Kingdom of God refers to the rule of God, or God’s authority on people’s lives and the world He created.
Jesus taught about the Kingdom of God using the following;
a. Galileans who perished
b. The unfruitful fig tree
c. The mustard seed
d. Parable of the feast
e. Parable of the great feast
f. Parable of the lost sheep and the lost son
The Kingdom of God
The kingdom of God was present in Jesus.
The teachings and miracles of Jesus were a manifestation of the Kingdom of God.
For anyone to enter God’s kingdom, one has to repent and ask for forgiveness.
The Kingdom of God continues to grow and spread through the work of the Church.
Those who accept the teachings of Jesus Christ about God’s Kingdom are members of the Kingdom of God.
To enter the Kingdom of God, one has to repent and not judge others.
The Galileans who perished Luke 13:1-5.
Jesus used two incidents concerning Galileans one in which Pilate had mixed their blood with that of a sacrifice.
The second incident is the tower of Siloam that had collapsed killing eighteen people.
In these two cases Jesus shows that the victims of these tragedies were not guiltier than other Galileans.
Jesus urged them to take the disaster as a warning and a call to repentance lest they also perish.
Significance of the this incident
Repentance is a requirement for one to enter into the kingdom of God
Parable of the unfruitful fig tree (Read Luke, 13: 6 – 9).
A farmer had a fig tree that was unproductive for 3 years.
He ordered the gardener to cut it down.
The gardener requested for the fig tree to be given another chance.
The gardener promised to dig around the fig tree and add fertilizer. If it bears fruits well, it can survive, if it doesn’t bear fruit, then it should be cut down.
Relevance of the parable
1. More time is given for people to be nurtured spiritually
2. Christians must be productive in their spiritual lives / the followers of Jesus are expected to be fruitful.
3. The parable points that God is patient with sinners until they change/ God gives people chances to repent just like the fig tree was given a second chance to bear fruit.
Significance of the parable
The unproductive fig tree represents followers of Jesus who are unproductive because they do not follow the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Jesus is the gardener who pleads for people before God.
God is the farmer
What are the figs used for? Fruits for human consumption
a. Parable of the mustard seed. Read Luke, 13:18 – 19
Jesus likened the kingdom of God to a mustard seed, which is very small.
When a mustard seed is planted, it grows fast to become a big tree.
It is difficult to control its growth. When mature, the fig tree attracts many birds, which feed on its seeds.
The Kingdom of God:
□ Begins as a small seed and grows quietly and humbly/ The growth of the kingdom is gradual
□ Then it grows and spreads to all corners of the earth
□ It attracts many people/ Many people find refuge/ dwelling in the kingdom of God
b. Parable of the Yeast. Read Luke, 13: 20 – 21
The Kingdom of God is like yeast. Yeast makes dough rise and the bread big. The Kingdom of God grows secretly and slowly just like the dough rises without being noticed.
It is only God who knows how a kingdom grows.
The Kingdom of God grows as a small unit that eventually grows, spreads and reaches out to many people in many nations.
c. The narrow door. Read Luke, 13: 22 – 30
As Jesus was teaching in towns and villages, a person asked him whether a few people would be saved. Jesus replied that his followers should make every effort to go through the narrow door as it leads to the Kingdom of God. The narrow door will not remain open forever.
Lesson learnt from the parable
□ Those who wish to follow Jesus must repent immediately
□ Entrance to God’s Kingdom is through repentance
□ Everybody is invited to enter into the Kingdom of God.
d. Jesus heals a crippled woman on the Sabbath. Luke, 13:10 – 12
Jesus was teaching in the synagogue on Sabbath.
Jesus healed a woman who had an evil spirit, which had bent her back (Hunch back) for 18 years.
Jesus saw her and told her “woman, you are free from your illness!” She was made straight and immediately glorified God.
The official of the synagogue was annoyed that Jesus was healing on a Sabbath.
He and others were hostile to Jesus for healing/working on the Sabbath.
Jesus condemned their hypocrisy for they untied, fed and looked after their animals on the Sabbath day.
He said that the woman also needed to be untied form Satan
His enemies were ashamed and all rejoiced at the glories things that He said
Lessons learnt from the parable
□ Jesus came to set people free from the bondage of sickness and Satan.
□ Jesus work of liberation is continuous and it has to be performed even on a Sabbath day.
□ Human life is more important than animal life or even observing the Sabbath.
e. Jesus’ Love for Jerusalem. (Read Luke13: 31 – 35)
As Jesus continued with his teachings, he reached Jerusalem.
Pharisees informed him that Herod wanted to kill him.
His response was ‘go and tell that fox” I will continue healing the sick and casting out demons. Jesus however, lamented over Jerusalem for rejecting God’s messengers.
God would abandon Jerusalem for rejecting Jesus.
Jerusalem was the site of Jesus death. It would eventually acknowledge Jesus as the Messiah who brings salvation to Israel and to the rest of the world.
Lessons learnt
□ Christians should not fear civil leader while proclaiming the Gospel
□ They should continue doing good despite the opposition they face
□ They should not fear death
□ Christians should listen to God’s messengers
A GREAT FEAST FOR ALL WHO ARE PREPARED Luke 14: 1 – 35
Man with dropsy healed (Read Luke 14:1 – 6).
Jesus was invited to the house of the leading Pharisees for a meal on a Sabbath.
A man with dropsy (swollen legs and arms) came to Jesus for healing.
The Pharisees watched Jesus closely to see what he would do.
