Luke·Chapter 20

How to Apply

This week, think about a message or truth that you feel strongly about but haven’t shared with others because you fear rejection. Take a step to express it—maybe it’s a conversation with a friend or a post on social media. Remember, just like that third messenger, you might face some resistance, but that doesn’t mean your voice isn’t important. Be brave and share your message. It doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to be true to you.

Chapter Context

This verse is a part of a larger story where Jesus tells a parable about a landowner and his vineyard. It’s a gripping tale that leads us to understand the tension between the landowner, representing God, and the tenants who mistreat his messengers. The previous messengers symbolize the prophets sent to guide the people, and with each rejection, the tension grows. By the time we get to this third messenger, the stakes are high. The landowner is desperate, and this rejection underscores the tragedy of turning away from wisdom and guidance. It’s a moment that builds the dramatic arc of the story, leading to the ultimate revelation of how the landowner will respond to this ongoing rejection.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• sent - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• third - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• this - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• one - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• also - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• wounded - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• cast - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• out - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What do you think motivates people to reject messages that could help them, and how does that relate to your own experiences of sharing your truth?

Related Verses

• Matthew 21:35 - This verse shows how the first two messengers were treated similarly, emphasizing the ongoing rejection of those sent to bring truth.
• Isaiah 53:3 - Written 700 years before this, it describes how the coming Messiah would be despised and rejected, aligning with the treatment of the messengers.
• Jeremiah 7:25 - This verse highlights how God sent messengers from early times, but people refused to listen, setting a pattern of rejection.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Luke 20:12. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Authority of Jesus, Rejection of Prophets, Religious Hypocrisy, Consequences of Rebellion, God's Judgment, Parables as Teaching, Public Perception

Key Verses

Luke 20:2, Luke 20:9, Luke 20:16, Luke 20:17, Luke 20:19

Historical Context

Luke 20 is situated in the latter part of Jesus' ministry, during His final week in Jerusalem before the crucifixion. This chapter is crucial as it highlights the escalating conflict between Jesus and the Jewish religious authorities, who feel threatened by His growing influence among the people. The questioning of Jesus' authority reflects a broader theme in the Gospel of Luke regarding the true nature of authority and the recognition of Jesus as the Messiah. The parable of the wicked tenants serves not only as an indictment of Israel's leaders but also as a prophecy of the rejection that Jesus Himself would face.