The Sixth Sunday of the Epiphany Season
Also known as Sexagesima Sunday February 12, 2023
Called by God to go fishing
There’s a story about a man who was a phenomenal fisherman. He was so good that his fame spread far and wide. When everyone else was catching two or three fish a day he would come back with two or three hundred. Eventually the local game warden decided to investigate because his fishing exploits simply sounded too good to be true.
One day, the game warden showed up at the man’s door, identified himself, and asked to go fishing with him. The man was agreeable, and so off they went to the lake. When they got into the boat, the warden quickly noticed that something didn’t seem right. The man didn’t have any fishing poles or bait. He didn’t even have a tackle box. All he had was a small duffel bag.
Off they went, chatting about this, that and the other thing until the man maneuvered the boat out into the middle of the lake. Without saying a word, he turned off the motor, reached into the duffel bag and pulled out what looked like a stick of dynamite. Before the warden could say anything, he lit it and threw it into the water. It exploded with a mighty roar. Stunned fish by the dozen floated to the surface. The man calmly started his boat and began maneuvering to gather up the fish in his net.
The warden said, “Now see here. You can’t use dynamite to fish. That’s highly illegal.” But the other man just laughed and steered the boat to another part of the lake. He did the same thing with a second stick of dynamite and sure enough more fish floated to the surface.
By this time the warden had seen enough. He said, “Mister, you’ve broken so many laws I can’t even begin to count them.” The man just laughed and pulled out another stick of dynamite. The warden kept on talking. “This is illegal possession of dynamite and illegal detonation of a dangerous material, as well as disturbing the peace, plus about a half-dozen other misdemeanors and felonies.”
While the warden was talking, the man calmly lit another stick of dynamite and handed it to the game warden. As he did he asked him the question fishermen always ask, “Are you going to talk or are you going to fish?”
I think that’s a big part of our problem, as Christians, when it comes to evangelism/witnessing—we spend too much time talking and not enough time actually fishing for souls. Maybe it’s because most of us are better at talking than we are at fishing for souls. It’s almost as though we believe that what Jesus really said was, “Follow me and we’ll talk about fishing for souls.” So we read books, go to seminars, and listen to sermons (just like the one we’ll hear today).
We end up becoming fairly “expert” when it comes to talking about fishing for souls. We learn all about
how to fish for the wide-mouthed atheist and which bait works best on the fresh-water Pharisee. Most of us also have a “tackle box” full of memorized Scripture. But we still aren’t all that good at actually fishing for souls. Many of us also end up feeling more than a little guilty about the whole matter of evangelism. We know we should do it because Jesus has directed us to be His witnesses, to “go and tell” the Good News about sins’ forgiveness and eternal salvation through faith in Him. But we just don’t seem to get around to doing what He directs. We’d prefer to talk about it and leave the task of evangelism to someone – anyone – else.
Researcher George Barna came to the conclusion that nine out of ten people who attempt to share what they believe about Christ with others end up coming away from the experience feeling as if they have failed. Think about it! 9 out of 10 Christians – people just like you and me – feel like failures when it comes to sharing what they believe with others. Is it any wonder most of us aren’t all that eager to do the work of evangelism? Barna concluded that “despite the divine command to spread the Word, many Christians prefer to redirect their energies into areas of spiritual activity that are more satisfying and in which they are more likely to achieve success.”
I can understand that. After a lifetime of being a Christian, and many years of being a pastor, I’m more than welling to admit that I’m not an outstanding evangelist. I have done my share of witnessing. Sometimes people listen to my witnessing for Jesus. They respond and even end up coming to church. More often than not, though, I get the polite, but fairly blank stare of someone who can’t wait to get away from me and my talk about Jesus and their souls’ salvation.
In the nearly forty years that I’ve been a pastor, God has brought souls into His Kingdom of faith through the ministry He’s called me to carry out on His behalf. Not a lot, mind you. But some here and there. I should add that almost always when I do share my faith, I’m a little apprehensive in the beginning…..but I always find it enjoyable and satisfying in the end.
I’m fairly certain I don’t have the Spiritual gift of evangelism, but that doesn’t mean I can’t do evangelism work. That’s true for you too. There are Christians who are genuinely, Spiritually gifted in this area. They certainly should be using that gift from the Lord to bring the Law and Gospel of Jesus to others. But, gifted or not, each of us can heed Christ’s call to be Christian witnesses…..to “go fishing” for souls.
It’s my hope and prayer, as you listen to God’s Word today, that the Holy Spirit will move you to more often go fishing for souls too, and that He will bless your efforts by enlightening and edifying the souls you serve….for their eternal benefit, for your satisfaction, and for God’s glory.
Today’s Scripture Lessons
Today in our Old Testament Lesson we’ll hear the LORD calling Jeremiah into his prophetic work of (primarily) Law and Gospel preaching to a spiritually unfaithful nation of Judah…..600 plus years before Christ’s birth.
In our Epistle Lesson Paul talks about the calling which Jesus gave him, as an apostle, to preach the Gospel of salvation especially to the Gentiles (non-Jews).
Our Gospel Lesson is the story of Jesus sending out 72 followers to preach the Gospel near the close of the first year of His Galilean ministry.
In our Children’s Lesson Paul reminds Timothy of God’s desire that no one die eternally. That desire is what caused Christ’s coming to earth. It has also resulted in the Lord’s call to His Church on earth today (and so, to us too) to preach the Gospel to souls all around us which are spiritually lost.
Finally, today’s Sermon will examine Christ’s calling of the Twelve into their apostolic work, and how – while we aren’t Apostles – Christ has called us to faith for heaven, but He’s also called us to share with others His Word – as they did – through our lives and with our lips.
This Morning’s Service and the “Church Calendar”
This morning, we find ourselves technically one Sunday away from the end of the Epiphany Season. We are also at the mid-point of a lesser-known period on the church’s calendar called “Pre-Lent.” Pre-Lent is a three Sunday “waiting” period during which the Church begins its “count-down” toward the more intense penitential and preparatory season of Lent. By tradition, the second of three “pre-lent” Sundays has been given the ancient Latin name “Sexagesima” Sunday. (The term means “60” and is a reference to the sixtieth day before Easter [which occurred earlier this week on Thursday].) The period of time known as “Pre-Lent” has had, as its purpose, the task of helping Christians to recognize the supremacy of the true God as well as to take ever more seriously our response to His Word and His will. Down through the centuries the Christian Church has used this particular Sunday (Sexagesima) to emphasize the importance and relevance of God’s Word in the lives and work of His people. We will participate in that centuries’ old custom this morning as we use Scripture and song to address our theme for today: “Called by God to Go Fishing.” Our intent is to recognize that God wants us to share with others the same Word of God which was used to establish saving faith in our hearts, for our eternal salvation, so that others might also believe and be saved for heaven. As we hear Jesus speak to Jeremiah, Paul, and the Twelve today, sending them off to proclaim His Word, may God the Holy Spirit also move each of us to proclaim God’s Law and Gospel boldly, clearly and consistently for the salvation of others.
Grace Lutheran Church of Northwest Arkansas
is affiliated with the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod, a church body which spans the United States and Canada, and which also operates a number of foreign missions.
Our Vision: Extend God’s Kingdom through His Word, serving each Soul.
Our Mission: Share the Gospel, Encourage Faith, and Prepare Souls
through Worship, Education and Fellowship.
Pre-Service Prayer – Dear Father in heaven, let me rejoice with my fellow Christians gathered here this morning as we worship You in Your house. Reassure me of Your love and forgiveness for me as I confess my sins to You today. Receive my praises and prayers, humble and imperfect though they be. Renew my faith and Christian life through Your Word. And then, return me to my appointed calling in this world, invigorated, equipped, and eager to serve You with all that I am and have, until the day when You call me to that heavenly home which You have promised and prepared for me and all believers, through Your Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. In His name I pray Amen.
