Jesus Heals on the Sabbath
Teaching Pastor; Staff Governing Elder; Staff Director
Jesus creates tension for the Jewish leaders when he heals a man on the Sabbath. As he exposes their desire for control and power, Jesus presents himself as God’s Son. Not only is he equal with God, he has authority to judge and power over life and death.
Study Questions
Jesus creates tension for the Jewish leaders when he heals a man on the Sabbath. As he exposes their desire for control and power, Jesus presents himself as God’s Son. Not only is he equal with God, he has authority to judge and power over life and death.Application
The Jewish leaders use Scripture as a means of exerting control. Take some time to think of situations when you have seen this play out either in your life or in those around you. What was the primary motivation—fear, desire for power, etc.?
Calling yourself a Christian is normative in our culture. However, true belief leads to life change. In what ways have you seen your life change since following Jesus? What is one way that he is changing you right now?
Jesus’ purpose is not to fulfill our dreams or make our lives better. Examine your motives honestly—how can you know you are willing to accept Jesus on his terms rather than using him to pursue your desires?
Key Points
When Jesus heals a man on the Sabbath, he creates tension for the Jewish leaders. They use the Scripture to exert control, and Jesus is threatening their power.
Jesus is clear that he is God’s Son, he is equal with God, and God has given him authority to judge as well as power over life and death.
Many seek Jesus as a way to better their lives. However, our biggest issue is not fulfilling our dreams—it is that we are dead and separated from God.
It’s normative in our culture to say you follow Jesus and live a life that does not reflect that reality. However, true belief leads to life change.
Like the Jewish leaders, we often twist the Scriptures to preserve our comfort and the illusion of control because we are fearful.