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Home , Common English Bible, Luke 12, Nahshon

THE OF LUKE Readable, Reliable, Relevant

One hundred and twenty biblical scholars from

twenty-two faith traditions worked as translators

on the Common English .

These women and men balanced rigorous accuracy

in translation of the ancient texts

with an equally passionate commitment to clarity of

expression in contemporary English.

The result is a clear, direct, and powerful

English version of the scriptures for use in Bible study,

devotional reading, and worship. Table of Contents

About The CEB Student Bible 2

Meet the Contributors 6

Introduction to The CEB Student Bible 12

The Gospel of

Preface to the Common English Bible 64

Meet the CEB Translators 68

Find Out More 70

This is an uncorrected proof for promotional purposes only. Please do not quote or reprint without permission from the publisher. About The CEB Student Bible The CEB Student Bible is by and for young people and invites them into deeper forms of both personal and social holiness, helping them make connections between the world of and their own world. The CEB Student Bible has the full text of the Bible in the Common English Bible translation and includes these features:

Introductions to each book of the Bible by top biblical scholars who have also worked in youth ministry. Each introduction gives an overview of the book, key themes, helpful tips for reading, and a list of quick facts. 3

More than 400 articles by a diverse group of biblical scholars and youth ministers from over a dozen different denominations. These articles handle difficult topics and model what it’s like to really engage the Bible. 4

Discussions for each book of the Bible by youth ministers. These include discussion questions, activities, and “Reading Differently” exercises for youth groups and small groups. 5

Prayers and reflections by students, whose spiritual insights show readers that young people can and do wrestle with the Bible and take their faith seriously.

The CEB Student Bible also includes:

• Article indexes and a guide to the stories and passages of the Bible, both familiar and bizarre.

• 16 pages of maps by National Geographic with a 4-page map index. Meet the contributors

Elizabeth Corrie, PhD Dr. Corrie is the General Editor for The CEB Student Bible and is Assistant Professor in the Practice of Youth Education and Peacebuilding and Director of the Youth Theological Initiative at Candler School of Theology. She draws on commitments both to peace with justice and to the education of young people as a foundation for her work in the development of youth ministry practices that empower young people for global citizenship. Dr. Corrie was elected as a lay delegate for the North Georgia Conference to the 2012 Southeastern Jurisdictional Conference of the .

about the youth theological initiative The prayers in The CEB Student Bible were written by teens who have participated in the Youth Theological Initiative at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. The YTI Summer Academy gathers forty rising high school juniors and seniors for a three-week experience in Christian theological education. Their goal is to cultivate public theologians for the church and world. Youth participants are recruited nationally and internationally through congregations, schools, and YTI alumni. Applicants must have a strong academic profile and a desire to be challenged spiritually and intellectually. They strive for gender balance, racial/ethnic diversity, and denominational variety. They hope that young scholars will “fall in love with theology” as a life-long pursuit, and find ways to live out their ethical and faith commitments as they move along their vocational paths. 7 8 9 10 11

13 14 15

Luke I have decided to write a carefully ordered account for you, most honorable . (:3)

OVERVIEW The is a story with a destination. and his disciples travel be- tween cities, walk up mountains, cross a lake, and visit villages. Jesus teaches and heals people along the way as he guides his disciples to their final destination, the city of . Several times in Luke we read that Jesus is on his way to this city (9:51; 17:11; 19:28). Jerusalem is at the heart of the Gospel because here Jesus will die and rise again. Jerusalem is where the risen Jesus will appear to the disciples. Jerusalem is the place the disciples will start spreading the good news of Jesus to the entire world.

This Gospel is not only a journey to Jerusalem but also a journey of faith. As you read Luke, you will hear different voices trying to figure out who Jesus is supposed to be. Religious leaders ask about Jesus’s authority (5:21). Political leaders want to know Jesus’s identity (9:9). Jesus’s cousin, , wants to know if Jesus is the long-awaited Christ (7:20). Even Jesus asks his disciples who they believe him to be (9:20). As readers, we already know the answer. When Jesus is born we hear the tell the shepherds that Jesus is Christ the Lord, the savior of the world (2:11). The journey through the rest of the Gospel is to gain the confidence and knowledge that this is true for us.

WHAT’S UNIQUE ABOUT People: More than any other Gospel, Luke LUKE? emphasizes Jesus’s concern for the poor, Jesus’s birth: Unlike the other Gos- the outcast, and those who seem unimpor­ pels, Luke begins with a detailed account of tant. From the very beginning, God chooses Jesus’s birth (2:1ff). Luke is the only Gospel Mary, a young and unmarried woman, to be that includes the familiar story of Jesus Jesus’s mother, and she responds faithfully being laid in a manger. Only Luke tells about to God. Throughout Luke, Jesus surrounds shepherds hearing the good news of Jesus’s himself with fishermen and tax collectors birth. This story gives clues about the kind (5:1-31). He includes women in his ministry of messiah Jesus is and the kind of people and is supported by them (8:1-13). He wel- he has come to save. comes children and sees them as important 18

(9:46-48). He is accused of hanging out and Jesus blesses those who listen to God’s word eating with sinners (15:1). The Gospel of Luke and then put it into practice (11:28). shows us a Jesus who loves and cares for the poor, the lost, and the least. It is Jesus’s mission to bring the good news of God’s love TIPS FOR READING and favor to the poor, bring release to pris- Parables: Jesus tells a lot of stories in oners and the oppressed, and bring healing Luke. They are called parables, and there are to the hurting (4:18-19). And it is through the more of them in this Gospel than any other. poor, the prisoners, and the oppressed that The parables can be difficult to understand the good news of Jesus Christ is spread to because they are often more like riddles the world. than stories with a clear message. Jesus uses parables in Luke to make people think Listening: Listening is an important trait about their faith. He rarely explains what of being a in the Gospel of Luke. the parables mean but instead lets those After Jesus explains the parable of the soils, who listen to parables try figure them out he tells his disciples how important it is to on their own. The point of parables in Luke listen carefully to the parables (8:18). When is not to always explain things clearly but Jesus is transformed, a voice tells the dis- to help those who listen think about what it ciples to listen to Jesus (9:35). In his ministry, means to follow Jesus.

QUICK FACTS

Author: Unknown. Tradition credits a man named Luke who was a doctor and a friend of the Apostle Paul. Luke is mentioned in Colossians and Philemon as a physician who hangs out with Paul and participates in his ministry (see Col 4:14 and Phlm 24).

The book of Acts is the second part of the Gospel of Luke and was written by the same per- son. The Gospel focuses on the life, death, and , while Acts shows how of Jesus is spread into the world through the disciples and the Apostle Paul.

Addressee: The Gospel is addressed to someone named Theophilus (1:3). Some scholars believe that Theophilus paid Luke to write the Gospel or at least helped pay for the Gospel to be copied and shared with others. We are not sure, but we do know that Theophilus means “one who loves God” or “lover of God.” So even though Theophilus might have been a specific person, this Gospel could also be addressed to anyone who seeks to be a “lover of God.” The Gospel is written so that anyone who loves God might have a greater faith and confidence in the good news of Jesus Christ (1:4). 19 Luke 1:36

Luke’s purpose 18Zechariah said to the , “How can I be Many people have already applied them- sure of this? My wife and I are very old.” 1selves to the task of compiling an account 19The angel replied, “I am . I stand of the events that have been fulfilled among in God’s presence. I was sent to speak to you us. 2They used what the original eyewitnesses and to bring this good news to you. 20Know and servants of the word handed down to us. this: What I have spoken will come true at the 3Now, after having investigated everything proper time. But because you didn’t believe, carefully from the beginning, I have also de- you will remain silent, unable to speak until cided to write a carefully ordered account for the day when these things happen.” you, most honorable Theophilus. 4I want you 21Meanwhile, the people were waiting for to have confidence in the soundness of the Zechariah, and they wondered why he was in instruction you have received. the sanctuary for such a long time. 22When he came out, he was unable to speak to them. John the Baptist’s birth foretold They realized he had seen a vision in the 5 During the rule of King Herod of temple, for he gestured to them and couldn’t there was a priest named Zechariah who be- speak. 23When he completed the days of his longed to the priestly division of Abijah. His priestly service, he returned home. 24After- wife Elizabeth was a descendant of . ward, his wife Elizabeth became pregnant. 6 They were both righteous before God, blame- She kept to herself for five months, saying, less in their observance of all the Lord’s com- 25“This is the Lord’s doing. He has shown his 7 mandments and regulations. They had no favor to me by removing my disgrace among children because Elizabeth was unable to be- other people.” come pregnant and they both were very old. 8 One day Zechariah was serving as a priest Jesus’ birth foretold before God because his priestly division was 26When Elizabeth was six months preg- on duty. 9Following the customs of priestly nant, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, service, he was chosen by lottery to go into a city in , 27to a virgin who was en- the Lord’s sanctuary and burn incense. 10All gaged to a man named Joseph, a descendant the people who gathered to worship were of ’s house. The virgin’s name was Mary. praying outside during this hour of incense 28When the angel came to her, he said, “Re- offering. 11An angel from the Lord appeared joice, favored one! The Lord is with you!” 29She to him, standing to the right of the altar of was confused by these words and wondered incense. 12When Zechariah saw the angel, he what kind of greeting this might be. 30The was startled and overcome with fear. angel said, “Don’t be afraid, Mary. God is hon- 13The angel said, “Don’t be afraid, Zecha- oring you. 31Look! You will conceive and give riah. Your prayers have been heard. Your wife birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus. Elizabeth will give birth to your son and you 32 must name him John. 14He will be a joy and He will be great and he will be called the delight to you, and many people will rejoice Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give 33 at his birth, 15for he will be great in the Lord’s him the throne of David his father. He will eyes. He must not drink wine and liquor. He rule over ’s house forever, and there will will be filled with the Holy Spirit even before be no end to his kingdom.” 34 his birth. 16He will bring many Israelites back Then Mary said to the angel, “How will to the Lord their God. 17He will go forth before this happen since I haven’t had sexual rela- the Lord, equipped with the spirit and power tions with a man?” 35 of Elijah. He will turn the hearts of fathersa The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will back to their children, and he will turn the come over you and the power of the Most disobedient to righteous patterns of think - High will overshadow you. Therefore, the one ing. He will make ready a people prepared for who is to be born will be holy. He will be called the Lord.” God’s Son. 36Look, even in her old age, your aOr parents Luke 1:37 20 relative Elizabeth has conceived a son. This woman who was labeled ‘unable to conceive’ is now six months pregnant. 37Nothing is im- Subversive songs possible for God.” of the kingdom 38 Then Mary said, “I am the Lord’s servant. Mary sings a song about God (1:46-56). Let it be with me just as you have said.” Then Notice that God doesn’t first appear to the rich, the angel left her. famous, or politically powerful. God doesn’t ap- pear to the kings and soldiers. Instead, God Mary visits Elizabeth appears to Mary, a poor, unmarried woman! 39 Mary got up and hurried to a city in the And Mary’s song is full of joy because God’s 40 Judean highlands. She entered Zechariah’s priorities are not the same as the world’s home and greeted Elizabeth. 41When Elizabeth priorities. The fact that Jesus is born to 1:46-56 heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her Mary shows that God has “pulled down womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy the powerful from their thrones . . . lifted Spirit. 42With a loud voice she blurted out, up the lowly . . . filled the hungry with good “God has blessed you above all women, and things, and sent the rich away empty” (1:52- he has blessed the child you carry. 43Why do 53). Mary’s song challenges the idea that I have this honor, that the mother of my Lord God sides with the rich and powerful, and it should come to me? 44As soon as I heard your proclaims that God sides with the poor and greeting, the baby in my womb jumped for vulnerable. How does this idea of God com- joy. 45Happy is she who believed that the Lord pare to your idea of God, or the ideas of God would fulfill the promises he made to her.” you hear in your communities? If this passage is telling the truth about God, where would you Mary praises God go to find God? 46Mary said, “With all my heart I glorify the Lord! 47 In the depths of who I am 56Mary stayed with Elizabeth about three I rejoice in God my savior. months, and then returned to her home. 48 He has looked with favor 57When the time came for Elizabeth to on the low status of his servant. have her child, she gave birth to a boy. 58Her Look! From now on, everyone neighbors and relatives celebrated with her will consider me highly favored because they had heard that the Lord had 49 because the mighty one shown her great mercy. 59On the eighth day, has done great things for me. it came time to circumcise the child. They Holy is his name. wanted to name him Zechariah because that 50 He shows mercy to everyone, was his father’s name. 60But his mother re- from one generation to the next, who honors him as God. plied, “No, his name will be John.” 61 51 He has shown strength with his arm. They said to her, “None of your relatives 62 He has scattered those with arrogant have that name.” Then they began gestur- thoughts and proud inclinations. ing to his father to see what he wanted to 52 He has pulled the powerful call him. 63 down from their thrones After asking for a tablet, he surprised 64 and lifted up the lowly. everyone by writing, “His name is John.” At 53 He has filled the hungry with good things that moment, Zechariah was able to speak and sent the rich away empty-handed. again, and he began praising God. 54 He has come to the aid 65All their neighbors were filled with awe, of his servant Israel, and everyone throughout the Judean high- remembering his mercy, lands talked about what had happened. 66All 55 just as he promised to our ancestors, who heard about this considered it carefully. to and to Abraham’s They said, “What then will this child be?” In- descendants forever.” deed, the Lord’s power was with him. 21 :9 Zechariah’s prophecy to be enrolled together with Mary, who was 67John’s father Zechariah was filled with promised to him in marriage and who was the Holy Spirit and prophesied, pregnant. 6While they were there, the time 68 “Bless the Lord God of Israel came for Mary to have her baby. 7She gave because he has come to help birth to her firstborn child, a son, wrapped and has delivered his people. him snugly, and laid him in a manger, because 69 He has raised up a mighty savior for us there was no place for them in the guestroom. in his servant David’s house, 70 just as he said through the mouths Announcement to shepherds of his holy prophets long ago. 8Nearby shepherds were living in the 71 He has brought salvation fields, guarding their sheep at night.9 The from our enemies Lord’s angel stood before them, the Lord’s and from the power glory shone around them, and they were of all those who hate us. terrified. 72 He has shown the mercy promised to our ancestors, and remembered his holy covenant, Hearing God 73 the solemn pledge he made on the margins to our ancestor Abraham. He has granted 74that we would be rescued God announces the most important event from the power of our enemies of all time—the birth of Jesus—to shepherds so that we could serve him without fear, (2:8-14). In Jesus’s time, being a shepherd was a 75 in holiness and righteousness terrible job. Shepherds were poor, uneducated, in God’s eyes, and had to watch other people’s sheep. They were essentially homeless and slept outside for as long as we live. on the ground with the flocks. So why did this 76 You, child, will be called a prophet glorious, booming angelic choir show up to of the Most High, sing the announcement to these shepherds? for you will go before the Lord Notice that the angels don’t announce God’s to prepare his way. birth to any kings or rich people. Maybe this is 77 You will tell his people how to be saved because the good news of God’s love was not through the forgiveness of their sins. just for powerful people, but for all people, and 78 Because of our God’s deep compassion, the powerful people weren’t ready to hear it. the dawn from heaven will break upon us, Maybe it was because King David had begun 79 to give light to those as a shepherd (1 Sam 16:11), and some prophets who are sitting in darkness had preached that the Israel’s ideal king would and in the shadow of death, be a true shepherd for God’s people (Ezek to guide us on the path of peace.” 34:20-31; Mic 5:2-9). God’s good news 80The child grew up, becoming strong in comes to unlikely people and proclaims character. He was in the wilderness until he that the last will be first and the first will 2:8-14 began his public ministry to Israel. be last. What does this passage teach us Jesus’ birth about listening for God’s voice today? At In those days Caesar Augustus declared your school, who are the people who are that everyone throughout the empire excluded like the shepherds? In the larger 2 2 culture, who are the people who have the should be enrolled in the tax lists. This first worst jobs and the least money? This pas- enrollment occurred when gov- sage implies that we will hear from God when erned Syria. 3Everyone went to their own we befriend and listen to such people. How is cities to be enrolled. 4Since Joseph belonged this passage inviting you to listen for God’s to David’s house and family line, he went up voices in different places? from the city of Nazareth in Galilee to David’s city, called Bethlehem, in Judea. 5He went Luke 2:10 22

