Study Journal: Luke 16-19

Additional Resources:

• New Testament Student Manual
• Bible Gateway - Luke 18:1-8

Notes

• Luke 16:1-12 - It would seem that this parable condones the actions and dishonesty of the unjust steward. However, the steward wasn't commended for his dishonesty, he was commended for his prudence and wisdom. (Student Manual) Thus, if he was so careful to prepare for his temporal future, how much more careful should we be as we prepare for our eternal future. Shouldn't we be taking action so that we have "friends" in heaven that will be ready to welcome us in?

• Luke 16:13-18 - The rich man and Lazarus both had the opportunity to go to heaven. It isn't that the rich can't go to heaven or that the poor will always go to heaven. However, because of the way that the rich man acted during his life, even all his riches couldn't save him. It's important that we learn to use our temporal resources wisely so that we can attain the kingdom of Heaven.

• Luke 18:1-8 - In this parable, we learn a lot about how we need to be persistent in asking God for help. If we are persistent, we show how important that for which we are asking is important to us. We need to persevere, even when it seems hopeless, with the faith that God hears our cries. As we do, He will exhaust our prayers. (Student Manual)

  Also, interestingly enough, we get to learn about God and his perfection as he compares it to the imperfect tendencies of the natural man. We get to see how willing God is to serve justice by seeing how even an apathetic judge eventually serves justice for the widow. (Student Manual)

  This parable also contains a lesson for leadership. As a leader, one has received authority from God and, if God wills it, will serve justice according to his position. Thus, even if we work in an imperfect system, with corruption and malice, we can know that the work of the Lord is always moving forward. (Bible Gateway)

• Luke 18:9-14 - I love this verse because of the fearless denunciation of the Pharisees' hypocrisy. He puts the publican, one of the most despised people, above the Pharisee, because of his humility and desire to become better. Though Pharisees were often highly esteemed in the community, they were not very receptive to Christ's teachings, and they often rejected them. Though they pretended to be obedient to the law, in reality, they were doing everything for show. (Student Manual)