The portions of God’s Word used in this worship flyer have been taken from The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version Copyright 2019, The Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission Music and lyrics, as needed, are used with permission via OneLicense.net #A712831
Silent Prayer upon entering the chapel
Let Us Praise The Lord
The Greeting and Invitation to Worship
The Opening Hymn Joyful, Joyful We Adore You
To the melody of “Ode to Joy” (CW 169)
Joyful, joyful we adore You, God of glory, God of love!
Heav’n and earth bow down before You,
Praising You, our Lord above.
You our Father, Christ our Savior, With the Spirit faith, provides.
Life eternal we’ve been granted, gracious gift that e’er abides.
You are giving and forgiving, Ever glorious, Ever blest.
Source of every kind of blessing, Giver of eternal rest.
You have claimed us as Your children
Heaven’s heirs through faith alone –
In the Rock of our salvation, Jesus Christ, our Lord, Your Son.
Lord, receive our prayers and praises, weak and humble though they be.
Yours the power, Yours the glory, Both today and endlessly.
None beside You, None before You, God of mercy, full and free.
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, ever blessed Trinity.
The Invocation
Pastor We begin this service in the name of the Father
Congregation Who gave us our lives through His almighty power.
P: And of the Son
C: Who redeemed our lives with His precious blood.
P: And of the Holy Spirit
C: Who gave us eternal life through faith in Christ Jesus.
P: Amen.
Hear Us and Forgive Us, Lord
Pastor – The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.
Congregation – And also with you.
Pastor – God invites us to come into His presence and to worship Him with humble and penitent hearts. Therefore, let us now turn to Him, acknowledging our sinfulness and seeking His forgiveness for all our sins.
Congregation – Holy and most merciful Father, + I confess that I am by nature sinful, + and that I have disobeyed You in my thoughts, words, and actions; + Each day I turn away from Your Will.
+ I have left undone those things which You have asked me to do, + and I have done those things which You tell me not to do. + I do not love You or my neighbor the way I should. + Because of these, + and all of my other sins, + too numerous for me to recall, + I acknowledge that I deserve nothing less than Your punishment + both now and for eternity. + But I am truly sorry for the evil that I have thought, spoken, and done, + and trusting in the perfect life, + and innocent death of my Savior, Jesus Christ, I pray: + Lord, forgive me all my sins, + restore to me the joy of Your salvation, + and strengthen my weak faith through the promises of Your divine Word + that I may obtain Your promised grace.
Pastor – Find comfort for your souls, then, in these words of our Lord: “If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just, and will purify us from all unrighteousness, because we have One Who speaks to the Father
in our defense — Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. We have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.” And now, upon this, your voluntary confession, I, because of my office as a called servant of God’s Word, announce the grace of God to all of you. And, in the place of, and according to the command of my Lord Jesus Christ, I forgive you all your sins, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. May the peace of God be with you. Amen.
Our Response To God’s Forgiveness
ALL sing: to the tune of “I Know That My Redeemer Lives”
All praise, eternal Son, to Thee
For Thy forgiveness, full and free,
He, who by grace, this truth believes
The blessings of Christ’s love receives
Praise God the Father, God the Son
And God the Spirit, Three in One,
As ’twas, is now, and so shall be
World without end, eternally! Amen.
Lord, Have Mercy Upon Us
Pastor For all that we need in life, Lord God, hear our prayer. We pray for the wisdom to use everything You have made with God-pleasing responsibility, gratitude and joy:
Congregation Lord, have mercy upon us!
Pastor` We pray for the steadfast assurance that nothing can separate us from Your love:
Congregation Christ, have mercy upon us!
Pastor We pray for the courage to stand firm against the assaults of Satan and every evil:
Congregation Lord, have mercy upon us, as we place our trust in You.
Pastor Merciful God, Maker and Preserver of life, uphold us by Your power and keep us always in Your gracious care.
Congregation Amen.
Feed Us, Lord
Our Children’s Lesson I Timothy 2:3-7
3 This is good and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4 Who wants all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God and one Mediator between God and mankind, the Man Christ Jesus, 6 Who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time. 7 For this testimony, I was appointed a herald and an apostle—I speak the truth; I am not lying—a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.
“Passing out the Lord’s Invitations”
Today’s Old Testament Lesson Jeremiah 1:1-19
The words of Jeremiah son of Hilkiah, who was one of the priests from Anathoth in the land of Benjamin. 2 The word of the Lord came to him in the thirteenth year of the reign of Josiah son of Amon, king of Judah, 3 and continued through the reign of Jehoiakim son of Josiah, king of Judah, until the eleventh year of Zedekiah son of Josiah, king of Judah, up to the time of the exile of Jerusalem in the fifth month.
4 The word of the Lord came to me. 5 Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you, and before you were born, I set you apart. I appointed you to be a prophet to the nations.
6 But I said, “Ah, Lord God! I really do not know how to speak! I am only a child!”
7 The Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am only a child.’ You must go to everyone to whom I send you and say whatever I command you. 8 Do not be afraid of them, because I am with you, and I will rescue you, declares the Lord.”
9 Then the Lord stretched out his hand and touched my mouth. The Lord said to me: There! I have now placed My words in your mouth.
10 Look, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and to tear down, to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant.
11 Again the word of the Lord came to me: “What do you see, Jeremiah?” I answered, “I see a branch of an almond tree.” 12 The Lord said to me, “That is correct. You have observed accurately. And this vision means that I am watching over My word to fulfill it.”
13 The word of the Lord came to me a second time: “What do you see?”
I answered, “I see a boiling pot tipped away from the north.” 14 Then the Lord said to me: Disaster will boil over from the north on everyone who lives in the land. 15 Listen, I am summoning all the clans from the northern kingdoms, declares the Lord. They will come, and each one will set up his throne at the entrance of the gates of Jerusalem. They will come against all the surrounding walls and against all the cities of Judah. 16 I will pronounce My judgments against Judah because of their wickedness. They have abandoned Me. They have made burnt offerings to other gods, and they have bowed down to the work of their own hands. 17 Now you, get ready. Rise up and tell them everything I am commanding you. Do not be frightened by them, or I will frighten you in their presence. 18 Look, today I have made you like a fortified city, like an iron pillar, and like bronze walls, to take a stand against the whole land. Stand against the kings of Judah, its officials, its priests, and the people of the land. 19 They will fight against you, but they will not overcome you, because I am with you to rescue you, declares the Lord.
The Epistle Lesson Philippians 3:4-21
If anyone else thinks that he has grounds for confidence in the flesh, I have more: 5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6 in regard to zeal, persecuting the church; in regard to the righteousness that is in the law, blameless.
7 But, whatever things were a profit for me, these things I have come to consider a loss because of Christ. 8 But even more than that, I consider everything to be a loss because of what is worth far more: knowing Christ Jesus, my Lord. For His sake, I have lost all things and consider them rubbish, so that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own, which comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness that comes from God by faith. 10 I do this so that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, 11 in the hope that in some way I may arrive at the resurrection from the dead.
12 Not that I have already obtained this or have already reached the goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus also took hold of me. 13 Brothers, I do not consider myself to have taken hold of it yet, but there is one thing I do: Forgetting the things that are behind and straining toward the things that are ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal, for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Therefore, let all of us who are mature continue to think this way. And if you think differently about anything, God will reveal this to you too. 16 Only let us think the same thing and walk in line with what we already have attained.
17 Brothers, join together in imitating me and in paying attention to those who are walking according to the pattern we gave you. 18 To be sure, many walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. I told you about them often, and now I am saying it while weeping. 19 Their end is destruction, their god is their appetite, and their glory is in their shame. They are thinking only about earthly things. 20 But our citizenship is in heaven. We are eagerly waiting for a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. 21 By the power that enables Him to subject all things to Himself, He will transform our humble bodies to be like His glorious body.
Sequence Hymn Hymn 560 “I Hear the Savior Calling”
verses 1 & 5
I hear the Savior calling! He gives this charge to me:
To serve as best I’m able, Whate’er the call may be.
Thus hand in hand with others Who share this heav’nly key,
We spread the Gospel message: forgiveness, full and free!
