Session 8: Luke Chapters 15-16 On Losing and Living (Part 2)

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 second part of session eight 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.

Old Testament Links

The manager’s doings in Luke 16:1-15 describe an end and the means used to reach it. Compare the manager’s doings with that described in Joshua 22:5. What are similar in the traits described?

Three of the parables in this session’s reading mention that God delights in those who repent. Read Psalms 149:4 and 147:10-11, Proverbs 11:1 and 12:22, Jeremiah 9:23-24, as well as Isaiah 42:1 and note what else God delights in.

Psalm 23 and Ezekiel 34:11-16 use a sheep analogy for God’s children. Review Luke 15:1-7 and note the benefits that God bestows upon his sheep in theses three passages.

Application

In Luke 15:19, the son says that he will return and be a servant in his father’s house. Have you felt a servant in God’s house, or a son/daughter? Take a moment to consider the difference.

God has entrusted each of us with time, talents, and treasure. We are also entrusted with making disciples of nations and other specific and individual activities. Take a moment to evaluate your trustworthiness. What are two areas where you could improve your trustworthiness? Be specific. Brainstorm ways to improve in these lesser areas. Make a plan to implement these changes within the next month.

What are two areas where you are more trustworthy?

Well done, good and faithful servant.