◄ Luke 10 ►
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Jesus Sends the Seventy-Two (Matthew 9:35–38) 1After this, the Lord appointed seventy-twoa others and sent them two by two ahead of Him to every town and place He was about to visit. 2And He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest. 3Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves. 4Carry no purse or bag or sandals. Do not greet anyone along the road. 5Whatever house you enter, begin by saying, ‘Peace to this house.’ 6If a man of peace is there, your peace will rest on him; if not, it will return to you. 7Stay at the same house, eating and drinking whatever you are offered. For the worker is worthy of his wages.b Do not move around from house to house. 8If you enter a town and they welcome you, eat whatever is set before you. 9Heal the sick who are there and tell them, ‘The kingdom of God is near you.’ 10But if you enter a town and they do not welcome you, go into the streets and declare, 11‘Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off as a testimony against you. Yet be sure of this: The kingdom of God is near.’ 12I tell you, it will be more bearable on that day for Sodom than for that town. Woe to the Unrepentant (Matthew 11:20–24) 13Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. 14But it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for you. 15And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted up to heaven? No, you will be brought down to Hades! 16Whoever listens to you listens to Me; whoever rejects you rejects Me; and whoever rejects Me rejects the One who sent Me.” The Joyful Return 17The seventy-two returned with joy and said, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in Your name.” 18So He told them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. 19Behold, I have given you authority to tread on snakes and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy. Nothing will harm you. 20Nevertheless, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” Jesus’ Prayer of Thanksgiving (Matthew 11:25–30) 21At that time Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and declared, “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was well-pleasing in Your sight. 22All things have been entrusted to Me by My Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and no one knows who the Father is except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him.” 23Then Jesus turned to the disciples and said privately, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. 24For I tell you that many prophets and kings desired to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.” The Parable of the Good Samaritan 25One day an expert in the law stood up to test Him. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 26“What is written in the Law?” Jesus replied. “How do you read it?” 27He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’c and ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’d” 28“You have answered correctly,” Jesus said. “Do this and you will live.” 29But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” 30Jesus took up this question and said, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho when he fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him, beat him, and went away, leaving him half dead. 31Now by chance a priest was going down the same road, but when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32So too, when a Levite came to that spot and saw him, he passed by on the other side. 33But a Samaritan on a journey came upon him, and when he saw him, he had compassion. 34He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35The next day he took out two denariie and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Take care of him,’ he said, ‘and on my return I will repay you for any additional expense.’ 36Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” 37“The one who showed him mercy,” replied the expert in the law. Then Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.” Martha and Mary 38As they traveled along, Jesus entered a village where a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. 39She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to His message. 40But Martha was distracted by all the preparations to be made. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her to help me!” 41“Martha, Martha,” the Lord replied, “you are worried and upset about many things. 42But only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her.” Footnotes: 1 a NE, BYZ, and TR seventy; also in verse 17 7 b See Leviticus 19:13 and Deuteronomy 24:14–15; cited in 1 Timothy 5:18. 27 c Deuteronomy 6:5 27 d Leviticus 19:18 35 e A denarius was customarily a day’s wage for a laborer; see Matthew 20:2. 