I hear the Savior calling! His call has urgency!
Each moment souls are dying; Soon comes eternity.
And so, my precious Savior, This is my humble plea:
Prepare me for my mission For you are calling me! Amen.
The Gospel Lesson Luke 10:1-24
After this, the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them out two by two ahead of Him to every town and place where He was about to go. 2 He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. So ask the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest field. 3 Go your way. Look, I am sending you out as lambs among wolves. 4 Do not carry a money bag or traveler’s bag or sandals. Do not greet anyone along the way. 5 Whenever you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace be to this house.’ 6 And if a peaceful person is there, your peace will rest on him, but if not, it will return to you. 7 Remain in that same house, eating and drinking what they give you, because the worker is worthy of his pay. Do not keep moving from house to house. 8 Whenever you enter a town and they welcome you, eat what is set before you. 9 Heal the sick who are in the town and tell them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near you.’
10 “But whenever you enter a town and they do not welcome you, go out into its streets and say, 11 ‘Even the dust from your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off against you. Nevertheless know this: The kingdom of God has come near.’ 12 I tell you, it will be more bearable for Sodom on that day than for that town.
13 “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles that were done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. 14 But it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon in the judgment than for you. 15 And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted up to heaven? No, you will be brought down to hell. 16 Whoever listens to you listens to Me. Whoever rejects you rejects Me. And whoever rejects Me rejects the One Who sent Me.”
17 The seventy-two returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in Your name!” 18 He told them, “I was watching Satan fall like lightning from heaven. 19 Look, I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy. And nothing will ever harm you. 20 Nevertheless, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names have been written in heaven.”
21 In that same hour, Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and learned and have revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, because this was pleasing in your sight. 22 “Everything was handed over to Me by My Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and no one knows who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wants to reveal Him.” 23 Turning to the disciples, He said privately, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see! 24 Indeed, I tell you that many prophets and kings wanted to see the things that you are seeing, yet did not see them, and to hear the things that you are hearing, yet did not hear them.”
After which the Congregation will rise to confess the faith we share together in the Triune God through the words of
The Apostles’ Creed
I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth. And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord; Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost; Born of the virgin Mary; Suffered under Pontius Pilate; Was crucified, dead, and buried; He descended into hell; The third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven; And sitteth at the right hand of God, the Father Almighty; From thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost; The Holy Christian Church, the Communion of Saints; The forgiveness of sins; The resurrection of the body; And the life everlasting. Amen.
After which the Congregation will be seated for
The Hymn of the Day Hymn 557 “On Galilee’s High Mountain”
On Galilee’s high mountain Christ gave His great command
In words of strength and promise Which all can understand
“All pow’r to Me is given To do what I shall chose,
Therefore I send My children Their witness I will use.
The Lord, Who, born of Mary, Cam down as man and died,
Who preached to all who listen For us was crucified.
The Lord our living brother, In pow’r at God’s right hand
Has chosen us to carry His truth to ev’ry land.
His strength within my weakness Will make me bold to say
How His redeeming power Transforms my stubborn clay.
His touch of fire ignites me; With courage I am sent,
My tongue-tied silence broken, With grace made eloquent.
And not alone to nations In far away retreats,
But ev’rywhere I broadcast His love through crowded streets.
The lives that my life touches, However great or small –
Let them through me see Jesus, Who served and saved us all.
Lord, gather all Your children Wherever they may be,
And lead them on to heaven To live eternally
With You, our loving Father, And Christ our Brother dear,
Whose Spirit guards and gives us The joy to persevere.
The Greeting
Grace and peace be yours in abundance, through the knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ, our Lord. May the God of peace fill you with all joy in believing! Amen.
Today’s Sermon Text Luke 5:1-11
One time, while the crowd was pressing in on Jesus and listening to the word of God, He was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret. 2 He saw two boats there along the lakeshore. The fishermen had left them and were washing their nets. 3 Jesus got into one of the boats, which belonged to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from the shore. He sat down and began teaching the crowds from the boat. 4 When He had finished speaking, He said to Simon, “Put out into the deep water, and let down your nets for a catch.” 5 Simon answered Him, “Master, we worked hard all through the night and caught nothing. But at Your word I will let down the nets.” 6 When they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their nets were about to tear apart. 7 They signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them. They came and filled both boats, so that they began to sink. 8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Go away from me, because I am a sinful man, Lord.” 9 For Peter and all those with him were amazed at the number of fish they had caught, 10 and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. Jesus said to Simon, “Have no fear. From now on you will be catching people.” 11 After they brought their boats to the shore, they left everything and followed Him.
Fishing For Souls
following which the Congregation will REMAIN SEATED for
The Post-Sermon Blessing
May the God of peace, Who brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus Christ, that Great Shepherd of the sheep, now equip you with everything good for doing His will! Amen.
We Offer Our Gifts to the Lord
Our Offerings of Love to our Lord
Offerings will be received this morning through offering plates passed among those who have gathered here for worship. However, for those viewing this service online, we offer you the following suggestions for providing God with Your thank-offerings through our ministry:
1) You can mail a check (no cash) to the church address: 415 N. 6th Place, Lowell, AR 72745
2) You can donate on our website: www.gracelutherannwa.com
the Congregation will please rise as the offerings are brought to the altar
We Offer Our Prayers to the Lord
Today’s Prayers
The Lord’s Prayer Our Father, Who art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name; kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven; Give us this day our daily bread; And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation; But deliver us from evil; For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.
Now Dismiss Us, Lord
Benediction – Brothers and sisters, now go in peace.
Live in harmony with one another.
And Serve the Lord in gladness.
The LORD bless you and keep you.
The LORD make His face shine upon you and be gracious unto you.
The LORD look upon you with favor, and give you His peace. Amen.
Our Closing Hymn Hymn 559 “Lord of the Living Harvest”
1 Lord of the living harvest That ripens o’er the plain,
Where angels soon will gather Their sheaves of golden grain,
Accept our hands to labor, Our hearts to trust and love,
And be with us to hasten Your kingdom from above.
2 As lab’rers in your vineyard, Lord, give us work to do,
Content to bear the burden Of weary days for you,
To ask no other wages When you will call us home
Than to have shared the labor That makes your kingdom come.
3 Be with us, God the Father; Be with us, God the Son
And God the Holy Spirit, Most blessed Three in One.
Make us your faithful servants You rightly to adore,
And fill us with your blessing Both now and evermore.
Silent Prayer. Announcements, Post-Service Music
Announcements
This Coming Week at Grace Lutheran Church
Today Morning Worship, 9:30 a.m. Fellowship Time, 10:40 a.m.
Sunday School/Bible Class, 11:05
Pot Luck-Fellowship Dinner, after Bible Class
Monday Church Secretary in the Office, 10 a.m. to mid-afternoon
Tuesday Morning Bible Class, 10 a.m.
Church Council Meeting, 6 p.m.
Wednesday Evening Bible Classes, 6-7 p.m.
Saturday Outreach Visits, 10 a.m.
Sunday Morning Worship, with the Lord’s Supper 9:30 a.m,
Fellowship, 10:45am Bible Class/Sunday School 11:05am
Youth Confirmation Class, 12:15 to 1:30 p.m.
Last Week At Grace: Sunday Worship Attendance: 74 (13 online)
Bible Class Attendance: 31 (7 online)
Budgetary Offerings: $ 4275 Online budget Offerings: $ 369.27
Serving Us Next Sunday Elders: Steve Stone, Rick Tragasz
Altar Guild: Katie Boatright, Marilyn Outlaw Ushers: Terry Bruns, Tim Huebner, Tom Otto
Birthday This Week: Feb 12 – Vicki Walker;
Midweek Lent Worship Services Notice – In slightly over one week our midweek Lenten worship services will begin. This year Ash Wednesday will be on February 22nd. As we’ve done in the past, this year we’ll also be holding “Lenten Suppers” each Wednesday evening through-out Lent. They’ll begin at 6 p.m. Our worship services will begin at 7:00 p.m. On Ash Wednesday we’ll also celebrate the Lord’s Supper. Please plan to join us for all of these special services. Also, please bring a non-churched friend with you to share in these services.