10The angel said, “Don’t be afraid! Look! I Jesus’ parents brought the child to the temple bring good news to you—wonderful, joyous so that they could do what was customary news for all people. 11Your savior is born today under the Law. 28Simeon took Jesus in his in David’s city. He is Christ the Lord. 12This is arms and praised God. He said, a sign for you: you will find a newborn baby 29 “Now, master, let your servant go in wrapped snugly and lying in a manger.” 13Sud- peace according to your word, denly a great assembly of the heavenly forces 30 because my eyes have seen your was with the angel praising God. They said, salvation. 14“Glory to God in heaven, and on earth peace 31 You prepared this salvation in the among those whom he favors.” presence of all peoples. 15When the angels returned to heaven, 32 It’s a light for revelation to the Gentiles the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go and a glory for your people Israel.” right now to Bethlehem and see what’s hap- 33His father and mother were amazed by pened. Let’s confirm what the Lord has re- what was said about him. 34Simeon blessed vealed to us.” 16They went quickly and found them and said to Mary his mother, “This boy Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the is assigned to be the cause of the falling and manger. 17When they saw this, they reported rising of many in Israel and to be a sign that what they had been told about this child. generates opposition 35so that the inner 18Everyone who heard it was amazed at what thoughts of many will be revealed. And a the shepherds told them. 19Mary committed sword will pierce your innermost being too.” these things to memory and considered them carefully. 20The shepherds returned home, Anna’s response to Jesus glorifying and praising God for all they had 36There was also a prophet, Anna the heard and seen. Everything happened just as daughter of Phanuel, who belonged to the they had been told. tribe of Asher. She was very old. After she married, she lived with her husband for seven Jesus’ circumcision, naming, years. 37She was now an 84-year-old widow. and temple presentation She never left the temple area but wor- 21When eight days had passed, Jesus’ par- shipped God with fasting and prayer night ents circumcised him and gave him the name and day. 38She approached at that very mo- Jesus. This was the name given to him by the ment and began to praise God and to speak angel before he was conceived. 22When the about Jesus to everyone who was looking for- time came for their ritual cleansing, in accor- ward to the redemption of Jerusalem. dance with the Law from , they brought Jesus up to Jerusalem to present him to the Jesus as a child in Nazareth Lord. (23It’s written in the Law of the Lord, 39When Mary and Joseph had completed “Every firstborn male will be dedicated to the everything required by the Law of the Lord, Lord.”) 24They offered a sacrifice in keeping they returned to their hometown, Nazareth with what’s stated in the Law of the Lord, A in Galilee. 40The child grew up and became pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.b strong. He was filled with wisdom, and God’s favor was on him. ’s response to Jesus 25A man named Simeon was in Jerusalem. Jesus in the temple at Passover He was righteous and devout. He eagerly an- 41Each year his parents went to Jerusalem ticipated the restoration of Israel, and the for the Passover Festival. 42When he was Holy Spirit rested on him. 26The Holy Spirit 12 years old, they went up to Jerusalem ac- revealed to him that he wouldn’t die before he cording to their custom. 43After the festival had seen the Lord’s Christ. 27Led by the Spirit, was over, they were returning home, but the he went into the temple area. Meanwhile, boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His bLev 12:8; 5:11 LXX 23 :22 parents didn’t know it. 44Supposing that he 7Then John said to the crowds who came to was among their band of travelers, they jour- be baptized by him, “You children of snakes! neyed on for a full day while looking for him Who warned you to escape from the angry among their family and friends. 45When they judgment that is coming soon? 8Produce fruit didn’t find Jesus, they returned to Jerusalem that shows you have changed your hearts and to look for him. 46After three days they found lives. And don’t even think about saying to him in the temple. He was sitting among the yourselves, Abraham is our father. I tell you teachers, listening to them and putting ques- that God is able to raise up Abraham’s chil- tions to them. 47Everyone who heard him dren from these stones. 9The ax is already was amazed by his understanding and his an- at the root of the trees. Therefore, every swers. 48When his parents saw him, they were tree that doesn’t produce good fruit will be shocked. chopped down and tossed into the fire.” 10 His mother said, “Child, why have you The crowds asked him, “What then treated us like this? Listen! Your father and I should we do?” 11 have been worried. We’ve been looking for you!” He answered, “Whoever has two shirts 49Jesus replied, “Why were you looking for must share with the one who has none, and me? Didn’t you know that it was necessary whoever has food must do the same.” 12 for me to be in my Father’s house?” 50But they Even tax collectors came to be baptized. didn’t understand what he said to them. They said to him, “Teacher, what should we do?” 13 51Jesus went down to Nazareth with them He replied, “Collect no more than you are authorized to collect.” and was obedient to them. His mother cher- 14Soldiers asked, “What about us? What ished every word in her heart. 52Jesus ma- should we do?” tured in wisdom and years, and in favor with He answered, “Don’t cheat or harass any- God and with people. one, and be satisfied with your pay.” John the Baptist’s message Responses to John In the fifteenth year of the rule of the 15The people were filled with expectation, emperor —when Pontius Pi- 3 and everyone wondered whether John might late was governor over Judea and Herod was be the Christ. 16John replied to them all, “I bap- rulerc over Galilee, his brother Philip was tize you with water, but the one who is more rulerd over Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysa- powerful than me is coming. I’m not worthy to nias was rulere over , 2during the high loosen the strap of his sandals. He will baptize priesthood of and —God’s you with the Holy Spirit and fire.17 The shovel word came to John son of Zechariah in the he uses to sift the wheat from the husks is in 3 wilderness. John went throughout the re- his hands. He will clean out his threshing area gion of the , calling for people to and bring the wheat into his barn. But he will be baptized to show that they were changing burn the husks with a fire that can’t be put their hearts and lives and wanted God to for- out.” 18With many other words John appealed 4 give their sins. This is just as it was written in to them, proclaiming good news to the people. the scroll of the words of Isaiah the prophet, 19But Herod the ruler had been criticized A voice crying out in the wilderness: harshly by John because of Herodias, Herod’s “Prepare the way for the Lord; brother’s wife, and because of all the evil he make his paths straight. had done. 20He added this to the list of his evil 5 Every valley will be filled, deeds: he locked John up in prison. and every mountain and hill will be leveled. Jesus’ baptism The crooked will be made straight 21When everyone was being baptized, and the rough places made smooth. Jesus also was baptized. While he was pray- f 6 All humanity will see God’s salvation.” ing, heaven was opened 22and the Holy Spirit cOr tetrarch dOr tetrarch eOr tetrarch fIsa 40:3-5 Luke 3:23 24 came down on him in bodily form like a dove. all these kingdoms. It’s been entrusted to me And there was a voice from heaven: “You are and I can give it to anyone I want. 7Therefore, my Son, whom I dearly love; in you I find hap- if you will worship me, it will all be yours.” piness.” 8Jesus answered, “It’s written, You will wor- ship the Lord your God and serve only him.”h Jesus’ genealogy 9The devil brought him into Jerusalem and 23Jesus was about 30 years old when he stood him at the highest point of the temple. began his ministry. People supposed that he He said to him, “Since you are God’s Son, 10 was the son of Joseph son of Heli 24son of throw yourself down from here; for it’s writ- Matthat son of Levi son of Melchi son of Jan- ten: He will command his angels concerning 11 nai son of Joseph 25son of Mattathias son of you, to protect you and they will take you up Amos son of Nahum son of Esli son of Nag- in their hands so that you won’t hit your foot i gai 26son of Maath son of Mattathias son of on a stone.” 12 Semein son of Josech son of Joda 27son of Jesus answered, “It’s been said, Don’t test j 13 Joanan son of Rhesa son of Zerubbabel son the Lord your God.” After finishing every of Shealtiel son of Neri 28son of Melchi son temptation, the devil departed from him until of Addi son of Cosam son of Elmadam son of the next opportunity. Er 29son of Joshua son of Eliezer son of Jorim son of Matthat son of Levi30 son of Simeon Jesus announces good news to the poor son of son of Joseph son of Jonam son 14Jesus returned in the power of the of Eliakim 31son of Melea son of Menna Spirit to Galilee, and news about him spread son of Mattatha son of Nathan son of David throughout the whole countryside. 15He 32son of son of son of son taught in their synagogues and was praised of Sala son of Nahshon 33son of by everyone. son of Admin son of Arni son of son 16Jesus went to Nazareth, where he had of son of Judah 34son of Jacob son of been raised. On the Sabbath he went to the son of Abraham son of son of synagogue as he normally did and stood up to Nahor 35son of son of son of read. 17The synagogue assistant gave him the son of son of 36son of son scroll from the prophet Isaiah. He unrolled of Arphaxad son of son of son of the scroll and found the place where it was 37son of son of son written: 38 of son of son of Cainan son 18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, of son of son of son of God. because the Lord has anointed me. He has sent me to preach good news Jesus’ temptation to the poor, Jesus returned from the Jordan River to proclaim release to the prisoners full of the Holy Spirit, and was led by and recovery of sight to the blind, 4 2 the Spirit into the wilderness. There he was to liberate the oppressed, tempted for forty days by the devil. He ate 19 and to proclaim the year of the Lord’s nothing during those days and afterward favor.k Jesus was starving. 3The devil said to him, 20He rolled up the scroll, gave it back to “Since you are God’s Son, command this stone the synagogue assistant, and sat down. Every to become a loaf of bread.” eye in the synagogue was fixed on him.21 He 4Jesus replied, “It’s written, People won’t began to explain to them, “Today, this scrip- live only by bread.”g ture has been fulfilled just as you heard it.” 5Next the devil led him to a high place 22Everyone was raving about Jesus, so and showed him in a single instant all the impressed were they by the gracious words kingdoms of the world. 6The devil said, “I will flowing from his lips. They said, “This is Jo- give you this whole domain and the glory of seph’s son, isn’t it?” gDeut 8:3 hDeut 6:13 iPs 91:11-12 jDeut 6:16 kIsa 61:1-2; 58:6 25 :3 Jesus in 31Jesus went down to the city of Caper- Heaven on earth naum in Galilee and taught the people each 32 Jesus reads a passage from the prophet Sabbath. They were amazed by his teach- Isaiah as if it is the mission statement of his ing because he delivered his message with ministry (4:18-19). He has come to preach good authority. news to the poor, release to the prisoners, sight 33A man in the synagogue had the spirit to the blind, and freedom to the oppressed. His of an unclean demon. He screamed, 34“Hey! mission, therefore, is to help people who are What have you to do with us, Jesus of Naza- poor and free people from abuse and bondage. reth? Have you come to destroy us? I know Jesus does not just come to make a way for who you are. You are the holy one from God.” people to get into heaven, but to bring the 35“Silence!” Jesus said, speaking harshly wholeness and freedom of heaven to earth. to the demon. “Come out of him!” The demon You can see Jesus doing this when he feeds threw the man down before them, then came the hungry and heals the sick. You can see out of him without harming him. this when he welcomes children and cares 36They were all shaken and said to each for widows. Jesus is bringing people whole- other, “What kind of word is this, that he ness and salvation here on earth. In what can command unclean spirits with authority 4:14-19

ways can you join in with Jesus by helping and power, and they leave?” 37Reports about the poor, caring for the sick, advocating him spread everywhere in the surrounding for those who are oppressed and abused? region. How can you work to make this world a better 38 place? What is one thing you will do this week After leaving the synagogue, Jesus went to help fulfill Jesus’s mission? home with Simon. Simon’s mother-in-law was sick with a high fever, and the family asked Jesus to help her. 39He bent over her and spoke harshly to the fever, and it left her. She got up at once and served them. 23Then Jesus said to them, “Undoubtedly, 40When the sun was setting, everyone you will quote this saying to me: ‘Doctor, brought to Jesus relatives and acquaintances heal yourself. Do here in your hometown with all kinds of diseases. Placing his hands what we’ve heard you did in Capernaum.’ ” on each of them, he healed them. 41Demons 24He said, “I assure you that no prophet is also came out of many people. They screamed, welcome in the prophet’s hometown. 25And I “You are God’s Son.” But he spoke harshly to can assure you that there were many widows them and wouldn’t allow them to speak be- in Israel during Elijah’s time, when it didn’t cause they recognized that he was the Christ. rain for three and a half years and there was 42When daybreak arrived, Jesus went to a a great food shortage in the land. 26Yet Eli- deserted place. The crowds were looking for jah was sent to none of them but only to a him. When they found him, they tried to keep widow in the city of Zarephath in the region him from leaving them. 43But he said to them, of Sidon. 27There were also many persons “I must preach the good news of God’s king- with skin diseases in Israel during the time dom in other cities too, for this is why I was of the prophet Elisha, but none of them were sent.” 44So he continued preaching in the Ju- cleansed. Instead, Naaman the Syrian was dean synagogues. cleansed.” 28When they heard this, everyone in the Jesus calls disciples synagogue was filled with anger. 29They rose One day Jesus was standing beside Lake up and ran him out of town. They led him to Gennesaret when the crowd pressed in 5 2 the crest of the hill on which their town had around him to hear God’s word. Jesus saw been built so that they could throw him off two boats sitting by the lake. The fishermen the cliff.30 But he passed through the crowd had gone ashore and were washing their nets. and went on his way. 3Jesus boarded one of the boats, the one that Luke 5:4 26 belonged to Simon, then asked him to row power of the Lord was with Jesus to heal. out a little distance from the shore. Jesus sat 18Some men were bringing a man who was down and taught the crowds from the boat. paralyzed, lying on a cot. They wanted to 4When he finished speaking to the crowds, he carry him in and place him before Jesus, 19but said to Simon, “Row out farther, into the deep they couldn’t reach him because of the crowd. water, and drop your nets for a catch.” So they took him up on the roof and lowered 5Simon replied, “Master, we’ve worked him—cot and all—through the roof tiles into hard all night and caught nothing. But be- the crowded room in front of Jesus. 20When cause you say so, I’ll drop the nets.” Jesus saw their faith, he said, “Friend, your 6So they dropped the nets and their catch sins are forgiven.” was so huge that their nets were splitting. 21The legal experts and began to 7They signaled for their partners in the other mutter among themselves, “Who is this who boat to come and help them. They filled both insults God? Only God can forgive sins!” boats so full that they were about to sink. 22Jesus recognized what they were dis- 8When Simon Peter saw the catch, he fell at cussing and responded, “Why do you fill your Jesus’ knees and said, “Leave me, Lord, for minds with these questions? 23Which is I’m a sinner!” 9Peter and those with him were easier—to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to overcome with amazement because of the say, ‘Get up and walk’? 24But so that you will number of fish they caught. 10James and John, know that the Human Onel has authority on ’s sons, were Simon’s partners and the earth to forgive sins”—Jesus now spoke to they were amazed too. the man who was paralyzed, “I say to you, get Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid. From up, take your cot, and go home.” 25Right away, now on, you will be fishing for people.”11 As the man stood before them, picked up his cot, soon as they brought the boats to the shore, and went home, praising God. they left everything and followed Jesus. 26All the people were beside themselves with wonder. Filled with awe, they glorified A man with a skin disease God, saying, “We’ve seen unimaginable things 12Jesus was in one of the towns where today.” there was also a man covered with a skin dis- ease. When he saw Jesus, he fell on his face Jesus calls a tax collector and begged, “Lord, if you want, you can make 27Afterward, Jesus went out and saw a tax me clean.” collector named Levi sitting at a kiosk for col- 13Jesus reached out his hand, touched him, lecting taxes. Jesus said to him, “Follow me.” and said, “I do want to. Be clean.” Instantly, 28Levi got up, left everything behind, and the skin disease left him. 14Jesus ordered followed him. 29Then Levi threw a great ban- him not to tell anyone. “Instead,” Jesus said, quet for Jesus in his home. A large number of “go and show yourself to the priest and make tax collectors and others sat down to eat with an offering for your cleansing, as Moses in- them. 30The Pharisees and their legal experts structed. This will be a testimony to them.” grumbled against his disciples. They said, 15News of him spread even more and huge “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors crowds gathered to listen and to be healed and sinners?” from their illnesses. 16But Jesus would with- 31Jesus answered, “Healthy people don’t draw to deserted places for prayer. need a doctor, but sick people do. 32I didn’t come to call righteous people but sinners to Jesus heals a paralyzed man change their hearts and lives.” 17One day when Jesus was teaching, Phari- sees and legal experts were sitting nearby. The old and the new They had come from every village in Gali- 33Some people said to Jesus, “The disciples lee and Judea, and from Jerusalem. Now the of John fast often and pray frequently. The lOr 27 :25 disciples of the Pharisees do the same, but his hand was made healthy. 11They were furi- your disciples are always eating and drinking.” ous and began talking with each other about 34Jesus replied, “You can’t make the wed- what to do to Jesus. ding guests fast while the groom is with them, can you? 35The days will come when Jesus chooses apostles the groom will be taken from them, and then 12During that time, Jesus went out to the they will fast.” mountain to pray, and he prayed to God all 36Then he told them a parable. “No one night long. 13At daybreak, he called together tears a patch from a new garment to patch his disciples. He chose twelve of them whom an old garment. Otherwise, the new garment he called apostles: 14Simon, whom he named would be ruined, and the new patch wouldn’t Peter; his brother Andrew; James; John; match the old garment. 37Nobody pours new Philip; Bartholomew; 15Matthew; Thomas; wine into old wineskins. If they did, the new James the son of Alphaeus; Simon, who was wine would burst the wineskins, the wine called a zealot; 16Judas the son of James; and would spill, and the wineskins would be ru- , who became a traitor. ined. 38Instead, new wine must be put into new wineskins. 39No one who drinks a well- Jesus’ popularity increases aged wine wants new wine, but says, ‘The 17Jesus came down from the mountain well-aged wine is better.’ ” with them and stood on a large area of level ground. A great company of his disciples and Activities on the Sabbath a huge crowd of people from all around Judea One Sabbath, as Jesus was going through and Jerusalem and the area around Tyre and 6the wheat fields, his disciples were pick- Sidon joined him there. 18They came to hear ing the heads of wheat, rubbing them in their him and to be healed from their diseases, hands, and eating them. 2Some Pharisees and those bothered by unclean spirits were said, “Why are you breaking the Sabbath law?” healed. 19The whole crowd wanted to touch 3Jesus replied, “Haven’t you read what him, because power was going out from him David and his companions did when they and he was healing everyone. were hungry? 4He broke the Law by going into God’s house and eating the bread of the Happy people and doomed people presence, which only the priests can eat. He 20Jesus raised his eyes to his disciples and also gave some of the bread to his compan- said: ions.” 5Then he said to them, “The Human “Happy are you who are poor, Onem is Lord of the Sabbath.” because God’s kingdom is yours. 6On another Sabbath, Jesus entered a 21 Happy are you who hunger now, synagogue to teach. A man was there whose because you will be satisfied. right hand was withered. 7The legal experts Happy are you who weep now, and the Pharisees were watching him closely because you will laugh. to see if he would heal on the Sabbath. They 22Happy are you when people hate you, re- were looking for a reason to bring charges ject you, insult you, and condemn your name against him. 8Jesus knew their thoughts, so as evil because of the Human One.n 23Rejoice he said to the man with the withered hand, when that happens! Leap for joy because you “Get up and stand in front of everyone.” He have a great reward in heaven. Their ances- got up and stood there. 9Jesus said to the tors did the same things to the prophets. legal experts and Pharisees, “Here’s a ques- 24 But how terrible for you who are rich, tion for you: Is it legal on the Sabbath to do because you have already received good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy it?” your comfort. 10Looking around at them all, he said to the 25 How terrible for you who have plenty now, man, “Stretch out your hand.” So he did and because you will be hungry. mOr Son of Man nOr Son of Man Luke 6:26 28

