Galatians 5

1. 5:1 What is the “yoke of slavery”?
   Class Answers: As a class member pointed out, the verse (in most versions) reads “a yoke of slavery,” so she answered (if I remember right) that this was any type of reliance on our ability to keep the law. In the context of Galatians, the particular “yoke of slavery” or “yoke of bondage” Paul is addressing is the Old Law. See also Acts 15:6-11, especially vs. 10, and Galatians 2:4.
         R. C. Bell compares it to a new master buying a slave and telling him, “I have bought you to set you free.” The slave wouldn’t think about going back to his former cruel master.
2. 5:2-4 Why does Paul condemn circumcision?
   Class Answers: He doesn’t condemn circumcision per se, but he does condemn having it done in order to gain approval from God. To be circumcised for religious reasons is to reinstate the Old Law, to subject oneself to the Old. Law. Circumcision is not part of the Law of Christ.
        Again, to quote R. C. Bell from his book Studies in Galatians (pg. 61-62): “Christian freedom has both a negative and positive aspect. Men are freed from some things and freed for other things…. God has worked out a unique plan by which Christ’s slave becomes his own master! Christ gets the essential law of life obeyed, human nature fulfilled, and his slave in possession of life abounding—all this without slavish drudgery or ‘dragging of feet’ on the part of the slave.”
3. 5:5-6 What two manifestations of faith are mentioned here?
   Class Answers:
   v. 5 – We eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. See Romans 8:23. John Stott (The Message of Galatians) points out that we wait for it, we don’t work for it; Bell compares this hope to the crown of righteousness Paul mentions in 2 Timothy 4:8.
   v. 6 – Faith works through love. See John 13:34,35. A motive of love means we go beyond what the Law would demand.
4. 5:7-8 What does it mean to “obey the truth”?
   Class Answers: Stott writes that it means applying belief to behavior. Obeying the truth means we subject ourselves to the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. From Ed Wharton’s The Constitution of Christian Freedom: Legalism hinders submission: I have to do what is required, or commanded, nothing more.
5. 5:6-12 List 7 fallacies of legalism mentioned here. (Legalism: The effort to be justified through keeping the law.)
   Class Answers:
   v. 6 – In Christ, keeping the law means nothing. (NIV: It has no value.)
   v. 7 – It prevents us from obeying the truth, hinders our submission.
   v. 8 – It doesn’t come from Christ, the one who calls us.
   v. 9 – It affects others in the body. Wharton: It leavens the church with disobedience. Bell: This powerless form of religious would destroy the life of the church.
   v. 10 – It confuses us. Wharton: causes trouble.
   v. 11 – It abolishes (removes) the offense of the cross. The “offense of the cross” reflects back to Galatians 3:13 and the shame of the cross. How could we worship a God who was not only killed but went through a humiliating, excruciating death at the hands of lesser men?
   v. 12 – It agitates, unsettles new Christians. Wharton: It mutilates the body.
6. 5:13-15 Freedom in Christ gives us freedom to love one another and serve God. NOT to sin! It’s freedom from sin, not freedom to sin.
   Bell (pg. 66): “As the character of Christ proves, law itself and love are not incompatible; Pharisaic legalism, not law, is what contradicts gospel grace, truth, and love.”
7. 5:16-18 What conflict is described here?
   Class Answers: The conflict between the Spirit and the flesh (NIV – sinful nature). [I didn’t write down anyone else’s answer . Feel free to put a better explanation in the comment section.] Comment from Bell’s book: Flesh is not sinful; it’s just how Satan reaches us.
       We also had a discussion about whether or not we can be led by the Spirit without the Word. See Galatians 5:5; 2 Corinthians 5:7; Romans 10:17. The general consensus was that only the Word can reveal the will of God, but the indwelling Spirit helps us to carry out His will. When we follow our best impulses – which we can identify as “best” because of what the Spirit has revealed in the Word – we allow the Spirit to guide us.
8. 5:19-21 Below is the list of “acts of the sinful nature” from the NIV. Beside each word, write a synonym, either from another version or a dictionary.
   Class Answers:
   sexual immorality – fornication, adultery (NKJ)
   impurity – uncleanness
   debauchery – licentiousness, lewdness, indulgence
   Note: These first three are also condemned in the 7th of the 10 commandments (Exodus 20:14)
   idolatry – worship of an image or other material object representing a deity
   witchcraft – sorcery, magic
   Note: Idolatry and witchcraft also break the 1st of the 10 commandments (Exodus 20:2-3).
   hatred – enmities, hostility, animosity
   discord – strife, contentions, quarreling
   jealousy – resentment against a rival or against another’s success. It occurs when someone else wants to take something I own.
   fits of rage – anger, wrath, outbursts of anger
   selfish ambitions – quarrels, factions, disputes
   dissensions –strong disagreements, contentions or quarrels, discord
   factions – heresies, a party spirit (Stott), “a feeling that everyone else is wrong except those in your own little group” (New Living Translation)
   envy – a feeling of discontent or covetousness with regard to antoher’s advantages, success, possessions. Having to do with wanting other people’s things.
   Note: These have to do with our relationships with others, which would be covered in the 10th commandment (Exodus 20:17) and Leviticus 19:17-18 – “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.”
   drunkenness – given to intoxication
   orgies – carousing, revelries
   Note: Don’t overlook the “and the like” at the end of this passage. Legalism would say “If it’s not on the list, it’s not sin.” Wharton: We can make our own list. We know the difference between what is good and what is sin.
9. 5:21 What is the result of such a lifestyle?
   Class Answer: Loss of inheritance in the kingdom of God.
10. 5:22-25 Some would look at these verses as a to-do list as opposed to the “do-not” list in verses 19-21. How do we develop these attributes?
    Class Answers: By crucifying the flesh with its passions and desires, following the Spirit’s guide, not just by moral discipline. It is all based on love. Without love, the rest is not possible. Bell: The Holy Spirit is the only tree that produces this fruit.
         It is not a to-do list but is rather what we can reap when we follow the Spirit rather than our selfish desires.
11. 5:26 How does our opinion of ourselves affect the way we treat others?
    Class Answer: Being self-centered leads to competition and envy.

