Jesus Commends …￼

Table of Contents

Sep6 - Jesus’ Commendations

Sep9 - A Centurion: “Such Great Faith!”

Sep13 - John the Baptist: Manliness

Sep16 - A Leper: Giving Thanks to God

Sep20 - Mary: “Mary has Chosen the Good Part”

Sep23 - Nathanael: “Israelite Indeed, in whom is No Deceit!”

Sep27 - His disciples: Eyes that See, Ears that Hear

Sep30 - Peter: Confession of the Christ

Oct4 - Canaanite Woman: “Your Faith is Great”

Oct7 - Samaritan: “Proved to a Neighbor” (Neil McLeroy)

Oct11 - A Woman: “She has Done What She Could” (Craig Moore)

Oct14 - Lazarus: “Carried Away…to Abraham’s bosom” (Doug Bernard)

Oct18 - Children: Spirit of Humility (Jeff Bogs)

Oct21 - Thyatira: “Your Deeds…are Greater than at the First” (Craig Ottersbach)

Oct25 - Repentant Thief: “You Shall be with Me in Paradise”

Oct28 - Moses: “He Wrote about Me”

Nov1 - Ephesus: Perseverance in Testing False Apostles

Nov4 - Servants: “More Blessed to Give than to Receive”

Nov8 - Gospel Meeting

Nov11 - Immoral Woman: “She Loved Much”

Nov15 - Four Men and a Paralytic: “Seeing their Faith”

Nov18 - Blind man: He was able to “See”

Nov22 Zaccheus: “A Son of Abraham”

Nov25 - Poor widow: “Put in All that She Had”

Nov29 - Pergamum: “Hold Fast my Name, and did Not Deny My Faith”

Dec2 - Review

Sep6 - Jesus’ Commendations

In this series of lessons we will study people Jesus commended, or reproved, and why. Hopefully, it will give us a better understanding and appreciation of Jesus, his expectations of us, and provide motivation for us to ask how Jesus views us. We will base our study primarily on the four gospels and Revelation 2,3.

What is the purpose of the the gospels? Mk 1:1…16:15,16; Lk 1:1-4; Jn 20:30,31.

Why should I care about what Jesus thinks about men?

a.Jn 1:1-3, 47-49; 2:25; Mt 9:4 (Mk 2:8); 12:25; Lk 6:8; 9:47; Rev 2:2,9,13,19; 3:1,8,15. Compare Heb 4:11-13.

b.Mt 25:31…34…41; Lk 12:35-48; Jn 12:47-50; 14:6; 2Co 5:9,10

c.Jn 3:16; 10:11; 15:13; 1Jn 3:16; 2Co 5:14,15; Tit 2:14

Jesus’ commendations …

a.Are not molded by common opinion. Mt 8:11,12; 23:5-7, 27-28; Lk 7:36-39…47

b.Are not influenced by intimidation. Jn 18:33-37, 19:8-12

c.Show no partiality, whether rich or poor (Lk 19:2; 21:1-4), powerful or unknown (Mt 8:5…10; 9:2—22), friend or foe (Jn 8:44; Mt 16:23), moral righteousness or unrighteousness (Mt 11:2-6; Lk 7:37,47)

d.Have no mercenary motives. Lk 9:57,58

e.Have no power motives. Jn 6:15

f.Are righteous judgments, in accord with his nature. Jn 7:24; 8:45,46

The believer’s goal is be commended by Jesus now and in that final day! Mt 25:21,23,34; 2Tim 4:7,8

Sep9 - A Centurion: “Such Great Faith!”

Read Mt 8:5-13; Lk 7:1-10.

What do we learn about Capernaum from following scriptures? Mt 4:12,13 8:14-9:1; Mk 2:1; Mt 11:23,24. If you learn anything else about Capernaum from other Scriptures that might be pertinent to the event we are discussing, make notes to share what you learned with the class.

Do a profile of the centurion, (“profile” -“ summary or analysis of data representing distinctive features or characteristics” American Heritage Dictionary). E.g., race? wealthy? prominent? etc.

What is the significance of this being recorded by Matthew and by Luke? (Think of who they were, their occupations, and the time they lived.)

What is it about this man’s faith that caused Jesus to commend it as “such great faith”? Suggestion: Consider what the man said and did that indicate his belief in Jesus’ dignity (Mt 8:8a; Lk 7:7a), His power (Mt 8:8b; Lk 7:7b), the range of His power (Mt 8:6; Lk 7:3), His authority (Mt 8:9; Lk 7:8), and His loving mercy (Lk 7:3-5,9).

