Word Online: Series 8 - Jesus in Judea: Recent Episodes
Word Online
Jesus now moves through Samaria to the southern part of Israel – to Judea. A significant group of followers travel with him. Luke and John provide us with the material for this series. The key factor is that Jesus appoints seventy-two disciples to travel around this part of the country bringing his message to as many people as possible. Meanwhile Jesus continues to teach, perform miracles and explain the nature of the life of discipleship.
When asked to make it clear that he is the Messiah, Jesus answers that he has already made it clear and his miracles proved it. It was their own unbelief that stopped them recognising it.
Once again Jesus heals on the Sabbath. He uses parables to teach that what seems a small event will have great meaning - just like the growth of the Kingdom.
Jesus acknowledges the fragility of life and explains the need to believe now. The parable seems to refer to 3 years of his ministry and the need for the nation of Israel to believe.
Jesus concludes the teaching in this chapter by making it clear people will be divided by belief in Him, or not. It will not be an easy life for Christians.
Jesus tells two parables to teach about discipleship. He shows the need to be watchful and faithful.
Jesus told a parable to teach the importance of investing in eternity and not to think we can determine our happiness through materialism.
Jesus prepares his disciples for the time of persecution that will be coming to them as leaders of the Church. He encourages them, and us, to think of life beyond the present - into eternity.
Jesus directly criticises the Jewish leaders for their love of money and social standing, for their legalism and leading the crowd astray.
Jesus repeats much of his teaching about dealing with evil and disbelief in this new context. There is no neutral ground: you are either for Jesus or against him.
A disciple asks Jesus to teach them to pray and he reiterates much of what he said on the Sermon on the Mount.
Mary chooses to establish her relationship with Jesus whereas Martha takes on herself the responsibility to cater for him and his disciples. Jesus commends Mary.
Jesus tells this parable in response to a trick question. He challenges the Jewish concept of loving fellow Jews as neighbours and encourages mercy for anyone who has need.
Jesus is seeking to reach more areas with his message of Good News so sends out more workers into the harvest. He rejoices to see the Father's work being accomplished.
Jesus uses an extended metaphor to contrast the 'shepherding' of the religious leaders at the time with himself. This is another I am saying and speaks of his identity.
Following his statement 'I am the Light of the World', he proves his identity as Messiah by bringing light to the blind man. This is a public event and causes more controversy.
The tension rises as Jesus debates with the Jewish leaders. He uses the symbol of light, connected to the Feast of Tabernacles, to teach more about his identity.
A woman is brought to Jesus by those trying to trick him into making a false move. He challenges the person without sin to throw the first stone and they leave. He shows grace by forgiving the woman but does not condone the sin.
Water used for ritual washing is part of the Feast of Tabernacles. Jesus refers to Holy Spirit as living water and speaks of spiritual thirst.
Jesus challenges the religious leaders about the Sabbath day and their attack on his character. He shows courage to face them and his brothers, who do not believe in him at this stage.