Christmas greetings, Friends and Strangers:
I started Read LUKE for Advent 2018 on Facebook but moved it here because there seemed to be a sudden drop in member numbers OR Facebook had done something to limit exposure. It’s hard to say, these days. I had 20+ members join the group very soon after I posted its availability and by 24 hours later, there were only nine and very few comments.
Here is what I posted on Facebook, with a few minor additions and edits for clarity. The Bible’s words are in purple and my words are prefaced with >>>>>. I’ve headed each chapter in BOLD so readers can scroll to the next chapter or you can use CTRL+F to FIND, for example, Luke 3. I’ve used the Amplified Bible from Bible Gateway
I want this to be a place to exchange ideas of lay people, like me, or clergy people who may want to contribute wisdom from their studies of Scripture. People have spent their entire lives studying the Bible, the original languages of Greek and Hebrew as it was written and the history of the times it was written. I have gleaned an abundance of information and understanding from their sharing of so much insight. I think it is beneficial to discuss the wonders of God’s Word.
If you are a nonChristian or new Christian, you are as welcome to be here as any long-time Christian. However, we will learn more from each other with a friendly tone to our comments and questions instead of hostile or condescending words. If it helps, pretend you are in my living room as guests and we are getting to know each other as we study.
May the peace of our LORD Jesus be with you all, as we ready ourselves and celebrate him at Christmas and learn to know him at all times.
~~Ellen
Luke 1
Luke 1:17 And he will [himself] go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah,to turn back the hearts of the fathers to the children, >>>>> how can John have the same spirit as Elijah? Doesn’t each person receive their own spirit at their creation? (This line, as written, is the kind of thing that makes people point to reincarnation as real and “it’s in the Bible,” they say.) Or does it mean by “in the spirit of Elijah” as in LIKE Elijah was set on worshipping and obeying and serving and loving God?
Luke 1:34 >>>>> Gabriel tells Mary she will become pregnant: why did Mary ask how she would become pregnant; why didn’t she assume it would be some time after her marriage to Joseph? She seemed to know Gabriel meant she would become pregnant right away, that moment after she agreed.
Luke 2
Luke 2:18-20
19 But Mary treasured all these things, giving careful thought to them and pondering them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen, just as it had been told them.
>>>>>I think Mary may have been thinking back to when Gabriel told her she’d become pregnant and the somewhat cryptic things he said to her about the child she would bear. Mary felt honored yet was humbly puzzled by “why me; I’m nothing so special,” which is the humbleness God appreciated. I think that humbleness was just part of her nature, given to her by God and she didn’t even know how “full of grace” she was.
THEN…
Simeon gives her more to think about and ponder,but his words put caution into the mix: Luke 2:34-35 34 Simeon blessed them and said to Mary His mother, “Listen carefully: this Child is appointed and destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for [i]a sign that is to be opposed— 35 and a sword [of deep sorrow] will pierce through your own soul—so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
>>>>> I don’t think Mary had any idea what was in Jesus’ future at that point; how his role as Messiah would play out. If so, it was a huge personal blessing for her not to know the future’s details. What mother could hold the knowledge that her son would be crucified? How could she process knowing that her son would be taking all sin upon himself to benefit and save people who believe it–to pay the price for sin each person owes but Jesus pays, allowing eternal life to be spent with God/Jesus/Holy Spirit for immeasurable eternity?
Luke 2:36: There was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher.
>>>>> I like that Anna was part of the temple scene, including a woman in a profound part of the story.
Luke 2:46 46 Three days later they found Him in the [court of the] temple, sitting among the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions… 51 and His mother treasured all these things in her heart.
>>>>> The reference to “three days” is interesting, reminding me of the three days Jesus was “lost” to us from Good Friday until Resurrection Day. I think this may be the point at which Joseph and Mary realized more about what Jesus was all about; maybe even entertaining the thought that he is human AND divine–God living among us as a man. Emmanuel–God with us.
I’ve wondered about Jesus seeming not to understand why his parents were disturbed by his absence. I don’t think he was being disobedient, per se, but more like he listened to God–it was time for Jesus to make a first move of independence before he was officially a man at 13, according to Jewish law.
Luke 3
Luke 3:2-4 “…the word of God came to John, the son of Zacharias, in the wilderness. 3 And he went into all the country around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sin;…”
>>>>> I like this direct and seemingly unmistakable communication from God to John. It seems God laid out, plain and simple, what he wanted John to do as his life’s work. God didn’t tell John his mission would be for a short time or that John would have a short life. Or, maybe God did–but I don’t think so.
