Textual Studies From The Gospel Of Luke & The Acts Of The Apostles

Lesson 4 – Jesus’ Birth 2:1-20 Mary would have been 3 months pregnant returning from Elizabeth cp. 1:56 Joseph would have thought her to have been unfaithful to him cp. Mt 1:19-20 The couple must go to Bethlehem to register for the census vv. 1, 3-4

Lesson 4 – Jesus’ Birth 2:1-20 While in Bethlehem, Mary gives birth vv. 6-7 They had to stay in the stable (barn) Jesus’ crib was a feeding trough (manger) Indicative re: the King of kings cp. Mt 20:28 Nearby shepherds are invited vv No wise men (nativity scenes) cp. Mt 2:11

Lesson 4 – Jesus Early On 2:21-52 Circumcised at 8 days v. 21 cp. Gen 17:12 Taken to the temple at 40 days vv cp. Ex 13:2, 12 Lev 12:2-8 Simeon holds Him, prophecies vv Salvation for all people vv Mary to have her soul pierced v. 35

Lesson 4 – Jesus Early On 2:21-52 Anna also sees Him, prophecies vv “Grows up” in Nazareth vv He continued to grow, become strong He increased in wisdom…God’s grace on Him To Jerusalem for “Bar Mizvah” vv Now a “son of the commandment” at age 12

Lesson 4 – Jesus Early On 2:21-52 To Jerusalem for “Bar Mizvah” vv He does not accompany the family back home He is “found” 3 days later Joseph & Mary didn’t seem “pleased” v. 48 Jesus was “surprised” at them v. 49 The teachers were amazed at Him v. 47

Lesson 4 – Jesus Early On 2:21-52 A “summary” of His youth v. 52 He returns home with His parents, being “subject” to them v. 51 He conducted Himself before God & men faithfully This verse covers approx. 18 years cp. 3:23

Lesson 4 – John’s Ministry 3:1-20 Luke provides “dates” vv. 1-2a John’s time has come vv. 2b-6 cp. 1:80 This will fulfill prophecy Isa 40:3-5 John’s preaching… Emphasized the need for repentance and being spiritual descendants of Abraham vv. 7-8

Lesson 4 – John’s Ministry 3:1-20 John’s preaching… Warned of judgment to come to those who did not repent vv. 3, 7, 9 Advised people to conduct themselves honorably in all their behavior vv

Lesson 4 – John’s Ministry 3:1-20 John was continually questioned about his identity…was he the Christ? vv He repeatedly pointed to One who was to be “mightier” and “more worthy” than he John’s preaching (i.e. rebuking sin) also proved to be costly vv

Lesson 4 – Jesus’ Baptism 3:21-22 Jesus asks John to baptize Him cp. Mt 3:13 Not for “remission of sins” but “to fulfill all righteousness” Mt 3:15 John had been previously told by God how to recognize the Messiah Jn 1:31-33 Jesus’ baptism provided such a “sign”