The Perfect Gift for your Favorite Mobster

Luke 7: 1 – 10

When is a time that you have been absolutely amazed at someone?

For what reasons might it be quite odd for the elders to be encouraging this rabbi to help this soldier?
What seems to be the motivations of the elders in pursing Jesus’ assistance?
What reasons do you suppose Jesus has for choosing to help this guy?
Who are some people that you find it particularly difficult to serve?
How can you change your attitudes towards those you tend to exclude?

What does it show about the character of this guy that he sends a contingent to refuse hospitality to Jesus?
Describe this man’s perspective on the concept of authority.
How does his view of authority help inform his perspective on Jesus’ ministry?
What does his statement of his view imply about who he believes Jesus to be?
What in your everyday life or career points you towards a deeper understanding of Jesus?

What is so incredible about this guy’s faith that it actually impresses Jesus?
Why does Jesus go ahead and heal this servant from a distance?
How can you go about developing an “amazing” level of faith in your life?