Choose a verse from Chapter 5 to memorize (or to post in a prominent place).
Verses chosen were Galatians 5:13b,14; 5:22; and 5:25.

Galatians 2

1. 2:1-3 Who were Barnabas and Titus? What ethnicity were they? (See Acts 4:36,37; 9:26,27; 2 Corinthians 2:13; Titus 1:4,5)
   Class Answers: Barnabas was a Levite from Cyprus, who introduced Paul to the apostles in Jerusalem. He was a companion of Paul. Titus was a Greek (Gentile), who also traveled with Paul and later preached for the church in Crete. Even though Titus was a Gentile, he was not “compelled” to be circumcised, even though that’s what the Judaizing teachers would have desired.
2. 2:2 What was the gospel Paul preached among the Gentiles? (See 1 Corinthians 15:1-4)
   Class Answer: The gospel of salvation: the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ.
3. 2:3-5 Why did Paul want a private meeting with the church leaders? Who was trying to interfere?
   Class Answer: He didn’t want to be running “in vain,” to have his ministry rendered fruitless by the false teachers. He wanted to be able to speak to the leaders without the disruption of those were trying to take away freedom in Christ and impose slavery to the Law.
4. 2:6-10 What were the leaders’ responses to Paul’s
   Message - v. 6 – They added nothing to it. As far as they were concerned, the gospel Paul preached lacked nothing.
   Ministry - v. 7 – They saw he had been entrusted with the gospel to the Gentiles.
   Mission - vv. 9-10 – They gave him the right hand of fellowship, asking him only that he and Barnabas continue to remember the poor.
   Comment by John Stott: The meeting proved there was no rift among the apostles.
5. 2:11-14 How was Peter “clearly in the wrong”? What caused him to act this way?
   Answer: When men came from Jerusalem (or James), Peter withdrew from socializing with the Gentiles. In doing so, he was trying to force the Gentiles to live by Jewish customs. Why? He was afraid of those who came from Jerusalem – afraid of crossing them.
6. 2:15-16 By what are we justified? (Romans 4:1-3) Does this mean we’re not subject to any law? (See James 2:8)
   Answer: Not by observing the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. James 2:8 states that we are subject to the “Royal” law of Christ: to love our neighbors as ourselves. Obedience to commandments of Christ by itself doesn’t save us, but it’s evidence of our faith. How can God know we believe unless we obey, as Abraham did?
7. 2:17 In what way would Christ promote sin?
   Answer: If, while claiming to be justified in Christ, we willfully sin. But that’s not the case. Justification in Christ doesn’t give us license to sin (Romans 6:1,2). Trying to follow the law will make us lawbreakers, because it is impossible to keep perfectly.
8. 2:18 What had Paul destroyed?
   Answer: His old way of life, his allegiance to the Old Law. Why bring that back again? 1:23 – In the past, Paul had tried to destroy the church. So he had destroyed that life of destruction.
9. 2:19-20 How had Paul been “crucified with Christ”?
   Answer: Paul’s identity was gone; he was now living by faith. The old Paul/Saul was gone. We are spirits in a body, not merely bodies with spirits. If our will – our spirit – has been replaced with the Spirit of Christ, then that renewed spirit will be manifest in what we do with our physical bodies.
10. 2:21 How could Christ “die for nothing”?
    Answer: If we can be righteous through the law, then Christ’s death was in vain. Commentary: To mingle legalism with grace makes grace a mockery.

Choose a verse from Chapter 2 to memorize (or to post in a prominent place).

Verses chosen: Galatians 2:16 and 2:20.

