Interpretive Study of Luke's Gospel - Summary

Gospel theme: Jesus is the Son of Man.

God's Way to Study His Word:

In 2Timothy 2:15 we read: Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. The true definition of the word dividing is: 'a Mathematical function whereby we separate pre-defined units according to a precise procedure which produces a precise result'. However, while most people understand that 'there is one interpretation but many applications of the word of God', they fail to separate the procedures of each. And, as a result, they fail to separate the 'one interpretation of the word of God' from the 'many applications of the word of God'. This leads to many errors which people blame on the perfect word of God instead of their using the wrong procedure.

The result, of men using the wrong way, is that men claim that there are errors and conflicts in God's word. In Isaiah 28, God tells us how to understand His word. In addition, God preserved the message of His word; He preserves every word of His sentences; and God preserves every punctuation mark (jot and title) of His sentences. Therefore, God preserved what He wanted us to understand and God told us how to understand His word so that we have no errors and no conflicts. Unfortunately, for at least one hundred and fifty (150) yeare, men have been taught to use the wrong way to interpret God's word instead of using God's way.

In Isaiah 55:9 we are told For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. Thus, God warns us that our ways are wrong and that using God's way produces better results, which have no errors and no conflicts.

In addition, 1Corinthians 2:14 tells us: But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. Therefore, we can not properly understand the spiritual word of God using man's way. We must use God's way to understand God's preserved word of God. And, the basics of God's way is to understand His preserved word of God using the sentence format and true Biblical definitions for Bible words.

This Study follows the Biblical Way to understand God's Word. It applies precepts ('truths that never change for any circumstance'). It then goes through the Gospel sentence-upon-sentence (line upon line [Isaiah 28 ]). This is different from the ways of men which use verse-upon-verse or some other method which generates errors. God's sentence-upon-sentence method also pays attention to what 'the word of God' tells us that God preserved, which are the true Biblical meanings of words and the Biblical usage of punctuation. (These two are the components of sentences and do not give us verses.) the 'the word of God' tells us that God preserved punctuation (one jot or one tittle) in Matthew 5:18 and Luke 16:17. And 'the word of God' tells us that God preserved every word when he wrote: Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God (Deuteronomy 8:3; Matthew 4:4 and Luke 4:4).

The summary of the Gospel comes from the summary of each chapter and each chapter summary within that book. Every chapter summary comes from the summary of each sentence within that chapter. And, the sentence summaries come from analysis using the punctuation and true word definitions, as already explained. As a result, we have what God literally had written and see that there are no conflicts even when we consider the smallest part of a sentence compared to the entire Bible book. God is consistent from the start of a Bible book to the end and is consistent in His doctrines and word definitions across the entire Bible. What we have is an integrated whole (single) message, with no errors and no conflicts. This particular book Study is part of a detailed analysis of the entire New Testament which shows this truth.

Other than cults, all claims of errors and conflicts are based upon the New Testament. This Study is part of a series which interprets the preserved word of God using God's way and proving that there are no errors, nor any conflicts, if we obey God and use His way to interpret His word. And, this series concentrates on the New Testament, since that is the basis of these lies about the perfect word of God.

I have read, or at least skimmed, every book which has been written in the last hundred and fifty (150) years and which claims to teach people how to study and understand the word of God. In every case, they use a method which comes from man and do not use God's way (Isaiah 55:8) to study and understand the word of God. And, while there are variations from one man-written method to another man-written method, every one of them ends up with problems. The end result of those problems is that people blame God's perfect word for their own problems and either turn to a man-written 'bible' or skip verses. (By skipping the interpretation of certain verses, they can hide the conflict which their method has produced.)

Now, many people find that the Detail Studies to be overwhelming because they have everything required to prove that there are NO errors in the perfect word of God. This summary level is easier to understand for most people. At the same time, if someone has an argument with what is presented here, the matching Detail Study provides all of the proof required in order to show that what is here matches exactly what God wrote in His word. Again, this is not a matter of my opinion versus their opinion. I have over thirty (30) years’ experience as a professional Systems Analyst with an international reputation for accuracy in how to prove things. And, this series of books are the result of using recognized methods of analysis to prove what God actually wrote. This series does not present a religious opinion. Therefore, a religious opinion, which was arrived at from using wrong methods, is not superior to a true analysis of what God wrote.

People have looked for over twenty (20) years and failed to find any other work that covers everything this series cover. In addition, no one has found any other work which covers the level of detail found in the Detail Studies. Further, the Detail Studies literally have several million Bible references to support the interpretation provided and to show that the perfect word of God is consistent all across it for word definitions and doctrines. Again, no one has found any other work which has this quantity of Bible references supporting what is presented. I do not write this to brag but to inform the reader the depth of study which supports what is presented in this series.

Let any who disagree show their method and the results of their method and try to explain how their method, which produces errors, is greater that God's way which produces no errors and no conflicts.

Overview of Luke's Gospel

Gospel theme: Jesus is the Son of Man.

Chapter links: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, God.

In Chapter 1, we read 'The introduction of Luke's Gospel'. Luke starts with the birth and ministry of John the Baptist, who was sent by God to prepare the way for Jesus. Luke also tells about the conception of Jesus as a separate event from His birth because, as a literal physical man, the two events are separate. Luke presents the physical genealogy, which comes through Mary, as opposed to the legal genealogy which comes through Joseph and is presented by Matthew. In addition, we see regular people giving prophecy, which shows us that God can use any person and the power is not dependent upon the person but is dependent upon God. We also see in this Gospel that God has angels giving messages to people. Thus, sometimes God works through His Holy Spirit working in people and sometimes God uses angels to deliver the exact message that God wants received.

In Chapter 2, we read all about 'The Birth of Jesus' and of the many different evidences, and fulfillments of prophecy, that God provided to prove the literal physical birth of Jesus. Many people and religions try to deny this truth but God makes sure that there is enough evidence to prove all denials to be obvious lies.

In Chapter 3, Luke tells us about 'The Ministry of John the Baptist and lineage of Jesus'. John the Baptist was prophesied to be the fore-runner of Jesus and Jesus was prophesied to be born of a virgin. Thus, this chapter presents the evidence of the fulfillment of prophecy. John the Baptist was the spiritual Herald of God's King. And, people always check the lineage of a king. Therefore, out chapter is telling us that the literal physical man named Jesus had the basic requirements to be a king. However, as re read later in the Gospel, God's people were not willing to let Him be a true king and tried to force Him to be a puppet king. That is when the offer of the 1,000-years kingdom was removed and we see God working with the church instead.

In Chapter 4, Luke tells us about 'The Start of the Ministry of Jesus'. His ministry started with His temptation by Satan because God always has His people pass a test before God uses them. Then we see that Jesus started His ministry near His homeans expanded out from there. While the people wanted the miracles, they refused to accept His doctrine because 'familiarity breeds contempt', or as Jesus said: No prophet is accepted in his own country. His own physical brothers and sisters (other children of Mary) were not saved until after His resurrection.

In Chapter 5, Luke tells us about 'The Response And Rejection of Faith'. Jesus calls His first four (4) disciples, who respond in true Biblical faith. We also read about the religious leaders rejecting faith because it goes against their religious traditions. After this we see Jesus calling the publican, named Levi (Matthew), and His throwing a party to introduce Jesus to all of his friends. At the same time, the religious leaders criticize Jesus for associating with public and and sinners. Where religious traditions excludes anyone who is different, true Biblical faith invites all to hear the message from God. Thus, Luke shows us the basic difference between religion and a personal relationship with God that is based upon true Biblical faith.

In Chapter 6, Luke gives us the message from Jesus that: 'The Son of Man is Lord'. As the Son of Man, Jesus showed that He was a literal physical human being with all of the characteristic of men except the sin nature. As Lord, Jesus proved that He, a literal physical man, was also 'just a man' with all of the power and authority of the Lord God. This truth, of course, is difficult, if not impossible, for men to understand and must be accepted by faith. Since religion rejects true Biblical faith, the religious leaders rejected this truth in spite of the evidence, provided by Jesus, which they could not refute.

In Chapter 7, Luke tells us about how 'Jesus Acts Like a King'. He came to offer the kingdom to the Jews. They wanted the kingdom but wanted a puppet king whereby they truly ran the world and Jesus was only a figurehead. Jesus was not willing to be that type of a king. a true king puts his character on his kingdom and requires his subjects to display his character. in this chapter, we see the character of the kingdom which Jesus offered to the Jews. He gave the request of a centurion who honored Him as a King. He provided for the widow, the sick and the needy. The religious leaders criticized Him for this because He was not showing a big difference between the leaders and the people that they considered to be lower than them. Thus, they had another reason to hate and despise Jesus.

In Chapter 8, Luke tells us about how 'Jesus Deals with People who Accept Him as King'. Our chapter tells us how Jesus blesses people who treat Him in His true roles as Lord and King. However, He refuses to bless, and even sometimes curses, those people who refuse to acknowledge these true roles of His. The religious leaders treated Him as 'just a man' and even treated Him like He was less that they were. in this chapter we read that Jesus said to His disciples: Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand. this chapter also has the parable and the four (4) types of ground. Thus, a main message of this chapter is the difference in what people receive from God, and receive in God's kingdom, based upon the type of heart they have.

Something that should be obvious to the reader, By this point, is that Luke is not only telling us about Jesus and His ministry, but he is also showing the increased animosity between Jesus and the religious leaders. This is because they insist upon treating Him as 'just a man' when He is, in truth, 'God in human flesh'. Yes, Luke shows us that He was a literal physical human being, but His Spirit was God and not a sinful human spirit. Just like the religious leaders of His day, people of today who refuse to accept this truth will be cursed to spend eternity in the lake of fire.

In Chapter 9, Luke tells us that 'The Twelve Receive Spiritual Maturity'. Many of the disciples were first disciples of John the Baptist. They were saved when they believed John's message, which was: Behold the Lamb of God! John 1:36. Then, they were made disciples when they obeyed the command from Jesus to Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men (Matthew 4:19). Now, Jesus is sending them out as missionaries so that they each received personal experience in the ministry. Some things are only learned through experience. These experiences would require a certain level of spiritual maturity but they would also increase the level of spiritual maturity that the twelve would have. Here we see Jesus preparing them to be His apostles and leaders in His kingdom. at this point, it is obvious that the Jews, as a nation, will reject Him as their King. Therefore, Jesus gave His disciples a test, which they passed when Peter declared that Jesus was The Christ of God. at this point Jesus starts to tell them that He will die and rise again, which is the basic gospel of the church. Thus, here we have the church being already spiritually alive and the members responding to spiritual truth just as a baby is alive and responding to stimuli even while still in the womb. (The birth isn't until Pentecost in Acts 2.)

In Chapter 10, Luke tells us that Jesus teaches 'Right Attitudes and Wrong Attitudes'. Our chapter starts out telling us that Jesus appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself would come. The 'Right Attitude' is that all saved are supposed to spiritually mature, following the pattern we see in the twelve, so that Jesus can send all saved out as missionaries. in this chapter we see Jesus cause the growth of what is His church. Here He teaches His disciples the right attitude to have. We also see Him let the rich young ruler leave lost because he refused to accept the right attitude.

In Chapter 11, Luke tells us how to 'Have the True Evidence of Belonging to God'. in this chapter we see the religious people who claim to represent God, but are truly lost, accuse Jesus of doing miracles by the power of Beelzebub, the chief of the devils. We also see people claiming blessings based upon being the physical family of Jesus However, Jesus says: Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it. in this chapter we see strong disagreement between Jesus and the religious rulers over authority and doctrine. Here, we also see that Jesus says that people who reject His doctrine are of the devil while the truly saved will accept His doctrine and display a spirit which has been changed to be like God.

In Chapter 12, Luke tells us that Jesus taught His disciples to: 'Concentrate on Serving God and Let God Take Care of Your Physical Needs'. This chapter is mainly doctrinal teaching. Therefore, the chapter summary is in an outline format. Receiving the doctrine of this chapter requires spiritual maturity beyond what we have at our initial salvation. Thus, we see Jesus continuing the spiritual maturity of His church.

In Chapter 13, Luke tells us about 'The Error of Trusting Religious Works'. Even today, we have religions, which claim to be Christian, but preach a 'Works Salvation'. A true Biblical Christian is a 'follower of Christ who displays the doctrine of Christ in their life'. This chapter teaches us that Jesus Christ was completely against 'Works Salvation'. Therefore, any religion which preaches such is not truly Christian and, therefore, is preaching a lie. That makes it a religion from Satan, who is the father of lies (John 8:44).

in this chapter we have the 'Parable of the Fig Tree' and the lesson about religious people being destroyed and the Jews claiming that their destruction proved that they were sinners. These, and many other accounts in this chapter, teach us the error of measuring spirituality by religious works.

In Chapter 14, Luke tells us many 'Lessons on Pride'. Here we read several parables directed against the religious leaders and their pride in their religious works. This and the prior chapter are given to warn true Biblical Christians against following popular religious doctrinal errors.

In Chapter 15, Luke continues with the doctrine taught by Jesus and teaches us about 'The Self-Righteous Lost versus the Repentant Saved'. Once more, we find many parables in this chapter.

In Chapter 16, Luke tells us that Jesus teaches His disciples about 'The Rewards and Future of the Religious Lost'. Many people misunderstand the main parable of this chapter. In it we read about 'The Wise Steward', but he is only wise according to the wisdom of this world. What we read in this chapter is: that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God (Luke 16:15). Jesus told the religious leaders, indirectly, that they would be in everlasting habitations with the lost.

In Chapter 17, Luke tells us about the evidence seen in 'Those Who Have the Kingdom of God'. The Jews misunderstood this phrase and many people misunderstand it today. The Jews confused it with a physical kingdom and, while the 1,000-years reign of Christ will be a physical manifestation of the Kingdom of God, it is not all that there is to it. In addition, many people of today confuse it with the Kingdom of heaven, but they are two different things. Like our chapter tells us, and as is explained in the detail notes, the Kingdom of God is in us and is 'God's character in us'. Thus, we see the continuation of what has been the theme of the last several chapter with instructions on what God expects to see in spiritually mature saved people. in this chapter we see the religious leaders demanding to know about the Kingdom of God, because they felt that they had earned it. Jesus gave 'The Parable of the Unprofitable Servant' because that is the true attitude that God expects from His truly saved.

In Chapter 18, we see more lessons like the prior chapters. The theme of this chapter is: 'The Attitudes of People Who Have the Kingdom of God'. Our chapter starts with instruction from Jesus on what to do right now in order to have the power, protection and provision of God in this life. Those instructions are followed by a parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others. Obviously, this is the wrong attitude for 'People Who Have the Kingdom of God'. Thus, this chapter is telling us the difference in actions between those who have the kingdom of God and those who do not.

In Chapter 19, Luke tells us about 'A fruitful religion versus a show religion'. Many people say that the truly saved don't have a religion but have an ongoing personal relationship with God. However, the truth is that the truly saved do have a religion which is based upon an ongoing personal relationship with God. A religion is: 'a physical manifestation that is repeatedly and consistently displayed and is based upon a true belief in obeying a superior being such as the true God or false gods'. James 1:26-27 says: If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain. Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. The true religion of a true believer includes starting each day with prayer and Bible study to get directions for that day, and for their life, from their God. That time also includes personal worship to build true faith in God based upon what He has done and what He promised to do. That is followed by doing things like James tells us as they go through their day. And, it includes ending the day with a review of how God has helped them and thanking God for His help. The truly saved aren't relying upon the promises from a false religion but are obeying God's commandments in the Bible to have an ongoing personal relationship with God. However, anything that we do on a regular and consistent basis, such as bathe, is done religiously. Our chapter tells us to do the things which God commands in the Bible, and that God promises will produce true spiritual rewards, and to do them on a regular and consistent basis. These are things like true prayer, obedience to God, true personal worship. Our chapter also instructs us to avoid religious mandates which God does not approve of and which will not produce true spiritual fruit.

In Chapter 20, Luke tells us that 'The Religious Leaders Challenge Jesus'. They felt that He was getting too large a following and that they would lose their own personal position and power. They, obviously, were more concerned about personal privilege that they were about truth, God and the eternal spiritual destiny of God's people. As a result, Jesus told them 'The Parable of the Hirelings Killing the Heir'. They understood that it was spoken against them but did not dare attack Him physically, so they sent various groups to challenge Him doctrinally. He put them all to shameans, eventually, they durst not ask him any question at all. That's when Jesus asked them a doctrinal question which they could not answer and which proved their doctrinal error. After this, Jesus warned His disciples to Beware of the scribes they were supposed to be the religious experts but He had proved that they taught doctrinal error. Please see the Gospel Time Sequences Study for links to matching events in the other Gospel accounts and for the time sequences of the last days of Jesus.

In Chapter 21, we have 'Prophecy of Future Events'. This started with people bragging about the beauty of the Temple and Jesus prophesying its destruction. It was destroyed because God's saved people, in the church, went back to insisting that the saved keep religious traditions. Many people, even today, preach a salvation based upon religious works and a sanctification based upon religious works. However, true salvation is based upon our accepting a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as our personal Lord. True Biblical sanctification is the result of letting Jesus Christ work through our life to do His work. Yes, the saved do work, but that work is to stop sinning and to make themselves available to Jesus Christ for Him to work through their life. All true spiritual work is done by God. Yes, we take the Gospel to people but it is God who changes their life. And, returning to the theme of this chapter, the prophesied future events are because God's people keep turning from their relationship with God to trusting false religion. And, we have lots of false interpretations of these prophecies taught because people listen to false prophets instead of letting God's Holy Spirit teach them the true interpretation of true prophecy. Please see the Prophecies and Prophecy Fulfilled Sections, of the Significant Gospel Events Study, for more links to true Bible prophecies. Please also see the Gospel Time Sequences Study for links to matching events in the other Gospel accounts and for the time sequences of the last days of Jesus.

In Chapter 22, we have 'The Betrayal of Jesus'. This, and future chapters, need to be carefully compared with reports in the other Gospels in order to get all of what happened. The detail notes have many links to related sections in other places of the Bible. Please also see the Gospel Time Sequences Study for links to matching events in the other Gospel accounts and for the time sequences of the last days of Jesus.

In Chapter 23, we have 'The Trial by Pilate and the Crucifixion of Jesus'. As with the chapter above, this chapter need to be carefully compared with reports in the other Gospels in order to get all of what happened. The detail notes have many links to related sections in other places of the Bible sequences. Please also see the Gospel Time Sequences Study for links to matching events in the other Gospel accounts and for the time sequences of the last days of Jesus.

In Chapter 24, we have 'The Resurrection and Ascension'. As with the two chapters above, this chapter need to be carefully compared with reports in the other Gospels in order to get all of what happened. The detail notes have many links to related sections in other places of the Bible. Please also see the Gospel Time Sequences Study for links to matching events in the other Gospel accounts and for the time sequences of the last days of Jesus.

If the reader pays attention to the short summaries of each chapter, which were just given, they should see a couple of patterns which Luke uses. In the beginning of this Gospel account we see God fulfilling Old Testament prophecies and promises made to His people the Jews. We see Jesus offering the kingdom to the Jews but they were not willing to accept it with God in charge. The leaders wanted a figurehead king with them running the kingdom their selfish sinful way. Thus, they rejected Jesus as their true King. The people wanted their familiar comfortable religion, even if it was wrong. Most of the people were not willing to think for themselves nor were they willing to have the responsibility of an ongoing personal relationship with God. Therefore, they also rejected Jesus as their true King and chose the comfort of a familiar religion which they did not have to think about. And, while many people condemn the Jews, the fact is that most people, who claim to be saved, react the exact same way even today.

Thus, while this gospel does tell us that Jesus was / is a literal physical man Who is also 'God in human flesh', and it also tell us many doctrinal truths, we can see a message wove throughout this Gospel. If we act the same unthinking way that the Jews did, then we should expect to receive the same condemnation that they received. And, in fact, we should expect to receive a greater condemnation because we have the clear lessons of this Gospel, and of all of the New Testament, as well as having access to God's indwelling Holy Spirit. Therefore, since we have been given more, we should also expect a greater condemnation for rejecting God's truth. Therefore the message is to turn on your brain and think for yourself instead of blindly following some lost and blind self-proclaimed religious leader.

Chapter 1 Summary:

The introduction of Luke's Gospel.

in this chapter, we have the introduction of this Gospel by Luke. First, Luke tells us why he wrote this Gospel. Then Luke tells us about the birth of John the Baptist and includes a lot of details not found elsewhere. In the process of telling us about the birth of John the Baptist, Luke also tells us about the conception of Jesus as a literal physical man. Please note that Luke tells us about the conception of Jesus, separate from the birth of Jesus, because, as a physician, he recognizes the difference between the two events. We have most preachers, and people who claim to be saved, who refuse to acknowledge this truth when it comes to spiritual life and spiritual birth of the church and of the individual. I, personally, believe that is why God is allowing abortionist to continue on this world. God often uses problems in the physical world to try and get His people to acknowledge their matching problems in the spiritual reality. There is no such thing as being 'instantly born again'.

