◄ Luke 10 ►
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Summary Jesus Sends the Seventy-Two Luke 10 explores the nature of God's kingdom through various narratives and teachings. The Good Samaritan becomes a timeless example of compassionate neighborliness, while the contrast between Martha and Mary redefines priorities in our spiritual journey. This chapter invites us to embody love, peace, and wisdom, while acknowledging the joy of being known by God. Verses 1-12: The Sending Out of the Seventy-Two Jesus appoints seventy-two disciples, sending them out two by two ahead of Him to every town and place where He was about to go, equipped with His authority and instructions for their mission. Verses 13-16: Woes to Unrepentant Cities Jesus rebukes the cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum for their lack of repentance despite witnessing His miracles. Verses 17-20: The Seventy-Two Return with Joy The disciples return, rejoicing in their successful mission. Jesus, while rejoicing with them, reminds them to find joy not in power over demons, but in the assurance of their salvation. Verses 21-24: Jesus’ Prayer of Thanksgiving Jesus thanks God for revealing divine truths to "little children," rather than the wise and learned, expressing the joy of divine revelation. Verses 25-37: The Parable of the Good Samaritan In response to an expert in the law, Jesus narrates the parable of the Good Samaritan, highlighting what it truly means to "love your neighbor as yourself." Verses 38-42: Jesus Visits Martha and Mary Visiting Martha and Mary, Jesus commends Mary's choice to listen to His teaching, rather than being distracted by much serving, emphasizing the importance of spiritual nourishment. 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." 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 story 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. 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. 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. Bible Study 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? 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. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions