Note: for the best experience please pick-up this book to follow along.
My hope is that you were blessed over the past 14 days as we studied the gospel of Mark. Tomorrow we begin the next step in our walk with the Lord as we begin a 14 day series on the book of Luke, based upon my book Walking in the footsteps of Jesus. In this series, we will explore the life and ministry of Jesus as recorded by Luke, a physician and companion of the Apostle Paul. Luke’s unique perspective provides a detailed and compassionate account of Jesus’ teachings, miracles, and interactions. Join us as we walk in the footsteps of Jesus and uncover the profound lessons in this Gospel.
Day 1: Introduction to Luke
Title: Starting Our Journey: Understanding Luke’s Gospel
Content: Welcome to Day 1 of our 14-day journey through “Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus: An Inspirational Study on Luke” by Dustin Royer. Today, we begin with an introduction to the Gospel of Luke and the unique perspective it offers on Jesus’ life and ministry. Luke, a physician and companion of Paul, writes with precision and compassion, aiming to provide a detailed and orderly account.
Reflection:
- What are your initial thoughts on the purpose and importance of Luke’s Gospel?
- How do you feel about embarking on this journey through the life of Jesus?
Prayer/Action: Ask God to open your heart and mind as you begin this study. Pray for insights and understanding as you read.
Day 2: The Birth of John the Baptist
Title: Preparing the Way: The Birth of John the Baptist
Content: Today, we explore the miraculous birth of John the Baptist as detailed in Luke 1. John’s birth was foretold by an angel, and his life would play a crucial role in preparing the way for Jesus.
Reflection:
- How does John’s birth story set the stage for Jesus’ ministry?
- What can we learn from Zechariah and Elizabeth’s faithfulness and patience?
Prayer/Action: Reflect on areas in your life where you need to trust God’s timing. Pray for patience and faith.
Day 3: The Annunciation and Mary’s Response
Title: Mary’s Yes: The Annunciation
Content: In Luke 1:26-38, the angel Gabriel visits Mary, announcing that she will conceive and bear Jesus. Mary’s humble acceptance of God’s plan is a profound example of faith.
Reflection:
- What stands out to you about Mary’s response to Gabriel’s message?
- How can you cultivate a heart of obedience and trust like Mary?
Prayer/Action: Offer a prayer of surrender, asking God to help you accept His plans with faith and humility.
Day 4: The Birth of Jesus
Title: A Humble Beginning: The Birth of Jesus
Content: Luke 2 recounts the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, highlighting the humble circumstances of His arrival. Shepherds receive the first announcement of His birth, symbolizing God’s message of hope to all.
Reflection:
- How does the humility of Jesus’ birth impact your understanding of His mission?
- What does the shepherds’ response teach us about sharing the Good News?
Prayer/Action: Take time to thank God for the gift of Jesus. Share the story of His birth with someone today.
Day 5: Jesus’ Early Years
Title: Growing in Wisdom: Jesus’ Childhood
Content: In Luke 2:41-52, we read about Jesus’ early years, including His visit to the temple at age twelve. Jesus’ wisdom and understanding amaze the teachers, foreshadowing His future ministry.
Reflection:
- What does Jesus’ childhood tell us about His divine nature and mission?
- How can we seek to grow in wisdom and favor with God and others?
Prayer/Action: Pray for wisdom and guidance in your daily life. Consider ways to nurture your spiritual growth.
Day 6: The Baptism of Jesus
Title: A New Beginning: The Baptism of Jesus
Content: In Luke 3:21-22, Jesus is baptized by John the Baptist, and God’s voice from heaven affirms His Sonship. This event marks the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry.
Reflection:
- What significance does Jesus’ baptism hold for you personally?
- How does God’s affirmation of Jesus encourage you in your faith?
Prayer/Action: Reflect on your own baptism and its meaning. Thank God for His affirmation and guidance in your life.
Day 7: The Temptation in the Wilderness
Title: Strength in Trials: Jesus’ Temptation
Content: Luke 4:1-13 describes Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness. Through reliance on Scripture and faith, Jesus overcomes the devil’s temptations, setting an example for us.