This chapter has a lot of prophecy by people who are not regarded to be prophets. God is showing us that He can use anyone to accomplish His purpose. We also see promises from God and the fulfillment of promises by God. We also see an angel, Gabriel, delivering messages. We see angels acting as God's messengers in the Gospels and in the Book of Acts, but not after the Bible is completed until the Church is 'Rapture'd out.

There is a lot of doctrine taught in this chapter, but the reader must pay attention and think about what is said in order to realize the doctrine that is taught. This includes some doctrine which can correct some popular doctrinal error taught by some religions.

Please see the Doctrinal Studies called: Significant Gospel Events; Gospel Time Sequences and Table Of Miracles for references related to events in this chapter and for how the events of this chapter fit in the time sequence of the life of Jesus.

Luke gives his reason for writing this Gospel in Luke 1:1-4.

The announcement of the birth of John the Baptist is reported in Luke 1:5-20.

The announcement of the miracle of Elizabeth (mother of John the Baptist) becoming pregnant is reported in: Luke 1:7-13.

Luke 1:11-17 have the message from the angel of the Lord. The angel is telling Zacharias of the role (position) that the Lord has appointed John the Baptist to have. Luke 1:18-20 have the question from Zacharias to the angel and the consequence of questioning the message from God is found in Luke 1:20-22 and Luke 1:62-64.

Luke 1:23-25 tells us that God kept His promise to the parents of John the Baptist and Elizabeth became pregnant with John the Baptist.

The angel Gabriel talks with Mary (mother of Jesus) in Luke 1:26-38 about the birth of Jesus. His birth is also reported in Matthew 1:18-21.

The miracle of Mary (mother of Jesus) becoming pregnant from the Holy Ghost is reported in: Matthew 1:18-25; and Luke 1:30-35.

Matthew 1:21; Matthew 1:25; Matthew 27:37 and Luke 1:31; Luke 2:21 and John 19:19 all use JESUS in all capitals. This capitalization directly ties these verses together, and also ties this verse to the name Saviour.

In Luke 1:39-56 Mary, the mother of Jesus visited Elisabeth, the mother of John the Baptist. At that time, John the Baptist leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost (Luke 1:41). Elisabeth then prophesied (in 1:41-45) and, in response, Mary also prophesied (in 1:46-55).

In Luke 1:41-45 John the Baptist does the job of a prophet while still in the womb and lets God reveal to his mother the truths that she says in those sentences. That truth could only come from God and she says that she knew it because: the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost.

In Luke 1:46-55 has the personal worship of Mary which was spoke in response to the statements from Elizabeth.

In Luke 1:57-79 tells us about the birth of John the Baptist and the results of his birth. This section is clearly a single unit, and needs to be understood as such, because every sentence, after the first, starts with the word And, which adds it to the prior sentences all the way back to Luke 1:57.

In Luke 1:67-79 tells us that: Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied.

In Luke 1:80 tells us that John the Baptist grew up in the deserts. This sentence is the only thing said about his childhood.

C1-S1 : Why Luke wrote this Gospel.
1. Our sentence starts with the word Forasmuch, which means that Luke had as much reason to write a Gospel account as anyone else had. And, since this is one of only four Gospel accounts preserved by God, we can be sure t5hat God regarded this Gospel account to be more valuable than the ones which he did not preserve.
2. The phrase as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us, Even as they delivered them unto us means: 'Many people preached the Gospel'. Most likely, few put their preaching into written form. There are many reasons for people not writing what they preach. However, even as many as did write, we are to pay attention to what God preserved and ignore claims of 'Lost Manuscripts'.
3. The phrase which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word means: 'Luke is only writing what was agreed among the many eyewitnesses who were also made ministers of the word by Jesus Christ'.
4. The phrase It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first means: 'This was Luke's credentials to write this Gospel account. Such perfect understanding only comes from God and not everyone is given this spiritual gift, and this truth also applies to many preachers'.
5. The phrase to write unto thee in order means: 'Luke put his Gospel account into writing, just like God did with the word of God, so that we can verify what people tells us comes from God. If there was anything wrong with what Luke wrote, then God would not have preserved Luke's writing just like God did not preserve Paul's epistle to the Laodicea's'.
6. The phrase most excellent theophilus means: 'This is the proper address to a government official, which history tells us that theophilus was'.
7. The phrase That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed means: 'He could know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed by comparing what he was told to what was written and preserved by God. We already saw, in this sentence, that this is the purpose that God has for putting the word of God into writing'.
C1-S2 : Start with the parents of John the Baptist and his birth
1. The phrase There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea means: 'This is when this event took place'.
2. The phrase a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth means: 'This positively identifies the couple'.
C1-S3 : the testimony of the parents of John the Baptist
1. Our sentence adds their testimony to the identification of the couple in the prior sentence.
2. The phrase they were both righteous before God means: 'They did the right thing the right way at the right time for the right reason and lived this as their lifestyle '.
3. The phrase walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless means: 'They obeyed everything that the Lord commanded and put in the written law (ordinances) and did it with the right attitude (blameless)'.
C1-S4 : the futility of hoping for a child
1. Our sentence adds the results of their life to their testimony. We are weaned to not judge a child of God, in Romans 14, because we will not know what God is doing until the judgment seat of Christ (Romans 14:10; 2Corinthians 5:10). It is possible that God is doing something that we are not aware of, such as in this reported incident. If we judge our brother without knowing everything, we can bring condemnation upon ourselves.
2. The phrase they had no child means: 'They were judged by their society because of what God did'. Many societies today are still like the Jews were and assumed that people must be great sinners if that have no child, in spite of their testimony which we just read.
3. The phrase because that Elisabeth was barren means: 'Our sentence tells us why they had no child'. However, people often judge a woman as being barren when it is actually God refusing to provide the spirit which is required for a new life.
4. The phrase and they both were now well stricken in years means: 'Like Abraham and Sarah, they were too old to conceive naturally'.
C1-S5 : the circumstances that God created
1. Our sentence adds what Zacharias was doing when God changed their life.
2. The phrase it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his course means: 'Zacharias was doing his duty before God in spite of the apparent judgment of God upon him and his wife'.
3. The phrase According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord means: 'This was how he was given this particular duty to do'.
C1-S6 : the support of the people of God
1. Our sentence adds what other people were doing at the same time.
2. The phrase the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense means: 'They were all praying but, like now, when lots of people are praying together some are wishing the leader would cut the prayer time short'.
C1-S7 : the appearance of God's messenger
1. Our sentence adds what God did during the timer of prayer.
2. The phrase there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense means: 'God sent His messenger into the inner part of the Temple where only priests went'.
C1-S8 says: And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.. Zacharias recognized and reacted to the angel. Think about it. This was a highly unusual thing to happen.
C1-S9 : the initial message from the angel
1. The word But means that this sentence is continuing the subject of the prior phrase while changing direction.
2. The phrase But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias means: 'The first thing that the angel did was tell Zacharias that he didn't need to be scared'. He wasn't in trouble and God wasn't going to demand that he do something that would get him into trouble.
3. The phrase for thy prayer is heard means: 'This was the reason for the visit'. This was a reason to have joy. Think about it. They had not given up faith in God and still prayed even though they were now well stricken in years.
4. The phrase and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John means: 'This was the answer to their prayers'.
C1-S10 says: And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth. This would be the result of the birth. . . .
C1-S11 : Why there would be blessings and joy
1. Our sentence starts with the word For, which means that it is giving us the reason why the prior sentence is true. While the religious and political people would not like John people who sought mercy from God would thank God for John the Baptist.
2. The phrase For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord means: 'This would be his testimony'.
3. The phrase and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink means: 'He would be a Nazareen'.
4. The phrase and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb means: 'Few people had this privilege'.
C1-S12 says: And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God. This will be the results of the ministry of John the Baptist.
C1-S13 : the details of the ministry of John the Baptist. Please also see the Detailed Note for an outline of his ministry based upon what this chapter tells us.
1. Our sentence adds details to the summary of the prior sentence.
2. The phrase he shall go before him means: 'John the Baptist will go before Jesus just like a herald precedes the king'.
3. The phrase in the spirit and power of Elias means: 'This is a fulfillment of the prophecy found in Malachi 4:5-6 '. We also see Jesus say this in Matthew 11:14; Matthew 17:10-12 and Mark 9:11-13.
4. The phrase to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just means: 'This is the changes that God will bring into the lives of His people through the ministry of John the Baptist'.
5. The phrase to make ready a people prepared for the Lord means: 'This is the ultimate purpose of the ministry of John the Baptist'. People need to have a right attitude or they will reject spiritual truth (1Corinthians 2:14).
C1-S14 says: And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this?. Zacharias foolishly questions the message from God. The fact that the angel came from God should have been enough for him to believe the message. However, even good and Godly people will make a mistake and question a message from God.
C1-S15 says: for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years. This was why he found the message hard to accept. The problem was that he was thinking of what was physically possible when the angel just told him what God would do. And, he should have understood that God is not limited to the laws of this physical reality.
C1-S16 : the angel tells Zacharias why he should not question the message
1. Our sentence adds the answer from the angel to the question from Zacharias.
2. The phrase And the angel answering said unto him means: 'This is who answered'.
3. The phrase I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God means: 'This was his nameans his job'. He would not stand in the presence of God if he was a liar.
4. The phrase and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings means: 'This is the job that God gave him'. He would not have been used as a messenger by God if he was a liar.
C1-S17 : the angel tells Zacharias the consequence of questioning the message
1. Our sentence adds the consequence to the questioning of God's angel. This sentence proves that angels (and devils) can do miracles. Please also see the Table Of Miracles for reference to this miracle.
2. The word behold means: 'Pay close attention'. If Zacharias had asked more stupid questions there might have been worse consequences. As it is, the angel only shut the mouth of Zacharias so that he couldn't ask more stupid questions.
3. The phrase thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak means: 'The angel made this message redundant because Zacharias was acting stupid'. (The word dumb means: not able to speak).
4. The phrase until the day that these things shall be performed means: 'This is how long'.
5. The phrase because thou believest not my words means: 'This is why'.
6. The phrase which shall be fulfilled in their season means: 'This was a prophecy and should have been accepted as such'. Please see the Prophecies Section, of the Significant Gospel Events Study, for this prophecy and related prophecies.
C1-S18 says: And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that he tarried so long in the temple. Remember that the people were praying while Zacharias took his time. And, we can be sure that some people got tired of pretending to pray and started asking their neighbors what was taking him so long.
C1-S19 : the observed results
1. Our sentence adds what happened when Zacharias finally came out.
2. The phrase when he came out means: 'This is when this sentence happened'.
3. The phrase he could not speak unto them means: 'This tells us the problem'.
4. The phrase and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple means: 'This is what the people figured out'. Notice that they perceived that he had seen a vision, not that an angel had personally visited him and delivered a personal message.
5. The phrase for he beckoned unto them, and remained speechless means: 'He tried to communicate what happened with signs'. A lot can be conveyed without speech but sometimes the message is misunderstood. Later Zacharias will call for a writing table and be more clear when delivering his message.
C1-S20 : the follow-up
1. Our sentence adds when and what Zacharias did next.
2. The phrase it came to pass, that, as soon as the days of his ministration were accomplished means: 'This was when he acted'.
3. The phrase he departed to his own house means: 'This is what he did'.
C1-S21 : God kept His promise. Please see the Prophecy Fulfilled Section, of the Significant Gospel Events Study, for the prophecy being fulfilled.
1. Our sentence adds the fulfillment of prophecy.
2. The phrase after those days his wife Elisabeth conceived means: 'When the prophecy was started to be fulfilled'.
3. The phrase and hid herself five months means: 'She humbled herself rather than boasting after a life-time of reproach for not getting pregnant'.
4. The phrase saying, thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on me means: 'She recognized that this was God's doing and that God did it in His time'.
5. The phrase to take away my reproach among men means: 'She recognized the blessing in her personal life'.
C1-S22 : Another part of the account
1. Our sentence adds the start of the next incident.
2. The phrase in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth means: 'This is when and where he went'.
3. The phrase To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph means: 'This was her condition'.
4. The phrase of the house of David means: 'This was her physical ancestry'.
5. The phrase and the virgin's name was Mary means: 'This identifies whom the angel visited'.
C1-S23 : the message from the angel
1. Our sentence adds the greeting from the angel to Mary.
2. The phrase the angel came in unto her, and said means: 'This is what he did'.
3. The phrase Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee means: 'This was her relationship with God'. The Roman Catholic Church perverts this greeting in the prayer that they have people repeat multiple times. They teach people to say: 'Hail Mary full of grace'. However, she did not have grace on her own and she does not give grace to other people.
4. In addition, their prayer continues with: 'Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for us'. She is not holy on her own but only by the influence of God just like all people of God. And, she is not the 'mother of God' but is the mother of the physical body of Jesus. His Spirit came from God's Holy Ghost and that is what made Him 'God in human flesh'. Finally, asking anyone other than Jesus to go before God and represent you is a violation of the First Commandment.
5. The phrase blessed art thou among women means: 'She received a unique blessing'. This does not mean that she had blessing in herself because of her own deity. Their 'Mary' is a devil who claims to be a god.
C1-S24 : Mary's reaction to the message
1. Our sentence adds the reaction by Mary.
2. The phrase when she saw him means: 'This is when she reacted'.
3. The phrase she was troubled at his saying means: 'This is how she reacted'.
4. The phrase and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be means: 'This is why she reacted this way'. Mary did not feel that the things which he said to her applied and she definitely did not believe that the things claimed by the Roman Catholic Church applied to her.
C1-S25 says: And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. The angel realized that she needed comfort and gave it to her.
C1-S26 : the purpose of the angel's visit
1. Our sentence adds the main message from the angel.
2. The word behold means: 'Pay close attention'.
3. The phrase thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son means: 'This is what she would personally (thou) do'.
4. The phrase and shalt call his name JESUS means: 'This is what she would personally (thou) name the baby'.
C1-S27 : God's description of His son.
1. The phrase He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest means: 'Godly people will recognize that He is the Son of God'.
2. The phrase and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David means: 'This is a prophecy that Jesus will be God's Christ and King and will rule and reign this Earth for 1,000-years'. Please see the verses on Son of David for other references to this prophecy.
3. The phrase And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end means: 'Even after the end of the 1,000-years reign on this Earth, Jesus will still reign over the house of Jacob'.
C1-S28 : Mary asks for understanding
1. The word Then means: 'After the angel stopped speaking and Mary thought about what he said'. Notice that she did not doubt his message, like Zacharias did, but asked for clarification. As a result, Mary received a different type of answer. How we respond to a message from God determines what further results we receive.
2. The phrase said Mary unto the angel means: 'This is who spoke and to whom she spoke'.
3. The phrase How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? means: 'This is Mary's way of saying that she was still a virgin'.
C1-S29 : Understanding is given
1. Our sentence adds the answer to the question asked.
2. The phrase the angel answered and said unto her means: 'This is who spoke and to whom he spoke'.
3. The phrase The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee means: 'God's Holy Ghost would make her pregnant'.
4. The phrase therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God means: 'God was His physical and spiritual father'.
C1-S30 : An additional message
1. Our sentence adds another message because Mary had the right attitude to the first message.
2. The word behold means: 'Pay close attention'.
3. The phrase thy cousin Elisabeth means: 'This is who the sentence is talking about'.
4. The phrase she hath also conceived a son in her old age means: 'This is what she did'.
5. The phrase and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren means: 'This is how far along in her pregnancy she is'.
C1-S31 says: For with God nothing shall be impossible. This is why the prior sentence happened.
C1-S32 : Mary accepts God's plan for her life.
1. Our sentence adds the response from Mary to all that she was told.
2. The phrase Mary said means: 'identifies who spoke'.
3. The word behold means: 'Pay close attention'. She wanted her response clearly understood.
4. The phrase the handmaid of the Lord means: 'Mary recognized her spiritual position'.
5. The phrase be it unto me according to thy word means: 'Mary stated her agreement to submit'.
C1-S33 says: And the angel departed from her. He left when he had Mary's acceptance.
C1-S34 : Mary acts on the message from the angel.
1. Our sentence adds what Mary did to the sentences which told us about the messages that Mary received.
2. The phrase Mary arose in those days means: 'She acted soon after but not the same day'. She probably spent time preparing for the journey and for a plan to stay until Elizabeth delivered. Women relatives helped with delivery and right after.
3. The phrase and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda means: 'She traveled from Galilee'.
4. The phrase And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth means: 'Women visit women and ignore the man when there are female affairs to take care of'. Zacharias was probably glad she was there to help his wife and stayed out of the way.
C1-S35 : the results of the presence of Jesus. Please see the Prophecies Section, of the Significant Gospel Events Study, for this prophecy and related prophecies. C1-S35 through C1-S38 must be considered together as a single message.
1. Our sentence adds the reaction of John the Baptist to the salutation reported in the prior sentence.
2. The phrase it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary means: 'This is what triggered the rest of the sentence'.
3. The phrase the babe leaped in her womb means: 'John the Baptist was full of God's Holy Ghost and reacted to the physical presence of Jesus in Mary's womb'.
4. The phrase and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost means: 'God's Holy Ghost in John the Baptist caused his mother to also be filled with God's Holy Ghost'.
5. The phrase And she spake out with a loud voice, and said means: 'God's Holy Ghost made her so excited that she spake this way'.
6. The phrase Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb means: 'This is the specific prophecy'. The word and, in this phrase means that these are two separate blessings. In addition, the Roman Catholic Church claims that the blessed is the fruit of thy womb (Jesus) is based upon the Blessed art thou (Mary). However, the truth is the opposite. Mary became blessed after she became the mother. But, Jesus was blessed before the conception because He was / is the eternal God.
C1-S36 says:: And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me. Here, Elizabeth expresses her new revelation. She uses the phrase my Lord in recognition that Jesus was / is 'God in human flesh'. C1-S35 through C1-S38 must be considered together as a single message.
C1-S37 : the cause of her new revelation. C1-S35 through C1-S38 must be considered together as a single message.
1. Our sentence starts with the word For, which means that it is giving us the reason why the prior sentence is true. This sentence tells us the source of the spiritual knowledge that Elizabeth had.
2. The word lo means: 'This is why she was so excited'.
3. The phrase as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy requires us to think about it. Mothers feel their babies moving but how many can truly say: the babe leaped in my womb for joy? No, this was a revelation from God's Holy Ghost.
C1-S38 : the results of true Biblical belief. Please see the Prophecies Section, of the Significant Gospel Events Study, for this prophecy and related prophecies. C1-S35 through C1-S38 must be considered together as a single message.
1. Our sentence adds a prophecy to the action, in the prior sentence, caused by God's Holy Ghost.
2. The phrase blessed is she that believed means: 'This is the first thing which Mary did that resulted in her being blessed'.
3. The phrase for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord means: 'This is why she is blessed'. God always keeps His promises but requires us to truly Biblically believe as a requirement to receive the promise.
C1-S39 : Mary expresses personal worship. C1-S39 through C1-S46 must be considered together as a single message.
1. Our sentence adds the report of personal worship by Mary to the report of prophecy in the prior sentence.
2. The phrase Mary said means: 'This is who spoke'.
3. The phrase My soul doth magnify the Lord means: 'Mary's mind, will and emotions all recognize that the Lord is far above her'.
4. The phrase And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour means: 'Mary recognizes her need for a Saviour and rejoiced in God for being her personal Saviour'. The Roman Catholic Church deny this phrase and even claim that their Mary is the true Saviour.
C1-S40 : the cause of Mary's personal worship. Please see the Prophecies Section, of the Significant Gospel Events Study, for this prophecy and related prophecies. The next several sentences are part of this prophecy. C1-S39 through C1-S46 must be considered together as a single message.
1. Our sentence starts with the word For, which means that it is giving us the reason why the prior sentence is true. This sentence tells us why Mary worshipped God in the prior sentence.
2. The phrase he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden means: 'God recognized that Mary was humble' (James 4:6; James 4:10).
3. The phrase for means: 'following this word is the proof of the prior phrase'. God gave her an everlasting glory because she humbled herself and submitted to whatever God's will for her life was.
4. The word behold means: 'Pay close attention'.
5. The phrase from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed means: 'This is the result that God gave to Mary'.
C1-S41 : Mary states the worthiness of God. C1-S39 through C1-S46 must be considered together as a single message.
1. Our sentence starts with the word For, which means that it is giving us the reason why the prior sentence is true. in this sentence, Mary recognizes the character of God and that the blessings of the prior sentence are strictly due to the character of God.
2. The phrase he that is mighty hath done to me great things means: 'God has done great things'.
3. The phrase and holy is his name means: 'The authority and power of God (his name) are because He is holy'.
C1-S42 : Mary recognizes what God wants to do for all people. C1-S39 through C1-S46 must be considered together as a single message.
1. Our sentence adds how people get blessings from the mighty God.
2. The phrase his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation means: 'God does not change (Malachi 3:6 and Hebrews 13:8). God has always been this way and God always will be this way'. Satan wants God's people to miss God's blessings. That's why he deceives God's people into believing that fear is: 'deep abiding respect'.
C1-S43 : the first results of God's power. C1-S39 through C1-S46 must be considered together as a single message.
1. The phrase He hath shewed strength with his arm tells us how God does the next phrase.
2. The phrase he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts means: 'When the proud have proven the imagination of their hearts then God hath scattered them by proving that He is stronger than all of them put together when He hath shewed strength with his arm'.
C1-S44 : the second results of God's power. (James 4:6). C1-S39 through C1-S46 must be considered together as a single message.
1. The phrase He hath put down the mighty from their seats means: 'God humbles the proud'.
2. The phrase and exalted them of low degree means: 'God gives grace to the humble'.
C1-S45 says: He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. This is the third results of God's power and it will be seen in Heaven as everlasting judgment. C1-S39 through C1-S46 must be considered together as a single message.
C1-S46 : the fourth results of God's power. C1-S39 through C1-S46 must be considered together as a single message.
1. The phrase He hath holpen his servant Israel means: 'God has helped His people'. The word holpen means: 'helped'. God has helped His people because of His mercy and not because of anything that they did to earn His help.
2. The phrase in remembrance of his mercy means: 'This is why God helped them'.
3. The phrase As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever means: 'This is the fulfillment of prophecy'.
C1-S47 says: And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house. This means that Mary stayed through the birth of John the Baptist before returning home.
C1-S48 tells us that John the Baptist was born.
1. Our sentence starts with the word Now, which means that it happened after Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered.
2. The phrase and she brought forth a son means: 'This fulfills the prophecy by the angel'.
C1-S49 : the testimony of the birth of John the Baptist.
1. Our sentence adds the celebration of this sentence to the report of the birth.
2. The phrase her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her means: 'The news spread and the Lord was given credit for what happened'.
3. The phrase and they rejoiced with her means: 'People rejoiced because of what the Lord did'.
C1-S50 : the circumcision of John the Baptist.
1. Our sentence adds the report of naming to the report of birth.
2. The phrase it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child means: 'This was the prescribed day to circumcise and this was the day that Jewish custom used to name the child'.
3. The phrase and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father means: 'The other people followed Jewish custom'.
C1-S51 : Correction of naming.
1. Our sentence adds the correction from Elizabeth.
2. The phrase his mother answered and said means: 'This is who corrected the other people'.
3. The phrase Not so; but he shall be called John means: 'This was her correction'.
C1-S52 says: And they said unto her, there is none of thy kindred that is called By this name. They objected to her change from tradition.
C1-S53 says: And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called. They attempted to have the father over-rule the mother.
C1-S54 says: And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John the father supports the mother.
C1-S55 says: And they marvelled all this was the first result of not following tradition.
C1-S56 : the second result of not following tradition.
1. Our sentence adds the result that Zacharias had to what the others had.
2. The phrase his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed means: 'Prophecy was fulfilled and Zacharias could now speak'. (The angel said he would nor speak until this time as reported in C1-S17).
3. The phrase and he spake, and praised God means: 'Zacharias learned the most important use of the tongue'.
C1-S57 : the third result of not following tradition.
1. Our sentence adds another result.
2. The phrase fear came on all that dwelt round about them means: 'The neighbors all heard what happened and feared making God angry'. Gossip was alive and well.
3. The phrase and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea means: 'The gossip spread a long ways'.
C1-S58 : the fourth result of not following tradition.
1. Our sentence adds another result.
2. The phrase all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying means: 'The other Jews heard the praise and prophecy from Zacharias and how the angel had shut his mouth until this time'.
3. The phrase What manner of child shall this be! means: 'They all wondered what God would do with John the Baptist'.
C1-S59 says: And the hand of the Lord was with him means: 'John the Baptist had the power and protection of the Lord'.
C1-S60 : the sixth result of not following tradition.
1. Our sentence adds this prophecy to the prior reported results.
2. The phrase his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost means: 'This is who prophesied. It was God's Holy Ghost speaking through Zacharias. Many people make the mistake of ignoring, or denying, the spiritual influence and, thereby, are deceived by devils'.
3. The phrase and prophesied, saying means: 'God's Holy Ghost speaking through Zacharias said the following'.
4. The phrase Blessed be the Lord God of Israel means: 'Give God the recognition that is due Him'.
5. The phrase for he hath visited and redeemed his people means: 'God sought our His sinful people and paid the price to free His people from sin'.
6. The phrase And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David means: 'God raised up a physical and spiritual descendent of king David to pay the price for salvation'.
7. The phrase As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets means: 'This fulfills prophecy'.
8. The phrase which have been since the world began means: 'God has promising this since Adam and Eve'.
9. The phrase That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us means: 'God will provide physical and spiritual salvation'.
10. The phrase To perform the mercy promised to our fathers means: 'God will keep His promises'.
11. The phrase and to remember his holy covenant means: 'God will fulfill his holy covenant'.
12. The phrase The oath which he sware to our father Abraham means: 'Even this particular covenant'. (Genesis 15:18-21).
13. The phrase That he would grant unto us means: 'God was offering the covenant to the Jews who were alive at that time'. However, God withdrew the offer because they refused to have Jesus as their King.
14. The phrase that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear means: 'This is what God offered to them if they accepted His kingdom with His King'.
15. The phrase In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life means: 'This was the requirement that God demanded in order for them to have his kingdom'. This is what they refused to fulfill and that refusal is why God removed this offer.
C1-S61 : Prophecy about John the Baptist's future.
1. Our sentence adds .
2. The phrase thou, child means: 'This prophecy is to John the Baptist'.
3. The phrase shalt be called the prophet of the Highest means: 'He would be the prophet of God the Father'.
4. The phrase for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways means: 'John the Baptist will go before Jesus and present Him as God's Lord. He did this by preaching repentance (turning to God in true submission) so that people were willing to obey God's Lord. (to prepare his ways)'.
5. The phrase To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins means: 'John would teach people (give knowledge) that they will only receive true salvation if God gives them the remission of their sins'. However, as explained in the note for Hebrews 9:22, true remission of sins requires true Biblical repentance, which is the main thing that John the Baptist preached.
6. The word through means: 'enter a barrier at one side and remain in it until you come out the other side like we travel through a tunnel to get to the other side of a mountain'. The phrase Through the tender mercy of our God means: 'True remission requires us to do whatever God requires for us to receive His mercy and requires us to keep doing it so that we stay in God's mercy'.
7. The phrase whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us means: 'Jesus visited us to bring a new day of spiritual understanding'. (Please see John 1:17 and the Section called in the Minor Titles of the Son of God in the Significant Gospel Events.).
8. The phrase To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death means: 'Jesus brought spiritual understanding to people who did not have understanding and lived in fear of death'.
9. The phrase to guide our feet into the way of peace means: 'Jesus teaches us how to have peace with God and the peace of God'.
C1-S62 : the growth of John the Baptist.
1. Our sentence adds the report of John's raising.
2. The phrase the child grew means: 'He grew physically'.
3. The phrase and waxed strong in spirit means: 'He grew spiritually'.
4. The phrase and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel means: 'The growth continued until he was considered to be a man in the Jewish culture'.

