LIFEFORTE INTERNATIONAL

HIGH SCHOOL
GOSPEL ACCORDING TO LUKE
 AUTHORSHIP OF LUKE

Luke the beloved physician was intimately associated with Paul. He is the
only writer in the New Testament who was a gentile and not Jew. Luke’s
work is seen in two volumes work. The other work is Acts of the Apostles.
The writer fundamental aims is historical i.e. he wanted to write history for
instance, Luke gospel focuses the story of Jesus from Galilee to Jerusalem
and to Roman world. Luke described Christianity as the general cause of
most of the world events in Roman empire that is why it focuses on the life
of the church from Jerusalem to Rome. Luke’s gospel focuses on the story of
Jesus from Galilee to Jerusalem.
The two volumes of work; Luke and Acts were dedicated to a gentile
Christian called Theophilus ; a Roman magistrate(god’s love, friend of God,
lover of God). And they were designed for the purpose of presenting to him
an accurate account of the early Christian movement. Luke presents the
narrative in writing on the basis of report given by the eye witnesses of the
event that were recorded.
 The Man Luke
Luke was a gentile. He was a gentile Christian and a physician. He was the most
educated evangelist among the writers of the gospel. Luke never married and he was
childless. Luke died at the age of 84. His birth place was unknown but the scholars are
of the opinion that he came from Syria Antioch. Luke died as a martyr under oak tree.

Personalities of the man Luke

1. He was the author of Luke’s gospel and Acts of Apostles.
2. He was a gentile Christian and a second generation Christian.
3. He was physician and a companion of Paul in his missionary journey.
4. He was the only educated gentile Christian writer in the New Testament.
5. He was a man from Syria Antioch i.e. his birth place.
6. He never married and was childless.
7. He had firsthand information about the life and ministry of Jesus.
8. He died at the age of 84yrs in Bithynia.
9. He was hung by his enemies under an Oak tree.
10. He wrote two volumes of work, Acts was the continuation of Luke.
11. He was a prolific writer and a reliable historian
 PURPOSE OF WRITING
1. To write an orderly account about the life of Jesus
2. As an apology
3. Historical purpose
4. A defense for Paul’s trial
 
 Purpose or Reason of writing
1. Luke tells us in his preface that he purposes “to write an orderly account” (Luke
1:1-4). Meaning some people has attempted to present the records about Jesus’ life
and ministry before him, but that accounts appear inadequate. This orderly account
was intended to enlighten Theophilus, an officer in the Roman government whom
the gospel was dedicated to and whose title was ‘your Excellency’.
2.An apology – Luke ‘s gospel was a defense for Christianity to the Roman rulers
who were hostile to the religion and the adherents. Luke wrote to the Roman
authority that Christianity was not a subversive and that it should be regarded as
religio licita (legal religion) which deserves some toleration as they gave to Judaism.
3. Historical purpose – Luke intended to write an orderly historical account of Jesus’
life, Christian faith and the life of Paul. In his attempt, he traces the story of Jesus
from Galilee to Jerusalem and to the Roman world. He went further to trace the
genealogy of Jesus from Adam: this is called historical motives. He relates
Christianity with the then world power, Roman Empire.
4. A defense for Paul’s trial- The second volume of Luke (Acts of Apostles) has this
element. The writer presented an orderly and detail account of Paul’s trail before
Festus, Felix, Agrippa, other Roman authorities and Jewish leaders. Luke wrote his
gospel as a defense for the trial of Paul.
  Date and Destination of Writing
On the place of composition and the recipients of the gospel,
opinions of people vary about the place of composition of
Luke gospel. Some Church Fathers believed that Luke wrote
while he was in Antioch. Other people concluded that it was
written from Caesarea.
The recipients of the gospel were the gentiles, non-Jews,
outcasts and the Samaritans who were considered as the
national outcasts with Judaism.
The date of writing of Luke’s gospel was suggested to be
between AD56-60.
Evaluation Questions on Authorship of
Luke,date,Purpose of writing and destination
Write four facts about the personalities of the author of the third
gospel
Write four purpose of write of the gospel of Luke
Why is Theophilus important to the gospel of Luke?
What is the date of writing of gospel according to Luke?
Theophilus can be said to be a faceless person/ without identity.
Discuss.
Luke gospel begins with annunciation of John’s birth. John the Baptist was a man sent
ANNUNCIATION I

by God to prepare the way ahead of Jesus Christ. In the time of Herod, king of Judea,
there was a priest named Zachariah who was serving with the division of Abijah in the
temple of Jerusalem. His wife was Elizabeth, the daughters (descendant) of Aaron. They
were childless because Elizabeth was barren.
One day, Zachariah was offering incense on the altar of the temple when his division
was on duty. The angle appeared on the right of the altar and told Zachariah not to be
afraid. The angle was Gabriel; he said to him God has answered your prayers to give you
child. He would have joy and gladness.
Many would rejoice at his birth for he will be great before the Lord. He shall drink no
wine nor will strong drink and he be filled with the Holy Spirit right from his mother’s
womb.
He would draw many of the sons of Israel to the Lord their God and will go before the
Lord in the spirit and power, to change the heart of the Fathers to the children and the
disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready to the Lord a people prepared.
Zachariah did not believed what the angle said he and his wife were of age, therefore the
angel said he would be silent (dumb) and unable to speak until the day that those things
came to pass, because he did not believed his word. Zachariah came out of the temple
could not speak to the people, because he was dumb. However, Elizabeth conceived, hid
herself for five months.
 The Birth of John the Baptist
 
