As we continue in the book of Luke, Jesus answers a number of pressing questions: how we should respond to tragedy; what is the greatest need of mankind; how do we get right with God. And the answer to each of these can be summed up in the word repentance. We come to see the call that we all need to repent. And then we see that repentance is only possible through the ministry of the Holy Spirit.
And, as we come to understand repentance, we come to see our calling to serve the Lord, to bear good fruit. We don’t do this to earn God’s favor, but because we have experienced God’s favor.
It is amazing He gives us another breath. It is even more amazing that He strengthens us to be about His Kingdom purposes. And it is all because of His great love, which starts with repentance.
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.
Luke 13:1-9
Series: Luke – A Prescription for Doubtful Souls
Pastor James McDonald
- What questions do we seek to answer when “bad things” happen to others?
- How can we avoid being fearful of tragedy in our own future?
- What should we learn from tragedy? How should tragedy impact our faith?
- What is repentance? What are the marks of true repentance?
- Discuss the work of the Holy Spirit when it comes to repentance
- Of what do you need to repent today?
- Why is repentance so important? Consider the parable of the barren fig tree as you answer.
- In the parable, where do we see God’s grace? How is this manifest in your life?
- What does the keeper of the vineyard do, attempting to make the tree fruitful? How has God’s loving hand of chastisement assisted you in your Christian walk?
- Does your life show fruit? If so, where? What parts of your life are barren? What can you do to see the blessings to fruitfulness?
Lord God, Righteous Judge, I confess that I am quick to see sin in the life of my brother, but ever so slow to admit that I fail You daily. Yet, this day, help me to see today the ways I have broken Your law in thought, word, and deed. Help me to feel the harm and pain my sin has brought upon others, and upon You. And then, help me to see that my only hope is in the finished work of Jesus, my only Advocate and Mediator.
Unworthy as I am, help me to rejoice in the adoption made possible by the work of Your Son. Because of His sacrifice, I now call You Father, and You call me Your child. Merciful Father, fill me with Your Holy Spirit, so that I might be changed. Strengthen me, and produce in me fruit worthy of Your Kingdom. Use me, Lord, as an instrument of peace. Help me to spur on to good works my brothers and sisters in Christ and use me to help others to grow in love, in faith, and in hope. In Jesus Name, Amen!