How terrible for you who laugh now, take the splinter out of your eye,’ when you because you will mourn and weep. don’t see the log in your own eye? You deceive 26 How terrible for you when all speak well yourselves! First take the log out of your eye, of you. and then you will see clearly to take the splin- Their ancestors did the same things to ter out of your brother’s or sister’s eye. the false prophets. 43“A good tree doesn’t produce bad fruit, nor does a bad tree produce good fruit. 44Each Behaving as God’s children tree is known by its own fruit. People don’t 27“But I say to you who are willing to hear: gather figs from thorny plants, nor do they Love your enemies. Do good to those who hate pick grapes from prickly bushes. 45A good you. 28Bless those who curse you. Pray for person produces good from the good treasury those who mistreat you. 29If someone slaps of the inner self, while an evil person pro- you on the cheek, offer the other one as well. duces evil from the evil treasury of the inner If someone takes your coat, don’t withhold self. The inner self overflows with words that your shirt either. 30Give to everyone who are spoken. asks and don’t demand your things back from 46“Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord’ and don’t those who take them. 31Treat people in the do what I say? 47I’ll show what it’s like when same way that you want them to treat you. someone comes to me, hears my words, and 32“If you love those who love you, why puts them into practice. 48It’s like a person should you be commended? Even sinners building a house by digging deep and laying love those who love them. 33If you do good to the foundation on bedrock. When the flood those who do good to you, why should you be came, the rising water smashed against that commended? Even sinners do that. 34If you house, but the water couldn’t shake the house lend to those from whom you expect repay- because it was well built. 49But those who ment, why should you be commended? Even don’t put into practice what they hear are like sinners lend to sinners expecting to be paid a person who built a house without a foun- back in full. 35Instead, love your enemies, do dation. The floodwater smashed against it good, and lend expecting nothing in return. If and it collapsed instantly. It was completely you do, you will have a great reward. You will destroyed.” be acting the way children of the Most High act, for he is kind to ungrateful and wicked A servant is healed people. 36Be compassionate just as your After Jesus finished presenting all his Father is compassionate. words among the people, he entered 37 7 2 “Don’t judge, and you won’t be judged. Capernaum. A centurion had a servant who Don’t condemn, and you won’t be condemned. was very important to him, but the servant Forgive, and you will be forgiven. 38Give, and was ill and about to die. 3When the centu- it will be given to you. A good portion—packed rion heard about Jesus, he sent some Jewish down, firmly shaken, and overflowing—will elders to Jesus to ask him to come and heal fall into your lap. The portion you give will his servant. 4When they came to Jesus, they determine the portion you receive in return.” earnestly pleaded with Jesus. “He deserves to have you do this for him,” they said. 5“He loves Avoiding self-deception our people and he built our synagogue for us.” 39Jesus also told them a riddle. “A blind 6Jesus went with them. He had almost person can’t lead another blind person, right? reached the house when the centurion sent Won’t they both fall into a ditch? 40Disci- friends to say to Jesus, “Lord, don’t be both- ples aren’t greater than their teacher, but ered. I don’t deserve to have you come under whoever is fully prepared will be like their my roof. 7In fact, I didn’t even consider myself teacher. 41Why do you see the splinter in your worthy to come to you. Just say the word and brother’s or sister’s eye but don’t notice the my servant will be healed. 8I’m also a man log in your own eye? 42How can you say to appointed under authority, with soldiers your brother or sister, ‘Brother, Sister, let me under me. I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes, and 29 :39 to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my good news is preached to the poor.o 23Happy servant, ‘Do this,’ and the servant does it.” is anyone who doesn’t stumble along the way 9When Jesus heard these words, he was because of me.” impressed with the centurion. He turned to 24After John’s messengers were gone, the crowd following him and said, “I tell you, Jesus spoke to the crowds about John. “What even in Israel I haven’t found faith like this.” did you go out into the wilderness to see? A 10When the centurion’s friends returned to stalk blowing in the wind? 25What did you his house, they found the servant restored to go out to see? A man dressed up in refined health. clothes? Look, those who dress in fashionable clothes and live in luxury are in royal palaces. Jesus raises a widow’s son 26What did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, 27 11A little later Jesus went to a city called I tell you, and more than a prophet. He is Nain. His disciples and a great crowd traveled the one of whom it’s written: Look, I’m send- with him. 12As he approached the city gate, ing my messenger before you, who will pre- p 28 a dead man was being carried out. He was pare your way before you. I tell you that no his mother’s only son, and she was a widow. greater human being has ever been born than A large crowd from the city was with her. John. Yet whoever is least in God’s kingdom is 29 13When he saw her, the Lord had compassion greater than he.” Everyone who heard this, for her and said, “Don’t cry.” 14He stepped for- including the tax collectors, acknowledged ward and touched the stretcher on which the God’s justice because they had been baptized 30 dead man was being carried. Those carrying by John. But the Pharisees and legal experts him stood still. Jesus said, “Young man, I say to rejected God’s will for themselves because they hadn’t been baptized by John. you, get up.” 15The dead man sat up and began 31“To what will I compare the people of to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother. this generation?” Jesus asked. “What are 16Awestruck, everyone praised God. “A they like? 32They are like children sitting in great prophet has appeared among us,” they the marketplace calling out to each other, said. “God has come to help his people.” 17This ‘We played the flute for you and you didn’t news about Jesus spread throughout Judea dance. We sang a funeral song and you didn’t and the surrounding region. cry.’ 33John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, ‘He has John the Baptist and Jesus a demon.’ 34Yet the Human Oneq came eating 18John’s disciples informed him about all and drinking, and you say, ‘Look, a glutton and these things. John called two of his disciples a drunk, a friend of tax collectors and sin- 19 and sent them to the Lord. They were to ners.’ 35But wisdom is proved to be right by all ask him, “Are you the one who is coming, or her descendants.” should we look for someone else?” 20When they reached Jesus, they said, Forgiveness and gratitude “John the Baptist sent us to you. He asks, ‘Are 36One of the Pharisees invited Jesus to you the one who is coming, or should we look eat with him. After he entered the Phari - for someone else?’ ” see’s home, he took his place at the table. 21 Right then, Jesus healed many of their 37Meanwhile, a woman from the city, a sin- diseases, illnesses, and evil spirits, and he ner, discovered that Jesus was dining in the gave sight to a number of blind people. 22Then Pharisee’s house. She brought perfumed oil in he replied to John’s disciples, “Go, report to a vase made of alabaster. 38Standing behind John what you have seen and heard. Those him at his feet and crying, she began to wet who were blind are able to see. Those who his feet with her tears. She wiped them with were crippled now walk. People with skin dis- her hair, kissed them, and poured the oil on eases are cleansed. Those who were deaf now them. 39When the Pharisee who had invited hear. Those who were dead are raised up. And Jesus saw what was happening, he said to oIsa 35:5-6; 61:1 pMal 3:1 qOr Son of Man Luke 7:40 30 himself, If this man were a prophet, he would after another, he spoke to them in a parable: know what kind of woman is touching him. 5“A farmer went out to scatter his seed. As He would know that she is a sinner. he was scattering it, some fell on the path 40Jesus replied, “Simon, I have something where it was crushed, and the birds in the to say to you.” sky came and ate it. 6Other seed fell on rock. “Teacher, speak,” he said. As it grew, it dried up because it had no mois- 41“A certain lender had two debtors. One ture. 7Other seed fell among thorny plants. owed enough money to pay five hundred The thorns grew with the plants and choked people for a day’s work.r The other owed them. 8Still other seed landed on good soil. enough money for fifty. 42When they couldn’t When it grew, it produced one hundred pay, the lender forgave the debts of them times more grain than was scattered.” As he both. Which of them will love him more?” said this, he called out, “Everyone who has 43 Simon replied, “I suppose the one who ears should pay attention.” had the largest debt canceled.” 9His disciples asked him what this parable Jesus said, “You have judged correctly.” meant. 10He said, “You have been given the 44 Jesus turned to the woman and said to mysteries of God’s kingdom, but these mys- Simon, “Do you see this woman? When I en- teries come to everyone else in parables so tered your home, you didn’t give me water for that when they see, they can’t see, and when my feet, but she wet my feet with tears and they hear, they can’t understand.s 45 wiped them with her hair. You didn’t greet 11“The parable means this: The seed is me with a kiss, but she hasn’t stopped kissing God’s word. 12The seed on the path are those 46 my feet since I came in. You didn’t anoint who hear, but then the devil comes and my head with oil, but she has poured per- steals the word from their hearts so that fumed oil on my feet. 47This is why I tell you they won’t believe and be saved. 13The seed that her many sins have been forgiven; so she on the rock are those who receive the word has shown great love. The one who is forgiven joyfully when they hear it, but they have no little loves little.” root. They believe for a while but fall away 48Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are for- when they are tempted. 14As for the seed that given.” fell among thorny plants, these are the ones 49The other table guests began to say who, as they go about their lives, are choked among themselves, “Who is this person that by the concerns, riches, and pleasures of life, even forgives sins?” and their fruit never matures. 15The seed that 50Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has fell on good soil are those who hear the word saved you. Go in peace.” and commit themselves to it with a good and Women who followed Jesus upright heart. Through their resolve, they Soon afterward, Jesus traveled through bear fruit. the cities and villages, preaching and 8proclaiming the good news of God’s kingdom. Sharing the light 16 The Twelve were with him, 2along with some “No one lights a lamp and then covers it women who had been healed of evil spirits with a bowl or puts it under a bed. Instead, and sicknesses. Among them were Mary Mag- they put it on top of a lampstand so that those dalene (from whom seven demons had been who enter can see the light. 17Nothing is thrown out), 3Joanna (the wife of Herod’s ser- hidden that won’t be exposed. Nor is anything vant Chuza), Susanna, and many others who concealed that won’t be made known and provided for them out of their resources. brought to the light. 18Therefore, listen carefully. Those who have will receive more, Parable of the soils but as for those who don’t have, even what 4When a great crowd was gathering and they seem to have will be taken away from people were coming to Jesus from one city them.” rOr five hundred denaria sIsa 6:9 31 :29

Jesus’ family 19Jesus’ mother and brothers came to him but were unable to reach him because of the We are family crowd. 20Someone told him, “Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to Jesus had a mom and dad and brothers, see you.” but this was not Jesus’s only family. Jesus 21He replied, “My mother and brothers are also made a family of the people around him those who listen to God’s word and do it.” (8:19-21). He called those who do the will of God his family. Jesus believed that family was not just made up of people related by Jesus calms the sea blood but also made up of people related 22One day Jesus and his disciples boarded a by love. Think of people in your life who are boat. He said to them, “Let’s cross over to the like family to you. Maybe you know people other side of the lake.” So they set sail. in church who care for you like a mother or 23 While they were sailing, he fell asleep. father or aunt or uncle. Maybe your friend Gale-force winds swept down on the lake. The looks out for you like a brother or sister. boat was filling up with water and they were How can you love and treat others as 24 in danger. So they went and woke Jesus, if they are members of your family? 8:19-21 shouting, “Master, Master, we’re going to How can you be a brother or sister to drown!” But he got up and gave orders to the someone? What if we all treated those wind and the violent waves. The storm died around us like members of our family? down and it was calm. Imagine what the world would be like if 25He said to his disciples, “Where is your we loved each other like that. faith?” Filled with awe and wonder, they said to each other, “Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him!”

Jesus frees a demon-possessed man 26Jesus and his disciples sailed to the Gerasenes’ land, which is across the lake from Galilee. 27As soon as Jesus got out of the boat, shouted, “What have you to do with me, Jesus, a certain man met him. The man was from Son of the Most High God? I beg you, don’t the city and was possessed by demons. For torture me!” 29He said this because Jesus had a long time, he had lived among the tombs, naked and homeless. 28When he saw Jesus, he already commanded the unclean spirit to shrieked and fell down before him. Then he come out of the man. Many times it had taken

Do you know you are as strong as your foundation? What is your foundation? Some of us forget that we have the strongest God by our side. Jesus asks the disciples, “Where is your faith?” We should constantly remind ourselves that our God is the greatest in EVERY situation, not just when giving us blessings, but also when giving us tests and trials. “God didn’t give us a spirit that is timid but one that is powerful, loving, and self-controlled” (2 Tim 1:7). Sometimes we forget we have a remedy, and when that

Luke 8:22-25 happens, we either forget God’s presence or question God’s power. It is the same power that resurrected Jesus that is in us today! We hurt God with our doubt. I find myself, at times, hesitant about God’s plan, but then I ask myself, “How can I not trust my God? God has not only given me life, but continues to give me everlasting love and mercy each and every day.” God’s plan is THE plan. Don’t let fear get in the way of that. Most importantly, don’t let that fear make you put your foundation on something that can’t even hold you up. You are as strong as your foundation. Jayeesha Williams, 14 Luke 8:19 32 Jesus’ family 19Jesus’ mother and brothers came to him but were unable to reach him because of the The risks of being crowd. 20Someone told him, “Your mother and a revolutionary brothers are standing outside, wanting to There can be many levels to the stories in see you.” the Bible. Reread the story of how Jesus freed 21He replied, “My mother and brothers are the demon-possessed man, and consider how those who listen to God’s word and do it.” it might have been a political statement (8:26- 39). Remember that Jerusalem, the city of Jesus calms the sea David, was under Roman control, and a “legion” was a large unit in the Roman army (8:30). The 22One day Jesus and his disciples boarded a detail that the demon-possessed man says his boat. He said to them, “Let’s cross over to the name is “Legion” is too provocative to ignore. other side of the lake.” So they set sail. So is the fact that Jesus drives the demons into 23 While they were sailing, he fell asleep. a herd of pigs (8:32-33). Gentiles keep and eat Gale-force winds swept down on the lake. The pigs; don’t because eating pork is a viola- boat was filling up with water and they were tion of religious law. This story could be read as 24 in danger. So they went and woke Jesus, saying that Jesus is the true king of the Jews shouting, “Master, Master, we’re going to who has come to drive out the Romans (the de- drown!” But he got up and gave orders to the mons) and restore pure worship (represented wind and the violent waves. The storm died by getting rid of the pigs). But it also suggests down and it was calm. that even the people who see Jesus’s 25He said to his disciples, “Where is your power will be too afraid to follow Jesus and 8:26-39 faith?” will want him to just go away. Filled with awe and wonder, they said to In order to understand this passage as a each other, “Who is this? He commands even political statement, we have to understand the winds and the water, and they obey him!” the historical context in which Jesus was teaching and acting, and the perspectives Jesus frees a demon-possessed man of the people that would be witnesses to his works—Jews living under Roman 26Jesus and his disciples sailed to the Occupation. How does understanding this Gerasenes’ land, which is across the lake from story in context shift how you might view Jesus 27 Galilee. As soon as Jesus got out of the boat, and his ministry? What would Jesus’s ministry a certain man met him. The man was from look like in your context that would seem revo- the city and was possessed by demons. For lutionary today? a long time, he had lived among the tombs, naked and homeless. 28When he saw Jesus, he shrieked and fell down before him. Then he t shouted, “What have you to do with me, Jesus, not to order them to go back into the abyss. 32 Son of the Most High God? I beg you, don’t A large herd of pigs was feeding on the hill- torture me!” 29He said this because Jesus had side. The demons begged Jesus to let them already commanded the unclean spirit to go into the pigs. Jesus gave them permission, 33 come out of the man. Many times it had taken and the demons left the man and entered the pigs. The herd rushed down the cliff into possession of him, so he would be bound with the lake and drowned. leg irons and chains and placed under guard. 34When those who tended the pigs saw But he would break his restraints, and the what happened, they ran away and told the demon would force him into the wilderness. story in the city and in the countryside. 30Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” 35People came to see what had happened. “Legion,” he replied, because many demons They came to Jesus and found the man from had entered him. 31They pleaded with him whom the demons had gone. He was sitting at tOr underworld 33 :11

Jesus’ feet, fully dressed and completely sane. “Don’t be afraid; just keep trusting, and she They were filled with awe.36 Those people will be healed.” who had actually seen what had happened 51When he came to the house, he didn’t told them how the demon-possessed man allow anyone to enter with him except Peter, had been delivered. 37Then everyone gath- John, and James, and the child’s father and ered from the region of the Gerasenes asked mother. 52They were all crying and mourn- Jesus to leave their area because they were ing for her, but Jesus said, “Don’t cry. She isn’t overcome with fear. So he got into the boat dead. She’s only sleeping.” and returned across the lake. 38The man from 53They laughed at him because they knew whom the demons had gone begged to come she was dead. along with Jesus as one of his disciples. Jesus 54Taking her hand, Jesus called out, “Child, sent him away, saying, 39“Return home and get up.” 55Her life returned and she got up at tell the story of what God has done for you.” once. He directed them to give her something So he went throughout the city proclaiming to eat. 56Her parents were beside themselves what Jesus had done for him. with joy, but he ordered them to tell no one what had happened. Jesus heals two women 40When Jesus returned, the crowd wel- The Twelve sent out comed him, for they had been waiting for him. Jesus called the Twelve together and he 41A man named Jairus, who was a synagogue gave them power and authority over all leader, came and fell at Jesus’ feet. He pleaded 9demons and to heal sicknesses. 2He sent them with Jesus to come to his house 42because his out to proclaim God’s kingdom and to heal the only daughter, a twelve-year-old, was dying. sick. 3He told them, “Take nothing for the As Jesus moved forward, he faced smoth- journey—no walking stick, no bag, no bread, ering crowds. 43A woman was there who had no money, not even an extra shirt. 4Whatever been bleeding for twelve years. She had spent house you enter, remain there until you leave her entire livelihood on doctors, but no one that place. 5Wherever they don’t welcome could heal her. 44She came up behind him and you, as you leave that city, shake the dust off touched the hem of his clothes, and at once your feet as a witness against them.” 6They her bleeding stopped. departed and went through the villages 45“Who touched me?” Jesus asked. proclaiming the good news and healing When everyone denied it, Peter said, people everywhere. “Master, the crowds are surrounding you and pressing in on you!” Herod’s confusion 46But Jesus said, “Someone touched me. I 7Herod the ruleru heard about everything know that power has gone out from me.” that was happening. He was confused 47When the woman saw that she couldn’t because some people were saying that John 8 escape notice, she came trembling and fell had been raised from the dead, others that before Jesus. In front of everyone, she ex- Elijah had appeared, and still others that one plained why she had touched him and how of the ancient prophets had come back to life. 9 she had been immediately healed. Herod said, “I beheaded John, so now who am 48“Daughter, your faith has healed you,” I hearing about?” Herod wanted to see him. Jesus said. “Go in peace.” Jesus feeds the five thousand 49While Jesus was still speaking, someone 10When the apostles returned, they came from the synagogue leader’s house, say- described for Jesus what they had done. ing to Jairus, “Your daughter has died. Don’t Taking them with him, Jesus withdrew bother the teacher any longer.” privately to a city called . 11When 50When Jesus heard this, he responded, the crowds figured it out, they followed him. He welcomed them, spoke to them about uOr tetrarch vOr Son of Man PARABLES IN MATTHEW, MARK, & LUKE Patches and wineskins Luke 5:36-39 Matt 9:16-17 Mark 2:21-22 The blind leading the blind Luke 6:39-40 Matt 15:14b The log in your own eye Luke 6:41-42 Matt 7:3-5 Producing good fruit Luke 6:43-45 Matt 7:16-20 The two builders/building on a solid foundation Luke 6:46-49 Matt 7:24-27 The riddle of the children Luke 7:31-35 Matt 11:16-19 The two debtors Luke 7:41-43 Seed and the soil/the farmer Luke 8:4-8 Matt 13:3-9 Mark 4:3-9 The lamp Luke 8:16-17 Matt 5:14-16 Mark 4:21-22 The good Samaritan :30-35 The shameless neighbor :5-8 The kingdom divided against itself Luke 11:17a Matt 12:25a Mark 3:24 The house divided against itself Luke 11:17b Matt 12:25b Mark 3:25 The return of the unclean spirit Luke 11:24-26 Matt 12:43-45 The rich fool Luke 12:16-21 The returning master Luke 12:36-38 The thief in the night/the watchful owner Luke 12:39-40 Matt 24:43-44 The good and wicked servants Luke 12:42-46 Matt 24:45-51 (Mark 13:33-37) Going before a judge Luke 12:58-59 Matt 5:25-26 The barren fig tree :6-9 (Matt 21:20-22) (Mark 11:20-25) The mustard seed Luke 13:18-19 Matt 13:31-32 Mark 4:30-32 The yeast Luke 13:20-21 Matt 13:33 The narrow gate Luke 13:24-30 The best seats at the table :7-11 The large dinner/wedding party Luke 14:16-24 Matt 22:1-14 The fool at work Luke 14:28-30 The fool at war Luke 14:31-32 The lost sheep :3-7 Matt 18:12-14 The lost coin Luke 15:8-10 The prodigal son Luke 15:11-32 The dishonest manager :1-9 The Luke 16:19-31 The servant who serves without reward Luke 17:7-10 The unjust judge and the persistent widow :1-8 The Pharisee and the tax collector Luke 18:9-14 The valuable coins :11-27 Matt 25:14-30 The tenant farmers :9-18 Matt 21:33-44 Mark 12:1-11 The fig tree in bloom :29-31 Matt 24:32-33 Mark 13:28-29 The weeds Matt 13:24-30 The hidden treasure and the pearl Matt 13:44-46 The net Matt 13:47-48 The owner of a house Matt 13:52 What can contaminate Matt 15:10-11 Mark 7:14-15 The unforgiving servant Matt 18:23-35 The workers in the vineyard Matt 20:1-16 The two sons Matt 21:28-32 The bridesmaids Matt 25:1-13 The seed growing by itself Mark 4:26-29 The watchful servants Mark 13:33-37 35 Luke 9:33