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 10 Summary Jesus Sends the Seventy-Two Verses 1–12 – The Seventy-Two Sent Out Jesus appoints seventy-two disciples and sends them ahead in pairs. He says, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest” (v 2). They travel light, depend on hospitality, speak peace, heal the sick, and announce, “The kingdom of God is near you” (v 9). Towns that refuse them face a warning harsher than Sodom’s. Verses 13–16 – Woes on Unrepentant Towns Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum are rebuked; if Tyre, Sidon, and Sodom had seen such miracles, they would have repented. Rejecting the messengers equals rejecting the One who sent them. Verses 17–20 – Joy at Satan’s Defeat The seventy-two return rejoicing: “Lord, even the demons submit to us in Your name!” (v 17). Jesus replies, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven” (v 18) and stresses that their greatest joy is that their names are written in heaven. Verses 21–24 – Jesus Rejoices in the Father Filled with the Holy Spirit, Jesus praises the Father for revealing truth to “little children” (v 21). Father and Son know each other uniquely, and the disciples are blessed to see and hear what prophets longed for. Verses 25–37 – The Good Samaritan A law expert asks how to inherit eternal life. Jesus points him to love for God (Deuteronomy 6:5) and neighbor (Leviticus 19:18). To define “neighbor,” Jesus tells of a man robbed on the Jericho road, ignored by a priest and a Levite but rescued by a Samaritan who shows mercy and pays the bill. Jesus says, “Go and do likewise” (v 37). Verses 38–42 – Mary and Martha In Bethany, Martha serves while Mary sits at Jesus’ feet. Martha complains, but Jesus replies, “Mary has chosen the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her” (v 42). Luke 10 presents a vivid picture of God's kingdom in action. As the Seventy-Two Disciples are sent out, we gain insights into the nature of discipleship and ministry. Jesus presents the model of the Good Samaritan to challenge prevailing notions of neighborliness, and concludes with the contrast between Martha and Mary, thereby underlining the significance of choosing the "good portion." Historical and Cultural Setting • Date: around AD 29–30, late in Jesus’ Galilean ministry. • Traveling teachers depended on hospitality; refusing a guest was a public statement. • Samaritans were despised by Jews, which makes the Samaritan’s kindness striking. Mission Instructions in Plain Language 1. Travel light: “Carry no purse or bag or sandals” (v 4). 2. Focus: “Do not greet anyone along the road” – no distractions. 3. Offer peace; receive hospitality without demanding better quarters (v 7). 4. Heal the sick and proclaim the nearness of God’s kingdom (vv 9–11). 5. If rejected, leave a warning but keep moving. These guidelines echo Matthew 10:5-16 and foreshadow Acts 2-20 as the church spreads. Geography and Archaeology • Chorazin ruins show basalt homes and a first-century synagogue with a carved seat known as “Moses’ Seat,” matching Jesus’ rebuke (Matthew 23:2). • Bethsaida’s excavated fishing village, el-Araj, holds nets weights, anchoring its tie to fishermen apostles. • Capernaum’s black basalt synagogue foundations and nearby white limestone reconstruction reveal a thriving town that still missed its moment. • The Jericho road descends 3,300 feet in 17 miles, full of caves—perfect hideouts for robbers. Excavated Roman milestones confirm it was heavily traveled in Jesus’ day. Authority Over Evil Luke 10:19: “I have given you authority to tread on snakes and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy. Nothing will harm you.” • Echoes Psalm 91:13 (“You will tread on the lion and cobra”) and foreshadows Acts 28:3-5 where Paul is unharmed by a viper. • Jesus’ vision of Satan’s fall (v 18) aligns with Isaiah 14:12 and Revelation 12:9, underscoring the enemy’s defeat. Hidden from the Proud, Revealed to the Humble Jesus’ prayer (vv 21-22) mirrors Isaiah 29:14—God frustrates worldly wisdom but uplifts childlike trust. Paul later echoes this in 1 Corinthians 1:26-29. Good Samaritan—Compassion Across Barriers • Priest and Levite represent formal religion; the Samaritan embodies mercy. • Oil and wine were common first-aid items; two denarii = two days’ wages, covering roughly two weeks in an inn. • Jesus shifts the question from “Who is my neighbor?” to “Am I acting like a neighbor?” linking to Micah 6:8—“act justly, love mercy, walk humbly.” Mary and Martha—Priorities in Discipleship • Sitting at a rabbi’s feet was the posture of a disciple (Acts 22:3). Mary, a woman, is welcomed in that role. • Martha’s service is good, but worry pulls her away from listening. 1 Peter 5:7 offers the antidote: “Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.” Old Testament Connections • Seventy-two mirrors the traditional count of nations in Genesis 10, hinting at a mission to the world. • Woes evoke prophetic oracles (Isaiah 5; Amos 6). • Shaking dust echoes Nehemiah 5:13, a sign of serious warning. New Testament Links • Harvest imagery returns in John 4:35. • Joy over demons’ defeat sets the stage for Acts 8:7 and 16:18. • Mary and Martha reappear in John 11-12, evidencing ongoing friendship. Practical Takeaways • The kingdom advances through ordinary followers who trust God for provision. • Miracles invite repentance; indifference invites judgment. • Real authority over evil flows from Jesus’ name, not personal power. • Mercy trumps prejudice; loving action defines a neighbor. • Listening to Jesus is