Grace Lutheran Church
Adult Bible Study, 2023
The Parables of our Lord
Divine Truths From Real Life Stories
The Role And Interpretation Of Parables
What is a parable?
Definition of a parable
It is…….
– not a fable
– not a myth
– not a proverb
– A parable, by common definition, is an aid for teaching.
Many of us also have learned this definition: “A parable is an earthly story with a heavenly meaning.”
Look up the following Scripture references. In what way were parables effective in the given situations?
* Luke 20:1-19
* 2 Samuel 12:1-8
* Luke 14:25-33
How Jesus Used Parables
Look up Matthew 13:31,32. There’s no explanation of what this short parable means. Why did Jesus often speak in parables rather than simply stating the facts?
- Jesus used parables not to mask the truth, but to cause His hearers to search for it.
- Parables are more interesting than “abstract” theological discussions. They are also easier for people to relate to, and to remember.
- Jesus used parables in discourse with His enemies so that they would have no clear statements from Him to use against Him. Look up Mark 4:10-12.
- For those who were hardened in their refusal to acknowledge the truth of Jesus’ message and identity, parables served to hide the truth from them and act as a judgment against them. Look up Matthew 21:43-46. Who is Jesus addressing here? (see v.23) What is He clearly saying to them? Why did He use a parable to make this point?
The Gospel of John has no parables. Mark has only one that is unique to his book. The majority of our parables, then, come from Luke’s and Matthew’s Gospels. A few are also found in the Old Testament.
The Interpretation Of Parables
The following principles should guide us as we seek to interpret the parables of Jesus:
- The parables are not merely charming little stories about the “way things always are.” They explain ways in which God operates, or ways in which He expects His followers to live for Him. Matthew 13:11 tells us that parables explain certain aspects of the Kingdom of God to us; namely, God’s just and gracious dealings with sinful man. Also, keep in mind the main thought or leading idea of the parable as given by Christ himself, or the context.
- Always pay careful attention to the immediate context of the parable.Parables typically answer a question or address a particular situation that its hearers are facing. What prompted Jesus to speak the parables offered in the following references?
- Luke 7:41-50
- Matthew 12:29
- Luke 10:25-37
- All the features of the parable are subordinate to the leading idea. The interpretation of details must fit the main thrust of the story. Consequently, not every part of a parable needs to be interpreted. Some parts simply supplement the story. The parable itself should be studied along with the context to determine what is the one main point at issue (this is often called the “tertium”). For example in Luke 18:1-8, what might you conclude about God if you focused primarily on the description of the judge? What, however, is clearly the main point of this parable?
- Parables are not to be used to establish doctrine. Parables support other clear doctrinal passages.
- Finally, the interpreter should be familiar with the history, geography, culture and customs of Bible times to properly interpret the parables. Familiarity with Jewish marriage customs, the practice of wine making, the art of farming in ancient Israel, etc. will help us to better understand the parables.
Parables: Divine Truths From Real Life Stories
Section One: The Work And Worth Of The Gospel
(The sower & the seed; the weeds;
the mustard seed and yeast; the hidden treasure/pearl)
Section Two: God’s Great Expectations
(The two debtors; the lost sheep; the unmerciful servant;
the good Samaritan; the tower builder & warring king;
the shrewd manager; the unworthy servants; the 10 minas)
Section Three: By Grace Alone; By Faith Alone
(The searching shepherd/woman/father; the persistent friend;
the pharisee and the publican; the laborers in the vineyard)
Section Four: Preparation For Judgment
(The rich fool; the narrow door; the seats at a wedding feast;
the great banquet; the wedding banquet; the net;
foolish & wise virgins; the tenants)
Section Five: Miscellaneous and Lesser-Known Parables
(The Parable of The Patched Garment And The Wineskins; Children In The Marketplace;
Parables Proving The Person Of Christ; The Empty House; The Owner of the House; Clean and Unclean; Lost Sheep and Dogs; The Yeast of the Pharisees; The Rock and the Keys; The Lamp of the Body;
The Fruitless Fig Tree; The Wise and Foolish Builders)
Section One: The Work and Worth of the Gospel
The Sower, The Seed, And The Soils
(Matthew 13:3-23; Mark 4:2-20; Luke 8:4-15)
To understand this parable, note that farmers in Jesus’ day simply broadcast the seed on untilled ground and then scratched the seed into the soil with a crude plow. A footpath of soil hardened by foot traffic, often ran around the perimeter of the field.
This parable and others seek to explain the nature of and operation of the “Kingdom of God” or “The Kingdom of Heaven”. What do these passages tell us about God’s kingdom?
- Luke 17:20,21
- John 18:36,37
- Romans 14:17
We define “God’s Kingdom” as his gracious rule in our hearts through his Word.
What four results followed the farmer’s sowing of his field? (Mark 4:2-8)
Read Mark 4:10-12. For Jesus’ enemies, what purpose did these parables serve? What “secret” did the disciples know that enables them to understand the parables?
In verses 13-20, Jesus explains this parable to his disciples. In the first case, Satan takes away the word before it has a chance to sink in. Give examples of how the devil can take the Word away.
In the second case, why would someone “receive it [the Word] with joy, but have no root”? What are some of the issues/things in life that, spiritually-speaking, cause a shallow root system that, in turn, leads to the rather rapid death of a faith that initially seems to thrive?
Agree or Disagree……..A person like this person never had genuine faith in the first place.
In the third case, explain how worries and mixed-up priorities can choke out God’s Word in human hearts.
In the last case, what does Jesus mean when he says that the Word produces different amounts of fruit in people’s lives? Why is it dangerous to assume that all believers should produce the same amount of fruit in their lives?
This parable not only speaks to four types of hearers, but describes each of us individually as well. In what way is that true?
Our mission purpose, as a Christian Church, is to make and maintain disciples of Christ. How does a proper interpretation of this parable help us understand what we are to do?
The Growing Seed (Mark 4:26-29)
On the basis of the previous parable, should we assume that some people are to receive credit for their salvation because they were “good soil” and accepted the Word whereas others rejected it? This parable shows us that the life that comes from a seed of grain, and spiritual life that comes from the seed of God’s Word, are both mysteries.
What warning can we take from this parable when we are tempted to tamper with or dress up God’s Word to make it more appealing to human hearts?
What comfort can we take from this parable as we seek to sow God’s Word in human hearts with sometimes fumbling efforts or little outward “success”?
The Weeds (Matthew 13:24-30; 36-43)
Jesus uses another familiar illustration from the agricultural world. How did Jesus explain this parable? (vv.36-43)
Why is it dangerous to say, “We’re going to get rid of all those people in our congregation who act like unbelievers”?
How does this parable help us to understand and deal with the disturbing fact that there are hypocrites even in Christian congregations?
Often we wonder “why” things in this world are so evil. Verse 28 gives a succinct answer……
The Mustard Seed and the Yeast (Matthew 13:31-35)
The mustard plant here pictured is not the 18 inch plant that grows in our garden. The oriental mustard plant can reach the height of a tree one year from planting (J. Dwight Pentecost, in his book The Parables Of Jesus, claims that he has a picture of a one-year-old mustard tree, 32 feet high!)
Knowing Satan’s opposition to God’s kingdom, an understandable question is “What will become of God’s kingdom if Satan so vigorously seeks to destroy it?” How does this parable answer that question?
The Bible speaks of the Gospel as something considered by many to be “foolishness”, “weak”, and “lowly” (1 Corinthians 1:27,28). For example, Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are regarded by many as mere rituals or symbols. When we speak about these Sacraments as “Means of Grace” through which God powerfully works, we are often met with skepticism and even ridicule. What evidence do we have, however, that these things are not as weak as they seem?
The parable of the Yeast in the dough focuses in on the way in which the Gospel works, which is similar to the working of yeast amid dough. Yeast works internally, and yet its work is all-pervasive and is readily observable.