When the time came for Elizabeth to deliver, she gave birth to a
son. Her neighbor and relatives heard that the Lord has been very
kind to her, there came the day for the baby to be named, they
would have named him Zachariah, but his mother said, “not so
he shall be called John” and they said to her “none of yours
kindred is called at that name”. They signs to his father asking
what he would have been called, then he asked for the written
tablets and wrote John. “His name his John” immediately his
mouth was opened and his tongue loose, and he began to praise
God. Then fear come on all their through and mountain, region
of Judea people thought about everything that had happened,
everyone heard about is asked “What does the future had for this
child”. It was clear that the Lord was with him.
 Evaluation questions on annunciation and the
birth of John the baptist
Write four facts about Zachariah
Explain how angel appear and deliver God’s message to
Zachariah
What was the reaction of Zachariah and what follows
Explain what happened on the eight day of John the Baptist
 ‘John the Baptist is Elijah to come’
To what extent do you agree? Show in your answer that you have
considered more than one point of view,
ANNUNCIATION II
THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST FORETOLD
In the 6th month of Elizabeth pregnancy angle Gabriel appeared to Mary in the
city of Galilee named Nazareth. The angel greeted her and said, “Hail the Lord
is with you. Mary worried by this and wondered what was happening but the
angel told her not to be afraid because she had found favor with God.
The angle said that Mary would conceive and bear a son and shall be called
Jesus. He would be great and be called the son of the most high. God will give
him David’s throne. He will reign over the Jews forever and there will be no
end to his kingdom.
Mary was greatly troubled and asked why and how it could be that she could
have a son less she has no husband. The angle replied “the Holy Spirit will
come upon you and the power of the most high will over shadow you”.
The angel also informed her that her relative (cousin) Elizabeth had conceived
a son and was in her sixth month though she had been thought to be too old to
have children. Mary replied calmly that she was a servant of God and she is
willing to be used by God.
Significance of Mary Reply to the Angel
Mary was a humble virgin who was very humble
enough to cooperate with the will of God.
It reflects her readiness and submission to God’s plan
for man’s salvation.
It teaches us that we should always receive God’s
message with a humble and simple heart.
It also shows that faith plays a vital role in obeying the
will of God.
Man should have faith always in God’s words.
 The Birth of Jesus – Luke 2:1-7)
In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus (the
emperor) that all the world should be enrolled. This was the first
enrolment when Quirinius was the governor of Syrian. All went
to be enrolled each to his own city. Joseph also went up from
Galilee from the city of Nazareth to Judea to the city of David,
which is called Bethlehem. Because he was of the house and
lineage of David, to be enrolled with Mary his betrothed who
was with child, while they were there, the time came for her to be
delivered and she gave birth to her first born, and wrapped him in
swaddling cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no
place for them in the inn
 The shepherds and the Angel – Luke 2:8-
17
There were shepherds in that region who were out in the field keeping watch over their
flocks by night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them and the glory shone around them
and they were filled with fear. The angel said to them, “ Be not afraid;for behold I bring
you people news of a Great Joy which will come to all the people; for to you is born this
day this in the city of David a saviour who is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you:
you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloth lying in a manger.” Suddenly, there
was with the Angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “glory to
God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.” When
the angles went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us
go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened which the Lord made known
to us”. They went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the
manger. When they saw it they made known the saying which had been told them
concerning this child; and all who heard it wondered at what the shepherd told them.
But Mary kept all these things, pondering them in her heart. The shepherds returned,
glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told to them.
On the eighth day, when the baby (Jesus) was circumcised he was called Jesus, the
name given by the angle before he conceived in the womb.
 Evaluation Questions
Give an account of the angel visit to Mary till the acceptance of
Mary
Explain the importance/ significance of the conception of Mary
without man
What is the significant of the angel announcing to the shepherd
first and the visit of the shepherd to baby Jesus?.
‘Angels are possible in our time’ To what extent do you agree?
Show in your answer that you have considered more than one
point of view.
PURIFICATION AND PRESENTATION OF
JESUS IN THE TEMPLE – LUKE 2:21-40
 On the eighth day, the child was circumcised and named Jesus. When the time for purification of Jesus
was due the child was taken to the temple in Jerusalem to be presented to the Lord as the first born (as it is
written in the law of Lord). “Every male that open the womb should be called holy to Lord.” and to offer a
sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the God, a pair of turtle dove, or two young pigeon.
 Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, this man was righteous and descent, looking
for the consolation of Israel and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy
Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord Christ.
Inspired by the spirit he came into the temple, and when the parent brought in the child Jesus to do for him
according to custom of the law, he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said, “Lord now let thy
servant depart in peace according to your word; for my eyes have seen they salvation which you have
presented in the presence of all people, a light for revelation to gentiles and for glory to your people Israel”.
His father and mother marveled at what said about him, Simon blessed them and said to Mary his mother,
“Behold, this child is set for the fall and raising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is spoken against (and
a sword will pierced through your soul also), that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed.”
There was a prophetess, Anna the daughter of Phanuel of the tribe of Asher, she was of a great age, having
lived with her husband for seven years from her virginity and was a widow till she was eighty-four. She did
not depart from the temple, worshipping with fasting and prayers night and day. She came up at that very
hour gave thanks to God and spoke of him to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem. After
performing the demands of the law, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth.
 Evaluation Questions
What is the difference between Presentation and Purification in
the temple?
Give account of presentation of baby Jesus in the Temple.
‘Purification is important than presentation’
To what extent do you agree? Show in your answer that you
have considered more than one point of view
 CHILDHOOD OF JESUS CHRIST –
Luke 2:41-52
 The parents of Jesus went to Jerusalem as their customs was every year at the
feast of the Passover. When Jesus was twelve years old they went up according
to custom; when the feast was ended as they were returning, the boy Jesus
stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents did not know it, but supposing him to
be in a company, they went a day’s journey and they sought him among their
kinsfolk and acquaintances. When they did not found him, they returned to
Jerusalem seeking him. After three days they found him in a temple, sitting
among the teachers listening to them and asking them questions. The,who
heard him were amazed at his understanding at his answers.
When his parents saw him they were astonished. His mother said to him, “son
why have you treated us so” “Behold your father and I have been looking for
you anxiously.” And he said “How is it that you sought me”. Did you not know
that I must be in my father’s house”. They did not understand the saying which
he spoke to them, so he went down with them and came to Nazareth; he was
obedient to them, his mother kept all these things in his heart. Jesus increased
in wisdom and in stature, in favor with God and man.
 BAPTISM OF JESUS - Luke 3:21-
22
 Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist at river Jordan “Now
when all the people were baptized, when Jesus also had been
baptized and was praying, the heaven was opened and the Holy
Spirit descended upon him in bodily form as a dove and a noise
came from heaven, “You are my beloved son: with whom I am
well pleased”.
Jesus went to John the Baptist not because he committed any
sin, but to fulfill all righteousness or to keep the law. This shows
that Jesus had a great respect for the law.
He went to John the Baptist to affirm the prophecy that John
was sent as a forerunner of Jesus Christ. He identified with his
as a fulfillment of this. Baptism marked the first public
confirmation of the messiahship of Jesus and sonship of Jesus.
 SIGNIFICACE OF JOHN THE BAPTIST
TO CHRISTIAN
. It identified the partakers with the dead and resurrection of
Jesus.
 It is a sacrament necessary for anybody before being a
member of the church.
 It shows the humility of Jesus that every Christian should
emulate.
 It depict forsaken a sinful life and being alive to new life.
 John the Baptist marks the end of the old prophet and the
beginning of New Testament.
 THE MINISTRY OF JOHN THE BAPTIST
AND JESUS’ BAPTISM
 

Significance of Jesus’ baptism

1. Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist to fulfill all righteousness
i.e. to fulfill the scriptures.
2. Shows Jesus’ respect for the customs and laws of his time i.e.
religious laws
3. Baptism of Jesus is the first public confirmation of his Sonship or
Messiahship.
4. It marks the beginning of Jesus’ earthly ministry.
5. It shows Jesus’ humility.
6. It is a sign of Jesus’ identification with the sinners he came to save.
7. It identifies Jesus with the ministry of John the Baptist, who was
his forerunner.
 Evaluation on Baptism
What is Baptism?
What are the significance of the baptism of Jesus Christ?
What did the baptism do to the person and minstry of Jesus?
‘John is superior to Jesus’ To what extent do you agree? Show in
your answer that you have considered more than one point of
view.
TEMPTATION OF JESUS CHRIST
– Luke 4:1-13
Jesus was full of the Holy Spirit and returned from the Jordan. He was led by
the spirit to the wilderness where he was tempted after three days of fasting by
the Devil. He ate nothing in these days; when then ended; he was hungry.
Devil said to him, “If you are the son of God, command this stone to become
bread”. Jesus answered him, “It is written man shall no live by bread alone”.
The devil took him up and showed him all the kingdom of the world in a
moment at that time and said to him, “To you will give all this authority and
the glory: for it has been delivered to me, I give to whom I will. If you, then,
will worship me, it shall be yours”. Jesus answered him, “It is written, you
shall worship the Lord your God and him alone shall you serve”.
The devil took him to Jerusalem and set him on a pinnacles of the temple and
said to him, “If you are the son of God, throw yourself down from here”, for it
is written, “He will give his angels charge over you, to guard you; and in their
hands they will bear you up lest you strike your foot against a stone”. Then,
Jesus answered him, “It is written, you shall not tempt the Lord your God”.
When the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from him until an
opportune time
 THE SIGNIFICANCE OF JESUS
TEMPTATION
 The first temptation to turn stone to bread was to make Jesus
economic Messiah, but Jesus does not come for our material
comfort but for our spiritual salvation
 The second temptation was to make Jesus a political Messiah,
and that was wrong for Jesus come to save us from our sins, so
that we might establish good relationship with God and our
neighbors.
 The third temptation was to make Jesus wonder-working or
miracle Messiah. This was wrong for Jesus came to win people
to himself by preaching / teaching for repentance.
 THE MINISTRY OF JESUS CHRIST:
DISCIPLESHIP
Discipleship simply means have a follower; so having followers
or making someone to be once disciple. Jesus in his earthly
ministry made some disciple or followers.
The Calling of the First Disciples – Luke
5:1-11
One day Jesus was standing by the Sea of Galilee called Gennesaret. The people
crowded around him as they listening to God’s word. Jesus saw two boats on the
shore, the fishermen has stepped out of it and were washing their nets. So Jesus got
into the boat that belong to Simon and asked him push off a little from the shore, then
Jesus sat down and taught the crowd from the boat. When he finished speaking, he
said Simon, “Take the boat into the deep, and lower your nets to catch some fishes.
Simon answered, “Teacher we worked hard all night and caught nothing.” But if you
say so, I’ll lower the nets” After the men had done this, they caught such a large
number of fish to the extent that their net became to tear. They signaled to their
partners in the other boats to come and help them, their partners came and filled both
boats; until the boats nearly sank. When Simon Peter saw this he knelt down in front
of Jesus and said, “Depart from me Lord for I am sinful person”. Simon and everyone
who was with him were amazed to see the large of fish they had caught. James and
John who were Zebedee sons were partners with Simon and were also amazed.
 Jesus said to Simon “Do not be afraid; henceforth you will be catching men”. When
they had brought out the boats to the land they left everything and followed him. In
other words, Simon (Peter), James and John (sons of Zebedee) were therefore, the first
disciples of Jesus according to Luke’s account.
 THE CALLING OF LEVI Luke 5: 27-28.
Thereafter, Jesus called a tax collector named Levi
Jesus later called other disciples. He went to a mountain to
pray .He spent the whole night in prayer and when it was
day, he called his disciples and chose from them twelve,
whom he called Apostles; Simon, whom he named Peter,
Andrew his brother, James and John the sons of Zebedee,
Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of
Alpheus, Simon who was called Zealot, Judas the son of
James, and Judas Iscariot. Luke 6:12-16
 DEMANDS OF DISCIPLESHIP
LUKE 9:57-62
 A man said to Jesus, “I will follow you wherever you go.” And
Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds have nests, but
the son of man has nowhere to lay his head.”
 To another he said, “Follow me,” But he said, Lord, let me first
go and bury me father” But he said to him. Leave the dead to
bury their own dead; but as for you go and proclaim the
kingdom of God”
 Another said, I will follow you, Lord; but let me first say
farewell to those at my home.” Jesus said to him, No one who
puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom
of God.
 COST OF THE BEING A DISCIPLE:
LUKE 14:25-33
Being a disciple or follower entails some sacrifices, devotion and commitments.
Anyone who wishes to be a disciple must be ready to leave/abandon what he/she has
to follow the master. Loyalty, Honesty, Endurance, Adaptation, Self – denial, Humility
and others are required from anyone who intends to be a follower/ a disciple.
“If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and
children and brother and sister, yes and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple.”
Whoever does not bear his cross and come after me, cannot be my disciple.
“For which of you desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost,
whether he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and
is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, ‘This man began to
build and was not able to finish.’”
“Or, a king going to encounter another king in a war, will not sit down first and take
counsel whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him who comes against him with
twenty thousand? If not, while the other is yet a great way off, he sends an embassy
and ask terms of peace. Whoever of you does not renounce all that he has cannot be
my disciple.”
 HISTORY OF HEROD
Herod,the Great was the father of all Herod. He was a
Jews by religion and never by birth. He was an Edomite
( Idumean) by nationality.His father was Antipater who
was appointed a procurator in Judea by the Roman
Emperor,Julius Caesar. His father appointed him a military
prefect of Galilee who later was given the title “ king of
the Jews” by the Roman senate owning to his military
prowess. He murdered his beloved wife Mariamme, her
grandfather Hyrcanus and her brother Aristobulus. There
were other Herods who came from the dynasty of Herod,
the Great. Many of which were his son, grandsons and
great grandsons. Such were; Archelaus, Herod Tetrarch,
Herod Philip, Herod Antipas, Agrippa 1 and 2, e.t.c.
JEWISH RELIGIOUS SECTS
The Jewish religious sects were otherwise called the
“sectarian groups” among them. They were the religious
leaders who were partly in support or against the Roman
government. Many of them were constantly on opposition
to Jesus in his ministry. Prominent among the sectarian
groups were: The Pharisees, Sadducees, Scribes and
Herodians.
They were held in great honour by the Jews because some
of them were the representatives of the Roman
government. Quite a number of them were opposed to the
Roman government because of their strict observance of
mosaic laws, customs and traditions
THE PHARISEES

