You are here: Home / Archives for Bible Reading Notes

Notes: October 29, 2009

Repentance

Tragedy, because it stirs human emotions, is a mainstay of news reporting and conversation. Do tragedies address the issue of sin?

Luke 13:1-9

  • The political killing of Jewish worshipers was a national atrocity. What would Jesus say? (v.1)
  • When bad things happen to seemingly good people, we often suggest that they must have done something bad to deserve the injustice. Job’s friends wrongly thought the same of him.
  • Jesus correctly comments that the Galileans should spur us to repentance rather than looking for someone to blame (v. 2-3).
  • Moreover, Jesus continues, another tragic event, the death of 18 by the falling tower of Siloam, should spur us to repentance also. Death may come suddenly and without warning.
  • Unless they (and we) repent, perishing is certain (v. 3 and 5).
  • Like fig trees, we are expected to bear fruit; and if we don’t, we shall be cut down. (v. 6-9).

[print_link]

Notes: October 28, 2009

Divisions And Reconciliation

Jesus knew why he had come. Do you?

Luke 12:49-59

  • Jesus came to send fire on earth (v. 49). Have you ever heard this before?
  • Jesus was “straightened” until his suffering at Calvary was accomplished (v. 50).
  • Jesus, the Prince of Peace, came to bring division (v. 51). Families would be divided over him (v. 52-53).
  • Jesus chides the people who can tell the signs of changing weather but cannot discern the spiritual climate (v. 54-56).
  • Jesus warns them that they are facing certain judgment (v. 57-59).

[print_link]

Notes: October 27, 2009

Always Be Prepared

While the world sleeps in sin, the people of God must be vigilant.

Luke 12:35-48

  • Without excuse for not responding immediately (v. 35-36).
  • At all hours of the night, they must be looking to serve (v. 37-38).
  • Be ready for the coming of the Son of man, who shall appear suddenly as a thief in the night (v. 39-40).
  • Peter, understandably, is perplexed (v. 41). What was Jesus talking about?
  • A good servant is diligent, even though his master is away for a long time (v. 42-46).
  • Punishment to suit the crime (v. 47-48).

[print_link]

Notes: October 26, 2009

Worry About Necessities

If we shouldn’t worry about the most important matters, then surely we shouldn’t worry about the less important ones.

Luke 12:22-34

  • Do not worry about the two basic necessities of food and clothing.
  • Life is more than food and clothing.
  • Consider the ravens. They have no food industry. God feeds them.
  • (Can you think yourself taller? No (v. 25) Note: what does this say about the “think and grow rich” philosophy?)
  • Consider the lilies. They have no clothing industry. God makes them beautiful.
  • The unsaved worry about food and clothing. You should seek the kingdom of God.
  • Don’t be afraid to live by faith.

[print_link]