Anyway, I would like this personal direction given to me more often than not so I know I’m on the right track with God’s will. At the same time, normal, daily, mundane tasks and activities are part of God’s will, as well. God knows better than I how my mind works and I’ve learned that by doing some of the more practical tasks–washing dishes, vacuuming, folding laundry, cutting down the spreading (annoying!) bamboo running wildly in my backyard–has a way of getting me moving around, giving me a physical outlet for frustrations, a sense of accomplishment for tasks completed and time alone but not idle to chat with Jesus, like friends doing chores together.
These days, when I’m feeling antsy about wanting to know directly what God wants of me, I remind him how I’m not getting any younger and I’d really like to know what’s the plan for me. Staying tuned.
Luke 3:7 So he began saying to the crowds who were coming out to be baptized by him, “You brood of [f]vipers, who warned you to flee from the wrath [of God that is] to come?
>>>>>I’m not sure why John was so angry here. I mean, the people were likely unaware of their ignorance when it came to God and knowing repentance was not only necessary but required. So, why did he call them vipers? How COULD they flee from the wrath of God? Didn’t they know people can’t physically or spiritually hide from God?
Luke 3:8 …And do not even begin to say to yourselves [as a defense], ‘We have Abraham for our father [and so our heritage assures us of salvation]’…
>>>>>This part of the verse gives me the first inkling that each person has a relationship with God and just because my parents were believers doesn’t automatically make me a believer. I won’t get into heaven hanging by the apron strings or coattails of my parents. Anyone with siblings who aren’t believers can see this is true. Family members are often divided and we can’t necessarily be their John to make the way straight for them to Jesus and salvation.
Luke 3:10-14 is interesting because John’s responses seem to address the men by their professions. I’m not sure why that is. I think it should be more general and personal; that John’s suggestions or admonitions would be for all people.
Luke 3:15-16 John is humble. There is no jealousy toward his cousin, Jesus. He’s not the least upset about being the elder of the two men of the same family connection and is honored and content to do his part.
Luke 3:21-22 The baptism of Jesus is an example of what new believers should do as “the outward sign of an inward change,” I’ve heard it explained.
Luke 3:23 This list of “the begats” starts from Jesus and goes back to Adam whereas in Matthew, the same list of begats starts with Adam and goes to Jesus. Just an interesting tidbit.
Luke 4
Luke 4:1-12 These verses are always intriguing to me, but vs. 6-8, are particularly noteworthy: 6 And the devil said to Him, “I will give You all this realm and its glory [its power, its renown]; because it has been handed over to me, and I give it to whomever I wish. 7 Therefore if You worship before me, it will all be Yours.” 8 Jesus replied to him, “It is written and forever remains written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God and serve only Him.’”
>>>>>First, the devil is talking to Jesus face-to-face with an “in your face” attitude. Jesus is exhausted from a 40 day fast in the harshness of the desert, so of course, the devil strikes, trying to take advantage of perceived weakness. Satan seems to think, “I’ve got him now. I didn’t overthrow God, but his Son is weak; maybe the weak link I’ve waited for to complete my mutiny.” Jesus doesn’t fail the temptation tests. Satan tries his best influence on us at our emotionally weakest point OR at a time when confidence is high– and he plants doubt in our thoughts.
Second, 6 And the devil said to Him, “I will give You all this realm and its glory [its power, its renown]; because it has been handed over to me, and I give it to whomever I wish.
>>>> If you haven’t read it elsewhere in the Bible’s OT, it’s possible to be unaware that the evil in the world is because of the influence, deceit, and temporary authority (though weak; certainly not the same as God’s) Satan does have over mankind. HE WAS given this power by God.
Luke 5
Luke 5:4-6
He said to Simon [Peter], “Put out into the deep water and lower your nets for a catch [of fish].” 5 Simon replied, “Master, we worked hard all night [to the point of exhaustion] and caught nothing [in our nets], but at Your word I will [do as you say and] lower the nets [again].” 6 When they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their nets were [at the point of] breaking;
>>>>> I like that Peter can question Jesus about the logic of putting out the nets yet again. Peter knows how long and hard they worked all night and feels justified, yet comfortable, telling Jesus how he feels about the idea. Then, he realizes he should listen to Jesus’ guidance and try again. I often question what I think God is telling me to do, then feel guilty or like a whiny kid. But like any good parent, God listens to my words, not necessarily my mood.
Re: catching so many fish–Luke 5:8-9 But when Simon Peter saw this, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Go away from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!” 9 For he and all his companions were completely astounded at the catch of fish which they had taken;
>>>>> This is sort of how I feel toward God’s grace when I look back on an incident that caused me grief and confusion and realize God’s hand was in it all the time. I don’t think the word “sinful,” exactly, but more like I feel like a lowly, or a nobody, or one of so many people–how does God possibly know all about me at the same time he knows about the other 7 billion people living on Earth?