Jesus asked the Pharisees “does our Law allow healing on the Sabbath or not?”
They kept quiet.
Jesus healed the man who then left.
Jesus asked the Pharisees, if they would not save their son or an ox if it fell in a well on a Sabbath without hesitation.
They kept quiet for they had no answer
Humility and Hospitality. (Read Luke 14: 7 – 14)
Jesus was in the house of a leading Pharisees and observed that some of the invited guests were choosing the best places to sit at the table.
He said, “When invited for a meal, do not take a seat at the place of honour. A more distinguished person may have been invited and you will be asked to take a seat in the lowest place and you will be embarrassed.
Jesus said it is more honourable to take a lower seat and the host will ask you to take a seat at the place of honour
He said that everyone who raises himself will be humbled and everyone who humbles himself will be raised up.
Jesus advised his host to invite the poor, cripples, and the blind who cannot invite them in return, and they will be blessed for their generosity.
Lessons learnt from the parable
□ Those who are humble shall be elevated. Those who elevate themselves shall be humbled.
□ Followers of Jesus should extend invitations to the poor and the underprivileged in the society.
□ The Kingdom of God belongs to the humble people.
The parable of the Great Feast. Read Luke, 14: 15 – 24.
A man said to Jesus, “How happy are those who will sit down at the feast in the Kingdom of God” (verse 15).
Jesus told him that a man made a great feast and invited a large number of people to the feast.
when the time of the banquet came he sent his servants to inform the invited guests that the feast was ready.
All the invited guests gave personal excuses explaining why they could not come. the first said that he had bought a field and he wanted to see it, the second one said that he had bought five yoke of oxen and he wanted to try them, and the third said that he had just married.
The master was angry and asked the servant to invite the poor, crippled, lame, the blind and anyone willing to come to the feast.
They did that but there was still room
The master told the servants to go to the highways, hedges and press people to come to make the house full.
The master added that none of those who had been invited will taste his banquet.
Lessons learnt from the parable
God has invited all people to the great feast of the Kingdom of God. Those who honor his invitation will be blessed.
Those who reject the invitation will be excluded from the feast.
Jesus explained that the Kingdom of God is like a great feast open to all Jews and Gentiles.
To enter the Kingdom of God, one has to make a personal decision because following Jesus means sacrificing activities that we consider important to us.
The Cost of Being a Disciple Read Luke 14: 25 – 33
Write what Jesus said from the Bible
Lessons / teachings learnt from the parable
True discipleship means making great sacrifices, “none of you can be my disciple unless you give up everything you have” (verse 33).
Jesus disciples are expected to do careful planning before deciding to follow him because they are required to love God more than anyone else even their relatives and friends.
A disciple must be ready to suffer for the sake of following Jesus
c. The parable of the Lost Sheep Read Luke, 15:1 – 7
Pharisees and teachers of law complained to Jesus because Jesus was teaching ordinary people such as tax collectors, and outcasts considered sinners by them.
Jesus told the Pharisees and teachers of law the parable of the lost sheep.
He told them that if a shepherd with 100 sheep lost one of them, what action would he take? Wouldn’t he leave the 99 sheep and go out to look for the lost sheep? And on finding it, wouldn’t the shepherd celebrate with friends and neighbours?
Jesus said that God celebrates if “over one sinner who repents than over 99 respectable people who do not need to repent.”
Lessons / teachings learnt from the parable
i. God is a shepherd and takes care of all his people.
ii. He does not want any of his people to be lost.
iii.God searches for those lost in sin until he finds them.
iv. When one sinner repents, God is overjoyed and rejoices.
v. God is the good shepherd who has come to seek and save the lost.
d. Parable of the Lost Coin. Luke, 15: 8 – 10
If a woman losses one of her ten silver coins, she searches until she finds it. And if it is found, she invites her friends and neighbours to celebrate.
Lessons learnt from the parable
God and the angels in heaven search make every effort to seek the lost sinner until they find them.
e. Parable of the Lost Son ( prodigal son) Read Luke 15:11 – 32
Jesus then told the story of a father who had two sons. The younger was given his share of inheritance he had requested.
He went to foreign lands and wasted his inheritance.
He became poor and he was hired to take care of pigs
He came to his senses and decided to return home and ask his father to forgive him and employ him as a servant.
While still far his father saw him and was filled with pity for him and ran to meet him.
His father kissed him and celebrated his return. The father announced to his servants that the son who was lost is now found. – - The one who was dead is now live.
He ordered for him a robe, a ring and sandal and the fattened calf to be slaughtered for the celebration of the son
The elder son was angry and unhappy because his father had never held a celebration for him, inspite of his hard work and obedience.
His father told him “my son you are always here with me, and everything I have is yours”. We are just celebrating the return of the lost son.
Lessons learnt from the parable
a. A person dies spiritually if they sin
b. God loves all people including sinners
c. God is ready to forgive every sinner who repents
d. There is no sin that God cannot give
e. Jesus taught that both the righteous and unrighteous require God’s forgiveness
f. There is joy and happiness in heaven when one sinner repents.
g. Christians should confess their sins and acknowledge that Jesus saves repentant sinners
h. God accepts unconditionally any sinner who comes back to him in repentance
i. Confession of sins is a condition for entering the Kingdom of God.
Q. What are the qualities of those who belong to the kingdom of God? (7marks)
TEACHINGS ON WEALTH AND POVERTY. LK 16:1 – 32
While wealth is possession of material things such as money or occupation of a high social economic status, poverty is the opposite. It is lack of basic needs such as water, education, food, shelter, clothing, and health.
