Luke’s Gospel

Jesus’s messengers returned from their mission and reported on its success.  Jesus and messengers rejoiced together. Why did they rejoice?  And why did Jesus rejoice?

When Jesus sent out his seventy messengers, he made it clear what qualities they (and we) would need to finish the task.  We examine seven characteristics he aimed to develop in them.

Jesus sent out seventy (or was it seventy-two?) messengers. Like the elders chosen by Moses, they were his representatives, sharing his work and equipped by his Spirit.

A look-back over the first nine chapters of Luke’s gospel, tracing the main themes.

Jesus told his disciples about the suffering that lay ahead for him.  But they could not and would not believe it. They were confident that worldly success was just around the corner.  So at the time when he most needed their support, he was left isolated and lonely.  Too many Christians follow the example of the disciples and offer glib reassurances when their brothers and sisters are struggling.