THE BACKGROUND OF LUKE’S GOSPEL

Who is Luke?
- Luke was a doctor (Physician) by profession. This is brought out in Paul’s letter to Colossians (Col 4:14).
- He accompanied Paul in most of his journeys (2nd Tim 4: 11). He accompanied Paul to Jerusalem where he
was captured.
- He is also the writer of the book of Acts of the Apostles.
- He was Assyrian from Antioch (Non-Jew).
- He never married until he died at the age of 84yrs.
- He was not an eye witness of Jesus of the work and His ministry.

Where did Luke get the materials?

1. He got information from eye witnesses (Oral tradition) Luke 1:2
2. He also used other Gospel that had been written early such as the book of Mark (Luke 1:30) The sequence
of events in Luke’s gospel is similar to that of Mark.
3. He is also believed to have been inspired by the Holy Spirit.
4. There are also episodes that appeared only in Mathew and Luke such as the stories about the birth of Jesus.
Scholars therefore believed that he must have used a source that was common to him and Mathew.
5. There are also other events that also appeared in Luke’s Gospel e.g in Parable of Good Samaritan. It is
therefore believed that he must have used the source that was peculiar to him probably an earlier gospel that
does not form part of the standard Bible.
6. Having also been an experienced and educated person (doctor), he could have used his experience to write a
more orderly account of the work and life of Jesus.

Why Luke wrote the Gospel

1) To strengthen the faith of those being persecuted.
2) To show that Christianity had replaced Judaism.
3) That Jesus was the Messiah.
4) For Theopilus and his readers to know the full truth about Jesus.
5) To give a more orderly account of the works and life of Jesus.
6) To show that Jesus was a universal savior.
7) To show that Jesus was innocent although crucified by the Jewish religious authority.

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 THE OLD TESTAMENT PROPHESIES ABOUT MESSIAH
- During the time when the Israelites were suffering in exile there emerged prophets who gave the Israelites
hope.
- This hope was expressed in Isaiah 9:6-7, 11: 1-5, Jeremiah 23:5-6. This hope became strong especially
during exile in Babylon.
-
ROLES OF PROPHETS
1. The prophets foretold the future
2. They warned the people of the impending punishment that God would bring on His people because of
disobedience.
3. They called people for repentance.
4. They acted as God’s messengers.
5. They brought hope to the Israelites especially during the time of suffering.
6. They foretold the coming of the Messiah.

CONCEPTS OF MESSIAH IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

- The term Messiah means Anointed One.
- The opinion of scholars differ widely on the meaning of the word as is applied in the Old Testament. At
times, it has been used to refer to David; it was also used to refer to the priests who were the descendants of
Levi.
- The Messiah therefore seems to refer to an Israelite who was to bring salvation to mankind.
- During the time of the prophets they foretold the coming of the Messiah, and the time God made a covenant
with King David through prophet Nathan, God promised that the Messiah would come from the house of
King David ,and would be an everlasting ruler (2nd Sam. 7)
- Prophet Micah also foretold that the messiah would be born in the town of David called Bethlehem (Micah
5:2-5)
- Prophet Isaiah also pointed out that a young woman shall conceive and bear a son .He shall be called
Emanuel (Isaiah 7:10-16)
- Isaiah continues to prophesies that ,the child to be born would be a special child and would have the
following titles
1. A wonderful counselor

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 2. Everlasting Father
3. Prince of peace

He would rule with justice and righteousness for ever

Isaiah gives the concept of the Messiah as a suffering one
I. He would be despised, rejected, wounded oppressed and afflicted
II. He endured pain and suffering which would have been ours.
III. Because of our sins he was wounded
IV. We are healed by the punishment he suffered He was treated harshly but he never said a word
V. He was put in the grave with the wicked
VI. He was buried with the rich even though he did not commit a crime
VII. He took the place of many sinners and prayed that they might be forgiven.
Due to these messianic prophesies, the Israelites were eagerly waiting for the coming of the promised Messiah
Christians believe that Jesus fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy on the suffering servant.

THE JEWISH UNDERSTANDING OF THE MESSIAH

- He would be a military leader.
- He would be a political messiah.
- He would lead the Israelites into wars against their neighbors
- The Messiah would come from the house of King David.
- He would come after the return of Elijah
- He would establish an everlasting Kingdom
- The messiah was to appear in Jerusalem in full glory
- He would set the Israelites from their enemies.
- A Messiah who would not mix with the poor and the Gentiles The messiah was to appear in Jerusalem in
full glory
- He would set the Israelites free from their enemies.
- A Messiah who would not mix with the poor and the Gentiles

THE CONCEPT OF THE MESSIAH IN THE NEW TESTAMENT

Luke’s Gospel portrays Jesus as the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophesies about the messiah by.

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 Joseph the foster father of Jesus was a descendant of king David (LK1:26-27).This fulfils Nathan’s
prophesy that the Messiah would be born form the house of King David
 On several occasions ,Jesus is referred to as the son of David e.g. The blind beggar at the gate of Jericho
referred to Jesus as the son of David (Lk.18:35-43)
 The same titles which were given to the Messiah by Prophet Isaiah are the same titles repeated by angel
Gabriel as he announced the birth of Jesus to Mary (LK.1:32-33).That he would be great and he would be
called the son of he most high God and that his kingdom will never end .
 Angel Gabriel appeared to Mary who was a virgin and told her that she would give birth to a son .This
fulfils Isaiah’s prophecy that “|a virgin shall conceive and give birth to a son (Is.7:14)
 Jesus was born in Bethlehem ,the city of David .this fulfils what had been foretold by Micah (Mic.5:2-3)
 At the beginning of his ministry ,Jesus entered the synagogue on a Sabbath day and read a scripture from the
book of Isaiah(61:1-3) .he declared that he was the fulfillment of what had been prophesied by Isaiah
(Lk.16-19)
 When Jesus was rejected at Nazareth by his own people (Lk.4:16-22) .This fulfilled what had been
prophesied by Isaiah that the Messiah would be despised and rejected.
 In Lk. 9:18-21 ,Jesus asked his disciples whom they thought he was ,Peter answered “you are the Christ of
God” .This is an indication that even the disciples acknowledged Jesus as the Messiah
 During Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem ,the people sang and claimed that he was the king .Singing
“blessed is the King who comes in the name of the lord”.(Lk.19:36-40)
 Even during the trial of Jesus before the Sanhedrin, when he was asked if he was really the son of god, he
replied “you have said so” an indication that he was the promised Messiah.
 Isaiah prophesied that the Messiah shall bring salvation to the whole world .This is echoed by Simeon in the
temple when he said that the Lord has kept His promise that he would not die before seeing the
Messiah(Lk.2:25 .
 Isaiah prophesied that the messiah would work miracles (Is.26:25-35) i.e. the dead shall rise .This is fulfilled
when on several occasions Jesus raised the dead e.g. the raising of Jairus daughter

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 THE INFANCY AND EARLY LIFE OF JESUS
THE ROLE OF JOHN THE BAPTIST (Lk.1:5-25.3:1-5,7:20-35)
In the introductory chapters of Luke’s gospel, the author talks about the birth of john
This is because John prepared the way for the messiah in that:
- John the Baptist acted as a link between the old and new testament
- He called people to be baptized as a sign of repentance so that they would receive forgiveness of their sins
- He preached to the people about the Messiah who would be mightier than him .That would baptize with the
Holy spirit
- He baptized Jesus before the beginning of his ministry
- He introduced Jesus to his disciples as the messiah
- He condemned social evils during his time .For example he condemned Herode Agrippa for taking Herodias
his brother’s wife
- He preached to the people to turn away form their wicked ways of life.
- He bore witness to Jesus as the Lamb of God.

FEATURES OF JOHN’S FORM OF BAPTISM

- It was received once by each individual
- It was a requirement for all the Jews and the Gentiles
- It required full immersion into water
- It was related to the baptism administered by the Messiah who was about to start his ministry
- John’s baptism was made compete through baptism with the Holy spirit

THE ANNUNCIATION OF THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST (Lk.1:5-25)

- The birth of John the Baptist was announced during the reign of King Herode the great .Zachariah was one
of the priests and he had a wife called Elizabeth .They were both righteous before the Lord .However they
did not have a child because Elizabeth was barren and both of them were advanced in age.
- Zachariah was in the temple burning incense that Angel Gabriel appeared to him .He was troubled ,but the
angel told him
 Not to be afraid for his prayers had been answered.
 That his wife ,Elizabeth was going to have a son
 He shall be called John.

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  He would be great before the Lord.
 He shall not drink wine nor strong drinks.
 Many would rejoice at his birth.
 He would be filled with the Holy Spirit even in the mother’s womb
 He would turn the hearts of the sons of Israel to the Lord their God
 He would have the spirit of Elijah
 He would turn the hearts of the fathers to their children.
 He would prepare the people for the Lord
Zachariah could not believe the angel’s message because Elizabeth his wife was barren and both of them
were advance in age .So he asked for a sign .The Angel told him that he would be struck dumb until God
fulfils His message to him .When he finally came out ,he could not speak to the congregation .They
realized he had received a vision in the Temple .After three days ,her wife Elizabeth conceived and she
hid herself for five months .

ANNUNCIATION OF THE BIRTH OF JESUS [LK 1-26-38]

During the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, angel Gabriel was sent to a virgin woman named Mary who
was engaged to Joseph, a descendant of King David. Mary was troubled and he (the angel) told her not to be
afraid for she had found favor the Lord .The angel announced the following Concerning Jesus to Mary:
- She shall conceive and bear a son
- He shall be called Jesus
- He will be great
- He will be called the son of the most high God
- He will rule over the house of Jacob forever
- The lord would give him the throne of his father David.
- His Kingdom would last forever.
- That she would conceive through the power of the Holy Spirit.
- He would be called the son of God.
To confirm to Mary that this would be possible, the angel informed her that relative Elizabeth was already
pregnant despite her old age Mary finally accepted the angel’s message and submitted herself to God.

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MARY VISITS ELIZABETH (Lk.1:31-55)
After angel Gabriel left her, Mary went to visit her cousin ,Elizabeth (Zachariah’s wife, As soon as Mary
greeted her, the baby in the womb leaped with joy .Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit who revealed to
her that Mary was going to be the mother of the Messiah Mary’s remarks were in form of a song commonly
referred to as the MAGNIFICANT
“My heart praises the Lord,
My soul is glad because of my savior for He has remembered me His lowly servant.
From now on people will call me blessed,
Because of the great things that the mighty God has done for me.
His name is Holy.
From one generation to another.
He shows mercy to those who fear Him.
He has stretched his mighty arm and has scattered the proud with all their plans.
He has brought down mighty Kings from their thrones and lifted the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich empty handed.
He has kept the promise He made to our ancestors and He has come to the help of his servant Israel.
He has remembered to show mercy to Abraham and to all His descendants for ever” © Evams General
Supplies

LESSONS LEARNT ABOUT THE NATURE OF GOD FROM THE MAGNIFICAT

a) God is the redeemer /savior ,He has brought salvation through Jesus from the house of King David
b) God is mighty and He has done great things.
c) God’s name is holy.
d) God is merciful. He shows mercy to those who fear Him.
e) God is caring .He scatters the proud with all their plans and lifts the lowly.
f) God is the provider .He sends the rich empty handed and fills the hungry with good thing
g) God keeps His promises that he made to our forefathers such as Abraham
h) He is kind /helper to His servant Israel.

THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST (Lk.1:57-80)

When John was born, it was an occasion of great joy to his parents

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The child was circumcised on the eighth day according to the Jewish custom. Relatives wanted to name him
Zachariah after his father. However, both Zachariah and Elizabeth insisted he would be called John. To
confirm this, his father who was still dumb was given a tablet and wrote his name John. Zachariah who was
dumb was able to speak again. Zachariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and like Mary, he also sang a hymn
which is referred to as the Benedictus. He described God as

THE BENEDICTUS
He is the redeemer because he has saved his people from sin.
God has brought salvation through Jesus from the house of King David.
He has kept His promises that He made to Abraham and through the prophets in the Old Testament.
The sacred part of the hymn (Lk 1:76-79) outlines the mission of John. It says.
- He would be called the prophet of the Most High God.
- He would go before the Lord to prepare the way.
- He would give the knowledge of salvation to his people.
- He would call people to repentance and forgiveness.
- He would give light to those who sit in darkness and in shadow of death.

THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST (Lk. 2:1-20)

The birth of Jesus took place in Bethlehem the city of David during the reign of Emperor Augustus Caesar.
A Census had been ordered by the emperor. Mary and Joseph travelled to Bethlehem the Birth place of Jesus.
When the time came for her to have her child, there was no place available to her for the entire place available
had been booked. She gave birth and laid the child in a manger and wrapped him with clothes.
In that region, there were shepherds looking after their flock; the angel of the Lord appeared to them, shepherds
got scared but the angel told them not to be afraid, he had good news for them.
The good news would bring great joy to all the people.
The Messiah had been born in David’s Town. They would go into the town and would find a baby wrapped in
swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.
Suddenly an army of heavenly angels appeared and sang a praise of God saying;
Glory to God ion the highest and on earth peace be toward men
When the angels left, the shepherds went to Bethlehem and saw the baby lying on a manger. They told the
parents of Jesus about the message from the angel. Mary kept to her heart all the things she had been told.

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The fact that the first people to get information about the birth of the Messiah were shepherds symbolized that
God’s salvation goes to the humble and the lowly.

HOW THE BIRTH OF JESUS WAS EXTRA ORDINARY

1. He was born and laid on a merger although he was a king.
2. His birth was announced by angel Gabriel.
3. His conception was through the holly spirit/born of virgin.
4. His birth was revealed first to shepherds through an angel.
5. He was given a name before he was born.
6. The angel sang in praise of God during his birth
7. His future role was given before he was born

SIMILARITIES BETWEEN THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST AND JESUS CHRIST
1. The births of both of them were announced by angel Gabriel
2. Both the parents were disturbed when they received the good news
3. Their future roles were announced by Angels before they were born
4. Both of them were given names before they were born
5. They both had extra ordinary births. The conception of Jesus was through the holly spirit while that of john,
the parents were already old.
6. Both were first borne of their families
7. Both the parents were filled with Holy Spirit and there was joy during the birth.
8. Both families were righteous before the lord.

THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE WORKS OF JOHN THE BAPTIST AND THAT OF JESUS
CHRIST
1. John the preached mainly in the wilderness while Jesus Christ Preached in Synagogue and in the temple.
2. John the Baptist called people to repentance while Jesus died for the forgiveness of sins.
3. John baptized with water while Jesus baptized with Holy Spirit.
4. John preached about the promised Messiah while Jesus preached about the kingdom of God.
5. John prepared the way for the coming of the Messiah while Jesus preached that he was the Messiah
promised in the Old Testament.
6. John was direct in his preaching while Jesus taught in parables.

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7. While John the Baptist fasted, Jesus ate and drank.
8. John the Baptist did not perform miracles while Jesus Christ performed signs and wonders.
9. John the Baptist lived life of all Nazareth while Jesus mixed freely with all the people.
THE DEDICATION OF JESUS ( Luke 2:21-40)
On the eighth day, Jesus was circumcised according to the Law of Moses and after 40 days he was brought to
Jerusalem by his parents for purification. This was because a woman was considered to be unclean after giving
birth. It was also in line with God’s command to the Israelites that all the male borns that opened the wombs
would be dedicated to God. They were to bring a pair of doves or two young pigeons according to the Law of
Moses (Lev: 12:1-8)
In Jerusalem, there was a man named Simeon. He had been told by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before
seeing the Messiah.
He was righteous before the Lord. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, he came into the temple where the parents of
Jesus had brought him. He took him up in his arms and said:
1. Jesus would save people.
2. He would bring glory to Israel.
3. He would be a light to gentiles.
4. He would be a universal savior.
5. He would bring judgment to the Israelites.
6. Many people would oppose him in his work.
7. He will reveal secret thoughts of people.
8. He would be a source of redemption for people.
9. God had fulfilled his promise.
In the temple, there was a prophetess named Anna. She was a widow and was advanced in age. She also made a
prophecy that Jesus is the one who would deliver God’s chosen people from oppression. Meanwhile his parents
returned to their home village, Nazareth in Galilee.

JESUS AT THE TEMPLE (Luke 2:41-52)

The parents of Jesus were careful to bring Jesus up in obedience to the Mosaic laws. Mary and Joseph went to
Jerusalem to celebrate the feast of Passover in accordance to the Mosaic laws. Jesus also accompanied his
parents when he was twelve years old. When the festival was over they were to return home, but his parents
were unaware that he was left behind. They only realized that Jesus was not with them after that day. They
begun looking for him among their friends and relatives but they did not find him. They then returned to

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 Jerusalem and it was in the temple that Jesus parents found him, listening to teachers of law and asking
questions. All those who heard him were astonished at his intelligence.
Many asked him why he had caused them trouble. Jesus in response said ‘Why did your have to look for me?
Didn’t you know that I had to be in my father’s house?`
Jesus returned to Jerusalem with his parents and many kept all the experiences in her heart. The three days that
Jesus remained in the temple symbolically foreshadowed the days he was to be in the tomb and rising to glory
on the third day.
Jesus questioned to the teachers of the law, shadowed that he was familiar with the scriptures. The answer he
gave to his parents suggests that he was aware of his divine relationship with God.
He also knew that his first duty was to serve God and then his family.
Jesus also wanted to show that he was fulfilling the prophecy of Malachi who had foretold that the Lord whom
you seek will suddenly come to his temple.