With what did Jesus contrast this man’s faith? Why was it such a contrast? What would be the consequences to those to whom Jesus referred? Some scriptures to consider: Jn 1:11-12; 12:42; Ac 3:25-26; 13:46; Rom 3:1-2; 9:4...6.

How did this man acquire this faith? See Lk 7:3. Compare Rom 10:17. Had he heard of the event recorded in Jn 4:46-54...? (We don’t know...) Contrast Lk 11:14-16; Mt 27:42. See Jn 20:26-31.

For thought: What would Jesus say of our faith? Read Jam 2:14-26.

What do you learn about Jesus from this incident?

Sep13 - John the Baptist: Manliness

Read Mt 11:2-15; Lk 7:18-28.

By “manliness” we mean having the traditional qualities associated with manhood—being strong, brave, resolute to duty in the face of danger and difficulty. Compare 1Co 16:13. (Note: manliness does not equate with stubbornness, rudeness, impatience, lack of meekness.)

What does “reed shaken by the wind” connote about character?

What does “dressed in soft clothing” connote? (Note: Before you answer, consider that men like Joseph, David, Josiah, and Daniel lived in “king’s palaces” and wore “soft clothing.”)

For discussion: Did John’s question imply he doubted his own previous testimony? (Use your reference Bible to read what his previous testimony was. Make note of the passages. Contextually, “the Expected One,” or, “the Coming One” (NKJV), refers to one expected or coming for what?)

Comparing Matthew and Luke’s accounts, what did Jesus do to confirm he was “the Expected One”?

Why did Jesus say…

a.“There has not arisen anyone greater than John the Baptist” (Notes: Was John in the kingdom when it was established...Mt 8:11,12? What is unique about John so that even prophets like Elijah or Moses were not “greater”?)

b.“Yet he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he”? (Note: “Is” = present tense, but present tense is sometimes used when speaking of things in the future, e.g. Mt 3:10; 22:30. Consider Lk 10:20; 11:27,28; 12:21,28-33.)

On Mt 11:12 … Read Jn 6:15. This occurs in the evening of the very day Jesus told of John’s death, Mt 14:12-21. Compare the miracle in Matthew with the one in Jn 6:5-13—same event recorded.

“For all the prophets and the Law prophesied until John.” What changed when John came on the scene? See Lk 16:16.

What do you learn about Jesus from this incident?

Sep16 - A Leper: Giving Thanks to God

Read Lk 17:11-19.

What was the law governing lepers? Lev 13:45-46

If you have a New International Version, read the footnote on “leprosy.”

Describe the scene. (E.g., Where these men were in relationship to Jesus, the volume in which they addressed Jesus...)

Why did the Law instruct a leper to show himself to the priest? See Lev 14.

When were the men cleansed? What does this say about the men?

What attitude and action set the one leper apart from the others?

What else was there about this leper that further highlighted the failure of the other men?

“The nine—where are they?” This question is presented by the Son of God to focus on a basic and vital attitude and responsibility men have, and have always had, before God. Failure is not only sinful, but paves the way for apostasy. Read the following. Be prepared to discuss these in class as they relate to this point.

a.Jews: Ex 12:14; 13:8-10; Dt 8:10-18; 12:7; 16:11-12,14,17; 28:45-48; 32:15-18; Rom 2:4-5

b.Gentiles: Rom 1:18-21...25...28

c.Christians: Eph 5:20; Php 3:1; 4:4,6; 1Th 5;17,18; 1Tim. 2:1; Heb 13:15

If you have the New American Standard Version, read the footnote on v19. Check this alternative out based on (a) the meaning of the word, and (b) the context.

What do you learn about Jesus from this incident?

Sep20 - Mary: “Mary has Chosen the Good Part”

Read Lk 10:38-42.

You are standing in the corner of the room watching all this. Be prepared to describe the scene in your own words. Consider the following notes.

v39, Young’s Literal Translation has, “Mary, who also, having seated herself …” The NAS77 has “moreover”; the KJV, NKJV, and ASV has “also.” What does “also” suggest to you about what was going on?

v40, “has left me” - “Imperfect active, she kept on leaving me.” Robertson’s Word Pictures.

v40, “help” me”; “to give a hand with anybody” H.A.W. Meyer. “Tell her to give me a hand!”