When teaching about wealth, Jesus taught using two parables.
(1) Parable of the shrewd manager
(2) Parable of the rich man and Lazarus
Parable of the shrewd manager Read Luke, 16: 1 – 18
State the meaning of “shrewd”
When the shrewd manager realized that his master was going to sack him due to his dishonesty, he asked the debtors to change the amounts they owed their master to smaller amounts.
He did this to make friends with a few people who would give him a place to stay after he was sacked.
The master praised the shrewd manager and did not sack him.
The shrewd manager is praised not because of his dishonesty but because he acted promptly and with great presence of mind in a moment of crisis.
Jesus is encouraging his disciples and followers to make prompt (quick, appropriate, timely) decisions.
Lesson learnt
They should use wealth to serve God. It should not be allowed to take the place of God. Followers of Jesus should be honest in small and big things.
The Rich Man and Lazarus. Read Luke, 16: 19 – 31.
A rich man lived in luxury.
At his gates was a poor man, called Lazarus whose body was covered by sores.
The rich man did not feed Lazarus.
Lazarus ate food remains together with the rich man’s dogs.
When rich man died, he went to hell.
When Lazarus died, he went to heaven and sat at Abraham’s bosom.
When in hell, the rich man was tormented while Lazarus was at peace.
The rich man begged Abraham to send Lazarus to warn his brothers so that they could not go to hell like him
Abraham told him that they have Moses and the prophets whom they should listen to
Lessons to learn from these parables teaching on wealth and poverty
□ The rich isn’t condemned for being rich but because of his attitude towards Lazarus.
□ Wealth should not be used for self-gratification but for service to the needy.
□ The wealthy should realize that it is God who gives wealth and he should be given honor.
□ Riches can hinder the wealthy from inheriting eternal life, especially if they put their trust in riches instead of God who is the source of all wealth and blessings.
□ Christians should listen to God’s messengers
□ Christians are stewards entrusted with wealth to use it for the glory of God
□ Christians should be cautious about the dangers of money so that they do not end up serving mammon
□ They should use their wealth to help the needy
□ Judgement awaits those who do not share their resources with the needy
□ There is life after death accompanied by rewards of heaven and hell
□ God is a God of the living as Abraham is portrayed to be alive and welcoming souls into heaven
THE POWER OF FAITH Read Luke 17: 1 – 4
Faith is defined as complete trust or confidence in God. It is absolute truthfulness and trust in everything that comes from God
Temptations to Sin. Read Luke 17: 1-2.
Jesus assured the disciples that temptations will surely be there.
He said that cursed is the man who causes others to sin it is better for such to be thrown into the sea with a millstone on his neck.
Forgiveness Read Luke 17: 3 - 4
Jesus taught his disciples to forgive offenders who repent. Those who sin should seek forgiveness. If they offend 7 times in a day, forgive them 7 times.
The power of faith Read Luke, 17: 5 – 11.
The apostles realised that they did not have enough to forgive as Jesus had taught
They asked Jesus to increase their faith.
Faith which is as big as a mustard seed can empower Christians to perform miracles that serve God.
Relevance
Faith is necessary.
With faith, Christians can forgive others and be servants of God.
Disciples should have faith.
Even little faith can help one to go through difficulties of life
It is wrong to lead others into sin
Faith helps Christians to forgive as many times as we are wronged
Jesus heals ten lepers. Read Luke, 17:11- 19
A leper is a person suffering from leprosy ( a disease that leads one to lose fingers and toes or other parts of the body)
Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem when he met ten lepers.
They requested Jesus to heal them.
Jesus told them to go and show themselves to the priests.
On the way, they were healed.
One of them, a Samaritan, returned to thank Jesus for healing him.
Jesus was surprised that he was the only one who went back to thank him he asked him where the nine were
He told him to stand for his faith had healed him
Relevance
Faith is necessary for healing any disease.
The coming of the kingdom Read Luke 17: 20 – 37
The Pharisee asked when the kingdom of God would come.
The kingdom of God is not something that can be observed
Jesus replied that the kingdom of God was within those who had accepted Jesus and his teachings.
The coming of the son of man, i.e. Jesus will bring the kingdom to reality.
The coming of the son of man is also referred to as the day of the Lord, Day of Judgment. Those who obey Jesus will be saved but those who reject him will be punished.
Lessons to learn from the teachings on faith.
God expects Christians to have faith in him.
Christians should have faith in Jesus so that they can inherit eternal life.
Faith is needed to strengthen Christians.
Faith is important in the life of a Christian until Jesus returns, i.e. the second coming.
Christians should be grateful to God for the gift of faith
The kingdom of God is already with the Christians in their hearts
Christians should always keep faith for they do not know of the second coming of Jesus
PERSISTENCE IN PRAYER, Read Luke, 18:1 – 14
To teach about persistence in prayer, Jesus used two parables.
1. parables of: the widow and a corrupt judge and
2. Prayer by a Pharisee and a tax collector.
a. The widow and the unjust judge. Read Luke, 18: 1 – 9
Jesus had already taught the disciples how to pray. He now tells them that they ought to pray and not faint. He gives a parable to explain his point.
A widow went to a corrupt judge to have her adversaries judged. The judge was corrupt and ignored her. He however gave in to her demands since she was persistent and wearing him down. The judge helped her because of her persistence and courage.
