“Luke / Acts Week 28 – July 8-12”

Monday, July 08, 2024

Monday – Luke 23:1-5 Jesus Before Pilate
1. After Jesus’ arrest, He is taken into custody and placed before a series of judges for trial. Who here does Luke describe as bringing Jesus before Pilate?
2. Why do you think the Jewish leaders focus on the accusations of Jesus misleading the people and claiming to be a king? Consider the significance of these charges.
3. Those accusing Jesus are not only the religious elite but the common man as well. How might we be tempted to follow the crowd today?

Tuesday – Luke 23:6-12 Jesus Before Herod
1. The motives of the religious leaders persecuting Jesus are not pure in heart. How does the description of Herod's reaction to Jesus differ from the reaction given by the chief priests and teachers of the law?
2. Herod hopes to see a sign from Jesus, but the text mentions Jesus gave "no answer" to Herod's questions. Why might this have been the correct response given the situation?
3. Like Pilate, sometimes we try to avoid making difficult decisions by passing them on to someone else. When was a time you did this? Describe the consequences.

Wednesday – Luke 23:13-25 Pilate Delivers Jesus to Be Crucified
1. The name of the convict the crowd chooses to release, Barabbas, means “son of the Father.” As this sinful “son of the father” roams free, the sinless Son of The Father takes his place. Shockingly, what are the charges against Barabbas?
2. Before ultimately sentencing Jesus to be crucified, Pilate attempts to appease the crowd by having Jesus flogged (see John 19:1). Why do you think this does not appease the mob’s bloodlust?
3. Pilate sets aside his bias, give Jesus an honest look and concludes that he finds “no guilt” in Jesus. Still, Pilate chooses to deny what he knows is right and turns Jesus over to be crucified. We may give Jesus an honest look, but how might we still crucify Him in our actions?

Thursday – Luke 23:26-38 The Crucifixion
1. With Jesus physically unable to carry His cross, the soldiers compel Simon of Cyrene into service (cf. Mrk 15:21). What do you think this experience is like for him? How can you imagine it changing his life? 
2. Mourners, namely women, follow behind Jesus. Summarize Jesus’ words to the women and its meaning for them (cf. Luk 13:31-35; 21:5-38)?
3. While the leaders and one criminal revile Jesus, Luke alone records Him saying, “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Describe Jesus’ attitude toward those crucifying Him. How can you apply His example of forgiveness in your own life when we face injustice or persecution?

Friday – Luke 23:39-42 The Thief on the Cross
1. Luke alone highlights the words of the second criminal. What might be his reason for this focus?
2. From Mat 27:44; Mrk 15:32b we learn that at first both criminals revile Jesus. Why do you think the second thief changes from reviling to recognizing Jesus' innocence and authority?
3. How do you think the words, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise” sounded in the ears of the dying thief? How can you share the message of hope and redemption found in Jesus with those who are lost or hopeless, even in their darkest moments?

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