Martha was “distracted” (“cumbered” KJV, ASV). v40, Look up these words.

a.If “distracted,” distracted from what?

b.If “cumbered,” with what, and how did it impact what was going on?

Jesus said Martha was “worried [“careful,” KJV; “anxious,” ASV] and bothered about so many things,” v41. When a person has many things they feel are demanding their attention, we may say they are “pulled in every direction,” and if it weighs too heavily upon them to where they lose control, we may even say they are “going to pieces.” This was Martha.

Compare the instruction in Jesus’ commendation here with his teaching in:

a.Mt 6:33 - in the context, what is Jesus cautioning against?

b.Mk 4:7,18-19 - in the context, what is the result of this attitude?

“One thing is necessary,” v42. Isn’t food, rest, and shelter necessary (which Martha was providing)? What does Jesus mean? Compare Jn 6:26,27…67,68.

“Mary has chosen the good part,” v42.

Our character, life, eternal destiny are affected by our choices — Dt 30:19; Josh 24:15; Psa 119:30; Pro 1:29.

What did Jesus say about her choice?

For thought and discussion: Which better pictures us—Mary, or, Martha? Do we need to make changes, and if so, what changes?

What do you learn about Jesus from this incident?

Sep23 - Nathanael: “Israelite Indeed, in whom is No Deceit!”

Read Jn 1:43-51

Define “guile” or “deceit” (NKJV) as a trait of character.

Based on what is said in the following scriptures, note some ways in which guile or deceit will affect how one deals with the truth.

a.Ac 13:10

b.1Th 2:3

c.2Co 4:2

d.2Co 11:13

What is the significance of saying, “an Israelite indeed ”(instead of simply “an Israelite”)?

a.Compare Jn 4:42; 6:55; 8:31 (See KJV).

b.See Jn 8:39-40; Rom 2:17-29; 9:6-8,22-29.

What converted Nathanael from doubt to faith that Jesus was indeed the Son of God?

Nathanael=Bartholomew?

Compare:

a.Mt 10:3, “Philip and Bartholomew...”

b.Mk 3:18, “Philip, Bartholomew...”

c.Lu 6:14, “Philip and Bartholomew...”

d.Jn 1:45, “Philip found Nathanael...”

Note also that Nathanael is mentioned with the seven in Jn 21:2, among which were Peter, Thomas, James, and John. Here he is found in the company of the apostles.

What do you learn about Jesus from this incident?

Sep27 - His disciples: Eyes that See, Ears that Hear

Read Mt 13:10-23; Mk 4:10-25; Lk 8:9-18; 10:21-24.

Based on the context, what did Jesus mean by “see” and “hear” in his statement, “Blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear”? Note the contrast in Mt 13:14,15; Mk 4:12; Lk 8:10 and the fact that the parable of the sower is connected in all three accounts. (You may find it helpful to mark the “hear/know/see/understand” family of words.)

What did Jesus say was the purpose of teaching in parables? (Note the “Why…?” in Mt 13:10 and the “For” and “Therefore” in vv12,13.)

What did the disciples “see” and “hear” (for which they were blessed)? Note Mt 13:11,19,24,31,33,38,41,43,45,47,52; Mk 4:11,26,30; Lk 9:60,62…10:1,9.

Jesus asked, “How will you understand all the parables?” (Mk 4:13). What is the answer? Base you answer on the context—how were they enabled to know what the parable of the sower meant? Compare also Mt 13:18,36.

Explain the warning Jesus gave about listening (Mk 4:24; Lk 8:18)—is this warning about what you listen to or how you listen? Compare Mt 5:6; Lk 10:21; Jn 7:17; Ac 28:23-28; 2Th 2:10-12; etc.

What do you learn about Jesus from this incident?

Sep30 - Peter: Confession of the Christ

Read Mt 16:13-19; Mk 8:27-29; Lk 9:18-20.

What is the question of the context? (vv13b,14b)

a.What did the people say in answer to this question?

b.What did Peter say in answer to this question?

c.What did Jesus say about the correct answer?

Explain the meaning of Peter’s confession? Explain the terms he used.

Why is Peter’s confession so important?

