2 Chronicles 16:1-14

THE EYES OF THE LORD

Keywords 16:9a

For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.

 

1. Asa relied on Aram (1-9)

 In the 36th year of Asa’s reign, the king of Israel prevented anyone from leaving

or entering Asa’s territory. Instead of praying or relying on the Lord, Asa asked

Ben-Hadad, the king of Aram to save him by giving him silver and gold from the

temple. It worked. But it was a spiritual disaster. God sent Hanani to rebuke Asa’s

reliance on the king of Aram. The eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to

strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.

 

2. Asa did not repent (10-14)

 Asa was furious and put Hanani into prison. Later, when he got sick with a severe

disease, he did not seek help from the Lord. So Asa died in the 41st year of his

reign.

 

Prayer Lord, have mercy on me to keep on living by faith from the beginning to

the end!

One Word Repent and rely on the Lord to the end!

2 Chronicles 15:1-19

ASA’S REFORM

Keywords 15:7

"But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded."

 

1. Be strong and don’t give up (1-7)

 In those days Israel was idol worshiping. So God troubled them and travel was

not safe. Nation crushed each other. All the lands were in great turmoil. Then

Azariah with the Spirit of God said to Asa, “Listen, the Lord is with you when you

are with him. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he

will forsake you. But as for you, ‘Be strong and do not give up, for your work will

be rewarded.’”

 

2. The Lord gave them rest (8-19)

 So Asa took courage. He removed all the detestable idols from the whole land.

He repaired the altar of the Lord. He assembled all his people and entered into a

covenant to seek the Lord with all their heart and soul. All who would not seek the

Lord were put to death. They rejoiced because they sought God wholeheartedly.

Asa even deposed his grandmother for her Asherah worship. Asa‘s heart was fully

committed to the Lord all his life. So the Lord gave them rest on every side.

 

Prayer Lord, give us courage to remove all idols from our hearts.

One Word Be strong and don’t give up!

2 Chronicles 14:1-15

GOD BLESSED ASA WHO RELIED ON THE LORD

Keywords 14:11

Then Asa called to the LORD his God and said, "LORD, there is no one like you to help the powerless against the mighty. Help us, O LORD our God, for we rely on you, and in your name we have come against this vast army. O LORD, you are our God; do not let man prevail against you."

 

1. God gave Asa rest (1-7)

 Asa did what was good and right in the eyes of the Lord. He removed even the

high places. He commanded Judah to seek the Lord and to obey his laws and

commands. Then no one was at war with Judah, for the Lord gave him rest. He

built up the fortified cities seeking the Lord who gave them rest on every side.

 

2. The Lord gave victory to the powerless (8-15)

 Though Asa had a large number of soldiers who were all brave fighting men, he

felt powerless before the Cushites who marched out with a vast army and three

hundreds chariots. But Asa relied on the Lord who helps the powerless against

the mighty. Then the Lord struck down the Cushites. So Asa carried off a large

amount of plunder.

 

Prayer Lord, you are mighty God who gives rest to those who seek you. You give

victory to the powerless against the mighty when they rely on you.

One Word The Mighty Lord is our God!

2 Chronicles 13:1-22

AS FOR US, THE LORD IS OUR GOD

Keywords 13:10

"As for us, the LORD is our God, and we have not forsaken him. The priests who serve the LORD are sons of Aaron, and the Levites assist them."

 

1. God is with us (1-12)

 There was war between Abijah and Jeroboam. 400,000 soldiers were for Abijah

and 800,000 belonged to Jeroboam. But Abijah was not afraid of them. He

rather rebuked Jeroboam for resisting God’s kingdom given to David and his

descendants by God’s covenant and for forsaking the Lord by worshiping a gold

calf and setting up false priests. Abijah was confident that the Lord was with them

for they did not forsake God and the priests were from the Levites. He warned

Israelites not to fight against the Lord.

 

2. God routed Israel (13-22)

 But Jeroboam attacked Judah at both front and rear in ambush. Then the men of

Judah cried out to God. The priests blew their trumpets. Then God routed Israel

before Abijah. Judah could defeat the stronger enemies with a double number of

soldiers, for they relied on the Lord.

 

Prayer Lord, as for me, God is my Lord. Let me defeat all God’s enemies in

Jesus’ name.

One Word Rely on the Lord!