The Pharisees were a great movement in Judaism which was not without effect on the
diffusion of Christianity. The origin is traced down to a group called the “ Hasidean”
( meaning God’s loyal ones) led by the Hasmoneans priest kings.
They were the movement of lay men, most of whom were merchants, who took seriously
the obligation laid upon Israel to be a holy nation before God. They insisted on the
absolute unity, holiness of God and the election of Israel to conform to God’s image
through obedience to His laws. They were the custodians of the laws.
Their strict separation from defilement and especially from contact with ‘sinner’ made
them to be religiously sanctimonious. They cut themselves off from social contact with
those who took their religion less serious.
They gave full authority to the scripture and oral tradition. They emphasized on law above
love and mercy. They carried out many laws out of the then existing laws. They fasted
twice in a week and fasted for people to know that they were fasting. They prayed at every
hour of prayer with all seriousness. They stood on the street corners praying for people to
see them. They stood up to pray in the synagogue for recognition. All these later became a
show off to the extent that they were seen as hypocrites because they enforced religious
laws and traditions on people which themselves broke on several occasions.
BELIEFS OF PHARISEES

1. They believed in the immortality of the soul (of men)

2. They believed in Resurrection of the dead.
3. They believed in retribution in after-life
4. They believed in the existence of spirit (angels and
demons)
5. They believed in predestination (fate)
The Pharisees were found in most cases defend the
interests of town – men, especially at Jerusalem. They
were often in the synagogues. They were receptive to new
ideas and as a result were progressive. They were members
of Sanhedrin.
 THE SADDUCEES

The Sadducees were the wealthy aristocratic class who controlled the
office of the High Priest. They believed in free will and rejected the
traditional interpretation of the Mosaic Law, they rejected the belief in
resurrection, future rewards and punishment, also rejected the belief in
the existence of angels, demons and spirits.
They enjoyed external relations and supported the ruling authorities e.g.
the Roman government and the Greeks. They compromised with their
pagan neighbours. They were disloyal to the Torah; which they professed
to follow to the letter. They were regarded as traitors to the tradition of
their fathers and the law. In policy, the Sadducees were conservatives.
They were offended by Jesus’ purification of the Temple and his teaching
about the Resurrection of the dead. In retaliation, they master- minded the
arrest and the crucifixion of Christ. The Sadducees were politically and
materially minded than religious. They were majority in the Sanhedrin
 THE SCRIBES
The scribes were lawyers, teachers of the law and experts in
the Law of Moses. At first, this duty belonged to the priests.
Ezra was their spiritual founder; he was both a priest and
scribe. The scribes had the three- fold functions among the
Jews. Those were teaching, preserving and administering the
law. They were of great importance to the Jewish nation.
After the return from exile, when there was no prophecy, it
was from the scribes that people sought guidance. The scribes
and the Pharisees were often confused for each other in the
Gospel records but in actual fact, they were different. Some
of them were members of Sanhedrin.
 HERODIANS
The Herodians were a Jewish party who favoured the dynasty
of Herod. The Herodians were not a religious sect like the
Sadducees, nor an organized social group like the Pharisees.
They were the errand boys for the Herods. Although, some
influential Jews for selfish gain gathered round Herod to
promote his dynasty, majority of the people detested him.
  
MIRACLES

A miracle is a supernatural event that happened contrary to the

observed process of nature. It demonstrates the power of God
over the world he has created. The miracles of Jesus are divided
into three groups
Nature miracles
Healing miracles
Raising the death
There is an addition called exorcism
 Nature Miracle
The Stilling of the Storm (The Calming of the Storm) –
Luke 8:22-25
One day, Jesus and the disciples entered a boat to the other
side of the lake. When they were in the middle of the sea a
great storm arose, wave tossed the boat. Water was pouring
into it and was about sinking. Meanwhile, Jesus was at the
back of the boat sleeping. The disciples woke him up and
asked him. If he did care of them being perished, Jesus
ordered the wave to stop and it stopped immediately and the
sea became calm. He asked the disciples why they were
frightened. He added that they were men of little faith. The
disciples were supposed to ask themselves what manner of
man Jesus was that the wind and sea obeyed him.
 Feeding of Five Thousands – Luke 9:10-17
Jesus with his disciples withdrew apart to a city called Bethsaida.
When the crowd learnt it, they follow him, he welcome them and
spoke to them about the kingdom of God and cured those who had
need of healing.
When it was in the evening, the disciples called him to send the people
away so that they could go and buy food to eat in the near cities. But
Jesus told the disciples to feed them. The disciple told Jesus that they
would need to go and buy food for all the people because they had five
loafs of bread and two fish for they were about five thousand men.
However, Jesus ordered his disciples to make the people to sit down in
companies (groups) of fifty each. After blessing the five bread and
two fish, he broke them into pieces and asked his disciples to distribute
them to the people. After they had all eaten, they had left over twelve
baskets full.
 The Healing Miracles
Jesus performed the healings on ailment and diseases on many
occasions during his earthly ministry, example are: the healing of
a leper, the healing of Peters mother-in-law, the healing of the
paralytic, the healing of the centurions servant, Gesarane
Demoniac, women with hemorrhage, blind beggar, ten lepers.
 Healing of a Leper – Luke 5:12-16
 

A leper came to Jesus knelt down, begged him and said if only
Jesus wanted be could made him whole or clean. Jesus ordered
him to tell no one but should go straight to the priest and offer for
his cleansing in line with what Moses command as a proof to the
people. Jesus gave him this order because it was only a priest
who has the authority to declare a person clean or not clean.
 
