Jesus the Controversialist

Luke 11:14-12:12

Dec.14

When I think of controversialists, an old friend of mine comes to mind. He was one of the most effective missionaries I’ve known. He stirred up controversy with almost everyone near him—his board, his colleagues, the local church leaders. They didn’t know what to do with him, nor what to do without him. But those he was evangelizing loved him!
Some people seem to be born controversialists. They’re happiest when arguing with others, only half alive when the atmosphere is congenial.
Jesus was a controversialist. But it was not for his ego that he engaged in fierce debates with the most highly trained Bible scholars of his day. He engaged in controversy because he loved the truth and hated lies.

1. How do you respond to controversies? Why?

2. Read Luke 11:14-28, trying to sense the psychological tensions. In what two ways do Jesus’ critics attack him (vv. 15-16)?

3. In verses 17-20 Jesus answers the first attack. How does he point out their illogical position?

4. Jesus then goes on to expand his claims about himself and his work (vv. 21-22, 23, 24-26, 27-28). How does each point strengthen or clarify his argument?

5. Read Luke 11:29-36. Jesus answers his critics’ second attack. In what way is Jesus comparing himself to Jonah and Solomon?

6. Jesus ends the controversy with a warning that his critics are responsible for receiving the light, that is, himself, in their midst (vv. 33, 36). In what ways might we also look at but not receive light God gives us?

7. Read Luke 11:37-54. The host is surprised that Jesus has not ritually washed his hands after contact with public “uncleanness.” Jesus counters that criticism, then adds six more attacks on their religious practices! Of these accusations (vv. 42, 43, 44, 46, 47, 52) which reminds you of a contemporary practice? in what ways?

8. Read Luke 12:1-12. Jesus must now prepare his disciples for persecution by these same leaders. First, he deals with the fear of these men. How does he help them to distinguish between the wrong kind of fear and the proper kind?

9. Second, he teaches them the place of the Holy Spirit (vv. 10-12). Share an experience you have had that is similar to verses 11-12.

10. Few of us would engage in public religious controversy as Jesus did. But we all have occasions when we need to stand against lies and speak the truth. What are your opportunities to do this?