Women Minister to Jesus

1Soon afterward, Jesus traveled from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with Him, 2as well as some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, 3Joanna the wife of Herod’s household manager Chuza, Susanna, and many others. These women were ministering to thema out of their own means.

The Parable of the Sower
(Matthew 13:1–23; Mark 4:1–20)

4While a large crowd was gathering and people were coming to Jesus from town after town, He told them this parable: 5“A farmer went out to sow his seed. And as he was sowing, some seed fell along the path, where it was trampled, and the birds of the air devoured it.

6Some fell on rocky ground, and when it came up, the seedlings withered because they had no moisture.

7Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up with it and choked the seedlings.

8Still other seed fell on good soil, where it sprang up and produced a crop—a hundredfold.”

As Jesus said this, He called out, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”

9Then His disciples asked Him what this parable meant.

10He replied, “The knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of God has been given to you, but to others I speak in parables, so that,

‘though seeing, they may not see;

though hearing, they may not understand.’b

11Now this is the meaning of the parable: The seed is the word of God. 12The seedsc along the path are those who hear, but the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved.

13The seeds on rocky ground are those who hear the word and receive it with joy, but they have no root. They believe for a season, but in the time of testing, they fall away.

14The seeds that fell among the thorns are those who hear, but as they go on their way, they are choked by the worries, riches, and pleasures of this life, and their fruit does not mature.

15But the seeds on good soil are those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, cling to it, and by persevering produce a crop.

The Lesson of the Lamp
(Mark 4:21–25)

16No one lights a lamp and covers it with a jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, he sets it on a stand, so those who enter can see the light. 17For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be made known and brought to light.

18Pay attention, therefore, to how you listen. Whoever has will be given more, but whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has will be taken away from him.”

Jesus’ Mother and Brothers
(Matthew 12:46–50; Mark 3:31–35)

19Then Jesus’ mother and brothers came to see Him, but they were unable to reach Him because of the crowd. 20He was told, “Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to see You.”

21But He replied, “My mother and brothers are those who hear the word of God and carry it out.”

Jesus Calms the Storm
(Psalm 107:1–43; Matthew 8:23–27; Mark 4:35–41)

22One day Jesus said to His disciples, “Let us cross to the other side of the lake.” So He got into a boat with them and set out.

23As they sailed, He fell asleep, and a windstorm came down on the lake, so that the boat was being swamped, and they were in great danger. 24The disciples went and woke Him, saying, “Master, Master, we are perishing!”

Then Jesus got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters, and they subsided, and all was calm. 25“Where is your faith?” He asked.

Frightened and amazed, they asked one another, “Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey Him!”

The Demons and the Pigs
(Matthew 8:28–34; Mark 5:1–20)

26Then they sailed to the region of the Gerasenes,d across the lake from Galilee. 27When Jesus stepped ashore, He was met by a demon-possessed man from the town. For a long time this man had not worn clothing or lived in a house, but he stayed in the tombs.

28When the man saw Jesus, he cried out and fell down before Him, shouting in a loud voice, “What do You want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg You not to torture me!” 29For Jesus had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. Many times it had seized him, and though he was bound with chains and shackles, he had broken the chains and been driven by the demon into solitary places.

30“What is your name?” Jesus asked.

“Legion,” he replied, because many demons had gone into him. 31And the demons kept begging Jesus not to order them to go into the Abyss.

32There on the hillside a large herd of pigs was feeding. So the demons begged Jesus to let them enter the pigs, and He gave them permission.

33Then the demons came out of the man and went into the pigs, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and was drowned.

34When those tending the pigs saw what had happened, they ran off and reported this in the town and countryside. 35So the people went out to see what had happened. They came to Jesus and found the man whom the demons had left, sitting at Jesus’ feet, clothed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. 36Meanwhile, those who had seen it reported how the demon-possessed man had been healed.

37Then all the people of the region of the Gerasenes asked Jesus to depart from them, because great fear had taken hold of them. So He got into the boat and started back.

38The man whom the demons had left begged to go with Jesus. But He sent him away, saying, 39“Return home and describe how much God has done for you.” So the man went away and proclaimed all over the town how much Jesus had done for him.

The Healing Touch of Jesus
(Matthew 9:18–26; Mark 5:21–43)

40When Jesus returned, the crowd welcomed Him, for they had all been waiting for Him. 41Just then a synagogue leader named Jairus came and fell at Jesus’ feet. He begged Him to come to his house, 42because his only daughter, who was about twelve, was dying.

As Jesus went with him, the crowds pressed around Him, 43including a woman who had suffered from bleeding for twelve years. She had spent all her money on physicians,e but no one was able to heal her. 44She came up behind Jesus and touched the fringe of His cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped.

45“Who touched Me?” Jesus asked.

But they all denied it. “Master,” said Peter,f “the people are crowding and pressing against You.”

46But Jesus declared, “Someone touched Me, for I know that power has gone out from Me.”

47Then the woman, seeing that she could not escape notice, came trembling and fell down before Him. In the presence of all the people, she explained why she had touched Him and how she had immediately been healed.

48“Daughter,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you. Go in peace.”

49While He was still speaking, someone arrived from the house of the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” he told Jairus. “Do not bother the Teacher anymore.”

50But Jesus overheard them and said to Jairus, “Do not be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed.”

51When He entered the house, He did not allow anyone to go in with Him except Peter, John, James, and the child’s father and mother. 52Meanwhile, everyone was weeping and mourning for her. But Jesus said, “Stop weeping; she is not dead but asleep.” 53And they laughed at Him, knowing that she was dead.

54But Jesus took her by the hand and called out, “Child, get up!” 55Her spirit returned, and at once she got up. And He directed that she be given something to eat. 56Her parents were astounded, but Jesus ordered them not to tell anyone what had happened.

1. The Power of the Word
In Luke 8, Jesus shares the Parable of the Sower, illustrating the transformative power of God's Word. "The seed is the word of God" (Luke 8:11). Just as seeds need good soil to grow, our hearts must be receptive to the Word for it to take root and flourish. This lesson reminds us to cultivate a heart that is open and eager to receive God's truth, allowing it to guide our lives and bear fruit.

2. Faith Over Fear
When Jesus calms the storm, He asks His disciples, "Where is your faith?" (Luke 8:25). This powerful moment teaches us that faith in Christ can overcome any fear. No matter the storms we face, trusting in Jesus brings peace and assurance. Let this be a reminder to anchor your faith in Him, knowing that He is in control of every situation.

3. The Light of the World
Jesus emphasizes the importance of shining His light in the world: "No one lights a lamp and covers it with a jar or puts it under a bed" (Luke 8:16). As followers of Christ, we are called to let His light shine through us, illuminating the darkness around us. Be bold in sharing your faith and let your life be a testament to His love and truth.

4. The Value of Listening
In Luke 8:18, Jesus advises, "Therefore consider carefully how you listen." Listening is more than just hearing; it involves understanding and applying God's Word. This lesson encourages us to be attentive and intentional in our spiritual journey, ensuring that we not only hear but also act on His teachings.

5. The Power of Jesus' Touch
The story of the woman healed by touching Jesus' cloak (Luke 8:43-48) demonstrates the power of faith and the compassion of Christ. Her belief in His ability to heal brought her restoration. This account encourages us to reach out to Jesus in faith, trusting in His power to heal and transform our lives.

6. The Authority of Christ
When Jesus casts out demons from the man in the Gerasenes, it showcases His authority over evil (Luke 8:26-39). This lesson reassures us that no force is greater than Christ. In a world filled with challenges, we can find comfort in knowing that Jesus has ultimate authority and is our protector.

