Arise and Abide

Reading from Luke 17:1-10 Teaching and Forgiveness and Faith

Discussion looks the idea that temptations to sin will always be present in this life. The freedom picking up your cross actually brings. The freedom God gives, our responsibility to shake off the shackles Jesus already unlocked. Paying attention when Jesus puts the mirror in front of our faces. d the enemy, the danger of offering grace without urgency to repent and turn to God.

Reading from Luke 16:19-31 Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus

Discussion looks at the parable. The dogs that lick the wounds, the arrogance of the Rich man, Sally looks for the good in everyone. People are always looking for a sign. Reaching a low point and being able to see. Selfish hearts and humble hearts. Third world country mission trips, food shelters, looking for opportunities to serve people on your journey. Thinking about the after life.

Reading from Luke 16:1-18 Parable of the Shrewd Manager

Discussion looks at the lesson of using money to gain friends and benefit others. Why did Jesus use a shrewd money manager as an example to learn a lesson from? In a culture that is so rich, it is easy to become a slave to money. Jesus talks about Divorce more in Matthew 19, the idea that it is better to not marry. Moses allowed divorce because of hard harts. Listen close and you'll hear Silas playing sleigh bells in the background.

Reading from Luke 15:11-32 Parable of the Lost Son

Discussion looks at third parable in a series of teaching Jesus gives on the Kingdom Truth regarding relationship, rebelling, repentance, and restoration of relationship. A repentant heart turning back to the Father, willing to work to be back in the Father's care. But restoration of relationship is a gift we cant earn. The abundant supply of the Father is available to us but the true treasure is the relationship. You have not, because you ask not.

Reading from Luke 15:1-8 Parable of the Lost Sheep, Parable of the Lost Coin

Discussion looks at the heart behind the parables and how it can apply within the church body.

Reading from Luke 14:25-34 The Cost of Being a Disciple. Discussion looks at picking up your cross daily. When you love God, His unconditional love shines through you into the lives around you. Running out of money after the foundation is complete connected to the Parable of the Seeds and the Sower. Salt loosing its saltiness and becoming useless fluff, disconnection from The Body. Having ears that hear.

Reading from Luke 14:15-24 Parable of the Great Feast

Discussion connects yesterdays verse and today's, The insult it is to turn down the invitation in they way illustrated in the parable. The goodness of God! The poetic way Jesus brings it back around.

Reading from Luke 14:7-14 Jesus Teaches about Humility

Discussion looks at the the first will be last and the last will be first and it's relation to exalting yourself or humbling yourself. Inviting the people who cannot repay you. Rewards in heaven.

Reading from Luke 13:31-14:6 Jesus Grieves Over Jerusalem & Jesus Heals on the Sabbath

Discussion looks at the Pharisees possible motives on warning Jesus. Looking a little deeper into "Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the LORD!". Why was it so hard for the Pharisees to admit it was lawful and good, especially on the sabbath?

Reading from Luke 13:22-30 The Narrow Door

Discussion looks at the Parable of the Narrow and Wide doors. Looking at who will "make it to heaven" and Jesus not answering the way a person would expect, redirecting the question to reveal Kingdom truth. Our relationship with Jesus should be our greatest point of concern and focus. Looking at the needs of others as greater than own. The weeping and gnashing of teeth, the torment of separation, the way paved by Jesus back to God.