 

2 Chronicles 12:1-16

SHISHAK ATTACKS JERUSALEM

Keywords 12:7

When the LORD saw that they humbled themselves, this word of the LORD came to Shemaiah: "Since they have humbled themselves, I will not destroy them but will soon give them deliverance. My wrath will not be poured out on Jerusalem through Shishak."

 

1. For Rehoboam abandoned God’s laws (1-5)

 When Rehoboam became strong by God’s grace, he and Israel abandoned

the law of the Lord. Because they had been unfaithful to the Lord, Shishak king

of Egypt attacked Jerusalem. He captured the fortified cities and came near

Jerusalem. The prophet Shemaiah fearlessly went to Rehoboam and the leaders

of Judah and proclaimed, “This is what the Lord says, ‘You have abandoned me;

therefore, I now abandon you to Shishak.”

 

2. For Rehoboam humbled himself (6-16)

 Rehoboam and the leaders of Judah humbled themselves and said, “The Lord is

just.” So the Lord did not destroy Judah. Instead, God let them serve Shishak to

learn how difficult it would be to serve foreign kings instead of the Lord God the

King of kings. Still Rehoboam did evil because of the bad influence of his mother,

who was an Ammonite.

 

Prayer Lord, thank you for forgiving all of my sins when I repent.

One Word Be humble and return to the Lord.

2 Chronicles 11:1-23

THIS IS MY DOING

Keywords 11:4

" 'This is what the LORD says: Do not go up to fight against your brothers. Go home, every one of you, for this is my doing.' " So they obeyed the words of the LORD and turned back from marching against Jeroboam.

 

1. Do not go to fight Israel (1-4)

 Rehoboam wanted to fight against Northern Israel with 180,000 soldiers, but the

Lord’s prophet said, “Do not go up to fight, for this is my doing.” Thus they obeyed

God and turned back from marching against Jeroboam.

 

2. Priests and Levites came to Rehoboam (5-23)

 Rehoboam fortified many cities for defense in Judah. He put commanders in

them with supplies, shields and spears in all the cities, and made them very

strong. So Judah and Benjamin were his. Then the priests and Levites abandoned

their properties and came to Jerusalem. They left Israel because Jeroboam

appointed his own priests to worship idols. Those who set their hearts on

seeking the Lord followed them and came to offer sacrifices in Jerusalem. They

strengthened the kingdom of Judah and supported Rehoboam following the ways

of David.

 

Prayer Lord, help me to follow your will with all my heart.

One Word Follow the Sovereign Lord!

2 Chronicles 10:1-19

REHOBOAM

Keywords 10:15

So the king did not listen to the people, for this turn of events was from God, to fulfill the word the LORD had spoken to Jeroboam son of Nebat through Ahijah the Shilonite.

 

1. Rehoboam rejected good advice (1-15)

 To the new king Rehoboam, the Israelites with Jeroboam appealed, “If you

lighten the harsh labour, then we will serve you.” Rehoboam consulted both the

elders and the young men. Then he rejected the elders who said, “Be kind and

give them a favourable answer.” Instead, he followed the young men and answered

harshly to the Israelites. But this turn of events came from God who foretold

Jeroboam to be a king for the sin of Solomon.

 

2. Israel departed from Judah (16-19)

 The people were so upset with the king’s harsh answer that all Israel returned

home saying, “Look after your own house, David!” Only Judah remained and

Rehoboam reigned over them. When Solomon sinned against God, the Lord

began to divide Israel in two.

 

Prayer Lord, your word comes true always both the blessed words and the

curses.

One Word God is merciful but just

2 Chronicles 9:1-31

SOLOMON AND THE QUEEN OF SHEBA

Keywords 9:8

"Praise be to the LORD your God, who has delighted in you and placed you on his throne as king to rule for the LORD your God. Because of the love of your God for Israel and his desire to uphold them forever, he has made you king over them, to maintain justice and righteousness."

 

1. The queen of Sheba praised the Lord (1-12)

 She came to test Solomon. But she was overwhelmed by Solomon’s wisdom,

temple and all far exceeding than the rumours. She praised the God of Solomon.