Lessons learnt from the parable
Followers of Jesus should pray with courage and be persistent in prayer. God hears and answers prayers. Christians should pray without ceasing and with faith and trust that their prayers will be answered.
b. Parable of the Pharisee, and tax collector, Read Luke, 18:9 – 14
A Pharisee and tax collector went to the temple to pray. The Pharisee offered a long prayer focusing on his achievements. The tax collector (publican) did not have much to say except asking for mercy, as he was a sinner. Followers of Jesus should acknowledge they are sinners and seek forgiveness. They should approach God in humility and avoid spiritual pride, and self-righteousness.
THE WAY TO SALVATION, Read Luke, 18: 15 – 19: 1 – 27.
Introduction: The word ‘salvation’ refers to the act of saving or being saved from sin. Those who have received salvation area assured of eternal life.
To receive salvation a person must acknowledge that he is a sinner and repent their sins. In this way, they receive forgiveness and are reconciled to God.
Salvation means being saved from a life-threatening situation.
In Christianity, salvation refers to the process of being delivered from sin and its consequences. Those who are saved are assured of eternal life.
Jesus taught about salvation using children to illustrate his message Lk 18:15- 17 Some people brought their children to Jesus so that he could bless them. The disciples scolded them. Jesus asked the children to come to him and he blessed them.
Jesus taught his disciples that they must be humble like children in order to enter the kingdom of God. The road to salvation is by being simple, humble, and trusting like little children. The kingdom of God belongs to those who humble themselves like the little children.
The rich man. Read Luke, 18:18 – 30
The entry into the kingdom of God was further explained through the story of the rich man. The rich man came to Jesus wanting to know how he could inherit eternal life and be saved. Jesus reminded him of the importance of keeping the commandments.
The young man responded that he had observed the commandments since he was young.
Jesus told him there is one thing remaining to do; sell everything he has, and give it to the poor, and then follow Jesus.
The rich man was very sorrowful for he was very wealthy.
Wealth can hinder the rich from receiving salvation. Jesus acknowledged the sacrifice made by his disciples. He emphasized that disciples shall receive salvation in the present and in life to come. Salvation is a gift from God. Salvation is received; by those who accept to follow Jesus. Trusting in wealth can be a hindrance to salvation. The rich may find it difficult to inherit eternal life.
Jesus predicts his death, a 3rd time. Read Luke, 18: 31 – 34.
Jesus predicted his death three times.
First was after asking his disciples who they say he was.
The second time was after transfiguration when his face was set towards Jerusalem.
The third prediction shall be in Jerusalem (Luke 18:31-34). Jesus told the disciples that previous prophecies would be fulfilled in Jerusalem. His death was going to take place in Jerusalem according to the writings of the prophets. It was going to be a painful death. He shall be beaten, mocked, spit upon and put to death. But on the third day, he shall rise again.
The disciples did not understand what Jesus was telling them. Jesus had to die so that those who believed in him may receive eternal life. The death and resurrection of Jesus gives Christians hope of eternal life.
Jesus heals a blind beggar. Read Luke, 18: 35 – 43
As Jesus neared Jericho, a blind man sat by the roadside begging.
When he heard the multitude pass by, he inquired what was going on and he was told that Jesus of Nazareth was passing by.
He then cried out “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me”
The crowds rebuked him
He cried out louder to Jesus to have mercy on him.
Jesus asked him what he wanted and he said that he wanted to see.
Jesus told him to receive his sight for his faith had made him whole.
The beggar received his sight and he followed Jesus rejoicing.
Jesus and Zacchaeus Lk 19:1 – 9
Zacchaeus was short. His profession was a tax collector. He was rich. He wanted to be saved.
When Jesus was passing by Jericho, he wanted to see Jesus.
He couldn’t because he was short.
He ran and climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus.
When Jesus came to the place where Zacchaeus was, he looked up and said “Hurry down, Zacchaeus, because I must stay in your house today” (verse 5).
Jesus then went with Zacchaeus to his house. When people saw this they grumbled, and murmured. They said that Jesus was going to a house of a sinner.
Jesus told them that salvation has come to the house of Zacchaeus, a son of Abraham … the Son of man came to seek and save the lost. There is no sin that God cannot forgive, even that of a tax collector.
Zacchaeus told Jesus that he was going to give to the poor half of his wealth and whatever he took from any man and woman wrongfully, he will restore four times. From this salvation, we learn that the rich should share their wealth with the needy.
The Parable of the Ten Pounds: Luke, 19: 12 – 27.
A certain nobleman went to a far country. Before he left he called his ten servants and gave each a gold coin (ten pounds). He told them to trade with the pounds until he returns.
When he returned, he called the servants to report profits they had made. The first servant said that one-pound coin had made profit of 10 pounds
He was made the manager of ten cities.
The second servant had traded and gained 5 pounds. He was made the manager of 5 cities.
The third one had hidden the pound. He did not trade. He accused the master of being mean, and cruel. He returned the pound, which was given to the servant with 10 pounds.
Lessons learnt from the teachings on the way to salvation
Christians should have child-like character of humility and dependence on God
When people get too attached to wealth they are likely to miss salvation
God will save those people who repent their sins and put things right with Him
Those who work hard will be added more and those who are lazy will lose even what they have
Those who try to obstruct the growth of the Kingdom of God will receive judgement and punishment
Salvation comes from God and it is for all like in the story of Zacchaeus
God expects us to use opportunities he has given to us for his work.
Each one of us shall account for the use of the abilities and skills that God gave to us – students, workers, and other professionals.