Chapter 2 Summary:

The Birth and Early Childhood of Jesus.

This chapter presents the birth and childhood of Jesus. It is the only account, of His childhood, that God gives to us and does not have all of the things that false religions claim. Beware of those false claims because devils motivated their creation in order to deceive and lead God's children from the truth.

The birth of Jesus is recorded in Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 2:1-20; John 1:1-5 and John 1:9-14. Each of these presentations take a different perspective. John presents the spiritual view. Matthew presents the legal view and his genealogy traces through Joseph, who is the adoptive father of Jesus but not the physical father. Luke presents the physical view and his genealogy traces through Mary, who is the physical mother of Jesus but is not recognized under Jewish Law because she is female. Each Gospel author reveals the perspective of his Gospel with this opening event. In addition, the Prophecy Fulfilled Section, of the Significant Gospel Events Study, gives the Old Testament prophecies of this event and the new Testament references to the fulfillment of the prophecy.

The circumcision and naming of Jesus is reported in Luke 2:21.

The presentation of Jesus at the Temple is reported in Luke 2:22-38.

In 2:25 through 2:35 tell us about Simeon recognizing Jesus as the consolation of Israel and the Holy Ghost caused him to take Jesus into his arms and bless God and prophesy. After that, in 2:36 through 2:38, Anna, a prophetess also prophesied and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

2:41 through 2:50 tell about the time when Jesus only twelve years old but He stayed in the Temple and astonishing the learned men (doctors) while discussing doctrine as an equal.

The end of our chapter tells us the only report that we have on the childhood of Jesus. Many religions like to make up stories about His childhood and claim them to be as reliable as scripture so that people trust them instead of God and scripture. These religions are popular because they promise all of the blessings of God, and more, are given through the child Jesus, but that a child does not tell us what to do. However, our chapter tells us that Jesus, as a boy, was in the Temple teaching as reported in Luke 2:41-45. Therefore, He was quite capable of telling people what to do but did not do so as it was not His time at that point in His life.

C2-S1 : Add this account to the introduction.
1. Our sentence adds the report of this chapter to the report of the prior chapter.
2. The phrase it came to pass in those days means: 'This event caused all that is reported in this chapter'.
3. The phrase that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus means: 'This is who caused the events and what he did to cause these events'. . . .
4. The phrase that all the world should be taxed means: 'This is what he demanded'.
C2-S2 says (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) this is additional information for setting the time in history. At the time of writing Gospels, there was not a single accepted way of reporting time but everyone measured the year from when a ruler came into office.
C2-S3 says And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. Everyone had to pay the tax in their home city which had records of who they were. This was how they made sure that everyone paid the tax. They did not have central records so people had to go where their birth was recorded.
C2-S4 : God returned Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem to fulfill prophecy.
1. Our sentence adds the details of Joseph and Mary to the prior sentences. (If the prior sentences weren't included then people would be asking why they traveled with Mary ready to deliver a child.)
2. The phrase Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth means: 'This is where they traveled from'.
3. The phrase into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem means: 'This is where they traveled to'.
4. The phrase (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) means: 'This is why'. Joseph was a physical descendent of king David. That is why Matthew's account of the legal lineage goes through Joseph.
5. The phrase To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife means: 'This is why Mary was with him'.
6. The phrase being great with child means: 'This is her physical condition'.
C2-S5 : Jesus was born in Bethlehem.
1. Our sentence adds the birth, which resulted at that time, to the account of what led to the birth being in Bethlehem and fulfilling prophecy.
2. The phrase so it was, that, while they were there means: 'All requirements were fulfilled'.
3. The phrase the days were accomplished that she should be delivered means: 'The time of the birth of Jesus was then'.
C2-S6 : Where Jesus was born.
1. Our sentence adds the report of the birth.
2. The phrase she brought forth her firstborn son means: 'Jesus was born'. He was firstborn because she was still a virgin at the birth but Mary also had other children.
3. The phrase and wrapped him in swaddling clothes means: 'This was the normal procedure at that time and in that culture'.
4. The phrase and laid him in a manger means: 'Commentators like to argue about the meaning of this word but is commonly accepted as a place to put animal food. Basically, she put the new born infant in a protected spot'.
5. The phrase because there was no room for them in the inn means: 'There are also arguments about where they were exactly but, again, it is commonly accepted that they were in an outside shepherd protected spot'.
C2-S7 : God provided His witnesses.
1. Our sentence adds the report of the shepherds.
2. The phrase there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field means: 'This is where the shepherds were spending the night with their flocks'.
3. The phrase keeping watch over their flock by night means: 'This is why they were there'.
C2-S8 : the messengers from heaven.
1. Our sentence adds the visit of the angels to the shepherds.
2. The word lo means: 'This is surprising. Pay attention'.
3. The phrase the angel of the Lord came upon them means: 'This was a special angel. In the Old Testament, this phrase is used for a Christophany'.
4. The phrase and the glory of the Lord shone round about them means: 'They also had a special sign from God the Father'.
5. The phrase and they were sore afraid means: 'The extremely unusual often causes fear'.
C2-S9 : the first part of message from the angels.
1. Our sentence adds the message from the angel.
2. The phrase the angel said unto them means: 'This is who spoke'.
3. The phrase Fear not means: 'His first words gave reassurance'.
4. The phrase for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy means: 'This is why they should not fear but have great joy'.
5. The phrase which shall be to all people means: 'They are to take the message to all people'.
C2-S10 : the second part of message from the angels.
1. Our sentence starts with the word For, which means that it is giving us the reason why the prior sentence is true.
2. The phrase For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour means: 'This is the announcement of the birth in Bethlehem (the city of David)'.
3. The phrase which is Christ the Lord means: 'That the Saviour is Christ the Lord'. Please use the links in the Detail Note sentence outline to access the notes in the Lord Jesus Christ Study. Everyone wants a Saviour but most people refuse to accept Him as their personal Lord. In addition, the role of Christ is used to bring spiritual maturity after someone becomes a child of God. However, most people who claim salvation also refuse spiritual maturity. Therefore, most people refuse what the angels said was part of having Him as our Saviour.
C2-S11 : the third part of message from the angels.
1. Our sentence adds how they would know Jesus.
2. The phrase This shall be a sign unto you means: 'This will be how they will know that they found the right babe'.
3. The phrase Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. means: 'They would personally find Him as a regular person'.
C2-S12 : Additional messengers from heaven.
1. Our sentence adds the multitude of angels to the announcement of the birth.
2. The phrase suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God means: 'All of Heaven praises God'.
3. The phrase and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men means: 'This was the message from God. If we want earth peace and good will toward men then we must first give Glory to God in the highest'.
C2-S13 : the reaction of the shepherds.
1. Our sentence adds the reaction of the shepherds to the message.
2. The phrase it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven means: 'This is when they reacted'.
3. The phrase the shepherds said one to another means: 'They discussed an agreed reaction'. There was more than one witness.
4. The phrase Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us means: 'This was their agreed reaction'.
C2-S14 : the action of the shepherds.
1. Our sentence adds the action of the shepherds to the message from God.
2. The phrase they came with haste means: 'This is the way that people should react to a message from God'.
3. The phrase and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger means: 'They verified that the message from God was exactly as they were told'.
C2-S15 : the witnessing of the shepherds.
1. Our sentence adds their spreading the message from God to their first verifying it.
2. The phrase when they had seen it means: 'They verified the message'.
3. The phrase they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child means: 'They passed on the message to everyone that they met'.
C2-S16 says: all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. Our sentence adds the reaction of people to the message.
C2-S17 : the reaction of Mary.
1. The word But means that this phrase is continuing the subject of the prior phrase while changing direction.
2. The phrase But Mary kept all these things means: 'Mary did not forget what she was told and what happened'. . . .
3. The phrase and pondered them in her heart means: 'She kept thinking about them and what they meant'.
C2-S18 : the follow-up of the shepherds.
1. Our sentence adds the reaction of the shepherds to the rest of the report.
2. The phrase the shepherds returned means: 'They returned to their life'. . . .
3. The phrase glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen means: 'They kept on recognizing the actions of God in their life'.
4. The phrase as it was told unto them means: 'They remembered the message from God'.
C2-S19 : the circumcision and naming of Jesus.
1. Our sentence adds this event to the rest of the report.
2. The phrase when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child means: 'This was the required time'.
3. The phrase his name was called JESUS means: 'This was the required name'.
4. The phrase which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb means: 'This was when and who required this name'.
C2-S20 : Joseph and Mary obeyed scripture and brought a sacrifice for their first born.
1. Our sentence adds the details of Mary obeying the law of God.
2. The phrase when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished is a reference to Leviticus 12:2-6.
3. The phrase they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord means: ''. . . .
4. The phrase (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;) is a reference to several places in God's law. Please see the Detailed Note for those references.
5. The phrase and to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons is a reference to Leviticus 5:7, and other places, which specified this offering for those people who were too poor to bring a lamb or other offering.
C2-S21 : God used Simeon to provide another sign.
1. Our sentence adds the identification of Simeon.
2. The word behold means: 'Pay attention'.
3. The phrase there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel means: 'He spent his whole life serving God and waiting for the appearance of Jesus'. Most people of today can't understand this type of devotion.
4. The phrase and the Holy Ghost was upon him means: 'God's Holy Ghost used him and only uses this type of people to do the work of God'.
C2-S22 : the promise of God to Simeon.
1. Our sentence adds God's promise so that we can understand why this man spent his life like he did.
2. The phrase it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost means: 'This is Who gave Simeon the message from God the Father'. Few people receive a promise like this because few devote their life to being pure and serving God.
3. The phrase that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ means: 'This is the promise given to him personally'.
C2-S23 : the witness of Simeon.
1. Our sentence adds the God-directed action of Simeon to the rest of the report on him.
2. The phrase he came by the Spirit into the temple means: 'God's Holy Spirit told him what to do and when'.
3. The phrase and when the parents brought in the child Jesus means: 'This what Simeon was waiting for in the Temple'. They didn't know that they did anything special but God's Holy Spirit knew it was time for Simeon to act and deliver the message from God.
4. The phrase to do for him after the custom of the law means: 'They were just doing what was required. They did nothing special to trigger Simeon'.
5. The phrase Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God means: 'This is what Simeon did'.
6. The phrase and said, Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word means: 'This is what Simeon said to God before these witnesses'.
7. The phrase For mine eyes have seen thy salvation means: 'He recognized that salvation is in a person, not is some religious act'.
8. The phrase Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people means: 'God sent Jesus to be a Saviour for everyone'. The Jews taught that only Jews could be saved and that a Gentile had to become a Jew in order to be saved. However, this phrase is only one of many times that God told the Jews otherwise.
9. The phrase A light to lighten the Gentiles means: 'God planned for Jesus to bring spiritual understanding to Gentiles since the majority of the Jews refused to do that job'.
10. The phrase and the glory of thy people Israel means: 'Jesus was to be the Christ, King and glory of the Jews'.
C2-S24 says: And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him. This adds the reaction of Joseph and Mary to what Simeon said and did.
C2-S25 : the personal prophecy to Mary.
1. Our sentence adds what Simeon said to Mary.
2. The phrase Simeon blessed them means: 'This was the first thing that Simeon did and it was for Joseph and Mary'. This was because they would both be involved in raising Jesus.
3. The phrase and said unto Mary his mother means: 'The rest of the sentence was only for her'.
4. The word Behold means: 'Pay close attention'.
5. The phrase This child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel means: 'Jesus will cause great upheaval'.
6. The phrase and for a sign which shall be spoken against means: 'The religious leaders would fight against Jesus'.
7. The phrase (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) means: 'Mary would be very upset by what would happen'.
8. The phrase that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed means: 'This is why God would let these things happen'. God allows people to do things which justify His condemning them.
C2-S26 : A secondary witness from God.
1. Our sentence adds the report about Anna to the report about Simeon.
2. The phrase And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser means: 'This is her identification'. . . .
3. The phrase she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years means: 'This describes her relationships with men'.
4. The phrase , which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day means: 'This describes her service to God'.
C2-S27 : the message of God's witness.
1. Our sentence adds what she did to her identification.
2. The phrase And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord means: 'This is her reaction to God'.
3. The phrase and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem means: 'This was her public testimony upon seeing Jesus'.
C2-S28 says: And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth. They, apparently, stayed in Bethlehem until the eighth day when they had to go to the Temple. Then they returned to their home. There is some confusion about how this account matches with Matthew 2. Please see the Doctrinal Studies called: Gospel Time Sequences for an explanation of how these two chapters can fit together without a conflict.
C2-S29 says: And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. This chapter is about all that the word of God gives us about the growth of Jesus until He was a thirty (30) year old man. This sentence tells us about His growth until He was twelve (12) and the last sentence, in this chapter, is all that is written until He started His ministry.
C2-S30 : the habitual obedience of Joseph and Mary.
1. The word Now means: 'After you understand what was said before'. Luke has finished writing about the birth and early childhood. Now he is writing about when Jesus was twelve (12) years old.
2. The phrase his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover means: 'This is the setting for the incident which Luke is reporting'.
C2-S31 says: And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast. Thus, our sentence is adding the age of Jesus when this incident happened.
C2-S32 : What happened at that time.
1. Our sentence adds what happened on the way home. As the next sentences explain, what happened was not unreasonable. However, as my Dad taught, any time that you travel in a group, and stop for any reason, you gather the group to continue the journey but then check to make sure that everyone is there before you continue your travel.
2. The phrase And when they had fulfilled the days means: 'This is when it they returned home'.
3. The phrase as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem means: 'This was the problem which developed'.
4. The phrase and Joseph and his mother knew not of it means: 'This was why the problem developed'.
C2-S33 : the realization of the problem.
1. The word But means that this phrase is continuing the subject of the prior phrase while changing direction. They supposed His presence without verifying their belief. This is how we get so many different beliefs with people who all claim to be saved. They suppose that what they were told is true without verifying their belief.
2. The phrase But they, supposing him to have been in the company means: 'This was the source of their mistake'.
3. The phrase went a day's journey means: 'This is how long they continued in their mistaken belief'.
4. The phrase and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance means: 'This is how they found out about their error'.
C2-S34 says: And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him. They immediately did what they could to correct their error. This is how we all are supposed to react when we find ourselves in an error.
C2-S35 : the solving of the problem.
1. Our sentence adds the report of their finding Jesus. .
2. The phrase And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple means: 'This is when they found Him'. If Luke included the first day of their journey (after three days), then they had one day of return journey and one day of searching. If not, then they had one day of return journey and two days of searching. Either way, people apply a symbolic meaning of three (3) to God (Trinity) and claim that this was a symbolic message from God to not suppose anything about Jesus. Certainly, the next few sentences confirm that they made the mistake of forgetting that He was / is 'God in human flesh'.
3. The phrase sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions means: 'Jesus was discussing doctrine with them with His taking the position of a teacher'. History tells us that, at that time and in that culture, the teacher sat while the students stood and the teacher taught by asking questions.
C2-S36 says: And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers. The learned religious men were astonished because Jesus knew more than they did even with their years of study.
C2-S37 and C2-S38 : the reaction of Joseph and Mary.
1. Our sentence adds their reaction when they found Jesus. The next sentence must be considered with this sentence since they constitute a single response by Mary.
2. The phrase And when they saw him, they were amazed means: 'They had to realize what Jesus was doing in order for them to be amazed'.
3. The phrase and his mother said unto him means: 'The following is a typical female response. Her first question dealt with her feelings instead of what Jesus was doing which had amazed them'.
4. The phrase Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing means: 'This was the first response from Mary'. Not to pick on Mary but this was a typical human response. Instead of accepting the blame for not verifying that the twelve-year-old Jesus was with them before they started, she blamed Him. And, most people put the blame on someone else.
C2-S39 : says: And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? If they had really sought Him properly, they would have known that He was missing before they started their journey. The saying is: 'Familiarity breeds contempt'. This was a subtle reminder to them that He truly was 'God in human flesh' and they had started regarding Him as just a typical boy. In addition, the question in the next sentence makes that point even clearer.
C2-S40 says: wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?. Yes, Jesus understood that His ministry was not supposed to start until He was thirty (30). However, with this question, Jesus was reminding them Who He truly was.
C2-S41 says: And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them. They did not have God's indwelling Holy Spirit to give them spiritual understanding.
C2-S42 : the results of this sub-account.
1. Our sentence adds the response of Jesus after this incident.
2. The phrase And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth means: 'They returned home'.
3. The phrase and was subject unto them means: 'He submitted even though He was God in human flesh'.
4. The phrase but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart means: 'Mary did the best she could to understand spiritual truths'.
C2-S43 says: And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man this tells us the ongoing maturity of Jesus. This is all we get until He starts His ministry.

