Luke 17: The Power of Forgiveness

Read Luke chapter 17

Introduction: The seventeenth chapter of the book of Luke is filled with profound teachings and miracles of Jesus Christ. This chapter shows many miracles and teachings that will help believers live a righteous life, learn to forgive others, and keep a strong faith in God. It also gives us some teachings about the kingdom of God and the second coming of Christ.

I. Luke 17:1-2: Offenses and Consequences
Jesus warns his disciples about the certainty of offenses and stresses the fact that there is consequences of causing others to sin. These verses reminds us of Matthew 18:6-7, where Jesus points out the gravity of leading others into sin. It also brings to mind Proverbs 18:21, which speaks of the power of the tongue to bring life or death, bringing out the need to be mindful of our words and actions.

II. Luke 17:3-4: The Power of Forgiveness
Jesus encourages his followers to correct their brethren who err, forgive them when they repent, and continue to forgive even if the offense is repeated. This theme of forgiveness is pointed out in Matthew 6:14-15, where Christ teaches that one must forgive others in order to be forgiven by God. It also a reflection of the wisdom in Proverbs 17:9, which highlights love’s ability to forgive and cover an offense.

III. Luke 17:5-6: Faith as Small as a Mustard Seed
The disciples request Jesus to increase their faith, and He responds by demonstrating that even faith as small as a mustard seed can accomplish great things, and every Christian I know does want to accomplish great things. This parable is also used in Matthew 17:20 to point to the power of even small amounts of faith. It also aligns with Hebrews 11:6, which states that without faith it is impossible to please God.

IV. Luke 17:7-10: Unprofitable Servants
Jesus uses the parable of unprofitable servants to teach that obedience to God is not something deserving of special rewards but the expected duty of believers. This parable reminds us of Ecclesiastes 12:13, which states that man’s whole duty as fearing God and keeping His commandments. It also can be seen in Romans 12:1, which exhorts believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices to God.

V. Luke 17:11-19: Ten Lepers Cleansed
In this miracle, Jesus cleanses ten lepers, but only one, a Samaritan, returns to thank Him, which teaches the believer the importance of gratitude and a thankful heart. This event that happened brings to mind Psalm 107:1, which urges giving thanks to the Lord for His goodness. It also reminds us of 1 Thessalonians 5:18, which commands believers to give thanks in all circumstances.

VI. Luke 17:20-37: The Coming of the Kingdom
Jesus teaches about the coming of the Kingdom of God and warns about the calamities preceding His second coming. These verses can be compared to Matthew 24:27-30, which details the visible return of Christ. They also resonate with 1 Thessalonians 5:2, which reminds us that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.

Conclusion: Luke 17 gives several teachings on living a Christian life, covering topics like forgiveness, faith, duty, gratitude, and the reality of Christ’s second coming. It encourages believers to avoid causing others to sin, to forgive abundantly, have unwavering faith, serve God faithfully, practice gratitude, and remain vigilant for the coming of the Kingdom. This chapter is a treasure trove of wisdom for believers seeking to navigate their faith journey.