Studies in Acts–Lesson 5

Read Acts 9; 22:3-16; 26:9-18

1. What is meant by “breathing threats and murder”?
   Comments: To threaten and kill those who called themselves Christians. Saul’s over-riding purpose was to rid the world of these blasphemers who claimed this man Jesus had not only risen from the dead by was the Messiah and Son of God. Note that he went to the high priests to get permission to round up these people. (9:1)
2. Whom did Saul want to arrest? Why?
   Comments: Men and women of the Way. They claimed that Jesus was the Son of God and that after he was crucified, he rose from the dead. Was Saul one of those who rose up with the Libertines against Stephen in Acts 6:9? He was, after all, from Cilicia. Note: The Way is the only proper collective noun used in Acts to refer to those who were disciples. At my count, it appears three times:,in Acts: 9:2, 22:4, and 24:14. (9:2)
3. Briefly describe the conversation between the Lord and Saul.
   Comments: After Saul falls to the ground from being struck by a bright light[was he walking, or on a horse?], Jesus asks Saul why he is persecuting Him. [To persecute Christ’s people is to persecute Him, the other side of Matthew 25:40, 45, where Jesus says that to do good to others – or to neglect others – is to do the same to Him.] Paul asks, “Who are you, Lord?” Jesus answers, “Jesus, whom you are persecuting. Go into Damascus and you will be told what you must do.” (Acts 9:3-6)
4. Describe Saul’s condition in Damascus.
   Comments: He was blind and stunned into silence and prayer, having no food or drink. He is also repentant, as indicated by the new direction his life takes after this. In his writings, he never seems to forget what he did to the disciples of Christ. In 1 Timothy 1:15, he refers to himself as the “chief of sinners.” In Romans 1:14, he calls himself a “debtor, both to Greeks and Barbarians, the wise and the foolish.” We cited examples of those we know who, having been entrenched in sinful lifestyles, have a fervor for God not seen in some of us who did have to leave as much behind when we became Christians. (9:9)
5. What instructions did the Lord give Ananias?
   Comments: To go to a house on Straight Street, and find the man praying, to restore his sight, and to instruct him of the Lord’s will concerning him. (9:11; 22:14-16) Note: God uses men to teach his gospel. 1 Corinthians 1:21 refers to it as “the foolishness of preaching.”
6. Why was Saul baptized?
   Comments: To wash away his sins. (22:16)
7. What was Saul’s mission?
   Comments: To carry the gospel to Gentiles, kings, and sons of Israel, and to suffer for Jesus’ name sake (9:15). To be a witness to all men (26:16-18); To open men’s eyes to the light – for the forgiveness of their sins (26:19-20).
8. What did Saul immediately begin to do?
   Comments: Preach Christ as the Son of God. (9:20)
9. How was he received?
   Comments: With amazement, distrust, apprehension. The Jews plotted to kill him. (9:21-25). Note: It is thought that at the comma in verse 23 (“when many days had elapsed,”) Saul went away to Arabia and spent three years there before returning to Damascus and facing the persecution by the Jews. Is it a coincidence that he spent the same time in Arabia as the other apostles spent in the presence of Jesus? (See Galatians 1:15-24.)
10. How did he escape from Damascus?
    Comments: Paul’s disciples let him down in a basket through a hole in the city wall after nightfall. This is similar to the ways Rahab helped the spies escape (Joshua 2:15), and Michael helped David escape from those wanting to kill him (1 Samuel 19:12).
11. How did the disciples in Jerusalem receive Paul?
    Comments: With suspicion and fear. (9:26) Note from Don De Witt, in Acts Made Actual, pg. 127:
    “What were the thoughts of this humbled Pharisee as he approached the city of Jerusalem, as he looked upon the city wherein he had been trained, where he had so zealously labored for the Law? He would come face to face with many of his old friends. What would they think? But away with these thoughts of retrospect! He must make himself known to the disciples and above all he must meet the apostles.”
12. Who vouched for him in Jerusalem?
    Comments: Barnabas, so-called by the apostles because it means “Son of Encouragement.” (9:27, 4:36)
13. Where did the brethren take Saul, and where did they send him?
    Comments: To Caesarea, to catch a boat (assumed) back home to Tarsus. (9:30)

True or False

1. Saul asked for authority to kill all Christians he found. False
   He gathered them to be put into prisons (9:2; 22:5; 26:10,11). In 26:10, he confessed to casting his vote against them when they were being put to death. He also said that he tried to force them to blaspheme.
2. Saul was stricken by the light halfway between Jerusalem and Damascus. False
   He was almost to Damascus when the light struck him. (9:3)
3. The men with Saul heard the voice, but saw no man. True
   (9:7; 22:9)
4. Saul fasted and prayed without food but did take a little water. False
   He took neither food nor water. (9:9)
5. When the Lord spoke, Saul said, “Here am I, Lord.” False
   This was Ananias’s reply to God (9:5, 10) – in the NASV and ASV. Other versions merely read, “Yes, Lord.” The original Greek leaves out the words “Here am,” and merely says “I, Lord.”
6. Saul lodged in the house of Simon the tanner, by the sea. False
   Saul was in the house of Judas, on Straight Street in Damascus, when Ananias found him. (9:11). Peter stayed in the house of Simon the tanner (9:43).
7. Ananias said, "Brother Saul, arise and be baptized, for you are now saved." False
   Ananias said, “Brother Saul, receive your sight!” in 22:13. In 22:16, he said, “And now why do you delay? Arise, and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on His name.”
8. When Ananias placed his hands on Saul, it was as if scales dropped from his eyes. True (9:18)
9. Saul confounded the Jews at Damascus. True (9:22). Other versions read “baffled.”
10. Saul slipped out of the gate at Damascus to escape his enemies. False. He was let out through a hole in the wall. (9:25)