Chapter 3 Summary:

The Ministry of John the Baptist and lineage of Jesus.

Luke started his Gospel with the introduction of John the Baptist, who was God's fore-runner for Jesus and prepared God's people to receive Jesus. Several of the disciples of Jesus had been disciples of John the Baptist first.

Luke also presented the conception, birth, and early childhood of Jesus in the prior chapter. Now, this chapter finishes up Luke's introductory and background information, which he presents before getting into the details of his Gospel. John the Baptist was prophesied to be the fore-runner of Jesus and Jesus was prophesied to be born of a virgin. Thus, this chapter presents the evidence of the fulfillment of prophecy.

in this chapter, Luke presents most of what he says about the ministry of John the Baptist and then finishes his chapter with the physical lineage of Jesus. Other than Luke telling us about John the Baptist asking for assurance that Jesus truly was God's Christ, Luke only mentions John the Baptist for how his ministry affected others in chapters after this chapter. Luke tells us about John the Baptist seeking assurance when he knew that he was about to die. That is in Chapter 7.

While the ministry of John the Baptist and the lineage of Jesus would seem to be separate subjects, we see them together in this chapter because Luke is completing his background information before getting into the details of his gospel.

The introduction of John the Baptist is reported in Matthew 3:1-12; Mark 1:1-8; Luke 3:1-20; John 1:6-8; John 1:15 and John 1:19-28. The Doctrinal Study, called John the Baptist, has links to all of the other references in the Bible for John the Baptist. Please see it for references related to what Luke tells us in this chapter. Please also see the Doctrinal Studies called: Significant Gospel Events; Gospel Time Sequences and Table Of Miracles for references related to events in this chapter and for how the events of this chapter fit in the time sequence of the life of Jesus. In addition, there are prophecies given and prophecies fulfilled, which are also in the Significant Gospel Events Study with other related Bible references.

In Luke 3:5-6 John the Baptist gives a symbolic prophesy about how Jesus will change the way that God's people interact with God. Then, in Matthew 3:10; Mark 1:8; Luke 3:16-17 and John 1:33 have the prophecy from John the Baptist that Jesus shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost.

We are told that John the Baptist was put into prison in Matthew 4:12 and Mark 1:14-15 and Luke 3:20.

The baptism of Jesus is reported in Matthew 3:13-17; Mark 1:9-11; Luke 3:21-22 and John 1:32. In all Gospel accounts we are told that His baptism was immediately followed by His temptation by Satan for forty (40) days. This section is a fulfillment of Isaiah 11:1-5 and Peter refers to it in 2Peter 1:17. With this we see that God proves the type of person that His ministers are at the start of their ministry.

We read about a voice from heaven in: 2Samuel 22:14; Daniel 4:31; Joel 3:16; Matthew 3:17; Mark 1:11; Luke 3:21-22; Luke 9:35; John 12:28; Acts 11:9; 2Peter 1:18; Revelation 10:4; Revelation 10:8; Revelation 11:12; Revelation 14:2; Revelation 14:13; Revelation 16:17; Revelation 18:4.

The genealogy of Jesus is reported in Matthew 1:1-16 and Luke 3:23-38. Matthew gives His legal genealogy, which comes through Joseph while Luke gives His physical genealogy, which comes through Mary.

C3-S1 : the time when the ministry of John the Baptist started.
1. The word Now means: 'After you understand what came before this'. In the prior chapters, Luke told us about physical events which occurred before the start of the ministry of Jesus. With this word, Luke is letting us know that he is done reporting those things and that everything which he reports from this point forward is related to the adult ministry of Jesus.
2. The phrase in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene means: 'These were the political rulers of Judea, at that time. With them identified, we can determine the time of history what these events happened'.
3. The phrase Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests means: 'These were the religious rulers of the Jews at the time'.
4. The phrase the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness means: 'John the Baptist was already living in the wilderness'. Since he was the son of a priest, John had every right to be part of what was considered to be high society. However, he rejected their doctrinal error and sinful lifestyle .
C3-S2 : the ministry of John the Baptist. Please also see the Study called John the Baptist for links to other places where we read about him.
1. Our sentence adds what John the Baptist preached to the lifestyle that he lived.
2. The phrase he came into all the country about Jordan means: 'This is where John the Baptist preached'.
3. The phrase preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins means: 'This is what John preached'. Many people pervert this message by preaching a wrong definition for the words used. True Biblical repentance always means: 'turning towards God in worship and obedience'. Many people preach that it means: 'turning 180 degrees' and then claim that people turn from a different religious practice to obeying their religious traditions. But that is a lie from Satan and we see elsewhere that John the Baptist rejected such lies. In addition, the word remission means: 'not making us suffer the just punishment for our sins'. If you're not willing to change your relationship with God then God is not willing to take away the just punishment for your sins.
4. The phrase As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying means: 'This was the scriptural basis of what he preached'. This sentence is a quote of Isaiah 40:3-4 and also is a fulfillment of prophecy found in Malachi 3:1. Please also see the Detailed Note for more related scriptural references.
5. The phrase The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight means: 'This was the main message and it means make it possible for people to go directly to the Lord, and obey Him, without having to go through a human being who stands between God and His people'. Jesus did this and removed all barriers between us and God. John the Baptist was preparing people for what Jesus would do.
C3-S3 : the prophecy of John the Baptist. Our current sentence says: Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; And all flesh shall see the salvation of God. This is actually a prophecy for the 1,000-years reign of Christ. At the time that John the Baptist offered this prophecy, God was still offering the 1,000-years reign of Christ to the Jews. However, the Jews rejected Jesus as their Christ and King after this prophecy was given. Therefore, God withdrew this offer to the Jews at a later time.
C3-S4 : the first part of John's message.
1. The word Then means: 'After John had given the prophecy of the prior sentence'.
2. The phrase Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him means: 'John asked this of the common Jew'. This is a question that each person should personally consider.
3. The phrase O generation of vipers means: 'Symbolically, John is calling all of the Jews, who thought that they were serving God, a bunch of sneaky lying representatives of Satan who looked good on the outside but were full of poison on the inside'. . . .
4. The phrase who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? means: 'John is asking them how they found out that their religious lies would get wrath from God and not reward'.
C3-S5 : the second part of John's message.
1. Our sentence adds what they are to do in order to prove their claims of repentance. Today, religious people claim that someone only needs to claim repentance and not produce evidence to back their claim. They even accept secret professions that no one else even hears. John rejected all such lies.
2. The phrase Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance means: 'Produce true evidence of new life (fruit) which backs your claim'. Without matching evidence, all claims of true repentance are rejected.
3. The phrase and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father means: 'Don't rely on historical religious claims, especially when you don't have to do or be something which matches to claim'.
4. The phrase for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham means: 'You're not special because of your physical attributes'.
C3-S6 : What God pl and to do.
1. Our sentence adds this prophecy to the commandment of the prior sentence.
2. The phrase now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees means: 'God is going to bring judgment upon His people'. We see at least a partial fulfillment of this prophecy when Jesus cursed the fig tree with no fruit just before His trial and crucifixion.
3. The phrase every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down means: 'This is symbolic language for different people who claim to be God's people'. If God's people are not bringing new life (fruit) to God then He has no reason to leave them in this world.
4. The phrase and cast into the fire means: 'This is judgment by God'. Yes, the religious lost are cast into Hell. However, the saved in Heaven will also have their work judged by fire and, unless the work is what God commanded, their work will be burned up.
C3-S7 : the reaction of the people.
1. Our sentence adds the response of the people to John's condemnation.
2. The phrase the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then? means: 'They were willing to listen to the messenger from God when he disagreed with the religious leaders'.
C3-S8 : the people are to share with those in needed.
1. Our sentence adds .
2. The phrase He answereth and saith unto them, means: 'This was the answer from John'.
3. The phrase He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none means: 'Share your excess with people who have need'.
4. The phrase and he that hath meat, let him do likewise means: 'Share your daily provisions from God'.
C3-S9 : the people tax collectors responded to John's message.
1. Our sentence adds instructions to tax collectors.
2. The phrase Then came also public and to be baptized means: 'They came to publically declare that they had repented from their sinful lifestyle '..
3. The phrase and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? means: 'They were willing to obey instructions from God'.
C3-S10 : John told them to stop their sin.
1. Our sentence adds instructions from John.
2. The phrase And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you means: 'Stop cheating people on their taxes'.
C3-S11 : Gentile soldiers responded to John's message.
1. Our sentence adds the reaction of another group.
2. The phrase And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? means: 'Most soldiers looked down on the local people and refused to listen to a Jewish prophet'.
C3-S12 : John told them to stop their sin.
1. Our sentence adds instructions from John to the soldiers.
2. The phrase And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages means: 'Stop using your position to take advantage of people'.
C3-S13 : Questions and answers about God's Christ.
1. Our sentence adds the speculation of people about John the Baptist. Please see the Prophecies Section, of the Significant Gospel Events Study, for more links related to prophecies given in the Gospel Accounts.
2. The phrase as the people were in expectation means: 'The people were speculating and trying to figure this out'.
3. The phrase and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not means: 'This is what people were speculating about John the Baptist'.
4. The phrase John answered, saying unto them all means: 'John gave them the truth with this prophecy'.
5. The phrase I indeed baptize you with water means: 'John was only symbolically identifying the people with spiritual cleansing'.
6. The phrase but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose means: 'Christ is so much greater that John the Baptist was not even good enough to be the lowest level servant to Christ'.
7. The phrase he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire means: 'Christ will cause the truly saved with an ongoing personal relationship with God which is maintained by God's Holy Ghost. Christ will also identify His people with being on fire for God and having a life where excess has been burned away and with people being told that they need to ley God burn away the excesses of their life'.
8. The phrase Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor means: 'Jesus Christ will personally remove excesses from the lives of His people'.
9. The phrase and will gather the wheat into his garner means: 'Only what God finds useful will be kept by God'.
10. The phrase but the chaff he will burn with fire unquenchable means: 'There will be no stopping God from burning everything that He finds to be offensive in the lives of His people'.
C3-S14 : John the Baptist preached much not reported in the Gospels.
1. Our sentence adds to the description of what John the Baptist preached.
2. The phrase many other things in his exhortation preached he unto the people means: 'John preached much more that what is reported in the Gospels'.
C3-S15 : John the Baptist was arrested for preaching the truth.
1. The word But means that this phrase is continuing the subject of the prior phrase while changing direction. While John was preaching how people should live right, the civil governor was living as evil of a life as he could.
2. The phrase But Herod the tetrarch means: 'This identifies the man'.
3. The phrase being reproved by him for Herodias his brother Philip's wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done means: 'John the Baptist publically reproved him for his evil life'.
4. The phrase Added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison means: 'Because of the reproval, John the Baptist was put into prison'.
C3-S16 : the start of the ministry of Jesus.
1. Our current sentence starts with the word Now means: 'After you understand oe general outline of John's life'.
2. The phrase when all the people were baptized means: 'When John had done his main purpose of life'.
3. The phrase it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying means: 'This is how Jesus started His ministry'.
4. The phrase the heaven was opened, And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven means: 'Here we have the doctrine of the Trinity. In addition, we have fulfillment of prophecy which lets us know that this doctrine comes directly from God'.
5. The phrase which said, thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased means: 'God the Father only said this about Jesus and we rarely read about God the Father directly speaking'. Please see the Detailed Note for references to related scripture.
C3-S17 : the physical lineage of Jesus. Our sentence says: And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, which was the son of Heli, Which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi, which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Janna, which was the son of Joseph, Which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Amos, which was the son of Naum, which was the son of Esli, which was the son of Nagge, Which was the son of Maath, which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Semei, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Juda, Which was the son of Joanna, which was the son of Rhesa, which was the son of Zorobabel, which was the son of Salathiel, which was the son of Neri, Which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Addi, which was the son of Cosam, which was the son of Elmodam, which was the son of Er, Which was the son of Jose, which was the son of Eliezer, which was the son of Jorim, which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi, Which was the son of Simeon, which was the son of Juda, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Jonan, which was the son of Eliakim, Which was the son of Melea, which was the son of Menan, which was the son of Mattatha, which was the son of Nathan, which was the son of David, Which was the son of Jesse, which was the son of Obed, which was the son of Booz, which was the son of Salmon, which was the son of Naasson, Which was the son of Aminadab, which was the son of Aram, which was the son of Esrom, which was the son of Phares, which was the son of Juda, Which was the son of Jacob, which was the son of Isaac, which was the son of Abraham, which was the son of thara, which was the son of Nachor, Which was the son of Saruch, which was the son of Ragau, which was the son of Phalec, which was the son of Heber, which was the son of Sala, Which was the son of Cainan, which was the son of Arphaxad, which was the son of Sem, which was the son of Noe, which was the son of Lamech, Which was the son of Mathusala, which was the son of Enoch, which was the son of Jared, which was the son of Maleleel, which was the son of Cainan, Which was the son of Enos, which was the son of Seth, which was the son of Adam, which was the son of God. This is His physical lineage,which starts woth Adam and goes through Mary. The lineage in Matthew is the legal lineage and goes through Joseph.

Chapter 4 Summary:

The Start of the Ministry of Jesus.

Here we are told about the start of the ministry of Jesus. The prior chapters were background and this chapter starts the actual account of Jesus ministering to people.

The first thing that Luke reports is the temptation of Jesus. God always has His ministers pass a test before He uses them in a ministry. After the initial test, Jesus ministers at homeans near His home. However, the people in His home town refuse to believe that He is a prophet and minister for God, in spite of the miracles and many signs that He gives them. As the saying goes: 'familiarity breeds contempt' or, as Jesus said; No prophet is accepted in his own country (4:24).

in this chapter we read about Jesus doing many miracles and casting out many devils. The people reacted by wanting Him to stay near then, because they were self-centered and selfish. However, Jesus answered them with: I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: for therefore am I sent. Our chapter ends with Jesus preaching in other near-by places.

The temptation of Jesus is reported in Matthew 4:1-11; Mark 1:12-13; Luke 4:1-13 and John 1:32. This temptation proves that Isaiah 11:1-5 was prophesying about Jesus and Peter refers to it in 2Peter 1:17. In addition, the note for Luke 4:1 gives a comparison of the details provided in each of the three Gospel accounts about this event.

Matthew 4:5; Matthew 4:8-9; Luke 4:5 and Luke 4:9 tell us that the devil instantly transports Jesus. Please see the Section called Jesus and Devils in the Significant Gospel Events Study. Please also see the Table of Miracles in the Gospels document for Bible references to other miracles performed by Jesus.

In Matthew 13:55 and Mark6:3 and Luke 4:22 they said Is not this the carpenter's son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? Here we see Jesus rejected by His own family and neighbors who saw Him grow up. 'familiarity breeds contempt'.

Matthew 13:57; Mark 6:4; Luke 4:24 and John 4:44 all tell us that Jesus said: No prophet is accepted in his own country when people refused to believe His doctrine in Capernaum.

Jesus Passes through a crowd unseen as reported in: Luke 4:28-30.

Matthew 4:12-17; Matthew 8:5-17; Matthew 17:22-23; Mark 1:21-38; Mark 2:1-12; Mark 9:33-49; Luke 4:31-44 and Luke 7:1-10; John 2:12-16; John 4:46 and John 6:16-71 all tell the accounts about the ministry of Jesus in Capernaum at different times. Capernaum is a city of Galilee like Nazareth is. Jesus began His ministry in Nazareth and traveled back and forth between it and Capernaum and the Gospel accounts aren't exact about the time sequence of His travels. However, after the people of Nazareth tried to kill Him, He kept His base of operations in Capernaum. That is also where He called His first four disciples (Matthew 4:18-22; Mark 1:16-20; Luke 5:1-11; Luke 5:27-29). When the people of Capernaum failed to believe that Jesus was God's Messiah / Christ, He cursed them (Matthew 11:23; Luke 10:17).

Mark 1:23-28 and Luke 4:33-37 both tell us that Jesus cured a demoniac.

In Matthew 8:14-15; Mark 1:29-31 and Luke 4:37-38 we are told about Jesus and the twelve going to the home of Peter and Andrew where they found Peter's mother-in-law sick and where Jesus healed her. Please also see the Table of Miracles in the Gospels about this, and similar, miracles.

Matthew 4:23-25; Mark 1:38-45 and Luke 4:41-46 tell us how that Jesus expanded His ministry to the region around His home town. While He did this, we read that He preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast out devils. Then, in Mark's account, we read that He healed a leper. Meanwhile, Matthew lists several other diseases which he healed. All of these were done to prove to the people that His message came from God.

Jesus begins His ministry, and starts it in Galilee, as reported in Matthew 4:12-17 and Mark 1:14-15 and Luke 4:14-15. Mark also tells us that John the Baptist was put into prison just before Jesus started His ministry. Jesus started His ministry in Nazareth (Luke 4:16-30), which is the town that His family lived in. When the people tried to kill Him (Luke 4:28-30), He went to Capernaum (Matthew 4:12-17; Luke 4:28-30).