She offered large quantities of gold and gifts. Jesus said, “The queen of the south

will rise at the judgment because someone greater than Solomon is here… but

you refused to listen.” (Matt 12:42)

 

2. The splendor of Solomon (13-31)

 God blessed Solomon so much that he made gold shields and a gold throne with

12 lions on the steps. All his household articles were of pure gold. All the kings on

earth sought audience with him to hear his wisdom bearing him a precious gift.

He ruled over all the kings from the Euphrates River as far as the border of Egypt.

 

Prayer Lord, you bless those who seek you wholeheartedly. Help us to come to

Jesus who gave wisdom and wealth to Solomon.

One Word Come and listen to Jesus!

2 Chronicles 8:1-18

SOLOMON’S REIGN

Keywords 8:16

All Solomon's work was carried out, from the day the foundation of the temple of the LORD was laid until its completion. So the temple of the LORD was finished.

 

1. Solomon’s administration (1-10)

 Solomon rebuilt the villages and settled people in them. He also built all the

store cities, for his chariots and for his horses. He used all Canaanites as slaves

(fulfilling Noah’s curse on Ham’s descendants). But the Israelites were all free,

becoming his officials.

 

2. Solomon’s double life (11-22)

 Solomon did everything according to the Law of Moses, making sacrificial

offerings daily, on the Sabbath, the New Moons and the three annual festivals.

He followed all David had appointed for the divisions of the priests, of the Levites

and of the gatekeepers. God blessed him with plenty of gold. But he married

Pharaoh’s daughter for whatever reasons perhaps political purposes. He did this

even though he knew it was against God’s command. So he compromised by not

allowing her to live in Jerusalem, because it was a holy city.

 

Prayer Lord, when you bless me abundantly, help me not to live a double life but

wholeheartedly follow you.

One Word Love God with an undivided heart!

Deuteronomy 16:18-17:20

FOLLOW THE WORD OF THE LORD

Keywords 17:19

It is to be with him, and he is to read it all the days of his life so that he may learn to revere the LORD his God and follow carefully all the words of this law and these decrees

 

1. Follow justice and justice alone (16:18-17:13)

 The LORD is a just God. He commanded his people not to pervert justice but to

follow it in everything they did. He warned against idol worship so that his people

might be blessed. They are a people of the covenant, and they would maintain this

covenant relationship when they followed the word of the LORD. He established a

system of justice that was based on the commands of the LORD. Obedience was

a matter of life for the people. Following justice is the continual repudiation of idol

worship, adhering to the just commands of holy God.

 

2. The king (14-20)

 God knew that his people would one day long for a worldly king, just as the

other nations had. The king of God's people must study the Bible and live by it,

not following money, women, or power. And he must not become proud. He must

revere the LORD and shepherd God’s flock to follow all of God’s word, that they

may know their true king—the LORD himself.

 

Prayer Lord, help me to follow your word as a matter of life.

One Word Follow God’s word and have life

Deuteronomy 16:1-17

CELEBRATE AND REJOICE

Keywords 16:1

Observe the month of Abib and celebrate the Passover of the LORD your God, because in the month of Abib he brought you out of Egypt by night.

 

1. Remember your departure from Egypt (1-8)

 Life in the Promised Land would be a joyful celebration of God's grace for

his people. They were to assemble at the place of God's choosing three times

a year, bringing their offerings and rejoicing before him. The Passover was

the remembrance of God’s deliverance from their slavery in Egypt. It was the

demonstration of his mighty power. It was also his grace when he chose them out

of all nations to call his own.

 

2. Remember that you were slaves in Egypt (9-17)

 The Festival of Weeks was celebrated seven weeks after the harvest began. It

was a remembrance that they were slaves in Egypt, but now they were blessed

abundantly by God. The Festival of Tabernacles celebrated the end of the

harvest. For seven days, they were to live in booths as they had in the wilderness

and remember God's grace in the desert. The life of the Israelites would be a

remembrance of God’s grace and a celebration of life.

 

Prayer Lord, help me to always remember your grace and live with a joyful heart.

One Word Celebrate God’s grace

Deuteronomy 15:1-23

THE LORD WILL BLESS YOU

Keywords 15:6

For the LORD your God will bless you as he has promised, and you will lend to many nations but will borrow from none. You will rule over many nations but none will rule over you.

 

1. Be openhanded and give generously (1-11)

 The LORD is a God of blessing. He provided for the cancelling of debts among

his people. He intended to bless them, and for this reason they can trust in his

blessing, for he is the one who promised to give them the land as their inheritance.