LESSONS THAT CHRISTIANS CAN LEARN FROM JESUS’ INCIDENT IN THE TEMPLE
i. Jesus was the son of God.
ii. Parents should bring their children to obey God.
iii. Family ties should not be broken.
iv. Parents should provide opportunity to their children to mix freely with others. This was when the parents
went with him to the feast.
v. Parents should love and be concerned about their children.
vi. Children should obey their parents. It is also important to read the scriptures to know the will of God.
vii. Parents should recognize their children’s’ talents.
viii. There should be opened communication among family members.

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 THE GALILEAN MINISTRY
THE PREACHING OF JOHN THE BAPTIST (LK 3:1-20)
John was commissioned by God while in the wilderness to start his work. He began preaching in the area
around River Jordan. John came in the spirit of Elijah as the Jews believed that Elijah would appear before the
Messiah.
His message to the people was:
- He preached repentance
- He urged his listeners to have a total change of heart and confess their sins.
- John wanted his listeners about God’s judgment
- Told the people not to be proud that they were Abraham’s descendants.
- For those who accepted repentance he baptized them in river Jordan
- He condemned the Jewish religious leaders who stressed on outward of observance of the law rather than
the inner righteousness
- He also announced the coming of the Messiah who would be mightier than him .
- John stressed on social justice i.e need to deal and treat others fairly that those who should share with others.
- He emphasized to the people the need for honesty in their dealings.
- Tax collectors were advised not to collect more than was required.
- Soldiers were advised not to abuse power by robbing and accusing others falsely
- He condemned King Herode’s Immoral behavior including her own brothers wife Herodias and because of
this John the Baptist was put in prison by Herode Aggripa

LESSONS CHRISTIANS LEARN FROM PREACHING OF JOHN THE BAPTIST

1. Christians should learn to share what they have with those who do not have.
2. Christians should be honest in whatever they do
3. Christians should repent and turn away from their sins
4. Christians should accept baptism with water in preparation for baptism with fire and holy spirit
5. Christians should not be afraid to condemn evil in the society today
6. Christians should avoid corruption
7. Christians should know that God will judge and punish them for their wrong doing

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THE BAPTISM OF JESUS (LK 3:21-22)
When Jesus was 30 year old, he came to John the Baptist to baptize him. John was by River Jordan Baptizing
other people

WHY JESUS ACCEPTED TO BE BAPTIZED

1. By accepting John’s baptism it meant he had approved John’s work as a messenger to prepare the way.
2. The baptism of Jesus marked the beginning of his ministry.
3. He saw it as God’s plan of saving mankind.
4. Jesus wanted to identify himself with the sinful mankind.
5. It was a way of preparing those who were ready to receive the Messiah.
6. During baptism, the Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus into the form of a dove.
7. It was also a way of fulfilling Old Testament prophecy about the Messiah.
8. The baptism of Jesus confirmed his divinity (son of God) for a dove came from heaven, ‘Thou art my
beloved son with thee I am well pleased.’

RELEVANCE OF BAPTISM TO CHRISTIANS TODAY

1. During baptism a Christian is given a new name which symbolizes a new life in Christ.
2. Through baptism Christians are prepared for the kingdom of God.
3. It foreshadows the death and resurrection of Christ.
4. Through baptism Christians are cleansed from their sins.
5. Christians as a way of identifying with Christ.
6. Through baptism one’s faith is strengthened.

THE TEMPTATION OF JESUS (LK 4:1-13)

Soon after the baptism, he was led by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness he was tempted by the the devil and he
stayed there for 40 days.
At the end of 40 days, Jesus was hungry. During the time that he was in the wilderness he was being prepared
for his ministry. Jesus was tempted in 3 ways.
Son of God turned the stones into bread. He responded by quoting the scriptures and thus said, ‘it was written
that man should not live on bread alone.’ Even though Jesus had the power to turn the stones into bread, he did
not do so because that would mean misuse of his divine powers. He did not want to win people to God through
material things

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In the second temptation ,Satan took Jesus to the top of a high mountain and in a second showed him all the
Kingdoms of the world and told him that he would give him all its wealth if only Jesus would bow down and
worship him .Jesus answered him quoting the scriptures (the Laws o0f Moses).”You shall worship the Lord
your god and only him shall you serve”. Had Jesus accepted to worship him, he would have given the devil the
worship that belongs to God.
Finally the devil took Jesus to Jerusalem and set him on the pinnacle of the Temple and said to him. “If you are
the son of god then throw yourself down from here .For it is written that He will send His angels to be in charge
of you .once again he responded by quoting the scriptures. “You shall not put the lord God to test”.
When the devil finished tempting Jesus on every way, he left him for a while.

LESSONS CHRISTIANS LEARN FROM THE TEMPTATION OF JESUS

- Lack of material things such as food should not let Christians fall into temptation.
- Christians should not worship any other God a part from the Lord God.
- Christians should not put the Lord God to test.
- Since Jesus was also tempted, Christians should learn that they can also be tempted
- When tempted a Christian should not give in to temptation.
- Trough temptations and trials a Christian’s faith is strengthened
- A Christian should turn to the scriptures when faced with temptation.
- Christians should seek the Holy Spirit to enable him overcome temptation
- God does not tempt one beyond his ability.

JESUS BEGINS HIS MINISTRY AND IS REJECTED AT NAZARETH (LUKE 4:14-30)

When Jesus returned to Galilee a report concerning him went through out all the surrounding country. He came
to Nazareth where he had been brought up and went into the synagogue as his custom was on the Sabbath day.
He stood up and was given the book of prophet Isaiah and found the place where it was written “the spirit of the
Lord is upon me because he has anointed me to preach goods news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim
release to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind. To set at liberty those who are oppressed and
proclaim the acceptable year of the lord.” He closed and returned the book to the attendant and sat down and
said to them “ today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing ‘’ The people were doubtful of the gracious
words which proceeded from out of his mouth and they said “is this not Joseph’s son. Jesus told them not to be
doubtful for it is written that “truly I say to you no prophet is accepted in his own country’’ when they heard

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this all the synagogue were filled with wrath and they rose up they put him out of the city and led him to the
brow of the hill. Jesus passed through the midst of them and he went away.

Why Jesus was rejected at Nazareth

1. He claimed to be the promised messiah and according to the people this was blasphemy.
2. The people referred to him as the son of Joseph, a mere carpenter.
3. It was a fulfillment of what had been prophesied by prophet Isaiah that the messiah would be despised and
rejected.
4. He failed to perform a miracle in Nazareth the way he had performed in Capernaum.
5. He annoyed his listeners when he told them that their forefathers had rejected God’s prophets.
6. He told them that a prophet is not welcomed in his own home town.
7. They rejected Jesus for telling them that the good news was first offered to Jesus but they rejected it. And so
it would be made available to the gentiles.

JESUS HEALS IN CAPERNAUM (LK.4:31-37)

Then Jesus went to Capernaum, a town in Galilee where he taught the people on the Sabbath .They all amazed
at the way he taught because he spoke with authority. In the synagogue there was a man who had the spirit of an
evil demon in him .He seamed in a loud voice. “Ah! What do you want to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Are
you here to destroy us? I know who you are .You are the holy one of God. Jesus commanded the devil to be
quiet and come out of the man .The demon threw the man down and went out of him without doing any harm to
him.
The people were amazed and said to one another. “What kind of words are these? With authority and power this
man gives orders to the evil spirit and they come out.”The report about Jesus spread every where in that region.

Why Jesus commanded the devil to be silent

- He did not want his identity to be publicized.
- He eared the people might think that he had to establish an earthly kingdom.
- He did not want people to see him as a miracle worker

Lessons that Christians learn about Jesus from the healing at Capernaum
- Jesus is the son of God (He is the promised messiah.
- Jesus is Holy

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- Jesus has power over evil spirits
- Jesus came to save mankind from slavery of sin
- Jesus heals those who have faith in him
- Jesus came to destroy the kingdom of Satan and establish God’s kingdom.

JESUS CALLS THE FIRST DISCIPLES (5:1-11).

A disciple means learner or follower .In the bible ,the word disciple is used to refer to “learners “who followed
a particular master to learn more about religious matters .
One day, Jesus, was standing on the shores of Lake Gennesaret .while the people pushed their way up to him to
listen to the word of God. He saw two boats pulled on the beach .The fishermen had left them and were
washing their nets .Jesus got into one of the boat, that belonged to Simon and asked him to push it off a little
from the shore .Jesus sat in the boat and taught the crowd .when he finished speaking, he said to Simon ,”push
the boat out further to the deep water ,and you and your partners let down your nets for a catch ;”
“Master ,Simon answered ,we worked hard all night long and caught nothing .but if you say so , “I will let down
the net” .They let them down and caught such a large number of fish that the nets were about to break .So they
beckoned to their partners in the other boat to come and help them .They came and both boats so full of fish
that the boats were about to sink .when Simon Peter saw what had happened, he fell on his knees before Jesus
and said, ‘Go away from me Lord! I am a sinful man!’’
He and the other with him were all amazed at the large number of fish they had caught. The same was true to
Simon partners; James and John the sons of Zebedee. Jesus said to Simon,’ don’t be afraid, from now onwards
you will be catching men.’’
They pulled the boats up on the beach, left everything, and followed Jesus.

LESSONS CHRISTIANS CAN LEARN FROM THEIR CALL

1. Just as Jesus called the first disciples, so God is calling people to serve him in various ways.
2. God does not discriminate. The first disciple peter John, and Jane came from ordinary family (they were
fishermen).therefore a Christian should not discriminate against others.
3. Just as the first disciple humbled themselves before Jesus, Christians need to humble themselves before
God.
4. Christians should trust the lord just as peter trusted in Jesus when he was told to put back the net into the
water.

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5. A Christian has to acknowledge, his or her sins, Simon knelt before Jesus, and acknowledged his own sinful
state.
6. God can intervene in people’s life through interacts. Jesus wanted to share the power of God through
miraculous catch of fish. Symbolized the many that should turn to God.
7. Christians who faithfully follow the teachings of Jesus Christ are assured of the God’s care and protection.
8. When a Christian is called he should leave everything including their families to serve the lord
9. God reveals himself to people in everyday activities.

JESUS FACES OPPOSITION

During Jesus ministry, he faced a lot of opposition from the Pharisees, the scribes and seduces. the Pharisees
believed strongly on the observance of the mosaic laws .They believed on the teachings of the prophets and
other writings of the old testament.
They believed and waited for the Messiah. They also believed that the messiah will lead a rebellion against
Roman authority. On the other hand ,the Scribes ,were the writers and their work was to make copies of the
Jewish Scriptures.
Some of them rented schools where Jewish male youths leant the Mosaic laws (Rabbinic Schools).The
Sadducees were a very influential group .They believed only in the first five books (laws)as having been
inspired. They did not believe in the coming judgment and the Messiah. This group of people never accepted
Jesus as the Messiah, this is because they had suspected a political Messiah instead Jesus came as a suffering
Messiah. It was because of this opposition that Jesus was crucified.

OCCASIONS WHEN JESUS WAS OPPOSED

1. The cure of the leper (LK 5:12-15)
While he was in one of cities, a man full of leprosy came and fell at Jesus’ feet. The leper said to him, “Lord, if
you are willing, you can make me clean.” This is one of the occasions where Jesus hid his identity. And Jesus
did so then the leprosy left him but charged him not to tell anyone what had happened but to go and show
himself to the priest and make an offering of cleansing as Moses commanded as a proof to the people, but the
report spread and great multitude gathered to hear the word and be healed.

Significance of the cure of the paralytic

I. Jesus had power over sickness
II. Jesus is the son of God .The leper referred to Jesus as the son of God

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III. It also showed the importance of faith .The leper had a lot of faith in Christ .Christians therefore should
have faith in Christ .
IV. It also showed the compassionate nature of Jesus .Christians therefore should be concerned about the
welfare of the poor and the despised.
V. It also showed that Jesus came for all including the untouchables.Christians therefore should not
discriminate
VI. It showed that Jesus had respect for the Mosaic law for he told the leper to go to the priest to examine
him as a proof.
VII. By commanding the leper not to tell anybody what had happened, it meant that Jesus never wanted to
publicize his Messiaship.

THE CURE OF THE PARALYTIC (LK.5:17-26)

One day when Jesus was teaching ,some Pharisees and the teachers of the law were sitting there who had come
from every town in Galilee ,Judea and Jerusalem. The power of God was with him to heal the sick .Some men
came carrying a man on a bed who was paralysed.They tried to him in and lay him before Jesus but they could
not. When they could not find room to bring him in ,they removed the tiles from the roof and brought the man
down.
When Jesus saw this ,he told the man that his sins are forgiven .And the scribes and the Pharisees questioned
which authority he had to forgive sins .They regarded this as blasphemy.
According to them only God has the power to forgive sins.
Jesus knew what was in their mind and asked them “which is easier to say ,your sins are forgiven or rise and
walk .He told the paralytic to rise up and take his bed and go .And he immediately took his bed and went home
glorifying God.

Significance of the cure of the paralitic

 The miracle showed that Jesus was not only concerned with the physical body but also to win people for the
kingdom of God. Christians therefore should strive to win more souls to the kingdom of God
 Christians are also reminded to have faith in Jesus and trust. The people who brought the paralytic had a lot
of faith that Jesus would heal the man.
 The miracle showed that Jesus had power to forgive sins for Jesus told him that “Your sins are forgiven”.
therefore, through Jesus Christians can have their sins forgiven
 Jesus is the son of God.

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 Christians should praise and thank God for the gift they have received.
 The miracle also strengthened the faith of Jesus’ audience. Those who saw the miracle went home
glorifying God.
 Christians should be willing to forgive others.

THE CALL OF LEVI (LK: 5:27-32)

Jesus was passing by and he saw a tax collector named Levi, sitting at the tax collector’s office and he told him
to follow him. Luke brings out the element of the man being a tax collector because tax collectors were known
to be corrupt people who took more than was required .
The tax collector left everything and followed him.
Sometime later the Levi made Jesus a great feast in his house and many tax collectors came. And the Pharisees
and the scribes murmured against Jesus saying “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners.”
Jesus answered them by saying; those who are well do not need a doctor. By this, Jesus meant that he came for
the sinners and outcasts and not for the righteous.

THE QUESTION ABOUT FASTING

Lk-5:33-39
The Pharisees and scribes asked Jesus why his disciples are not fasting like the disciples of John the Baptist.
In reply, Jesus told them that it is not possible to make the wedding guest fast while the bridegroom was still
with them.
The day would come when the bridegroom would be taken away from them. It is only them that they would
fast.
In this parable, Jesus meant that the present time is like a feast because Jesus was still with them.
That his disciples would only fast after his death and resurrection. He also pointed out that it was not merely the
observance of religions practices that was required but faith.

Why Christians fast

 A time which one can dedicate himself to prayers
 One can dedicate himself to reading the bible or word of God.
 To give to what they ought to have eaten that day to the needy.
 A period when one can repent from his sins.
 To strengthens ones faith

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Ways in which Christians should treat the despised or the poor
 Christians should treat the poor and outcasts with Love.
 Give them hope in life.
 Christians should offer them financial assistance.
 Help them start income generating projects by giving them necessary training and skills that can make them
be self reliant.
 Preach to them the word of God and help in converting them to become useful members of the society.
 Christians should offer prayers to them.

THE PARABLE OF THE GARMENT AND THE WINESKINS (LK:5:36-39)

Jesus told them the parable of anew garment and the wineskins
He told them that ‘No one tears a piece from anew garment and puts it on an old garment.
And no one puts new wine into old wineskins, if he does the new wine will burst the skins and the skins will be
destroyed. But new wine must be put into fresh wineskins. And no one after drinking old wine designs new for
he says the old is good.

Significance of the parables

- Jesus used the new garment and new wineskins to represent Christianity, while the old garment and old
napkins represents Judaism.
- Jesus taught that Christianity and Judaism were in conflict.
- That Christianity does not only concern itself with the outward observance or the law but with the inner
heart.
- That Christianity is greater than Judaism
- For some Christians it may be difficult to leave up the old ways.

Some traditional customs condemned by Christianity

- Polygamy
- wife inheritance
- Killing of twins
- Female circumcision
- Witch craft

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- Songs and dances.

THE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE SABBATH (LK6:1-5)

On the Sabbath while Jesus and his disciples were going through the grain fields, his disciples plucked and ate
some heads of grain rubbing them in their hands
Some Pharisees questioned why they were doing what was unlawful on a Sabbath day.
Jesus responded by quoting the Old Testament scriptures. Jesus asked them if they had not reas what king david
did when he was hungry. They entered the house of God took and ate the bread which was meant for the priests
only

Significance of the question on the Sabbath

- Doing a good thing was more important than mare observance of the law.
- Jesus is lord of the Sabbath
- Sabbath was made for man not man for Sabbath

THE HEALING OF MAN WITH A WITHERED HAND (LK: 6:6 – 11)

One the Sabbath day, Jesus entered the synagogue and began teaching. And there was a man with a withered
hand.
And the Pharisees and the scribes were waiting to see if he could heal on the Sabbath day
Jesus knew their thought and called the man with the withered hand to stand up and come out
Then Jesus asked them if it was lawful to do good on the Sabbath or to destroy
And after looking around he told them man to stretch his hand. He did so and his hand was restored, but they
were filled with madness and began planning what they could do to Jesus.

