◄ Luke 9 ►
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Summary The Cost of Discipleship Luke 9 provides a profound exploration of what it means to be a follower of Jesus. It serves as a clear reminder that the walk of faith demands commitment, courage, humility, and self-denial. The power of transformation and the miracles Jesus performed confirm His divine identity and mission. However, it's the teachings on the essence of discipleship that hold the key to aligning ourselves with the kingdom of God. Verses 1-6: The Sending of the Twelve Jesus imparts His authority on the Twelve, instructing them to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. They are to take no material possessions for their journey. Verses 7-9: Herod’s Perplexity Tetrarch Herod hears about Jesus' activities, which puzzle him and stir rumors that John the Baptist has been raised from the dead. Verses 10-17: Feeding the Five Thousand Jesus miraculously feeds five thousand men (not counting women and children) with just five loaves of bread and two fish. Verses 18-20: Peter's Confession of Christ Upon Jesus' questioning, Peter recognizes Him as "God's Messiah." Verses 21-27: The Predictions of Jesus' Death and Lessons on Self-denial Jesus predicts His suffering and death, teaching about the cost of true discipleship, including self-denial and taking up one's cross daily. Verses 28-36: The Transfiguration Jesus is transfigured before Peter, James, and John, appearing with Moses and Elijah in glorious splendor, with a divine voice from heaven confirming Jesus' identity as God's chosen Son. Verses 37-45: Healing of a Demon-Possessed Boy After coming down from the mountain, Jesus heals a boy with an unclean spirit. He predicts His impending betrayal to His disciples, who struggle to understand His message. Verses 46-50: Lessons in Humility and Tolerance Jesus gives a lesson on humility, explaining that greatness in the kingdom of God comes from being like a child. He also teaches tolerance, suggesting that anyone not against them is for them. Verses 51-62: The Cost of Following Jesus Jesus begins His journey to Jerusalem and along the way, teaches about the challenges and sacrifices inherent in choosing to follow Him. Luke 9 invites us into a remarkable journey of discipleship, miracles, revelation, and lessons in humility. The chapter opens with Jesus empowering the Twelve for ministry, and it culminates in lessons about the cost of following Him. Between these narratives, readers experience several important milestones in Jesus' ministry, including the miraculous feeding of five thousand, His transfiguration, and the healing of a demon-possessed boy. Teaching Points The Sending of the Twelve (Luke 9:1-6) Jesus empowers His disciples with authority over demons and diseases, sending them to proclaim the Kingdom of God. This highlights the importance of mission and reliance on God's provision. The Feeding of the Five Thousand (Luke 9:10-17) Jesus performs a miracle of multiplication, teaching us about His compassion and the sufficiency of His provision. Peter’s Confession of Christ (Luke 9:18-20) Peter declares Jesus as the Messiah, emphasizing the necessity of recognizing Jesus' true identity. The Cost of Discipleship (Luke 9:23-26) Jesus calls His followers to deny themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow Him, underscoring the sacrificial nature of true discipleship. The Transfiguration (Luke 9:28-36) Jesus is transfigured before Peter, James, and John, revealing His divine glory and affirming His fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. The Healing of a Boy with an Unclean Spirit (Luke 9:37-43) Jesus demonstrates His power over evil, teaching the importance of faith and prayer. The Greatest in the Kingdom (Luke 9:46-48) Jesus teaches that true greatness comes from humility and serving others. The Cost of Following Jesus (Luke 9:57-62) Jesus challenges potential followers to consider the cost of discipleship, emphasizing the need for total commitment. Practical Applications Embrace Mission Like the disciples, we are called to share the Gospel and rely on God's provision in our mission fields. Trust in God's Provision In times of need, remember that Jesus is able to provide abundantly beyond our expectations. Recognize Jesus' Identity Regularly affirm and deepen your understanding of who Jesus is as the Messiah and Lord of your life. Commit to Discipleship Evaluate areas in your life where you need to deny yourself and take up your cross to follow Jesus more closely. Pursue Humility Seek opportunities to serve others, recognizing that true greatness in God's Kingdom is found in humility. People 1. Jesus Central figure in the chapter, performing miracles, teaching, and interacting with His disciples and others. The name "Jesus" is derived from the Hebrew name "Yeshua," meaning "Yahweh is salvation." 2. The Twelve Disciples Jesus sends them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick (Luke 9:1-6). The term "disciples" comes from the Greek "μαθηταί" (mathētai), meaning "learners" or "followers." 