◄ Luke 20 ►
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Jesus’ Authority Challenged (Matthew 21:23–27; Mark 11:27–33) 1One day as Jesus was teaching the people in the temple courtsa and proclaiming the gospel, the chief priests and scribes, together with the elders, came up to Him. 2“Tell us,” they said, “by what authority are You doing these things, and who gave You this authority?” 3“I will also ask you a question,” Jesus replied. “Tell Me: 4John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or from men?” 5They deliberated among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will ask, ‘Why did you not believe him?’ 6But if we say, ‘From men,’ all the people will stone us, for they are convinced that John was a prophet.” 7So they answered that they did not know where it was from. 8And Jesus replied, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.” The Parable of the Wicked Tenants (Matthew 21:33–46; Mark 12:1–12) 9Then He proceeded to tell the people this parable: “A man planted a vineyard, rented it out to some tenants, and went away for a long time. 10At harvest time, he sent a servant to the tenants to collect his share of the fruit of the vineyard. But the tenants beat the servant and sent him away empty-handed. 11So he sent another servant, but they beat him and treated him shamefully, sending him away empty-handed. 12Then he sent a third, but they wounded him and threw him out. 13‘What shall I do?’ asked the owner of the vineyard. ‘I will send my beloved son. Perhaps they will respect him.’ 14But when the tenants saw the son, they discussed it among themselves and said, ‘This is the heir. Let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’ 15So they threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. What then will the owner of the vineyard do to them? 16He will come and kill those tenants and give the vineyard to others.” And when the people heard this, they said, “May such a thing never happen!” 17But Jesus looked directly at them and said, “Then what is the meaning of that which is written: ‘The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone’b? 18Everyone who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces, but he on whom it falls will be crushed.” Paying Taxes to Caesar (Matthew 22:15–22; Mark 12:13–17) 19When the scribes and chief priests realized that Jesus had spoken this parable against them, they sought to arrest Him that very hour. But they were afraid of the people. 20So they watched Him closely and sent spies who pretended to be sincere. They were hoping to catch Him in His words in order to hand Him over to the rule and authority of the governor. 21“Teacher,” they inquired, “we know that You speak and teach correctly. You show no partiality but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. 22Is it lawful for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” 23But Jesus saw through their duplicity and said to them, 24“Show Me a denarius.c Whose image and inscription are on it?” “Caesar’s,” they answered. 25So Jesus told them, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” 26And they were unable to trap Him in His words before the people. And amazed at His answer, they fell silent. The Sadducees and the Resurrection (Matthew 22:23–33; Mark 12:18–27) 27Then some of the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to question Him. 28“Teacher,” they said, “Moses wrote for us that if a man’s brother dies and leaves a wife but no children, the man is to marry his brother’s widow and raise up offspring for him.d 29Now there were seven brothers. The first one married a wife but died childless. 30Then the seconde 31and the third married the widow, and in the same way all seven died, leaving no children. 32And last of all, the woman died. 33So then, in the resurrection, whose wife will she be? For all seven were married to her.” 34Jesus answered, “The sons of this age marry and are given in marriage. 35But those who are considered worthy to share in the age to come and in the resurrection from the dead will neither marry nor be given in marriage. 36In fact, they can no longer die, because they are like the angels. And since they are sons of the resurrection, they are sons of God. 37Even Moses demonstrates that the dead are raised, in the passage about the burning bush. For he calls the Lord ‘the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’f 38He is not the God of the dead, but of the living, for to Him all are alive.” 39Some of the scribes answered, “Teacher, You have spoken well!” 40And they did not dare to question Him any further. Whose Son Is the Christ? (Matthew 22:41–46; Mark 12:35–37) 41Then Jesus declared, “How can it be said that the Christ is the Son of David? 42For David himself says in the book of Psalms: ‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand 43until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet.”’g 44Thus David calls Him ‘Lord.’ So how can He be David’s son?” Beware of the Scribes (Mark 12:38–40) 45In the hearing of all the people, Jesus said to His disciples, 46“Beware of the scribes. They like to walk around in long robes, and they love the greetings in the marketplaces, the chief seats in the synagogues, and the places of honor at banquets. 47They defraud widows of their houses,h and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will receive greater condemnation.” Footnotes: 1 a Literally the temple 17 b Psalm 118:22 24 c A denarius was customarily a day’s wage for a laborer; see Matthew 20:2. 28 d Deuteronomy 25:5 30 e BYZ and TR include married the widow, and he also died, 37 f Exodus 3:6 43 g Psalm 110:1 47 h Literally They devour widows’ houses Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Luke 20 Summary Beware of the Scribes Verses 1–8 – Question of Authority Religious leaders challenge Jesus in the temple, asking, “By what authority are You doing these things?” Jesus answers their question with one of His own about John’s baptism. When they refuse to commit, He refuses to answer them, exposing their fear of the crowd and their lack of sincerity. Verses 9–18 – Parable of the Wicked Tenants Jesus tells a parable about tenant farmers who beat the owner’s servants and kill his beloved son. The owner destroys the tenants and gives the vineyard to others. Quoting Psalm 118:22, Jesus reveals the leaders’ rejection of Him and warns of forthcoming judgment. The listeners understand the parable targets them and are furious. Verses 19–26 – Tribute to Caesar Spies attempt to trap Jesus with a political question about paying taxes to Caesar. Showing a denarius, He replies, “Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” Astonished, they are silenced, and Jesus affirms both civil duty and higher allegiance to God. Verses 27–38 – Question about Resurrection Sadducees, who deny resurrection, pose a hypothetical case of seven brothers marrying one woman. Jesus teaches that resurrection life transcends marriage and cites Exodus 3:6 to prove the dead live to God, declaring, “He is not the God of the dead, but of the living.” Verses 39–44 – David’s Lord Some scribes commend Jesus, but He then asks why David calls the Messiah “Lord” in Psalm 110:1. By pointing out that the Messiah is both David’s Son and David’s Lord, Jesus hints at His divine nature. Verses 45–47 – Warning against the Scribes In the hearing of all, Jesus warns the crowd to beware of scribes who crave honor, exploit widows, and pray for show. “These men will receive greater condemnation.” Luke 20 unfolds as a testament to the authority and wisdom of Jesus Christ. Challenged by the religious leaders of the time, Jesus reveals deep spiritual insight and turns the tables on His critics. This chapter illuminates Jesus' ability to rise above human controversy, exhibiting divine understanding while condemning hypocrisy and promoting true devotion. Historical Setting • Timeframe: Likely Tuesday of Passion Week, two days after Jesus’ triumphal entry (Luke 19). • Place: Temple courts in Jerusalem—specifically the Court of the Gentiles and the porticoes surrounding it. Massive crowds gather for Passover, giving Jesus a public platform and the leaders heightened anxiety (cf. John 11:47–53). Authority Challenged (1–8) • Leaders: Chief priests (Sadducees), scribes (legal experts), and elders (lay aristocracy). Together they represent the Sanhedrin. • John’s baptism: Jesus ties His authority to John’s, forcing leaders to declare whether John’s ministry was God-given. Cf. Luke 3:2–6; John 1:23. • Today’s takeaway: Dodging truth for popularity leads to spiritual paralysis (Galatians 1:10). Parable of the Tenants (9–18) • Old Testament backdrop: Isaiah 5:1–7 pictures Israel as God’s vineyard. Servants = prophets; beloved son = Jesus. • “He will come and kill those tenants” (v. 16): Foretells Jerusalem’s fall in AD 70 and the kingdom opening to believing Jews and Gentiles (Acts 13:46). • Stone imagery: Psalm 118:22 quoted here, also Acts 4:11; 1 Peter 2:7. Christ rejected becomes cornerstone of God’s new house. Render to Caesar (19–26) • Coin: A denarius bore Tiberius Caesar’s image and inscription calling him “son of the divine Augustus.” To the Jewish mind, the coin was idolatrous. • Jesus’ wisdom: Acknowledges limited human government (Romans 13:1–7) while stressing God’s ultimate ownership (Psalm 24:1). • Practical angle: Pay taxes, honor leaders, but never surrender worship or conscience (Acts 5:29). Resurrection Reality (27–38) • Sadducees: Priestly, wealthy, Temple-centered, accepting only the Pentateuch. They deny resurrection and angels (Acts 23:8). • Marriage in the resurrection: Jesus reveals a transformed existence—“they can no longer die; they are like the angels” (v. 36). • Scripture proof: Exodus 3:6 present tense “I am” shows Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob still alive. God’s covenant is everlasting (Genesis 17:7). • Hope: Believers share this future life (1 Corinthians 15:42–44). David’s Lord (39–44) • Psalm 110:1 quoted: “The LORD said to my Lord, ‘Sit at My right hand.’” Jesus affirms Messiah’s pre-eminence over David. • Implication: The Messiah is both