Sunday: Seeking a Sign — Luke 11:14-36
One of the earthly trials Jesus faced was that others were constantly testing Him. In this passage they were looking for a sign as to Jesus’s power and authority. Jesus explained that His authority obviously came from God since He was ridding the demon from the man, not the other way around. Jesus also pointed out that they already had the signs of the prophets, yet they still didn’t understand. God made known His mysteries and revealed His saving purpose through the prophets. But because of their hard hearts, the people were spiritually blind to the truth.
Monday: Warnings about Scribes & Pharisees — Luke 11:37-54
The warning to the Scribes and Pharisees was a direct teaching against using the Word of God for our own selfish purposes. When we try to make God’s Word say what we want it to say or mean what we want it to mean, we pervert it. All three groups Jesus referenced were well-versed in the law. It was their responsibility to know the scriptures, to preserve them for future generations, to explain them, and interpret them, particularly in the area of God’s salvation. In the days of Jesus, they seemed to be doing the opposite: instead of pointing the people towards God’s salvation, they were pointing the people away.
Tuesday: Warnings about Hypocrisy — Luke 12:1-12
The word hypocrite comes from the Greek word hypokrinomai, meaning to act in secret. The Greeks used the term in reference to stage actors. The actors would disguise themselves as particular characters using masks. In the same way, a hypocrite wears a disguise. Their true self is hidden from what they show publicly. They take on a persona to fit each circumstance and hide the real characteristics of themselves. It is as if they are playing to an audience, disregarding truth and the spiritual effect on their souls.
Wednesday: Warnings about Wealth — Luke 12:13-34
Jesus warned about trusting in wealth. He instructed the disciples that their treasures are in heaven, not here on earth. We have one opportunity to give of our lives to the work of the Kingdom and one opportunity to bless others on this earth—there’s no “second life” to get it right. We are just vessels. What we receive is to be freely given because it’s not about us—it’s about what we allow God to pour out through us.
Thursday: Warning against Being Unprepared — Luke 12:35-48
In this parable, the master has gone to a wedding and the servants are awaiting His return. Even though He is delayed, they are ready. Jesus draws the analogy that His servants are not just to be working servants but also waiting servants. Jesus compared their state of watchfulness to being ready and equipped to catch a thief who was going to break into their homes in the middle of the night.
Friday: Warning about Division — Luke 12:49-53
Jesus knew that the Word of God would convict hearts though the power of the Holy Spirit. When hearts are convicted, some are converted and some rebel. This is what creates the division that Jesus is referring to.
Saturday: Warning about Failing to Discern the Times — Luke 12:54-13:9
In the previous verses, Jesus was teaching His disciples about living in anticipation. They are to live with commitment, passion and expectancy. How we live is just as important as why. Since His return is imminent, Jesus instructed that we need to make sure our lives and earthly affairs are in good shape because we will all face the Judge.