‘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: God wants us to treasure the truth
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On Sunday, Nev challenged us; as we began this series, he asked if we have ‘a posture of expectation’? He used the example of going to an art exhibition and rushing through rather than taking the time to be amazed at the great works of art. God wants to increase our appreciation of Him and His word during this series.
This introduction to the book of Luke emphasises the value of Christian truth. As we read through these four verses, we notice striking phrases such as 'Many have undertaken to draw up an account,' indicating a keen interest in the life of Jesus. 'Just as they were handed down to us' highlights a community actively seeking to pass on the truth and teach the next generation. 'I myself have carefully investigated' shows a desire to research and learn.
This is challenging to me. Am I still excited to learn and help others to learn about Jesus? Am I using whatever little brainpower I have to grow in my understanding of the faith? Do I read scripture, good books or listen to podcasts that grow me? Am seeking to use my resources and influence to help others to do the same?
Response
The gospel of Luke urges us to treasure the Bible and the story of Jesus specifically. Like Luke and those first apostles, can we call ourselves ‘servants of the word’ - servants of Jesus and the story about Him?
Let’s consider our current excitement to learn and ask the Holy Spirit to give us His passion for Jesus. As Mike McKinley writes:
‘One of the very best ways for believers to grow in Christ-likeness is to spend time learning about and contemplating the story of Jesus as recorded in Luke’s faithful narrative.’ (Luke 1-12 for you. Mike McKinley)
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.