This weekend we will explore what it means that Jesus was described as “a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners” (Luke 7:34).
SERMON OUTLINE
“The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’” (Luke 7:34)
Jesus as a Cause of Stumbling (Luke 7:18-23)
Jesus and a New Kind of Greatness (Luke 7:24-30)
Jesus and the Abundance of God (Luke 7:31-35)
Jesus and His People (Luke 5:31-32)
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- Why do you think it is often true that people love Jesus but don’t like the church?
- This weekend we begin a new series, “The Name Above All Names,” in which we will explore some of the most significant titles of Jesus. This week we focus on Jesus being called “friend of sinners.” Begin your study by quieting yourself before God. Next, ask God to speak to you through His word before reading Luke 7:18-35 aloud.
- This passage follows after a series of miraculous healings and signs done by Jesus (see 7:17). Why do you think John the Baptist and his disciples raised the questions they did about Jesus in 7:18-20?
- What is Jesus’ response to John and his disciples in verses 21-23?
- John seems to stumble over Jesus’ identity, but he is not alone. Have you ever experienced deep confusion or challenge in your own life through the teaching and actions of Jesus? How did you respond?
- How does Jesus describe John the Baptist and his role in verses 24-28? What does Jesus say about John’s greatness and the greatness of others?
- Verse 29-30 show a pretty sharp division in people’s responses to Jesus. How would you describe what is happening there?
- Jesus describes people as critical of both him and John the Baptist, but for contrary reasons. This shows us that human response to Jesus often tells us more about the human than it does about Jesus. What do you think is the significance of seeing Jesus as a “friend of sinners” here? What does that mean to you?
- Read Luke 5:31-32 aloud. What does this tell you about the heart of God and about Jesus’ mission? What does this mean for the church – God’s people – today?
- What is one thing that God is speaking to you through this study? If you are with a small group, discuss that with one another and pray for one another. If you are studying on your own, write it down and share it with someone.
DIG DEEPER
- Read the three parables of Luke 15 and reflect on how they relate to what we have studied here.
- Memorize Luke 5:31-32 this week.
- Spend time with someone or a group of people you ordinarily wouldn’t spend time with, and pray that God would give you His heart and eyes toward that person or group of people.