the “one necessary thing” that anchors all service. Key Themes Recap Harvest readiness, simple obedience, spiritual authority, joyful humility, compassionate neighbor-love, and undivided attention to Jesus weave through Luke 10, inviting every reader into active, heartfelt participation in God’s kingdom today. Connections to Additional Scriptures Matthew 9:37-38 Reinforces the call for laborers in the harvest. James 2:14-17 Discusses faith in action, complementing the message of the Good Samaritan. Philippians 2:3-4 Encourages humility and considering others' needs, aligning with Jesus' teachings on servanthood. Teaching Points The Sending of the Seventy-Two (Luke 10:1-12) Jesus appoints seventy-two others and sends them two by two, emphasizing the importance of partnership in ministry. The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few (v. 2). This highlights the urgency and need for laborers in God's kingdom. Jesus instructs them to rely on God's provision and to bring peace to the households they enter, demonstrating trust and faith in God's care. Woe to Unrepentant Cities (Luke 10:13-16) Jesus pronounces woes on cities that witnessed His miracles yet did not repent, underscoring the seriousness of rejecting the Gospel. The accountability of those who hear the message of Christ is emphasized, as rejecting the messengers is akin to rejecting Christ Himself. The Return of the Seventy-Two (Luke 10:17-24) The disciples return with joy, reporting that even demons submit to them in Jesus' name, illustrating the authority given to believers. Jesus rejoices in the Spirit, thanking the Father for revealing truths to the humble and childlike, highlighting the value of humility and dependence on God. The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) A lawyer's question about inheriting eternal life leads to the parable, which redefines the concept of 'neighbor' beyond cultural and ethnic boundaries. The Samaritan's compassion and action serve as a model for true neighborly love, challenging us to show mercy to all, regardless of differences. Martha and Mary (Luke 10:38-42) The account of Martha and Mary illustrates the importance of prioritizing time with Jesus over busyness, emphasizing the need for spiritual focus and devotion. Practical Applications Engage in Ministry Partner with others in sharing the Gospel, recognizing the importance of community and collaboration in ministry efforts. Practice Humility Approach God with a childlike faith, valuing humility and openness to His teachings. Show Compassion Actively seek opportunities to demonstrate love and mercy to those in need, following the example of the Good Samaritan. Prioritize Spiritual Growth Balance service with time spent in God's presence, ensuring that spiritual nourishment is not neglected in the busyness of life. People 1. The Lord (Jesus Christ) Jesus is the central figure in this chapter, sending out the seventy-two disciples and teaching them. He provides instructions and parables, such as the Parable of the Good Samaritan. The Greek term used for "Lord" is "Κύριος" (Kyrios), emphasizing His authority and divinity. 2. The Seventy-Two Disciples These are the individuals Jesus appoints and sends out in pairs to every town and place He is about to visit. They are tasked with preaching the kingdom of God and healing the sick. The number seventy-two is significant, reflecting completeness and universality in Jewish tradition. 3. The Lawyer (Expert in the Law) This individual tests Jesus with a question about inheriting eternal life, leading to the Parable of the Good Samaritan. The Greek term for "lawyer" is "νομικός" (nomikos), indicating someone skilled in Mosaic Law. 4. The Good Samaritan Although a character in a parable, the Good Samaritan is a key figure who exemplifies love and compassion by helping a wounded man. The term "Samaritan" reflects the historical enmity between Jews and Samaritans, highlighting the radical nature of the parable's message. 5. The Priest Another character in the parable, the priest passes by the wounded man without offering help. The Greek word "ἱερεύς" (hiereus) denotes someone who performs religious duties, emphasizing the failure of religious leaders to show compassion. 6. The Levite Similar to the priest, the Levite also neglects the wounded man. Levites were members of the Hebrew tribe of Levi, responsible for temple duties, and their indifference is a critique of religious formalism. 7. The Wounded Man The victim in the Parable of the Good Samaritan, who is attacked by robbers and left half-dead. His plight sets the stage for the demonstration of true neighborly love. 8. Martha A woman who welcomes Jesus into her home. She is described as being distracted by her many tasks, leading to a gentle rebuke from Jesus about being worried and upset over many things. 9. Mary (Sister of Martha) Mary is Martha's sister, who chooses to sit at Jesus' feet and listen to His teaching. Jesus commends her choice, highlighting the importance of prioritizing spiritual nourishment. Places 1. Jerusalem While not directly mentioned in Luke 10, Jerusalem is the central city in the Gospel narratives and serves as the backdrop for many of Jesus' teachings and parables. It is the spiritual and cultural heart of Judaism. 