God’s kingdom, and healed those who were Father and of the holy angels. 27I assure you sick. that some standing here won’t die before they 12When the day was almost over, the see God’s kingdom.” Twelve came to him and said, “Send the crowd away so that they can go to the nearby vil- Jesus transformed lages and countryside and find lodging and 28About eight days after Jesus said these food, because we are in a deserted place.” things, he took Peter, John, and James, and 13He replied, “You give them something to went up on a mountain to pray. 29As he was eat.” praying, the appearance of his face changed But they said, “We have no more than five and his clothes flashed white like lightning. loaves of bread and two fish—unless we go 30Two men, Moses and Elijah, were talking and buy food for all these people.” 14(They with him. 31They were clothed with heavenly said this because about five thousand men splendor and spoke about Jesus’ departure, 32 were present.) which he would achieve in Jerusalem. Peter Jesus said to his disciples, “Seat them in and those with him were almost overcome by groups of about fifty.” 15They did so, and ev- sleep, but they managed to stay awake and eryone was seated. 16He took the five loaves saw his glory as well as the two men with him. 33 and the two fish, looked up to heaven, blessed As the two men were about to leave them, and broke them and gave them to the Jesus, Peter said to him, “Master, it’s good disciples to set before the crowd. 17Everyone ate until they were full, and the disciples filled twelve baskets with the leftovers. The greatest among you Following Christ Have you ever argued with your friends about who is the best? Maybe you competed to 18Once when Jesus was praying by himself, see who was the best runner or the best gamer the disciples joined him, and he asked them, or the best singer. It can take a lot of energy to “Who do the crowds say that I am?” prove yourself as the greatest. Jesus’s disciples 19They answered, “John the Baptist, others spent a lot of time arguing about this as well Elijah, and still others that one of the ancient (9:46-48). When Jesus catches them arguing prophets has come back to life.” about who is the best, he brings a child to stand 20 He asked them, “And what about you? with them. Can you picture this little child stand- Who do you say that I am?” ing beside the adult disciples? The child is short Peter answered, “The Christ sent from God.” and has no status, but Jesus says that if you 21Jesus gave them strict orders not to tell welcome a child, you welcome him. Being the this to anyone. 22He said, “The Human Onev greatest is not the goal of following Jesus. must suffer many things and be rejected—by Your greatness does not come from being 9:46-48 the elders, chief priests, and the legal experts— the best. Your greatness comes from and be killed and be raised on the third day.” welcoming and loving others around you, 23Jesus said to everyone, “All who want especially those who are seen as small to come after me must say no to themselves, and insignificant. Imagine if you could let take up their cross daily, and follow me. 24All go of the need to always compete with who want to save their lives will lose them. your friends. Your friends would not need But all who lose their lives because of me will to prove themselves to be worthy of your save them. 25What advantage do people have love and neither would you. What if you welcomed and loved each other without trying if they gain the whole world for themselves to best each other? What would that feel like? yet perish or lose their lives? 26Whoever is What would need to change so you would not ashamed of me and my words, the Human have to worry about being the best? Onew will be ashamed of that person when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the wOr Son of Man xOr Son of Man Luke 9:34 36 that we’re here. We should construct three who sent me. Whoever is least among you all shrines: one for you, one for Moses, and one is the greatest.” for Elijah”—but he didn’t know what he was 49John replied, “Master, we saw someone saying. 34Peter was still speaking when a throwing demons out in your name, and we cloud overshadowed them. As they entered tried to stop him because he isn’t in our group the cloud, they were overcome with awe. of followers.” 35Then a voice from the cloud said, “This is 50But Jesus replied, “Don’t stop him, be- my Son, my chosen one. Listen to him!” 36Even cause whoever isn’t against you is for you.” as the voice spoke, Jesus was found alone. They were speechless and at the time told no Jesus sets out for Jerusalem one what they had seen. 51As the time approached when Jesus was to be taken up into heaven, he determined Jesus heals a boy to go to Jerusalem. 52He sent messengers on 37The next day, when Jesus, Peter, John, ahead of him. Along the way, they entered a and James had come down from the moun- Samaritan village to prepare for his arrival, tain, a large crowd met Jesus. 38A man from 53but the Samaritan villagers refused to wel- the crowd shouted, “Teacher, I beg you to come him because he was determined to go take a look at my son, my only child. 39Look, to Jerusalem. 54When the disciples James and a spirit seizes him and, without any warning, John saw this, they said, “Lord, do you want he screams. It shakes him and causes him to us to call fire down from heaven to consume foam at the mouth. It tortures him and rarely them?” 55But Jesus turned and spoke sternly leaves him alone. 40I begged your disciples to to them, 56and they went on to another village. throw it out, but they couldn’t.” 41Jesus answered, “You faithless and Following Jesus 57 crooked generation, how long will I be with As Jesus and his disciples traveled along you and put up with you? Bring your son here.” the road, someone said to him, “I will follow 42While he was coming, the demon threw him you wherever you go.” 58 down and shook him violently. Jesus spoke Jesus replied, “Foxes have dens and the harshly to the unclean spirit, healed the child, birds in the sky have nests, but the Human y and gave him back to his father. 43Everyone One has no place to lay his head.” 59 was overwhelmed by God’s greatness. Then Jesus said to someone else, “Follow me.” Jesus warns about his arrest He replied, “Lord, first let me go and bury While everyone was marveling at every- my father.” 60 thing he was doing, Jesus said to his disciples, Jesus said to him, “Let the dead bury 44“Take these words to heart: the Human their own dead. But you go and spread the Onex is about to be delivered into human news of God’s kingdom.” 61 hands.” 45They didn’t understand this state- Someone else said to Jesus, “I will fol- ment. Its meaning was hidden from them so low you, Lord, but first let me say good-bye to they couldn’t grasp it. And they were afraid to those in my house.” 62 ask him about it. Jesus said to him, “No one who puts a hand on the plow and looks back is fit for Jesus corrects the disciples God’s kingdom.” 46An argument arose among the disci- ples about which of them was the greatest. Seventy-two sent out 47Aware of their deepest thoughts, Jesus took After these things, the Lord a little child and had the child stand beside 10commissioned seventy-two others him. 48Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever and sent them on ahead in pairs to every 2 welcomes this child in my name welcomes city and place he was about to go. He said me. Whoever welcomes me, welcomes the one to them, “The harvest is bigger than you yOr Son of Man 37 Luke 10:33 can imagine, but there are few workers. underfoot. I have given you authority over all Therefore, plead with the Lord of the harvest the power of the enemy. Nothing will harm to send out workers for his harvest. 3Go! Be you. 20Nevertheless, don’t rejoice because warned, though, that I’m sending you out as the spirits submit to you. Rejoice instead that lambs among wolves. 4Carry no wallet, no bag, your names are written in heaven.” and no sandals. Don’t even greet anyone along 21At that very moment, Jesus overflowed the way. 5Whenever you enter a house, first with joy from the Holy Spirit and said, “I say, ‘May peace be on this house.’ 6If anyone praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, there shares God’s peace, then your peace will because you’ve hidden these things from rest on that person. If not, your blessing will the wise and intelligent and shown them to return to you. 7Remain in this house, eating babies. Indeed, Father, this brings you hap- and drinking whatever they set before you, piness. 22My Father has handed all things for workers deserve their pay. Don’t move over to me. No one knows who the Son is ex- from house to house. 8Whenever you enter cept the Father, or who the Father is except a city and its people welcome you, eat what the Son and anyone to whom the Son wants they set before you. 9Heal the sick who are to reveal him.” 23Turning to the disciples, he there, and say to them, ‘God’s kingdom has said privately, “Happy are the eyes that see come upon you.’ 10Whenever you enter a city what you see. 24I assure you that many proph- and the people don’t welcome you, go out into ets and kings wanted to see what you see and the streets and say, 11‘As a complaint against hear what you hear, but they didn’t.” you, we brush off the dust of your city that has collected on our feet. But know this: God’s Loving your neighbor kingdom has come to you.’ 12I assure you that 25A legal expert stood up to test Jesus. Sodom will be better off on Judgment Day “Teacher,” he said, “what must I do to gain than that city. eternal life?” 26Jesus replied, “What is written in the Judgment against cities Law? How do you interpret it?” that reject Jesus 27He responded, “You must love the Lord 13“How terrible it will be for you, Chorazin. your God with all your heart, with all your How terrible it will be for you, Bethsaida. If being, with all your strength, and with all your the miracles done among you had been done mind, and love your neighbor as yourself.”z in Tyre and Sidon, they would have changed 28Jesus said to him, “You have answered their hearts and lives long ago. They would correctly. Do this and you will live.” have sat around in funeral clothes and ashes. 29But the legal expert wanted to prove 14But Tyre and Sidon will be better off at the that he was right, so he said to Jesus, “And judgment than you. 15And you, Capernaum, who is my neighbor?” will you be honored by being raised up to 30Jesus replied, “A man went down from heaven? No, you will be cast down to the place Jerusalem to Jericho. He encountered of the dead. 16Whoever listens to you listens thieves, who stripped him naked, beat him to me. Whoever rejects you rejects me. Who- up, and left him near death. 31Now it just so ever rejects me rejects the one who sent me.” happened that a priest was also going down the same road. When he saw the injured man, The seventy-two return he crossed over to the other side of the road 17The seventy-two returned joyously, say- and went on his way. 32Likewise, a Levite ing, “Lord, even the demons submit them- came by that spot, saw the injured man, and selves to us in your name.” crossed over to the other side of the road and 18Jesus replied, “I saw Satan fall from went on his way. 33A Samaritan, who was heaven like lightning. 19Look, I have given on a journey, came to where the man was. you authority to crush snakes and scorpions But when he saw him, he was moved with zDeut 6:5; Lev 19:18 Luke 11:34 38 compassion. 34The Samaritan went to him 6because a friend of mine on a journey has and bandaged his wounds, tending them with arrived and I have nothing to set before oil and wine. Then he placed the wounded him.’ 7Imagine further that he answers from man on his own donkey, took him to an inn, within the house, ‘Don’t bother me. The door and took care of him. 35The next day, he took is already locked, and my children and I are two full days’ worth of wages and gave them in bed. I can’t get up to give you anything.’ to the innkeeper. He said, ‘Take care of him, 8I assure you, even if he wouldn’t get up and and when I return, I will pay you back for any help because of his friendship, he will get additional costs.’ 36What do you think? Which up and give his friend whatever he needs one of these three was a neighbor to the man because of his friend’s brashness. 9And I tell who encountered thieves?” you: Ask and you will receive. Seek and you 37Then the legal expert said, “The one who will find. Knock and the door will be opened to demonstrated mercy toward him.” you. 10Everyone who asks, receives. Whoever Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.” seeks, finds. To everyone who knocks, the door is opened. Jesus visits and Mary 11“Which father among you would give a 38While Jesus and his disciples were trav- snake to your child if the child asked for a eling, Jesus entered a village where a woman fish? 12If a child asked for an egg, what father named Martha welcomed him as a guest. would give the child a scorpion? 13If you who 39She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the are evil know how to give good gifts to your Lord’s feet and listened to his message. 40By children, how much more will the heavenly contrast, Martha was preoccupied with get- Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ting everything ready for their meal. So Mar- ask him?” tha came to him and said, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to prepare the table Controversy over Beelzebul all by myself? Tell her to help me.” 14Jesus was throwing out a demon that 41 The Lord answered, “Martha, Martha, causes muteness. When the demon was you are worried and distracted by many gone, the man who couldn’t speak began to 42 things. One thing is necessary. Mary has talk. The crowds were amazed. 15But some of chosen the better part. It won’t be taken away them said, “He throws out demons with the from her.” authority of Beelzebul, the ruler of demons.” 16Others were testing him, seeking a sign Teaching the disciples to pray from heaven. Jesus was praying in a certain place. 17Because Jesus knew what they were 11When he finished, one of his disciples thinking, he said to them, “Every kingdom in- said, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John volved in civil war becomes a wasteland, and taught his disciples.” a house torn apart by divisions will collapse. 2Jesus told them, “When you pray, say: 18If Satan is at war with himself, how will his ‘Father, uphold the holiness of your name. kingdom endure? I ask this because you say Bring in your kingdom. that I throw out demons by the authority of 3 Give us the bread we need for today. Beelzebul. 19If I throw out demons by the au- 4 Forgive us our sins, thority of Beelzebul, then by whose authority for we also forgive everyone who has do your followers throw them out? Therefore, wronged us. they will be your judges. 20But if I throw out And don’t lead us into temptation.’ ” demons by the powera of God, then God’s 5He also said to them, “Imagine that kingdom has already overtaken you. 21When one of you has a friend and you go to that a strong man, fully armed, guards his own pal- friend in the middle of the night. Imagine ace, his possessions are secure. 22But as soon saying, ‘Friend, loan me three loaves of bread as a stronger one attacks and overpowers aOr finger bOr Son of Man 39 Luke 11:51 him, the stronger one takes away the armor Jesus condemns Pharisees he had trusted and divides the stolen goods. and legal experts 23“Whoever isn’t with me is against me, 37While Jesus was speaking, a Pharisee in- and whoever doesn’t gather with me, scatters. vited him to share a meal with him, so Jesus 24 When an unclean spirit leaves a person, went and took his place at the table. 38When it wanders through dry places looking for a the Pharisee saw that Jesus didn’t ritually pu- place to rest. But it doesn’t find any. Then it rify his hands by washing before the meal, he 25 says, ‘I’ll go back to the house I left.’ When was astonished. it arrives, it finds the house cleaned up and 39The Lord said to him, “Now, you Phari- 26 decorated. Then it goes and brings with it sees clean the outside of the cup and plat- seven other spirits more evil than itself. They ter, but your insides are stuffed with greed go in and make their home there. That person and wickedness. 40Foolish people! Didn’t the is worse off at the end than at the beginning.” one who made the outside also make the in- side? 41Therefore, give to those in need from On seeking signs the core of who you are and you will be clean 27While Jesus was saying these things, a all over. certain woman in the crowd spoke up: “Happy 42“How terrible for you Pharisees! You give is the mother who gave birth to you and who a tenth of your mint, rue, and garden herbs of nursed you.” all kinds, while neglecting justice and love for 28But he said, “Happy rather are those who God. These you ought to have done without hear God’s word and put it into practice.” neglecting the others. 29When the crowds grew, Jesus said, “This 43 generation is an evil generation. It looks for “How terrible for you Pharisees! You love a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the most prominent seats in the synagogues Jonah’s sign. 30Just as Jonah became a sign and respectful greetings in the marketplaces. 44 to the people of Nineveh, so the Human Oneb “How terrible for you! You are like un- will be a sign to this generation. 31The queen marked graves, and people walk on them of the South will rise up at the judgment with without recognizing it.” 45 the people of this generation and condemn One of the legal experts responded, them, because she came from a distant land “Teacher, when you say these things, you are to hear ’s wisdom. And look, someone insulting us too.” 46 greater than Solomon is here. 32The people Jesus said, “How terrible for you legal of Nineveh will rise up at the judgment with experts too! You load people down with im- this generation and condemn it, because they possible burdens and you refuse to lift a changed their hearts and lives in response single finger to help them. to Jonah’s preaching—and one greater than 47“How terrible for you! You built me- Jonah is here. morials to the prophets, whom your ances- 33“People don’t light a lamp and then put tors killed. 48In this way, you testify that it in a closet or under a basket. Rather, they you approve of your ancestors’ deeds. They place the lamp on a lampstand so that those killed the prophets, and you build memori- who enter the house can see the light. 34Your als! 49Therefore, God’s wisdom has said, ‘I eye is the lamp of your body. When your eye is will send prophets and apostles to them and healthy, your whole body is full of light. But they will harass and kill some of them.’ 50As when your eye is bad, your whole body is full a result, this generation will be charged with of darkness. 35Therefore, see to it that the the murder of all the prophets since the be- light in you isn’t darkness. 36If your whole ginning of time. 51This includes the murder of body is full of light—with no part darkened— every prophet—from to Zechariah—who then it will be as full of light as when a lamp was killed between the altar and the holy shines brightly on you.” place. Yes, I’m telling you, this generation will be charged with it. cOr two assaria—that is, 1/8 of a day’s wage dOr Son of Man eOr Son of Man Luke 12:52 40

