Bible Chapter: Luke 13

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    Jesus talked about an unproductive fig tree.  My study Bible footnote says part of this application is to “all individuals who profess to believe in Jesus, yet fail to turn from sin. . . He will not tolerate sin forever”.  God’s gift of salvation is free and available to all. We cannot earn forgiveness.  We can not work to overcome the impact of sin.  However, when we receive the gift, we must grow in our relationship with Jesus and learn to apply biblical truth to daily life.  This includes rejecting compromise mixing truth and error.  The goal needs to be “how close can I get to Jesus?”.  We must turn from sin, we must make specific daily choices to reject anything against the Bible, whatever anyone might say.  There is an outright attack against God’s truth these days.  I must not get caught up in it and support sin.
    Jesus also talked about the parables of the Mustard Seed and the Yeast.  We see the picture of something small making a major impact.  The smallest seed turns into the largest plant.  The yeast permeates every part of the dough.  God’s work must be an influence that affects everything around it.  It appears that the modern church is being influenced by the world instead of the church influencing the world.  We need a continual flow of God’s power to make an impact. God’s power flowing through believers will make an impact to change the world.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    The way to follow Jesus is narrow and unpopular.  There is only one way to enter and that is God’s way.  The majority of people are rejecting God’s path to life.  They don’t like the commitment Jesus requires.  No one can be “sort of” a Christian.  As I continue in my commitment to Jesus to live a righteous life and put my own desires in the background I will receive the promises of God.  The road that leads to destruction is wide and popular.  It appears to be an easy road to follow because there is so much company.  But, when the real issues of life come to challenge, it is lonely in the crowd, for they will abandon you.  Having God’s power in life makes all the difference in the world.

3.  How can I help someone?
    Always remember that Jesus is the way to life.  Help people see that.  Pray that God’s power will saturate and impact the hearts of people so they will submit to Jesus and receive His eternal gift.