2. Samaria Although not explicitly named in Luke 10, Samaria is implied in the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37). Samaritans were considered outsiders by the Jews, and the parable highlights themes of compassion and neighborly love across cultural boundaries. 3. Jericho Mentioned in Luke 10:30, Jericho is the setting for the Parable of the Good Samaritan. It is described as the destination of a man traveling from Jerusalem, who falls among robbers. Jericho was an ancient city known for its strategic location and historical significance. Events 1. The Sending of the Seventy-Two (Luke 10:1-12) Jesus appoints seventy-two others and sends them in pairs to every town and place He is about to visit. He instructs them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few" (Luke 10:2). The Greek word for "appoint" (ἀνέδειξεν, anedeixen) implies a formal commissioning for a specific task. 2. Instructions for the Mission (Luke 10:3-12) Jesus provides specific instructions for their mission, including traveling light and relying on the hospitality of others. He tells them to say, "Peace to this house" (Luke 10:5) when entering a home, and to heal the sick and proclaim, "The kingdom of God is near you" (Luke 10:9). 3. Woe to Unrepentant Cities (Luke 10:13-16) Jesus pronounces woes on Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum for their lack of repentance despite witnessing His miracles. He states, "He who listens to you listens to Me; he who rejects you rejects Me" (Luke 10:16), emphasizing the authority given to His messengers. 4. The Return of the Seventy-Two (Luke 10:17-20) The seventy-two return with joy, reporting that even demons submit to them in Jesus' name. Jesus responds, "I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven" (Luke 10:18), indicating the spiritual victory achieved through their mission. He reminds them to rejoice that their names are written in heaven. 5. Jesus' Joy and Thanksgiving (Luke 10:21-24) Jesus rejoices in the Holy Spirit and thanks the Father for revealing truths to the childlike rather than the wise and learned. He declares, "No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and no one knows who the Father is except the Son" (Luke 10:22), highlighting the unique relationship between the Father and the Son. 6. The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) A lawyer tests Jesus by asking how to inherit eternal life. Jesus responds with the parable of the Good Samaritan, illustrating the command to "love your neighbor as yourself" (Luke 10:27). The Greek word for "neighbor" (πλησίον, plēsion) emphasizes proximity and relational closeness. 7. Jesus Visits Martha and Mary (Luke 10:38-42) Jesus visits the home of Martha and Mary. While Martha is distracted with preparations, Mary sits at Jesus' feet, listening to His teaching. Jesus tells Martha, "Mary has chosen the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her" (Luke 10:42), underscoring the importance of prioritizing spiritual nourishment. Lessons from Luke 10 1. The Harvest is Plentiful In Luke 10:2, Jesus tells His disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few." This verse reminds us of the vast opportunities to share the Gospel and the need for more laborers in God's field. As believers, we are called to be active participants in spreading the Good News, knowing that the fields are ripe for harvest. Let's seize every opportunity to share the love of Christ with those around us. 2. Go with Simplicity and Trust When Jesus sends out the seventy-two, He instructs them to "carry no purse or bag or sandals" (Luke 10:4). This lesson teaches us to rely on God's provision and to travel light, both physically and spiritually. By trusting in God's care, we can focus on our mission without being weighed down by unnecessary burdens. 3. Peace as a Greeting In Luke 10:5, Jesus advises, "When you enter a house, first say, 'Peace to this house.'" Offering peace is a powerful way to open doors and hearts. As we interact with others, let our words and actions be filled with peace, reflecting the peace that Christ has given us. This approach can create a welcoming environment for sharing the Gospel. 4. The Kingdom of God is Near Jesus instructs His disciples to proclaim, "The kingdom of God has come near to you" (Luke 10:9). This message is as relevant today as it was then. We are ambassadors of God's kingdom, bringing His presence into every situation. Let's live in a way that reflects the nearness of God's kingdom, inviting others to experience His love and grace. 5. Rejoice in Salvation After the disciples return with joy, Jesus reminds them, "Do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven" (Luke 10:20). Our greatest joy should come from our salvation and relationship with God. This eternal perspective keeps us grounded and focused on what truly matters. 