3. Herod the Tetrarch Ruler who hears about Jesus and is perplexed, wondering if John the Baptist has been raised from the dead (Luke 9:7-9). "Tetrarch" is from the Greek "τετράρχης" (tetrarchēs), meaning "ruler of a quarter." 4. John the Baptist Mentioned by Herod as a possible identity for Jesus, though John had been beheaded earlier (Luke 9:7, 9). 5. The Crowd Large groups of people who follow Jesus, seeking healing and teaching. Jesus feeds 5,000 men, not including women and children, with five loaves and two fish (Luke 9:10-17). 6. Peter One of the Twelve, who confesses Jesus as "the Christ of God" (Luke 9:20). "Peter" is from the Greek "Πέτρος" (Petros), meaning "rock." 7. James and John Sons of Zebedee, also among the Twelve. They are present at the Transfiguration and later ask Jesus if they should call down fire from heaven (Luke 9:28, 54). 8. Moses and Elijah Appear with Jesus during the Transfiguration, representing the Law and the Prophets (Luke 9:30-31). 9. A Voice from the Cloud Identified as God the Father, who speaks during the Transfiguration, saying, "This is My Son, whom I have chosen; listen to Him!" (Luke 9:35). 10. A Demon-Possessed Boy Brought to Jesus by his father for healing after the disciples could not cast out the demon (Luke 9:37-42). 11. The Boy's Father Pleads with Jesus to heal his son, demonstrating faith and desperation (Luke 9:38-40). 12. Samaritan Village The people of this village do not receive Jesus because He is heading to Jerusalem (Luke 9:52-53). 13. Three Would-Be Followers Individuals who express a desire to follow Jesus but are challenged by Him regarding the cost of discipleship (Luke 9:57-62). Places 1. Galilee This is the region where much of Jesus' early ministry took place. In Luke 9:10, after the apostles return from their mission, Jesus takes them to a town in Galilee for rest. The Greek term "Γαλιλαία" (Galilaia) refers to this northern region of ancient Israel. 2. Bethsaida Mentioned in Luke 9:10, Bethsaida is the town to which Jesus and His disciples withdraw. It is located near the Sea of Galilee and is known as the place where Jesus performed miracles, including the feeding of the five thousand. The name "Bethsaida" comes from the Hebrew roots "בית" (beth, meaning "house") and "צידה" (saida, meaning "fishing" or "hunting"). 3. A Mountain In Luke 9:28, Jesus takes Peter, John, and James up a mountain to pray, where the Transfiguration occurs. While the specific mountain is not named in the text, it is traditionally associated with Mount Tabor or Mount Hermon. The Greek word "ὄρος" (oros) is used for "mountain." 4. Samaria In Luke 9:52-53, Jesus sends messengers ahead of Him to a Samaritan village to prepare for His arrival, but the people do not welcome Him because He is heading for Jerusalem. Samaria is the central region of ancient Israel, and the Samaritans were often at odds with the Jews. The Greek term "Σαμάρεια" (Samareia) refers to this area. 5. Jerusalem Although not a location where events occur in Luke 9, Jerusalem is mentioned as Jesus' ultimate destination (Luke 9:51). It is the central city of Jewish worship and the site of the Temple. The Greek "Ἰερουσαλήμ" (Ierousalēm) is used for Jerusalem, reflecting its significance as a religious and cultural center. Events 1. Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Apostles Jesus calls the twelve apostles together and gives them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases. He sends them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick (Luke 9:1-2). The Greek word for "authority" here is "ἐξουσία" (exousia), indicating delegated power. 2. Feeding of the Five Thousand After the apostles return, Jesus takes them to a secluded place, but the crowds follow. Jesus welcomes them, speaks about the kingdom of God, and heals those in need. As the day ends, He miraculously feeds about five thousand men with five loaves and two fish (Luke 9:10-17). 3. Peter's Confession of Christ Jesus asks His disciples who the crowds say He is, and then who they say He is. Peter answers, "The Christ of God" (Luke 9:20). The term "Christ" comes from the Greek "Χριστός" (Christos), meaning "Anointed One," equivalent to the Hebrew "Messiah." 4. Jesus Predicts His Death and Resurrection Jesus tells His disciples that He must suffer many things, be rejected, killed, and be raised on the third day (Luke 9:22). This prediction underscores the necessity of His sacrificial mission. 5. The Transfiguration Jesus takes Peter, John, and James up a mountain to pray. As He prays, His appearance changes, and His clothes become dazzling white. Moses and Elijah appear, speaking with Him about His departure (Luke 9:28-31). The Greek word for "departure" is "ἔξοδος" (exodos), indicating His upcoming death and ascension. 6. Healing of a Boy with an Unclean Spirit A man from the crowd begs Jesus to heal his son, who is possessed by a spirit. The disciples could not cast it out, but Jesus rebukes the unclean spirit, heals the boy, and returns him to his father (Luke 9:37-42). 