Luke 21:13
“But it will turn out for you as an occasion for testimony.”
As the world approaches the end times, difficulties will increase. The believer is reminded that these difficult situations are the perfect backdrop in which to share Christ with the world. This is a principle to live by. We do not need to wait until the end to have an impact upon the lives around us. The present circumstances which you face have been designed by God as the best conditions for you to grow as a Christian, and have an impact upon others for the kingdom of Heaven. In addition to reminding the disciples of the opportunities He will provide for them, Jesus also gives a promise of success:
“I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to contradict or resist.” (Luke 21:15)
We often find ourselves face to face with an opportunity to share Christ with someone. Perhaps the door begins to open while watching a sporting event together, having a coffee during a break at work, or hanging together as our kids play at the park. Whatever the setting, as we see the door opening, we immediately feel as though we do not know what to say. What a wonderful promise Jesus gives. He promises to give us irresistible wisdom. This is a wisdom you will not find until you open your mouth and begin to testify of Christ.
Pastor Jim
Questions for Luke 21
- Who is contrasted as Jesus looked on at those putting gifts in the treasury?
- What was Jesus talking about when he said, “Not one stone will be left upon another that shall not be thrown down”?
- What two questions did the disciples ask in response to Jesus?
- The rest of the chapter is a response to those two questions that the disciples asked. For the disciples, the answers that Jesus gives are future events. For us, half of Jesus’ answer is future and half is history. In 70 AD the Romans, under the command of Titus, destroyed the temple and fulfilled the prophecy of Jesus concerning the temple and the stones. It’s important to look at Matthew 24 and Mark 13 and find the differences between the three accounts.
- Take time now and reread verses 34-36 and consider how you spend your time and energy.
- Now read Ephesians 5:15-17.
Old Testament:
Numbers 11- Living In The Outskirts
Numbers 12- Personal Conflict
Jim Gallagher 