Jesus healed many diseased and people who are possessed by devils in: Matthew 4:23; Matthew 8:16-17; Matthew 12:15; Matthew 14:14, Matthew 14:35-36; Matthew 15:30-31; Matthew 21:14; Mark 1:32-34, Mark 1:39; Mark 3:10-12; Luke 4:40-41 and Luke 6:18-19.

C4-S1 : the ministry of Jesus starts with a test.
1. Our sentence adds the account of this chapter to the accounts in the prior chapters. The prior chapters gave us the background to the ministry of Jesus, and this chapter adds the start of His ministry.
2. The phrase Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan means: 'Jesus personally followed the personal directions from the Holy Ghost'.
3. The phrase and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness means: 'This is where the Holy Ghost led Him'.
4. The phrase Being forty days tempted of the devil means: 'This is why the Holy Ghost led Jesus into the wilderness'.
C4-S2 : Jesus fasted during the test.
1. Our sentence adds details about His experience.
2. The phrase in those days he did eat nothing means: 'Jesus fasted'.
3. The phrase and when they were ended, he afterward hungered means: 'Jesus experienced the result of a forty day fast'.
C4-S3 : the first temptation from the devil.
1. Our sentence adds the temptation to His experience.
2. The phrase the devil said unto him means: 'This is who tempted Jesus'.
3. The phrase If thou be the Son of God means: 'Notice that Satan started by questioning truth. This is the same way that he tempted Eve'.
4. The phrase command this stone that it be made bread means: 'This command would seem to prove that Jesus was the Son of God, but it really would not. Devils can do miracles. Doing a miracle would not prove, nor disprove, the claim. The true proof was His displaying the character of God'.
C4-S4 : Jesus answered the temptation with scripture.
1. Our sentence adds the responce from Jesus.
2. The phrase Jesus answered him, saying means: 'Jesus used scripture as His response'. This is the example which we are to follow.
3. The phrase It is written, that man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God. This sentence quotes Deuteronomy 8:3 and is also found in Matthew 4:4. .
C4-S5 : the setting of the second temptation.
1. Our sentence adds a second temptation. Please see the Table Of Miracles for references where we are told that Satan did miracles.
2. The phrase the devil means: 'This is who did the miracle'.
3. The phrase taking him up into an high mountain means: 'This is the miracle that he did'. Instant transportation is not possible within the laws of nature and a spiritual being doing what is physically impossible is a miracle.
4. The phrase shewed unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time means: 'This also is physically impossible when we remove consideration of technology that exists today but did not exist then'.
C4-S6 : the second temptation from the devil.
1. Our sentence adds the temptation from Satan to the miracle that he did to prove his power in this physical reality.
2. The phrase the devil said unto him means: 'This is who spoke'.
3. The phrase All this power will I give thee, and the glory of them means: 'This is the offer'.
4. The phrase for that is delivered unto me; and to whomsoever I will I give it means: 'This is why he could make the offer'. When Adam first sinned, he gave authority of this world to Satan. God had given it to Adam but Adam gave the authority and power to Satan when he sinned. And, liberal-minded people want devil led governments to say that their sinful lifestyle is OK, but then that cry 'Where is God?' when they receive the consequence of their sin.
C4-S7 : the devil's conditional requirement.
1. The phrase If thou therefore wilt worship me means: 'This is the conditional requirement'.
2. The phrase all shall be thine means: 'This is the promised result'. Satan makes a similar type of offer to many of God's servants and many fall for the temptation. Many are offered the results without the pain of serving. However, Satan can not truly deliver his promise because it is not his to give. Yes, Satan can deliver promised things in this life. However, he can not deliver the everlasting rewards in heaven which are the true rewards for serving God.
C4-S8 : Jesus commanded the devil to stop his temptation.
1. Our sentence adds the answer from Jesus.
2. The phrase Jesus answered and said unto him means: 'This is Who answered Satan'.
3. The phrase Get thee behind me, Satan means: 'Get out of my face'. Please see the Detailed Note for references to other places where we see this phrase used.
4. The phrase for it is written, thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve references Deuteronomy 6:13; Deuteronomy 10:20; Psalms 83:18.
C4-S9 : the devil uses scripture for his third temptation.
1. Our sentence adds the third temptation by Satan. Please see the Table Of Miracles for references where we are told that Satan did miracles.
2. The phrase he brought him to Jerusalem, and set him on a pinnacle of the temple means: 'We see Satan do what was physically impossible'. This shows us that all spiritual beings can do things outside of the limits of this physical reality.
3. The phrase and said unto him means: 'Satan made this offer to Jesus'.
4. The phrase If thou be the Son of God means: 'Again, we read that Satan questions reality'. Satan loves to cause God's peop0le to doubt God's promises.
5. The phrase cast thyself down from hence means: 'This is the temptation of pride. It is a demand that Jesus prove Who He was when there was no need for Him to do so'. We all need to be careful about temptations of pride.
6. The phrase For it is written, He shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee: And in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. in this temptation, Satan quotes Psalms 91:11-12. However, Satan took the verses out of context which then allowed him to pervert their true meaning. in this temptation Satan is quoting a promise from God but ignoring the requirements to receive that promise. Probably the most often source of doctrinal error is from people taking something from the Bible and using it out of context so that they can pervert what God's word truly says.
C4-S10 : Jesus answered the temptation with scripture.
1. Our sentence adds the response from Jesus. Once more, we see Him quote scripture instead of making up His own answer.
2. The phrase Jesus answering said unto him means: 'This is the answer from Jesus to Satan'.
3. The phrase It is said means: 'Jesus is quoting scripture'.
4. The phrase Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. Please see the Detailed Note for many Bible references about the word tempt and what we are and are not to do when tempted.
C4-S11 : the devil gave up for awhile.
1. Our sentence adds the results of the temptation. As our report shows us, we must rely strictly on the power of God's word if we want to win a temptation.
2. The phrase when the devil had ended all the temptation means: 'This is when the result came and not before this time'.
3. The phrase he departed from him for a season means: 'This was not the end, only a break for a season'. We should each expect temptations to continue so long as we are alive and truly serving God.
C4-S12 : Jesus used the power of God's Holy Spirit.
1. Our sentence adds what Jesus did after His test. Notice that He one had the power of the Spirit, which He did not have before His test. A lot of people complain when God tests them but they do not get additional blessings and power until after they pass God's test.
2. The phrase Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee means: 'This was the result of His passing God's test'.
3. The phrase and there went out a fame of him through all the region round about means: 'He now had people listening to Him who did not listen before He passed God's test'.
C4-S13 : Jesus taught where people were willing to listen. Our sentence says: And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified of all. Notice that He was glorified of all because He used the power of the Spirit. When we try to do God's work in our own power we do not receive the God-given results.
C4-S14 : Jesus ministered in His home region.
1. Our sentence adds a specific account to the general statements in the prior sentences.
2. The phrase And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up means: 'This tells us where this incident occurred. And, because these people saw Him growing up, they refused to acknowledge the truth that God showed them'.
3. The phrase and, as his custom was means: 'Jesus went to church every time that they met'. He is our example of how to live in the flesh, using the power of the Holy Ghost, so that God blesses our life.
4. The phrase he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read means: 'Jesus went there to teach'. Be careful of these people who claim 'all teaching is preach and all preaching is teaching'. That is doctrinal error. Preaching and teaching are two different methods which produce different results.
C4-S15 says: And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. in this account, Jesus reads part of the prophecy of Isaiah 61:1-3 and tells the people that He fulfilled this prophecy. His statements go through 4:27 and their reaction, with His response to their reaction, is recorded in 4:28-30.
C4-S16 : the scripture that Jesus read.
1. Our sentence adds the scriptural reading that was the basis of teaching by Jesus. his sentence is a partial quote of Isaiah 61:1-3 and prophesies the type of miracles, and teaching, that Jesus will do in His ministry before His crucifixion
2. The phrase when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written means: 'Jesus found His reference and read from the scroll'. He made sure that His audience knew that He was reading from scripture and not from His memory nor paraphrasing the scripture.
3. The phrase The Spirit of the Lord is upon me means: 'Jesus used the power of the Holy Ghost during His Earthly ministry'. He could not die as God. He set His own power and authority, as God, to the side when He was conceived in Mary. He did not take back His own power and authority until after the devils took Him into Hell, which was the domain of Satan. He was always righteous and had to wait until they took Him there before He took back His own power and bound Satan, and all of Satan's devils, and robbed Satan of the keys of hell and of death (Revelation 1:18).
4. The phrase because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised means: 'These are3 manythings that Jesus did during His Earthly ministry'.
5. The phrase To preach the acceptable year of the Lord means: 'The 1,000-years reign of Christ'. There are several different times in history where the Bible uses the phrases, year of or day of. Each has a different doctrinal meaning, but people preach error about the phrases because they do not personally study the word of God to find the true meaning. Instead, most people preach what someone told them without bothering to verify what they were told Please also see the notes for Philippians 1:6-LJC and 1Thessalonians 5:2 about the phrase day of. Please also see the note for 1Thessalonians 5:2 about the phrase day of the Lord.
6. What some people fail to understand is that Jesus offered the 1,000-years reign of Christ to the Jews at the start of His ministry. However, they rejected Him as God's Christ and King (Luke 4:28-29). Therefore, the offer was removed and Jesus started the 'Church Age'. When God offers a blessing, it is foolishness to try to bargain with God and dictate to God how He must give the blessing and when. That is why Jesus said: This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears and, yet, it did not happen because God's people rejected to offered blessing. God does not force His blessing on anyone.
C4-S17 : Jesus prepared to teach.
1. Our sentence adds the fact that Jesus did what their culture accepted as the symbol that He would teach them (sat down) about the scripture just read.
2. The phrase he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister means: 'This showed that He was done reading scripture'.
3. The phrase and sat down means: 'Jesus was ready to start teaching'.
C4-S18 : the people were prepared to listen. Our sentence adds that the people were paying attention to the teaching. Our sentence says: the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him.
C4-S19 : Jesus announces the start of His ministry.
1. Our sentence adds the application of the prophecy to the reading of it.
2. The phrase he began to say unto them means: 'Jesus said this'.
3. The phrase This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears means: 'They had been waiting for several hundred years and did not to see the fulfillment in their life time. However, Jesus told them that it was fulfilled then'. Jesus was announcing God's promise of the 1,000-years reign of Christ was available then. The fact that they rejected God's offer, and that God removed the offer, does not affect the fact that it was offered with the account of these sentences.
C4-S20 : the people were amazed at His preaching.
1. Our sentence adds the initial reaction of the people who listened.
2. The phrase all bare him witness means: 'Each of them could legally testify what Jesus said and how He said it'.
3. The phrase and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth means: 'No one could complain about the way that He delivered the message'.
C4-S21 : Why the people found it hard to believe that Jesus could preach.
1. Our sentence adds the source of their error.
2. The phrase they said, Is not this Joseph's son? means: 'They looked at the physical man named Joseph and thought he was the father of Jesus. However, His true physical father was God's Holy Ghost and His true spiritual Father was God the Father'. Many doctrinal errors are the result of similar assumptions which are not verified with the correct source of truth.
C4-S22 : Jesus answered their doubts.
1. Our sentence adds a correction from Jesus. However, they did not understand His correction and did not ask for clarification.
2. The phrase he said unto them, Ye will surely say unto me this proverb means: 'Jesus answered the expected objection with this sentence'.
3. The phrase Physician, heal thyself was a popular saying but, to the best of my knowledge, if did not come from the Bible. Basically, it means: 'Do for yourself what you claim that you can do for others. Back your claims with evidence that others can see'. This part of this sentence is separated from the rest by a colon. That means that the two parts tell the same message said different ways.
4. The phrase whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country means: 'Show us some miracles before you claim to be God's Christ. And, miracles done elsewhere don't count'.
C4-S23 : Why they rejected the evidence before them and the truth.
1. Our sentence adds the reason why Jesus would not fulfill their demands. Throughout His ministry, Jesus did uncounted miracles, and yet the people still refused to believe. His own physical brothers and sisters were not saved until after the resurrection. Therefore, He is telling them that they will refuse to believe no matter what evidence He gives to them.
2. The phrase he said, Verily I say unto you means: 'Jesus told them that they could verify the truth of His saying'.
3. The phrase No prophet is accepted in his own country is clear.
C4-S24 : Jesus tells them that true Biblical belief is required to get blessings from God.
1. The word But means that this phrase is continuing the subject of the prior phrase while changing direction.
2. The phrase I tell you of a truth means: 'Jesus was going to tell them a truth which went against their religious beliefs'.
3. The phrase many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months means: 'The Jews believed that God had to work throu7gh the Jews regardless of their lives of sin. However, this is a historical reference which proves that religious believe to be in error'. Many religions claim that God has to do as they claim for one reason or another. However, we see, repeatedly, that God does not have to do what religion claims and God does what He choses to do.
4. The phrase when great famine was throughout all the land means: 'The Jews were all under the judgment of God because they were all living a life of sin and believed that God had to accept their life of sin simply because they were God's people'.
5. The phrase But unto none of them was Elias sent means: 'God did not send His prophet to God's people'. The fact that they were God's people did not over-ride their life of sin.
6. The phrase save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon means: 'This was a city in the land of the enemies of God's people'.
7. The phrase unto a woman that was a widow means: 'God sent His prophet to a woman who could not provide for him. But, because of her obedience by faith, God provided for His prophet, the widow, and her son'.
C4-S25 : Another example from their history.
1. Our sentence adds another historical example of God doing things different from what religion claimed that God had to do.
2. The phrase many lepers were in Israel in the time of Eliseus the prophet means: 'This identifies the historical record'.
3. The phrase and none of them was cleansed means: 'Even though the people who had a need were part of God's people, they did not receive the miracle'. Jesus is pointing out that God does not have to bless people simply because they claim to be God's people.
4. The phrase saving Naaman the Syrian means: 'He was part of the people that God was using to punish God's people for their unbelief and disobedience. However, he was cleansed because he obeyed in faith'. Thus, the lesson is that God honors acts of obedience done by faith and not religious claims of people belonging to God, especially when they are disobedient and refuse to act in true Biblical faith.
C4-S26 : the people tried to murder Him because of the truth.
1. Our sentence adds the reaction of the religious Jew to being told that their religious position was not enough to get God's blessings.
2. The phrase all they in the synagogue, when they heard these things means: 'This is who reacted and why'.
3. The phrase were filled with wrath means: 'This was their emotional response'.
4. The phrase And rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast him down headlong means: 'This is their action as a result of their wrath'.
C4-S27 : Jesus miraculously escaped.
1. The word But means that this phrase is continuing the subject of the prior phrase while changing direction. The prior sentence told us that they tried to kill Jesus and this sentence tell us that they failed. Please see the Table Of Miracles for this, and other miracles, which are reported in the Gospels.
2. The phrase he passing through the midst of them went his way means: 'They, as a group, were physically pushing Jesus to the cliff edge to murder Him and He walked away without them noticing'..
3. The phrase And came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee means: 'Jesus went to where the people were willing to listen, even though the religious Jews said that they were terrible sinners'.
4. The phrase and taught them on the sabbath days means: 'Jesus continued to do the ministry that God gave Him to do'.
C4-S28 : the preaching of Jesus was accepted elsewhere.
1. Our sentence adds the reaction of people to the teaching of Jesus in this new place.
2. The phrase they were astonished at his doctrine means: 'The doctrine that Jesus taught was completely different from traditional doctrine'.
3. The phrase for his word was with power means: 'The doctrine that Jesus taught had the power of God behind it'.
C4-S29 : Jesus casts out a devil. Please also see the Table of Miracles in the Gospels about this, and similar, miracles.
1. Our sentence adds evidence of the power of God backing the doctrine that Jesus taught.
2. The phrase in the synagogue there was a man, which had a spirit of an unclean devil means: 'Devils have no problem going to church, especially where doctrinal error is being taught'.
3. The phrase and cried out with a loud voice, Saying, Let us alone; what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? means: 'The devil identified Jesus'.
C4-S30 : the devil ask Jesus what He will do. Our sentence says: art thou come to destroy us?. Here, the devil recognizes the power that Jesus had.
C4-S31 : the devil identify Jesus. our sentence says: I know thee who thou art; the Holy One of God. The people were deceived about Who Jesus was, but the devils were not deceived. Please see the Doctrinal Studies called: Significant Gospel Events about this minor title for Jesus.
C4-S32 : Jesus rebukes the devil.
1. Our sentence adds the response by Jesus. Please see the Section called Jesus and Devils in the Significant Gospel Events Study.
2. The phrase Jesus rebuked him, saying means: 'Jesus did not want the devil identifying Him'.
3. The phrase Hold thy peace means: 'Shut your mouth'. Jesus did not want people thinking that He was relying on the testimony of devils. We need to be careful whom we let testify for us and not let the wrong people do so or others will think that we support their wrong doctrine.
4. The phrase and come out of him means: 'Jesus cast out the devil'. This is part of the ministry that God gave Jesus and that we read about in Luke 4:17-19. There, we were told that He would preach deliverance to the captives.
C4-S33 : the devil had to obey Jesus. Our sentence adds the obedience of the devil Our sentence says: when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him, and hurt him not.
C4-S34 : the people were amazed by the power and authority of Jesus.
1. Our sentence adds the reaction of the people.
2. The phrase they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying means: 'This was their reaction'.
3. The phrase What a word is this! means: 'No one else had this type of power'.
C4-S35 : the people testify of what they witnessed.
1. Our sentence starts with the word For, which means that it is giving us the reason why the prior sentence is true. This is why they were all amazed.
2. The phrase for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits means: 'Jesus demonstrated power and authority over devils'.
3. The phrase and they come out means: 'Devils ignored the commandments of religious people but could not ignore the commandments of Jesus'.
C4-S36 : the people tell others what they witnessed. Our sentence adds how all of the gossips reacted. at this time, this helped Jesus to spread the Gospel. Our sentence says: the fame of him went out into every place of the country round about.
C4-S37 says: he arose out of the synagogue, and entered into Simon's house. Our sentence adds what Jesus did next.
C4-S38 : Jesus heard of the need.
1. The phrase And Simon's wife's mother was taken with a great fever means: 'Peter had to be married in order to have a wife's mother'. This shows the error of Roman Catholic doctrine.
2. The phrase and they besought him for her means: 'They asked Jesus to heal her'. We are to pray for other people who need help in this world.
C4-S39 : Jesus healed her and she started serving.
1. Our sentence adds the response of Jesus.
2. The phrase he stood over her, and rebuked the fever; and it left her means: 'Jesus heale4d her' Please see the Table Of Miracles for this, and other miracles, which are reported in the Gospels.
3. The phrase and immediately she arose and ministered unto them means: 'When God heals us it is so that we can serve God'.
C4-S40 : Jesus healed all that were brought to them.
1. Our sentence starts with the word Now, which means: 'After you understand what came before this'. Before this, we read how some Jews accepted the teaching of Jesus, and they received miracles. And, some Jews rejected His doctrine because of factors that had nothing to do with the reliability of the doctrine. They missed out on the blessings of God which came through Jesus.
2. The phrase Now when the sun was setting means: 'This is the time of day when these things happened'.
3. The phrase all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto him means: 'The people came to Jesus for healing'.
4. The phrase and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them means: 'Jesus healed them all' Please see the Table Of Miracles for this, and other miracles, which are reported in the Gospels.
C4-S41 : Jesus cast out many devils.
1. Our sentence adds how Jesus dealt with devils. Please see the Section called Jesus and Devils in the Significant Gospel Events Study.
2. The phrase devils also came out of many means: 'They had more problems with devils than we have today because, today, God's Holy Spirit is limiting their activity'.
3. The phrase crying out, and saying, thou art Christ the Son of God means: 'The devils tried to associate Jesus with them and their doctrinal errors'.
C4-S42 : Jesus stopped the mouths of the devils Our sentence says: And he rebuking them suffered them not to speak: for they knew that he was Christ. Yes, they said the truth but it was to pervert the truth and associate the truth with the source of lies.
C4-S43 : Jesus spread His ministry.
1. Our sentence adds what Jesus did when His message was accepted.
2. The phrase when it was day, he departed and went into a desert place means: 'He did not stay where His message was accepted but went where people needed to hear the message'.
3. The phrase and the people sought him, and came unto him, and stayed him, that he should not depart from them means: 'The people tried to make Jesus stay there'. This is selfish human nature. It is an attitude of: 'Let everyone else go to Hell so long as I keep getting miracles'.
C4-S44 : Jesus explains why He can't stay.
1. Our sentence adds the answer from Jesus.
2. The phrase he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also means: 'Jesus did not get mad at them but, gently, explained why He could not stay'.
3. The phrase for therefore am I sent means: 'This is why Jesus had a ministry on Earth'.
C4-S45 : Jesus preached in other near-by places. Our sentence adds that Jesus preached in other places of the same area. It says: And he preached in the synagogues of Galilee.

