THE GOSPEL OF LUKE--THE BOOK OF LUKE

The Gospel of Luke

Introduction:

“THE four walls and the twelve gates of the Seer looked in different directions, but together they guarded, and opened into, one City of God. So the four Gospels look in different directions; each has its own peculiar aspect and inscription; but together they lead towards, and unveil, one Christ, "which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty." They are the successive quarterings of the one Light. We call them "four" Gospels, though in reality they form but one, just as the seven arches of color weave one bow; and that there should be four, and not three or five, was the purpose and design of the Mind which is above all minds.

“Turning to the third Gospel, its opening sentences strike a key-note unlike the tone of the other three. Matthew, the Levite Apostle, schooled in the receipt of custom—where parleying and preambling were not allowed—goes to his subject with sharp abruptness, beginning his story with a "genesis," "the book of the generation of Jesus Christ." Mark, too, and John, without staying for any prelude, proceed at once to their portrayals of the Divine Life, each starting with the same word "beginning"—though between the "beginning" of St. Mark and that of St. John there is room for an eternity. St. Luke, on the other hand, stays to give to his Gospel a somewhat lengthy preface, a kind of vestibule, where we become acquainted with the presence and personality of the verger, before passing within the temple proper.” --- Expositor’s Bible Commentary.

Luke’s “intimate acquaintance with Jewish customs, and his facility in Hebraic Greek, seem to show that he was an early convert to the Jewish faith;… His fluency in classical Greek confirms his Gentile origin. The time when he joined Paul’s company is clearly indicated in the Acts by his changing (at Acts 16:10) from the third person singular ("he") to the first person plural ("we"). From that time he hardly ever left the apostle till near the period of his martyrdom (2 Timothy 4:11).” --- Jamieson, Fausset, Brown Commentary.

Writer: Luke, the beloved physician, Colossians 4:14, author of Acts; both books being addressed to the same person. Luke was a close friend and traveling companion of Paul, as is shown in his personal allusions recording the journeys of the apostle. See in the book of Acts where the author changes the pronouns to "we" and "us," indicating that he himself was present at these times, Acts 16:10; 20:6; 27:1; 28:16.

Many students see something of the stamp of Paul’s doctrine in Luke’s gospel. The exact date of the writing of the gospel is unknown. But if it were written after Luke came under Paul’s influence, it would be quite natural that the latter should give some coloring to the narrative.

To Whom Addressed: To Theophilus, an unknown person. Internal evidence indicates that the book was written especially for the Gentiles. This is inferred from the fact that the writer takes pains to explain Jewish customs and sometimes substitutes Greek names for Hebrew.

Purpose: To give a connected and orderly narrative of the life of Christ as seen by eye witnesses, Luke1:1-4.

Key Verse: Luke 1:4, “That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.”

Distinctive Features:

1) It is a Gospel of the Universal Grace of God, Luke 2:32; 3:6; 24:47.

2) It is the Gospel of "The Son of Man." It emphasizes Christ’s sympathetic attitude toward the poor, the lowly, and the outcasts. The Poor disciples, Luke 6:20, the sinful woman, Luke 7:37, Mary Magdalene, Luke 8:2, the Samaritans, Luke 10:33, publicans and sinners, Luke 15:1, the deserted beggar, Luke 16:20-21, the lepers, Luke 17:12, the dying thief, Luke 23:43, etc.

3) It is a Devotional Gospel; it especially emphasizes prayer.

a. It contains three parables on prayer not found in the other gospels:

1. The friend at midnight, Luke 11:5-8.

2. The unjust judge, Luke 18:1-8.

3. The Pharisee and publican, Luke 18:9-14.

b. It contains Christ’s prayers:

1. At his baptism, Luke 3:21.

2. In the wilderness, Luke 5:16.

3. Before choosing the disciples, Luke 6:12.

4. At the transfiguration, Luke 9:29.

5. Before giving the Lord’s Prayer, Luke 11:1.

6. For Peter, Luke 22:32.

7. In the garden of Gethsemane, Luke 22:44.

8. On the cross, Luke 23:46, etc.

4) In its early chapters it strikes the note of joy and praise:

a. The words of the angel to Mary, Luke 1:28-33.

b. Mary’s song, Luke 1:46-55.

c. Of Zacharias, Luke 1:68-79.

d. Of the heavenly angels, Luke 2:13-14.

e. The rejoicing of Simeon, Luke 2:29-32.

5) It greatly honors womanhood. Women appear prominently in Luke’s narrative.

a. In Luke 1, Mary, Elisabeth; Mary and her sister Martha.

b. In Luke 10, the daughters of Jerusalem.

c. In Luke 23:27, several widows are mentioned. See also Luke 2:37; 4:26; 7:12; 18:3; 21:2.