Following is evidence that Peter is not the “rock.” Make appropriate notes.

a.The question of the context, vv13,15

b.vv22-23. Also, Mt 26:70,72,74; Gal 2:11 - solid foundation?

c.Mt 18:1-6; Mk 9:33-37; Lk 9:46-48; Lk 22:24-30 - later events. Were the apostles aware Peter was to be the foundation?

d.Jn 20:22-24b - similar statement to ALL apostles

e.1Pt 2:5-7 - golden opportunity, but no mention

f.1Co. 3:11; Eph 2:20 - Jesus = foundation; ALL apostles and prophets in this figure

g.Ac 10:25,26 - refused worship

h.Gal 2:6…8,9 - Paul denies other apostles preeminence (including Peter)

i.Ac 2:36; 3:13f; 4;12; 5:31,42; 8:5,12,35; 9:5,20; etc. - preached Christ, not Peter

What do we confess when we become Christians? Ac 8:37; Rom 10:9,10

What do you learn about Jesus from this incident?

Oct4 - Canaanite Woman: “Your Faith is Great”

Read Mt 15:21-28; Mk 7:24-30

What is the significance of a “Canaanite” woman in Matthew’s gospel? Compare Mk 7:26. This fact highlights Jesus’ commendation of her.

What did the nature of her request indicate that she believed about Jesus?

What did her persistence in her request indicate she believed about Jesus?

What did the circumstances of her request (public? private?) indicate about her faith?

What was the result of her prayer of faith and what did it indicate about who Jesus was?

Compare our faith in Jesus as exemplified by our attitude toward Him and approach to Him in prayer—how does our faith compare with the Canaanite woman?

Contrast Jesus’ miracle with so-called miracle workers today—note some differences.

What do you learn about Jesus from this incident?

Oct7 - Samaritan: “Proved to a Neighbor” (Neil McLeroy)

Read Lk 10:25-37

The lawyer asked two questions…

a.What is the first one?

b.What is the second one?

The answers to the lawyer’s questions

a.What is the answer to the first one?

b.What is the answer to the second question?

Why did the lawyer ask his first question?

Why did he ask his second question?

Do you think he did not truly know the answer, or was he looking for an out/loop hole to what he already knew?

How about us? Do we look for ways around things that we already know about God’s commandments or statues?

Can you give examples where people look for these loop holes?

Jesus asked 3 questions, list them below.

Why did Jesus asks these questions, was he seeking information or trying cause the lawyer to consider his responsibilities?

Characteristics of the Samaritan

List some characteristics of the Samaritan:

a. 

b. 

c. 

Characteristics to consider:

He was willing to get involved:

He was willing to spend his time, effort, resources and money to help this man, see vs. 34. Was he putting himself in danger, were the robbers still around? He could have used many valid reasons why did not help but he chose to help where he saw a need.

How does this apply to us today?

Race did not matter: It does not say what race the victim was, maybe that’s a lesson for us that it really should not matter. We see the Samaritan felt compassion for the man, see vs. 33

Is this just a 1st Century example and has no bearing on us today?

Samaritan was financially able to help and had a good reputation

We see the Samaritan used his own resources to help the man. In vs. 35 he gave the innkeeper 2 denarii (which is 2 days wages). We also need to notice that he told the innkeeper in vs. 35 “to take care of him and whatever more you spend, when I return I will repay you.” Did the innkeeper know and trust this Samaritan, had he done this kind of thing before.

Are we willing and able to help if we find someone that has a need? Do we have a favorable reputation among men?

What do you learn about Jesus from this incident?

Oct11 - A Woman: “She has Done What She Could” (Craig Moore)

Read Mt 26:6-13, Mk 14:3-9; Jn 12:2-8.

Do Matthew and Mark record the same incident as John 12? We will discuss in class. Consider the (a) similarities, (b) differences.

On the chronological differences (see verses just preceding the story in all three accounts), compare in Matthew and Mark the verses just preceding and just following the story … does this explain?

How “costly” was the perfume (or “ointment,” or “oil”) the woman poured on Jesus? How many days of a laborer’s wage would this represent? Compare Mt 20:2.

What did this woman seem to understand that the male disciples did not? Note the stated purpose of what she did and compare Mt 16:21-22; 26:39-44; Jn 18:10-11. This is real focus of this incident.

What do we learn about Mary from Lk 10:38-42? Might this have any bearing on why she did what she did in the incident we are studying?

What did Jesus commend this woman for?

Contrast the concepts and attitudes of the disciples reflected in the incident recorded in Mt 20:20-28 with this woman’s concepts and attitude.

What principle relative to serving God is reflected in the following: Mt 25:14-30; 2Co 8:12; Php 4:10?

Other examples of people who did what they could. Note what they did.

