[Practical Application Review – Week 13]
Greetings,
Spending a little time in God’s Word can be so rewarding, especially if continued over time.
This week, we continue our journey in the book of Luke. I hope you are enjoying the program (and learning new things).
Schedule – Week 13:
Please read and/or listen to Luke 17, 18, 19, 20, 21
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 17
Passage: (vv. 11-19)
Teaching: Ten lepers wanted to be healed and approached Jesus. They were told to show themselves to the priests (for official release). Only one came back to thank Jesus for the healing (Samaritan).
Application: I enjoy the process of prayer, especially interceding for others. When I do receive my own healing, I realize that I must quickly thank God (not waiting until later and forget).
Text #2: Luke 18
Passage: (vv. 9-14)
Teaching: Two men went to the temple to pray. The Pharisee prayed about all the things he did (which seemed good to him). The tax collector asked God for mercy. Jesus said the tax collector went home more righteous (due to humility).
Application: Honestly, all that I have and do that seems good within me is the work of the Holy Spirit. I choose to remain humble, because without God I am truly nothing.
Text #3: Luke 19
Passage: (vv. 41-44)
Teaching: Jesus wept for Jerusalem, noting the people did not realize the time they were being visited by God.
Application: I want my loving God to always feel welcomed. There is perhaps nothing better for me than my Creator investing quality time with me (and all of His people).
Text #4: Luke 20
Passage: (vv. 20-26)
Teaching: Jesus was asked about whether it was lawful for Jewish people to pay head tax to Caesar. His reply was to give what belongs to Caesar to him, and also give God what is His.
Application: In my Christian experience, it has always been expected of believers to pay our taxes (to government), and tithes and offerings (to the local church). May we always be willing to give to support the infrastructure of both.
Text #5: Luke 21
Passage: (vv. 37-38)
Teaching: Jesus taught in the temple during the day and lodged in the mountain at night. The people often came ahead of Jesus to be sure to hear Him.
Application: Hopefully we Christians today have such a thirst for God’s Word. I enjoy reading and studying the Bible (especially the New Testament). What Jesus said and did is the model expected of His followers.
“Under the Shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91:1),
Shawn Episcopo