6) The Biography of Christ is more complete in Luke than in either of the other Gospels. About one half of the material in this book is not in the others. Many of the most important utterances of our Lord, and striking incidents of his life are recorded in this one gospel. Examples of this are:

a. The draught of fishes, Luke 5:6.

b. Raising the widow’s son, Luke 7:11-15.

c. The ten lepers, Luke 17:12.

d. Malchus healed, Luke 22:51.

Other incidents and saying recorded only by Luke:

1) Christ weeping over Jerusalem, Luke 19:41;

2) Reference to the conversation of Moses and Elias on the Mount of Transfiguration, Luke 9:30,31;

3) the bloody sweat, Luke 22:44;

4) Christ before Herod, Luke 23:8;

5) Christ’s words to the women of Jerusalem {#Luke 23:28;

6) the penitent thief, Luke 23:40;

7) the walk to Emmaus, Luke 24:13-31.

A Brief Summary of the Book:

1) The introduction, Luke 1:1-4:44. The birth of Jesus and incidents connected with his early life up to the time of his baptism and temptation, Luke 1:5--4:13.

2) The beginning of his public ministry, mainly in Galilee, Luke 4:14--9:50.

3) The journey toward Jerusalem, through Samaria and Perea; the ministry mainly in Perea, Luke 9:51--19:28.

4) The last days, including the events of Passion Week and the crucifixion, Luke 19:29—23:55.

5) Events connected with the Resurrection and the Ascension, Luke 24:1-51.

WHY MANY PROFESSED CHRISTIANS WILL GO TO HELL--LUKE 6:46-49

WHY MANY PROFESSED CHRISTIANS WILL GO TO HELL

LUKE 6:46-49

Key verse: v. 46, “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?”

Introduction:

Millions of people call themselves “Christians” in this world today. According to Webster’s dictionary, a “Christian” is “a person professing belief in Jesus as the Christ, or in the religion based on the teachings of Jesus.”

The Scriptures declares that a “Christian” is a “born again believer in Jesus Christ.” One that follow the example and teachings of Jesus and accepts the Scriptures the only rule for Christian living.

The Bible speaks of those who are religious and claim to do things in Jesus name, but in reality He does not know them. Consider the following message.

I. FOLLOWING THE LORD’S EXAMPLE

A. He is our Lord and Master, John 13:13, “Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am.”

1. He has saved us from our sins by faith in Jesus Christ, Titus 3:5, “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;”

2. We have a home in heaven, Philippians 3:20, “For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:”

B. He has given us an example to follow, John 13:15-17, “For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. 16 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. 17 If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.”

1. An example of humility, Philippians 2:5-8, Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”

2. An example of obedience, Matthew 26:39, “And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. 42 He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done.”

II. OUTWARD EXPRESSION IS NOT OBEDIENCE

A. Why don’t you do what I say? Luke 6:46, “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?”

B. God cannot be deceived by outward appearance or acts, Galatians 6:7, “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”

1. He knows our heart, Jeremiah 17:9-10, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? 10 I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.”

2. He knows our thoughts, Genesis 6:5, “And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.”

III. WHERE IS THE FATHER’S HONOR?

A. God the Father challenges those who profess to know Him, Malachi 1:6, “A son honoureth his father, and a servant his master: if then I be a father, where is mine honour? and if I be a master, where is my fear? saith the LORD of hosts unto you, O priests, that despise my name. And ye say, Wherein have we despised thy name?”

1. Where is my honor, son? Exodus 20:12, “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.”

2. Where is my honor, servant? 1 Timothy 6:1, “Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed.”

3. Where is my honor, priest? Jeremiah 5:30-31, “A wonderful [astonishment and filthiness] and horrible thing is committed in the land; 31 The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof?”

B. The Lord declares that these have NO FEAR of God, Romans 3:13-18, “Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips: 14 Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness: 15 Their feet are swift to shed blood: 16 Destruction and misery are in their ways: 17 And the way of peace have they not known: 18 There is no fear of God before their eyes.”

IV. DEPART FROM ME, I NEVER KNEW YOU

B. Not everyone who calls Jesus “the Lord” will enter into the Kingdom of God, Matthew 7:21, “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.”

C. Some will claim to have done great works in the Lord’s name, Matthew 7:22, “Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?”

D. They will make a last plea, Luke 13:25-27, “When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are: 26 Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets. 27 But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity.”

CONCLUSION

The most terrible words to hear in this world are, “Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:” Many will hear those words who have not repented from their sins and trusted Jesus Christ as their Savior.

WHO IS THIS MAN THAT FORGIVES SINS--LUKE 7:36-50

WHO IS THIS MAN THAT FORGIVES SINS

LUKE 7:36-50

Key verses: vv. 47-49, “Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. 48 And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. 49 And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also?”

Introduction:

The Lord was speaking to a Pharisee whose name was Simon, (v. 10), who had invited Him to eat with him (v. 36). We know nothing of this man, but some think perhaps that the Lord had healed him of some disease and he was showing Him his gratitude by inviting Jesus to eat with him. They reclined at a table and began to eat

In vv. 37-38 we see “a woman in the city, which was a sinner” who had heard that Jesus was there came and “brought an alabaster box of ointment 38 And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.”