Studies in Acts, Lesson 3

Read Acts 5: 17 - 7:60

1. What caused the high priest and the Sadducees to “rise up”?
   Comments: Jealousy. They did not like all the attention Peter was getting. Note: Apparently, they jailed all the apostles. See 5:12 – All the apostles seemed to be at Solomon’s porch; 5:29 – It was more than just Peter and John.
2. How is the second arrest different from the first?
   Comments: 1) In verse 18, the high priest and his associates simply put them in a public jail. 2) In verses 26 and 27 – after the miraculous release of the apostles – the captain of the temple guard and officers went to the temple and brought them before the Council.
3. What two charges were made against the apostles? What was their response?
   Comments: 1) 5:28 – You have filled Jerusalem with your teaching; 2) You intend to bring this man’s blood on us. Note: The high priest was right! In 5:30, Peter and the apostles say just that. “The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom you had put to death by hanging Him on the cross.”
4. What do the scriptures tell us of Gamaliel?
   Comments: 5:34 - He was a Pharisee, teacher of the Law, respected by the people. He may have been a member of the Council, since it says he “stood up in the Council.” It’s not clear whether or not there were some there outside the Council. Acts 22:3 tells us he also taught Saul of Tarsus.
5. What was Gamaliel’s advice to the Council?
   Comments: 5:28-39 – If this “plan or action” is not from God, it will be overthrown. If it is from God, you don’t want to oppose it. Note: How refreshing to hear these words of wisdom from a respected member of the community, to witness how he persuades them calmly, while appealing to their “better selves”: Surely you would not want to oppose God!
6. What shows the utter disregard of the apostles for the punishment from the Council?
   Comments: 5:41-42. They rejoiced that they had been worthy of suffering shame [and not shame alone, but a beating as well!]. They went right back teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ. They were content to leave the situation in God’s hands, as Gamaliel had suggested.
7. List two problems that arose in the church at this time. (6:1 –
   Comments: 1) 6:1-2 An accusation of discrimination from the Hellenistic (Greek-speaking) Jews, that their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2) 6:9 Members of the synagogue of the Libertines (Freedmen, or freed slaves) began debating with Stephen.
8. Who selected the seven men? What were their qualifications?
   Comments: 6:3-13. The congregation of the disciples chose them. The men were to have good reputations and to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. Note: Another example of wisdom on the part of the apostles. According to their names, all the men were Hellenistic Jews. The apostles chose from their own number the men to take care of this responsibility.
9. What two-fold task did the apostles have in the Jerusalem church?
   Comments: Prayer and ministry of the word. Note: Prayer is mentioned first, and then ministry of the word.  Even if that has no significance, the two seem to be equal in importance.
10. What was the purpose of the laying on of hands?
    Comments: Endorsement, encouragement, ordaining their ministry. In this verse (6:6), the apostles seem to be the ones laying on the hands, for the purpose of ordination, setting these men apart for a particular service. Later, in 8:17, the apostles will lay hands on believers to pass on miraculous gifts of the Spirit. In 13:2-3, the church in Antioch will lay hands on Barnabas and Saul before sending them on a mission trip. Here, too, they are “set apart” for a particular work. Note: We do the same today when we hold a special ceremony before sending out missionaries. We “lay” our hands on them in hugs, pats, and handshakes as signs of our support and encouragement.
11. What are the thoughts conveyed in the phrase "obedient to the faith"? See also Jude 3 and Romans 6: 17-18.
    Comments: They turned (were converted) to Christ from Judaism. Jude 3 – “Contend earnestly for the faith…once for all delivered…” Romans 6:17-18 – Obedient to a form of teaching. When they obeyed the faith, they participated in the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ, they turned from sin to righteousness, from the old man to the new man.
12. Why do you think the Sanhedrin would be especially interested in the charge against Stephen?
    Comments: 6:11-13 – He was part of a movement, which preached Christ risen from the dead, which they hated, and couldn’t control (See 4:21-23). They perceived him as a threat to their way of life.
13. What was the specific charge made against Stephen?
    Comments: 6:13-15 He “spoke against this holy place”: Insurrection, blasphemy, wanting to destroy Jerusalem. They were afraid that Jesus would “destroy this place”? He was supposed to be dead!
14. Do you recall an incident similar to this? Describe the circumstances that are alike in the two incidents.
    Comments: The persecution and execution of Stephen resemble the trial and crucifixion of Christ:
    Matthew 26:61 and Acts 6:14 – Both were accused of destroying symbols of Jewish law. In Christ’s case it was the temple.
    Matthew 26:65,66 and Acts 6:11 – Both were accused of blasphemy.
    Matthew 26:67-68 and Acts 7:57-58 – Both suffered physical abuse.
    Matthew 27:20 and Acts 7:57 – Both were victims of a mob mentality
15. In chapter 7, Stephen gives a brief history of Israel's rejection of God's council. Make a list of the things Israel rejected which are mentioned here.
    Comments: 7:9 – Joseph; 7:25,39 – Moses; 7:51-52 – Prophets; 7:52 – the Messiah; 7:53 – God’s law
16. Which verses do you think best answer the charge that was made against Stephen?
    Comments: In 6:11, Stephen is accused of blasphemy. In 6:14, he is accused of plotting to destroy “this place.” Acts 7:55-56 may answer the first charge; Acts 7:47-50 answers the second: God does not dwell in a house made with hands. Men cannot destroy a house not made with hands.
17. Which of Stephen’s statements do you think caused the most anger in the council?
    Comments: Several answers on this one: 7:52 – “Your fathers killed the prophets”; 7:53 – You received the law but did not keep it;  and 7:56 – “I see the heavens opened….” Most likely, each statement brought them closer to the point of uncontrolled fury.
18. According to tradition, who probably cast the first stone?
    Comments: According to this passage, the witnesses were those who began to stone him. A good practice, if you think about it. If you’re the one who has to carry out the execution, you might think twice about making a false accusation – if you’re in your right mind. These men were not.
19. Was Saul a member of the council?
    Comments: It doesn’t say. The general consensus was that he was not – because 1) of his age – he was a young man.  2) In 9:14, he’s given authority by the chief priests to arrest Christians. Given his background (Philippians 3:4-6), however, he could have been.
20. Do Stephen's last words remind you of similar words spoken by another? What were they? Who else spoke them?
    Comments: Both Jesus and Stephen asked forgiveness for those who murdered them. Jesus, in Luke 23:34, cried "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." Here, in 7:60, Stephen cried, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them!”