Jesus taught about the Kingdom of God using the following;
a. Galileans who perished
b. The unfruitful fig tree
c. The mustard seed
d. Parable of the feast
e. Parable of the great feast
f. Parable of the lost sheep and the lost son
The Kingdom of God
The kingdom of God was present in Jesus.
The teachings and miracles of Jesus were a manifestation of the Kingdom of God.
For anyone to enter God’s kingdom, one has to repent and ask for forgiveness.
The Kingdom of God continues to grow and spread through the work of the Church.
Those who accept the teachings of Jesus Christ about God’s Kingdom are members of the Kingdom of God.
To enter the Kingdom of God, one has to repent and not judge others.
The Galileans who perished Luke 13:1-5.
Jesus used two incidents concerning Galileans one in which Pilate had mixed their blood with that of a sacrifice.
The second incident is the tower of Siloam that had collapsed killing eighteen people.
In these two cases Jesus shows that the victims of these tragedies were not guiltier than other Galileans.
Jesus urged them to take the disaster as a warning and a call to repentance lest they also perish.
Significance of the this incident
Repentance is a requirement for one to enter into the kingdom of God
Parable of the unfruitful fig tree (Read Luke, 13: 6 – 9).
A farmer had a fig tree that was unproductive for 3 years.
He ordered the gardener to cut it down.
The gardener requested for the fig tree to be given another chance.
The gardener promised to dig around the fig tree and add fertilizer. If it bears fruits well, it can survive, if it doesn’t bear fruit, then it should be cut down.
Relevance of the parable
1. More time is given for people to be nurtured spiritually
2. Christians must be productive in their spiritual lives / the followers of Jesus are expected to be fruitful.
3. The parable points that God is patient with sinners until they change/ God gives people chances to repent just like the fig tree was given a second chance to bear fruit.
Significance of the parable
The unproductive fig tree represents followers of Jesus who are unproductive because they do not follow the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Jesus is the gardener who pleads for people before God.
God is the farmer
What are the figs used for? Fruits for human consumption
a. Parable of the mustard seed. Read Luke, 13:18 – 19
Jesus likened the kingdom of God to a mustard seed, which is very small.
When a mustard seed is planted, it grows fast to become a big tree.
It is difficult to control its growth. When mature, the fig tree attracts many birds, which feed on its seeds.
The Kingdom of God:
□ Begins as a small seed and grows quietly and humbly/ The growth of the kingdom is gradual
□ Then it grows and spreads to all corners of the earth
□ It attracts many people/ Many people find refuge/ dwelling in the kingdom of God
b. Parable of the Yeast. Read Luke, 13: 20 – 21
The Kingdom of God is like yeast. Yeast makes dough rise and the bread big. The Kingdom of God grows secretly and slowly just like the dough rises without being noticed.
It is only God who knows how a kingdom grows.
The Kingdom of God grows as a small unit that eventually grows, spreads and reaches out to many people in many nations.
c. The narrow door. Read Luke, 13: 22 – 30
As Jesus was teaching in towns and villages, a person asked him whether a few people would be saved. Jesus replied that his followers should make every effort to go through the narrow door as it leads to the Kingdom of God. The narrow door will not remain open forever.
Lesson learnt from the parable
□ Those who wish to follow Jesus must repent immediately
□ Entrance to God’s Kingdom is through repentance
□ Everybody is invited to enter into the Kingdom of God.
d. Jesus heals a crippled woman on the Sabbath. Luke, 13:10 – 12
Jesus was teaching in the synagogue on Sabbath.
Jesus healed a woman who had an evil spirit, which had bent her back (Hunch back) for 18 years.
Jesus saw her and told her “woman, you are free from your illness!” She was made straight and immediately glorified God.
The official of the synagogue was annoyed that Jesus was healing on a Sabbath.
He and others were hostile to Jesus for healing/working on the Sabbath.
Jesus condemned their hypocrisy for they untied, fed and looked after their animals on the Sabbath day.
He said that the woman also needed to be untied form Satan
His enemies were ashamed and all rejoiced at the glories things that He said
Lessons learnt from the parable
□ Jesus came to set people free from the bondage of sickness and Satan.
□ Jesus work of liberation is continuous and it has to be performed even on a Sabbath day.
□ Human life is more important than animal life or even observing the Sabbath.
e. Jesus’ Love for Jerusalem. (Read Luke13: 31 – 35)
As Jesus continued with his teachings, he reached Jerusalem.
Pharisees informed him that Herod wanted to kill him.
His response was ‘go and tell that fox” I will continue healing the sick and casting out demons. Jesus however, lamented over Jerusalem for rejecting God’s messengers.
God would abandon Jerusalem for rejecting Jesus.
Jerusalem was the site of Jesus death. It would eventually acknowledge Jesus as the Messiah who brings salvation to Israel and to the rest of the world.
Lessons learnt
□ Christians should not fear civil leader while proclaiming the Gospel
□ They should continue doing good despite the opposition they face
□ They should not fear death
□ Christians should listen to God’s messengers
A GREAT FEAST FOR ALL WHO ARE PREPARED Luke 14: 1 – 35
Man with dropsy healed (Read Luke 14:1 – 6).
Jesus was invited to the house of the leading Pharisees for a meal on a Sabbath.
A man with dropsy (swollen legs and arms) came to Jesus for healing.
The Pharisees watched Jesus closely to see what he would do.