I. THE WOMAN WAS RECOGNIZED AS A SINNER

A. Doubt in the mind of the Pharisee, v. 39; John 7:12, “And there was much murmuring among the people concerning him: for some said, He is a good man: others said, Nay; but he deceiveth the people.”

B. He saw himself as being different, Isaiah 65:5, “Which say, Stand by thyself, come not near to me; for I am holier than thou. These are a smoke in my nose, a fire that burneth all the day.”

1. Simon was a religious zealot or Separatist, Matthew 23:23, “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.”

2. He was self-righteous, Matthew 23:25, “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.”

B. What manner of woman was she?

1. She was a sinner, v. 39; Luke 18:13, “And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.”

a. Peter considered himself as a sinner, Luke 5:8, “When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.”

b. The Apostle Paul was a sinner, 1 Timothy 1:15, “This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.”

2. She was in need of a Savior, Acts 5:31, “Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.”

a. She was called to repentance, Matthew 9:13, “But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”

b. She sought forgiveness of her sins, Acts 13:38, “Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins:”

3. She knew her Savior and loved him.

a. She washed his feet with her tears, v. 44; Judges 19:21, “So he brought him into his house, and gave provender unto the asses: and they washed their feet, and did eat and drink.”

b. She had kissed the Lord’s feet, v. 45; Exodus 18:7, “And Moses went out to meet his father in law, and did obeisance, and kissed him; and they asked each other of their welfare; and they came into the tent.”

The kiss was a token of affection or a common mode of salutation, and Simon had even neglected this mark or welcoming him to his house. It was often used among men as a sign of salutation.

C. Jesus came to seek and to save sinners, Luke 19:10, “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

II. WHO IS THIS MAN THAT FORGIVES SINS?

A. A very pertinent question. Who could He be but God? Luke 5:21, “And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, Who is this which speaketh blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, but God alone?”

1. Instead of believing on the Lord, they thought he blasphemed, Mark 2:7, “Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God only?”

2. They had seen the miracles that He did, but still did not believe, Romans 3:3, “For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect?”

B. “Who is this that forgiveth sins ALSO?” Mark 6:3, “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him.”

See comment:

“Who (i.e., Jesus)[was] not content to transgress the traditions of the elders, by ADMITTING A SINFUL WOMAN TO TOUCH HIM, but assumes that to himself which is peculiar to God, TO FORGIVE SIN: this they said, not as wondering at him, what manner of person he must be, that with such authority pronounced the forgiveness of sin, as Grotius thinks; BUT RATHER AS OFFENDED WITH HIM, and FILLED WITH INDIGNATION AGAINST HIM, and so censuring and REPROACHING HIM for wickedness and blasphemy.” ---John Gill’s Expositor.

1. Peter preached Jesus as the Son of God who came to forgive sins, Acts 13:38, “Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins:”

2. Paul preach that Jesus came to open our eyes of the blind to the truth, Acts 26:18, “To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.”

3. In Him is redemption through His blood, Colossians 1:14, “In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:”

CONCLUSION

WHO IS THIS MAN THAT FORGIVES SINS? He is Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and the Savior of those who will trust Him as Savior. In v. 50 “And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.”

WHERE ARE THE DEAD?--LUKE 16:19-31

WHERE ARE THE DEAD?

LUKE 16:19-31

Key vs:22-23, “And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; 23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.”

Introduction:

This passage of the Word of God is not a parable!! It is the account of something that really happened and Jesus Christ is relating it to His hearers.

Also it does not teach that the poor go to Heaven and the rich go to Hell. That has nothing to do with the destiny of a person. A person goes to Hell because he has not trusted Jesus Christ as his personal Saviour, John 3:18, “He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.”

Now where are the dead? Let look at our text in the Word of God:

I. THE SITUATION OF THESE TWO MEN, vs. 19-21.

A. The Rich Man, v. 19, “There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:”

1. Well dressed.

2. Fared well every day.

3. He had no worries.

B. The Beggar (a poor man) was called Lazarus, vs. 20-21, “And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. 21 And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.”

1. His clothes were ragged without doubt.

2. His health was bad.

3. He ate the crumbs from the rich man’s table.

4. The dogs even licked his sores.

II. THE DEATH OF THESE MEN, vs. 22-26.

A. The death of Lazarus, the poor man, v. 22, “And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;”

1. Lazarus was “carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom,” that is, to Heaven.

a. He was in the presence of Abraham, the father of the Hebrew people, the Israelites.

b. Abraham was in Heaven, Romans 4:3 says, “For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.” And Lazarus was there with him.

c. Lazarus did not go by way of Purgatory because it never exited then nor does it exits today.

2. Lazarus was a believer in Jesus Christ for the Bible says in John 3:18, “He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.”

