Session 12: Luke Chapters 23-24 Resurrection Faith

This 12-session study looks at the heart of Jesus for all people, as seen in the book of Luke. It is in Luke’s gospel that we see the breadth of Jesus’ ministry to reach all people, to bring all into his arms and show them his heart for them personally. Since Christ and the Father are one (John 10:30), Luke provides the opportunity to see for ourselves how God interacts with his beloved, how he showers his beloved with goodness and mercy all of our days (Ps 23:6). And the good news is that you are his beloved! He delights in you (Zeph 3:17)!

This post is the first part of session twelve of the study, with each session opening with warm-up introductory questions, going on to a reading from Luke and questions related to the passage. Then the study goes to the comparative or referenced Old Testament passages found in the assigned reading with accompanying questions. Each study session ends with considerations for personal application. The study is appropriate for individual or small group application. Feel free to share the response to an application question or just comment on the study itself below.

Introduction

When was the last time that you saw an issue settled by lots, like drawing straws or playing rock/paper/scissors?

How does your faith influence your understanding of God and his Word?

The disciples were blessed to be with Jesus during his time on earth and yet struggled with believing in his resurrection. When we struggle with faith, we can find comfort in how Jesus responded to the disciples in their disbelief. In these final chapters of Luke, we are given examples of Jesus’ patience, love, and gentle instruction just as we too receive today.

Read Luke Chapters 23-24.

Questions

Outline Jesus’ path through the judicial system in chapter 23. What was the charge presented at each step and who made the final decision to crucify him?

What is the difference between Herod (Luke 23:8-9) and others in the book of Luke who wanted miracles (lepers, paralyzed man, master of sick servant, etc.)?

How does Luke 23 illustrate that Jesus is peacemaker?

Why should the mourners weep for themselves rather than for Jesus (Luke 23:28-30)? List 3-5 things they should have lamented.

How is the phrase, ‘Father, forgive them’ (Luke 23:34) more broadly applicable than for the ones who physically crucified him?

What signs accompanied Christ’s death?

How did Jesus’ friends respond to the activities of the day of his death?

How do Luke 24:1-12, 13-35, and 36-44 illustrate the difference between faith and understanding?

How did Jesus overcome the disciple’s expectations of what was to happen and reveal the Lord’s plan of what was to occur?

How did Jesus demonstrate his love and acceptance of the disciples in chapter 24?

How did the disciples respond to Jesus’ ascension?