Examples of miracles that Jesus performed on the Sabbath day

- The casting out of demons at Capernaum.
- The healing of Simon’s mother –in – law
- The cure of a man with leprosy
- Cure of a man with a withered hand
Why Jesus faced opposition from the Pharisees and the scribes.
- He claimed to have the ability to forgive sins which the Pharisees and the scribes considered as blasphemy.

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- On several occasions he healed on the Sabbath. His disciples also plucked grains on the Sabbath which the
Pharisees viewed as work
- That his disciples did not fast like the disciples of John the Baptist.
- Because of the miracles that Jesus performed, his reputation continued to grow and many people followed
him to have their sicknesses cured.
- He mixed and ate with sinners and tax collectors.
- Jesus called them hypocrites for they put the law before the well being of human beings.
- That Jesus called himself the Messiah (son of God) that was promised in the Old Testament.

WHY SOME PEOPLE DO NOT ACCEPT THE TEACHINGS OF JESUS

 Due to education and scientific knowledge that gives a different interpretation of the origin of life.
 Some receive strong opposition from devil worshippers.
 Others also lack faith in spiritual matters .
 Some are afraid of facing rejection or persecution .
 Worldly pleasures such as the desire to acquire more wealth also distract others attention.
 The existence of other religious beliefs such as Islam that does not regard Jesus as the son of God.
 There are also inadequate role models in our societies that others can emulate .
 Many churches also experience leadership wrangles that make others drop or move a way from the
church .
 There is also different interpretation of the Bible teachings on certain issues e.g. on polygamy and
alcoholism.
 High level of expectation from the church which others are not able to meet .
 Many people who pose as Christians are hypocrites .
 Others are also discouraged by members of their peer group who may not be Christians .

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 THE CHOOSING OF THE TWELVE DISCIPLES AND JESUS’ TEACHING ON TRUE OF
DISCIPLESHIP (Lk.6:12-16, 27-49)
The word disciple means follower .Jesus went to the mountain to pray and when it was day, he called his and
chose from them twelve, whom he called Apostles.
The word apostle means “one who is sent out”
The twelve chosen were:
1) Simon whom he called Peter
2) Andrew
3) James son of Zebedee
4) John the brother of James
5) Philip
6) Bartholomew
7) Mathew the tax collector
8) James the son of Alpheus
9) Thomas
10) Judas son of James
11) Simon the zealot
12) Judas who became the traitor

Significance of the calling of the 12 disciples

- The number 12 represented the 12 tribes of Israel.
- The calling of Mathew a tax collector and Simon a Zealot meant that Jesus was universal savior.
- Since Jesus prayed before the choosing of the 12 disciples, showed the importance of prayer.Christians
therefore should be committed to prayer.
- Jesus knew that he was going to die and therefore wanted to leave behind people who would continue with
the work. Christians therefore must be willing to carry on with Jesus work of spreading the Gospel.
- Christians also learn that spreading the work of God is a continuous process.
- Jesus trained his disciples on the true cost of discipleship. Christians therefore should undertake training in
various aspects of Christian ministry.

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THE SERMON ON THE PLAINS (Lk.6:17-49)
After the choosing OF the twelve disciples, Jesus went on a level ground (plain) and started administering to the
crowd.
The sermon on the plains contains the blessed sayings and the woes. The blessed sayings are referred to as the
beatitudes.
The sermon on the plains is divided into
1) The blessed sayings: verses 20-23.
2) The woes: verses 24-26
3) The teachings on love :verses27-36
4) Judging others: verses 37-49
At this point Jesus wanted to involve his disciples in his work.

Lessons that Christians learn from the sermon on the plains

- The poor or those who renounce their earthly wealth for the sake of the Kingdom of God will be blessed in
the, they will inherit the kingdom of God.
- The hungry and those who weep for the sake Christ should count themselves blessed for they would be
satisfied in God’s kingdom.
- Those who face rejection for the sake of Christ should count themselves blessed for their reward will be
great in heaven.
- The rich are warned against using their wealth to oppress the poor.
- Those who are happy and enjoy now shall mourn and weep.
- Christians must live according to the teachings of Jesus.
- The followers of Christ must practice love and do good to those who hate them
- Christians should show generosity to others .They must be willing to share what they have with those who
do not have.
- Christians are urged not to revenge.
- The followers of Christ are urged not to judge others so as not to be judged.
- There is need for Christians to examine themselves and be role models.(Lk.6:42)
- They should be merciful to others as the father in heaven is.
- They should be willing to forgive those who wrong them.

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Qualities of true discipleship of Jesus as brought out in the sermon on the plains.
- The disciples must be ready to face persecution for them to receive eternal life.
- A true disciple should love their enemies and do good to those hate them.
- The disciples have to have absolute faith.
- They should be ready to face rejection by others for the sake of Christ.
- They are expected to be obedient to Jesus by accepting the lordship of Christ.
- The disciples are urged to revenge by striking back
- They should live a life of prayer and even pray for those who mistreat them.
- The disciples must be ready to win more people for the kingdom of God.
- The need not to be hypocrites by judging or condemning others they should examine themselves.
- The disciples are expected to be merciful to others just like the father in Heaven is.
- Disciples must be willing to forgive so that they can also be forgiven.

JESUS WORKS OF COMPASSION

- On several occasions Jesus performed works of mercy for those distressed and showed pity for the
suffering.
- Jesus works of companion include: -

1. THE HEALING OF CENTURION’S SERVANT (LK 7:1-10)

As Jesus entered Capernaum centurion came forward to him and told him that his servant was lying at home
paralyzed.
The centurion was a gentile (non Jew) and senior officer in the roman army but feared God.
He therefore sent elders of the Jews to Jesus so that Jesus could heal his servant.
Before they reached the house, the centurion sent his friends again to Jesus saying he was not worthy to receive
Jesus in his house but to say just a word and the servant will be healed.
For he said “just give orders and my servant will be well .I too am a man placed under authority and have
soldiers under me ---I order this one, go and he goes”.
When Jesus heard this he marveled at the faith of the man and exclaimed that he had not found such faith
among the Jews.
And the servant was healed at the very moment.

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Significance of the miracle
- The miracle demonstrates the importance of faith. The centurion officer had faith that even Jesus words
would make the servant well therefore Christians need to have faith in Christ.
- The centurion officer was a non Jew. This showed that salvation was not only for the Jews but also for the
gentiles. Jesus was universal savior.
- Christians should know that Jesus had the power to heal all form of illnesses.
- The centurion had great love for his servant. This is a challenge to Christians to show love even to their
juniors. Employers should therefore treat their employees the lot of love.
- The centurion officer was a senior person in the roman government but had a lot of respect for God.
Likewise senior people in the society should trust in God
- Christians should not discriminate against others just as Jesus did not discriminate against the centurions
officer.
- The miracle showed the importance of obedience. He said the junior officers took orders from him.
Christians should therefore have a lot of faith in God
- Christians should not be afraid to ask God to help despite their weakness.
- The miracle also teaches on the importance of humility. Despite being a senior person in the army, he
decided to humble himself before God. Christians should likewise be humble before God .

The raising of the widows son in Nain (Lk. 7:11-17)

As Jesus came to the town of Nain he saw a widow weeping because her only son had died. Jesus sympathized
with the widow and told her not to weep. He then touched the coffin and ordered the young man to rise from the
dead. Jesus gave him back to his mother.
The large crowd was filed with fear and glorified God. They acknowledged that Jesus was a great prophet and
the news about Jesus spread throughout Judea and all over the countryside.

Lessons learnt from the miracle

- That Jesus had authority over death
- Jesus showed empathy to the needy and Christians should do like wise. Jesus took the initiative to restore
the boys’ life.
- Showed that Jesus is a great prophet. He is a fulfillment of the old testament prophecies
- The way Jesus showed concern for the widows, Christians should also show concern for widows and
orphans.

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- The fact that Jesus touched the coffin of the dead, he broke the Jewish ceremonial laws. Therefore
Christians should not be hindered from performing acts of passion by traditional laws.

ASSURANCE TO JOHN THE BAPTIST (LUKE: 7:18-35)

- John the Baptist had been put in prison after he rebuked Heron for taking his brothers wife.
- It was he prison that john sent his disciples to ask Jesus to ask whether from he was the one come or should
they expect someone else. He wanted to reassure his disciples that Jesus was the expected Messiah.
- In response to John’s question, Jesus performed some miracles; he cured many people of diseases and evil
spirits and gave sight to blind. This was a fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy(Isaiah :61:1-2)
- Jesus therefore told John’s disciples to go and report to him what they had seen and heard.
- After the disciples of John had gone Jesus paid a tribute to John.

What did Jesus say about the John Baptist

- He acknowledged John as being the greatest of all the Prophets.
- He portrayed John as his forerunner.
- He described him as a man of strong character that could not be swayed.
- He said that none born of a woman is greater than John.
- That people rejected John as the forerunner of the Messiah.
- He referred to him as the messenger foretold by Malachi.

Relevance to Christians today

- Just as people were discontented with the teachings of Jesus, so are some people still discontented with his
teachings.
- Many people still cast a lot of doubt on the saving power of God just as John had doubts about Jesus.
- Christians recognize and appreciate saving works of God.

THE FORGIVENESS OF SINFUL WOMAN (LUKE 7:36-8:3)

- On one occasion ,Jesus was invited by Simon the Pharisee to his house to eat with him
- Then a sinful woman entered Simon’s house with a jar of perfume and started wiping Jesus’ feet with her
tears then she wiped them with her hair, kissed and perfumed them.
- Luke brings the contrast of a Pharisee and a sinful woman .the Pharisees considered themselves righteous
and were not supposed to mix with sinners .

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- These actions drew a negative reaction from Simon and wondered how Jesus would allow such a sinner to
touch him.
- Jesus knew Simon’s thought and told them a parable of two debtors. One owed a money lender 500 Denarii
and another 50 Denarii, because they were not able to pay back the money lender cancelled the debts.
- So Jesus asked, “Who was more grateful?”Simon’s reply was that the one with a bigger debt.
- Then turning to the woman he told the woman that her sins are forgiven.

The significance of the forgiving of the sinful woman in Simon’s house

- Christians should not judge others. It was not right for Simon to judge the woman as sinful
- The fact that Jesus forgave the sinful woman meant that Jesus had the authority to forgive sins.
- Christians should show compassion to those in need.
- The woman was repentant and therefore Christians should be ready to repent. The sinful woman washed
Jesus’ feet with her tears.
- Christians should show faith in Christ just as the woman was.
- By forgiving the woman, Jesus elevated the role of women who were despised in Jewish community.
- The fact that Jesus visited Simon, a Pharisees and accepting a sinful woman, leant that Jesus had come
establish a new Israel in which all would be welcomed.
- Christians should be grateful when they have their sins forgiven.

Ways in which Christians show compassion to the less fortunate members of the society.
- Offering guidance and cancelling to especially those who are sick.
- Offering prayers to them.
- Giving them financial material assistance.
- Helping them o initiate income generating project.
- Helping them to get relevant training.
- Showing love to them e.g. keeping them company and putting them hoping.

How church continues with healing ministry of Jesus

 Christians pray for the sick.
 They practice laying of hands on them.
 They provide guidance and counseling services.

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 They provide curative drugs to the sick.
 They pay for medical expenses to the sick.
 They publish literature that provides public awareness.
 Visiting the sick.
 Organizing seminars or workshops.
 Providing basic necessities such as food and clothing.

THE PARABLES AND THEIR SIGNIFICANCE

 A parable is a story with a hidden meaning
 A parable can have one or several meanings.
 In his teachings, Jesus started from what his listeners knew to what was unknown to them.
 Some parables were straight forward and needed no further explanation .Others however had deeper,
meanings and the disciples asked Jesus to explain their meanings.

How did the disciples react to the use of parables?

 The disciple found the parables interesting and caught their attention.
 Some of the parables, the disciples did not understand.
 They felt challenged by the parables.
 They asked Jesus to explain the meaning of some the parables.
 They marveled at Jesus ability to teach in parables.
 They put the disciples’ into critical thinking.

Why Jesus taught in parables

 He used parables to attract attention of his listeners.
 He used parables to sought out serious listeners from the rest(Luke :8:8)
 He wanted provoke his listeners into critical thinking.
 At other times Jesus used parables to conceal his true identity as the promised Messiah.
 He wanted to avoid direct confrontation with Pharisees, Sadducees and the scribes.
 He used parables to explain unfamiliar messages in a language that his listeners would understand.
 Most of the parables had specific teachings about the kingdom of God. Many revealed that kingdom of God
had come through Jesus Christ e.g. the parable of mastered seed (Lk. 13:18-21)
 Most of them were derived from experiences of daily life. He used things that were familiar to the people.

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 Because Jesus was a gifted teacher, (Rabbi), the use of parables was also natural to him.
 It was a common way of teaching in Palestine during the time of Jesus.

THE PARABLE OF THE SOWER (LK.8:4-15)

And Jesus told this parable to a crowd of people who had come to listen to him as he preached the gospel.
That a sower went out to sow and as he was broadcasting the seeds .The seeds fell on different parts of the soil.
Some fell on the path and were stepped on by foot and the birds of the air came and ate them.
Some fell on the rock and as they grew withered because there was no moisture.
Some fell among the thorns and the thorns grew with it and choked it.
Some fell on the good soil and grew and brought good harvest.
And Jesus concluded, “Listen, then, if you have ears”

The significance of the parable

- The seeds planted by the farmer are the word of God.
- The sower is God and its messengers.
- The different types of soil represent different types of people who hear the word of God as it is reached.
- Seeds that fell along the foot path were stepped upon and eaten by the birds represent t the people who hear
the word of God but allow the devil to take the message away.
- The seeds that fell along the rocky ground and grew for a short time represent t those who hear God’s word
and receive it with a lot of joy and in time of k temptation fall away.
- And as for what fell among the thorns, are those who hear but as the go on their way they are chocked by
the pleasures of the world.
- The seeds that fell along the good soil and grew represent those who hear God’s word, the believe in it and
live according to the teachings.

Lessons that Christians learn from the parable of the sower

- Christians should be aware that the word of God is received differently.
- God’s messengers are still spreading the word of God.
- Christians should not allow the devil to take root in their hearts .
- Christians should not give in to temptations.
- Those who allow the pleasures of the world to lead them a astray will receive punishment.
- Christians should hear the word of God and live up to it .They will receive reward in heaven.

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THE PARABLE OF A LAMP (LK: 8:16-18)
Jesus used another parable to illustrate the work of the disciples. Jesus taught that no one can light a lamp and
cover it with a bowl or hide it under a bed. Instead they put it on the stands to light the room.
- In this parable Jesus is the light and the disciples are those of whom the light shines.
- They therefore have a duty to pass on what they had learnt from Jesus to other people.
- He advised the disciples to listen to him carefully and hear correctly.
- A Christian has a duty to share the knowledge of God with others.
- One cannot claim to be a Christian if this knowledge is kept and not shared.

JESUS TRUE FAMILY (LK 8:19-21)

Jesus mother and his brothers came to look for him but they could not reach him. When he was told that they
desired to see him, he told them that his mother and brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it.
This is perhaps the last time that the gospel of Luke talks about Joseph the foster father of Jesus. Different
views have been brought by scholars .others say that probably he had another wife. Yet others say that he might
have died after that. Well those may not be so important in the salvation history.
- Here Jesus did not mean to reject his people but he wanted the people to understand the Devine nature of
his work.
- He wanted to show that those who heeded his teaching were therefore closer to him.
- That those who follow him are members of the kingdom of God.

THE MIGHTY WORKS OF JESUS (LK 8:22 - 56)

The life of and teaching of Jesus Christ had a lot of extra-ordinary happenings. E.g
- bringing people back to life
- healing the sick
- multiplication of loaves
- Casting out of demons.
All these extra-ordinary happenings are referred to us miracles .Luke referrers to them as the mighty works of
Jesus.
A miracle therefore is a happening that looks impossible according to ordinary forces of nature.
These extra-ordinary happenings were used by Jesus to demonstrate the presence of God among the people.
They are grouped into.

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- The nature miracles e.g. the calming of the storm
- The raising of the dead e.g. the raising of Jairus daughter.
- The healing miracles e.g. the healing of the Centurion officer’s servant
- The casting out of demons e.g. the casting of demons at Capernaum

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE MIRACLES OF JESUS

- Certain miracles showed that Jesus had the power over evil spirits e.g. the casting out of demons at
Capernaum.
- Some miracles were performed out of compassion e.g. the raising of the widow’s son at Nain, the feeding of
the five thousand.
- Jesus at times performed miracles to meet the temporary needs of the people e.g. the feeding of the five
thousand.
- Some demonstrated that Jesus the power to forgive sins e.g. during the cure of the paralytic, Jesus told him
that his sins are forgiven.
- The miracles also showed that Jesus had power over nature e.g. the calming of the storm.
- Some of his listeners had their faith strengthened .After the healing of the paralytic, those who saw the
miracle went home glorifying God.(Lk.5:26)
- At times the miracles demonstrated that Jesus is the son of God and the ‘promised Messiah (Lk 4:33-34).
Even the demons acknowledged Jesus as the Holy one of God when He healed the demoniac at Capernaum.
- They showed that Jesus was a universal savior. He healed both the Jews and the Gentiles e.g. the healing of
the Centurion’s servant.
- The fact the Jesus raised the dead showed that Jesus k had power over death. He is the life and resurrection.
- The miracles that were performed on the Sabbath showed that Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath.
- Certain miracles showed the need for thanks giving e.g. the healing of the 10 lepers. Only one out of the ten
came back and gave thanks to Jesus.
- They showed that the Kingdom of God had come through Jesus Christ.