How does this parable speak to the person who assumes (or presumes), “I can love however I want, as long as I believe”?
The Hidden Treasure And The Pearl of Great Price
(Matthew 13:44,45)
It was not uncommon for people in Bible times to bury part of their wealth as a means of keeping it secure in times of war or political unrest. People in ancient times placed an unusually high value on pearls, similar to how we might value gold, diamonds, or other precious gems today.
Does this parable teach that God’s kingdom is something that we obtain by giving up other things? (See Isaiah 55:1,2)
Does this parable teach us to hoarde the Gospel once we find it? (Mark 16:15)
This parable DOES teach us something about our attitude toward the Gospel. Namely, what?
Section Two: God’s Great Expectations
The Two Debtors (Luke 7:36-50)
The basis for this parable is an incident that occurs during a dinner Jesus attends at the home of a Pharisee named Simon.
What makes you wonder about the sincerity of this man’s invitation to Jesus? And if he did not invite Jesus out of true respect, why did he invite him?
The woman who enters Simon’s home is called “a woman who had lived a sinful life.” She was probably a prostitute. Pharisaic law made being touched by such a woman an act of defilement.
In addition, what kind of rabbi would accept an expensive perfume gift when it was undoubtedly purchased with sin-tainted money!? Why did Jesus allow this sorry, sobbing scandalous human being to even get near him?
What spiritual point does the parable make? What should it particularly have meant to Simon?
It was common hospitality in Eastern cultures to provide water for guest to wash their feet, to greet guests with a polite kiss, and to anoint the guest’s head with oil (considered by most to be an act symbolizing joy and festivity). Not only did Simon neglect to do this, but this sinful woman – in contrast — went beyond what was customary.
Do we ever consider ourselves less in need of forgiveness than others? When? Why?
In what ways do we view certain sinners with disgust? How should we be viewing them?
How would you have reacted to that woman? Would you have been embarrassed? Would you have thought she went overboard? When does showing love for Jesus become excessive? What is easier- To fall short of showing love for Jesus or to go too far?
The Lost Sheep (Matthew 18:10-14)
What was on the disciples’ minds that leads us into chapter 18? (See verse 1) What does this question tell us about their attitude and character?
Verses 10-14 contrast the disciple’s attitude and goals with God’s. The angels who “always see the face of my Father in heaven” rejoice whenever a sinner repents. What is Jesus’ point in this verse?
Contrast the attitude of the heavenly Father in this parable with that of the disciples in verse 1.
How does this parable influence how we look at others? How we look at ourselves? How we approach our ministry as a church and as individuals?
The Unmerciful Servant (Matthew 18:21-35)
Jesus had just finished discussing how to deal with someone who has sinned against us. Peter has a question that seems quite natural, given the preceding conversation. “How many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me?”
We need to give Peter credit for the right motives, but the wrong mechanics. Pharisaic law demanded that one forgive two times, or three times if you wanted to exceed the standard. Peter also knew the law of love should prompt a Christian to be more forgiving than that. Even more than twice as forgiving. It seems he was anticipating Jesus to give him an answer somewhere between 3 and 7.
Note that Jesus’ use of the number “seventy times seven” was a Jewish idiom and was understood to mean an innumerable amount.
10,000 talents = millions of dollars
A few hundred denarii = A few dollars
What are some excuses we use to justify being unforgiving?
The parable gives us the reason why we are expected to forgive innumerable times. What is the number one motivating factor that makes the victim of a sin able to forgive the sinner. see Matthew 6:12; Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13
“he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold . . .” The selling of a debtor who was not able to pay was not unusual in ancient times. “I will pay back everything.” A flat-out lie. Don’t many people think the same thing when it comes to salvation? Good works cannot pay God back for sins in our life.
The Roman Catholic church uses v. 34 as a proof passage for purgatory. Why is that not a legitimate interpretation?
What’s wrong (and dangerous) with this statement? “I just can’t forgive him/her for what he/she has done!”
The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37)
To understand why Jesus spoke this parable, read verses 25-29. Why did this expert in the law ask the question, “And who is my neighbor?” What’s wrong with the lawyer’s question?
Look at Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18. What is emphasized in both passages? Why the emphatic repetition of “all?” What will prompt such love? (See I John 4:1)
In verse 28, the Greek word for “do this” means “keep on doing, never fail, never give up, never slip, never let go.” What is Jesus’ point in telling the lawyer, “Do this and you will live?” (Also, see Galatians 3:21)
Jesus’ parable is His answer to the man’s question. To understand this parable better, we want to note the following:
- A priest was the highest and most repsected religious leader in Israel.
- The Levites were temple workers; both the priest and the Levite therefore could well be considered as model, God-fearing Jews.
- The Samaritans and Jews hated each other; the Jews considered the Samaritans as half-breed low-lifes because they were of mixed blood (Jewish and native Canaanite); Samaritans considered the Jews to be arrogant and overbearing. A Jew would have nothing to do with a Samaritan, and vice versa.
What reasons might that Priest and Levite have for not stopping to help that wounded man? Could their “reasons” be viable, spiritually speaking?
The main point of the parable is stated in verse 36. What is it?
Many misinterpret this parable. They assume that Jesus was teaching us to be kind to people. Acutally, this parable holds no comfort for us at all. Because it convicts us, just as it convicted that expert in the law…………of what?
This account points out sinful man’s wrong assumption that God is satisfied with our keeping common standards of basic, decent behavior. What ARE God’s standards? Can we “Go and do likewise?” If not, how can we have any hope of pleasing God?
In what ways are we, at times, like the Levite and priest? In what ways would you like to be more like the Good Samaritan? How is Jesus the true Good Samaritan?
The Tower Builder And The Warring King (Luke 14:25-35)
This parable leads the crowd following Jesus to consider whether they are willing to pay the price of living in this kingdom as a disciple of Christ.
In what sense does the call to follow Jesus include a call to “hate” even those close to us? How is it a call to “hate” even our own life?
Today, we hear the phrase “a cross to bear” and we think of something difficult we have to live with. However, in Jesus’ day, carrying a cross meant much more. It meant . . . what?
Why is it important to “count the cost” of discipleship?
According to this section of Scripture, who IS qualified to be a disciple? Are you qualified? Justify your response.
The Parable Of The Shrewd Manager (Luke 16:1-13)
After focusing on God’s desire to save sinners, Jesus teaches his disciples how to live in such a way as to show that rescuing souls is their main objective as well.
In Eastern business practice, as long as a manager collected what his owner demanded, he was free to take any added percentage for himself. Therefore, it is possible that even with the discounts the manager offered, he still returned the amount that his owner originally demanded. Regardless, the manager lost out on money that could have been his. About what was the manager most concerned?
Why did the owner “commend” the manager?
There’s no question that dishonesty was involved in this man’s plan. However, that is not the point of Jesus’ parable. Jesus wants to bring attention to the shrewdness of the manager, and for his disciples to take note.
In verse 8, who are the “people of this world?” (see Psalm 17:14) Who are the “people of light?” (see Ephesians 5:8) Why would people of the light want to be shrewd in dealing with people of the world?
You have a neighbor that moves in and you find out he and his family are atheists. What are some ways you can be “shrewd” in dealing with him? What factors will determine how “shrewd” you become?
Agree or Disagree: The manner in which I use my wealth on this earth determines to what degree God will bless me with more. (see 2 Corinthians 9:6)
What is the main point of this parable?
NOTE: Heaven is a gift. It has nothing to do with how we use our money. However, our use of wealth in a God-pleasing way may RESULT in many people being in heaven to welcome us one day.
Unworthy Servants (Luke 17:7-10)
In verses 1-6 of chapter 17, Jesus has just given some examples of the stringent demands of obedience that those who follow Him must follow. When they expressed their intimidation at such high standards, Jesus comforted them by telling them that, though their faith was small, yet because their faith was in him, it was powerful enough to enable them to great things for God!
