Luke 17: 1 -19
When have you thought you have been treated unfairly at work?
Read verses 1 – 2. Who is it that Jesus thinks deserves to be drowned? Why is Jesus so stern with this saying? What are some ways you tend to hurt or use other people in your life? How can you become a more positive influence on other disciples?
Read verses 3 – 4. Describe Jesus’ standard and pattern of forgiveness. Why does he tell the disciples to “be on your guard” in this area of their lives? Think of someone you need to forgive in your life. How can you take steps towards doing that this week?
Read verses 5 – 6. Why do the disciples think they need increased faith? What is Jesus saying about the nature of faith in his reply to them? Why does faith work that way? How can we have more effective faith?
Read the story in verses 7 – 10. The concept of slavery is obviously more distant in our culture than in theirs. What are some more contemporary images that communicate similarly what Jesus is saying in the story? Why would it be silly for slaves to expect special treatment after a normal day’s work? What are some attitudes Jesus wants his disciples to have, and what are some attitudes he expects his disciples to avoid? What needs to change in your attitude about your discipleship? How does a person go about changing their attitude?
Read the experience in verses 11 – 19. Imagine you are one of the men with leprosy, describe your everyday life. What emotions are going through your heart as Jesus passes by? How does Jesus go about healing them? Why do you think he heals them in this indirect kind of way? What does the Samaritan display about his character by his return to Jesus? What do the others show about themselves by not returning? Why does Jesus view this as a particularly tragic? Do you think the others remain healed from their disease? Why or why not? What are some ways Jesus has brought healing into your life? How can you better show your gratitude to him for what he has done for you?
Why has Luke compiled all of these stories into the same narrative context? What similar themes run throughout all the pericopes? How can we help each other develop the attitudes Jesus wants his followers to have?
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