Archbishop Peter Jensen’s weekly online series on The Essential Jesus (the gospel of Luke). In each study the Archbishop will lead us through the book we intend on giving away to as many people as possible.
STEP 1: READING
Read Luke chapter 8, verses 26-56.
STEP 2: REFLECTION
The ministry of Jesus was an all out assault on the forces which enslave us. Here are three stupendous examples of his power. The demon-possessed man had a legion of spirits, not just one. The daughter of Jairus perished before Jesus arrived. Another victory for death. The despairing, alienated woman who touched him was beyond any cure. By the time Jesus had dealt with them, Legion was telling his people what Jesus had done for him, the woman had been restored to life and relationships and the little girl alive and eating. Magnificent! The inner power of his ministry was the transforming experience of forgiveness. The outward power of his ministry was the defeat of our enemies which fills us with hope and confidence about the coming age of victory over death and evil. And the secret of accessing the power of Jesus? Faith: trusting yourself to him.
STEP 3: DISCUSSION
1 Why are Jairus and the woman with the flow of blood models of faith?
2 How do we explain the connection between the victory of Jesus in these passages and the present situation of evil, death and sickness?
3. What answer does this passage give to the question of who Jesus is and what he came to do? Is this passage asking us to emulate Jesus or to trust him?
Ask your questions
Ask your questions about each study as it goes up.
Previous studies click here and scroll down
Prepare for the next study by reading Luke chapter 9.