Luke 23 and 24

1. 23:1-7 What were the accusations against Jesus?
   Comments: v. 2: Perverting the nation, forbidding to pay taxes to Caesar, saying that he is a king. v. 5: Stirring up the people. In John 18:33-38, Jesus explains his kingship to Pilate. Their accusation that he forbid his disciples to pay taxes was clearly a lie, made clear to the chief priests and scribes in Luke 20:21-26. Other note: Pilate is looking for a way out, so when he hears Jesus is a Galilean, he quickly sends him to Herod, the Tetrarch of Galilee.
2. 23:8-12 What was Herod’s attitude toward Jesus?
   Comments: At first, Herod was curious and wanted to see a miracle (a “trick”). But when Jesus wouldn’t respond, and the chief priests and scribes accused Jesus, Herod treated him with contempt and mocked him. Jesus had no respect for Herod. In Luke 13:32, he calls Herod a “fox.” Other notes about Herod: He became Tetrarch of Galilee and Perea in 4 B.C., upon the death of Herod the Great (Luke 3:1). He was also the one who beheaded John the Baptist (Luke 3:19-20).
3. 23:13-25 Why did Pilate release Barabbas instead of Jesus?
   Comments: To appease the mob. Also see John 19:12, where the crowd tells Pilate, “If you release him you’re no friend of Caesar.” Hendricksen states the following possible reasons Pilate wanted to release Jesus: 1) A sense of justice; 2) Jesus was more noble than his accusers; 3) Hatred for the Jews; 4) Superstitious fear (John 19:7-8); 5) A combination of the previous reasons.
4. 23:26-43 What concern did Jesus have for the women of Jerusalem? For those who crucified Him? For the malefactors?
   Comments: vv. 27-31: He was concerned that the women of Jerusalem would suffer in the fall of Jerusalem; v. 34: He asked God to forgive those who crucified them, because “they know not what they do.” vv. 39-43: He forgave the thief that was penitent and asked to be with Jesus in his kingdom. Note: Sometimes we forgive people with the consolation that someday God will “get them.” Jesus asks for God’s forgiveness for his crucifiers. Also, in the case of the thieves, he didn’t offer forgiveness unconditionally; he didn’t promise paradise to the the unrepentant thief.
5. 23:44-49 What was happening around Jesus when He died?
   Comments: v. 44 – darkness for 3 hours; v. 45 – the sun was darkened, the veil of the temple was torn in two; v. 47 – the centurion declared Jesus a righteous man; v. 48 – the crowd beat their breasts and returned home. [When they saw the crucifixion, they began to realize what they had done. They had just killed a godly man – maybe even the Messiah! In the words of Lenski, the commentator: “They came to witness a show; they left with feelings of woe.”] v. 49 – his female disciples and other acquaintances stood at a distance, watching.
6. 23:50-56 How did some of the disciples serve Him, even in death?
   Comments: vv. 50-54: Joseph of Arimathea went to Pilate, asked for Jesus’ body and laid it in a new tomb. (as prophesied in Isaiah 53:9).
7. 24:1-12 What did the women find at the tomb?
   Comments: The stone was rolled away, and the body was gone. Two men dressed in shining garments stood by, declaring that Jesus was risen from the dead, “Why seek ye the living among the dead?” Did their wanting to dress Jesus for his burial show their lack of faith that he would rise again? The consensus of the class was that his resurrection was beyond their experience; they were simply following custom and honoring the body of the one they loved.
8. 24:13-35 What did Jesus have to explain to the two men on the road to Emmaus?
   Comments: The Scriptures that prophesied about him and how what had happened to this “Prophet” was the fulfillment of those scriptures. They didn’t seem to realize this “prophet” was also the Messiah. He prefaced his teaching with “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken!”
9. 24:36-43 What kind of resurrection body did Jesus have?
   Comments: v. 30 He ate; v. 36 – He appeared our of nowhere. They were in a room that was shut (John 20:19). They could touch him.
10. 24:44-49 The preaching of repentance and remission of sins was to begin where? How long were the apostles to stay there?
    Comments: Jerusalem, until they were endued with power from on high.
11. 24:50-53 What was the attitude of the disciples after Jesus left them?
    Comments:  They were no longer sad. They were joyful, continuing in the temple, praising and blessing God. They undoubtedly had a lot to talk about as they realized the significance of all that Jesus had taught them.