human (David’s descendant) and divine (David’s Lord). Confirmed in Acts 2:34-36; Hebrews 1:13. Warning against Religious Pride (45–47) • Marks of hypocrisy: – Love of titles and seats (contrast Matthew 23:11). – Oppression of widows—violates Exodus 22:22–24. – Showy prayers—empty words (Matthew 6:5). • Judgment certain: Greater knowledge means stricter accountability (James 3:1). Archaeological Insights • Temple courts: Excavations reveal Herodian stones with margins and boss, matching Josephus’ descriptions of magnificent porticoes. • Denarius: Numerous first-century denarii bear Tiberius’ image and Latin legend “Ti Caesar Divi Aug F Augustus.” The coin in Luke 20 fits. • Vineyard leases: Papyri from first-century Egypt show absentee landlords renting vineyards, paralleling Jesus’ parable detail. Connections to the Old Testament • Vineyard parable: Isaiah 5, Jeremiah 2:21. • Stone motif: Genesis 49:24; Daniel 2:34–35. • Resurrection hope: Job 19:25–27; Daniel 12:2. Connections to the New Testament • Authority of Jesus: Matthew 7:29; Colossians 2:10. • Kingdom transferred: Romans 11:17–24. • Civil obedience: 1 Peter 2:13–17. • Living hope: 1 Peter 1:3–5. Key Themes 1. Jesus’ unrivaled authority. 2. Accountability of spiritual leaders. 3. God’s patience and justice. 4. Right relationship to government. 5. Certainty of bodily resurrection. 6. Messiah’s dual nature—Son of David and Lord. 7. Warning against religious hypocrisy. Life Application • Submit to Jesus’ authority in every area—beliefs, behavior, and ambitions. • Steward God’s “vineyard” faithfully—family, work, church. • Balance civic duties with undivided worship. • Live now with resurrection hope, holding possessions loosely. • Cultivate humility: Seek God’s approval over human applause. Connections to Additional Scriptures Authority of Jesus Matthew 28:18 - All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Parable of the Tenants Isaiah 5:1-7 - The Song of the Vineyard, which parallels the parable. Taxes to Caesar Romans 13:1-7 - Paul's teaching on submission to governing authorities. Resurrection 1 Corinthians 15:20-22 - Paul's affirmation of the resurrection of the dead. Humility Philippians 2:3-4 - Encouragement to value others above ourselves. Teaching Points Authority of Jesus Questioned The chapter begins with the chief priests and scribes questioning Jesus' authority. Jesus responds with a question about John the Baptist, highlighting their hypocrisy and fear of public opinion (Luke 20:1-8). Parable of the Wicked Tenants Jesus tells a parable that illustrates the rejection of God's messengers and foreshadows His own rejection and crucifixion (Luke 20:9-19). Paying Taxes to Caesar The Pharisees and Herodians attempt to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes. Jesus' response, Render to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's, teaches us about the separation of earthly and divine responsibilities (Luke 20:20-26). Sadducees and the Resurrection The Sadducees, who deny the resurrection, pose a hypothetical question to Jesus. His answer affirms the reality of the resurrection and the eternal nature of God (Luke 20:27-40). Jesus' Question about the Messiah Jesus challenges the prevailing understanding of the Messiah, pointing to His divine nature as both David's son and Lord (Luke 20:41-44). Warning Against the Scribes Jesus warns His disciples about the scribes' hypocrisy and desire for public admiration, emphasizing the importance of humility and sincerity in faith (Luke 20:45-47). Practical Applications Recognize Jesus' Authority Acknowledge Jesus as the ultimate authority in your life and seek His guidance in all decisions. Discernment in Challenges When faced with challenges or questions about your faith, respond with wisdom and discernment, following Jesus' example. Balance Earthly and Divine Duties Understand the importance of fulfilling both your earthly responsibilities and your spiritual obligations to God. Hope in the Resurrection Let the promise of the resurrection inspire hope and purpose in your daily life. Pursue Humility Strive for humility and sincerity in your faith, avoiding the pitfalls of pride and hypocrisy. People 1. Jesus The central figure in the chapter, Jesus is teaching in the temple courts and responding to questions and challenges from various groups. He is portrayed as wise and authoritative, engaging in discussions about His authority, taxes, and the resurrection. 2. Chief Priests and Scribes These religious leaders are part of the Jewish authority and are often depicted as opposing Jesus. They question His authority and seek to trap Him in His words. 3. Elders Alongside the chief priests and scribes, the elders are part of the Jewish leadership. They are involved in questioning Jesus about His authority. 4. Pharisees Although not explicitly named in Luke 20, the Pharisees are implied as part of the group that challenges Jesus, particularly in the context of the question about paying taxes to Caesar. 