15 - Faith and Fear (Luke 7:1-17)

Faith and Fear

Luke 7:1-17

Faith in and fear of God are not opposed to each other, but two essential aspects of a heart that impresses God.

I. Faith (vv. 1-10)

A. A Worthy (and Wealthy!) Patriot (vv. 2-5)

B. An Unworthy Servant (vv. 6-8; 2 Kings 5:1-14)

C. Amazing Faith (vv. 9-10)

II. Fear (vv. 11-17)

A. Comforter of Widows (vv. 11-15; 1 Kings 19:8-24)

B. When God Visits His People (vv. 15-17)

C. Faith and Fear (v. 14)

D. Seeing Jesus (vv. 7, 16; 24:15-16, 30-31)

Discussion Starters

1. Monday—What are different ways people are tempted to think they can control God? What are ways you have been tempted to think God owes you or that you can force him to do your will?

2. Tuesday—Why do the Jewish leaders think that the centurion is worthy of Jesus’ kindness? Why does the centurion disagree? Who is worthy (deserves) God’s healing and kindness?

3. Wednesday—What does Jesus find so amazing about the faith of the centurion? How does this differ from what people (even Christians) often seek after or admire when it comes to faith?

4. Thursday—Why is it shocking that Jesus would touch the casket (bier) at the funeral? What does this tell us about who Jesus is and what he intends to do before his time on earth is done?

5. Friday—How should the fact that the centurion never saw Jesus comfort you? Where do we learn to see Jesus while in this life?