Verse 10: Jesus reassures Peter immediately: Jesus said to Simon, “Have no fear; >>>>> and tells him he’ll be doing a different kind of fishing. Peter has no idea what it means but he’s just had a “trust me” lesson from Jesus, so maybe he’ll go along with whatever the plan is just because it comes from Jesus?
Starting at Luke 5:12- >>>>> The visual of a sick person being lowered through the roof by friends is so sweet while showing the desperateness of the paralytic man’s situation. The sick man and the helper friends all needed to believe Jesus could and would heal the man to go to all that trouble to get him up close and personal with Jesus. Everyone needs at least one friend who will be this supportive no matter what is good today or goes wrong tomorrow.
Verses 22-24 “Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’?”
>>>>> I’m sure I’m missing something scholars know about this verse, but it IS easy to say either of these things yet the man’s ability to walk immediately after Jesus’ blessing of healing is solid, apparent, visual “seeing is believing” while believing sins are forgiven is more about invisible faith if the Forgiver having authority over sin. The Pharisees saw the surface explanation and required visual proof that not only were the man’s sins forgiven but that Jesus was the exact One to do forgive them. They didn’t have the faith required? Or they didn’t like that Jesus had the power to forgive instead of the way the Pharisees’ rules said it should be done?
Verse 27- >>>>>The Pharisees try to tell Jesus who he can hang out with but it didn’t matter to Jesus. He did what is right, anyway. He had to be in their faces to make his point:People who put God first don’t need fixing but the spiritually sick ones need to hear about why they need to put God first and life will get better from there. At the same time, repentance is about cleaning out the old, sour ideas and assumptions to make room in the people’s somewhat used souls for new, sweet ideas directly from God.
Luke 6
Luke 6:10-11 10 After looking around at them all, He said to the man, “Stretch out your hand!” And he did, and his hand was [fully] restored. 11 But the scribes and Pharisees were filled with senseless rage [and lacked spiritual insight], and discussed with one another what they might do to Jesus.
>>>>> The scribes and Pharisees were enraged because Jesus did a good thing for a person–but on the sabbath. Hello??? They SHOULD have been in AWE that Jesus could and did heal the man’s hand, so, yes, it was senseless rage as legalism and missed the wonder. I think the earlier part, about eating the consecrated bread might be about the practical need for relieving great physical hunger over keeping a rule, but I’m not sure.
Luke 6:20-26 The beatitudes >>>>> I have a lot to say about this part at times. Right now, I’m glad for the “amplified” text for clarifying several places I had interpreted differently. It’s a beautiful passage, full of promises and hope.
Luke 6:27-30 27 “But I say to you who hear [Me and pay attention to My words]: [h]Love [that is, unselfishly seek the best or higher good for] your enemies, [make it a practice to] do good to those who hate you,28 bless and show kindness to those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. 29 Whoever [i]strikes you on the cheek, offer him the other one also [simply ignore insignificant insults or losses and do not bother to retaliate—maintain your dignity]. Whoever takes away your coat, do not withhold your shirt from him either. 30 Give to everyone who asks of you. [j]Whoever takes away what is yours, do not demand it back.
>>>>> I understand, therefore I like, this explanation of LOVE more than the familiar 1 Corinthians 13. I don’t know if I DO this kind of love more than not, so it gives me a reference point to check in and take inventory of my attitude and behavior toward the types of people mentioned. About the coat/shirt/whoever takes what is yours, do not demand it back–I think this means God will take care of my need for the items stolen while the taker needs prayer; to be put into God’s face so God can provide the lost person’s real needs. People who steal have a lot more going awry in their lives and often steal what they need instead of getting to the bottom of their true problems. But, I cannot heal them or address their deeper needs. I can pray for them and God can fix their problems. Verse 30: I don’t understand why I shouldn’t ask for my property to be returned to me or to compensated for it if it’s broken in the hands of another.
Luke 6:31-36 31 Treat others the same way you want them to treat you. >>>>> The Golden Rule. On my best days, I can do this easily. I WANT this to be my learned, and now natural, way to treat people. It doesn’t mean, however, that others WILL treat me the way I want to be treated, which is a rude awakening when the Golden Rule seems to backfire. Again, I can be responsible only for what I do, not for how anyone responds. I learned many years ago this verse emphasizes that I should treat others the way I want to be treated, NOT the way they have negatively treated me. Elsewhere, Jesus says not to repay evil with evil but bless those who curse you.
