Word Online: Series 9 - Jesus on the way to Jerusalem: Recent Episodes
Word Online
This series is mostly focused on Jesus’ teaching about discipleship and the telling of important parables. Luke provides this material. Jesus is moving gradually towards Jerusalem. The series ends with John’s account of the dramatic raising of Lazarus from the dead which takes place very close to Jerusalem and is a dramatic indicator of Jesus’ power and identity as the Messiah.
The second part of Jesus in Bethany where he raised Lazarus from the dead - a messianic sign right near Jerusalem with a mixed reception.
Jesus' friend Lazarus was ill and then died. Martha and Mary had sent for Jesus but he did not arrive before he died. Jesus weeps for him.
Jesus teaches his disciples to be aware of not causing others to stumble, to use the little faith they have to move obstacles to the growth of the Kingdom and to be humble as servants of God.
The parable is directed at the Pharisees and links to the previous parable. It warns against letting wealth and possessions distract from following the Law of Moses and the Kingdom of God. There are two eternal destinies after life.
In this parable,The manager is shrewd because he looks to the future. He is also corrupt and loses his job. Jesus teaches about how to use finance and avoid materialism.
This is the third in the series of parables. The sinners, Jewish authorities and God, the Father are all present. These people are listening. God welcomes all who repent and there is joy.
The Parable of the Lost Sheep challenges the Pharisees judgemental attitude towards those who go astray. Jesus equates the joy of the woman who found the lost coin to God's rejoicing over a sinner who repents.
Jesus encourages his disciples to choose Jesus over relationships with other people, to face rejection because of the Gospel and to use their resources for the Kingdom. True disciples will influence their society.
At a meal in a Pharisee's house, Jesus told the challenging parable about the banquet. This was part of the Jewish expectations but Jesus encourages humility and hospitality.
In response to a question Jesus explains that people have to make a choice to believe and trust Jesus but that was not easy and not many would do so.