Abraham - Gen 18:1ff...Heb 13:2

Shunammite woman - 2Ki 4:8-10

David - 1Ch 28:2-3...29:2

Poor widow - Lk 21:1-4

Lois and Eunice - 2Tim 1:5; 3:14

For thought and discussion: What can YOU do?

How was this woman treated for doing this good deed?

What do you learn about Jesus from this incident?

Oct14 - Lazarus: “Carried Away…to Abraham’s bosom” (Doug Bernard)

Please read Lk 16:19-31 at least 4 times.

Describe the Rich Man: [Note verses]:

Before Death After Death

Financially:

Physically:

Socially:

Mental Attitude/s:

Other:

Describe Lazarus: [Note verses]:

Before Death After Death

Financially:

Physically:

Socially:

Mental Attitude/s:

Other:

What is a parable?

What are the indicators that Lk 16:19-31 is not a “parable”?

a.It depends on revelation. [verses?]

b.Actual names of persons are used. [verses?]

c.It teaches the point intended w/o another illustration. [verses?]

And what is the teaching significance if it is or is not a “parable” then and now?

Can poverty indicate godliness? Can poverty affect one’s godliness? Pro 30:7-9

Can wealth indicate godliness? Can wealth affect one’s godliness? Lk 12:15-21

What is expected of those who have means, relative to those who are poor and in need? 1Tim 6:17-19; Jam 5:1-6; Lk 10:25-37

Name some wealthy believers in the bible/scriptures?

Can the wealthy be in need?

How could the rich man’s brothers hear/listen to Moses and the prophets? vv29,31

Name some persons in the bible that stopped listening to Jehovah and died that way?

After physical death, can you change your destiny? Heb 9:27

What can we learn about Jesus from Lk 16:19-31?

Which person in these verses are you today and why? 1) Lazarus, 2) Rich Man, 3) Five Brothers

Oct18 - Children: Spirit of Humility (Jeff Bogs)

Read Mt 18:1-6; Mk 9:33-37; Lk 9:46-48

What is the background to Jesus’ teaching in Mt 18:1-6?

a.What question were the disciples asking?

b.What attitude did they show by asking this question?

What two conditions must be meet for the disciples to enter the kingdom of heaven? v3

According to v4, what characteristic of “children” must the disciples possess?

While the discussion begins with Jesus setting a child before them, what does He mean by “little ones” in Mt 18:6f?

What two ways does Jesus emphasize this attitude and the importance of receiving in this attitude “one such child in My name” (vv5,6)?

The importance of humility in sharing in the kingdom of Christ is found throughout the scriptures — Mt 5:3,4; Php 2:1-11.

Observe how humility (or the lack of it) affects our attitude toward Christ and toward others.

Are we responsible for the consequences of our actions?

a.How does the attitude of pride and thoughtlessness impact others?

b.How does the attitude of humility and meekness impact others?

What do you learn about Jesus from this incident?

Oct21 - Thyatira: “Your Deeds…are Greater than at the First” (Craig Ottersbach)

NIV, “you are now doing more than you did at first”

Read Rev 2:18-29

Thyatira was a commercial center and many trade guilds were there (compare unions today). Compare Ac 16:14; 19:24,25. If these guilds were idolatrous and immoral, and could wield powerful influence in whether one had a job …

a.How might this impact their perseverance in faithful, loving service?

b.How could this encourage toleration of Jezebel and her immorality and idolatry?

Whatever it was they had to endure (“perseverance” NASB; “patience” NKJV; “patient endurance” ESV), Jesus commends them for what?

a.Contrast Sardis, 3:1-3, and Laodicea, 3:14-19.

b.In the judgment scene of Mt 25:14-30, what are two men commended for and one man condemned for?

c.If one is not “diligent” and “increasing,” how does Peter describe him, 1Pt 3:9? (See vv5-11.)

While we learn something about our Lord by seeing what he commends, we also learn something about Him by seeing what he reproves.

a.What did He sternly express displeasure about relative to Jezebel and her followers? vv20-23

b.What did He have “against” the church in Thyatira? v20

What exhortation did He give the church in Thyatira? vv25,26,29

After His graphic description of Himself (v18), Jesus begins this letter with, “I know…” (v19). He know all about them, both the good and the bad. He will be the Judge! vv26-28; 2Co 5:10-11. Are we comfortable with what he knows about us?

What do you learn about Jesus from this?

Oct25 - Repentant Thief: “You Shall be with Me in Paradise”

Read Lk 23:39-43; Mt 27:38,44; Mk 15:27,28

The two robbers

a.What is the difference in them?

b.What is remarkable about the penitent thief’s faith as evidenced in his request? Consider the circumstances they are in.