Significance of Jesus Justification
Tell no one: Jesus kept his messiahship secret. It was yet too
early to expose himself.
His teaching was more important than his miracles.
 The Healing of Peter Mother-in-Law
Luke 4:38-41
Jesus left the synagogue and came to the house Simon Peter
mother-in-law whom was ill with a high fever and they be sought
him for her. Jesus stood over her and rebuked the fever and it left
her immediately she rose up and served them.
 When the sun was setting all those who had any with various
diseases brought them to him and he laid hands on them and
healed them. Demons also came out as many crying “you are the
son of God”, but He rebuked them and didn’t allow them to
speak because they knew that He was the Christ.
 The Healing of the Paralytic (Luke 5: 17-
26)
When Jesus was teaching in one of the days the Pharisees and teachers of
the law were sitting to listen to him. Some men brought a man on a bed that
was paralyzed and they sought to bring him in and lay him before Jesus.
They found no way to bring him because of the crowd. They went up on the
roof and let him down with his bed, through the tiles into the midst before
Jesus. When Jesus saw this faith, he said, “Man your sins are forgiven”. The
Sadducees and the Pharisees began to question saying, “Who is this that
speaks blasphemy? Who can forgive sins but God only?” Jesus perceived
their questions and answered them, which is easier to say “Your sins are
forgiven or to say rise and walk. Jesus made this statement to make them
knows that the son of man has the authority on earth to forgive sins, that is
why he said to paralytic (paralised man)” I say to you rise take up your bed
and go home.” The man rose up and went home glorifying God. They were
amazed and filled with awe, saying, “We have seen strange thing today”
  
Healing of Centurion’s Servant ( Luke 7:1-14)

When a Centurion whose servant was sick heard that Jesus was in Capernaum he sent some Jewish elders
to him with the request that he should come and save his servant’s life. When the elders came to Jesus they
then urged him strongly to grant the request because the centurion loved their nation and has built
Synagogue for them.
Jesus went with them but as he was approaching the house, the Centurion sent some of his friends with
the message that Jesus was too important to come to his house and that he did not think himself fit to come
to Jesus in person. He added that if Jesus would give the order , his servant would be well. He said that he
believed in this because he himself worked under order and had solders under him, if he said go to one he
would go and come to another he would come and if he said to his servant to do any job he would do it.
This word so amazed Jesus that he said to the crowed that were following him that he had not found a
faith like that anywhere including Israel. When those who were sent by the Centurion returned to the house
they found the servant was perfectly well

.
Qualities Displayed by the Centurion
. Acceptance of Jesus authority
Humility
Faith
Sympathy
 Healing of the woman with Hemorrhage
Luke 8: 40-48
When Jesus was passing, the people pressed round him. A
woman who had a flow of blood for twelve years and could not
be healed by any one came up behind him and touched the
fringe of his garment and immediately her flow of blood ceased.
Jesus said, “Who was it that touched me?” When all denied it,
Peter said, “Master, the multitudes surround around you and
press upon you!” But Jesus said, “ someone touched me: for I
perceive that power has gone forth from me.” When the woman
saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling and falling
down before him declared in the presence of all the people why
she had touched him, and now she had been immediately
healed. Jesus said to her,” Daughter, your faith has made you
well; go in peace.”
Healing of the blind beggar Luke 18: 35-
43
When Jesus came Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the road
side begging, and hearing a multitude going by, he inquired
what this meant. They told him,’ Jesus of Nazareth is passing
by.” And he cried, ‘Jesus, son of David, have mercy on me!”
Those that were in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent;
but he cried out all the more,” Son of David have mercy on
me.” Jesus stopped and commanded him to be brought to him,
and when he came near, he asked him,” What do you want me
to do for you?” He said, Lord, let me receive my sight.” Jesus
said to him,” Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.”
Immediately he received his sight and followed him, glorifying
God. All the people that were there saw it and gave praise to
God.
 Healing of ten lepers Luke 17: 11-19
On Jesus’ way to Jerusalem he was passing Samaria and Galilee,
as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a
distance and lifted up their voices and said, “Master, have mercy
on us.” When he saw them he said, “Go and show yourself to the
priests,” As they went, they were cleansed. Then one of them he
saw that he was healed turned back, praising God with a loud
voice and he fell on His face at Jesus’ feet, giving him thanks.
Now, the one came back was a Samaritan. Then Jesus said,
“Were not ten lepers cleansed, where are the nine? There was no
one found return and give praise to God except this foreigner?
Jesus said to him, “Rise and go your way your faith has made
you well.”
 The Raising of dead
The Raising of the widow of Nain’s son Luke 7: 11-27
Jesus and his disciples went to the city of Nain. As He drew
near to the gate of the city, a young man who had died was
being carried out, the only son of his mother and she was a
widow. When Jesus saw her, he had compassion on her and
said to her,” Do not weep.” He came and touched the brier
and the brier stood still. Jesus said, “Young man, I say to you,
arise.” The dead young man sat up and began to speak. Jesus
gave him to his mother , the people around were amazed and
they glorified God saying, “A great prophet has arisen among
us,.” And they said , “God has visited his people.” The news
spread throughout Judea.
 Raising of Jairus daughter Luke 40-48,
49-56
A ruler of the synagogue named Jairus fell at Jesus’ feet and
begged him to come to his house for he had a daughter about twelve
years of age, who was dying. While he was still speaking, a man
from the ruler’s house came and said,” Your daughter is dead; do
not trouble the teacher anymore.” Jesus heard this and answered,
“Do not fear; only believe and she shall be well.” When he came to
the house, he permitted no one to enter with him except Peter, John
and James and the father and mother of the child. They were all
weeping and bewailing her, but he said, “Do not weep, for she is not
dead bur sleeping.” They laughed at him knowing that she was
dead. Jesus took her by the hand and called saying, “Child arises.”
Her spirit returned and she got up at once and Jesus directed that
something should be given to eat. Her parents were amazed but he
charged them to tell no one what had happened.
 
Exorcism
The Healing of the Gerasene Demoniac (Luke 8: 26-39)
Jesus and his disciples came to the country of the Gerasene. A wild demoniac living
among the tombs knelt down before him. He called Jesus the son of the most High God,
pleading at the same time that he should not torture him.
When Jesus asked him what his name was, he said he was Legion. This means, there were
many of them in him. Jesus ordered the evil spirit to come out of the man. The evil spirit in
the man begged Jesus not to send them out of the country but should allow them to enter the
pigs that were grazing at the other side of the sea. Jesus granted their request. Thus, they
came out of the man and went in to the pigs. The whole herd of about two thousand
stampeded steep bank into the lake and were drowned. The herd men ran to the town and
spread the news. When the people from he town came and saw that the demoniac was
perfect, same, they became afraid. Thus they asked Jesus to leave their country. As Jesus was
leaving, the ex- demoniac pleaded to follow Jesus. But Jesus refused and told him to go to
his people and tell them what the Lord had done for him and how kind he had been to him.
SIGNIFICANCE
1. Jesus’ divinity was recognized by demons.
2. Jesus has authority over demons.
3. Jesus messiahship proclamation was manifessed.
Evaluation on Miracles
What is miracle?
Explain what each of the miracles treated could teach
about person of Jesus and his ministry.
‘Miracles are not possible in our modern day’ To what
extent do you agree? Show in your answer that you
have considered more than one point of view.
On what reasons would you suggest that Jesus might
have performed his miracles?
Parable
A parable isof Jesusstory with a heavenly meaning.
an earthily
Something on earth is compared with something in Heaven so
that the heavenly truth may be better understood in the light of
earthily illustration. Jesus taught in parables so that people could
understand him. He used the things on earth to explain the
heavenly things. The parables of Jesus are divided into four:

Parables of the kingdom

Parables illustrating God’s love
Parables illustrating concern for one and another
Parables illustrating attitude of men towards wealth.
  
(1) Parable of the Kingdom

The Mustard Seed – Luke 13:18-21

The parable of the mustard seed compares the kingdom of God to
the smallest of all seeds on earth which become the greatest of all
shrubs. From the smallest to the greatest emphasizes the great
growth resulting from small beginning. The listeners of Jesus
understood the parable as telling how by miraculous power from
the insignificant from the poor little bond of Jesus disciples God
was causing his kingdom to grow.
 (2) Parables Illustrating God’s Love

(a) The Lost Sheep – Luke 15:4-7

A man has a hundred sheep, and one of the wanders away. He
leaves the ninety nine and on the hills to go and look for the one
that has wandered off. When he found it he is happier about one
sheep than ninety-nine that do not wander off.
In the same way God our heavenly father is not willing that
anyone should be lost.
 
