Luke 17: Faith, Forgiveness, and the Kingdom
An expository study of Luke 17, focusing on faith, forgiveness, and the coming Kingdom.
1. Faith and Forgiveness
1.1 The Seriousness of Stumbling Blocks (Luke 17:1-2)
Verses: Luke 17:1-2
- Jesus emphasizes the seriousness of causing others to stumble.
- It is better to suffer personal hardship than to lead someone astray.
1.2 The Imperative of Forgiveness (Luke 17:3-4)
Verses: Luke 17:3-4
- Forgiveness is not optional; it's a command.
- We must forgive even repeated offenses.
2. The Nature and Power of Faith
2.1 Apostles' Plea for Increased Faith (Luke 17:5)
Verses: Luke 17:5
- The apostles recognize their need for increased faith.
- Faith is not about quantity but quality and application.
2.2 The Power of Faith (Luke 17:6)
Verses: Luke 17:6
- Even a small amount of faith, when properly applied, can accomplish great things.
- Faith connects us to the power of the Almighty.
3. Humility in Service
3.1 The Parable of the Unworthy Servant (Luke 17:7-10)
Verses: Luke 17:7-10
- Servants are expected to fulfill their duties without expecting special praise.
- Our service to the Almighty should be motivated by love and obedience, not a desire for recognition.
4. Gratitude and Faith
4.1 The Cleansing of the Ten Lepers (Luke 17:11-16)
Verses: Luke 17:11-16
- Ten lepers are healed, but only one, a Samaritan, returns to give thanks.
- Gratitude is a vital aspect of faith and demonstrates a proper understanding of grace.
4.2 The Importance of Gratitude (Luke 17:17-19)
Verses: Luke 17:17-19
- The Samaritan's faith made him whole, both physically and spiritually.
- Expressing gratitude is an act of worship that deepens our relationship with the Almighty.
5. The Kingdom and the Return
5.1 The Coming of the Kingdom (Luke 17:20-21)
Verses: Luke 17:20-21
- The Kingdom of the Almighty is not a visible, earthly kingdom that can be observed.
- The Kingdom is within you; it's a spiritual reality experienced through faith and obedience.
5.2 The Day of the Son of Man (Luke 17:22-30)
Verses: Luke 17:22-30
- The days of the Son of Man will be unexpected and sudden, like lightning.
- We must be prepared for His return at all times.
5.3 The Need for Readiness (Luke 17:31-33)
Verses: Luke 17:31-33
- We must not cling to earthly possessions or relationships when the call comes.
- Lot's wife serves as a warning against looking back with longing at the world we have left behind.
5.4 The Final Separation (Luke 17:34-37)
Verses: Luke 17:34-37
- The judgment will be selective; some will be taken, and others left.
- Where the body is, there the eagles will gather, signifying judgment and separation.