52“How terrible for you legal experts! You snatched away the key of knowledge. You didn’t enter yourselves, and you stood in the Greed way of those who were entering.” Our culture and economy tell us that money, 53As he left there, the legal experts and power, and status give us security and happi- Pharisees began to resent him deeply and ness and even a measure of invincibility. Jesus to ask him pointed questions about many says this is wrong. He explains that “those things. 54They plotted against him, trying to (people) who hoard” things will be surprised trap him in his words. when death suddenly comes upon them and their wealth can’t save them. They will find that Warnings to Jesus’ friends they have wasted their short, precious lives When a crowd of thousands upon trying to save everything for themselves. Do people ever try to convince you 12thousands had gathered so that they 12:13-21 were crushing each other, Jesus began to that the value of your life is equal to what speak first to his disciples: “Watch out for the you achieve and earn? How do your fam- ily, school, church, and friends talk about yeast of the Pharisees—I mean, the mismatch money? How about academic success? between their hearts and lives. 2Nothing is Do these groups ever imply that your goal hidden that won’t be revealed, and nothing should be to earn as much success, money, is secret that won’t be brought out into the or approval as possible? Think about the open. 3Therefore, whatever you have said in way Jesus lived his life. What does it mean the darkness will be heard in the light, and to live a life where you are “rich toward God” whatever you have whispered in the rooms instead of hoarding everything for yourself? deep inside the house will be announced from What kind of growth might you and other the rooftops. people experience if you lived as this parable 4“I tell you, my friends, don’t be terrified invites you to live? by those who can kill the body but after that can do nothing more. 5I’ll show you whom you should fear: fear the one who, after you have been killed, has the authority to throw Warning against greed you into hell. Indeed, I tell you, that’s the one 13Someone from the crowd said to him, you should fear. 6Aren’t five sparrows sold for “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheri- c two small coins? Yet not one of them is over- tance with me.” looked by God. 7Even the hairs on your head 14Jesus said to him, “Man, who appointed are all counted. Don’t be afraid. You are worth me as judge or referee between you and your more than many sparrows. brother?” 15Then Jesus said to them, “Watch out! Acknowledging the Human One Guard yourself against all kinds of greed. 8“I tell you, everyone who acknowledges After all, one’s life isn’t determined by one’s me before humans, the Human Oned will ac- possessions, even when someone is very knowledge before God’s angels. 9But the one wealthy.” 16Then he told them a parable: “A who rejects me before others will be rejected certain rich man’s land produced a bounti- before God’s angels. 10Anyone who speaks ful crop. 17He said to himself, What will I do? a word against the Human Onee will be for- I have no place to store my harvest! 18Then given, but whoever insults the Holy Spirit he thought, Here’s what I’ll do. I’ll tear down won’t be forgiven. 11When they bring you be- my barns and build bigger ones. That’s where fore the synagogues, rulers, and authorities, I’ll store all my grain and goods. 19I’ll say to don’t worry about how to defend yourself or myself, You have stored up plenty of goods, what you should say. 12The Holy Spirit will tell enough for several years. Take it easy! Eat, you at that very moment what you must say.” drink, and enjoy yourself. 20But God said to fOr eighteen inches to your height 41 Luke 12:42 him, ‘Fool, tonight you will die. Now who will birds! 25Who among you by worrying can add get the things you have prepared for your- a single moment to your life?f 26If you can’t do self?’ 21This is the way it will be for those who such a small thing, why worry about the rest? hoard things for themselves and aren’t rich 27Notice how the lilies grow. They don’t wear toward God.” themselves out with work, and they don’t spin cloth. But I say to you that even Solomon in all Warning about worry his splendor wasn’t dressed like one of these. 22Then Jesus said to his disciples, “There- 28If God dresses grass in the field so beauti- fore, I say to you, don’t worry about your life, fully, even though it’s alive today and tomor- what you will eat, or about your body, what row it’s thrown into the furnace, how much you will wear. 23There is more to life than more will God do for you, you people of weak food and more to the body than clothing. faith! 29Don’t chase after what you will eat 24Consider the ravens: they neither plant nor and what you will drink. Stop worrying. 30All harvest, they have no silo or barn, yet God the nations of the world long for these things. feeds them. You are worth so much more than Your Father knows that you need them. 31In- stead, desire his kingdom and these things will be given to you as well. 32“Don’t be afraid, little flock, because your Don’t worry Father delights in giving you the kingdom. 33Sell your possessions and give to those in Jesus tells his disciples to not worry so need. Make for yourselves wallets that don’t much about their lives (12:22-34). This is easier wear out—a treasure in heaven that never to hear than it is to actually do. It is easy to say runs out. No thief comes near there, and no to someone, “Don’t worry,” but actually putting moth destroys. 34Where your treasure is, that advice into practice is difficult. There are lots of things to worry about. We worry about there your heart will be too. making good grades and making our parents proud. We worry about having the coolest Warning about being prepared 35 clothing or the latest electronic device. We “Be dressed for service and keep your worry what people will think about us. This lamps lit. 36Be like people waiting for their worry is never helpful, so Jesus gives his dis- master to come home from a wedding ciples some advice about how to worry less. celebration, who can immediately open the He tells them to look at the birds in the air and door for him when he arrives and knocks on the flowers in the fields. He says to watch how the door. 37Happy are those servants whom they live without care or worry. Jesus points the master finds waiting up when he arrives. out that if God cares for flowers and birds, I assure you that, when he arrives, he will then certainly God cares for humans even dress himself to serve, seat them at the table more. So there is no need to worry. The next as honored guests, and wait on them. 38Happy time when you worry and get anxious about are those whom he finds alert, even if he your life, take the advice of Jesus. Go out- comes at midnight or just before dawn.g 39But side into your yard or to a park and sit and know this, if the homeowner had known what watch nature. See how the trees grow and time the thief was coming, he wouldn’t have flourish. See how the birds soar in the air 40 12:22-34 allowed his home to be broken into. You also and feed upon the ground. Breathe deeply must be ready, because the Human Oneh is in and out as you notice the world and how coming at a time when you don’t expect him.” God cares for it. In this moment, let your worry 41 and anxiety fall away as you remember how Peter said, “Lord, are you telling this par- much more God cares for you. able for us or for everyone?” 42The Lord replied, “Who are the faithful and wise managers whom the master will put in charge of his household servants, to give gOr in the second or third watch hOr Son of Man Luke 12:43 42 them their food at the proper time? 43Happy present time? 57And why don’t you judge for are the servants whom the master finds ful- yourselves what is right? 58As you are going filling their responsibilities when he comes. to court with your accuser, make your best ef- 44I assure you that the master will put them fort to reach a settlement along the way. Oth- in charge of all his possessions. erwise, your accuser may bring you before 45“But suppose that these servants should the judge, and the judge hand you over to the say to themselves, My master is taking his officer, and the officer throw you into prison. time about coming. And suppose they began 59I tell you, you won’t get out of there until to beat the servants, both men and women, you have paid the very last cent.”i and to eat, drink, and get drunk. 46The master of those servants would come on a day when Demand for genuine change they weren’t expecting him, at a time they Some who were present on that couldn’t predict. The master will cut them 13occasion told Jesus about the into pieces and assign them a place with the Galileans whom Pilate had killed while they 2 unfaithful. 47That servant who knew his mas- were offering sacrifices. He replied, “Do ter’s will but didn’t prepare for it or act on it you think the suffering of these Galileans will be beaten severely. 48The one who didn’t proves that they were more sinful than all 3 know the master’s will but who did things the other Galileans? No, I tell you, but unless deserving punishment will be beaten only you change your hearts and lives, you will die 4 a little. Much will be demanded from every- just as they did. What about those eighteen one who has been given much, and from the people who were killed when the tower of Siloam fell on them? Do you think that one who has been entrusted with much, even they were more guilty of wrongdoing than more will be asked. everyone else who lives in Jerusalem? 5No, Conflicts brought by Jesus I tell you, but unless you change your hearts and lives, you will die just as they did.” 49“I came to cast fire upon the earth. How 6Jesus told this parable: “A man owned a fig I wish that it was already ablaze! 50I have a tree planted in his vineyard. He came looking baptism I must experience. How I am dis- for fruit on it and found none. 7He said to his tressed until it’s completed! 51Do you think gardener, ‘Look, I’ve come looking for fruit on that I have come to bring peace to the earth? this fig tree for the past three years, and I’ve No, I tell you, I have come instead to bring never found any. Cut it down! Why should it division. 52From now on, a household of five continue depleting the soil’s nutrients?’ 8The will be divided—three against two and two gardener responded, ‘Lord, give it one more against three. 53Father will square off against year, and I will dig around it and give it fertil- son and son against father; mother against izer. 9Maybe it will produce fruit next year; if daughter and daughter against mother; and not, then you can cut it down.’ ” mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.” Healing on a Sabbath 10Jesus was teaching in one of the syna- Learning and practicing gogues on the Sabbath. 11A woman was there good judgment who had been disabled by a spirit for eighteen 54Jesus also said to the crowds, “When years. She was bent over and couldn’t stand you see a cloud forming in the west, you im- up straight. 12When he saw her, Jesus called mediately say, ‘It’s going to rain.’ And indeed her to him and said, “Woman, you are set free it does. 55And when a south wind blows, you from your sickness.” 13He placed his hands say, ‘A heat wave is coming.’ And it does. on her and she straightened up at once and 56Hypocrites! You know how to interpret praised God. conditions on earth and in the sky. How is 14The synagogue leader, incensed that it that you don’t know how to interpret the Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, responded, iOr leptos (1/128 of a day’s wages) jPs 6:9 LXX 43 Luke 14:9

“There are six days during which work is per- last will be first and those who are first will mitted. Come and be healed on those days, not be last.” on the Sabbath day.” 15The Lord replied, “Hypocrites! Don’t each Sorrow for Jerusalem of you on the Sabbath untie your ox or donkey 31At that time, some Pharisees approached from its stall and lead it out to get a drink? Jesus and said, “Go! Get away from here, be- 16Then isn’t it necessary that this woman, cause Herod wants to kill you.” a daughter of Abraham, bound by Satan for 32Jesus said to them, “Go, tell that fox, eighteen long years, be set free from her ‘Look, I’m throwing out demons and healing bondage on the Sabbath day?” 17When he said people today and tomorrow, and on the third these things, all his opponents were put to day I will complete my work. 33However, it’s shame, but all those in the crowd rejoiced at necessary for me to travel today, tomorrow, all the extraordinary things he was doing. and the next day because it’s impossible for a prophet to be killed outside of Jerusalem.’ Growth of God’s kingdom 34“Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the 18Jesus asked, “What is God’s kingdom like? prophets and stone those who were sent to To what can I compare it? 19It’s like a mustard you! How often I have wanted to gather your seed that someone took and planted in a gar- people just as a hen gathers her chicks under den. It grew and developed into a tree and the her wings. But you didn’t want that. 35Look, birds in the sky nested in its branches.” your house is abandoned. I tell you, you won’t 20Again he said, “To what can I compare see me until the time comes when you say, God’s kingdom? 21It’s like yeast, which a Blessings on the one who comes in the Lord’s woman took and hid in a bushel of wheat flour name.”k until the yeast had worked its way through the whole.” Healing on the Sabbath One Sabbath, when Jesus went to Who will be saved? 14share a meal in the home of one 22Jesus traveled through cities and vil- of the leaders of the Pharisees, they were lages, teaching and making his way to Jerusa- watching him closely. 2A man suffering from lem. 23Someone said to him, “Lord, will only a an abnormal swelling of the body was there. few be saved?” 3 Jesus asked the lawyers and Pharisees, “Does Jesus said to them, 24“Make every effort the Law allow healing on the Sabbath or not?” to enter through the narrow gate. Many, I 4But they said nothing. Jesus took hold of the tell you, will try to enter and won’t be able to. sick man, cured him, and then let him go. 5He 25Once the owner of the house gets up and said to them, “Suppose your child or ox fell shuts the door, then you will stand outside into a ditch on the Sabbath day. Wouldn’t you and knock on the door, saying, ‘Lord, open the immediately pull it out?” 6But they had no door for us.’ He will reply, ‘I don’t know you or response. where you are from.’ 26Then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank in your presence, and Lessons on humility and generosity you taught in our streets.’ 27He will respond, 7When Jesus noticed how the guests ‘I don’t know you or where you are from. Go sought out the best seats at the table, he told away from me, all you evildoers!’j 28 There will them a parable. 8“When someone invites you be weeping and grinding of teeth when you to a wedding celebration, don’t take your seat see Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the proph- in the place of honor. Someone more highly ets in God’s kingdom, but you yourselves will regarded than you could have been invited be thrown out. 29People will come from east by your host. 9The host who invited both of and west, north and south, and sit down to you will come and say to you, ‘Give your seat eat in God’s kingdom. 30Look! Those who are to this other person.’ Embarrassed, you will kPs 118:26 Luke 14:10 44 take your seat in the least important place. even one’s own life—cannot be my disciple. 10Instead, when you receive an invitation, go 27Whoever doesn’t carry their own cross and and sit in the least important place. When follow me cannot be my disciple. your host approaches you, he will say, ‘Friend, 28“If one of you wanted to build a tower, move up here to a better seat.’ Then you will wouldn’t you first sit down and calculate the be honored in the presence of all your fellow cost, to determine whether you have enough guests. 11All who lift themselves up will be money to complete it? 29Otherwise, when you brought low, and those who make themselves have laid the foundation but couldn’t finish low will be lifted up.” the tower, all who see it will begin to belittle 12Then Jesus said to the person who had in- you. 30They will say, ‘Here’s the person who vited him, “When you host a lunch or dinner, began construction and couldn’t complete it!’ don’t invite your friends, your brothers and 31Or what king would go to war against an- sisters, your relatives, or rich neighbors. If other king without first sitting down to con- you do, they will invite you in return and that sider whether his ten thousand soldiers could will be your reward. 13Instead, when you give go up against the twenty thousand coming a banquet, invite the poor, crippled, lame, and against him? 32And if he didn’t think he could blind. 14And you will be blessed because they win, he would send a representative to dis- can’t repay you. Instead, you will be repaid cuss terms of peace while his enemy was still when the just are resurrected.” a long way off.33 In the same way, none of you 15When one of the dinner guests heard who are unwilling to give up all of your pos- Jesus’ remarks, he said to Jesus, “Happy are sessions can be my disciple. those who will feast in God’s kingdom.” 34“Salt is good. But if salt loses its flavor, 16Jesus replied, “A certain man hosted a how will it become salty again? 35It has no large dinner and invited many people. 17When value, neither for the soil nor for the manure it was time for the dinner to begin, he sent pile. People throw it away. Whoever has ears his servant to tell the invited guests, ‘Come! to hear should pay attention.” The dinner is now ready.’ 18One by one, they all began to make excuses. The first one told Occasions for celebration him, ‘I bought a farm and must go and see it. All the tax collectors and sinners Please excuse me.’ 19Another said, ‘I bought were gathering around Jesus to listen 15 2 five teams of oxen, and I’m going to check to him. The Pharisees and legal experts on them. Please excuse me.’ 20Another said, were grumbling, saying, “This man welcomes ‘I just got married, so I can’t come.’ 21When sinners and eats with them.” he returned, the servant reported these ex- 3Jesus told them this parable: 4“Suppose cuses to his master. The master of the house someone among you had one hundred sheep became angry and said to his servant, ‘Go and lost one of them. Wouldn’t he leave the quickly to the city’s streets, the busy ones and other ninety-nine in the pasture and search the side streets, and bring the poor, crippled, for the lost one until he finds it? 5And when blind, and lame.’ 22The servant said, ‘Master, he finds it, he is thrilled and places it on his your instructions have been followed and shoulders. 6When he arrives home, he calls there is still room.’ 23The master said to the together his friends and neighbors, saying to servant, ‘Go to the highways and back alleys them, ‘Celebrate with me because I’ve found and urge people to come in so that my house my lost sheep.’ 7In the same way, I tell you, will be filled.24 I tell you, not one of those who there will be more joy in heaven over one sin- were invited will taste my dinner.’ ” ner who changes both heart and life than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no Discipleship’s demands need to change their hearts and lives. 25Large crowds were traveling with Jesus. 8“Or what woman, if she owns ten silver Turning to them, he said, 26“Whoever comes to coins and loses one of them, won’t light a lamp me and doesn’t hate father and mother, spouse and sweep the house, searching her home and children, and brothers and sisters—yes, carefully until she finds it? 9When she finds 45 Luke 15:30

the father divided his estate between them. 13Soon afterward, the younger son gathered Forgiveness everything together and took a trip to a land far away. There, he wasted his wealth through The parable of the Prodigal Son has fasci- nating characters (15:1-3, 11-32). The younger extravagant living. 14 son gets a generous gift of inheritance from “When he had used up his resources, a his father but wastes it. The older son is well severe food shortage arose in that country 15 behaved. He follows the rules and does his and he began to be in need. He hired him- job. In this parable, both sons make mistakes, self out to one of the citizens of that coun- but the difference between them lies in how try, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. they respond to their father’s invitation to the 16He longed to eat his fill from what the pigs party. The younger son is able to accept grace ate, but no one gave him anything. 17When he from his father. But the older son is too bitter. came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my He is convinced that, since he didn’t make the father’s hired hands have more than enough mistakes that his brother made, his brother food, but I’m starving to death! 18I will get up should not be forgiven. To which brother do you and go to my father, and say to him, “Father, I relate? Do you ever feel like you have foolishly have sinned against heaven and against you. wasted the gifts that God has given you? Do 19I no longer deserve to be called your son. you imagine God as unforgiving or as the for- Take me on as one of your hired hands.” ’ 20So giving father in the story? Or do you ever feel he got up and went to his father. like the older brother when you do everything “While he was still a long way off, his right, but then you struggle to be forgiving father saw him and was moved with compas- when others need forgiveness and support? sion. His father ran to him, hugged him, and Could we be both of the brothers in the story? 21 At the same time, remember that Jesus told kissed him. Then his son said, ‘Father, I have this parable to explain why he was eating with sinned against heaven and against you. I no 22 people who had been excluded. The parable longer deserve to be called your son.’ But shows us how God seeks out both outcasts the father said to his servants, ‘Quickly, bring (the younger son) and the better-behaved, out the best robe and put it on him! Put a ring but ungenerous people (the older son), lov- on his finger and sandals on his feet!23 Fetch ing them both. But, while we may relate to the fattened calf and slaughter it. We must the sons in the story, should we not also celebrate with feasting 24because this son relate to the father? How is this passage of mine was dead and has come back to life! inviting you to grow up, surrender your He was lost and is found!’ And they began to past mistakes and bitterness, and imitate celebrate. 15:1-3, 11-32 God by seeking out those who have been 25“Now his older son was in the field. excluded? God can only seek the lost “sons” in Coming in from the field, he approached the the world if God has people like you to act for house and heard music and dancing. 26He God in the world. called one of the servants and asked what was going on. 27The servant replied, ‘Your brother has arrived, and your father has slaughtered it, she calls together her friends and neigh- the fattened calf because he received his bors, saying, ‘Celebrate with me because I’ve son back safe and sound.’ 28Then the older found my lost coin.’ 10In the same way, I tell son was furious and didn’t want to enter you, joy breaks out in the presence of God’s in, but his father came out and begged him. angels over one sinner who changes both 29He answered his father, ‘Look, I’ve served heart and life.” you all these years, and I never disobeyed 11Jesus said, “A certain man had two sons. your instruction. Yet you’ve never given me 12The younger son said to his father, ‘Father, as much as a young goat so I could celebrate give me my share of the inheritance.’ Then with my friends. 30But when this son of yours lOr one hundred jugs (approximately nine gallons each) mOr eighty measures (ten to twelve bushels each) Luke 16:31 46

Lord of forgiveness, help me to follow your guidance to forgive my enemy and to guide my neighbor to do so also. Help guide my neighbor to accept my help and heed my warnings. Luke 17:3-4 Help my enemy to change their ways and accept you. But most of all help me to find the strength to forgive. Forgiving is not an easy task and I know, when the time comes, that I will need your guidance and support in doing this. Help me to follow your word and sum- mon the bravery to finally forgive and forget the sins committed against me. Amen. Emma Sandifer, 16

returned, after gobbling up your estate on 10“Whoever is faithful with little is also prostitutes, you slaughtered the fattened faithful with much, and the one who is dis- calf for him.’ 31Then his father said, ‘Son, you honest with little is also dishonest with much. are always with me, and everything I have is 11If you haven’t been faithful with worldly yours. 32But we had to celebrate and be glad wealth, who will trust you with true riches? because this brother of yours was dead and is 12If you haven’t been faithful with someone alive. He was lost and is found.’ ” else’s property, who will give you your own? 13No household servant can serve two mas- Faithfulness with money ters. Either you will hate the one and love the Jesus also said to the disciples, “A other, or you will be loyal to the one and have 16certain rich man heard that his contempt for the other. You cannot serve God household manager was wasting his estate. and wealth.” 2He called the manager in and said to him, ‘What is this I hear about you? Give me a Jesus responds to Pharisees report of your administration because you 14The Pharisees, who were money-lovers, can no longer serve as my manager.’ heard all this and sneered at Jesus. 15He 3“The household manager said to himself, said to them, “You are the ones who justify What will I do now that my master is firing yourselves before other people, but God me as his manager? I’m not strong enough to knows your hearts. What is highly valued by dig and too proud to beg. 4I know what I’ll do people is deeply offensive to God. 16Until John, so that, when I am removed from my manage- there was only the Law and the Prophets. ment position, people will welcome me into Since then, the good news of God’s kingdom their houses. is preached, and everyone is urged to enter it. 5“One by one, the manager sent for each 17It’s easier for heaven and earth to pass away person who owed his master money. He said than for the smallest stroke of a pen in the to the first, ‘How much do you owe my mas- Law to drop out. 18Any man who divorces his ter?’ 6He said, ‘Nine hundred gallons of olive wife and marries another commits adultery, oil.’l The manager said to him, ‘Take your con- and a man who marries a woman divorced tract, sit down quickly, and write four hun- from her husband commits adultery. dred fifty gallons.’ 7Then the manager said 19“There was a certain rich man who to another, ‘How much do you owe?’ He said, clothed himself in purple and fine linen, and ‘One thousand bushels of wheat.’m He said, who feasted luxuriously every day. 20At his ‘Take your contract and write eight hundred.’ gate lay a certain poor man named Lazarus 8“The master commended the dishonest who was covered with sores. 21Lazarus longed manager because he acted cleverly. People to eat the crumbs that fell from the rich man’s who belong to this world are more clever in table. Instead, dogs would come and lick dealing with their peers than are people who his sores. belong to the light. 9I tell you, use worldly 22“The poor man died and was carried wealth to make friends for yourselves so that by angels to Abraham’s side. The rich man when it’s gone, you will be welcomed into the also died and was buried. 23While being tor- eternal homes. mented in the place of the dead, he looked up 47 Luke 17:4

29Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets. They must listen to them.’ 30The Faith the size of a rich man said, ‘No, Father Abraham! But if mustard seed someone from the dead goes to them, they 31 Jesus asks the disciples to forgive people will change their hearts and lives.’ Abraham over and over again, but the disciples feel like said, ‘If they don’t listen to Moses and the they cannot do it. They beg him to give them Prophets, then neither will they be persuaded more faith (17:4-5). Jesus tells them that if they if someone rises from the dead.’ ” had the faith the size of a mustard seed, they would be able to toss a mulberry tree into the Faithful service sea (17:6). Jesus is pointing out that a little bit Jesus said to his disciples, “Things of faith goes a long way. Faith as small as a 17that cause people to trip and fall into seed can uproot trees, so even faith smaller sin must happen, but how terrible it is for than that could do a lot. They could probably the person through whom they happen. 2It forgive seventy times seven. They could prob- would be better for them to be thrown into ably love their enemies. They could do what a lake with a large stone hung around their Jesus asks them to do. It seems that Jesus neck than to cause one of these little ones believes in his disciples more than they to trip and fall into sin. 3Watch yourselves! believe in themselves. Maybe you are the If your brother or sister sins, warn them to same. Maybe you have a hard time believ- stop. If they change their hearts and lives, ing in yourself. Maybe you have a hard time forgive them. 4Even if someone sins against believing that God is calling you to some you seven times in one day and returns to 17:6 kind of ministry. Maybe you do not feel like you are good enough or qualified enough to be a leader, or a teacher, or a preacher. Whatever doubts you might have about yourself, give them to Jesus now. Pray that you Heaven coming to earth might see yourself the way God sees you—full Christians have various opinions about when of potential and possibility—full of a faith that and whether Jesus will return for a second com- can change the world. ing. Some imagine God as being “out there,” far away from humanity, creation, and our prob- lems, waiting to return, rescue believers from earth, and take them to heaven. But read 17:20- and saw Abraham at a distance with Lazarus 21. Jesus is clear: in some form, God’s kingdom 24 at his side. He shouted, ‘Father Abraham, is already on the earth, and it is inside of us! have mercy on me. Send Lazarus to dip the tip Likewise, Jesus did not come to rescue

of his finger in water and cool my tongue, be- believers from the earth, but to show us 17:20-21 cause I’m suffering in this flame.’25 But Abra- how to bring God’s reign to the earth (4:16- ham said, ‘Child, remember that during your 21). And this movement will be marked by lifetime you received good things, whereas justice and compassion for all people. Lazarus received terrible things. Now Laza- How do you view yourself and other rus is being comforted and you are in great people? Do you imagine that God is out- pain. 26Moreover, a great crevasse has been side of them, or that God is within them? fixed between us and you. Those who wish to Likewise, how do you view nature and cross over from here to you cannot. Neither creation? Does this passage change your can anyone cross from there to us.’ perspective? If you believe that Jesus invites you into a movement of bringing heaven to 27“The rich man said, ‘Then I beg you, earth and healing creation, will this change how Father, send Lazarus to my father’s house. 28I you live? have five brothers. He needs to warn them so that they don’t come to this place of agony.’ nOr Son of Man Luke 17:5 48 you seven times and says, ‘I am changing my 22Then Jesus said to the disciples, “The ways,’ you must forgive that person.” time will come when you will long to see one 5The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase of the days of the Human One,n and you won’t our faith!” see it. 23People will say to you, ‘Look there!’ 6The Lord replied, “If you had faith the size or ‘Look here!’ Don’t leave or go chasing after of a mustard seed, you could say to this mul- them. 24The Human Oneo will appear on his berry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the day in the same way that a flash of lightning sea,’ and it would obey you. lights up the sky from one end to the other. 7“Would any of you say to your servant, 25However, first he must suffer many things who had just come in from the field after and be rejected by this generation. plowing or tending sheep, ‘Come! Sit down for 26“As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be dinner’? 8Wouldn’t you say instead, ‘Fix my during the days of the Human One.p 27People dinner. Put on the clothes of a table servant were eating, drinking, marrying, and being and wait on me while I eat and drink. After given in marriage until the day Noah entered that, you can eat and drink’? 9You won’t thank the ark and the flood came and destroyed the servant because the servant did what you them all. 28 Likewise in the days of Lot, people asked, will you? 10In the same way, when you were eating, drinking, buying, selling, plant- have done everything required of you, you ing, and building. 29But on the day Lot left should say, ‘We servants deserve no special Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from praise. We have only done our duty.’ ” heaven and destroyed them all. 30That’s the way it will be on the day the Human Oneq is Jesus heals a Samaritan revealed. 31On that day, those on the roof, 11On the way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled whose possessions are in the house, shouldn’t along the border between and come down to grab them. Likewise, those in Galilee. 12As he entered a village, ten men the field shouldn’t turn back.32 Remember with skin diseases approached him. Keeping Lot’s wife! 33Whoever tries to preserve their their distance from him, 13they raised their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life voices and said, “Jesus, Master, show us will preserve it. 34I tell you, on that night two mercy!” people will be in the same bed: one will be 14When Jesus saw them, he said, “Go, show taken and the other left.35 Two women will be yourselves to the priests.” As they left, they grinding grain together: one will be taken and were cleansed. 15One of them, when he saw the other left.”r that he had been healed, returned and praised 37The disciples asked, “Where, Lord?” God with a loud voice. 16He fell on his face at Jesus said, “The vultures gather wherever Jesus’ feet and thanked him. He was a Samar- there’s a dead body.” itan. 17Jesus replied, “Weren’t ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? 18No one returned Justice for the faithful to praise God except this foreigner?” 19Then Jesus was telling them a parable Jesus said to him, “Get up and go. Your faith about their need to pray continuously 18 2 has healed you.” and not to be discouraged. He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who neither The kingdom is coming feared God nor respected people. 3In that city 20Pharisees asked Jesus when God’s king- there was a widow who kept coming to him, dom was coming. He replied, “God’s kingdom asking, ‘Give me justice in this case against isn’t coming with signs that are easily no- my adversary.’ 4For a while he refused but ticed. 21Nor will people say, ‘Look, here it is!’ finally said to himself, I don’t fear God or or ‘There it is!’ Don’t you see? God’s kingdom respect people, 5but I will give this widow is already among you.” justice because she keeps bothering me. oOr Son of Man pOr Son of Man qOr Son of Man rCritical editions of the Gk do not include 17:36 Two will be in a field: one will be taken and the other left. sOr Son of Man tDeut 5:16-20; Exod 20:12-16 49 Luke 18:28

Otherwise, there will be no end to her coming here and embarrassing me.” 6The Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. 7Won’t Jesus’s mission to heal God provide justice to his chosen people who When we read stories like this one where cry out to him day and night? Will he be slow Jesus heals a blind man, we sometimes wonder 8 to help them? I tell you, he will give them why not everyone is healed from disease or s justice quickly. But when the Human One blindness. This is a great question and it’s not comes, will he find faithfulness on earth?” easy to answer, but there are a few things we can remember when we read stories like this The Pharisee and the tax collector (18:35-42). First, healing stories show us that 9Jesus told this parable to certain people Jesus has the power to heal. Second, healing who had convinced themselves that they stories show us that Jesus shows up where were righteous and who looked on every- people are sick or hurting or in need. Third, one else with disgust: 10“Two people went up the healing of the blind man is an example of to the temple to pray. One was a Pharisee Jesus’s purpose on earth. God’s inten- and the other a tax collector. 11The Pharisee tion for human beings is clear in Jesus 18:35-42 stood and prayed about himself with these Christ—God wants us to be free, whole, words, ‘God, I thank you that I’m not like ev- and healed. Finally, we must realize that healing may come in lots of ways. We can eryone else—crooks, evildoers, adulterers—or never explain why people suffer, but be- even like this tax collector. 12I fast twice a cause of Jesus, we know that people will week. I give a tenth of everything I receive.’ not go through pain and illness alone. We 13But the tax collector stood at a distance. see in stories like this that Jesus seeks He wouldn’t even lift his eyes to look toward healing and wholeness for people. What heaven. Rather, he struck his chest and said, are helpful things to say to people who are suf- 14 ‘God, show mercy to me, a sinner.’ I tell you, fering from illness? How can you show people this person went down to his home justified that Jesus is with them? In what ways can you rather than the Pharisee. All who lift them- help Jesus bring healing to the world? selves up will be brought low, and those who make themselves low will be lifted up.”

Jesus blesses children 21Then the ruler said, “I’ve kept all of these 15People were bringing babies to Jesus so things since I was a boy.” that he would bless them. When the disciples 22When Jesus heard this, he said, “There’s saw this, they scolded them. 16Then Jesus one more thing. Sell everything you own and called them to him and said, “Allow the chil- distribute the money to the poor. Then you dren to come to me. Don’t forbid them, be- will have treasure in heaven. And come, follow cause God’s kingdom belongs to people like me.” 23When he heard these words, the man these children. 17I assure you that whoever became sad because he was extremely rich. doesn’t welcome God’s kingdom like a child 24When Jesus saw this, he said, “It’s very will never enter it.” hard for the wealthy to enter God’s kingdom! 25It’s easier for a camel to squeeze through A rich man’s question the eye of a needle than for a rich person to 18A certain ruler asked Jesus, “Good enter God’s kingdom.” Teacher, what must I do to obtain eternal life?” 26Those who heard this said, “Then who 19Jesus replied, “Why do you call me good? can be saved?” No one is good except the one God. 20You know 27Jesus replied, “What is impossible for hu- the commandments: Don’t commit adultery. mans is possible for God.” Don’t murder. Don’t steal. Don’t give false tes- 28Peter said, “Look, we left everything we timony. Honor your father and mother.”t own and followed you.” uOr Son of Man Luke 19:29 50

29Jesus said to them, “I assure you that climbed up a sycamore tree so he could see anyone who has left house, husband, wife, Jesus, who was about to pass that way. 5When brothers, sisters, parents, or children because Jesus came to that spot, he looked up and said, of God’s kingdom 30will receive many times “Zacchaeus, come down at once. I must stay in more in this age and eternal life in the com- your home today.” 6So Zacchaeus came down ing age.” at once, happy to welcome Jesus. 7Everyone who saw this grumbled, saying, Jesus predicts his death “He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.” and resurrection 8Zacchaeus stopped and said to the Lord, 31Jesus took the Twelve aside and said, “Look, Lord, I give half of my possessions to “Look, we’re going up to Jerusalem, and ev- the poor. And if I have cheated anyone, I repay erything written about the Human Oneu by them four times as much.” the prophets will be accomplished. 32He will 9Jesus said to him, “Today, salvation has be handed over to the Gentiles. He will be come to this household because he too is a son ridiculed, mistreated, and spit on. 33After of Abraham. 10The Human Onev came to seek torturing him, they will kill him. On the third and save the lost.” day, he will rise up.” 34But the Twelve under- stood none of these words. The meaning of Faithful service this message was hidden from them and they 11As they listened to this, Jesus told them didn’t grasp what he was saying. another parable because he was near Jerusa- lem and they thought God’s kingdom would A blind man is healed appear right away. 12He said, “A certain man 35As Jesus came to Jericho, a certain blind who was born into royalty went to a distant man was sitting beside the road begging. land to receive his kingdom and then return. 36When the man heard the crowd passing by, 13He called together ten servants and gave he asked what was happening. 37They told each of them money worth four months’ him, “Jesus the Nazarene is passing by.” wages.w He said, ‘Do business with this until I 38The blind man shouted, “Jesus, Son of return.’ 14His citizens hated him, so they sent David, show me mercy.” 39Those leading the a representative after him who said, ‘We don’t procession scolded him, telling him to be want this man to be our king.’ 15After receiv- quiet, but he shouted even louder, “Son of ing his kingdom, he returned and called the David, show me mercy.” servants to whom he had given the money 40Jesus stopped and called for the man to to find out how much they had earned. 16The be brought to him. When he was present Jesus first servant came forward and said, ‘Your asked, 41“What do you want me to do for you?” money has earned a return of one thousand He said, “Lord, I want to see.” percent.’ 17The king replied, ‘Excellent! You 42Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight! are a good servant. Because you have been Your faith has healed you.” 43At once he was faithful in a small matter, you will have au- able to see, and he began to follow Jesus, thority over ten cities.’ praising God. When all the people saw it, they 18“The second servant came and said, ‘Mas- praised God too. ter, your money has made a return of five hundred percent.’ 19To this one, the king said, A rich tax collector ‘You will have authority over five cities.’ Jesus entered Jericho and was 20“Another servant came and said, ‘Mas- passing through town. 2A man ter, here is your money. I wrapped it up in a 19 21 there named Zacchaeus, a ruler among tax scarf for safekeeping. I was afraid of you collectors, was rich. 3He was trying to see who because you are a stern man. You withdraw Jesus was, but, being a short man, he couldn’t what you haven’t deposited and you harvest because of the crowd. 4So he ran ahead and what you haven’t planted.’ 22The king replied, vOr Son of Man wOr he divided ten minas among them 51 Luke 20:7