Jesus asked the Pharisees “does our Law allow healing on the Sabbath or not?”
They kept quiet.
Jesus healed the man who then left.
Jesus asked the Pharisees, if they would not save their son or an ox if it fell in a well on a Sabbath without hesitation.
They kept quiet for they had no answer
Humility and Hospitality. (Read Luke 14: 7 – 14)
Jesus was in the house of a leading Pharisees and observed that some of the invited guests were choosing the best places to sit at the table.
He said, “When invited for a meal, do not take a seat at the place of honour. A more distinguished person may have been invited and you will be asked to take a seat in the lowest place and you will be embarrassed.
Jesus said it is more honourable to take a lower seat and the host will ask you to take a seat at the place of honour
He said that everyone who raises himself will be humbled and everyone who humbles himself will be raised up.
Jesus advised his host to invite the poor, cripples, and the blind who cannot invite them in return, and they will be blessed for their generosity.
Lessons learnt from the parable
□ Those who are humble shall be elevated. Those who elevate themselves shall be humbled.
□ Followers of Jesus should extend invitations to the poor and the underprivileged in the society.
□ The Kingdom of God belongs to the humble people.
The parable of the Great Feast. Read Luke, 14: 15 – 24.
A man said to Jesus, “How happy are those who will sit down at the feast in the Kingdom of God” (verse 15).
Jesus told him that a man made a great feast and invited a large number of people to the feast.
when the time of the banquet came he sent his servants to inform the invited guests that the feast was ready.
All the invited guests gave personal excuses explaining why they could not come. the first said that he had bought a field and he wanted to see it, the second one said that he had bought five yoke of oxen and he wanted to try them, and the third said that he had just married.
The master was angry and asked the servant to invite the poor, crippled, lame, the blind and anyone willing to come to the feast.
They did that but there was still room
The master told the servants to go to the highways, hedges and press people to come to make the house full.
The master added that none of those who had been invited will taste his banquet.
Lessons learnt from the parable
God has invited all people to the great feast of the Kingdom of God. Those who honor his invitation will be blessed.
Those who reject the invitation will be excluded from the feast.
Jesus explained that the Kingdom of God is like a great feast open to all Jews and Gentiles.
To enter the Kingdom of God, one has to make a personal decision because following Jesus means sacrificing activities that we consider important to us.
The Cost of Being a Disciple Read Luke 14: 25 – 33
Write what Jesus said from the Bible
Lessons / teachings learnt from the parable
True discipleship means making great sacrifices, “none of you can be my disciple unless you give up everything you have” (verse 33).
Jesus disciples are expected to do careful planning before deciding to follow him because they are required to love God more than anyone else even their relatives and friends.
A disciple must be ready to suffer for the sake of following Jesus
c. The parable of the Lost Sheep Read Luke, 15:1 – 7
Pharisees and teachers of law complained to Jesus because Jesus was teaching ordinary people such as tax collectors, and outcasts considered sinners by them.
Jesus told the Pharisees and teachers of law the parable of the lost sheep.
He told them that if a shepherd with 100 sheep lost one of them, what action would he take? Wouldn’t he leave the 99 sheep and go out to look for the lost sheep? And on finding it, wouldn’t the shepherd celebrate with friends and neighbours?
Jesus said that God celebrates if “over one sinner who repents than over 99 respectable people who do not need to repent.”
Lessons / teachings learnt from the parable
i. God is a shepherd and takes care of all his people.
ii. He does not want any of his people to be lost.
iii.God searches for those lost in sin until he finds them.
iv. When one sinner repents, God is overjoyed and rejoices.
v. God is the good shepherd who has come to seek and save the lost.
d. Parable of the Lost Coin. Luke, 15: 8 – 10
If a woman losses one of her ten silver coins, she searches until she finds it. And if it is found, she invites her friends and neighbours to celebrate.
Lessons learnt from the parable
God and the angels in heaven search make every effort to seek the lost sinner until they find them.
e. Parable of the Lost Son ( prodigal son) Read Luke 15:11 – 32
Jesus then told the story of a father who had two sons. The younger was given his share of inheritance he had requested.
He went to foreign lands and wasted his inheritance.
He became poor and he was hired to take care of pigs
He came to his senses and decided to return home and ask his father to forgive him and employ him as a servant.
While still far his father saw him and was filled with pity for him and ran to meet him.
His father kissed him and celebrated his return. The father announced to his servants that the son who was lost is now found. – - The one who was dead is now live.
He ordered for him a robe, a ring and sandal and the fattened calf to be slaughtered for the celebration of the son
The elder son was angry and unhappy because his father had never held a celebration for him, inspite of his hard work and obedience.
His father told him “my son you are always here with me, and everything I have is yours”. We are just celebrating the return of the lost son.
Lessons learnt from the parable
a. A person dies spiritually if they sin
b. God loves all people including sinners
c. God is ready to forgive every sinner who repents
d. There is no sin that God cannot give
e. Jesus taught that both the righteous and unrighteous require God’s forgiveness
f. There is joy and happiness in heaven when one sinner repents.
g. Christians should confess their sins and acknowledge that Jesus saves repentant sinners
h. God accepts unconditionally any sinner who comes back to him in repentance
i. Confession of sins is a condition for entering the Kingdom of God.
Q. What are the qualities of those who belong to the kingdom of God? (7marks)
TEACHINGS ON WEALTH AND POVERTY. LK 16:1 – 32
While wealth is possession of material things such as money or occupation of a high social economic status, poverty is the opposite. It is lack of basic needs such as water, education, food, shelter, clothing, and health.
