story of Jesus final study

1.What is the difference between one’s 1st and 2nd order stories?

1^st order story personal, unique to you this us what you brought with you here.

2^nd order story narrative that provides meaning and purpose to life.

.Where are all treasures of wisdom and knowledge hidden according to Colossians?

Epistemology. Paul letter to colossians 2:2,3 all treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden in Christ Jesus.

What are the “six acts” of the biblical story – the “Great Adventure”?

1. God establishes his kingdom:creation 

2. Rebellion in kingdom- “the fall”

3. King chooses Israel 

4. The coming of the king: redemption accomplished. 

5. Spreading the news of the king: the mission of the church

6. The return of the king: redemption complete 

What does the Old Testament reveal in terms of a tough reality?

We do not need what we want, personal freedom without boundaries. Ot stories reveal tragic 

Consequence of this.

What does it mean for God’s kingdom to come to earth?

Jesus comes to demonstrate the nature of Gods coming to earth and what it looks like 

to live life under the will

What alerts us to the possibility that Jesus is not the king we would expect?

Hes born in a manger by a virgin

How is Jesus presented in Matthew’s gospel?

Jesus is presented as: King, promised Savior, Messiah

How is Jesus presented in Mark’s gospel?

Jesus is presented as: servant, powerful savior, man of action, son of man. 

Upon what aspect of Jesus’ life does Luke’s gospel focus?

Focuses on the humanity of Jesus, Spirit-led. Prepares readers for acts of the Apostles. 

 Which gospel presents Jesus as God’s wisdom or word become flesh?

John. Jesus as “Logos” (eternal wisdom, the word) becomes flesh.

Who is Theophilus (as presented in this course)?

Likely patron funding research of Jesus’ story… Luke was investigating if it was true. 

 Why is Gabriel’s appearance in Nazareth unexpected?

It's a nowhere hill town with a bad reputation

What was suggested as the scandal of Jesus’ birth?

Who wants to stay in a little village pregnant and unmarried? She had been betrothed,

but was not yet married. This is a scandal!

What was Elizabeth and Zechariah’s son to be named? What does it mean?

John “Yohanan” meaning “YHWH has been gracious”

In what way was John preparing those who would hear his voice?

He was preparing them for a Messiah they did not expect. 

Rather than a story about a mean innkeeper, what is the story about Jesus not being 

born in a Κατάλυμα (guest room) communicate?

Common poverty. The king was born in poverty. Not by chance but by the divine plan. 

Who was Simeon and what did he do and say?

Waited for the consolation of Israel. Holy Spirit revealed he would not die until he head 

seen the Messiah. Took infant and prophesied he could now die for he had seen God’s

salvation- for all peoples, including Gentiles.

He will cause the rise and fall of many and a sword will pierce your soul.

Who was Anna, and what did she announce?

Anna, a prophet. Very old. Married seven years and then widowed for almost eighty. 

Pronounced baby would bring redemption. 

What was John’s opening line to his recorded teaching in Luke’s Gospel?

You brood of vipers. Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? 

What is surprising about John’s message to tax collectors and soldiers concerning 

Repentance and embracing the kingdom of God?

Surprisingly, John did not insist that they leave their vocations. Their vocations are redeemed. 

What happened at Jesus’s baptism?

The Holy Spirit descended. God spoke “You're my son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”

What does Jesus’s response to Satan’s first temptation demonstrate about our needs

Temptation to use power for one’s own needs. There is more to me than a need

for food..I don’t live on bread alone.

What did Jesus intend to communicate by forgiving the paralyzed man’s sins?

Jesus knew their thoughts- “what is easier?” You need to know the real power here is 

restoration with God, not just healing.

What did Levi (Matthew) do as soon as he was called to follow Jesus?

It gets worse-Levi (also known as Matthew) throws a party. Who comes? Those rejected by society.

What was Jesus’ offer in Matthew 11: 28, 29 (the Message version)

Come to me, get away with me and you'll recover your life. 

What is necessary for the teachings of Jesus to make any sense?