B. The death of the Rich Man, vs. 22-26, “And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; 23And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 24And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. 25 But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented. 26 And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.”

1. The rich man was buried, and without doubt it was a big fancy funeral, v. 22.

2. He opened his eyes in Hell, vs. 23-26.

a. He was in torment in the flames of Hell, vs. 23-24b.

b. He saw Lazarus in Abraham’s bosom there in Heaven, the paradise of God, v. 23.

3. He begged for mercy of Abraham, v. 24.

a. Just a little water.

b. Only a little to refresh his tongue.

4. The petition was denied, vs. 25-26.

a. “Remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things.”

b. The great gulf between Hell and Heaven that could not be spanned, v. 26.

(a) Purgatory does not exist because salvation is of this life.

(b) It is not possible to get out of Hell or any place of punishment for Hell is forever.

III. THE FINAL REQUEST OF THE RICH MAN, vs. 27-31.

A. I have five brothers that will come to this place, vs. 27-28.

B. Raise Lazarus “that he may testify unto them…,” v. 27.

1. “They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.” v. 29.

2. If they will not believe the Word of God, “neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.” vs. 30-31.

CONCLUSION:

Where are the dead? Believers like Larazus are in Heaven. Unbelievers, those without Christ as their Saviour, are in Hell with that rich man.

You do not need anything else other than the Word of God to show you the way to Heaven.

TWO DEBTORS--LUKE 7:36-50

TWO DEBTORS

LUKE 7:36-50

Introduction:

The Pharisee here is called Simon. He had invited the Lord to his house to eat with him. There were three sects at the time: the Essenes, the Sadducees, and the Pharisees. I’ll not take time to describe the first two, but concentrate on the Pharisees.

The Pharisees were undisputed enemies of the Lord Jesus Christ. In the time of our Lord they were the popular party (John 7:48, “Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed on him?”). They were extremely accurate and minute in all matters appertaining to the Law of Moses (Matthew 9:14; 23:15; Luke 11:39; 18:12, “I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.”). There was much that was sound in their creed, yet their system of religion was a form and nothing more. Their morals were a very lax as noted in Matthew 15:4, 8, “For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death. 8This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.”

This Pharisees’ invitation to the Lord was made hoping to obtain material for judgment, v. 39.

I. THE TWO DEBTORS

A. The Woman, vs. 37-38;

1. A sinner in deep humiliation for sin, v. 38a, “And stood at his feet behind him weeping.”

a. She was sorry for her sin, Psalm 38:18, “For I will declare mine iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin.”

b. She had a broken spirit, Psalm 51:17, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.”

2. She had no peace, Romans 3:17, “And the way of peace have they not known:”

a. She traveled on a crooked path, Isaiah 59:8, “The way of peace they know not; and there is no judgment in their goings: they have made them crooked paths: whosoever goeth therein shall not know peace.

b. Her way was the broad way, Matthew 7:13-14, “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”

B. The Pharisee

1. Religious, “yet their system of religion was a form and nothing more.” ---Eaton’s Bible Dict.

2. Looking for evidence against the Lord, v. 39, “Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner.”

II. THE THINGS DONE AND LEFT UNDONE

A. The Pharisee

1. Washing of the feet, “Thou didst not so much as order a basin of water to be brought, to wash my feet in, when I came in, wearied and dirtied with my walk, which would have been some refreshment to me;” v. 44.

2. A Kiss “was a usual expression of a hearty and affectionate welcome to a friend.” v. 45.

3. Anointing of the head with oil, 46a, “My head with oil thou didst not anoint:”

B. The Woman

1. She stood behind the Lord weeping.

2. Washing His feet with her tears, v. 44, “And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head.”

3. Wiping His feet with her long hair, v. 44.

4. Kissing His feet, v.45, “Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet.”

5. Anointing His feet with an ointment, v. 46, “My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment.”

III. THE RESULTS OF THE DEBTORS FORGIVENESS

A. The Woman

1. Her many sins are forgiven, vs. 47-48; Matthew 9:22, “And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee.”

2. She loved much, v. 47a, “Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much:”

a. She loved in deed, 1 John 3:18, “My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.”

b. Her love abounded more than the Pharisee’s, Philippians 1:9, “And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment;”

B. The Pharisee

1. He was the lesser sinner as men judge sin, v. 41, “There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty.”

2. His forgiveness was small in comparison to woman’s forgiveness, v. 42a, “And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both.”

3. His love was therefore less, v. 47b, “but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.”

CONCLUSION

Both of these people were forgiven, however, the woman knew that her forgiveness was great for her sins were great. Her love for the Lord was greater because of her forgiveness.

How about you has the Lord forgiven your sins or are you still without peace toward God?

THE SALVATION THAT GOD PREPARED BEFORE ALL THE PEOPLE--LUKE 2:25-32

THE SALVATION THAT GOD PREPARED BEFORE ALL THE PEOPLE

LUKE 2:25-32

Introduction:

Simeon was a man in Jerusalem who was righteous and devout and who was looking for “the consolation of Israel,” the Lord Jesus Christ. He was a godly man “and the Holy Ghost was upon him.” Luke 2:26 says, “And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.” So he waited patiently for the Lord’s coming.