6. The Privilege of Revelation In Luke 10:21, Jesus praises the Father for revealing truths to "little children." This highlights the privilege we have in receiving divine revelation. God delights in revealing Himself to those with humble and childlike faith. Let's approach Scripture with open hearts, eager to learn and grow in our understanding of His Word. 7. The Good Samaritan's Compassion The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37) teaches us about true compassion and love for our neighbors. Jesus challenges us to go beyond cultural and social boundaries to show mercy and kindness. By following the Samaritan's example, we can demonstrate God's love in practical ways, impacting lives for His glory. 8. Prioritize Listening to Jesus Martha was distracted by her many tasks, but Mary chose to sit at Jesus' feet and listen (Luke 10:39-42). This story reminds us of the importance of prioritizing time with Jesus amidst our busy lives. By focusing on His Word and presence, we gain the wisdom and strength needed to navigate life's challenges. 9. Love God and Neighbor When asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus emphasizes loving God with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind, and loving our neighbor as ourselves (Luke 10:27). This dual commandment encapsulates the essence of Christian living. As we love God wholeheartedly, His love flows through us to others, fulfilling His purpose. 10. The Joy of Obedience In Luke 10:17, the disciples return with joy, having witnessed God's power at work through their obedience. This joy is a natural result of aligning our lives with God's will. As we step out in faith and obedience, we experience the joy of being part of His redemptive work in the world. Let's embrace this joy as we serve Him faithfully. Topics 1. The Mission of the Seventy-Two (Luke 10:1-12) Jesus appoints seventy-two others and sends them in pairs to every town and place He is about to visit. He instructs them on how to conduct their mission, emphasizing reliance on God and the urgency of the message. The Greek word "ἀπέστειλεν" (apesteilen) is used for "sent," indicating a commissioning with authority. 2. Woe to Unrepentant Cities (Luke 10:13-16) Jesus pronounces woes on Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum for their lack of repentance despite witnessing His miracles. The Greek term "οὐαί" (ouai) is used for "woe," expressing deep lament and warning. 3. The Return of the Seventy-Two (Luke 10:17-20) The seventy-two return with joy, reporting that even demons submit to them in Jesus' name. Jesus responds by affirming their authority over the enemy but reminds them to rejoice in their salvation. The Greek "ὑποτάσσεται" (hypotassetai) means "submit," indicating a hierarchical order under Christ's authority. 4. Jesus' Joy in the Holy Spirit (Luke 10:21-24) Jesus rejoices in the Holy Spirit, thanking the Father for revealing truths to the humble rather than the wise and learned. The Greek "ἀγαλλιάω" (agalliaō) is used for "rejoiced," denoting an exuberant, spiritual joy. 5. The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) In response to a lawyer's question about inheriting eternal life, Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan, illustrating the command to love one's neighbor. The Greek "πλησίον" (plēsion) means "neighbor," emphasizing proximity and relational duty. 6. Jesus Visits Martha and Mary (Luke 10:38-42) Jesus visits the home of Martha and Mary. Martha is distracted by preparations, while Mary sits at Jesus' feet, listening to His teaching. Jesus commends Mary for choosing the "better part." The Greek "μεριμνᾷς" (merimnas) is used for "distracted," indicating being pulled in different directions. Themes 1. The Sending of the Seventy-Two Jesus appoints seventy-two others and sends them out in pairs to every town and place He is about to visit (Luke 10:1). This theme emphasizes the importance of evangelism and the preparation of the way for Christ. The Greek word "ἀπέστειλεν" (apesteilen) highlights the authoritative sending forth of these disciples. 2. The Harvest is Plentiful Jesus tells the seventy-two that "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few" (Luke 10:2). This theme underscores the urgency and abundance of the mission field, calling for more laborers to spread the Gospel. The Greek term "θερισμός" (therismos) refers to the act of reaping, symbolizing the gathering of souls. 3. Dependence on God’s Provision Jesus instructs the disciples to carry no purse, bag, or sandals, and to rely on the hospitality of those they visit (Luke 10:4-7). This theme highlights trust in God's provision and the simplicity of the missionary lifestyle. The Greek word "ἀναπαύεσθε" (anapauesthe) means to rest or rely, indicating a dependence on God. 4. Proclaiming Peace and the Kingdom of God The disciples are to declare peace to each house they enter and proclaim that "The kingdom of God has come near to you" (Luke 10:5, 9). This theme focuses on the message of peace and the nearness of God's kingdom. The Greek "εἰρήνη" (eirēnē) for peace and "βασιλεία" (basileia) for kingdom are central to this proclamation. 5. Judgment on Unrepentant Cities Jesus pronounces woe on cities that do not receive the message, such as Chorazin and Bethsaida, indicating that their judgment will be more severe than that of Sodom (Luke 10:13-15). This theme addresses the consequences of rejecting the Gospel. The Greek "οὐαί" (ouai) is an expression of lament or denunciation. 