‘I will judge you by the words of your own 40He answered, “I tell you, if they were si- mouth, you worthless servant! You knew, did lent, the stones would shout.” you, that I’m a stern man, withdrawing what I didn’t deposit, and harvesting what I didn’t Jesus predicts Jerusalem’s plant? 23Why then didn’t you put my money in destruction the bank? Then when I arrived, at least I could 41As Jesus came to the city and observed have gotten it back with interest.’ it, he wept over it. 42He said, “If only you 24“He said to his attendants, ‘Take his knew on this of all days the things that lead money and give it to the one who has ten to peace. But now they are hidden from your times as much.’ 25‘But Master,’ they said, ‘he eyes. 43The time will come when your en- already has ten times as much!’ 26He replied, emies will build fortifications around you, ‘I say to you that everyone who has will be encircle you, and attack you from all sides. given more, but from those who have nothing, 44They will crush you completely, you and even what they have will be taken away. 27As the people within you. They won’t leave one for my enemies who don’t want me as their stone on top of another within you, because king, bring them here and slaughter them you didn’t recognize the time of your gracious before me.’ ” visit from God.” 28After Jesus said this, he continued on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. Jesus clears the temple 45When Jesus entered the temple, he threw out those who were selling things there. 46He Procession into Jerusalem said to them, “It’s written, My house will be a 29As Jesus came to Bethphage and Beth- house of prayer, but you have made it a hide- any on the Mount of Olives, he gave two disci- out for crooks.”x ples a task. 30He said, “Go into the village over 47Jesus was teaching daily in the temple. there. When you enter it, you will find tied The chief priests, the legal experts, and the up there a colt that no one has ever ridden. foremost leaders among the people were Untie it and bring it here. 31If someone asks, seeking to kill him. 48However, they couldn’t ‘Why are you untying it?’ just say, ‘Its master find a way to do it because all the people were needs it.’ ” 32Those who had been sent found it enthralled with what they heard. exactly as he had said. 33 As they were untying the colt, its owners Controversy over authority said to them, “Why are you untying the colt?” On one of the days when Jesus was 34 35 They replied, “Its master needs it.” They teaching the people in the temple brought it to Jesus, threw their clothes on the 20 and proclaiming the good news, the chief 36 colt, and lifted Jesus onto it. As Jesus rode priests, legal experts, and elders approached along, they spread their clothes on the road. him. 2They said, “Tell us: What kind of 37 As Jesus approached the road leading authority do you have for doing these things? down from the Mount of Olives, the whole Who gave you this authority?” throng of his disciples began rejoicing. They 3He replied, “I have a question for you. Tell praised God with a loud voice because of all me: 4Was John’s baptism of heavenly or of 38 the mighty things they had seen. They said, human origin?” “Blessings on the king who comes in the 5They discussed among themselves, “If name of the Lord. we say, ‘It’s of heavenly origin,’ he’ll say, ‘Why Peace in heaven and glory in the didn’t you believe him?’ 6But if we say, ‘It’s of highest heavens.” human origin,’ all the people will stone us to 39Some of the Pharisees from the crowd death because they are convinced that John said to Jesus, “Teacher, scold your disciples! was a prophet.” 7They answered that they Tell them to stop!” didn’t know where it came from. xIsa 56:7; Jer 7:11 yPs 118:22 zOr denarion Luke 20:8 52

love dearly. Perhaps they will respect him.’ 14But when they saw him, they said to each What would Jesus ask? other, ‘This is the heir. Let’s kill him so the in- 15 The legal experts, chief priest and other heritance will be ours.’ They threw him out religious leaders consistently try to trap Jesus of the vineyard and killed him. What will the 16 with their questions. Here they ask Jesus a owner of the vineyard do to them? He will question about paying taxes (20:20-26). They come and destroy those tenants and give the want to catch Jesus saying something that vineyard to others.” might get him in trouble. But Jesus doesn’t When the people heard this, they said, fall for their trap. Instead when they ask Jesus “May this never happen!” a question, he turns around and asks them a 17Staring at them, Jesus said, “Then what question back. If you notice, Jesus does this all is the meaning of this text of scripture: The the time throughout the Gospel. He answers a stone that the builders rejected has become question with a question. Great teachers often the cornerstone?y 18Everyone who falls on ask more questions than they offer answers. that stone will be crushed. And the stone will Questions help us think deeper about crush the person it falls on.” 19The legal ex- issues or problems we are trying to fig- perts and chief priests wanted to arrest him ure out. So maybe instead of looking for right then because they knew he had told this answers in the Bible or from Jesus, we parable against them. But they feared the should look for more questions. Maybe people. we should look at the questions Jesus asks and imagine what kind of questions An attempt to trap Jesus Jesus might ask us today. What are some 20The legal experts and chief priests were 20:20-26 questions you might have for Jesus? watching Jesus closely and sent spies who What would Jesus ask you in response to pretended to be sincere. They wanted to trap those questions? You do not have to answer him in his words so they could hand him over any of these questions. Just let them help you to the jurisdiction and authority of the gover- think deeper about the issues you face or the nor. 21They asked him, “Teacher, we know that problems of our world. What is Jesus asking you are correct in what you say and teach. You you today? don’t show favoritism but teach God’s way as it really is. 22Does the Law allow people to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” 8 Then Jesus replied, “Neither will I tell 23Since Jesus recognized their deception, you what kind of authority I have to do these he said to them, 24“Show me a coin.z Whose things.” image and inscription does it have on it?” “Caesar’s,” they replied. Parable of the tenant farmers 25He said to them, “Give to Caesar what 9 Jesus told the people this parable: “A belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to certain man planted a vineyard, rented it to God.” 26They couldn’t trap him in his words in tenant farmers, and went on a trip for a long front of the people. Astonished by his answer, 10 time. When it was time, he sent a servant they were speechless. to collect from the tenants his share of the fruit of the vineyard. But the tenants sent Question about the resurrection 11 him away, beaten and empty-handed. The 27Some , who deny that there’s man sent another servant. But they beat him, a resurrection, came to Jesus and asked, treated him disgracefully, and sent him away 28“Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man’s empty-handed as well. 12He sent a third ser- brother dies leaving a widow but no children, vant. They wounded this servant and threw the brother must marry the widow and raise him out. 13The owner of the vineyard said, up children for his brother.a 29Now there ‘What should I do? I’ll send my son, whom I were seven brothers. The first man married aDeut 25:5; Gen 38:8 bExod 3:6, 15-16 cPs 110:1 dOr two lepta 53 Luke 21:22 a woman and then died childless. 30The sec- assure you that this poor widow has put in ond 31and then the third brother married her. more than them all. 4All of them are giving Eventually all seven married her, and they all out of their spare change. But she from her died without leaving any children. 32Finally, hopeless poverty has given everything she the woman died too. 33In the resurrection, had to live on.” whose wife will she be? All seven were mar- ried to her.” The temple’s fate 34Jesus said to them, “People who belong 5Some people were talking about the to this age marry and are given in marriage. temple, how it was decorated with beautiful 35But those who are considered worthy to stones and ornaments dedicated to God. Jesus participate in that age, that is, in the age of said, 6“As for the things you are admiring, the the resurrection from the dead, won’t marry time is coming when not even one stone will nor will they be given in marriage. 36They can be left upon another. All will be demolished.” no longer die, because they are like angels and 7They asked him, “Teacher, when will are God’s children since they share in the res- these things happen? What sign will show urrection. 37Even Moses demonstrated that that these things are about to happen?” the dead are raised—in the passage about the 8Jesus said, “Watch out that you aren’t de- burning bush, when he speaks of the Lord as ceived. Many will come in my name, saying, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the ‘I’m the one!’ and ‘It’s time!’ Don’t follow them. God of Jacob.b 38He isn’t the God of the dead 9When you hear of wars and rebellions, don’t but of the living. To him they are all alive.” be alarmed. These things must happen first, 39Some of the legal experts responded, but the end won’t happen immediately.” “Teacher, you have answered well.” 40No one 10Then Jesus said to them, “Nations and dared to ask him anything else. kingdoms will fight against each other. 41Jesus said to them, “Why do they say 11There will be great earthquakes and wide- that the Christ is David’s son? 42David him- scale food shortages and epidemics. There self says in the scroll of , The Lord will also be terrifying sights and great signs said to my lord, ‘Sit at my right side 43until I in the sky. 12But before all this occurs, they make your enemies a footstool for your feet.’c will take you into custody and harass you be- 44Since David calls him ‘Lord,’ how can he be cause of your faith. They will hand you over David’s son?” to synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors because Jesus condemns the legal experts of my name. 13This will provide you with an 45In the presence of all the people, Jesus opportunity to testify. 14Make up your minds said to his disciples, 46“Watch out for the legal not to prepare your defense in advance. 15I’ll experts. They like to walk around in long give you words and wisdom that none of your robes. They love being greeted with honor opponents will be able to counter or contra- in the markets. They long for the places of dict. 16You will be betrayed by your parents, honor in the synagogues and at banquets. brothers and sisters, relatives, and friends. 47They are the ones who cheat widows out They will execute some of you. 17Everyone of their homes, and to show off they say long will hate you because of my name. 18Still, not prayers. They will be judged most harshly.” a hair on your heads will be lost. 19By holding fast, you will gain your lives. A poor widow’s offering 20“When you see Jerusalem surrounded by Looking up, Jesus saw rich people armies, then you will know that its destruc- throwing their gifts into the tion is close at hand. 21At that time, those 21 2 collection box for the temple treasury. He in Judea must flee to the mountains, those also saw a poor widow throw in two small in the city must escape, and those in the copper coins worth a penny.d 3He said, “I countryside must not enter the city. 22These eOr Son of Man fOr Son of Man :23 54 are the days of punishment, when everything Plot to kill Jesus written will find its fulfillment. 23How ter- The Festival of Unleavened Bread, rible it will be at that time for women who which is called Passover, was 22 2 are pregnant or for women who are nursing approaching. The chief priests and the legal their children. There will be great agony on experts were looking for a way to kill Jesus, the earth and angry judgment on this people. because they were afraid of the people. 3Then 24They will fall by the edge of the sword and Satan entered Judas, called Iscariot, who was be taken away as captives among all nations. one of the Twelve. 4He went out and discussed Jerusalem will be plundered by Gentiles until with the chief priests and the officers of the the times of the Gentiles are concluded. temple guard how he could hand Jesus over 25“There will be signs in the sun, moon, to them. 5They were delighted and arranged and stars. On the earth, there will be dismay payment for him. 6He agreed and began among nations in their confusion over the looking for an opportunity to hand Jesus over roaring of the sea and surging waves. 26The to them—a time when the crowds would be planets and other heavenly bodies will be absent. shaken, causing people to faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world. Disciples prepare for the Passover e 27Then they will see the Human One coming 7The Day of Unleavened Bread arrived, on a cloud with power and great splendor. when the Passover had to be sacrificed. 28Now when these things begin to happen, 8Jesus sent Peter and John with this task: “Go stand up straight and raise your heads, be- and prepare for us to eat the Passover meal.” cause your redemption is near.” 9They said to him, “Where do you want us to prepare it?” A lesson from the fig tree 10Jesus replied, “When you go into the city, 29Jesus told them a parable: “Look at the a man carrying a water jar will meet you. fig tree and all the trees.30 When they sprout Follow him to the house he enters. 11Say to leaves, you can see for yourselves and know the owner of the house, ‘The teacher says to that summer is near. 31In the same way, when you, “Where is the guestroom where I can eat you see these things happening, you know the Passover meal with my disciples?” ’ 12He that God’s kingdom is near. 32I assure you will show you a large upstairs room, already that this generation won’t pass away until ev- furnished. Make preparations there.” 13They erything has happened. 33Heaven and earth went and found everything just as he had told will pass away, but my words will certainly them, and they prepared the Passover meal. not pass away. 34“Take care that your hearts aren’t dulled The Passover meal by drinking parties, drunkenness, and the 14When the time came, Jesus took his place anxieties of day-to-day life. Don’t let that at the table, and the apostles joined him. 15He 35 day fall upon you unexpectedly, like a trap. said to them, “I have earnestly desired to eat It will come upon everyone who lives on the this Passover with you before I suffer.16 I tell 36 face of the whole earth. Stay alert at all you, I won’t eat it until it is fulfilled in God’s times, praying that you are strong enough kingdom.” 17After taking a cup and giving to escape everything that is about to happen thanks, he said, “Take this and share it among f and to stand before the Human One.” yourselves. 18I tell you that from now on I 37 Every day Jesus was teaching in the won’t drink from the fruit of the vine until temple, but he spent each night on the Mount God’s kingdom has come.” 19After taking the 38 of Olives. All the people rose early in the bread and giving thanks, he broke it and gave morning to hear him in the temple area. it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” 20In the same way, he took the cup after the gOr Son of Man hIsa 53:12 55 Luke 22:43 meal and said, “This cup is the new covenant has a wallet must take it, and likewise a bag. by my blood, which is poured out for you. And those who don’t own a sword must sell 21“But look! My betrayer is with me; his their clothes and buy one. 37I tell you that hand is on this table. 22The Human Oneg goes this scripture must be fulfilled in relation to just as it has been determined. But how ter- me: And he was counted among criminals.h rible it is for that person who betrays him.” Indeed, what’s written about me is nearing 23They began to argue among themselves completion.” about which of them it could possibly be who 38They said to him, “Lord, look, here are would do this. two swords.” He replied, “Enough of that!” The disciples debate greatness 24An argument broke out among the dis- Jesus in prayer ciples over which one of them should be re- 39Jesus left and made his way to the Mount garded as the greatest. of Olives, as was his custom, and the disciples 25But Jesus said to them, “The kings of the followed him. 40When he arrived, he said to Gentiles rule over their subjects, and those them, “Pray that you won’t give in to temp- in authority over them are called ‘friends of tation.” 41He withdrew from them about a the people.’ 26But that’s not the way it will stone’s throw, knelt down, and prayed. 42He be with you. Instead, the greatest among you said, “Father, if it’s your will, take this cup of must become like a person of lower status suffering away from me. However, not my will and the leader like a servant. 27So which one but your will must be done.” 43Then a heavenly is greater, the one who is seated at the table or the one who serves at the table? Isn’t it the one who is seated at the table? But I am among you as one who serves. Failing and trying again 28“You are the ones who have continued with me in my trials. 29And I confer royal Jesus’s twelve disciples believed in him, power on you just as my Father granted royal learned from him, and followed him wherever power to me. 30Thus you will eat and drink at he went. But at the critical moment when he my table in my kingdom, and you will sit on needed them, they betrayed and denied him thrones overseeing the twelve tribes of Israel. (22:54-62). This fact reminds us that people of faith are not perfect. They are just people who Peter’s denial predicted are committed to accepting God’s forgiveness as they keep failing, trying, and improving. So, 31“Simon, Simon, look! Satan has asserted it might actually be comforting that Jesus’s first the right to sift you all like wheat. 32However, disciples all failed to be faithful at some I have prayed for you that your faith won’t point! They all failed to stand up for what 22:54-62 fail. When you have returned, strengthen was right. The even greater comfort is your brothers and sisters.” that the first words that the resurrected 33 Peter responded, “Lord, I’m ready to go Jesus spoke to them were words of en- with you, both to prison and to death!” couragement and forgiveness (see 24:36). 34 Jesus replied, “I tell you, Peter, the Have you ever failed to stand up for rooster won’t crow today before you have de- love and speak out against injustice? How nied three times that you know me.” did you feel afterwards? Have you con- sidered that God forgives you and invites Call for preparedness you to keep trying? Do you imagine that the 35Jesus said to them, “When I sent you out goal of faith is perfection? Or do you imagine without a wallet, bag, or sandals, you didn’t that the goal of faith is growth in our ability to lack anything, did you?” love, despite our failures? They said, “Nothing.” 36Then he said to them, “But now, whoever iOr Son of Man Luke 22:44 56 angel appeared to him and strengthened him. insisted, “This man must have been with him, 44He was in anguish and prayed even more ear- because he is a Galilean too.” nestly. His sweat became like drops of blood 60Peter responded, “Man, I don’t know falling on the ground. 45When he got up from what you are talking about!” At that very mo- praying, he went to the disciples. He found ment, while he was still speaking, a rooster them asleep, overcome by grief. 46He said to crowed. 61The Lord turned and looked them, “Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray straight at Peter, and Peter remembered the so that you won’t give in to temptation.” Lord’s words: “Before a rooster crows today, you will deny me three times.” 62And Peter Jesus’ arrest went out and cried uncontrollably. 47While Jesus was still speaking, a crowd appeared, and the one called Judas, one of Jesus taunted the Twelve, was leading them. He approached 63The men who were holding Jesus in cus- Jesus to kiss him. tody taunted him while they beat him. 64They 48Jesus said to him, “Judas, would you be- blindfolded him and asked him repeatedly, tray the Human Onei with a kiss?” “Prophesy! Who hit you?” 65Insulting him, they 49When those around him recognized said many other horrible things against him. what was about to happen, they said, “Lord, should we fight with our swords?”50 One of Jesus before the Jerusalem them struck the high priest’s servant, cutting leadership off his right ear. 66As morning came, the elders of the peo- 51Jesus responded, “Stop! No more of this!” ple, both chief priests and legal experts, came He touched the slave’s ear and healed him. together, and Jesus was brought before their 52Then Jesus said to the chief priests, the council. officers of the temple guard, and the elders 67They said, “If you are the Christ, tell us!” who had come to get him, “Have you come He answered, “If I tell you, you won’t believe. with swords and clubs to arrest me, as though 68And if I ask you a question, you won’t answer. I were a thief? 53Day after day I was with you 69But from now on, the Human Onej will be in the temple, but you didn’t arrest me. But seated on the right side of the power of God.”k this is your time, when darkness rules.” 70They all said, “Are you God’s Son, then?” He replied, “You say that I am.” Peter denies knowing Jesus 71Then they said, “Why do we need further 54After they arrested Jesus, they led him testimony? We’ve heard it from his own lips.” away and brought him to the high priest’s house. Peter followed from a distance. Jesus before Pilate 55When they lit a fire in the middle of the The whole assembly got up and led courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat Jesus to Pilate and 2began to accuse among them. 23him. They said, “We have found this man 56Then a servant woman saw him sitting in misleading our people, opposing the payment the firelight. She stared at him and said, “This of taxes to Caesar, and claiming that he is the man was with him too.” Christ, a king.” 57But Peter denied it, saying, “Woman, I 3Pilate asked him, “Are you the king of the don’t know him!” Jews?” 58A little while later, someone else saw him Jesus replied, “That’s what you say.” and said, “You are one of them too.” 4Then Pilate said to the chief priests and But Peter said, “Man, I’m not!” the crowds, “I find no legal basis for action 59An hour or so later, someone else against this man.” 5But they objected strenuously, saying,

jOr Son of Man kPs 110:1 lCritical editions of the Gk New Testament do not include 23:17 He had to release one prisoner for them because of the festival. 57 :18