 (b) The Lost Coin – Luke 15:8-10

As tax collectors and sinners gathered around Jesus, the

Pharisees and Sadducees murmured against him. Jesus receives
sinners and eat with them. He told them a parable of a woman
having silver coins, “If she loses one coin does she not light a
lamp and find it?” And when she has found it she calls together
her friends and neighbours saying, “Rejoice with me for I have
found the coin which I had lost. In the same way there will be
more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents.
 (c) The prodigal son (Luke 15: 11- 32)
 

A man had two sons; the younger son asked the father one day to give him his own share of the property
and was given. Not long after that the younger son got together all he had and went away to a distant
country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. After he had spent everything there was a severe
famine in that country and he began to be in need. So, he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that
country who sent him to his field to feed swine which is one of the ultimate indignities for a Jew. He
would have glad feed on the pods that the swine ate but no one gave it to him.
However, when he came to his senses and decided to go to his father. While he was at a distance, his father
saw him and had compassion on him. He ran and met him and embraced him and kissed him. This son
said to his father in genuine penitence, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no
longer worthy to be your son.” The father called his servants and told them to bring quickly the best robe
and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet; and bring the fattened calf and kill it,
and let us eat and make merry, for this son of mine has lost, and is found.” (They began to make merry
(The best robe, ring, sandal and feast each was a sign of position and acceptance)
When these were going on, the elder brother came from the field. He came and drew near to the house. He
heard the sound of music and dancing. The servant told him that his younger brother had come and his
father has killed the fatten calf because he has received him safe and sound. The older brother was angry
and refused to go in. (The forgiving love of the father symbolizes the divine mercy of God and the older
brother’s refusal to go in is like the attitude of the Pharisees and the Scribes who opposed Jesus) The older
brother was angry with his father because he has served and obeyed his father many years but he has not
made a merry for him. The father said to his older son, “ Son, you are always with me and all that is mine
is yours” (It shows a contrast between the self centered exclusiveness of the Pharisees who failed to
understand God’s love, mercy and joy of God at the repentance of a sinner.
 (3) Parable Illustrating Concern for One Another

1. The parable of Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37)

A Jewish teacher, who was also a lawyer came to Jesus and asked him what he must do to inherit eternal life.
Jesus answered by asking him what was written in the law. The lawyer answered Jesus quoting Deuteronomy 6
and Leviticus 19:18 which says, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your strength and with all your mind and
your neighbour as yourself.” Jesus asked he lawyer to go and do the same. But because he desired to justify
himself, he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” In response to this question, Jesus told him the parable of
the Good Samaritan.
A man was going from Jerusalem, the holy city to Jericho. As the man was travelling he fell into the hands of
robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him, and went away leaving him half dead. By chance a priest
was travelling down the road. When he saw the man attacked by the robbers, he passed by on the other side.
Also, a Levite when he came saw him and passed by on the other side.
But a Samaritan as he travelled came where the man was; and when he saw him he took pity on him. He
stopped, bandaged his wounds pouring oil and wine. Jesus did not praise neither the Priest nor the Levite
(religious leader), because they refused to show love to the man wounded by the robbers, but he praised the
Samaritan, a foreigner. Samaritan and Jew practice open hatred but Jesus confirmed the fact that love knows no
national boundaries.
The Good Samaritan after treating the wounded man that he did not know put the man on his own donkey,
took him to an inn and took care of him. The next day, he took out two silver coins and gave them to the inn-
keeper and told him to look after the man and when he returned, he would pay back any other expenses on the
man.
After telling the parable, Jesus asked the lawyer which of the three men he thought was a neighbour to the
man who fell into the hand of robbers. The lawyer replied that it was the man who had mercy on him. Jesus told
him to go and do likewise.
The significant of Good Samaritan parable
 (4) Parable illustrating our attitude
toward wealth
The rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31)
The rich man lived in luxury every day. He was dressed in purple, this is characteristic of costly
dresses. At the gate of the rich man was a poor man named Lazarus who was covered with sores. He
always longed to eat what fell from the rich man’s table. Even the dogs came and liked his sores.
Later, the poor man died and the angel carried him to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man died but
went to hell, being in torment. He lifted up his eyes and saw far off. The rich man saw Lazarus in
Abraham’s bosom and shouted,” Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of
his finger into water and cool my tongue because I am in agony in the fire.” Abraham replied,“
Remember that you in your life time received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner evil things,
but mow he is comforted here and you are in anguish. And besides all this between us and you a great
chasm has been fixed so that those who want to go from here to you cannot nor can anyone cross over
from there to us.

The rich man then begged father Abraham to send Lazarus to his father’s house on earth to because
he had five brothers on earth on earth to be warned so that they would not come to Hades, the place of
torment. Abraham replied that his five brothers had Moses and the Prophets; his five brothers should
listen to them. Moses and the Prophets are the way of designing the whole Old Testament. The rich
man said ‘No’ to father Abraham, but that if someone would go from the dead to them, they would
repent. Father Abraham told him that if they did not listen to Moses and the Prophets they would not
be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.
 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE PARABLES
. The Rich man and Lazarus
1. One who is wealthy here on earth way be poor in heaven.
2. No condition is permanent.
3. We should always remember the poor in our midst.

C. The Lost Sheep and Coin/ Prodigal son

1. God loves every one and cares for anyone who knows Him and does
His will.
2. God is not willing/interested that any of His children should be lost.
3. Our heavenly God is capable of doing anything to ensure that His lost
son is found.
4. Our heavenly father is kind and merciful to receive back any repentant
sinner.
Evaluation of parables
What is parable?
‘Parables were obviously the best way for Jesus to get
his massage across’ To what extent do you agree?
Show in your answer that you have considered more
than one point of view.
Explain what Jesus may want to teach by each parable
 Criticism against Jesus
Jesus was born and bred a Jew. His parents were Jews and lived among the Jews. Jesus started his early ministry in
the land of the Jews. He was a leader of a group of disciples outside the religion of the Jews (Judaism). This group
was first known as Nazarene, i.e the followers of a man of Nazareth (Jesus of Nazareth) which later became
Christians
The Jews and their religious leaders were often in opposition against Jesus simply because they saw the movement
that was led by him as another way of life outside their own religion (Judaism). The experts of the law of Moses
(Scribes, Pharisees, Sadducees and others) featured most in criticism against Jesus. This was because most of the
teaching of Jesus contradicted theirs. The miracles of Jesus often arises criticism and opposition.
Experts of the Law of Moses felt offended and uncomfortable whenever Jesus equated or compared himself with
God. Jesus’ teachings were authoritative to the Scribes and Pharisees as a result they always found a way of
criticizing Jesus. The experts of the Mosaic laws lacked the understanding of Jesus’ mission, ministry and
teachings. That was why they were always in constant opposition with him. For instance:
Jesus was accused for dishonouring God, equating himself with God and possession power to forgive sin., when
he healed the paralyzed man in Luke 5:20-21.
He was also criticized by the Scribes and Pharisees when he healed a man whose right hand was paralyzed on
the Sabbath day in Luke 6:6-11.
He was accused using Beelzebub to cast out demons by the Scribe and Pharisees in Luke 11:14-26.
Jesus was opposed by the experts of the law and the Jews when they rejected him in his own town, Nazareth –
Luke 4:14-30.
The more the scribes, Pharisees and high priest criticized him, the more miraculous the ministry of Jesus was.
Though their criticism and opposition led to the arrest, kill and crucifixion of Jesus, it also led to the popularity of
Jesus during His three and half years of His ministry within the Jews.
 
Lessons from the criticism of Jesus

There is no man that can succeed in his Endeavour

without criticism and opposition. Therefore we should
not avoid criticism.
We should not see anyone opposing or criticizing our
ideas as enemies, instead they are instruments to
greater achievements.
Opposition or criticism may claim valuable thing from
us therefore we should be ready to make sacrifices
Evaluation questions
Highlight four religious sects among the Jews and
briefly write on two of them.
Write on Sadducees and their characteristics
Write Pharisees and their characteristics
Who are the Herodians?
 JESUS TEACHINGS I
Sermon on the Plain – Luke 16:17-49
Jesus sat on the plain and a great crowd of the disciples and great
multitudes of people from Judea, Jerusalem, sea coast of Tyre and
Sidon came to hear him and to be healed of their disease. He light
up his eyes on the disciples and taught them the following:
(i) Beatitude – Luke 6:17-23
(a) Blessed are the poor, for there is the kingdom of God
(b) Blessed are they that hunger, for they shall be satisfied
(c) Blessed are those that weep now, for they shall laugh.
(d) Blessed are you when hate you, when they outlaw you and
insult you, and ban your very name as infamous, because of the
Son of man. Rejoice in that day and live for joy. for behold, your
reward is great in heaven, for so their father did to the Prophets.
 (ii) Woe be tide – Luke 6:24-26
Woe to them that are rich for they have received their consolation.
Woe to those that are full now, for they shall be hungry.
Woe to those that laugh now, for they shall morn and weep.
Woe to you when men speak well of you, for so thus father did to the
false prophets.
 
