Kyle Perkins
10.23.2020
Luke 10-12
Summarize what you read in one paragraph:
Luke 10 – In this chapter, there are three different accounts that are presented. In the first account, Jesus gives instructions to seventy-two of his disciples. Jesus informs them of what they should bring, how they should act toward hosts, and how they should respond to the towns that they preach in. The second section is a story that Jesus shares to an expert in the law. The story includes an individual who shows mercy to a complete stranger. Jesus uses this as an example to show how we should treat one another. The last section portrays an interaction between Jesus, Mary, and Martha. Mary is learning at Jesus’ feet, while Martha is focused on the chores of the house.
Luke 11 – This chapter is broken up into five sections. In the beginning of the chapter Jesus explains to his disciples how they should pray. He continues by also giving different examples of how we should be persistent in what we ask God for, or in the way we work for anything. In the next section Jesus is accused of driving out demons by the power of Satan or Beelzebub. Jesus responds by asking how an evil force of power can be forced out by itself. He explains that evil spirits are driven out by the power of God and not by the power of Satan. The last few sections cover other teachings from Jesus as well as an interaction between Jesus and the Pharisees. Jesus parallels a story from the Old Testament to his own mission on Earth. Jesus gives a teaching about watching what we expose ourselves to. At the end of the chapter Jesus rebukes the pharisees, and experts in the law, as it relates to their own hypocrisy and lack of heart for others.
Luke 12 – Chapter 12 entails a hodgepodge of teachings from Jesus. Jesus challenges his audience/disciples on what they should be fearing, but he also sends words of encouragement as it relates to God’s concern for His children. Jesus then goes on to discuss the things that we may treasure or worry about in this life. His challenge here is to be more concerned about what God has in store for us as opposed to what the world has to offer. The middle of the chapter includes being prepared during the uncertainty of Jesus’ return for us in the future. The chapter concludes with a few minor topics. Jesus discusses the division he will cause on the Earth. Jesus challenges his audience on their lack of awareness with the purpose of Jesus’ arrival. Finally Jesus calls people to resolve issues with those they have wronged.
What is one key verse?
“And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.” – Luke 11:9-10 ESV
This passage should remind us that God calls us to be persistent in how we live faithfully for Him. I think this should challenge us to work hard in growing with God or in any aspect of our lives. There should never be an excuse with our efforts in accomplishments or exercising our discipleship. If we work hard at whatever goal we strive for, God will reward our efforts. We have to trust that God will fulfill his promises, even if it feels like a lifetime.
How does what you read change your vision of God?
God is merciful and forgiving, but as followers of Him, he still expects us to give our best efforts in our spiritual walks. This message is presented consistently throughout these chapters. Jesus was God in the flesh, and he made many points about how we should follow God wholeheartedly. If we want the label of God’s children, then we have to live to the standards that Jesus calls us to. Jesus challenges us on subjects such as loving each other, making every effort, being mindful of what we treasure in our hearts, and more.
How does what you read change your vision of yourself or others?
This definitely reminds me that discipleship is hard. There are always mistakes that I will make on my journey with God. I do not think I have to beat myself up with those mistakes. However, I can continue to learn how I can improve as a follower of Him.
How will you Go With God because of this reading? (What is an action step?)
Because I have no excuse to improve in my spiritual walk, I have to seize every opportunity that God gives me to become more like Jesus. I want to work on setting more spiritual goals for myself. For example, I think I want to start scheduling specific days to pray longer than I usually do. I think prior to beginning these extended times of prayer, I want to have premeditated topics to discuss with God so that my prayer time is a little more fluid and intentional.
Where did you see Jesus in these chapters? (What made you think about Jesus?)
Everything written in these three chapters are almost entirely Jesus’ words. It is clear that Jesus wants our full hearts and efforts if we want to continually follow him. He does not want us to be half-hearted or fake in the way we go about living for him.
2020 Bible Vision 