Counterintuitive if not ridiculous, only in a God bathe world does it make sense

Whose behavior does Jesus invite us to imitate by being generous and merciful?

Jesus was “amazed”. At what? The centurion’s faith! How does this happen? These are those who want to kill Jesus - why?

Why did the Pharisees not understand the teachings of Jesus?

Parenthetical inclusion- all understood- Except the Pharisees and scribes.Why? They 

had not been baptized…they saw no need to repent (change direction) and see things 

differently.

What question was raised concerning “the sinful woman” at Jesus’s feet?

How did she know she would be safe at Jesus’s feet?

What is the problem for those who refuse to receive the life-changing seed of the gospel? 16

The problem is not the seed, but the heart of those who receive it, the power to 

produce fruit is always there-the questions is who will receive it.

What is the first and second climax in the gospel story?

First narrative climax-”You are the Christ”-anticlimax-”who is the greatest among us?” 

(disciples)- second and unexpected resolution? The cross.

What is the heart of the Christian life in a phrase? 1

“If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself take up his cross daily and follow me. 

What was being discussed by Moses, Elijah, and Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration? 18

They were discussing the exodus, this time Jesus’s imminent death.

What does the voice of God and the transformation experience confirm?

This confirms the connection of the story from the beginning- with Moses (law) and Elijah 

(prophets) assuring Jesus God’s plan was necessary and good. It is Jesus’ story!

Why were the disciples incapable of casting out the demon in the boy?

Mark’s gospel (9:28) “Why couldn’t we?” “Only comes out by prayer.” The disciples had reduced 

casting out demons to their words rather than it being a manifestation of the power of God

Why would “welcoming a child” have anything to do with greatness? 1

Children were considered unworthy of an adult male’s attention (unless it was their own child).

Even if it was a man’s child, raising and training children was considered to be the work of the 

mother – not the father.

What does ultimate allegiance call for in terms of loyalty

Ultimate allegiance calls for undivided loyalty. Life is about ONE thing

What is the occasion that brought Jesus such joy in Luke 10?

Rare occasion in Jesus' life. He is full of joy through the Holy Spirit. God's kingdom is actively defeating the reign of Satan

What was the lawyer doing when he asked the follow up question “who is my neighbo

he was trying to justify himself

how did Jesus regain lawyers question

to whom are you willing to be a neighbor?

How did Jesus respond to Martha’s concern over Mary’s behavior? 2

“Martha, Martha, you are distracted by many things, only one is needed. Mary is right this time.”

What is the greatest possible gift God can give us according to Luke 11

Knowing what God wants. Father in heaven will give you the greatest possible gift! What? The Holy Spirit. 

If Jesus is acting by “the finger of God” – what has occurred?

the kingdom of God has come

What is the relationship between obedience and abundance?

Obedience is abundant! Abundance I found in obedience. Whby? Because God knows what is best. A;; we need to ask, seek, and knock…

What is the metaphor that Jesus uses to discuss worldview?

This is Jesus’ discussion of world view. The way you see the world is up to you. Metaphor-eye as lamp- what you see is what your heart (deep mind) interprets it to be.

What was the function of the table and throwing banquets in the ancient world?

For people to negotiate and compete for social status.

What constitutes “blasphemy against the Holy Spirit?

A continual rejection of the spirit's role in convicting us of our sins and guiding us toward acceptance of Christ.

n what situation does worry not make sense?

If you are convinced you are God's beloved child. There is no “shelf” for worry. This Father clothes the mountain meadows and feeds the birds. How much more valuable are you?

What should the parables of readiness call us to consider?

What are we doing with what has been entrusted with us?

What was Jesus’ troubling response to the question of why certain things happen?

unless you repent you will perish

If intentional discipleship is not an appeal to works-righteousness (you save yourself 

Through your good works), what is it?

Intentional discipleship this is not works righteousness but it is righteous living a response to God’s call.

What expected behavior of one hosting a luncheon or dinner does Jesus challenge?

“Don’t invite relatives, rich neighbors- they might reciprocate.”

What is the nature of a “kingdom banquet”?

This is expected behavior. Kingdom ways are different. 

