Chapter Summary

Centurion's servant healed. Widow's son raised. Questions from John the Baptist in prison and Jesus' testimony. Jesus annointed in the Pharisee's house. Parable of the creditor and two debtors.

Discussion Questions for Luke, Chapter 7

1. The centurion demonstrates remarkable faith by recognizing Jesus' authority and power. How does his humility in approaching Jesus contrast with his societal position of leader and one in authority? What is the role of humility in today's culture? If a person exhibits humility in juxtaposition to their position, are they accepted in our culture today? Why or why not?
2. The story highlights Jesus' compassion for the widow who lost her son in Luke 7:11-17. How does this event emphasize Jesus' concern for those who are marginalized or grieving? What are some different ways that we can show compassion to those that are grieving?
3. John the Baptist sends his disciples to ask Jesus if he is the expected Messiah. How does Jesus respond to this doubt? How are we confident that Jesus is indeed the Savior of the world?
4. What does Jesus' response to the woman that wiped Jesus's feet with her tears found in Luke 7:36-50 teach us about the nature of forgiveness and the role of genuine repentance in our lives? How can we show appreciation for the work Jesus does in our lives?
5. In what ways might our own preconceived notions or biases affect our ability to recognize and respond to divine teachings? What is one spiritual teaching in today's society that you think we misunderstand? Why?
6. Mary Magdalene's act of anointing Jesus' feet with perfume in Luke 7:44-50 is an expression of deep love and devotion. How can acts of radical love and sacrifice transform both the giver and the recipient?
7. How can we discern true wisdom in our lives and communities based on the results it produces? Does wisdom always have the appearance of goodness in a person's life? Why or why not?
8. How does the parable found Luke 7:41-47 emphasize the connection between forgiveness and love? What insights can we gain about our relationships with God and others through the teaching?
9. How can we practice radical love and devotion in our relationships with others and in our spiritual journey?
10. John the Baptist was beginning to have doubts about Jesus in Luke 7:18:35 How do we navigate periods of doubt in our own faith journeys? What can we learn from Jesus' response to doubt?

Key Words/Phrase

Healer and For giver, vv. 10, 48.

Characters

God, Jesus, centurion's servant, centurion, man who was raised, his mother, John the Baptist, Pharisees, sinful woman, Simon.

Strong Verse(s)

7, 23, 47, 50.