When teaching about wealth, Jesus taught using two parables.
(1) Parable of the shrewd manager
(2) Parable of the rich man and Lazarus
Parable of the shrewd manager Read Luke, 16: 1 – 18
State the meaning of “shrewd”
When the shrewd manager realized that his master was going to sack him due to his dishonesty, he asked the debtors to change the amounts they owed their master to smaller amounts.
He did this to make friends with a few people who would give him a place to stay after he was sacked.
The master praised the shrewd manager and did not sack him.
The shrewd manager is praised not because of his dishonesty but because he acted promptly and with great presence of mind in a moment of crisis.
Jesus is encouraging his disciples and followers to make prompt (quick, appropriate, timely) decisions.
Lesson learnt
They should use wealth to serve God. It should not be allowed to take the place of God. Followers of Jesus should be honest in small and big things.
The Rich Man and Lazarus. Read Luke, 16: 19 – 31.
A rich man lived in luxury.
At his gates was a poor man, called Lazarus whose body was covered by sores.
The rich man did not feed Lazarus.
Lazarus ate food remains together with the rich man’s dogs.
When rich man died, he went to hell.
When Lazarus died, he went to heaven and sat at Abraham’s bosom.
When in hell, the rich man was tormented while Lazarus was at peace.
The rich man begged Abraham to send Lazarus to warn his brothers so that they could not go to hell like him
Abraham told him that they have Moses and the prophets whom they should listen to
Lessons to learn from these parables teaching on wealth and poverty
□ The rich isn’t condemned for being rich but because of his attitude towards Lazarus.
□ Wealth should not be used for self-gratification but for service to the needy.
□ The wealthy should realize that it is God who gives wealth and he should be given honor.
□ Riches can hinder the wealthy from inheriting eternal life, especially if they put their trust in riches instead of God who is the source of all wealth and blessings.
□ Christians should listen to God’s messengers
□ Christians are stewards entrusted with wealth to use it for the glory of God
□ Christians should be cautious about the dangers of money so that they do not end up serving mammon
□ They should use their wealth to help the needy
□ Judgement awaits those who do not share their resources with the needy
□ There is life after death accompanied by rewards of heaven and hell
□ God is a God of the living as Abraham is portrayed to be alive and welcoming souls into heaven
THE POWER OF FAITH Read Luke 17: 1 – 4
Faith is defined as complete trust or confidence in God. It is absolute truthfulness and trust in everything that comes from God
Temptations to Sin. Read Luke 17: 1-2.
Jesus assured the disciples that temptations will surely be there.
He said that cursed is the man who causes others to sin it is better for such to be thrown into the sea with a millstone on his neck.
Forgiveness Read Luke 17: 3 - 4
Jesus taught his disciples to forgive offenders who repent. Those who sin should seek forgiveness. If they offend 7 times in a day, forgive them 7 times.
The power of faith Read Luke, 17: 5 – 11.
The apostles realised that they did not have enough to forgive as Jesus had taught
They asked Jesus to increase their faith.
Faith which is as big as a mustard seed can empower Christians to perform miracles that serve God.
Relevance
Faith is necessary.
With faith, Christians can forgive others and be servants of God.
Disciples should have faith.
Even little faith can help one to go through difficulties of life
It is wrong to lead others into sin
Faith helps Christians to forgive as many times as we are wronged
Jesus heals ten lepers. Read Luke, 17:11- 19
A leper is a person suffering from leprosy ( a disease that leads one to lose fingers and toes or other parts of the body)
Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem when he met ten lepers.
They requested Jesus to heal them.
Jesus told them to go and show themselves to the priests.
On the way, they were healed.
One of them, a Samaritan, returned to thank Jesus for healing him.
Jesus was surprised that he was the only one who went back to thank him he asked him where the nine were
He told him to stand for his faith had healed him
Relevance
Faith is necessary for healing any disease.
The coming of the kingdom Read Luke 17: 20 – 37
The Pharisee asked when the kingdom of God would come.
The kingdom of God is not something that can be observed
Jesus replied that the kingdom of God was within those who had accepted Jesus and his teachings.
The coming of the son of man, i.e. Jesus will bring the kingdom to reality.
The coming of the son of man is also referred to as the day of the Lord, Day of Judgment. Those who obey Jesus will be saved but those who reject him will be punished.
Lessons to learn from the teachings on faith.
God expects Christians to have faith in him.
Christians should have faith in Jesus so that they can inherit eternal life.
Faith is needed to strengthen Christians.
Faith is important in the life of a Christian until Jesus returns, i.e. the second coming.
Christians should be grateful to God for the gift of faith
The kingdom of God is already with the Christians in their hearts
Christians should always keep faith for they do not know of the second coming of Jesus
PERSISTENCE IN PRAYER, Read Luke, 18:1 – 14
To teach about persistence in prayer, Jesus used two parables.
1. parables of: the widow and a corrupt judge and
2. Prayer by a Pharisee and a tax collector.
a. The widow and the unjust judge. Read Luke, 18: 1 – 9
Jesus had already taught the disciples how to pray. He now tells them that they ought to pray and not faint. He gives a parable to explain his point.
A widow went to a corrupt judge to have her adversaries judged. The judge was corrupt and ignored her. He however gave in to her demands since she was persistent and wearing him down. The judge helped her because of her persistence and courage.