Those who live under God’s rule are not ruled by greed or fear in the world. Being

openhanded and generous is practical trust in the LORD who provides. His

compassionate provision sustains his people in poverty and wealth.

 

2. You must let them go free (12-23)

 The Israelites had been slaves, but God redeemed them and set them free. They

were still influenced by the culture of their times. But God told them to set Hebrew

slaves free after seven years and not to send them away empty-handed. They

were also to set aside the firstborn of the flock and eat before the LORD.

 

Prayer Lord, you are the blessing for me. Help me to be openhanded and

generous, that I may learn the God of blessing, and that I may be a

blessing.

One Word The Lord God will bless you

Deuteronomy 14:1-29

A PEOPLE HOLY TO THE LORD

Keywords 14:2

for you are a people holy to the LORD your God. Out of all the peoples on the face of the earth, the LORD has chosen you to be his treasured possession.

 

1. The LORD has chosen you (1-21)

 The people of Israel were children of the LORD and made holy by him. They were

a chosen people, God’s treasured possession. God is holy; he calls his people

to be holy. Therefore, they can’t live as the other nations do. God called them to

live a separate life, guided by love for him and his commands. They would remain

clean as a people when they practiced living in accordance with his commands

every day, even in the matter of the foods they ate.

 

2. So that the LORD your God may bless you (22-29)

 God commanded the people to offer a tenth of their produce. He did this so that

they might learn to revere God who provided so abundantly for them. It was the

recognition of the LORD’s blessing. The LORD made the people holy by dwelling

with them, though they were not faithful to him. He bore their rejection forty years

in the desert. He had a hope that his people would live as a holy offering to the

LORD, that he may continually bless them.

 

Prayer Lord, thank you for bearing my sin to make me holy. Help me to live as an

offering to you.

One Word Live as a people holy to the Lord

Deuteronomy 12:29-13:18

DO NOT WORSHIP OTHER GODS

Keywords 13:4

It is the LORD your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him.

 

1. It is the LORD you must follow (12:29-13:5)

 The LORD promised to bless his people, driving out nations and giving them

the land he had promised. He knew they would be tempted to become like the

nations they drove out, worshipping their gods and living in their way. But they

must follow the LORD’s commands and obey him only. Even if a prophet arose

advocating something other than the word of God, they should not follow such

a prophet. They should rather purge such evil from among them, clinging to God

and his word only.

 

2. Because you obey the LORD (6-18)

 Those who worship other gods invite God’s wrath on themselves. The penalty for

rejecting the LORD was death. There is no life apart from God. When God’s people

repented and obeyed him, purging the evil from among them, then the LORD

would turn and bless them. Then his people would live under his compassion and

mercy. Then they would again be blessed in abundance. When they follow the

commands of the LORD, then they worship him only.

 

Prayer Lord, thank you for giving us your commands. Bless us to be God

worshipping people who follow your word only.

One Word Worship God and obey his word

Deuteronomy 12:1-28

WORSHIP IN GOD’S WAY

Keywords 12:5

But you are to seek the place the LORD your God will choose from among all your tribes to put his Name there for his dwelling. To that place you must go;

 

1. Worship at the place God will choose (1-14)

 God called his people to worship him. He called them to demolish idol worship

in the land. They were not to worship God in the way of the people of the land.

They also should not worship God as they saw fit, everyone doing as they wanted.

The LORD called them to worship him only. God promised to make his dwelling

among them; he called them to worship the LORD in the way and at the place he

provided.

 

2. So that it may go well with you (15-28)

 The LORD allowed his people to enjoy his provision, but they should be mindful

of God in all things. When they ate, they should remember God’s commands. They

should remember God’s servants, the Levites. They should be mindful that their

bountiful provision is from God and for him. Their life is not just for eating, but it is

for the worship of God. God called his people to offer themselves to his service

through their obedience. Then it would always go well for them.

 

Prayer Lord, thank you for the privilege of serving you. Bless me to be mindful of

God every moment and serve you in your way.

One Word Worship the Lord in his way

Deuteronomy 11:1-32

LOVE THE LORD, OBEY HIS COMMANDS

Keywords 11:1

Love the LORD your God and keep his requirements, his decrees, his laws and his commands always.

