Sabbath, April 26 – Luke 11, Matthew 12

1. What does Jesus teach about prayer in Luke 11?

2. How can we apply the teaching of the Lord’s Prayer in our daily lives? (Luke 11:1–13)

3. Why did some accuse Jesus of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebub?

4. What does this teach us about the hardness of the heart? (Luke 11:14–26; Matthew 12:22–30)

5. What does it mean to be blessed according to Jesus in Luke 11:27–28?

6. How is the sign of Jonah related to the unbelief of Jesus’ generation? (Luke 11:29–32; Matthew 12:38–42)

7. How does Jesus describe the true family of God in Matthew 12:46–50?

8. How can we live as brothers and sisters in Christ?

Jesus reveals profound truths in these chapters. First, He teaches us to pray with confidence and persistence in Luke 11:1–13. He reminds us that God is a good Father who answers our prayers and gives the Holy Spirit to those who ask. Prayer is not about asking but about trusting in God’s loving heart.

In Luke 11:14–26 and Matthew 12:22–30, Jesus confronts the unbelief of the Pharisees, who accuse Him of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebub. Jesus responds with irrefutable logic: “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation.” (Matthew 12:25). This teaches us the danger of a hardened heart and the importance of recognizing and discerning God’s work in our lives.

Jesus also speaks of true blessedness. In Luke 11:27–28, a woman praises Mary for bearing Jesus, but He replies: “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” (v. 28). True blessing is not found in a blood connection to Christ, but in hearing and obeying His Word.

The passage about the sign of Jonah (Luke 11:29–32; Matthew 12:38–42) reminds us that Jesus’ generation demanded signs but ignored the most significant sign of all, the very presence of the Son of God. Jesus compares Himself to Jonah and Solomon, declaring He is greater than both. This challenges us to respond with faith to His message.

Finally, in Matthew 12:46–50, Jesus redefines family. It is not just about blood ties, but about those who do the will of God: “For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother.” (v. 50)

We are called to live in community as brothers and sisters in Christ, strengthening one another and walking together in faith.

My Prayer: “Heavenly Father, teach me to pray confidently. Help me to recognize Your work in my life and to obey Your Word with a sincere heart. May I be part of Your family, loving and serving my brothers and sisters in Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”