(iii) Love- Luke 6: 27-36
Jesus taught that we should love our enemies and do good to those who
hate us. We should bless those that curse us and pray for those who
abuse us. To whom who strikes us on the right check, we should offer
the other also and from him who takes away our coat we should not
withhold even our shirts. We should give everyone who begs from us
and of him who takes away our goods we shouldn’t ask them again. As
we wish men to do to us , so we should do so to them. Vs 32-36
emphasis what should be our attitude in doing good and showing mercy.
  
(iv) Forgiveness – Luke 6:37b
Jesus taught his disciples and the people that came to hear the word of God from him the
essence of forgiving for another. “Forgive and you will be forgiven.” This suggests that
anyone who fails to forgive his brothers will not be forgiven by God. The implication of this
teaching is that followers of Christ should be ready to forgive anyone irrespective of the
gravity of offence . The consequence of inability to forgive others is that the mercy of God
will be taken away from such a fellow.
 
 
(v) Obedience to the Word of God – Luke 6:43-69
Jesus taught his disciples about the importance of obeying his words. He emphasize that he
has pleasure in the doers than that hearers of his word. He said “why do you call me Lord,
Lord and do not what I tell you? Everyone who comes to me and hears my word and does
them. I will show you what he is like, he like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid
the foundation upon rock. and when a flood arose, the storm broke against that house and
could not shake it because it had been well built. But he who hears and does not do them is
like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation against which the stream
broke, and immediately it fell, and the ruin of that house was great.
 The implication of this teaching is that the doers of the word of God are more honourable
and reckoned with by God than those who hears or speak the word but do not practice it.
 (vi) Doing Good (Goodness) Luke 6: 43- 45)
Jesus taught on the difference between a good man and an evil man. To good fruit bears a bad
fruit, now again does a bad fruit bears a good fruit.” For no good tree bears bad fruit, nor
again does a bad tree bear good fruit, for each tree is known by its own fruit. For figs are not
gathered for thorns, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush. The good man out of the good
treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil man out of his evil treasure produces evil; for
out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.
 
(vii) Anxiety – Luke 12:22-31
One day, Jesus said to his disciple, “Therefore I tell you do not be anxious about your life,
what you shall eat nor about your body what you shall put on”. He further continued; “For life
is more than food and the body more than clothing.” He spoke about God fed the ravens
without their striving to survive. Jesus said. “if God feeds the ravens, of how much more
valuable is man than birds.” He also talked about plants (Lilies) that they neither struggle to
grow, but were beautified by God how much more men that are valuable than plant. He taught
that by being anxious, no man could achieve or become anything in life. It is unbelief or lack
of faith or little faith that gives way to anxiety.. Jesus therefore warns his disciples against it
( viii) Prayer – Luke 11:1-12
Jesus was praying in certain place and when he ceased one of his disciple said to him, “Lord teach us how to
pray as John taught his disciples”. He said to them, “When you pray, say: “Father hallow be thy
name
Thy kingdom come
Give us each day our daily bread;
Forgive us our sins as we forgive others that sinned against us;
Lead us not into temptation.”
The prototypic of this prayer reads thus:
Our Father who hath in heaven hallowed be thy name,
Thy kingdom come,
They will be done on earth, as its in heaven
Give us this day and daily bread,
Forgive us who trespass as thy forgive those who trespass against us,
Lead us not into temptation”
( Proto type)
Jesus taught his disciples to cultivate the habit of first thanking/hallowing God in their prayers. Followed by
requesting is sovereign rule to descend on earth. He further told them to ask for provision on daily basis. He
taught that they must forgive anyone who offend them if only they want God to forgive their sins. Jesus
taught them to pray against temptation because it is not a sin to be tempted but to fall into temptation
 (ix) The Kingdom of God Luke 9:46-48
 
A discussion started among the disciples about who is the greatest. Jesus
knew what they were thinking. So he took little child and had him stand
beside him. Then he said to them. “Whoever receives this little child in
my name receives me. Whoever receives me receives he one who send m;
the one who its least among of you is the one who is the greatest.”
Jesus wanted his disciples to have the understanding about the positions of
honour in the kingdom of God. He meant service to other people qualifies
one to be the greatest. He meant serving others disciple and not being
boss or master over them. He use d an example of a little child to teach
them the lesson of humility, i.e. to be the servant in our service to others.
The implication of this teaching is that followers of Jesus should not covet
position of honour, instead they should clothe themselves with a garment
of humility. This is because the kingdom of God is for the humble.
Evaluation Question
Give an account of Jesus’ teachings on sermon on the
mount about;
Fasting
Prayer
Beatitudes and Woe-be- tides
 The Mission of the Disciples
The mission of twelve – Luke 9:1-6.
 Jesus called twelve disciples together. He gave them power to
cure diseases and authority to preach the kingdom of God,
control over demons and to heal. He charged them to take
nothing for their journey( vs 3): ------no staff, no bag, no bread,
no money, no extra tunic. They were to be entirely dependent on
the people with whom they stayed. They were to use only one
house as headquarters while preaching in the community. Any
place or house that refuses them they should shake off the dust of
their feet against it. That is a sign of their refusal or their
rejection of Gods message and a gesture showing their separation
from everything associated with that place. So the twelve went
from village to village preaching the gospel and healing people
everywhere.
 The Mission of the Seventy Luke 10:1-24
Jesus appointed seventy others and sent them ahead of him two by two, into every town and
place where he Himself was about to go. The mission of the seventy signifies the mission to
the gentiles. The instruction given to the seventy by Jesus is this; they were to “carry no purse,
no bag, and no sandals and salute no one on the road”. When they enter any house, they must
first greet him, “peace be to this house”, if a son of peace was there, their peace will rest upon
them, if not it shall return to them. They must remain in the same house eating and drinking
what was provided for them,” for the labourer deserves his wages”. They were not to go from
house to house. When they enter a town and they accept them, they were to eat whatever was
set before them, they were to heal the sick in it and tell them “the kingdom of God has come
near to you”.
Whenever they enter a town and they are not received they should go into its streets and say,
“even the dust of your town that clings to our feet we wipe off against you, Yet be sure of this;
the kingdom of God has come near”. Jesus said that it shall be more tolerance on the judgment
day for Sodom than to that town that rejected Jesus and his disciple’s message.
Jesus pronounces woe on CHORAZIN and BETHSAIDA because they rejected his words and
works. “If the mighty works that had been done in the Chorazin and Bethsaida has been done
in Tyre and Sidon, they would repent long ago sitting in sackcloth and ashes”. It will be more
tolerable for Tyre and Sidon on the judgment day than for those two cities. Tyre and Sidon
referred to by Jesus were Gentile cities in Phoenicia province. So the seventy went as
instructed by Jesus and came back with a report.
 The Report of the Seventy
The seventy returned with joy saying “Lord, even the demons are subjected to us in your
name”. Jesus himself told them that he saw Satan falling like lighting from heaven”. The
demons were driven out by the disciples, which meant that Satan was suffering defeated.
Jesus further told them that he had gave them authority to tread on serpent and given them
authority to hold serpent and scorpion and over all the power of the enemy and nothing
shall hurt them.
Jesus warned his disciples not to rejoice in this that the spirits are subjected to them but they
should rejoice in the fact that their names were written in heaven. This means that man’s
salvation is more important than power to overcome the evil one or escape his harm.
 
Significance of the Reports of the Seventy
(1) Many Christian preachers cannot carry evangelistic work unless they are equipped with
worldly gadgets.
(2) Because of the emergence of mystical forces these days, one may not be able to
ascertain the genuine healing or miracle that has taken place through the power of God.
(3) Some pastors and Christian who have the gifts of healing demand for money thereby
abusing the gift of God.
(4) Preachers of the gospel should not rejoice in the wonders or miracles performed but
rejoice in their salvation and inheritance in the kingdom of God.
 THE THEME UNIVERSALITY OF THE GOSPEL
OF LUKE AND PROMINENCE GIVEN TO WOMEN
The term Universality of the gospel of Luke means: the gospel is open to all men. It is for the
generality of people. Salvation is open to all race regardless of their race, tribe colour and
status
Luke’s gospel does not discriminate between the Jews and the gentiles, rich and poor, women
and men, adult and children, sinners and believers. The gospel emphasizes that salvation is for
all, everyone and all people.
The gospel of Luke demonstrates this theme by the following:
1. The genealogy of Jesus was traced from Adam the father of all races to Jesus.
2. The prominence given to women and children
3. The references to Samaritan, outcasts, sinners, lepers, and the down trodden of the society.
Examples of such include like:
a. The healing of the ten lepers
b. The parable of the Good Samaritan
c. The calling of the Tax- Collector (Matthew)
d. Jesus’ eating with the sinners and Tax- Collectors
e. His visit to the house of Zachaeus
f. The sinful woman with alabaster oil anoint Jesus in the house of Simon the Pharisee
And others.
 Prominence given to women