When he saw Jesus as a baby he recognized Him and said in verses 30-32, “For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, 31 Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; 32 A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.”

I. WHEN THE FULLNESS OF THE TIME WAS COME

A. God sent forth His Son, Galatians 4:4, “But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.”

1. Made of a woman, the God-Man, Isaiah 9:6-7, “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.”

a. Born of a virgin, Isaiah 7:14, “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”

b. The mighty God in human flesh, Hebrews 10:5, 10, “Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me: 10 By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.”

2. Made under the Law, to redeem…

a. Those under the Law, the Jews, Galatians 3:13, “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:”

b. His people, Luke 1:68, “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people,”

c. The Gentiles, Titus 2:14, “Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.”

B. God sent forth His Son to be a Propitiation [removal of wrath] for our sins, Romans 3:25-26, Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.”

1. Through Faith in His Blood, v. 25; Romans 5:9, “Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.”

2. To become the justifier of him which believes in Jesus, v. 26; Romans 4:5, “But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.”

II. GOD SENT FORTH HIS SON TO MAKE PEACE

A. Through the blood of His Cross, Colossians 1:19-20, “For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; 20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

B. To reconcile to Himself all things…

1. Those alienated from Him being enemies, Romans 5:9-10, “Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.”

2. He has made us alive unto God, Ephesians 2:1-2, 12, “And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; 2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: 12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:”

a. We were dead in sins, Ephesians 2:5-6, “Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) 6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:”

b. To us God was a Stranger, Jeremiah 14:8, “O the hope of Israel, the saviour thereof in time of trouble, why shouldest thou be as a stranger in the land, and as a wayfaring man that turneth aside to tarry for a night?”

c. Now He has raised us from the dead by faith in Christ, 1 Peter 1:3, 21, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.”

CONCLUSION

Simeon saw the Salvation of the Lord in Jesus Christ. God had showed it to him and the entire world openly. Yet man cannot see it for the blindness of his sin. The Gospel has been preached here and abroad and continues to be until this day. O that men might open their eyes to see and their ears to hear the truth before it is too late.

THE POWER OF GOD TO FORGIVE SIN--LUKE 5:17-26

THE POWER OF GOD TO FORGIVE SIN

LUKE 5:17-26

Introduction:

There is seen in these verses two types of the power of God. God’s power to heal (δυναμισ); this is the Lord spiritual power.

Then we see God’s power to forgive sin (εξουσια) which is God’s authority and right to do it. The religious leaders began to reason among themselves saying, “Who can forgive sins, but God alone?”

I. THE FAITH THAT MANIFEST GOD’S POWER

A. Jesus sees the faith of the men that carried the man with palsy.

1. The faith of those that brought the man, v, 19, “And when they could not find by what way they might bring him in because of the multitude, they went upon the housetop, and let him down through the tiling with his couch into the midst before Jesus.”

2. The faith of the man himself, vs. 24-25, “But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon earth to forgive sins, (he said unto the sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy couch, and go into thine house. 25And immediately he rose up before them, and took up that whereon he lay, and departed to his own house, glorifying God.”

B. The Roman Centurion’s servant, Luke 7:9, “When Jesus heard these things, he marvelled at him, and turned him about, and said unto the people that followed him, I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.”

C. A blind man near Jericho is healed, Luke 18:42, “And Jesus said unto him, Receive thy sight: thy faith hath saved thee.”

D. The woman with an issue of blood, Luke 8:48, “And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.”

II. THE POWER OF GOD ITSELF

A. The Power to Heal Physical Disease, Jairus, daughter is healed, Luke 8:50, 52-55,

1. Believe, v. 50“But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.”

2. Trust the Lord even under difficult circumstances, vs. 52-55, “And all wept, and bewailed her: but he said, Weep not; she is not dead, but sleepeth. 53And they laughed him to scorn, knowing that she was dead. 54And he put them all out, and took her by the hand, and called, saying, Maid, arise. 55And her spirit came again and she arose straightway: and he commanded to give her meat.”

B. The Power of God over the Elements; Jesus calms the storm on the Sea of Galilee, Luke 8:25 “And he said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, What manner of man is this! for he commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey him.”

C. The Power of God over the Souls of men

1. God forgives sin on Gospel Terms.

a. God honored the faith of the men who brought the sick man to Jesus, v. 20, “And when he saw their faith, he said unto him, Man, thy sins are forgiven thee.”

b. God honored the faith of the sick man, vs. 24b-25, “(he said unto the sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy couch, and go into thine house. 25And immediately he rose up before them, and took up that whereon he lay, and departed to his own house, glorifying God.”

