Luke/Acts for Beginners
Jesus in Galilee
Public Ministry Begins - Part 2
Teaching Strategy
The focus of this lesson is the continuation and expansion of the public ministry of Jesus as He teaches in the northern part of Israel. This lesson also points to the deity and compassion of Jesus as he continues to forgive sins and heal. Teachers and students should review the relevant materials before class.
Given the scope and complexity of this material, it is recommended that teachers consider breaking the lesson into two sections. Section one is general information (Luke 6:17-49; 7:1-17); Section 2 begins with a summary of John’s mission (Luke 7:18-50; 8:1-3).
Student Learning Outcomes
- Know: Summarize the early public ministry of Jesus.
- Feel: Value the teachings of Jesus as he begins his ministry.
- Do: Apply the teachings of Jesus found in the Gospel of Luke to help us grow spiritually.
Body of the Lesson
Discussion Questions
Below are suggested questions to use during the guided discussion portion of the lesson. There are also suggested responses to questions to help students grasp the various concepts. These are provided to assist the discussion and are not considered as “right or wrong” responses.
Answers will vary but have students note that these are similar. Matthew provides greater detail but the similarities point to the inspiration of scripture. By reading all the gospels we gain greater insights into the teachings of Jesus.
Answers will vary but look for responses that include the response of Jesus to faith, no matter where it comes from or who exhibits it. In this case, the faith is shown by a Gentile soldier from an oppressive government.
Answers will vary but look for responses that point to the compassion of Jesus and His power over life and death.
We find John in prison waiting for his death. It is not unusual for him to want to make certain that what he believes is in fact truth. His question does not spring from a lack of faith but more of a validation of who Jesus is. It also gives us an opportunity to learn from Jesus Himself the purpose of John's ministry and how Jesus will be taking over as the long-awaited Messiah.
It continues to show the compassion of Jesus and insights into his mission of bringing redemption. He recognizes the need of the woman for forgiveness and her repentance. This event is just one of many where Jesus demonstrated His saving ministry, especially to those despised by the self-righteousness of others.
The intent of this question is to show the consistency of Jesus' actions towards all, especially those in need of His forgiveness. It could also be effective to alter the question by asking for any events in current history or in the lives of those in the class of Jesus' compassion.
Here are a few examples:
- The Samaritan woman – John 4
- The woman caught in adultery – John 8:1-11
- The woman suffering from bleeding – Luke 8:43-48
Answers will vary but look for the inclusion of all in the mission of Jesus. Jesus' mission of salvation has two areas of focus. One is the salvation of humanity in general as shown by his general teaching. The other is the personal relationship He provides to each of us as we come to know Him and accept Him. This is demonstrated by the detail Luke and the other gospel writers show in the one-on-one interactions and detailed responses of those impacted by Him. It further points to the dedication of Jesus' disciples as they do what is necessary to further the cause of Christ. We also share in that ministry today as we continue as disciples of Jesus.
Look for responses that indicate an acceptance of concepts taught in this presentation and other resources. Encourage students to deepen their knowledge of Jesus and to grow in their faith. It should also encourage us to develop a greater desire to teach others of Jesus, especially those in whom we see in the greatest need for Him.