were there, fiercely accusing Jesus. 11Herod and his soldiers treated Jesus with contempt. Violence Herod mocked him by dressing Jesus in el- The story of Jesus’s trial and crucifixion is egant clothes and sent him back to Pilate. 12 painful to read. It is unjust and brutal. Religious Pilate and Herod became friends with each (22:52) and political (23:6-12) leaders both used other that day. Before this, they had been en- terror to attempt to silence Jesus and end his emies. revolutionary message. And, make no mistake, he was a revolutionary. In the larger context of Jesus and Barabbas Luke, we see that Jesus had crossed religious 13Then Pilate called together the chief and social boundaries and offered a different priests, the rulers, and the people. 14He said vision of how people could live together with to them, “You brought this man before me as equality and forgiveness. This threatened re- one who was misleading the people. I have ligious and political leaders who believed that questioned him in your presence and found their personal security and the security of the nothing in this man’s conduct that provides a world rested on things remaining how they legal basis for the charges you have brought were. The religious leaders thought Jesus was against him. 15Neither did Herod, because trying to overthrow the religion, and the politi- Herod returned him to us. He’s done nothing cal leaders thought he was trying to over- that deserves death. 16Therefore, I’ll have him throw the state. They were right. So, they whipped, then let him go.”l killed him publicly to try to silence him and 18But with one voice they shouted, “Away protect the status quo. How do you see violence used today? Are you expected to find it entertaining and fun to watch? Who benefits financially from you paying to watch violence in mov- F ather, forgive them 23:20-25 ies, video games, music, and so on? Do you Forgiving others can be difficult, but some- see violent or excessive punishment used times the most difficult person to forgive is in your schools? By your police or by your na- yourself. You might have hurt someone so tional military? How do religious communities badly that you find it difficult to forgive your- talk about violence? Can Christians support self. Maybe you told a lie. Maybe you cheated violence? on an exam. Maybe you broke a promise. Maybe you broke someone’s heart. Whatever it is, forgiving yourself of that mistake can be dif- ficult. The guilt can make it impossible to mend “He agitates the people with his teaching your ways. When Jesus was dying upon throughout Judea—starting from Galilee all the cross, he looked on the people who

the way here.” were ridiculing him and offered them for- 23:34 giveness. He forgave the very people who Jesus before Herod put him upon the cross (23:34). If Jesus 6Hearing this, Pilate asked if the man can offer forgiveness to people who were was a Galilean. 7When he learned that Jesus killing him, imagine how much more he was from Herod’s district, Pilate sent him offers you forgiveness for whatever it is to Herod, who was also in Jerusalem at that you have done. His forgiveness is endless time. 8Herod was very glad to see Jesus, for he and his mercy is abundant. What is it that had heard about Jesus and had wanted to see you need to be forgiven? Will you allow Jesus him for quite some time. He was hoping to see to forgive you so you can start mending what Jesus perform some sign. 9Herod questioned is broken? How can Jesus’s own act of forgive- Jesus at length, but Jesus didn’t respond to ness help you forgive others? him. 10The chief priests and the legal experts mHos 10:8 Luke 23:19 58 with this man! Release Barabbas to us.” 35The people were standing around watch- (19Barabbas had been thrown into prison be- ing, but the leaders sneered at him, saying, “He cause of a riot that had occurred in the city, saved others. Let him save himself if he really and for murder.) is the Christ sent from God, the chosen one.” 20Pilate addressed them again because he 36The soldiers also mocked him. They wanted to release Jesus. came up to him, offering him sour wine37 and 21They kept shouting out, “Crucify him! saying, “If you really are the king of the Jews, Crucify him!” save yourself.” 38Above his head was a notice 22For the third time, Pilate said to them, of the formal charge against him. It read “This “Why? What wrong has he done? I’ve found no is the king of the Jews.” legal basis for the death penalty in his case. 39One of the criminals hanging next to Therefore, I will have him whipped, then let Jesus insulted him: “Aren’t you the Christ? him go.” Save yourself and us!” 23But they were adamant, shouting their 40Responding, the other criminal spoke demand that Jesus be crucified. Their voices harshly to him, “Don’t you fear God, seeing won out. 24Pilate issued his decision to grant that you’ve also been sentenced to die? 41We their request. 25He released the one they are rightly condemned, for we are receiving asked for, who had been thrown into prison the appropriate sentence for what we did. But because of a riot and murder. But he handed this man has done nothing wrong.” 42Then he Jesus over to their will. said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” On the way to the cross 43Jesus replied, “I assure you that today 26As they led Jesus away, they grabbed you will be with me in paradise.” Simon, a man from Cyrene, who was coming in from the countryside. They put the cross Jesus’ death on his back and made him carry it behind 44It was now about noon, and darkness Jesus. 27A huge crowd of people followed covered the whole earth until about three Jesus, including women, who were mourning o’clock, 45while the sun stopped shining. and wailing for him. 28Jesus turned to the Then the curtain in the sanctuary tore down women and said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, the middle. 46Crying out in a loud voice, Jesus don’t cry for me. Rather, cry for yourselves said, “Father, into your hands I entrust my and your children. 29The time will come when life.”n After he said this, he breathed for the they will say, ‘Happy are those who are un- last time. able to become pregnant, the wombs that 47When the centurion saw what happened, never gave birth, and the breasts that never he praised God, saying, “It’s really true: this nursed a child.’ 30Then they will say to the man was righteous.” 48All the crowds who mountains, ‘Fall on us,’ and to the hills, ‘Cover had come together to see this event returned us.’m 31If they do these things when the tree is to their homes beating their chests after green, what will happen when it is dry?” seeing what had happened. 49And everyone who knew him, including the women who had Jesus on the cross followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance 32They also led two other criminals to be observing these things. executed with Jesus. 33When they arrived at the place called The Skull, they crucified him, Jesus’ burial along with the criminals, one on his right and 50Now there was a man named Joseph the other on his left.34 Jesus said, “Father, for- who was a member of the council. He was a give them, for they don’t know what they’re good and righteous man. 51He hadn’t agreed doing.” They drew lots as a way of dividing up with the plan and actions of the council. He his clothing. was from the Jewish city of Arimathea and nPs 31:5 oOr Son of Man 59 :7

went to the tomb, bringing the fragrant spices they had prepared. 2They found the L ooking back at God stone rolled away from the tomb, 3but when After Jesus is crucified, two of his disciples they went in, they didn’t find the body of the 4 leave the city of Jerusalem disappointed and Lord Jesus. They didn’t know what to make saddened by his death. They had heard about of this. Suddenly, two men were standing Jesus’s resurrection but they do not believe it beside them in gleaming bright clothing. 5 themselves. They leave the city disappointed The women were frightened and bowed and discouraged. As they walk to the city of their faces toward the ground, but the men , a stranger shows up and talks with said to them, “Why do you look for the living them about Jesus’s suffering and death. It is among the dead? 6He isn’t here, but has been not until they eat some bread with the stranger raised. Remember what he told you while he that they recognize him as Jesus (24:13-35). was still in Galilee, 7that the Human Oneo Just like these disciples, we do not always recognize God’s presence at first. We do not always feel that God is with us in the present moment. It is only when we look back on the Experiencing Christ in events of our lives that we can see God work- communion/community ing and moving. Some people say that we know Sitting and eating with others is very impor- God best in retrospect. When we look back tant to Jesus throughout Luke. Jesus eats with we can see where God was present along poor, excluded people (5:29) and rich, religious the journey. Jesus helped the disciples look leaders (7:36; 11:37). He says that it shows God’s back at how God was working with Moses love when people cross boundaries to eat to- and the prophets and even in his own suf- gether (14:12-14; 15:1-3). And Jesus institutes fering and death. Looking back we can see the practice of eating together for his future how God was faithful and working even in 24:13 disciples, saying that when we eat together, difficult times. Take a few moments to re- we will remember the way God has given us the flect on your life over the past few years. gift of love and life (22:14-20). Where have you seen God working in your We have to read 24:28-31 with these other life even if you did not know it at the time? How passages from Luke in mind. Notice that has God led you to where you are today? As you Jesus’s disciples don’t recognize Christ when look back, how can you be more aware of God’s he teaches them (24:26-27). They only recog- faithful presence with you even now? nize him when they eat together (24:30-31). Before his death and after his resurrection, Jesus used meals—eating together—to show eagerly anticipated God’s kingdom. 52This that God loves, forgives, and welcomes all man went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. people. Thus, Luke teaches us that we can’t 53Taking it down, he wrapped it in a linen experience God’s love unless we are in

cloth and laid it in a tomb carved out of the community, unless we are welcoming 24:28-31 rock, in which no one had ever been buried. excluded people to eat with us, unless we 54It was the Preparation Day for the Sabbath, are accepting the invitation to eat with and the Sabbath was quickly approaching. others. The resurrected Jesus is known 55The women who had come with Jesus from through the community who welcomes, Galilee followed Joseph. They saw the tomb accepts, and forgives. Think about places where people eat and how Jesus’ body was laid in it, 56then they or gather: your family’s dinner table, the went away and prepared fragrant spices and cafeteria, a local gathering place for perfumed oils. They rested on the Sabbath, in your friends, or the communion table at your keeping with the commandment. church. Who is welcomed there? Who is not welcomed? Is there any difference between The communion and dinner? Should there be? Very early in the morning on the 24first day of the week, the women Luke 24:8 60 must be handed over to sinners, be crucified, of the things that have taken place there over and on the third day rise again.” 8Then they the last few days?” remembered his words. 9When they returned 19He said to them, “What things?” from the tomb, they reported all these things They said to him, “The things about Jesus of to the eleven and all the others. 10It was Nazareth. Because of his powerful deeds and , Joanna, Mary the mother words, he was recognized by God and all the of James, and the other women with them people as a prophet. 20But our chief priests who told these things to the apostles. 11Their and our leaders handed him over to be sen- words struck the apostles as nonsense, and tenced to death, and they crucified him. 21We they didn’t believe the women. 12But Peter ran had hoped he was the one who would redeem to the tomb. When he bent over to look inside, Israel. All these things happened three days he saw only the linen cloth. Then he returned ago. 22But there’s more: Some women from home, wondering what had happened. our group have left us stunned. They went to the tomb early this morning 23and didn’t find Encounter on the Emmaus road his body. They came to us saying that they had 13On that same day, two disciples were even seen a vision of angels who told them he traveling to a village called Emmaus, about is alive. 24Some of those who were with us seven miles from Jerusalem. 14They were went to the tomb and found things just as the talking to each other about everything that women said. They didn’t see him.” had happened. 15While they were discussing 25Then Jesus said to them, “You foolish these things, Jesus himself arrived and joined people! Your dull minds keep you from be- them on their journey. 16They were prevented lieving all that the prophets talked about. from recognizing him. 26Wasn’t it necessary for the Christ to suffer 17He said to them, “What are you talking these things and then enter into his glory?” about as you walk along?” They stopped, their 27Then he interpreted for them the things faces downcast. written about himself in all the scriptures, 18The one named Cleopas replied, “Are you starting with Moses and going through all the the only visitor to Jerusalem who is unaware Prophets. 61

Wrestling with Luke 1. Read :16-21. Verses 18-19 proclaim Jesus’s central mission in Luke: to liberate the poor and outcast, to bring healing, and to work for justice.

a. Read 4:16-30; 9:51-56; and 10:25-37. In the first passage, Jesus refers to prophets who helped people who were foreigners. In the latter passages, Jesus shows how — who were considered enemies by many of Jesus’s followers—can be faithful and deserve kindness. What do these passages tell you about God? Who do your communities consider enemies, outsiders, or aliens? How does your country talk about its enemies? In what ways does Jesus challenge us to love those of different religions and nationalities? Can they too be instruments of God’s work?

b. Luke is full of Jesus’s encounters with both rich and poor people. Read 1:46-56 and 6:20-26 to get an idea of Luke’s perspective on God and wealth. Then, explore the following encounters: 12:13-21; 16:19-31; 18:18-30; 19:1-9. How does Jesus interact with people with wealth? How do people’s responses to Jesus vary? Who do you most relate to in these stories? Based on the stories, how is God inviting you to respond?

2. Women are important in Jesus’s ministry throughout Luke.

a. Read 2:36-38; 7:36-50; 8:1-3, 43-48; 10:38-42; 13:10-17; 18:1-8; 23:55–24:10. In these passages, Jesus relies on women for support or commends their faith. Women serve as prophets and ministers, spread news about the kingdom, and demand justice. Women show incredible faith. Jesus calls a woman a “daughter of Abraham,” indicating women’s full and equal inclusion as people of God. And women are the first to see and tell about Jesus’s resurrection. How are women treated in society and in your religious communities? Are women given equal opportunity to speak, minister, and lead? How is Luke inviting you to respond?

b. Read 1:39-45; 2:36-38; 7:35; 15:8-10. In Luke, women like Mary and Elizabeth are intimately involved in God’s work. Moreover, 7:35 and 15:8-10 imagine wisdom and God as a female. Do you and your communities always say “he” when talking about God? If so, why is that? If Luke emphasizes the importance of women, and talks about God as female, why don’t we say “she” when talking about God? Would you be resistant to imagining God as a woman? Are there aspects of God we miss out on by only imagining God as male? 62

Reading Differently

Refer to the Introduction for explanations of different reading practices that you can use on your own or in leading Bible study.

1. Try bibliodrama for: a. The good Samaritan (10:25-37) b. The prodigal son (15:11-32) c. Jesus and Zacchaeus (19:1-9)

2. Read 18:9-14. Visit and participate in several worship services in different communities and religions and reflect on them in light of this passage. Does your worship reflect the attitude of the Pharisee or the tax collector? Who is present at the service, and who is not? How is this passage inviting you to change how you worship and with whom?

65 66

Meet the CEB Translators

BOARD OF EDITORS David L. Petersen David A. deSilva Ted Hiebert Paul N. Franklyn Old Testament Editor Editor Old Testament Associate Publisher Candler School of Ashland Theological Associate Editor Theology, Emory Seminary McCormick Neil M. Alexander University Theological Seminary President and Emerson B. Powery Publisher Joel B. Green Associate Editor for Cynthia Long Westfall New Testament Editor Apocrypha and NT New Testament Fuller Theological Messiah College Associate Editor Seminary McMaster Divinity Brent A. Strawn College Elizabeth Caldwell Old Testament Readability Editor Associate Editor Carol A. Wehrheim McCormick Candler School of Associate Readability Theological Seminary Theology, Emory Editor University

TRANSLATORS Efrain Agosto Cameron Boyd-Taylor Sidnie White Crawford Sharyn Dowd Hartford Seminary Wolfson College University of Nebraska McAfee School of Theology Bill Arnold Bill Brosend James L. Crenshaw Asbury Theological School of Theology, Duke Divinity School Thomas Dozeman Seminary University of the South United Theological N. Clayton Croy Seminary David R. Bauer William Brown Trinity Lutheran Asbury Theological Columbia Theological Seminary David Esterline Seminary Seminary McCormick Theological Peter Seminary Carol M. Bechtel Jeannine K. Brown St. Stephen’s Western Theological Bethel Seminary University John Fitzgerald Seminary University of Miami Gary Burge Ellen Davis Adele Berlin Wheaton College Duke Divinity School Mary Foskett University of Maryland Wake Forest University John Byron Linda Day Bruce C. Birch Ashland Theological Pittsburgh Theological Steve Fowl Wesley Theological Seminary Seminary Loyola College in Seminary Maryland James Charlesworth J. Andrew Dearman Michael Bird Princeton Theological Fuller Seminary Texas Michael E. Fuller Crossway College Seminary Lee University Carol J. Dempsey, O.P. Gregory Bloomquist Raymond Collins University of Portland Roy Gane St. Paul University The Catholic University Seventh-Day Adventist of America David A. deSilva Theological Seminary Mark J. Boda Ashland Theological McMaster Divinity John J. Collins Seminary William Gilders College Yale University Emory University 69

John Goldingay Brad E. Kelle Margaret Odell Louis Stulman Fuller Theological Point L oma Nazarene St. Olaf College University of Findlay Seminary University Dennis T. Olson Jerry L. Sumney Michael J. Gorman Melody D. Knowles Princeton Theological Lexington Theological St. Mary’s Seminary Virginia Theological Seminary Seminary and University Seminary B.J. Oropeza Sarah Tanzer Lester Grabbe Craig Koester Azusa Pacific McCormick Theological The University of Hull Luther Seminary University Seminary

Gene Green Jacqueline Lapsley Hugh R. Page, Jr. Bernard Taylor Wheaton College Princeton Theological University of Notre Loma Linda University Seminary Dame Joel B. Green Richard Thompson Fuller Theological Eunny Lee John Painter Northwest Nazarene Seminary Princeton Theological Charles Stuart University Seminary University Harrington, S.J. Mark Throntveit Boston College School Fredrick J. Long Leo Perdue Luther Seminary of Theology and Asbury Theological Brite Divinity School Ministry Seminary Patricia K. Tull Pheme Perkins Louisville Presbyterian Patrick Hartin Tremper Longman Boston College Theological Seminary Gonzaga University Westmont College Tom Phillips Robert W. Wall Daniel Hawk Nathan MacDonald Point Loma Nazarene Seattle Pacific Ashland Theological University of University University Seminary Cambridge and St. John’s College Anathea Portier- Charles A. Wanamaker Christopher B. Hays Young University of Cape Fuller Theological J. Clinton McCann Jr. Duke Divinity School Town Seminary Eden Theological Seminary Emerson Powery Harold Washington Roy Heller Messiah College St. Paul School of Perkins School Dan McCartney Theology of Theology Westminster Paul Redditt Theological Seminary Georgetown College Duane F. Watson Richard Hess Malone College School Denver Seminary Steven McKenzie Carolyn J. Sharp of Theology Rhodes College Yale Divinity School Theodore Hiebert James W. Watts McCormick Theological Charles Miller Thomas Slater Syracuse University Seminary University of North McAfee School of Dakota Theology Cynthia Long Westfall Michael W. Holmes McMaster Divinity Bethel University Patrick Miller Abraham Smith College Princeton Theological Perkins School of Robert Hubbard Seminary Theology David Salter Williams North Park University University of Georgia Theological Seminary Margaret M. Mitchell Marion Soards University of Chicago Louisville Presbyterian Walter Wilson Clayton Jefford Divinity School Theological Seminary Candler School of Saint Meinrad School Theology of Theology Guy Nave F. Scott Spencer Luther College Baptist Theological Benjamin Wright L. Ann Jervis Seminary Lehigh University Wycliffe College Richard Nelson Perkins School of Marti J. Steussy Seung Ai Yang Andy Johnson Theology Christian Theological Chicago Theological Nazarene Theological Seminary Seminary Seminary James D. Nogalski Baylor University Brent A. Strawn Luke Timothy Johnson Candler School of Candler School of Gail R. O’Day Theology Theology Candler School of Theology Loren Stuckenbruck John Kaltner University of Munich Rhodes College

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