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THE CALMING OF THE STORM (LK. 8:22-25)
One day as Jesus and his disciples were sailing across the sea of Gennesarete, a great storm arose, such that
their boat was about to sink. Jesus was fast asleep. His disciples woke him up saying, “Master! Master! Save us!
We are about to drawn.” Jesus said to them, “How little faith you have!” Then he got up and ordered the winds
and the waves to stop. There was a great calm.
The disciples became amazed and asked, “What kind of a man is this. Even the wind and waves are obeying
him?”

The significance of the miracle

- The miracle showed that Jesus had power over nature. He had the authority to calm the storm
- Since the storm was associated with evil, the miracle showed that Jesus had power over evil spirits.
- The miracle showed the importance of the faith. Therefore, Christians should have Faith in Jesus.
- The fact that Jesus fell asleep showed the human nature of Jesus.
- The storm symbolized the trials and temptations Christians undergo. Jesus had the power to help us
overcome trials and temptations.

HEALING OF DEMON POSSESSED MAN, THE GERASENE DEMONIAC (LK. 8:26 -39)
After calming of the storm, Jesus and His disciples crossed to the eastern side of the lake to a quiet place.
As soon as he and his disciples landed, they were met by a demon possessed man who was very violent. When
he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell down and said in a loud voice, “What have you to do with me, son of the
Most High God?”
Many at times it had seized him and he was, therefore kept under guard and bound with chains.
When Jesus asked him his name, he said “Legion” meaning many.
The demons begged not to be destroyed and asked to be sent to the grazing herd of pigs.
According to the Jews the swines were considered as unclean.
When the demons left the man, they entered into the pigs which drowned into the lake.
Those who had been looking after the pigs saw what happened and ran off and spread the news in the town.
The cured man wanted to follow Jesus, in stead Jesus told him to go home and declare what God had done to
him.
The man went through the town j telling what God had done to him.

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The significance of the miracle
- The action showed that Jesus had power over evil spirits. Therefore, Christian s should constantly fight
against Satan.
- By sending the demons to the pigs meant that human being were more important than animals. Therefore,
Christians should put more value on human life than on material things.
- The sending out of the demons showed the compassionate nature of Jesus.
- The man was a Gentile. This indicated that Jesus was a universal savior. Christians have a duty to carry the
message to all regardless of the race or geographical location.
- The fact that Jesus told them not to follow him was an indication that he wanted the man to help spread the
news about the Messiah. Christians therefore should spread the word of God.
- Jesus is the son of God-even the demons acknowledged this.
- The man went through the town telling what Jesus had don e to him. Christians, therefore, should bear
witness of what Christ has done in their lives.

THE RAISING OF JAIRUS’ DAUGHTER ( LK. 8: 40 -42, 49-56)

Jairus was a ruler of the synagogue, a very important officer in the Jewish community.
When Jesus returned after healing the man with evil spirits, they welcomed him because they had been waiting
for him.
Jairus was so desperate as his only 12 year old daughter was very sick and at the point of death.
Jairus was one of the people who opposed Jesus and did not welcome him in the Synagogues.
Jesus set off with a large crowd towards Jairus’ house.
Before they reached, a word came, that Jairus’ daughter was already dead and that Jesus should not bother
reaching the house.
But Jesus told Jairus not to worry but to have faith.
When Jesus reached the house he ordered everybody out and went in only with James, Peter and John, and the
parents of the girl.
He held the girl’s hand saying “Child, arise” and immediately her life returned and the girl stood up. And the he
directed that she be given something to eat.

Significance of the raising of the Jairus’ daughter

- The miracle showed that Jesus had authority over death.Christians therefore should have the trust that
through Jesus’ power they will overcome death.

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- The fact that Jesus commanded the people not to tell others about what had happened meant that he did not
want to be in conflict with the Jews.
- It also shows the importance of faith. Jairus had faith in Jesus. Christians should therefore, have faith.
- Jairus did not despair. Christians should therefore, not despair.
- Jesus did not discriminate, although Jairus was one of those who were opposed to Jesus. Therefore,
Christians should not discriminate.
- Jairus humbled himself before Jesus. Therefore Christians should humble themselves before God.
- The fact that Jesus refers to the girl as being only ‘asleep’ signified that there is life after dearth. Christians
therefore, are assured that there is life after death.
- The mighty works of Jesus made the popularity of Jesus to spread.

THE HEALING OF A WOMAN WITH ENDLESS FLOW OF BLOOD(LK,8:43-48)

While on his way to Jairus’ house, with a large crowd following him, Jesus en countered a woman who had had
an endless flow of blood for 12 years and had visited the doctors with no success.
She came behind Jesus and touched his cloak and immediately, her flow of blood stopped.
Jesus asked who had touched him. He said this for he sensed that Power had gone out of him.
And when the woman saw that she had been discovered, she fell before Jesus and declared why she had touched
Jesus.
Jesus then told her that her faith had made her well.
Jesus demanded to know who had touched her because:
i. He wanted her healing to be made public so that her unclean status could be removed.
ii. She could now be received into the society because one suffering from such kind of disease was not
supposed to mix with others.
iii. Jesus wanted to show the woman and all those present that it was the woman’s faith that had healed her.
iv. The woman was a Gentile. Jesus wanted to show that salvation was for all.

THE COMMISSIONING OF THE TWELVE DISCIPLES (LK. 9:1-9)

Jesus knew that his time was nearing and he wanted his disciples to continue spreading the good news.
He therefore called the 12 disciples and commissioned them. He gave the following instructions:
- They were to go out and exorcise demons.
- Heal the sick.
- Preach the word of God.

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- They were instructed not to carry anything for the journey. This was a sign that they had to abandon
earthly things for the Kingdom of God.
- He also told them to stay in a house where they were received. Here they would be taken care of and
provided for.
- And whenever they were not received they were to shake off the dust from their feet as a testimony against
them. This showed that the apostles had no association with those who rejected the Good News.
The disciples left and travelled through all the villages ,preaching the Good News
- The preaching and healing by the apostles disturbed Herode. He was confused because some thought that
Elijah or one of the prophets of the Old Testament had appeared. Others thought that may be John the
Baptist had come back to life. He wished to meet Jesus in person.

What can Christians learn from the sending of the twelve?

- Just as the disciples were sent by Jesus to spread the Good News so are Christian s required to spread the
Good News.
- God has given His messengers the power to perform miracles and heal the sick.
- Christians should abandon the earthly materials to pro claim the word of God.
- Christians should welcome God’s messengers and give them necessary assistance.
- Those who do not receive God’s people and reject the message will not receive God’s blessings.
- Christians should aware that they would face opposition in their attempt to spread the gospel.

THE FEEDING OF THE FIVE THOUSAND (LK. 9:10-17)

When the disciples came back from their mission, they reported to Jesus everything they had done.
Jesus then took his disciples to a quiet place in Bethsaida to rest.
However, when the crowd learned of his whereabouts, they followed him.
- Jesus turned and preached to them about the kingdom of God and healed the sick.
- When it was evening, the disciples asked if they could send the people into the villages to look for
accommodation and food.
Jesus asked them to provide the people with food. The disciples said that they only had five loaves of bread
and two fish which could not feed the 5,000 people.
- Jesus told them to make the people sit down in groups of 50.
Taking the five loaves and two fish, Jesus looked up to heaven, thanked God, blessed
He broke them and gave to the disciples to distribute to the people.

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 And all ate and were satisfied and the remains were collected and filled 12 baskets.

Significance of the miracle

- The miracle showed that Jesus had power over nature (He had divine power)
- The miracle shows that Jesus was not only concerned with the spiritual needs but also the spiritual needs,
but also the physical needs. Christian s should also bed concerned with physical needs of the people such as
food.
- The fact that Jesus prayed and gave thanks to God shows the need for thanks giving by Christians.
- The feeding of the 5,000 people was a fore-shadow of the last supper that Jesus was going to have with his
disciples.
- Jesus shared the food among his disciples. This shows that Christians need to share what they have with
others.
- Jesus delegated the work of distributing food t o his disciples. Leaders also need to delegate duties to others.
- Jesus asked the disciples to put the people to sit in groups. This meant that God’s work is orderly. Christians
therefore, need to be orderly in their work.
- The remains were collected and filled in 12 baskets. This shows that Christians should not be wasteful and
need to keep the environment clean.
- The 12 baskets of the remains symbolize 12 tribes of Israel.

THE PERSON AND DESTINY OF JESUS (LK. 9:18-27)

When Jesus was about to start his journey to Jerusalem to accomplish what he had come to do, he asked the
disciples who the people said he was. And they answered, John the Baptist, and to others, Elijah and the others,
he was one of the Old Testament prophets.
And he asked them who they said he was. From the question, Jesus wanted to find out if the disciples knew his
true identity (his divine nature)
Although many people, including his disciples, knew that he was not an ordinary person, they did not
understand his true identity.
This was because the Jews expected an earthly Messiah.
He asked them this question because he knew that if the disciples still did not know who he was, then his work
was in vain. Because he knew he was going to Jerusalem and he was going to die.
Peter identified Jesus as the ‘Son of God’.

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This meant that Jesus was the son of God. Peter might have been influenced by the Holy Sprit. It meant that
Jesus had succeeded in his mission.
Jesus told them not to reveal this to anybody. This was because he feared the crowd due to the political
expectation of the Messiah.
Then Jesus told them the nature of his Messiah ship. That he must suffer and be rejected and killed. This is the
first timed that Jesus talks about his coming death.
He cautioned his disciples that they must be ready to suffer.
They must leave everything behind including even their family.
He said his followers must be ready to carry their own crosses. This meant rejection.

THE TRANSFIGURATION (LK. 9:28-37)

Transfiguration can be defined as the transformation of the physical body into heavenly glory.
As Jesus was preparing for his last days of his ministry, he took with him Peter, James and John and went up the
mountain to pray. Note that this is one of the occasions that Jesus went with the three disciples.
As he was praying, his appearance changed and his clothes became dazzling white.
And behold two men talked with him; Moses and Elijah. They spoke about his departure which he was to
accomplish at Jerusalem. This is another occasion where Jesus tells his disciples not to tell anybody about what
has happened.
When Peter, John and James woke up, they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him.
And as the men were departing, Peter suggested that they build three booths or tents- one for Jesus, one for
Moses and the other for Elijah.
But as he was still talking a thick cloud came and covered the three and a voice was heard from the crowd
echoing, “This is my son, my chosen, listen to him.”
And when the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. And Jesus commanded them not to tell anyone.

The significance of the transfiguration

- Moses represented the law and Elijah represented the prophets. This showed that Jesus was the fulfillment
of the Old Testament prophesies and laws.
- During the transfiguration the appearance of the cloud that covered the three symbolized the presence of
God.
- The voice that came from heaven once more confirmed that Jesus is the son of God.

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- The discussion they held was important to Jesus as a re-assurance that his was a mission of death for the
salvation of mankind.
- The appearance of Elijah and Moses re-assures us that there is life after death of the righteous.
- The dazzling whiteness of Jesus’ clothes is an indication of the holiness and glory of God.
- The appearance of the clouds that covered them symbolized the presence of God.
- This great event took place in the midst of prayer which is further indication to the Christians about the
importance of prayer.
- The booths mentioned by Peter, represented the tabernacles of Old Testament where God .lived.
- It was meant to strengthen the faith of the apostles, so that they would continue with his work after his
death.

JESUS’ TEACHING ON FAITH AND HUMILITY (LK. 9:37-50)

Jesus’ teaching on faith and humility focused on the problems and difficulties his disciples would face in their
mission.
When Jesus came back from the mountain after the transfiguration a large crowd was waiting for him.
There was a boy who was the only child of his parents. He had been possessed by an evil spirit which made him
to convulse.
The father of the sick boy had requested the disciples to help him but they were unable.
Jesus was disappointed that his disciples could not heal the boy. He said, “Oh, faithless generation, how long
am I to be with you...” Jesus rebuked the evil spirit and cured the boy and gave him back to his parents.
At this point he talked about his coming death (9:44-45). He told them that he would be delivered in the hands
of men.
At this point the disciples still could not understand fully what he meant.
At this point an argument rose among them as to who was the greatest.
Jesus took a child and put before them and taught them that whoever received the child received him.
By this Jesus meant that who ever wanted to be greatest in the kingdom of God must humble himself and that
he was more concerned with liberating those in suffering and the despised lot. Jesus did this teaching because
he wanted to prepare them for his death and the responsibilities they would take after his death.
When the disciples saw the non-follower but a believer casting out demons in Jesus’ name, they forbade him, in
the grounds that he was not in them. Jesus pointed out that whoever is not against you is for you.

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Lessons Christians learn from the incident:
- That Jesus had power to heal and cast out evil spirits. Therefore, Christians to believe in Jesus in times of
suffering.
- Christians need God’s revelation of Jesus. This is why disciples still could not understand the nature of
suffering Messiah.
- Christians should humble themselves before God. Whoever wants to inherit the Kingdom of God must
reduce himself to the level of a child.
- Christians should not be afraid to approach God at times of problems such as the man approached Jesus
when his child was sick.
- Greatness, according to the kingdom of God is different from earthly greatness. God’s kingdom needs
humility.
- There is need to work in unity for the kingdom of God.

How Christians demonstrate their humility

- By forgiving those wrong them.
- Assisting the needy and the lees fortunate members of the society.
- Be ready to preach the word of God.
- Must be a role model in the society.
- By serving in the church.
- Abandoning earthly materials to serve God.
- By obeying God’s commandments.

DUTIES AND PRIVILEGES OF DISCIPLESHIP (LK. 9:51-62)

Jesus was preparing to go to Jerusalem where he was to undergo suffering.
And Jesus sent messengers ahead of him to the village of Samaria to make the people ready for him.
The Samaritans were however very hostile to them.
The apostles, John and James were unhappy and wanted to call fire from heaven to consume them.
But Jesus told them that he did not come to destroy the people’s lives.
As they proceeded with the journey, one person wanted to follow Jesus, but Jesus warned him that following
him meant abandoning earthly things and enduring hardship.
Jesus invited another man to follow him but the man requested Jesus to let him burry his father first. This means
that he wanted to meet family obligations first.

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Jesus’ response to the man’s request was t o leave the dead to burry themselves.
By this, Jesus meant that family obligations are secondary to the kingdom of God.
Another person declared his willingness to follow Christ bur still felt that he had to bid goodbye to family
members. Jesus responded by telling him, “No one who puts his hand to the plough and looks back is fit for the
kingdom of God.
This meant that whoever turns back after accepting Jesus Christ does not qualify for the kingdom of God.

Christians can lean that:

- The discipleship requires total commitment and sacrifice.
- Christians should be ready all the time to work for Christ.
- Christians must accept suffering as a condition for following Christ.
- Following Christ means being loyal to him.
- Those who accept Christ must never turn back.
- Christians should abandon their earthly possessions.

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 THE JOURNEY TO JERUSALEM
THE MISSION OF THE SEVENTY TWO (LK. 10:1-24)
At the start of the journey to Jerusalem, Jesus chose 72 disciples and sent them on a mission to preach and heal.
They were sent two by two.
They were sent before him to prepare the way. The mission of the seventy two would represent the preaching of
the Gospel to the whole world. This also confirms that Jesus was a universal savior and that the Gospel was for
all irrespective of the race or colour.
The disciples would continue with the preaching after Jesus’ ascension to heaven. Jesus said that the harvest is
plentiful but the laborers are few.
This implied that there are very many people who needed to hear the Good News but very few to preach to
them.
Jesus said that he was sending his disciples as lambs between wolves. This meant that they would en counter
dangers, hostility and rejection.
Jesus therefore, gave them the following instructions:
- They were not to carry money, food or clothing. They were to depend entirely on the hospitality of the
people.
- They were to preach peace in the houses they entered.
- They were to heal the sick
- Preach the kingdom of God.
- To shake off the dust from their feet where they were rejected.
- Jesus stressed the idea that the kingdom of God had come and those who do not believe will suffer when
judgment will be upon them.
- After their mission, the disciples returned and reported their success to Jesus. They reported that they were
able to drive out demons in the Mighty name of Jesus.

Lessons learnt from the passages:

- Christians need to evangelize and ensure that the gospel reaches all the people.
- Christians need not to give up in evangelizing.
- Christians should not be proud of their achievement as Christians but should be more concerned with
winning souls for the kingdom of God.
- Christians have a duty to take care of God’s servants. The 72 were expected to depend entirely on the
people they were preaching to.

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- The duty of a Christian is not only to evangelize but should also provide for the needs of the less fortunate.
- The word of God should be preached to all generations and to all the corners of the world as Jesus is a
universal savior.
- Those who do not receive the word of God will suffer when judgment will be upon them.
- Christians are assured of God’s victory over Satan. Jesus told the disciples that he gave them the authority
to overcome the power of the devil.

