[Practical Application Review – Week 10]
Greetings,
I hope you are investing time in the Holy Bible each week. Every moment is well spent.
Can you believe that we have finished the book of Matthew and the book of Mark?
Schedule – Week 10:
Please read and/or listen to Luke 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Even though reading and listening to the Bible being read is valuable, our primary goal is learning to live the Bible (to the best of our ability).
For “every” chapter:
Step 1: Select a passage of interest
Step 2: Identify area of teaching
Step 3: Consider a practical application
Now let us explore an example (of our three-step process) for each of these five chapters…
Text #1: Luke 2
Passage: (vv. 36-38)
Teaching: Hannah, the prophetess, never left the temple and with fasting and prayer she worshipped God and spoke concerning the infant boy Jesus and salvation.
Application: The more time invested alone with God the higher our level of understanding. As I pray each day, I willfully choose to proactively set aside time to listen.
Text #2: Luke 3
Passage: (vv. 10-14)
Teaching: the people asked John the Baptist what they should do. They were instructed on practical things, including giving away their surplus to help those who were in need, and not to take advantage of others.
Application: The Christian life is one of community. I must always be mindful of those around me that are more needful of what I have just sitting in storage, and other things that I can live without.
Text #3: Luke 4
Passage: (vv. 24-27)
Teaching: Jesus pointed out that no prophet is acceptable in his own city. He offered examples of Elijah (with widow being fed) and Elisha (with leper being cleansed) as miracles taking place while prophet was away from home (town and people).
Application: I must accept that my greatest ministry will likely take place among those who know me the least (especially with those most open to whomever God chooses).
Text #4: Luke 5
Passage: (vv. 1-11)
Teaching: Jesus instructed Simon Peter to take the boat out further and cast the nets. Though unsuccessful earlier, Peter obeyed. The catch of fish was incredibly large and quite miraculous. Peter, James and John then left everything and followed Jesus.
Application: My best life will always be connected to my obedience to Jesus. I wish to do my very best now, with an awesome return (which can be shared with many others).
Text #5: Luke 6
Passage: (vv. 27-28)
Teaching: Jesus instructed to love your enemies and do good to those who hate you. Also bless those who curse you and pray for those who take advantage of you.
Application: I accept this challenge to share the love of God with those who may be in need of experiencing His love the most. May everyone who is connected to me discover the love of God.
“Under the Shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91:1),
Shawn Episcopo