6. Authority Over Demons The seventy-two return with joy, reporting that even demons submit to them in Jesus' name (Luke 10:17). This theme highlights the authority given to believers over spiritual forces. The Greek "ὑποτάσσεται" (hypotassetai) means to be subject or subordinate, indicating the power of Jesus' name. 7. Rejoicing in Salvation Jesus instructs the disciples to rejoice not in their authority over spirits, but that their names are written in heaven (Luke 10:20). This theme emphasizes the eternal significance of salvation over temporal victories. The Greek "ἐγγέγραπται" (engegraptai) refers to being recorded or inscribed, signifying assurance of salvation. 8. Revelation to the Humble Jesus praises the Father for revealing truths to the childlike rather than the wise and learned (Luke 10:21). This theme highlights God's preference for humility and simplicity in receiving divine revelation. The Greek "ἀπεκάλυψας" (apekalypsas) means to uncover or reveal, indicating divine disclosure. 9. The Parable of the Good Samaritan Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan to illustrate the command to love one's neighbor (Luke 10:30-37). This theme emphasizes compassion and mercy beyond cultural and ethnic boundaries. The Greek "σπλαγχνίζομαι" (splanchnizomai) means to be moved with compassion, reflecting the Samaritan's actions. 10. The Priority of Listening to Jesus The account of Mary and Martha shows the importance of prioritizing time with Jesus over busyness (Luke 10:38-42). This theme underscores the value of spiritual attentiveness. The Greek "ἀκούειν" (akouein) means to hear or listen, highlighting Mary's choice to focus on Jesus' words. Prayer Points Pray for more workers to be sent into the harvest, asking God to raise up laborers for His kingdom. Seek God's guidance in showing compassion and mercy to those around us, asking for a heart like the Good Samaritan. Ask for the wisdom to balance service and spiritual growth, prioritizing time with Jesus amidst life's demands. Pray for humility and openness to God's revelations, embracing a childlike faith in our walk with Him. Answering Tough Questions 1. Luke 10:1 – How can we confirm historically that Jesus actually appointed and sent out seventy-two disciples beyond the Bible’s account? 2. Luke 10:9 – Where is the evidence, outside of scripture, that these reported healings truly occurred as described? 3. Luke 10:18 – How can the claim of seeing Satan “fall like lightning” be reconciled with scientific or historical records? 4. Luke 10:19 – If authority over snakes and scorpions was literal, why isn’t there consistent historical evidence of Christians demonstrating this without harm? 5. Luke 10:25–37 – How does the sympathetic portrayal of the Samaritan compare with other biblical passages that cast Samaritans negatively? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What can we learn from Jesus' instructions to the Seventy-Two about our own mission as Christians? 2. How can we apply the message of Jesus' rebuke to unrepentant cities in our modern lives? 3. What do you think Jesus meant by "rejoice because your names are written in heaven"? 4. In what ways does the parable of the Good Samaritan challenge your current understanding of "neighbor"? 5. How can you apply the lessons from the Good Samaritan parable in your daily interactions with people who are different from you? 6. How does the story of Martha and Mary address the question of balancing service and devotion in our own lives? 7. What significance does the return of the Seventy-Two hold for contemporary Christian communities? 8. How does the prayer of thanksgiving made by Jesus emphasize the importance of childlike faith and humility? 9. How can the woes to the unrepentant cities serve as a warning to societies today? 10. How do you interpret the notion of "loving your neighbor as yourself" in today's context? 11. How can the story of Martha and Mary teach us to prioritize in a world full of distractions? 12. How does the Good Samaritan parable challenge societal prejudices and stereotypes? 13. In what ways does Jesus' commissioning of the Seventy-Two provide a model for Christian evangelism today? 14. How does the rejoicing of the Seventy-Two inspire us in our Christian walk? 15. How can we develop the ability to see people as our "neighbors" in the way the Good Samaritan did? 16. In light of Jesus' teaching to Martha, how do we discern when we are too busy serving to hear Jesus' teachings? 17. How does Jesus' prayer of thanksgiving illuminate the importance of divine revelation in understanding the kingdom of God? 18. How do the woes to the unrepentant cities make us reflect on our responsiveness to God's work in our lives? 19. How does the parable of the Good Samaritan provide a model for social and humanitarian action in the world today? 20. How can the contrast between Martha and Mary help us evaluate our spiritual disciplines and practices? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions