The transfiguration of Jesus.  Why does Jesus meet on a mountain with Moses & Elijah? Why does Luke use the word "exodus" to describe their conversation?  Why does Peter think it would be a good idea to build "shelters" for the three of them?  What is this story really about?

The transfiguration of Jesus.  Why does Jesus meet on a mountain with Moses & Elijah? Why does Luke use the word "exodus" to describe their conversation?  Why does Peter think it would be a good idea to build "shelters" for the three of them?  What is this story really about?

Peter successfully identifies Jesus as the Christ, but Jesus tells the disciples not to say anything about it. Jesus redefines, for the disciples, what His mission will look like - suffering, death, & resurrection. He then instructs the crowds that if anyone wants to follow Him, they can only do it by carrying their own cross.

Peter successfully identifies Jesus as the Christ, but Jesus tells the disciples not to say anything about it. Jesus redefines, for the disciples, what His mission will look like - suffering, death, & resurrection. He then instructs the crowds that if anyone wants to follow Him, they can only do it by carrying their own cross.

Questions continue to swirl around Jesus' identity. The apostles are given authority by Jesus to proclaim the Gospel and heal people. Herod is perplexed about reports he continues to get concerning Jesus and seeks to see him. And how do you feed 5,000 hungry people??

Jesus redefines family, calms the storm, and heals a demoniac. Fear and misunderstanding have the potential to stifle the disciples learning about Jesus, but by truly hearing they are able to become part of his close "family."

Jesus speaks in parables to the crowd. Many are unsure what the parable he is using means.  True disciples follow him and ask for an explanation. Whether or not you are asking for an explanation of what you don't understand is a major determiner of the kind of soil you are.  

Jesus forgives the sins of a sinful woman in a Pharisee's home. Interestingly, Luke never tells us how the Pharisee ultimately responds. Then, chapter 8 begins with more of Jesus's association with women in society - from both the highest levels to the lowest.

John the Baptist is not sure if Jesus is the one he's been looking for.  Jesus reassures John's disciples that he is God's Messiah.  Jesus then turns to the crowds to address their own fickle hearts.