Lessons learnt from the parable
Followers of Jesus should pray with courage and be persistent in prayer. God hears and answers prayers. Christians should pray without ceasing and with faith and trust that their prayers will be answered.
b. Parable of the Pharisee, and tax collector, Read Luke, 18:9 – 14
A Pharisee and tax collector went to the temple to pray. The Pharisee offered a long prayer focusing on his achievements. The tax collector (publican) did not have much to say except asking for mercy, as he was a sinner. Followers of Jesus should acknowledge they are sinners and seek forgiveness. They should approach God in humility and avoid spiritual pride, and self-righteousness.
THE WAY TO SALVATION, Read Luke, 18: 15 – 19: 1 – 27.
Introduction: The word ‘salvation’ refers to the act of saving or being saved from sin. Those who have received salvation area assured of eternal life.
To receive salvation a person must acknowledge that he is a sinner and repent their sins. In this way, they receive forgiveness and are reconciled to God.
Salvation means being saved from a life-threatening situation.
In Christianity, salvation refers to the process of being delivered from sin and its consequences. Those who are saved are assured of eternal life.
Jesus taught about salvation using children to illustrate his message Lk 18:15- 17 Some people brought their children to Jesus so that he could bless them. The disciples scolded them. Jesus asked the children to come to him and he blessed them.
Jesus taught his disciples that they must be humble like children in order to enter the kingdom of God. The road to salvation is by being simple, humble, and trusting like little children. The kingdom of God belongs to those who humble themselves like the little children.
The rich man. Read Luke, 18:18 – 30
The entry into the kingdom of God was further explained through the story of the rich man. The rich man came to Jesus wanting to know how he could inherit eternal life and be saved. Jesus reminded him of the importance of keeping the commandments.
The young man responded that he had observed the commandments since he was young.
Jesus told him there is one thing remaining to do; sell everything he has, and give it to the poor, and then follow Jesus.
The rich man was very sorrowful for he was very wealthy.
Wealth can hinder the rich from receiving salvation. Jesus acknowledged the sacrifice made by his disciples. He emphasized that disciples shall receive salvation in the present and in life to come. Salvation is a gift from God. Salvation is received; by those who accept to follow Jesus. Trusting in wealth can be a hindrance to salvation. The rich may find it difficult to inherit eternal life.
Jesus predicts his death, a 3rd time. Read Luke, 18: 31 – 34.
Jesus predicted his death three times.
First was after asking his disciples who they say he was.
The second time was after transfiguration when his face was set towards Jerusalem.
The third prediction shall be in Jerusalem (Luke 18:31-34). Jesus told the disciples that previous prophecies would be fulfilled in Jerusalem. His death was going to take place in Jerusalem according to the writings of the prophets. It was going to be a painful death. He shall be beaten, mocked, spit upon and put to death. But on the third day, he shall rise again.
The disciples did not understand what Jesus was telling them. Jesus had to die so that those who believed in him may receive eternal life. The death and resurrection of Jesus gives Christians hope of eternal life.
Jesus heals a blind beggar. Read Luke, 18: 35 – 43
As Jesus neared Jericho, a blind man sat by the roadside begging.
When he heard the multitude pass by, he inquired what was going on and he was told that Jesus of Nazareth was passing by.
He then cried out “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me”
The crowds rebuked him
He cried out louder to Jesus to have mercy on him.
Jesus asked him what he wanted and he said that he wanted to see.
Jesus told him to receive his sight for his faith had made him whole.
The beggar received his sight and he followed Jesus rejoicing.
Jesus and Zacchaeus Lk 19:1 – 9
Zacchaeus was short. His profession was a tax collector. He was rich. He wanted to be saved.
When Jesus was passing by Jericho, he wanted to see Jesus.
He couldn’t because he was short.
He ran and climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus.
When Jesus came to the place where Zacchaeus was, he looked up and said “Hurry down, Zacchaeus, because I must stay in your house today” (verse 5).
Jesus then went with Zacchaeus to his house. When people saw this they grumbled, and murmured. They said that Jesus was going to a house of a sinner.
Jesus told them that salvation has come to the house of Zacchaeus, a son of Abraham … the Son of man came to seek and save the lost. There is no sin that God cannot forgive, even that of a tax collector.
Zacchaeus told Jesus that he was going to give to the poor half of his wealth and whatever he took from any man and woman wrongfully, he will restore four times. From this salvation, we learn that the rich should share their wealth with the needy.
The Parable of the Ten Pounds: Luke, 19: 12 – 27.
A certain nobleman went to a far country. Before he left he called his ten servants and gave each a gold coin (ten pounds). He told them to trade with the pounds until he returns.
When he returned, he called the servants to report profits they had made. The first servant said that one-pound coin had made profit of 10 pounds
He was made the manager of ten cities.
The second servant had traded and gained 5 pounds. He was made the manager of 5 cities.
The third one had hidden the pound. He did not trade. He accused the master of being mean, and cruel. He returned the pound, which was given to the servant with 10 pounds.
Lessons learnt from the teachings on the way to salvation
Christians should have child-like character of humility and dependence on God
When people get too attached to wealth they are likely to miss salvation
God will save those people who repent their sins and put things right with Him
Those who work hard will be added more and those who are lazy will lose even what they have
Those who try to obstruct the growth of the Kingdom of God will receive judgement and punishment
Salvation comes from God and it is for all like in the story of Zacchaeus
God expects us to use opportunities he has given to us for his work.
Each one of us shall account for the use of the abilities and skills that God gave to us – students, workers, and other professionals.