2. The people were amazed at the power of God and glorified the Lord, v. 26, “And they were all amazed, and they glorified God, and were filled with fear, saying, We have seen strange things to day.”

3. They were “filled with fear,” Luke 7:16, “And there came a fear on all: and they glorified God, saying, That a great prophet is risen up among us; and, That God hath visited his people.”

CONCLUSION

God had healed a man by His infinite power to do whatever He chooses to do. That is His DINAMITE power (δυναμισ).

God had saved a man by His AUTHORITATIVE power (εξουσια). God had the authority and right to save whomever He chooses to save, Matthew 11:27, “All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.”

THE PLACE CALLED CALVARY--LUKE 23:32-33

THE PLACE CALLED CALVARY

The Place of a Skull

Luke 23:32-33, “And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death. 33And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.

Introduction:

The time had come. Judas had betrayed Him and He had been brought before the High Priest where He was tried. He was found guilty of being the “Son of God” and therefore, condemned for blaspheme. He was take to Pilate who had authority to crucify Jesus. Pilate sent Him to Herod who could get no satisfaction and returned Him to Pilate.

Pilate wanted to release him for he declared that he had “have found no fault in this man touching those things whereof ye accuse him:” (Luke 23:14). However, willing to appease the Jews who cried for His crucification, “gave sentence that it should be as they required.” (Luke 23:24).

Now we come to Calvary or Golgatha as the other gospels call it.

I. JESUS WAS CRUCIFIED ON CALVARY, THE PLACE OF A SKULL.

A. Jesus receives His crown on the way to Calvary, Mark 15:16-18, “And the soldiers led him away into the hall, called Praetorium; and they call together the whole band. 17And they clothed him with purple, and platted a crown of thorns, and put it about his head, 18And began to salute him, Hail, King of the Jews!”

B. His hands and feet were nailed to the cross, Psalms 22:16, “For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet.”

C. Being crucified was a painful and the most horrible form of death, and to a Jew it would acquire greater horror from the curse in Deuteronomy 21:23, “His body shall not remain all night upon the tree, but thou shalt in any wise bury him that day; (for he that is hanged is accursed of God;) that thy land be not defiled, which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance.”

D. Being crucified Jesus fulfilled prophecy, Galatians 3:13, “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:”

II. HE WAS CRUCIFIED BETWEEN TWO THIEVES.

A. He was crucified in midst between the two thieves as if he had been the worst.

1. One saw nothing in Jesus Christ, v. 39, “And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.”

2. The other saw a Savior in Jesus Christ, vs. 40-42, “But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? 41And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss. 42And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.”

B. Thus fulfilling the Scriptures, Isaiah 53:12, “Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.”

III. HE WAS CRUCIFIED THAT WE MIGHT LIVE.

A. The Rulers stood among the people deriding Him, v. 35, And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God.”

1. The people joined in the mockery.

2. Even the soldiers mocked Him, v. 36, “And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar,”

B. They challenged Him to save Himself FROM the cross when He was saving others BY the cross, Hebrews 12:2, “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

1. Through the blood of His cross He reconciled man to God, Colossians 1:20, “And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.”

2. On that cross Jesus slew the enmity between God and man, Ephesians 2:16, “And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:”

CONCLUSION

On the cross the Jews thought they had conquered Jesus, but He had conquered sin, death and Hell. By His death man can have life eternal through faith in Jesus Christ as his Savior. Matthew 11:28, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” John 7:37, “In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.”

THE MAN WHO WENT AWAY WITH JESUS--LUKE 18:35-43

THE MAN WHO WENT AWAY WITH JESUS

LUKE 18:35-43

Introduction:

There are many today have gone away FROM Jesus, but few that have gone away WITH Jesus. Here a blind man by the name of Bartimaeus heard that Jesus was passing by and determined to get the Lord’s attention that his need might be met.

I. THE BLIND MAN GOT IN THE WAY OF JESUS.

A. There were actually two blind men, Matthew 20:30, “And, behold, two blind men sitting by the way side, when they heard that Jesus passed by, cried out, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou Son of David.”

B. Bartimaeus was more vocal than the other was. He persisted, Mark 10:48, “And many charged him that he should hold his peace: but he cried the more a great deal, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me.”

1. Bartimaeus had heard of Jesus of Nazareth, Romans 10:17, “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”

2. He called him the Son of David, knowing the prophecy regarding the Messiah and the throne of David, Luke 1:32, “He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:”

C. Bartimaeus responded to what he had heard about Jesus.

1. He saw his own need of the Lord in his life. Matthew 9:12, “But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick.”

2. He saw in Jesus the cure for his blindness. Isaiah 42:6-7, “I the LORD have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles; 7To open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house.”

3. He wasn’t going to let Him pass by without knowing Him personally, so he cried out. Luke 18:38-39, “And he cried, saying, Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me. 39And they which went before rebuked him, that he should hold his peace: but he cried so much the more, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me.”