This short parable, however, speaks to a different concern: the human tendency to judge our faithfulness to God on the basis of how we stack up compared to others. There’s always someone less faithful than we are. Often we are able to find that person in our lives. What does this parable say to us when we start to compare ourselves to others?
What are the evil consequences for me, for others, and for God when I conclude, “you know, compared to most people, I’m a pretty faithful Christian”?
The Ten Minas (Luke 19:11-27)
If someone gave you $l000.00 extra dollars, what would you do with it?
1. Invest it aggressively.
2. Put it in an insured bank account.
3. Stuff it in a mattress because you don’t trust banks.
The setting of this parable is that Jesus and his disciples are nearing Jerusalem on his last journey. Many believed Jesus would now establish His kingdom in Jerusalem. The story of Zacchaeus, just previous to this parable, points out the commitment to Jesus that accompanies a life of faith. Zacchaeus gave half of his possessions to the poor and paid back those he had cheated four-fold. The parable is all about faithfulness. Perhaps Jesus spoke this parable in Zacchaeus’ home.
Who’s the man who went into a far country and promised to return again? Who are the servants? Who are the people who say, “We don’t want you to rule over us?” What’s the distant country? What’s meant by the interval between when the nobleman left and would return?
(Verse 13) a mina was about three months wages. What does the mina that each servant received before the nobleman left in the parable represent? (see John 20:22). It could also be the means of grace God’s servants are to use faithfully until the end of the age. I Tim. 6:20. What are we to do with the mina until Jesus returns again?
In Biblical numerology the number ten, incidentally, consistently represents perfection or completeness.
The faithful servants in the parable showed their faithfulness by investing the money given to them by their master wisely and profitably. How can we show our faithfulness as God’s servants?
Should we expect tangible or visible rewards already now on earth?
What does Jesus mean in verse 26?
Should we be afraid of the Last Day when the Lord calls us to give an account?
Section Three: By Grace Alone…By Faith Alone
The Searching Shepherd, The Searching Woman, The Searching Father (Luke 15:1-32)
What precipitated these three parables? (v. 2)
These parables sharply contrast the attitude of the Pharisees toward sinners with God’s attitude toward sinners. How did a stereotypical Pharisee regard a “sinner”? What do these parable teach us about how GOD regards a sinner?
NOTE: Verse 7 reminds us that God is NOT in the business of rubber-stamping with his seal of approval the self-righteousness of people like the Pharisees. What really pleases him is rescuing repentant sinners. How do these parables challenge how we view ourselves?
List some details from these three parables that indicate the depth of God’s love for us.
Did you ever run away from home? Where did you go? What happened? (Or, Did you ever think of running away from home? Where would you have gone? Why did you change your mind?) Which child were you in your family, the “obedient” one or the “wild” one?
Why do you think the prodigal son decided to leave home?
In those times if a younger son left the family home for one reason or another, the older son was expected to stay at home and take care of the estate. However, the younger son had no right to demand his share of the inheritance when he did. According to Jewish law, the children could not divide the inheritance until after the father’s death. Then the firstborn (oldest) received a “double share” of the estate, and the other children shared the remainder of it (Deuteronomy 21:15-17). The younger son in the parable could have received a considerable amount of money.
What’s meant by the “distant country?” When are we off in a “distant country?” Why didn’t the father stop his son? Why doesn’t God stop us? What kind of pleasures can the world give?
Does God ever abandon someone to their foolishness? Romans 1:24,28.
Do you think that the father was wise to give his son his inheritance when he knew his son would probably blow it?
If the father had a pretty good idea where his son had gone, do you think he should have gone after him?
(Verses 17-19) What does the lost son realize he doesn’t deserve? What’s his only hope when he goes back home? What must we also realize we don’t deserve from God? What’s our only hope also?
Of what can we be sure when we return to our heavenly father? What’s the spiritual counterpart to the “best robe” (verse 22)? See Galatians 3:27; Isaiah.61:10. The ring signified son ship. Sons also wore sandals. Slaves went barefoot.
In the third parable, what flaws do you find in the protest of the older brother to his father’s goodness toward his younger brother? (vv. 28-30)
By temperament and experience, which of the three main characters do you best identify with in this story of the prodigal son/unforgiving brother/waiting father?
Agree or Disagree: Some “lost sons” can appear to be very nice, decent, family loving and church going people?
What’s the only food that nourishes and feeds the soul? What is some “pigs food” the world offers?
The Blind Guides (Matthew 7:3-5; Luke 6:39-42)
This parable is connected to Jesus famous “Sermon On The Mount.” In this sermon Jesus teaches almost the diametric opposite of what the Pharisees taught; namely, that an attitude of humility and mercy are more important than an outward show of righteousness; that sin is not only what one does but what one thinks; that God expects more than reasonably good behavior, that he expects perfection.
Read the parable in verses 39-40 of Luke 6. In what sense were the Pharisees “blind” leaders?
What does Jesus indicate as the consequences of such blind leadership?
Read verses 41,42. Then read Luke 6:1-10. How did the Pharisees prove themselves guilty of the sin this parable reveals? What was the plank in the Pharisees’ eye? Let’s apply this parable to ourselves. Should we ever point out sin in the life of a fellow Christian? (See 6:37) If so, what should be our attitude in doing so and our goal?
The Persistent Friend (Luke 11:1-10)
This entire section has to do with prayer. What would prompt the disciples to request “Lord, teach us to pray”? What’s so difficult about praying?
Verses 2-4 describe the nature of God-pleasing prayer. God-pleasing prayer will reflect that our greatest concern is God’s glory and his kingdom (gracious ruling) in the hearts of people, that spiritual matters are most important, that we are dependant on God for everything from basic physical needs to forgiveness to help in any trouble.
Verses 5-8 is a parable which makes what point about HOW we are to pray?
(This parable should remind us not to go too far in interpreting every detail of parables. For instance, we shouldn’t assume that God is like the man in the parable, answering our prayers merely because we keep bothering him.
Verse 9,10 should be an encouragement to us; however, what do you make of the claim that some make based on these words, that, if you really believe, God will answer all of your prayers?
Verses 11-13 are an argument from a lesser point to a greater. What is the point?
What is the greatest gift we can ask for?
The Persistent Widow (Luke 18:1-8)
The purpose of this parable is in Luke 18:1. What is the purpose? Why do we need this parable?
There is an argument from the lesser to the greater from this parable. If even an unjust judge grants justice after much pleading, then certainly . . . what?
Is Jesus’ last statement in v. 8 a warning for the disciples or about the world they live in? Be prepared to defend your answer. What does verse 8 say to us?
The Pharisee And The Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14)
When you were in high school, what did it take to be with the “in” crowd? What was a guaranteed way to be out?
What is the purpose of this parable? (verse 9)
(Verse 11) Was the Pharisee really thanking God?
God prescribed only 1 day of fasting a year, the Day of Atonement. Lev. l6:29,31 Later the Jews observed four official days of fasting. The Pharisees fasted each Monday and Thursday, the days tradition says Moses ascended and descended Mt. Sinai. The Jews also weren’t commanded to give a tenth of everything. Small herbs, for example, were exempted.
Comment on the body language of the tax collector.
(Verse 14) justified = not condemned, innocent, fully forgiven, free and rid of all guilt and punishment, accepted and beloved to God. On what basis does God pronounce this verdict? Why was the Pharisee not justified?
What’s meant by “universal justification?” When did it take place? What’s meant by “personal justification?” When did it take place? Why is universal justification of such comfort to the penitent sinner?
Agree or Disagree: Even today the Pharisee and the tax collector go to the temple to pray.
How can religious feelings be deceiving? To what must we compare ourselves to get a true picture of ourselves?
How is this parable a comfort? How is it a warning?
The Laborers In The Vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16)
The basis for this parable is Peter’s question in 19:27. Peter was curious about the reward he could expect as someone who had left everything to follow Jesus. What does this parable say to those who serve God because they want to get a bigger reward than everybody else?
