In this study of the Parables of Jesus, we are reading many of the stories Jesus used to teach hearers about how to live as His followers. Each day we’ll read parables in their immediate context, focusing on a different category of parables each week. Then we will work through a series of questions to understand the meaning of the text and take to heart the “secrets of the kingdom.”
Editor’s Note: In this Parables study, Jesus Himself is telling us stories—stories He wants us to reflect on and process. Rather than asking our writers to write their own stories about Jesus’ stories, we thought it would serve you and the text better to provide questions to help you dig into the meaning of each day’s parable. If you find a parable or passage particularly confusing, stop and pray. Ask the Lord to reveal Himself to you in His Word, and thank Him that we can know Him without knowing all the answers to our questions.
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Week 3: Parables about following Jesus
Many of the parables Jesus told have to do with what it means to follow Him in this life. Addressing topics from anxiety and fear, to compassion for our neighbors and commitment to the truth, Jesus uses common scenarios and familiar places to teach His disciples how to live as His people. Each parable in this week’s daily readings speaks to the Christian life in some way. Use the questions below to help you dig deeper into Jesus’ teaching.
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Day 16 Reading: Luke 21:5-36
Questions:
1. Today’s reading focuses on what is permanent and what is fading away. What are some things you think of as permanent? Are they?
2. What does the parable of the fig tree have to do with the verse that comes before it in today’s reading?
3. What is the central point of this parable?
4. What is your response to this parable?
I found this helpful in explaining the fig tree parable further: https://bible.org/seriespage/24-parable-fig-tree
With all that’s going on in the world, God’s word in these verses mean more than ever. God specifically tells us not to be afraid, even as wars and persecution rage around us. I also find it interesting how God tells us not to think or plan of what to say should we ever be put in a position to bear witness under persecution. That God will speak for us in that time. I’ve often thought of what I would say if someone held a gun to my head and asked me about believing in God. I don’t want to be in that situation, but it’s happening all around us. I pray that I can keep my eyes so focused on God and not on the world as it perishes so that God can use me to bear witness even in the midst of a life or death circumstance. And I pray today for all the Christians around the world who are suffering persecution that I here in the US can’t even fathom. And God thank you for the promise of a victory, that after the world falls and Satan is defeated, we will not perish but live eternally in your kingdom in your glory. Praise you God. Thank you.
Thanks, Amie; i’ve wondered the same thing. So happy to know the Holy Spirit will give us the words we need, when the time comes.
This parable reminds me to focus on what is truth (God, His word, my faith and my family)- for nothing is truly permanent – only the life to come when Jesus returns is permanent- everlasting.
I am encouraged today to live this beautiful life of mine as long as the Lord gives me breathe and strength to do so but to be aware that all of this will come to an end. Not really a morbid thought but a peace in knowing that there is more to come!
I went into prayer this morning praying for help with the apprehension that comes with Christmas preparations..& serving as ground 0 for family gathering . With two major deaths in the family since last Christmas my heart wants to change up some traditions with a focus on Christ’s love rather than on the drinking that occurs. Today’s reading gives me hope that a focus on the permanent things in life…God’s Love that can radiate within each of us …is a possibility if I just let Christ stand with me and in me. LORD…wash away my fears & pour into me so I can be a conduit of your love be.
It’s so easy to get caught up on the “good times” of the holidays, my family and I are guilty of that too. But I definitely feel God is working to being his people back to the traditions of old when it comes to church and Christmas. Thank you for your words! I also felt the same way thinking about Christmas and things. And I pray your family receives continued grace and healing from your losses.
Thank you Amie! It’s always humbling to have a sister in your court.
How many times a day, a week, even hourly do I worry about my schedule, my day, or how I’m “feeling”? These words, especially Luke 21:34-36 encourage me that the whole time are on earth we have a specific mission and purpose. There is a lot of work to be done. How many times do I glaze over the words in the scriptures that tell us to “keep alert” or “be watchful”.
What a freeing thing it is to remember that there is so much more to our lives than simply surviving in our schedules, our full time jobs and the hum-drum of our modern lives!
When I was first thinking about permanent stuff, I thought of my house, instantly realizing it could catch on fire. Nothing that is of material is permanent. No human being is permanent. Although, I sure wish sometimes my sweet Grandparents could have been permanent. Only God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit are permanent. Thank you for thought provoking questions.
Permanent:
God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit
God’s Word
Our souls
Knowing this instructs what I should invest in:
Being in relationship with God in Three Persons
His Word
Sharing His truth with others
The two verses in Luke show me that our world everything in it is subject to change. We should not grasp on to anything in this world to balance or hold us. I think this chapter speaks to both literal and figurative occurances. Until Jesus does return here on this Earth, May we have the rest and faith in new life as a fig tree blooming in the spring. Also may we have blind trust in times of trouble and persecution that God not only never leaves us but gives us just what to do and say through is Holy Spirit. When end times are near in the literal sense we will be well practiced at following our fathers incredible commands.Lord I don’t have all of this down, but you are my rock and my everything. Help me to lean on and submit to you as my everything.