7. The Greatest in the Kingdom The disciples argue about who among them is the greatest. Jesus, knowing their thoughts, places a child beside Him and teaches that whoever receives a child in His name receives Him, and the least among them is the greatest (Luke 9:46-48). 8. Whoever Is Not Against You Is for You John tells Jesus they saw someone casting out demons in His name and tried to stop him because he was not one of them. Jesus responds, "Do not stop him, for whoever is not against you is for you" (Luke 9:49-50). 9. Samaritan Opposition As Jesus sets out for Jerusalem, He sends messengers ahead to a Samaritan village, but they do not welcome Him. James and John ask if they should call down fire from heaven, but Jesus rebukes them and they move on to another village (Luke 9:51-56). 10. The Cost of Following Jesus Jesus encounters three individuals who express a desire to follow Him. He explains the cost of discipleship, emphasizing the need for total commitment and the willingness to forsake all for the kingdom of God (Luke 9:57-62). Connections to Additional Scriptures Matthew 16:24-26 Further teaching on the cost of discipleship. Philippians 2:5-8 The humility of Christ as an example for believers. John 6:1-14 Another account of the feeding of the five thousand. Romans 12:1-2 A call to live sacrificially and be transformed by renewing our minds. Prayer Points Pray for a deeper understanding and commitment to the cost of following Jesus. Ask for boldness and wisdom in sharing the Gospel with others. Seek God's provision and trust in His sufficiency in all areas of life. Pray for a heart of humility and a willingness to serve others selflessly. Thank God for the revelation of Jesus as the Messiah and for His transformative power in our lives. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the empowerment of the Twelve in the beginning of the chapter reflect on our own calling as followers of Christ? 2. In what ways do you relate to Herod's confusion about who Jesus was? How can we find clarity? 3. How does the feeding of the five thousand demonstrate God's ability to provide in scarcity? 4. Peter's confession of Christ's messianic identity is a pivotal moment in Luke 9. How can this confession transform our personal faith journeys? 5. In what ways does the lesson on self-denial challenge modern conceptions of success and self-fulfillment? 6. What does the Transfiguration reveal about the nature of Jesus? How does this affect your understanding of Him? 7. How does Jesus' healing of the demon-possessed boy demonstrate His power and compassion? 8. How can we apply Jesus' teachings about humility in our daily interactions? 9. Jesus teaches about tolerance in verses 46-50. How can these teachings inform our understanding of religious diversity and cooperation in today's world? 10. How do the challenges and sacrifices of following Jesus, as mentioned in the last part of the chapter, resonate with your personal experiences? 11. How does the emphasis on childlike humility challenge societal norms of greatness? 12. How can we learn to trust in God's provision as demonstrated in the feeding of the five thousand in our own lives? 13. How can the prediction of Jesus' death help us understand His mission and purpose? 14. How does the lesson on humility help us to reevaluate our personal ambitions and pursuits? 15. In light of Jesus' teachings on discipleship, what aspects of your life may you need to reconsider or reevaluate? 16. How does Jesus' instruction to the apostles about depending on God's provision apply to us in our modern context? 17. How does the Transfiguration reinforce the concept of the Trinity? 18. How can Jesus' acceptance of His impending death inspire us to face our own trials and challenges? 19. In what ways does the healing of the demon-possessed boy demonstrate Jesus' authority over spiritual forces? 20. How do Jesus' teachings on the cost of discipleship resonate with contemporary understandings of commitment and sacrifice? Topics 1. The Mission of the Twelve (Luke 9:1-6) Jesus empowers the twelve disciples, giving them authority over demons and the ability to heal diseases. He sends them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. The Greek word for "authority" (ἐξουσία, exousia) emphasizes the power and right given to them by Jesus. 2. Herod's Perplexity (Luke 9:7-9) Herod Antipas hears about Jesus and is perplexed, fearing that John the Baptist has been raised from the dead. This passage highlights Herod's confusion and curiosity about Jesus' identity. 3. The Feeding of the Five Thousand (Luke 9:10-17) Jesus miraculously feeds a large crowd with five loaves and two fish. This event demonstrates Jesus' compassion and divine provision, as well as foreshadowing the Eucharist. 4. Peter's Confession of Christ (Luke 9:18-20) Peter declares Jesus as "The Christ of God" (ὁ Χριστὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ, ho Christos tou Theou), affirming His messianic identity. This confession is pivotal in the Gospel narrative. 5. Jesus Predicts His Death and Resurrection (Luke 9:21-22) Jesus foretells His suffering, rejection, death, and resurrection. This prediction underscores the necessity of His sacrificial mission. 