Reflection:
- How can you use Scripture to combat temptations in your life?
- What lessons can you learn from Jesus’ responses to the devil?
Prayer/Action: Memorize a Bible verse that helps you resist temptation. Pray for strength and guidance in difficult times.
Day 8: The Beginning of Jesus’ Ministry
Title: Proclaiming the Good News: Jesus’ Early Ministry
Content: In Luke 4:14-21, Jesus begins His ministry in Galilee, proclaiming the Good News and fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy. His message of hope and freedom resonates with many.
Reflection:
- How does Jesus’ proclamation of the Good News inspire you?
- In what ways can you share hope and freedom with others?
Prayer/Action: Pray for opportunities to share the Good News with those around you. Look for ways to bring hope to someone today.
Day 9: The Calling of the Disciples
Title: Follow Me: The Calling of the First Disciples
Content: In Luke 5:1-11, Jesus calls His first disciples, inviting them to become “fishers of men.” Their immediate response to His call is a powerful example of faith.
Reflection:
- What does it mean to be a “fisher of men” in your context?
- How can you respond to Jesus’ call in your own life?
Prayer/Action: Pray for clarity and courage to follow Jesus’ call. Consider how you can engage in discipleship and evangelism.
Day 10: Miracles and Healings
Title: Signs of the Kingdom: Miracles and Healings
Content: Luke 5:12-26 highlights some of Jesus’ miracles, including healing a leper and a paralyzed man. These miracles demonstrate Jesus’ authority and compassion.
Reflection:
- How do Jesus’ miracles deepen your understanding of His power and love?
- In what ways can you seek and offer healing in your community?
Prayer/Action: Pray for those who need physical, emotional, or spiritual healing. Reach out to offer support and prayer to someone in need.
Day 11: The Sermon on the Plain
Title: Teaching with Authority: The Sermon on the Plain
Content: In Luke 6:17-49, Jesus delivers the Sermon on the Plain, teaching about love, mercy, and the kingdom of God. His words challenge and inspire us to live out our faith.
Reflection:
- Which of Jesus’ teachings in this sermon resonate with you the most?
- How can you apply these teachings to your daily life?
Prayer/Action: Reflect on one teaching from the sermon and commit to practicing it this week. Pray for the strength to live out Jesus’ words.
Day 12: Parables of the Kingdom
Title: Stories with a Purpose: Parables of the Kingdom
Content: Luke 8:4-15 presents the Parable of the Sower, illustrating different responses to God’s Word. Jesus uses parables to teach profound truths in relatable ways.
Reflection:
- How do you interpret the Parable of the Sower in your life?
- What kind of “soil” is your heart when receiving God’s Word?
Prayer/Action: Pray for a receptive heart that bears fruit. Share the message of one of Jesus’ parables with someone today.
Day 13: The Transfiguration
Title: A Glimpse of Glory: The Transfiguration of Jesus
Content: Luke 9:28-36 describes the Transfiguration, where Jesus is revealed in glory alongside Moses and Elijah. This event strengthens the disciples’ faith and foreshadows Jesus’ resurrection.
Reflection:
- What does the Transfiguration reveal about Jesus’ divine nature?
- How does this event impact your understanding of Jesus’ mission?
Prayer/Action: Reflect on the glory and majesty of Jesus. Praise Him for His divine nature and thank Him for revealing His glory to us.
Day 14: The Passion and Resurrection
Title: From Death to Life: The Passion and Resurrection
Content: Luke 22-24 narrates the events of Jesus’ passion, crucifixion, and resurrection. These chapters are the culmination of Jesus’ earthly ministry and the foundation of our faith.
Reflection:
- How does reflecting on Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection deepen your faith?
- What does the resurrection mean for your life today?
Prayer/Action: Spend time in prayer, thanking Jesus for His sacrifice and celebrating His victory over death. Share the message of the resurrection with someone who needs hope.
Bless you,
Dustin Royer