Monday – Luke 19:41-44 Jesus Weeps Over Jerusalem
1. Amid the joyous shouts of the Jesus’ triumphal entry, Luke alone records the Savior’s tears. What causes Jesus to weep as He rides into Jerusalem?
2. The people are cheering Jesus’ arrival as their conquering king who will expel the Romans, but how did they misunderstand “the things that make for peace”? Why would Jerusalem be destroyed by Rome (cf. Luke 19:14, 27)?
3. As you picture this scene and its place in the gospel of Luke, elaborate on the character Jesus reveals through His tears for Jerusalem.

Tuesday – Luke 19:45-48 Jesus Cleanses the Temple
1. Having received the people’s praise, Jesus enters the temple and drives out the merchants. How different is the temple here from what it is supposed to be (cf. Isa 56:3-8; Jer 7:1-11)?
2. Are there similar activities or attitudes in the church which get in the way of God’s purposes? What can you do to help eliminate them?
3. This episode ends with the people “hanging on His words.” Once again, it’s not Jesus’ actions but His words that intrigue the crowd. Why do you think this is the case? Is that the case for you? How so?

Wednesday – Luke 20:1-8 The Authority of Jesus Challenged
1. We see quite an interesting interaction here between Jesus and some religious elites. How would you describe the attitude of those confronting Jesus?
2. Jesus is seen teaching the people from the temple. What does the temple represent in the Old Testament (2 Chron7:1-3)? What might that mean to Jesus’ audience as He is filling this role?
3. Jesus chooses to terminate the interaction after their response to His question, and He redirects attention to those listening to His teachings. How can we apply Jesus’ approach here to interactions we may have with those seeking to usurp the authority of Christ?

Thursday – Luke 20:9-18 The Parable of the Wicked Tenants
1. Many times, Jesus’ teachings and parables are related to a recent interaction. How do you think this parable relates to Jesus’ interaction with the priests, scribes, and elders in the previous reading?
2. The owner of the vineyard sends servants at harvest time, but the tenants mistreat them. Why do you think the owner sends multiple servants instead of confronting the tenants directly?
3. Jesus refers to Himself as the “rejected cornerstone” (see Psalm 118:22) in concluding this parable. What does this symbolize about Jesus’ role in God’s plan for us?

Friday – Luke 20:19-26 Paying Taxes to Caesar
1. The same group from v. 1 attempts to set another trap – “Is it lawful for us to give tribute to Caesar, or not?” Why do you think they would ask such a question?
2. Jesus implies the denarius (by extension taxes) is Caesar’s because his image is on it and Caesar had it made. By analogy, what is Jesus saying about our more important obligations to God (cf. Gen 1:26)?
3. Practically speaking, what does it look like to “Render to God the things that are God’s”?

Monday – Luke 18:31-34 Jesus Foretells His Death for a Third Time
1. For a third time Jesus warns of His impending death. While the first two warnings were in a public setting for all to hear (Luk 9:22, 44) on this occasion it’s just the twelve. Why do you think He gives this warning to just them and not everyone else?
2. What do you make of the twelve’s inability to comprehend what Jesus is saying?
3. Jesus knows the gruesome suffering awaiting Him, so why does He choose to journey toward Jerusalem (cf. Heb 12:1-2)? Write a word of praise for the Savior’s determination.

Tuesday – Luke 18:35-43 Jesus Heals the Blind Beggar
1. As Jesus enters Jericho, He’s surrounded by a large crowd of disciples and admirers. How does the crowd alert the blindman to something going on? Why do you think they try to silence him?
2. With a loud voice, the blind man called out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” What significance might this title hold to both the blind man and Jesus (cf. Isa 9:6-7; Luk 1:27, 32, 69; 2:11)?
3. How would you describe the attitude of the blind man? Consider, how might we cultivate this type of attitude in our own relationship with Christ?

Wednesday – Luke 19:1-10 Jesus and Zacchaeus
1. Write out a character sketch of Zacchaeus, first from the crowd’s perspective, then Jesus’. In what ways does this exercise inform the way you should view others?
2. Short Zacchaeus must look foolish sitting in a tree and straining to see Jesus. What is it about Jesus that Zacchaeus wants to see? How might this be different than what the others in the crowd want to see?
3. Think back to the Rich Ruler (Luke 18:18-30). Why do you think Jesus doesn’t command Zacchaeus to sell all he has and give it to the poor? How does this speak to the way you should view your possessions?

Thursday – Luke 19:11-27 The Parable of the Ten Minas
1. Jesus’ words in vv. 9-10 have inflamed the crowd’s messianic expectations. His parable aims to counter any false hopes with reality. How is this parable a description of what Jesus Himself is going through by interacting with the likes of Zacchaeus and coming to Jerusalem?
2. Summarize the king’s commission to his servants. When the day of reckoning comes, the servants are called one by one, how is each servant treated? Then the enemies? What point is Jesus making to the crowds with this teaching?
3. As a believer, you are one of the king’s servants. What are you doing with the things the Lord has put within your care? Would He be pleased with you? Why or why not?