6. The Cost of Discipleship (Luke 9:23-27) Jesus teaches about the demands of following Him, including self-denial and taking up one's cross. The Greek term for "deny" (ἀπαρνέομαι, aparneomai) implies a complete renunciation of self-interest. 7. The Transfiguration (Luke 9:28-36) Jesus is transfigured before Peter, James, and John, revealing His divine glory. Moses and Elijah appear, discussing His impending "departure" (ἔξοδος, exodos), which He is about to accomplish in Jerusalem. 8. Healing a Boy with an Unclean Spirit (Luke 9:37-43a) Jesus heals a boy possessed by a demon after the disciples are unable to do so. This miracle highlights Jesus' supreme authority over evil spirits. 9. Jesus Again Predicts His Death (Luke 9:43b-45) Jesus reiterates His impending betrayal and death, but the disciples do not understand. This passage emphasizes the mystery and necessity of the Passion. 10. The Greatest in the Kingdom (Luke 9:46-48) Jesus teaches that true greatness in the kingdom of God is marked by humility and servanthood, using a child as an example. 11. Whoever Is Not Against You Is for You (Luke 9:49-50) Jesus corrects the disciples' exclusivity, teaching that those not opposing them are allies in the mission. 12. The Samaritans Reject Jesus (Luke 9:51-56) As Jesus sets His face toward Jerusalem, a Samaritan village rejects Him. James and John wish to call down fire, but Jesus rebukes them, emphasizing mercy over judgment. 13. The Cost of Following Jesus (Luke 9:57-62) Jesus encounters three would-be disciples, teaching about the radical commitment required to follow Him. The Greek term for "follow" (ἀκολουθέω, akoloutheō) implies a continuous, active pursuit of Jesus' path. Themes 1. The Mission of the Twelve Apostles In Luke 9:1-6, Jesus empowers the twelve apostles, giving them "power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases" (Luke 9:1). This theme highlights the apostolic mission and the divine authority granted to them, emphasizing the Greek term "exousia" (ἐξουσία), meaning authority or power, which underscores their divine commission. 2. The Provision of God Jesus instructs the apostles to "take nothing for the journey—no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra tunic" (Luke 9:3). This theme reflects reliance on God's provision, trusting in His care and the hospitality of those they would encounter, rooted in the concept of divine providence. 3. The Identity of Jesus In Luke 9:18-20, Jesus asks His disciples, "Who do you say I am?" Peter responds, "The Christ of God" (Luke 9:20). This theme explores the recognition of Jesus' messianic identity, with "Christ" (Χριστός) meaning the Anointed One, affirming His divine mission and fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. 4. The Cost of Discipleship Jesus teaches about the demands of following Him, stating, "If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me" (Luke 9:23). This theme emphasizes self-denial and the sacrificial nature of true discipleship, rooted in the Greek term "stauros" (σταυρός), meaning cross, symbolizing suffering and commitment. 5. The Transfiguration In Luke 9:28-36, Jesus is transfigured before Peter, James, and John, revealing His divine glory. This theme highlights the divine nature of Christ and the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets, as represented by Moses and Elijah. The Greek term "metamorphoō" (μεταμορφόω), meaning to transform, underscores the revelation of His divine essence. 6. Faith and Healing The healing of a demon-possessed boy in Luke 9:37-43 illustrates the power of faith and Jesus' authority over evil. The disciples' inability to heal the boy contrasts with Jesus' rebuke of their lack of faith, emphasizing the necessity of belief and trust in divine power. 7. The Prediction of Jesus' Death Jesus foretells His suffering, death, and resurrection, saying, "The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men" (Luke 9:44). This theme underscores the inevitability and purpose of Jesus' sacrificial death, with "Son of Man" (υἱὸς τοῦ ἀνθρώπου) highlighting His role as the suffering servant. 8. True Greatness in the Kingdom In Luke 9:46-48, Jesus teaches that true greatness comes from humility and serving others, using a child as an example. This theme challenges worldly notions of power and status, emphasizing the kingdom values of humility and service. 9. The Rejection of Jesus The Samaritan village's refusal to welcome Jesus (Luke 9:51-56) highlights the theme of rejection and the disciples' misunderstanding of Jesus' mission. This incident underscores the broader theme of Jesus' rejection by His own people and His call for mercy over judgment. 10. The Urgency of the Kingdom Mission Jesus emphasizes the urgency and priority of proclaiming the kingdom of God, stating, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God" (Luke 9:62). This theme stresses the commitment and focus required for those who follow Christ, rooted in the Greek concept of unwavering dedication. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions