Luke Study – Set 1 (Chapters 1–4)
Births, Early Life of Jesus, and Beginning of Ministry
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 1: Luke introduces his orderly account. The angel Gabriel announces the birth of John the Baptist to Zechariah and of Jesus to Mary. Mary visits Elizabeth, and both rejoice. John is born, and Zechariah prophesies.
- Chapter 2: Jesus is born in Bethlehem. Angels announce His birth to shepherds. Simeon and Anna bless Him in the temple. At age twelve, Jesus amazes teachers in Jerusalem.
- Chapter 3: John the Baptist preaches repentance and baptises many, preparing the way for the Messiah. Jesus is baptised, and the Spirit descends on Him. A genealogy traces Jesus back to Adam, showing Him as the Son of Man.
- Chapter 4: Jesus is tempted by the devil in the wilderness but resists with Scripture. He begins His Galilean ministry, proclaiming good news, healing, and casting out demons. In Nazareth, He declares Isaiah’s prophecy fulfilled in Him.
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| God’s Faithfulness | Promises made through the prophets are fulfilled in Jesus. |
| Joy and Salvation | From Mary’s song to Simeon’s blessing, joy flows at God’s redemption. |
| Son of Man | Jesus’ genealogy highlights His identification with all humanity. |
| Power of the Word | Jesus resists temptation through Scripture. |
| Authority of Jesus | His ministry begins with teaching, healing, and deliverance. |
3. Encouragement
Luke shows us that God keeps His word.
He promised a Saviour, and here He is—born in a manger, yet Heaven sings over Him!
Do you see the Father’s heart?
He announced it first to shepherds, the lowly, because His Kingdom is for all.
And when Jesus stood in the synagogue and said, ‘Today this is fulfilled,’
He was declaring freedom for the broken, sight for the blind, life for the lost.
Sister, that same Spirit that anointed Him has come upon you.
The Gospel is not just history—it’s your present reality.
Live like the Word is fulfilled in you!
4. Reflection Questions
- How does Luke’s careful beginning encourage my confidence in the truth of the Gospel?
- What does Mary’s response (“Let it be to me according to your word”) teach me about trust?
- How can I live more aware of Jesus as the Saviour for all people, not just some?
- Where do I need to rely on God’s Word to overcome temptation?
- How do I see the Spirit’s anointing at work in my life today?
Luke Study – Set 2 (Chapters 5–8)
Calling Disciples, Miracles, and Teachings on Faith
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 5: Jesus calls His first disciples after a miraculous catch of fish. He heals a leper, a paralytic lowered through the roof, and calls Levi the tax collector. He teaches about new wine in new wineskins.
- Chapter 6: Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath. He heals on the Sabbath, appoints twelve apostles, and delivers the “Sermon on the Plain,” teaching blessings, love for enemies, forgiveness, and fruitfulness.
- Chapter 7: Jesus heals a centurion’s servant, raises a widow’s son, and assures John the Baptist of His identity. He forgives a sinful woman who anoints His feet, teaching about love and forgiveness.
- Chapter 8: Jesus tells parables, including the sower and the lamp. He calms a storm, heals a man with many demons, raises Jairus’ daughter, and heals a woman who touched His cloak in faith.
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Call to Discipleship | Following Jesus means leaving old ways and joining His mission. |
| New Life | Jesus brings a new covenant—fresh wine needing new wineskins. |
| Compassion and Power | Jesus heals outsiders, women, and the desperate, showing God’s inclusive love. |
| Faith in Action | Faith receives miracles, whether from a centurion, a bleeding woman, or fearful disciples. |
| Love and Forgiveness | Those forgiven much, love much. True disciples are marked by love. |
3. Encouragement
Look at Peter—he fished all night, caught nothing, then obeyed one word from Jesus and filled his nets.
That is the difference when He is in your boat!
And when Levi (Matthew) left his tax booth, he did not look back—
because when you meet Jesus, you find the reason for living.
Sister, the sinful woman washed His feet with tears—why? Because she knew she was forgiven.
And you? You are forgiven, completely! That makes you free to love.
Do not let storms, fear, or shame silence you.
The One who calms winds and waves is living inside of you!
