Mon, 22 January 2018
INTRODUCTION Jesus is baptized near the end of Luke 3. Then Luke, in Chapter 4, records the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. The first thing Jesus experiences is his temptation. During this moment Jesus demonstrates his reliance on the Word of God as he recites to Satan scripture that stands against Satan’s lies and temptations. Soon afterward, Jesus begins teaching his ministry in Nazareth in the Synagogue quoting scripture from Isaiah (61), which said, “the Spirit of Lord is on me.” First, the crowds marvel at Him but then turn on him, claiming He had blasphemed. Jesus in Chapter 5 moves from Nazareth to Capernaum, where he finds a family of fishermen open to Him and his ministry (Peter, James, and John). Every move Jesus made seems controversial: healings, Sabbath practices, and even his association/friendships, and his powerful demonstrations were capturing the public’s attention. It seems like he postured for great success. How does he move forward?
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