THE SECRETS OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD
Luke 8:1-21
Key Verse: 8:10a
1. What was Jesus continuing to do (1a; 4:43)? Who was with Jesus (1b-3a; 6:13)? What grace had these women received from Jesus? How did this grace enable them to serve Jesus and the Twelve (3b)?
2. In what way did Jesus proclaim the good news to the crowds (4-8a; Ps 78:2)? What happened to the seed in each of the soils? What does it mean to have ears to hear (8b)? Read verse 10a. What privilege was given to whom and why (9-10)?
3. How do the different soils represent different heart attitudes toward the word of God (11-15)? What does it mean to have a noble and good heart, and how can we do so? What hope does Jesus have for those who hear his words?
4. What is the purpose of lighting a lamp and putting it on a stand (16)? How is this related to Jesus proclaiming the gospel (17)? What does it mean to “consider carefully how you listen” (18)? What impact will this have?
5. What did Jesus say when his mother and brothers stood outside waiting to see him (19-21)? Why does Jesus emphasize hearing God’s word and putting it into practice? How does Jesus consider those who do so?