Luke 21 and 22

1. 21:1-4 How can it be that two copper coins was more than what the rich men gave?
   Comments: As a percentage, it was much more than they gave. They gave out of their abundance; she gave all her livelihood. This does not necessarily mean she had no means of living in a culture that may not have depended upon currency as much as we do. Nevertheless, it was obvious that she gave not out of show but out of a desire to give. Like the Macedonians of 2 Corinthians 8:3-5, she first gave herself to the Lord. Note: What she gave equaled 1/16 of a denarius, which was a day’s wage.
2. 21:5-33 When Jesus spoke of “the end” in verse 9, of what was he speaking? (See vv. 6, 20.) Would anyone escape? (v. 21)
   Comments: The destruction of Jerusalem (in AD 70). Jesus told some how they could flee when they saw the approaching Roman armies. Note in verses 10-16 the persecution that some would undergo before that destruction, including betrayal by their families. In light of this, it’s no wonder Jesus told them in 14:26,27 that they might have to choose between him and their families. Note also that, even during these last days of his life, he was thinking not of himself but of his disciples’ safety some 40 years later.
3. 21:9, 12, 20, 32 When would these things happen?
   Comments: v. 9 – When they heard rumors of wars; v. 12 – after persecution of the disciples; v. 20 – when they saw Jerusalem surrounded by armies; v. 32 – in the present generation.
4. 21:34-36 What warning would be given for “that day,” and how much of the earth would it affect? (See also Matthew 24:36-44)
   Comments: There would be no warning; it would come on them like a trap and would affect the whole earth.
5. 21:37-38 How did Jesus spend His last days on earth?
   Comments: Teaching in the temple during the day, and resting at night on Mount Olivet. Even with just a few days left in his ministry, Jesus still saw the need to rest – a good example for us.
6. 22:1-6 What characteristics do you see in the chief priests, scribes, and Judas as they conspired to end Jesus’ life?
   Comments: Deceit, conniving, betrayal, even delight as Judas presented them a way to carry out their murderous plot – characteristics of Satan. They were also fearful of the people.
7. 22:7-23 What were Jesus’ instructions to His disciples concerning the bread and the cup?
   Comments: To eat the bread in his memory, because it is his body; to drink the cup, because it is the new covenant in His blood, shed for us.
   Discussion: If this is important, why is Luke the only gospel writer to mention it? By insisting we do it every Sunday, does it become a sacrament? It seemed to be important to the 1st century Christians, as indicated in Acts 20:7 and in Paul’s instructions in 1 Corinthians 11:23-28. In these examples, taking it in community with others and as a means to remember the sacrifice of Christ was what was important, not the bread and wine themselves. None of the class members were sure about the definition, purpose, or traditional number of sacraments, a subject for further research.
   Notes on the Passover: According to Hendriksen’s commentary, the traditional Passover followed a certain order: 
   1) Prayer of thanksgiving by the household head; a cup of (diluted) wine.
   2) Eating of bitter herbs.
   3) The son’s inquiry: “Why is this night different?” and the father replying with the Passover story.
   4) Singing the first part of Hallel (Psalm 113 and 114), washing of hands, a 2nd cup of wine.
   5) Carving and eating the lamb and unleavened bread. 3rd cup of wine.
   6) Continuing to eat – always the last of the lamb.
   7) Singing the last part of Hallel (Psalm 115, 116, 117, 118). 4th cup of wine.
   Which Cup? 1 Corinthians 11:25 mentions the cup that Jesus took after supper as the symbol of the new covenant: the blood He shed on the cross.
8. 22:24-30 In the kingdom of Christ, who is the greatest?
   Comments: The one who is as the younger, and as one who serves. This dispute seems to be a progression from the previous section. They begin questioning who would betray Jesus and progress to a discussion of who was the best person among them. They discuss this while Jesus is preparing to undergo the ultimate humiliation: death on the cross. Note in Luke 9:46-48 they had the same dispute.
9. 22:31-46 What kind of concern did Jesus show for His disciples, even as He was preparing Himself to die?
   Comments: v. 32 - He prayed for Peter’s faith; vv. 35-38 - He was concerned for their physical sustenance and protection (the sword); vv. 40  – He told them to pray for protection from Satan. Note: v. 32 – Jesus knew that Peter would deny him; he also knew he would repent, “return” to him and be able to strengthen the brethren.
10. 22:47-53 What concern did Jesus show even for those who came to arrest Him?
    Comments: He healed the ear of the priest’s servant that Peter cut off (See John 18:10-11). The swords he permitted them to have weren’t intended to be used for this purpose.
11. 22:54-62 What happened just before Peter remembered Jesus’ prophecy of his denial?
    Comments: The rooster crowed, and Jesus turned and looked at Peter. It must have added to the Lord’s sorrows to watch Peter’s realization and the sorrow it caused him.
12. 22:63-71 What kind of treatment did Jesus receive after He was arrested?
    Comments: They mocked him, beat him, blindfolded him, struck him on the face, mocked him, and accused him of blasphemy.

Luke 17 and 18

General Observations:

• It may seem sometimes that Luke’s account is disjointed, seeming to jump from one subject to another. However, as Hendriksen points out, even though the account is not always chronological, Luke does mean for it to be “orderly,” as he states in Luke 1:3. Therefore, we seek to find continuity and theme in this study.
• A class member observed a theme in Luke 18: Dependence on God. As we answered the questions, we saw this emphasis again and again, much like we saw an emphasis on urgency in Luke 13-14.

