Chapter Summary

Jesus preaching and healing in Galilee. Parable of the sower, the lighted candle. Stilling of the waves. Demons cast out of man of Gadara. Healing of a woman. Raising of Jairus' daughter.

Discussion Questions for Luke, Chapter 8

1. How do the different types of soil found in the parable of the sower found in Luke 8:4-15 represent various responses to the message of the Gospel? How can we cultivate "good soil" in our lives to receive the Word effectively?
2. After reading the parable of placing a light under a jar found in Luke 8:16-18, what suggestions do you have about how can we balance personal growth and understanding with our responsibility to shine a light for others through our actions and words?
3. When Jesus says in Luke 8:21, "My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it," what is he emphasizing about the nature of spiritual relationships? How significant is the role of spiritual relationships in today's society? Why?
4. How might the disciples' experience on the stormy sea mirror the challenges and uncertainties we face in life? How does Jesus' response provide reassurance?
5. We are told about Jesus's encounter with demon possessed man in Luke 8:26-39. How might we apply the themes of deliverance, healing, and restoration to areas of brokenness in our lives and in society?
6. How can we cultivate faith and persistence, like the woman who reached out to touch Jesus' garment, as we seek healing and restoration in our own lives? How has your faith help you during times of crisis in your life?
7. The same seed is planted in all types of soil in the parable of the sower. Based on the parable, why should we be concerned about who we share the gospel with? How can we determine the "soil" we encounter in different peoples' lives?
8. Jesus encounters a demon possessed man in Luke 8. Do you believe demonic possession is real? How has movies affected the belief in demonic possession in today's culture?
9. Why do you think Jesus asks the disciples "Where is your faith?" in Luke 8:25 after He calms the sea? Why do we as believers go in cycles with our faith in difficult times? How does God's faithfulness reassure you in times of need?
10. When we begin to share our faith and not hide it under a jar, what are some challenges we face in being open and authentic about our faith, and how can we overcome those challenges?

Key Words/Phrase

Preaching and showing, v. 1. (See v. 4, preaching; vv. 25, 35, 48, 55, shewing.)

Characters

God, Jesus, Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Susanna, Jesus' mother and brothers, disciples, the Gadarene, Jairus, woman with issue of blood, Peter, servant of Jairus, James, John, daughter of Jairus.

Strong Verse(s)

11, 17, 18, 21, 39.