As we continue in Chapter 9 of Luke’s Gospel, we find Jesus continuing to teach his disciples, preparing them for the mission that will be theirs after His ascension. And, part of that preparation includes a discussion on greatness. What we see, across our culture, is a pursuit of greatness. But for most, this means making a name for ourselves. However, greatness in God’s sight means making a name for Jesus. That is what we find in this section of scripture, a call to see Jesus as our strength, a call to see our individual missions as part of His work of redemption, a call to be humble in helping others as we execute our mission, and a focus on our specific mission, not on the missions of all those around us. As we do these things, we walk in godly greatness, and Jesus is glorified.
To help you with your study of this topic, we are also including the study questions prepared each week for our congregation. May the Lord use them, and the sermon, to be a blessing to you. You will find them, as well as a short prayer, directly below the audio link.
Learning from Greatness
Luke 9:37-50
Series: Luke – A Prescription for Doubtful Souls
Pastor James McDonald
- What happened the day before this account in Luke’s Gospel? Did you notice about Peter’s behavior in regards to the Lord’s person and mission?
- Why were the disciples not able to help the demon oppressed son?
- In what ways does the father show faith? How much faith is required to reach Jesus?
- From this chapter, what do you think Jesus thinks of children? What do you think Satan thinks of children? Give examples.
- What seemed to frustrate Jesus in this account? Was this sin? What frustrates you? Is that sin?
- How does a focus on the Cross motivate us to greatness?
- What is the difference between the world’s vision of greatness and the example given by Jesus?
- What does receiving a child have to do with greatness?
- What lesson can we learn from John’s rebuke of others casting out demons?
- To what kind of life has Jesus called you?
Almighty God, the giver of all good gifts, we acknowledge that, according to Your eternal plan, You have appointed us to the unique employments and activities that make up our daily lives. We humbly ask that You would help us to fulfill our responsibilities in faithfulness, endowed with Your strength, mindful of our mission in light of the Cross, and serving the weak and the forsaken all the more as we find ourselves advancing in leadership and responsibility. And keep us thankful for our fellow pilgrims whose ministry may be flavored differently than our own, yet who are also striving for the cause of the Kingdom. Fill us with Your grace and replenish us with the truth of Your doctrine, that we might serve joyfully before You, to the glory of Your great Name, and for the benefit of Your victorious Kingdom. Through Jesus, who is the Christ, we pray. Amen!