 

1. God will provide (1-15)

 Moses reminded the people to love the LORD and to obey him. He reminded

them of the LORD who had never failed to deliver them in all their journeys. They

were witnesses of the living God. Therefore, they should observe the commands

of the one who had revealed his glory among them and through them. They should

faithfully trust and serve the one who had provided their salvation. Then they

would be blessed with God’s provision in every way.

 

2. A blessing and a curse (16-32)

 Temptations would come, temptations to follow other gods and worship them.

Then they would live apart from God’s protection. If they fixed the words of

the LORD in their hearts and carefully observed them, then the LORD would

bless them as he promised them. The LORD offered his people a blessing and

a curse—a blessing if they obeyed the commands of the LORD and a curse for

disobedience. This choice in fact would be their reality upon entering the Promised

Land. Choosing God was a matter of blessing and life.

 

Prayer Lord, thank you for revealing yourself to me. Help me to love you with all

my heart and soul. Help me to entrust myself to you.

One Word Love and obey the Lord

Luke 24:36-53

YOU ARE WITNESSES

Keywords 24:48

You are witnesses of these things.

 

1. Jesus’ glorious resurrection (36-43)

 While the two were still talking to the disciples, Jesus appeared among them.

They were startled, thinking he was a ghost. He showed his pierced hands, feet,

and side. He also ate a broiled fish. Jesus showed his glorious and transformed

body. We will also be transformed at the last day!

 

2. You are witnesses (44-53)

 Jesus taught the main points of all the scriptures: The Messiah must suffer,

die, and be raised. The repentance for the forgiveness of sins must be preached

to all nations. Jesus appointed his disciples to be his witnesses to the ends

of the earth. He promised to send the Holy Spirit to enable them to carry out

their mission. It seems best for Jesus to stay here. Yet the task was given to his

weak and vulnerable disciples while he was taken up into heaven. What we are

supposed to do until he comes again? We should not only enjoy the grace of the

forgiveness of sins but also strive to be his witnesses. Through the Holy Spirit we

are enabled to be witnesses through our life of joy, hope of the kingdom of God,

and courageous faith.

 

Prayer Lord, thank you for showing us your glorious image, which we will also

have. Use me to preach the forgiveness of sins through Jesus’ death and

resurrection to all nations.

One Word I am witness of the risen Jesus!

Luke 24:13-35

ON THE ROAD TO EMMAUS

Keywords 24:26

"Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?"

 

1. The lost dream (13-24)

 Two of the disciples fled to Emmaus. But the risen Jesus walked along with

them. Jesus asked, “What are you discussing?” They shared their broken dream

for Jesus to redeem Israel. They even talked about the women who said Jesus

was alive. They look like many Christians who know many things about Jesus but

whose real hope is personal well-being and success through Jesus. The risen

Jesus walks along to help such people with broken dreams. He can renew their

hope with a greater vision of God through deep Bible studies.

 

2. A bigger dream in Jesus (25-35)

 Then Jesus strongly rebuked them for their unbelief. How foolish they were!

Jesus kindly began to teach them Moses and all the prophets. He showed the

focal point of the scriptures is Jesus the Messiah who must suffer, be raised, and

enter his glory. Soon, their hearts were burning. Their eyes opened to recognize

the Jesus. They returned to Jerusalem to witness to the risen Jesus.

 

Prayer Lord, thank you for walking along with me, teaching the scriptures until I

could meet the risen Jesus in my hopeless and despairing life. Make me

a witness of Jesus for the salvation of the world.

One Word The scriptures are about Jesus’ death and resurrection

Luke 24:1-12

HE HAS RISEN!

Keywords 24:6

He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee:

 

1. Remember how he told you (1-8)

 Jesus’ resurrection was like the early morning sun that broke the darkness of

death. But the women came to the tomb with sorrow and no hope because they

did not yet believe the resurrection of Jesus. Many Christians are just like these

women. They love and follow Jesus for many years. They know his death on the

cross. However, without believing in Jesus’ resurrection, their Christian life is sad

with no joy or power. An angel helped them, saying, “He has risen! Remember

his words, ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be

crucified and on the third day be raised again!’” Then they remembered his words.

Suddenly joy, hope, and power filled their hearts. They ran back and told the

sorrowful disciples.

 

2. The disciples didn’t remember his words (9-12)

 The eleven disciples didn’t believe. Peter ran to the tomb. He saw the empty

tomb with linens lying by themselves. Yet he did not believe. It was because he

didn’t remember Jesus’ words. It is not easy, but it is essential to believe in the

resurrection of Jesus by faith in his word and by the grace of God.

 

Prayer Lord, I believe that you died but were raised according to the Scriptures!

You will raise me as you raised Jesus from the agony of death.

One Word Praise the risen Jesus!

Luke 23:44-56

JESUS’ DEATH AND BURIAL

Keywords 23:46

Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." When he had said this, he breathed his last.

 

1. Jesus dies victoriously (44-49)

 Jesus suffered unspeakably on the cross. For three hours, the sky was darkened,

revealing the momentousness of Jesus’ death. The curtain of the temple was torn

in two, revealing that Jesus was the sacrifice that opens the way to God. When

it was time for Jesus to die, Jesus declared that he had finished his mission and

victoriously gave his spirit back to God. Even one Roman centurion could see that

Jesus’ death was not the death of a mere man.

 

2. Jesus is buried by Joseph (50-56)

 Jesus’ death revealed God’s purpose and changed the heart of one formerly

secret disciple. Joseph of Arimathea courageously asked Pilate for Jesus’

body, and he donated his own tomb for Jesus to be laid in. By the power of

Jesus’ death, God changed one person who could then be used to prepare the

environment for Jesus’ resurrection. Jesus’ death still has power to change us.

 

Prayer Father, thank you for the victory Jesus won for us. May Jesus’ cross

change me into someone who can be used for your work.

One Word Jesus’ death has life-changing power

Luke 23:26-43

JESUS’ CROSS GIVES US PARADISE

Keywords 23:43

Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."

 

1. Forgiveness is offered from the cross (26-34)

 Jesus’ condemnation to die by crucifixion looked like a tragic injustice. His

friends mourned and wailed for him. But Jesus didn’t need people to weep for

him; rather, he taught us to realize the fruit of sin and escape the judgment that is

coming. Jesus himself provided the way to do that. He offered himself for our sins

on the cross and prayed for our forgiveness.

 

2. Jesus gives paradise to one who asks (35-43)

 People from many walks of life mocked Jesus in his seemingly helpless condition

on the cross, daring him to come down and save himself. But the fear of God

came into the heart of one of the condemned criminals, and he saw the kingdom

of God in Jesus. He asked Jesus to remember him, and Jesus granted him a

place in paradise immediately and unconditionally. Jesus gives salvation freely to

anyone who asks him!

 

Prayer Lord Jesus, remember me, and let your death cover my sins so I may

come to your kingdom.

One Word Forgiveness and paradise from Jesus’ cross

Luke 23:1-25

JESUS IS CONDEMNED

Keywords 23:25

He released the man who had been thrown into prison for insurrection and murder, the one they asked for, and surrendered Jesus to their will.

 

1. Pilate tries to get an answer (1-12)

 The Sanhedrin brought Jesus to Pontius Pilate with made-up charges to

have him put to death by the Roman government. Jesus did not deny being

King of the Jews, and yet Pilate could tell he was innocent—Jesus was no

insurrectionist. When the religious leaders insisted, Pilate sent Jesus to Herod

for more information. Herod and his men mocked Jesus but did not come to any

conclusion.

 

2. Pilate gives in (13-25)

 Pilate tried to convince the leaders and the gathered crowd that Jesus had done

nothing to deserve death, but he compromised, offering to have him punished.

The crowd, however, had already been stirred into a frenzy by the religious leaders,

and they began to shout for Jesus’ crucifixion. Finally, Pilate gave in to their

demands. No one was willing to stand up for Jesus’ righteousness; this reveals

the sin of all humanity. But Jesus was condemned in our places, so we could be

forgiven like Barabbas.

 

Prayer Father, thank you for Jesus who offered himself in my place for my sins.

One Word Condemned in my place

Luke 22:54-71

JESUS’ TESTIMONY

Keywords 22:70

They all asked, "Are you then the Son of God?" He replied, "You are right in saying I am."