7. The Importance of Testimony
After being healed, the man from whom demons were cast out was told by Jesus, "Return home and tell how much God has done for you" (Luke 8:39). Sharing our testimonies is a powerful way to witness to others about God's work in our lives. Let your story be a beacon of hope and encouragement to those around you.

8. The Compassion of Christ
Jesus' response to Jairus' plea for his dying daughter (Luke 8:41-42) highlights His compassion and willingness to meet us in our time of need. This lesson reminds us that Jesus cares deeply for each of us and is always ready to respond to our cries for help. Trust in His loving nature and approach Him with confidence.

9. The Miracle of Resurrection
In raising Jairus' daughter from the dead, Jesus demonstrates His power over life and death (Luke 8:54-55). This miracle foreshadows His own resurrection and the promise of eternal life for believers. It serves as a reminder of the hope we have in Christ, who conquered death and offers us salvation.

10. The Call to Faith
Throughout Luke 8, Jesus repeatedly calls people to faith. Whether calming storms, healing the sick, or raising the dead, His message is clear: "Do not be afraid; just believe" (Luke 8:50). This call to faith is an invitation to trust in Jesus wholeheartedly, knowing that through Him, all things are possible. Embrace this call and let your faith be the foundation of your life.

Pray for Boldness
Seek God's strength to boldly share your faith and be a light to those around you.

Pray for Trust
Request God's peace and trust in His sovereignty during life's storms.

Pray for Compassion
Ask God to open your eyes to those in need and to give you a heart of compassion.

Pray for Increased Faith
Petition God to increase your faith and help you rely on Him in all circumstances.

As we study Luke 8, may we be inspired by Jesus' teachings and miracles, and may our faith be strengthened to live out His truths in our daily lives.

2. (Luke 8:26) Why do some manuscripts say “Gerasenes” while others say “Gadarenes,” raising questions about the account’s historical accuracy?

3. (Luke 8:27–33) Is it scientifically plausible for multiple demons to inhabit one person and then compel a large herd of pigs to drown?

4. (Luke 8:40–56) What evidence supports the claim that Jairus’s daughter was literally raised from the dead, and why isn’t there corroborating historical documentation?

5. (Luke 8:1–3) How do we reconcile the mention of women financially supporting Jesus with the cultural norms that generally limited women’s economic roles in that era?

1. How can we strive to be the "good soil" as depicted in the Parable of the Sower?

2. What does the Lamp on a Stand teach us about using our gifts and talents?

3. How does Jesus' teaching about His spiritual family challenge our understanding of relationships?

4. How does the miracle of calming the storm speak to our situations when we feel overwhelmed by life's "storms"?

5. How does Jesus' interaction with the demon-possessed man affect our understanding of His power and compassion?

6. What does the healing of the bleeding woman teach us about the nature of faith?

7. How does the story of the raising of Jairus' daughter increase our understanding of Jesus' power over death?

8. In what ways does the chapter challenge us to practice our faith?

9. How can we ensure that we listen to God's word and understand it, as Jesus instructed in the parable?

10. How can we show our faith in Jesus' authority, as shown in the calming of the storm?

11. How does the story of the demon-possessed man encourage us to proclaim what God has done in our lives?

12. What is the significance of Jesus insisting that the healed woman's faith saved her?

13. How can we apply the lesson from the story of Jairus' daughter in our approach to seemingly hopeless situations?

14. How can we cultivate a heart that is receptive to God's word as suggested in the Parable of the Sower?

15. What does it mean to be a part of Jesus' spiritual family in today's world?

16. How does Jesus' power over the spiritual realm impact our understanding of spiritual warfare?

17. In what ways are we called to be a light on a stand, as taught in the parable?

18. How do we balance faith and fear in challenging situations as the disciples did during the storm?

19. How does the act of Jesus healing the woman with the issue of blood speak to us about the inclusivity of God's kingdom?

20. How can we respond to God's word and miracles as a community of believers?