4. Reflection Questions
- How does Peter’s call encourage me to trust Jesus’ word even when it feels illogical?
- Where might I be trying to fit “new wine” into “old wineskins” in my life?
- How does Jesus’ compassion for outsiders shape the way I treat others?
- What does the sinful woman’s story teach me about gratitude and love for God?
- Where do I need to shift from fear to faith in trusting Jesus’ authority?
Luke Study – Set 3 (Chapters 9–12)
Sending, Teaching, and the Cost of Discipleship
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 9: Jesus sends out the twelve with authority to heal and proclaim the Kingdom. He feeds 5,000 with five loaves and two fish. Peter confesses Jesus as the Christ. Jesus is transfigured on the mountain. He teaches on humility, warns against causing others to stumble, and speaks of the cost of following Him.
- Chapter 10: Jesus sends out seventy-two others in pairs to preach and heal. They return rejoicing that demons submit in His name. Jesus teaches the parable of the Good Samaritan, showing love beyond boundaries. Mary and Martha welcome Him—Mary chooses the “better part” of sitting at His feet.
- Chapter 11: Jesus teaches on prayer, including the Lord’s Prayer, and encourages persistence. He rebukes religious hypocrisy, warns against seeking signs, and stresses living in light, not darkness.
- Chapter 12: Jesus warns against hypocrisy and greed, teaches on trust in God’s provision, and urges readiness for His return. He calls His followers to fearless faithfulness, even under persecution.
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Mission | Disciples are sent with authority to proclaim the Kingdom and serve with compassion. |
| True Love | The Good Samaritan shows that love crosses cultural and personal barriers. |
| Prayer and Dependence | True disciples live in continual dependence on the Father through prayer. |
| Kingdom Priorities | Trust God, seek His Kingdom, and live ready for Christ’s return. |
| Cost of Discipleship | Following Jesus means surrendering comfort, pride, and self-will. |
3. Encouragement
Think of it—the seventy-two came back amazed that demons submitted in His name.
Jesus said, ‘Rejoice that your names are written in heaven!’
Sister, your identity is not in what you do, but in who you are in Him.
And the Good Samaritan? That’s the Father’s love on display—love that crosses every line. Do you see?
This life is not about self-preservation—it’s about giving yourself away.
And when He says, ‘Do not be afraid,’ it’s because you’re never alone.
Live fearless, live free, and let His Kingdom be seen in you.
4. Reflection Questions
- How does Jesus’ sending of the twelve and the seventy-two inspire me in sharing the gospel?
- Who in my life is God calling me to love like the Good Samaritan—across barriers or comfort zones?
- How can I grow in persistent, dependent prayer like Jesus taught?
- Where do I need to shift from anxiety about provision to trusting God’s care?
- What “comforts” or attachments may I need to surrender to follow Jesus more fully?
Luke Study – Set 4 (Chapters 13–16)
Parables of the Kingdom and Teachings on Wealth and Mercy
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 13: Jesus calls for repentance and tells the parable of the barren fig tree. He heals a crippled woman on the Sabbath, teaches about the mustard seed and yeast, and laments over Jerusalem.
- Chapter 14: At a Pharisee’s house, Jesus heals a man with dropsy (edema) and teaches humility and hospitality. He tells the parable of the great banquet, where many invited guests refuse, but the poor and outsiders are welcomed. He speaks of the cost of discipleship.
- Chapter 15: Jesus tells three parables of God’s mercy: the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son—revealing the Father’s heart for the lost and His joy in their return.
- Chapter 16: Jesus tells the parable of the shrewd manager, teaching stewardship and faithfulness. He warns against the love of money. The parable of the rich man and Lazarus reveals eternal consequences and the importance of hearing God’s Word now.
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Urgency of Repentance | God calls all people to turn back to Him before it is too late. |
| Humility and Hospitality | True disciples live in humility, welcoming and serving those in need. |
| God’s Heart for the Lost | Heaven rejoices when the lost are found—no one is beyond His love. |
| Stewardship | Faithful handling of money and resources reflects Kingdom values. |
| Eternal Perspective | Wealth without God leads to ruin, but the Word leads to life. |
3. Encouragement
Do you hear it? The Father runs to the prodigal, arms open wide, not to scold but to restore.
