Luke 17 - The Kingdom of God is coming

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v1-4:

  • We are sure to face temptations, however this doesn't give us an excuse to cause others to sin (by tempting them)
  • If someone sins against me, we are to rebuke them (as this is truly loving them)
  • If they repent, then we are called to forgive them - no matter how many times they sin against us
v5:
  • Even a very small amount of faith, if it is genuine trust in God, can lead to remarkable results
  • The issue is not the size of the faith, but the its presence

v7-10:
  • Jesus illustrates that we are actually very unfaithful servants
  • God owes us nothing, but we owe God everything - including our lives
v23-24:
  • Jesus returning will not be something that is hidden, it will be something that is visible and noticeable by all
  • It will be unmistakable and sudden as lightning - all will see it
v33:
  • We must be ready to die to our sins; give up our old lives completely and accept the new life that Christ offers
  • If we cling onto our old lives, we will end up losing it - and it will translate to nothing when Jesus returns
Application:
  1. No matter how many times a brother/sister sins against me, if he repents then I am commanded to forgive them - just as Christ has forgiven me
  2. Do I really have faith? - God can use even the smallest amount to do amazing things - trust in His power
  3. Am I really ready to give up my old life? Or are there only some parts of my life that I'm ready to give up to Christ?

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