This parable forces us to ask, “Why do I serve God?” It also forces us to ask whether we feel a “new” Christian has the same rights as we do in the congregation? How does this parable respond to both of those concerns?
Section Four: Preparation for Judgment
The Parable Of The Rich Fool (Luke 12:13-21)
According to Jewish law, the eldest son received a double inheritance, with the provision he subsequently must support his mother and (any) unmarried sisters.
The man in our text seems to make a rather simple request of Jesus. Describe Jesus’ response and what flaw he points out in the man’s question…and heart.
What does Jesus mean in verse 15 by the term “a man’s life?”
There are hints regarding the attitude problem this man had. How did he get his crop? (pay careful attention to the wording in verse 16)
Does this parable say that it is wrong to plan ahead for the future? (See James 4:13-15) Is it right to put money away in a life insurance policy or a retirement account or even to have a savings account?
Pay careful attention to the wording he uses when he talks about material possessions. What do you notice that indicates just what was the problem with this rich man’s view of life? (See also Psalm 39:6; Psalm 49:10; Eccl. 2:18,21)
Why did God call him a “fool” in verse 20?
Agree or Disagree: To possess wealth gives a person a false sense of security
Aside from material wealth, what other earthly matters might give one a false sense of security?
What does it mean to be “rich toward God”? And how does one do that?
Where are your riches? What are three chief priorities for your life right now? How would you like to be remembered?
Where would you like to leave your riches?
The Net (Matthew 13:47-50)
The normal way to fish on the Sea of Galilee was to simply drag a net through the water. The net, of course, would collect both edible and inedible fish. Take note that Jesus is speaking this parable from a location near the Sea of Galilee, where the people may been able to see fisherman out on the water and plying their trade.
It is impossible to determine how many “keepers” there are in a net bulging with fish, simply by looking at the net. What lesson do we learn from this parable about the nature of the kingdom of heaven?
How does this parable serve as a warning to us?
Define the “wicked” and the “righteous” (See Romans 3:20-23)
Many today do not believe in the traditional understanding of hell as a place of fiery punishment. Verse 50 makes the nature of hell very clear.
The “gnashing of teeth” is symbolic of anger and frustration. Why are the inhabitants of hell frustrated and angry?
The Narrow Door (Luke 13:22-30)
In what respect is the door to heaven a narrow door?
The people outside the house claim to be acquainted with Jesus. Why does God deny knowing them?
If it is “evildoers” (v.27) who will be shut out of heaven, how can you or I stand a chance?
In verse 28, the “weeping” refers to sorrow and the “gnashing of teeth” refers to anger. Why will people shut outside of heaven grieve and be angry?
In verse 30, what was the message for the Jews of Jesus’ day? What is the message for us today?
The Seats At The Wedding Feast (Luke 14:7-11)
The feast Jesus was attending was also attended by Pharisees and teachers of the law. In what way was their behavior at this feast (grabbing the best seats) indicative of their spiritual attitudes?
What did Jesus’ specifically mean in his statement in verse 11? Think of some situations when we need to remember these words.The Great Banquet (Luke 14:15-24)
One of the guests at this banquet expresses his feelings about the blessedness of sharing in that future feast in the kingdom of God. The parable Jesus speaks directs that man’s attention AWAY from how wonderful heaven will be to whether he is willing, RIGHT NOW, to accept the invitation.
Who embodies God’s invitation to his heavenly feast? And how does one therefore reject God’s invitation to his kingdom?
The people in the parable had seemingly legitimate obligations in other matters. Why, then, are these people excluded from the feast and their “reasons” for not accepting the invitation called “excuses” (v. 18)?
This parable is all about priorities . . . in what sense?
What are some excuses humans use today for rejecting God’s invitation to his kingdom?
The Two Sons (Matthew 21:28-32)
This parable was spoken right in the temple courtyard before the chief priests and elders during the week of Jesus’ death. His words are blunt.
How were the tax collectors and prostitutes like the first son? How were the Pharisees and teachers of the law like the second son?
There is a difference between claiming obedience and actually obeying. What command from the Father were the religious leaders simply unwilling to obey (though they calimed to be truely obedient to God)?
Comment on this statement: “Oh, I’m sure she went to heaven. She was very religious.”
The Parable Of The Tenants (Matthew 21:33-44)
Note that the situation is the same as that surrounding the parable above.
Who or what is . . .1) The landowner 2) The tenants 3) The servants 4) The son 5) The vineyard 6) The expected fruit 7) The other tenants 8) Harvest time?
Note how the parables are very direct and obvious in meaning to confront the religious leaders with their obstinate refusal to accept the truth of Jesus Christ.
What does verse 44 mean?
Ready And Waiting Servants (Luke 12:35-48)
In verses 35-40, Jesus speaks of being prepared for his second coming. In the first illustraation of servants waiting for their master to return home, what highly unusual thing does the master do for his faithful servants? What does this tell us about the nature of our Savior?
The second illustration pictures Jesus’ coming like a thief breaking into a house. Why?
The parable in verses 42-46 reminds us that there is a temptation all of us face until Jesus returns. What is that temptation? In what ways do we emulate that unfaithful servant?
The final verses, 47-48, remind us that the privilege we have been given to know the Savior and his word so well comes an important responsibility; namely, what?
NOTE: Scripture does teach clearly that there will be different degrees of punishment in hell.
The Wedding Banquet (Matthew 22:1-14)
According to Jewish custom, when a couple was betrothed, an announcement was sent out regarding the impending marriage, which usually took place around one year later. This parable speaks about the subsequent personal invitations given shortly before the wedding.
The wedding clothes were special garments that guests were expected to wear to show their joy at the event being celebrated. Not wearing those garments was an insult.
Apply this parable to God’s dealings with Israel, focusing in on these details in the parable:
1. The repeated invitations
2. The apathetic and even hostile response
3. The subsequent invitation to anyone on the street
4. The importance of wedding clothing
What tendancies do we have that make this parable an apt warning for us?
In what way does this parable glorify God’s grace?
How does this parable help us to answer the charge: “I can’t believe a loving God would actually send people to hell.”
The Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13)
Bridegrooms would walk in a festive procession from the home of the bride to the groom’s home. Guests could join the procession as it went along or greet the groom at his home. It was necessary, however, that the guests have lighted lamps. Each lamp would serve to further illuminate the home or banquet hall, and provide a bright and joyful atmosphere for the celebration.
Why did 5 of the 10 virgins fail to meet the groom? Whose fault was it? Why?
Verse 13 states the point of this parable. What is it?
What can lead us to not be prepared to meet Jesus when he returns?
Section Five: Miscellaneous Parables
The Parable of The Patched Garment And The Wineskins
(Matthew 9:16,17; Mark 2:21,22; Luke 5:36-39)
Jesus has been baptized by John, thereby authenticating the ministry of John as well as giving public witness of his identity as God’s Son and chosen Messiah. He has returned from the wilderness to Galilee and chosen his disciples. He has worked his first miracle (turning water into wine) in Cana of Galilee. He has returned to Jerusalem for the Passover. He has made his way back to Galilee, where he has set up headquarters at Capernaum. He has gone throughout the region proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God and healing many sick and demon-possessed people.
He has been ministering publicly long enough for the Pharisees and Teachers of the Law to become familiar with him and his message and to form some opinions about him. What do the following references tell you about the doctrine and practice of these religious leaders?
- Matthew 6:5
- Matthew 6:16-18
- Luke 11:37-54
- Luke 16:14
Is Jesus a friend or foe to them? Why?
- John 1:13-22
- Luke 5:17-26
- Luke 5:27-32
Read Luke 5:33-39 in light of the last two references from Luke 5 we just studied. This was obviously not an honest question. It was meant to discredit Jesus. What did the question imply about Jesus and his disciples?
The Pharisees assumed that fasting won brownie points with God. Jesus answer implies that fasting isn’t a deed that impresses God. It is a sign of sorrow. When Jesus said his disciples shouldn’t fast in sorrow, because the bridegroom was with them, what was he claiming about himself?