5. Sadducees This group, known for their denial of the resurrection, poses a question to Jesus about marriage at the resurrection, attempting to challenge His teachings. 6. Caesar Mentioned in the context of the question about paying taxes, Caesar represents the Roman authority and the political power of the time. 7. David Referenced by Jesus in His teaching about the Messiah, David is used to illustrate the identity and lordship of the Christ. 8. Moses Mentioned in the context of the Sadducees' question about the resurrection, Moses is referenced regarding the law of levirate marriage. Places 1. The Temple The chapter begins with Jesus teaching in the temple courts. The temple in Jerusalem was the central place of worship for the Jewish people and a significant location for Jesus' teachings and confrontations with religious leaders. The Greek term used here is "ἱερόν" (hieron), which refers to the entire temple complex, including the courts where teaching and discussions took place. 2. The Vineyard In the Parable of the Wicked Tenants, Jesus speaks of a vineyard, which is a metaphorical place representing Israel. The vineyard is a common biblical symbol for God's people, drawing from Old Testament imagery, such as in Isaiah 5. The Greek word for vineyard is "ἀμπελὼν" (ampelōn). Events 1. The Authority of Jesus Questioned (Luke 20:1-8) Jesus is teaching in the temple courts when the chief priests, scribes, and elders confront Him, questioning His authority. They ask, “Tell us, by what authority are You doing these things, and who gave You this authority?” (Luke 20:2). Jesus responds by asking them about the baptism of John, whether it was from heaven or from men. They are unable to answer, so Jesus declines to tell them by what authority He acts. 2. The Parable of the Wicked Tenants (Luke 20:9-18) Jesus tells a parable about a man who plants a vineyard and rents it to some tenants. When the owner sends servants to collect some of the fruit, the tenants beat them and send them away empty-handed. Finally, the owner sends his beloved son, whom the tenants kill. Jesus concludes, “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone” (Luke 20:17), referencing Psalm 118:22 and indicating His own rejection and ultimate exaltation. 3. Paying Taxes to Caesar (Luke 20:19-26) The scribes and chief priests attempt to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes to Caesar. They ask, “Is it lawful for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” (Luke 20:22). Jesus, perceiving their craftiness, asks for a denarius and inquires whose image is on it. When they answer “Caesar’s,” He replies, “Then give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s” (Luke 20:25). 4. The Sadducees and the Resurrection (Luke 20:27-40) The Sadducees, who deny the resurrection, pose a hypothetical question about a woman who marries seven brothers in succession, each dying without leaving children. They ask whose wife she will be in the resurrection. Jesus explains that in the resurrection, people neither marry nor are given in marriage, and He affirms the resurrection by citing Moses at the burning bush, where God is called the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 5. Whose Son is the Christ? (Luke 20:41-44) Jesus questions the scribes about the Messiah being the son of David. He quotes Psalm 110:1, “The Lord said to my Lord, ‘Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet’” (Luke 20:42-43). Jesus points out that David calls the Messiah “Lord,” suggesting the Messiah’s divine nature. 6. Warning Against the Scribes (Luke 20:45-47) Jesus warns His disciples about the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes and love greetings in the marketplaces, the best seats in the synagogues, and places of honor at banquets. He condemns them for devouring widows’ houses and making long prayers for show, stating, “These men will receive greater condemnation” (Luke 20:47). Lessons from Luke 20 1. The Authority of Jesus In Luke 20, the religious leaders question Jesus' authority, but He turns the tables with a question of His own about John the Baptist. This exchange reminds us that Jesus' authority is divine and unquestionable. As it says in Luke 20:8, "Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things." This lesson encourages us to trust in Jesus' authority over our lives and to seek His guidance in all we do. 2. The Parable of the Wicked Tenants Jesus shares a parable about tenants who reject and kill the owner's son, symbolizing the rejection of God's messengers and ultimately His Son. Luke 20:17 highlights the cornerstone that was rejected: "The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone." This teaches us the importance of accepting Jesus as the foundation of our faith and recognizing His role in God's plan for salvation. 3. Render to Caesar and to God When questioned about paying taxes, Jesus wisely responds, "Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s" (Luke 20:25). This lesson emphasizes the balance between our earthly responsibilities and our spiritual obligations. It reminds us to honor God with our lives while fulfilling our duties in the world. 