Luke 6:32-36 If you [only] love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. >>>>> I feel like I have love for all people–if the definition of love is wanting good things for others (even if they don’t deserve it, I add now). I don’t want people to worship false gods; I don’t want people to murder each other; I don’t want people to be homeless or starving; I don’t want evil people to be evil–it would be great if all people were kind and loving toward each other. 33 If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34 If you lend [money] to those from whom you expect to receive [it back], what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners expecting to receive back the same amount. 35 But love [that is, unselfishly seek the best or higher good for] your enemies, and do good, and lend, [k]expecting nothing in return; for your reward will be great (rich, abundant), and you will be sons of the Most High; because He Himself is kind and gracious and good to the ungrateful and the wicked. >>>>> IF I had an abundance of money and a friend needed a loan for something important, I wouldn’t charge interest. If a friend needs to borrow a small amount, I do expect to be paid back but no interest. 36 Be merciful (responsive, compassionate, tender) just as your [heavenly] Father is merciful.
Luke 7
Luke 7:13-15 When the Lord saw her, He felt [great] compassion for her, and said to her, “Do not weep.” 14 And He came up and touched the bier [on which the body rested], and the pallbearers stood still. And He said, “Young man, I say to you, arise [from death]!” 15 The man who was dead sat up and began to speak. And Jesus gave him back to his mother.
>>>>>I like that Jesus felt compassion for her. It isn’t often we see references to how Jesus felt about events. “Do not weep” at first seems like a command but now I think Jesus is offering her encouragement, not chastising her. “Young man” tells me this was an adult son which was necessary in their culture for a widow’s support and protection.
Luke 7:18-20 John’s disciples brought word to him [in prison] of all these things.19 John called two of his disciples and sent them to the Lord, saying, “Are You the [b]Expected One (the Messiah), or should we look for someone else?” 20 So the men came to Jesus and said, “John the Baptist sent us to You to ask, ‘Are You the Expected One (the Messiah), or should we look for someone else?’”
>>>>>This is a strange passage. It seems like John didn’t know of Jesus’ status as Messiah. John knew he had a mission to tell people to get ready to repent and believe in the Messiah, but he didn’t know Jesus was the One, even though they were cousins and likely knew each other all their lives? Or, did John know and sent the two so they could hear directly from Jesus, maybe to establish credibility that John was not the only one knowing who Jesus is? Jesus’ reply is not clear to me: 21 At that very hour Jesus healed many people of sicknesses and infirmities and evil spirits; and He gave [the gracious gift of] sight to many who were blind. 22 So He replied to them, “Go and tell John about everything you have seen and heard: the blind receive sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the good news (gospel) preached to them. 23 Blessed [joyful, spiritually favored] is he who does not take offense at Me.”
Luke 7:28 I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John; yet he who is least in the kingdom of God is greater [in privilege] than he.”
>>>>> This is an odd statement. Jesus was born of a woman and he is definitely greater than John in all ways.
Luke 7:31-35 “To what then shall I compare the people of this generation [who set aside God’s plan], and what are they like? 32 They are like children sitting in the market place and calling to one another, and saying, ‘We played the flute for you [pretending to be at a wedding], and you did not dance; we sang a dirge [pretending to be at a funeral], and you did not weep [so nothing we did appealed to you].’ 33 For John the Baptist has come neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon!’ 34 The Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look, a man who is a glutton and a [heavy] wine-drinker, a friend of tax collectors and sinners [including non-observant Jews].’ 35 Yet wisdom is vindicated and shown to be right by all her children [by the lifestyle, moral character, and good deeds of her followers].”
>>>>> This section reminds me of today’s politicians LOL. I guess that never changes. Of course, it applies to individuals, as far as I can understand it. Old yet common sayings –“I can’t win no matter what I do,” or “No good deed goes unpunished”–come to mind.
Luke 7:40 Jesus, answering, said to the Pharisee, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” And he replied, “Teacher, say it.” 41 “A certain moneylender had two debtors: one owed him five hundred [h]denarii, and the other fifty. 42 When they had no means of repaying [the debts], he freely forgave them both. So which of them will love him more?” 43 Simon answered, “The one, I take it, for whom he forgave more.” Jesus said to him, “You have decided correctly.”
>>>>> This makes me wonder–do I not realize how much Jesus has forgiven for me? Would I have even more awe of love for him if I had more awareness of the number or frequency or severity of my sins he has forgiven–and remembers no more, as he promised? Or worse–Do I not think I’ve sinned so many times; how bad could I have been? I do pray, sometimes, for Jesus to reveal any unconfessed (not admitted) sin stuck to me that I may not realize is weighing me down in some way. But I do understand how one would love another who had forgiven many transgressions; also, trust and have loyalty and affection for that person.
THEN, I think this verse confirms what I just wrote: Luke 7:47 Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much; but he who is forgiven little, loves little.”
>>>>> How can some deed be forgiven if it isn’t acknowledged and admitted? Confessing, admitting my sin is for my benefit, so I can be aware of God’s goodness and willingness to forgive me which enables me to love him freshly in return. These are words of affirmation and encouragement and love: Luke 7:50 Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith [in Me] has saved you; go in peace [free from the distress experienced because of sin].
One of Billions 