That is the Gospel! You were lost, but now you are found, and all of heaven rejoices.
And when He talks about the banquet, He is saying: everyone is invited—
the broken, the poor, the outsider.
That’s why you cannot live for yourself. Your life is now a living invitation.
Sister, do not let wealth or comfort distract you. Live with eternity in view.
Steward what He’s given you, love who He puts in front of you, and never forget—
you are His beloved child.
4. Reflection Questions
- How do I respond to Jesus’ urgent call to repentance in my own life?
- Where can I show more humility and hospitality, especially to those often overlooked?
- Which of the lost parables (sheep, coin, son) best reflects my own story with God?
- How am I stewarding my finances and resources in light of Kingdom priorities?
- What changes can I make to live with a clearer eternal perspective?
Luke Study – Set 5 (Chapters 17–20)
Teachings on Faith, Kingdom Readiness, and Confrontation in Jerusalem
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 17: Jesus teaches about forgiveness, faith as small as a mustard seed, and gratitude (ten lepers healed, but only one returns to give thanks). He warns about the coming of the Kingdom and calls for readiness.
- Chapter 18: He tells the parables of the persistent widow and the Pharisee and tax collector, teaching about prayer and humility. Jesus blesses children, challenges the rich ruler, foretells His death again, and heals a blind beggar who cries out in faith.
- Chapter 19: Jesus brings salvation to Zacchaeus the tax collector. He tells the parable of the ten minas, teaching stewardship. He enters Jerusalem riding on a donkey, welcomed as King, then weeps over the city and clears the temple.
- Chapter 20: Religious leaders question His authority. Jesus tells the parable of the wicked tenants. They try to trap Him on taxes and resurrection, but He silences them with wisdom. He warns against the pride and hypocrisy of the scribes.
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Faith and Gratitude | Even a little faith brings great results, and gratitude pleases God. |
| Prayer and Humility | Persistent prayer and a humble heart move heaven more than prideful religiosity. |
| Salvation for the Outcast | Zacchaeus shows no one is beyond God’s reach. |
| True Kingship | Jesus enters Jerusalem as the humble King, not with worldly power but with peace. |
| Authority of Christ | His wisdom and parables reveal divine authority that exposes hypocrisy. |
3. Encouragement
Ten lepers were healed, but only one returned to thank Him.
Gratitude keeps your heart alive. Never forget what He has done for you!
And Zacchaeus—despised, written off—yet Jesus said, ‘I must stay at your house today.’ That is grace!
Sister, this Gospel is not about the worthy—it’s about the willing.
Do not despise the day of small faith—a mustard seed moves mountains.
And when Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey, He was saying: ‘My Kingdom is not of this world.’
You belong to that Kingdom. Live humble, live grateful, live bold. He is your King.
4. Reflection Questions
- How can I cultivate gratitude like the one leper who returned to thank Jesus?
- What does the persistent widow’s parable teach me about prayer in my own life?
- Who around me might be like Zacchaeus—someone overlooked, but ready for Jesus’ love?
- How does Jesus’ humility as King shape the way I live as His disciple?
- Where do I need to acknowledge Christ’s authority more fully in my daily decisions?
Luke Study – Set 6 (Chapters 21–24)
End Times, Crucifixion, and Resurrection
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 21: Jesus foretells the destruction of the temple and speaks of end-time signs—wars, persecution, cosmic disturbances. He urges His followers to stay alert and pray for strength to stand.
- Chapter 22: Judas agrees to betray Jesus. At the Last Supper, Jesus institutes communion, speaking of His body and blood. In Gethsemane, He prays in anguish. He is betrayed, arrested, and denied three times by Peter.
- Chapter 23: Jesus is tried before Pilate and Herod, mocked, beaten, and crucified. He prays for His executioners, promises paradise to the repentant thief, and dies with the words, “Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit.” He is buried in Joseph’s tomb.
- Chapter 24: On the third day, women discover the empty tomb. Jesus appears to disciples on the road to Emmaus, opening the Scriptures about Himself. He later appears to the eleven, assures them of His resurrection, and promises the Spirit. He ascends into heaven, blessing them.