A COMMITTED FOLLOWER OF JESUS (LK. 10:25-11; 1-13)

The parable of the Good Samaritan

A teacher of the law came to Jesus to test his understanding of the Mosaic Law.
He asked Jesus, “What must I do to receive eternal life.”
Jesus responded by asking him what the law says and his interpretation of it. The lawyer answered. “You shall
love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with your entire mind and your neighbor
as yourself.”
This was a summary of all the commandments God gave to the Israelites through Moses.
Jesus replied, “You are right. Do this and you will be saved?”
The lawyer then asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”
In the Jewish understanding, a neighbor was a fellow Jew and other people were enemies. To explain the
concept of a neighbor, Jesus told the parable of the Good Samaritan. The Samaritans and the Jews were not in
good terms.
In this parable, a man was travelling from Jerusalem to Jericho. On the way he was attacked, beaten and left
half dead by the robbers.
While still by the road side, a Jewish Priest came by, saw him and passed on the other side without helping him.
A Levite also came, saw him and passed by.
A Samaritan passed by and stopped to help the wounded man. He bandaged the wounds of the victim and took
him to an inn and met all the expenses.
After telling the parable, Jesus asked the lawyer a question, “In your opinion, which one of these three acted
like a neighbour towards the man?” The lawyer replied, “The one who showed mercy on the Samaritan.” Jesus
told him to go and do the same.

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From the parable, Christians can learn that:
- A neighbor is anyone who needs our assistance regardless of their social status, race or colour.
- Christians need to show their love to all including their enemies.
- Christians should use their resources to help those in need just like the Samaritan used his resources to help
the man who had been attacked.
- It is not merely knowing the commandments that is important, but the deeds.
- Christians should not look down upon others despised.
- The kingdom of God is for all and not only the Jews. Luke uses this illustration to show then universality of
Jesus’ mission.
- A Christians need not to be restricted by cultural and religious practices in responding to the needy. The
Levite and the priest feared that the wounded man was unclean.

JESUS VISITS MARY AND MARTHA (LK. 10:38-42)

On his way to Jerusalem, Jesus visited Martha and Mary who were sisters. While Martha was busy preparing a
meal, Mary sat the feet of Jesus listening to his teachings. Martha complained to Jesus that Mary had left her to
do all the work. Jesus answered her by saying, “Martha, Martha! You are worried and troubles over so many
things, but just one is needed. .Mary has chosen the right thing and it will not be taken away from her.

Lessons that Christians can learn from the Jesus’ visit to Mary and Martha
- Even women are welcomed in the kingdom of God. Women are therefore encouraged to participate in the
Christian ministry.
- Christians should not be pre-occupied with material things but should give a lot of time to the word of God.
- A committed Christian therefore, needs to create time to listen to the word of God.
- Pastors, priests etc should make pastoral visits to the homes of their members.
- Christians should support the servants of God in their ministry by providing for their needs.
- Those who receive the word of God will be blessed and it will not be taken from them.

How are women involved in church ministries?

- Ordained as priests.
- Sing in the church.
- Others have decided to remain unmarried for the service of God.
- Women take part in church services eg collecting of church offerings, singing etc.

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- Women are involved in certain church programmes such as women ministries – take care of the young
children in …
- Women are employed in church organizations.
- Help in the distribution of Holy Communion. They also prepare the Holy Communion.
- They hold position in the church-Sabbath School Leaders.
- They clean or decorate the church.
- Act as ushers.
- Participate in choosing church leaders.

JESUS’ TEACHING ON PRAYER (LK. 11:1-13)

Prayer is a conversation we have with our God which is aimed at requesting for something we desire.
Why do Christians pray?
- To give thanks to God for his many blessings and his many gifts to us eg protection and life.
- To ask God to continue blessing us.
- To ask God for forgiveness as all have sinned.
- To give them strength to overcome temptations.
- Christians can pray for others who may not have the chance to pray for themselves at a particular time like
the sick or those travelling.
Jesus had finished praying when his disciples asked him to teach them how to pray.
He told them, “When you pray, say:
Our Father who at in heaven,
Hallowed be thy name,
Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven,
Give us our daily bread,
Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us,
- Lead us not into temptations…”
This is what has been referred to as the Lord’s Prayer.

Lessons that Christians learn from the Lord’s Prayer

- Christians should always refer to God as Our Father during pray and give him honour.
- Christians should always pray for the needs of others and not just themselves.
- Should pray to God to give us our daily needs.

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- We should pray so that our sins are forgiven.
- Christians should also pray so that they are not led into temptations but to be delivered from evil.

THE PARABLE OF A FRIEND AT MIDNIGHT (LK.11:5-13)

After teaching his disciples the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus went on to give further teachings on prayer.
He told t hem of a parable of a friend at midnight. A man went to his friend to ask for three loaves so that he
could feed a friend who had visited him at night. Although it was late at night, the man woke up and gave
something to the friend to get rid of him. The man responded due to the persistence of the man.
Jesus concludes by saying, “Ask and you shall receive, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be
opened.”
He concludes his teaching on prayer by comparing how an earthly father treats his children with how God
responds to those who pray to him.
From the parable of the friend at midnight Christians can learn that:
- Christians should .pray all the time without losing hope (persistent in prayer)
- Christians should not be afraid of approaching God for what they need.
- God is ready to give whatever we ask from him.

When prayers were offered in the traditional African Societies

- In the traditional African society prayers were offered to God through ancestors.
- They said prayers through privately and communally.
- Public prayers were conducted b y religious leaders for example diviners. Such prayers were accompanied
with sacrifices.
- Private prayers were the most cases con ducted among the family members.
- Prayers could be conducted during times of difficulties such as during famine, locust inversion.
- Prayers were also said when a woman got pregnant. This was .meant to give the woman and the child
protection.
- Could also be offered in times of victories in wars.
- During good harvest
- Initiation
- Marriage
- Death

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Jesus accused of using the power of Belzebul (11:14-23)
The people watched the people cast out a demon that was dumb. When the demon came out of the man he
began to speak and the crowd was amazed at what Jesus had done.
However, some doubted his power and accused him of using the power of Belzebul.
Other people wanted to trap Jesus asked him to perform a miracle to prove he was using God’s power to drive
out demons. Jesus knew what they were thinking and said, “A kingdom divided against itself is laid and a
divided house falls” He asked them how possible for Satan to cast out demons.
He said that war between Jesus and Satan was like a woman guarding a house. If someone stronger comes, the
guard could be defeated and all his possessions taken away. The house should be occupied by something good.
He gives them the sign of Jonah who was sent by God to call the people of Nineveh to repentance. The people
of Nineveh repented while the people of Jesus’ time had not repented.
Lastly, people should make Jesus their spiritual light. He says those who hear the word of God and keep are
more blessed than his relatives by birth.

From this incident Christians can learn that

- Christians should not just accuse one falsely
- Christians need to work together for a house divided between itself cannot stand.
- Christians should not rely on other signs but only Christ Jesus’ life, death and resurrection is the only sign to
Christians.
- Jesus’ power is stronger than Stan’s power. He came to destroy Satan’s kingdom.
- The heart of man should be occupied by the Holy Spirit before Satan destroys him completely.
- Jesus uses the illustration of Jonah being sent to the people of Nineveh who were not Jews. (Gentiles). This
meant that if the Jews do not accept God’s words then the Kingdom of God would be given to\ to the
Gentiles.
- Christians should be the light to the world.

Jesus’ warning on hypocrisy (Lk. 11:37, 12:1-12)

The word hypocrisy means being insincere, dishonest or pretending to be something different from what one is.
A hypocrite, therefore, is someone who says one thing band does another.
Jesus warned his disciples against the hypocrisy of the Pharisees. One day a Pharisee invited Jesus to dine with
him ion his house. As they sat down for the meal, the Pharisee was astonished to see that Jesus did not wash
before eating.

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And Jesus said to him, “Now you Pharisees cleanse the outside of the cap and of the dish but inside you are full
of extortion and wickedness.” By this Jesus .meant that they were more concerned with the outward observance
of the law instead of practicing of the law genuinely from the heart.

He criticized the Pharisees and called them hypocrites because:

- They considered themselves self-righteous. It was not important merely to observe the law but to show by
acts or charity.
- The Pharisees taxed the people heavily and rejected justice and the love of God.
- Jesus also accused the Pharisees against showing off- they go for the best seats in the synagogues and
demand salutation in the market places.
- They followed Jesus with the intention of finding faults.
- They despised others.
-He also criticized the teachers of the law and the scribes for knowing what a person was expected to do but
failed to make the people to understand the true interpretation of the law.
-Jesus accused the teachers of the law of behaving like their ancestors who killed the prophets of God.
-The lawyers prevented the people from entering the kingdom of God by making too many human rules.
-They altered the Law of Moses to suit their interests.
-They knew the commandment of God but did not apply them appropriately
Jesus therefore, warned his disciples against hypocrisy.
- He told them that nothing was covered up that will not be known.
Jesus told his disciples not to fear persecution. That they should not fear those who kill the body.
He went on to say that every sin is forgivable except the sin against the Holy Spirit.(Blasphemy)
The disciples should not fear when brought before authorities for the Holy Spirit would teach them what to say.
Everyone who acknowledges Jesus would also be acknowledged in the Kingdom of God.

From the passage Christians can lean that:

- Christians should not just be concerned about their upward behavior but should be righteous in their hearts.
- Christians should live according to the will of God.
- Christians need not to fear persecution for they would be guided by the Holy Spirit.
- Christians should not be proud of themselves. They should not exalt themselves. They should be aware that
all sins are can be forgiven except blasphemy sin against the Holy Spirit.

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- Christians should strive to live a Christ like life since nothing can be hidden from God ( they need to
practice honesty)
- They should be ready to stand for Jesus and confess their loyalty to him publically.

JESUS’ TEACHING ON MATERIAL POSSESSIONS (LK. 12: 13-34)

One time, someone asked Jesus to divide the inheritance between him and his brother. Jesus warned him that no
one had ever made him judge over their property.
In the Jewish context wealth was seen in terms of large herds of livestock, food and large tracks of land and
children.
Jesus used the parable of the rich farmer to illustrate correct attitude towards wealth (earthly possessions).

THE PARABLE OF THE RICH FARMER (THE RICH FOOL) Lk.12;16-24

That once there was a rich farmer who had land that bore good crops. The farmer began to think to himself. He
had nowhere to keep the harvest .He said that he was going to pull down the barns that he had and would build
bigger ones, where he would store the grains and the other goods. “Then I will sit down and merry”. But God
said to him. “You fool this very night I will take your life ;then who will get all these things you have kept for
yourself. Jesus concluded by saying “this is how it is with those who pile riches for themselves and are not rich
in God’s sight.

From this context Jesus taught that:

- That all that we have including ourselves belong to God.
- That material possession is not permanent and God can take them away at any time.
- People should not be pre-occupied with what they will eat or drink or because God in heaven knows that
they need these things.
- Jesus did not condemn wealth but warns that people should be cautious on how they utilize this wealth.
- Christians should not put all their energies and efforts into the acquisition of wealth.
- Christians should store their riches in heaven by using them to help the poor.
- The parable also teaches that material wealth can give fault security.
- Christians should give part of their wealth in alms. By doing so they are rendering service to God.

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How a Christian can make good use of his wealth
- Helping the poor and the less fortunate members of the society.
- To give in form of alms or thanksgiving to God.
- To help his family members.
- To enable him meet his basic needs of life such as food, shelter and clothing.
- To evangelize or help in spreading the word of God.
- Paying of taxes as a sign of respect to the state and the authority.
- For the general well being of the society.

JESUS’ TEACHING ON WATCHFULNESS AND READINESS (LK 12: 35-59)

To be watchful is to be alert or on the lookout. Readiness on the other hand refers to the state of being prepared.
Jesus used several illustrations to show how it is important to be watchful and ready.
Jesus gave an example of the watchful servants who stayed ready waiting for their mater’s return. That the
servants should be ready properly dressed and with their lamps lit.
This is because the son of man will come at an hour when people are not expecting him.
He also gives an illustration of faithful and unfaithful servants. The faithful servant is the on e who acts
responsibly. When the master returns and finds him doing the right thing, he will be happy and promote him.
Jesus further warns that his coming may be associated with division. The division may be based on whether one
accepts Jesus or rejects him. This will cause suffering in families. The disciples were cautioned to watch out for
the divisions that would arise.
Jesus finally talks about the signs just like people know the signs of the weather. So are the signs of God’s
kingdom.
This means that a person should repent before the judgment day.

The relevance of the teachings of Jesus on watchfulness and readiness to Christiana today
- Christians should be ready all the time for the coming of Christ.
- The judgment day will come at a time people are not expecting.
- Christians should be responsible for whatever God has given them. They should be stewards of God’s
kingdom.
- Christians should realize that commitment to Christ can bring division among them.
- Christ will be happy with those who do the right thing and they will be rewarded.
- A Christian needs to repent before the day of judgment

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- Christians need to be watch full for signs of the kingdom of God.
- There will be punishment for those who do not act responsibly
- They should help the needy and less fortunate members of the society
- Taking part in the Holy Communion.
- A Christian should be steadfast in his prayer.
- Accepting baptism with water in preparation for baptism with the Holy Spirit.
- Forgiving those who wrong them so that they can also be forgiven.
- Praising God through songs and dances.

THE GROWTH OF GOD’S KINGDOM (LK 13:1-35)

The term kingdom of God refers to God’s rule or authority. The teaching of Jesus was focused mostly on the
kingdom of God. Jesus declared that the kingdom of God was already present in his own person and ministry.
He illustrated some of the parables that Jesus used had specific teachings about the kingdom of God e.g. the
parable of the mastered seed, the yeast, the sower.

THE PARABLE OF THE FIG TREE (LK 13:6-9)

Jesus told his audience the parable of a fig tree. A man had a fig tree that grew in the vine yard. For three years.
The fig tree remained unproductive. The man told his gardener to cut it down. The gardener pleaded with the
master not to cut it down but to give it a chance for one more year.
The gardener promised to dig around the fig tree and put some fertilizer.

Significance of the parable

- That Christians have been given more time to repent.
- Jesus is the gardener who is pleading with God to give Christians time to repent.
- Jesus is working hard to make Christians productive
- Jesus followers are expected to work hard and be productive so as to be accepted in God’s kingdom
- The growth of god’s kingdom is gradual
- Christians should be productive in their spiritual life through their deeds
- Christians who do not bear good fruits will be destroyed.

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JESUS HEALS A CRIPPLED WOMAN ON THE SABBATH (Luke. 13: 10-17)
- One Sabbath, Jesus was teaching in a synagogue. There was a woman who had an evil spirit that had kept
her sick for 18 years.
- When Jesus saw her, he called out and said “woman, you are free from your illness” Jesus placed his hands
on her and she was healed.
- This raised a lot of critics from the Pharisees, who believed that no work should e done on the Sabbath
unless life was in danger.
- However, Jesus criticized them saying that they made laws that catered for their own interests
- They took care of the animals on the Sabbath but did not bother about those suffering.

Significance of the miracle

- Jesus shows that he had come to liberate people from power of the Satan.
- That human life is more important than that of animals
- Christians should not apply double standards
- That saving life was more important than mere observance of the Sabbath,
- The miracle showed the numerical expansion of the church. The people rejoiced over all wonderful things
he had done.
- Jesus had power over spirits.

THE PARABLE OF THE MASTERED SEED AND THE YEAST

Jesus used the parable of the mustard seed to illustrate the growth of the Kingdom of God.
A mustard seed is the smallest seed in the world.
He said that when a man plants a mustard seed in his field, it grows and becomes a big tree and birds make
nests on its branches.
Jesus told this parable to show that
- The kingdom of god has a small beginning and expands to all corners of the earth.
- It also attracts many people
- All the nations of the world get shelter on the Kingdom of god.
- The church accepts all people to find spiritual shelter
- The kingdom of God transforms those who merit it.
In the parable of the yeast, Jesus says that the kingdom of God is like a leaven which a woman took and hid in
the three measures of flour, till it was all leaven.

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In this parable, Jesus wanted to illustrate that the kingdom of God works in an unseen manner.
Jesus was also cautioning his disciples to be aware of corruption and bad influence from k the Pharisees.
The works of God spreads slowly to cover many nation s in the world.

THE NARROW DOOR (LK. 13:22-35)

Jesus went through the towns and villages teaching towards Jerusalem. Some people asked him if those who
would be saved will be few.
He told them to strive to enter through the narrow door.That many people try to go in but they will not be able
The master of the house will shut the door .those who will knock on the door will be turned down. The master
will say . “I do not know you”.
People will give excuses to enter but the master will disown them .Those who have been rejected will grind
their teeth when they see Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets enter the kingdom of God .
By saying that people will come from tall directions confirms the universality of the kingdom of God.

Significance the parable

- To enter the kingdom of God, one must make a lot of efforts/sacrifices.
- It is also important to make the right decision before time is over.
- The Jews contact with God is not a guarantee to enter the kingdom of God.
- Peopled from all corners of the world (including t he Gentiles) will be present at the Messiah’s banquet.
- Those who refuse to walk in God’s way will be punished at the end of times.
- Those who receive Christ will be blessed.
- Those who have received God’s salvation must remain in that state.
- Everyone will give an account of their deeds.