1. 17:1-6 What should be our attitude toward those who sin against us and repent over and over again?
   Comments: Rebuke him (verse 3 – Also see Galatians 6:1-4), and if he repents, forgive him. Remember that this is an offense against us, not a sin of lifestyle. Rather than rebuking someone who offends us, we tend to avoid that person, which is not good for either party. The offender may go on making the same mistake, and we may have lost a friend because we’ve been too lazy or cowardly to confront the problem.
   In verses 1 and 2, we are warned against causing another to sin; in verses 3-6, we are instructed in how to prevent further sin. In the NKJV, verse 3 reads, “Take heed to yourselves.” Hendricksen translates this “Look out for one another.”
2. 17:7-10 How should we view our service to the Master?
   Comments: As unworthy servants. As our duty, not as some gracious deed for which we should be thanked.
   Continuity I see after reading from Hendriksen’s commentary: To forgive (vv. 3-6) requires help from above, so the apostles ask to increase their faith. Jesus compares faith to a mustard seed, which starts small and continues to grow and gain power. in . The servant in the example did only his duty. As our faith grows, so will our gratitude for our position as servants to the King – and to others. We will do more than is our duty to do.
3. 17:11-19 Which of the ten lepers thanked Jesus for healing him?
   Comments: Only a Samaritan. The others went their way – healed, but without giving glory to God – which is what Jesus wanted them to do. They didn’t recognize their dependence on the mercy of God.
4. 17:20-21 Is the kingdom of God spiritual or physical?
   Comments: It’s spiritual – inside of us – but being a Christian affects the physical world around us. The Greek word used here is basileia, which can be translated either kingdom  or kingship, indicating Christ as our Lord and our King. The Jews wanted a kingdom they could see – and show.
5. 17:22-37 Who can predict the Lord’s return?
   Comments: No one. We must always be ready. The final judgment will be sudden and final.
   There was some discussion about whether this refers to the destruction of Jerusalem or to the end of the world. It seems to use the language of both the destruction of Jerusalem (Mark 13:14-23) and the end of the world (Matthew 24:36-44). The point of Jesus’ teaching here is not to listen to those who claim to have special insight into the return of Christ. When he comes again, everyone will know. As vultures find a body – no matter how remote is may be – so the judgment of Christ will strike those who are not faithful – wherever they are.
6. 18:1-14 What do the stories of the widow and the tax collector teach us about prayer?
   Comments: The widow was persistent in her requests for judgment. The tax collector was humble. The Pharisee, on the other hand, relied on himself to get it all done. Both the widow and the tax collector relied on someone else for help. The justice that God gives may be even greater than what we’ve requested. Again, the theme of dependence on God.
   Note: Whereas the unrighteous judge took his time in gaining justice for the woman, the Lord’s vengeance will come quickly (v. 8).
7. 18:15-17 What did Jesus mean by “as a little child” in verse 17?
   Comments: Having a childlike faith – total dependence on God, never doubting. A child is humble, trusting, never too proud to turn down a gift. Children also show unconditional love. One of the women told the story of a grandchild, expressing his love for his aunt, who has a chronic bronchial condition. “I love your face; I love your breathing tube.”
8. 18:18-30 What kept the young ruler from following Jesus?
   Comments: His dependence on his wealth. People who have visited poorer countries observed that, even in all their poverty, they seem happy. Is it possible that because they don’t have things, they can’t depend on them and therefore they value their relationships more? Jesus loved the young ruler; he knew he would be happiest if he depended on God rather than on his wealth.
   This is not an indictment against being wealthy – only a misplaced dependence on it. People with financial means can do a lot of good with it.
9. 18:31-34 What was the prediction Jesus made about Himself?
   Comments: He would be mocked, insulted, spit upon, scourged, and killed. On the third day He would rise again. He also said that all the things written by the prophets would come true. The apostles didn’t seem to grasp what he was saying. Was it because he referred to himself in the third person? All these things would happen to the “Son of Man. “
   There was also some discussion of what Jesus went through mentally, knowing exactly what would happen to him, while knowing he had the power to prevent it. We also noted that he could have willed himself to die sooner, but he first made sure that all prophecy was fulfilled.
10. 18:35-43 What did the blind man do so that he would be healed? How did his faith heal him? What was the result of his asking for help?
    Comments: He cried out repeatedly, “Lord, have mercy on me.” He acted on his faith, even though others were telling him not to. He received his sight. He depended on the mercy and power of Christ.