4. The Resurrection and Eternal Life The Sadducees, who deny the resurrection, challenge Jesus with a hypothetical scenario. Jesus clarifies that God is "not the God of the dead, but of the living, for to Him all are alive" (Luke 20:38). This powerful truth reassures us of the promise of eternal life through Christ and encourages us to live with hope and purpose. 5. The Wisdom of Jesus Throughout Luke 20, Jesus demonstrates unparalleled wisdom in His responses to the challenges posed by the religious leaders. His ability to navigate complex questions with truth and grace inspires us to seek His wisdom in our own lives. As James 1:5 reminds us, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God." 6. The Rejection of Jesus Foretold In the parable of the wicked tenants, Jesus foreshadows His own rejection and crucifixion. This lesson serves as a sobering reminder of the cost of our salvation and the depth of God's love for us. It calls us to reflect on the sacrifice of Christ and to live in gratitude for His grace. 7. The Importance of Discernment Jesus warns His disciples to be wary of the scribes who seek honor and exploit others. Luke 20:46 cautions, "Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes and love greetings in the marketplaces." This lesson encourages us to practice discernment and to prioritize humility and service over recognition and status. 8. The Power of Scripture When Jesus is questioned about the resurrection, He uses Scripture to reveal the truth. This underscores the power and authority of God's Word in guiding our beliefs and actions. As 2 Timothy 3:16 affirms, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness." 9. The Call to Faithfulness The parable of the wicked tenants also highlights the importance of faithfulness in our stewardship of God's gifts. We are called to be faithful servants, using our talents and resources to further His kingdom. This lesson challenges us to evaluate how we are investing in what God has entrusted to us. 10. The Ultimate Victory of Christ Despite the challenges and rejections Jesus faces in Luke 20, His ultimate victory is assured. The chapter concludes with the affirmation of His authority and the promise of His return. This lesson fills us with hope and confidence, knowing that Christ's victory is our victory, and His kingdom will reign forever. Topics 1. The Authority of Jesus Questioned (Luke 20:1-8) The religious leaders challenge Jesus' authority as He teaches in the temple. Jesus responds by asking them about the baptism of John, highlighting their inability to answer without incriminating themselves. This passage emphasizes the divine authority of Jesus, rooted in His identity as the Son of God. 2. The Parable of the Wicked Tenants (Luke 20:9-18) Jesus tells a parable about tenants who refuse to give the vineyard's fruit to the owner and kill his son. This allegory represents Israel's rejection of the prophets and ultimately the Son, Jesus. The Greek term "κύριος" (kyrios) for "lord" or "owner" underscores God's rightful authority over Israel. 3. Paying Taxes to Caesar (Luke 20:19-26) The Pharisees and Herodians attempt to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus' response, "Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s," highlights the distinction between earthly and divine obligations, using the Greek word "ἀπόδοτε" (apodote) meaning "give back" or "render." 4. The Sadducees and the Resurrection (Luke 20:27-40) The Sadducees, who deny the resurrection, pose a hypothetical question about marriage in the afterlife. Jesus refutes their misunderstanding by affirming the resurrection and the eternal nature of God, using the Greek term "ἀναστάσεως" (anastaseos) for "resurrection." 5. Whose Son is the Christ? (Luke 20:41-44) Jesus questions the scribes about the Messiah being David's son, quoting Psalm 110:1. This passage emphasizes the dual nature of Christ as both David's descendant and his Lord, using the Hebrew term "אֲדֹנִי" (Adoni) for "my Lord." 6. Beware of the Scribes (Luke 20:45-47) Jesus warns His disciples about the scribes, who seek honor and exploit the vulnerable. This critique highlights the importance of genuine faith and humility, contrasting with the scribes' hypocrisy. The Greek word "προσοχή" (prosochē) meaning "beware" or "be cautious" underscores the need for vigilance against false piety. Themes 1. Authority of Jesus Questioned In Luke 20:1-8, the religious leaders question Jesus' authority. They ask, “Tell us, by what authority are You doing these things?” (Luke 20:2). This theme highlights the challenge to Jesus' divine authority and His wisdom in responding with a question about John the Baptist's authority, which they could not answer. 