Was Jesus granting the repentant thief salvation?

If Jesus saved the thief without baptism, does that mean He doesn’t require baptism to be saved today? Consider …

a.Do we know the thief was not baptized? Mt 3:5,6; Jn 4:1

b.Was the New Covenant Jesus ratified by His blood in effect yet? Heb 7:12; 9:16,17; 10:9,10

c.After dying and rising from the dead, what did Jesus instruct His apostles to teach the world about what was required in order to be saved in New Covenant? Mt 28:18-19; Mk 16:15,16

d.When believers under the New Covenant asked these apostles what they needed to do to be saved, what were they told? Ac 2:36-38

e.What did the man sent by Jesus to a penitent believer under the New Covenant tell him he had to do to wash his sins away? Ac 22:16

f.The penitent thief was saved by grace; so were others, Eph 2:8,9. Did salvation by grace nullify their need to be baptized to be saved? Cases in point …

Ephesians: Ac 19:1-5; Eph 5:26; Ethiopian: Ac 8:35-39; Saul: Ac 22:9-16; Philippians: Ac 16:14,15; 16:31-33; Corinthians: Ac 18:8; Romans: Rom 5:1,2; 6:3,4.

g.The thief was not a pattern for forgiveness—neither under the New (scriptures above) nor under the Old Covenant (Lev 6:1-7). What is our responsibility? Mk 4:9; 2Tim 4:2

Should the salvation of the thief be an encouragement to death-bed repentance? Consider …

a.What could happen unexpectedly? Lk 12:20; Jam 4:13-15

b.What could change that would prevent repentance? Eph 4:18

c.God is not mocked! As we have learned, Jesus knows the heart!

What do you learn about Jesus from this?

Oct28 - Moses: “He Wrote about Me”

Read Jn 5:45-47

When did Moses live? What books did he write?

By saying Moses “wrote about me,” what is He implying about Moses?

See also vv37-40. Who is Jesus saying testifies to His identity, and how? The “Scriptures” Jesus referred to with this audience would include the writings of Moses. Compare Lk 24:25-27, 44-47.

How did Jesus view Moses and his writings in the following …

a.Mt 8:4

b.Mt 23:2,3

c.Mk 7:10 … Mt 15:4 (compare these two scriptures)

d.Mk 12:26

e.Lk 16:29,31

f.Jn 7:19

Why is this commendation of Moses by Jesus so important to us? (Think of what Moses wrote, e.g. Gen 1-3, 6-9, 12:1-7, etc.)

What do you learn about Jesus from this incident?

Nov1 - Ephesus: Perseverance in Testing False Apostles

Read Rev 2:1-7 (note especially vv2-3,6)

Jesus’ commendation of what they did was inseparably linked to what he said “you cannot” do, v2. What is it? Compare v6. Contrast this with the attitude men commend today.

By contrast, how did the Corinthians react to false apostles? 2Co 11:1-4,13-15,20. Note 12:12; 13:3-7. See also Rev 2:14,15,20.

In Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, what did make the measure of whether a person ought to be regarded as a prophet? 1Co 14:37,38

What did Jesus warn about false prophets? Mt 7:15-19

What did He say was their destiny and why? Mt 7:21-23

Jesus warned that before the destruction of Jerusalem “many” would be mislead (or, deceived), Mt 24:4-14 (note vv4,5…11).

a.Who did He say would be responsible for much of this, v11? Read vv5,6 in this light.

b.Who would be saved, v13? Compare this with Rev 2:2-3.

What were the Thessalonians encouraged to do in regard to the prophets they heard? 1Th 5:19-22

What did Jesus reprove the Ephesian church for? Rev 2:4,5

What do you learn about Jesus from this?

Nov4 - Servants: “More Blessed to Give than to Receive”

Read Ac 20:35; Mt 20:24-28

Jesus statement Paul referred to in Ac 20:35 is not found in the four gospels. See Jn 21:25.

a.To whom is Paul speaking in Ac 20:17-35?

b.Is he talking about giving things (money, food, etc.)? Consider …

The context. Note “in everything I showed you…” Note v18f.

What Jesus did in his ministry (did he go about giving out money and things?).

c.What do elders have that they should consider it a blessing to “give”?