 

1. Peter’s denial (54-62)

 Jesus’ disciples abandoned him when he was arrested, but Peter followed at

a distance to see what would happen. As the night progressed, three different

bystanders recognized Peter as one of the disciples, but, every time, he denied

knowing Jesus. He fell into temptation under the power of fear. When a rooster

crowed, Peter realized Jesus’ prediction was right, and he wept bitterly. Knowing

ourselves as sinners is the beginning of repentance.

 

2. Jesus testifies to the Sanhedrin (63-71)

 Jesus was mocked and abused by the guards responsible for him because he

seemed powerless. On trial before the Jewish council, the religious leaders asked

Jesus directly if he was the Messiah. But they didn’t care about the truth; they

only wanted Jesus to incriminate himself. Jesus knew this, but still he revealed his

divine identity, speaking of his heavenly throne and admitting that he was the Son

of God. Jesus would not deny the truth, even though it cost his life.

 

Prayer Lord Jesus, thank you for showing me my sin. I want to win the victory

over fear. I need your courage to stand on the truth.

One Word Pray for power to tell the truth

Luke 22:39-53

JESUS ACCEPTS GOD’S WILL

Keywords 22:42

"Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done."

 

1. “Not my will, but yours be done” (39-46)

 As the time of his suffering drew near, Jesus prayed in order to find strength to

face it. He commanded his disciples to pray as well, so they would not fall into

temptation in this time of testing. In prayer, Jesus expressed his desire to escape

from his cup of suffering, but he sought God’s will above all. He prayed in such

anguish that his sweat was like blood. God did not take away Jesus’ cup, but he

gave him strength to drink it.

 

2. Jesus is betrayed and arrested (47-53)

 At that moment Judas arrived, leading a mob to arrest Jesus. A kiss of friendship

became a secret signal to show which one to arrest. Jesus knew this and even

convicted Judas of his sin. The disciples tried to fight back with swords, but Jesus

stopped them and even healed one of the guards. After his prayer, Jesus had

power to reveal God’s glory even through his arrest.

 

Prayer Lord Jesus, thank you for your example of prayer that wins the victory in

trials. Help me be spiritually equipped through prayer.

One Word Pray for strength to accomplish God’s will

Luke 22:24-38

JESUS PREPARES HIS DISCIPLES

Keywords 22:26

But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves.

 

1. Jesus teaches servant leadership (24-30)

 The disciples should have been supporting Jesus at this time, but instead

they were obsessed with which one was greater than the others. Jesus taught

them that true greatness comes from serving others. The prime example is

Jesus himself, who is the greatest but lowered himself to serve needy sinners. A

kingdom where the leaders are servants is like heaven.

 

2. Jesus predicts Peter’s failure and promises restoration (31-38)

 Jesus seemed to choose Simon Peter as the top disciple, but he would fail Jesus

completely at the most crucial moment. Yet Jesus’ grace had power to restore him

even from this failure and then equip him to strengthen others based on the grace

he received. God uses our failures to shape us into the kind of servants he wants.

Jesus prepared his disciples to live a life of mission without his physical presence.

 

Prayer Lord Jesus, thank you for your grace that works through my failures.

Help me not to seek to be considered great, but to serve and strengthen

others.

One Word Be restored from failure to serve others

 

Luke 22:1-23

THE NEW COVENANT IN JESUS’ BLOOD

Keywords 22:20

In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you."

 

1. The Passover is prepared (1-13)

 When the religious leaders were looking for a way to get rid of Jesus, Satan came

into Judas who then went to the chief priests. Judas offered to betray Jesus.

The forces of evil seemed very powerful. But Jesus showed his awareness of

everything that was happening, even in the way he had his disciples prepare their

Passover celebration. Jesus was working together with God, who was preparing

Jesus to be the true Passover lamb.

 

2. Jesus declares the covenant (14-22)

 Jesus was eager to teach the disciples the meaning of his suffering and death

through this supper. Jesus gave the bread and wine of the Passover meal their

true meaning: They represented his own body and blood. His blood was shed for

the forgiveness of our sins, and, as the Lamb of God, he himself is the food for our

eternal spiritual life. We should continually remember Jesus’ body and blood given

for us.

 

Prayer Lord Jesus, thank you for fulfilling your plan to give yourself for our sins.

Help me to remember what your body and blood provided for me.