The parable Jesus then speaks about the garment is designed to lead the Pharisees to conclude that their teaching doesn’t match Jesus’ teaching. Explain the difference and how the parable illustrates the incompatibility of the two.
The parable of the wineskins indicates that it is impossible to package Jesus’ message in the structure of Old Testament Law. Explain how the parable illustrates that and why the point of the parable is true.
This parable has to do with mixing up the Law and the Gospel. How do the following examples illustrate an improper use of Law and Gospel?
All you have to do to get to heaven is believe in Jesus and live a good life.
We really feel good about our church! We’re growing by leaps and bounds, we always have something going for every age group, and people say that we’re the friendliest group around!
No Christian who appreciates what Jesus did for them would EVER have done what you did! Does Jesus’ death for you mean ANYTHING to you at all?
The Ten Commandments are a real comfort to me because they keep me on track in my walk with God.
Children In The Marketplace (Matthew 11:16-19; Luke 7:29-35)
This parable is directed to the Pharisees and experts in the law. How did these people regard John’s ministry? (See Luke 7:29,30) What did they think of Jesus? (See notes on the parable of the Wineskins)
Jesus compares the religious leaders of his day to children at play. In verse 32, what are we told about the way that children act when it comes to choosing what to play.
How did the religious leaders also act this way? (See vv. 33,34). In verses 33 and 34, what are we told about the different nature of John’s
and Jesus’ ministry?
Our sinful nature also resists both the Law and the Gospel. List some examples.
Parables Proving The Person Of Christ (Matthew 12:22-30; Mark 3:22-27)
What precipitated the parable-based teaching of this section? (See vv 22-24)
List the arguments Jesus uses to show how ridiculous and simple-minded the accusation that Jesus is driving demons out by the power of the devil is. (v26-29)
What conclusion, arising from Jesus’ obviously real and God-given miracle-working power, did the Pharisees not want to accept? Why not?
Many today want to find some reason to dismiss anything about Jesus that points to his divine nature. Why is it simple-minded for someone to think he can separate Jesus from his miracles and end up with “Jesus, the great humanitarian-teacher”?
The Empty House (Matthew 12:43-45)
What leads to Jesus’ words in this section? Read 12:38. The current religious leaders again show their absolute ridiculousness when they ask Jesus for a sign that will prove he is the Messiah sent from God. Why in the world would they need a sign, given all the miracles Jesus had already performed!? Their request merely betrays their refusal to accept the truth that had already been made clear.
Read the parable. It speaks about a demon-possessed man who enjoyed freedom from demon possession for a while, but in the end was possessed by seven demons rather than merely one.
Many Israelites who had rejected God repented when John the Baptist brought his message to Israel and pointed them to the Messiah, Jesus. But many of those baptized by John later rejected Jesus and so their fate was worse at the end.
What warning can we take from this parable?
How does this parable move us to reach out more energetically to our fallen-away friends and relatives?
The Owner Of The House (Matthew 13:51,52)
In order for the teachers of the law to give their listeners the full revelation of God, they first had to be instructed in the kingdom of heaven themselves. What did they need to learn about the kingdom of heaven? (Matthew 3:1-3)
What are the old treasures? What are the new treasures?
Christian teaching is more than just a matter of imparting knowledge or facts; it’s sharing treasures! List some of the treasures that Christian teachers (such as parents, Sunday School teachers, and every Christian witness) are privileged to share.
Clean And Unclean (Matthew 15:1-20)
Since the time of the return from the Baylonian Capitivity, the teachers of the law had added additional regulations and laws to the Mosaic Law. Two of those “traditions of the elders”, as they were called, are mentioned in the opening verses. One is the practice of ceremonial washing before meals, and the other is the practice of dedicating something as a special gift to God.
In their effort to keep the man-made traditions of the Elders, the Pharisees and Teachers of the Law ended up breaking God’s clear commands. How does Jesus illustrate that? How do the Isaiah passages support Jesus’ accusation?
Read 15:10,11 and then 15:15-20 for the explanation of this parable.
Our sin and our need for a savior is more serious if we view sin as a matter of the heart and rather than as a matter of one’s life. Why is that?
NOTE: This was a theme Jesus hit again and again in his discussions with the Pharisees and Teachers of the Law. Without a true understanding of sin, there isn’t much need for a Savior.
Read 15:12-14 Jesus here tells his disciples why they shouldn’t be surprised if the Pharisees were offended by Jesus’ words, nor should they let the Pharisees intimidate them as men who seem to be in control.
Lost Sheep And Dogs (Matthew 15:21-28)
Jesus’ ministry was conducted primarily for the benefit of God’s people, the Jews. Jesus’ mission was conducted for all people. Jesus’ is referring only to his ministry in verse 24.
In Jesus’ statement in verse26, who are the children? What is the bread? Who are the dogs?
In the woman’s reply, what was she saying to Jesus? How would you describe this woman’s faith?
Jesus didn’t help her right away; in fact he seemed to ignore her and then cut her down. Why did he deal with her in this manner?
The Yeast Of The Pharisees And Sadducees (Matthew 16:5-12)
The point of this parable is obvious and extremely important. The false teaching of the religious leaders was like yeast- it influenced a person’s entire thinking and life.
Note what had happened leading up to this parable. The religious leaders had asked Jesus for a sign to prove he was the Messiah. That doesn’t seem so bad, does it? How did this request, however, give evidence of their false beliefs and teaching?
One of Satan’s biggest lies is that a little false teaching is no big deal. A little false teaching can lead to toleration or acceptance of more false teaching and ultimately destroy one’s faith and eternal future.
The Rock And The Keys (Matthew 16:13-19)
The Roman Catholic Church states that this reference is Scriptural evidence that Christ chose Peter to be the first pope, and that all
successors of Peter have the headship of the church that Christ entrusted to Peter.
However, while Jesus DID change Simon’s name to Peter, which means “rock” because of his rock-solid confession of who Jesus was, Jesus was NOT referring to Peter when he said, “On this rock I will build my church.” The Greek word for “rock” in that phrase is of the feminine gender, and therefore cannot refer to Peter (masculine gender); it must refer to Peter’s confession of Jesus as the Christ and Son of God.
What are the keys Jesus speaks of? (See John 20:23)
The Lamp Of The Body (Luke 11:33-36)
Earlier in this chapter Jesus drove a demon out of a man and some concluded this miracle was accomplished through the power of Satan.
Others demanded that Jesus prove he was really God by a “sign” from heaven.
This parable shows that the problem for those who would not accept Jesus is NOT that there isn’t enough evidence. How does verse 33 point that out (if the lamp is Jesus)?
In verse 34, the eyes are “faith”, what is Jesus saying to those who refused to accept him as God and Savior?
In verses 35 and 36, what is Jesus saying about the person who truly believes in him?
This parable should be a good reminder to us that some people simply don’t WANT to believe, though they may claim that the evidence for Christianity isn’t compelling enough.
How does this understanding actually help us when we witness our faith to others?
NOTE: One year away from his death, Jesus begins now to use much clearer language. Consider what he says in the rest of this chapter.
The Fruitless Fig Tree (Luke 13:1-9)
This parable was spoken by Jesus in response to a question that has always plagued mankind. Why does tragedy strike some and not others? Jesus doesn’t answer that question. Rather, he addresses the attitude of those who asked it.
Rather than being concerned about whether somebody else was under God’s judgment, what should they be concerned about?
In verses 6-9, who is the vineyard owner, the vineyard tender, and the fig tree.
What is the point of the parable . . . about God? about stubborn Israel?
The Wise And Foolish Builders (Matthew 7:24-29; Luke 6:46-49)
Multitudes had been attracted to Jesus and his teaching. Many were amazed that he spoke with authority that even the Teachers of the Law did not have. But fascination with Jesus is not the same as faith in Jesus.
How does the parable in Luke 6:43-49 make that point? In what sense are we all builders? What is the rock foundation? What are the consequences of building or not building on the rock?
In what ways do we call Jesus “Lord” but live as if we are the lords of our lives?