Chapter 5 Summary:

The Response And Rejection of Faith.

in this chapter we have several accounts of people responding to Jesus in faith. We also have the blessings that they received as a result and the criticisms from religious leaders. Religious people criticize true faith because faith works differently from religious rituals. Acts of true Biblical faith rarely follow religious rules and even when the acts of faith follow the rules, the attitude must be different. True Biblical faith requires us to put our trust in God. Religion requires us to put our trust in the rituals and rules. Religion claims that their rituals and rules force God to provide blessings. True Biblical faith recognizes that God blesses whom He wants to bless and who seeks to do God's will in order to receive God's favor.

In the first part of our chapter we see Jesus call His first four disciples who will later become apostles. They had to go through much spiritual maturing and pass many trials before that happened. As part of His call, Jesus preformed a miracle for them and promised greater blessings if they followed. Next, We see Him cleanse a man of leprosy and Jesus charged him to tell no man: but go, and shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing, according as Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them. Here we see Jesus sending a testimony to God's priests. Even though they rejected the testimony, Jesus sent it and gave then the opportunity to respond by faith. Instead of responding in faith, we see them criticizing Him and attacking His authority and doctrines. In addition, they kept it up through the end of the Gospel account,

In the prior chapter, we read that the people of His home town rejected Him and tried to kill Him. Jesus started out offering the kingdom to the Jews, but when they rejected Him, He started the church. God's true churches are spiritually alive. Life starts at conception and most of the time even the mother does not realize, immediately, that she has conceived. Therefore, the spiritual conception of the church can be hard to pin down exactly when it happened but it was not at Pentecost, which is the birth of the church. in this chapter, we see Jesus call the men who would be the first members of the church that He started. I will not take a doctrinal stand that this is the conception of the church, but if it is not, then that conception happened soon after this. in this chapter we see the religious leaders reject Jesus as their God-given King, and the rejection by the Jews is why God chose the church to replace the Jews as God's messengers to men.

After this we have the account of Jesus healing a man who was sick of the palsy and telling him Man, thy sins are forgiven thee. The religious leaders criticized Him and thought in their hearts: Who is this which speaketh blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, but God alone?. Here Jesus deliberately caused this incident so that He could explain the power of true Biblical faith and show the failure of religious rules. However, while the regular people were all amazed, and they glorified God, and were filled with fear, the religious leaders had no true fear of the Lord, and missed the wisdom offered by Jesus.

After this we see Jesus calling the publican, named Levi (Matthew), to demonstrate that God accepts all who come by faith. Matthew responded by giving a big dinner and inviting all of his friends to come and meet Jesus while the nonbelieving religious leaders responded with criticisms. As a result, our chapter ends with Jesus teaching a lesson that was misunderstood by all who refused to respond to God in faith.

Hopefully, the reader understands why I write that the theme of this chapter is: 'The response and rejection of faith'. Here we read several incidents where some respond by true Biblical faith and others refuse while clinging to religious rules and criticizing those people who respond in true Biblical faith. Thus, we have an indicator of what people truly trust when they witness a true act of Biblical faith and God's response to that faith.

Please see the Doctrinal Studies called: Significant Gospel Events; Gospel Time Sequences, Table Of Miracles and Table of Parables in the New Testament for references related to events in this chapter and for how the events of this chapter fit in the time sequence of the life of Jesus.

Matthew 4:18-22; Mark 1:16-20; Luke 5:1-11 and John 1:37-51 present the call of the first four (4) disciples, who would become apostles, by Jesus. As part of the call, Jesus causes a miraculous catch of fishes (Matthew 4:17-22; Mark 1:14-20 and Luke 5:1-11). Please see the Table Of Miracles about this, and similar, miracles.

In Matthew 8:1-4; Mark 1:40-45 and Luke 5:12-14, Jesus cures a man of leprosy. The account here in Luke, and the account in Mark, may be the same incident but the account in Matthew is definitely a different, but similar account. In addition, Luke 17:11-19 gives the account of Jesus healing ten (10) lepers. Please see the note for Luke 5:12 for a detailed analysis of this, and similar, miracles of curing leprosy. Please also see the Table of Miracles in the Gospels about this, and similar, miracles.

In Matthew 14:19; Matthew 19:13; Matthew 26:36-44; Mark 1:35; Mark 6:46; Mark 14:32-39; Luke 1:10; Luke 3:21; Luke 5:16; Luke 6:12; Luke 9:18; Luke 9:28; Luke 9:29; Luke 11:1 and Luke 22:40-46 we read that Jesus prayed,

Matthew 9:1-8; Mark 2:1-12 and Luke 5:17-26 tell us about Jesus returning home with His first four disciples. There Jesus cures a man who was sick of the palsy. (From the dictionary definitions, palsy sounds a lot like polio, which still can not be cured today.) Jesus also used this miracle to challenge the claim by the scribes to have greater authority when speaking for God and when teaching doctrine.

We are first told that the scribes and the Pharisees started to accuse Jesus of blasphemy in Matthew 9:2; Mark 2:6; Luke 5:21 and John 8:3. Other earlier places we are told that they reacted poorly but these are the first reports of this accusation.

In Matthew 9:9-13; Mark 2:14-17 and Luke 5:27-29 we read about the call of Matthew as a disciple who would become an apostle. He gave a party, to celebrate his call and to introduce his friends the Jesus.

In Matthew 9:10-13; Matthew 11:19; Mark 2:15-17 and Luke 5:30-32 we read about how Jesus and His disciples eat and drink with public and and sinners. As a result of this, the scribes and Pharisees questioned Jesus about not keeping their traditions.

In Matthew 9:14-17; Mark 2:18-22 and Luke 5:33-39 we read about the disciples of John asking a similar, but different question from the one asked by the scribes and Pharisees in Luke 5:33-39. They also asked it for a different reason and with a different attitude. As a result, they received a different type of answer.

In Matthew 9:15; Mark 2:19 and Luke 5:34 we read about the children of the bride-chamber.

In Matthew 9:16; Mark 2:21 and Luke 5:36 we read the parable about 'New Cloth and Old Garment'. Please also see the Message called How to Know Parables about the doctrine from Jesus on this subject. Please also see the Table of Parables in the New Testament for references to all of the parables in the New Testament.

In Matthew 9:17; Mark 2:22 and Luke 5:37-39 we read the parable about 'New Wine in Old Bottles'. Please also see the Message called How to Know Parables about the doctrine from Jesus on this subject. Please also see the Table of Parables in the New Testament for references to all of the parables in the New Testament.

C5-S1 : the conditions showed that Jesus needed help in His ministry.
1. Our current sentence starts the report of another account .
2. The phrase And it came to pass, that means: 'This happened after the accounts of the prior chapter but we are not told how long after'.
3. The phrase as the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God means: '' Our prior chapter ended with Jesus preaching in the synagogues of Galilee and healing people and casting out devils. Therefore, people wanted to be there for their own needs and to see miracles so that they could gossip with their neighbors.
4. The phrase he stood by the lake of Gennesaret means: 'This is where Jesus was at'. The Detailed Note has links to related accounts in the other Gospel accounts and explains the minor differences in the reporting.
5. The phrase And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets means: 'This is what Andrew and Peter were doing at that time'.
C5-S2 : Jesus requested help for His ministry.
1. Our sentence adds what Jesus did with the ships. This was a temporary stage so that the people could hear Him.
2. The phrase he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon's means: 'Simon was already saved at this point. God tells us that what we have in this physical world is to be available for His use'.
3. The phrase and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land means: 'Jesus asked him to move the ship to where the people could see and hear Him'.
C5-S3 : Jesus received the requested help. Our sentence adds that Jesus took the accepted poswition of a teacher and taught the people. Our sentence says: And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship.
C5-S4 : Jesus gave a command that started a test of faith.
1. Our sentence starts with the word Now, which means: 'After you understand what came before this'. Jesus called His first disciples after He finisher speaking to the general public. This private invitation was because they had gotten closer to Jesus than most other people did.
2. The phrase when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon means: 'This is when Jesus gave the private invitation'.
3. The phrase Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught means: 'This is a command well understood by professional fishermen'.
C5-S5 : Simon (Peter) submits in spite of objections.
1. Our sentence adds the response from Simon.
2. The phrase Simon answering said unto him, Master means: 'Simon directed his answer to Jesus'.
3. The phrase we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing means: 'This was a reasonable objection given from a professional fisherman to a preacher who had a background as a carpenter'.
4. The phrase nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net means: 'Simon agreed to do what Jesus commanded, at least partially'. Many people criticize Simon because Jesus said: nets (plural) and Simon replied with net (singular). What they are not recognizing is that most professionals would refuse a command from a non-professional about how to do their job.
C5-S6 : Jesus did a miracle. Our sentence adds the unexpected result of acting in faith. It says: And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake.
C5-S7 : the human response to the miracle. Simon and Andrew called James and John to help them Our current sentence says: And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them.
C5-S8 : God's overwhelming evidence of His power. Our current sentence says: And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink there could be no doubt that this was a supernatural miracle Please see the Table Of Miracles for this, and other miracles, which are reported in the Gospels.
C5-S9 : Simon Peter's response to revelation of truth.
1. The phrase When Simon Peter saw it means: 'This is when Simon Peter understood what Jesus did and that He truly was God in human flesh'.
2. The phrase he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying means: 'He reacted in personal worship'.
3. The phrase Depart from me; for I am a sinful man means: 'This was his reaction when he realized that Jesus was God in human flesh'.
4. The phrase O Lord means: 'This phrase assures us that Simon Peter realized that Jesus was God in human flesh'.
C5-S10 : Why the response in the prior sentence happened.
1. Our sentence starts with the word For, which means that it is giving us the reason why the prior sentence is true.
2. The phrase For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken means: 'The physical evidence was undeniable that they had received a miracle'.
3. The phrase And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon means: 'This identifies the men that Simon had called to help with all of the fish'.
C5-S11 : the call of Simon and the others.
1. Our sentence adds the explanation from Jesus.
2. The phrase Jesus said unto Simon means: 'Jesus directed this saying to Simon but it was applied to all four men'.
3. The phrase Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men means: 'God planned to use them to lead men to true salvation'.
C5-S12 : the future disciples responded to the call.
1. Our sentence adds their response to the call.
2. The phrase when they had brought their ships to land means: 'They finished what they were doing as responsible men'.
3. The phrase they forsook all, and followed him means: 'This is the true requirement for discipleship and full=time service. People must be willing to forsake all, in this world, and follow Jesus while trusting Him to provide for their physical needs'.
C5-S13 : the next account of true Biblical faith.
1. The phrase And it came to pass means: 'Luke is starting the next account'.
2. The phrase when he was in a certain city means: 'This actually happened but it is not important to know exactly where'.
3. The phrase behold a man full of leprosy means: 'This is the man who sought Jesus with his problem'.
4. The phrase who seeing Jesus fell on his face, and besought him, saying means: 'He first worshipped Jesus'.
5. The phrase Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean means: 'He recognized Jesus as God in human flesh (Lord) and used that statement of faith as the basis of his request'.
C5-S14 : the request is given.
1. Our sentence adds that Jesus healed him. Please see the Table Of Miracles for this, and other miracles, which are reported in the Gospels
2. The phrase And he put forth his hand, and ouched him means: 'This time, Jesus did this and other times He did something else'. False, so-called religious healers, try that they have to touch the people in a certain way. we do not see that in the miracles done by Jesus.
3. The phrase saying, I will: be thou clean means: 'Here, we see that it was the word of Jesus which actually healed him'.
4. When we pay attention to the context, Jesus told this man to take a witness to the priests. He was to go for a testimony unto them. When we see miracles in the Bible, we need to pay attention to the context in order to truly understand the miracle. This man had leprosy, which is a disease which corrupts the blood and makes the person unaware of injuries to their body. Leviticus 17:11 tells us, the life of the flesh is in the blood. The religious doctrine, which the priests taught, corrupted the spiritual life of God's people and made them numb to the things of God. Jesus was sending them a message, with this healed man, that His word could not only heal physical leprosy. but that His word could also heal spiritual leprosy.
C5-S15 : the results of the word from Jesus. Our sentence says: And immediately the leprosy departed from him. Spiritual healing from Jesus is supposed to happen immediately, even if it takes some time for us to notice the change.
C5-S16 : Jesus adds a required response to the man receiving his request.
1. The phrase And he charged him to tell no man means: 'Jesus wanted to control the telling and the results of the miracle'. As other people heard of His miracles, the priests ended up feeling that they had to defend their historical doctrines, even though those doctrines were wrong and could not produce miracles from God.
2. The phrase but go, and shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing, according as Moses commanded means: 'Do what is written in the Law'.
3. The phrase for a testimony unto them means: 'This was why Jesus commanded what He did'
C5-S17 : Jesus did not receive His wish.
1. The word But means that this phrase is continuing the subject of the prior phrase while changing direction. What was supposed to be a private healing and private message to the priests, became public gossip
2. The phrase But so much the more went there a fame abroad of him means: 'Lots of people heard the gossip'.
3. The phrase and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by him of their infirmities means: 'People came for the healing and, mainly, listened only long enough to be healed'. While this might seem to be a good thing, our next sentence tells us how it limited the movement of Jesus.
C5-S18 says: And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed. People came to Jesus mainly so that He would heal them. Therefore, He got alone with God the Father and prayed in order to know how to handle the changed circumstances.
C5-S19 : the religious leaders came to try and find something that they could use to criticize Jesus. Instead, He proved to them that He was 'God in human flesh'. There are minor differences in the reported accounts of this incident when we compare the various Gospel accounts. However, those differences do not pose a conflice for give the reader greater understanding. Please see the Detail Note for a detailed analysis of this incident which is reported in three Gospel accounts.
1. Our sentence adds the start of the next account where we read that the religious leaders started to attack Jesus.
2. The phrase it came to pass on a certain day means: 'This happened after the prior account but the day that it happened on is not important'.
3. The phrase as he was teaching means: '%This is what Jesus was doing'.
4. The phrase that there were Pharisees and doctors of the law sitting by, which were come out of every town of Galilee, and Judaea, and Jerusalem means: 'The religious leaders came out in force to hear His teaching. But, as our account shows, they came with an unbelieving spirit and an attitude of catching Him in a religious error'.
5. The phrase and the power of the Lord was present to heal them means: 'God the Father provided Jesus with the power to heal'. Notice that He was not using His own power. Jesus had to set aside His own power as God when He was conceived and die as a literal physical man and take back His own power, as God, after the devils took Him into Satan's domain. And, while that is another doctrine, to point here is that He lived as any other literal physical man and used the power of God the Father to do His miracles.
C5-S20 : Four friends brought a man to be healed by Jesus but could not get him to Jesus because of the press.
1. Our sentence adds what Godly men did which allowed Jesus to deal with the attitudes of the religious leaders.
2. The phrase behold means: 'Pay close attention and understand what is being taught'.
3. The phrase men brought in a bed a man which was taken with a palsy means: 'I am not positive about this disease but it seems to be like polio, which crippled and killed many people'.
4. The phrase and they sought means to bring him in, and to lay him before him means: 'The friends tried to get the sick man to Jesus so that He could heal the sick man'.
C5-S21 : the friends overcame the obstacles.
1. Our sentence adds what the friends did to get the man to Jesus.
2. The phrase when they could not find by what way they might bring him in because of the multitude means: 'They tried all of the approved methods but could not do the job'. There are people who claim that we should only use approved methods, but they never accomplish anything significant with their lives. Their life amounts to discouraging everyone around them.
3. The phrase they went upon the housetop, and let him down through the tiling with his couch into the midst before Jesus means: 'They tore up the roof of a house which did not belong to them'. Many people would criticize such actions but they got their friend to Jesus, their friend was healed, and Jesus could use this to teach the religious leaders a truth, even if they rejected His teaching.
4. Yes, the friends had a responsibility to repair the damage that they did. But, as the next sentence says, Jesus responded to their faith. People forget that their faith can make a major difference in the lives of others.
C5-S22 : Jesus uses the incident to provide evidence of His divine nature.
1. Our sentence adds the response from Jesus.
2. The phrase when he saw their faith means: 'It was their faith and not his'. These so-called 'faith healers' claim that people are not healed because the people do not have sufficient faith. Jesus never made that claim and our sentence says that the man was healed because of the faith of his friends.
3. The phrase he said unto him means: 'Jesus said this to the man who needed to be healed'.
4. The phrase Man, thy sins are forgiven thee means: 'He was spiritually saved'. God saves us so that He can use our life in His ministry.
5. Jesus knew that He would heal the man. However, He chose to first spiritually save the man in order to make the point to the religious leaders that their religion could not spiritually save anyone. Sometimes we don't understand what God is doing in our life and don't understand why. We are to trust God that He knows what He is doing. And, when this happens, God is often using our life to teach a lesson to others.
C5-S23 : Religious reasoning leads to doctrinal error.
1. Our sentence adds the reaction by the scribes and the Pharisees.
2. The phrase the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying means: 'Some of their questions were said out loud and some were muttered'.
3. The phrase Who is this which speaketh blasphemies? means: 'Their question of: Who is this was Ok. However, their accusing Him of speaketh blasphemies was wrong'. The question in the next sentence was correct. However, their assumption that Jesus could not be 'God in human flesh' was wrong. Here, Jesus gave them proof that He was, in fact, 'God in human flesh'. Their refusal to believe the evidence condemned them to Hell. Likewise, anyone who refuses to believe the evidence provided by God condemns themselves to Hell.
C5-S24 : A truth used to support a wrong conclusion. Our sentence says: Who can forgive sins, but God alone?. This question was correct. Their error, as explained in the note for the prior sentence, was their refusal to accept that Jesus was 'God in human flesh'. As a result, our next sentences tell us how Jesus tried to correct their thoughts.
C5-S25 : Jesus challenged their reasoning.
1. The word But means that this phrase is continuing the subject of the prior phrase while changing direction. The religious leaders misunderstood what Jesus did. So, He gave them the evidence to prove what He taught.
2. The phrase when Jesus perceived their thoughts means: 'This is when He spoke'.
3. The phrase he answering said unto them means: 'Jesus spoke aloud to challenge their thoughts'. They could not hide their refusal to believe.
4. The phrase What reason ye in your hearts? means: 'He let them know that He understood what they reasoned, even though they had not spoke clearly'.
C5-S26 : Challenge to reconsider the conclusion of prejudice.
1. The phrase Whether is easier, to say means: 'Which of the following two sayings is easier to make true?'. The obvious fact was that both required the power of God. Therefore, when Jesus healed the man, He proved that He used the power of God with God's approval. And, with all of the Jewish heritage, that proved that His doctrine was true.
2. The phrase Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Rise up and walk? means: 'These are the two choices which each require the power of God'.
C5-S27 : Jesus provides evidence to disprove religious prejudice.
1. The word But means that this phrase is continuing the subject of the prior phrase while changing direction. The religious leaders denied that Jesus spoke truth earlier. Therefore, He gives them undeniable proof.
2. The phrase But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon earth to forgive sins means: 'Jesus tells them exactly what His next action will prove'. Please notice that Jesus says: Son of man. This means that Jesus was like any other physical man but that the power of God worked through His life. Likewise, when saved people let God completely control their lives, God can do miracles in their life and through their lives.
3. The phrase (he said unto the sick of the palsy,) means: 'The prior phrase was said to the religious leaders and the next phrase was said to the sick man'.
4. The phrase I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy couch, and go into thine house means: 'Do what is physically impossible unless you are healed'.
C5-S28 : the healed man responded properly.
1. Our sentence adds the obedience of the sick man.
2. The phrase immediately he rose up before them means: 'He proved to them all that he was healed'.
3. The phrase and took up that whereon he lay, and departed to his own house means: 'He obeyed the command from Jesus'.
4. The phrase glorifying God means: 'He testified that it was not Jesus but was God working through Jesus which provided his healing'.
C5-S29 : Others who were there responded correctly.
1. Our sentence adds the response of the common Jew which saw the miracle.
2. The phrase they were all amazed means: 'They realized that what they saw went beyond the laws of nature'.
3. The phrase and they glorified God means: 'They honored God for doing the miracle'.
4. The phrase and were filled with fear means: 'They realized their own sin and the closeness of God working reminded them of God's punishment for ongoing sin'.
5. The phrase saying, We have seen strange things to day means: 'They recognized that they had seen a miracle'.
C5-S30 : Jesus calls Matthew to be one of His disciples and future apostle.
1. The phrase And after these things means: 'This is starting a new account of what Jesus did after He proved that He was God in human flesh'
2. The phrase he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom means: 'This is Matthew and he was busy doing his job'. God never calls a lazy person.
3. The phrase and he said unto him, Follow me means: 'Jesus called Matthew to discipleship. While we are not told of his salvation, God does not call lost people to discipleship'.
4. Matthew 12:15-23 and Mark 3:9-21 all tell us about this incident and they provide some different details which help receiving greater understanding.
C5-S31 : says: And he left all, rose up, and followed him. means: Just like we saw with Andrew, Simon, James and John, a call to discipleship is a call to devote all of your life to learning about Jesus and serving Him. We must be willing to leave all that we had in this world in order to answer such a call.
C5-S32 : Matthew invited his friends to meet Jesus and get saved.
1. Our sentence adds how Matthew responded to the call to discipleship.
2. The phrase Levi made him a great feast in his own house means: 'He obviously had a large house in order to accomplish this'. God calls all kinds of people without regard to their social standings.
3. The phrase and there was a great company of public and and of others that sat down with them means: 'There were t6he types of Jews that the religious leaders considered to be sinners and unclean. They taught that if a religious person had anything to do with such, even to eat at the same table as such people, the religious person became spiritually unclean'.
C5-S33 : the religious leaders were offended by true evangelism.
1. The word But means that this phrase is continuing the subject of the prior phrase while changing direction.
2. The phrase But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying means: 'The scribes and Pharisees did not have the courage to confront Jesus. Therefore, they talked to his disciples and even then they kept their voices low (murmured)'.
3. The phrase Why do ye eat and drink with public and and sinners? means: 'The restriction against this was an addition to God's law added by scribes and Pharisees. However, God had commanded them to take the Gospel to the whole world, which is what Jesus was doing at this supper'.
C5-S34 : Jesus corrects their doctrinal error.
1. Our sentence adds the answer fro0m Jesus.
2. The phrase Jesus answering said unto them means: 'Even though the scribes and Pharisees were murmuring, and talking to the disciples, Jesus heard and answered them'. The disciples were not spiritually mature enough, at that time, to take on a doctrinal dispute. Lost and carnal people try to tell God's people to send their children out into the world before the children are ready to handle the temptations. Jesus did not do that but protected His disciples until they were ready to handle the temptations.
3. The phrase They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick means: 'This is the spiritually based symbolic answer from Jesus'. The scribes and Pharisees were sure that they were spiritually whole. The public and knew that they were spiritually sick and were willing to admit it. Jesus was telling the scribes and Pharisees that He would not waste His time with them because of their attitude. However, Jesus would spe4nd His tile with the public and because they were not too prideful to receive spiritual correction and spiritual instructions on how to please God.
C5-S35 says: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance Our sentence adds the reason why Jesus sought the public and while rejecting the self-righteous religious leaders. Our sentence also lets us know that, until someone is willing to admit that they are a sinner who needs salvation, we are wasting out energy on them to try and lead them to salvation.
C5-S36 : the religious people switched subjects with a new challenge.
1. Our sentence adds a different question from the religious leaders. They did not understand the prior answer from Jesus. Therefore, they could not argue against it. And, they did not ask for clarification because they really did not want to understand. They only wanted to feel like they won the argument. Therefore, they changed the discussion to something that they thought they could win. However, as the rest of the chapter shows us, they not only did not win thge argument but Jesus gave them a parable which shows why they, and the religious doctrine, were rejected.
2. The phrase they said unto him, Why do the disciples of John fast often, and make prayers, and likewise the disciples of the Pharisees; but thine eat and drink? means: 'Here the religious leaders are pointing out a difference in the physical acts of the disciples of Jesus when compared to disciples of other religious men'. They did not understand the answer because they refused to look at things spiritually and the difference in the physical world was due to the difference in the spiritual relationship[ to God.
C5-S37 : Jesus answers with a question to make them think.
1. Our sentence adds the answer from Jesus.
2. The phrase he said unto them means: 'Jesus gave this answer'.
3. The phrase Can ye make the children of the bridechamber means: 'Under the Mosaic Law (Deuteronomy 24:5), a man was to spend the first year, after marrying, with his wife and make her happy. Any child born in that first year was a child of the bridechamber'. Such children were too young to fast.
4. The phrase fast, while the bridegroom is with them? means: 'Jesus was asking them if these young children could be made to fast in the first months of their life'. The obvious answer is 'NO'. Symbolically, He was saying that His disciples were too new to fast while the disciples of other religious people were not that new.
C5-S38 : the exception to the answer in the prior sentence.
1. The word But means that this phrase is continuing the subject of the prior phrase while changing direction. The prior sentence told us why the disciples did not fast while Jesus, was with them. And, this sentence says that we should fast today.
2. The phrase But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them means: 'This is a prophecy of the return of Jesus to Heaven'.
3. The phrase and then shall they fast in those days means: 'We are to fast today'.
C5-S39 : Jesus gives them a parable to explain why religious people who hold to traditions are rejected.
1. Our sentence adds this partible to the prior sentences and the subject of those sentences. Understanding the context is necessary in order to understand the parable. This parable is also in In Matthew 9:17 and Mark 2:22. Please also see the Message called How to Know Parables about the doctrine from Jesus on this subject. Please also see the Table of Parables in the New Testament for references to all of the parables in the New Testament.
2. The phrase he spake also a parable unto them means: 'Jesus said this parable in context to the subject old religious ways and new religious ways'.
3. The phrase No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old means: 'If you sew new cloth to old worn out cloth, the new does not flex like the old and it causes the old to tear more'. The parable in the next sentence also teaches the same lesson.
4. Cloth is used, in this parable, for the materials of clothing. Clothing is what people see when they look at you. Religious activity, likewise, is what people see when they look at how you serve God. in this parable, Jesus is saying that the religious activities of the New Testament can not be added to religious traditions of the Old Testament. The Jews in the Jerusalem church kept insisting that saved people in the New Testament keep the religious traditions of the Old Testament. Three times God made it clear to them that their doctrine was wrong. Then God had the Roman Army destroy the Temple, so that they could not keep the religious traditions, and God had them kill or scatter everyone who believed and taught that doctrinal error.
C5-S40 : Jesus gives them a second parable with the same message.
1. Our sentence adds a second parable to teach the same lesson another way.
2. The phrase no man putteth new wine into old bottles means: 'You can not put God's Holy Spirit, of the New Testament, into the spiritual confines of the Old Testament'. God's Holy Spirit can not be restricted to keeping religious traditions and religious rules. God gives more to His people in the New Testament and expects more from them.
3. The phrase else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled means: 'God's Holy Spirit will force New Testament saints to go beyond religious traditions'. In Acts 11:19, we read: Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only. That is what their religious traditions dictated. However, many Jews in Antioch were married to Gentiles and the Gentile family members were saved also. Thus, we see that God's Holy Spirit forced salvations beyond the restrictions of religious traditions. That is what is meant by: the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled. The religious traditions were ripped apart by God's Holy Spirit. In addition, the phrase and the bottles shall perish was a prophecy for the destruction of the Jerusalem Church when they refused to follow God in taking the Gospel to the entire world.
C5-S41 : Add to the prior parable what is done instead.
1. The word But means that this phrase is continuing the subject of the prior phrase while changing direction. Here, Jesus is still speaking symbolically about the spirit of the New Testament church which comes from God's Holy Spirit.
2. The phrase But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved means: 'The spirit of the New Testament church must be allowed to have different expressions than what was allowed under the old religious traditions'. The old religious traditions said to restrict salvation to your own people. God's Holy Spirit says to take the Gospel to the entire world. Any church which stops supporting missions is destroyed in the New Testament.
C5-S42 : Choosing religious traditions is fulfilling the lusts of the flesh.
1. Our current sentence explains the attitude of people who lived under the spirit of the Old Testament. People who were happy with keeping religious traditions and obeying religious rules find that system simpler to live under. That is what is meant by the phrase The old is better. Yes, Jesus was talking about reality of this physical world. But, He was also speaking about the spiritual reality and using the physical to show us the truth about the spiritual. In our sentence we read: No man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he saith, the old is better.