A GREAT FEAST FOR ALL WHO ARE PREPARED

The uninvited guests (Lk. 14:1-14)
One Sabbath day, one of the leading Pharisees invited Jesus to his house for a meal. And the Pharisees watched
closely to see what he would do.
As they were eating they were interrupted by a sick .man who was suffering from dropsy.
On seeing the man, Jesus asked, “Does our law allow healing on Sabbath or not?” But they didn’t answer him.
Jesus took hold of the man, healed him and sent him away.
Jesus wanted to show that he was concerned with human suffering.

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He also wanted to show that mere observance of the law was not important.
Human life is more important than t he animals’.

The invited guests (Lk. 14:7-14)

While Jesus was in the house of the Pharisee, he noticed that some guests were choosing the best places at the
table.
Jesus wanted to teach the importance of humility.
In response to this, Jesus used the parable of “choosing places at table”.
He used this observation to teach them that when invited to a wedding they should not take seats of honour.
Instead, they should sit in the lowest places so that when the host comes he may take them to higher places.
Jesus wanted to teach the importance of humility. That the humble would be exalted and honoured. But who
exalt themselves would be humbled.
This indicated that the kingdom of God was not for the Jews only. They would not be given preferential
treatment.
About those who are to be invited for a feast, Jesus taught that one should not only invite our relatives,
neighbours or the rich for they are likely to invite them back.
Jesus wanted to teach on the need to give without expecting to be repaid.
Such peopled have their rewards in heaven.
Jesus wanted to show his concern for the poor.
God’s kingdom is for all.

THE PARABLE OF THE GREAT FEAST (LK. 14:15-24)

Jesus told the parable in response to a man’s observation .The man said . “How happy are those who will sit
down at the feast in God’s Kingdom”. Jesus told them of a parable of a man who held a feast and invited some
important people to attend .When the feast was ready ,the host sent his servant to inform the guests that the
celebration was ready .The invited guests sent apologies and began to give excuses. The first one said that he
had just bought a field and must see it .The other said that he had just bought five pairs of oxen and he wanted
to go and try them .Yet another said that he had just got married and for that reason he was unable to attend.
The host was so furious for this let down and was determined to have the feast on .
He sent his servants to go to the streets and alleys of the town to invite the poor ,the crippled and the blind but
the room was still not full .the master then his servants again to the country roads and lanes to call more people

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to the feast yet the room was still not full. Jesus concludes by saying that. “I tell you all that none of those who
were invited will taste my dinner”.

Significance of the parable

- From the parable, the master represents God while the guests represent the Jews. There will be a great feast
in the kingdom of God.
- The poor people from the street represent tax collectors and other sinners who welcomed Jesus.
- The people gathered from the roads and the lanes represent the Gentiles from whom there was still room for
at the feast.
- The Jews had excuses for not attending the feast. This meant that the Jews who were initially invited
rejected Jesus.
- Because the Jews rejected Jesus therefore, the Gentiles would be invited into the kingdom of God.

The cost of discipleship (Lk. 14:25-35)

- Jesus emphasized that entering the kingdom of God demanded a committed discipleship. To be a disciple of
Jesus one has to:
 Detach from his family and property. These can prevent people from becoming Jesus’ disciples.
 His disciples were required to make great sacrifices.
 “Carry their own crosses” and follow Jesus.
 Carrying one’s cross means self-denial and readiness to suffer for the sake of Christ.
 One had to think and plan the cost of being a disciple. Like one who wants to build a house.
 Give up everything and follow Christ.

RETRIEVING THE LOST (LK.15:1-32)

One day the Pharisees and the teachers of the law noticed that many tax collectors and outcasts came to listen to
Jesus’ teaching. They started grumbling and said, “This man welcomes outcasts and even eats with them.”
According to them the tax collectors were despised and people were not allowed to associate with. Jesus knew
their thoughts and responded by telling them three parables about those that were lost. He uses the parable of
the:
- Lost sheep
- Lost coin
- Lost son
THE PARABLE OF THE LOST SHEEP (LK. 15:3-7)

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Jesus told a parable of a shepherd who had a hundred sheep but lost one.
The shepherd then left behind the rest of the flock in the open country to search for the lost one. When he found
it, he was very joyful. He went on and called his friends and neighbours together so that they could rejoice over
his finding.

THE PARABLE OF THE LOST COIN (LK. 15:8-10)

Jesus gives an illustration of a woman who has ten silver coins and loses one of them. He said that a woman
would light a lamp and sweep her house .looking carefully in the whole house until she finds it. She would call
her friends and neighbours to celebrate.

THE PARABLE OF THE LOST SON (PRODIGAL SON) (LK. 15:11-32)

Then Jesus told a parable of a man who had two sons. The younger son asked for his inheritance. He then left
home for a far country where he squandered all the wealth.
A severe famine then arose, he began to regret because he had spent everything he had.
He sought employment and got a job of feeding pigs. He was so desperate that he ate the food that the pigs ate.
He began to regret leaving his father’s home. He decided to go back home instead of starving and apologize to
his father and say, “Father, I have sinned against God and against you. I am no longer fit to be called your son,
treat me as one of your hired workers.”
When he got there, his father received him with joy and ordered the servants to dress him with the best clothes
available.
He also slaughtered the best calf for all to celebrate.
His elder son learned of what happening at home and was quiet unhappy.
His father explained to him why he had to hold a feast for his brother. “For this son of mine was dead, but ,now
alive, he was lost but now he has been found.”

Importance of the parable to modern Christians

- God is searching for sinners.
- God loves all his children including sinners and outcasts.
- God accepts those who come back to him.
- Those who belong to the kingdom including the angels rejoice when a sinner repents.
- Christians should be willing to repent k regardless of the magnitude of sin.
- Christians should not discriminate against sinners in the society.

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- All need repentance including the righteous and the unrighteous.
- Christians learn not to put a lot of attachment to wealth and earthly things.
- Christians should not be jealous of others as the brother was to the man.
- Christians should avoid careless living and spending.

From the parables of Jesus Christians can learn the following about God’s Kingdom:
- It is God who establishes his Kingdom. He is like a sower.
- God gives life to the kingdom so that it grows from within like a seed and it spreads out irresistibly like
yeast permeates the dough.
- The kingdom of God is present/has already come.
- The kingdom of God is universal. Sinners, outcasts and even Gentiles are welcome if they accept the word
of God.
- The kingdom of God is for the chosen few. This is illustrated by the parable of the narrow door.
- It has a small beginning and it grows to cover all the corners of the world like a mustered seed.
- There will be judgment in the kingdom of God.
- The kingdom of God is for the righteous.
- There will be rejoicing in the kingdom of God. (The parable of the Lost Coin, Sheep and Son)
- God is continuously searching for the .lost to bring them to the kingdom.

JESUS’ TEACHING ON WEALTH AND POVERTY

THE PARABLE OF THE SHREWD MANAGER (LK. 16:1-13)
Jesus also said to his disciples, “There was a rich man who had a steward.
His master was informed that he was wasting his wealth.
The master called him to give an account of his master’s possession for he was to be sacked.
The manager (steward) thought of what he could do, for he was not strong enough to dig and he was ashamed to
beg.
He thought very quickly of what he could do so that the people may receive him in their houses when he is
finally sacked.
He summoned his master’s debtors one by one.
He said to the first, “How much do you owe my master?”

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He said, “A hundred measures of oil.” He told him to sit down quickly and write fifty. Then he asked
another .And you ,how much do you owe ? “A thousand sacks of wheat”he answered . “Here is your account”.
The manager told him “write eight hundred” The master commended the steward for his shrewdness.

The significance of the parable

- Jesus praised him because he acted promptly and wisely in a moment of crisis. Christians, therefore, should
bed bold and make quick decisions because the kingdom of God is at hand.
- Those who have should be willing to share what they have with others.
- Wealth should be used to secure eternal life.
- Jesus also taught on the need for Christians be honest in their dealings.
- He also reminded them that it is not possible to serve both God and money.
- That God does not value earthly wealth. What people think is of great value is valueless in the eyed of God.
- He also gave further teachings on the Law of Moses. He laid emphasis on faithfulness in marriage. He
cautions the Pharisees against allowing divorce.

THE PARABLE OF THE RICH MAN AND LAZARUS (LK. 16:19-31)

Jesus also used the parable of the rich man and Lazarus to teach about correct attitude towards wealth.
He gives a parable of a rich man who lives lavishly everyday. At his gate was a poor man named Lazarus full of
sores.
Lazarus desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man’s table. Moreover the dogs came and licked his
wounds.
The poor man died and was carried by angels to Abraham’s bosom.
The rich man also died and was buried and was in great agony. He lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham far off
and Lazarus in his bosom.
He cried to Abraham to have mercy on him and send Lazarus to deep his finger into water and cool his tongue.
Abraham reminded him of how he received good things when he was alive and never bothered about Lazarus
who is now comfortable. “More between us and you there is a big valley that nobody is able to cross from there
to us.”
The rich man then urged Abraham to take information to his five brothers so that they may not come to such a
place of suffering.
Abraham told him that they had Moses and the prophets to listen to.

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The rich man told Abraham that if someone comes from the dead then they would repent.
Abraham told him that if they cannot hear Moses and the prophets then they will not be convinced even if
someone should arise from the dead.

Significance of the parable

- That Christians use their wealth to serve the poor.
- The rich should not love their riches more than the love of God. It can bring ruin to people’s lives.
- Christians should use their wealth to glorify God.
- Christians should seek spiritual wealth than material wealth.
- Christians should be careful about the dangers of wealth.
- Judgment is awaiting those who do not share their resources with the needy.
- This parable brings out the belief in life after death. Abraham is presented as being alive and talking to
people.
- There will be judgment at the end of times. The righteous will go to heaven and the unrighteous will go to
hell.
- People should listen to God’s messengers when there is still time.
- There is no repentance after death.

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 THE POWER OF FAITH (LK. 17:1-37)
Faith is complete trust in somebody or something. From the biblical point of view, faith is seen as a complete
trust and obedience to God.
In the bible a number of people demonstrated their faith in God. Such included Abraham.
Jesus warned his disciples against leading weaker believers to sin. He says it would be better for such a person
be thrown into the sea.
Jesus also advised his disciples to forgive those who wrong them constantly.
A Christian must be willing to forgive as many times as possible.
For them to forgive those who sin against them require strong faith.
He also tells them of the power of faith. It makes even the impossible possible.
He gives an illustration of the mastered seed. He says, “If you had faith as a grain of mastered seed, you could
say to this sycamore tree: Be rooted up... and it would obey.”
The disciples were being reminded that they were servants of God. They should not expect to receive thanks
from God for performing God-given duties.

JESUS HEALS THE TEN LEAPERS (LK. 17:11-19)

Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem. He passed along between Samaria and Galilee. As he entered a village he
was met by ten lepers, who were standing at a distance. This is probably due to the fact that lepers were
considered unclean and were not to mix with the other people.
They lifted up their voices (cried) and said, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.”
Jesus then told them to go and show themselves to the priests to examine them.
They went and were cleansed. When one of them saw that he was healed, he went back praising God with a
loud voice. He fell on Jesus’ feet and gave him thanks.
Luke reminds us that the one who came back to give thanks was a Samaritan.
Probably there is a reason why the author wants to emphasize on his being a Samaritan.
Jesus then asked him, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine?”
Jesus told him to rise and go for his faith had made him well.

Significance of the parable

- It showed the need for thanksgiving. Only one of the ten leapers came to say thanks to Jesus. Christians
therefore should thank God for whatever God has done to them.

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- Jesus told the leapers to go the priest to examine them, an indication that Jesus respected the religious
beliefs of the Jews. Christians therefore need to respect the laws of God.
- The Samaritans had a lot of faith for Jesus told him to get up and go, for his faith had made him well.
Likewise we are supposed to have a lot of faith in Jesus
- This incident is used to show that outcasts like Samaritans are ready to appreciate Jesus’ mission than the
Jews. An indication that salvation is for all and not only the Jews.
- Jesus had the power to heal. Christians should trust in God to heal them from whatever form of sickness.
- It shows the compassionate nature of Jesus. Christians should be concerned with the suffering of others.

THE COMING OF THE KINGDOM (LK. 17:20-37)

Some Pharisees once asked Jesus when the kingdom of God would come. The Pharisees had different
expectations on the Messiah.
In response, Jesus told them that the kingdom of God had already come in the form of Jesus Christ.
But the little faith of the Pharisees could not make them realize it.
Those who accepted Jesus and his teachings had already received this kingdom.
Therefore, faith is necessary to discover the power of God’s kingdom.
Jesus also told his disciples that a time would come when they would wish to see one of the days of the son of
man. But they would not see it.
Before the day of the son of man, he must suffer and be rejected.
He linked it to the times of Noah and Lot when the people did not mind about the impending danger.
There will be trials and during these times they require strong faith until t he second coming of Jesus. V 33:
Whoever tries to save his own life will lose it. Whoever loses his life will save it.
The second coming of Jesus is not known and it will come when people are still pre-occupied with their
ordinary activities.
“One who is in the field will not turn back. The righteous will be separated from the sinners (V. 34). There will
be two in one bed, one will be taken and the other left.”

Importance of faith to Christians

- Strong faith enables Christians to serve God well.
- Faith is the foundation of salvation.
Christians are assured of inheriting eternal life.
- Christians also need strong faith to overcome temptations and evil.

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- Christians need to listen to God’s messengers.
- Faith enables Christians to observe the commandments of God.
- Faith enables Christians to receive God’s blessings.
- Faith makes Christians to make the right choices as God guides Christians in making their choices.
- It enables Christians to share what they have with the less fortunate members of the society.

PERSISTENCE IN PRAYER (LK. 18:1-14)

Jesus told his disciples two parables to teach them on how to pray. These are the parables of the widow and
unjust judge and the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector.

THE PARABLE OF THE WIDOW AND THE UNJUST JUDGE(Lk.18:1-8)

Jesus told them of a parable of a judge who was in a certain town and he neither feared God nor respected
people. In the same town there was a widow who kept coming to the Judge pleading for her rights against her
opponent .For a long time the Judge refused to act but because the woman was persistent he accepted to help
her get her rights for if he didn’t the woman would keep coming and would wear him out.
Jesus goes ahead to say that the lord will have mercy on those who keep on crying to him.

THE PARABLE OF THE PHARISEE AND THE TAX COLLECTOR (Lk.18:9-14)

To those who were sure of their own goodness and despised others, Jesus told them of a parable a Pharisee and
a tax collector .Both went to the Temple pray .The Pharisee prayed to God saying that he was righteous . “I
thank God am not greedy, dishonest, or an adulterer, like every body else”. He compares himself to the tax
collector and says he is not like him. “I fast two days a week, and give a tenth of my income”.
But the tax collector stood at a distance and would not even raise his face to heaven .The tax collector confessed
that him, he was a sinner and asked God to have mercy on him .The tax collector was in the right with God.
Jesus concludes by saying that those who make themselves great will be humbled and those who humble
themselves will be made great.

Lessons from the parables

- Christians need to be persistent in prayer as the widow was.
- Christians should be humble in their prayer. Should avoid self pride.
- They should not look down upon others as the Pharisees looked down upon the tax collector.
- They should be honest and confess their sins as they pray.

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- They should accept their failures and ask for forgiveness. The tax collector said .“Lord, be merciful to me a
sinner.” (Lk. 18:13)
- Christians should be patient and be faithful in prayer knowing that God will answer their prayers.
- Should condemn corruption so that justice is done to the needy and the oppressed.
- Prayer should be short and to the point.

THE WAY TO SALVATION (LK.18:15-19:1-27)

This refers to what is expected of followers of Jesus Christ in order to attain eternal life.

Jesus blesses little children

Many people brought children to Jesus so that he might touch them and the disciples rebuked them.
Jesus, however, called the children to himself saying, “Let the children come to me and do not stop them,
because the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”
Jesus went on to tell his disciples that in order to enter the kingdom of God, they must be like children.
Jesus uses this incident to teach that those who want to inherit the kingdom of God must humble themselves.
Children are always innocent.

THE RICH YOUNG RULER (LK. 18:18-30)

A rich man once came to Jesus wanting to know what he must do to receive eternal life. He addressed Jesus as
‘Good Teacher’.
Jesus asked him why he was referring to him as ‘Good’. According to Jesus only God was good. Jesus
responded by reminding him of the commandments as stated in Exodus 20:12-16). The man said he had kept
all these ever since he was young. Jesus then told him to go and sell everything he had, give to the poor and
follow him.
When the rich man heard this, he became sad.
Jesus uses this incident to teach the dangers attached to riches.
This implies that it is impossible for people who value wealth more than God to go to heaven.
Jesus did not condemn wealth but its poor use.
The people who heard Jesus wondered who then could be saved, because the Jews believed that wealth was a
sign of God’s blessing.
Peter then asked what they as disciples will receive since they left home to follow him.

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Jesus acknowledged this and emphasized that those who have made a decision to follow him will receive
salvation in the present life and the age to come.
Jesus took his disciples aside and told them that they were going to Jerusalem where everything written about
him was going to happen.
He talked about his coming suffering for the third time. But Jesus Messiah ship was hidden to the disciples.