Luke 9 and 10

1. 9:1-6 What kind of power did Jesus give to the twelve apostles before He sent them out?
   Comments: 1) Power and authority over all demons: 2) to cure diseases; 3) to preach the kingdom of God; 4) to heal the sick
2. 9:7-17 What kind of doubt did the apostles have when there were so many who had followed Jesus to the desert place?
   Comments: This was beyond their experience, so they couldn’t imagine His ability to do such a thing. The same thing can be true of us. We tend to limit God’s abilities to what we have experienced or can imagine when in reality He can do more than we can imagine. (Hendriksen: They concentrated on the size of the crowd, not on Jesus.)
3. 9:18-27 What are two truths spoken about Jesus in this passage?
   Comments: v. 20 – He is Christ of God. v. 22 – He would die and be resurrected.
4. 9:28-36 What misunderstanding did Peter have that is evident in his suggestion about the tabernacles?
   Comments: That Jesus was just another special lawgiver or prophet – in the same category as Moses and Elijah. Moses was the representation of the Old Law; Elijah was representative of the Old Testament prophets. But Jesus is both lawgiver and prophet, the Son of God; now we listen to Him. (Hendriksen comment: Both Moses and Elijah departed the earth in unusual ways (Deuteronomy 34:6; 2 Kings 2:11).)
5. 9:37-62 What are some other weaknesses of the disciples as shown in this chapter?
   Comments: vv. 37-42 – Lack of faith. vv. 43-45 – Lack of understanding; vv. 46-48 – Pride; vv. 49-50 – Cliquishness; vv. 51-56 – Destructive anger, wanting revenge; vv. 57-62 – Misplaced priorities. Generally, a lack of faith.
6. 10:1-16 What were the main responsibilities of the seventy whom Jesus sent out?
   Comments: vv. 1-4 - To prepare the way for him, test the soil; v. 5 -  To take a message of peace; v. 9 - To preach the kingdom; v. 11 – To judge cities according to their response. Note the two meanings of “the kingdom of God has come near you.” One is a promise (v. 9); the other a warning (v. 11).
7. 10:17-20 What is more important than having the power to cast out demons?
   Comments: To have your name written in heaven. That power was important, but such power ends with death.
8. 10:21-24 How can we know God?
   Comments: Through the Son – Spending time with Him; reading the Word.
9. 10:25-37 How can we know if we love our neighbors as ourselves?
   Comments: By our acts of mercy and compassion; by our deeds. Treating others as we would be treated.
10. 10:38-42 What is the “good part” that Mary chose?
    Comments: To sit at Jesus’ feet and hear his word, undistracted by worldly concerns. Though Martha was serving, she wasn’t displaying a servant’s heart. She felt burdened by her duties and anxious about the outcome.

John 18 and 19

1. 18:1-14 What incidents in this passage indicate Jesus’ willingness to give Himself to die? Class Comments: v. 4 – He knew what was going to happen, and “went forward” to meet Judas and the soldiers. v. 5 – He told them, “I am He.” v. 8 – Again, he told them, “I am He,” and to let his disciples go their way. v. 11 – To Peter, after he cut off the ear of Malchus, “Shall I not drink the cup which My Father has given Me?”
2. 18:15-27 When Annas asked Jesus about His disciples and His teaching, how did Jesus answer? Class Comments: “I spoke openly – why ask me? Ask those who heard me.” Jesus was not some secret political insurrectionist. Everything he did, he did in the open. He also knew they already knew what he was teaching.
3. 18:28-32 What charges did the Jews bring against Jesus before Pilate? According to verse 31, what was their ultimate purpose? Class Comments: They brought no specific charges – just accused him of being an evildoer. They just wanted him dead and out of their way. Note on verses 31-32: In executions, the Jews stoned; the Romans crucified. Jesus’ death on a Roman cross was part of God’s plan. Irony in verse 28: While being careful about their ability to partake of the Passover lamb, they were crucifying the Passover Lamb.
4. 18:33-40 What is the nature of the Jesus’ kingdom? Class Comments: It’s a spiritual kingdom, not of this world. Because of the nature of the kingdom, Christians are never a threat to governments, which are ordained of God – even if they are perceived as such because of their godly lives. Irony in verse 28: Pilate asks “What is truth?” while looking at Truth in the face.
5. 19:1-16 What was Pilate afraid of? Class Comments: v. 8 – That he would be responsible for killing the Jewish God. Note: I don’t think we can surmise from this passage that he was afraid of killing the Son of the God of creation. As an idolater, though, he might have had some fear of killing A god. v.12 – He may have been afraid of killing a god, but he was more afraid of losing his position with the Emperor, Tiberius. Note: Verse 6 has been called “the strangest victory in history.” Also, more irony in 9:15 – “We have no king but Caesar,” especially in light of 8:33, when they claimed to be enslaved to no man.
6. 19:17-27 Briefly describe the actions of 1) the chief priests; 2) Pilate; 3) the soldiers; 4) the women. Class Comments: 1) The chief priests objected to the writing on the cross, that Jesus was King of the Jews. 2) Pilate inscribed that title. 3) The soldiers crucified Jesus and divided his garments among themselves (and thereby fulfilling the prophecy of Psalm 22:18); 4) The women stood by the cross.
7. 19:28-30 What were Jesus’ last words before His death, according to John’s account? What did He mean? Class Comments: Two outbursts: “I am thirsty!” and “It is finished.” The prophecies in Scripture had been fulfilled; His earthly mission was accomplished. The Greek word for “finished” is used to mean “the debt is paid in full.” It is the same term used when someone reaches the top of a mountain.
8. 19:31-37 What two scriptures were fulfilled in this passage? Class Comments: Verse 36 – “His bones will not be broken” is a description of the Passover lamb in Exodus 12:46 and Numbers 9:12 as well as a possible prophecy of the Messiah in Psalm 34:20. Verse 37 – “They shall look on Him whom they pierced” is a quote from Zechariah 12:10. The mourning described in Zechariah 12:10 is fulfilled in Luke 23:48.
9. 19:38-42 Who buried Jesus? What did each man provide? (Also see Matthew 27:60.) Class Comments: Joseph of Arimathea took the body and provided a clean linen cloth for burial. According to Matthew 27:59-60, he also provided the tomb. Nicodemus brought 75 pounds of spices – myrrh and aloes. Both men had been secret disciples. Both had the wherewithal and position to provide a burial place for their Savior and used them.