What prompted the discussion recorded in Mt 20:24-28? Compare Mk 10:35-45.

a.If we let the context (Mt 20:26-28) interpret “lord it over them,” what kind of exercise of authority is Jesus referring to?

b.When Jesus said rulers among the Gentiles “exercise authority over them” and then “it is not this way among you,” is he teaching there would no one with “authority” among Christians? How do you know? (Suggestion: compare v28 with Ac 2:36; Rom 10:9; also see Ac 20:28; 1Tim 3:1,5.)

Why will some be consigned to eternal punishment according Mt 25:34-46 (note especially the last part of v44 and see the footnote in NASB)?

Sum up what Christians are encouraged to do with their abilities in Rom 12:3-8.

For discussion: reasons (excuses ?) we have for not “giving” (serving). Make notes.

What do you learn about Jesus from this?

Nov8 - Gospel Meeting

Nov11 - Immoral Woman: “She Loved Much”

Read Lk 7:36-50

“A woman in the city who was a sinner”—all women in the city were sinners. Evidently this woman had a reputation, a bad one, due to her sin. Note the NASB footnote.

a.A Pharisee invited Jesus for a meal in his home (the woman was not invited). What do we know about the Pharisees that makes her action even more unusual and bold? See Lk 16:14-15; 18:9-14; Mt 23:25-28.

b.What is implied in the Pharisee’s statement in v39 about what he thought a prophet would do relative to someone like this woman? Compare Mk 2:14-17.

c.For thought: How would we feel toward one who had such a past reputation?

A denarius was equivalent to a laborer’s wage for the day (Mt 20:2). Arbitrarily select a day’s wage today and calculate the two debts in v41.

The demonstration of her great love for Jesus is not the cause of her forgiveness, but the evidence she perceived the depth of grace shown her. Likewise “he who is forgiven little is his blind perception due to self righteousness, and the result is he “loves little.” (v47) The illustration Jesus gave, vv40-43, confirms this is what he meant.

a.Compare 1Tim 1:12-17.

b.For thought: What does our conduct demonstrate about our perception of our guilt and the grace shown to us?!

Are we not taught to forgive? Why, then, the reaction the guests at the table when Jesus told the woman her sins were forgiven? vv48,49

What did Jesus say had saved her?

What do you learn about Jesus from this incident?

Nov15 - Four Men and a Paralytic: “Seeing their Faith”

Read Mt 9:2-8; Mk 2:1-12; Lk 5:17-26

Based on the context, what is the basis for the statement by all three writers that Jesus was "seeing their faith”? Compare Jam 2:18,22; Gal 5:6.

The scribes and Pharisees said he was blaspheming when he told the paralytic his sins were forgiven. Compare the reaction in Lk 7:48,49 (Question 4 on the Nov11 lesson). On what basis did this charge rest?

What objective proof did Jesus provide to show he had the authority to forgive the man's sins? How can this impact our faith and assurance of forgiveness?

Concerning the reliability of the reality of this event, consider ..

a.There were three writers - are the accounts identical?

b.What profession was Matthew engaged in?

c.What profession was Luke engaged in?

d.For whom did Matthew write?

e.What preparation did Luke make in writing this document?

f.What other document did Luke write that serves to verify his credibility as a historical writer?

g.When did these men write these accounts, e.g. 500 years later? 200 years later? 100 years later? Within 50 years?

h.The unparalleled evidence pointing to the credibility of our copies of so ancient documents.

What was the reaction of the people who were present? How should it impact us?

What do you learn about Jesus from this incident?

Nov18 - Blind man: He was able to “See”

Read Jn 9:1-41. (note v39)

Why did the disciples believe this man suffered blindness from birth? (Compare Job and his friends' views.) What was Jesus response?

The miracle itself

a.What did Jesus do and tell the man to do in order to receive his sight (vv6-7,11,15)?

b.What was unique about this miracle (v32)?

c.On what basis did the credibility of this miracle rest? (9:8.9a; 9:9b,15; 9:18-21; 9:16,24,26,10:21).

Whether Jesus performed miracles is a historical issue that can only be established by testimony. Yet, we can be as certain of the truthfulness of matters established by testimony as those evidenced by demonstration or sense. E.g.,

We are just as certain that the Declaration of Independence was signed July 4, 1776, as that a geometric proposition is true, yet the credibility of one is a matter of demonstration, and the other of testimony.

We can be just as sure that cyanide is poisonous as that food is nutritious, yet one is believed upon testimony only, and the other upon sense.