Friday – Luke 19:28-40 The Triumphal Entry
1. What began in Luk 9:51 with Jesus “set[ting] His face to go to Jerusalem” now finds its completion. From Zec 9:9-13, what is Jesus proclaiming about Himself by the way He enters Jerusalem?
2. Place yourself in the crowd following Jesus, describe what you’re witnessing, hearing, and experiencing as the crowd ushers Jesus into the holy city.
3. Jesus comes as the fulfillment of the nation’s hopes, answering their longing for a king who would bring peace to the earth from Heaven. Yet, there are still grumblers. Why are the Pharisees anxious about this occasion? Elaborate on Jesus’ short, but direct, response.

Monday – Luke 18:1-8 The Parable of the Persistent Widow
1. In a rare fashion, Luke gives us great insight at the beginning of the section. What does Luke say is the purpose of this parable from Jesus?
2. Identify some of the differences between the unrighteous judge and God. What is the motivation behind these two to fulfill the request of their people?
3. Consistent prayer is essential to our covenantal relationship. According to this passage, how might our prayer life contrast to the pleading of the widow? Do you think the concept of “wearing God out” with our prayers is a valid concern? Why or why not?

Tuesday – Luke 18:9-14 The Pharisee and the Tax Collector
1. As in the previous section, Luke provides us with the purpose of this scene at the beginning. Who does Luke say is the intended audience of this parable?
2. Analyze the two prayers. What is wrong with the Pharisee’s attitude in prayer? What is right about the tax collector’s attitude in prayer?
3. Through the lens of their prayers, we see the hearts of the Pharisee and the tax collector. When are you tempted to think like the Pharisee? How would adopting the attitude of the tax collector change your relationship with God and others?

Wednesday – Luke 18:15-17 Let the Children Come to Me
1. When parents bring infants and children to Jesus “that He might touch them,” the disciples “rebuke them.” Why do you think the disciples react this way?
2. For a second time in Luke, Jesus uses a child to make a spiritual point (cf. 9:46-48). In your own words, summarize why Jesus wants the infants and children to come to Him.
3. In what areas of your life do you need to express more childlike faith and qualities? Ask Him to help you become like this.

Thursday – Luke 18:18-23 The Rich Young Ruler
1. From receiving infants and children, Jesus turns his attention to a rich ruler. Evaluate the rich ruler’s estimation of Jesus, his burning question, and appraisal of himself.
2. Jesus responds by telling the man how to inherit eternal life, “Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven.” Why do you think Jesus says this to him? Do you think Jesus means for His words to drive the man away? Explain.
3. If you were to have a one-on-one conversation with Jesus about “inheriting eternal life,” what would He say you need to give up to better follow Him?

Friday – Luke 18:24-30 With God all Things are Possible
1. As the rich ruler departs, Jesus turns to His disciples. Evaluate His words in vv. 24-25, why is it difficult for “those with wealth” to enter the kingdom of heaven?
2. Jesus’ comment to the rich man astonishes the disciples. Trace their wonderment and how Jesus answers their concerns.
3. There is a tension between kingdom wealth and worldly wealth that the disciples grapple with. How might that tension express itself in your life (cf. 1 Tim 6:6-10, 17-19)?

Monday – Luke 17:7-10 Unworthy Servants
1. After teaching His followers about having the faith to forgive, Jesus addresses attitudes about obedience. How does Jesus’ portrait of a dutiful slave amplify His instructions on forgiveness and obedience?
2. Thinking of ourselves as slaves seems strange. Why might our culture of convenience, independence, and abundance present difficulties in seeing ourselves as slaves (or servants) of Jesus Christ?
3. Meditate on v. 10. In what ways does seeing ourselves as “unworthy slaves” who have “done what was our duty” promote the humble attitudes Jesus wants from His disciples (cf. Luk 14:11)?

Tuesday – Luke 17:11-19 Jesus Cleanses Ten Lepers
1. As Jesus is “on the way to Jerusalem” (cf. Luk 9:51), ten lepers cry out for mercy. Put yourself in Jesus’ entourage, paint the picture of what you see and hear from the ten lepers, then from Jesus.
2. The ten lepers have enough faith in Jesus to ask for healing, and obey Him even before they have proof of healing, and yet, only one – a Samaritan – returns to give thanks. Describe his exuberance as he expresses his thanks. To what degree does this reflect your own thanksgiving? Why or why not?
3. Jesus asks, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine?” Make a list of the reasons why you think the other nine – presumably, Jews – didn’t come back to give thanks? Do any of these reflect your own reasons for not giving thanks? Prayerfully determine to change your perspective.