II. THE BLIND MEN GOT INTO THE MIND OF JESUS.

A. Bartimaeus got the attention of the Lord, v. 40a, And Jesus stood, and commanded him to be brought unto him:”

B. When the blind men were near, Jesus asked a question: Matthew 20:32, “And Jesus stood still, and called them, and said, What will ye that I shall do unto you?”

1. If Jesus asked you that, what would you ask for?

2. Bartimaeus asked for his sight, v. 41, “Saying, What wilt thou that I shall do unto thee? And he said, Lord, that I may receive my sight.”

3. The Lord responded to his need, v. 42, “And Jesus said unto him, Receive thy sight: thy faith hath saved thee.”

a. God restored his sight to look upon the most magnificent face the world has every seen, the Lord Jesus Christ.

b. Bartimaeus saw the Rose of Sharon and the Lily of the valleys, Song of Solomon, 2:1, “I am the rose of Sharon, and the lily of the valleys.”

c. He looked into the face of his King, the Son of David, v. 38, “And he cried, saying, Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me.”

III. BARTEMAEUS WENT AWAY WITH JESUS.

A. This blind man now had his sight and his Savior, v. 42, “And Jesus said unto him, Receive thy sight: thy faith hath saved thee.”

B. Bartimaeus followed Jesus, v. 43, “And immediately he received his sight, and followed him, glorifying God: and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise unto God.”

1. The recipient of God’s Grace followed the Lord in praise of what He had done for him. John 10:27, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:”

2. The people glorified God in what they saw happen in the life of the believer. Psalm 86:12, I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore.”

CONCULSION

Some of those that Jesus healed did not return to follow Him as in the case of the 10 lepers that were healed. Only one returned to give glory to God. Luke 17:15-18, “And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, 16And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. 17And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? 18-There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.”

I hope your life is not like those 9 men. God expects to be honored by those He saves.

THE FLESHLY AMBITION TO BE FREE OF GOD--LUKE 15:11-24

THE FLESHLY AMBITION TO BE FREE OF GOD

LUKE 15:11-24

Introduction:

“The great folly of sinners, and that which ruins them, is being content in their life-time to receive their good things. Our first parents ruined themselves and all their race, by a foolish ambition to be independent, and this is at the bottom of the sinner’s persisting in their sin.” ---Matthew Henry.

I. TO BE FREE FROM GOD…

A. Is a departure from the Truth, Luke 15:12-13, “And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country.”

B. Alienates man from God,

1. It is a state of waste, vs. 13-14a, “and there wasted his substance with riotous living. And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land;”

2. It is a state of want, v. 14b, “and he began to be in want.”

3. It is a state of slavery, vs. 15-16, “And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.”

a. There is constant discouragement. To feed swine was the lowest, most humiliating thing a Jew could do to earn a living.

b. No one cared enough to give relief, v. 16, “and no man gave unto him.”

1) No one is really interested in helping the drunk; the harlot, etc. except God.

2) No one is interested in the wayward Christian except the LORD.

II. DEPENDENCE ON GOD BRINGS MAN BACK TO THE TRUTH.

A. He comes to HIMSELF, v. 17, “And when he came to himself,”

1. The TURNING POINT in his life.

a. His eyes are OPENED to his situation, v. 15, “And he sent him into his fields to feed swine.”

b. He was standing knee-deep in the MIRE of the world.

c. He was eating the SLOP of sin, v. 16, “And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.”

2. God CONVINCES him of his sin,

a. Guilty, subject to the judgment of God, Romans 3:19, 23, “Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.

b. All have sinned, Romans 3:23, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”

B. He REALIZES that the lowest servant of the Father IS HAPPIER than he is.

1. He REPENTS of his sin, a change of mind, 2 Peter 3:9, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”

2. He HUMBLY GOES TO the Father, Matthew 11:28, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

C. He IS RECEIVED by the Father.

1. His father SEES him a far off and REJOICES.

a. He was DEAD, but NOW IS ALIVE, v. 24 “For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.” Ephesians 2:1, “And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;”

b. He was LOST, but now is FOUND, Colossians 2:13, “And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;”

2. He is CLOTHED with A ROBE, Isaiah 61:10, “for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.”

3. He is RECEIVED INTO the family… v. 23, “And they began to be merry.”

a. …NOT as a slave, v. 22, “Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:”

b. …As a MEMBER of the family although he had come humbly, willing to be a servant, v. 18, “I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.

CONCLUSION

c. The Father is ALWAYS READY TO RECEIVE THE SINNER WHO comes TRUSTING Jesus Christ as their SAVIOR regardless of their situation.

d. THE LORD IS ALSO READY TO RECEIVE THE BELIEVER WHO HAS FALLEN INTO SIN, KNOWING THAT…“all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” Romans 3:23.