NOTE: We ACT UPON (July 4th celebrations; avoid cyanide) the two matters established only by testimony with the same assurance we do upon those evidenced by demonstration or experience (sense).

d.Since there was not sufficient natural power in the physical acts Jesus or the man did to cause such an effect, what did it prove? vv30-33, vv35-38. Compare Jn 3:2. Compare Jn 5:36, 10:37,38 with 9:3-5.

Some say, “Miracles are impossible”—they are “contrary to the laws of nature.”

It depends on what is meant. If one means the unalterable laws of nature, this begs the question, for if there be a Supreme Being, the laws of nature can be altered, or used in uncommon and unusual ways, and that with purpose. If one means contrary to the present and ordinary course of nature, yes, and that, again, with purpose, as “signs,” and to accomplish plans that cannot be accomplished with the present and ordinary means. The point is, where is sufficient CAUSE for such an EFFECT? ONCE BELIEVE THERE IS A GOD, AND MIRACLES ARE NOT IMPOSSIBLE!

What did this man "see" that Jesus commended him for? (vv39-41)

What do you learn about Jesus from this incident?

Nov22 Zaccheus: “A Son of Abraham”

Read Lk 19:1-10.

What kind of man was Zaccheus? (profession, financially, stature, etc.)

How did the people view Zaccheus? Compare Mt 9:9,10; 18:17; Lk 18:11.

What did Jesus mean by saying “he, too, is a son of Abraham”? Compare Lk 3:8,9; Jn 8:32-47; Rom 4:9-25; 9:6-8; Gal 3:6-9,29.

IF (and it is uncertain) Zaccheus was indeed as bad as the people pictured him (v7), and was actually guilty of the things mentioned in v8, what does v8 indicate about his attitude now?

What was Jesus’ response, regardless of Zaccheus’ past life? Compare also 1Co 6:9-11; 1Tim 1:12-16.

What do you learn about Jesus from this incident?

Nov25 - Poor widow: “Put in All that She Had”

Read Mk 12:41-44; Lk 21:1-4

What was Jesus “observing”? Mk 12:41

a.Apply this to our giving — what should he be “observing” in us? 2Co 8:1-6; 9:6-14

b.Why were Ananias and Sapphira struck dead? Ac 5:1-5

Jesus commended the widow when he observed that she contributed “all she owned."

a.Does Jesus expect us to contribute all we own? 1Tim 6:17-19; Ac 4:34,36-37; 5:4; Phm 16,18,22

b.What was Jesus commending about this woman? Note: How could Jesus say she put in "more" when in fact she put in less?

The rich put in out of their "surplus" or “abundance.” Most of us give out of our "surplus" or “abundance." For thought and discussion: What are some of the dangers associated with this? Scriptures to consider …

a.Mal 1:14 (see context by reading the chapter)

b.Isa 1:10-17

c.Mt 23:23,24

d.Php 4:18 (is giving worship?)

What do you learn about Jesus from this incident?

Nov29 - Pergamum: “Hold Fast my Name, and did Not Deny My Faith”

Read Rev 2:12-17

Pergamum was the political capital of Asia and a religious center. A large library there was second only to the one in Alexandria and there was a university for medical study. There were temples to Zeus, Athena, Dionysos. It was the first city with a temple for worship of Augustus Caesar. The Roman governors were divided into two classes of people: one class was allowed to carry swords; the other was not. Those who carried swords could execute people at will.

Note Christ' description of himself in v12.

a.This is the sword of judgment - compare v16; 19:15,21.

b.Christ' commendation was in connection with the circumstances in Pergamum. What were those circumstances? v13

c.How would Christ’ description of Himself bring comfort to these Christians?

Although Christ commended them, he also reproved them—"I have a few things against you..." What are they? vv14,15

What are they exhorted to do?

a.v16

b.v17

What promise did He make to them? v17

What do you learn about Jesus from this incident?

Dec2 - Review

Include appropriate scriptures with your answers.

Why is it important to know who Jesus commends?

What is the only way to know for certain the kind of people Jesus commends?

The world has misconceptions about Jesus and the kind of people He would approve. Give some examples. Support your answers with examples from our studies in this series.

Does the world always concur with Jesus evaluations? Support your answers with examples from our studies in this series.

What are some of the areas of our character and life Jesus knows and cares about (e.g. faith, priorities, …). Support your answers with examples from our studies in this series.

Are Jesus’ commendations limited based on gender, race, wealth, or renown? Support your answers with examples from our studies in this series.

Are you a person Jesus commends?