Luke Chapter 6

The Twelve Apostles were Chosen.
(Read Luke 6:1-19)
In the Old Testament, God had instructed Israel to rest on the Sabbath day. It was given to reflect on God’s faithfulness. Religious leaders focused on its external observation rather than the internal motives of the heart.  They continued in the Sabbath controversy to destroy Jesus. The two Sabbath stories warn us against the human tendency to misuse the Sabbath for selfish purposes.  The gospel teaches us not to live according to man made rules but by faith. Jesus healed a man with a deformed right hand on Sabbath.  Pharisees criticized him for healing on Sabbath.  Jesus shows that Christians should have compassion toward those in need. God is not pleased with heartless obedience.  Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath.  Read notes on Matthew 12:1-8.  From the large company of disciples, Jesus selected twelve apostles (Matthew 10:2-4).  Before choosing the apostles Jesus prayed to God all night. Prayer must precede all important decisions.  The names of the apostles are given in verses 14-16. Unlike modern-day healers, Jesus healed all who came to him.
 
The Sermon on the Mount.
(Read Luke 6:20-46)
This sermon is parallel to the Beatitudes given in Matthew 5-7. This is God’s vision of his people and his Kingdom. Only the gospel of God brings blessings and wholeness in this fallen world.  But in this fallen world this blessedness often looks like poverty, hunger, weeping and persecution (Luke 6:23; James 1:2-4).  Christians should rejoice in trials because they prepare them for the kingdom of God (Acts 14:22). Jesus commanded us to love our enemies. Few things are more difficult than loving our enemies. The gospel alone teaches this great truth (Luke 6:35).  We must be merciful as our Father in heaven is merciful (Psalms 103:13-14). Jesus spoke extensively about money.   All our material possessions belong to God and we are only caretakers. Only the cheerful giver knows the joy of giving.  God blesses us with more wealth when we give more generously. It is human nature to see our brother’s faults while overlooking our own.  We must correct our own faults before we correct the faults of others. Like the fruits resemble the inward qualities of the tree, our lives must reflect Christ's character.  Our speech is the barometer of our spiritual condition (Luke 6:45).  Christians should avoid anger, bitterness, and irritation.  A transformed life will reflect joy, sympathy and love.  Jesus said to the professing followers “Why do you call me “Lord, Lord”, and do not do the things which I say”.   Those who love Jesus will obey his Word (John 14:15).  Pray that God would help you to turn away from sin and live in obedience to Christ. 
 
Build on the Solid Foundation:
(Read Luke 6:47-49) 
Jesus explains the difference between those who listen to his teaching and those who obey him. They are like one who builds the house on sand and those who build on rock. They may look similar in many respects. The only thing that set them apart was their foundation.  When the storms of life hit us, the true foundation will be revealed. Many people hear the Word of God but don't obey. When God changes our hearts he also gives us a desire to obey his Word. Only obedience brings joy in Christian life. Those who build their lives on the foundation of Christ will persevere through the trials. Such a person will be able to withstand even the most severe tempest because he is grounded in the rock solid teachings of the Lord.  Upon which foundation are you building your Christian life? Read notes on Matthew 7:24-27.