THE HOLY SPIRIT IN THE LIFE OF CHRIST--LUKE 4:18

THE HOLY SPIRIT IN THE LIFE OF CHRIST
LUKE 4:18

Introduction:

Although Jesus was God during His earthly life and ministry, He still recognized His dependence upon the ministry of the Holy Spirit. This was particularly necessary in view of His humiliation in the Incarnation. So intimate was the relationship between Christ and the Holy Spirit that in the New Testament, He is viewed as endued with the power of the Holy Spirit.

I. THE NEW TESTAMENT RECOGNIZES THE MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN CHRIST’S…

A. Incarnation, Hebrews 10:5, “Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me:”

B. Birth, Matthew 1:18, “Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.”

C. Growth, Luke 2:40, 52, “And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. 52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.”

D. Baptism, Luke 3:21, 22, “Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, 22 And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.”

E. Temptation, Luke 4:1, “And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness,”

F. Ministry, Luke 4:18, 19, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, 19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.”

G. Miracles, Matthew 12:28, “But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you.”

H. Death, Hebrews 9:14, “How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?”

I. Resurrection, Romans 8:11, “But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.”

J. Glorification, John 16:14, “He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.”

II. THE APPLICATION OF THE NEED OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

A. The Lord recognized His need to have an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit, Luke 3:22, “And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.

B. This in turn emphasizes the Christian's need to be filled with the Holy Spirit, Ephesians 5:18, “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;”

1. The Holy Spirit’s work in the world, John 16:8, “And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:”

2. The Holy Spirit’s work in the Believer,

a. He indwells the believer, John 14:17, “Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.”

b. He guides the believer, John 16:13, “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.”

c. He comforts the believer, John 15:26, “But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:”

THE GRACE OF GRATITUDE--LUKE 17:11-19

THE GRACE OF GRATITUDE

LUKE 17:11-19

Introduction:

The Lord Jesus was nearing the end of His ministry upon this earth. He was in Galilee and determined to go to Jerusalem, Luke 9:51, “And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem.”

The nearest way from Galilee to Jerusalem was through Samaria. In a certain town there ten lepers met him, v. 13, “And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” Jesus sent them to the priest to show themselves and as they went they were healed (v.14).

One of the men saw that he was cleansed and returned to show his gratitude (vv. 15-16).

I. THE RARENESS OF CHRISTIAN GRATITUDE

v. 17, “And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?”

A. Leprosy was thought to be a mark put upon men by God because of their sin:

1. God sent it upon Miriam, for her contempt of Moses, Numbers 12:10, “And the cloud departed from off the tabernacle; and, behold, Miriam became leprous, white as snow: and Aaron looked upon Miriam, and, behold, she was leprous.”

2. David curseth Joab’s house with it, 2 Samuel 3:29, “Let it rest on the head of Joab, and on all his father’s house; and let there not fail from the house of Joab one that hath an issue, or that is a leper, or that leaneth on a staff, or that falleth on the sword, or that lacketh bread.”

3. Gehazi suffereth by it, for his lying and going after Naaman for a bribe, 2 Kings 5:27, “The leprosy therefore of Naaman shall cleave unto thee, and unto thy seed for ever. And he went out from his presence a leper as white as snow.”

4. King Uzziah, for usurping the priest’s office, 2 Kings 15:5, “And the LORD smote the king, so that he was a leper unto the day of his death, and dwelt in a several house. And Jotham the king’s son was over the house, judging the people of the land.”

B. Only one of the ten men the Lord healed returned to show his gratitude, 1 Chronicles 16:29, “Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness.”

1. This man, a Samaritan, was sensible of the power of God and grateful for his mercies, Psalms 100:4, “Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.”

2. The nine lepers cried to Christ for mercy, but mercy with respect to their afflictions, Romans 1:21, “Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.”

II. THE REALITY OF CHRISTIAN GRATITUDE

v. 15, “And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,”

A. The Samaritan’s first thought was to thank the Lord for being healed, Psalms 30:11, “Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness; 12 To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever.”

B. Our first duty as sinners saved by God’s grace is to be thankful to Him, Psalms 26:7, “That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works.”

1. In order to glorify our God, 2 Corinthians 4:15, “For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.”

2. Our prayer life should be filled with thanksgiving, Philippians 4:6, “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.”

II. THE REWARD OF CHRISTIAN GRATITUDE

vv. 18-19, “There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger. 19 And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.”

A. The Lord healed many that never said thank you, but those that thanked the Lord were those that received Him as Savior, Luke 7:50, “And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.”

B. He declares what God had done for his soul, Psalms 66:16, “Come and hear, all ye that fear God, and I will declare what he hath done for my soul.”

C. They boast of what God has done, Psalms 34:2, “My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad.”

D. His gratitude demonstrated by telling the good news, Mark 1:45, “But he went out, and began to publish it much, and to blaze abroad the matter, insomuch that Jesus could no more openly enter into the city, but was without in desert places: and they came to him from every quarter.”

CONCLUSION

Have we boasted about our Lord recently; about how He saved our souls from sin; about how we were condemned to hell before we trusted Him as our Savior? It is time that we did.