Wednesday – Luke 17:20-37 The Coming of the Kingdom
1. Despite the miracles, the Pharisees still have not seen enough, so they ask Jesus about the timing of the coming of God’s kingdom (cf. 2 Sam 7:12-13). In what sense is the kingdom already “in the midst” of Jesus’ hearers (cf. Luk 1:32-33; 4:18-21)? Why do you think they were unable to perceive this truth?
2. For many Jews, their idea was a kingdom of their own free, from Roman rule. How does Jesus’ description of impending destruction shatter that dream (cf. Mat 24; Mrk 13)?
3. What applications is Jesus highlighting for His disciples from Noah and Lot’s experiences?

Thursday – Luke 17:26-27; Genesis 6:1-7:10 Noah and the Flood
1. Digging deeper into Jesus’ example of Noah’s time, what words and phrases emphasize the extent of humanities wickedness? How is Noah different from his contemporaries?
2. What do you imagine people saying as they see Noah build an ark and hear him proclaim a coming flood and judgment? How do you imagine Noah and his family reacting?
3. Jesus’ analysis is that the people of Noah’s day were unconcerned and unprepared for Judgment, then life ended. How does this truth apply to Jesus’ audience? In what ways do you see the same attitudes today? What can you do to be prepared for impending judgment?

Friday – Luke 17:28-29, 32; Genesis 18:16-19:26 God Destroys Sodom and Rescues Lot
1. Digging deeper into Jesus’ example of Lot’s time, what words and phrases emphasize the extent of Sodom’s wickedness? How is Lot different from his contemporaries (cf. 2 Pet 2:6-10a)?
2. Jesus’ analysis is that the people of Lot’s day were unconcerned and unprepared for Judgment, then life ended. How does this truth apply to Jesus’ audience? In what ways do you see the same attitudes today?
3. Jesus calls for His disciples to, “Remember Lot’s wife.” Summarize her story. What lessons is Jesus wanting His disciples, then and now, to remember?

Monday – Luke 16:1-13 The Parable of the Shrewd Manager
1. Moving from a parable of a son who squanders his inheritance (Luk 15:13), Jesus tells of a manager who wastes his master’s possessions. Trace the events of the shrewd manager from vv. 1-8a.
2. Jesus commends the manager’s shrewd solution for one reason: he uses money to win friends for himself in the world to which he is committed. From vv. 8b-12, summarize the application of this parable for believers.
3. With His final remarks, Jesus likens money to a trust, not a possession. Specifically, how would it look in your life to treat money as a trust from God, not as a possession to be idolized?

Tuesday – Luke 16:14-18 The Law and the Kingdom of God
1. The Pharisees, “who were lovers of money,” quickly ridicule Jesus’ teachings. Place yourself in the crowd, what sort of things do you hear the Pharisees saying?
2. Consider the sharp words Jesus has for the Pharisees, how does His answer refute the Pharisees’ ridicule (cf. Luk 20:47a), traditions (cf. Mrk 7:9-13), and practices (v. 18; cf. Mat 19:1-9)?
3. An alternate reading for v. 16 is, “the good news of the kingdom of God is preached, and everyone is forcefully urged into it.” In what ways is Jesus forcefully urging everyone into His kingdom? Why do many, like the Pharisees refuse His entreaty?

Wednesday – Luke 16:19-31 The Rich Man and Lazarus
1. Continuing His rebuke of the Pharisees, Jesus tells the story of a “certain rich man” and “Lazarus” (he whom God helps). How does the parable contrast the state of the two men before their deaths, at their burial, and after their deaths?
2. The rich man is a dramatic example of what happens when one uses God’s possessions wrongly. Why do you think the rich man ignored the plight of poor Lazarus?
3. In torment, the rich man wishes to spare his brothers from his mistakes. What do you make of the rich man’s request and Abraham’s response? How does v. 31 connect back to the admonition of vv. 16-18?

Thursday – Luke 17:1-4 Temptations to Sin
1. Turning back to the disciples, Jesus issues a stern warning on temptations. In your own words, restate vv. 1-2. How do you see the warnings about temptation to sin relating to Jesus’ teaching on forgiveness?
2. Jesus’ approach to forgiveness continues Luke’s theme of presenting Jesus as a Messiah that’s different from expectations (cf. Luk 9:18-22). Reflect on the nature of Jesus’ approach to forgiveness.
3. Jesus is the ultimate example of servanthood forgiveness. How is forgiving someone like making yourself their servant instead of their master?

Friday – Luke 17:5-6 Increase Our Faith
1. Upon hearing Jesus’ teaching on forgiveness (vv. 1-4), the apostles said to Him, “Increase our faith!” Why do you think they would emphatically ask for more faith?
2. Jesus’ comparison between a mustard seed and the mulberry tree is simple - a little faith can do great things. Too often this truth is applied to all sorts of things except its context! What is Jesus showing with this image regarding temptations and forgiveness?
3. Where do you need to apply a mustard seed-sized faith in forgiving someone?