What is the main point of Jesus’ teaching concerning family relationships, carrying a 

cross,building a tower, a king going to war – and salty salt?

A call to undivided loyalty. There is no other way to a flourishing life.

What behavior of Jesus so upset the Pharisees and theologians at the beginning of 

Luke 15?

He eats with them! (sinners)

What was the shocking nature of the father giving a ring to his wayward son?

And then the unthinkable, the signet ring…he was given access to the father’s wealth- all of it! 

As if he had never left? UNTHINKABLE! Yet, such is the mercy and love of God!

What did the older brother misunderstand – and therefore what did he miss?

This parable is pointed towards the Jewish leaders who like the older brother had no compassion for those who are lost-which was the greater sin

What is Jesus’ word about being trustworthy with what we have?

If you can't be trustworthy with worldly wealth, who will entrust you with true riches? What is this? Life means something!

What was Jesus pointing out to the Pharisees about their actions and their hearts?

What the Pharisees admired (shrewd dishonest behavior thinking they could get by with it. God detest. God knows your hearts.

69. What is the irony of the parable of the rich man and Lazarus? 29

Rich man is in torment sees lazarus at abraham's side send Lazarus to serve me i am in torment irony he could have served Lazarus so easily and simply did not.

What was Jesus’ response to when the kingdom of God is coming?

When will the kingdom come? Jesus, “Really? It is here and you do not know it.” Look, the days if the son of man are coming- but you will not see it” Why? You are looking for the wrong cues. No one will expect it-then-suddenly- there it is! Within?!!

How should the message about the kingdom of God influence the direction of your life

The nature of the kingdom  of God- live at the ready and live well. This is where you will flourish. It is within you- but you must discover it and choose to live there. What is the telos( what you want to achieve of you life) If it ended, what would be your greatest regret?

What was the purpose of the parable of the widow and judge?

always [ray. never give up

Who is justified after leaving the temple, the tax collector or the Pharisee – why?

Tax collectors- I am a sinning mess- I should not even be here but, please God, have mercy. Who goes home realigned to God’s purposes? (justified). 

What was Jesus’ ultimate invitation to the rich young ruler? Why this invite?

Then come and follow me. The invitation to life was to follow Jesus but first he had to repent . This is the definitive way to a meaningful life!

What does the disciples’ response assume about riches and wealth?

Assumes the rich have found what everyone is looking for- life in its fullest expression! This is the meaning of “saved”!

Why was Jesus’ true future so difficult for his disciples to understand?

The disciples didn't understand the meaning was “hidden: once again. Why was it hidden? They reduced  hearing/understanding.

What was the problem that kept Jesus’ followers from understanding what Jesus 

came to do?

Note the problem- the absence of metanoia (repent in Greek). Unwillingness to change their minds, to be open to learning. Their minds are made up. Their hearts were hard.

hat did the followers of Jesus and the crowds think was happening as Jesus walked 

Towards Jerusalem?

Jesus on his way to Jerusalem, passing through Jericho. His disciples and the crowd are convinced this is the ascension! The Messiah climbing up from Jericho to Jerusalem? Oh my! 

What does the parable of the “ten minas” ultimately say about us (if we embrace the 

Narrative of God and God’s son, Jesus Messiah? 3

All of us are rich according to this parable- differing levels, but all have been entrusted with wealth. What are we doing with it?

What was Jesus’ response to the Pharisees who objected to the crowd’s belief that 

Jesus wasMessiah?

Pharisees objected- Jesus said, “silence the crowd if you like then listen- the stones will cry out.” In other words, “the crowds are right on this- I am the Messiah.” 

What did Jesus want to bring Jerusalem that she refused?

“If you had only known what would bring you Shalom.” “You will be completely destroyed because you did not believe…” 

What does Mark’s gospel help us see as the relationship between the cursed fig tree 

and the temple?

Next day- encounters a special fig tree. though not in season it was in leaf (meaning it also had fruit- except it didn’t). It was condemned for its lack of “fruitfulness”. 

Why didn’t Jesus answer the chief priest and teachers of the law with a direct answer

concerning his authority?

Why didn’t Jesus give a direct answer? It was clear, wasn’t it? Jesus exposed their fraudulence by asking about John’s authority...

What do Jesus’ parables (stories) about kings and servants challenge us to consider 

about the nature of our lives?

These parables situate life firmly in the hands of the creator who blesses each with abilities through which we are to bless others.

What is Jesus’ response to the question concerning the payment of taxes? What was 

His point?

“Bring me a denarius” Shocking response – “Whose image? Give it to him!” Penetrating, compelling remark, “Give to God what is God’s” The point is we are created in the image of God and must be fully given to God’s purposes.

What is the good news of the kingdom of God as presented in slide set

The “good news” of the kingdom of God was compelling:Each of you have a purpose in life – even those of you who have little or nothing...Everyone wants to make a significant contribution to Humanity, but in the world’s system, few have access to this possibility.Nature of life – love God, love your neighbor, cultivate God’s garden – and you will live well. Challenge? Be able to stand before the Son of Man.

What does “remembrance” mean (note several points here)?

Not just recalling the fact-but entering the story. It is not a passive action we are to remember in order to enter into the mystery of hypostasis. It's The divine entering into humanity-and embodied personal spiritual reality that enriches.

What action did Jesus embody when he said, “you will be blessed if you do this”(From 

John13)

“Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them”. Choosing to serve rather than being served…

What did Jesus say the disciples were NOT to imitate?

You are not to be like that (lording over or seeking benefit from power) the greatest is the youngest, the one who rules is the one who serves. 

 What key topic throughout the biblical narrative is highlighted in these last hours of 

Jesus’ life?

Key topic throughout biblical narrative- the appropriate use of power. All of us have an economy of power (energy). How do we spend what we have at our disposal? 

What was the climax of Jesus’ obedience?

“Yet not my will, but yours be done.

 What poignant moment does Luke uniquely include concerning Peter’s denials of 

Jesus?

The rooster crows, Jesus is within sight- Jesus looks directly at peter…and Peter remembered the words of Jesus about his denial. 

What is a hupogrammos and how does Jesus serve as this for us?

1 Peter 2:9-12; 20-25 call to unique identity. Jesus is our hupogrammos in suffering? (dotted alphabet pattern that one writes over to learn)

Why did the Jewish leaders take Jesus before Pilate, the Roman governor

Seeking approval for the death penalty. (they couldn't without pilates approval)

What was Pilate’s conclusion after having questioned Jesus? Why is this surprising?

Pilates response is clearly puzzling, Remember Pilate slaughtered other Galileans without hesitation- why not Jesus?

What moment caused the crowd to turn on Jesus and demand his death by crucifixion? 40

Their plausibility structure, their social imaginary, their view of messiah was so fixed in their minds- when Jesus submitted to Pilate- he had to be a fraud, or so they through. Messiahs

What is the revolution the cross began?

“Celebrate the revolution that happened once for all when the power of love overcame the love of power.”

What was the rallying cry of the early church as a result of the resurrection of Jesus? 42

No one except Jesus considered one person being that aparche- that is , the first fruits of the resurrection. Because Jesus is rinse we too shall rise. There is no need to fear death. 

What does the Sabbath have to do with proof of the resurrection of Jesus?

Perhaps greatest historical evidence- sabbath- deeply entrenched for centuries- suddenly a group of Jewish believers began to meet on the “first day” of the week- resurrection day! Something Happened!

Why do the gospels differ in their details of the resurrection?

Each gospel tells the resurrection from a particular perspective. 

Why are women and the disciples surprising evidence of the resurrection?

All accounts identify women as the first witnesses. In the ancient world, this would have been considered unreliable testimony. 11 uncommon, uneducated, unsophisticated, men and similar groups of women, none of whom denied their belief in the resurrection would thereby change the world. Difficult to contest- they saw the risen Lord. 

What surprising thing does Jesus do on the day of his resurrection?

Of all the places where Jesus could have gone on this day, he shows up on the road to accompany two depressed followers trudging their journey home. Dragging feet…