Chapter 6 Summary:

The Son of Man is Lord.

Our chapter starts with the Pharisees continuing their argument about authority. They asked: Why do ye that which is not lawful to do on the sabbath days? And Jesus gave them an answer that ended with: That the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath. Again, on another sabbath, Jesus healed a man in the synagogue and challenged the Pharisees to show where what He did was unlawful after He had showed them that what He did was, in fact, lawful. After that we read: And they were filled with madness; and commused one with another what they might do to Jesus. While they rejected the truth, Jesus proved that He was / is Lord also of the sabbath. However, the religious leaders rejected this truth and refused to accept Jesus in this role. This rejection is matched with the people from the city where He was raised trying to kill Jesus for telling them that he was their God given Messiah / Christ.

Next, we read that He prayed all night and then chose twelve, whom also he named apostles. They were not doing the work of actual apostles until after He returned to Heaven but apostles have greater authority than ambassadors and both must be personally appointed by the head of government to represent the government to people who are not part of that government. Therefore, this action also shows that Jesus is Lord because only the Lord can appoint someone to be an apostle.

This, and the sermon that is reported in this chapter, shows that this is the spiritual conception of His church. The church is spiritually alive and all life starts with conception. The spiritual birth is not until Pentecost, after the resurrection and everything was completed (payment for our sins, etc) which was required for the spiritual birth of the church. God allows abortionists to continue to refuse to recognize the difference between physical conception (start of life) and physical birth because God's people refuse to recognize the difference between spiritual conception and spiritual birth.

Next, we read about many people coming to Him to hear him, and to be healed of their diseases; And they that were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed. Thus, Jesus proved that He had the power and authority required to be Lord, because even devils and diseases obeyed Him when they obeyed no other.

The last thing in our chapter is a short form of the 'Beatitudes' (also Matthew chapters 5-7). Here Jesus gives us the requirements / laws for His kingdom. (Please see the notes for 1Corinthians C4S20; 1Corinthians C15S46; Galatians C5S20 and the Doctrinal Study about the kingdom of God. The kingdom of God. is to be in the heart of the saved while they are still here in this world.)

In every incident of this chapter, Jesus is acting like a Lord. In addition, He provides the proof required to back His claim. However, He presents the proof in a way which allows people to retain their free will and decide if they wish to be part of His kingdom or not. All who refuse to accept Him as Lord end up in Hell and the lake of fire. However, God does not take away our free will for any reason.

Jesus and His disciples pick and eat corn on the Sabbath day as reported in Matthew 12:1-8; Mark 2:23-28 and Luke 6:1-5. Those accounts also have the accusation by the Pharisees that Jesus and His disciples violated the Law about the sabbath. The answer from Jesus includes the fact that the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.

Matthew 12:9-13; Mark 3:1-6 and Luke 6:6-11 all give the account about Jesus healing a man of a withered hand on the sabbath.

The twelve apostles of Jesus are named in Matthew 10:2-4; Mark 3:14-19; Luke 6:13-16 and Acts 1:13.

Matthew 12:15-23; Mark 3:9-21 and Luke 6:17-49 tell about Jesus healing, teaching and casting out devils. This was the start of His ministry after calling the twelve and giving the start of spiritual life (conception) to His church. in this section we see Jesus demonstrating what God will do for the truly saved.

In Matthew 4:23; Matthew 8:16-17; Matthew 12:15; Matthew 14:14, Matthew 14:35-36; Matthew 15:30-31; Matthew 15:12; Mark 1:32-34, Mark 1:39; Mark 3:10-11; Luke 4:40-41; Luke 6:18-19 we are told that Jesus healed many diseased and possessed by devils. In Luke 1:40-45 and 4:31-37 He cured a demoniac. In Luke 1:23-28 He healed a leper. Please see the Table of Miracles and the Study called Significant Gospel Events Study. That Study has many Bible references to where we are told that Jesus healed people and dealt with devils.

In Luke 6:20-49 we have a short version of the 'Sermon on the Mount', which is the basic doctrine that the church is to follow. The longer version is in Matthew Chapters 5-7. It is also called the 'Beatitudes'. Within our version in Luke, we have sub-subjects of:

Luke 6:20-23 tells the blessings and who receives them.
Luke 6:24-26 has the Woe and who receives them.
Luke 6:27-38 has instructions on the way that the saved are to live.
Luke 6:39-49 has several parables to explain why we should obey the commandments of this sermon.

In the last part of our chapter we read several parables which are often treated as if each is independent of the others and of the context of the chapter. However, that is wrong and it is important for us to consider context when dealing with these parables.

Matthew 15:14 and Luke 6:39 give us the 'Parable of the Blind Lead the Blind'. Please also see the Message called How to Know Parables about the doctrine from Jesus on this subject. Please also see the Table of Parables in the New Testament for references to all of the parables in the New Testament. This parable is explained by Jesus in Matthew 15:15-20. Matthew 23:16-17 also call the religious leaders blind guides.
In Matthew 7:3-5 and Luke 6:41-42 we read the parable about 'Beam and mote'. Please also see the Message called How to Know Parables about the doctrine from Jesus on this subject. Please also see the Table of Parables in the New Testament for references to all of the parables in the New Testament.
In Matthew 7:16-20; Matthew 12:33 and Luke 6:43-44 we read the parable about 'Good Tree and Corrupt Fruit'. Please also see the Message called How to Know Parables about the doctrine from Jesus on this subject. Please also see the Table of Parables in the New Testament for references to all of the parables in the New Testament.
In Matthew 7:24-29 and Luke 6:47-49 we read the parable about 'House on Rock and Sand'. Please also see the Message called How to Know Parables about the doctrine from Jesus on this subject. Please also see the Table of Parables in the New Testament for references to all of the parables in the New Testament.

C6-S1 : the start of the next series of incidents.
1. Our sentence adds the start of a new incident that occurred on the sabbath after the prior incident.
2. The phrase it came to pass on the second sabbath after the first means: 'This is when the incident happened'. The exact day is not important. The only important thing is that this happened on the next sabbath after Jesus proved to the religious leaders that He was / is 'God in human flesh'.
3. The phrase that he went through the corn fields means: 'This is where they were'.
4. The phrase and his disciples plucked the ears of corn, and did eat, rubbing them in their hands means: 'This is what the disciples did'.
C6-S2 : the accusation by the Pharisees.
1. Our sentence adds the wrong accusation by Jewish religious leaders.
2. The phrase certain of the Pharisees said unto them means: 'These were self-appointed religious leaders'. They are not appointed to any position in the Mosaic Law.
3. The phrase Why do ye that which is not lawful to do on the sabbath days? means: 'What they claimed was not lawful was, in fact, lawful but went against their additions to the Mosaic Law'.
C6-S3 : Jesus answered them with scripture which showed them their error

Our sentence adds the answer from Jesus. Once again, we see the religious leaders attacking the disciples because they knew that they would lose their doctrinal argument if they said it to Jesus. And, we see that Jesus answered because His disciples were not yet ready for such arguments.
The phrase Jesus answering them said means: 'Jesus gave them an answer from scripture which showed that their addition to God's Law was, in fact, in error. God's true law does not allow exceptions. The fact that God allowed this to happen shows that it was not a true violation of God's law. And, what the disciples did was not a violation of God's law'. Although the religious leaders asked the disciples, Jesus answered because the disciples were not yet ready for such doctrinal arguments.
The phrase Have ye not read so much as this, what David did, when himself was an hungred, and they which were with him means: 'This gives us te incident recorded in the Jewish history'.
The phrase How he went into the house of God, and did take and eat the shewbread, and gave also to them that were with him; which it is not lawful to eat but for the priests alone? means: 'God allowed a violation of tradition'. The shewbread symbolically showed that the priests had fellowship with God that most Jews did not have. And, because of that fellowship, God provided for their physical needs. At the time of the historical incident, David also had a fellowship with God and God provided for his physical needs. Likewise, at the time of this incident, the disciples had a special fellowship with 'God in human flesh' and God provided for their physical needs.

C6-S4 says: And he said unto them, that the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath. Here, Jesus tells them that He has greater authority than what they thought before. This sentence also gives us the authority for Jesus to remove keeping the sabbath as a requirement of the New Testament.
C6-S5 : the start of the next incident.
1. The phrase And it came to pass also on another sabbath means: 'This next incident also occurred on a sabbath, but which sabbath is not important'.
2. The phrase that he entered into the synagogue and taught means: 'Jesus was teaching the people who came the church'.
3. The phrase and there was a man whose right hand was withered means: 'His ability to do work was gone'. The word hand is defined as: 'Symbol of skill, energy, and action. "Strength of hand." Also control'. And, for most people, the right hand is their dominant hand. In addition, the word withered is defined as: 'Faded; dried; shrunk'. This man's ability to do work was faded. Symbolically, he represented religious people who could not do work for God because the religious rules withered that ability.
C6-S6 : the religious leaders set up an opportunity to accuse Jesus of violating their additions to God's law.
1. Our sentence adds the attitudes, actions and purposes of the religious leaders.
2. The phrase the scribes and Pharisees watched him means: 'There was nothing wrong with their action, at this point'. However, their attitude of heart an their purpose was wrong.
3. The phrase whether he would heal on the sabbath day means: 'There was nothing in God's law against this. Only their additions to God's law objected to this action'. Symbolically, they were saying that God was not allowed to restore someone to His service during a worship service. Hopefully, the reader realizes how ridiculous such a religious position is.
4. The phrase that they might find an accusation against him means: 'The religious leaders wanted to accuse Jesus of violating God's law when He only violated their additions to God's law'.
C6-S7 : Jesus knew why they were there.
1. The word But means that this phrase is continuing the subject of the prior phrase while changing direction. The religious leaders set up a situation that they thought might find an accusation against him. However, Jesus knew their thoughts and deliberately confronted them right then. Please see the Doctrinal Study called What Did Jesus Do? for how Jesus dealt with this conflict and other conflicts. He is our example of how to live in the flesh and please God.
2. The phrase he knew their thoughts means: 'Jesus knew their thoughts and brought into the open what they tried to do in secret'.
3. The phrase and said to the man which had the withered hand means: 'Jesus commanded the man that they planned to accuse Jesus of doing wrong only the religious leaders planned to accuse Jesus in secret and at a later time'.
4. The phrase Rise up, and stand forth in the midst means: 'Jesus brought everything out into the open and made sure that everyone was aware of what was happening and of the truth of events'. By doing this, Jesus prevented the religious leaders from telling lies at a later time about what happened.
C6-S8 says: And he arose and stood forth. The man did as he was commanded.
C6-S9 : Jesus answered their challenge with His own challenge.
1. The phrase Then said Jesus unto them means: 'Jesus asked this question to the religious leaders in front of all of the people'. Thus, the religious leaders could not lie about what happened at a later date without revealing that they were liars.
2. The phrase I will ask you one thing; Is it lawful on the sabbath days to do good, or to do evil? means: 'This is the question that Jesus asked them'. Notice that He did not ask them about a specific part of the Mosaic Law. He asked them about the u8nderlying precepts, which never change for any reason. It should be obvious that it is never lawful...to do evil?. It does not matter if it is on the sabbath days or any other time. And, it would be obvious to everyone that leaving this man, with a withered right hand, when he could be healed, would be doing evil. Therefore, the religious leaders had to demonstrate that they were evil if they objected to Jesus healing the man.
3. As already mentioned, this man's withered right hand symbolically represented religious rules preventing people from truly serving God. As part of the ministry of Jesus, He was restoring peoples' ability to serve God.
C6-S10 : Jesus states His challenge another way. Our sentence says: to save life, or to destroy it?. With this addition, Jesus shows everybody the end result if they took the position of the religious leaders to the end of where it could go.
C6-S11 : None of the religious leaders accepted His challenge.
1. Our sentence adds the action by Jesus.
2. The phrase looking round about upon them all means: 'Jesus made sure that everyone was aware of what went on'.
3. The phrase he said unto the man, Stretch forth thy hand means: 'Jesus made His intention to heal obvious to everyone'. They all had a chance to object if they really thought that His healing was wrong but no one3 said anything.
C6-S12 says: And he did so: and his hand was restored whole as the other. There could be no doubt that Jesus healed the man on the sabbath and that He gave the religious leaders plenty of opportunity to object, but that they kept their mouths shut.
C6-S13 : the religious leaders had unreasonable anger at being proven wrong.
1. Our sentence adds the reaction of the religious leaders to Jesus turning their planned trap back on them.
2. The phrase they were filled with madness means: 'They were so angry that they could not think straight'.
3. The phrase and commused one with another what they might do to Jesus means: 'They talked together about how they could destroy Jesus'.
C6-S14 : the start of the next incident in this chapter.
1. Our current sentence starts the report of the next incident.
2. The phrase And it came to pass in those days means: 'This is the next incident reported and it happened about the same time, but after, the prior incident'.
3. The phrase that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God means: 'Jesus is our example of what to do when we have a major decision to make'.
C6-S15 : Jesus chose twelve disciples who should become apostles. They are also named in Matthew 10:2-4; Mark 3:14-19 and Acts 1:13.
1. Our sentence adds the naming of the twelve to the all night prayer of Jesus.
2. The phrase And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve means: 'There were many other disciples among which He could have chosen'.
3. The phrase whom also he named apostles means: 'These were the highest human authorities in the church after Jesus returned to Heaven'. There is much doctrinal error taught about this position and many devil-motivated men who claim this position today. Please see the Word Study on Apostle for the true Biblical doctrine.
4. The phrase Simon, (whom he also named Peter,) and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew, Matthew and thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon called Zelotes, And Judas the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot, which also was the traitor means: 'These are the names of the twelve chosen'.
C6-S16 : Jesus started ministering with His disciples.
1. Our sentence adds what Jesus did after choosing the twelve.
2. The phrase he came down with them, and stood in the plain, and the company of his disciples means: 'The other disciples were still with Jesus even though they were not chosen'..
3. The phrase and a great multitude of people out of all Judaea and Jerusalem, and from the sea coast of Tyre and Sidon means: 'These are all of the places that people came from'.
4. The phrase which came to hear him, and to be healed of their diseases; And they that were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed means: 'These were the three reasons why people came'.
C6-S17 : Multitudes came for healing.
1. Our sentence adds what people did who sought healing.
2. The phrase the whole multitude sought to touch him means: 'They believed that they could only be healed if they touched Jesus'.
3. The phrase for there went virtue out of him, and healed them all means: 'All who came to Jesus for healing received it'.

