May 10 – Luke 24:46-49
Main Focus: The Great Commission
That Christ should suffer is often repeated to emphasize that Jesus’ death and resurrection were necessary in order to fulfill God’s providential plan. At the heart of the plan is repentance by first beginning in Jerusalem. The promise of my Father refers to the Holy Spirit, who had been promised by the Father . The coming of the Holy Spirit had been announced by John the Baptist as a sign that the Messiah had come. The Holy Spirit would enable the disciples to fulfill their commission as Jesus’ witnesses. The futuristic present (“I am sending”) emphasizes the certainty of the Spirit’s coming. Jesus says stay in the city until the coming of the Holy Spirit.
Discussion questions
Read Luke 24:46-49
– Read vv. 46-47. According to Jesus, what must be preached in his name, and to whom? Why is it significant that this message starts in Jerusalem?
– How does verse 46 change your perspective on how the Old Testament points to Jesus? What areas of Scripture do you need to study deeper?
– Jesus tells the disciples, “You are witnesses of these things.” What specific experiences or truths about Jesus are you called to share with others?
– Jesus tells them to wait for the “promise of my Father” (the Holy Spirit). Why is it impossible to fulfill the Great Commission in our own strength? When have you tried to do ministry on your own, and what was the result?
– The disciples experienced both joy and doubt. How does Jesus handle their doubt, and what does this teach us about bringing our own hesitations to him?
– Who in your life currently needs to hear the gospel, and what is one step you can take this week to share it with them?
– Spend time in prayer asking the Holy Spirit for boldness, rather than relying on your own skills.