THE HEALING OF THE BLIND BEGGAR (Lk.18:35-43)

As they drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. The name of the blind beggar is
not given in Luke’s gospel but Mark refers to him as Bartimaeus the son of Timaeus (Mk.10:46-52)
When he heard the crowd passing, he wanted to know what was happening.
The people told him that Jesus of Nazareth was passing by. He shouted to Jesus, “Son of David, have mercy on
me!”
And the people rebuked him, telling him to be quiet. But he cried out the more. Jesus stopped and asked him
what he wanted and he responded by saying, he wanted to see again.
Jesus told him, “Then see. Your faith has made you well.” He then followed Jesus giving thanks to God.

Significance of this miracle

- The blind beggar referred to Jesus as son of David meaning that he was the promised Messiah.
- The physical blindness is not a hindrance to spiritual understanding who Jesus is.
- It also shows the importance of faith. The blind man got his sight because of his faith.
- Jesus was empathetic to those who were suffering.
- Jesus was able to give people spiritual sight.
- Christians need to thank God for whatever God has given them. The blind beggar thanked Jesus for what he
had done to him.
- Christians should not give up/fear to ask for God’s assistance. The blind man did not shy a way even when
he was being rebuked by the crowd.
- Those who have received God’s blessing should follow Christ.
- Those who want to come to the Lord should not be prevented.

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JESUS AND ZACHEAUS (LK. 19:1-12)
Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. There was a rich tax collector called Zacheaus.
He wanted to see Jesus but he was short. He ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree.
When Jesus reached where Zacheaus was, he looked up and told him to come down for he was going to stay at
his house that day. So he came down and received Jesus joyfully.
The people who witnessed what was happening murmured. This was because they Zacheaus as a sinner.
Zacheau stood up and told Jesus that he was going to give half of his wealth to the poor. He also declared that
he would pay back four times to anybody he had defrauded.
Jesus was pleased with him and told him that salvation had come to him as a descendant of Abraham. From this
episode Christians can learn that:
- Riches do not hinder one from entering the kingdom of God.
- God is continuously looking for the lost souls.
- Sinners should make a step to put right what was wrong.
- Jesus loves all categories of people including sinners.
- The rich should share their wealth with the poor.

THE PARABLE OF THE POUNDS (LK. 19:11-27)

The parable is referred also as the parable of the gold coins or talents.
Jesus was about to enter Jerusalem and his disciples thought that the kingdom was to appear immediately.
He told them a parable of a nobleman who went into afar country to receive a kingdom and then return. Before
he left, he called his 10 servants and gave them each a gold coin.
He asked them to trade with the coins.
But his citizens hated him.
When he returned, he ordered his servants to come before him to say how much they had earned with the gold
coins.
The first one said he had made a profit of ten more and he was rewarded.
He was put in charge of ten cities.
The second one had earned five gold coins .He was put in charged of five cities.
When the third servant came he said that “Lord here is your pound which I kept laid away in napkin, for I was
afraid of you, you take up what you did not lay down, and reap where you did not saw.
The master was very annoyed with this servant. The Master ordered that the one gold coin be taken away from
and be given to one who had ten gold coins.

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He went ahead to say that whoever has even more would be added but he who has nothing ,even the little he has
will be taken.

The significance of the parable

- God has given people different abilities or talents.
- People need to use their God given talents to serve Him.
- Christians should share the knowledge they have of God with others.
- When Jesus returns the servants will be rewarded according to their performances.
- Those who use their talents well will receive great reward.
- One day Christians will give an account of how they have been using their talents and abilities.
- God will be angry with those who do not use their talents well
- Those who do not use their God given talents well receive punishment.

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 JESUS’ MINISTRY IN JERUSALEM
Jerusalem was an important place in the mission of Jesus. The city of Jerusalem was conquered from the
Jebusites during the reign of King David. He thus made Jerusalem a holy city.
Solomon, David’s son built the temple in Jerusalem. So even during the times of Jesus it remained a major
centre of worship.
This is the place where he was going to fulfill God’s plan of salvation for .Jesus had already predicted the kind
of suffering he was going to face in Jerusalem (LK :9:31,51 13:31-35,18:31-34)
Jesus had conflicts with the religious leaders and he knew that he would face opposition in Jerusalem.

THE TRIUMPHANT ENTRY INTO JERUSALEM (LK: 19:28-40)

When Jesus drew near to Bethphage and Bethany, he sent two of his disciples to go ahead into the village
opposite, where they were going to find colt (a young one of donkey) the one which no one had ridden on.
When the owner asks them why they were untying it, they would tell him that the Lord needs it.
They went and found it as Jesus had said.
And as they were untying it, they owner asked them where they taking it. And they told him that the Lord needs
it. And then they brought it to Jesus. And as he rode on it, they spread their garment on the road.
The whole multitude of the disciples began to praise God with a loud voice saying “blessed is the King who
comes in the name of the Lord”
And some of the Pharisees told him to rebuke his disciples .He answered them “I tell you, if these were silent,
the very stones would cry out”
This implies that Jesus did not want to hide his Messiahship anymore.

Significance of Jesus Triumphant entry into Jerusalem

- The fact that Jesus rode on a donkey that had not been ridden on shows that Jesus was a peaceful messiah.
- The people who shouted confirmed that Jesus was the Messiah prophesied in the Old Testament (Zech 9:9)
- Christians should be ready and prepared to receive Jesus their lives.
- Christians should preach peace in theirs lives.
- Christians should be humble in their service to others.
- Christians should expect opposition and resistance as they evangelize.
- Christians should praise and thank God just as the crowd that followed Jesus did.
- Christians should be bold as they witness to Jesus like the crowd that followed Jesus had declared him as a
King.

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JESUS CLEANSES THE TEMPLE (LK .:19: 45-49)
And when he drew near Jerusalem, he wept over Jerusalem.
Why Jesus wept
i. This was because Jesus Knew that Jerusalem would reject him as the Messiah.
ii. He had seen the way Jerusalem would be destroyed.
iii. The people did not recognize him as a peaceful Messiah.
iv. They had forgotten that they were God’s chosen people.
v. They had turned the temple into a commercial centre.
vi. The people who sold in the temple made excessive profits.
vii. It was a centre of worship but was spiritually dead.
viii. The religious leaders had forgotten the laws that they were supposed to keep and teach.
Jesus then entered the temple and began to drive out those who were selling in the in the temple saying “It is
written that, “My house shall be a house of prayer but have made it a den of robber”
This was a quotation from the Book of Jeremiah (Jer: 7:11)
Those who sold in the temple made excessive profits.
This was not the real purpose of the temple.
This prevented the Jews from being a light to the Gentiles.
The action of Jesus made the religious leaders more determined to have him killed.

Lessons Christians can learn from the cleansing of the temple

- Christians should respect the house of God and use it appropriately.
- Christian leaders should avoid exploiting members of through asking for excessive contributions.
- Christians should have courage in condemning evils in the society.
- They should pay more attention to inward righteousness than external observance of rituals.

CONFLICTS WITH THE JEWISH LEADERS (LK: 19:47-48, 20:1-47, 21:1-4)

After the cleansing of the temple, Jesus spent most of the time teaching in the temple. There were two groups of
people; the ones who were keenly listening to his teachings and thos4e who wanted ways of trapping him. (The
chief priests the scribes and Pharisees)
This was because Jesus had referred to them as hypocrite’s .He also did not confirm salvation to the Jews only.
They also rejected his Messiah ship due to his ordinary family background. But Jesus knew that his rejection
was part of his mission.

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While he was preaching the chief priests and the scribes came to him. They wanted to know through whose
authority he taught.
He answered them by asking them a question “Was the baptism of John from heaven or from men”
The question put the leaders in a dilemma. This was because, if they said it was from heaven, this would imply
that Jesus’ authority was from God.
If they said from men, then the people would stone them. So they answered they did not know.
And he responded by telling them “Neither will I tell you, by what authority I do these things”

THE PARABLE OF THE WICKED TENANTS (LK: 20:20 9-18)

Jesus told them the parable of a man who planted a vineyard and let it out to tenants when the time for the
harvest came ,he sent his servant to the tenants that they should give him the and sent his servants to the tenants
that they should give him the fruits of the vineyard. But they beat him and sent him away empty handed. And he
sent the second servant whom they beat and treated shamefully. He sent yet another third one whom they also
wounded and cast out.
Then the owner of the vineyard decided to send his own son, but they beat him up and killed him.
Jesus then posed this question to them “what then will the owner of the vineyard do to them?”He will come and
destroy those tenants and give to others.

Significance of the parable

- The owner of the vineyard is God.
- The vineyard if Israel and the tenants are the Jewish leaders.
- The servants who were beaten represents Gods
- The son of the owner of the vineyard represents Jesus.
- The death of the son represents the kind of rejection that he was going to face in Israel in the hands of
Jewish leaders.
- It implies that Jesus whom the Jewish leaders rejected would be enthroned in heaven.

What can Christians do when faced with rejection?

- A Christian should not fear ejection for the sake of Christ.
- Should stand firm in times of rejection.
- Should pray to God to give him strength.
- Should seek pastoral guidance.
- Read the scriptures.

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PAYING TAXES TO CAESAR (LK: 20: 19-26)
After telling the parable of the wicked tenants, the scribes and the chief priest were annoyed because they knew
was the message in the parable was about them and they wanted to seize Jesus but they were afraid of the
people

They therefore sent spices to him who pretended to be sincere. They wanted to trap him. So they asked him a
question whether fit was lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not.

Jesus resented the payment of taxes to the Roman authority because.

1. The coins used had the emperors image which according to them was a violation of Jewish law which
forbade the use of images
2. It was also a symbol of their oppression by the Romans.
The question put Jesus on dilemma for if Jesus said yes then they would accuse him of being a collaborator with
the roman rulers.
If Jesus would tell them not to pay, they would accuse him of treason. Jesus knew their trick and asked them to
produce a coin and state whose name and image was on it. Whey they said emperors, Jesus told them to render
to Caesar what belonged to Caesar and to God the things that are God’s. He wanted his questioners to make
their own decision about the issue.

What Christians can learn about Jesus response to paying taxes

- A Christian has a duty to pay taxes to the government.
- A Christian has a duty to be loyal to the state.
- He also has a duty to be loyal to God.

Why does a Christian need to pay tax?

- It is a sign of loyalty to Authority /government.
- Since Jesus accepted the payment of tax, So A Christian should do the same in obedience to Jesus’
command.
- It enhances equitable distribution of the country’s economic resources.
- It helps to bridge the gap between the poor and the rich since the rich are taxed more.
- The government uses taxes to pay salaries of civil servants.
- Taxes are also used to initiate new development projects e.g. building of schools and infrastructure.

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 - Money generated from taxes are used to cater for emergencies such as floods.
- To maintain the country’s embassies abroad and meet international obligations.
- To run various government departments.
- To maintain already existing projects.
- To help the less fortunate members of the society .

THE QUESTION ABOUT RESURRECTION (Lk.20:27-38)

The Seduces presented Jesus with an issue concerning the resurrection. The Sadducees did not believe in the
resurrection of the dead. They asked him a question saying that according to Jesus when one childless then his
widow would be married by his brothers so that he bear sons on his brother.
They asked him question about a woman who married seven brothers and all of them did without having a child
with her. They asked him whose wife she will be at the time of resurrection .Jesus responded by telling them
that. There is no marriage after death, they become immortal and are sons of Gog .They are equal to angles.
They applauded at him for having spoken well and they dared not ask him any more question.
Lesions Christians can learn from the question on resurrection
- That there is the resurrection of the dead.
- Those who will resurrect will neither marry nor be married.
- They become immortal (cannot die anymore)
- Those who resurrect will be like angles.
- They will be the sons of God.
- God is God of the living and not the dead.

JESUS WARNS AGAINST THE TEACHERS OF LAW. (LK. 29: 46-47)

Jesus addressed his disciples and warned them to beware of the hypocrisy and exploitative nature of the
teachers of the law.
He openly attacked them for
- The love to go on long robes so that they could be seen and respected.
- Love to be greeted with respect in market places.
- Seeking best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at the feasts.
- Making long prayers without meaning.
- He also accused them of taking advantage and robbing the widows of their property.
These direct attacks on the teachers’ of law provoked a conflict between them and Jesus.

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THE WIDOW’S OFFERING (LK: 21:1-4)
Jesus also observed the way offerings were being done in the temple.
He saw the rich people putting their gifts into the treasury. A poor widow also gave two copper coins (the
smallest denomination).Jesus praised the widow for giving that entire she had .This may have caused conflicts
between Jesus and the rich who listening to him.

Explain how the following factors causes conflicts in our Churches today
- Leadership wrangles
- The issue of Family planning e.g. the use of contraceptives.
- Women being ordained as priests.
- Corruption among the leaders.
- Gifts of the Holy Spirit.
- Sex Education.
- Alcohol and drug abuse.
- Polygamy. Some churches do not accept polygamists to be incorporated into the congregation.

Causes of conflicts in the families today

- Unfaithfulness where the couple or partners are not faithful to one another.
- Childlessness where the couple are not able to give birth to a child due to barrenness.
- Separation due to work or education.
- Misunderstanding on the practice of family planning or the number of children.
- Finance and Education which brings tension more so when the wife is of higher educational background or
has more money.
- Poor communication between the couple.
- High dependency ratio.
- Cultural difference between the partners.
- Drug abuse and alcoholism which may lead to domestic violence.
- Misuse of domestic resources.

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JESUS TEACHING ABOUT THE ESCHATOLOGY (LK 21:5 -38)
The term “eschatology” is derived from the Greek word eschatos which means end. Eschatology therefore is the
study of the end of times.
Jesus also talked of what would happen at the end of times.
This passage is written in apocalyptic style.
In the bible, the book of Daniel and revelation are referred to as apocalyptic books because they reveal what
would happen in future in relation to God’s judgment.
This apocalyptic writing is also found in prophetic books of Jeremiah, Amos and Zephaniah.

THE PROPHECY ON THE DESTRUCTION OF THE JERUSALEM TEMPLE (LK: 21:5-6)

Some of the disciples remarked about how beautiful the temple was. Jesus then warned them about the
destruction of the temple.
“All these you see the time will come when not a single stone here will be left in its space. Every one will be
thrown down”.
This raised curiosity in wanting to find out what signs they were to look out for.

The signs of the end of times

- Many would come claiming to Jesus, the messiah. He therefore warned them not to be led astray.
- Wars between Nations would arise.
- There would be earthquakes, famines and plagues
- There would be great signs from heaven
- The disciples would i.e. brought before kings and governors for the sake of Christ
- Close relatives i.e. parents and brothers, kinsmen and friends will hate them.
- Some of the disciples will even be put to death.
- Jesus disciples would be betrayed to the authorities
- He warned his disciples that the city of Jerusalem will be surrounded by enemies.
He told them that before the coming of son of man there would be:
i) Disruption in the sky and in the sea.
ii) All countries would be in despair
iii) People would faint from fear as they witness the signs
After all these signs the son of man would appear in the power and glory.

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THE PARABLE OF THE FIG TREE (LK 21:29 - 33)
Jesus then told the disciples and other audience the parable of the fig tree to explain the reality of his coming.
The fig tree sheds its leaves during the winter and during spring it comes back to life and a sign of summer is
near. In the same way there will be signs that the end is near.
He therefore encouraged his disciples to lead a righteous life.
They were to avoid too much feasting and drinking.
They were told to be watchful all the time and keep on praying.
Jesus continued to teach in the temple, and many people kept coming to listen to him.

The relevance to the teaching of eschatology to Christians today

 Jesus teaches that the end of the world will come.
 Christians should note that nobody knows the time not the hour.
 Christians should beware of false prophets.
 Prayer is important to Christians particularly during moments of crisis.
 Christians should stand firm in faith.
 Christians should live righteous life as they prepare for the second coming of Christ.

How Christians prepare for the second coming of Christ

- Encouraging people to repent their sins.
- Preaching Gospel top new converts.
- Obeying the commandments of God.
- Taking part in the Holy Communion.
- Praying l and fasting.
- Enduring suffering for the sake of Christ.
- Accepting baptism with water in preparation for baptism with the Holy Spirit.
- Living an exemplary life.
- Helping the needy and the less fortunate members of the society.
- Forgiving those who wrong them so t hat God may forgive them.
- Praising God thorough songs and dances.
- Avoiding tempting worldly situations.

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 JESUS PASSION, DEATH AND RESURRECTION
THE LAST SUPPER (LK. 22: 1-30)
The chief priest and the leaders of the law were trying to find a way of putting Jesus to death secretly because
they feared the people.
Luke records that Satan entered into Judas Iscariot who was one of his disciples. He went and conferred with
the chief priests and officers and how he might betray Jesus to death.
Preparation for the Last Supper
The last supper coincided with the celebration of the feast of the unleavened bread (Passover).
To prepare for the last supper Jesus sent two his disciples to make the necessary arrangements (Peter and John).
He told them that they would go into the city, where they would meet a man carrying a jar of water. The man
would show them a large upper room where they could make the preparations. They went and found as he had
told them.
When the time came for Jesus and his disciples to eat the Passover meal, they went into the upper room.
Jesus took the seat at the table. He took a cup of wine, gave thanks, and passed it round to the disciples for them
to drink saying, ‘Take this and divide it among yourselves, for I tell you from now on I shall not drink of the
Fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God comes.”
Again he took the bread, gave thanks, broke it and gave to them to eat saying, “This is my body which is given
to you. Do this in remembrance of me.”
After supper, he took the cup again saying, “This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in my
blood.
This implied that the disciples were to continue celebrating the Lord’s Supper.
During the Last Supper, Jesus foretold of his betrayal. He talked of the man who would betray him as the one
with him at the table.
And the disciples began to quest ion whop among them would be the one. A dispute also arose among the
disciples who were greatest. He told them that whoever wanted to be the greatest had to be ready to be the
youngest and must be ready to serve others.
In this he taught the importance of humility.
He also promised his disciples a place in the kingdom of God for they stood by him at times of trials.
After foretelling his coming death he also talked about the fact that Peter was going to deny him. However he
prayed for peter’s faith not to fail.
However Peter said that he was ready to go with him even to prison or die with him.
He told the disciples that they would meet hostility but they had to be prepared.