Luke 6:20-49 we have a short version of the 'Sermon on the Mount', which is the basic doctrine that the church is to follow. The longer version is in Matthew Chapters 5-7. It is also called the 'Beatitudes'. Please see the Detailed Notes, for each sentence is this section, in order to understand the similarities and differences from what we read in Matthew.

Please see the chapter summary for the sub-sections of this message which goes through the end of the chapter.

Please note that our first three sentences start with the word blessed'. If the reader pays attention to the rest of those sentences, there can be no doubt that what they say will not make someone 'happy'. Thus, we see evidence that the claim of" 'blessed means happy' is, in fact, a lie . In truth, the functional definition, for the word bless, is: 'receiving, or wishing another to receive, the spiritual good from God which produces spiritual joy even while it might make us less happy in the flesh'.

C6-S18 : the first source of spiritual blessings.
1. The phrase And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said means: 'Even though there were many others there, Jesus said this to his disciples because they were willing to obey when others were not'.
2. The phrase Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God means: 'The rich, especially in the Jewish society of that day, were sure that they were blessed by God. They were sure that they did not need God's character in them, which is the definition of: the kingdom of God'.
C6-S19 : says: Blessed are ye that hunger now: for ye shall be filled. 'This sentence is speaking of spiritual hunger'.
C6-S20 : says: Blessed are ye that weep now: for ye shall laugh. means: 'This sentence is speaking of people who weap because of spiritual wrongs'.
C6-S21 : the fourth source of spiritual blessings.
1. The phrase Blessed are ye means: 'The next source of being blessed by God'.
2. The phrase when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil means: 'When men mistreat and lie about you'.
3. The phrase for the Son of man's sake means: 'This must be the cause in order for God to bless you during such experiences'.
C6-S22 : How to react to the prior sentence.
1. The phrase Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy means: 'This is the right way to react'.
2. The phrase for, behold, your reward is great in heaven means: 'This is why we are to rejoice'.
3. The phrase for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets means: 'This is t6he historical evidence of God blessing His people who experienced these things'.
C6-S23 : the first warning.
1. The word But means that this phrase is continuing the subject of the prior phrase while changing direction. Where the prior sentences told us about being blessed, the next few sentences start with Woe.
2. The phrase woe unto you that are rich! tells us the first Woe and our next sentence (for ye have received your consolation.) tells us why. When we receive our consolation here in this physical life, we will not also receive in in eternity.
C6-S25 : the second warning.
1. This sentence, and the next, are not included in the account by Matthew. Thus, we see that the Gospel writers included manythings that Jesus said, but not all. These two sentences say: means: 'Woe unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger'. The closest similar sentence from Matthew is: Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. (Matthew 5:6). In general, when people are full, then they are not looking for more. And, most of the people who were full, in that day, were also rich and not looking for the message from Jesus. Regardless if these sentences are applied physically or spiritually, Jesus is warning that things will change in their lifetime. And, we always need to be prepared for change.
C6-S27 : the third warning.
1. Like the prior two sentences, this sentence, and the next, are not included in the account by Matthew. In general, people who laugh now are enjoying their physical life and not looking for the true spiritual life which requires us to be willing to suffer in order to serve God. However, when people die lost, they will mourn and weep. Thus, most people who laugh now are on their way to Hell.
C6-S29 : the fourth warning.
1. This sentence, and the next, are not included in the account by Matthew. The closest similar sentence from Matthew is: Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. (Matthew 5:12). Thus, we see that when all men shall speak well of you then you are pleasing their sinful nature and not rebuking sin.
C6-S31 : First instruction on how to change your life.
1. The word But means that this phrase is continuing the subject of the prior phrase while changing direction. in this case, Jesus is instructing us on how to act differently from people who seek to be popular in this world.
2. The phrase But I say unto you which hear means: 'Jesus is speaking to people who are willing to hear a spiritual message which goes against the wisdom of this world'.
3. The phrase Love your enemies means: 'This is only possible if we are extending God's love'. God loved us while we were sinners and He wants to use us to extend His love to other sinners.
4. The phrase do good to them which hate you means: 'When we act opposite of what people expect, after a time they will wonder why and that is when we can give them the Gospel'.
5. The phrase Bless them that curse you means: 'Most people who will curse a true Christian had a prior experience with someone who claimed to be a Christian, and then did them wrong. There are times when we must accept abuse in order to deliver a true testimony of what a true Christian is like'.
6. The phrase and pray for them which despitefully use you means: 'The best way to change such people is to get them truly saved and let Jesus change them'. And, even if they don't get saved and changed, God puts righteousness in our Heavenly account when we act this way.
C6-S32 : Second instruction on how to change your life.
1. Our sentence adds what to do when someone treats us worse than expressed in the prior sentence This is also reported in Matthew 5:38-39). Liars claim that Jesus changed the Mosaic Law where it says an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. However, those passages were speaking about what the court is to give as a punishment for someone found guilty of doing a crime. Here, Jesus is speaking about our personal interactions with another person. Even in the Mosaic Law God had different rules for our personal interactions as compared to what the court was to do with criminals. Therefore, this is not a change to the Mosaic Law and -people who claim otherwise are repeating a lie which they did not bother to verify.
2. The phrase unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other means: 'If we made someone so mad that they turn violent, then prove to them that you will not react like they would'.
3. The phrase and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not to take thy coat also means: 'This is speaking about losing a fight that went to a court of law. We are to go out of our way to make up for any wrong that we did to another person'.
C6-S33 : third instruction on how to change your life.
1. Our current sentence deals with our attitude about money.
2. The phrase Give to every man that asketh of thee means: 'This commandment assumes that you have available what is requested and that giving it will not put you into debt'. God provides some of His people with an abundance so that they can display God's nature if giving. Refusing to show God's nature can bring a judgment from God upon our finances.
3. The phrase and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again means: 'We are to depend upon God for our needs'. Several times I have loaned money to others. When I tried to collect what was owed, God did not help me. When I obeyed this commandment, God took care of my financial needs and God punished the thief.
C6-S34 : Fourth instruction on how to change your life.
1. Our sentence adds how to deal with people who do us wrong. Notice that we are to not treat them as they treated us. This is very much related to Matthew 6:12-14 where Jesus tells us to forgive and why we want to do so.
2. The phrase And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise. means: 'God treats us according to how we treat others, especially when they do us wrong'.
C6-S35 : First reason why we should follow these Godly instructions.
1. Our sentence starts with the word For, which means that it is giving us the reason why the prior sentence is true. Our sentence says: For if ye love them which love you, what thank have ye? In addition, our next sentence days: for sinners also love those that love them. Thus, when we act like sinners of the world, we destroy any basis for claiming that God changes the truly saved. And, without a God-caused change, sinners of the world can claim that they will go to Heaven while living a life of sin. No, our original sentence says: what thank have ye?. God wants us to live a life which shows a God-caused change and justifies God giving us everlasting rewards, in heaven, as a thanks for letting God use our life as a testimony to the lost.
C6-S37 : Why the prior question was true.
1. Our sentence starts with the word For, which means that it is giving us another reason why we are to follow the commandments from Jesus. Our sentence says: And if ye do good to them which do good to you, what thank have ye? In addition, our next sentence days: for sinners also do even the same. Thus, just like the prior reason, we have to display a God-caused change life before our witness is accepted by lost people.
C6-S39 : Our sentence is giving us another reason why we are to follow the commandments from Jesus. Our sentence adds consideration of money. Our sentence says: And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? In addition, our next sentence days: for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again. This is how banks make money. They lend to people with a good credit rating and refuse to lend to people with a poor credit rating. We are to lend to people with a good spiritual rating from God. Thus, just like the prior reason, we have to display a God-caused change life before our witness is accepted by lost people.
C6-S41 : third reason why we should follow these Godly instructions.
1. Our sentence starts with the word But, which means that this phrase is continuing the subject of the prior phrase while changing direction. In the prior several sentences Jesus described how worldly sinners dealt with certain circumstances. Now, Jesus is telling us how we are to act different so that we have a true testimony of a God-caused changed life.
2. The phrase But love ye your enemies means: 'The first action to do. Show God's love to people who try to hurt you'. We are not here to do what we want but the truly saved are here to deliver God's message to the lost world and that includes the message which we deliver by our actions and by our lifestyle .
3. The phrase and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again means: 'The second and third actions to do. We are to rely on God for all of our physical needs. If it costs us in this world to do good or if we lend, hoping for nothing again, while we rely on God to provide fort our physical needs, then we have a testimony of God providing regardless of things which happen in this physical world'.
4. The phrase and your reward shall be great means: 'The promise from God for doing things God's way. Our reward is received in Heaven where we can not lose it'.
5. The phrase and ye shall be the children of the Highest means: 'The results of our doing the commandments of this sentence'. Please see the Doctrinal Studies called: Significant Gospel Events for references to many promises from God.
6. The phrase for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil means: 'This is the character of God which He wants displayed in the lives of all saved'. This is the reason why this chapter tells us to act this way.
C6-S42 : Act like God to show that you are a child of God.
1. Our sentence adds what characteristic from God the Father we are to display.
2. The phrase Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful means: 'The saved are not in this world to pursue their own pleasure but are here to be messengers from God the Father. Therefore, our character is to also display the message from God the Father'.
C6-S43 : Treat others like you want God to treat you. only part of this sentence is usually preached and the context is often ignored.
1. Our sentence adds that we are to treat others in the way that we want God the Father to treat us.
2. The phrase Judge not is the first phrase of this sentence. Devil-motivated people take this phrase completely out of context and treat it as an independent sentence which is directly opposite from what the word of God tells us elsewhere. In reality, we need to include at least the second phrase which says: and ye shall not be judged. Then we also need to consider that John 7:24 tells us to do righteous judgment and John 16:8; Acts 24:25; Romans 2:5; 2Thessaloi and 1:5; Revelation 16:7 and Revelation 19:2 tells us that God does righteous judgment and we are to accept God's judgment. The fact is that we will all be judged according to the word of God. Therefore, id we judge according to the word of God, we add nothing to our own judgment. No, this first phrase is telling us to not use worldly judgment.
3. The phrase condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned means: 'These phrases use the same logic as the prior two phrases. Only a fool wants to be condemned by God'.
4. The phrase forgive, and ye shall be forgiven means: 'We are to forgive others like we want God to forgive us'. This doctrine is also perverted and taught wrongly. Please see other references to the word forgive in order to find the full true Biblical doctrine of this word.
5. The phrase Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom means: 'This also is usually preached as an independent precept with no consideration of the fact that it is only part of a sentence and must be considered within the context that it is found in'. Please see the Detailed Note for more on the doctrine of these phrases. Basically, we are to give to God's people, and especially to those taking the Gospel to the world, like we want God to give to us. The main consideration is that how we give is a demonstration to God about how we want Him to have men give to us.
C6-S44 : this sentence concludes this sub-section of sentences. Our sentence starts with the word For, which means that it is giving us the reason why all of the prior sentences are true. Our sentence states the precept that underlines all of the prior sentences. It says: For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. Simply put: 'How we treat others shows God how we want to be treated'.
C6-S45 says: And he spake a parable unto them, Can the blind lead the blind? Our next sentence adds: shall they not both fall into the ditch?. The two sentences complete the parable. We also read this parable in Matthew 15:10-11.We also read this parable in Matthew 15:10-11. This parable teaches that the religious leaders were spiritually blind and that their doctrine would lead all of their followers to disaster (shall they not both fall into the ditch?).
C6-S47 : You can't teach God how to act right.
1. Our sentence adds another consideration.
2. The phrase The disciple is not above his master means: 'We do not get to correct the person who teaches us spiritual maturity'.
3. The phrase but every one that is perfect shall be as his master means: 'If we become spiritually mature then we will have a character that is like Jesus Christ'.
C6-S48, and the next two sentences, adds a parable which teaches us to fix our own life instead of trying to fix the life of another person.
1. Our sentence starts with the word And, which means it is teaching the same type of lesson as the prior parable. The prior parable taught against false doctrines from religion. This parable teaches against false doctrine from the self-righteous.
2. The sentence says why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye?. Most people, who preach this parable, concentrate on the difference between the mote and the beam. And, that is a valid comparison. However, the theme of our chapter is: 'The Son of Man is Lord'. We are to obey Him and no one else. The context of our parable is people leading us into false doctrines using worldly methods. The religious man uses his religion and the proud man uses his own beliefs. And, in this parable, we see people deceived by looking at the wrong thing. We have to ask how anyons can not see a beam that is in thine own eye. The only way that it is possible is if the person is deliberately ignoring what is obviously there. And, with religion, we often see people do this especially when what is obviously there in spiritual in nature. Therefore, along with the popular lesson, we need to consider the person not seeing their own spiritual problem because they are concentrating on the small physical religious problem of another person. And, that is exactly what was happening at the start of our chapter.
C6-S49 : If you can't correct your own sin then you can't correct the sin of another.
1. Our sentence adds to the parable started in the prior sentence.
2. The phrase Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye?. Again, we have the popular preaching that is based upon the physical. However, when looking at the spiritual perspective, we see that someone who can not see the spiritual beam that is in thine own eye can not see spiritual things. Therefore, they can not help a brother with a spiritual problem. Such a person will be looking for a physical religious solution, which the religious leaders were doing at the start of our chapter.
C6-S50 : People who try to do the prior are hypocrites.
1. Our sentence adds to the parable in the prior two sentences.
2. The phrase Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother's eye. Again, we have the popular preaching that is based upon the physical. However, when looking at the spiritual perspective, we see the religious leaders claiming to be experts on spiritual matters even while they ignore the true spiritual perspective. That is why Jesus starts this sentence with: Thou hypocrite. Then He says: cast out first the beam out of thine own eye. which means: 'Get rid of your religious preconceptions which are keeping you from truly seeing the spiritual perspective'. And, after that, Jesus says: and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother's eye. However, the religious person can never truly help someone with a spiritual problem until they truly first learn to see things from the spiritual perspective.
C6-S51 : the example of nature teaches the prior sentence is true.
1. Our sentence starts with the word For, which means that it is giving us the reason why the prior teachings are true. People tend to treat these parables as if they are independent of their context. However, with this parable starting with the word For, proper interpretation demands consideration of the context.
2. The phrase For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit means: 'A truly spiritual person does not preach keeping religious rules'. The Biblical symbolic meaning of fruit is: 'new life'. The Biblical meaning of good is: 'comes from God'. The Biblical symbolic meaning of a good tree is: 'the physical source of Godly life', which is a truly saved person who shares the true Gospel. They do not preach a false Gospel of keeping religious rules.
3. The phrase neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit means: 'Someone who is relying on their keeping religious rules for their salvation and blessings from God can not preach the true Biblical Gospel and lead people to true salvation (good fruit)'.
4. Our parable starts with the word For, which means that it is giving us the reason why the prior teachings are true. Earlier, Jesus taught about people who teach doctrinal error, which are represented by the corrupt tree in our parable. So also is the man with the beam that is in his own eye?. We are to reject teachings from these sources or we can become corrupt.
C6-S52 says: For every tree is known by his own fruit. This sentence gives us a second reason why the prior teachings are true. An apple tree, a mango tree, and all fruit trees are known by the type of fruit they bear. Each natural type of tree can only produce one type of fruit. Likewise, at a more general level, each procedure can only produce one result. Results are directly tied to the procedure which produce them. Religious activities do in this physical world can not produce spiritual results. However, obedience to spiritual commands from a personal relationship with God does produce spiritual results.
C6-S53 says: For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble bush gather they grapes. This is a more detailed sentence related to the prior two sentences and the use of universal truth about natural fruit bearing plants to teach a spiritual truth.
C6-S54 : the application of the prior teachings.
1. The phrase A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good means: 'Our heart is the source of all which is good'. The more we become like Jesus Christ, the more our heart will produce good.
2. The phrase and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil means: 'Trusting in anything which turns us away from God and the word of God is evil'.
3. The phrase for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh means: 'Why the prior two phrases are true'. Our heart controls how we truly think and act. Please also see Matthew 15:10-20 and Mark 7:6-23.
C6-S55 : How to prove your own heart.
1. Our sentence adds the application of these teachings to our own personal life.
2. The phrase why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? means: 'There are people who call Jesus Lord, Lord but are not truly saved'. (Matthew 7:21-22; Matthew 25:11 and Luke 13:25). These lost people do not live what they profess. They do not have a personal intimate relationship with Jesus Christ whereby He gives them personal commands for how to live.
C6-S56 : Start of the parable of the builders.
1. Our sentence adds the parable about 'House on Rock and Sand'. It is also found in the Table of Parables in the New Testament and Matthew 7:24-29.
2. The phrase Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like means: 'The emphasis is on hear and do'. Please see the Detailed Note for more details on this parable.
3. The phrase He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock means: 'This person took the time and expense to build a solid life'. They won't have all of the fun that someone has who spends their early adulthood chasing the pleasures of flesh and this world. They won't have the fancy life and apparent success of someone who chases fameans success in this world. But, as the rest of this sentence says, they will survive the storms that come to every life.
4. The phrase and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock means: 'The Rock is a type of Christ. This person is not just saved but is having Christ control their every day life'.
C6-S57 : How the foolish build their life.
1. The word But means that this phrase is continuing the subject of the prior phrase while changing direction. This sentence has the rest of the parable about 'House on Rock and Sand', which was started in the prior sentence. Please see the Detailed Note for more details on this parable.
2. The phrase But he that heareth, and doeth not means: 'The emphasis is on the words doeth not. He may obey some times but . . 'but does not have a lifestyle (doeth) of obedience.
3. The phrase is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth means: 'This person built larger and faster than the person in the prior sentence. He is concentrating his life on early success. This is typical of the carnal saved person who thinks they can have all that this world has to offer and still get a mansion right next to peter'.
4. The phrase against which the stream did beat vehemently means: 'Storms come to every life'.
5. The phrase and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great means: 'God will use such a failure for a lesson to others'.

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Interpretive Study of Luke's Gospel - Summary

Gospel theme: Jesus is the Son of Man.

God's Way to Study His Word:

Overview of Luke's Gospel

Gospel theme: Jesus is the Son of Man.

Chapter 1 Summary:

The introduction of Luke's Gospel.

Chapter 2 Summary:

The Birth and Early Childhood of Jesus.

Chapter 3 Summary:

The Ministry of John the Baptist and lineage of Jesus.

Chapter 4 Summary:

The Start of the Ministry of Jesus.

Chapter 5 Summary:

The Response And Rejection of Faith.

Chapter 6 Summary:

The Son of Man is Lord.

Contact: Webmaster@LJC1611KJV.com. Member of Tower Road Baptist Church, Abq., NM, U.S.A., 87121. Copyright 2009 Lord Jesus Christ in the 1611KJV. All rights reserved. Revised: 02/27/24.