#disciplemaking
#adventcalendarday4
#willyoujoinme

Hi everyone, read chapter 4? (There’s so much in each chapter!!!)

Remember yesterday Luke was carefully explaining that (John wasn’t but) Jesus was the son of God. A very big claim – “prove it” you might well say. So in this chapter Luke begins to back his claims but the picture is not of some all-conquering, super-hero. For the rest of the book, the main questions should be along the lines, “What does the son of God actually look like?” (Ie if God came to earth what would he do and say?) and “How should I react and respond?” (How can I relate to Him?)

Is he (Jesus) seduced by self-interest, power or identity-confusion (the need to prove himself)? In his confrontation with the devil, Luke says “no”.

Does he mince his words or try to play to the crowd (win popularity)? In his time in the synagogue at Nazareth, Luke says “no”.

Will he be a man/God of his word? In the unfolding narrative, Luke says “yes” as Jesus quotes from the prophet Isaiah (Lk 4:18-19) then goes about driving out demons and healing people (setting the oppressed free).

• Is there something in your life that is oppressing you? Have you ever asked Jesus to set you free from it (or heal you)? Luke says, if you ask Jesus, he will do it.
• Noting Simon’s mother-in-law, is there some way of serving Jesus in response to what he’s done for you?