Luke in his gospel writing gave prominence to women

against the Jewish tradition. This is one of the peculiarities
of the gospel compare to others. Examples of such are:
 Mary Magdalene. Luke 8:1-3, 24:1-12
 Martha and Mary. Luke 10:38-42
 The Women disciples of Jesus. Luke 23:55-56, cf 24:9-10
 The Sinful woman Luke 7:36-50, e.t.c
 People connected with Jesus
Zaccheus (Luke 19: 1-10)
When Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through, a man named
Zaccheus who was a chief tax-collector and a rich man sought to see
him but could not on account of the crowd because he was small in
stature. So he ran a head and climb on a Sycamore tree and when
came to the place, he looked up and said to him, ’Zaccheus ,make
haste and come down for I must stay in your house today.’ So he
made haste and came down and received him joyfully.
 When the Pharisees and the Scribes saw it , they all murmured
saying, “He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner.
Zaccheus stood up and said to the Lord,” Behold Lord the half of my
goods I give to the poor and if I have defrauded I resored it fourfold.”
And Jesus said to him, “ Today salvation has come to this house
since he also is a son of Abraham, for the son of man comes to seek
and save the lost.”
 The sinful Woman (Luke 7:36-50)
 When one of the Pharisees named Simon invited Jesus to his house , a sinful
woman brought an alabaster flask of ointment, standing behind him at his feet with
her tears, she wiped them with the hair of her head and kissed his feet and anointed
them with the ointment. Simon the Pharisee saw it and said to himself, “If this man
were a prophet, he would have known who and what sort of woman this is , who is
touching him for she is a sinner.” Jesus took him up and said, “Simon I have
something to say to you and he answered him, “What is it, teacher?”
 A certain creditor has two debtors; one owed him 500 denarii and the other 50
denarii. When they could not pay, he forgave them both. Now, which of them will
love him more?” Simon answered, “The one I suppose who he forgave more.” Jesus
said to him, “You have judged rightly.” Turning toward the woman he said, “Simon,
do you see this woman, I entered your house you gave no water for my feet but she
wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hairs. You gave me no kiss, but
from the time I came in, she has not stopped ceased to kiss my feet. You did not
anoint my head with oil but she has anointed my feet with ointment. Therefore, I tell
you, her sins which are many are forgiven, for she loved much; but he who is
forgiven little, loves little.”When Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” those
who were at the table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this who
can forgive sins? Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you .Go in peace.”
 
Transfiguration
Jesus took Peter, James and John on the mountain to pray. As Jesus was praying, the
appearance of his face changed and his cloth became as flash of lightning. Two men
Moses and Elijah came to him and they were talking to him. They appeared in glory and
talked about the departure which he now fulfilled in Jerusalem. Moses and Elijah
represent the law and prophet respectively.
As Moses and Elijah talked with Jesus, Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is well that we are
here; let us make three booths, one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah”. The
booths represent the command between the three important, the three important
personalities; law giver, prophet and messiah, because Jesus Christ is the final fulfillment
of the Old Testament law and prophets.
While Peter was still speaking a bright cloud enveloped them and they were afraid as
they entered the cloud. These symbolized the presence, glory, majesty and power of God.
A voice came from the cloud and said, “This is my beloved son with whom I am well
pleased; listen to him”. This confirms the messiaship and Sonship of Jesus Christ. When
Peter, James and John saw this, they we terrified. They fell to the own ground. Jesus
came and touched them asked them to get up and not be afraid. When they looked up
they saw Jesus alone with nobody else. They kept silence and told no one in those days of
anything of what they had seen.
 Significance of the Transfiguration to the Christian, to
Christian faith
Jesus did not came to cancel the law and the prophet but to
fulfill them.
It confirms the glory and the divinity of Jesus alone.
The disappearance of Moses and Elijah, leaving Jesus alone
indicate that the law and the prophets had come to a end,
replaced by a new law fulfilled in Jesus Christ who is the
messiah.
The appearance of Elijah and Moses was the manifestation of
the complementary nature of the Old Testament and the New
Testament.
 Triumphant of Jesus to Jerusalem Entry Luke 19:
28-48
Jesus went on a head going to Jerusalem. As He approached Bethpage and Bethany at the
mount called Olives. He sent two of his disciples to go to the village opposite them. As they
enter they would find a colt on which no one had ever sat on. They should untie it and bring it
to Him, If anyone asked them why they were untying it they should answer, “the Lord is in
need of it”. Those who were sent went and found it as he had told them. As they were untying
the colt,its owner asked them why they were untying the colt, they answered as Jesus had
taught them: saying the ‘Lord is in need of it.’
They brought it to Jesus and throwing their garment on the colt, they set Jesus upon it. As he
was drawing near Jerusalem at the desert of Mount Olive, the whole multitude of the disciples
begin to rejoice and praising God with a loud voice with all the might works they had seen
him do. The multitude shouted, ‘Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord.’
Peace in heaven and glory in the highest! Some Pharisees told Jesus to silence his disciples.
Jesus answered such Pharisees, if those were silent, the very stone would cry out.
When He drew near Jerusalem and saw this city, He wept over it saying,’ would that even
today you knew the things that make for peace’. But now they are hid from your eyes. For he
days shall come upon you when your enemies will cast up a bank about you and surrounded
and then encircle you on every side, and dash you to the ground, you and your children within
you, and they will not leave one stone upon another in you, because you did not know the time
of your visitation. This prophecy was fulfilled when the Romans took Jerusalem in 70AD.
 The Cleansing of the Temple – Luke 19:45-48
When Jesus entered the temple, he began to drive out
those who sold, saying to them, “It is written ‘my house
shall be house of prayer, but you have turn it to a den of
robbers”. The chief priest, the scribe and the principal men
of the people sought to destroy him, but they did not find
anything they could for all the people hung upon his
words.
 The Last Supper – Luke 22:7-27
The day of unleavened bread came, Jesus sent Peter and John to go and prepare the
Passover for them to eat, they asked Jesus where to enter the city, a man carry a jar of
water will meet them, and they should follow and enter his guest room. They should
ask him, that the master says where is the room in which I may eat the Passover with
my disciples. He will show you a large room upstairs and sit out; make the Passover
there; they went and found everything as he had said, so they prepared the Passover.
When the hour came, Jesus sat at table with his disciples. Jesus told them , He said to
them, “How I have desired to eat this Passover with you before my death! ‘For I told
you never again shall I eat it until the time when it finds its fulfillment in the
kingdom of God’. Then he took a cup and lifted giving thanks he said, “Take this and
share it among yourselves; for I told you from this moment I shall drink from the
fruit of the wine no more until the time when the kingdom of God comes. He also
took bread, gave thanks, he broke it and gave it to them with these words, “This is
my body which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me” And likewise the
cup after supper, saying “This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in
my blood. But behold the hand of him who betrays me is with me on the table, for
the son of man is going to his appointed way; but, woe for that man he is betrayed.
The disciples began to asked themselves which of them it was that would do this.
 Gethsemane – Luke 22:39-34

Jesus went to the mount olive as his custom was and the disciples
followed him. When he came to the place he said to them pray
that you may not enter into temptation. Jesus withdrew from
them about a stone throw knelt down and prayed, “Father, if thou
art willing, remove the cup from me: nevertheless not my will
but thy will be done”.
Jesus rose from prayer and came to the disciple and found them
sleeping in sorrow. He said to them “why do you sleep? Rise and
pray that you may not fall into temptation”.
 The Betrayed and Arrest of Jesus Luke 22: 47-53
While Jesus was still speaking with the disciples there come a
crowd lead by Judas Iscariot. He drew near to Jesus to kiss him.
Jesus said to him, “Judas will you betray the son of man with a
kiss”.
When those who were about him saw what would follow they
said “Lord shall we strike with a sword?” one of them strikes the
slave of the chief present and stricken off his right ear. Jesus said,
“no more of this!” He touched his head and healed him and
Jesus said to the chief priest and officers of the temple as well as
leaders who had come out against a robber with swords and
clubs? When I was with you day after day in the temple you did
not lay hands on me, but this is join hand and the power of
darkness”
 The denial of Peter 22:54-62.
Jesus was arrested and brought to the house of the High priest.
Peter followed at a distance. Peter sat among the soldiers at the
courtyard. then a man saw him as he sat in the light gazing at
him, said, “This man also was with him. But he denied it saying
“Woman I do not know him”. Later, someone else saw him and
said, “You also are one of them”, and Peter said “man I am not”.
After about an hour, some insisted saying, “certainly this man
also was with him too, he is a Galilean”. But peter said, “Man, I
do not know what you are saying”. Immediately the cock crowed
and Jesus turned and look at Peter. Peter remembered the words
of Jesus that before the cock crows today you will deny me three
times. The Peter went out and wept bitterly.
 Evaluation question
‘Jesus must have chosen wrong disciples’ To what extent do you
agree? Show in your answer that you have considered more than
one point of view
 Trial of Jesus
Jesus Before the Council – Luke 22:63-
71
The elders, chief power and the scribes gathered together and led
him away to their council and said, “If you are the Christ, tell
us”. But he said to them, “If I tell you, will you not believe, and
if I ask you, you will not answer”. But from now on the son of
man shall be sited at the right hand, at the power of GOD. They
asked him again, “are you the son of GOD?” then he said to
them, “You say that I am”.
 Jesus before Pilate – Luke 23:1-5

