This week we begin our series in Luke, Exploring who Jesus is.
Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word. With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.’ (Luke 1:1-4)
Summary: We all need to allow God, through His word, to strengthen our faith.
To watch this devotional go to:
Luke wrote his gospel so that Theophilus and others might know the certainty of the things they had been taught about Jesus. However, the ultimate author is God. He knows that we are all tempted and assailed by doubts. Sometimes the trials of life can cause us to wonder if God loves us or is even real. We live in a very secular culture where unbelief is promoted and faith is often mocked and so it’s inevitable that our faith will be shaken from time to time. Like Theophilus, our faith in Jesus, His death for sin, His resurrection, His promises etc. are attacked by false teachers. God knows this and so has provided this gospel so that we can nourish our faith. Paul encourages us:
‘In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.’ (Ephesians 6:16)
This gospel is a part of our shield of faith. It’s the historical account of Jesus, which is the foundation of our faith. Reading, studying, meditating and praying the truths of this gospel will give you are stronger shield.
Response
Take a moment to pray. Ask the Father to help you and your church, to grow in faith through this gospel.
Why not purchase a study Bible to help you to study this gospel? (The NIV or ESV study Bibles are very good). You could purchase a study book such as Luke For You by Mike McKinley. Why not commit yourself to these devotionals which I trust will be of help to you.
COMMUNITY GROUP NOTES AND STUDY
1. NOTICES
It might be good to begin with notices. Please share from this week’s Church News.
2. ICEBREAKER
What has God been speaking to you about from His Word this week and how has this helped you / affected your life?
3. STUDY AND PRAY TOGETHER
Please read Luke 1:1-9
Did anything strike you or did God speak to you from any particular aspect of Sunday's message?
From today's text, what is the reason given from Luke writing this gospel?
List all the things that today's text tells us about Jesus.
List the various applications and responses one could make to today's text.
How do you plan to respond?
SIV - What does this introduction to Luke say about our mission?
SIV - How and with who are you seeking SIV - Serve, Invest and Invite?
Pray together - Spend some time in prayer together out of today's study or/and in regard to seeking to reach our communities for Christ.
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