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The significance of the Lord ’s Supper to Christians today
The Lord’s Supper is referred to as the Holy communion, the holy Eucharist, the Lord’s Table, the holy mass,
the holy sacrament.
- The Lord’s Supper unites the followers of Jesus in expectations of his second coming.
- Lords supper is related to the new covenant fulfilled through the blood of Jesus Christ which saves
human kind
- The wine symbolizes the blood of Christ which saves human kind. Jesus is the last sacrificial lump.
- The bread symbolizes the body of Christ; Jesus is the spiritual bread of life.
- Through the celebration of the Lords supper, Christians also anticipate the second coming of Christ.
- It also shows the importance of sharing. i.e through sharing of the wine and the bread.
- During the celebration the Christians have their faith strengthened.
- The celebration of the Lord’s Supper is a constant reminder of Jesus Christ presence among his
followers.
- It is an occasion for thanks giving for the good things God has done to us.
- It is also a symbol of the heavenly feast which christains will enjoy in the Kingdom of God.
- It is a way through which Christians receive assurance of the forgiveness of sins.

THE PRAYER AT MOUNT OLIVES (LK 22:35 -46)

After celebrating the last supper, Jesus then left the house and went into the mount olives with the disciples
following him. He asked his disciples to pray so that they would not be led into temptations. Then moving from
them, he prayed in the garden of Gethsemane.
“Father, if though art wiling remove this cup from me, nevertheless not my will, but thine be done” (Lk:
22:42).The “cup” referred to his suffering and deaths.
And when he arose from prayer, he came to the disciples and found them sleeping. Jesus again asked them to
pray.

THE BETRAYAL AND ARREST OF JESUS (LK: 22:47-53)

As Jesus was still speaking to his disciples, telling them to get up and pray, Judas Iscariot appeared in the
garden accompanied by a large crowd. He came near Jesus and kissed him. This was a way of identifying Jesus
to the crowd.

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The disciples tried to fight back to defend their master. One of them (Peter) even struck the slave of the high
priest and cut his right ear. Jesus however stopped them. He even healed the ear to the enemy that had been
slashed. This was an indication that Jesus was peaceful messiah.
The reasons why Judas betrayed Jesus are not clearly brought out but we can deduce that:
- He did not understand the spiritual nature of Jesus, Messiah ship
- He thought Jesus had come as apolitical messiah and therefore felt disappointed.
- Since he was promised payment of 30 pieces of silver by the high priest he was motivated by the love
for money.
- Judas could also have been an informer of the Jewish religious authorities.
- He lacked the moral; courage to stand before Jesus in times of tribulation.
- He had weak faith.
- It was God’s will for the fulfillment of the scriptures.
- He was tempted by Satan.

THE DENIAL OF JESUS BY PETER (LK 22:54-65)

They seized Jesus and led him to the chief priest house for preliminary examination. As the Sanhedrin was the
governing council of the Jewish nation. The Sanhedrin was authorized to try religious offenders and those who
went against the national laws.
It is not brought out clearly what happened to the disciples but in the Gospel of mark it is said the disciples
forsook him and fled. (Mark 14:59)

THE DENIAL OF JESUS BY PETER

When Jesus was taken to the chief priest’s house, Peter followed him at a distance .Peter then joined a group of
people who were warming themselves at the courtyard. A maid and two other people identified Peter as one of
Jesus’ disciples. But Peter denied all the accusations. Earlier on Jesus had predicted that peter would deny him
three times. Peter reacted this way probably due to;
- It had been predicted by Jesus that he would deny him.
- Human weakness. He lacked the moral courage to stand by Jesus during his suffering.
- He was afraid that the people could arrest him.
- Peter was impulsive i.e. he acted on the spur of moment
- He lacked faith which was needed at this time.

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Jesus turned and looked at Peter and Peter remembered what Jesus had predicted .And he went out and wept
bitterly. This was a sign of repentance.

Lessons that Christians can learn from Peter’s denial of Jesus

 Christians should be prepared to face tribulations for the sake of Christ.
 Christians should stand firm in times of temptations.
 Christians should be remorseful and ready to repent.
 Christians should depend on God’s guidance to make the right decision.
 Jesus is always ready to forgive those who repent and accept them back.

THE TRIAL OF JESUS (LK: 22:66-23:1-25)

When the day came, Jesus was brought before the council (Sanhedrin).It was composed of Pharisees, Scribes
and Sadducees.
The council asked Jesus if he was the Messiah. But Jesus did not answer them directly. His told them
that even if he answered their question they could not believe. He told them, “From now on the son of man shall
be seated the right hand of the power of God” (Lk. 22:69)
This was interpreted by the interrogators as admitting to be t he son of God.
According t o the Jews this was considered as blasphemy and was punishable by death.
Since the Sanhedrin did not have the legal powers to carry out death sentence. They took Jesus to Pilate,
who was the Roman governor.
Before Pilate they began to accuse him of political crimes.
He was accused of:
i) Claiming to the Christ t he king
ii) Inciting the people to revolt against the Roman authority.
iii) Telling people not to pay taxes to Caesar.
Pilate asked Jesus if he was the king of the Jews. And he answered, “You have said so.” Pilate found no guilt
in Jesus. When Pilate learned that Jesus was from Galilee, he handed him over to Herod who was the ruler of
Galilee.
When Herod saw Jesus he was very glad, because he had heard about Jesus and was hoping to see some
signs done by him (Jesus).

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 Herod asked Jesus many questions, but Jesus did not answer. He therefore found no grounds to accuse Jesus.
He therefore sent him back to Pilate.
Pilate called the chief priests and other Jewish leaders and told them that he did not Jesus guilty of any crime.
His wife had also cautioned him about Jesus’ innocence.
However, the chief priests and other Jewish leaders insisted that he was guilty and had t o be killed.
Pilate gave in to their intimidation and ordered the death of Jesus by crucifixion. He released Barabbas and
delivered Jesus to them.
Why Pilate agreed to have Jesus crucified
 He was afraid of the Jewish revolt as it was his duty to maintain peace.
 Jesus having been accused of treason he did not want to be seen as being disloyal to the Roman emperor.
 He washed his hands. This meant that he was absolving himself from guilt of having crucified Jesus.
 He also wanted to please the people.

THE CRUCIFIXION (LK. 22:26-56)

The soldiers led Jesus a way to a place called Golgotha (the skull of Mt. Calvary).
Before the crucifixion, Jesus was scourged and mocked by the Roman soldiers.
Then he carried the cross beam to the place of execution.
A man called Simon of Cyrene was forced to help Jesus carry the cross beam. Cyrene is a town in modern day
Libya in North Africa.
A large crowd of people followed him including women who were weeping and wailing for him.
Jesus told them not to worry about him but themselves and their children about the impending punishment.
Two other men, both of them criminals were also crucified with him. The two thieves represent the way the
cross of Christ is received by different people.
On the cross, Jesus prayed f or the forgiveness of those who persecuted him.
The soldiers cast lots to divide his clothes.
The Jewish leaders mocked him saying, “He saved others, let him save himself.”
The soldiers also mocked him and offered him cheap wine.
Above him were these writings: ‘This is the king of Jews.’
One of the criminals crucified with him also mocked him saying, ‘Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and
us.” But the other who is commonly referred to as the repentant thief rebuked the other. The repentant thief
admitted that the two of them had been punished justly and acknowledged Jesus’ innocence.
He also pleaded with Jesus to remember him. Jesus told him, “Tonight you shall be with me in Paradise.”

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What lesson can Christians lean from the testimony of the repentance thief?
 Christians should be able to acknowledge their sins and ask for forgiveness.
 However wicked one might be there is still room for repentance.
 Those who repent will receive eternal life.
 It l is never too late to repent. A Christian can repent even at the last minute.
 Those who do not acknowledge their sins will receive punishment.
 God doesn’t disappoint hose who repent sincerely.
 Christians should rebuke those who refuse to repent as the repentant thief rebuked his colleague.

THE DEATH OF JESUS (LK. 23:44-56)

The death of Jesus was preceded by extra ordinary happening.
At around twelve O’clock the sun stopped shining and darkness covered the whole country. The darkness
symbolized that evil was at its climax. After darkness it symbolized the defeat of Satan.
The curtain hanging in the temple was torn into two. In the temple there was a curtain separating the holy of
holies from the rest of the temple. It was believed that God dwelt in the Holy of holies and only the priests were
allowed to enter there only once a year.
The tearing of the curtain symbolized the end of Judaism and the beginning of Christianity.
It also rendered the Old Testament meaning of the temple useless.
People could now access God with no curtain separating him from his people. What was now needed to reach
God was not the high priests but Jesus Christ.
That salvation was now not only for the Jews but to all mankind.
Just before Jesus died, he cried in a loud voice, “Father in to thy hands I commit my spirit.” (Lk 23:46).
The prayer that Jesus uttered as he died was from Psalms 31:15.
And with those words he died.
This showed that Jesus surrendered himself totally to the will of God.

THE BURIAL OF JESUS (Lk. 23:50-56)

After the death of Jesus, a member of the Jewish council (Sanhedrin), Joseph of the Arimathea requested Pilate
to bury the body of Jesus.
He was a good and honourable man.
He took the body and wrapped it in a linen sheet and placed it in a fresh tomb.
He had agreed with the decision of other members of the council to have Jesus killed.

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By giving Jesus a very honourable burial, He confirmed that Jesus was truly the son of God and king of the
Jews.
This fulfills what had been prophesized in Isaiah 15:90
There were women who followed Joseph and saw where he had laid the body of Jesus. They went to prepare
spices and perfumes which they hoped to use to treat the body of Jesus after the Sabbath.
It was on Friday and the Sabbath was nearing. A body was not allowed to remain on the gallows all night for it
could defile the land. And therefore, burial had to be done before sunset.
On the Sabbath day they rested as required by the law.

THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS (Lk 24: 1-53)

On the third day (Sun day) very early in the morning, the women who had prepared the spices went to the tomb.
They found the stone rolled away from the entrance of the tomb.
They went to check but the tomb was empty.
Then two men with brilliant clothes suddenly appeared at their side.
The men who might have been angels told them not to seek the living among the dead.
They told the women that he had risen.
Luke records that the women were Mary Magdalene, Joanna and Mary t he mother of James.
However John gives a slight difference in the narration of the episode.
John’s account was that Mary Magdalene went to the tomb alone. On finding the stone rolled away she ran and
called Simon Peter to be a witness to this.
Luke says that the women returned from the tomb, they told the eleven and other disciples of Jesus what they
had witnessed.
Luke does not bring out clearly what had happened to Judas but in the Gospel of Matthew we get the
information that Judas hanged himself after realizing that he had betrayed an innocent man (Mat. 27:3-8)

THE DISCIPLES ON THE WAY TO EMMAUS (LK. 23:13-32)

After Jesus had appeared to the holy women and the eleven disciples, the same day he appeared to the disciples
of Jesus (Cleopas and another disciple).
They were on their way to a village named Emmaus. Emmaus was about eleven kilometers or seven miles from
Jerusalem.
The disciples were talking about what had happened in Jerusalem. They were talking about Jesus’ suffering.
Like other Jews, the two disciples had not understood clearly the concept of suffering Messiah.

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As they were talking, Jesus joined them but they did not recognize him.
Jesus asked them what they were talking about. The disciples were frightened and they thought t hey had seen a
ghost.
One of them who was called Cleopas asked him if he was the only visitor in Jerusalem who did not know things
that had happened.
They told him about what had happened to Jesus of Nazareth.
They recognized Jesus as a prophet and one who was considered by God and all the people as powerful.
That the chief priests and the rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death.
According to them Jesus was the one who was going to set Israel free.
Then Jesus referred to them foolish.
He asked them why they doubted what had happened.
He even told them to examine and touch his hands and feet which had the marks of the nail.
And that he was the fulfillment of what had been prophesized in the Old Testament Prophets.
He than opened their minds to understand the scriptures.
They invited Jesus to dine with them. While at the table, Jesus took bread, gave thanks, broke it and handed it to
them.
Then their eyes opened and they recognized him.
Then he vanished out of their sight.
After this they went to Jerusalem to testify about their encounter with the risen Christ.
And they went into the city and found the eleven disciples and those who were with them.
They were also told that Jesus had appeared to Simon.

Jesus appears to the disciples (Lk. 24: 36-50)

As they were still talking Jesus himself stood among them, the disciples were threatened and thought they had
seen a ghost. Jesus assured them that he was a ghost.
He showed them his hands.
He explained to disciples that a ghost has no flesh and bones.
They gave him fish and he took it and ate before them.
Jesus explained to them that all that had been written about him in the laws of Moses and the prophets had to be
fulfilled.
That he had to suffer for the forgiveness of sins.

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He then commissioned them tom preach the repentance and forgiveness of sin to all nations beginning in
Jerusalem.
He promised them the power of the Holy Spirit.

Ascension of Jesus (Lk. 24:50-530)

He then led them to Bethany and lifting his hands he blessed them and was carried up into heaven.

IMPORTANCE OF THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST TO CHRISTIANS TODAY

- The resurrection of Jesus was a fulfillment of the Old Testament prophesies.
- It is a proof that Jesus was sent b y God to redeem mankind.
- Resurrection of Jesus laid a firm foundation for the Christian’s faiths. In his letter to the Corinthians (1Cor.
15:1) Paul stressed that if there was no resurrection, then Christ’s dying would be in vain.
- Through Jesus’ death and resurrection Christians are reconciled to God. It brings a new relationship
- Through Jesus’ death the disciples received the promise Holy Spirit. The same Holy Spirit continues to
guide and strengthen the church today.
- Resurrection of Jesus is the foundation of a new life in Christ (2 Cor. 5:17)
- It gives Christians hope that they too shall rise if they die in the faith.
- It led to the spread of the church. The early followers were inspired and were ready to die for the gospel.
- It gives Christians hope f or eternal life.
- It also points to the fact that nothing is impossible with the power of God.

What role did women play in the passion and resurrection of jesus christ?
- The women accompanied Jesus from Galilee.
- The mourned and lamented for him on the way to Calvary. Jesus told them not t o weep for him, ‘but weep
for yourselves and your children.”
- The women witnessed the crucifixion and death of Jesus on the cross.
- They took note of the tomb in which Jesus was laid and the position of the body during the burial.
- On Sunday morning the women went to the tomb and took spices which they had prepared.
- They were the first to be told of the resurrection of Jesus. Two men in dazzling clothes told them the Christ
had risen.

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- The women returned from the tomb (Mary Magdalene, Joanna and Mary the mother of James among other
women) and announced the resurrection of Jesus Christ the eleven apostles.
N/B The eleven did not believe the story of the women until they confirmed it themselves.

Why was it difficult for the apostles to believe that Jesus Christ had resurrected?
- The disciples had witnessed his death and burial.
- The report about the resurrection was brought by women who were despised.
- The disciples had a different interpretation of the Messiah. They expected a glorious political Messiah and
not the one who was to die.
- They lacked the required faith.
- They were ignorant of the divine nature of Jesus.
- Others also did not believe in the resurrection of the dead.
- The tomb where Jesus was buried was heavily guarded. And according to them the guards could not have
allowed Jesus to escape.
- There was conflicting information about the resurrection. The three gospels give difference in accounts of
the risen Christ.

How did Jesus prepared his disciples about his coming death?
- Three times, he told them openly that he was going to die.
- During t he transfiguration, the three disciples, Peter, John and James, witnessed the discussion between
Moses and Elijah about his coming suffering.
- He promised the disciples that he would rise again-death was not the final destination.
- He taught his disciples to be ready to suffer for the kingdom of God
- He taught his disciples about the nature of the kingdom of God that he was going to prepare.
- During t he last supper, he shared a meal with his disciples where he reminded them of his coming suffering
and death.
- During the meal Jesus took a cup and gave the disciples to share. The cup symbolized the blood of Jesus
shed on the cross to redeem sinful humankind.
- The Last Meal symbolized the Messianic banquet in heaven.
- The meal brought the disciples together symbolizing unity.
- He foretold his betrayal by Judas and denial by Peter who were his disciples.

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- He promised his disciples the Holy Spirit that would strengthen and guide them in their mission.
- He prayed in the garden of Gethsemane together with his disciples.
- When his disciples fell asleep, he told them to rise and pray so that they may not fall into temptation.
- He submitted himself to the will of God. “Nevertheless let not my will be done, but thine be done.”
- He stopped his disciples when they wanted to fight those came to arrest him.
- He did not show any fear of dying. He let himself to be arrested. He told them, “Have you come out against
a robber, with swords and clubs?”

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