One Word Jesus gave his life to us

Luke 21:29-38

JESUS TEACHES HOW TO BE READY

Keywords 21:33

Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

 

1. Learning from fig trees (29-33)

 Many of the signs of Jesus’ coming happen in every generation, just as the trees

bloom every spring. This is because every generation must get ready to meet

Jesus. We may not be able to predict the date of Jesus’ coming, but we can take

changes in this world as reminders that the Kingdom of God is near. In a world

where everything seems to be changing, we can root our lives in Jesus’ word.

 

2. Don’t get weighed down (34-38)

 If we let ourselves become too absorbed with the worries, business, and

pleasures of this world, we will not be ready for Jesus’ coming. These things

weigh down our hearts like spiritual concrete. Jesus told us to adopt an attitude

of spiritual watchfulness and prayerfulness. Then we will be able to stand before

Jesus without shame. Jesus spent his last week on earth teaching the word of

God in the daytime and praying at night.

 

Prayer Lord Jesus, thank you for giving us your words as the foundation of life in

a changeable world. Please teach me watchfulness.

One Word Be watchful, not weighed down

Luke 21:20-28

YOU WILL SEE THE SON OF MAN

Keywords 21:28

"When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near."

 

1. Escaping the destruction of Jerusalem (20-24)

 The siege and destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. showed the characteristics of

judgment in the end-times. Jesus saved his disciples’ lives by telling them to flee

when they saw it coming. Jesus was moved with compassion when he thought

about how people would suffer, but he knew it was part of God’s plan to usher in

the times of the Gentiles. We can escape the judgment coming on the world when

we are not too attached to earthly things.

 

2. Seeing Jesus come again (24-28)

 Jesus said that when his second coming draws near, the land, sea, and even

the heavenly bodies will be shaken. People will faint with terror over what is

happening. But we can walk with our heads held high with the joyful expectation

of seeing Jesus. For some people, the end of this age means judgment, but for

us, it means our redemption is near—the fulfillment of all our hopes in Jesus.

 

Prayer Lord Jesus, thank you for giving us the way to be saved from judgment,

especially by your death on the cross. Help us to joyfully expect our

redemption.

One Word Be ready to welcome Jesus

Luke 21:5-19

TROUBLE IN THE END TIMES

Keywords 21:14

But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves.

 

1. Fearful signs will appear (5-11)

 Jesus shook his disciples out of their infatuation with the Jerusalem temple’s

beauty with a prophecy of its destruction. They realized Jesus was talking about

the end times and asked him what the signs of the end would be. Jesus predicted

wars and natural disasters but warned his disciples not to be deceived by false

teachers who feed on people’s fear in difficult times. These types of events do not

mean that the end will come right away.

 

2. Stand firm in persecution (12-19)

 Jesus also warned his disciples that persecution would come against them

personally. They would have to stand before the highest authorities for Jesus’

sake. But we don’t have to worry beforehand about how to defend ourselves

because, at such moments, Jesus gives undefeatable words and wisdom. The

most painful persecution is from our own friends and family. But even if everyone

hates us, we can win the victory by standing firm.

 

Prayer Lord Jesus, thank you for knowing everything that will happen and for

teaching us to take strength from you. Give me confidence that can reveal

you to others in troubled times.

One Word Don’t worry beforehand; stand firm

Deuteronomy 10:1-22

WHAT THE LORD ASKS OF YOU

Keywords 10:12

And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul,

 

1. Not to destroy but to restore you to the Lord (1-11)

 Despite the stiff-neck Israelites, God heard Moses’ prayer. God wrote the Ten

Commandments again to be put in the Ark. Eleazar succeeded Aaron as a priest.

The Levites carried the ark. The Lord became their inheritance again. God’s will

was to restore them. God commissioned them to take possession of the Promised

Land. Praise God who sent Jesus to restore sinners to be royal priests and a holy

nation and inherit the kingdom of God.

 

2. Circumcise your heart and serve the Lord (12-22)

 To the Lord God belong the heavens and the earth. Yet he loved Israel above all

the nations. He prospered them from seventy until they became as numerous

as the stars in the sky. Now they should circumcise their hearts, love God with

all their hearts, and love their neighbors (the foreigners, the fatherless and the

widows) as themselves.

 

Prayer Lord, thank you for restoring me to you through Jesus. Circumcise my

heart to love you with all my heart and my neighbors as myself.

One Word God restores