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Watchfulness | Followers of Jesus live alert and faithful, ready for His return. |
| Sacrifice of Christ | Jesus’ death reveals God’s love, forgiveness, and fulfilment of Scripture. |
| Power of the Cross | His death brings reconciliation, and His prayer for enemies shows radical love. |
| Victory of Resurrection | The risen Jesus is revealed through Scripture, breaking bread, and the Spirit’s power. |
| Mission and Hope | The Gospel ends with joy, worship, and the promise of Spirit-empowered witness. |
3. Encouragement
On the cross, Jesus looked at those who mocked Him and said, ‘Father, forgive them.’
That is love that the world cannot stop!
And when He rose, the disciples’ eyes were opened as He broke bread.
Sister, the cross has silenced sin, and the resurrection has crushed death. Do you see it?
This Gospel ends with joy because your story is wrapped in His.
You are not waiting for hope—you are living in resurrection life right now.
And just like He sent them, He sends you:
filled with His Spirit, carrying His Kingdom to the ends of the earth.”
4. Reflection Questions
- How can I live more watchful and prayerful, ready for Christ’s return?
- What does the Lord’s Supper mean to me personally in remembering Jesus’ sacrifice?
- How does Jesus’ prayer for His enemies challenge me in how I respond to others?
- Where in my life do I need to live more fully in the reality of resurrection hope?
- How can I walk daily in the Spirit’s power to fulfil Christ’s mission?
Overall Summary of Luke
1. Big-Picture Summary
The Gospel of Luke portrays Jesus as the Son of Man, the Saviour who brings God’s salvation to all people. Luke writes with careful detail, presenting an orderly account that emphasises the humanity, compassion, and inclusivity of Jesus’ mission.
From His miraculous birth to His ascension into heaven, Luke shows Jesus reaching the poor, the outcast, the sinner, and the outsider. Luke highlights prayer, the Holy Spirit, and joy throughout the Gospel. Jesus is both the fulfilment of God’s promises to Israel and the light to the nations, revealing the Father’s heart for every person.
2. Major Movements
- Preparation and Births (Chs. 1–4): Announcements of John and Jesus, their births, Jesus’ baptism, genealogy, and temptation.
- Early Ministry in Galilee (Chs. 5–9): Calling disciples, healings, parables, feeding crowds, Peter’s confession, and the Transfiguration.
- Teachings and Parables on the Way to Jerusalem (Chs. 10–19): Good Samaritan, prodigal son, Zacchaeus, and lessons on faith, humility, wealth, and readiness.
- Jerusalem and Passion (Chs. 20–23): Jesus confronts leaders, shares the Last Supper, prays in Gethsemane, is crucified, and prays for His enemies.
- Resurrection and Ascension (Ch. 24): The risen Christ appears, opens the Scriptures, promises the Spirit, and ascends in blessing.
3. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Jesus the Son of Man | He identifies fully with humanity, showing compassion for all. |
| Salvation for All | The Gospel extends to Jews and Gentiles, rich and poor, men and women, insiders and outsiders. |
| The Father’s Heart | Parables like the prodigal son reveal God’s joy in saving the lost. |
| Prayer and the Spirit | Jesus models dependence on prayer and the Spirit for Kingdom living. |
| Joyful Mission | Salvation produces joy, and disciples are sent to carry the good news everywhere. |
4. Encouragement
Luke paints a picture of a Jesus who touches lepers, eats with sinners, lifts the broken, and welcomes the outsider.
That is the heart of God on display. He came not for the self-righteous but for the lost.
And the prodigal son’s Father? That’s your Father—running to you, robe and ring ready.
Sister, you are not on the outside looking in.
The Son of Man came for you, to give you His Spirit, to fill you with joy, and to send you into the world shining His love.
The story does not end with the cross—
it ends with an ascension, blessing His people, and empowering them to live His Kingdom now.
5. Reflection Questions
- How does seeing Jesus as the “Son of Man” help me connect to His humanity and compassion?
- Where do I see myself in the parables of the lost (sheep, coin, prodigal son)?
- How am I living with greater dependence on prayer and the Holy Spirit?
- How can I reflect God’s inclusive heart to those who feel overlooked or unwanted?
- What does living in resurrection joy and Spirit-empowered mission look like for me today?