Jesus was brought before Pilate and was accused of saying, “we
found this man perverting our nation, and forbidden us to pay tax
to Caesar and saying that he himself is Christ and King”. Pilate
asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?” Jesus answered him,
“You have said so”. Pilate said to the chief and the multitude, I
found no crime on this man”. But they were urgent, saying.” He
stirs up the people, teaching throughout all Judea, from Galilee
even to this place (Jerusalem).
 Jesus before Herod – Luke 23:6-12
 When Pilate learn that he belonged to Herod jurisdiction, he sent
him even to Herod who was himself in Jerusalem at that time.
When Herod saw Jesus, he was very glad, for he has long desired
to see him because he heard about him and he was hoping to see
some signs done by him. He questioned Jesus, but he made no
answer. Herod with his soldiers treated him with contend and
mocked him. Arraigning him in gorgeous apparel he sent him
back to Pilate. Herod and Pilate becomes friend with each other
that very day for before this they had been at enmity with each
other.
 Death, Crucification and Burial of Jesus – Luke 23:26-36


On the way to the Cross
 As they went out of the governor’s palace where Jesus has been

treated with cruelty and content, there come a man of Cyrene,

Simon was the name of the man. They ceased this Simon and
compelled him to carry cross. Jesus must have been weak and tired
under the heavy beaten as he was carrying his cross to the place of
his execution. A great multitude of people and woman who bewailed
aid lamented him. Jesus turned to them and said “Daughters of
Jerusalem do not weep for me, but weep for yourself and your
children for behold the days are coming when they will say,
“Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bore and the
breast that never give suck. They will begin to say to the mountains
“Fall on us” or to the hills “caver us”. “For if they do this, when the
wood is green, which will happen when it is dry”.
 Crucification – Luke 23:22-28

When they came to Golgotha they crucified him with two cross
one on the right and one the left. Jesus said, Father forgive them
for they know not what they do”. The solders divided the
garment of Jesus by casting lots. They sat down and kept
watching over him, then the other scoffed at him saying. He said
to others, “Let him save himself, if he is the Christ of God his
chosen one!” The soldiers offered him and put on inscription
over the hand of Jesus; “This is the King of the Jews”.
 The Repentant Robber – Luke 23:39-43
One of the crucified wailed at him saying, “Are you not the
Christ? Save yourself and us!” But the other asked him saying
“do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of
condemnation? And we indeed justify for we are receiving the
rewards of our deeds, but this man have done nothing wrong”.
Then he said to Jesus, “Jesus remember me when you come into
you kingdom”. Jesus said to him, “Today I say to you, you will
be with me in paradise”.
 Death of Jesus Christ – Luke 23:44-49
It was about the sixth hours and there was darkness about the
whole land within the highest hour (12noon 3pm). While the
sunlight failed, and the curtain cut into two. Then Jesus cried
with a loud voice said, “Father in thy hand I commit my spirit”.
Having said this he breathed his last breath. Now when the
centurion saw what has taken place he praised and said,
“Certainly this man was righteous/innocent”. All the multitude
who gathered to see the sight, when they saw what had taken
place returned home beating their breast. All his acquaintances
and the women who had followed him from Galilee stood at a
distance and saw these things.
 The Burial of Jesus Christ – Luke 23:50-55
There was a man named Joseph from the Jewish town of
Arimathea (Joseph of Arimathea). He was a member of the
council, a good and righteous man, who had not consented to
their purpose and deeds, he was looking for the kingdom of God.
This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then he
took it down and wrapped it in a linen shroud and laid him in a
rock-hewn tomb, where no one had even yet been laid. It was the
day of preparation and Sabbath was beginning. The women who
had gone with him from Galilee followed and saw the tomb and
how his body was laid. Then they returned and prepared spices
and ointment to anoint his body. Among these were Mary the
mother of Jesus and John and Mary Magdalene, Joanna and
other women. There was a big stone rolled on the tomb of Jesus.
 The Resurrection of Jesus – Luke 24:1-14
On the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb,
taking the spices which they had prepared and they found the stone
rolled away from the tomb but when they went in they did not find
the body of Jesus. While they were perplexed about this behold, two
men stood by them in dazzling apparel, and as they were frightened
and bowed their face to the ground, the men said to them, “why do
you seek the living among the dead”. Remember what he told you,
while he was still in Galilee, that the son of man must be delivered
on the hands of the sinful men and be crucified and on the third day
rise. They remembered his words, and returning from the tomb they
told all these to the eleven and to all the rest. Now it was Mary
Magdalene, Joanna, and Mary the Mother of James and John and
the other women with them, who told these to the apostles, but these
words, seem to them an idle tale and they did not believe them.
 Jesus Appearance to His Disciples: Cleopas and his friend Luke 24:13-
32
On that very day, two of the disciples were going to the village Emmaus, about seven miles from
Jerusalem and talking to each other about all these things that has happened.
While they were talking and discussing together Jesus himself drew near and went with them, but
their eyes were kept from recognizing him and he said “What is the conversation which you are
holding with each other as you walk?. They stood still looking sad. Then one of them named Cleopas
answered him, “Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that has
happened there in these days”. He said to them, “What things” they said to him, concerning Jesus of
Nazareth who was prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people; and how our
chief Priests and some rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death and crucified him. But we
had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes and besides all this, it is now the third day since
this happened. Moreover, some women of our company amaze us, they were at the tomb early in the
morning and did not find his body, they came back saying that even seen a vision of angels, who
somesaid that he was alive. He (Jesus) said to them, “O foolish men, and slow of heart to believe all
that the prophet have spoken”. Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and
enter to his glory? He began with Moses and all the prophets to interpret all that is written in the
scriptures concerning himself. As they drew near to the village to which they were going, he
appeared to be going further but they constrained him saying, “Stay with us for it is toward evening
and the day is now far spent”. So he went in to stay with them. When he was at table with them, he
took the bread and blessed, and broke it and gave it to them. And their eyes were opened and they
recognized him; and he vanish out of their sight. They said to each other, “Did our hearts burn within
us as he talked with us on the road and explain the scriptures to us?”
 
Jesus Appeared to the Eleven Peoples Luke 24:33-48

Cleopas and his counterpart returned to Jerusalem after their encounter with Jesus on
the road to Emmaus.
They found the eleven (the disciples) gather together and those who were with them
who said, “The Lord has risen indeed and has appeared to Simon. Then they told
what has happened on the road and how he was known to them in the breaking of the
bread. As they were saying this, Jesus himself stood among them. But they were
startled and frightened and supposed that they saw a spirit. He said to them, “Why are
you troubled, and why do questioning arise in your heart”. See my hands and my feet,
that it is myself, handle me and see for a spirit had no flesh and bones as you see that
I have. And while they still disbelieved for joy and wondered he said to them,” have
you anything here to eat?” They gave him a piece of broiled fish and he took it and
ate before them.
Then he said to them, “These are my words which I speak to you while I was still
with you, that everything written about me in the law of Moses, the prophets and
Psalms must be fulfilled. Then he opened their mind to understand the scripture. He
said to them, “Thus it is written that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise
from the dead, that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be preached in his name
to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are the witness of all these things.
 Jesus Farewell and His Ascension to Heaven – Luke 24:49-53

Jesus said, “Behold I send the promise of my father upon you but
stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.
Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands
he blessed them. while he blessed them, he parted from them and
was carried up into heaven. So they returned to Jerusalem with
great joy and were continually in the temple blessing God.
 Evaluation questions
‘It is resurrection, not the death of Jesus, that is important for
Christians’. To what extent do you agree? Show in your answer
that you have considered more than one point of view.
Give an account of the part played at burial of Jesus and
resurrection of
-Joseph of Arimathea
 the angel at tomb
 ‘Jesus could have avoided his death’ To what extent do you
agree? Show in your answer that you have considered more than
one point of view