2. Parable of the Wicked Tenants Jesus tells a parable in Luke 20:9-18 about tenants who kill the son of the vineyard owner. This parable symbolizes Israel's rejection of the prophets and ultimately the Son, Jesus. The Greek word for "inheritance" (κληρονομία, klēronomia) in verse 14 emphasizes the tenants' desire to seize what belongs to the rightful heir. 3. Rejection of the Cornerstone In Luke 20:17-18, Jesus refers to Himself as the cornerstone rejected by the builders, quoting Psalm 118:22. The Greek term for "cornerstone" (κεφαλὴν γωνίας, kephalēn gōnias) signifies Jesus as the essential foundation of God's plan, despite being rejected by the leaders. 4. Question about Paying Taxes to Caesar The Pharisees and Herodians attempt to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes in Luke 20:19-26. Jesus' response, “Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s” (Luke 20:25), underscores the theme of dual responsibilities to earthly authorities and to God. 5. Sadducees Question the Resurrection In Luke 20:27-40, the Sadducees, who deny the resurrection, pose a hypothetical question to Jesus. His answer affirms the reality of the resurrection and the power of God, using the Greek term ἀνάστασις (anastasis) for "resurrection" to emphasize life beyond death. 6. Jesus as the Son of David Jesus questions the scribes about the Messiah being the Son of David in Luke 20:41-44. He cites Psalm 110:1 to show that the Messiah is greater than David, highlighting His divine lordship. The Greek word κύριος (kyrios) for "Lord" is pivotal in understanding Jesus' divine authority. 7. Warning against the Scribes In Luke 20:45-47, Jesus warns His disciples about the scribes who seek honor and exploit the vulnerable. This theme emphasizes the importance of humility and genuine faith over outward appearances and hypocrisy. Prayer Points Pray for Wisdom Ask God for wisdom to navigate challenges and questions about your faith. Pray for Recognition of Authority Seek a deeper understanding and acceptance of Jesus' authority in your life. Pray for Balance Request guidance in balancing your earthly responsibilities with your spiritual commitments. Pray for Hope Thank God for the hope of the resurrection and eternal life. Pray for Humility Ask for a humble heart that seeks to serve God and others sincerely. As we reflect on Luke 20, may we be inspired to live with wisdom, humility, and a steadfast recognition of Jesus' authority in our lives. Answering Tough Questions 1. Luke 20:9–16: How can a just God expect a different outcome after repeatedly sending messengers and then His Son to violent tenants? 2. Luke 20:20–26: Does Jesus’ command to “give to Caesar what is Caesar’s” contradict other teachings opposing oppressive rulers? 3. Luke 20:27–40: In what way is the concept of resurrection here scientifically or historically plausible if we have no evidence for life after death? 4. Luke 20:41–44: How can David call the Messiah “Lord” if He is also David’s descendant, and isn’t this genealogically contradictory? 5. Luke 20:1–8: How historically reliable is the account of Jesus questioning the religious leaders when there is limited external confirmation of this exchange? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Jesus handle the challenge to His authority in this chapter? 2. What does the Parable of the Wicked Tenants teach about God’s judgment and grace? 3. How does Jesus’ response to paying taxes to Caesar influence your understanding of our dual citizenship (earthly and heavenly)? 4. What can we learn from Jesus' teaching about the resurrection? 5. How does Jesus' question about David's son demonstrate His divine wisdom and authority? 6. In what ways does Jesus’ warning against the teachers of the law challenge religious hypocrisy today? 7. How does the widow's offering illustrate the principle of sacrificial giving? 8. How can we apply Jesus' handling of difficult questions and confrontations to our own lives? 9. How does the Parable of the Wicked Tenants speak to our responsibility as stewards of God's grace and gifts? 10. How do you reconcile earthly responsibilities (like paying taxes) and spiritual obligations in your life, as taught by Jesus? 11. How does Jesus' affirmation of the resurrection comfort and encourage you about eternal life? 12. How does Jesus’ interaction with the Pharisees and Sadducees challenge us in our approach to understanding and interpreting Scripture? 13. In what ways does the warning against the teachers of the law prompt self-examination of our motivations and attitudes in religious practices? 14. How can you emulate the widow's sacrificial giving in your life? 15. How can Jesus' unflappable authority in the face of confrontation empower you in your personal and spiritual encounters? 16. What can the Parable of the Wicked Tenants teach us about receiving and responding to God's messengers today? 17. How can we balance our obligations to government authorities with our duties to God, as instructed by Jesus? 18. How does Jesus' understanding and explanation of the resurrection impact your view of life after death? 19. How can we guard against the kind of hypocrisy Jesus warned about among the teachers of the law? 20. In what practical ways can you express sacrificial giving and total trust in God like the widow in the temple? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions