

i. Invisible v20ii. Not located here or there v21iii. Within you v21

The prayer then is for the rule of God to have the place it deserves in our heart and life.

c. The “coming” involves

i. Our self-denial: dependence on Godii. Our consecration: to build the tower, and the house on a good

foundationiii. Trust in Him and not in money.

C. Who would want to be denied a part in the kingdom? It would mean that God had no place in your heart

1. Luke 10:2—the prater for harvesters is the prayer that the kingdom will grow and penetrate “soils” (Luke 8) of the world.

2. “Your will be done”; emphasis on the coming as God wills

D. V. 3, “Give us each day our daily bread:

The disciples are asked not to worry over physical things (12:22-34), God promises he will provide (11:13) and disciples are to forsake all for God. Prayer for bread is the humble heart seeking what it can receive only from the Father. The disciple learns that trusting God is not trusting in himself (the opposite to the sellers in the temple and the rich fool 12:13-21, 19:45-48).

E. “Forgive” and “Lead” v4

1. The disciples know who Jesus calls. The characters are tax collectors, prostitutes, drunkards, and sinners! He calls them because he came to forgive—all sinners need that (7:36ff).

a. We must never forget that we are sinners

b. We must never forget God forgives

2. Our forgiveness comes as we forgive. The unforgiving spirit will not draw near to God but to himself.

3. God’s leadership: not that we will never enter, but that God will lead us out. Luke 4: the deliverer of Jesus will also deliver us!

F. Prayer and Faith: Don’t give up, Luke 11:5-10; 18:1-8

“…When the Son of man comes, will he find faith on earth?” Luke 18:8

1. Ask, Seek, and Knock: The disciple must ask, not because God does not know but because it is our statement of faith and trust.Luke 18:11, 13—one man trusted in God, the other in himself.

2. Luke 11:8, 18:5—Persistence: Faith is made strong through constant use and activity. The person who does not pray often and regularly.

a. trusts more in himself than in Godb. admits he sees no need for Godc. 18:7—God wants us to cry out “day and night”. Persistence is a sign of

faith, we trust God.

Point: The disciple may fear God does not hear. God hears-- does the disciple have faith to ask again? God seeks persistent prayer. It is a declaration of faith

d. The rich trust in their money. They have no need to pray!e. 11:11—God loves us and wants to give

Illustration: How would we feel if our children did not ask? If they felt we would not share and did not ask, or that we would not help, our hearts would be broken.3. Luke 21:36—“Watch” persistence is needed because we must always be on watch. The difficulties of life will come. If we are to be faithful we must watch and pray continuously.

Lessons on DiscipleshipLesson Nine, Prayer II

Prayer: Evidence of our dependence upon God. The Lord’s teaching reflects this same dependence.

I. Time and Circumstances of Prayer in Jesus’ Life

A. At Jesus’ Baptism, Luke 3:21—The announcement comes regarding the Sonship of Christ

B. “Jesus often withdrew”, Luke 5:16—The emphasis here is the words “often” and “lonely”. These must have been for periods of refreshment and spiritual renewal.

C. Before the call, Luke 6:12—the choosing of the 12 from the group of disciples was a major decision.

D. Praying is private, Luke 9:18—The question concerning Jesus’ identity followed.E. Transfiguration, Luke 9:28—Before Jesus was transfigured, he spent the night in

prayerF. Jesus’ prayer for Simon, Luke 22:31-32—Simon was to be “sifted” and Jesus Prayer

for himG. The Prayer in the garden, Luke 22:39-46H. On the cross

1. Luke 23:34—the prayer for those who crucified him2. Luke 23:46—the plea to the Father before he died.

II. Lessons:A. Time: anytime, anywhereB. Jesus prayed several times at significant events in His life were unfolding or being

contemplated. He sought the blessing of God.C. These were prayers in private and prayers with the disciples.D. The intercessory prayer was practiced on several occasions.E. Jesus practiced what he preached in that he prayed for his enemies.

III. General Lessons on Prayer:1. 2:37-38, Anna, the prophetess, was persistent. Her prayer was apparently singular in

its intent. She looked forward to the Messiah and prayed for that end.2. 6:28, we are to pray for enemies. Jesus did it on the cross and for Simon whom he

knew would betray Him.3. 10:2, Jesus commands his disciples to pray for harvesters. The providing hand of

God is the intent behind this prayer.4. 18:9-14, the attitude in prayer must be one of dependence upon God, not on self-

righteousness.

IV. Jesus’ Prayer in the Garden—22:39-461. Pray not to fall into temptation. The gravity of the cross was tugging at the human

nature of Jesus. He shows his concern for the faithfulness of his disciples.2. V46

a. Jesus’ own feelings are clear. He would rather not pass through the trail of fire: this is not a lack of faith, but of supreme honesty. This is one attribute God desires in prayer. We must pour out our heart—God knows it anyway. To speak openly is to genuinely feel dependence on God.

b. “Yet not my will”—the will of the Father was the deciding factor. So many times we pray for what we desire and then blame God or accuse Him of not hearing if He does not answer affirmatively.i. “Thy will be done” is not a “cop out”, but a great declaration of faith. We

are saying, I will do as you will, not as I will. ii. God’s will is known when it is revealed in His word and in His activity.

Sometimes we know his will, sometimes we do not.

3. V. 44, Anguish in prayer: heart-felt prayer is needed over formal, ritualistic prayer, which does not express the real need of the heart.

This is indeed the Lord’s prayer.

Conclusion:

Prayer is the demonstration of truly felt dependence. The disciple will be prayerful only when he had truly denied himself and is carrying the cross of self-denial. When money is not his foundation for life, God will be. When God is, prayer will be essential, anytime, anywhere.

The disciples heard Jesus teach on prayer and them saw him pray.