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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.